Preparation

In the Christian calendar the period of Advent has begun. The word deriving from the Latin 'adventus', meaning 'arrival' and as such a period of preparation begins.

Sadly however, with so much emphasis on materialism, little thought is given to the true meaning of this period of preparation and people are more inclined to be buying food, presents and cards rather than giving consideration to any spiritual aspect.

If you follow the Pagan path, this is a time for rest. The Dark Mother withdraws her hand from the earth and all falls silent. Within the stillness however, we too can prepare. For it is here that the seeds of hope are sewn for new life whilst awaiting the return of the sun.

If you are forced to be still for a while, perhaps because of the early snowfall, enjoy this window of peace, for it offers you an opportunity to reassess your life path before the sun calls your soul to adventure.

Why we need to drink water

We are all aware that we should drink water. Health magazines, newspapers and complementary therapists all advise us to increase our intake to around 6 glasses per day, but what is the reason behind this advice?

The human body comprises of millions of cells, each of which is filled and surrounded by a watery fluid. In a healthy, hydrated body, the water outside the cells is less concentrated than that inside, therefore allowing toxins to be drawn out of the cell through the process of osmosis. When the body becomes dehydrated however, the process is reversed and the water outside the cell becomes more concentrated than inside. This then interferes with the delicate process of osmosis, which ultimately leads to a build up of toxins, all of which can contribute to many serious diseases.

Happy drinking!

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements' by Carole Carlton

Avebury

Avebury in Wiltshire is a feast for the spiritual senses, with so many fascinating sites within a mere stones throw from each other.

The mysteries of this beautiful landscape with its stone circles, avenues, long barrows and unfathomable mounds, all of which pre-date the pyramids, are truly awe inspiring. It is an area that draws you back time and time again, for it is here that the past lives and the ancestors whisper their heartfelt secrets.

The Henge shop is a treasure trove, the community run shop is a delight, the National Trust museums are excellent and Brian, who owns the little antique shop opposite the pub, is a true character and a gentleman.

Avebury is decidely a World Heritage Site worthy of its title.

Bonfires

Many people mistakenly think that Bonfire night was brought about by the Christian authorities to overlay the sinister Pagan fire festival of Samhain. Bonfire night however is purely to celebrate the survival of the Houses of Parliament following the unsuccessful gunpowder plot on 5th November 1605.
In 1606 James 1 ordered that everyone should attend a church service in order to give thanks for delivering England from such atrocities and as the years passed the celebrations continued outside the church service and bonfires were lit upon which images of Guy Fawkes were burned to commemorate his assumed execution.
Guy Fawkes however was not sentenced to burn but was supposed to have been hung, drawn and quartered. He deprived the crown of its revenge however as he jumped from the high scaffold before the executioner came near him and subsequently broke his neck.

If you are attending a bonfire tonight, enjoy the festivities and the powerful element of fire.