Honoring Samhain (Saw-wen)

Samhain, meaning “end of summer” in Celtic, also referred to the month of November. It marked the close of the harvest season, the waning of the Sun, and the approach of winter’s darkness. It was both a festival of endings and the Celtic New Year.

The night of October 31/November 1 was the night of the year that the veil was believed to be at its thinnest. Spirits, demons, and fairies could easily cross over. People wore costumes to hide or scare away the spirits, string apples on evergreen branches as offerings to the Gods to ensure the warmth and light of their Sun deities, and offer fruits, nuts and animal sacrifices to appease the Gods and visiting spirits.

This sacred turning of the wheel is a powerful time to honor the Sun, your ancestors, and your spirit guides. Here are some ways you might celebrate:

Make a Sacred Fire

• Offer gratitude for your blessings.

• Write down habits or patterns you wish to release, then burn them in the fire, letting the flames transform and free you.

Build an Altar

• Place acorns, gourds, candles, or mementos of loved ones to honor the season and those who came before you.

Create a Spirit Plate

• Prepare a plate of sweet treats or favorite foods and offer them to your ancestors and spirit team.

Meditate & Journal

• Sit comfortably, breathe deeply, and center yourself in the present moment, in your own body. Find stillness. Either soak in your stillness and your own spirit, or ask your higher self for guidance. Record any insights that come up.

Practice Divination

• With the veil thin, communication with the unseen becomes more accessible. Try channeling, prayer, spellwork, or another divination practice that resonates with you.

In whatever way you choose to honor this magical time of the year, Attention is Intention! Let your heart guide you as you step into this New Year.