The Art of Pilgrimage

Ireland is a place where beneath its modern facade lies a deeply rooted connection with the cycles of the natural world and the spiritual world. In Ireland hints of Celtic, Celtomegalithic and Christian traditions and beliefs are expressed throughout the land. Stone circles, dolmens, court cairns and other megalithic structures mark places in the landscape where the Anima Loci or Soul Energy is stronger and where “Spirit” is tangibly present. At these places the spiritual energies of the land easily accessible. Reconnecting with this ancient practice of walking pilgrimage reflects a deep longing to touch and taste the mystery.

The sacred journey, pilgrimage or Imram invites people to a different way of travelling, a way that can inspire a sense of soul and adventure in each of us. When we, as pilgrims, approach the earth in an open-hearted way, we access the ancient perennial wisdom held within these ancient sacred places.  This allows us to experience the archetypal energies of the eternal otherworld and awakens in us our innate knowledge of and appreciation for the Divine Presence within all living beings.

Walking in pilgrimage, listening attentively to the deep quiet voice within, reconnects us with our own deep spiritual essence, which knows itself as a part of the unbroken web of life. Walking through the countryside in this conscious way offers the pilgrim the potential for deep healing and transformation.

“Everywhere the way of the pilgrim is twofold.

Exterior and interior, the simultaneous movement of feet and the soul through time as well as space.”

(Phil Cousineau The Art of Pilgrimage 1998, p.94)