Samhain (sow’en) is the last Harvest celebration on the wheel of the year. It has many special celebratory rituals associated with it and some of my favorites.
The natural world is going to sleep. Life is slowing down and giving way to the shorter days and colder nights. Many animals begin their hibernation and plants go dormant. It is a time for us to go inside ourselves and give our souls and minds a rest. Part of the celebrations are the Halloween rituals of dressing up and going from house to house for candy and treats but the original ritual involved carving turnips and lighting the way to the front door to show the ancestors and those who had died during the previous year where to find the food left for them outside. This belief system was to keep the spirits out of the house at a time the veil (or dimensions) were thin and it was easier for the spirits to cross over into their physical reality.
Part of the more modern approach is to use this closeness of other dimensions to communicate with those on the other side and receive messages from them. Some do this alone simply lighting a candle, protecting the sacred space and opening up to what is for our highest good to come through. Others may attend a group séance. Be sure it is done in the spirit of the highest good of all and in a sacred, protected space. Sometimes the energy of multiple participants is a boost to communication.
Whatever way you choose to celebrate this special time of the year is your choice. Having hot cider or mulled wine with friends, having a party and dressing up or quietly communicating with loved ones on the other side, it is time well spent!
There is so much more associated with this holiday. Do some research to find outstones, herbs, recipes and possible rituals for this year or next. Be safe and enjoy!!!!