The Celtic Omen Days

I first read about the Omen Days via Caitlin Mathews, who has written extensively on Celtic Wisdom and the ancestral traditions of Britain and Europe. In an article she wrote in 2013, Caitlin described the medieval Celtic practice of divining oracles from nature during the Twelve Days of Christmas which begin on December 26 and end on January 6 (or Twelfth Night). According to Mathews, during this time, it was the custom of many to go outside on each day to observe signs in nature and divine from them clues to what might be in store in the year to come.

I have followed this practice on and off for many years and as the months go by, I enjoy looking back and reflecting on how each sign has played out in my life. This year, I plan to focus my attention on seeking signs in nature that might inspire the poems I post here every few weeks.

As with all forms of divination, there is no right or wrong way to do this, the important thing is that you take time to relax and ground yourself, and then use your intuition to scan your surroundings and look for a symbol or some movement that catches your eye; something significant in that liminal space between the seen and the unseen. This might happen on a daily walk, or by simply gazing out the window. Sometimes you will know a sign immediately such as a bird flying or a mysterious light in the distance, while other times it may be harder to find a sign and you may have to cast your mind back on the events of the day and look for something that stands out.

Whatever your practice, the Omen Days can offer a beautiful way to connect with the natural world and allow it to inspire and ground you during the year ahead.

I am wishing you love and peace as the wheel of the year continues to turn during these unsettling times. May the brightening light lift your heart and illuminate new creative goals for you in 2025.

Image: Diane Perazzo – photo adapted with Prisma Dragon filter.