New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
December may seem like a strange time to celebrate fertility; however, Barbes Diena, a traditional Latvian celebration today, focuses on the fertility of sheep. While generally lambing season occurs in the spring, winter births are not unheard of. Winter is generally seen as a gestation period, and while spring may seem far away, the solstice approaches and the equinox will arrive before you know it! Thus, December is a good month to start planning projects for the upcoming new year. It's also ...
In the British Isles, this day was celebrated as Midsummer's Day. Not to be confused with the astrological date of the Summer Solstice, this day also has quite a bit of legend and lore surrounding it. This is a classic time to work with the faeries. Here is a spell designed to both celebrate and work with the faeries in your garden. Before you begin, take a moment to plant some pretty flowers in the garden, just for the faeries. (Keep in mind that fragrant blossoms are well loved by the Fey.) ...
Litha - Summer Solstice This is the night when the reign of the Oak King gives way to the Holly King-a sort of changing of the guard. Tonight, decorate your altar or other special place with oak leaves, flowers, and holly leaves. Use silk ones if you can't get the real plants. In addition, this night is a good time to honor faeries. Make a gift for them and leave it outside and they'll help your garden grow. Slice an apple horizontally so the star pattern inside is revealed. Make several ...
Sunday, is Sun day, a day for a light spell. As the days lengthen toward solstice, we leave the darkness behind, enjoying more sunlight and brightness. In the middle of the day, find a spot where there is some shadow and some direct sunlight close together. If it's cloudy or rainy where you are, go inside and use a bright light to create shadow and light. Stand in the shadow, and see yourself shrouded in darkness. Feel the cold and foreboding. Know that very little grows, thrives, or survives ...
