May Update

Happy May Day!!

I may live in the Southern Hemisphere, but one of my major defects is being in tune with seasons and markers through the year for the Northern Hemisphere. My natural rhythm is the reverse of what is happening around me.

I can’t explain it; I’m as confused as you are. Truly. I’ve just learnt to go with it.

I don’t believe in superstitions, BUT, if I were in Edinburgh, I’d be frolicking on the grass on Arthur’s Seat today. Mostly because I adore Edinburgh. I love all of Scotland, but there’s something special about its capital. And the superstition of washing your face with the dew from Arthur’s Seat on May Day is quaint. There’s no downside to a tradition designed to ensure health, happiness and beauty for the coming twelve months.

There’s lots of folklore regarding certain sources of water having healing properties, including St Anthony’s Chapel in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat. In fact, Arthur’s Seat is cloaked in myth. The miniature coffins found on Arthur’s Seat can be seen in the National Museum of Scotland and have been treated in fictional works. As has the magic of King Arthur and his knights that are purportedly sleeping inside, waiting for the moment of triumphant return.

Arthur’s Seat itself is an ancient, sleeping dragon, or so some say.

Whichever way you look at it, it’s a special place and May Day sees the performance on an ancient tradition.

For all in Edinburgh, enjoy, and I wish I were joining you. For the rest of the world, enjoy May Day in whichever traditions you embrace.

Take care.

L. x