February newsletter 

1 February 2025

February, often a month of grey skies and lingering chill, feels different this year. It's not the sharp, biting cold of mid-winter, nor the raw promise of early March. Instead, February feels more like a gentle yawn, a slow stretch as we approach the ancient festival of Imbolc and sense the subtle shift in the season. It's the beginning of the end of winter's firm grip, a quiet promise whispered on the breeze.

We've spent the last few months cocooned in the comfort of our homes, embracing the slower rhythms of winter. We've indulged in warm beverages, cozy blankets, and the introspective stillness that comes so naturally in these darker months. It's been a time for rest, for reflection, and for allowing ourselves the space to recharge. But now, a palpable energy begins to stir beneath the surface.

The days are still short, but the change is there if you look for it. The sun seems to linger a little longer each afternoon. The birdsong, though hesitant, is a bit more melodic. These subtle cues point towards the horizon, where spring waits patiently.

Soon, the increase in daylight hours will be much more noticeable. The world will awaken in shades of green and yellow. The sleepy earth will begin to stir, and the cycle of life will begin anew. It's a beautiful reminder that even in the depths of the seemingly endless winter, growth and transformation are always possible.

This gentle transition from winter to spring isn't something to rush. February invites us to move gradually, to ease ourselves out of our winter hibernation and rest mode. It’s a time to shake off the lingering lethargy and begin to imagine what we want to cultivate in the coming months. What seeds of intention have we nurtured within us during our quiet time? What do we want to bring forth into the light?

Just as the earth prepares for the burst of life that spring brings, we too can use this transitional period to gently prepare ourselves. It’s a time to declutter, not just our homes, but also our minds and spirits. It’s a time to embrace the promise of new beginnings and to gather our energy for the activity and growth that lies ahead.

February's gentle yawn is a reminder that change is natural, that rest is essential, and that even the smallest shifts can signal the start of something truly beautiful. Let's embrace this quiet in-between, and allow ourselves to be carried gently into the vibrant energy of spring. It’s on its way, and we are ready.

)o(

I also want to talk about February's big talking point and money spinner in society - Valentine's Day.

The Origins of Valentine’s Day: A History Not So Romantic......

Valentine's Day has become synonymous with love, romance, and heartfelt gestures of affection. Cards filled with poetic declarations, roses in abundant hues, and candlelit dinners are standard fare on February 14th. However, the history of Valentine's Day is far from the sentimental celebrations we see today. Its origins are steeped in ancient traditions, peculiar rituals, and even a sprinkling of martyrdom.

The Roman Festival of Lupercalia

The roots of Valentine's Day can be traced back to the ancient Romans. Specifically, the Lupercalia festival, celebrated in mid-February, was a pagan fertility festival dedicated to Lupercus, the Roman god of fertility. Participants would engage in various rituals, including the sacrifice of goats and the ritualistic whipping of women with goat skins, which was believed to enhance fertility. The festival, marked by wild merrymaking, was one of feasting and revelry, often featuring matchmaking lotteries where young men would draw the names of women to pair with for the duration of the festival.

As the centuries passed and Christianity began to take hold of the Roman Empire, church leaders sought to replace Pagan traditions with Christian observances. In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14th as St. Valentine’s Day, ostensibly to honor Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr. The choice appeared to align with the timing of the Lupercalia, as a means to stamp out the old Pagan practices while introducing new Christian customs.

Saint Valentine: The Martyr

Saint Valentine’s exact identity remains somewhat obscured by the mists of time. There are several saints named Valentine in Christianity, but the one most commonly associated with this day is believed to have been a priest in Rome during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. According to legend, Claudius banned marriages for young men, believing that single men made better soldiers. Valentine defied this edict, secretly performing marriages for young couples. For his defiance, he was arrested, imprisoned, and eventually executed on February 14, around the year 269 AD.

While the tale of a heroic priest opposing a cruel emperor speaks to sacrifice and clandestine love, it casts a shadow over the romantic connotations Valentine’s Day carries today. The true story of Saint Valentine encompasses themes of rebellion against authority and a fight for love rather than the idealized romance that has overshadowed his martyrdom.

Have a fabulous February everyone.

Bright Blessings

Annie J 

 

January newsletter

1 January 2025

Happy 2025, everyone!

)o(

As we begin this new year, let's embrace the quietude of January. Nature is still resting, and so should we. Instead of rushing into resolutions, let's take this time to reflect and recharge. Save those ambitions for when the world awakens; let's set our goals and intentions on March 1st, when we welcome in the revitalising energy of Spring.

)o(

What a wonderful year 2024 was for our moot! We're all so grateful for the growth we experienced and the many new friendships that blossomed. It was also incredibly rewarding to bring back our workshops, and I'm delighted to confirm that these will continue throughout 2025.

Looking ahead, we have a captivating theme planned for this year: delving into diverse pantheons of Goddesses and Gods. We began this exploration at Yule with the rich traditions of the Norse, and we're eagerly anticipating our January moot where we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant world of the Māori deities. Take a look at our 2025 events and get ready to learn, share, and connect as we journey through these powerful spiritual traditions.

)o(

That freezing day last January when we went Wassailing at Perry Hall Park is a lovely memory.  The cold air and the warm drinks made it a special experience. This winter, we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for similar events and will make sure to share them on our Facebook and Instagram pages - so stay tuned.  Perhaps we'll even be there again this year…..

)o(

Wishing you a peaceful and fulfilling start to the year!

Brightest Blessings

Annie J