Thursday, May 30, 2013

Book Review: The Earth Path by Starhawk

Starhawk is a very well known author in the the Wiccan tradition. She's also a very well known environmental activist and spreads her wisdom around the world through her books, her workshops, and her involvement in the Pagan community. Her book, The Earth Path, incorporates her views of the Earth, its energies, and how they connect to the Wiccan tradition.

In her book. she speaks about biodiversity in the the ecosystems and the importance of grounding and using energy to help heal Earth along with the reverence we can show toward the Earth. She speaks of environmental activism and ways for the average person to take part in energy conservation such as converting "gray water" (contaminated water) into a reusable source for gardens. Other ways include creating hydroelectricity from running streams, catching rainwater in tanks as a usable source, and by converting solar energy into electricity for the home.

Starhawk dedicates a good portion of her book to creating lasting connections with nature and the five elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Spirit. She equates the Spirit to patterns such as spirals that can be seen throughout nature. She also incorporates exercises with each element and outlines of rituals that can be done with groups or alone.

I found this book to be very insightful and especially detailed when interpreting the elements and their significance to the cycle of life. I would recommend this book to people who wish to learn more about the environment and who wish to become more connected with their home in nature.


To learn more about Starhawk and this book, you may visit http://www.starhawk.org/writings/earth_path.html

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