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The Prevailing Wind:
In most Celtic regions, wind blew predominantly from the west (maritime climate, winds arriving from Atlantic). The walker who could determine wind direction could maintain rough orientation—facing the wind meant walking east, wind from the right meant heading north.
This was not precise navigation but prevented walking in circles, maintained general direction during travel through featureless terrain.
The Face and Hands:
Wind direction was felt on exposed skin—the cheek, the back of the hand, the ear. The experienced walker paid constant attention to these sensations, adjusting course to maintain consistent wind angle.
The Wind Shifts:
Wind direction changed with weather patterns and terrain features—valleys channeled wind differently than ridges, morning winds differed from afternoon. The walker knew these patterns, adjusted expectations based on time of day and suspected location.
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