During Samhain, or Halloween, the veil between the world of the living and the dead is believed to be at its thinnest. During this time, spirits roam the earth, either with kind or malicious intent. Pagans have welcomed this time of year with a variety of rituals and traditions to honour loved ones, welcome spirits, and protect the home.
The traditions we know now stem from our ancestors’ practices from centuries ago. For example, people wore masks to prevent vengeful souls from recognising them. Jack O’Lanterns were first carved from turnips and were used to guide spirits through villages. Halloween is not just about defending the home from danger; it’s about unity, preparation and survival. The height of autumn brought the harvest and preparation for the scarcity that winter would bring; people in communities united over food and resources to make sure nobody went without.
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Since the wheel is turning and the seasons are changing, being in the in-between holds significance in Pagan beliefs. This is a time for holding onto what is needed, letting go of what is holding us back, and uniting with others during these dark, cold months.
Lisa Lang, the owner of Crow Curiosities and Co. in Stirling, forages rowan berries and makes charms to protect her home. Rowan berries are known for their protective properties and ability to ward off negative energy. Placing sprigs or decorations made from rowan berries around the home is believed to offer protection. Refreshing wards and protective charms are also essential during this time of year.
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Altars can also be created with pictures or possessions of lost loved ones as another way to honour the dead. Altars adorned with candles also guide lost relatives home. Crystals associated with warmth can help with endurance during this time and bring serenity and cosiness.
‘Silent suppers’, meals eaten without talking, honour deceased loved ones by observing silence for them. Breaking bread with those who are still here and reflecting on our time with those we have lost creates unity and brings back memories.
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Jennie Blonde, known as the Comfy Cozy Witch from her podcast, plans to protect her home with bells, herbs, and keys. She sees the connection keys have with access. This period is a threshold, and keys are thought to guide people spiritually into the next phase of the year.
Rosemary and lavender are perfect for protection. Their fragrances are believed to ward off evil spirits, bad intentions, and harmful magic. Pagans place sprigs on the home’s threshold, windowsills, and altar. Washing the front door cleanses it of stagnant energy and makes the home a welcoming place to enter. Using tinctures of favourite herbs adds an extra layer of protection.
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Drawing protective sigils also ensures a space remains free of ill intent. However, sigils can also be used in spells and rituals that focus on abundance and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
During this time, it is also important to reflect. Autumn is the season of harvest, representative of holding on and letting go. Reflection can help identify what is worth carrying into the remaining months of the year. These things don’t have to be tangible; they could be habits, ideas, or relationships. When thinking about letting go, consider leaving behind undue pressure on oneself, grudges, or ways of thinking that don’t work any longer.
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