Life appreciation post
I love September so so deeply. It has always been the new year to me, and in my mother’s tradition the time to “plant seeds” for the year to come. We spend the first part of the month ideating on what to plant, what the intention is, how to source it. And then bury it, let it be dormant, settle into our nervous system. Like garlic, into the ground sometime in October. Vernalization: exposure to the prolonged cold of the winter, after which plants have acquired the ability to flower. Anyway just appreciating my life and contemplating what it is I’m calling in this coming year.
September has long been seen as a month of transformation and new beginnings, paralleling the natural cycles that govern plant growth. This idea of “planting seeds” is not only a metaphor for setting goals and intentions but also deeply rooted in agricultural wisdom. The concept of vernalization, which refers to the exposure of seeds or plants to prolonged cold to trigger flowering, beautifully ties into the idea of patiently nurturing our aspirations through time and reflection. In practical terms, this period can be used to slow down, reflect deeply on personal goals, and let intentions settle into the subconscious, much like how garlic cloves are buried in the earth to undergo natural changes before sprouting. This practice encourages mindfulness, resilience, and long-term planning, allowing one to align life goals with the rhythm of nature. For many, including those who follow family traditions, September becomes a 'new year'—a fresh slate to reassess and realign with what truly matters. This cyclical approach to personal development honors patience and the natural process rather than forcing immediate results. Incorporating these seasonal insights into daily life can enhance well-being by fostering a sense of connection with nature’s cycles, encouraging intentional living. Whether it’s planting literal seeds or fostering metaphorical ones through habits, relationships, or creative projects, honoring this time for quiet preparation can lead to a more fruitful and fulfilling year ahead.