The Four Celtic Festivals
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Shadow work Samhain Ritual.
Embracing the Shadows: The Essence of Samhain Samhain marks a significant turning point in the Celtic calendar, heralding the end of the year and inviting us to confront the darker aspects of life, including death and the mysteries of the spirit world. Traditionally, this time was dedicated to honouring our ancestors and engaging in spirit…
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Samhain Traditions: The Silent Supper.
The Silent Supper is traditionally held during Samhain. This time is believed to be when the veil between the physical world and the spirit world is at its thinnest. Historical Background Believed to have originated in the British Isles, the Silent Supper involves setting a place at the table for spirits and serving them food…
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The Festival of Summer’s End: Celtic Roots of Samhain
Samhain is a shift in reality. The bright warmth of summer and the cold dark of winter never touched the Celtic people gently. They lived by the rhythm of the land; the boundary between summer and winter was sudden. At no other point in the year did life seem so fragile. During this time, a…
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The Autumn Equinox: A Magical Turning Point for Witches
The Autumn Equinox: A Magical Turning Point for Witches The autumn equinox is upon us, marking a significant turning point. Twice each year, the sun casts its light equally upon the northern and southern hemispheres, creating a perfect balance of day and night. These moments are known as equinoxes. The term “equinox” itself is derived…
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Preparing for Autumn: A Hedgewitch’s View
Autumn as a Hedgewitch’s Season Autumn has always been my favourite season. There is something in the shift of light, the deepening of colours, and the scent of damp earth that stirs both heart and spirit. The hedgerows grow heavy with berries, and the balance of day and night begins to turn. As a hedgewitch,…
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Embracing the Light: Imbolc Magic
As winter’s chill begins to wane and the promise of spring lingers in the air, many around the world prepare to celebrate Imbolc, a fire festival. Imbolc or Imbolg, is a pagan holiday celebrated from February 1 through sundown February 2. Imbolc literally means ‘in the belly’ and its focus is rebirth and new life.…
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the Magic of the Winter Solstice: A Witch’s Guide
The winter solstice usually falls on December 21st or 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere and on June 20th or 21st in the Southern Hemisphere. However, it’s important to note that these dates may vary slightly depending on the year and location. The solstice occurs when the tilt of the Earth’s axis is farthest away from…
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Lughnasadh – History, Myth and Traditions
Lughnasadh is also known as Lammas or First Harvest, and the last of the four Celtic fire festivals. Lughnasadh is Irish Gaelic for “Commemoration of Lugh”. The god Lugh’s name means ‘light’ and ‘brightness’. Despite the festival bearing his name, Lugh started the festival in honour of his foster mother, Tailtiu. She is Goddess, of…