Happy Beltane and or May Day

With the 1st May on Wednesday it seems hard to believe that Beltane is here to mark the arrival of summer!! With a focus on new beginnings Beltane is a time for merry making and feasting. 

Sexuality is a strong theme throughout Beltane, I consider it as a supercharged Valentine’s day with the Maypole, traditionally decorated and celebrated by maidens, as a phallic symbol, representing the masculine power, and the cauldron representing  a womb and female power. 

To go A Maying - the gathering of flowers and other plants in nearby forests - was synonymous with casual sex in the woods!!

There was no shame associated with out-of-wedlock marriage and hand-fasting was common - where two people joined together for a year and a day.  Sadly these activities were outlawed by the Puritans in the 17th century in much of Great Britain .  

If casual sex in the woods isn’t your thing but you still like the idea of embracing the joy associated with this sabbat, other ways to celebrate include:

·         Lighting a bonfire and gathering  family and friends

·         Plan a sensual evening   

·         Burn sage and walk through the smoke for purification and protection.

·         Sing, dance, drum.

·         Take action on a project you’ve been considering

·         Set aside time for some self care - treat yourself to a special meal, music, aromas - whatever makes you feel special

·         Decorate a tree with colourful ribbons that represent your wishes for the coming year

·         Make flower crowns

·         Dress in green

·         Decorate your home yellow flower wreaths, bouquets or garlands

Traditionally farmers would build bonfires at night and walk their cattle between the flames, to ensure protection and fertility for the coming season. Beltane fires are still celebrated in Scotland, through the Beltane Fire Society.

In the home, hearth fires were extinguished and re-lit with flames from the Beltane bonfires. People also walked the perimeter of their property or towns to invoke added protection over the coming year.  Doorways, windows and even livestock were decorated with yellow flowers during Beltane.

People would write a wish on a ribbon and tie it a to a tree, in the hopes that the gods would grant them.  Hawthorn, ash, thorn and sycamore trees were believed to be the best trees for making wishes.  

Dew gathered on Beltane was thought to have special properties for increased beauty and youthfulness.

Even today, Beltane is still celebrated by modern pagans and nature enthusiasts around the world, as a great way to connect with ancient wisdom and honour the changing seasons. I hope you are inspired to create your own tradition.

Blessed Be xxx Lou