The oak does not argue with the storm; it simply remains. Under a full and staring moon, its patience can be steeped and worn.
This bath draws the courage of rootedness, not the fire that charges but the calm that holds ground while everything shakes. It is for those who must stay, endure, and outlast rather than flee.
The Working
- Under the full moon, fill a bowl with water and let the moonlight rest on its surface a while.
- Add a handful of oak leaves or a piece of oak bark, and any steadying herbs you keep.
- Stir in three pinches of salt, turning the water sunwise with your open hand.
- Set the bowl on your windowsill and let it drink the moon until the water goes cold.
- Standing, pour the cool wash slowly over your shoulders and down your spine.
- Do not dry at once; let the air take the water while you speak the incantation and feel your feet grow heavy as roots.
The Incantation
Old oak, standing in the gale,
lend me the strength that does not fail.
Moon in the water, salt in the rain,
root me down and hold me plain.
Let the wind say what it will,
I am the tree upon the hill.
Bend the storm, I’m standing still.
Step from the water rooted, and let no voice that day be strong enough to move you.