WASSAIL
Ecological Landcare
Why 'Wassail'?
Wassail comes from the Old English “was hal” meaning “to your health”. The tradition of Wassailing is inherently one of connection to the land. Often associated with apple trees and orchards, it is a ritualistic representation of the relationship between humans and the rest of the natural world. The act of Wassailing can be seen as a sort of pre-emptive thanksgiving. To Wassail as a verb is to notice and appreciate the gifts that the natural world bestows upon us- whether it be apples, berries, birdsong, or a fresh breeze. In return we can give our attention to the cycles of nature and maybe hum an ancient tune while getting our hands dirty.