September is here, and with it, the subtle shifts to softer, cooler breezes. Leaves are ever so slightly dulling their green and morphing into warmer hues of oranges, reds and yellows. Mornings and evenings are crisp in contrast to the hotter afternoons. The shorelines are less crowded, and the scholastic year ahead is beginning.
The name September comes from the Latin word septem, which means "seven". The name was originally used to describe the seventh month of the year in the ancient Roman calendar, which began with March.
In fact, the Italian word for seven is sette. You can also see this in the following months of October (octo or otto = eight), November (nove = nine), December (dece or dieci = ten).
In Astrology, September falls under Virgo Season, ruled by Mercury and associated with the “Earth” element. These concepts are deep and very nuanced, but for the sake of this post, I will say that the archetype of Virgo generally hard working, analytical and problem solving, good at reaping the fruits of their” planting”, organized, creative and humble.
If you take a closer look at what is happening on Earth, from Earth’s perspective during this time (Virgo Season is from 8/23 to 9/22), you may notice the innate intelligence of our mother Earth. I can only speak from the perspective of the Northern hemisphere, and here in the North East. There is an intelligence at work, to prepare for the colder months. It is time to harvest most of what we have planted in the past months. Soon, roots and root vegetables will be ready to harvest for winter nourishment, as the energy slowly starts to cool down and shift downward and inward. Being tuned into this, we are provided with the things we need for the upcoming Fall and Winter. I see this as an expression of the Virgo archetype in the way that these natural shifts are innately organized for our reaping and benefit.
Cranberries, pomegranates, pumpkin, potatoes, yams, winter squash, mushrooms, kale, broccoli, and beets are in season, as well as blackberries, figs, pears and apples.
Herbs associated with the season would be Lavender, Wood Betony, Elecampane, Fennel, Catnip, Mountain mint and Monarda. To work with herbs properly, please consult with a qualified herbalist.
Hair and Skin
This is a great time to start exfoliating the skin, which enhances circulation as well. Like the leaves and the environment around us starting to slow down and dull, our skin and hair can also reflect these qualities after a summer of sun, swimming, and an increase in activities and social life in general.
It’s a great time to start thinking about a deeper level of nourishment, and hydration.
Physical exfoliants are lovely, in the form of finely milled salts or sugars blended with a carrier oil or butter. Coffee grinds can also work well when blended with a carrier oil such as coconut oil. We recommend using products that contain natural exfoliants that are also light and delicate on the skin. Jojoba beads are a great addition to a scrub as they are less abrasive. Natural sponges and loofahs are great as well. Did you know that we can custom blend these for you at the salon or at our sister shop, Botanic Providence? Just ask Jo-Anna, she will whip up something magnificent for you!
We also LOVE dry brushing, and it has the added benefit of moving stagnant lymph white exfoliating the skin and stimulating circulation.
You can do all of this on the scalp as well, using gua sha tools or scrubs. This will help stimulate circulation, blood flow and oxygen to the follicles and help remove any build up topically on the scalp.
Follow with a beautiful, all natural and herbal infused body oil, butter or lotion for deeper hydration. Remember that emulsions (products with both oils and waters) will hydrate, while butters and oils will soften the skin.
This is also a great time to have a treatment done, such as a deep conditioning or gloss, the infrared rebuilding treatment we offer at the salon, perhaps a tinted gloss in a deeper, richer and warmer tone.
We offer some lovely services, and also stock all of the accessories to pamper and indulge yourself for the aforementioned treatments and services in our Apothecary.
Here’s to a lovely September! Sunset walks on the beach, berry picking, gentle breezes, and the slow return of sweater weather.
