Celtic Totems and Entities

Cernunni
Cernunni are described as a hybrid species, possessing both human and deer characteristics, originating from the deity Cernunnos in the ancient woodlands of Britain.

They ventured out from Britain across the northern hemisphere, establishing groves for their followers. Samhain is a time of new beginnings, a time for fertility, fecundity, gathering and sharing resources. The summer solstice is a time for birthing and creating new life, new beginnings.

The interval between conception and birth parallels that of humans, with the summer solstice representing an optimal period for new life due to the abundance of food. (See: Birch Tree)

Druantia
Druantia is the queen and ruler of the Dryads, the earth elementals inhabiting the trees. Her abode is the fir tree, particularly the ancient Scots pine: the austere and harsh realities of the Highlands establish her majesty over all terrestrial elementals that inhabit Gaia, including the dryads, of which she is one.

Her presence is intertwined with the very essence of nature, granting her the power to nurture and protect the forests, the dryads and all of Gaia's elementals. Druantia moves with the seasons, changing with the wind in each direction until returning to the north. (See: Rowan Tree)

Elementals
Elementals, including mankind, can be categorised into two species: terrestrial (of the earth) and celestial (of the heavens).

The terrestrial species can be broken down into a further six:
Mankind = Human
Gnomi = Earth
Sylphs = Air
Salamander = Fire
Undines = Water
Spiritual Incarnates = elementals conscious of others.

Mankind = Terrestrial elementals that reside within the density of physical reality.

Gnomi = Earth elementals reside within the earth; just as we rely on air for respiration, these elementals depend on the earth and its solid state.

Sylphs = Air elementals are identified in clouds, the mists of dawn, or vapours from ascending warm air currents. These entities are present in narratives of the Fae, fairy folk, and angels; they rely on wind and air currents for sustenance. A common description is one of transparent creatures that can be seen in the peripheral vision.

Salamander = Fire elementals can be identified in the flames of a fire and the burning embers that remain after the fire. Occasionally they can be seen in a storm-ravaged sky seeking their place on earth. They can be seen in the image of the flame and survive in the etheric body attracted to a flame. These elementals bring calm to their surroundings; they burn incompatible energy and replace it with energy that bestows peace. In the past, the dance of these elementals mesmerised people as they gazed into the heart of a fire. A single candle in a room can encourage the 'fire elementals' to do their work. A common description today is of yellow wisps that turn orange when seen, then turn blue and disappear.

Undines = Water elementals are identified in it. The oceans and seas contain a different elemental to the inland elementals of the rivers and streams. The elementals from the ocean are much larger than their inland family and more human-like in both physical and emotional capacity, with the general perception of the mermaid being a classic example. Water elementals are our closest allies; a vast majority of them can see us and are aware of our presence. Once we are aware of their presence, they will encourage communication. A common description today is the mermaid; most people are unaware of their presence within the indoor water feature. Mermaids are usually perceived as female and adult-sized; if they were perceived as 'nymphs', miniature mermaid-type entities, they would have much wider general acceptance.

Inland water elementals are of a much more gentle nature than their oceanic relatives. 'Mermaid' is an adequate generalisation that describes both sexes. Their degree of transparency depends on personal choice and the viewer's perception capabilities. The essence and romance of a babbling brook, a water fountain, and the gentle sound of rippling water will contribute to the elementals making themselves known. Believers and beings who possess a sense of spiritual acceptance are more likely to see them than those without a sense of spirituality.

Spiritual Incarnates are elementals made in God's image; these beings live in harmony with all other elementals and can be socially aware of one or more of them. (See: Alder Tree)

Holly Queen
Holly Queen, a figure of enchanting beauty and grace, inherits the monarchy at the Summer Solstice and holds it all the way to the Winter Solstice, marking her reign over this vibrant dark half of the year. She is not merely a monarch emerging from isolation; rather, she serves as the ideal counterpart to the Oak King, who wears his crown from the Winter Solstice until the arrival of summer's warmth. Together, they embody a harmonious balance within nature’s cycle, each one illuminating and enhancing the other's strengths.

Their likeness is such that she is also known as the scarlet oak, the vibrant hues coming from glistening berries in abundance at the time she relinquishes her crown to the oak king. It is the harsh frost, the coldness of winter, and the purity of the snow that encourage her berries to soften, shine, and glow so red they are almost purple. It is this scarlet hue that empowers her and brings her to her prime. It is with humility and respect that she relinquishes her crown to the Oak King so that he can once again extend the days and inherit the throne.

The energy or essence of Holly takes time to acknowledge; her energy can be likened to that of the energy of a butterfly wing; it is only after experiencing it that it can be accepted. It is after acceptance that the unicorn and sacred white eilidh will appear as your guides.

The quietude surrounding her presence whispers secrets of tranquillity, the kind that invites introspection and wonder. Imagine inhaling deeply; you would catch hints of moss mingling with damp earth from an enchanted grove where ancient trees stand sentinel over timeless stories yet untold. To behold Holly Queen in her full splendour, one must journey westward and cast their gaze eastward towards lush holly bushes adorned with glimmering red berries. If you are fortunate enough, you may just glimpse her watching over you with eyes that hold centuries' worth of wisdom. However, approaching her directly is forbidden; instead, she requires those who wish to encounter her to open themselves up fully, to be present in spirit and mind. When your heart aligns with nature’s rhythm, she will come forth when destiny deems it right. (See: Rowan Tree)

Huginn and Muninn
Huginn and Muninn, the wise ravens of Norse mythology, are sent out each morning from the ash tree at dawn to soar across the vast expanse of the world, returning each evening to their master, Odin. These two feathered companions are not merely birds; they embody profound concepts, memory, and thought. With their flights, they gather knowledge from every corner of the earth and bring back insights that illuminate a troubled mind with clarity and understanding. Their presence serves as a reminder of the importance of reflection and wisdom in our lives.

White Lady of the Woods
White Lady of the Woods is a strikingly beautiful and ethereal figure who graces the space beside the majestic birch tree at the entrance to the forest. This enchanting creature embodies a deep connection to nature and spiritual realms, her essence resonating with the soul on a level that transcends mere recognition. Though she may remain elusive when sought directly, silence is the prevailing signature of her presence; her presence lingers in the air like a gentle whisper, inviting those attuned to her energy to acknowledge that they are indeed in good company.

To cultivate an awareness of her existence, it will soon become clear that she offers so much more than one could ever expect. The gifts she provides are often subtle yet profound; they are everything that is missing until they are manifested. Her generosity is boundless, as she requests no reciprocation. Her contributions stem from an elevated vibration akin to that of angels, filled with love and light. This delicate balance between giving and receiving fosters a sense of harmony within those fortunate enough to encounter her spirit.

In folklore and spiritual traditions, these figures serve as guides who illuminate our paths through life's complexities. They are a reminder of the unseen forces at work within nature and ourselves and the interconnectedness shared with all living beings and encourage trust in our intuition. Thus, to wander near that birch tree or to be enveloped by woodland shadows, hold onto this knowledge: by simply acknowledging her presence through heart and spirit rather than sight alone, be open to receive not just guidance but also an abundance of wisdom from this mystical guardian of the woods. (See: Birch Tree)

This page was last updated 30th Oct 2025