A Fall Equinox Ritual: Welcoming Creativity Through Balance

Maggie McCracken
Sep 17, 2021
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The Fall Equinox is a special time for creative and intuitive types. This year, the Equinox falls on Wednesday, September 22, so if you're interested in taking advantage of the unique energies of this time period, that's the day to bookmark.

The equinoxes mark the dates when both day and night are equal in length, and when we're exactly halfway between the Summer and Winter solstices. Because of this focus on perfect balance, the equinoxes are great times to reflect on the role balance plays in our own lives. Are we working too much? Playing too much? Traveling so often we don't feel grounded? Feeling stuck in place?

For those of us who are interested in creativity, balance is absolutely crucial. It's nearly impossible to bring new things of value into the world if you're stressed all the time, and it's similarly difficult if you're stuck on the opposite side of the spectrum, unable to motivate yourself to be productive. Whether it's your work life, your relationships, your self-care routines, your diet, or your finances that need balance, the Fall Equinox is a great day to set an intention to create balance in your life so creativity has an opportunity to come through.

This ritual involves calling upon the energies of the Autumn Equinox to help you set boundaries, regain balance, and create space for your next big idea to come into being.

What You'll Need

candles

Photo by Noelle Australia/Unsplash

  • A purple candle and match or lighter
  • A black candle
  • A pen and two pieces of paper
  • A creative work that inspires you, such as a book, a photo, an album or an art print
  • Access to a freezer (the one in your fridge will do just fine)
  • A plastic sandwich or Ziplock bag

The Ritual

Photo via Hannah Olinger/Unsplash.

Part I: Setting Boundaries

  • On Wednesday, during a time when you can be alone and won't be bothered or distracted, sit quietly with your supplies and light the black candle.
  • Take some time to breathe deeply, ground and center yourself in the space.
  • Pull out your pen and paper. Once you feel like you're in a calm and meditative state, use the paper to write your thoughts on the following prompts:
    • What areas of my life are lacking balance?
    • Why am I currently prone to imbalance in this area? Is there a deeper reason I'm neglecting the other side of my needs?
    • How does this imbalance make me feel? (Be sure to note if it makes you feel angry, sad, frustrated at someone, afraid of change... all of these thoughts and emotions are valid and important to note.)
  • When you're done answering the prompts, fold the paper in half, bringing the bottom corners of the paper up to meet the cop corners. Keeping the paper on the table or floor in front of you, turn it half-way to the left. Now, fold it from the bottom to the top again. Turn left again. Repeat until it's difficult to fold the paper anymore.
  • Carefully drip some wax from the black candle onto the paper to "seal" it (it doesn't have to be a perfect seal... this is symbolic, after all). Set the paper aside.
  • Blow out the black candle and watch the smoke twirl through the air. Envision the smoke as embodying the negative factors that were preventing you from achieving balance. Watch those factors float away into the air.
  • Put the paper into the plastic bag, and then put it in the back of your freezer. It's going to stay there for the foreseeable future—try to just forget about it.

Part II: Inviting In Creativity

  • Come back to the area where you were sitting before. Light the purple candle.
  • Again, take some time to ground and center yourself, breathing deeply and cultivating a meditative mindset.
  • Take the inspiring object (your book, art print, album, etc.) into your hands. Close your eyes. Try to feel all the work, energy, and creativity that went into making this inspiring work. Spend a good three to five minutes absorbing its energy (if your object was a musical piece, a comedy sketch, or something more audible than visual, feel free to play it in the background while you concentrate!).
  • Put your object aside and take out your second piece of paper. On the paper, write your thoughts on the following prompts:
    • What is it about my chosen creative work that inspires me?
    • What did it probably feel like to create this work? (Really try to get into the mindset of the creator here.)
    • What is one habit I can implement today that will help me make more space for creativity in my life?
  • When you're done answering the prompts, fold the paper in half, this time folding it from the top toward the bottom. Turn it half-way to the right, and fold in half again. Just like before, repeat this until you can no longer fold the paper easily.
  • As you did in Part I, "seal" the paper, this time with the purple wax. Set the paper aside.
  • Blow out the candle, and this time as you're watching the smoke spread through the air, envision that the smoke represents your wishes for creativity being carried out into the universe.
  • Take the piece of paper with you and head outside. Bury the paper in the soil to represent the planting of a seed that will eventually grow into a strong and beautiful tree.

Are you planning to celebrate autumn with a Fall Equinox ritual like this one? Tweet us at @BritandCo and let us know!

Featured photo via Shashi Chaturvedula/Unsplash.

8 Times "Old-Fashioned" Boomer Advice Aged Horribly

We've all been taught to respect the wisdom of our elders, but in today's world, is advice from Boomers really relevant anymore?

Think about it: this generation, born between 1946 and 1964, got to benefit from easier access to entry-level positions, more affordable home prices, and much cheaper college tuition rates. Nowadays, younger generations are grappling with housing shortages, high mortgage rates, student loans, and an extremely competitive job market.

So, whether it's about career choices or money management, here are some classic pieces of outdated Boomer advice that haven't aged well and need a refresh.

Scroll to see all the old-fashioned Boomer advice that just didn't age well...

1. "Follow your dreams."

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This phrase became a mantra for many Boomers, pushing the idea that pursuing passion and fulfillment in work should be a top priority. Unfortunately, that's just not realistic any more.

Sure, passion is important, but the reality is that dreams don't always pay the bills or ensure financial stability. Today, many people find themselves balancing passion with practicality by taking on side gigs, freelancing, or choosing careers that might not be their ultimate dream job but offer security.

2. "You can pull yourself up by your bootstraps."

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Pulling yourself up by your bootstraps has long been hailed as the hallmark of self-made success. It suggests that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve greatness through pure hard work and determination.

However, younger generations agree that's just not the case in 2025. With growing economic inequalities, skyrocketing housing costs, and student debt, that proverbial bootstrap can feel pretty elusive. For many, the idea of pulling yourself up isn't as simple as working harder; it's a matter of having access to the right opportunities and resources.

3. "You can be whatever you want."

Anastasia Shuraeva

Again, just because someone wants to be a lawyer or doctor (and is willing to work hard) doesn't mean they can. Sure, the idea of limitless potential sounds inspiring, but it blatantly overlooks the systemic barriers that so many people face.

In the modern era, the road to success is often paved by factors beyond anyone's control, like access to education, family wealth, and even geography. The harsh truth is that "being whatever you want" is a lot harder with these obstacles in the way.

4. "Go to college, get a degree, and you'll be set."

Moe Magners

It was once thought that a degree would immediately open the door to a stable, well-paying job and a secure future. While college education is still valuable today, it's no longer a guarantee of success, especially due to crippling student debt and a more competitive job market than ever.

Many graduates still find themselves underemployed or stuck in jobs they didn't really want. So, unfortunately, degrees are no longer surefire tickets to successful careers.

5. "You should buy a home instead of wasting money on renting."

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Homeownership was a milestone viewed as a mark of stability and success. Meanwhile, renting was considered a temporary solution.

Even so, high home prices and interest rates, coupled with housing shortages, have left plenty of young people simply unable to buy their own property. Instead, renting has now become a long-term reality for many.

6. "It's taboo to talk about money."

Ron Lach

Talking about income or other financial matters used to be considered tacky or inappropriate. Yet, salary transparency is more important than ever in 2025.

Wage inequality and pay gaps are major issues, and openly discussing money helps ensure people are fairly and equally compensated in the workplace. Many employees now recognize the power of sharing their salary as a way to hold their bosses accountable and help others negotiate better pay.

7. "Just save your money."

Pavel Danilyuk

Anyone with a Boomer parent has probably been told that if they "just" set aside a portion of their income, they'll be set for the future. That's not true anymore.

With inflation and rising living costs, stashing cash away in the bank isn't enough to secure financial stability. Not to mention, many people can't even keep up with the increasing costs of essentials, let alone saving to build wealth. Instead, budgeting, investing, and strategic financial planning are essential for money management today.

8. "Settle down and start your family."

Mikhail Nilov

Last but not least, settling down and starting a family used to be viewed as the natural next step in adulthood. But this advice doesn't resonate the same with younger generations.

The pressure to settle down has been replaced with a desire to achieve personal growth, career advancement, and financial independence first. Also, starting a family isn't a one-size-fits-all goal anymore, especially amidst evolving gender roles and an increased focus on mental well-being. That's why more people are choosing a path that feels right for them as opposed to following a set timeline.

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Ben Affleck Wants You To Know He's Actually "Drama-Free" Post-Jennifer Lopez Divorce

Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez are no strangers to making headlines — and apparently Ben has a lot to say about that after their blockbuster divorce. Bennifer 2.0 was a shocking rekindled romance, but nothing was more shocking about how brief take two was for these seemingly star-crossed lovers. While Ben's historically been pretty tight-lipped about his personal life, he recently opened up in an interview with GQ about Jennifer, their divorce, and how he really feels about it all. Here's what he had to say!

Scroll to see Ben Affleck's rare comments about Jennifer Lopez post-divorce...

Again, it's pretty well-known that Ben Affleck doesn't care much for the spotlight. I mean, he's literally known for looking grumpy — and drinking Dunkin' — in pap shots. And Ben is pretty adamant that underneath all those major headlines, he's just a normal guy with a normal family. He told GQ that his "life is actually pretty drama-free," noting that he experiences all the same things anyone else does.

"I’m sure in your mind you’re thinking, Oh, well, you just got divorced. That’s not drama-free. And I understand that instinct," he elaborated. "But all of this is pretty adult, and for all the sensational stuff that gets written, if somebody sat down and talked to me about it, and I said, “Well, this is really the experience,” their eyes would glaze over with boredom."

When asked about the divorce-stricken elephant in the room, Ben surprisingly shared what ultimately lead to his split from Jennifer Lopez. The interviewer noted that in The Greatest Love Story Never Told, it was clear that Ben wasn't comfortable with sharing so much of himself on screen — and asked what he was going through in those moments.

"Like I mentioned to you before, there are a lot of people who I think have handled celebrity more adeptly and more adroitly than I have, Jennifer among them. My temperament is to be a little bit more reserved and private than hers. As happens in relationships, you don’t always have the same attitude towards these things," he said. "And so I thought, Oh, this is interesting because how do you reconcile that? Because exactly what you said is true. I love and support this person. I believe in them. They’re great. I want people to see that."

Ben explained that there's a highly-quoted part of the documentary where he says, "You don’t marry a ship captain and then say, 'Well, I don’t like going out in the water.'" And ultimately? Ben said that really isn't what caused he and JLo to break things off. He said, "I think it’s important to say that wasn’t the cause of some major fracture. It’s not like you can watch that documentary and go, 'Oh, now I understand the issues that these two had.'"

Maybe one day we'll get the reason Bennifer 2.0 broke our hearts, but for now this answer will have to do. Here's hoping these two are both happy in their own right!

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10 "Outdated" Careers That Won't Be Around For Much Longer

Advancements in technology and shifting consumer behavior are constantly shaping the job market and causing it to evolve. So, some careers that have stood the test of time are becoming obsolete and facing numbered days.

Whether we like it or not, here are 10 outdated careers that may soon be a thing of the past because emerging fields are paving a new way forward.

Scroll to see which outdated careers might disappear sooner rather than later...

1. Warehouse Workers

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Warehouse jobs, particularly those in large distribution centers for companies like Amazon, are at high risk of being replaced by automation. With the development of AI and advanced robots, companies are looking to automate tasks like order fulfillment, inventory management, and packaging.

Automation offers the advantage of 24/7 operation without the need for breaks or sleep, making it more efficient than human labor. Leaders like Elon Musk have acknowledged that making a full switch will be challenging. Nonetheless, the shift toward technology-driven warehouses is undeniable, and many traditional jobs will likely be transformed or phased out.

2. Librarians

Tima Miroshnichenko

Being a librarian was once viewed as a vital and secure profession. Now, digital tech has changed the way we access information, and with the rise of e-books, audiobooks, and online databases, fewer people are relying on physical libraries for their reading and research needs.

Plus, as books become more affordable and accessible, the traditional library model, which is centered around physical book rentals, is becoming less relevant. So, even though it's unlikely that libraries are going to disappear entirely, the role of librarians may shift toward digital management and online services.

3. Ride-Share Drivers

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Drivers for taxi companies, as well as ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft, are facing an uncertain future as autonomous vehicles become more advanced. Self-driving cars, which are powered by artificial intelligence, are set to revolutionize the transportation industry and possibly eliminate the need for human drivers.

These vehicles will use apps to identify riders, calculate fares, and complete payments, all without any human intervention. This means the role of the traditional ride-share driver may no longer be necessary.

4. Customer Service Reps

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AI and chatbots are increasingly replacing customer service representatives, too, as they're capable of handling a wide range of inquiries and issues. These AI-driven systems may offer faster and more efficient solutions and, in turn, eliminate long wait times for customers trying to speak to a human representative.

This, coupled with the fact that chatbots can operate 24/7, will help companies streamline their operations and cut costs. That's why many customer service roles are already being phased out.

5. Legal Secretaries

August de Richelieu

Even legal secretaries are facing threats due to AI-powered tools, which can handle tasks like legal research, document drafting, and contract management. These technologies are automating a lot of the routine work that once required humans and reducing the demand for legal secretaries in law firms.

Now, this role probably won't be completely replaced by AI. Even so, the automation of basic functions could still lead to lower overall staffing needs, particularly for paralegals and junior legal assistants.

6. Cashiers

Andrea Piacquadio

Walk into your local supermarket, and you'll see that technology has already begun to take over traditional checkout processes. With the rise of self-checkout kiosks, mobile payment options like Apple Pay, and even cryptocurrency transactions, the need for human cashiers is steadily decreasing.

Retailers like Amazon have already introduced cashier-free convenience stores, and other companies may follow in their footsteps.

7. Referees

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Not even sports fields seem to be safe from the rise of AI. In fact, referees are increasingly being sidelined as technology takes a more prominent role in officiating sports.

Systems like goal-line technology and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) have already proven that AI can make more accurate and unbiased calls than humans. Another appeal of automated officiating lies in its ability to reduce controversial decisions that spark arguments among players, coaches, and fans.

8. Translators

Ketut Subiyanto

As AI-powered translation tools become more sophisticated, translators are facing stiff competition, too. These systems, which were once limited to basic word-for-word translation, are getting better at understanding context, tone, and nuance.

The improvement of machine learning will also allow for vast amounts of text across various languages to be processed simultaneously, increasing its accuracy. So, the demand for traditional translation services is expected to decline in the wake of faster and cheaper AI solutions.

9. Computer Programmers

Julio Lopez

AI-driven coding tools are advancing as well. Automated programming assistants and open-source AI libraries are streamlining many routine coding tasks, like debugging, code generation, and even basic software development.

Skilled developers will likely still be needed for complex problem-solving and other, more creative software design projects. But, developers whose roles focus on repetitive tasks may see reduced demand.

10. Dispatchers

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Finally, human dispatchers may gradually be replaced by AI systems that can manage logistics, emergency responses, and customer inquiries. Things like advanced GPS tracking, automated scheduling, and real-time data processing allow AI to handle dispatch tasks with little human help.

Some cities have already implemented AI for non-emergency calls, slashing the need for human operators on the other end of the phone.

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8 Iconic 'Yellowstone' Quotes That Prove It's The Best Show Of All Time

It's easy to understand why Yellowstone has captivated audiences for five whole seasons. The show is packed with intense drama, complex characters, and stunning landscapes.

Yellowstone is also home to plenty of powerful moments and memorable lines. Whether it's a gut punch of wisdom or a cutting remark, here are some of the show's most iconic quotes.

Scroll to see the most iconic Yellowstonequotes we can't get enough of!

"The only thing I ask is that you outlive me so I never live another day without you." – Beth Dutton

Beth may be regarded as the toughest character in Yellowstone, but beneath her fierce exterior is a deep well of emotion, especially when it comes to Rip.

In one of the most poignant moments of the series, Beth revealed a side of herself that viewers don't often see: her vulnerability and intense love for Rip. For Beth, having him by her side is more than just about companionship. It's a source of strength and stability.

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"You're either born a willow or born an oak. That's all there is to it." – Lloyd Pierce

In Yellowstone, the harshness of ranch life shapes its inhabitants in unique ways. Here, Lloyd offers a candid observation about the nature of people, suggesting that some are inherently strong and resolute, like oaks, while others are more adaptable and pliable, like willows.

This quote underscores one of the central themes of the show: the tough world of ranching creates individuals who are either suited for the challenge or will be bent by it.

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"You know, when you boil life down, it's funny just how little you need, isn't it?" – Rip Wheeler

This line perfectly encapsulates Rip's simple yet profound outlook on life. As a man deeply connected to the land, he values self-sufficiency and is content with the basics, a philosophy that aligns closely with the rugged Western lifestyle the Duttons defend.

In his eyes, all that truly matters is the ranch and his family. His humble nature and his unwavering loyalty make him a grounding force amidst the chaos of the show.

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"The brand isn't something you earn; it's something you live up to." – John Dutton

The Yellowstone brand is not merely a symbol of belonging. As the quote shows, it's also a constant reminder of the responsibility and expectations that come with it.

When Jimmy is given the choice to accept the brand, he isn't just going to be marked as part of the ranch. John Dutton runs his operation with a strict code of loyalty and unquestioned obedience, and Jimmy is being offered an opportunity to prove himself and live a life defined by hard work and sacrifice.

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"A man who puts a hand on a member of my family never puts a hand on anything else." – Jamie Dutton

Despite their conflicts and dysfunctions, the Duttons share an unbreakable bond when it comes to protecting their own. Jamie's line goes to show that, even with all their flaws, the Duttons will unite in retribution when one of their own is harmed.

What makes this quote particularly striking is that it comes from Jamie, who's like a black sheep in the family.

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"When you fight for a thing, the thing doesn't care if you win or lose because the thing ain't alive. But when you fight for people, they care." – Kayce Dutton

This line delivered by Kayce underscores the difference between fighting for a cause and fighting for the people you love. He points out the contrast between fighting for material possessions, like the ranch, and the genuine connection and impact that comes from fighting for those you care about.

The quote reveals a key difference between him and his father, John Dutton. While John's primary focus is the ranch's preservation, Kayce is more concerned with his family's well-being.

Paramount

"Learn to be meaner than evil and still love your family and enjoy a sunrise." – John Dutton

In a modern Western like Yellowstone, there are undeniable themes of survival, sacrifice, and loyalty to family. This quote by John reflects the harsh reality of the cowboy lifestyle.

Furthermore, he believes that while life may demand hard choices, it's still possible to find moments of beauty and joy and hold onto the love that makes life worth living. His advice isn't just about fighting evil but surviving in a world where evil is inevitable while preserving a sense of humanity.

Paramount

"When the misery is bad enough, tomorrow is rarely factored into decisions." – Monica Dutton

Finally, it's no secret that Monica has faced an unthinkable amount of challenges in her life, from the trauma of Kayce killing her brother to dealing with systemic racism. This quote shows her belief that when life is filled with mystery, it becomes nearly impossible to think about the future because the present is all-consuming.

It speaks to the emotional weight of living in such a brutal environment and resonates with many of the characters on Yellowstone.

Missing Yellowstone? Us, too. Here's everything you need to know about Taylor Sheridan's epic Yellowstone universe, from 1923to Landman.

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OMG, We're Reportedly Getting 'Twisters 2' — & More Glen Powell!

The Twisters storyline is said to continue with a sequel! A second iteration of the 2024 remake is “reportedly in the works,” according to entertainment writer and insider, Daniel Richtman. That could potentially mean more Daisy Edgar-Jones, and, of course, more Glen Powell!

Here’s everything we know about Twisters 2.

Who will star in 'Twisters 2'?

Melinda Sue Gordon for Universal Pictures / Warner Bros. Pictures / Amblin Entertainment

Though we don’t have an official casting for the film quite yet, fans are speculating that Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell would return for a Twisters sequel.

“There's no doubt in my mind that Powell and Edgar-Jones are game to reprise their lead roles,” Jordan Ruimy writes for World of Reel.

“I don’t think it needs a sequel but if they can write a compelling story with halfway decent character development and maintain the chemistry in the cast, I’d definitely go see it,” one Twisters fan wrote on Reddit.

What will 'Twisters 2' be about?

Melinda Sue Gordon for Universal Pictures / Warner Bros. Pictures / Amblin Entertainment

There’s no word on the plot of a Twisters sequel, either. Some fans of the film were definitely quick to share some theories for it:

“Tyler faces the moral dilemma about click bait vs accurate information. Kate gets upset about him profiting off of people’s fears. Then Tyler adjusts some way. Still can get tornadoes in there easily,” one person wrote. “Or they could continue down the experiment route and having to get and keep funding looking for better ways to stop a tornado. Or the fall out of the sodium ruining the farm land.”

“Another film to continue the chemistry between Kate and Tyler would be sick,” another user said.

While a potential Twisters 2 sounds appealing to some fans, others are hesitant to greenlight it, preferring a separate storyline instead.

“I'm open to the idea of a Twisters sequel, but I'd prefer they'd leave it as a standalone film,” one more person weighed in.

When does 'Twisters 2' come out?

Melinda Sue Gordon for Universal Pictures / Warner Bros. Pictures / Amblin Entertainment

Twisters hit theaters last year in the summertime, so we predict any potential Twisters 2 would come out the summer of 2026. It’s a tad bit too early to say for sure, though, since murmurings of the movie are still fairly new.

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