Tag Archive | Vikings

Modern Viking culture is a fascinating blend of historical and contemporary influences. It has captured the imagination of people all over the world and has inspired a thriving subculture of Viking enthusiasts.

One aspect of modern Viking culture is its emphasis on history and tradition. Many people are drawn to Viking culture because of its rich and storied past. They seek to learn more about Viking history, mythology, and lifestyle, and to incorporate these elements into their own lives.

At the same time, modern Viking culture is also a creative and dynamic movement. Viking enthusiasts are constantly finding new ways to express their love of all things Viking, from music and art to fashion and lifestyle.

Viking-inspired fashion is also a significant aspect of modern Viking culture. From leather and metal accessories to intricately woven tunics and dresses, Viking-inspired clothing has become a popular fashion trend. Many people also choose to adorn themselves with tattoos and piercings inspired by Viking art and mythology.

Modern Viking culture also places a strong emphasis on community and brotherhood. This is reflected in the many Viking festivals and gatherings that take place around the world, where enthusiasts come together to celebrate their shared love of Viking culture.

In addition to its cultural aspects, modern Viking culture also has a strong ecological and environmental component. Many Viking enthusiasts are drawn to the Vikings’ connection to nature and the environment, and seek to promote sustainable living practices and environmental awareness.

Overall, modern Viking culture is a vibrant and dynamic movement that combines history, tradition, creativity, community, and environmentalism. It continues to inspire people around the world and is likely to continue to do so for many years to come.

Another example of modern Viking culture is the Viking folk music genre, which blends traditional Scandinavian folk music with Viking-inspired themes and imagery. This genre has gained a loyal following around the world and has helped to popularize Viking culture in mainstream music circles.

Viking folk music often features instruments such as the nyckelharpa, a traditional Swedish stringed instrument, and the hurdy-gurdy, a hand-cranked string instrument. It also incorporates traditional Nordic vocal styles, such as the kulning technique, which involves using high-pitched, melodic calls to communicate over long distances.

Viking folk music festivals and concerts are popular events in many countries, where enthusiasts come together to celebrate their shared love of Viking culture and music. These events often include workshops and performances by prominent Viking folk musicians, as well as vendors selling Viking-inspired instruments, clothing, and accessories.

In addition to its cultural significance, Viking folk music also promotes environmentalism and sustainability. Many Viking folk musicians are passionate about protecting the natural world and use their music to raise awareness of environmental issues and advocate for sustainable living practices.

Overall, Viking folk music is a unique and powerful expression of modern Viking culture, combining traditional Nordic music with contemporary themes and values. It continues to inspire and captivate people around the world, and is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Vikings.

Modern Viking culture has also seen a resurgence of interest in sword combat, both as a sport and as a form of historical recreation. Enthusiasts around the world participate in live steel, LARP (Live Action Role Playing), foam boffer, and SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) events, where they engage in simulated combat using a variety of weapons, including Viking-style swords and shields.

Many of these sword combat enthusiasts are drawn to the Viking era for its rich history and mythology, as well as its reputation for fierce and skilled warriors. They seek to learn more about Viking swordsmanship and battle tactics, and to incorporate these techniques into their own combat styles.

In addition to physical sword combat, modern technology has also given rise to virtual sword fighting experiences, such as sword combat in VR (virtual reality). These experiences allow participants to immerse themselves in a virtual Viking world and engage in simulated sword combat with other players from around the world.

Whether it’s through physical combat or virtual reality, sword fighting has become a popular way for modern Viking enthusiasts to connect with the history and culture of the Vikings. It allows them to experience the thrill and challenge of battle, while also promoting physical fitness, skill development, and camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts.

Another way that modern Viking culture has found expression is through Viking-themed video games. These games allow players to immerse themselves in Viking history and mythology, exploring virtual worlds and engaging in battles with foes both human and supernatural.

Games such as “Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla,” “God of War,” and “The Banner Saga” have become popular among Viking enthusiasts, as they offer a chance to experience Viking culture and history in a new and immersive way. These games often incorporate elements of Viking mythology, such as gods and monsters, as well as historical events and figures from Viking history.

In addition to their entertainment value, Viking-themed video games also have educational value, as they can help players learn more about Viking culture and history. They can also inspire a deeper appreciation for Viking art, music, and literature, and promote interest in related areas of study.

Overall, Viking-themed video games are a fun and engaging way for modern Viking enthusiasts to connect with the culture and history of the Vikings. They offer a unique and interactive window into a fascinating period of human history, and help to keep the legacy of the Vikings alive in the modern world.

In addition to Viking-themed video games, there are also many popular TV shows, movies, and anime that draw inspiration from Viking history and culture. These shows often feature epic battles, intricate political intrigue, and larger-than-life characters, all set against a backdrop of Viking mythology and folklore.

Some notable examples of Viking-themed TV shows include “Vikings,” “The Last Kingdom,” and “Norsemen,” all of which have gained a large following for their engaging storytelling, historical accuracy, and stunning cinematography. These shows offer a glimpse into the complex social structures, customs, and beliefs of the Viking world, and showcase the incredible achievements of Viking society.

In addition to TV shows, Viking-themed movies such as “The 13th Warrior” and “Valhalla Rising” have also gained a following among Viking enthusiasts. These movies often depict the Vikings as fearsome warriors and master seafarers, and showcase their incredible feats of strength and bravery.

Anime has also started to feature Viking themes, with shows like “Vinland Saga” and “Thors’ Stone,” bringing Viking history and mythology to a new audience. These shows often feature intense battles, powerful characters, and intricate storylines, all set against a backdrop of Viking culture and lore.

Overall, Viking-themed TV shows, movies, and anime have become an important part of modern Viking culture, offering a way for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of the Vikings. They allow viewers to learn more about Viking history and mythology, and to appreciate the incredible achievements of this legendary culture.

Mead, an alcoholic beverage made from honey, has been an important part of Viking culture for centuries, and continues to be enjoyed by modern Viking enthusiasts around the world. Mead is often associated with the Vikings due to its popularity during the Viking Age, when it was a common drink among warriors and nobles alike.

In addition to its historical significance, mead has also become an important symbol of modern Viking culture, with many enthusiasts enjoying the drink at Viking-themed events and gatherings. Drinking mead is seen as a way to connect with Viking history and culture, and to celebrate the achievements and traditions of this legendary culture.

Mead brewing has also become a popular hobby among modern Viking enthusiasts, with many people learning to make their own mead using traditional Viking techniques. These techniques often involve using wildflower honey, natural yeasts, and a variety of herbs and spices to create unique and flavorful meads that harken back to the Viking era.

In addition to its cultural significance, mead is also valued for its health benefits, with many people believing that it can boost the immune system, aid digestion, and promote relaxation and sleep. Mead is also a gluten-free and vegan-friendly beverage, making it an ideal choice for those with dietary restrictions.

Overall, mead and mead drinking have become an important part of modern Viking culture, offering a way for enthusiasts to connect with the traditions and history of the Vikings. Whether it’s enjoying a glass of mead at a Viking-themed event or learning to make their own mead using traditional techniques, modern Viking enthusiasts continue to find ways to celebrate this iconic beverage and its role in Viking culture.

Camping, nature, and outdoor survival have become increasingly popular among modern Viking enthusiasts, as they offer a way to connect with the natural world and to experience the thrill of adventure and exploration. These activities are also deeply rooted in Viking culture, where survival in the harsh and unforgiving landscape of Scandinavia was a daily reality.

For modern Viking enthusiasts, camping and outdoor activities offer a chance to escape the stresses of modern life and to reconnect with the rhythms of nature. Many Viking enthusiasts enjoy camping trips in natural settings, where they can practice their survival skills, learn about natural resources, and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Outdoor survival skills have also become an important part of modern Viking culture, with many enthusiasts learning to build shelters, start fires, and find food and water in the wild. These skills are seen as a way to connect with the resourcefulness and ingenuity of the Vikings, who were able to survive and thrive in the harsh conditions of their environment.

In addition to camping and outdoor activities, many modern Viking enthusiasts also enjoy hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor pursuits that allow them to experience the beauty and power of nature. These activities are seen as a way to connect with the wild and untamed spirit of the Vikings, and to honor the close relationship between humans and the natural world that was so important in Viking culture.

Overall, camping, nature, and outdoor survival have become an important part of modern Viking culture, offering a way for enthusiasts to connect with the natural world and to experience the thrill of adventure and exploration. These activities are a reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of the Vikings, and of their deep connection to the natural world that continues to inspire and captivate us today.

Sailing and boating are deeply rooted in Viking culture, where the seafaring skills of the Vikings allowed them to explore, trade, and conquer new lands throughout Europe and beyond. For modern Viking enthusiasts, sailing and boating continue to be an important part of the culture, offering a way to connect with the seafaring traditions of the Vikings and to experience the thrill of adventure on the open water.

Many modern Viking enthusiasts enjoy sailing and boating in traditional Viking-style ships, which are designed to mimic the longships used by the Vikings during the Viking Age. These ships are often built using traditional techniques and materials, and are designed to be both seaworthy and historically accurate.

In addition to sailing and boating in Viking-style ships, many modern Viking enthusiasts also enjoy modern sailing and boating activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and yachting. These activities allow enthusiasts to experience the freedom and exhilaration of being on the water, and to connect with the beauty and power of the natural world.

Sailing and boating also offer a way to connect with the seafaring spirit of the Vikings, who were known for their adventurous and exploratory nature. The Vikings were master navigators and sailors, and their seafaring skills allowed them to conquer new lands, establish trade routes, and forge alliances throughout Europe and beyond.

Overall, sailing and boating are an important part of modern Viking culture, offering a way for enthusiasts to connect with the seafaring traditions of the Vikings and to experience the thrill of adventure on the open water. These activities are a reminder of the adventurous and exploratory spirit of the Vikings, and of their deep connection to the sea and the natural world that continues to inspire and captivate us today.

Road trips, day trips, van life, car life, RV life, and nomadic lifestyles have become increasingly popular among modern Viking enthusiasts, as they offer a way to explore the world and to connect with the adventurous and exploratory spirit of the Vikings. These lifestyles are also deeply rooted in Viking culture, where exploration and travel were an important part of daily life.

For modern Viking enthusiasts, road trips and nomadic lifestyles offer a way to escape the confines of modern life and to experience the freedom and excitement of travel. Many enthusiasts enjoy taking day trips to explore local natural and cultural landmarks, while others prefer to live a nomadic lifestyle, traveling from place to place and embracing the unpredictability and adventure that comes with a life on the road.

Van life, car life, and RV life have also become popular among modern Viking enthusiasts, offering a way to experience the thrill of adventure while still enjoying the comforts and conveniences of modern life. Many enthusiasts outfit their vehicles with all the necessities of daily life, including a bed, kitchen, and bathroom, allowing them to live comfortably on the road.

These lifestyles are a reminder of the adventurous and exploratory spirit of the Vikings, who were known for their seafaring and exploratory nature. The Vikings traveled far and wide, establishing trade routes, forging alliances, and conquering new lands throughout Europe and beyond.

Overall, road trips, day trips, van life, car life, RV life, and nomadic lifestyles are an important part of modern Viking culture, offering a way for enthusiasts to connect with the adventurous and exploratory spirit of the Vikings and to experience the freedom and excitement of travel. These lifestyles are a reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of the Vikings, and of their deep connection to the natural world that continues to inspire and captivate us today.

Modern witchcraft, magick, the occult, Paganism, and spiritual self-improvement have become increasingly popular among modern Viking enthusiasts, as they offer a way to connect with the spiritual traditions of the Vikings and to explore their own inner worlds.

Viking culture was deeply rooted in Paganism, which was a central part of their religious and cultural identity. The Vikings believed in a pantheon of gods and goddesses, and their religious practices were characterized by ritual sacrifice, divination, and other forms of magick.

For modern Viking enthusiasts, the practice of magick and Paganism offers a way to connect with the spiritual traditions of the Vikings and to explore their own inner worlds. Many enthusiasts practice various forms of witchcraft, such as Wicca or traditional Norse magick, incorporating elements of nature, mythology, and folklore into their practice.

Spiritual self-improvement is also an important aspect of modern Viking culture, as many enthusiasts believe in the importance of personal growth and self-discovery. Practices such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness are often incorporated into their daily routines, helping them to cultivate inner peace, resilience, and spiritual awareness.

Overall, modern witchcraft, magick, the occult, Paganism, and spiritual self-improvement are an important part of modern Viking culture, offering a way for enthusiasts to connect with the spiritual traditions of the Vikings and to explore their own inner worlds. These practices are a reminder of the spiritual and mystical nature of Viking culture, and of the deep connection that the Vikings had with the natural world and the forces of the universe.

Books, reading, and learning about ancient and foreign cultures are an important part of modern Viking culture, as they offer a way for enthusiasts to deepen their understanding of the Viking heritage and to connect with the wider world.

Many modern Viking enthusiasts are avid readers, seeking out books on history, mythology, and anthropology to learn more about the culture and traditions of the Vikings. These books offer insights into the world of the Vikings, from their religious practices and mythology to their social structure and military tactics.

In addition to learning about their own heritage, modern Viking enthusiasts are also interested in studying foreign cultures, seeking to understand the ways in which different societies have evolved and interacted throughout history. Many enthusiasts explore the cultures of the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Celts, among others, and draw connections between these cultures and their own Viking heritage.

The study of ancient and foreign cultures is an important way for modern Viking enthusiasts to broaden their perspectives and deepen their understanding of the world around them. By exploring the cultures of other societies, they gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experience and the ways in which different cultures have shaped and influenced one another throughout history.

Overall, books, reading, and the study of ancient and foreign cultures are an important part of modern Viking culture, offering a way for enthusiasts to deepen their understanding of their own heritage and to connect with the wider world. These practices are a reminder of the importance of learning, curiosity, and exploration, which were also central to the culture and traditions of the Vikings.

Viking festivals, Renaissance or Medieval fairs, Viking reenactment events, and historical reenactment are a key part of modern Viking culture, offering a way for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the world of the Vikings and to connect with other like-minded individuals.

Viking festivals are held around the world, offering a range of activities and events, such as Viking ship races, axe throwing contests, and demonstrations of Viking combat and crafts. These festivals provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to celebrate their Viking heritage, learn more about Viking culture and history, and connect with other members of the community.

Renaissance or Medieval fairs, which often include Viking reenactment events, provide another way for enthusiasts to experience the culture and traditions of the Vikings. These events feature live demonstrations of Viking crafts, such as blacksmithing and weaving, as well as displays of Viking weapons and armor. Visitors can also participate in Viking combat demonstrations, learn about Viking cooking techniques, and watch Viking musicians and dancers perform.

Viking reenactment events and historical reenactment, in general, offer enthusiasts the opportunity to step back in time and experience what life was like in Viking society. Participants dress in period costumes and engage in activities such as battles, feasts, and everyday tasks like cooking and sewing. These events provide a chance for enthusiasts to connect with their Viking heritage in a visceral way, and to gain a deeper understanding of the culture and traditions of their ancestors.

Overall, Viking festivals, Renaissance or Medieval fairs, Viking reenactment events, and historical reenactment are a key part of modern Viking culture, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to celebrate their heritage, connect with like-minded individuals, and experience the culture and traditions of the Vikings in a tangible way. These events provide a powerful reminder of the richness and depth of Viking culture and its enduring appeal to people around the world.

Cultural heritage and ancestor worship are important aspects of modern Viking culture for many enthusiasts. For those with Viking ancestry, there is a sense of pride in their roots and a desire to connect with their Viking heritage. Ancestor worship involves honoring one’s ancestors, often through offerings, rituals, or prayers. This practice can be especially meaningful for those with Viking ancestry, as it allows them to connect with their Viking ancestors and to honor their contributions to their family and culture.

However, it is important to note that one does not need to have Viking ancestry in order to be a part of modern Viking culture. The Viking lifestyle is open to people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultures. What unites modern Vikings is a shared interest in Viking history, culture, and values.

For many modern Vikings, their interest in Viking culture is driven by a desire to connect with the values and way of life of the Vikings. These values include a deep connection to nature, a focus on self-reliance and self-sufficiency, and a strong sense of community and loyalty to one’s tribe or family. These values can be embraced by anyone, regardless of their ethnic background, and can provide a powerful framework for living a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Ultimately, the modern Viking lifestyle is about embracing the values and traditions of the Vikings in a way that resonates with each individual. Whether it involves exploring Viking history, participating in Viking-inspired activities, or simply living a life that embodies Viking values, the modern Viking lifestyle offers a way to connect with the past, while living in the present, and building a better future for oneself and one’s community.

Free-speech, individual personal freedom, and democracy are core values of modern Viking culture. The Vikings were known for their love of freedom and their willingness to fight for their rights and independence. These values are still cherished by modern Vikings, who believe that everyone should have the right to express their opinions openly and without fear of reprisal.

In the modern Viking lifestyle, individual personal freedom is highly valued. People are encouraged to explore their own interests and passions, and to express themselves freely. This includes the freedom to pursue one’s own spiritual path, to engage in creative expression, and to live according to one’s own values.

In order to preserve these values, modern Vikings are deeply committed to democratic principles. They believe in the importance of open public discourse and the exchange of ideas, and they reject any attempts to restrict freedom of speech or to impose limits on what people can think, say, or do.

Those who hold non-tolerant political orientations or who seek to restrict the freedoms of others are not in alignment with the modern Viking culture. Modern Vikings believe in the importance of mutual respect and tolerance, and they embrace diversity and inclusivity as core values.

In summary, the modern Viking lifestyle is built upon a foundation of free-speech, individual personal freedom, and democracy. These values are essential to the culture and are held in high regard by modern Vikings. Those who share these values and are committed to an open and tolerant society will find a welcoming community among modern Vikings.

March 16, 2023

ADHD and the Viking Warrior Brain

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder that affects an estimated 6.1 million people in the United States. ADHD is characterized by symptoms such as impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. People with ADHD often find it difficult to stay focused, organize tasks, manage time, and prioritize activities. While ADHD is often associated with negative traits and difficulties, recent research has suggested that ADHD may be linked to the Viking warrior kind of brain.

The Viking warrior kind of brain refers to the idea that certain traits associated with ADHD were necessary for survival in ancient times. This idea suggests that individuals with ADHD may have a unique set of skills and strengths that were essential for hunting, gathering, and surviving in harsh environments. These traits include impulsivity, creativity, risk-taking, and a heightened sense of awareness.

One of the main characteristics of ADHD is impulsivity. While impulsivity can be detrimental in certain situations, it can also be beneficial in others. For example, in ancient times, a quick decision could mean the difference between life and death. Individuals with ADHD may have been able to react quickly to dangerous situations, allowing them to survive in harsh environments. Similarly, ADHD individuals may have been more creative and able to think outside the box when it came to problem-solving. This kind of creativity could have been crucial in coming up with new strategies for survival.

Another trait associated with ADHD is risk-taking. While risk-taking can also have negative consequences, it can be advantageous in certain circumstances. For example, hunting and gathering in ancient times required taking risks in order to obtain food and resources. Individuals with ADHD may have been more willing to take these risks, allowing them to succeed in their hunting and gathering efforts.

Finally, individuals with ADHD may have a heightened sense of awareness. This heightened sense of awareness could have been crucial in detecting danger and avoiding threats in ancient times. Individuals with ADHD may have been more attuned to their surroundings and more able to detect subtle changes in their environment. This heightened awareness may have allowed them to anticipate danger and avoid potential threats.

In conclusion, while ADHD is often associated with negative traits and difficulties, recent research has suggested that ADHD may be linked to the Viking warrior kind of brain. This theory suggests that certain traits associated with ADHD, such as impulsivity, creativity, risk-taking, and heightened awareness, were necessary for survival in ancient times. While it is important to address the challenges associated with ADHD, it is also important to recognize the strengths and unique set of skills that individuals with ADHD may possess. By doing so, we can better understand and appreciate the diversity of human cognition and behavior.

December 23, 2022

Consensual D/s Power Dynamic Relationships (aka Slavery Roleplay) in the Modern Viking Lifestyle and Within a Norse-Pagan Context – NSFW (18+ only!)

Important Values/Things in Viking Culture

Important values/things in Viking culture

Hospitality
Frith (community peace/harmony/justice)
Troth (loyal connections to others)
Loyalty
Gods
Goddesses
Ancestors
Land-spirits
Runes
Family
Friends
Clan/community
Honesty
Keeping of ones word
Oaths
Gift-giving
Generosity
Strength of will/character
Even-mood
Embracing/enjoying life
Accepting death
Intelligence
Strength
Bravery
Battle
Marauding
Farming
Fishing
Ships
Travel
Trade
Watchfulness
Being prepared
Hard-work
Mead
Gaming (tafl, dice, etc)
Sports (running, swimming, skiing, wrestling, etc)
Story-telling
Oral poetry
Making a name for oneself
Heroic deeds
Women focusing on domestic matters
Men focusing on all matters outside the house
Women keeping the community peace
Men defending the community
Women making clothes/food/household items
Men making tools/weapons/buildings/structures
Men hunting
Women gathering
Men laying down laws and being leaders
Women caring for/nurturing/healing
Men providing logic/reason/knowledge/structure
Women providing emotional wisdom & prophecy

November 2, 2013

in Rituals
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Volmarr’s Heathen Winter Nights (Anytime from Oct-15 to Nov-1) Ritual Version 2 Outline 2013

With additions by Amarina

Need:
• drinking horn
• mead (or beer or wine or even can use juice)
• spring water in small bowl
• fresh pine twig
• offering bowl
• candles (purple)
• incense (any mystical scent is ideal)
• wand (if you don’t have one you can use your fingers instead)
• Thor’s Ritual Hammer (optional, can use it for the Hammer Hallowings)
• Any representation of Odin
• Any representation of ancestors
• Any representation of any one is now dead that you admire, in particular those you admire for their wisdom.
• Halloween type decorations and anything related to death and the dead
• Any symbols for wisdom or knowledge
• Any symbols for the after-life

–

This ritual, as are all Heathen or northern rituals, is done while facing north, except where otherwise noted. The altar should be such that it is in front of you when you face north.

If you don’t know how to pronounce the runes see my webpage on how to pronounce them here.

–

Put spring water in small bowl. Trace 3 Laguz runes over it.:

“LAGUZ… LAGUZ… LAGUZ”

“From the Well of Wyrd does this water flow, and to the Well of Wyrd does it return”

–

Make Hammer Sign at item and then splash each ritual item with blessed water using the pine twig and for each item say:

“I bless this ______ with the waters of the Well of Wyrd”

–

Now trace Hammer Sign at person being blessed and/or self and splash them with water using twig.

“I bless ______ with the waters of the Well of Wyrd”

–

Use twig to splash ritual space with water.

“I bless this space with the waters of the Well of Wyrd”

–

Few silent deep breaths.

–

All stand in Elhaz position.

“Bi-Frost’s rainbow light shine down upon this space and myself so that I may form a portal between the worlds of Asgard and Midgard”

–

Few silent deep breaths.

–

All face north and trace the Hammer Sign while chanting:

“Hammer in the north hallow and ward this stead”

All turn east and trace the Hammer Sign while chanting:

“Hammer in the east hallow and ward this stead”

All turn south and trace the Hammer Sign while chanting:

“Hammer in the south hallow and ward this stead”

All turn west trace the Hammer Sign while chanting:

“Hammer in the west hallow and ward this stead”

All return to north and look up and trace Hammer sign while chanting:

“Hammer above hallow and ward this stead”

All look below and trace Hammer sign while chanting:

“Hammer below hallow and ward this stead”

–

Return to facing north and all stand in the Elhaz position and chant:

“Around me and within me Asgard and Midgard”

and move into the Dagaz position in the end.

–

Few silent deep breaths.

–

(Highly recommended optional casting of the rune ring)

(face north and trace the rune shape in the air before you using your wand and loudly chant: “FEHU!”)

(face north-east and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “URUZ”)

(face east and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “THURISAZ”)

(face south-east and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “ANSUZ”)

(face south and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “RAIDHO”)

(face south-west and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “KENAZ”)

(face west and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “GEBO”)

(face north-west and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “WUNJO”)

(face north and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “HAGALAZ”)

(face north-east and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “NAUDHIZ”)

(face east and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “ISA”)

(face south-east and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “JERA”)

(face south and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “EIHWAZ”)

(face south-west and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “PERTHRO”)

(face west and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “ELHAZ”)

(face north-west and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “SOWILO”)

(face north and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “TIWAZ”)

(face north-east and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “BERKANO”)

(face east and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “EHWAZ”)

(face south-east and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “MANNAZ”)

(face south and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “LAGUZ”)

(face south-west and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “INGWAZ”)

(face west and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “DAGAZ”)

(face north-west and trace the rune shape and loudly chant: “OTHALA”)

(Few silent deep breaths)

–

Hold up the bottle of mead:

“I now brew the holy mead of inspiration. Won by high Odin long ago!”

Chant into the bottle of mead:

“Odhroerir! Son! Bodhn!”

“Now I hallow this drink with staves of light!”

Chant and trace these runes over the bottle:

“Othala”

“Dagaz”

“Raidho”

“Ansuz”

“Raidho”

“Isa”

“Elhaz!”

All say:

“Hail Odhroerir!”

–

Few silent deep breaths.

–

Few silent deep breaths.

Light the purple candle. From this candle, light the incense.

“This is the time of year that the veil between worlds is at it’s thinnest. In this time, we can travel more easily between the worlds of the living and the dead. This candle represents the world of the living, the incense’s smoke the veil, and the darkness beyond the world of the dead. It is in this state that our rite must take place, where Odin himself has traveled many times to seek knowledge and wisdom of those who have passed on.”

Circle the ritual space with the incense three times creating a “veil” with the smoke. Take a few silent deep breaths.

–

“Hail Odin! Husband of Frigg. All-father. Father of battle. One-eyed god. Many-shaped. Wanderer. Hanged god. Raven god. Spear-thruster. Wish-bringer. Galdr-father. Graybeard. Deep hood. Thief of Odhroerir. Kinsman of Mimir. Lord of the Wild Hunt. Yule rider. Finder of the Runes. God of the Gautar. Ruler of Valhalla!”

“Hail Hel! Keeper of the dead. Hostess of Baldr and Hodr. Half-living one. Garm’s mistress. Dweller in Eljudnir!”

“Hail to my ancestors, both known and unknown. Those of my line going all the way back to the beginning, on up to most recent of times. Both men and women, alfar and disir, whom previously had a human form. Those whom I know, as well as those I do not. Those also whom are the ancestors of all humans living now. All humans that have made the journey of life before my time, and now reside in the realm beyond the living. Hail to the ancestors of all! Hail also to the ancestors of my family line! Hail to the ones that guide me. Hail also to the ones that protect me.”

–

Few silent deep breaths.

–

“Now is a time in which the rhythms of life turn inward, towards contemplation and trying to understand the deeper mysteries of life and towards the gathering of and seeking out of knowledge. It is through the ancestors and those humans that have come before us that we have all the knowledge which we have in human society. Those who have gone before us are the ones that have created the traditions and knowledge which we as humans rely upon to meet all of our needs, such as how to grow and create food, how to build protective shelters for living in, how to make clothing so that our human bodies are protected from the elements, how to survive the seasonal cycles in all different areas of the planet, what dangers to avoid and how to avoid them, and how to keep our human society functioning and going. We humans are the only animal that can not survive without knowledge. Our very lives depends on knowledge of how to do so many things. Over hundreds of thousands of years humans have increased their knowledge to the point that we live with the current advantages which we have now.”

“It is due to the experience and wisdom of our ancestors, both those within our own family line, and the ancestors of all human beings, that we can live as well as we do in the modern times. Those that have gone before us have recorded their wisdom for us in language, in stories, in poetry, in tools, in fashion, in objects of art, in oral knowledge, in traditions, in music and song, in mathematics, in schools of learning, in books, in the recording of historical events, in objects from the past, in plays, in movies, in TV shows, in videos, in blue-prints, in engineering plans, in computer programs, and even in the bones of the dead. All these things are the sum total of human heritage and the source of our knowledge that allows us to survive and thrive as a species. By turning to the past and studying the wisdom of our ancestors we tap into that knowledge. We must honor the dead and those who have gone before us for all that they have given to us. As well it is important that knowledge is passed to others freely, for otherwise the work of so many becomes lost. It has taken us so long to get to the point we are at now as a species, it is important we not be greedy with our knowledge or hoard it away from others, for this impedes human survival and progress.”

“Odin as god of wisdom is often traveling to the the realm of the dead to seek out the wisdom of the dead. We too must be like Odin and seek out the knowledge of our ancestors, the wisdom of the dead. At this time the focus of the seasons turns more towards this task of looking inward and to the past. Now is the time to look at all which you have done this season and look at what has worked for you and what has not. It is a time to ponder all lessons that are to be gained from what has been done this year, so that you may know better for next season how to increase the abundance of your life harvest. It may be a good time to record some notes regarding this, safely putting them away some place where they shall not be lost. Also this is a time when the veils between the realm of the living and the dead are at their thinnest, and thus a time in which the knowledge of the dead is more accessible. It is a good time to seek out the wise counsel of the ancestors and those that are now passed beyond the realm of the living. This is a good time to spend time reading books, and studying new things, and pursuing the gaining of knowledge in any form.”

“At this time ponder on what you have learned this year.”

Few silent deep breaths while pondering on this.
“Now consider what things you would like to do differently the next cycle”

Few silent deep breaths while pondering on this.

“Now think about those who have have passed into the after life. Now is the time to think about anyone you may know who has died”

Few silent deep breaths while you think about those who have passed on.

“Now think about any wisdom or knowledge they may have for you.”

Few silent deep breaths while you think about this.

“Now is the time to give thanks for all that our ancestors have given to us and to honor the wisdom of the dead.”

(Fill drinking horn with mead and hold it up)

“Hail to all humans that have come before me. Hail to those of my family line, as well as all people of the past of all human family lines. I make this offering to you in thanks for the wisdom you have given us by the lives you have lived in the past. May your knowledge continue and enhance the life of both myself and all other humans alive now and all humans to come for all of eternity! Hail to the ancestors of all people!”

(Drink half the mead and pour out the rest as an offering to the ancestors of all humans.)

“Now is the time to honor Odin, the god of knowledge. Odin tirelessly seeks out the knowledge which all humans have worked to create for all of time. He is the god that seeks to gain and preserve knowledge and give it to others for the benefit of human society and human progress. He is the god who labors tirelessly to establish things in such a way that humans can continue and survive even after the end of this current cycle when Ragnarok comes and all begins again anew. He is the god that has discovered the runes through a difficult process of spiritual initiation so that they may be of benefit for gods and humans alike. He is the god that has made so many sacrifices for the sake of gaining of knowledge. We owe him much for all these things!”

(Fill drinking horn and hold it up)

“Hail Odin, god of the runes. God of knowledge and wisdom. You Odin are the one that frequently travels the worlds seeking to know more. Please guide me Odin in learning more and in applying knowledge in ways that are helpful to me. Please Odin help me to gain a deeper level of connection with all people of the past so that my knowledge my increase. Hail Odin!”

(Drink half the mead and pour out the rest to Odin.)

“Also this is the time that we should remember the one that has been tasked with keeping the souls of the dead. The goddess that is both living and dead. Though she isn’t truly goddess, she has become in being tasked with the lands of the dead by Odin.”

(Fill drinking horn and hold it up)

“Hail Hel, daughter of Loki. She who holds the halls in Helheim and shares what she has with those who have passed on to her lands. Hel is mistress of the lands of the dead and keeps those that have died of old age or illness. Thus her lands are where most of our ancestors will reside. We honor her today as well in hopes that she allows those we love to rest in peace well beyond Ragnarok. She who is most beautiful and frightful in one visage being both dead and alive. We owe her much gratitude and respect in her tireless and thankless duty in tending those cold halls. Thank you, Hel for taking the task given and caring for the souls you’ve been tasked in keeping. May we all share in a feast again one day. Hail Hel!”

(Drink half the mead and pour out the rest to Hel.)

–

(Use the pine twig to splash a bit of the liquid in the offering bowl on yourself, on any others in the ritual with you, on your altar, on the ritual space, and in all general areas of your dwelling as well. Does not need to be much splashed around, just a little is fine. This helps to imbue more of the energies of the ritual on you, and others who may also in the ritual with you, and to your place.)

–

“Now my rite has ended. May all gathered here fare well on their return to their home places. And may the bonds of frith between us grow, gods, wights, and humans alike. Until we meet again.”

–
–

Pour out the offerings from the offering bowl outside:

“A gift for a gift”

Trace gebo at spot offerings were given to.

“GEBO!”

Pour out remaining blessed water outside.

“I pour the sacred water back to the Earth so it may find it’s way back to the Well of Wyrd”

–

Now at this point it is very important to ground your energies. This should always be done after every ritual. Not doing so can lead to problems in the long-run. Grounding is like shifting gears in a car, except it is the process of shifting brain states. During rituals you create a trance like brain state, which is desired for during rituals or for during any spiritual practices. But trance states are not good for doing everyday mundane things. You need to return your mind back to the normal state of consciousness after the ritual is finished. That is what grounding is.

The most simple and common method to ground is to visualize yourself as a tree and see roots growing into the ground from the base of your spine and going down into the earth. Sometimes rituals require industrial strength grounding as they can really create some intense energy. In that case you can try the following triple grounding method.:

First visualize your chakras. You picture in your mind closing first the top one and then seeing a sort of lid closing over it, then proceed with the net lower chakra and so on. You want to leave the bottom most chakra, the root chakra fully open as this is your connection to grounding. Don’t be concerned about having the others closed, the normal proper function of them is that they open and close as needed. Problems with being ungrounded happen when one of more of them are stuck open. Only the bottom one is to be left open at all times.

Next step is to picture a ball of pure white light above your head. Now let this white light slowly descent downward into your body and slowly move lower. As it descends it takes with it any unneeded, old, and negative energies. It is sort of sweeping downward through your energies taking all you no longer need with it. Once it reaches your feet let it move lower till it passes down through the floor. If you are on an upper close let it pass all the way to the ground. Let the earth take this energy to recycle it.

Now final step is to do the traditional grounding. Picture yourself as a tree. Visualize roots coming out of the base of your spine and going down into the Earth. Feel the calmness of a tree, the rooted solidness.

If after these three things you still feel hyper or spaced out you can either eat some food, or put a small amount of salt on your tongue. Another thing you can do is prostrate down to the ground, placing your head on the ground and stay like this for a few moments.

–

Feel free to copy and use this ritual so long as you acknowledge the source.

Download this as a OpenOffice Doc – Volmarrs-heathen-winter-nights-2-oct-ritual-oct-2013

August 8, 2013

in Rituals
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Volmarr’s Heathen Freysblot Harvest Ritual August-2-2013

Need:
• drinking horn
• mead (or beer or wine or even can use juice)
• spring water in small bowl
• fresh pine twig
• offering bowl
• candles
• wand (if you don’t have one you can use your fingers instead)
• Thor’s Ritual Hammer (optional, can use it for the Hammer Hallowings)
• Green candle
• Any symbol for Freyr. Phallic symbols. Horse symbols.
• Baked goods, nuts, berries, and sweet fruit such as strawberries, grapes, cherries, blueberries. Freyr does prefer organic and natural foods if your budget allows.
• A list of all the spiritual seed tasks you had planted at Ostara (as many of them as you can remember). You can add items to the list that were not seed goals at Ostara but are goals anyways which you have been working on or have a shot of accomplishing within the next few months.