2015

New trail opens in Pokaiņi Forest as part of “MĀRTIŅDIENA” celebration

Mārtiņi or Mārtiņdiena (November 10) marks the end of fall and beginning of winter, when the harvest period, grazing, and the Time of the Dead come to an end. With opening of a new trail in LVM Pokaiņi Forest on November 7, the holiday will be marked starting at 1 p.m. with both songs from the folk community "Silavoti", and sounds that gong, ring, vibrate, shine, and provide light.

The new trail offers many things. One side features a sacred grove of white birches, while mighty fir trees grace the other. The trail also features the Pyramid of Wishes, Path of Health, Gateway of Sun's Seasons, and the Circle of Zodiac, as well as two newly-established stones at the foot of the Austra Tree – Sun and Moon.

Because many bring their own stones, the Pyramid of Wishes will be the right place to put them, adding a wish. Meanwhile, century-old signs that were passed down from generation to generation are now incorporated in the Path of Health, inviting all enthusiasts to explore, feel, and indulge in the healing, protective, and energetic power of these signs. Description about each sign, as well as the species of the tree that was used in the making of the sign, will be a feature of  the Mārtiņdiena event. Furthermore, the trail's designers will be on hand to answer questions about how the trail went from idea to fruition, and the signs that can be found there.

When the Path of Health ends, one can pass through the eight gates of Sun's Seasons. The signs are placed according to cardinal points resembling a gateway of stars opening space in time. By passing through the circle of signs, one can hear inner feelings, as well as gain strength and energy. Then the Circle of Zodiac appears, which is formed from wooden pine benches, where anyone can find their own sign and sit for a moment to feel the energy of their cardinal point.

With darkness setting in, the Austra Tree, filled with songs and sounds, will be illuminated with candlelight, symbolizing the path of the sun and order of the world. This is why attendees will find it useful to bring along a bell or some other sound-producing instrument for joint ringing.

LVM Pokaiņi Forest’s wish: relax, and find out who you are through nature.