Spring Equinox: The True Start of the New Year

OK hear me out—January might be the official start of the calendar year, but does it actually feel like a fresh start? For many of us, January is cold, dark, and slow. It’s doesn’t exactly feel like the ideal time to shake off old habits and launch into the “New Year New Me” mind set.

But spring? That’s a different story. When the equinox rolls around, everything starts to wake up—longer days, warmer air, flowers coming up through the earth. Windows and doors are opening allowing that stagnant air to move out of the house. It’s like the whole world is hitting reset. For many cultures throughout history, this has been the real New Year.

Why Does the Spring Equinox Mark the Real New Year? Because it’s all about fresh starts. Nature is waking up, and so are you. The equinox is a turning point—a moment of balance where light and dark are equal before the sun starts to warm the earth again. That shift brings energy, growth, and renewal, which makes way more sense as a time for new beginnings than in the middle of winter.

Many cultures have long celebrated the spring equinox as the true start of the year. The Persian New Year (Nowruz) is tied to the equinox, as are ancient calendars in China and Japan. In the pagan world, the festival of Ostara marks this transition, honoring Eostre, the goddess of fertility and rebirth. Even the Zodiac calendar starts anew in spring, starting off with Aries on March 21.

It’s a natural reset. Unlike the currently observed calendar date, the equinox is a more natural event that coincides with the natural world. The sun crosses the celestial equator, giving equal light to both hemispheres. It’s literally nature’s way of saying, Hey, wake up it’s time for a fresh start!

Every year, January comes along and suddenly there’s pressure to fix yourself. Gym memberships spike, goal planners sell out, and social media is full of people making ambitious resolutions. But if you’re feeling drained and uninspired, you’re not alone. I know for myself in January I am still cozy in my cocoon of self-study/self-care.

Think about it: winter is a time of rest. The earth slows down, animals hibernate, and plants conserve energy. If nature isn’t rushing to bloom, why should you? Pushing for immediate change in the coldest, darkest months just doesn’t align with the natural rhythm of things.

But when spring arrives, there’s a surge of energy all around. You feel it in your body and your surroundings. That’s why using spring as your reset button, as your “New Year” makes so much more sense.

So how do you tap into the fresh energy of spring and make your New Year? The good news is there’s no right or wrong way—just go with what feels natural. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Clean Your Space (and Your Mind)

Spring cleaning isn’t just about getting rid of junk—it’s about making space for new energy. Open the windows, sweep out stagnant energy, and declutter anything that no longer serves you. Cleaning out your closet is a small act that can have a huge impact on your mental clarity.

Build an Altar

Create a small space in your home to honor the season. Decorate it with spring flowers, candles, crystals, or meaningful objects. You can also add photos of loved ones or little notes about your hopes for the season ahead. Let it be a growing, evolving reflection of you.

Light a Fire

Fire is a powerful symbol of transformation. Pagans and many others have long incorporated fire into seasonal celebrations, representing the return of light. If you can, light a small fire outside or simply burn a candle with intention. Write down old habits or fears, anything from the past year you’re ready to release, and let them go in the flames.

Take a Walk (Without Distractions)

The easiest way to welcome spring? Step outside. No podcasts, no music, leave your phone at home—just you and nature. Pay attention to the little details: new buds on trees, the sound of birds, the feel of the sun on your skin, maybe take your shoes off and feel the earth on your feet. Slowing down and noticing these small changes is a simple but powerful way to sync up with the season.

Here’s the thing, growth doesn’t have to be forced. Too often, resolutions make us feel like we need to completely overhaul our lives overnight. But if you’ve ever watched a plant grow, you know it doesn’t happen like that. Some days there’s sunshine, other days there’s rain, and both are necessary.

Instead of rigid resolutions, try setting seasonal intentions. Choose a theme for spring—maybe renewal, creativity, or self-trust—and let that guide your actions. This way, you’re growing with the season, not against it. Allow yourself to grow in a way that feels natural, not forced.

Spring is a reminder that renewal doesn’t have to be forced. Change happens naturally, just like flowers blooming after a long winter. So instead of pushing yourself into strict resolutions in January, take a breath.

Let yourself ease into growth. Step outside, soak up the returning light, and trust that everything will bloom in its own time—including you.

Let Spring Be Your New Year—No Pressure, Just Possibility