Matariki Inspired Ideas for Your Practice
The Matariki star cluster appears in the east through the months of June–July and is visible before the sun rises, marking the start of the Māori New Year. This year we have our first public holiday to celebrate the season of Matariki!
As Matariki falls during the chilly winter months it is interesting to note that it has elements of honouring ancestors, giving thanks, feasting with family and preparing the way for new hopes and dreams. These themes are very similar to the traditional themes of Samhain and Yule which also fall during the winter months. Though these celebrations are linked to more Celtic traditions, I love the fact that no matter the culture or belief system the winter season lends itself to a time of honouring the past whilst also moving forward and paving the way for the future.
So why not weave elements of Matariki inspiration into your practice with the following activities....
Matariki is a time for reflection and is the perfect time to remember our loved ones who have passed. Light candles or set up a special space to remember your ancestors and family members who have passed on and honour their memory
Rug warm, take some hot drinks outside, spread out a blanket and star gaze. Why not pack a night time desert picnic up, build a bonfire (taking fire safety precautions!) and swap stories of myths and legends while watching the stars.
Write down your hopes, dreams, and aspirations for the year ahead. You could then plant a tree or some spring bulbs, placing the paper your wrote your dreams on into the hole with the tree roots ... every time you take a minute to nurture the tree, nurture your dreams as well!
You can take some of the above ideas as jumping off points to do a little more research on Matariki. Armed with insight and inspiration you can then create your own meaningful Matariki ritual for you and your family to enjoy.
Use the ideas of fire and warmth, food and family, reflection, hopes and dreams, stories and stars, as your inspiration and see what you come up with!
For myself, I am taking a little bit of all of the above. Each night I am lighting candles on my ancestral altar and giving thanks for those who came before me and those who come behind me, lighting a candle also for the bright future that lies ahead for my children. I am also going to create a special baked desert for my children and I to enjoy one night over the long Matariki weekend and if I can convince the kids to indulge me and wrap up warm, we will head outside to try and spot the Seven Sisters in the night sky.
Enjoy your Matariki✨✨