Beltane is the time of the Bright Fire, the gateway into Summer with heightened activity and long days. The Beltane Season (Calendar: May 1 and Lunar: Full Moon in Taurus) is still a few months away, but it’s never too early to feel the songs of youth awakening into the lover’s realm. We make space in our hearts, minds and bodies to remember the times of youth.

On this night of the Dark Moon, turn your face towards the sky, chant the Gayatri, look to what is hidden, open to what is coming through the New Moon portal as the moon wanes, pauses, then begins to wax once more. By chanting the mantra, we align with an ancient mystery tradition that evokes bliss beyond rational explanation - we dream a new dream for the New Earth.

Imbolc, like each of the cross-quarter days, is a sacred time in the turning of the wheel. The Cailleach cedes place to Brighid. The Cailleach is the crone of winter - she who watches behind her veil. And Brighid, she is the protector of mothers and children - she who casts her mantle across the land to bless and shelter all.

Let’s welcome our Capricorn New Moon magical ally, Garlic. Garlic is also called the stinking rose. In this way, s/he bridges the power of Eros with Thanatos - Life, Love and Death - blooming  and rotting - activating and transmuting. S/he is a potent ally to be enjoyed daily during the winter season (especially raw).

Humans have a preference for patterns, rhythms and cycles. And here we are in the first week of a New Year with a New Moon - new cycles to invite intentions, transformations, and awakenings.