Honoring the Harvest: A Simple Beeswax Candle Tradition for the Autumn Equinox
The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and a golden light bathes our homestead in the warm hues of autumn. For us at Better Homes and Harvests, this isn't just a change of seasons; it's a time for mindful living, a moment to pause and celebrate the abundance of the harvest and prepare for the quieter months ahead. As families, we often get caught up in the whirlwind of consumerist holiday pressures, losing sight of the simple joys that connect us to nature and each other. That’s why we cherish traditions rooted in the rhythm of the seasons, traditions that slow us down and remind us of what truly matters.
This year, we're sharing one of our favorite family traditions: making beeswax candles to honor the Autumn Equinox. This eco-friendly harvest celebration isn't just about creating beautiful light; it's about engaging in sustainable living, fostering a sense of connection, and teaching our children the value of resourcefulness. Ditch the plastic-wrapped, store-bought candles and join us in crafting something truly special, something that captures the essence of the season.
Why Beeswax Candles?
Beeswax candles offer a wonderful alternative to conventional paraffin candles. They're a natural byproduct of honey production, making them a sustainable choice for the environmentally conscious homesteader. Unlike paraffin, which is derived from petroleum, beeswax is non-toxic and burns cleanly, releasing a subtle, honey-sweet aroma. Furthermore, beeswax candles are believed to purify the air by releasing negative ions, which can help to neutralize pollutants.
Gathering Your Supplies for Mindful Living
For this project, you'll need:
- Beeswax: You can purchase beeswax in blocks, pellets, or sheets. We source ours from a local beekeeper, supporting sustainable practices and ensuring the highest quality.
- Wicks: Choose wicks specifically designed for beeswax candles. The size of the wick will depend on the diameter of your candle. Experiment to find what works best.
- Double Boiler or Heat-Safe Bowl and Pot: For safely melting the beeswax.
- Thermometer: To monitor the temperature of the beeswax.
- Molds or Jars: You can use mason jars, teacups, or specialized candle molds. Get creative and repurpose items you already have!
- Clothes Pins or Skewers: To center the wicks.
- Essential Oils (Optional): For adding a subtle fragrance. We love using lavender, rosemary, or cedarwood for a calming autumnal scent.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Harvest Celebration
Prepare Your Molds: Clean your chosen molds or jars and ensure they are completely dry. Attach the wick to the bottom of the mold using a small amount of melted beeswax or a wick sticker. Center the wick using a clothespin or skewer placed across the top of the mold.
Melt the Beeswax: Place the beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax is completely melted. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature; beeswax is flammable, so avoid overheating it. A temperature between 150-160°F (65-71°C) is ideal.
Add Essential Oils (Optional): Once the beeswax is melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly for a minute or two. If using essential oils, add a few drops and stir gently to combine. Be mindful not to add too much, as it can affect the candle's burn.
Pour the Wax: Carefully pour the melted beeswax into your prepared molds, leaving some space at the top.
Secure the Wick: Ensure the wick remains centered as the wax cools. You can use clothespins or skewers to hold it in place.
Cool and Harden: Allow the candles to cool and harden completely. This may take several hours, or even overnight. Avoid moving the candles during this process.
Trim the Wick: Once the candles are completely hardened, trim the wick to about ¼ inch.
Creating a Ritual of Gratitude and Autumn Equinox Rituals
More than just making candles, this tradition is about creating a moment of connection and gratitude during the Autumn Equinox. Gather your family around the table, light your handmade candles, and share what you're thankful for from the past season. Discuss the changes you see happening in nature and reflect on the cycle of life and death. This simple act can be a powerful reminder of the beauty and abundance that surrounds us, even as we prepare for the quiet of winter. Talk about homesteading fall and slow living, this isn't a race.
This simple tradition, rooted in the harvest season, offers a meaningful alternative to the often-overwhelming consumerism that surrounds the holidays. It's an opportunity to connect with nature, foster a sense of family, and embrace the beauty of slow living. This is what celebrating a homesteading Autumn Equinox can be.
We hope this inspires you to create your own simple, seasonal traditions this year. What are some of your favorite ways to celebrate the harvest and embrace sustainable living? Share your ideas in the comments below – we'd love to hear them!