This time of year, what is called Samhain (pronounced sow-in) by the Gaelic traditions of Europe, is when death is closest to us. This tradition of honoring death and going inwards spans most global traditions once the autumn seasons descend. 

We can feel it all around as the leaves begin to shed, blanketing the sidewalks and lightening the burden of each tree as they prepare to take the long rest of winter. We sense the otherworld growing nearer, engulfed by signals from the natural and supernatural alike. Space becomes more still, quieter as animals take shelter, and the daylight hours give way to greater darkness. 

Once we learn to listen to ourselves properly, we undeniably can hear the echoes of those passed as they teach us who we are. Through connection to ancestors (both human and non-human), we can learn more and more what that means for us as individuals who are part of something so much greater than ourselves.

The veil is thin, babe. Walk through it to your magic. 

🕯️ Ritual Ideas for Samhain + Halloween 

• Set Boundaries + Protection magic with a class
• Create an Ancestor Altar: Honor your ancestors with photos, mementos, and offerings. Scorpio’s energy is naturally attuned to the spirit realm, making this the perfect time to connect and seek guidance.
• Shadow Work: Use the New Moon to dive into journaling. Reflect on the lessons you’ve learned this year and what you’re ready to release.
• Candlelight Meditation: Embrace the darkness by meditating with a single candle, focusing on the flame and letting Scorpio’s intuitive energy guide you through visions or insights.
• Intentions for Transformation: Write down what you're ready to transform in your life. Scorpio’s energy is powerful for intentions around personal growth, shadow integration, and embracing your deepest desires.

🔮 Astrology: Scorpio Season

Scorpio season invites us to go beyond the surface. It magnifies our intuitive abilities and opens doors to hidden truths. With the veil thinned, Samhain encourages us to listen closely to our inner voice and honor any messages that come through.

🌿 Herbal Spotlight: Mugwort for Divination

Mugwort, associated with dreams and psychic protection, is a perfect ally during this time. Place some near your bed to enhance dreams or burn it as an incense to support divination.

🌌 Affirmations for Samhain

• "I release what no longer serves my spirit and welcome transformation."
• "I trust my intuition and honor the wisdom of my ancestors."
• "I am unafraid to face my shadow and embrace my true self."

Now is the perfect time for shadow work, magic, and protection work, babe. The apothecary is open 11am-5pm today through Saturday, and we can't wait to dive into creating the rituals your heart is calling for. If you can't make it in, please feel free to respond to this with any questions you have. We'd love to make recommendations. 

Energy Clearing and Protection Ritual

You will need:

a glass of water

yourself

Start with your hands above your head, crossing in an x formation. Hold your hands about two inches above your body.

From head to toe, and then each arm in no particular order, trace your body with your hands- this is defining your energetic shield. Then trace as far up your back as feels good, and next the back of each leg. While you do this, visualize your hands as magnets. Imagine all of the negative energy being drawn off of you and onto your hands. Move your hands around your body in that same pattern as many times as you need until you feel cleansed. Place your hand in the glass of water and imagine the negative energy releasing into the cup. Release the energy by flicking your fingers as if you were flicking water at someone playfully.

Do this three times and then release the water down the drain, thanking the spirits of the water for holding this for you.