Mindfulness, Nature and Druids

David has always found running a good way to reduce stress; apart from the release of endorphins, he is focusing on the run and his immediate environment, a mindful experience. However, I haven't heard him say he felt at one with nature in the way that he did on this trip. The fine weather, spectacular scenery and his close encounters with nature, particularly red squirrels and hares was an extremely enjoyable and uplifting experience. 

Running is definitely not my thing, but I experienced many mindful moments: walking on Mottistone Down with amazing panoramic views; watching birds at Newtown nature reserve; listening to Blackcaps singing among the blackthorn blossom at Brading Marshes ... there were so many opportunities to enjoy the moment and feel close to nature. The island is a special place and affords so many opportunities to connect with the natural world.

Perhaps that is why there has been a resurgence of Druidry on the island. Fundamental to Druid belief is a nature-centred spirituality that honours the earth as sacred, emphasising harmony, interconnections, and reverence for the natural world.

The Longstone, Mottistone

(A Neolithic standing stone.)

Since the Druid Revival in the 18th Century, there has been a resurgence in Druidry both in Europe and internationally. Since that time, and perhaps before, Druids returned to the Isle of Wight. But it was not until 2004 that Druid gatherings started to take place on the Isle at a Neolithic Standing Stone called the Longstone, to celebrate the eight Wheel of the Year Druid festivals. This led to the formation of two Druid Groves on the Isle, called the Peaceful Earth Druid Grove and Wight Druids which continue to flourish to this day. (Isle of Wight Order of Druids)

In June 2024 my wife and I stayed in Longstone Cottage, a National Trust property adjacent to The Longstone, we were fortunate that our holiday coincided with the solstice and were able to share in a Druid festival.

On the eve of the solstice the fallen stone was decorated with offerings of ferns, flowers and fruit, and The Longstone itself had flowers placed on it. The following morning we stood in the company of a small group of Druids and watched the sun rise slowly above Mottistone Down, fingers of golden light reaching out to The Longstone. There were no robes, no ceremony, just a group of people silently enjoying a rather special experience. 

If you would like to know more about the Isle of Wight Order of Druids, click on the link:

Isle of Wight Order of Druids

Donate to The Passage

Posted by Nobby