Ritual work should be a top priority when it comes to your spiritual recovery.
Your desire to travel the path of spiritual recovery will most likely start after a time of uncertainty, disconnect and a prolonged time spent in mental fogginess. Having activities that require pause are a great way to break through the fog, especially when they're simple, practical and accessible. Conjure in an element of nature and nurture and you're adding magic to purpose.
When I made the decision to follow a more pagan based spiritual practice, I was as excited as I was overwhelmed by ALL of the rituals I 'thought' I had to practice in order to belong.
Every moon phase required participation and commitment, making it feel impossible to learn, and expensive... crystals, herbs, alter offerings, you name it, I thought I needed it! Add eight additional Sabbats, on top of cultural and family events like Sinterklaasfeest, I felt anxious, discouraged, and like my vulnerability was being taken advantage of by the single use, mass market spiritual community. My practice became half assed and mindless.
I realized I needed a practice that reflected me as an individual and my lifestyle. I've since started the process of spiritually simplifying, turning to my houseplants as a starting point.
#inspiredbytarot This year's signifier (2021) is The Hierophant. The Hierophant's message is layered in tradition, ritual and initiation. Connecting with the principality of this card offers spiritual mentorship, helping you discover a personalized foundation for your ritual practice.
Connect with The Hierophant to discover how ritual can help you master a personalized spiritual based practice. Click for a quick access to Tarot Spread.
The following ideas will help you transform the simple task of
watering your spider plant into an act of ritual.
DAILY
A daily ritual with your houseplants can actually be quite simple, so don't overthink it!
A quick morning check in with your plants remove dead and dying foliage makes space for new growth and allows you to slow down for a few minutes to practice breath work. Start with this simple exercise as you work with one or all your plants on any given day: Greet and honour your plant, acknowledging deities, guides and ancestors. Breath in for 3 counts, hold the breath for 3 counts and exhale on the count of 5. Continue doing so until you feel comfortable and ready to move on, and close the space by thanking your guides for their time and protection.
Daily meditation with your plants is another great way to create ritual. Be sure to check out the "Spiritual Recovery with Houseplants" blog post for insight on how to establish strong roots in your meditation.
WEEKLY
Take the chore out of watering your plants and recover your way through some root filled intention setting:
Designate a time on a weekly basis when you're going to commit to your plants. Create a simple ritual to open space, like turning on your favourite music or lighting a candle. Fill your water jug and swirl the water around clockwise to bring in any intentions that you'd like to manifest, or counterclockwise for anything that needs to be released. With each plant that needs watering, share your intention, thank them for taking on the energy, and water your plant. When done, don't forget to close space by releasing your intentions for the week to the nature deity or ancestor you're working with.
MONTHLY
Tapping into the phases of the moon is such a beautiful and powerful way to connect with the Divine. Combining the power of the moon and nature is ancient magic, and is making a powerful comeback. As the moon flows, so too do the growth patterns in your plant. A full moon is the perfect way for you to capture that magic, and infuse it into the energy of your home.
On the night of a full moon, fill some jars with water and place them where they can be infused with the moon's light. In the morning, water your plants with the essence of the moon. If it's not a regular watering day, just put the water aside until it's time.
SEASONAL
Seasonal ritual has always been my favourite ones to plan for and participate in, with the Spring Equinox being my absolute favourite time of year to clean, clear and cleanse ALL the things.
Creating your own seasonal ritual really boils down to connecting with the seasons based on where you're from and aligning heritage, plant knowledge, personal preferences and goals. As an example, here's a few starting points that I work with, allowing for flexibility as I practice and learn:
Research houseplants to understand the care they require. As an example, all of my plants have their own fertilization requirements, but all of them like a good dose of fertilizing in Spring, so I'll set aside a day and provide a fresh batch of nutrients, jotting down any messages that come through as I dig through the dirt.
Moon water and leaf cleaning is an excellent practice in patience and determination, as this is a very slow and methodical activity; perfect for active self-recovery. Be sure to do your research, as not all leaves like to be washed down... my African violet would not be pleased!
ANNUAL
Adding new plants to the family is fun, engaging and very therapeutic. When making the decision to add a new houseplant, consider where your are in your recovery process and incorporate that as a part of the symbolism of the plant ally you're looking to invite into your home.
Know what you can handle, and do your research. A fussy, high maintenance plant might not be the right option if you're looking for simplicity and ease. Mindfulness will allow you welcome a plant based on the current season you're in, making space for growth and comfort.
May the roots of your potted friends reach out and fill you with comfort and joy.
Your houseplants emanate the selfless healing vibes of Mother Nature. Both ritual and recovery require devotion, patience and surrender. Caring for your houseplants and honouring their mysticism is an act of radical self-care.
Chasing Duende,
Amanda
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