Tree Spirit Ritual Crafts: Alder

 

Nature is a mystical and mysterious thing, but if you pay attention and tribute to nature it can reveal itself to you in many ways. Trees are powerful and strong creatures with and so are the spirits that reside within them. The alder tree spirit is a protective and prophetic spirit, and it responds well to mirrors and water. These crafts are a perfect ritual to commune with the spirit of the alder tree, and they make nice garden decorations as well.

Wind Chime

When communing with the spirit of the alder tree the use of mirrors and water is effective; for this craft you will need glass bottles, wire, fishing line, water, and pieces of mirror. Start by finding the alder tree you are wishing to share your ritual with. Examine the branches and the width and strength of the alder tree.

Then cut long pieces of fishing line and tie the pieces of mirror to the ends of them. Remember to pay attention to the light reflected by the mirrors, and the abstract images focused in them. Tie the long pieces of line to the branches of the alder tree, and notice the pattern and texture of the tree bark.

Take some time to look into the water and notice its crystal clear quality. Think about the life giving and healing quality of the water, and fill the glass bottles with water. Fold a piece of wire in half and tie the folded end of the wire around the lip of the bottle. Hang the bottles from branches near the mirror. As you focus on the light, reflections, and clarity the spirit of the alder tree will provide you with vision and protective light.

Reflective Pool

Contacting the spirit of the alder tree can be done through rituals and crafts, and this ritual craft uses a wide glass jar or bowl, water, glue, mirror tiles or sequins, and a small hand mirror. Begin this ritual by finding the alder tree you would like to commune with. Then look at the trunk; imagine its age and wisdom. Find a nice spot at the base of the tree; look long enough and the place will reveal itself to you.

Start by sitting down and placing the mirrors in front of you. Watch the light flick and glimmer off of the mirrors; watch the reflections pass through the glass. Use the glue to attach the tiny mirrors to the inside rim of the bowl, and place the hand mirror inside. All the while work with the light, and see it for what it is.

Place the bowl on the ground in front of the alder tree and place the mirror inside. Fill the bowl with water and watch the light; touch the water and watch the ripples reflect. This simple craft makes a lovely rain catcher and reflective pool for your ritual.Communing with the alder tree spirit can prove to be a source of wisdom and understanding. The light and water are both nourishing and healing; these ritual crafts will help you gain strength from the spirit of the alder tree.