Druidry and You
A magical relationship with the world
Living in the developed world, many of us agree that we are in an age of material plenty but spiritual poverty - an imbalance that leads to a state of discontent.
Whilst we should be glad of material prosperity, it is obvious that does not feed us in the deeper sense that makes life feel worthwhile and satisfying.
I believe that Druidry is one antidote to ‘surface’ living, to over-dependence on intimate human relationships and gadgetry, and if you haven’t much time now, you might like to scroll down to the bottom of the page to try the three-strand challenge.
If you’ve got five minutes, why not settle down with a mug of something, and imagine that we’re drawing up to the fire for a chat? Looking into a fire is an invitation to think in an imaginative way, so as you settle comfortably, muse on the attraction Druidry has for you.
Do you like the idea of a Celtic world, with heroes and adventures; natural magic; herbalism and trees; harmonious living; rituals to join the lesser and greater worlds of land, sea and sky? Do you love the images of Druid/esses in film and media and think you would like to feel like that??? Druidry can cover all these initial impulses…
FAQ for you to consider
What exactly is a Druid?
A Druid feels that their spiritual connection is best explored through the natural world: that being in nature brings us nearer to the creative spirit of the universe.
Some regard Druidry as a religion, and are priest/esses of the land; others engage with Druidry as a philosophical path to take. It is a very open term, that encourages the individual to make it their own.
So, how do I know if Druidry is right for me?
What’s your hurry? Just relax, enjoy and explore through books, websites, organisations if you wish to, and eventually reach a conclusion. Any ethical group of people will be supportive of this. I follow the ethos of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids: people are free to come, to explore and, if it right, to leave to explore elsewhere, with grace and with our blessings.
But do I have to
· take a binding vow
· join an organization
· take a title or special name
· deny my current practising religion?
No, no, no and no. I would regard all these as warning signs. You might already be a member of an established religion, or in a spiritual group: looking at Druidry should not upset the integrity of that path, and if your own spiritual approach is rooted in your psyche, Druidry should only support and enrich it.
How would I start?
Try the three-strand challenge below, maybe? Plus lots of nature walks, programmes, books, finding out – become fascinated by the season you’re in and focus on all the changes it brings to the natural world. Feel that you are just another part of nature, with your own gifts and talents to bring to the mix. It’s a very good start.
So is that it? It just sounds like nature walks…
No; the basis of Druidry is a profound feeling of needing to connect to the spiritual life of the world: to join in the great party.
If you feel that the world is sentient and enspirited; that there is intelligence and spirit in all living beings, then you have the inklings of the Druid viewpoint within you.
See the ‘About Druidry’ page for more about the feeling and spirituality of being a Druid.
The fire is burning low now, and the wind is keener; time to move, stretch, thank the fire and the air, the earth that’s supported us and the water in our drink, and rejoin the world of work.
Come back to the fire anytime you wish… you will be welcome.
If you’d like to do something to get you started, here’s a three strand challenge.
It includes the reality of maybe getting wet, cold or disappointed when things don’t immediately happen as you wish them to. To be a student of nature, you have to get out there!
If you have mobility or health problems you might not have the option of getting into nature as often as you wish. Outdoor visits might be rare and depend on other people, but do take every opportunity you can and keep your attention drawn to your windows. Remind yourself frequently that we are always living on the earth, breathing the air and surrounded by water. You have other challenges, to gather resources around you to access the world of nature.
And when it’s raining and you’re feeling too cosy to go out….
Remember the advantages of being in nature -
The natural world does not judge. Communication between human people/the natural world thrives on openness and warm-heartedness. We can relax and open ourselves, not concerned with being vulnerable to hurt as we might with other humans. It’s the reason people are devoted to their cats, dogs and horses: it’s the reason that people will chain themselves to trees to protect them and become passionate gardeners. It is to do with love; a fellow feeling with all the world that leads to a unique and abiding relationship. If you know people who have those feelings for their dogs or cats, then you’ll know they are truly real. From there, it is easy to imagine that all sorts of communications are possible.
So, rain or not, why not go out for that walk now???
To take things further -
My books and courses might be useful in providing a structure as you explore, and if you join the mailing list you’ll receive a PDF on the habits of nature magicians.
Happy exploring!