“For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me want to dream.”- Vincent Van Gogh
From dusk to dawn
As the sun sets below the horizon and twilight covers the land, a mystical change takes place. It is a time when nocturnal creatures come to life and the world shifts into a realm of intrigue and calm.
Meanwhile, the soft light of daybreak breaks through the darkness, bringing with it a feeling of rejuvenation and potential. Step outside during these magical moments to observe the graceful movements of birds getting ready for the night ahead or greeting the new day.
A nighttime ritual.
As the sun begins its descent and dusk falls upon the land, there is a magical transformation that takes place outside. The nighttime creatures of the night begin to stir. I love this time of night, and I often go outside to let go of the day and relax for a while.
One of the most enchanting ways to commune with nature is to sit outside at dusk and observe the birds as they go about their evening routine. Listen to their melodic songs and watch as they flit from tree to tree, preparing for the night ahead. Take note of the different species that visit and the unique behaviours they exhibit.
As the evening progresses and all grows quiet, pay attention to the subtle shifts in the atmosphere. How does it make you feel? if you wish, journal your thoughts and feelings. You may also wish to reflect on your day: what went right, what went wrong; did you learn any lessons? Embrace the stillness and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment.
Take time to look up at the sky; if there are stars out, even better. learn about the names of the star constellations.
Feel yourself becoming one with the universe. Before you leave, ground your energies with the earth and the universe and release any burdens from the day. If the moon is out, you could try moon bathing. Find out what it is and how to do it. here.
A grounding exercise.
This is best done with bare feet, so you feel the earth.
Feel the soil beneath your feet, anchoring you in its stability, and visualise vibrant green roots extending from your soles, intertwining with the Earth’s energy.
Next, direct your gaze skyward and envision a radiant white light emanating from the crown of your head, reaching towards the vast expanse of the universe above
You could visualise a protective armour enveloping you, shielding you from negative energies and unwanted influences. Alternatively, bathe yourself in pure white light.
A daytime ritual
“I love watching the sunrise and sunset and the sky, the birds.”
– Manisha Koirala
Alternatively, if you are an early riser, you can connect with nature by watching the sunrise and being the first bird to greet the day. Witness the world as it awakens from its slumber, bathed in the golden light of the morning sun. Feel the earth come alive beneath your feet and breathe in the fresh, crisp air of a new day.
Take time to ground your energies and set your intentions for the day ahead, it will give you a positive start.
You could also try a sun salutation. The sun salutation is a yoga sequence that’s not only a great physical exercise but is also often used for energising, connecting, and harnessing the sun’s rays.
Step 1: Set Your Intentions Begin by standing tall, feet together. Take a moment to set your intentions for the practice. This could be connecting with the sun’s energy, expressing gratitude, or focusing on positive affirmations.
Step 2: Mountain Pose (Tadasana) Inhale and raise your arms overhead, palms together. Stand tall like a mountain, grounding yourself and reaching towards the sky. Feel the energy flowing through your fingertips.
Step 3: Forward Fold (Uttanasana) Exhale and bend forward from your hips, bringing your hands to the ground or reaching for your shins. Imagine releasing any tension or negativity as you fold forward.
Step 4: Halfway Lift (Ardha Uttanasana) Inhale, lift your torso halfway, and lengthen your spine. Keep your back straight and gaze forward. Feel the stretch in your spine and the revitalising energy.
Step 5: Plank Pose Exhale and step back into a plank position. Align your wrists under your shoulders, engage your core, and visualise strength and stability like the sun.
Step 6: Chaturanga Dandasana (Low Plank) Lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping them close to your sides. Feel the strength in your arms. If needed, drop your knees to the ground for a modified version.
Step 7: Upward-Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana) Inhale, lift your chest, and straighten your arms, arching your back. Feel the heart-opening energy and embrace a sense of positivity.
Step 8: Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) Exhale, lift your hips, and push back into a downward-facing dog position. Pedal your feet and feel the stretch in your spine. Imagine grounding energy flowing through your hands into the earth.
Step 9: Warrior Pose (Virabhadrasana) Inhale, step your right foot forward between your hands, and rise into a warrior pose. Feel the strength and power as you extend your arms.
Step 10: Mountain Pose (Tadasana) Exhale, bring your hands down, and step your left foot forward to meet the right. Return to the mountain pose. Repeat the sequence on the other side.
Step 11: Close with Gratitude Conclude your sun salutation by standing in mountain pose, hands at heart centre, then ground your energies to the earth and universe.
This book has some good ideas about connecting with nature. The Earth Witch: Connecting to Nature and Healing Energy by Nichole Callaghan
I highly recommend the Pagan Portals books. Take a look here
For hedgeriding, I recommend Pagan Portals-Hedge Riding by Harmonia Saille. But do read her first book, Pagan Portals Hedge Witchcraft. Both books are beautifully written and easy to follow.
Craft of the hedge witch: A Guide to the Solitary by Geraldine Smythe
Hedge Witch: A Guide to Solitary Witchcraft By Rae Beth
The Hedge Witch’s Way: Magical Spirituality for the Lone Spellcaster By Rae Beth