By Chris, February 13, 2021

This strange word to most, is a form of divination. The basis of it relies on the chance encounter with animals or things to divine the future. This art is not only limited to foretelling future events, but is also a way of connecting with nature and being open to messages , including those from loved ones who have passed on. If you have ever looked out the window and saw a crow and felt it was a bad omen, or saw a cardinal and thought it was the spirit of a loved one coming to say hello, then you have already practiced the art of Apantomancy.

I came across a short entry on the basics of Apantomancy the other night , while leafing through one of my magical almanacs. Having just celebrated Imbolc roughly a fortnight ago, where we welcome back the sun, and new life begins to stir bringing the promise of renewal and rebirth, I realign my mind, body and spirit with the seasonal changes and turning of the wheel. I once again focus my attention to the outside world ,paying close attention to the subtle changes that are taking place all around me. This transitional , seasonal phase, is the perfect time to practice the art of Apantomancy.

This can be performed at any time. All you need is a pen, a notebook, a quiet area by a window where you have a good view of the outside world, or better yet, a quiet place outside where you can sit and observe nature and really connect with the animals, birds and other woodland creatures. Start by taking a few deep breaths. Make a prayer to the universe, god and goddess, spirit or however you wish to address the divine, and ask it to present the message to you that you most need to hear and apply to your life at this time. Sit quietly and remain present for about 15- 20 minutes. Do not close your eyes or zone out. Take note of the wildlife that come in to your vantage point. Write down in your notebook the date, time of day , where you were, what animals, birds, butterflies or other creatures that you see and what they were doing when you saw them. It is also important to write down the feelings you felt when you saw them. That is the message you are receiving. Once you are done, say a prayer thanking the spirits and the divine for their messages. You now have your observations recorded and can refer to them at any time. The beauty of this divination process, is that it personal to YOU. Yes. You can go look up the meaning of the animal you saw , but what the author decided it means may not necessarily mean the same thing for you at this time. This interpretation can be very powerful and meaningful. It gives you an opportunity to meditate on what you saw by connecting with your intuitive side to understand the message/messages that were sent to you through nature.

I look forward to practicing this divination method on Ostara , also known as the Spring Equinox. It is the perfect time, what with spring in the air and new life budding all around us, it is an activity that can be enjoyed by anyone. It is a great way to connect deeper with the earth, the cycles of the seasons and deepen our connection and place within the web of life. I urge you to try your hand at Apantomancy and share your experience .