THE FIRST HARVEST
As Summer is at its peak, we approach a seemingly subtle yet powerful Sabbath: on August 1st, Lammas or Lughnasadh ―depending on the tradition ― marks the first harvest. It is a time of abundance, of light and heavy air. And yet, there is the faintest hint of Autumn: the light is slowly starting to fade as Lugh, the Celtic God of light, is dying. This time is a powerful turning point between the radiance of Summer and the darkness that is already waiting for its cue.
At the centre of Lammas, there is gratefulness for the first harvest. The first crop is being brought in to provide us with flour and bread. Nature is in full force, gifting us with everything we need throughout the year. It is humbling and grounding to give thanks to Mother Earth for her offerings.
Lammas is also a time to bring in our very personal first harvest. Which seeds did you plant? Did you nourish and treat them well? Did you treat yourself well? Were you patient with yourself? Did you look after your needs like the farmer looks after the needs of his plants?
Transformation and abundance
Lammas is all about transformation. Lugh transforms himself for the harvest; he pours all his light, power, warmth and energy into the Earth and the crop. His transformation provides for the dark times, for Winter. Lammas encourages us to follow his example. This is not about sacrifices; it is about taking stock, counting our blessings and pouring them into our roots in order to be resilient during darker times.
For some of us, it might seem difficult to see the abundance. We might not be able to tell what it is that we can harvest. Our abundance is the patience we are building throughout the year. We find it in the pause between the inhale and the exhale, in slowing down. Our abundance is the mindfulness that we are cultivating, which teaches us to be content with our progress. Our abundance is the gratefulness that we feel when we understand the miracle that this world is.
Lammas teaches us that growth inevitably leads to change and transformation. Just like the crop is made into flour and nourishing bread, our personal and spiritual growth will turn into nourishment for us. And just like the harvest will be shared for the well-being of all, our personal transformation will change the world for the better. We are all part of the light that can be found in the deepest darkness.
Trust the process
To celebrate Lammas and your personal harvest, spend time in nature. Ground yourself; knead your energy into bread dough. Light a fire, or light candles to symbolise the light that is always there.
Meditate on the “Temperance” card in tarot. Inhale. Pause. Exhale. Pause.
Enjoy your light and trust the process!
“And the sun poured in like butterscotch and stuck to all my senses.”
(Joni Mitchell, Chelsea Morning)
Kerstin Wolff
Sign up below to stay in touch, subscribe to our newsletter, receive email notifications, free resources, and tips for a better life. And get a 10% discount code.