Dream Pillows In German and Nordic traditions believed the power of the sun on Midsummer made it easy for humans to access the unseen worlds. Many divinations and vision quests were practiced on this night. To this day prophetic dreams play a large role in Scandinavian lore. The Danes used to place St. John's Wort under their pillows to induce prophetic dreaming, while the Celts and the English used Mugwort, which is just as potent, but without the toxic qualities of St. John's Wort. If you wish to practice dream magick on Midsummer night you may want to make a dream pillow to help enhance your dreams. You will need: | Small square of blue or purple fabric (preferably cotton), 4x8 inches. Make sure you leave room around the edges for a seam. | | Matching thread | | Needle | | Herb you wish to use (mugwort, lemongrass, or lavender are good herbs for dream magick) | Take the piece of cloth and fold it over so that it makes a square. Sew up all sides EXCEPT ONE, leave one side open so you can stuff your pillow. Turn the pillow inside out, stuff it with your chosen herbs, and sew up the final side. Make sure you are visualizing your goal as you do this, as is plays a large role in the dream magick. When you are finished making the pillow take it to bed with you and place it under your pillowcase, making sure its fragrance will reach you. Before going to sleep, visualize what you wish to dream. You may wish to add a chant too this, to help lull you into sleep. Have a notebook and pen ready to jot down any impressions or dreams you have upon waking. Do this even before you stretch, dreams have a tendency to fade quickly from memory. |