Jasmine Incense

Burn jasmine incense to protect and purify, comfort the bereaved, and honor the dead.

Copal Incense

Copal is traditionally burned during Mexican  Day of the Dead rituals but it may be used anytime. Its  fragrance allegedly pleases, purifies, and honors those who  have passed on, while protecting the cleansing the living at the same time.

Chervil Incense

Chervil, also known as Sweet Cicely or British myrrh, was among the ancient Egyptian funerary herbs. Remains of the herb were found with Tutankhamun’s tomb. Burn the dried herb as incense to comfort the bereaved and also to enable them to contact the deceased if desired.

Funeral Cleansing Spell

Once upon a time, the first magick spell one encountered, immediately after birth, was an enchanted cleansing bath. One’s final Earthly magickal activity (at least in this body) was similarly a magickal bath.  Just as childbirth  rituals frequently incorporate cleansing spells (specifically, cleansing baths), so last rites usually incorporated a magickal spiritual cleansing bath. The body is bathed, typically with spiritually cleansing, protective materials. Incense may also be burnt for cleanse and comfort.

Runecast for Thursday January 20

This morning Fehu of Freyja’s Aett popped out of my pouchFehu pronounced “fay-who” (F: Domestic cattle, wealth) Possessions won or earned, earned income, luck. Abundance, financial strength in the present or near future. Sign of hope and plenty, success and happiness. Social success. Energy, foresight, fertility, creation/destruction (becoming).

A wealthy man in a dark room contemplates his treasures. He cannot see the joys of life bubbling up around him. Put your possessions to good use. This rune indicates achieving your desires  –  in career, love and especially money. It is beneficial but once you are in possession of the things you have desired, the big question is  –  what then? If you can share what you have received with others, or use your resources to continue your development, this rune promises further fulfillment. But if you cannot see anything beyond cash or power, you will ultimately be in a losing position. Remember also that possessions should not be static. Keep re-assessing them and you’ll maintain a healthy position.

Fehu Reversed or Merkstave: Loss of personal property, esteem, or something that you put in effort to keep. It indicates some sort of failure. Greed, burnout, atrophy, discord. Cowardice, stupidity, dullness, poverty, slavery, bondage. (Note: the reversed or merkstave definitions are included only for reference as they apply to a multi-rune cast and not to a single rune that’s drawn blind from the pouch)

As with all, take only what feels right to you and disregard the rest.

**a portion of today’s rune meaning/description was kindly provided by Ingrid Halvorsen at sunnyway.com and used here with her gracious permission**

In the Light…

Tom

SoulDiscoveryThruReiki
“Music is a release from the tyranny of conscious thought”
— Kevin Burke
Insanity is inherited, you get it from your kids…

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for 1/20

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for Everyone:

8: Holding Together

Thursday, January 20th, 2011

Hexagram 8 General Meaning: Holding together brings success. But high-level teamwork is achieved only when the right players on the right team share a clear goal at the right time. A team forms its relationships in a delicate manner; chemistry is brewed in the vat of shared experiences. Latecomers cannot share the same depth of union as earlier members. Whole-hearted commitment is required for team success.

All successful teams have a shared vision and a leader. If a team’s leadership is up to the challenge, the team will prosper. In personal and business affairs, just as in basketball, it is hard to win without a strong center.

Accept the structure of the team or partnership if you wish to receive its benefits — otherwise go off on your own. In holding together with others, cling to your own principles, but be willing to subordinate your personal desires for the good of the group. Perhaps you are contemplating becoming a leader of some group; remember that to become the center of influence binding people together is not only a considerable challenge but a serious responsibility. Assess yourself carefully first to see if you are up to the task. If not, it would be better not to commit rather than to go forward without proper preparation.

Today’s Tarot Card for Everyone:

Today’s Tarot Card for Everyone:

Triumph

This Tarot Deck: Lovers Path

General Meaning: What has traditionally been known as the World card points to the presiding intelligence, called “Sophia,” or Wisdom, which upholds life on this and all worlds. A more precise title for this card might be “the Soul of the World,” also applicable as a symbol of personal empowerment and freedom. In most Tarot decks it is a female figure that has become our standard World image. She originates in Hebrew, Gnostic and Alchemical lore, and stands between heaven and earth as the Cosmic Mother of Souls, the Wife of God and our protector from the karmic forces we have set loose upon the Earth in our immaturity and ignorance.

Where the Empress energy secures and fertilizes our terrestrial lives, the goddess of The World invites us into cosmic citizenship — once we come to realize our soul’s potential for it. Just as the Chariot stands for success in achieving a separate Self, and Temperance represents achievement of mental and moral health, the World card announces the awakening of the soul’s Immortal Being, accomplished without the necessity of dying.

This card, like the Sun, is reputed to have no negative meaning no matter where or how it appears. If the Hermetic axiom is “Know Thyself”, this image represents what becomes known when the true nature of Self is followed to creative freedom and its ultimate realization.

General Horoscopes for 1/20

 

General Daily Horoscope

 

The Moon is in playful Leo, encouraging us to express our moods in the moment, even if we don’t have a plan in place. The Moon’s harmonious trine to affectionate Venus enables us to turn up the charm. But the Sun’s shift into cool Aquarius today can actually detach our thoughts from our feelings. Although our emotions won’t just disappear on their own, we might consciously attempt to suppress them, which ironically only increases their intensity.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You continue to move toward a powerful turning point in your life, yet now it feels even closer than ever before. However, you’re not necessarily at ease because your habitual patterns have already started to change. The problem is that your new vision hasn’t yet taken form. Although you may be annoyed that the process is taking so long, resign yourself to progressing at whatever speed the currents carry you along.

 

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You may not be motivated to work very hard today, even if others are depending on you. You could be so bored with business as usual that you might try to shake things up a bit. Actually, it’s wiser to allow yourself to feel the tension without initiating action now. Don’t worry; the change that is in the air is inevitable. Ultimately, your patience will be rewarded.

 

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Even your most intelligent plan could suddenly fall apart today, but it’s not smart to waste energy worrying about what might have been. Instead, you would be better off to concentrate on what is possible. You have too much at stake to hold on to a strategy that isn’t working. Your flexibility is your greatest strength now, so figure out the best way to reach your goals by responding to the changing currents.

 

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You could reach new creative heights today, but you must consciously channel your feelings in a positive direction or they could mire you down in a swamp of complications. If you attempt to hold on to an old habit or attitude, you may become entangled in the mess. Fortunately, anything is possible if you are willing to let go of the past.

 

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

It’s difficult to admit when your plan isn’t working, yet your pride can stand between you and success now. Someone has entered your life and is eager to guide you along on your path. But it’s impossible for anyone to make a meaningful connection with you if you appear too self-sufficient. You may feel uncomfortable sharing your vulnerabilities, but it could be the smartest thing you can do today.

 

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

What’s the use of putting your best foot forward if there’s something inherently wrong with your overall strategy? It’s more important today to reconsider your approach to work than try to fine-tune the details of your presentation. Don’t change too much yet; just observe what’s happening now without making a final judgment. Decide what you want to do about your current state of affairs after your attitude improves.

 

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You may be concerned that your creativity is slipping away today, but rest assured that won’t happen. Instead of working on an exciting project, you might have to complete an unfinished task left over from last month. Don’t attempt to take on too much work all at once. Save your strength; you could experience the breakthrough you want later in the week.

 

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

It isn’t easy for you to let go of negative feelings, but it certainly can be a clean break from your past once you finally take action. The Sun enters progressive Aquarius today, giving you a unique opportunity to see what’s been holding you back. Don’t be afraid; this is your chance to take a quantum leap into your future, even if it still takes more time for the shift to ripple through your soul.

General Daily Horoscope
The Moon is in playful Leo, encouraging us to express our moods in the moment, even if we don’t have a plan in place. The Moon’s harmonious trine to affectionate Venus enables us to turn up the charm. But the Sun’s shift into cool Aquarius today can actually detach our thoughts from our feelings. Although our emotions won’t just disappear on their own, we might consciously attempt to suppress them, which ironically only increases their intensity.
Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You continue to move toward a powerful turning point in your life, yet now it feels even closer than ever before. However, you’re not necessarily at ease because your habitual patterns have already started to change. The problem is that your new vision hasn’t yet taken form. Although you may be annoyed that the process is taking so long, resign yourself to progressing at whatever speed the currents carry you along.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You may not be motivated to work very hard today, even if others are depending on you. You could be so bored with business as usual that you might try to shake things up a bit. Actually, it’s wiser to allow yourself to feel the tension without initiating action now. Don’t worry; the change that is in the air is inevitable. Ultimately, your patience will be rewarded.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Even your most intelligent plan could suddenly fall apart today, but it’s not smart to waste energy worrying about what might have been. Instead, you would be better off to concentrate on what is possible. You have too much at stake to hold on to a strategy that isn’t working. Your flexibility is your greatest strength now, so figure out the best way to reach your goals by responding to the changing currents.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You could reach new creative heights today, but you must consciously channel your feelings in a positive direction or they could mire you down in a swamp of complications. If you attempt to hold on to an old habit or attitude, you may become entangled in the mess. Fortunately, anything is possible if you are willing to let go of the past.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

It’s difficult to admit when your plan isn’t working, yet your pride can stand between you and success now. Someone has entered your life and is eager to guide you along on your path. But it’s impossible for anyone to make a meaningful connection with you if you appear too self-sufficient. You may feel uncomfortable sharing your vulnerabilities, but it could be the smartest thing you can do today.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

What’s the use of putting your best foot forward if there’s something inherently wrong with your overall strategy? It’s more important today to reconsider your approach to work than try to fine-tune the details of your presentation. Don’t change too much yet; just observe what’s happening now without making a final judgment. Decide what you want to do about your current state of affairs after your attitude improves.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You may be concerned that your creativity is slipping away today, but rest assured that won’t happen. Instead of working on an exciting project, you might have to complete an unfinished task left over from last month. Don’t attempt to take on too much work all at once. Save your strength; you could experience the breakthrough you want later in the week.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

It isn’t easy for you to let go of negative feelings, but it certainly can be a clean break from your past once you finally take action. The Sun enters progressive Aquarius today, giving you a unique opportunity to see what’s been holding you back. Don’t be afraid; this is your chance to take a quantum leap into your future, even if it still takes more time for the shift to ripple through your soul.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Everything is looking great from the outside, but you know what they say about judging a book by its cover. Nevertheless, others might not bother to look beyond your surface appearance today. Unfortunately, this can be quite upsetting now as you question the relative significance of your current relationships. Don’t change course; keep being yourself and those who matter will ultimately see the true you.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The radiant Sun slips out of your hardworking sign today to enter futuristic Aquarius. This cosmic shift encourages you to broaden your horizons and to widen your field of vision. But it isn’t easy to relinquish control, especially if you don’t like which way the wind is blowing. There is no need to struggle so hard, even if you are unable to catch the breeze. Let yourself be blown off course now; you can make the necessary adjustments later on.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

It seems as if you’ve been dancing on the edge between the old and the new for some time now. Today, the Sun’s shift into intelligent Aquarius thrusts you into the future, but don’t get too giddy at the thought of breaking free just yet. You may find yourself anchored to the status quo, even if you don’t realize it. Wait a few days and then reassess your position before making a mad dash for the finish line.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You may be quite work-oriented as you head out into the real world today. However, your overactive imagination is feeding you with an endless stream of fantasies — some desirable and some not. Don’t try to control your thoughts; just let them flow as if they were the soundtrack to a picture show, without forming an attachment to any one idea. Once the intensity settles down, then you’ll be able to decide which dreams are the most sensible to follow.

 

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Everything is looking great from the outside, but you know what they say about judging a book by its cover. Nevertheless, others might not bother to look beyond your surface appearance today. Unfortunately, this can be quite upsetting now as you question the relative significance of your current relationships. Don’t change course; keep being yourself and those who matter will ultimately see the true you.

 

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The radiant Sun slips out of your hardworking sign today to enter futuristic Aquarius. This cosmic shift encourages you to broaden your horizons and to widen your field of vision. But it isn’t easy to relinquish control, especially if you don’t like which way the wind is blowing. There is no need to struggle so hard, even if you are unable to catch the breeze. Let yourself be blown off course now; you can make the necessary adjustments later on.

 

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

It seems as if you’ve been dancing on the edge between the old and the new for some time now. Today, the Sun’s shift into intelligent Aquarius thrusts you into the future, but don’t get too giddy at the thought of breaking free just yet. You may find yourself anchored to the status quo, even if you don’t realize it. Wait a few days and then reassess your position before making a mad dash for the finish line.

 

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You may be quite work-oriented as you head out into the real world today. However, your overactive imagination is feeding you with an endless stream of fantasies — some desirable and some not. Don’t try to control your thoughts; just let them flow as if they were the soundtrack to a picture show, without forming an attachment to any one idea. Once the intensity settles down, then you’ll be able to decide which dreams are the most sensible to follow.

New Moon Report for 1/20 – Jupiter in Aries

Jupiter in Aries

Saturday, January 22, 9:10 am PST, 12:10 pm EST

Expansive Jupiter comes down from the clouds of Pisces to put ideas into action in its return to dynamic Aries. We had a taste of this transit with the giant planet’s visit to the rambunctious Ram last June through early September. We learn more by taking chances and exploring fresh territory than sitting in ivory towers talking about this world as if it was some faraway place. Jupiter races through Aries and is leaving this sign in early June so the time to strike out in new directions and launch major projects is now.