Ritual for the Morning Sun

It happens. You wake up at almost dawn and wonder if you should snuggle
under the covers and just forget about being a witch for one day, OR should
you jump up, and go out to greet the sun? If it is the first that comes to
mind, skip this ritual, but if its the second, read on!

I am a confessed morning nut. I can't get back into sleep mode, and need and
want to do something! As my mornings involve things outside, I created this
ritual to welcome the sun.

Dress in soft flowing clean clothes. Take a wand or rod and create a circle,
working clockwise, outside in the dirt. Alternatively you can set up a
circle of stones on your lawn to use daily, OR trace a chalk circle outside
on your deck. The most important thing is that it faces the east.

Once you have drawn your circle, step inside. Breathe deeply and allow the
sounds of the outside world in. listen to the song of birds, or the wind.
Listen to the sounds of people around you. Accept the sounds. Now, hear them
fade into the distance, Hear only the sound of your heart and your breath.
Draw back inside yourself. Concentrate on your breathing. As the sun rises
feel the warmth on your face.

Raise your arms towards it and gently pull in the sun to your face with your
open hands. Breathe in as you pull in the rays, pulling in the positive
energy. Breath out as you raise your hands, dispelling any negativity.

When you are ready chant three times

“This day begins the sun does shine

the power is strong, the power is mine.

Clear in mind and strong in heart

Sun bless me as this day starts.�?BR>
Lower your arms. Breathe in and out gently, feeling the sun's warming energy
swirl round you and blanket you with strong and clear light. Promise to
carry this with you through the day. Accept the sun into your life and then,
when you are ready to leave the circle, first ground by touching the soil by
your feet. You are now part of the cycle of energy. If you need to recharge
in the day, take a moment outside, find the sun and draw it in again.

-Nancy Bennett