Summer Solstice Morning Dew Ritual - By Firewolf
The collecting of Morning Dew has been practiced by ancient cultures from all around the world. This simple and ancient ritual is usually conducted at different times from the Spring until late Summer, ( most traditionally during the May Day or Summer Solstice Festivities ). In many parts of Italy it is a traditional custom to collect Dew on the morning of The Feast of John the Baptist (June 24th). This particular practice has many links to ancient pagan traditions, marking a time of fire, fertility and the waning of the Sun. On the eve of The Feast of John the Baptist, a large bowl or basin is filled half-way with clean water, to which a few drops of Holy Water were added. Fresh Flowers and Herbs where then included and the bowl left in a safe place outdoors to be left overnight to collect the Morning Dew. Plants and Flowers of Use: Basil, Camelia Flowers, Hawthorn Blossom, Ivy, Lavender, Marjoram, Mint, Parsley, Primrose, Roses, Rue, St. J...