As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, I find myself drawn into the quiet of autumn. October is a time of reflection, a gentle nudge from the season to slow down and reconnect. This month brings us to Samhain, a moment filled with memories, gratitude, and a deep sense of connection to those who came before us.

Growing up, I remember this time of year as something sacred. We’d gather as a family and share stories about those who’d come before us. It wasn’t just about remembering; it was about feeling a thread of connection, a sense that we were part of something much larger. Now, years later, I find myself turning to small rituals that help me feel that same connection to my roots, my family, and to nature. Today, I’d like to share a bit about the traditions of Samhain and All Hallows’ Eve, and introduce a simple, warming coffee replacement that feels like the perfect grounding ritual for this season.

WHAT IS SAMHAIN

Samhain (pronounced “sow-win”) is an ancient Celtic festival that marks the transition from the harvest season into winter. It’s a time when the veil between our world and the spirit world is said to be at its thinnest, making it easier to connect with our ancestors and honour those who have passed. Traditionally, Samhain was celebrated with bonfires, where communities would gather on hilltops to light the night sky, guiding spirits home and offering protection for the darker months ahead.

As Christianity spread, Samhain gradually intertwined with All Hallows’ Eve (October 31st), All Saints’ Day (1st November), and All Souls’ Day (2nd November). These holidays, observed in various ways across Europe, became times to honour the dead and reflect on the passing of time. In countries like Belgium and France, families visit cemeteries during these days, lighting candles and placing flowers on graves. There’s something so beautiful about this, a quiet tradition that keeps the memories of loved ones alive, carried forward with each candle lit.

For me, these days feel like a reminder to pause and reconnect with the past. As we step into the quieter months, there’s a sense of comfort in knowing that while life moves on, the love we hold for those who came before us remains woven into the fabric of who we are.

EUROPEAN RITUALS OF REMEMBRANCE

Across Europe, traditions to honour Samhain and All Hallows’ Eve vary, but they all share a certain reverence for the season and a connection to the cycles of life and death. Below are a few rituals that have always inspired me:

• In Ireland and Scotland, bonfires were once a key part of Samhain celebrations. Today, a simple candle on a windowsill or a lantern on the doorstep can be a beautiful way to honour the tradition, symbolising light guiding our loved ones home. I love the quiet moment of lighting a candle. It’s a way to remember, to pause, and to feel that connection to the past.
• In Belgium, families often gather on All Saints’ Day to visit cemeteries and place flowers on graves. When I was younger, I remember doing this with my own family, feeling a sense of peace in the simple act of remembering together. It’s a time to talk about our loved ones, to share stories, and to feel grateful for the lives that touched ours.
• Food has always been central to Samhain. In Ireland, people often serve barmbrack, a fruit-studded bread with small items baked inside to tell fortunes for the year ahead. In other places, families may leave out food for visiting spirits, or set a place at the table for those who have passed – a way to keep them close, even if they’re no longer physically here.
• With the colder months ahead, many take this time to prepare herbal remedies to carry them through the winter. I like to harvest roots like burdock and dandelion at this time of year, drawing from the earth’s energy as it begins to rest. Burning herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme is another simple ritual that can offer both cleansing and protection for the home.

WARMING DANDELION AND CHICORY ROOT COFFEE

As the season invites us inward, I find myself craving warm, grounding rituals. One of my favourite ways to connect with autumn is by making a cup of this coffee alternative. It’s earthy, robust, and feels like a gentle hug from the earth. Dandelion and chicory root have long been used for their health benefits, especially in supporting digestion and liver health. Together, they create a wonderful coffee replacement, perfect for those mornings after a soggy school run, or quiet evenings as you reflect on the season.

Ingredients:

• one tablespoon of dried dandelion root
• one tablespoon of dried chicory root
• half a teaspoon of cinnamon
• a quarter of a teaspoon of fennel seeds
• Honey or milk (optional, for taste – I often use oat milk)

Method:

• If you’re starting with regular dried roots, preheat your oven to 180°C. Spread the dandelion and chicory roots on a baking tray and roast for half an hour or so, until they darken slightly and give off a rich, warm aroma. Watch them very closely to avoid burning – every oven is different! You can also purchase the roasted roots, if you prefer.
• Once the roots have cooled, grind them coarsely with a mortar and pestle. Add in the cinnamon and fennel seeds.
• Add a few teaspoons of the blend to your favourite teapot. Pour on freshly boiled water, cover and leave to simmer for about 10 minutes.
• Pour into a mug, add a touch of honey or milk if you like, and enjoy the comforting, earthy flavours as you sip! I promise, you won’t miss your regular coffee after a few days.

EMBRACING THE SEASON’S QUIET MAGIC

Samhain is a time of remembrance, a chance to honour the past, and to feel the deep roots that connect us to the world around us. Whether you light a candle, share a story, or warm yourself with a cup of the root medicine coffee, take a moment to breathe, to reflect, and to feel the quiet magic of the season. As we step into these quieter days, let’s carry forward the love and wisdom of those who came before us, holding their memories close as we prepare for the slower, more reflective months ahead.