Sometimes it can feel like we're caught in a whirlwind, chasing after the whispers of youth, searching for alchemical trickery to rewind the clock. But it’s time to honor the silvery strands that appear later in our tapestry of life.
The Crone, historically viewed with negativity, is undergoing a modern reinterpretation as a symbol of wisdom, liberation, and personal power. Crones, as archetypal figures, have evolved through folklore and mythology, and their modern applications encourage the embracing of age, and with that: intuition, and spiritual connection. Examples of well-known crone Goddesses include Baba Yaga, Hecate, and Cailleach.
Through time, the power and wisdom that crones possessed became a threat, leading to the demonization of Wise Women in folklore and mythology. Crones were portrayed as disagreeable, malicious, or sinister figures associated with magic and the supernatural. For example, the Slavic witch Baba Yaga was once a kind fairy but she devolved into an evil, cannibalistic figure.
In the Irish Tradition, the crone, the Hag of Beara… the Divine Feminine, is Cailleach. Cailleach created the landscape. Mountains formed where she dropped stones from her apron. She created bodies of water where her footsteps left imprints in the earth. She brings frost and snow with her staff or hammer and makes her presence felt through winter conditions. Her great age is a sign of her power and her ability to persevere.
As the winter goddess, when plants whither and leaves fall, she is the profound wisdom that understands that life is cyclical and that death and rebirth are part of a whole. Associated with Herbalists, Wise Women and Men, and all those who understand the language of plants and the rhythms of the earth, she is a knowing that despite what we perceive on the surface, life continues beneath.
The crone archetype challenges our current societal norms that prioritize youth and beauty, advocating for the wisdom and the experience of age. By embracing this archetype, individuals tap into their inner wisdom, develop a strong sense of intuition, and navigate life's complexities with greater discernment. The archetype's emphasis on independence and solitude can provide strength and self-reliance during times of isolation, fostering a deeper connection with the inner self.
Now, more than ever, we need the insights of our Elders to guide us through these challenging times for they are the keepers of traditions, the moral compasses of our communities. They have gathered resilience, like a magical cloak, as protection from the storms of life. Their knowledge cannot be gleaned from textbooks or youthful adventures. And we must open our minds to their lessons. They can help us even in the darkest of times, reminding us that something uplifting awaits on the other side of disruption. For those who have the privilege of age, it is a gift, and it is meant to be shared.
Female humans, whales, and elephants are the only animals that experience menopause. living long past their reproductive years and outliving males. We now understand that there is an evolutionary advantage to their age and wisdom.
Let’s share, embrace, acknowledge, and appreciate the Cailleach within, the crone with keys to ancient wisdom and the secrets of resilience. ✨🌿💖
Use the discount code CRONE for 10% off your next order at spiralherbalremedies.com.
Follow us on Instagram for more Ancient Wisdom and Herbal Knowledge.
Clinical Herbalist Donna Troy Cleary is a descendant of Irish Hereditary Herbalism Families on both sides of her family. She studied Herbalism for 3 years, has had her own Herbalism shop for 8, and worked as a Registered Nurse for 13 years at Harvard's Teaching Hospital - Beth Israel in Boston.
To stimulate conversation, here are some questions which you can answer below:
What are some ways we can combat ageism in our communities?
How can we better honor the wisdom of our elders?
What role do grandmothers play in modern family dynamics?
Can you share some personal stories that highlight the resilience of older generations?
What practices can we adopt to embrace aging positively?
Comments