A Greek astronomer and mathematician named Hipparchus (ca. 190-ca.120 BCE) was attributed by various sources to have discovered the precession of the equinoxes, the slow movement among the stars of the two opposite places where the sun crosses the celestial equator. Hipparchus made observations of the equinox and solstice. The word “equinox” derives from the Latin words meaning “equal night” and refers to the time when the sun crosses the equator. In modern times this word is used to refer not only to the positions on the ecliptic but also the times of the year when the sun has reached them. The September equinox has been used as a reference point in many calendars in the past, including the French Revolutionary Calendar. Although very little is known about the ancient Macedonian calendar, some believe that the first month began after the autumnal equinox.

Fall is on the horizon which means its harvest time. Along with the yummy apples, pumpkins, and figs; Fall can bring on a not so pleasant cold. Today is the first official day of fall and although the leaves aren’t changing quite yet, they will along with the weather. Remember to keep your immune system protected and drink lots of fluids with the changing weather. Here’s a delicious recipe for soup which can help keep your immune system strong and fend off infection:

To Good Health Veggie Soup

Directions:
Saute vegetables in olive oil, add kidney beans broth to cover veggies and spices, simmer for 4 to 6 hours.

Ingredients:
1) 1 Yellow or Red Onion
Antibacterial, anti-fungal, therapeutic, vitamin A and C, helps with high blood pressure, helps with diabetes, diuretic, can help prevent heart disease
2) 2 large Leeks
Anti-cancer fighting qualities, antimicrobial, antibacterial, good for colds, coughs, asthma, acne (sulfur compound), Suppresses the growth of potentially harmful bacteria in the colon. Good for proper blood flow
3) 10 Cloves of Garlic
Twice the fighting power as onions, anti-inflammatory, immune booster, antioxidant, fights free radicals
4) 1 bunch of Asparagus
High in vitamin K and Folate, full of folic acid, good for the heart, helps with menstrual cramps, detoxifying, can help treat depression, anti-fungal, anti-viral, antioxidant, helps fight chronic fatigue syndrome
5) 1 bunch of Spinach
High in vitamin K, Folate, manganese, iron, calcium, vitamin C and B2, potassium, antioxidant, helps the heart and digestion, anti-inflammatory
6) 1 bunch of Kale
High in vitamin K (fat-soluble, protein needed for coagulation) produced by bacteria in large intestines. Helps bind calcium for transport and absorption through the intestines, combats chronic fatigue, anti-fungal
7) 1 large bunch of Broccoli
High in vitamin C, aids in iron absorption, good source of folic acid, good for those with calcium deficiency, balance, lung, spleen, stomach and blood filters
8) ½ a head of Red Cabbage
Cabbage provides high levels of iron and sulfur, minerals that work in part as clean sugars for the digestive system, energy, and fuel. Red Cabbage is an antioxidant that helps protect brain cells, boosts metabolism, inhibits infection, boosts the immune system to produce more antibodies
9) 10 Pureed Tomatoes
High in vitamin C, produces lycopene, which guards against cervical cancer, protects the inner lining of the uterus and helps protect against lung cancer. Boosts levels of procollagen in the skin, potential reversal of the skins again process, said to neutralize free radicals
10) ½ cup of Olive Oil
Good fat, antioxidant, hydrating, soothing, anti-inflammatory
11) 8 cups of Kidney Beans
Fiber, cholesterol lowering fiber, prevents blood sugar levels from rising too rapidly after a meal, good for diabetes, insulin resistant, hypoglycemia, gives energy, produces Thiamin for good memory
12) 2 pinches of Lemon Pepper
Vitamin C, antioxidant, antibacterial
13) 2 pinches of Garlic Salt
Fights infection, can prevent common cold and flu, antioxidant, helps heart
14) 1 pinch of Smoke Paprika
High in vitamin C, purifies the blood, antioxidant, can speed up metabolism, helps aide congestion
15) 2 Tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar
Antioxidant, vitamin C, gives a rosy complexion, helps with acne

Along with the changing seasons, Willow expanded her office into an even more roomy environment. Its another hard-working step taken to benefit her business. She is readily organizing her new space and finding her zen with a dash of incense and some greenery, she’s able to complete work in the comfort of her own home.