Samhain (pronounced sow-en or sow-ain) is a pagan religious festival with origins dating back to the ancient Celts. It occurs mid-way between the Autumnal Equinox and the Winter Solstice, and it welcomes in the harvest. Many families allowed their hearth fires to burn out during the harvest, so Samhain festivals included a communal bonfire used as the source of flame to relight the hearth for the darkest time of the year.

There were various attempts in the 5th and 9th centuries to put an end to Samhain, with name and even date changes, but the old ways persevered. Irish immigrants then brought their traditions to the new world, and 19th century America adopted the slightly revised celebration of Halloween. We kept many of the old aspects such as pranks (which used to be blamed on the fairies) and going door-to-door to collect treats. The tradition of embedding burning coal embers into carved turnips was modified to our current practice of using candles and pumpkins to create Jack-o’-lanterns. The story about Stingy Jack and Jack-o’-lanterns can be accessed here.

Mexico brings us El Día de los Muertos - the Day of the Dead - which begins on All Saints Day (November 1st) and ends on All Soul’s Day (November 2nd). Contrary to what you might first think upon hearing the name, this is actually a joyous festival. Many believe that the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds is at its thinnest this time of year. The thinning veil allows the souls of the dead to return to visit with their living relatives to eat, drink and be merry - just as they did when living. Families create altars for the occasion to demonstrate love and respect for deceased family members. Altars contain photos of those who have died, as well as flowers, food and drink, and other memorabilia. The celebration lasts all night, and then ends at dawn when the dead depart to return once again to the place where they dwell the rest of the year.

This year we have a Waning Crescent Moon on Halloween. Along the edge of the moon where the illuminated portion meets the dark side, the craters and mountains cast long shadows, which makes them more easily observable than usual. You’ll need to be an early riser though, as the waning crescent moon is best viewed one or two hours before the sun rises. The New Moon in Scorpio will soon follow on November 4th. There is generally a lot simmering beneath the surface during a Scorpio moon, so you may feel a bit emotional. Be gentle with yourself, and devote extra time to your self-care practice. Scorpio is about endings, but a new moon is about beginnings. Balance these two opposing forces by first letting go of what no longer serves you. You might choose to use this mantra for release: “I now release any and all situations and energies that are no longer of service to my highest and greatest good.” Once you are cleansed and have created space within, it is time to set your intentions for what you wish to invite into your life. Let the new moon usher in enhanced consciousness and awareness, mindfulness, and focused attention.

Another event to look forward to is an extra hour of fun or sleep coming to us the following weekend. At 2:00 am Sunday, November 7th we turn the clocks back one hour. I tend to make the necessary changes before going to sleep — well in advance of 2:00 am — in order to avoid the confusion of conflicting times showing around the house in the morning.

Whatever you decide to do, I hope that you find enjoyment this weekend and beyond!