July Intentions: Welcome High Summer and a Time to Gather
As the Wheel of the Year turns, July marks the start of High Summer here in the Northern Hemisphere. This is the month when the sun is at its strongest and temperatures are at their highest. It’s a popular time for celebration, connection, and gatherings. Think picnics, family reunions, vacations, or just lazy afternoons sipping iced tea and reading a good book. As we move through the Wheel of the Year, this midsummer month is imbued with a sense of vibrancy and life, inviting us to step outside and immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature - whether that be a day at the beach, a hike in the mountains or a walk in your local park.
The Wheel of the Year represents the changing seasons and the perpetual cycle of birth, growth, harvest, and rest. Within this sacred circle, each season has its purpose and essence. July, nestled within the heart of summer, is a time of abundance, growth, and joy. Gardens are starting to flourish, offering early produce, while flowers are in full bloom.
July beckons us to gather and rejoice in the warmth of the sun and the lushness of nature. The long, sunlit days invite us to gather with friends and family. Whether it be a picnic in the park, a beachside barbecue, or a garden party, July provides the perfect backdrop for joyful gatherings and shared experiences.
Connecting with Nature
In July, nature is a tapestry of colors, scents, and sounds. The world around us is teeming with life, and we have the opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in it. The trees are full with deep green foliage, flowers bloom in every nook and cranny, while birds sing during the day and peepers serenade us in the evenings. This is the time to embark on nature walks, explore forests, or simply sit beneath a shady tree and absorb the soothing rhythms of the natural world. By connecting with nature, we tap into its rejuvenating energy, finding solace, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of life.
Honoring the Harvest
Within the Wheel of the Year, July marks the beginning of the harvest season. Fields and gardens are abundant with the fruits of our labor, and we celebrate the culmination of growth and nourishment. July is a time to express gratitude for the gifts nature bestows upon us and to acknowledge our interconnectedness with the Earth. Consider visiting a local farmers' market, tending to your own garden, or engaging in practices that honor sustainability and ecological awareness. By participating in the harvest in one of these ways, we not only support local communities but also deepen our connection to the land and the cycles that sustain us.
As the Wheel of the Year turns, July emerges as a season of gathering, celebration, and connection with nature. The ease of summer days will quickly give way to the faster pace of Autumn. By immersing ourselves in the beauty of nature, honoring the harvest, and engaging in personal reflection, we can deepen our connection to the cycles of life and find harmony within the circle of existence. Let July be a time of togetherness and rejuvenation, as we embrace the bountiful blessings that nature offers us.
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Book Review: The Way of the Hedge Witch
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As I’ve noted before I don’t really identify as a witch per se, but there are definitely elements of witchcraft, healing and magick that I routinely embrace as part of my own spiritual path and desire to connect more with nature. As such, I do a lot of reading for both personal growth and also for content here on Mabon House. So I thought it would be nice to create some reviews of my favorite books. First up is The Way of the Hedge Witch - Rituals and Spells for Hearth & Home by Arin Murphy-Hiscock.
The Way of the Hedge Witch is an excellent book for those looking for easy ways to enhance their spiritual practice and connect with nature. Throughout the book, Murphy-Hiscock's wisdom and insights provides a comprehensive understanding of the ancient traditions of a hedge witch, which I found both helpful and inspiring. .
What I liked most about the book was Murphy-Hiscock's ability to make complex concepts accessible. I appreciated her clear explanations of the origins and history of hedge witchery and how she guides the reader through the rituals, tools, and spellwork associated with this path.
Murphy-Hiscock's emphasis on the importance of connecting with nature deeply resonated with me. Her exploration of the bond between hedge witchcraft and the natural world explained the significance of plants, animals, and the elements. The practical exercises she provided allows the reader to forge a stronger relationship with nature and its profound wisdom, which is something I certainly aspire to.
The Way of the Hedge Witch is an excellent resource on herbalism and healing, specifically. Murphy-Hiscock's wealth of knowledge on herbs and their properties enriched my understanding of their magical and medicinal uses. The inclusion of recipes for potions, teas, and salves. And while I don’t do much with DIY herbology, I did appreciate how she demonstrated ways to incorporate this practice into my own spiritual journey, if I decide to try it out later on.
If you’re looking for some general information about incorporating nature into your own practice, The Way of the Hedge Witch is a good addition to your library. Arin Murphy-Hiscock's expertise and passion shine through, making this book an indispensable guide for both beginners and experienced practitioners.
What are some of your favorite books for connecting with nature and following your own spiritual path?
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A History of Litha and Midsummer
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Litha, also known as Midsummer or the Summer Solstice, is an ancient festival celebrated by various cultures around the world. Litha has its roots in ancient agricultural societies that heavily relied on the sun for their livelihoods. The festival marks the peak of the sun's power and the longest day of the year. Celtic mythology associates Litha with the Oak King, representing the waxing power of the sun. Bonfires were lit during Litha to honor the sun's strength and ensure abundant harvests. In Norse traditions, the solstice was celebrated with bonfires, feasts, and ceremonies dedicated to Freyr, the fertility god.
Where does the name Litha Come from?
The name "Litha" is derived from Old English and has its origins in the Anglo-Saxon calendar. The term "Litha" is believed to be related to the word "liþa," which translates to "gentle" or "calm" in Old English. It refers to the period of the summer solstice when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky and the day is at its longest. The term gained popularity among modern pagan and Wiccan communities as they sought to reclaim and revive ancient traditions and festivals. Today, Litha is widely recognized and celebrated as the name for the festival that marks the summer solstice.
Litha and the Wheel of the Year
Litha is part of the Wheel of the Year, a cycle of seasonal celebrations observed by modern pagan and Wiccan communities. It represents the changing seasons and the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Litha stands opposite to Yule, the winter solstice, symbolizing the balance between light and darkness. It is a time to celebrate the fullness of life and embrace the energy of the sun.
Throughout history, Litha has been accompanied by various customs and rituals. Gathering medicinal herbs and plants believed to be more potent during this time is a common practice. These herbs are used in rituals and potions for health and protection. Another tradition is the construction of sunwheels, which are wheels adorned with flowers and set on fire. Rolling the wheel down a hill signifies the descent of the sun and the turning of the wheel of life.
Litha and Midsummer
Additionally, Litha is often associated with Midsummer, a celebration that extends beyond the pagan and Wiccan traditions. Midsummer festivities are observed in many cultures around the world, including Scandinavian countries where it holds a prominent place in their cultural heritage. Midsummer dances, bonfires, and feasts are integral parts of these celebrations, often accompanied by folklore and traditional rituals that honor the sun's energy and the abundance of nature during this time.
In modern times, Litha is celebrated by pagans, Wiccans, and nature-based spiritual communities. Many gather at ancient sacred sites, such as Stonehenge, to witness the sunrise and engage in solstice ceremonies. Private rituals in natural settings are also common, where individuals connect with the earth and embrace the energy of the sun. Litha is a time for community, feasting, music, dancing, and expressing gratitude for nature's abundance.
The history of Litha reveals its deep connections to ancient agricultural societies and their reliance on the sun's power. Celebrated as part of the Wheel of the Year, Litha symbolizes the balance between light and darkness. Throughout history, customs such as bonfires, herb gathering, and the construction of sunwheels have marked this festival. Today, Litha continues to be celebrated by various communities, with gatherings at sacred sites and private rituals in natural settings. Litha serves as a reminder of our connection with nature and the cycles of life. Additionally, Midsummer celebrations add cultural richness and diversity to the tapestry of Litha festivities.
Recommended Reading*
The Modern Witchcraft Guide to the Wheel of the Year: From Samhain to Yule, Your Guide to the Wiccan Holidays by Judy Ann Nock
The Modern Guide to Witchcraft: Your Complete Guide to Witches, Covens, and Spells by Skye Alexander
The Modern Witchcraft Spell Book: Your Complete Guide to Crafting and Casting Spells by Skye Alexander