As the year deepens into shadow and frost begins to paint the world, we beckon The Cailleach, (CAL-yak or KAL-yukh), a mythical guardian woven into the ancient tales of Ireland and Scotland. She embodies the crone goddess of winter's embrace and profound transformation. She graces our path during times of culmination, the hushed serenity of the year, and the sacred preparation for the seasons yet to unfurl. In November, as the world stills its breath, the trees, winds, and rivers whisper lessons of surrender, resilience, and the gentle wisdom held within endings. The Cailleach softly invites us to slow our pace, to honor the beauty of what has gently faded, and to nurture the inner spark that will illuminate our way through the coming darkness.
Why Cailleach?
The Cailleach embodies the deep wisdom of the waning year. She is the frost on the fields, the wind through the bare trees, the crone who teaches us how to endure and transform. Her presence reminds us that the darkest months are not empty, but full of guidance, reflection, and the seeds of renewal. Turning toward her now helps us embrace endings with grace, cultivate resilience, and prepare for the returning light.
Working with Her Plant Allies
The Cailleach is associated with plants and trees that mirror her power, endurance, and transformative nature — resilient species that survive the cold or carry deep roots in Celtic tradition.
Holly and Gorse (Whin): She is said to throw her staff under holly or gorse at winter’s end, leaving the ground barren — a symbol of endings and renewal.
Yew: A tree of death, rebirth, and ancient wisdom, connecting to her chthonic and ancestral aspects.
Blackthorn: Protective yet formidable, reflecting the harsh, transformative side of winter.
Hazel: A source of wisdom, offering guidance and insight through the long nights.
Heather: A wild, protective plant associated with luck and communication with the spirit world.
Hawthorn & Rowan: Representing cycles of life, protection, and connection to seasonal change.
Nettle & Pine: Wild, enduring, and healing — reminders of resilience and the hidden strength beneath winter’s surface.
Other herbs: Mugwort, yarrow, and thyme support intuition, reflection, and spiritual clarity.
Through story, reflection, and gentle ritual, we will:
Explore The Cailleach’s myths and her role in the cycles of the year
Reflect on personal endings and transitions, finding guidance in the quiet of the season
Work with her plant allies to support resilience, protection, wisdom, and courage
Listen to her lessons in the patterns of nature — frost, wind, the shortening light, and the whisper of winter
Practice rituals of closure and renewal, honoring endings while preparing space for the coming light
You will receive:
A seasonal guide with reflections, journaling prompts, and practices to continue your journey
Access to the recorded session
A limited, intimate circle capped at 12 women
A seasonal playlist or nature sounds to accompany your practice
A personalized blessing card to gently guide your journey as we enter the darker months
Investment: $45.00