A good way to start the year is by honoring land spirits. A land spirit may be a general awareness of an area or may be specifically tied to something such as a mountain or river. These spirits protect their area, and having a positive relationship with them can make life easier. If you already have a relationship with the land spirits in your area, address this offering to them. If you don’t, use this opportunity to introduce yourself and extend your hand in friendship.

Prepare a bowl of fresh water (tap, well, or from a local stream or river). Hold your hands over it and visualize it sparkling with silver light. Say:

Spirits of this place, I come
to you as a friend.
Thank you for guarding the
area and for all you provide
To humankind, to birds,
creatures, and other spirits.
I offer this blessed water as
a symbol of my respect.

Pour the water onto wherever or whatever symbolizes the spirit of place.