Qi
November Rituals by Qi Cargill
November Rituals
In the Southern Hemisphere this is the season of Beltane, a Spring festival of optimism, generatively and the passion of life. Beltane is traditionally celebrated on May 1 – May Day – in the Northern Hemisphere, and on November 1 in the Southern Hemisphere.
This seasonal festival marks the halfway point between the spring equinox and the summer solstice; the exact date in Melbourne in 2018 is November 7, 21.18 (9.18pm)
Bonfires have traditionally been a part of the festival, representing the warmth of the Sun. All hearth fires and candles would be doused before the bonfire was lit, generally on a mountain or hill. Smoke and ash from the bonfire was considered sacred, and both people and livestock ran between or jumped over the fires. Burning torches from the bonfire would then be used to re-light the hearths, bringing the protection of the sacred fires home.
In some parts of the World, yellow flowers such as primrose, gorse, and marigold were placed at doorways and windows to represent the life-giving Sun, ensuring fertility, healthy livestock and strong crops through the Summer season. Traditionally this was a time for handfastings, vows and commitments.
Crystals and semi-precious stones can be used as a part of rituals or placed or your Beltane altar. You can also place them on the ground or in pots with plants. Stones: Malachite, Magnetite, Moss Agate, Emerald, Tourmaline, Carnelian, Tiger Eye.
