Category Archives: Nature Based
Beltane, Fairies, the Hawthorn, and the Goddess Bloddeuwedd – Episode 18
Fairies, flowers, fertility, a Maypole, and a hawthorn tree. They all weave their way into the Celtic festival of Beltane and other seasonal festivals so common in the Old World. On episode 18 of the Ritual Recipes podcast, I talk … Continue reading
Episode 17: Spring Equinox – Ready to Break the Bonds of Winter?
The Vernal Equinox arrived last week. The Sun has entered the sign of Aries. Spring is here. Depending on where you live, it might still feel like winter. That’s how it is was here, until today. Soon, with a fierce … Continue reading
Episode 12 – Winter Solstice Ritual and the Infinity Symbol
The Winter Solstice is the longest night. What does this cosmic event have to do with gifts and candles, pigs and wine, freedom and fear, self-discipline, resolutions…weddings, handfastings, and the infinity symbol? A lot! Solstices and Equinoxes A little background … Continue reading
Episode 11 – Animal Totems as Spirit Guides to the Underworld
I learned a valuable lesson the day a skunk crossed my path. It was about animals as totems and the magical medicine they offer. Seeing animals as spirit guides was at the heart of a public ritual I created for … Continue reading
Episode 9 – Magical Soup Ritual to Heal the Earth
It’s September. The harvest season continues. If we could make a symbolic soup to heal the Earth, what ingredients should we include? What ingredients does Mother Earth have for you? I explored all that and more in a special harvest … Continue reading
Mother Earth & the Corn King – The Harvest Story
The first harvest of the season, that of corn and grain, tells the story of Mother Earth and the Corn King. Whatever your “field” of work, this is the season that highlights sweat equity, prosperity, sacrifice, and community. My ancestors … Continue reading
Episode 8 – Celtic Harvest Ritual with the Corn King – Time to Settle Debts
Make hay when the sun shines. That’s the mantra for the harvest season. It’s time to work hard, celebrate community, settle debts, and honor the sacrifice of the Corn King who gives his life for that of the community. … Continue reading
Prayer Flags for a Wedding Ceremony
Episode 7 – Prayer Flags for Wedding Rituals and Children’s Projects
Movies about climbing Mount Everest always show prayer flags – five pieces of solid colored fabric strung together, blowing in the wind. The meaning behind them is ancient and honors the individual, the family, the community, and the earth.