Happy Beltain - the celebration of fertility.

Welcome to this Beltain Newsletter...
For many years I was (and still am) immersed in healing chant from various traditions, so became more aware of spiritual paths from other cultures rather than our own.  I spent three years living near Seattle, in the Pacific North West of America - a very magical time for me.  So in addition to studying and practicing Sanskrit chant, there was also the opportunity to experience first hand some Native American traditions too.  

Once back home in the UK, it struck me that I knew nothing about our Celtic roots or traditions.  The Solstices and Equinoxes yes (Quarter Points), but the Cross Quarter Points (Imbolc, Beltain, Lammas, Samhain)?  Almost nothing.  My son was born on Imbolc, so that was a natural first deep dive into the meanings and celebrations. 

To become more aware of the shifting energy of Mother Nature can really help us to connect deeply with and honour the  Earth and her cycles. We too are as much a part of nature as the moon rising, the buds forming and towards winter, the necessary act of letting go...I can highly recommend "Sacred Celebrations, A sourcebook" by Glennie Kindred if you're curious. 

But that brings me to this weekend's Cross Quarter Point of Beltain.  Honoured as the festival of fertility, a 'feast of life', it is a natural reflection on the abundance of Spring as She emerges with such energy. A powerfully potent time of the year, life is bursting with fertility and, as Glennie Kindred says, 

"Everything is in the process of becoming. The onset of the growing season with everything clothed in green. ..the Earth's energies are at their most active.  Beltain is a potent time of transition"

Over this weekend, take a little time to really notice afresh the abundance of spring in Her fullness, go out for a walk, enjoy the bluebells (utterly gorgeous now.), and pause to hear the birds singing. 

Hawthorn is the tree associated with Beltain - the Hawthorn flowers this year have been incredible - traditionally pieces of ribbon or torn cloth are tied to the trees to honour them (and the faerie folk!) The herb Rosemary is said to "protect the wearer from magic" - ruled by the sun, it has a vibrant-stimulating energy, and is a symbol of fertility.  It can be burnt as an incense and has an uplifting energy (I put some in my bath) or use to make fresh tea.  It is said to help the body when we feel sluggish - a perfect spring cleanse? If you're curious to know more "Google" will have an abundance of information. 

But perhaps most importantly, and simply, this May Day weekend - walk in nature, light a fire, and be thankful that, despite the challenges of the last year Mother Nature continues to literally blossom and thrive. 

Have a wonderful weekend! 
Many blessings,
Sarena 

Here's quick update on what's happening at the Birch Moon Centre...

FREE - Spring cleanse - Come and join us!  In addition to a soothing foot spa I'll be sharing ideas for a Spring Cleanse - from a gentle detox through food and self - massage to the wisdom of Birch - and this links perfectly to my Centre name.  FRIDAY 7TH MAY 7-8pm.  Email me to book your place and I'll send out instructions and a Zoom link.  A great way to end your week and meet like minded people - I'll send out some Organic Weleda samples and Organic Cleanse tea for you to enjoy too. .  sarena@birchmoon.co.uk

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Upcoming Workshops:-
Sound & Silence - Healing Chant

Yoga & Makko Ho  and Saturday Sun Salutations