From Light to Darkness: Embracing the Longer Shadows and the Thinning Veils of Autumn

As October fades into November, there is a noticeable shift in the world around us. The days shorten and the nights stretch longer, casting a twilight hue over our daily routines. Shadows lengthen, and the sun’s journey across the sky seems fleeting. For many, this seasonal change is more than just a visual phenomenon—it is a time of transition that carries with it layers of symbolism, mystery, and a touch of the mystical.

The Long Shadows of Autumn

October is a month of vibrant colors and golden light, but it is also the beginning of a journey toward darkness. As the Earth tilts, the sun’s path across the sky lowers, casting longer shadows and giving everything a softer, almost ethereal glow. It is a time to slow down and take notice of the details that might go unseen in the full glare of summer sunlight.

There is a certain magic in those long shadows. They have a way of stretching out the day, as if trying to hold on to the light just a little bit longer. Inevitably, we edge closer to the darker, colder months, and this transition feels like the world is preparing to rest, to conserve its energy and hibernate.

The Thinning of the Veils

This moment between October and November has long been associated with the “thinning of the veils”—a poetic way of describing the idea that the boundary between the physical world and the spiritual realm becomes less distinct. Cultures around the world have their own ways of acknowledging this thinning. From Halloween and Samhain to Día de los Muertos, there is a shared sense that this is a time when the unseen lures closer, and the world is a little more open to mystery.

It is no coincidence that these traditions focus on honoring the dead and self-reflection on the past. As the natural world prepares for dormancy, we are also prompted to look inward. The longer nights encourage us to slow down, to be still, and to listen to things that might otherwise go unnoticed. It is a time to reconnect—with ourselves, with others, and perhaps with something greater than what we can see and touch.

Light Into Darkness: Embracing the Transition

The transition from October into November is a passage from light into darkness. While this might sound ominous, there’s beauty in it. Darkness has its own kind of clarity; it helps us focus, be more mindful, and appreciate the warmth and light when it does appear. This shift is a gentle reminder to conserve energy and reduce undue labor, not just for nature but for us, too.

Practical Tips for Embracing the Thinning of the Veils

1. Create a reflection Ritual: Take some time each evening to reflect on the day. Light a candle, write in a journal, or simply sit quietly and observe the shift from light to darkness.
2. Connect with the Natural World: Go for a walk during sunset and notice the changing light, the lengthening shadows, and the chill in the air. Allow yourself to feel a part of this larger transition.
3. Celebrate the Darkness: Embrace the longer nights by creating cozy, warm spaces. Light a fire, wrap up in a blanket, and enjoy a hot drink. This is a time to rest and restore.
4. Honor Your Ancestors: Consider adopting a small ritual to remember those who have passed. It could be as simple as lighting a candle in their memory or sharing stories about them with loved ones.

For Your Consideration:

The period from October into November is not only about losing light; it is about finding beauty in the dark. The thinning veils remind us that there is more to life than what is visible, and the lengthening shadows teach us to appreciate the subtle, silent moments. So, as we move deeper into autumn, let us allow ourselves to slow down, to see what the shadows reveal, and to find comfort in this gentle, quiet space between the worlds.

Okay, your turn:

What does this time as October slides into November mean to you? Do you observe any particular traditions? If so, which ones?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

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