Wicked Good Spray Pick of the Month- Come Hither: Attract and Compel Spray
Coventry Creations Candle Pick of the Month- Abundance Blessing Kits
Beltane is fast approaching on May 1st! And what better way to celebrate Beltane than with a traditional maypole ritual.
The maypole has deep roots in European pagan traditions, it is an important symbol of fertility and the vitality of nature. It was often erected in village greens or other communal spaces as part of Beltane celebrations, marking the beginning of summer and the return of warmth and abundance to the land. The Maypole itself represented the sacred union of the masculine and feminine energies, with its tall pole symbolizing the phallus and the ribbons or garlands draped around it representing the feminine aspect and is believed to encourage the fertility of the land and ensure a successful growing season. Participants would weave intricate patterns with the ribbons as they danced, symbolizing the weaving together of the energies of the earth and sky, sun and rain, masculine and feminine. Today, Maypole dances and celebrations continue to be practiced in various parts of Europe and around the world, often as part of May Day or Beltane festivities. But not everyone has the means, ability, or community to erect a maypole, so I am going to show you a way that everyone can practice, even if you are solitary.
Preparation:
Before you begin, find a quiet outdoor space where you feel connected to nature. Gather supplies for your ritual, including candles (I chose Coventry Creations Abundance Blessing Kit), flowers or greenery, 2 or 3 (@ 2 ft each) pieces of ribbon or fabric, a stick that is wand shaped or larger, and any other symbols of fertility or renewal that resonate with you, I always include an egg on my spring altars. Set up a simple altar or sacred space in your chosen spot.
Stand at the edge of your sacred space and take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Close your eyes and connect with the earth beneath your feet, feeling its energy grounding and supporting you. Light the candles as a symbol of the divine spark within you and the guiding light of the season. Speak or silently call upon the four elements, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water, to join you in your ritual if this is what you practice. Visualize each element surrounding you and infusing your space with its energy.
Honoring the Fertility of the Earth:
Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and abundance of the natural world around you. Notice the colors, scents, and sounds of spring, and feel gratitude for the earth's fertility and renewal.
Maypole “Dance”:
Take your small pole or stick and tie two or more pieces of ribbon to one end of the stick to make a mini maypole.
Sit comfortably before your altar and stick the pole upright into the dirt in front of you, Take a moment to reflect on areas of your life where you would like to invite growth, renewal, or transformation. While holding those intentions in mind and alternate weaving the ribbons clockwise and counter clockwise around the pole overlapping each other. D this as many times as you like (or how much stick/ ribbon you have) I like “9” so I do each ribbon 9 times. When to the end, tie the ribbons off around the pole and your intentions are set.
Offer a silent prayer or meditation expressing gratitude for the blessings of the season and the opportunities for growth and renewal in your life. You can also leave small offerings, such as seeds or grains, as a token of your appreciation for the earth's abundance. Close out your circle as you see fit. You can keep the “maypole” or bury it, up to you. And please please DO NOT leave any candles or incense burning outside when you leave. Blessed Beltane everyone. - Tj