Color of the day: Red Incense of the day: Gardenia Incense of the day: Gardenia In parts of Scotland, the Gregorian New Year was called Hogmanay. This was a special time when people gathered at sacred sites such as stone circles to sing and dance in the moonlight. Bonfires were lit,and warm spiced ale and special cakes were served. This new year purification spell originates from Hogmanay traditions. Decorate the doorways of your home with holly, hazel, or rowan. After sunset, take a vessel of pure spring water and drink from it, thanking the gods, the ancestors, and the spirits of the land. Sprinkle the water in every room of your house. Afterward, carefully light dried juniper branches or sprigs, and carry them around the house saying: Welcome in, New Year! When ye come, Bring good cheer! Well may we a' be, Ill may we ne'er see. The gude New Year It is begun! |