‘sitting out’ ceremony

I held a beautiful ceremony where women gather under the New Moon last night, we come together each month. We met in the yurt by the fireside to honour our ancestors and connect more deeply with the wise, fully healed, compassionate ones. By forging relationships with them, we can gain support in our lives and heal the less-than-healed and compassionate aspects of ourselves. It's difficult to trace the origins of this time of year, as these rituals and festivals cannot simply all be classified as 'Celtic.'

I'm pretty sure I'm not mistaken when I say that the practices of the Scots and Welsh were very different—ask the locals for their perspectives! These traditions and ceremonies must be re-dreamed and revived today to honour and support our ancestors who require witnessing and healing. We only need to look around us to see the disconnect and turmoil that arise as we lose our connection to the land and one another.

To mark the season of pause and reflection, I decided to commit to my land by spending an overnight stay outside. I set up my spot beneath the larger of the three birch trees that stand near my yurt. This choice was intentional, as I wanted to connect more deeply with the trees and the land that welcomed me 19 years ago. The evening was calm, with only a faint rustle of leaves as hedgehogs searched for food and barn owls called out to ward off potential threats.

I felt a sense of support and lightness within me, even in the darkness, as if I had merged with the youthful energy of the tree that spoke to my soul. My mind wasn't engaged much at all, which was a welcome relief; I felt younger at a time when worries and fears no longer occupied my thoughts. At that moment, I existed between worlds, sensing an old ghost being urged to leave my body—an imprint from the past that whooshed away and drifted across the land to the stream below.

For me, the birch tree symbolises new beginnings, representing the transition from childhood into adulthood and the promise of new life and love. The birch tree was believed to have protective qualities against evil spirits and stood for renewal and purification. Bundles of birch twigs were traditionally used to drive away the spirits of the old year.

Later today, I will go to the water to make offerings of rose petals, just as I did with the birch tree when I left at 5 a.m. this morning. This ritual felt both powerful and gentle, reflecting the energy of the birch tree and the land we inhabit. For now, though, I'm landing to prepare for a family day out since it's half-term here. It's time to embrace this messy, wonderful, chaotic family life!

If you are beginning to yearn for deeper connection and a desire to find a loving and compassionate guide, you may have just found what you're looking for! For more information about ceremonies and retreats, please email me at ellasfield@icloud.com.

Big love,

Kim x