Door 21: Sage, Juniper, and Rosemary – The Power of Herbs for Your Incense Blend
- Dec 21, 2024
- 2 min read
Behind the 21st door of our Advent calendar, you’ll find three more ingredients to refine your personal incense blend for the Rauhnächte: sage, juniper, and rosemary. These herbs have been valued for centuries for their cleansing, protective, and clarifying properties. During the mysterious nights between December 21st and January 6th—when the veil between worlds is said to be thinner—they can help clear your space, soul, and mind. Remember that just a few small crumbs of your blend are enough; often, a little goes a long way. In the coming days, you will receive more ingredients to continue perfecting your mixture.
A Story of the Rauhnächte, the Wild Hunt, and Hidden Taboos
In olden times, people believed that during the Rauhnächte, not only the spirits of ancestors wandered about, but also the Wild Hunt roamed the winter landscape. This wild procession was envisioned as a fearsome horde, led by powerful figures like Odin or Frau Holle, depending on the region and tradition. They were said to ride through pitch-black nights, accompanied by eerie sounds—howling and whistling—as if clouds, wind, and treetops formed an untamed, ancient orchestra.
Anyone who was careless or ventured too far outside risked being swept away by the Wild Hunt. To protect themselves, people sought refuge indoors, sealed their windows and doors with incense, and followed age-old customs to curry favor with fate. One such commandment was not to wash laundry during the Rauhnächte or hang it outdoors. It was feared that the Wild Hunt might become entangled in the laundry, bringing misfortune or casting a dark influence over the family in the coming year.
This rule helped prevent the chaotic energies of the Wild Hunt from attaching themselves to everyday life. It was a time to pause, cleanse the home of old energies, and let daily chores rest. Instead, people turned inward, embraced the silence, and listened for the messages this liminal world had to offer.
The Meaning of Today’s Ingredients
Sage: A classic incense herb that helps drive away heavy energies and brings clarity to the mind. It creates a peaceful, protected atmosphere.
Juniper: A strong protector that wards off negative influences. Its scent recalls deep forests and imparts stability, courage, and confidence.
Rosemary: Associated with protection, memory, and inner strength. It supports clear visions, enhances concentration, and helps you recall your goals and dreams.
How to Use Them
Add sage, juniper, and rosemary to your evolving incense blend. A small pinch is enough. Burn the mixture in a quiet moment, close your eyes, and sense how the rising smoke clears the surroundings, envelops you, and shields you from unwanted influences.
An Affirmation for the Rauhnächte
As you use your incense blend, speak or think the following words:
"I am protected, grounded, and open to the wisdom of these ancient nights. I release all that no longer serves me, and I welcome clarity, strength, and new visions.”
As the smoke drifts into the darkness, remember the old stories spun long ago to remind us to tread carefully in this sensitive time. Use the power of these herbs to ground yourself, stand tall within, and perceive the messages of these nights more clearly—while showing respect for the old traditions.