Winter: Rituals to Thrive in the Dark Cycle of the Saeculum

by Jo Graham

According to the Etruscan system of cycles known as the Saeculum, we are currently in the age of winter. Through exercises, journaling, and reconstructed ancient esoteric rituals, this book helps you survive and thrive in this age of change and upheaval. Author Jo Graham invites you to find the spirit of heroism within as you transform your life and soul even in a challenging era.

This book reveals how the energy of winter influences our spiritual lives, our relationships, and our communities. Exploring the powerful cycles of generations, life-spans, seasons, years, and months, Winter offers specific techniques and support to help you see that this era is only temporary, and spring will come again.

Genres: Witchcraft, Paganism, Spirituality

224 pages, Paperback

First published May 8, 2020

Reviews

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'd never heard of the idea of a saeculum before, and it is intriguing. There is no doubt that we are in a time of turmoil. I'm probably not the only one wondering if it will really resolve with the end of the pandemic or whether there is more to come. Although the rituals are heavily focused on classical mythology, they are nice suggestions and easy enough to adapt to your own pantheon and practice if you are so determined. I found myself wishing the author had branched out a little more, although I understand that is her particular focus so I suppose it makes sense to stick with what you know. In general, this book offers some good guidance for those looking to prepare for future societal trends and reframe the present so that it seems more manageable.

[Melissa Burnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book put into perspective this season of Winter that the world is going through. The last winter was 80 years ago -- 1925-1945 -- and it is certain that many people thought they were experiencing the end of the world. But spring came. And it will come again.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not exactly what I was looking for, but an intriguing read all the same. This book contained mostly formalized (Roman) deity work, while I was looking for more individualized, personal ideas, not scripts and costumes and colored candles. Skimming over the ritualistic parts, though, it was still some good information to think about. Just past the spring equinox of 2024 now, I'm curious where in Winter we still are and whether her estimate of 2025 for the end of the turmoil is too optimistic, it whether "normalcy" we've achieved post-covid was in fact that turning point, and perhaps the turmoil we're seeing now is indication of brighter things to come.

[Tart · Rating 3 out of 5]

this is probably more of a 3.5 if I'm honest. The first portion of the book was fascinating and i tore through it, but the send half or so was all rituals and i kind of wanted a bigger dive on the main topic.

[Helen Griffus · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book wasn't what I expected, but it was certainly what I needed to read. Very informed and well put together. Even those not from a pagan/wiccan background will find value in this book.

[Mitchell Stern · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting read-I do have some disagreements with the author on the essence of Concordia but overall it’s a fascinating read.

[minx · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is great information. The rituals will probably not work for you if you aren't into Roman mythology but easily adaptable if you wish.