Today (23 September) is the autumn equinox. The point when both the day and night are exactly 12 hours. After this the darkness creeps closer every day until we reach the longest night, the winter solstice, on 21 December. We are at a tipping point where light and dark are momentarily balanced before we slide into the next phase in the cycle of the seasons. These natural markers of time passing can be a great opportunity to pause and take stock.

In the Northern hemisphere the autumn equinox coincides with harvest so is traditionally a time of abundance and gratitude. A time to thank nature, the sun and the soil, as well as the farmers, for their bounty. Perhaps it is also a time to look back on everything that has happened so far this year and reflect on what you are grateful for.

And as nature prepares for winter and the trees shed their leaves, you might also think about what you are ready to let go of. Trees don't mourn the loss of their leaves, it is just the next step on their journey. This year's leaves are shed to make room for new growth in the spring.

So, this autumn equinox, why not take a quiet moment to think about these questions?

• What are you grateful for?
• How does the balance of your life feel just now?
• What could you let go of to make room for new growth?