A word from our editor, Julie Hand

The breath is like a river which, if followed, leads you to the ocean which is the Self. Following the breath, consciously and openly, is the simplest and most direct way to connect with the Self and bring you into the Now.

Being in the Now, and offering you different ways to get there, is what we at Hermits Bazaar are all about. Using the ever-turning Wheel of the Year as a focus is a beautiful way to connect with nature and All That Is, but it also continually brings us back to the Present. It helps us enjoy the season that is Now, the day that is Now, the life that is Now. Relishing in what nature has to offer us right now, without having to continually look ahead and focus on events or celebrations still to come (how many of us have already seen Easter Eggs in the shops??).

In this issue, we look at Imbolc (imm’olg), where the first light of Spring is welcomed back and we send our attention to the first quiet stirrings of life. Enjoy the different perspectives given by our contributors on this time of year, what it means and how you can celebrate it. We also look at the remote sacred site of Callanish; the Orbs Phenomenon; the breath and how to use it for improved well-being; and in the News section, we take a look at a new energy healing therapy. We also have our regular contributions on health, with detox advice, and nutrition, with a glorious sunny recipe, as well as the ongoing Diary of a Psychic.

Finally, Hermits Bazaar invites you to our gathering,” Imbolc: Bringing in the Light” in Bournemouth on Sunday February 3rd from 1-4pm. We will walk spirals, meditate, plant seeds for the future, breathe, dance and eat cake!! See the Whats On section for more details.

Thank you, thank you to all our contributors for helping to make this issue happen, and to all of you out there who have sent in such great feedback.

Wishing you all the fertile soil in which your seeds for 2008 may flourish and grow.