^{CELEBRATING THE EARTH’S CYCLES with Sarah Sonraya Grace}

Since ancient times man has looked to the natural cycles of the land and the positioning of the sun and the moon to guide them in their everyday lives and on their spiritual journeys.

The Celtic people of our land honoured and celebrated these Earth’s cycles. They referred to this process as the ‘turning of the wheel’. They divided the Earth’s cycles in to 8 quarters and 4 cross-quarters, the timing of which was dependant on the positioning of the sun and the moon in relation to the Earth. At each of these turning points they came together in ceremony and ritual to celebrate and give their thanks for their abundant and harmonious life. These festivals are known as:

Imbolc 1^st February Festival of New Beginnings

Spring Equinox 21^st March Festival of First Day of Spring

Beltane 1^st May Festival of Sacred Union and Balance

Summer Solstice 21^st June Festival of Gratitude and Abundance

Lammas Beginning August Festival of Harvest and Thanksgiving

Autumn Equinox 22/23 September Festival of Second Harvest and Balance

Samhain 1^st October Festival of Year’s End and New Beginnings

Winter Solstice 21^st December Festival of Rebirth