​In the changing world we live in, more and more people are creating a dedicated space in their homes where they can connect with their inner selves, honour their intentions, and find a moment of peace and focus.

Whether small or elaborate, a personal altar can serve as a powerful tool for grounding, reflection, and spiritual practice. Creating a spiritual altar can be a deeply personal experience, allowing you to design a space that reflects your beliefs, goals, and the energies you want to invite into your life.

Historically, altars have been used across cultures and religions as sacred spaces for offerings, rituals, and prayer. While traditional altars are often associated with formal places of worship, a home altar is more flexible and customized to your personal spiritual needs. It doesn’t require religious affiliation; instead, it’s about cultivating a space where you can focus your thoughts, intentions, and energies, making room for meditation, manifestation, or simple moments of peace and gratitude.

To begin, choose a quiet and clean area of your home for your altar. This could be a small table, a shelf, a windowsill, or even a designated corner of a room. The size and placement are less important than the intention you bring to the space. Ideally, it should be somewhere you feel calm and undisturbed, where you can visit regularly to centre yourself.

Once you’ve selected your space, you can start adding items that hold personal meaning or represent the energies you want to embrace. Many people include elements that resonate with the four natural elements: earth, water, fire, and air; a crystal or plant to symbolise earth, a small bowl of water, a candle to represent fire, and incense or feathers for air. These elements help to create balance and bring the energy of nature into your home.

You can also add items that reflect your spiritual or personal journey. Photographs of loved ones, images of spiritual figures, meaningful stones, or objects found on walks in nature are wonderful additions. Many people choose to include symbols of their goals or intentions, like a journal for thoughts, a piece of paper with an affirmation, or a vision board representing their dreams. The beauty of a home altar is that it is entirely personal, and you can continuously evolve it as your journey unfolds.

Maintaining your altar is another way to keep its energy vibrant. Regularly cleaning and rearranging it can symbolize fresh intentions and help release any stagnant energy. Lighting candles or incense can also help set the tone, making the space feel alive and inviting. Over time, this space becomes a touchstone, a grounding force in your home and life.

One of the most valuable benefits of a home altar is the opportunity it creates for daily rituals, whether as a place to set intentions in the morning or to release worries at the end of the day. Just a few minutes spent at your altar can bring a sense of calm and connection, helping you to reconnect with your own spirit and cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude.

Creating a spiritual altar is a beautiful way to invite sacredness into your home and your life. It’s a place for reflection, intention, and peace—a physical reminder of your inner journey. By taking a few moments each day at your altar, you’re honouring your spiritual practice and creating a habit of mindfulness, intention, and connection with the energies you wish to embrace.

Below are some suggestions for Home and Nature based Altars - create something that resonates with who you are and what you need. Your altar can change, adding and subtracting items or amending the purpose of it whenever you feel the need. Enjoy connecting with your inner self, finding peace and calm in this tumultuous world. Re-weave the fabric of your life.

Wylder Clout is a Shamanic Practitioner, Energy Healer, and Teacher who provides a practical, holistic approach to personal spiritual healing and self-discovery. She offers services aimed at helping clients release stress, address trauma, and break free from patterns that may be holding them back. Each session is tailored to fit individual needs, using techniques like energy work, breath work, guided meditation, and shamanic journeying to support clients in reconnecting with themselves, accessing their own inner wisdom, and gaining clarity in their lives. Wylder also offers House Cleansing and Land Blessings, bringing a sense of renewal and positive energy to spaces and surroundings. 

As the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer, we approach the Winter Solstice, a time of profound significance in the shamanic tradition. This ancient celebration marks the longest night of the year and the gradual return of the light, symbolizing a journey from darkness into rebirth and renewal. For shamans, the Winter Solstice is a powerful opportunity to connect with nature, the spirit world, and our inner selves. Let’s delve into the ways we can honor this sacred time.

The Winter Solstice occurs around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere and June 21st in the Southern Hemisphere. It is the point at which the sun reaches its lowest position in the sky, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year. This celestial event has been celebrated by various cultures throughout history, from the ancient Yule festivals of the Norse to the Inti Raymi of the Inca.

In shamanic tradition, the Winter Solstice is a time to embrace the darkness, not with fear, but with reverence. It is seen as a period of introspection, healing, and transformation. The darkness represents the womb of creation, a space where we can plant seeds of intention for the coming year. It is also a time to honor the cycles of nature and our place within the greater web of life.

Creating Sacred Space
Begin your Winter Solstice celebration by creating a sacred space. This can be as simple as setting up an altar with symbols of the season—evergreen branches, candles, crystals, and winter fruits. Cleanse the space with sage, palo santo, or other purifying herbs. Invite the spirits of the four directions, ancestors, and any guiding spirits to join you in your ceremony.

Meditation and Journeying
Meditation and shamanic journeying are powerful tools to connect with the energies of the Winter Solstice. Enter a meditative state and visualize yourself descending into the earth, into the womb of Mother Earth. Here, you can meet with spirit guides, ancestors, or power animals who have messages or wisdom for you. Listen to what they have to share and ask for guidance for the coming year.

Honoring the Darkness
Embrace the darkness of the night with gratitude. Light candles to symbolize the return of the sun and the promise of new beginnings. Reflect on the past year—its challenges, lessons, and blessings. Acknowledge any grief or pain, allowing yourself to feel and release it. This process of honoring the darkness is essential for making space for new growth.

Setting Intentions
The Winter Solstice is a potent time for setting intentions for the year ahead. Write down your dreams, goals, and aspirations on a piece of paper. As you do, feel the energy of the earth supporting and nurturing your intentions. You can plant this paper in the earth, burn it in a sacred fire, or place it on your altar as a reminder of your commitment.

Feasting and Community
Community gatherings and feasting are integral to shamanic celebrations. If possible, gather with loved ones to share a meal, stories, and songs. Celebrate the return of the light with joy and gratitude. Sharing food and drink is a way to honor the abundance of the earth and strengthen communal bonds.

Embracing the Light Within
As the solstice night gives way to dawn, take a moment to honor the light within yourself. Recognize your inner strength, wisdom, and resilience. Just as the sun will rise higher and higher in the sky, so too will you grow and flourish in the coming year. Carry the lessons of the solstice with you as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the endless possibilities of renewal and transformation.

The Winter Solstice is a sacred time of year that invites us to pause, reflect, and renew our connection to the natural world and the spiritual realms. By celebrating this event from a shamanic perspective, we honor the ancient wisdom that teaches us to find light in the darkness and embrace the cycles of life. May your Winter Solstice be filled with peace, introspection, and the seeds of new beginnings.

Wylder Clout is a Shamanic Practitioner, Shamanic Reiki Master Practitioner, Reiki Master, and Chakra Healing Master. Providing specialised services aimed at facilitating the release of blockages, addressing past or present trauma, transforming recurring patterns, and contributing to the re-weaving of your soul and life journey.  [email protected]

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's not uncommon for our emotional well-being to take a toll. Amidst the stresses of work, relationships, and the constant demands of modern living, finding balance can feel like an elusive pursuit. Let us explore the transformative power of Reiki healing and delve into the profound emotional benefits that this ancient practice can offer.

Understanding Reiki:
Reiki, a Japanese healing technique that channels universal energy through the hands of a practitioner, aims to restore balance and promote holistic well-being. While it's often associated with physical healing, the emotional benefits of Reiki are equally remarkable.

1. Stress Relief and Relaxation: At the core of Reiki lies the ability to induce deep relaxation. As practitioners channel healing energy, recipients often experience a profound sense of calmness and tranquillity. This release of tension not only alleviates physical stress but also extends to the emotional realm, providing a respite from the daily pressures that can accumulate.
2. Energetic Cleansing: Reiki works on the principle that emotional imbalances are often mirrored in our energy fields. By cleansing and balancing these energies, Reiki can help release negative emotions that may be lingering within. This purification process provides a sense of lightness, allowing individuals to navigate their emotions with greater clarity.
3. Emotional Release and Healing: Unresolved emotions can manifest as physical discomfort or ailments. Reiki facilitates the release of blocked emotions, providing a safe space for individuals to confront and process their feelings. This emotional purging can lead to a profound sense of relief and pave the way for healing on a deep, emotional level.
4. Increased Self-Awareness: Through the gentle energy transfer of Reiki, individuals often experience heightened self-awareness. This newfound awareness allows for a deeper understanding of one's emotions, enabling individuals to make conscious choices in how they respond to life's challenges. The result is a more empowered and emotionally resilient individual.
5. Balancing Emotional Energy Centres: Reiki targets the body's energy centres, known as chakras, which are intricately connected to emotional well-being. By harmonising these energy centres, Reiki helps restore emotional equilibrium. This balance not only enhances emotional stability but also fosters a sense of overall well-being.

As we navigate the complexities of life, prioritising emotional well-being becomes paramount. Reiki healing, with its profound ability to release stress, cleanse emotional energies, and foster self-awareness, emerges as a beacon of hope. It offers a sanctuary for emotional healing, empowering individuals to embrace their emotions with grace and resilience.

In the journey toward emotional balance, let Reiki be your guide, gently ushering you into a space of tranquillity and self-discovery. May your path be illuminated by the transformative light of healing energy, leading you to a place of emotional harmony and well-being.

Wishing you peace and serenity on your healing journey, Wylder

Wylder Clout is an Urban Shamanic Practitioner, Shamanic Reiki Master Practitioner, Reiki Master, and Chakra Healing Master. Providing specialised services aimed at facilitating the release of blockages, addressing past or present trauma, transforming recurring patterns, and contributing to the re-weaving of your soul and life journey.  [email protected]

This article also appears in the February 2024 newsletter for the Freshwater Wellness Centre
​

The Root Chakra, situated at the base of the spine above the pubic bone, is a vital energy center that forms the foundation of our stability, security, physical survival, and grounding. It governs essential bodily functions related to the spine, bladder, blood, kidneys, male reproductive system, legs, and feet. Understanding and nurturing this foundational chakra is key to achieving balance and well-being in our lives.

The Role of the Root Chakra:
The Root Chakra serves as the energetic anchor connecting us to the Earth. It addresses our primal and physical needs, including the ability to secure nourishment, find shelter and safety, and manage financial stability and prosperity. This chakra empowers us to be resourceful, establishing a connection with the material world that contributes to our overall well-being, goal achievement, and exploration of life's possibilities.

Balanced vs. Unbalanced Root Chakra:
When the Root Chakra is in balance, we experience groundedness, centeredness, trust, independence, vitality, fitness, strength, and confidence. However, an unbalanced Root Chakra may manifest in emotional expressions such as bossiness, domineering tendencies, egotism, greed, violence, frustration, anxiety, and disorganization. Individuals with an unbalanced Root Chakra may feel unloved, fearful, shy, unsure, detached from the world, lacking safety, rejected, abandoned, and may also experience a low libido.

Remedying an Unbalanced Root Chakra:
Addressing an imbalanced Root Chakra can be a transformative journey. Simple practices, such as taking walks in nature, incorporating daily meditation, and establishing routines, can contribute to realigning and harmonising this essential energy centre. Dietary changes, including the inclusion of fruits and vegetables from the 'red' family, play a role in supporting the Root Chakra. Carrying crystals like jasper, garnet, or hematite can also aid in grounding and balancing.

Taking Charge of Energy Centers:
Acknowledging, understanding, and caring for the energy centers within our bodies are pivotal steps towards a more open and fulfilling life experience. By clearing our chakras, we create an optimal environment for our bodies to function, reducing the risk of disease and slowing the aging process.

The Root Chakra's influence on our physical and emotional well-being cannot be overstated. Taking proactive steps to nurture and balance this energy center opens the door to a more harmonious and fulfilling life. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and well-being, consider booking a Chakra Energy Balance with Wylder Clout.

Contact Wylder at [email protected] to take the first step towards a balanced and grounded life.

Reweave the fabric of your Authentic Self, transforming your life with ancient healing techniques, embracing freedom, self-love, and soulful guidance. Consciously create the life you desire.

Wylder Leanne Clout, Urban Shamanic Practitioner, Shamanic Reiki Master Practitioner, Reiki Master and Crystal Dreaming Practitioner.

Have you ever felt a subtle energy flowing through your body, influencing your emotions, thoughts, and overall well-being? Welcome to the world of chakras, an ancient concept originating from Eastern spiritual traditions. The chakra system is a fascinating and holistic approach to understanding and balancing the energies within us.

What Are Chakras?
Chakras, derived from the Sanskrit word for "wheel," are seven energy centers positioned, from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. Each chakra is associated with specific qualities and aspects of our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

The Root Chakra (Muladhara): is located at the base of the spine. The Root Chakra is associated with grounding and stability. Imagine it as the foundation of a house, providing a sense of security and connection to the Earth.

The Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana): Moving up to the lower abdomen, we find the Sacral Chakra, linked to creativity, passion, and emotional expression. It's the center of our pleasure and joy.

The Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Situated in the upper abdomen, the Solar Plexus Chakra governs our personal power, self-esteem, and confidence. It's like our internal sun, radiating strength and vitality.

The Heart Chakra (Anahata): At the center of the chest, the Heart Chakra is the bridge between the lower and upper chakras. It embodies love, compassion, and forgiveness, fostering a sense of interconnectedness.

The Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): As the name suggests, the Throat Chakra is located at the throat and is associated with communication, self-expression, and authenticity. It's the channel through which our inner truth flows outward.

The Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): Positioned between the eyebrows, the Third Eye Chakra is related to intuition, insight, and spiritual awareness. It's the seat of our inner wisdom and higher consciousness.

The Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): At the top of the head, the Crown Chakra is the gateway to spiritual connection and enlightenment. It represents the culmination of our spiritual journey, transcending earthly concerns.

An imbalance in any chakra can lead to physical, emotional, or spiritual issues. Practices such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness can help balance and align your chakras, promoting a harmonious flow of energy throughout your being.

A Chakra Energy Balance focuses on clearing and channeling energy into the body's seven main chakras to clean out and balance the flow of energy through the body's energy centres.

The chakra system offers a holistic perspective on our mind-body-spirit connection. By understanding and nurturing these energy centers, we can enhance our overall well-being and lead a more harmonious life. Take the first step on this fascinating journey, exploring the wonders of your own energy system and unlocking the potential for a balanced and fulfilled existence.

Reweave the fabric of your Authentic Self, transforming your life with ancient healing techniques, embracing freedom, self-love, and soulful guidance. Consciously create the life you desire.

Wylder Leanne Clout, Urban Shamanic Practitioner, Shamanic Reiki Master Practitioner, Reiki Master and Crystal Dreaming Practitioner .

In a world where stress and tension often take centre stage, people are increasingly turning to alternative therapies to find balance and promote overall well-being. One such practice gaining popularity is Reiki, a gentle yet powerful form of energy healing. Let's explore the basics of Reiki and how it can positively impact your life.

What is Reiki?
Reiki, (pronounced "ray-kee,") is a Japanese healing technique that dates back to the late 19th/early 20th century. The word itself is derived from two Japanese words: "rei," meaning universal, and "ki," meaning life energy. At its core, Reiki is based on the idea that a life force energy flows through us, and when this energy is low or blocked, we are more likely to feel stressed, tired, or unwell.

How Does Reiki Work?
During a Reiki session, a practitioner channels this universal life energy through their hands to the recipient. The recipient, fully clothed, lies down or sits comfortably, allowing the energy to flow where it is needed most. The practitioner's hands may hover over or lightly touch specific areas, promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being.

Benefits of Reiki

1. Stress Reduction: Reiki is renowned for its ability to induce deep relaxation, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety.
2. Balanced Energy: By clearing energy blockages, Reiki promotes a balanced flow of energy throughout the body, fostering physical and emotional healing.
3. Enhanced Well-Being: Many individuals report feelings of increased energy, mental clarity, and an overall improved sense of well-being after Reiki sessions.

Is Reiki for Everyone?
Absolutely. One of the remarkable aspects of Reiki is its non-invasiveness and adaptability. It complements traditional medical treatments and can be practiced by people of all ages.

In Conclusion
Whether you're seeking relief from the pressures of daily life or exploring complementary therapies, Reiki offers a gentle and holistic approach to well-being. As you open yourself to the flow of universal energy, you may find that Reiki becomes a valuable tool on your journey to a healthier, more balanced life.
 
Reweave the fabric of your Authentic Self, transforming your life with ancient healing techniques, embracing freedom, self-love, and soulful guidance. Consciously create the life you desire.

Wylder Leanne Clout, Urban Shamanic Practitioner, Shamanic Reiki Master Practitioner, Reiki Master and Crystal Dreaming Practitioner.

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, the call for a deeper connection with nature and spirituality resonates louder than ever. Modern shamanism, a revival of ancient practices, offers a unique and accessible path for those seeking a more profound understanding of themselves and the world around them.

At its core, shamanism is a practice that dates back centuries, rooted in indigenous cultures across the globe. In today's context, modern shamanism adapts these ancient traditions to suit contemporary lifestyles. It's not about donning feathers and chanting around a fire (unless you want to, of course!), but rather about tapping into the universal energy that surrounds us.

One key aspect of modern shamanism is the recognition of the interconnectedness of all things. In a world often driven by division, this practice encourages us to see the threads that weave us together. It invites us to listen to the whispers of nature, from the rustling leaves to the babbling brooks, and find meaning in the symphony of life.

Meditation and journeying are common tools in the modern shaman's toolkit. These practices enable individuals to explore their inner landscapes, confront fears, and unlock hidden potential. It's like embarking on a personal quest without leaving the comfort of your meditation cushion.

Crystals, herbs, essential oils, and rituals are a few of the things that play a role in modern shamanism too. While skeptics may dismiss them as mere symbolism, practitioners argue that these tools act as conduits for energy, helping to amplify intentions and connect with the other worlds.

Ultimately, modern shamanism is a journey of self-discovery and mindfulness. It doesn't require a remote mountaintop or exclusive initiation; it's about embracing the present moment and recognizing the magic that exists in the ordinary. So, whether you're a seasoned spiritual seeker or a curious beginner, modern shamanism beckons, inviting you to dance with the rhythms of the cosmos and discover the wisdom that lies within.

Shared from Wild Spirit Ways

Reweave the fabric of your Authentic Self, transforming your life with ancient healing techniques, embracing freedom, self-love, and soulful guidance. Consciously create the life you desire.

Wylder Leanne Clout, Urban Shamanic Practitioner, Shamanic Reiki Master Practitioner, Reiki Master and Crystal Dreaming Practitioner .