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Dolmen Grove Chronicles
Wishes you a very happy Yuletide !
What it means to be a Druid………… Clliff Carr on being a Druid bard in today’s
world & A 21st Century Duid by Tarnia Spaven
News from the Dolmen including Crow Dancers
Magick of the Dolmen Grove
www,dolmengrove.co.uk
THE DOLMEN GROVE
The Dolmen Grove is a pagan organisation of mixed spiritual paths established in the early 90s by
Taloch Jameson, which over the years has grown from one small circle in Weymouth Dorset, to several
clans not only across the UK but worldwide.
The Spiritual ethos of the Dolmen Grove has remained the same throughout and is based purely upon the
Freedom of the Individual.
It is the collective belief that in an age where technology can often dwarf our humanity, it is important that
we take control as individuals and embrace our own spirituality in order to maintain the equilibrium within
an ever changing world.
Although the Grove is not a political organisation preferring instead to focus upon the spiritual, this does not
prevent either individual members or the Grove as a collective from playing an active part in humanitarian
and environmental issues.
There are no hierarchy or titles within the Dolmen Grove as it is our aim to encourage each man and woman
to discover their own unique and authentic journey so that their spiritual connection is founded upon that
which works for them as an individual rather than a spiritual rule book set for the masses.
The key to our success is the Round Table which is made up of around twenty people from a variety of
spiritual paths who uphold the spiritual ethos of the Grove. They not only organise their respective moots
but also the festivals and events hosted by the Dolmen Grove.
Our Moots are regular meeting places which are held once a month in several areas. Although these are
organised by and largely attended by Grove members, non-members are always welcome to find out more
about the Grove and enjoy the company of other free thinking people as well as the activities organised by
the Moot.
There is a membership in place that enables those who wish to be part of this ever growing Clan to enjoy
reduced ticket prices for Dolmen Grove Events, festivals and where stated ‘member only’ Ceremonies and
Courses. Although we host many Ceremonies which are open to the general public, to avoid crowding and
to allow our members to celebrate free from pressure we also hold members only ceremonies.
‘
ALL ARE SPIRITUALLY UNITED WITHIN THE DOLMEN GROVE’
CONTENTS
1…Dolmen News and gig guide – Taloch Jameson
2…Diary of the Hedgewitch – Rachael Moss
3…Magick of the Dolmen Grove including the Solstice Celebration at Stonehenge – Taloch
Jameson/Diane Narraway
4…Mistletoe – Andrew Cowling
5…Being a Druid Bard in Today’s World – Cliff Carr
6…A 21st Century Druid – Tarnia Spaven
7…The Yule Log – Molly McHenry
8…Aromatherapy – Sandra Wiseman
9…Dolmen Grove Moot Information & The East Dorset
Travelling Moot
10…A Blessed Solstice - Poetry with Contributions from
Claire Whiles, Karen Cooper & Martin Pallot
11…Crabchurch’1 – Mark Vine
Photographs and artwork in this issue by Joanna Caswell,
Rachael Moss, Maria Light, Aaron Cilia, Sem Vine, Kate Sawyer
Crabchurch 2016 advert and Dolmen and Dolmen Grove artwork
Sem Vine with photography by Joanna Caswell.
Spriggan Mist artwork – Aaron Cilia and Kate Sawyer
. Unless otherwise stated all other images are from the public domain.
Further information on the Dolmen Grove can be found at:
www.Dolmengrove.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/TheDolmenGrove/110124449082503
All information is accurate at the time of publication and all articles and
images are assumed to be the work of those being credited
https://www.facebook.com/DolmenGroveMagazine?ref=hl
Editor… Diane Narraway email
Dolmen News Back in the enchanted circles of Dorset, The Dolmen have been in preparation for 2016, rehearsals and recording taking up much of the time but still managing some
down time away from the studio where they have been spending time at some of the local sacred places gaining inspiration for their work on the Comhluadar
Album and the infamously secret Nuada Album.
Comhluadar, a Celtic word pronounced Co-Loo-Der, meaning United Harmony.
A Live Dvd as well as a Live audio Album, Filmed and Recorded at Castlefest, Netherlands 2015, is set for release in February.
The release of the New Kayleigh Album, 16 Dolmen songs that have featured on other albums in the past but now brought together on one disc featuring a taster
from the coming concept band Crow Dancers as well as a couple of classic re-mixes and the previously unreleased ‘Bloodthirsty Queen’. Taloch Jameson
A taste of the Comhluadar Album
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUeO81rAwpA
‘Crow Dance’ is a solo release by Taloch Jameson, singer/songwriter and founder
member of the The Dolmen. The album is a shamanistic journey calling upon both the
natural and spiritual aspects his own indigenous Welsh and Native American ancestry.
The Crow is seen here in his role of a messenger who travels between the different
realms weaving magic, mystery and mundane into one joyous dance....’The Crow
Dance’.
In much the same way as the crow traverses the boundaries between the living and the
dead, Taloch draws upon his extensive musical knowledge and deep spirituality to cross
the boundaries between the ancient and modern worlds. The raw tribal drums and
haunting melodies coupled with the unique vocals of Taloch as his singing and chanting
take us on a visionary journey. In this album Taloch has created a truly mystical
collection of songs dedicated to the ancient dance of the crow, as the tribal shaman of the
Air.
Crow Dance is a supernatural journey of the soul painted through the imagery of music.
Friday 1st January 2016 Winter MPS Dortmund, Germany
Saturday 2nd January 2016 - Winter MPS Dortmund, Germany
Sat 23rd January 2016 -Golden Lion Weymouth
Saturday 13th February 2016 Enchanted Market Garth Hill College, Bull Lane, Bracknell, RG2 2LN
Saturday 20th February 2016 - Golden Lion Weymouth
Friday 4th / Saturday 5th March 2016 - Mystica Hamelyn, Germany
Saturday 26th March Dolmen Grove Ostara Psychic Fayre and Spring
Ball. www.thedolmen.com
Diary of the Hedgewitch
Winter. Dark, cold, bleak, barren, still, silent.
The wild reckless winds have ripped the remaining
leaves from trees that now stand sullenly naked,
twisted and bent against the gloomy grey
foreboding skies. Dead stalks droop limply, spent,
their lives given up in their seed or withdrawn into
their dormant roots within the dark earth.
Mother Nature who gave life so lavishly has now
demanded it back and the world has become pallid
and monochrome, except for the red-breasted
robins that sing sweetly and dance. The harsh cries
of crows and rooks dominate, joined by the
clattering of jackdaws and the occasional loud
lonely resonance of ravens, reverberating their calls
over plundered ploughed field, windswept cliff and
hilltop, and ravaged woodland.
The Sun, our most powerful and
potent star bringing boundless
vitality, stumbles low on the horizon,
the demise of his rule bringing the
withering, contracting, and death, as
his potent vitality withdraws, to be
taken in and transformed.
The prickly glossy-leaved holly is in berry, the
swollen red fruits contrasting with the deep green.
The holly represents sacrificed gods, as the Sun
represents the potency of the male creative force,
and the transformative power of light and
consciousness and all it represents, and whilst the
Sun again begins his rule at the Solstice, the Holly
King is sacrificed so that the Oak may rule the
lighter part of the year, in the dance of opposites.
But as the Sun/Son rises earlier again on the 25th of
December and so is linked with the birth of Mithras
amongst others and the dawning of a new era, the
holly is also associated with the sacrificial blood,
the leaves and berries symbolizing suffering and
blood. A sacrifice has always to be made for
progress to move onwards. If only we can all bring
that light within us each to blaze.
The ivy, also full of berries at this time, but small
bunches of hard dark ones, is partnered with the
holly in the well-known carol “The Holly and the
Ivy”, a reminder of the continuation and ever
onward transformation of life, and of Light, the
sacrifice and triumph of spirit encased in matter;
the holly also representing, perhaps the male potent
and expansive energy, and the ivy the feminine,
contractive energy that gives birth to restrictive
form, the dance of the two coming together to
create new birth.
The first frosts have hardened the land, the world
contracts, inhales to bursting, transmuted, vibrating
with all those experiences taken in from the mad
dance of summer and fertilised with the
possibilities to come. From the rich humus that
ferments in the soil are created new life, new,
forms, new thoughts, and new consciousness.
As we withdraw into the darkest time of year
towards the shortest day, and as the course of the
Sun through the heavens appears to standstill for 3
days at the Solstice, there is a pause, and
anticipation, at the time of apparent
death before the Sun begins to move
Eastwards again and the days begin
to gradually lengthen, the birth and
dawning of an era, a new
consciousness gestated from the
remains of summer’s death and
autumn’s putrefaction. The Sun now
rises at the time of the Solstice in the
constellation of the Archer, Sagittarius, if we can
begin to have the strength and will as a race to shoot
the arrow from the world of darkness and
disillusionment, from the primitive depths of
ignorance, into the light.
So this time of Yule, for me, is a
time of great re-birth, as
vegetation has withered and
leaves have fallen, creatures
hibernate, and the world becomes
bare and stark and barren, it is a
time of withdrawing into the
fermenting darkness and bringing
the light, and the heat and fire, the
passion, of summer, inside, into
the hearth fires where all that has
been experienced is re-kindled
and transformed anew with the
rising of the Light of the winter Solstice Sun.
Rachael Moss
All photography - Rachael Moss
The Magick of the Dolmen Grove
With the recent release of the Crow Dance Rituals under the umbrella of the Dolmen Grove we
thought it would be a great idea to share a couple of the previous productions associated to Crow
Dance and that have also helped many to gain a deeper insight into the Magic and Spiritual
Philosophy of Taloch Jameson founder member of the Dolmen Grove
http://issuu.com/dolmen-grove/docs/dolmen-grove
http://issuu.com/dolmen-grove/docs/awakening_the_gods
Celebrating the Winter Solstice at Stonehenge 2015
I call upon the solstice sun that warms this land
I call upon the spirit that holds the troubled
hand.
I call upon the Lord of eternal light
And lady moon that shines in the darkest night.
I call upon the words of grimoires and tomes
I call upon this sacred circle of stones
I call upon the gods, ancient and high.
I call upon the land, the sea and the sky.
I call upon the flame in the astral fire
I call upon man’s primeval desire
I call upon the purest newborn soul
I call upon the crone, haggard and old
I call upon the love of a mother, tender and
mild
I call upon the beast, savage and wild
I call upon the baby still in the womb
And I call upon those asleep in their tombs
I call upon the strong, the wise and the brave
I call upon the mad, the sick and depraved.
I call upon the power we hold in our hands
I call upon us all to heal this land
I call for an end to pain, suffering and fear
I call for an end to the senseless tear.
I call for an end to war fuelled by hate
I call for it now, before it’s too late
So I call upon the voice of the still, silent heart,
To whisper words of hope and heal their scars.
I call upon the beat of the Dolmen drum
Whose rhythm is powerful, steadfast and
strong
I call upon the words within this verse
To ring throughout the entire Universe
And I call upon all who are spiritually free
To echo the words ‘so shall it be’
Diane Narraway
https://www.facebook.com/BBCSouthToday/videos/953511358072788/?pnref=story
Photo – Joanna Caswell
February 13th and 14th ...Enchanted Market Garth Hill College, Bull Lane, Bracknell, Berkshire RG42 2LN.
March 26th…Ostara Psychic Fayre and Spring Ball.
April 22nd - 24th April inclusive…Beltane Spirit of Rebirth Camp, Dorset.
August 26th - 28th inclusive…Tribal Dreams Camp, Dorset.
September (Mabon) – Local Ceremonies.
October 31st (Samhain) – Local ceremonies and Events.
December – Yule Winter Wonderland Market and Ball.
www.dolmengrove.co.uk
https://www.facebook.com/The-Dolmen-Grove-110124449082503/?fref=ts
MistletoeMistletoe (Viscum album) is probably the
most famous herb associated with Yule
and midwinter; holly and ivy being close
competitors.
A true parasite, it grows on tree branches
and can be found predominantly on
Apple and sometimes on Ash and
Haawthorn. It rarely grows on Oak
which is why it is so revered when it does.
The English name is from the Anglo
Saxon Mistletan; mistl meaning different
and tan meaning twig. The Latin Viscum
means sticky and refers to the texture of
the berry juice, the berry colour is
reflected in album, meaning white.
Mistletoe is a sacred herb of the Druids,
particularly when growing on Oak and is
harvested around the Winter Solstice, 6
days after the new moon at this time. The
ritual involves a Druid maintaining a
shaman stance and cutting the herb with
a golden blade which represents the sun’s
energy and the moon’s substance.
The herb is caught in a white sheet held
above the ground; it is believed that the
plant loses its power if it touches the
ground. This ritual also involved the
sacrifice of two white bulls, perhaps
symbolic of the white berries which grow
in pairs. It was then distributed for use as
a cure all.
Mistletoe is a symbol of fertility and
rebirth, peace, protection and welcome.
The fertility symbolism probably relates
to the similarity of the berry juice in
colour and texture to that of semen with
the fact that the berries occur in pairs
adding to the symbolism. The practice of
kissing under the mistletoe stems from
this belief, a berry being removed for
each kiss. As an adjunct to fertility,
carrying the herb in an amulet was
believed to heighten sexual experiences
and have an aphrodisiac effect on the
wearer.
Farmers burnt a globe of Mistletoe and
Hawthorn or Blackthorn, throwing the
ashes onto the field that was to be
ploughed first in the coming season to
promote fertility of the soil.
Conversely, the herb was carried by
women as an aid to contraception. This
might be connected to the custom of
placing it by the bedroom door, hanging
it on the bedstead or putting it under the
pillow to ensure peaceful sleep.
It protects against a wide range of events
including lightning, disease, fires and
misfortunes. It was placed in the cradle
to protect the baby from being stolen and
replaced by a changeling.
Hanging Mistletoe tied with a red ribbon
over the door at Yule symbolises
harmony and welcome to visitors. It is
believed to banish evil and negative
energy and bring good fortune and joy.
In Celtic practice all war had to cease
when Mistletoe was cut; the Winter
Solstice thus becoming a time of peace
and goodwill.
Used in ritual at the Solstice it gives
strength to the weak sun; the ripe berries
are golden in colour, representing the sun
energy. At the ritual each person throws
a berry into the fire to promote the
realisation of personal aspirations as the
sun grows towards summer.
After Yule the first person across the
threshold carries a sprig of Mistletoe in
one hand and a branch of an evergreen in
the other; a kind of first footing.
Mistletoe was often saved until
Candlemas when it was burned in the fire
symbolising the completion of the
transition from the Winter Solstice.
In herbal medicine the leafy twigs are
used as the berries are poisonous. It is
used for the circulation and the nervous
system. I use it with herbs including
Hawthorn, Common Valerian, Cramp
Bark, and Limeflowers to treat high
blood pressure, particularly where
nervous tension or anxiety are factors. It
is also used for rapid heartbeat,
excitability, insomnia, nervous tension,
tinnitus, benzodiazepine withdrawal,
painful and heavy menstrual periods.
It is an old remedy for epilepsy …
‘the powdered dried leaves are food for
the falling sickness’.
Culpeper 1659
It was known that taking too much
caused an increase in seizures; another
example of knowing the herbs and
treating them with respect.
It has long had an anti-tumour
reputation. The Druids applied the
berry juice to external tumours and
Culpeper commended the juice as being
‘good to ripen hard tumours and
swellings’.
In modern times it is used as an anti-
cancer remedy (Iscador is one trade
name). It is given by subcutaneous
injection so cannot be given by
herbalists. This was advocated by
Rudolph Steiner back in 1920 and is
available privately from reputable
clinics although not the NHS.
A remarkable herb, both in its folklore
and its healing properties. Celebrate it
at Yule!
Andrew Cowling
BSc(Hons),Dip.Phyt,D.Hyp,RCST,MNFSH,FN
IMH.
Herbalist, Craniosacral Therapist,
Hypnotherapist, Healer.
62 Grove Road
Portland
DT5 1DB.
Tel. 01305 860611.
Spriggan Mist
Saturday 9th January 2016 Spriggan Mist’s Wassail - The Acoustic Couch
11 Market St, Bracknell, RG12 1JG
Saturday 30th January 2016 The Snug Weymouth
38 Maiden Street Weymouth, Dorset
Saturday 13th February 2016 Enchanted Market 2016
Garth Hill College, Bull Lane, Bracknell, RG2 2LN
Saturday 20th February 2016 Surrey Steampunk Convival
The Royal Oak, 90 Coombe Road, New Malden
Saturday 26th February 2016 Crabchurch Weekend
The Crown Hotel, 51/53 St Thomas Street, Weymouth DT4 8EQ
www.sprigganmist.co.uk
CLIFF CARR …BEING A DRUID BARD IN TODAYS WORLD
Write something
about my Bardic
and Druid path, she
said. Leg wobble, it
went. And mention
something about
what it means to be
photo – Maria Light a Druid today. She added!
Good job I was already sitting down.
On a serious and personal side. It’s simple. It’s a
way of life.
Like many of you. Over many years, I’ve walked
many paths. But without going into too much
detail and personal history. I’d like to share with
you a small insight into my life of druidry and the
inspiration that encourages me to be a Bard.
I discovered Stonehenge when I was 17 years old
and I was intrigued and it was not long before I
started to ask questions, and over the years, my
understanding through observation became a little
clearer to me.
As the years went by. I discovered Avebury too.
I’d met a few people at Stonehenge and through
local Druid groups I was introduced to a few of
the locals in Avebury, who I met up with during a
visit.
Eight times a year I’d visit then after. To hold
witness to the wheel of the year, to talk and listen
with what the good people were saying, in
ceremony, or in general chat around someone’s
house, campfire, or even the local pub.
I’d like to stress that it has only been within the
last 10 years from when I was encouraged and
offered the chance to work in such a magical and
mysterious place that my writing and druidry
developed massively.
So, after a few years, I was asked if I would
become the Bard. I was honoured and took on the
position, grabbing it with both hands, and after the
initial challenge of writing about Cernunnous, I
was accepted as bard of Caer Abiri. A position I
held for 5 consecutive years.
From being accepted. I asked those who were
here, there and present, to “Walk with me”.
The affect that the place had on me was an eye
opener and it soon became a big part of, and a new
chapter in my life. To work in such a fantastic
place, (I use the word work, as observances etc),
Inspires me! It opened my eyes and also, my
heart.
Even to this day. I feel the warmth and energy as I
pass Windmill Hill and enter the henge from the
North entrance when visiting. And feel a sadness
when I’d leave. Bidding the place a hail and
farewell.
I’d like to add too that although I had found
druidry many years ago and called myself a pagan
from an early age. My druidry really took off now.
A place of obvious and proper meaning,
somewhere to learn from and as I’ve said before,
an inspiration and breath of fresh air for me.
To feel the sun on my face, the moon wax and
wane, respecting the planet and her ways, the
seasons and their growth as the animals come and
go, always knowing that the circle of life will
remain.
Druidry and paganism, for me is a way of life. It is
an eclectic compendium of knowledge coming
from many different aspects of life. And the one
thing that brings us all together is spirit.
My observances gave me a realisation and broader
understanding of the systems that we all can relate
to. Just like our ancestors did. It inspires me to
write.
And even though, I am still just scratching the
surface as much been lost over time so it is hard to
visualise the shadow movement of say, the
obelisk, which disappeared a long time ago or the
missing circles, such as the one on Waden hill,
there is plenty still there to inspire and open one’s
eyes.
I now find inspiration easier to find from many
aspects in one form or another. I walk through or
sit amongst the woods more frequently now,
climb a mountain or just sit in an open space and
observe the world go by. All the right ingredients
to bring out the bard in me.
Within my druid path and druidry in general
I look for signs to learn from regularly. It’s a
spiritual thing which is very deep and sincere;
unique to me personally. I question my belief
every day and it’s never long before I get a sign of
some kind which keeps me believing in my belief
structure. The answers, I call ‘the magic’.
Just like our ancestors and the traditions of
ceremony. I feel that this aspect has been kept to a
similar standard, adapted within our time and to
some extent, for a very long time. Although
obviously we adapt the new ways from what we
know of the old so that it works with today’s
world. We tweak it a little because after all we, do
live in the 21st century.
We believe from the days of old that the druid was
the wise one. Although this is only one meaning
for the word druid, and there are many
interpretations, all feasible too. It may also come
from a word Duir-id. Wood or Oak-wise? Duir
came to me from the understanding of the tree
Ogham. It’s Celtic for Oak
It is not known if the druids worked within stone
circles, but we believe that the stone circles were
used by our ancestors for solar, lunar and other
terrestrial occurrences and celebrations much like
other monuments were. They were probably not
recognized as being called a Druid either. But in
today’s world we all recognize and understand the
word because it’s a good word.
It is my understanding. It is what makes sense to
me, I believe that the ancient druids worked
within the woods and within nature itself just like
myself. Looking for signs of change, as the wheel
of the year turns and that he would observe and
advise as deemed suitable for the time.
Over the many years. I find that changes are
always happening but the druid today is not
looked upon for the main source of information
anymore which is a great shame to those who
don’t know of one to ask. But, because times
change a compromise and happy medium has to
be developed. And although we have other
sources to gain information from, like TV, papers,
radio and even computers, most of the information
given is usually questionable and up for debate;
being a long way from the true story and so far
from reality that does not reveal the full picture.
Religion too plays a part as do the politicians of
the world where the powers that be dictate how
one should feel or even live. Also we now have
the likes of supermarkets so the hedgerows, fields,
woods, rivers and streams are mostly free of
foragers now. Only a few enjoy nature’s bounty
seasonally while the rest enjoy a summer fruit in
winter.
Is life now, a life for the better? I’ll leave that for
to you think about. One thing is for sure my life
with druidry has changed me from when I was a
lot younger. It is now an everyday part of my life
to feel humbled and although it is frowned upon
and deemed less important by some of today’s
society druidry is my inspiration and my way of
putting things into perspective. It is a way of
passing on our ancestral knowledge and to live life
for the love of it! This is a Bards way of life!
If you ask me if there is still place for Druidry in
today’s world. Then the answer from me is. Yes
most definitely! We have to keep the traditions
alive and teach the younger generations about the
magic and the basics of life within the world
around them. Inspire their minds and hearts to be
able to make wiser choices when they are old
enough to understand.
I’d like to add at this point that I hope that what
I’ve shared with you, has given you a little insight
into my belief of druidry, how it works and how it
helps me to develop as a bard.
I’d also like to take this opportunity to give
Thanks to the Dolmen Grove for accepting me as
one of the family and also for giving me the great
honour of being the Dolmen Grove Bard. A
position that I had never previously given a
thought and I’m now looking forward to learning,
working and sharing with you all in the future
years ahead with love, light and inspiration.
Cliff Carrr
OUT NOW OGHAM OF THE WOOD
CLIFF CARR
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNtIO4BS1c_nvSvAVPQcIOOUCPfSg3a9K
http://rvrb.fm/1fR1OXc
https://www.facebook.com/Cliff-Carr-rygbard-182261731346/
A 21st Century Druid
I have been following the druidic path for about a
decade now. Before that I had been confirmed
into the Church of England but the dogma and
ethics of Christianity didn’t feel comfortable. It
was like trying to wear a pair of shoes one size too
small and pretending that the confined space and
overall discomfort was fine as long as I walked a
level path.
I was at my happiest whilst walking in the woods
and learning to craft things with my hands and
could feel the changes in the seasons deep inside
my very being. I was raised in a village and spent
a lot of time exploring the countryside around me
and questioning my beliefs. My Grandfather was
a herdsman and we used to visit the farm during
school holidays. I had the most wonderful
experiences of my life on that farm and as I began
to research my beliefs I realised that I had in fact
had a very pagan upbringing.
We had celebrated the seasonal turning of the
wheel, made corn dollies and watched fox cubs
and badgers playing in the fields at dusk. I
remember Grandad taking my sister and myself to
the barn after dark to watch the barn owl swoop
down from a hole near the roof. It was awe
inspiring; an apparition of ghostliness. However,
at that point in my life I hadn’t even heard of the
word pagan and was made to go to church every
Sunday even though my parents never attended.
The older I got the more unsettled I became until
one day I decided to do some research on the
internet about different beliefs.
I thought maybe I would look into Wicca but
although certain aspects of it fitted, I didn’t feel
that it was right for me at that time.
Then quite by accident my internet browser
directed me to a page that was still being set up,
but on the main page was a description about
druidry. This was exciting. It ticked all of my
boxes. At the time it was the middle of December
and I asked my husband if he could take me to the
Winter Solstice at Stonehenge because I had read
another article saying the Druids would be there.
When we got there it was very dark and
extremely cold but the atmosphere of a large
crowd of excited people started to work its magic.
We walked up to the stones and then we heard the
drums. The Druids were coming. My heart was
beating ten to the dozen. All I can really
remember from that morning was the spiritual
high I got when the drums and chanting started.
That’s when I was certain I had found my
comfortable shoes. I looked around my local area
and found a Druid grove and I was invited to join
them for a ritual. I will always be grateful to them
for giving me a solid foundation to my learning
even though we have now gone our separate ways.
Through them I joined the Order of Bards, Ovates
and Druids.
That seems like such a long time ago because I
have grown spiritually and expanded my beliefs
and horizons. I now practice druidcraft, a mixture
of druidry and witchcraft, and because of my
ability to see and communicate with spirit I feel
drawn towards a new path, Shamanism.
Not much is known about the ancient Druids
because the only written accounts we have were a
few descriptions left by the Greeks, Romans and
other various authors and artists. According to
these writings, Druids appear to have been
philosophers, scientists, astronomers,
mathematicians, teachers, magicians, poets and
healers. It is believed they held high office and
were called upon as judges and to officiate rituals.
I can only relate my perspective and experience
of druidry. I have a love of learning and crafting,
not just in the magical sense, but with my hands. I
have a strong spiritual connection to the land, sea
and sky. I don’t believe I am an ‘ancient’ Druid
as I don’t know what their daily practices were but
I do know that I’m doing the best that I can to
uphold the ethics and practices of modern day
druidry. If I make mistakes, I alter my perception
and meditate on it. I talk to my spirit guides and
read … lots! My understanding and knowledge is
changing on a daily basis. If I don’t agree with
something that I read then I dismiss it and focus
on what does makes sense to me.
I’m not just a Druid anymore, I’m also a Witch
and Shaman as well as being a medium and
empath from birth. I still question everything.
My advice to anybody starting out on their
journey is to get out there and feel the earth
beneath your bare feet, hug a few trees and
meditate with them. Connect with spirit and put
your beliefs into action. Practice ritual, join a
grove if you wish and talk to people on different
paths. Seek knowledge and be accepting of
yourselves. No two people will have the same
beliefs and sometimes it is all right to walk the
path alone. We are spiritual beings having a
physical experience so enjoy the ride. In the
peace of the grove.
Tarnia Spaven
MEMBERSHIP OF THE DOLMEN GROVE
The Dolmen Grove offers a lifetime membership, which simply
means a one-off payment of £20 for those who wish to embrace and enjoy the freedom,
Clanship and the right to practice their own spiritual path within the Grove family.
Full Members of the Grove will enjoy reduced rates for events such as
Gatherings like the Beltane Spirit of Rebirth and Tribal Dreams,
and many other events when stated.
A Full member will receive a Membership Card and a unique
Membership Number that identifies who they are when wishing to attend Member only
Ceremonies and other Dolmen Grove Events.
The Dolmen Grove does not have a hierarchy, as we do not believe that people need titles
or labels to follow a spiritual path; instead the spiritual ethos of the Grove is
facilitated by a Round Table, a circle of people from all walks of life.
For further information on the Dolmen Grove and becoming a member please send an email
.Also find us on faceboook - thedolmengrove and thedolmengrovemagazine
THE YULE LOG Bringing in the Yule Log is a tradition that is classically held with much celebration. Even if your log is more modest than those depicted in the old woodcuts, you can still make a celebration of it. Bless your Yule log with the following charm either after you have cut it and brought it indoors or after you have finished decorating it with pine boughs and holly:
‘We welcome, O Yule log, With hearts ablaze to make our home a joyous place. Beyond our windows, The bracing weather Frames our good fortune together’ When the time comes to burn the Yule Log, it should be sent on with as much fanfare as it was when brought in. Recite this charm over your log before setting it alight: ‘Farewell, O Yule log, With our hearts aglow in the season of ice and snow. Until glad springtime returns may your merry fire burn!’ Yule Log incense If you are unable to have a Yule log, try this incense instead. It captures the same essence of blessings and warmth as the original, but is more manageable in small or shared spaces. 2 pt. Pine wood shavings 1 pt. Pine needles 1 pt. Cedar shavings 1 pt. Oak bark 1 pt. Bay leaves 1 pt. Cardamom pods 1/2 pt. Sage 1/2 pt. Orange peel or a few drops Orange oil 1 pt. Vanilla sugar Grind ingredients until they are still coarse. Mix together and burn on a charcoal disc. Molly McHenry
Aromatherapy
If you are new to Aromatherapy or have not read previous
articles on this then an insight to it is: - Aromatherapy is the use of organic essences extracted from aromatic
plants for healing and maintenance of vitality.
It may help minor ailments, keep us fit whilst still enabling us to be relaxed and at ease with ourselves.
The oils work by entering the blood stream via the skin, smells evoke memories and the brain registers the
scent via the neurological and the endocrine system.
The therapeutic potential of essential oils, like other plant derived remedies, has yet to be fully realized.
Although numerous medical herbs have been utilized since antiquity, many of which have become of
modern drugs (such as Quinine and cocaine)
In order to use an essential oil apart from Lavender and Tea Tree they MUST be
blended with carrier oil.
Baobab Seed Carrier oil – Adansonia
digitata
The Baobab tree is
found in Africa and has
many beneficial uses. It
has a distinctive look
with a grey bark and
branches that fan out
from the top, providing
it with an 'upside down'
appearance. ~It can live
to 6000 years and stores
water of up to 100.000
litres in its trunk in case
there is a draught. Image by Bernard Gagnon
The Baobab tree produces a velvety shell fruit
around the size of a coconut and its oil is extracted
from the seeds by cold pressing. Although it is
known for being a super food the oil is also
intensely nourishing and rich on the skin. It is
high in vitamins A and F (Linoleic Acid) which
are two of the main vitamins vital to anti-ageing
and skin rejuvenation
As well as vitamins A and F, it also contains
vitamins D and E as well as Omega 3, 6, and 7
fatty acids. It is a semi-fluid golden-yellow oil that
is gently scented and contains nearly equal
amounts of saturated fats.
When used as massage oil, it is absorbed easily
and quickly without leaving an oily or greasy
residue and
instantly softens dry
skin. It is helpful
for Psoriasis and
Eczema as well as
being good for anti-
ageing. It is also
beneficial as hair
conditioner as it
replenishes dry and
damaged hair. Image by T. K. Naliaka
Nutmeg
Essential
oil - Myristica
fragtrans
Nutmeg is an evergreen tree that grows up to 20
metres and is native to Moluccas and is cultivated
in Grenada Indonesia, Sri Lanka and the West
Indies. Image by J. M. Garg
The oil is extracted by Steam distillation from the
seed and the aroma is nutty warm and spicy with
the colour of water-white or pale yellow.
Nutmeg has a long tradition of topical support for
seasonal aches, pains and rheumatism especially
when combined with massage or a hot bath, as it
is an analgesic. It stimulates the heart and
circulation, is anti-emetic so can help prevent
vomiting as well as providing relief for gastric
problems, bacterial infections and nervous fatigue
as it is a stimulant that helps to relax the body and
mind so it can assist with a peaceful and full
night’s sleep. This also supports energy levels
The Spiritual Influence of Nutmeg is it is not only
calming to the body but can also have a profound
effect on our emotions. It dispels doubt and
resistance. And allows us to embrace flexibility,
spontaneity, and joy so we can move forward. If
you are into Chakras Nutmeg corresponds to the
sacral, solar plexus and heart chakras and to the
colour Yellow
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
ALTHOUGH NUTMEG IS NON-TOXIC AND NON-IRRITANT IN SMALL DOSES DO NOT USE
THIS OIL ON CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS OF AGE OR IF YOU ARE PREGNANT. IF USED IN
LARGE DOSES IT CAN CAUSE NAUSEA, STUPOR, AND CAN CAUSE TACHYCARDIA AS
STIMULATES THE HEART AND CIRCULATION.
Sandra Wiseman Therapies 4 You
07804 138585 6
www.therapies4you.com
DOLMEN GROVE MOOTS
All Dolmen Grove Moots hold regular meetings where people can find out more about
Dolmen Grove membership, ethos and upcoming events including camps, workshops and
talks.
Hampshire, Fareham, – The Heathfield Arms 116 Blackbrook Road, Fareham
po15 5bz - First Monday of every month, 7:30pm onwards.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.dolmengrovehampshiremoot/?fref=ts
Essex - Scout Hut, Cromwell Road, Grays, RM17 5HT Weekends
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dolmengroveessexmoot/?fref=ts
Dorset, Weymouth – Old Town Hall High West Street DT4 8JH Weymouth,
Dorset - Second Wednesday of every month, 7:30pm onwards
https://www.facebook.com/groups/435089566582005/?fref=ts
Dorset, Portland - The George Inn 133 Reforne, Portland, Dorset, DT5 2AP -
Last Wednesday of every month, 7:30pm onwards
https://www.facebook.com/groups/148075512033935/?fref=ts
Cornwall, St Austell - Polgooth Inn Ricketts Lane, Polgooth, St.Austell, PL26
7DA - First Wednesday of every month, 7:30pm onwards
https://www.facebook.com/groups/460165050682366/?fref=ts
Berkshire, Bracknell - The Acoustic couch 11 Market St, Bracknell, RG12 1JG
-Third Tuesday of every month, 8:00pm onwards
https://www.facebook.com/groups/150234135114242/?fref=ts
Dorset, East Dorset Travelling Moot – Various locations in East Dorset - first
Thursday of every month 7:30pm onwards
https://www.facebook.com/groups/285539554914086/?fref=ts
Berkshire, Newbury - Last Thursday of every month, 7.30pm onwards
See Facebook group for venue details
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1654789994736431/?fref=ts
All Dolmen Grove moots are advertised regularly on
www.dolmengrove.co.uk
with up-to-date information on individual moot Facebook pages
DOLMEN GROVE EAST DORSET TRAVELLING MOOT
What's a travelling moot?
Well as we couldn't decide on a location for East Dorset Moot, as Dolmen members in East
Dorset seemed quite spread out between North East, South East and everything in-between,
we decided to try a travelling moot. The plan is to meet in different locations to
accommodate members throughout the area and to welcome other pagans in the area that
may not know about us. We are open to seeing how this will pan out in the longer term and it
may be that we will settle in one location, if that location proves more convenient and
successful than others; but equally we may keep on trucking if that is what works for us. It’s
really up to what Dolmen Grove members in the East Dorset area want. We have had
exciting and interesting suggestions including meeting at a ferry port so that members from
Isle of Wight could travel as foot passengers to join us. Fantastic idea!
We will be fostering an active ritual group with rituals taking place outside of moot meeting
times to coincide with whatever is important to moot members. These times could possibly
be related to Solar or Lunar events or both. There are so many possibilities to explore and
East Dorset is a landscape rich in ancient and sacred sites. We want to take our rituals
outside to communicate with the spirits of this wonderful land. With such an abundance of
free food around us we also plan to take foraging trips to feed body and soul.
Our first meeting was at The Lambs Green Inn, Corfe Mullen and was well attended. We had
a busy agenda regarding possible meeting places /times /themes etc. A lively discussion was
held regarding the forthcoming ritual for the Dolmen Grove Solstice gathering at
Stonehenge. We are keen to encourage those new to ritual to participate and everyone
involved was energised by the experience and keen to explore further. We were grateful to
have our first moot ritual in the great mystical space of Stonehenge surrounded by the
support of our Clan.
The second meeting will be at The Green Man pub at Wimborne on Thursday 7th Jan 7pm -
7.30pm. Focusing on ritual practice the topic for this meeting will be The Quarters; the
history, the similarities and differences in our individual and group practices. Diane
Narraway will start us off with a talk which will be followed by a discussion and sharing of
experiences.
February's topic will be Sigil Magic and a talk by myself (Linda Moonbow) will lead into a
discussion. It will take place on the first Thursday of the month with the venue to be
confirmed.
Future moots will have an exciting range of topics and talks delivered by Dolmen Grove
members and guest speakers. If you have a talk you'd like to share with us or a venue you'd
like us to visit please get in touch on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/556080981209172/?fref=ts
We look forward to you joining us on your travels.
East Dorset Travelling Moot is hosted by Linda Moonbow and Gitta Cooper.
A Blessed SolsticeWINTER SOLSTICE.
Each year we gather at the Stones,
The cold doth chill us, to our bones
But we bring with us solstice cheer
To celebrate this time of year
Within the henge the circle grows,
And through us all the energy flows,
The sun has risen upon the plain,
and so the wheel has turned again.
Dancing, Drumming, Singing, Chanting,
Winters magic swirling, starting,
Blessed are we to be in this place,
Within this yuletide's dark embrace.
So celebrate eternal light,
the sun's rebirth, the longest night,
Now we leave ‘til next solstice eve,
When we'll gather again at the stones.
Karen Cooper
RETURN OF THE LIGHT
As the sun stands still
And the earth is calm
Mother nature is sleeping
Restoring her charm
Goddess becomes great Mother
The new Sun is born,
Our souls dark night
Waiting for morn.
For 12 Yule nights
The candle will burn
A blessing to all
The Sun King will return
Claire Whiles
SOLSTICE
Silent, secret, sylvan shadows,
Slip between the winter trees.
A breath of sound like distant
drumming,
Carries on a rustling breeze.
A figure walks the dreaming trackways,
Through this ancient forest night.
A woman, pale as silver birch bark,
Dressed in gown of purest white.
She steps from out the trees dark
shadow,
Into a glade of frost touched turf.
Her footfall leaves no print upon it,
She is the moon, come down to earth.
Within this landscape wreathed in
magic,
Walks another maiden fair.
Clothed in robes of green and amber,
Oak leaves woven in her hair.
Given form by earth’s great spirit,
Come to meet her moon born kin.
Her eyes are bright as rain washed
berries,
Like summers wild rose is her skin.
They meet within the trees soft circle,
Greeting with a sisters kiss.
Then stand and watch towards the pole
star,
There is a third that yet they miss.
And time is held between two moments,
Like the pause within a breath.
Or like, that infinite quietus,
That seems to wait upon a death.
The other comes on steps of silence,
Dressed in robes of Raven black.
A coldness, worse than any winter,
Follows fast upon her track.
A cowl enshrouds the ancient features,
Of this dark unseelie she.
A face of cruel and harsh uncaring,
That mortal eye would dread to see.
She is the Hag, midwinter’s spirit,
Collector of the seasons due.
Those lives, demanded by the north
wind,
To let the spring be born anew.
She steps into the star lit clearing,
Moves her hand above the ground.
A mist arises from the frost fret,
Begins to drift the circle round.
Within this icy breath of winter,
These spirits tread a sunwise path.
Creating with their slow progression,
A timeless, placeless, hallowed garth.
A space for them to work their
wisecraft,
Where the drumming louder grows.
And where, like ice, so slowly melting,
The time once more begins to flow.
Quicker now their footsteps falling
As they weave the world afresh,
Their forms, so ghostly in the mist light,
Seem to shimmer, shift and mesh.
Round in sunward sacred circle
Three in one the figures flow
The heartbeat drumming of the season
Deep within the ground below
Then, all is gone from in the clearing,
Except, the mist drifts deosil,
It spirals, wanders, weaves and falters,
Stops, and all is utter still.
Faint the sound of drumbeat fading,
Lingers on the cold night air,
The mist, performs one last
enchantment;
Unveils the figure standing there.
This shortest night draws to its ending
As golden glimmers edge the Earth,
And from this charm of solstice making,
The form of spring is given birth.
A maiden, fair as season’s blessing,
As golden haired as harvest dream.
Her gown is like a may day meadow,
A sunrise sown in every seam.
She looks towards the days new
dawning,
Her skin is washed in pearly light
Her eyes reflect the east’s pale colour,
She trembles like the lark in flight.
She is the gift of ancient spirits,
She is the wise craft that they send,
She is the new life of the season,
She is the gold at rainbows end.
She walks towards the forests welcome,
She steps in wonder, like a fawn.
Beneath her feet, the world is breathing,
As all that’s green is now re-born.
She reaches to the trees bare branches,
At her touch, the leaves unfurl.
She smiles to see this gentle magic,
And walks into the waking world.
Silent, secret, sylvan shadows,
Slip between the springtime trees.
There comes a sound, like, pan pipes
playing,
Carried on a rustling breeze.
Martin Pallot
February 2016 sees the 22nd year of commemorating The Crabchurch Conspiracy in Weymouth during the
English Civil Wars. It is the name given to a Royalist plot during the autumn and winter of 1644, in which a
rich merchant called Fabian Hodder, schemed with various other influential supporters in Dorset of the
King, Charles 1, to bring about the downfall of the Parliamentarian garrison in the twin towns of Weymouth
and Melcombe.
The Governor, a local man called Colonel William Sydenham had no idea of the plot and in fact his
regimental preacher, a puritan called Peter Ince wrote in his diary at the time…“In the beginning of
February, we were in as sweet a quiet and security as any garrison in the Kingdom: no enemy near us, but
one at Portland, and that not very considerable, being but about three or four hundred men”.
But, at midnight on the 9th February 1645 a force of 120 Portlanders attacked the town of Weymouth, taking
two major forts there and killing Sydenham's dashing younger brother, Francis in the fighting. Sydenham's
forces retreated to Melcombe and an internecine bombardment lasting several days, began. Eventually, after
a further 4,500 royalist soldiers under the command of the infamous George, Lord Goring, joined the two
thousand already facing Sydenham's meagre force of 1300 men, all seemed lost.
But, when on the 27th February 1645, the combined royalist force of 6000 men attacked, Sydenham
somehow won a miraculous victory, killing about 500 royalists with the loss of only about ten of his men.
To find out how and all about the events leading up to it, go to http://crabchurch.co.uk/
The Crabchurch Commemoration next February will be a little different from the usual format in that the
now famous Dolmen Crabchurch concert in which they perform live, their seminal concept album, 'The
Crabchurch Conspiracy', will be separate from the talks and in a different venue to them.
The talks, which this year will once again include the ever popular Professor Ronald Hutton and another
superb civil war expert, John Rees, will also include a bit of theatre in the guise of 'Bishop Bray', a royalist
ranter, more used to touring with folk rock stars, the Levellers & Maddy Prior etc. in the 'Freeborn John'
stage show. He will deliver his sermon-like observations on the civil war and its parodies with modern life
in a slightly comical show which the audience will find irresistible. But if the Bishop thinks he's getting it all
his own way, he wasn't taking into account the counter-argument which will be delivered by our own Jon
Dixon in the guise of Preacher Peter Ince and the two of them will argue it out live on stage, Royalist against
Puritan ... and may the best man win !
The talks etc. begin at 5pm in the ballroom of the Crown hotel and finish at 8-15pm. Which will give you
plenty of time to stroll the few hundred yards over to the Belvedere Hub music venue where The Dolmen
will perform their concert live, with special guests Diane Narraway and Cap'n Steve Howl, beginning at 9-
30pm.
Throughout the week leading up to the Crabchurch weekend, there will be a free English Civil War
exhibition at the Weymouth Old Town Hall and on the Saturday of the talks and concert, re-enactors will be
in full 17th century costume performing scenarios in the town of events which took place during the
Crabchurch time. The following day on the Sunday morning at 11am, you will be able to watch the trial and
executions by hanging of the conspirators, an enactment of what really took place after Sydenham's victory
was complete.
So if you want to be a part of this great weekend which will feature some excellent historians and an
awesome night of wonderful music from The Dolmen go to the link below and secure your tickets for one or
both of the events taking place. Tickets are limited to 100 for each event, so get in quick!
CRABCHURCH ...WHERE MUSIC MEETS HISTORY ... AND MAGICK IS BORN.
Mark Vine
http://cc16.co.uk/
Further information on Dolmen Grove can be found
www.dolmengrove.co.uk
Dolmen Grove Facebook links
Portland Moot https://www.facebook.com/groups/14807551203393
Poole Moot https://www.facebook.com/groups/28553955491408
Weymouth Moot https://www.facebook.com/groups/43508956658200
Berkshire/Bracknell Moot https://www.facebook.com/groups/15023413511424
Cornwall Moot https://www.facebook.com/groups/46016505068236
Essex Moot https://www.facebook.com/groups/dolmengroveessexmoot
Hampshire Moot
https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.dolmengrovehampshiremoot/
Berkshire/Newbury Moot
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1654789994736431/?fref=ts
Dolmen Grove Chronicles
https://www.facebook.com/DolmenGroveMagazine
Dolmen Grove
www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dolmen-Grove/110124449082
Email Diane Narraway (chairman Dolmen Grove/Editor Dolmen Grove Chronicles)