celebrating the seasons

Marking the turning of time feels like an important part of what we do here at Bryn Cynefin.

When it feels like the world is a runaway train, coming back to life's anchors - food, fire, friends, family, fun - is such a balm (and a privilege).

In a secular society where the idea of ceremony has been either co-opted by religion or capitalism or often colonised and appropriated without consent; ceremonies can feel conflicting, confusing or performative.

Ceremonies have always been part of human culture. They provide a way to mark a transition or a particular moment, like stepping into adulthood, parenthood, marriage, or making a commitment to someone or something, or even grieving a loss .  A ceremony can simply be a way of saying: "This moment matters."

We are interested in how we can create DIY ceremonies; bringing them into the beating hearts of our communities, in a way that feels relatable and relevant and rooted in people and place.

Ceremonies can be created collaboratively, or on your own; done in your living room, or at the park, or anywhere that feels right!

Lily learnt about creating ceremonies from teachers like the wonderful Glennie Kindred who we met whilst making our documentary, the Seed Sistas, and first and foremost, her herbalist aunt in Ireland, Gina McGarry. In 2013, Lily travelled each month by train and boat to visit her, to learn about the power of plants.

Gina showed Lily how to use simple, natural things - they could be things found outside, close to home; How to engage the senses, to integrate the elements of earth, air, fire and water; how to anchor it in the seasons.

Over the years, since starting this work, we have been learning about the power of intention and the importance of gratitude; about how the greatest way to honour life is to celebrate its gifts, however small they may be; to not take anything for granted...

How have you marked special moments in your life?