About Sheelah-Na-Gig: The image of this Irish goddess of fertility tells us much about the unbridled nature of feminine passion that Sheelah inspires with springlike whimsey. She is shown smiling broadly, holding her legs wide open, completely naked. Nonetheless, this is not irresponsible lust; it is the gate of life through which we all pass. Interestingly enough, Sheelah's image, in an amulet, offers protection, too - perhaps she was the first goddess of safe sex?
To Do Today: Sheelah's Day is celebrated in true Irish fashion by drinking abundant whiskey and drowning a shamrock in the last glass consumed, to end the festivities. This particular custom denotes the idea of consuming one's luck, increasing fecundity, and internalizing the goddess's protective energies before the day is over. So if you can tolerate whiskey, toast Sheelah, take a sip, and warm up your passion! Otherwise, offer her a libation of whiskey, asking for her energy to be likewise liberated in your body.
If you have a significant other, one of the best ways to honor Sheelah is through passionate encounters that are balanced with wisdom and foresight. Take a condom and bless it, saying:
Sheelah, my hunger see. let my body love freely.
But keep us safe, fertility bind,
no matter our haste, keep protection in mind.
Carry this condom with you to your tryst.
