The Witch of Walkerville

Tea Magic: Brewing Intention, Insight, and Herbal Power

The Witch of Walkerville

Tea Magic: Brewing Intention, Insight, and Herbal Power

par Michelle Russell le mai 24 2026
I have always enjoyed a cup of tea, not just for the taste, but to connect with the spirits and medicine of the herbs. Since day one of opening my shop, I have curated teas you too can ingest their intentions, physically absorbing the herbs' protective and attractive properties, and to shift your energy from the inside out. Here is some history and informative information about tea magic, and taseograpahy.  Tea has long been more than a comforting beverage. Across cultures and spiritual traditions, it has served as a tool to enhance focus, intention, and spiritual connection. In modern witchcraft and magical practice, tea is often incorporated as a medium for intention-setting, meditation, and ritual work, blending the natural properties of herbs with magical focus to create a simple yet powerful form of spiritual practice. Herbal teas, in this context, act as herbal ally medicine, supporting both body and spirit with their energetic properties. Origins and Context In Eastern traditions, tea ceremonies in China and Japan emphasize mindfulness, meditation, and spiritual focus, showing that even the simple act of brewing and drinking can become sacred. Modern witchcraft adapts these principles, using tea as both a ritual aid and herbal ally medicine, allowing practitioners to work with herbs to support intention, healing, and spiritual alignment. In European traditions, tea magic evolved as a blend of folk herbalism, domestic ritual, and mystical practice. Practitioners would combine imported teas with local herbs like chamomile, lavender, mint, and thyme to create blends tailored to specific intentions, such as protection, love, prosperity, or spiritual insight. Brewing tea was considered a ritual act, where the choice of herbs, the manner of preparation, and the mindfulness of the drinker all contributed to the magical outcome. European tea magic also included tea leaf reading (tasseography), using the patterns of leaves or herbs to gain guidance and foresight, making tea both a practical daily beverage and a tool for magical and divinatory work. Tea Magic Basics Tea magic works by selecting herbs with specific magical and energetic correspondences, brewing them mindfully, and consuming or using the tea while focusing on a particular intention. The process of preparation charges the tea with your energy, and drinking it acts as a personal spell, aligning your body and spirit with your goals. Magical Herbs and Their Uses: Chamomile: Calm, clarity, prosperity Rose Petals: Love, emotional healing, self-care Mint: Money, luck, mental clarity Lavender: Relaxation, protection, psychic awareness Ginger: Courage, passion, empowerment Cinnamon: Attraction, success, energetic amplification Suggested Magical Tea Recipes Prosperity Brew: Chamomile + Mint + a pinch of Cinnamon Love & Healing Tea: Rose petals + Lavender + Honey Courage & Confidence: Ginger + Chamomile + Lemon balm Practical Applications in Witchcraft Ritual Brewing: Use a dedicated cup or pot for magical teas. Focus on your intention while steeping. Spellwork: Stir clockwise to attract energy or counterclockwise to release it. Herbal Ally Baths: Pour brewed tea into ritual baths to combine herbal energy with water. Offerings: Use tea as offerings to spirits, ancestors, or deities to invite guidance and blessings. Meditation & Mindfulness: Sip tea slowly while meditating to heighten awareness, focus, and spiritual clarity. Tea Leaf Reading (Tasseography) Tea leaf reading is a form of divination that can be paired with tea magic and witchcraft practices. Patterns formed by tea leaves at the bottom of the cup provide insight and guidance. How to Read Tea Leaves: Brew loose-leaf tea, leaving the leaves in the cup. Focus on a question or area of life seeking insight. Leave a small amount of liquid with the leaves. Swirl the cup clockwise, then invert onto a saucer. Examine patterns: Circle: Completion, success, or cycles Heart: Love or emotional matters Star: Opportunity or guidance Snake: Caution or hidden challenges Record your readings to track patterns and develop intuition. Why Tea Magic Works Tea magic is effective because it combines mindfulness, intention, and the natural energetic properties of herbs. Tea functions as a modern magical tool and herbal ally medicine, offering a gentle, approachable way to align energy, manifest intentions, and support well-being. Drinking tea mindfully, performing ritual baths, and reading tea leaves allow practitioners to connect with intuition, enhance magical work, and bring intention into everyday life. Whether used for meditation, spellwork, or divination, tea magic transforms a simple beverage into a sacred and versatile tool, linking herbal energy, intention, and spiritual practice in one ritual act. Try some of my Magical Teas, all created to support you in your magical and wellness routine. All organic and free trade.                
The Spiritual Secrets of Witches Brew: Protection & Attraction

The Witch of Walkerville

The Spiritual Secrets of Witches Brew: Protection & Attraction

par Michelle Russell le mai 20 2026
Have you ever picked up a bottle of Witches Brew oil, or product, looked at the ingredients, and wondered how it actually works? I personally love the smell and depth of Witches Brew Oil, and I love making it. Here's the secret behind the formula... At first glance, the traditional roots, resins, and spices in a classic Witches Brew or Condition Oil—like Frankincense, Myrrh, Cedarwood, Patchouli, and Cinnamon—are famous for two specific traits: protection and attraction. So, why do rootworkers and spiritual practitioners use this blend to enhance personal energy, break stagnation, and boost inner power? The secret lies in traditional spiritual synergy. Witches Brew oil boosts your vital energy precisely because it protects you and attracts blessings at the same time. When you combine these two forces, they act as an energetic battery charger for your spirit. Here is the breakdown of the magic and rootwork behind the brew, and exactly how you can work this oil to heat up your own path. 1. Stopping the Drain (The Power of Protection) Ingredients like Frankincense, Myrrh, and Cedarwood are spiritual heavyweights used to clear out crossed conditions, drive away negative energy, and build strong boundaries. The Energy Connection: One of the main reasons we feel tired, stagnant, or completely unmotivated is "spiritual static"—outside stress, envy, negative environments, or empathetic burnout. By sealing your personal borders and shielding you from negative influences, these protective oils stop your energy from leaking. When you stop the drain and keep the enemy out, you instantly keep more of your own vital life force. 2. Charging the Battery (The Power of Attraction) Ingredients like Cinnamon Bark and Patchouli are traditional staples used to draw in luck, success, and prosperity. The Energy Connection: Cinnamon is a hot, solar spice. Metaphysically, it works by "heating up" a situation and rapidly raising your spiritual vibration. Patchouli acts as a heavy grounding anchor. It pulls that high-vibrational energy down into the physical world so you can actually use it. Instead of just wishing for change, these attraction ingredients pull active, usable fuel right into your aura. 3. The Ultimate Synergy: How the Rootwork Works Rootwork involves using roots, herbs, minerals, and everyday objects to create charms, cast spells, and heal ailments. Practitioners use natural remedies and spiritual petitions to bring about desired changes, such as attracting love, securing protection, or clearing obstacles. When these ingredients ( witches brew) are fixed together in a single bottle, they form a perfect, continuous cycle: Protection clears out the mess and creates a safe, clean, empty container. Attraction instantly floods that clean container with high-vibrational power. By keeping the bad energy out and pulling the blessings in, Witches Brew oil creates a self-sustaining cycle of unshakeable focus, heavy motivation, and dominant personal power. It is the ultimate catalyst to shake off stagnation and command your environment. How to Work Witches Brew Oil: Traditional Psalms and Petitions The oils and products I make at Smudge are already charged and prayed upon for their intended purpose when you purchase them. If you are making your own oil, or are dressing a candle, bath or mojo bag, to activate your work, clear your mind, hold the oil, candle, etc, in your hands, and state your intention. Here are three traditional ways to work this oil depending on what you need right now. For Protection and Shielding: Use this work when you feel tired, crossed, or drained by negative people around you. The Psalm: Read Psalm 91 aloud to build an unshakeable spiritual wall around yourself or your home. You can also say a prayer or incantation from your personal spiritual path. The Petition: Write your name on a clean piece of paper. Cross your name out by writing the word "PROTECTED" over it three times. Anoint the four corners of the paper with the oil, fold it away from you to keep negativity out, and place it under a white candle dressed with the oil. Say aloud: "Cleanse my path, shield my head, and let no crossed condition stand against me." For Unstoppable Personal Power and Command: Use this work when you feel stagnant, weak, or need to dominate a situation like a job interview or a difficult meeting. The Psalm: Read Psalm 23 aloud to claim your victory, favour, and abundance in the face of obstacles. You can also say a prayer or incantation from your own personal spiritual path. The Petition: Write your goal on a piece of paper in bold letters. Dab the oil onto your pulse points (wrists and temples) and the soles of your feet. Hold the paper, breathe deeply, and say aloud: "I am the master of my path. Stagnation is broken, my power is restored, and success comes to me now." Burn the paper safely and let the ashes fly in the wind. For Drawing Blessings and Success: Use this work when you need to rapidly draw money, luck, or new opportunities into your life. The Psalm: Read Psalm 112 aloud to open the doors for prosperity, wealth, and righteous success. You can also use a prayer or incantation from your own personal spiritual path. The Petition: Write down the exact blessing or amount of money you need on a small piece of brown paper bag. Anoint the four corners of the paper with the oil, then fold the paper toward you three times to pull the blessing in. Place it inside your wallet or underneath a green candle dressed with the oil. Say aloud: "With this oil, I heat up my path. Let luck find me, let money hold to me, and let blessings flood my doors." Ready to Claim Your Power? Whether you are anointing your body daily to carry a shield of favour everywhere you walk, dressing candles for manifestation, or feeding your favourite mojo bags, Witches Brew Condition Oil is a versatile tool for any practitioner's toolkit. Stop letting outside mess drain your vitality—clear your path, stoke your inner fire, and step into your dominant power today. Handmade Witches Brew products that I create, here at Smudge. All natural ingredients, and organic herbs when available. Enjoy!  Michelle, The Witch of Walkerville                   
Gemini Season: Cultivating Curiosity and Connection

The Witch of Walkerville

Gemini Season: Cultivating Curiosity and Connection

par Michelle Russell le mai 11 2026
As Gemini season approaches, it's time to embrace the exciting energy of curiosity, communication, and connection! The sun moves into Gemini on May 21st. Ruled by Mercury, Gemini brings a lively spark that encourages us to dive into new ideas, meet interesting people, and open our minds to fresh perspectives. Whether you're looking to spark some creative conversations, explore new hobbies, or just enjoy the social buzz of the season, Gemini energy has something special to offer. Let’s explore how we can make the most of this dynamic time! Gemini is an air sign, and air signs are all about mental stimulation, communication, and social interaction. As we enter Gemini season, you may find yourself feeling more talkative, open to new ideas, and eager to make connections. Gemini’s influence encourages us to embrace change and flexibility, welcoming new experiences and ways of thinking. Gemini is often associated with duality, representing the balance between two sides of a situation, making it a great time to explore different perspectives and engage in thought-provoking conversations. It’s also a fantastic period for personal growth, especially when it comes to expanding your mental horizons, learning something new, or engaging with diverse communities. To fully embrace Gemini’s versatile and curious energy, we can work with herbs and crystals that align with the themes of communication, mental clarity, and adaptability. Herbs:  Peppermint is a stimulating herb that clears mental fog and promotes focus, enhancing intellectual activity, making it perfect for Gemini energy. Lavender, known for its calming properties, helps balance the overactive mind by promoting relaxation, making it ideal for those moments when you need to quiet your thoughts. Lemon Balm, a member of the mint family, helps with mental clarity and emotional balance, enhancing communication and social interaction. Crystals: Fluorite, known for its ability to clear and stabilize the mind, help improve focus and clarity, making it a perfect stone for this mentally active season. Aquamarine enhances communication, encouraging clear, calm conversations, helping you express yourself more openly. Citrine, often called the stone of abundance, is great for creative expression, optimism, and intellectual exploration. Gemini season is all about exploring new ideas, connecting with others, and engaging your mind. Thoughtful conversations are a great way to tap into Gemini’s energy. Whether it's a deep discussion with a close friend or a lively debate, embrace the exchange of ideas. This is also an excellent time to start a new learning journey. Gemini is constantly seeking new knowledge, so why not start a new hobby, learn a new skill, or pick up a book on a subject that sparks your curiosity? Writing your thoughts can also help channel the vibrant Gemini energy. Start a journal, write short stories, or even create a blog post that channels your thoughts on a topic that excites you. If you find yourself feeling energized by Gemini's social nature, make time to socialize. Whether it's through casual hangouts, networking events, or deep discussions with like-minded individuals, Gemini encourages us to connect and share ideas. This season is the perfect opportunity to engage with others who inspire you and help spark new perspectives. As we navigate Gemini season, it’s an ideal time to embrace mental flexibility, adaptability, and open-mindedness. Gemini energy invites us to shift our perspective, communicate more openly, and pursue a sense of curiosity about the world around us. This is also a great time to refine your goals, expand your intellectual pursuits, and connect with others who inspire you.  To align with the energy of Gemini, try repeating these affirmations to support your curiosity, communication, and adaptability: "I embrace new ideas and am open to all the opportunities that come my way." "My mind is clear, focused, and full of creative possibilities."  "I communicate with ease, confidence, and clarity." "I trust in my ability to adapt and grow, no matter the challenges." "I welcome the flow of new experiences and the connections that they bring." Gemini season is an exciting time of exploration, connection, and growth. It invites us to embrace our curiosity, expand our minds, and make meaningful connections with others. Whether you’re learning something new, engaging in lively conversations, or simply enjoying the freedom to think and express yourself, Gemini energy encourages you to embrace all the possibilities this season has to offer.
A hand holding a burning stick of Palo Santo. A bowl of Palo Santo is on a table surrounded by a ssage stick and a candle.

The Witch of Walkerville

How to Cleanse Your Space with Palo Santo for Clarity & Purification

par Michelle Russell le mai 04 2026
Paula Santo has always been one of our favourite cleansing tools here at Smudge. It's sweet, woody scent, and uplifting energy create a calm and clear environment. Palo Santo, meaning "holy wood" in Spanish, is a sacred tree native to South America, and its wood has been used for centuries in spiritual and healing practices. Renowned for its sweet, aromatic scent, Palo Santo has become a favourite among those seeking to cleanse their space, enhance meditation, or simply bring positive energy into their homes. In this blog post, we’ll explore the rich history of Palo Santo, its uses in ritual, and how you can incorporate this powerful wood into your daily spiritual practices. The History of Palo Santo Palo Santo has a long history, particularly in the indigenous cultures of South America, where it has been used for centuries by the people of the Andes mountains, including Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia. The wood comes from the Bursera graveolens tree, which is a member of the citrus family. Its name, which means “holy wood” in Spanish, speaks to its spiritual significance and its long-standing association with healing and sacred rituals. Traditionally, Palo Santo was used for cleansing rituals, as well as in ceremonies to connect with the divine. Shamans would burn Palo Santo wood to clear negative energies, invite positive vibrations, and communicate with spirits. The smoke from burning Palo Santo is thought to have the ability to purify not only the environment but also the mind and soul, making it a powerful tool in meditation, energy clearing, and spiritual practices. While Palo Santo has a rich history in spiritual and healing traditions, it has gained widespread popularity in modern times. Thanks to its unique aroma and purifying properties, it has become a staple in the wellness community, often used in yoga studios, healing spaces, and homes alike. The Healing and Spiritual Properties of Palo Santo Palo Santo is renowned for its ability to clear negative energy, making it an excellent tool for energy cleansing and protection. The wood is said to have both physical and spiritual benefits: Purification: Burning Palo Santo is thought to clear negative or stagnant energy from a room, person, or object. This makes it an ideal tool for cleansing your space before meditation or after a stressful event. Spiritual connection: The smoke of Palo Santo is used to connect with higher realms and enhance spiritual rituals. It is often used in rituals to promote healing and invite positivity into one’s life. Emotional balance: The sweet, uplifting aroma is said to bring emotional healing by reducing stress, anxiety, and even physical tension. It is also thought to enhance mental clarity, making it a powerful tool during meditation or mindfulness practices. Protection: As a form of energetic protection, Palo Santo can be used to keep negative energies at bay, whether in the home or during a spiritual journey. Many people use it to create a protective aura around themselves. How to Use Palo Santo in Your Rituals The simplest and most common way to use Palo Santo is by burning it. Here’s how you can incorporate Palo Santo into your rituals: 1. Cleansing Your SpaceTo cleanse your space and invite positive energy, light a stick of Palo Santo and hold it at an angle so the tip catches fire. Once it’s lit, let it burn for about 30 seconds to a minute, then blow out the flame, allowing the wood to smoulder and release its aromatic smoke. Slowly walk around the room or space, wafting the smoke into the corners, over doorways, and around objects you wish to cleanse. You can also use a feather or your hand to help direct the smoke. As you do this, set an intention, or say a prayer for what you want to release (negative energy, stress, etc.) and what you want to invite in (peace, love, clarity). 2. In Meditation or PrayerPalo Santo is a wonderful tool to use during meditation. The soothing aroma helps to clear the mind and enhance spiritual connection. Burn a stick of Palo Santo before your meditation session and let the smoke fill the space. Sit comfortably and breathe in the calming scent, using it to ground and centre yourself. You may choose to set an intention for your meditation or simply allow the Palo Santo to help you connect more deeply with your inner self. 3. Personal CleansingTo cleanse your personal energy, light a stick of Palo Santo and walk through the smoke, holding the stick in your hands. Allow the smoke to swirl around you, focusing on areas that feel heavy or blocked. As you move through the smoke, set the intention, or say a prayer to release any negative emotions or energy that no longer serve you. 4. Spiritual Rituals and Healing PracticesPalo Santo can be used in various spiritual rituals and ceremonies, such as when you’re working with crystals, doing tarot readings, meditation, or energy healing. You can burn Palo Santo before, during, or after these practices to set the mood, clear the space, and invite positive energy. It can also be used to create a sense of sacredness and reverence during any ritual. When to Use Palo Santo There are several times when burning Palo Santo can be useful in your personal life: Before or after a difficult situation: After an argument, stressful event, or negative experience, burn Palo Santo to clear the lingering energy and restore peace. During meditation or yoga: Use Palo Santo before or during your practice to enhance focus, clarity, and calmness. When you feel spiritually blocked: If you feel disconnected from your spiritual practice or experience a sense of stagnation, burning Palo Santo can help you break through that block and open yourself up to new energy and insights. When welcoming positive energy: Palo Santo is perfect when you want to invite more positivity into your life, whether it’s a new chapter, a fresh start, or a new endeavour. To cleanse spaces or objects: Use Palo Santo to cleanse your home, office, or any space you feel needs an energetic reset. It’s also great for clearing new crystals or tarot decks before you begin working with them. Palo Santo is a powerful and sacred tool in the spiritual world, known for its ability to clear negative energy, bring emotional balance, and enhance spiritual connection. Whether you’re using it to purify your space, calm your mind, or deepen your meditation, Palo Santo offers a simple and natural way to invite positive energy and healing into your life. Incorporating this sacred wood into your spiritual practices can be a transformative and grounding experience, helping you connect with the divine and create a peaceful, harmonious environment.
Why Your Spell Didn’t Work: The Spiritual Reasons It May Have Failed

The Witch of Walkerville

Why Your Spell Didn’t Work: The Spiritual Reasons It May Have Failed

par Michelle Russell le avr. 20 2026
 If you've ever cast a spell and it didn’t manifest as expected, you're not alone. There are several spiritual reasons why your spell might have "failed", and understanding them can help you improve your future workings. Find out how to improve your odds.
Taurus Season: Grounding, Abundance, and Sensuality

The Witch of Walkerville

Taurus Season: Grounding, Abundance, and Sensuality

par Michelle Russell le avr. 16 2026
As we step into Taurus season, it’s the perfect time to slow down, reconnect with the earth, and indulge in the simple pleasures that bring us joy. Whether you're looking to create a sense of stability, attract abundance, or embrace your sensual side, Taurus energy invites you to ground yourself and enjoy life’s beautiful moments. Let’s explore how you can make the most of this earthy, luxurious season!
Love Magic vs. Self-Love Work: What Should You Be Doing Right Now?

The Witch of Walkerville

Love Magic vs. Self-Love Work: What Should You Be Doing Right Now?

par Michelle Russell le févr. 16 2026
February has a way of stirring things up.  Even if you’re not the Valentine’s type, this time of year tends to bring love, relationships, longing, and reflection to the surface. And the question underneath all of it is usually this: Should I be doing love magic… or should I be working on myself first? It’s an honest question. And the answer isn’t always what people expect. Read more to find out. 
Winter Solstice & Yule: Celebrating Light, Renewal & Growth

The Witch of Walkerville

Winter Solstice & Yule: Celebrating Light, Renewal & Growth

par Michelle Russell le nov. 25 2025
The Winter Solstice is a cosmic pause — a moment when nature, spirit, and the universe hold their breath before the cycle of rebirth begins.As the sun returns, so do we: renewed, empowered, hopeful, and ready for the next chapter.
December Astrology: Cosmic Shifts, Deep Healing & What to Expect

The Witch of Walkerville

December Astrology: Cosmic Shifts, Deep Healing & What to Expect

par Michelle Russell le nov. 25 2025
December 2025 arrives with the kind of cosmic intensity that can be felt in the body as much as in the spirit. It’s a month of endings and beginnings, reflection and rebirth, deep intuition and sudden clarity.
The Veil Thins - A Witch's Guide to October & Samhain

The Witch of Walkerville

The Veil Thins - A Witch's Guide to October & Samhain

par Michelle Russell le sept. 30 2025
Happy Witching Season! As the leaves turn to fire and the air grows crisp, there's an undeniable shift in energy. October isn't just a month on the calendar; it's a doorway to the mystical, a time when the veil between worlds thins, making magic more palpable and spiritual connections more profound. This is the season of shadows, introspection, and the ancient wisdom of Samhain.
A Witch's Guide to Libra Season - Astrology, Rituals & Spells

The Witch of Walkerville

A Witch's Guide to Libra Season - Astrology, Rituals & Spells

par Michelle Russell le sept. 23 2025
Libra season is a beautiful invitation to pause, breathe, and bring more grace and balance into our lives. Whether you're enhancing your relationships, beautifying your home, or simply taking time for self-care, embrace the harmonious energies of this magical time.
Ignite Your Inner Fire: The Leo New Moon - A guide for each sign.

The Witch of Walkerville

Ignite Your Inner Fire: The Leo New Moon - A guide for each sign.

par Michelle Russell le juil. 18 2025
Get ready to roar, because the cosmos are aligning for a powerful fresh start! On July 24th, 2025, we welcome the New Moon in the fiery and flamboyant sign of Leo.
Your Personal Astrology Survival Guide for July 2025 - Embrace Change

The Witch of Walkerville

Your Personal Astrology Survival Guide for July 2025 - Embrace Change

par Michelle Russell le juil. 03 2025
July 2025 ushers in a dynamic astrological landscape, a pivotal month marked by significant planetary shifts that will challenge us to balance introsp...
June 2025 New Moon in Cancer - A Witch's Guide

The Witch of Walkerville

June 2025 New Moon in Cancer - A Witch's Guide

par Michelle Russell le juin 23 2025
June 25th brings us a truly significant astrological event: the New Moon in Cancer. This isn't just another lunar phase; it's a profound invitation to...
Summer Solstice & Litha 2025: A Witch's Celebration Guide

The Witch of Walkerville

Summer Solstice & Litha 2025: A Witch's Celebration Guide

par Michelle Russell le juin 18 2025
The summer Solstice and Litha is a celebration of growth, fertility, and the vibrant energy of nature in full bloom. Join us as we delve into the magi...
Your May 2025 Astrology & Moon Cycle Quick Guide

The Witch of Walkerville

Your May 2025 Astrology & Moon Cycle Quick Guide

par Michelle Russell le mai 05 2025
May 2025 presents a dynamic interplay of lunar phases and significant astrological transits, offering opportunities for introspection, action, and set...
The Magic of Beltane

The Witch of Walkerville

The Magic of Beltane

par Michelle Russell le avr. 19 2025
Ah, Beltane! The very air feels different as we approach this vibrant festival, doesn't it? Here in Windsor, with the spring blossoms in full swing, it's easy to imagine our ancestors welcoming the return of life and light with such joyful exuberance. 
Traditional Ostara Bread Recipes

The Witch of Walkerville

Traditional Ostara Bread Recipes

par Michelle Russell le mars 17 2025
There is no better way to celebrate the turning of the season (or just anything!) than with warm, freshly baked bread. Here are a few recipes to make ...
Spring Simmer Pot Recipes

The Witch of Walkerville

Spring Simmer Pot Recipes

par Michelle Russell le mars 17 2025
When you spring clean your home to refresh and renew your space, you can invoke the cleansing, manifesting and grounding properties of herbs, fruits a...
Ostara: Magical Rituals, Correspondants & Traditions

The Witch of Walkerville

Ostara: Magical Rituals, Correspondants & Traditions

par Michelle Russell le mars 17 2025
Ostara, also known as the Spring Equinox, is the time of year when nature awakens from its winter slumber, and the balance between day and night is re...