Did You Know?

October’s Gift: The Season of Apples

As the air turns crisp and golden leaves begin to fall, October ushers in one of nature’s sweetest offerings — the apple. This humble fruit, ripe with color and symbolism, represents abundance, wisdom, and renewal. For centuries, apples have been gathered during this time as part of the harvest — a reminder of the Earth’s generosity and the cyclical rhythm of life.

In ancient traditions, the apple was seen as sacred — a symbol of the soul and the mysteries within. When sliced horizontally, its hidden star appears, five seeds arranged in perfect harmony — a reflection of nature’s divine geometry. Spiritually, the apple invites us to return to simplicity, to savor the sweetness that comes when we slow down and fully taste the present moment.

Whether picked from a mountain orchard or purchased at your local market, October apples carry the essence of the season — crisp air, warm hearths, and the gentle reminder that life’s beauty often rests in small, sacred pleasures.

So pour a cup of cider, wrap yourself in a soft blanket, and let this simple act of creation — baking with love — become a meditation in itself.

Recipe: Baked Cinnamon Honey Apples

(A comforting treat that fills your home with warmth and the scent of autumn.)

Ingredients:

• 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work beautifully)

• 2 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

• 2 tbsp butter or coconut oil

• A pinch of sea salt

• Fresh lemon juice (just a squeeze)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Core the apples carefully, leaving the bottoms intact to form small “bowls.”

3. Place apples in a small baking dish and drizzle lemon juice over them to prevent browning.

4. In a bowl, mix together the honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, nuts, and sea salt.

5. Fill each apple with the mixture, dividing evenly, and place a small piece of butter (or coconut oil) on top.

6. Add a splash of hot water (about ¼ cup) to the baking dish to create gentle steam.

7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.

8. Spoon the warm syrup from the dish over the apples before serving.

Serve as-is, or top with a dollop of vanilla yogurt, coconut cream, or a sprinkle of granola for extra texture.

Mindful Moment

Before your first bite, take a breath. Feel the warmth, the scent of spice and sweetness, and give silent thanks — to the Earth for her abundance, to the tree for her offering, and to yourself for slowing down to savor life’s simple joys.