"A great time to gather energies set intentions and shine. Here are some tips to help you honour this awakening of summer"
Beltane Blessings! Beltane is the pastoral Gaelic celebration marking the change of seasons, signifying the start of the summer season. It falls on 31st October/1st November here in the Southern Hemisphere. (Not to be confused with the Northern Hemisphere's autumn festival, Samhain/Halloween For UK and European family and friends Happy Samhain! – If you are in the North, here is the link to my article on Samhain.)
Traditionally, Beltane celebrates the approach of summer and the fertility of the coming year. It was particularly important for those relying on the land, especially before industrialisation.
Why Honour Beltane?
It might seem peculiar to honour an ancient practice from the far north, but I adore the significance of these seasonal celebrations. They help me connect with nature, strengthen my cyclical awareness, find creativity and beauty in life, and provide a splendid way to connect with the community.
Today, being removed from the land and nature, we feel the effects through our health, wellbeing, and environment. But by acknowledging these seasonal shifts and Earth-honouring practices, we can not only reintroduce creativity and fruitfulness into our lives but also start to bring them back
What can take from Beltane?
Beltane is an excellent time to gather energies, set intentions, and shine. It is dedicated to all that is fertile and full of vitality. What truly ignites your passion? Where does creativity flow in your life? What aspect of your life needs a touch more love and playfulness?
Here are some tips to help you honor this awakening of summer:
Honour Nature
Step outside! Take a walk or do some gardening. Engage with the beautiful natural world. Listen, observe, feel, and inhale. Connect with the earth, feel the mud or sand between your toes. What's the weather doing? What changes can you sense? This will help keep you grounded and connected to the earth.
Light a candle or fire
The word 'Beltane' means 'bright fire'. Fire symbolizes purity, cleansing, and healing. Light and warmth offer hope, guiding us through dark moments.
Plant some Seeds or Flowers
Hold a seed in your hand, meditate on your intentions, envision them growing, and then plant it. Choose your favorite vegetables, fruits, or flowers to cultivate. You can also just do this in your mind in visualisation.
'To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow' Audrey Hepburn
Set New Intentions
Beltane, like all celebrations within the wheel of the year, is a good time to set intentions for the coming season. You can write down your wishes or prayers, tie them with coloured ribbons to a tree or plant, and let the wind carry them. Imagine the elements and nature listening to them.
Gratitude to Friends and Family
Express love and gratitude to those you cherish. Write a letter or pick up the phone, reminding them that they are in your thoughts. They may know it, but it's always nice to hear "you are loved." If they are no longer with us, still write them a note, love is of course, eternal.
Offerings and Honouring
Leave offerings to 'fairies' or honour nature. Simply celebrate the magic and beauty of the season. Many customs still decorate trees, doors, and even cattle with flowers, shells, and ribbons. Embrace dance, savour good food, offer flowers, and invite joy into your life.
Conclusion
Beltane serves as a poignant reminder of our connection to nature and the importance of honouring the changing seasons. Embracing this ancient celebration offers an opportunity to rekindle our bond with the Earth, encouraging us to find joy in the cyclical rhythms of life. By engaging in simple yet meaningful rituals and activities that celebrate fertility, vitality, and the beauty of the season, we can rediscover the richness of connecting with nature and fostering a deeper appreciation for our world and environment.
To download this information in a free printable version for reference during your Wheel of the Year Celebrations, Click Below
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