So you want to learn more about Paganism…..

When people ask me about the “witch thing” I used to feel I let them down because I don’t wear lots of silver jewellery or long flowing gowns. Nor will you find me with exotic black eye makeup or and as for dancing sky clad?Hah!

But then there’s the other side of me….

I am a slightly overweight, greying woman with too many cats, a house stuffed with books, jar upon jar of herbs, tinctures and ointments. When I walk in nature, I’m often caught with some beautiful view or interaction with a wild animal or bird. I recycle, try to eat organic, I let parts of my garden rewild, support my local community and…. have a broomstick and crystal ball in the corner……

But bar the broom and ball I could be describing many of you. The only difference is that I was privileged to grow up in a home that encouraged weirdness! As a practising Pagan for over 30 years, it has been an immensely practical and helpful tool as I navigated the challenges of life. Mental health, financial woes, child rearing, being self employed, and even covid. In fact especially during the Covid 19 Pandemic.

I discovered that many people were searching to keep their newly found connection with our natural world. They needed an anchor as the whirlwind of reality began to blow in again.

I am blessed to have the knowledge that I do, and all the years of experience behind me. But blending that with my years working in hospitality and tourism, telling stories and keeping people entertained its a magical formula!

So perhaps I have been brought to this point in time, to share by some Divine purpose, maybe it’s just a case of good luck or having the right skill set to capitalise on green tourism or perhaps its some Karmic learning lesson……I like to keep it simple. I’m in the place I’m meant to be.

What is Celtic Paganism?

Celtic Paganism is a spiritual and cultural belief system that draws inspiration from the ancient Celtic peoples who inhabited parts of Europe, particularly Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and parts of France and Spain. It is a nature-based, polytheistic religion that focuses on the worship of various deities and a deep connection with the natural world.

Spiritual Exploration

Celtic Paganism offers a diverse pantheon of deities and spirits associated with different aspects of life and nature. Exploring these deities and their stories can be a fascinating journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It allows you to explore various aspects of your own spirituality while also learning more about Irish culture through its massive amount of myth and folklore resources available to us

Often their are deities associated with certain regions or areas in Ireland. Know the story and you’ll know your place.

But for many people it is as simple as Mother Earth and Father Sun. You do not need to dig too hard at first, or ever!

Ritual and Ceremony

Celtic Pagans often celebrate the cycles of the seasons through rituals and ceremonies, if you live in Ireland, you are probably already celebrating them to a point! Samhain, Imbolg, Bealtaine and Lughnasadh or Halloween, St Bridgets Day, the May Bank Holiday and the August Bank Holiday!

These ancient festivals have their roots in agriculture and honouring the earth and the sun for providing food, tools, weapons, housing and much more throughout the year. Many of these traditions or rituals have been passed down from 5000 years to today.

Decorating the hawthorn for May, Lighting a bonfire on halloween night, attending a harvest fair in August and even weaving a reed cross in Spring. All pagan and all ancient rituals and ceremonies.

Community and Connection Many Celtic Pagans gather in groups or communities to practice their beliefs together. Joining such a community can offer a sense of belonging and support. It's an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals who share your values and interests.

But for many people they find the path a solitary one, preferring to keep their relationship with nature private. For me, I am a combination, most of my “work” is done alone. I love to forage alone, meditate alone, and study alone, but every Bealtaine you’ll find me dancing around a bonfire with a group of fellow crones!

Mindfulness and Balance

The cyclical nature of Celtic Paganism encourages you to be mindful of the balance in your life. By recognizing the ebb and flow of nature, you can learn to adapt to the changing circumstances in your own life with more grace and resilience.

It also makes it easier to eat seasonally, prepare for weather changes, and enjoy the moment!

Environmental Stewardship

Many Celtic Pagans view the Earth as sacred and strive to protect it. Adopting this perspective can motivate you to live a more sustainable and environmentally conscious life, reducing your ecological footprint.

You wouldn’t drop litter in a church…right?!

Creativity and Inspiration

The stories, symbols, and imagery associated with Celtic Paganism can be a wellspring of inspiration for creative pursuits, whether it's writing, art, music, or crafting or even a new Tattoo!

Or have you considered foraging….crab apple whiskey anyone?!