Zelda_of_Arel asked this question on 4/25/2000:

Merry Met!

I would like to get some general info on rituals. Like, can I dance? If yes, how? I'm a lonely witch, so help me.

Merry Part, Zelda

cheyenne64 gave this response on 4/25/2000:

Hi Zelda!

I'm not sure if you mean you are lonely (ie feeling all alone) or if you are a solitary (meaning that you practice the craft alone).

There are many books as well as Web sites that describe Wiccan rituals of all sorts. Some are solemn, others are celebratory - you really have to think about what would be appropriate for the occasion.

For example, your celebration of May Day could definitely involve some spritely dancing, perhaps outside at dawn in an open field. Even a rite for Samhain could use some dance, though it would likely be more sombre or sedate than the May Day Dance. You can dance for sowing, you can dance for a harvest.

As for books which specifically describe rites, Janet and Stewart Farrars books (Eight Sabbats for Witches and Witches' Bible) are a good start for rites with a group of people. For solitary practioners like you, I normally suggest Scott Cunningham's Wicca for the Solitary Practitioner or other books by him.

Remember though, the rituals that are described in any book are only guidelines, to give you a feel for what you might want to do, and are always up for revisions and additions that will make it more personal and relevant to you. Research the festival/occasion you want to ritualize, how others have done it (in this time or in the past), the symbolism involved (and if you like it/can live with it), etc.

Blessings!

Cheyenne64

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