Beltane is also opposite Samhain, and as we honour the dead and death at Samhain, at Beltane we celebrate life and renewal. As at Samhain, the veil is thin and magic is strong on this night. The fairy folk are about! It has been a tradition at this time of year to hang rowan branches over doors and windows so as not to fall prey to Fairy mischief.

Beltane is a great time for scrying, especially in water, such as ponds, streams and especially any sacred water such as a spring. One activity I love at this time of year is to bless the waters. We generally do this together as a family and it’s a good way for the kids to get involved. If you have a favourite body of water, river, stream, lake, then set out on a walk to it or find one that’s local to you, taking an empty container with you. On the way there collect some spring flowers, maybe one for each of you. When there, take some time to soak up the ambience of the place, meditate or tell stories of why you like this place/what it means to you, generally enjoy the place. When you are ready, bless the flowers and throw them into the water asking for the Goddess and God’s blessing on the water. Now collect some of the water in your container and keep it for scrying or spells. It is great for any type of purification/transformation spell work.