Beltane

Beltane/May Day

Beltane is a time to honor the passion in our lives. Whether it's the passion between lovers or the passion you feel for your art or towards a hobby you have, this is the day to rejoice in that passion. Traditionally Beltane honors the union of the Goddess and God. Among ancient Celts this was the day the Bale Fires were lit and the community gathered together to celebrate the return of the Sun. They held torchlit processions through fields and drove cattle between bonfires to purify and protect them. After the festivities men and women could pair off and wander into the woods for a tryst. It was felt that by mating in the fields energy was being raised that would result in the crops being fruitful. On Beltane we dance around a May Pole and celebrate our sexuality.

Crafts:

I'm thrilled to be able to share my altar room with you. In reality I don't have an altar room simply because my apartment is too small. So this is my opportunity to fill my personal altar with magickal objects and perform sacred rites.

Some activities you can do on Beltane to honor the season:

Create a Garden Goddess - collect a variety of materials that symbolize the Goddess to you. Find a spot in the garden that is somewhat protected and combine these materials into a form the create your own Garden Goddess. You might want to incorporate rocks, crystals, some material. Use your imagination and have fun. This is a fun activity to do with your children.
Make scented massage oils - mix magickal scented oils to use on your lover to celebrate the passion of Beltane
Take magickal baths - annoint a candle and burn it while you bathe or shower; mix up your own shower gel or body wash; play soothing magickal music

My contribution to the season is a recipe for an incense or potpourri to enjoy during your rituals or just to make your home smell wonderful and inviting..

10 drops Rose Oil
5 drops Frankincense Oil
5 drops Musk Oil
5 drops Cinnamon Oil
5 drops Sandalwood

You can either use this recipe or any combination of these essential oils. Add herbs or a combination of the two if you prefer. I warm the oils in an electric potpourri pot but you could combine them and rub them on an unfragranced incense stick. If you have problems breathing when you use regular incense then using the oils in an aromatherapy lamp or potpourri pot is an alternative. This oil would also be wonderful to use in your magickal bath.

Food & Drink:

Here are some foods that are appropriate to honor the energies flowing on this magickal day:

Breakfast: Oatmeal and orange juice
Lunch: Make a salad with grilled chicken; curried dishes or spicy foods.
Dinner: Salad: red-leaf lettuce, red onion & red peppers w/Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing; Spaghetti & Meatballs or Turkey Cutlets Stroganoff
Dessert: Cherry Pie a la mode

Here are some great sites to check out for recipes to use:

Enjoy!