The Magic of The Mid-Summer's Eve
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 12:16 PM in Winnipeg
One of the most exciting things that happen this month is The Summer Solstice. The word solstice derives from Latin sol (sun) and sistere (to stand still). Therefore the solstice marks the day when the sun stands still. Obviously Old Sol never stands still so this is a misnomer.
The Summer Solstice is that magical moment when the Earth's axial tilt is most inclined towards the sun at its maximum of 23 degrees 26 minutes! This is the day of the year with the longest period of daylight and thus begins the reversal of the gradual shortening of nights and lengthening of days. Isn't nature amazing!
All over the world, for countless millenia, people have gathered together and celebrated this momentous occasion with festivals, gatherings, rituals or other celebrations. Every culture on old Mother Earth recognises the magic and wonder of this day.
It has been known since before the time that Stonehenge that was built that herbs cut on this date are more potent and better able help to heal the ill. It is a time when Mother Nature is especially giving of her particular magicks!
Herbs used for divination become sharper in the production of their images now. For instance, yarrow placed under the pillow of a young girl will cause her to dream of her future husband and roses gathered of Midsummer Eve can foretell a future lover's identity! (I am unsure exactly how but this information is probably on the Internet)
Worts can be collected to burn on your seasonal balefires. Why not hurl mugwort into the fire to burn up your bad luck? Others like mullein, larkspur, St. John's Wort, centaury, rue, basil, henbane, mandrake, and pansy can be burnt to good effect.
If you have old mushrooms lying around that are no longer good for salad remember that fungi might also be burned to protect against the power of trolls.
Yes, the magic of Mother Nature can be helpful in your personal and professional life if only you take this opportunity to put it to use.
So this Mid Summer's Eve get your balefire a-goin' and toss in some herbs and your summer will be healthier, happier and maybe more romantic!
