Birch Moon – Indicates release, beginning, renewal, youth and 
change.
December 24 – January 20: As the Solstice passes, it’s time to look towards the light once more. The Celtic name for this month is Beth, pronounced beh. Workings done in this month add momentum and a bit of extra “oomph” to new endeavors. The Birch is associated with magic done for creativity and fertility, as well as healing and protection. Tie a red ribbon around the trunk of a Birch tree to ward off negative energy. Hang Birch twigs over a cradle to protect a newborn from psychic harm. It was once used for infants’ cradles, and is still used today for furniture. Use Birch bark as magical parchment to keep writings safe
Birch – The Achiever
If born under the energy of the Birch you can be highly driven, and often motivate others as they become easily caught in your zeal, drive and ambition. You are always reaching for more, seeking better horizons and obtaining higher aspirations. The Druids attributed this to your time of birth, which is a time of year shrouded by darkness; consequently you’re always stretching out to find the light. Birch signs (like the tree) are tolerant, tough, and resilient. You’re cool-headed and natural-born rulers, often taking command when a situation calls for leadership. When in touch with your softer side, you bring beauty in otherwise barren spaces, brightening up a room with you guile, and charming crowds with you quick wit. Celtic astrology Birch signs are compatible with Vine signs and Willow signs.
B – Beithe
Birch trees are hardy. They’ll grow just about anywhere, including bare soil. Because they tend to grow in clusters, just one or two seedlings can become a forest in a few decades. When a forested area burns, Birch is the first tree to grow back. In addition to being a sturdy tree, the Birch is useful.
From a magical perspective, there are a number of uses for Birch. The branches are traditionally incorporated into the construction of a besom, and are used for the bristles. Use the white outer bark in ritual in place of paper or parchment; just be sure you only harvest the bark from a fallen Birch tree, not a living one. Ancient herbalists discovered that parts of this tree can be used for medicinal purposes. Bark was once brewed into a tea to fight fevers, and the leaves were used alternately as a laxative, a diuretic and to treat arthritis, depending on how they were prepared. The inner bark provides a pain reliever. Criminals were at one time birched to drive out evil influences on them, to renew them for the new year. Axe handles were also made from Birch. The Amanita Muscaria grows well under the Birch.
Beith Correspondences
Mundane Aspects: When this symbol appears, it’s time to get rid of negativity, unhelpful influences and bad thoughts you’ve been carrying around for a new, fresh start. Figure out what’s bad in your life, which relationships are toxic, and find a way to leave them behind. Instead of being dragged down by negativity, focus on the positive things you have in life, the blessings and abundance. Use these things as a focus, rather than the harmful or damaging ones.
Magical Aspects: Consider the property of renewal and rebirth. Use this as a tool for spiritual and emotional regrowth, and developing your own ability to regenerate where there’s been emptiness or devastation. For a new beginning focus on the white of the birch, it stands out clearly from distractions and obstructions. Concentrate on your desire, the image of the result wanted must be held firmly in mind.
celticmoondance 