Celebrating Beltane

Beltane, also known as May Day is celebrated May 1st, which is about halfway between Ostara (Spring Equinox) and Litha, (Summer Solstice). Festivities typically begin the evening before, on the last night of April. It's a time to welcome the abundance of the fertile earth. There are many different ways you can celebrate Beltane, but the focus is nearly always on fertility. It's the time when Mother Earth opens up to the fertility god, and their union brings about healthy livestock, strong crops, and new life all around.

 "Beltane is mentioned in some of the earliest Irish literature and is associated with important events in Irish mythology. Also known as Cétshamhain ("first of summer"), it marked the beginning of summer and it was when cattle were driven out to the summer pastures. Rituals were performed to protect the cattle, crops and people, and to encourage growth. Special bonfires were kindled, and their flames, smoke and ashes were deemed to have protective powers. The people and their cattle

would walk around or between bonfires, and sometimes leap over the flames or embers. All household fires would be doused and then re-lit from the Beltane bonfire. These gatherings would be accompanied by a feast, and some of the food and drink would be offered to the aos sí (the fae). Doors, windows, byres and livestock would be decorated with white or yellow May flowers, perhaps because they evoked fire. In parts of Ireland, people would make a May Bush: typically a thorn bush or branch decorated with flowers, ribbons, bright shells and rushlights. Holy wells were also visited, while

 Beltane dew was thought to bring beauty and maintain youthfulness."  from Wikipedia  

Today, we still honor the tradition of the Beltane fire.  Fire festivals are held throughout much of the UK and Ireland to celebrate as well as in the United States.  Dancing, singing, feasting, jumping the fire, and drumming are all festival activities. May Poles are erected to symbolize the phallus of the fertility god and prayers are sent for abundance and prosperity as dancers weave the ribbons around in joyful merriment.

You will see maidens wearing flower crowns and others with their wrists and ankles adorned in colorful blooms.  Cooking over the open flame is common and encouraged, especially roasted meats. Mead flows
freely and handfasting ceremonies and "jumping the broom" rituals are prevalent. 

 

Many early Beltane practices were designed to appease the fae and prevent them from stealing dairy products. For example, three black coals were placed under a butter churn to ensure the fairies did not steal one's butter.  May poles were hung or erected in or near the barns to ensure the cattle's milk was not stolen. Flowers were also used to decorate the horns of cattle, which was believed to bring good fortune. Food was left or milk poured at the doorstep or places associated with the aos sí, such as 'fairy trees', as an offering. People made the sign of the cross with milk for good luck on Beltane. To protect farm produce and encourage fertility, farmers would lead a procession around the boundaries of their farm. They would "carry with them seeds of grain, implements of husbandry, the first well water, and the herb vervain (or rowan as a substitute). The procession generally stopped at the four cardinal points of the compass, beginning in the east, and rituals were performed in each of the four directions".- Wikipedia 

Keeping our good relations with the fae is another lasting Beltane tradition. Food and milk offerings are left for them.  Honey is a favorite. Some create fairy gardens or altars in their home where offerings can be

given. These offerings might also include shiny objects such as jewelry or stones. Colorful ribbons are tied into "fairy trees".  

If there isn't a Beltane celebration happening near you, don't fret.  There are plenty of ways that you can celebrate the Sabbat in your home or backyard. 

1. Have your own Beltane fire.  If you have a fire pit in your backyard, then fire it up (if there are no fire bans or restrictions, of course).  Dance around the fire and sing songs of Mother Earth.  If you do not have a fire pit, you can use your fireplace inside just as easily.  No fireplace?  Create one in a cauldron or fireproof dish.  Add sand to the bottom and then a clear alcohol (Everclear works best as it burns clean). Light and let the alcohol burn itself out.  *Please never leave a fire or flame unattended.*

2. Cook over an open flame and FEAST!  Fire up the grill and roast meats and spring veggies. Add some wine or mead for the adults. 

3. Make and wear a flower crown.  Daisies and dandelions are common flowers to use but if there is something else that calls to you, then go with that.

4. Fae offerings.  Leave offerings of milk and honey outside for the fair folk. Create a fairy garden in your yard.

5. Make your own May Pole.  This doesn't have to be large. You can simply submerge a stick in a flower pot of dirt, tie on some ribbons and decorate the top with flowers.  Dance around the May Pole and send your prayers for abundance and prosperity.

6. Create a Beltane altar.  This can be indoors or outside. Decorate with spring flowers, god and goddess symbols/ statues, symbols of fertility such as antlers, sticks, cauldron, acorns or seeds, eggs, and rabbits. Use gold and red candles to represent the Beltane fire. Fairy figurines can also be included. 

7. Get outside! Simply getting outside and enjoying the warmer days is a way to celebrate Beltane.  go for a nature walk/ hike. Take in the trees that are leafing out. Listen to the birds sing and watch for other wildlife in the area. Enjoy a picnic. Do some gardening or plant colorful blooms in flower pots.  

8. Jump the broom.  If you want to recommit to your spouse or partner, then jump the broom.  This was viewed as a marriage ceremony, especially to those that had little or no money for a wedding. It can symbolize sweeping away the past, or any thing that needs to go, and jumping into the new- a clean future together. 

Whether you plan to attend a grand Beltane Fire Festival or have a simple day and ritual at home, may you be blessed with abundance and prosperity in the coming months. 

Blessed Be!

Planning Your Witchy Garden

 

Spring has sprung and for many of us, that means it's time to plan the garden! What do we witches consider to be essential, must-haves in the garden?

Alternative and holistic medicines are more commonplace today than they were just 5 years ago. People are (re)turning to plants and herbs for remedies. The truth is, these remedies are just the ones that were forgotten in favor of chemical laden, prescription medications.  As witches, we not only use these plants and herbs for healing, we are using them in our spell work and rituals. 

So what are these must-have healing and magickal plants? 

* Sage- Common garden sage is a must have in your witchy garden. It is just as effective at removing heavy energies and purification as white sage is. You can also plant white sage if you feel called to do so.  Cleansing is not the only thing this powerful herb does.  It is known for promoting wisdom and bringing good luck.  Because of its natural aroma, sage is also highly effective at keeping pests out of your garden. Medicinally, Sage contains over 160 distinct polyphenols, which are plant-based chemical compounds that act as antioxidants in your body. Sage is linked to impressive health benefits, such as a lower risk of cancer and improved brain function and memory.

*Rosemary- Another common kitchen herb, rosemary packs a powerful punch when it comes to cleansing and protection. Because rosemary is associated with loyalty, it is often used in love magicks and worn during handfasting ceremonies. Rosemary is for remembrance so it is often used or burned during Samhain rituals to honor the ancestors and it can also help facilitate past life recall. This versatile herb can also help to promote healthy hair. Recent studies are showing that it can actually help with hair growth by improving circulation and stimulating nerve growth in the scalp better than some of the prescriptions for alopecia. Rosemary's aroma is also a powerful tool against stress and anxiety. If that weren't enough, there are three immune boosting components found in Rosemary- anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, and anti-carcinogens.

*Calendula- This sunshiny flower is an important herb to include in your garden. The positive and cheerful energy makes a wonderful mood boosting tea/ tincture. Its association with the sun makes calendula a powerhouse when it comes to bringing good luck. Prophetic dreams and messages are also brought by the flowers- just tuck them into a sachet under your pillow. Calendula is revered for its healing properties for skin conditions. Petals can be incorporated into oils and salves for healing wounds, rashes, burns, acne and dry skin. Using tinctures taken internally, calendula is known for being an anti-fungal, antibacterial, helping to stimulate the lymphatic system, to stimulate the menses, and as a digestive anti-inflammatory.

*Mugwort- Artemisia Vulgaris honors the Greek goddess, Artemis. Like its namesake, the plant is associated with the moon, cycles, women’s health, and childbirth. Mugwort can be used to help with menstruation and menopause. However, one of the well known and common uses for mugwort is for its capability to bring one into a deep meditative state and to help facilitate prophetic dreams and psychic experiences. Sister herb, Motherwort is also revered for relieving aches and pains associated with headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle sprains. Motherwort is another ally during menopause, helping to ease hot flashes and hormone induce irritability. Motherwort can be used in spell work to promote inner trust and self-confidence. It can also be used in fertility spells/ magick.

*Basil- This common and highly aromatic herb is known for its ability to bring luck and abundance and prosperity so it is often included in money spells. Associated with Mars and the fire element, basil should be used for spell work or rituals to bring about strength, courage, and protection. This herb is often included in love and happiness spells. In the garden, basil will help to repel pests. Medicinally, this herb is antimicrobial as well as an anti-inflammatory and can be used to help treat illness. It can also relieve stress and anxiety and help one with mental clarity.  Holy Basil is close relative and makes a tasty herbal tea (Tulsi). It too has antimicrobial properties and can be effective when treating colds, coughs, asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis. Holy Basil has an uplifting energy bringing you lightness and warmth. This herb is also known for being an adaptogen and helps to protect the body from the negative effects of stress. 

*Echinacea- This plant is more well known for its immune boosting capabilities. Roots, seeds, and the fresh or dried flowers can be used to make a tasty herbal tea.  Magickal uses include power, success and the ability to strengthen spells.

*Bee Balm (Bergamot)- This beautiful plant is one of the best at attracting butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden. Its aromatic scent and enticing flavor makes a wonderful tea and can help one unwind and de-stress. One can use dried flowers in a sachet to bring restful sleep

and possibly interesting dreams. Keep dried flowers/ leaves in your wallet or purse to attract money. It can also be sprinkled (dried) or planted outside the home to draw abundance and prosperity. Due to its high thymol content, bee balm has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anesthetic properties. It can be used in mouthwashes, foot baths, and douches to relieve odor and/ or itching. It can also be infused into a wash for minor cuts and scrapes.

*Mint- This herb is yet another powerful ally for prosperity magick. Because it is associated with the planet Mercury and the element of air, mint can be used in spells to help facilitate good communication, whether it is with a person, spirit guide or deity.  Mint is wonderful at providing mental clarity either in a spell or taking internally such as in a tea. This herb is known to help alleviate upset or unsettled stomachs, relieve tension headaches and support sinus health and aid in decongestion. 

*Lavender- This magickal herb is known and regarded for its ability to aid in relaxation and promote restful sleep.  Use in a tea or in spell work to help with dream recall. Lavender is also known to help bring happiness into a space. Hang or plant near your front door to ensure that negative energies stay away and only happiness, love and joy may enter. Lavender has also been used in love/ fidelity spells. Lavender can be used to treat headaches, nervous disorders, and exhaustion. Additionally, lavender oil can be used to treat skin conditions such as fugal infections, minor cuts and scrapes, eczema, and acne. 

Other plants and herbs to consider are yarrow, feverfew, chamomile, stinging nettle, vervain, meadowsweet, hyssop, St. John's wort, comfrey, sunflowers, jasmine, dandelions, and roses. 

For anyone considering planting an herb garden or working with them in the future, I recommend purchasing herbal, plant, and flower dictionaries.  One of my favorites is Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham. One can also find a wealth of knowledge online.

If you cannot plant a full herb garden, consider plants that might do well in container gardens or windowsill boxes. You can't go wrong by having these amazing plants easily at your disposal. Get creative and Happy Gardening!

**Please note, one should always seek medical attention when necessary and ask their doctor before starting an alternative or holistic herbal regimen.**

Rabbit Animal Guide

Rabbit, the iconic symbol of the spring season.  

Rabbits live on every continent except Antarctica, thus appearing in the mythologies and folklore of different cultures around the world. "The Ojibwe and other Algonquin tribes associate the rabbit with their god, Nanabozho. He is a creator deity who named all of the world’s plants and animals. For the Aztecs, the rabbit symbolized fertility, drinking, and parties. The Aztecs told stories about the Centzon Totochtin, which consisted of 400 rabbit gods. Evidence of the ancient Egyptians celebrating springtime in ways that are similar to how many of us celebrate Easter today date back to at least 2300 BC.  The Egyptians depicted hares, eggs, the sunrise, and the resurrection of their god Osiris in the Book of the Dead, other hieroglyphs, and artwork. The Celts also associated rabbits with fairies, believing the two communicated when they were underground. The Celts also believed certain people could shape shift into rabbits, thus they had taboos about killing them.  In some Buddhist stories, Buddha is said to have been a hare in an earlier incarnation." *from UniGuide: Stories and Guides for Nature Lovers and Spiritual Seekers by Kristen M. Stanton 

Rabbits symbolize fertility, sensitivity, gentleness, haste, new beginnings, the moon, prosperity, and good luck. 

Many of us have heard the term "breeding like rabbits".  This is because rabbits reach sexual maturity at a very young age, sometimes as early as 2-3 months old and females can have several litters a year.  If you and your partner need a little extra help with fertility, call on Rabbit to assist you with the magick.  Rabbit can also help with other types of "fertility" such as manifestation or garden witch work to help with soil fertility.  Because of this, Rabbit is also associated with prosperity. 

Rabbits are highly sensitive creatures.  Their large ears help them perceive noises that we cannot along with their large, round eyes that take in everything.  If Rabbit has hopped into your life, they could be telling you that there is an issue you need to be more sensitive about.  If Rabbit is your life animal guide, then you are more than likely a highly sensitive person.

With their quiet, gentle nature, Rabbit reminds us to treat ourselves gently. Stay clear of behaviors that affect you negatively.  They also remind us that others are walking their own soul journey and that we should be kind, empathetic and compassionate.

Is Rabbit dashing through your dreams?  This could be telling you that there is an issue or circumstance that needs to be handled with haste or on the flip side, you might be acting in haste and should take caution.

A woman's cycle follows the moon, a 28-day cycle just as the moon circles the earth in 28 days.  Because women's menstruation is a sign of her fertility, it isn't a far stretch to see how the Rabbit (a symbol of fertility) became associated with the moon as well.  Rabbit would be a powerful ally to call upon during the new or waxing moon for intentions and manifestation magick. 

Are you looking to start over? A new home, a new career, a new relationship or getting out of one and on your own, or possibly your spiritual path?  As a symbol of spring which is all about renewal and new beginnings, call on Rabbit to help assist you with the transition. 

While Rabbit may seem like a small and shy creature, we should not take their magick for granted.  Rabbit's energy will work side by side with you for fertility, luck and prosperity, and new beginnings.