Samhain is the Celtic New Year
Samhain signals the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It is a time to go within, to tune into your shadow – that part of us that we keep hidden. It’s also a time to connect with our ancestors, as the veil between this world and the spirit world is at its thinnest.
When I was younger I went to a Christian school. I would sit in services and feel…nothing. I would look around at all the happy people and wonder what I was missing. I felt awkward and so thought that religion just wasn’t for me.
At 27, when I was at a crossroads in my life I connected with an amazing lady called Maria, who introduced me to my own intuition, but also the world of paganism and the power of Samhain. During that time I realised that I had always talked to trees, avoided ants and generally felt connected to the planet. By tuning into the seasons, connecting with like minded individuals and reading books like a knowledge thirsty demon I discovered a whole new world – and myself!
When I go into a church these days? Goosebumps! I can feel the energy of the people and the place in a way that I had previously missed.
So the Celtic New Year – whether you are a pagan, or would just like to expand your horizons a little, it’s a great time to do some energy work and create a different outcome for yourself.
Who were your ancestors?
Sometimes when we are in a world of busy we can forget who we are and start playing small. We start saying we are ‘just’ a mum, or ‘just’ a teacher…and we step back from anything that shines a light on us as an individual. Who were your ancestors? When I discovered that both my great grannies were healers and intuitives, it re-inforced the passion in me to make a difference to other people.
Giving is a gift when in the right energy – the fact that my family helped others really focused my attention on what I wanted to do. So much so, that I ditched my successful career as an accountant and went back to college to get A levels in Anatomy & Physiology and Reflexology!
What amazing people do you have in your family? Perhaps your parents inspire you, or there’s a family legend about someone long gone. It could give you an insight into something you want to start – whether that’s a profession or a hobby. Samhain gives you an opportunity to tune in, get curious and try something new. I come from a long line of knitters but thought I would leave that one in the past!
How can you expand your horizons?
We recently spent four weeks in South America. We started in Brazil, popped over to Argentina, ventured into Bolivia and ended our journey in Peru. We visited ancient sites, wetlands, cities and islands. We learned about ancient cultures and modern living, and places where they combine both.
Taquile island has 3000 inhabitants and only got electricity and the internet two years ago.
The floating islands of Uros house 1500 people on 120 islands made of reeds and reed roots.
The salt flats of Bolivia are vast and magical…and offer a great lesson in perspective!
On a busy day we can get so wrapped up in the things we tell ourselves we ‘must’ do, that we lose our perspective, as well as our wellbeing and perhaps our sense of humour!
Look at the fun we had, but our travels have reminded me of a very important lesson.
The world is vast.
Possibilities are endless.
People that appear to have nothing on the outside are the happiest on the inside.
There is always time and space for change and evolution.
So what’s next?
At the start of this new calendar, what can you do to create a different outcome? What is your soul calling you to do? More travel? More learning? A deeper connection with others? Or a better understanding of yourself?
It may seem impossible, but at Samhain and throughout this time of year you have an ancestral team standing behind you, cheering you on. Write down a statement of what you would like to happen in the coming year. Sit with it, close your eyes and put your hand on your heart. Feel how it would feel if that magic happened.
I’ll leave you to dream your new year into existence.
Happy Samhain!
With love,
Nicky x
If you found this blog useful, you may want to check out our blog Three Questions To Help You To Live Your Best Life
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