Samhain (a Gaelic word pronounced “sow-win”) was first observed by Celtic Pagans. Samhain marked the Celtic New Year, the end of summer, and the end of the harvest season. It also signaled the beginning of winter, which is associated with death and the dark half of the wheel of the year. On Samhain, the Celts believed the veil between the material and the spiritual realms was especially thin.
But what exactly is the veil? Why is it thin and why does it matter? “The veil” refers to the liminal space or "in-between" energetic barrier that separates the physical world from other spiritual realms, such as the realm of the ancestors, the realm of the gods and goddesses, the realm of the fae, and so on.
During Samhain, when this veil is thin, there are extremely heightened energetic happenings as spirits come and go more freely than at other points during the year. While this may not impact practitioners who are more accustomed to interacting with spirit realms, for those who are less in tune with other realms or newer to interacting with energy it can be an incredibly intense season.
This is a time though, that whether someone has been a spiritual practitioner for ages or is barely connected to spirituality at all, people across the board feel the draw to connect with those who came before them. This is our favorite way to celebrate and honor the Samhain season by connecting with our protective ancestors, the ones who walked before us and are loving and benevolent.
Life is a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, meaning that spirit never dies, just as physics teaches us that energy is never destroyed only transformed. The family unit is composed of both the living and the departed, the essence of the departed is ever-present and as such can be activated anytime. Whilst the ancestors are no longer present in the physical they still can communicate and act as spiritual guardians to their descendants by offering support and guidance along their life to help overcome challenges and tap into one’s potential.
While countless ancestors have come before us and are a part of our heritage and family lineage, that does not mean that they are all inherently good people, have our best interests in mind, or are energy that we want to carry forward with us. Ancestors who perpetuated patterns of abuse, trauma, and harm, not only do we want to be intentional to avoid carrying the negative aspects forward with us, but we also want to ultimately unwind and break the generational cycles that have been created. That doesn’t mean that those who were not good people should be discarded, as they are still a part of us. But instead, we can send them love, cleansing, and healing energies while maintaining boundaries to protect ourselves and future generations.
This is why, as practitioners, we are intentional about calling forward our protective ancestors in our workings, communications, and rituals. This ancestral communication can take place in various ways including through meditations, dreams, visions, synchronicities, nature, signs, sounds, and so on. The most important thing to understand about connecting to and communicating with your ancestors is the power of your intention. Once you make the decision to connect with your protective ancestors, you will find that the pathway of communication opened.
Below I have put together a simple ritual for connecting with your protective ancestors during Samhain. As with most rituals I perform, I start with protective and grounding exercises and then carry out the ritual using a form of representation of the spirit(s) being connected with, a beacon or fuel source to guide and honor the spirit(s), and the magickal power of my intentions to carry out the actual working.
What you'll need:
While there are many methods for carrying out the below ritual, I am only going to highlight how I perform this ritual myself. You are welcome to replicate it in its entirety or modify it using your own preferred methods of protection, representation for your ancestors, preferred candle method, and so on.
Protection
Start with sitting on the ground. If you have a designated altar space for the deceased and/or your ancestors, sit in front of that setup with your representative item, candle, and offering. Close your eyes and envision a bright light surrounding you completely. Let this light permeate every inch of you until you feel warm, safe, and grounded.
Welcoming
Facing East, speak: "Thank you to the East and the element of Air for protecting and allowing me to be present in this window of liminal space. As I access the ancestral realm, I welcome my protective ancestors, and I thank you for helping guide them to me. Hail and welcome!"
Turning right and facing South, speak: "Thank you to the South and the element of Fire for protecting and allowing me to be present in this window of liminal space. As I access the ancestral realm, I welcome my protective ancestors, and I thank you for helping guide them to me. Hail and welcome!"
Turning right and facing West, speak: "Thank you to the West and the element of Water for protecting and allowing me to be present in this window of liminal space. As I access the ancestral realm, I welcome my protective ancestors, and I thank you for helping guide them to me. Hail and welcome!"
Turning right and facing North, speak: "Thank you to the North and the element of Earth for protecting and allowing me to be present in this window of liminal space. As I access the ancestral realm, I welcome my protective ancestors, and I thank you for helping guide them to me. Hail and welcome!"
Representation
Place the item (I'll be using my grandmother's class ring that is engraved with her initials) that represents your ancestor(s) beside the black candle and offering.
Beacon
Light the black candle intended to guide your ancestors to you and place the cup or bowl of water beside this beacon.
Offering
Place out the offering (I'll be using red wine and pie since that was my grandmother's favorite thing to make) for your ancestors around/beside the black candle to feed them and honor them.
Connecting
Sitting and closing your eyes, envision a doorway opening and your protective ancestor(s) coming through the gate toward you. Ask that any messages they may have for you be clearly received and state any other intentions you may have, such as honoring them, getting to know them better, etc.
Once you feel that they are with you, allow any messages they have to flow toward you. If you are not yet skilled at receiving messages through clairaudience, claircognizance, or the like, focus on how the present energy feels. Sit quietly with these feelings, allowing your body to take it all in and then gently release it. If you feel drawn to use a form of divination to communicate with your ancestor(s), you may do that as well.
Closing
When you are ready to end the ritual and communication with your ancestors for now, thank those who came forward and allowed you to connect with them, and then visualize them all leaving through the same gate they came through. Once gone, envision the doorway closing and fading away.
Stand up and facing North, speak: "Thank you to the North and the element of Earth for protecting and allowing me to be present in this window of liminal space. I say goodbye to my protective ancestors, and I thank you for helping guide them back to the ancestral realm."
Turning left and facing West, speak: "Thank you to the West and the element of Water for protecting and allowing me to be present in this window of liminal space. I say goodbye to my protective ancestors, and I thank you for helping guide them back to the ancestral realm."
Turning left and facing South, speak: "Thank you to the South and the element of Fire for protecting and allowing me to be present in this window of liminal space. I say goodbye to my protective ancestors, and I thank you for helping guide them back to the ancestral realm."
Turning left and facing East, speak: "Thank you to the East and the element of Air for protecting and allowing me to be present in this window of liminal space. I say goodbye to my protective ancestors, and I thank you for helping guide them back to the ancestral realm."
The wheel of the year is integral to pagan traditions, helping us to recognize and pay respect to the ever-changing cycles that make up natural life. It also speaks of times when the veil between this world and others is thinnest, providing opportunities for ritual work, connection with spiritual entities, and amplifying magical energy.
Samhain, a significant pagan holiday celebrated on October 31st, marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. As part of the Wheel of the Year, Samhain holds deep spiritual significance for those who follow pagan traditions. It is believed to be a time when the veil between our world and the spirit realm is at its thinnest, allowing for communication with ancestors and departed loved ones.
The pronunciation of Samhain may vary depending on regional accents or personal preference, but "sow-in" is commonly accepted among pagans. This pronunciation captures both the reverence and mysticism associated with this sacred holiday.
Themes associated with Samhain include honoring ancestors, embracing darkness and introspection, letting go of what no longer serves us, and preparing for new beginnings. It is a time when people reflect on their own mortality while celebrating life's cyclical nature.
As we celebrate Samhain, let us embrace its rich history and traditions while respecting those who follow different paths. May this holiday remind us to connect with our roots, appreciate nature's cycles, and honor our ancestors as we welcome new beginnings in our lives.
Colors play an important role in setting the mood and symbolism. Traditionally, black and orange are commonly associated with Samhain, representing darkness and harvest respectively. Herbs also hold a special place during this holiday. Some commonly used herbs include belladonna, garlic, mugwort, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. These herbs are believed to have protective properties and are often used in rituals or as offerings. And goddesses such as Hekate, (from the Greek pantheon), Cerridwen (from the Welsh pantheon), and The Morrigan (from the Celtic pantheon) all represent different aspects of this transformative time.
So let us all celebrate Samhain: a time filled with magic, abundance, joy, and growth. Let us pay homage to the wheel of the year; let us listen closely to its ancient wisdom; let us embrace its power to connect us with something greater than ourselves. May our hearts be open and our minds keen as we move through each passing season – gaining insight into life's mysteries along the way.
If you're interested in embracing Samhain through ritual, consider what aligns with your practice, such as connecting with lunar and fire energy through cooking or baking using ingredients that represent lunar energy, performing a powerful fire ritual, creating art using colors associated with the holiday, leaving gifts or offerings for the fae or other spirits, or (my personal favorite) meditating with your ancestors or spirit guide(s) of choice.
I love taking the time to connect with my ancestors of love and benevolence and honoring them by lighting a candle or doing something to honor their life. Samhain is also a great time to release things that are no longer serving you, so if there are generational traumas, curses, or cycles that need to be broken, this is also a great time to perform a release ritual to make room for healing and growth.
No matter how we choose to honor Samhain, its transformative energy encourages us to appreciate the beauty of the spirit realm and all it brings into our lives. Take a moment to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Samhain - use colorful decorations, burn herbs, or simply spend time under the moon to truly feel connected with all that this powerful season has to give. May you experience abundance, joy, and peace through your celebration of Samhain!
The wheel of the year is integral to pagan traditions, helping us to recognize and pay respect to the ever-changing cycles that make up natural life. It also speaks of times when the veil between this world and others is thinnest, providing opportunities for ritual work, connection with spiritual entities, and amplifying magical energy.
Mabon is the last sabbat in the Wheel of the Year, marking the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. Celebrated during the autumnal equinox, Mabon occurs around September 21st in the northern hemisphere and March 21st in the southern hemisphere. This year, in 2024, in the northern hemisphere, Mabon falls on September 22nd.
This time during the Wheel of the Year is perfect for setting intentions that align with the energy of releasing what is no longer serving you, ending old thought patterns, and removing negative or stagnant energy from your life. The second of the three harvests, Mabon is often equated with Thanksgiving and seen as a time to reflect and thank the earth for its bounty. While the modern Thanksgiving holiday in the United States focuses on food and preparing for Black Friday sales, Mabon is rooted in celebrating the efforts of one’s labor and the connection between people and the earth.
Mabon is a time when day and night are in perfect balance before darkness begins to prevail. Pronounced as "MAY-bon," this sacred occasion derives its name from Mabon ap Modron (which translates as Son of Mother), a figure rooted in the Welsh pantheon. Mabon symbolizes youthful energy, growth, and transformation — reminding us of our connection to nature's cycles.
As we celebrate Mabon, let us embrace our pagan roots and reconnect with Mother Earth. Let us honor her gifts by expressing gratitude for all that she provides. May this joyous celebration inspire us to live harmoniously with nature and kindle a deeper appreciation for the wonders of life. Embrace the magic of Mabon as it weaves its spell upon you, filling your heart with reverence for ancient traditions and reminding you of your place within the grand tapestry of existence.
Traditional Mabon colors are orange, red, gold, and brown painting the landscape as nature prepares for its slumber. These colors symbolize warmth, transformation, and gratitude - reminding us to embrace change and find beauty in every season. Herbs such as sage, rosemary, and thyme are commonly associated with Mabon. They carry powerful energies that cleanse and purify our surroundings while connecting us to the earth's bountiful energy. These sacred plants serve as reminders to honor our connection with nature during this time of harvest. Goddesses like Demeter and Persephone (of the Greek pantheon) take center stage during Mabon due to the similarities between their story and the tale of baby Mabon in the underworld. They also embody themes of abundance, growth, and rebirth. By invoking their presence through rituals or meditations, we can tap into their wisdom to nurture our own personal growth.
So let us all celebrate Mabon: a time filled with magic, abundance, and growth. Let us pay homage to the wheel of the year; let us listen closely to its ancient wisdom; let us embrace its power to connect us with something greater than ourselves. May our hearts be open and our minds keen as we move through each passing season – gaining insight into life's mysteries along the way.
If you're interested in embracing Mabon through ritual, consider what aligns with your practice, such as connecting with the energy of abundance and gratitude through cooking or baking using ingredients that represent these themes to you, performing a powerful gratitude ritual, creating art using colors associated with the holiday, or (my personal favorite) devoting time harvesting fresh herbs and vegetables to honor your deity or spirit guide(s) of choice. I love dedicating my energy to harvesting because it's symbolic of the abundance of crops that are to be stored up in preparation for the Winter.
No matter how we choose to honor Mabon, its abundant energy encourages us to appreciate the beauty of nature and all it brings into our lives. Take a moment to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Mabon - use colorful decorations, burn herbs, or simply spend time outdoors to truly feel connected with all that this powerful season has to give. May you experience abundance, joy, and peace through your celebration of Mabon!
Happy Litha (also known as the Summer Solstice) AND Strawberry Full Moon! What a beautiful junction of two powerful lunar events and at relatively the same time. What is Litha? What is the Strawberry Full Moon? And how can you celebrate or embrace the energy of the day?
Litha (Summer Solstice)
Litha, also known as the Summer Solstice, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Wheel of the Year for many witches, especially those who love working with solar energy in conjunction with lunar energy. The Summer Solstice marks the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, and the peak of the sun's power.
This sabbat is a time to honor Sun Deities, such as Ba'el, Apollo, or Ra in his full glory and celebrate the abundance of the Earth. It's a time of fertility, growth, and renewal. Rituals and spellwork during Litha often focus on themes of prosperity, success, and personal empowerment.
Traditionally, many spiritual practitioners would gather herbs, flowers, and other plants at their peak potency for use in magic and medicine. Bonfires were lit to symbolize the sun's power and provide a space for celebration and ritual. It's also a time to give thanks for the bounty of the Earth and the coming harvest.
For modern witches, Litha is an opportunity to connect with the natural world, harness the sun's energy, and set intentions for the coming months. It's a powerful time for spellwork related to career, relationships, and personal growth.
Strawberry Full Moon
The Strawberry Full Moon occurs annually in June, and it is incredibly rare for it to land so perfectly timed with Litha—but here we are in 2024 with everything beautifully aligned!
The name for this full moon comes from it occurring at the peak of the strawberry harvesting season, which symbolizes fertility, abundance, and the ripening of intentions planted during the spring. That makes this particular lunar window of time one of celebration of the fruits of one's labor, both literally and metaphorically.
Spiritually, the Strawberry Full Moon also encourages practitioners to reflect on their personal growth, nurture their goals, and express gratitude for the blessings flowing toward them. It's an opportune moment to perform rituals focused on manifestation, self-love, and embracing the natural cycles of life.
So how will you celebrate these two lunar and solar events?
The wheel of the year is integral to pagan traditions, helping us to recognize and pay respect to the ever-changing cycles that make up natural life. It also speaks of times when the veil between this world and others is thinnest, providing opportunities for ritual work, connection with spiritual entities, and amplifying magical energy.
It is at the beginning of summer that we celebrate Beltane (also known as May Day). This holiday marks the halfway point between the spring equinox and the summer solstice and is traditionally celebrated on May 1st each year. During this celebration, people embrace the themes of cleansing and renewing energy.
The pronunciation of Beltane may vary depending on regional accents, but it is commonly pronounced as "BEL-tayn" or "BEL-tahn." However you choose to say it, Beltane carries with it a sense of enchantment and ancient wisdom.
As we delve into the history of this sacred holiday, we discover its significance in pagan cultures as a time to honor the union between the Goddess/Divine Feminine and God/Divine Masculine. It symbolizes the balance between feminine and masculine energies and celebrates life's eternal cycle.
During Beltane, rituals are performed to honor the union between the masculine and feminine energies within both nature and ourselves. It is a time to celebrate love, passion, and connection with others. Bonfires are lit to symbolize purification and transformation while dancing around them signifies joyous celebration.
As pagans embrace their spiritual path during Beltane, they also pay homage to ancient traditions that have been passed down through generations. This holiday serves as a reminder to connect with nature's cycles and find harmony within ourselves.
Colors play a significant role in Beltane celebrations. The vibrant hues of green, representing growth and fertility, are often seen adorning altars and decorations. The warm tones of yellow and orange symbolize the sun's strength and vitality during this season of rebirth. Herbs hold their own special significance during Beltane. Delicate blossoms like lilac, rose, and hawthorn are commonly used to honor this festive occasion. These fragrant herbs not only add beauty to rituals but also invoke feelings of love, passion, and abundance. At the heart of this ancient festival lies the god Ba'el (aka Bel, of the Canaanite Pantheon), a deity closely associated with Beltane's vibrant energy and fertility.
So let us all celebrate Beltane: a time filled with magic, abundance, joy, and growth. Let us pay homage to the wheel of the year; let us listen closely to its ancient wisdom; let us embrace its power to connect us with something greater than ourselves. May our hearts be open and our minds keen as we move through each passing season – gaining insight into life's mysteries along the way.
If you're interested in embracing Beltane through ritual, consider what aligns with your practice, such as connecting with solar and fire energy through bonfires, grilling out, cooking or baking using ingredients that represent solar energy, performing a powerful fire ritual, or creating art using colors associated with the holiday.
No matter how we choose to honor Beltane, its transformative energy encourages us to appreciate the beauty of nature and all it brings into our lives. Take a moment to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Beltane - use colorful decorations, burn herbs, or simply spend time outdoors to truly feel connected with all that this powerful season has to give. May you experience abundance, joy, and peace through your celebration of Beltane!
The wheel of the year is integral to pagan traditions, helping us to recognize and pay respect to the ever-changing cycles that make up natural life. It also speaks of times when the veil between this world and others is thinnest, providing opportunities for ritual work, connection with spiritual entities, and amplifying magical energy.
It is halfway between the Summer Solstice (Litha) and the Fall Equinox (Mabon) on August 1st – that we celebrate Lammas (also known as Lughnasadh). This holiday marked the first harvest of the season and was a time of gathering grains and baking bread. During this period, the amount of light during the day grows less and less as darkness transitions to ruling over the coming months.
The correct pronunciation of the pagan holiday Lammas is "lam-uhs" or if you use the title Lughnasadh, it would be pronounced “loo-nah-sa.” The name Lughnasadh came from early Christians and meant “loaf mass" because of the use of grains and bread in the harvest celebrations, and for this reason, we prefer to use the title Lammas to honor the original roots of the pagan holiday.
At Lammas, it is an ideal time to perform magical workings pertaining to gratitude to the universe and give thanks to our spirit guides, deities, and other sources of divine wisdom who play a role in the abundance of the season. As we step into this time of growing darkness, we are invited to remember the power of the light that gave way to the current harvest. Through ritual practice, meditation, divination, or any other form of connection with the Spirit that resonates with us, we can show our appreciation and love for the abundant harvest that will carry us through the death portion of the Wheel of the Year.
Traditional Lammas colors include yellow, orange, gold, and green symbolizing the plants, grains, and sunlight that are all critical to the harvest celebrations. Plants such as sunflowers and calendula are heavily associated with the season and are used to honor all that the sun gave throughout the Summertime. There are multiple deities associated with Lammas, including the traditional acknowledgment of Lugh (Celtic Pantheon) who was known as a harvest god, Hestia (Greek Pantheon) the goddess of the hearth and protector of the home, and Bael (Canaanite Pantheon) the god of agriculture and harvest.
So let us all celebrate Lammas: a time filled with magic, abundance, joy, and growth. Let us pay homage to the wheel of the year; let us listen closely to its ancient wisdom; let us embrace its power to connect us with something greater than ourselves. May our hearts be open and our minds keen as we move through each passing season – gaining insight into life's mysteries along the way.
If you're interested in embracing Lammas through ritual, consider what aligns with your practice, such as connecting with solar and earth energy through herb or vegetable gardening, cooking or baking bread using herbs and spices that represent the season, performing a powerful fire ritual, creating art using colors associated with the holiday, or (my personal favorite) devoting time journaling with, giving offerings to, and expressing gratitude to your deity or spirit guide(s) of choice.
I love spending my energy journaling during this season because it's symbolic of the reflection that would have taken place during the act of harvesting all of the grain and food for the winter. To me, this helps prepare me physically, emotionally, and spiritually for the inevitable hardships that come with the season of long nights, increased darkness, and the energy of “death.”
No matter how we choose to honor Lammas, its transformative energy encourages us to appreciate the beauty of nature and all it brings into our lives. Take a moment to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of the harvest - use colorful decorations, burn herbs, or simply spend time outdoors to truly feel connected with all that this powerful season has to give. May you experience abundance, joy, and peace through your celebration of Lammas!
The lunar cycle is an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon that has captivated people for centuries. The Moon's orbit around Earth takes 29.5 days, making it a celestial body with a regular and predictable pattern of phases that have been tracked since ancient times. These phases are caused by the angle between the Sun, Earth, and Moon - when these three celestial bodies align in a certain way, we get to experience each of the eight distinct Moon phases from New Moon to Full Moon and back again.
If you're new to paganism or esoteric wisdom, you may be wondering, why the obsession with the moon? For me, I like to view topics like these both scientifically and spiritually. From a scientific perspective, the moon influences the tides of the ocean, the biggest body of water on our planet, so why wouldn't we think it also naturally influences our bodies (which are made up of a large percentage of water) too? Additionally, women specifically, are often naturally synced with the moon on a hormonal level, with many women experiencing their cycle in alignment with the same phase of the moon month after month if they are on a true 28-day cycle.
Spiritually speaking, the moon is a symbol of wisdom, the death and rebirth cycle, and is connected to the Great Goddess. So, when we align our routines in conjunction with the lunar cycles, it can feel like we are more aligned energetically with the way things are happening in nature.
In my practice, I like to specifically time my rituals, meditations, and workings with the respective phase that the moon is in. Many people focus solely on the full moon and new moon for their workings, but each phase of the lunar cycle contains its own unique magical energy and resonance that can be used to your advantage by understanding its capabilities.
One way to work with the energy of the moon is by setting intentions; this involves focusing on what you want to manifest during each phase of the moon. You can also make ‘moon water’ by leaving a glass or jar of water outside to absorb lunar energies before using it in rituals. Charging crystals under the light of the moon is another helpful practice, as it amplifies their healing properties and helps them hold onto their energies longer. Journaling, shadow work, inner healing, higher self connection, crafting, cleansing, and so on are things that can be done at any time, but there are points in time where these practices can have even greater impact and strength based on the micro and macro energies that influence our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves.
One of the most important things I also like to take into consideration is how the respective lunar cycle that we're in sync with the overall wheel of the year, which is also divided into eight segments with the eight pagan holidays that we celebrate throughout the year. For example, during Litha, which is the pagan holiday that aligns with full moon energy (or the point when light is at its strongest/fullest), the full moon that occurs in conjunction with this time is especially powerful because the lunar phase AND wheel of the year are aligning for amplified energy.
The moon's cycle consists of eight distinct phases: new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent. Each phase is characterized by a particular fractional illumination of the lunar hemisphere facing Earth. The New Moon marks the start of the lunar cycle as it passes in front of the Sun from our perspective on Earth. During this time, only a very thin part of its illuminated surface is visible. As it continues moving around its orbit after the new moon phase, it gradually gets more illuminated until we reach a Full Moon, which is when it looks completely lit up from our perspective. We then move through each waning phase before arriving back at another New Moon.
New Moon Phase. The new moon at the time of Yule is exceptionally powerful and brings an energy of new beginnings, the chance to start anew, and resetting intentions. When the new moon arrives, it is an opportunity to set magical intentions for a fresh start. Take stock of what has come before and decide what you want to manifest in the weeks ahead. Ask yourself questions such as: What do I need to nurture within myself? What kind of changes should I make in my life? Which areas of my life would benefit from focus and attention?
Waxing Crescent Moon Phase. The waxing crescent moon at the time of Imbolc is exceptionally powerful and brings the energy of taking action on our goals and living up to our potential. The waxing crescent moon can be used as a catalyst in transforming your wishes into physical reality. To make use of this powerful energy, prepare yourself prior to setting your magical intention by visualizing how you would like it to look once it has manifested into physical form. This helps focus your energy and create momentum towards achieving what you desire. Use affirmations and mantras throughout the process to reaffirm that this will come true for you. Once ready, release the magical intention during the waning crescent phase and watch the transformation happen.
First Quarter Moon Phase. The first quarter moon at the time of Ostara is exceptionally powerful and brings the energy of courage needed to maintain momentum and stay true to our visions. The first quarter moon is a special time to set intentions and focus on creating positive change in our lives. It's a time for us to tap into the power of the moon and let its energy guide us toward achieving our goals. At this time, it's important to take some time for reflection and focus on what we want to manifest in our lives. Meditating, visualizing, or journaling are all great ways to start engaging with this magical phase of the moon. With clarity and dedication, we can use this powerful lunar energy to create meaningful changes that will bring us closer to our deepest desires.
Waxing Gibbous Moon Phase. The waxing gibbous moon at the time of Beltane (also known as May Day) is exceptionally powerful and brings an energy of spiritual growth and encouragement as we nurture what has been created so far. The waxing gibbous moon is a powerful time for magical intentions and working with the energies of the divine feminine. Working within these energies can bring about transformation, abundance, protection, strength, and personal empowerment. It is a time to embrace your highest potential and allow yourself to manifest positive change in your life. You can use this energy to draw in prosperity or deepen existing relationships. Whatever you desire will be amplified when you set an intention under the power of the waxing gibbous moon.
Full Moon Moon Phase. The full moon at the time of Litha (also known as Midsummer) is exceptionally powerful and brings an energy that illuminates us with power, allowing us to recognize where we are in the cycle and assess how far we have come. The full moon is a powerful time of the month for manifesting your deepest desires and realizing your dreams. When you set an intention under the light of the full moon, it carries a magical power that can bring it to fruition. Therefore, it is important to choose your intentions with careful attention and make sure they are aligned with your true purpose in life. With each full moon, you can harness the power of intention to create positive change in your life and those around you.
Waning Gibbous Moon Phase. The waning gibbous moon at the time of Lammas is exceptionally powerful and brings an energy of stillness, wisdom, and a chance to reflect and refocus. The waning gibbous moon is the perfect time to focus on intentions that involve manifesting, releasing, and letting go. Use this time to reflect on what no longer serves your highest self and let it go. If you have something in mind that you wish to bring into your life, use the waning gibbous moon's energy to create an intention or a plan of action for making it happen. This phase of the moon is also beneficial for creating rituals intended to help cultivate personal healing and growth. No matter what intention, spell, or ritual you are working with during this phase, remember that it will always be amplified by love - so take care not to rush through the process, but instead infuse it with positive thoughts and emotions.
Third/Last Quarter Moon Phase. The last quarter moon at the time of Mabon is exceptionally powerful and brings an energy of letting go, allowing us to surrender whatever no longer serves our highest purpose. The last quarter moon is the time to focus our efforts on releasing and letting go. As we approach this phase of the lunar cycle, it's important to take a few moments to reflect on what we want to release from our lives. This could be a belief system, an attitude, or any other energy that no longer serves us. We can use magical intentions during this time, such as visualizing a bright white light surrounding us and carrying away all of those negative energies. We can also call upon helpful spiritual guides and ancestors for assistance in releasing what no longer serves us. By setting powerful magical intentions during the waning moon, we can move forward with a sense of clarity and renewed purpose.
Waning Crescent Moon Phase. The waning crescent moon at the time of Samhain is exceptionally powerful and brings an energy of closure as we prepare to initiate the cycle anew. The waning crescent moon is an excellent time for setting intentions to close out a cycle. This is the time to release what no longer serves us and make space for new energies to enter. Like releasing a burden that has been weighing you down, or a fear that's been sabotaging your progress. It's also a great opportunity to cast away self-doubt and set boundaries around your own values and beliefs. Practicing gratitude during this phase helps us to recognize how far we have come and all the blessings in our lives, allowing us to move forward with faith and trust in ourselves. When connecting with the waning crescent moon, remember to be gentle with yourself, forgive any shortcomings, and celebrate each small victory – every step counts!
Weaving lunar energy AND the wheel of the year into our daily lives can be a powerful way to stay connected to the energy that's occurring on micro and macro scales. Working with the lunar cycle can help us tune in to our intuition, live in harmony with nature, and deepen our connection to spirit. Through this practice, we honor ourselves by honoring the natural rhythms that makeup life on Earth. As you work with these energies, remember that it’s all about creating balance - finding moments of both rest and action, stillness and movement. As we align our lives with the phases of the moon and the wheel of the year, we unlock an even greater potential within ourselves.
The wheel of the year is integral to pagan traditions, helping us to recognize and pay respect to the ever-changing cycles that make up natural life. It also speaks of times when the veil between this world and others is thinnest, providing opportunities for ritual work, connection with spiritual entities, and amplifying magical energy.
Ostara marks the Spring Equinox - the start of Spring - when winter wanes and new life begins to bloom anew with longer days, warmer temperatures, and emerging flowers. It's seen as a time for new beginnings, a point of balance between light and dark, and death/dormancy giving way to new life. As such, Ostara is a particularly sacred event within the pagan Wheel of the Year. Many pagans observe it by honoring their deities, celebrating with friends or family, gardening, meditating on renewal and transformation, crafting art or objects associated with the season, and more. It's an opportunity to reflect on the small miracles of life and express gratitude for nature’s beauty and bounty. Most importantly, Ostara reminds us that all living things have an inner spark that can be nurtured to create joy and abundance in our lives; may we embrace its spirit - rebirth, renewal, hope, transformation - bring light into our lives and make this world a better place.
The correct way to pronounce the pagan holiday Ostara is "Oh-star-ah". The name is derived from the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre, who was celebrated at the beginning of spring. Since this holiday marks a time for new beginnings, many celebrate by welcoming nature's renewal with ritualistic activities such as decorating eggs, planting gardens, and gathering in circles for sabbats. Although some aspects may have changed over the years, the intent remains: to connect with nature during this special season.
The thinness of the veil at Ostara makes it an ideal time for spiritual activity. Many pagans believe that this shift in energy allows them to connect more easily with spiritual beings, leading to a deeper understanding of the divine. It is also believed that this shift in energy helps to open up pathways of communication, making it possible to receive messages from other realms.
The color of Ostara is usually green, symbolizing new life and growth. Some also associate it with yellow, signifying the warmth of the sun that comes with spring. White is often seen as a representation of the Maiden Goddess, who brings rebirth and new beginnings to our lives. Lastly, pink or violet represents fertility and abundance in all its forms - spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical.
All of the herbs used in Ostara celebrations have special meanings that can help bring peace, joy, fertility, and abundance into your life. Chamomile’s delicate white flowers symbolize harmony and serenity; it’s known to promote relaxation and restful sleep. Lavender conjures up a vision of freshness and purity; its calming fragrance evokes feelings of contentment. Marigold brings protection and vitality; its vibrant orange petals bring joy, warmth, and increased fertility. Sage (that is ethically sourced and appropriate for your culture/heritage) is the ultimate purifier; it’s used to rid a space of negative energy and restore balance. Rosemary encourages courage, strength, and clarity of thought; its pungent scent helps keep the mind focused on positive intentions. Finally, mint brings healing energy and a sense of renewal; it has been used for centuries to cleanse away physical and emotional ailments.
Ostara, though closely associated with the goddess Esotre because of its name, is also closely associated with Frigg and Freya (of the Norse pantheon), Persephone (of the Greek pantheon), and Cybele (of the Greek and/or Roman pantheon). Whether you understand these figures as actual personified beings, archetypal energies, or energies of mythology, their stories can be powerful to research and explore in conjunction with this point in the wheel of the year.
So let us all celebrate Ostara: a time filled with magic, abundance, joy, and growth. Let us pay homage to the wheel of the year; let us listen closely to its ancient wisdom; let us embrace its power to connect us with something greater than ourselves. May our hearts be open and our minds keen as we move through each passing season – gaining insight into life's mysteries along the way.
If you're interested in embracing Ostara through ritual, consider what aligns with your practice, such as connecting with fertility and earth energy through gardening, cooking, or baking using ingredients that represent joyous energy, creating art using colors associated with the holiday, or (my personal favorite) devoting time cleansing your home and decorating with fresh flowers, newly potted plants, or floral decor to your deity or spirit guide(s) of choice.
I love dedicating my energy to working with the energy of flowers and plants because it's symbolic of the new life that's blooming and unfolding at this point in the wheel of the year. Florals bring a joyous and spirited energy to the home that is a nice way to fill the newly cleansed space so things feel balanced and at peace. It's also a great time to honor the power of the divine feminine while finding the balance between the sacred feminine and masculine energies flowing through all of us.
No matter how we choose to honor Ostara, its transformative energy encourages us to appreciate the beauty of nature and all it brings into our lives. Take a moment to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Ostara - use colorful decorations, burn floral herbs, or simply spend time outdoors to truly feel connected with all that this powerful season has to give. May you experience abundance, joy, and peace through your celebration of Ostara!
The wheel of the year is integral to pagan traditions, helping us to recognize and pay respect to the ever-changing cycles that make up natural life. It also speaks of times when the veil between this world and others is thinnest, providing opportunities for ritual work, connection with spiritual entities, and amplifying magical energy.
For pagans, Imbolc is a time to celebrate renewal and hope. This period is seen as a liminal space between darkness and light; it’s the time when winter's chill begins to soften, and nature slowly begins to stir again with new beginnings. It falls on the first day of February and is one of eight traditional Sabbats in the Wheel of the Year.
Imbolc is traditionally pronounced "im-bulk," with a short emphasis on the second syllable. The festival, which marks the halfway point between winter and spring, is celebrated by many pagans around the world and honors the beginning of new growth and the return of light after the darkness of winter. Celebrations often involve feasting, bonfires, rituals, and other festivities. No matter how you pronounce it, Imbolc is a time to celebrate the changing of seasons. It's a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future with hope and optimism.
On this day, many pagans will cleanse their homes and hold rituals to honor Brigid – the goddess of fire, poetry, and healing. They will light candles to symbolize the return of the sun and may also give offerings to Brigid in the form of herbs or flowers. Additionally, they may spend time reflecting on personal growth goals for the year ahead. Whether you understand this figure as an actual personified being, historical saint, archetypal energy, or energy of mythology, her story can be powerful to research and explore in conjunction with this point in the wheel of the year.
Red and white are the traditional colors for Imbolc, symbolizing purity, strength, and courage. Red represents the life-giving energy of spring that is just around the corner, while white symbolizes new beginnings and purification of the spirit. Traditional Imbolc herbs can be used as an aid in this process. For example, purifying plants such as sage, myrrh, and frankincense are often used in smoke-cleansing rituals. Simultaneously, healing herbs such as rosemary, mint, and thyme can be used to bring positive energy back into the body. Finally, flowers like lavender and chamomile can be brewed into teas or burned as incense to promote relaxation and soothe a worried mind.
So let us all celebrate Imbolc: a time filled with magic, reflection, creativity, and growth. Let us pay homage to the wheel of the year; let us listen closely to its ancient wisdom; let us embrace its power to connect us with something greater than ourselves. May our hearts be open and our minds keen as we move through each passing season – gaining insight into life's mysteries along the way.
If you're interested in embracing Imbolc through ritual, consider what aligns with your practice, such as connecting with solar and fire energy through bonfires, cooking or baking using ingredients that represent solar energy or are made over an open flame (such as a cookout), performing a powerful fire ritual, creating art using colors associated with the holiday, or (my personal favorite) devoting time writing poetry with and for the goddess Brigid, or your deity or spirit guide(s) of choice.
I love dedicating my energy to writing poetry because it's sacred to the goddess Brigid who is a powerful symbol of life, fertility, and creativity that aligns with the rebirth portion of the ever-rotating lifecycle and wheel of the year.
No matter how we choose to honor Imbolc, its transformative energy encourages us to appreciate the beauty of nature and all it brings into our lives. Take a moment to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Imbolc - be creative, embrace the passion of fire energy through burning herbs or candles, or simply spend time outdoors to truly feel connected with all that this powerful season has to give. May you experience abundance, joy, and peace through your celebration of Imbolc!
The wheel of the year is integral to pagan traditions, helping us to recognize and pay respect to the ever-changing cycles that make up natural life. It also speaks of times when the veil between this world and others is thinnest, providing opportunities for ritual work, connection with spiritual entities, and amplifying magical energy.
It is at the peak of winter that we celebrate Yule. This holiday marks the longest night and shortest day of the year and is a time to pause and reflect on the darkness before we welcome in the light when springtime rolls around again after winter ends. The Pagan tradition of Yule signifies death and release in preparation for growth in the new year. It is a spiritual time to honor both endings and beginnings.
The connection between Yule and the new moon also creates an opportunity to release unwanted patterns or energies through ritual. It can be used as a time to embrace inner transformation via meditation or reflection while also allowing ourselves to rest within the dark cycle of life. As one ritual ends, another begins with this powerful lunar energy.
The word Yule is derived from the Old English word, ‘geōl’. This term was used to describe the midwinter festival that was celebrated in Scandinavia and Germany. It is believed that this word may have been related to a root meaning “wheel” or “turning around,” likely referring to this holiday being both the beginning and end of the Wheel of the Year. Over time, the name for this festival eventually changed into Yule. It is celebrated on the Winter Solstice, which falls in December, from the 21st to the 23rd every year.
The Yule season is a special time of year, and the veil between this world and the other realms is particularly thin during this period. Dreams seem more vivid, and it is easier to sense or see supernatural phenomena such as ancestors, spirits, and fae. To those with open eyes and hearts, it can be a magical opportunity to commune with the divine and gain insight into mysteries beyond our physical realm. If you are drawn to explore these energies further during yule-time, take some time for stillness and meditation.
Yule is a time to celebrate the release and reset of nature, and many ancient symbols are associated with this holiday. The traditional colors of Yule are rich and evocative, each one symbolizing something different. Red represents the burning flame that lights up the cold winter nights and brings warmth and comfort to those who gather around it. Green is a reminder of life in the darkest months, representing growth even when all appears still. White stands for purity and new beginnings, while gold celebrates prosperity and abundance. Yarrow, mistletoe, barberry, holly, ivy, and rosemary are just some of the many herbs associated with Yule. And goddesses such as Frigga or Odin (from the Norse pantheon), Astarte (from the Canaanite pantheon), and Gaia (from the Greek pantheon) can provide additional guidance during these celebrations. Whether you understand these figures as actual personified beings, archetypal energies, or energies of mythology, their stories can be powerful to research and explore in conjunction with this point in the wheel of the year.
So let us all celebrate Yule: a time filled with magic and healing. Let us pay homage to the wheel of the year; let us listen closely to its ancient wisdom; let us embrace its power to connect us with something greater than ourselves. May our hearts be open and our minds keen as we move through each passing season – gaining insight into life's mysteries along the way.
If you're interested in embracing Yule through ritual, consider what aligns with your practice, such as connecting with lunar energy through symbolism, cooking or baking using ingredients that represent the season, or (my personal favorite) devoting time to creating magical decor or wards to your deity or spirit guide(s) of choice.
I love dedicating my energy to telling cosmic stories of the divine through my ceramic village displays because hiding things in plain sight to me fits with the lunar and new moon energy of the Yule season as we prepare for the coming winter months that symbolize the rebirth portion of the ever-rotating lifecycle and wheel of the year and light growing amongst the darkness.
No matter how we choose to honor Yule, its transformative energy encourages us to appreciate the dark seasons of our lives. Take a moment to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of the winter solstice - use meaningful decorations, burn herbs, or simply spend time cozying up indoors with a cup of wassail to truly feel connected with all that this powerful season has to give. May you experience warmth, joy, and release through your celebration of Yule!
