Also called Anu, Ana, Dana.
Their story
The Tuatha Dé Danann, the divine people of Irish myth, are named as the peoples of the goddess Danu, though the form Danu itself is a modern reconstruction. Medieval texts speak of Anu or Ana, mother of the gods, and two hills in Kerry are called Dá Chích Anann, the Paps of Anu. No stories of her deeds survive.
Their day
Monday. In modern practice, Monday is often chosen for her through the moon, which is linked with water and mothering.
Best times to give to them
- the full moon
- Beltane
- by running water
What they like being given
- fresh water poured on the earth
- milk
- flowers
- honey
- seeds planted in her name
How to honour them
- Pour a little water or milk onto the earth and speak to her as an ancestor.
- Spend time by a river or stream and give thanks for it.
- Learn and honour the names of your own ancestors.
- Plant something and tend it in her name.
How they can help you
- feeling rooted and held
- connection with ancestors
- mothering and nurture
- care for land and water
Symbols
- flowing water
- the Paps of Anu
- rich earth
Almost nothing is recorded about her, and links with the Welsh Dôn or the river Danube are uncertain.