May has arrived, and with it the energy of Beltane. This year, the shift feels a little uneven. Here in Portland, the weather has been moving back and forth between cold and sudden heat, almost skipping over spring entirely. And yet, even in that inconsistency, the signs are still there; blossoms opening, pollinators returning, and the land pushing forward into growth.
Beltane meets us right in that transition. It’s a time of vitality, connection, and creative energy, but it doesn’t require perfection or ideal conditions. Instead, it asks us to notice what is growing, even when the rhythm feels unpredictable. What is beginning to take shape in your life? What is asking for your attention, your care, your presence?
In the garden, this is a time of active tending. Some plants are thriving; others need a little extra support as temperatures shift. It’s a reminder that growth isn’t always smooth. It requires adjustment, patience, and continued intention.
That same awareness can be brought into your spiritual practice. Beltane is about tending the flame, not just celebrating what’s in full bloom, but staying engaged with the process of becoming and feeding what matters.
Creating a ritual moment with tea is a simple way to connect with that energy. A sun-steeped tea, especially, feels fitting this time of year. Pay attention to the weather, and take full advantage of one of the clear sunny days we’ve been getting as our dry summer approaches.
This Beltane blend centers around roasted Yerba Mate, chosen for its warm, steady energy and smooth, grounding flavor.
Beltane Bloom Sun Tea (1 Gallon)
Ingredients:
4 tbsp roasted yerba mate
4 tsp Rose petals
2 tsp Lavender
Peel of 1 orange (in wide strips)
1 gallon fresh water
Optional substitution:
If you’d prefer to avoid caffeine, you can replace the yerba mate with Nettle for a nourishing, mineral-rich alternative that still supports springtime vitality.
To prepare:
Place the herbs in a clean glass jar, fill with water, and set in the sun for 2–4 hours. Strain and refrigerate once it reaches your desired strength.
Herbal notes:
Yerba mate offers steady, sustained energy without the sharp edge, making it a supportive base for both focus and presence.
Rose petals bring in themes of connection and emotional openness, softening the blend.
Lavender adds a layer of calm and balance, helping to smooth out both the flavor and the energy.
Orange peel brightens the blend with a subtle citrus note, tying it back to the warmth of the sun.
Together, this creates a smooth, lightly floral tea with a warm, toasty base. Something easy to return to throughout the day, whether you’re working, tending your garden, or simply taking a moment to pause.
If you are looking for loose leaf tea in Portland or high quality herbs for your seasonal practice, we invite you to visit us at The Raven’s Wing. All of the ingredients in this blend are available in-shop if you’d like to recreate it or build something of your own.