There were 15 women who were gathered at a local sacred site and we shared, we sang, we danced. The energy was powerful. It was so powerful that sheep in a neighbouring field felt our energy as we meditated and seemed to appear from nowhere and all gathered close to the fence closest to where we were seated. We connected with our ancestors and enjoyed the support of our sisterhood.

Samhain is a time of increasing darkness, with shorter days and longer nights. It’s the dark half of the year, a time of introspection and going within. Traditionally this time of year is considered to be the Celtic New Year. The idea being that the new year grows from the darkness. So by the time of Imbolc on the 1st- 2nd February, the days are getting longer and the new year has been birthed.

Renewal and transformation

In our society, darkness often carries a negative connotation, linked to fear, hardship, and pain. But what if we shifted our perspective and saw darkness not as something to avoid, but as an essential part of renewal and transformation? Both in nature and in human experience, darkness is a vital period of rest and regeneration, allowing for the emergence of new life, growth, and insight.

In nature, darkness serves a fundamental purpose. Seeds lie buried in soil, enveloped in darkness, absorbing the nutrients they need to one day break through as new life. Many animals hibernate or go dormant in colder, darker months, conserving energy to flourish when conditions improve. Even the cycles of night and day remind us of the need for rest and recovery; each night, we retreat to a space of darkness, allowing our bodies and minds to rejuvenate. It is during these unseen moments that growth occurs. Without these cycles, life would wither under the constant glare of light, unable to sustain the balance needed for survival.

Much like nature, humans experience their own seasons of darkness. We all go through challenging times, moments of pain or hardship that seem to drag us into a place devoid of joy or clarity. In these dark moments, it’s tempting to look for quick solutions, to bury our emotions, or to force ourselves to "move on" without fully processing the experience. But when we ignore these painful experiences, they remain within us, unresolved, sometimes festering and affecting us in ways we might not realize.

Personal growth

Instead, what if we embraced these dark periods, seeing them as an opportunity for personal growth? By allowing ourselves to feel the pain, the confusion, and even the grief, we give ourselves permission to process these emotions fully, rather than shoving them into the background. Just as seeds need the darkness of soil to grow, we need moments of emotional darkness to develop resilience, compassion, and self-awareness. It’s often in times of adversity that we discover our strengths, our values, and the parts of ourselves that need healing. We learn to let go of what no longer serves us, making room for new aspects of ourselves to emerge.

When we face our own darkness, we’re allowing ourselves to become a "different person" to whom we were before. We move away from the comfort of certainty and ease, stepping into unknown territory where growth and transformation happen. By embracing and experiencing our pain, we are laying the groundwork for renewed perspectives and a more profound sense of self.


Fertile space

In essence, darkness is not a void, but a vital, fertile space where life takes root and new forms of self-awareness and strength emerge. Rather than viewing darkness as a threat, we can see it as an ally in our journey, a place where we can rest, regroup, and eventually re-emerge with new insight and resilience. When we shift our perspective this way, darkness becomes not an obstacle, but a profound and necessary step in the continuous cycle of growth.

I wish you a December filled with the quiet strength and deep magic that darkness brings. May this season of stillness and introspection allow you the space to explore your inner depths, gently guiding you through any lingering shadows and helping you embrace every part of your journey. May you find comfort in the quiet and may the peace of the season nurture your spirit.

Many Blessings

Crystals to help you go within

  • Moonstone- helps you to connect with your inner self.
  • Sodalite enhances intuition and self-awareness.
  • Blue Lace Agate is a wonderful calming stone, to help you navigate your inner journey.

Author

Sally saw Angels as a child and could occasionally see and feel people who had passed over. This ability grew as she got older and she now gives readings, as well as channelling Ascended Masters. She often works with Mary Magdalene and channels information from Lord Kuthumi. She is available for readings and spiritual development sessions both online and in person (heaven2heart). 

Sally Heart