13 Candles That Will Undoubtedly Get You Into The Holiday Spirit

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Alright, it’s peak holiday candle szn. Are you ready? Because I’m not. I’m still processing all of the events that too place this summer, so I have a hard time believing that it’s somehow November and 2021 is almost over. The early Black Friday sales hint that, somehow, I’m already behind when it comes to decorating—and I consider candles the most important decoration of all, especially during the fall! Whether you’re spending the holidays with your family or celebrating out of town like I am, we could all do with a little more cheer, and luckily, so many stores have stocked up on all of their holiday decor and candles.

Now, if you think it’s a little presumptuous to already start filling my home with holiday scents, I have this to say to you: Where’s your holly-jolly spirit? We’re still spending the majority of time at home working, anyways, so why not fill it with a little more jubilance?

If you want your home to smell like buttery cookies or crisp pine trees, you better get shopping. Remember—you need to account for shipping time, just like with holiday gifts. The good news is that, in terms of candles, there are honestly more choices out there than ever before. So many brands have gone all in on candles this year, most likely because they know we’re relying on the little things to bring us joy. From your trendy millennial candle company to your classic tried-and-true staples (ILY, Yankee Candle!) you’ll be able to find the aesthetic and scent that you’re looking for, no matter what it might be.

RELATED: Kylie Jenner Is Ringing In Fall With This Affordable Candle From Amazon

I did the heavy lifting for you and scoured the internet to find the most interesting holiday candles out there. Whether you like sweet, fresh or spicy candles, there are plenty of options for you, and the best are listed below. I found candles that won’t break the bank and luxe candles for shoppers who want to treat themselves, so the variety is definitely worth a scroll through.

Courtesy of Everology.

Woodsy and Familiar

Everology Petroglyph Candle $50

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A little bit of citrus, fig leaf, and papyrus come together to create warmth and holiday spirit. For close to 50 hours of burn time and a 20% discount, I’d say this is at the top of my list for holiday candles to purchase.

Courtesy of Byredo.

Put Your Records On

Byredo Symphonique Candle $65

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Bitter orange and star anise make you feel like you’re sipping on a negroni at a holiday party. This is a warm, inviting, and stunning combination of beeswax, ginger and clove.

Courtesy of Boy Smells.

The Turning of a New Season

Boy Smells Insensorial Candle $65

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In my opinion, this candle smells exactly like the holidays—but with a more luxe twist. Citrus, cardamom and incense feel cozy and nostalgic.

Courtesy of Maison Margiela.

Chestnuts Roasting By the Open Fire

Maison Margiela 'By the Fireplace'… $65

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Curl up and light this baby up! It really smells like chestnuts roasting over an open fire and I’m here for it.

Courtesy of Homesick.

Homesick ‘Let’s Toast’ Candle

Holiday Stroll Candle $34

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Pretend you’re taking a stroll past holiday markets with this candle. It smells like mandarin, grapefruit, and apples. With a burn time of 60-80 hours, this cute candle will keep your holiday spirits high for weeks.

Courtesy of The Nest.

Merry & Bright

Buy: NEST Fragrances Classic Candle in Holiday $46.00

This NEST holiday candle is one of their classic scents for a reason. With notes of pomegranate, Mandarin orange, pine, cloves and cinnamon—what’s not to love? Candle lovers with keen noses will be able to catch whiffs of amber vanilla, too.

Courtesy of Otherland.

Fireplace In A Jar

Kindling $36

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If you want a scent to accompany your Yule-log-streaming, check out Otherland’s Kindling. It smells like a mix of smoky embers, Alaskan cedar and incense.

Courtesy of Diptyque.

Luxury Christmas

Diptyque Limited Edition Citrouille… $72

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Tis the season for splurging, and no one does candles better than Diptyque. If you’ve been wanting to try one of these luxe candles, the winter is the perfect time to do it. Diptyque’s limited edition Citrouille scent is like a hug in a jar. The warm, pumpkin smell reminds me of the days growing up that I spent laying on the couch while my mom would bake delicious pumpkin pie. Your home will smell like love with this luxe candle that, in my opinion, is worth every penny.

Courtesy of Yankee Candle.

Freshly Baked Cookies

Buy: Yankee Candle Large Jar Candle, Christmas Cookie $23.24

Now your home can smell like vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and butter all season long. This 22 oz. candle has a 110-150 burn time, and the kind of scent that makes you want to bake, even if you absolutely hate it. Also: It’s on sale for nearly half off RN.

Courtesy of Lulu Candles.

Spicy Sweet

Buy: Lulu Candles Spiced Vanilla $14.95

Get yourself a holiday candle for just under $15. This 6 oz. soy candle smells just like spiced vanilla, and it’s a slow-burner, so it’ll take you all the way into Winter 2021.

Courtesy: Snif.

A Getaway In a Jar

Snif Off the Grif Candle $44

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Need a break from your daily grind? This Off the Grid candle will give you that. The mix of amber, lily, musk, and sandalwood scents will metaphorically bring you to a warm cabin in the woods that has the biggest collection of books, and most beautiful statement fireplace you’ve ever seen.

Courtesy of sweetwaterdecor/Etsy.

Sweater Weather

Warm and Cozy Candle $20

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I thought it was impossible to capture what a cozy room smells like, but Etsy seller sweetwaterdecor has managed to do just that. This candle has so many notes, including everything from pine to orange peel.

 

Courtesy of Lorenzen Candle Co.

Just Like the Real Thing

Buy: Christmas Tree Soy Candle $26.99

If you can’t fit a real Christmas tree in your home this year, don’t fret. You can light this candle, close your eyes, take a whiff and imagine a fully lite tree is right in front of you. The candle is a blend of fir needle, eucalyptus and cedar leaf essential oils.

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Warning—Your Weekly Love Horoscope Is a Reminder That Too Much Desire Can Be Dangerous

If sparks are starting to simmer and libidos are suddenly coming to a halt, your love horoscope for the week of October 31 to November 6 will explain why. There’s a lot of pressure on our love lives at the moment, so take it nice and easy. If it’s not an emergency, it doesn’t require immediate action. When your impulses flare up, make sure they’re not leading you astray.

Forget flying—it might be hard to get off the ground at all with current matters of the heart. Mars officially settles into retrograde motion this week, backtracking through chatty, capricious and dual-sided Gemini. If it feels like there are too many—or too little—options in love, it may leave you feeling extra confused about your romantic future. Try to swallow this cosmic chill pill and just rest! The world is not gonna end if you don’t figure it out overnight.

On the other hand, an unexpected curveball may impact our love lives soon. Venus in passionate, sultry and obsessive Scorpio will oppose erratic and unpredictable Uranus on Saturday. We might have a sudden romantic opportunity that goes against all of our values. Is it really worth the excitement? In fact, with Mars retrograde, it may not even be as sexy as we anticipate. Consider every move carefully.

Related: Get A Free Tarot Reading For Further Insight

Here’s what your love horoscope for the week of October 31 to November 6 is bringing to your attention, according to your sun sign, Venus sign and/or rising sign:

How The Planets Will Affect Your Love Life This Week

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Aries

No matter which way you weigh your romantic options, it might feel like you’re only going around in circles. It may be time to accept that your love life isn’t going to move much for a little while. The universe has pressed the pause button, demanding that you really sit with where you are before making any additional moves. Try thinking about events that could be making you feel like the grass is greener elsewhere. Even if you have many doors toward different romantic options regarding current or future relationships, they aren’t likely to open. There’s a reason for this, even if you can’t figure it out just yet. Just keep pondering.

Read Your Full Aries Horoscope For November 2022

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Taurus

There’s no telling what might happen in your love life! You’re truly in a place where anything goes, what with Venus opposing Uranus in your sign on Saturday. Since Venus is in your partnership sector, you might initially think that something sweet as sugar is about to go down. With Uranus in the mix, just when you’re ready for dessert, the universe could hit you with something salty. While it can still taste good, you may feel a jolt from the completely unexpected implications. Still, whatever transpires is almost bound to feel exciting and unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before in a very fun way.

Read Your Full Taurus Horoscope For November 2022

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Gemini

Complete exhaustion could drag your current love life down. Mars, the planet of action and energy, turned retrograde on October 30 in your sign and will remain retrograde here until January 12. While it’s not likely that you’ll feel as drained as you do now for the entire stretch, you probably won’t be working at full capacity as long as Mars is moving retrograde—especially when it comes to romance. This is not your time to push for anything new, particularly when it may require extra effort or passion. New love interests can wait and present relationships might need to go on autopilot. Self-care is the priority. In fact, it’s essential.

Read Your Full Gemini Horoscope For November 2022

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Cancer

There’s no way to know what’s around each corner this week in matters of the heart. If you’re completely single, you might be caught off guard with super intense feelings for someone you run into. While the chemistry will be off the charts, try to take your time before jumping into anything too soon. With Venus opposite Uranus, there is plenty of excitement but little stability. If you’re paired off at the moment, your partner might have a sudden change of heart about wanting to have a child. Those already with children may have to deal with their sudden rebellion, leaving little time for romance.

Read Your Full Cancer Horoscope For November 2022

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Leo

You might feel deflated this week when it comes to your love life. Mars just turned retrograde in your 11th house, which is the area of your chart connected both to hopes and wishes and the love you receive from those around you. As a result, it’s possible that you’re literally not feeling the love from someone you care about. Whether or not it’s true, you could be concerned that they’re no longer putting in as much effort as they used to. Alternatively, if single, dreams about being truly adored by someone may seem entirely out of reach. Don’t despair: it’s simply not the right time for your next soul-deep connection to appear.

Read Your Full Leo Horoscope For November 2022

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Virgo

A snap decision could change the trajectory of your love life before you even have a chance to think about the consequences. Venus and Uranus will make an exact opposition on Saturday across your communication axis. Things may still get dicey, even if you don’t have a choice to make. Something you or a lover says might be out of character or unanticipated, possibly requiring you to think on your feet to respond. If single, you might impulsively put up a dating profile on a new app and get instant results. While your new connections may not be your ideal mate, the sparks should be exciting.

Read Your Full Virgo Horoscope For November 2022

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Libra

You and your partner might currently be at odds about money. It’s possible that one of you will accuse the other of reckless spending, which could quickly put the accused person on the defensive. While it might be true that one of you is spending more money impulsively, taking a “me versus you” stance on a “we” matter will never work in the long run. Do your best to find the middle ground here, allowing both of you to figure out a workable solution. If single, this is a week to avoid spending a ton of money on dates and the dating game. You might feel like it’s a total waste.

Read Your Full Libra Horoscope For November 2022

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Scorpio

Your love life might feel like you’re on a pogo stick with the way things are going up and down! One minute, you may seem to have everything you could possibly wish for, thanks to Venus in your sign, allowing you to enjoy greater powers of attraction and receive all the blessings of love. The next moment, a tornado could strike as Venus runs into Uranus, the planet of instability, in your partnership sector. Sometimes, to get the love you need, you have to make a mess. If single, you can get ready to handle any and all the messy excitement that comes your way. Already committed? Be sure to hold on tight!

Read Your Full Scorpio Horoscope For November 2022

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Sagittarius

Love and relationships may feel like a losing battle this week. Your partner, however, might be ready for war. Unfortunately, this battle probably won’t do anything except create steam and resentment whenever one of you forgets how to fight fair. Mars just turned retrograde in your partnership sector—while this aggressive planet settles into its retrograde, your partner is likely to be more irritable than usual. Meanwhile, you’re likely feeling too tired to deal with it. If single, this is not the time to begin a new sexual relationship with anyone. Don’t be surprised if a former lover makes an appearance to try and start things up again!

Read Your Full Sagittarius Horoscope For November 2022

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Capricorn

A sudden opportunity to have a love affair might catch you by surprise. Someone could start flirting with you at any moment, even if you’re married or in a very committed relationship! While this will probably seem quite shocking, it’s okay to be flattered by the attention—as long as you keep the promises you made to your current partner. If you’re single, the story may look extremely different. You could meet someone in the most exhilarating way, thanks to the Venus-Uranus opposition on Saturday. This person might not be your usual type, but for some reason, you can’t keep your eyes off of them. The connection might develop quickly. Long-term compatibility? That’s another story entirely.

Read Your Full Capricorn Horoscope For November 2022

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Aquarius

Your romantic past may not be entirely behind you this week, Aquarius. Out of all the signs, you’re currently most likely to have sex with an ex! You can blame Mars for that, as this is the warrior planet’s first full week moving retrograde through your romance sector. Look out for some major activity in that part of your life—most notably, an old flame may reach out at any moment. Perhaps they’ll even make advances on you once more. This can happen whether you’re single, married, or anywhere in between. Even if there aren’t any exes in your life, the new people you meet might seem energetically “off” to you. Either way, trust your gut.

Read Your Full Aquarius Horoscope For November 2022

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Pisces

You and your sweetheart or a love interest might be about to experience a sudden moral dilemma. No matter how certain you were that the two of you saw eye to eye on something, you could quickly discover that your partner shifted their perspective. Suddenly, it’s a radical mismatch to yours—and you’re probably not sure what to do about it. Another possibility is that you were on your way to making an important decision together and, without warning, you or your sweetheart feels the urge to go back on an agreement. Being at odds because of your beliefs can all too easily get in the way of your love life this week. Handle with care!

Read Your Full Pisces Horoscope For November 2022

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These 3 Zodiac Signs Are Embracing Their Magical Abilities This Week, Thanks to Halloween

Scorpio season may seem like it’s in full effect, but it’s just getting started. Halloween is proving just as spooky as it is mysterious, because Mars has officially stationed retrograde in Gemini and another eclipse is on the horizon. However, just in time to celebrate the spookiest night of the year, three lucky zodiac signs will have the best week of October 31 to November 6. Are you ready for the witching hour?

The only thing more liberating than pretending to be someone else on Halloween is the fact that the moon will be entering freedom-loving Aquarius that same day. Where’s your will to be weird? It’s no holds barred with this groovy air sign, so consider this an opportunity to go against the grain, and tap into your colorful eccentricities. After all, the last thing Aquarius wants to do is fall in line. The more unconventional your perspective, the better! With Mars retrograding through Gemini, there’s no telling where your mind will wander.

Shortly after the moon enters Pisces, it will form a trine with the Scorpio sun on November 3. Mystical and emotionally fluid, this intuitive synergy can be harnessed in more ways than one. But with so many planets transiting through Scorpio, heart-to-heart conversations and raw exchanges where we can openly express our vulnerabilities will naturally flow with ease.

There’s something innately revealing about having the sun, Venus, Mercury and the South Node in Scorpio, so there’s no use in inhibiting yourself, especially if it’s coming from a place of fear. The week comes to a close with the moon in Aries harmonizing with Saturn in Aquarius on November 6, which serves as a gentle reminder to stay true to your individuality both socially, and in terms of your future goals and dreams.

Related: These 3 Zodiac Signs Will Have The Worst Week

If your sun sign and/or rising sign happens to fall under any of the below zodiac signs, here’s why you’re more than likely vibing high this week:

These 3 Zodiac Signs Will Have the Best Week

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Cancer

Your passions are running high this week, and it’s all thanks to the stellium of planets sizzling through your sassy fifth house of love, passion, pleasure and self-expression, but it gets better. Despite whether you’re currently in a romantic partnership, the moon’s ingress into spontaneous Aquarius on October 31 will bring some unexpected shake ups to your world, which could very well spice things up. The choice is yours.

Then on November 3, amidst the moon’s journey through enchanting Pisces—your exotic ninth house of expansion, adventure and self-discovery—Luna will harmonize with the sun via your fifth house of creativity, passion projects and romantic rendezvous. Do you dare to venture into the unknown? Stepping out of your comfort zone could prove to be wildly serendipitous.

Read Your Full Cancer Horoscope For November 2022

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Scorpio

‘Tis your season, Scorpio! Got plans for Halloween? Truth be told, with the moon entering rebellious Aquarius—via your fourth house of home, personal matters and innermost feelings—some of you may opt for hosting this year’s Monster Mash with family and friends, while others of you choose to go wherever the wind takes you. Either way, you will likely experience a strong urge for freedom during this time, so make sure to do something fun.

Then, on November 3, after the moon enters Pisces—your fifth house of love, creativity and self-expression—Luna will join forces with the sun in your sign, which means you’re not only feeling as inspired as ever, but also incredibly committed to the pursuit of your passions. Your energy will also be magnetized, so use all of this celestial magic wisely. Don’t undermine your power.

Read Your Full Scorpio Horoscope For November 2022

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Pisces

You’re unapologetically indulging your wild delights and intriguing curiosities this week. Pretty on brand for a holiday like Halloween, but the moon’s journey through Aquarius—your second house of confidence, values and possessions—is urging you to find comfort in your strange talents, and otherworldly beauty. Costume contest, anyone? You know a thing or two about intertwining reality with fantasy, so perhaps it’s time you do what you do best.

After the moon enters your sign on November 2, Luna will harmonize with the sun in Scorpio—via your exotic ninth house of expansion, adventure and taboo-like philosophies—and this enlightening synergy will only increase the effects of your innate F.O.M.O. That said, don’t confuse your passion to explore the unknown with restlessness. The key is to find an outlet for your daring pursuits, and thrill-seeking ways.

Read Your Full Pisces Horoscope For November 2022

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What Is Samhain? A Deep Dive Into The Spiritual Origin of Halloween & It’s Ancient Rituals

Blessed be! As the eve of October 31st draws near, so does the pagan holiday, Samhain (pronounced as “sah-win”). As Samhain approaches, you might notice how the veil between our world and the spirit realm continues to thin. Spooky signs or omens may pop up in the coming days as the spirits make themselves known, which is why you might be looking into the spiritual meaning of Halloween and Samhain 2022. Use this time to pay attention to anything considered to be hauntingly spectacular as it may be part of your Samhain celebrations.

Originally known as an ancient celebration and pagan festivity, Samhain is making a modern comeback as the present-day witches recognize the traditional jubilee. Think of Samhain as the original Halloween, but one of the significant differences between them is that Samhain has a much deeper meaning than costumes and trick-or-treating. Samhain recognizes the spiritual influences in our everyday lives, encouraging us to reap our rewards from this past year.

Similar to Halloween, Samhain focuses on celebrating our ancestors and spiritual connections through dancing, imbibing and eating. However, Samhain is more occult-focused since this pagan holiday celebrates how spiritual influence has impacted our successes by honoring ancestors and deities. By October 31st, you might be more than ready to bid adieu to this past year while embracing the winter as well as the new year. 

Photo: Getty Images.

What Is Samhain? The History Behind Halloween

Celebrated from October 31 to November 1st, Samhain was considered to be one of the most important ancient holidays in the Celtic and pagan traditions. According to History.com, “Ancient Celts marked Samhain as the most significant of the four quarterly fire festivals, taking place at the midpoint between the fall equinox and the winter solstice. During this time of year, hearth fires in family homes were left to burn out while the harvest was gathered.” 

Hereditary witch, Sunshine Estardavis, claims that Samhain was the holiday that “marked the turning of the wheel of the year”. During these celebrations, the final harvest was collected while clearing away dead brush in gardens and orchards. “Because this was one of the last chores to do before winter, there would be a collective sharing of the fruits of their labor from the last year. What better way to celebrate the end of a happy harvest than with a feast with drinks and dancing!” exclaims Estardavis. 

Photo: Getty Images.

History.com also reports that celebrations would last a few days, since Samhain is often considered a “gluttonous” holiday. Everybody was expected to partake in one way or another to give thanks, or else they may be susceptible to the wrath of the spirit realm. Like Beltane, Samhain is believed to be a time when the veil is the thinnest between our world and the spirit world, so the spirits were able to partake in the jubilee. Offerings were given to other creatures, such as fairies, to avoid potential issues during the celebrations.  

No matter if it is ancient times or the present day, Samhain is a joyful holiday! As the festivities begin, you may feel increasingly light and free-spirited. Spend Samhain thanking your spirit guides for their assistance while keeping an eye on what you will want to accomplish or work on in the year to come. 

Photo: Getty Images.

Ritual to Celebrate Samhain

If you would like to observe and celebrate Samhain on October 31st, you have a few options depending on your location and practice. “A Samhain ritual can be done [if] you live in a rural area or a city apartment,” says Estardavis about beginner-friendly rituals for Samhain. Regardless of where your ritual takes place, Estardavis recommends gathering these tools or ingredients:

Required:

Parchment paper

Pen with black ink

Bread or cake

A nice bottle of wine or non-alcoholic grape juice

A candle (or another form of contained fire)

Build a bonfire or fire-pit out in your yard. It would be especially powerful if you use the fire to burn up any sticks in your yard [since] the ancient pagans used this holiday to clear out their dead dry vines and brush after the last harvest for the year,” explains Estardavis. If you cannot hold a bonfire outside, then Estardavis recommends finding a candle that represents your Samhain light to represent the bonfire. Depending on what your intention is for your Samhain candle, you can use color magick to add depth to your Samhain ritual! Consider using black for protection, white for purity, or brown for grounding if you choose to use a candle for your ritual. If you use a candle, then you may also need a fire-proof bowl for burning small tokens during your ritual. 

Once the fire has commenced, Estardavis encourages taking a moment to reflect on the last year. “As you sit and stare into the fire, invite the deities and ancestors to join you during this magickal time. Begin to reflect on the past year by going through each month and giving thanks for all the blessings that you are harvesting at this time.” While honoring the reflection of the fire, Estardavis encourages writing down anything that you could have handled better or anything that is no longer serving you down on the parchment with your black ink pen. Noting who and what is no longer serving you is a way to honor the severing of ties during your Samhain ritual. 

Photo: Getty Images.

“Take the papers and burn them in the fire. Stand up and raise your hands to the sky [to release] all stress and negativity from yourself. As you bring your hands back down, invite the blessings of your deities [and ancestors] into your life for the new year coming in,” guides Estardavis. If you do not feel safe burning the parchment in a fire-proof bowl inside, then you can also tear up the parchment and throw it out of an open window for the wind to carry these parchment pieces away from you. Now that the reflection and release have commenced, you can begin celebrating! The second part of the ritual will begin by opening your beverage of choice and asking your deities or ancestors to bless your beverage and food. 

Photo: Amazon.

Buy: Wheel of the Year by Judy Ann Nock $14.19

The Modern Witchcraft Guide to the Wheel of the Year by Judy Ann Nock

If you are celebrating outside, then Estardavis suggests sharing your food and beverage with the earth.“Share your wine and cake with the earth by having a glass for yourself and pouring a glass out onto the earth, thereby giving the Goddess a drink. Take the cakes and eat one for yourself [while] offering the next one to the earth. Crumble [the cake] on the ground near the wine.” If you are celebrating Samhain inside, then Estardavis recommends pouring a glass and setting aside some food to share with the Goddess. You can keep the food and drink out for the night, then scatter the remains the following day outside. Afterward, turn on some music and dance! Dancing is an excellent way to recognize your accomplishments during the harvest while releasing all that does not serve you from the last year. 

“The best news is that by thanking and blessing your ancestors and deities, you’ll have a lot of help accomplishing the [new] goals that you’ve set,” exclaimed Estardavis. Relish in the euphoria of Samhain while beckoning in the renewed energy of wintertime!

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