Samhain (pronounced sow-een) is the Witches’ New Year, and it is from here that the Wheel of the Year is traditionally counted.
It is a time for night-time celebrations, and a time to both say farewell to the old year, and to welcome in the new. Thyme (associated with departed souls), rue (the flower of repentance), and rosemary (for remembrance) are traditional herbs burned at Samhain In Australia, smudge sticks of eucalyptus leaves are also burned, and homes are ritually cleansed and purified.
In the Southern hemisphere, Samhain in celebrated on the 30th of April and the 1st of May
It is a time to honour those who have gone before us and it is a poignant co-incidence that Australia and New Zealand’s day of Remembrance for their fallen in war, ANZAC Day on April 25, should be so close to the southern Samhain.
Samhain is a time to reflect on the mortality that inevitably confronts us all, and to learn to deal with the fears that surround death. It is a time to reflect that life is cyclical, and that change is the natural order of things. It is a time to confront our own inner demons, and learn to face fear, and to grow stronger by acknowledging the fears that we have.
Wreaths are commonly found on Witches’ doors at Samhain, as a marker to wise ones that a Witch dwells within. Wreaths at this time traditionally contain eucalyptus leaves and rosemary spikes. The powers of divination, the Sight, and supernatural communication are strengthened on Samhain night, and it is considered a powerful but dangerous time to communicate with lost loved ones.
For altar decoration, Jack-o-lanterns, gourds, and autumn foliage are ideal, as are the barks of trees that are awake (non-deciduous/native Australian trees), and the resins and oils of trees that are awake during this time of the year.
Tobacco leaf, Caramel , Candied Citrus
Mid notes: Anise, Cinnamon, rose, Violet, Lily, Geranium, Lavender and Herbs
Base notes: Patchouli, Sandalwood, Cedar, Oakmoss, Vanilla, Amber and Musk
Crystals Black Obsidian and White Howlite
Black Obsidian helps you to have insight into where in your life you are fostering negativity. It helps you release these unhelpful patterns from your mind, while increasing the strength of your own energy field. For this reason it is especially helpful for those who are empathically, mentally, emotionally and psychically sensitive. Black Obsidian is a perfect companion for Shadow Work and understanding the aspects of ourselves that we try to hide and struggle to accept.
White howlite is considered a beneficial crystal for Samhain due to its association with the spirit realm and its calming energy. It's believed to facilitate connection with ancestors and promote a sense of peace and tranquility, which aligns well with Samhain's themes of introspection and honoring the dead