What is Samhain?
Samhain - pronounced 'sow-in' - is an ancient Celtic festival, celebrated from 31st October to 1st November. It originates from the Iron Age and in modern Irish literally means 'summers end' and was the start of the Celtic New Year.
It is a time to welcome in the darker half of the year and prepare for the winter ahead. The date falls between the Autumn and Winter equinox's and is a 'fire festival' according to the Celtic calendar.
Encyclopedia Britannica notes that, during this festival, the world of the gods “was believed to be made visible to humankind,” leading to supernatural tricks and trouble. To appease deities during this time, sacrifices (generally of crops and animals) were burned in bonfires as a protective measure from from evil otherworldly beings and offerings were left out for other visiting mischievous spirits.
Please note I am not a practicing Pagan, the knowledge I will be sharing is from my research and interest in this subject. All are welcome at this event: Pagans/Wiccans along with secular people and those with a different faith.
What will we do doing?
Not burning animal sacrifices that for sure!
We will start with a forest bathing session (a mindful walk in nature) through the woods, connecting to our senses and seeing, in a playful way, if "the world of the gods" is indeed visible. Forest bathing is a simple and enjoyable way of connecting to the season and soothing ourselves in nature. Natalie is a trained Shinrin Yoku practitioner and will invite us to engage in a series of mindful activities to help us feel present, open and connected.
After our walk we will arrive at 'camp' where we will sit around a small fire and have a hot drink together. There will be opportunity for in person conversation and connection.
You'll be offered some journaling prompts around the theme of Samhain to help you welcome the darker parts of yourself and prepare yourself mindfully for winter.
Some important info:
The event will go ahead in most weathers so please dress appropriately for the day. In the unlikely event the weather is particularly bad (eg a storm) we will try to rearrange.
We will meet at Worsley Delph and enter the woods from there - please arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time. Details will be emailed out to you a few days in advance.
We are not going on a hike - we will be walking slowly and stopping frequently, however please ensure you are fit enough to be outside and moving for 2 hours. We will be sitting on the floor (tarp/seat pads provided) for the last 30 minutes. If you have any health or mobility issues please get in touch so I can advise on suitability and if there's anything I can do to support you.
What to bring:
- Warm, waterproof clothing clothing and footwear
- A journal and pen
Any questions please email me: natalierossiterwellbeing@gmail.com
