As October fades and the air turns sharp with smoke and spice, we arrive at Samhain — the Celtic new year and the sacred night when the veil between worlds grows thin.

In this episode, we journey into the origins of Samhain: the final harvest, the fire festivals atop Tlachtga and Tara, and the ancient customs that inspired our modern Halloween. You’ll hear tales of the fae and the restless dead, learn the meanings behind apple divination and dumb suppers, and explore the powerful magic that stirs when the world stands between endings and beginnings. I also include a brief section on Dia de los Muertos.

We’ll close with a Living the Spell segment featuring a protective hag stone charm and the traditional soul cake recipe — a sweet offering for the ancestors who still walk beside us.

May this episode guide you through the shadows with reverence, remembrance, and renewal.

Support Witch Beneath the Willow by following the show or leaving a tip through my Ko-fi link — every candle lit and cup of tea shared helps the magic continue.

For the article referenced on Dia de los Muertos, go here

Shadow work prompts:

1. What part of myself am I still clinging to that is ready to diewith the old year? Samhain marks the turning of the wheel — the death before rebirth. Reflect on what habits, fears, or stories no longer serve you. What would it mean to lay them to rest beneath autumn’s fallen leaves?

2. Whose voice echoes within me when I am afraid of my own power? Consider the influences — past relationships, family beliefs, cultural conditioning — that have shaped your perception of your strength and intuition. Which voices are truly yours, and which can be released to the dark?

3. What wisdom have my own shadows tried to teach me?
The things we hide often hold the keys to our greatest growth. Look gently into the places you avoid. What lessons are waiting there, quietly asking to be seen and integrated?