"Fire, after all, does not consume. It transmutes"
Kaia Anderson
In a few days it will be Bonfire Night, in fact many of you may be celebrating it this weekend. Therefore, we wanted to look at this uniquely British tradition and consider how it can contribute to our wellbeing. Observed on the 5th of November, Bonfire Night is also known as Guy Fawkes Night. It has been celebrated for centuries and marks the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 when Guy Fawkes and his fellow conspirators attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament. While the historical significance of the night is rooted in political and religious turmoil, Bonfire Night has evolved into a festive occasion that brings communities together, providing an opportunity for collective celebration and personal reflection.
The origins of Bonfire Night can be traced back to the early 17th century. On November 5, 1605, Guy Fawkes was discovered guarding explosives beneath the House of Lords. His capture thwarted a plot intended to assassinate King James I and restore a Catholic monarch to the throne. The following year, the ‘Observance of 5th November Act’ was passed, designating the day as a public holiday of thanksgiving for the failure of the plot. People lit bonfires to celebrate the safety of the King, and the tradition of burning effigies of Guy Fawkes soon followed.
Over the centuries, Bonfire Night has transformed from a solemn remembrance into a night of festivity. In contemporary times, Bonfire Night has become a major community event across the UK. Public firework displays are organised by local councils and community groups, attracting large crowds. These events can include fairground rides, food stalls, and live music, creating a festival-like atmosphere. For many, it is a time to gather with family and friends, enjoy the spectacle of fireworks, and share in the warmth of a communal bonfire.
However, Bonfire Night is not just about public celebrations. Many people still hold private gatherings in their gardens, lighting their own bonfires and setting off fireworks. These smaller, more intimate events allow for a different kind of connection, emphasising close-knit bonds and personal traditions.
Bonfire Night offers numerous opportunities to enhance our wellbeing. The act of coming together as a community can foster a sense of belonging and connection, which are crucial for mental health. Sharing a common experience, such as watching a fireworks display, can strengthen social bonds and create lasting memories.
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n addition, Bonfire Night is an excellent example of a celebration in which we can practice mindfulness and use all of our senses. Enjoying the marvel of fireworks as they light up the sky and the fairy like dancing of sparklers. The sound of those fireworks exploding and more subtly, the crackle and pop of the bonfire. The smell of burning wood and the sharp tang of sulphur that hangs in the air alongside the comforting smell of baked potatoes and hotdogs. The delicious taste of cinder toffee and toasted marshmallows and the feel of the heat from the bonfire on one side of our bodies and the cold of the autumnal night on the other. Engaging all of our senses in this way helps us feel more present and mindful, which in turn reduces stress and promotes relaxation.
For those who enjoy the excitement and spectacle, the adrenaline rush from fireworks can be exhilarating, providing a temporary escape from daily worries. However, it is important to balance this excitement with safety considerations.
Fire Safety: Always build bonfires away from buildings, trees, and fences. Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergencies. Never use accelerants like petrol to start a bonfire, as they can cause uncontrolled flames.
Firework Safety: Only buy fireworks from licensed retailers and follow the instructions carefully. Light fireworks at arm's length, using a taper, and stand well back. Never go back to a lit firework, even if it hasn't gone off.
Animal Safety: Many pets find fireworks frightening. Keep animals indoors and create a safe space for them to hide if they feel scared. Consider using calming products or playing soothing music to help reduce their anxiety.
Not everyone enjoys large crowds and loud noises. For those who prefer quieter celebrations or are spending Bonfire Night alone, there are still ways to engage with the tradition and boost our mood:
Try this:
Quiet Reflection: Light a candle or a small bonfire in your garden and spend some time reflecting on what has been happening in your life. Recall the things you are grateful for and proud of. Consider the lessons you have learned and foster gratitude for those too. This is also the perfect time to set intentions for the future; where you want to be what you want to achieve and what you will need to get there.
Transmutation: Fire is a great transmuter so take the opportunity to meditate on the things that you are worrying about; perhaps thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. Acknowledge any fears you have about the future and place them all onto the fire to be returned to the cosmos and allow yourself to feel free of them.
Creative Expression: Use the theme of Bonfire Night as inspiration for creative activities such as drawing, writing, or crafting. This can be a therapeutic way to channel your energy and emotions. This can be done alone or with others.
Virtual Celebrations: If you can't be with others in person, consider joining virtual events or watching live-streamed firework displays. Connecting with others online can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide a sense of shared experience.
Self-Care: Often we say “I should make an effort and go out and join in”, however, there is no obligation to celebrate in any way other than your own. Consider treating yourself to a cozy night in with your favourite comfort foods, movies, or books. Use the evening as an opportunity to indulge in activities that bring you joy and relaxation rather than feeling guilty about not going out.
Bonfire Night is a cherished tradition that offers numerous opportunities to enhance our wellbeing. We hope you have a safe and mindful experience however you chose to celebrate it.
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An interesting article but one that felt more like a history lesson than anything to do with transmutation by bonfire when reading it. That sadly felt like an opportunity missed as it only seemed to be referred to briefly at the end. It'd be interesting to see how the article would've been written any other week of the year if it was simply transmutation by fire.
I'm grateful for some useful suggestions under the Try This section at the end but virtual celebrations can still make people on their own aware of what they're missing out on and, in that sense, feel even more isolated.