In the Northern Hemisphere, August is a month of lazy summer days at the beach, iced tea, fresh picked corn and luscious fruits and vegetables. Yet, we forget that our ancestors used this time to harvest the first crops of grain, wheat, and oats.
The tradition in Northern Europe was to celebrate the beginning of the harvest on or around August 1st—it is called Lammas, or sometimes called Lughnasadh after the god Lugh-of craftsmanship. This was midway between the summer solstice and the autumn equinox.
It was meant to remind us to be grateful for what we have now and to acknowledge the turning of the seasons. It was a great celebration of the baking of bread from the first wheat harvest as each person participated in honoring Mother Earth. We must remember how important grains were and still are to most of the world.
Many Native American tribes also celebrate the harvest during this time as the Corn Mother. The Green Corn Ceremony, which is tied to the ripening of the corn crops, is marked with dancing to give thanks to the Great Spirit/Mother, feasting and religious observations. Before any new corn can be eaten, there are rituals of purification and forgiveness.
HANDFASTING
During the 15th and 16th Century, couples participated in hand-fasting ceremonies at Lammas fairs across Europe. Handfasting was performed by a couple in front of a witness or two. They joined hands and declared themselves united, sealing it with a kiss. These were trial year- and -a day marriages and one had to renew them more often than traditional wedding vows. If at the end of the trial the couple felt it was not right, they were free to go their separate ways.
FULL SUPER MOON IN AQUARIUS
According to astrologer Lisa Zimmerman, this Super Moon in Aquarius rules authenticity, independence, rebellion, revolution, innovation and your community. You may be shifting your relationships to your tribe as you evolve and grow. All Full Moons can be highly emotional, so take a deep breath and do whatever you can to stay proactive rather than reactive.
LAMMAS RITUAL
I want to share a ritual that my soul-sister Deborah Roth and I did in central park pre-covid. You will need some corn husks, corn kernels, raffia, or string.
1. Take some time to reflect and journal on what you have harvested this season since the Spring Equinox. Based on fears being transformed, what are your hopes for this harvest? What are your gifts and skills to support those hopes? Where do you need help?
2. Write your harvest intention on a husk with a permanent marker and pick as many corn kernels as you need to represent your hopes/skills/gifts. Then wrap them in the corn husk and tie with raffia or string—each knot represents support, what you need to ask for/do to manifest intention. When you are finished, find a place in nature and offer it to Mother Nature.
Have Fun, Give Thanks and Be conscious of how you treat our Planet.
Until next time,
Barbara