by Della Ratcliffe | Dec 14, 2022 | Divination Techniques & Tools, Wheel of the Year
Several years ago, I started to observe not just the 12 Days of Solstice (and/or Christmas) but also a lovely ritual and divination process for the new calendar year (or coming months) known as 12 Omen Days, a traditional Celtic practice from the people of Wales and...
by Della Ratcliffe | Dec 22, 2021 | Wheel of the Year
This third day of Solstice (starting at sunset on 22-DEC) was referred to as the “Nameless Day” and the “Feast of Potentials” (also known as the “Secret of the Unhewn Stone”). In some traditions, it was a stand-alone day, not associated with any lunar month. Those...
by Della Ratcliffe | Dec 21, 2021 | Wheel of the Year
Solstice Blessings ! For me, the 12 days of Solstice begins at sunset, this year on December 20th, as the Celtic day begins and ends at sunset on December 21st. This year, astronomical Solstice arrives precisely on December 21st at 15:59 UTC. There are many traditions...
by Della Ratcliffe | Dec 21, 2021 | Wheel of the Year
The origins of Mistletoe as a Christmas decoration go far back into our Pagan origins. Druids considered the Mistletoe – a parasitic plant that grows on willow and apple, and other species – to be a sacred plant and a very powerful healing and magic plant, good for...
by Della Ratcliffe | Dec 29, 2020 | Soul Work, Wheel of the Year
This year — more than any recent year — I so need this soul-stice time of reflection and renewal, my “cauldron time”. Much is still churning within me. I am restless, questioning my beliefs and practices, finding new paths. I often find inspiration in...