November. The month that’s not quite autumn but not yet winter, the awkward middle child of the year. Sandwiched between the spooky, candle-lit drama of October and the festive glitter-bomb that is December, November’s vibe can be best summed up as “grey with a side of rain.” But don’t let its drizzly demeanour fool you; November has its own brand of charm, if you look closely (and squint a little). So, grab a mug of something hot and prepare to revel in all things November.
The Skinny
Birthstones
• Topaz: Known for its golden hues (though it comes in various colours), topaz symbolises strength, intelligence, and healing. It’s said to bring clarity, boost confidence, and provide protection from negative energies.
• Citrine: This cheerful yellow stone is known as the “stone of abundance.” It’s believed to attract wealth, positivity, and warmth—perfect for lifting spirits during the colder months.
Zodiac Signs
• Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Intense, mysterious, and fiercely loyal, Scorpios are known for their depth and emotional intensity. With a love for the hidden and transformative, they’re naturally drawn to all things mystical.
• Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): The adventurous and optimistic Sagittarians are all about freedom, exploration, and learning. They’re the zodiac’s travellers, always searching for knowledge and meaning in life.
November Full Moon
• Beaver Moon: The November Full Moon, called the Beaver Moon, typically falls mid-month. Named by indigenous peoples and early settlers, it was the time to set beaver traps before winter. Spiritually, it represents preparation, hard work, and securing what you need for the months ahead.
Celestial Events
• Leonid Meteor Shower: The Leonids peak around November 17-18 and can be a dazzling show, known for producing bright fireballs. This meteor shower originates from the debris of Comet Tempel-Tuttle and is one of the more famous showers, sometimes producing “meteor storms” with hundreds of meteors per hour (though that’s a rare occurrence).
• Uranus at Opposition: In early November, Uranus is often in opposition, meaning it’s opposite the Sun in the sky and visible all night. With a telescope, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the blue-green planet.
Flower of the Month
• Chrysanthemum: Symbolising friendship, joy, and longevity, chrysanthemums are the birth flower of November. In some cultures, they’re associated with death and remembrance, which suits the reflective, sombre vibe of the month.
Festivals and Observances
• Bonfire Night (November 5): A UK tradition celebrating the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot with bonfires and fireworks.
• Remembrance Day (November 11): Honouring those who lost their lives in war. In the UK, people wear red poppies as a symbol of remembrance.
• Thanksgiving (Fourth Thursday in November, USA): Though not observed everywhere, Thanksgiving represents gratitude, family gatherings, and, of course, feasting.
Interesting snippets
- It’s the last full month of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere.
- November was the ninth month in the Roman calendar (from Latin “novem,” meaning nine).
- Known as the “Blood Month” in Anglo-Saxon England, November was traditionally when livestock was slaughtered and preserved for winter.
The Post-Samhain Comedown
November starts with the post-Samhain hangover, when we’re all still nursing our pumpkin-spice highs and putting away the cauldrons. The spirit world’s doors have swung shut again, and you’re left wondering if you made any spirit guides roll their eyes. If you’re lucky, you’re still picking fake cobwebs out of your hair. If you’re unlucky, you might still have actual cobwebs around the house because, let’s face it, Halloween decorations make excellent decor all year round.
And for those who decided to do a Samhain ritual inviting guidance for the coming winter, welcome to the month of realisation. November will remind you that wisdom from the Otherworld isn’t as straightforward as a fortune cookie. Good luck interpreting that cryptic dream about crows, fire, and your primary school teacher.
Bonfire Night: Celebrating… Um, What Exactly?
November 5th brings Bonfire Night in the UK, where we celebrate the foiling of a 1605 assassination plot with fireworks and bonfires—essentially, burning an effigy of Guy Fawkes because, you know, tradition. So, every year, people stand outside in the cold, watching pyrotechnics, munching on toffee apples, and wondering why we’re celebrating someone not blowing up Parliament by blowing things up ourselves.
But hey, who doesn’t love an excuse for a fire? It’s the perfect time to “accidentally” throw some papers from that ex or a list of your grievances for the year into the flames. Consider it a little November purification ritual to burn off some lingering bad vibes. Just don’t think too hard about the historical accuracy of what’s going on—it’s the bonfire equivalent of an awkward family gathering where no one knows why they’re there.
Embracing the Grey
November is the month where the weather can’t decide if it’s still autumn or gearing up for winter. One day it’s crisp, beautiful, and Instagram-worthy, with golden leaves scattered like confetti. The next day, it’s drizzling so relentlessly you’re convinced the sky is just crying out of boredom. But that’s the beauty of November—she’s here to remind you that not every day can be glamorous.
Want to embrace the seasonal vibe? Go for a walk. Or, more realistically, step outside, see the grey, damp chill, and quickly retreat indoors for another round of tea or something stronger. And, of course, remember to enjoy those few glorious hours of daylight while they last. If you miss them, you’re out of luck—darkness falls faster than a toddler on a sugar crash.
The Full Beaver Moon
November’s Full Moon, charmingly known as the Beaver Moon, doesn’t exactly scream mystique, does it? Named after the time of year when beavers, well, get busy building dams, it’s not quite the romantic vibe of the Harvest or Hunter’s Moons. But let’s roll with it—November’s Beaver Moon is all about preparation and hard work.
Channel your inner beaver (yes, I said it), and focus on building your winter foundations. Finish up projects, tie off loose ends, and get ready for the darker months ahead. It’s not glamorous, but hey, even beavers need to hustle before winter.
If you’re the magical type, this moon is perfect for spells involving stability, productivity, and security. Think of it as magical adulting—a time to reinforce your life so you can get through winter without breaking down. Light a candle, mutter something about stability, and try not to fall asleep halfway through.
Beaver Moon Abundance Spell
You will need:
- A gold or green candle
- Bay leaves (for success)
- Cinnamon powder (for prosperity)
- A coin (for wealth)
How to:
- Place the coin and bay leaves in front of the candle.
- Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on the candle, visualising abundance flowing into your life.
- Light the candle and hold the coin in your hand, focusing on your desire for security, financial stability, and abundance.
- Say, “With the light of this Beaver Moon, I call in abundance and prosperity. May my needs be met through the winter and beyond.”
- Let the candle burn safely for a few minutes. When done, keep the coin as a charm in your wallet or purse to attract wealth.
Reflecting and Remembering
November 11th is Remembrance Day in the UK, where we pay our respects to those who lost their lives in war. It’s a sombre occasion, and rightly so. Every year, people wear poppies and stand in silence, reflecting on the sacrifices made for the freedoms we enjoy today. Even the most sarcastic among us can put down the jokes for a minute here—this day is about genuine gratitude and remembrance.
So, on November 11th, we pause and reflect. And, in true November fashion, probably do so in cold, drizzly weather while wondering if our fingers will survive the chill. Still, there’s something powerful about the sight of people gathering together, rain or shine, for a moment of collective memory. Cynicism aside, it’s a reminder that some traditions are worth holding onto.
Gratitude Candle Spell
November is a great time for gratitude, especially as the days get darker and colder. This simple spell helps you reflect on what you’re thankful for and attract more positive energy.
You will need
- A white or green candle (for gratitude and growth)
- A piece of paper and pen
- Rosemary or lavender (dried or essential oil)
How to do it:
- Carve a symbol of gratitude into the candle, like a heart or the word “thankful.”
- Rub the candle with rosemary or lavender to infuse it with gratitude and peace.
- Write down three things you’re thankful for on the piece of paper. Place it under the candle.
- Light the candle and focus on the things you’re grateful for. Visualise them growing and bringing more positive energy into your life.
- Let the candle burn as long as it’s safe to do so, and when you’re finished, keep the paper on your altar or somewhere special as a reminder of your blessings.
November’s Patron Saint: The Almighty Sweater
After Bonfire Night, Halloween, and Remembrance Day, November is pretty much just a steady parade of oversized sweaters, hot drinks, and the ever-looming question of when it’s acceptable to start putting up Christmas decorations. (The answer, according to strict November etiquette, is not yet.)
The best part about November is the permission it grants to retreat into hibernation mode. Who needs fancy events and parties when you can curl up in a thick jumper, drown yourself in tea, and pretend you’re starring in your own cosy autumnal movie? Bonus points if you’ve got a cat to cuddle, minus points if you only have toasty socks and a tragic amount of unread books.
The Unspoken Question…. Shhhh When Is It Too Early for Christmas?
November, bless its heart, tries to have its own identity, but it’s constantly overshadowed by the impending storm of Christmas. Shops have already swapped out their Halloween stock for tinsel and fairy lights by November 1st, and the Christmas ads start rolling in before the first Bonfire Night spark has even gone out. So, every November, we’re left in this strange limbo of, “Am I allowed to feel festive yet, or is that sacrilege?”
For the record, it’s perfectly acceptable to sneak in a mince pie or two. But if you’re the type to start blasting Mariah Carey before December hits, just know that November’s chilly winds might come knocking with a gentle reminder: Not. Quite. Yet.
November’s Mystical To-Do List
- Practice Gratitude: It’s dark, it’s cold, and life can feel like it’s getting a bit bleak, so a touch of gratitude goes a long way. Write down three things you’re thankful for each day, even if one of them is just “My kettle works.”
- Get Cosy with Divination: As the veil between worlds lingers just a little longer, grab your tarot cards, tea leaves, or a dusty crystal ball, and check in with your future self. Just don’t ask any questions you’re not ready to hear the answer to. November doesn’t hold back.
- Prepare for Winter: Think of this as magical nesting. Clean your space, gather your comforts, and make sure you’ve got all the creature comforts you need to survive the upcoming winter. Get your candles, blankets, and maybe even some new books to hunker down with.
- Celebrate the Small Things: November might not have December’s glam or October’s drama, but it’s got a quiet, steady charm. Light a candle, celebrate the little victories, and embrace the calm before the holiday storm.
So, here’s to November—the month of hibernation preparation, intermittent gloom, and the last call before the December sparkle. Whether you’re braving the rain for Bonfire Night, trying to stay patient before the Christmas onslaught, or simply enjoying the chance to disappear under layers of wool, let’s give November its due. After all, someone has to make autumn feel properly dramatic.
