Day: August 8, 2012

Balmy Lemonade

Balmy Lemonade

Yield: 8 servings

  • Juice from 5 medium to large lemons
  • 5 cups Cold water
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1 Lemon – cut into paper thin-slices
  • 1 tray ice cubes
  • Lemon balm leaves & fresh sprigs of lavender blooms

Squeeze the juice from 5 fresh lemons and pour it through a coarse strainer into a pitcher. Add cold water and sugar to taste, adding another additional water if the lemons are particularly juicy. Add lemon slices and ice cubes and stir into pitcher. Pour into tall glasses, garnish with lemon balm and lavender and serve.

Chrysanthemum Tea

Chrysanthemum Tea

Recipe suggested by Isabeau Vollhardt
If you’re caught in a heatwave Chrysanthemum tea is a traditional oriental medicine remedy for heatstroke. If you can find a prepackaged brand in a nearby Chinatown or specialty shop, great (Gold Kili brand makes an instant tea with honey, all chrysanthemum no caffeine). If not, get some chrysanthemum flowers (not sprayed) preferably white but yellow is ok, not red or purple; about two big handfuls (approximately 9 grams) and cover with water in a pot; bring to boiling and let simmer for 20 minutes, decant and drink.

How to Make Fresh Mint Sun Tea

How to Make Fresh Mint Sun Tea

By Phylameana lila Desy

Nothing could be easier than making a jar or jug of refreshing sun tea infused with mint.

What You Need

  • Scissors
  • Mint Sprigs
  • 2-4 Tea Bags (green or black tea)
  • Jar or Jug
  • Drinking Water
  • Sunshine

Easy Sun Tea with Mint Recipe

Stroll outdoors to your herb garden and gather a a handful of mint sprigs. Check the clippings for any bugs or blight. Deadhead or trim away any flowers and discard. Rinse the stems with leaves still attached under a water faucet. Fill your container with purified water, add tea bags (one tea bag per quart) leaving enough room to stuff in your mint clippings. Cover jar with lid and set in sun to brew. Chill in fridge.

To serve: Pour mint tea over ice in drinking glasses. Serve plain or with honey.

Note: It is best to make no more tea than you will consume in 3 days. You can experiment with the different varieties of mint herbs to discover your favorite. I favor orange and variegated pineapple mint over the traditional peppermint herb.

Crystal of the Day for August 8 is Topaz

Topaz

 

Spiritual and Healing Properties of Topaz:

Topaz is best known for its manifesting properties. Golden topaz in particular is associated with abundance. Golden topaz is also an energizer. Blue topaz stimulates the throat chakra. Champagne topaz can assist the soul in fulfilling the earthy purpose for its incarnation. Clear topaz is a transformative gemstone that can help facilitate karmic clearings and soul healings.

Remedy Benefits of Topaz:

  • Manifesting stone
  • Promotes creativity
  • Gives optimism
  • Aids mental clarity
  • Boosts confidence

Herb of the Day for Aug. 8 – Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle

 

Honeysuckle has long been used in Chinese medicine to clear heat and to relieve toxicity, especially that of such inflammatory diseases as rheumatoid arthritis, abscesses, sores, inflammation of the breast, and dysentery. Decoctions made from the Chinese honeysuckle flowers are taken in the early stages of a feverish cold characterized by headache, thirst, and sore throat. Tinctures are used for diarrhea or gastroenteritis related to food poisoning. Decoctions made from the stems are used like the flower bud decoctions and are especially effective if there is joint pain that accompanies such conditions as influenza.

Although rarely used in Western herbal medicine today, its traditional usage indicates that various parts of the plant had different therapeutic benefits. For instance, the bark has diuretic properties and taken to relieve gout, kidney stones, and liver problems. The leaves are astringent and make a good mouthwash and gargle for sore throats or canker sores. The flowers relieve coughs and act as an antispasmodic used in the treatment of asthma.

Apart from its medicinal value, the Mexican Honeysuckle has been used to make a natural bluing agent for laundry rinses or as a blue dye. However, its most common medicinal use is that of a tonic to “purify the blood”.

Deity of the Day for Aug. 8 – Epona

Epona

by Micha F. Lindemans

The Celtic horse goddess whose authority extended even beyond death, accompanying the soul on its final journey. She was worshipped throughout entire Gaul, and as far as the Danube and Rome. Her cult was eventually adopted by the Roman army and they spread her worship wherever they went. She was the only Celtic Goddess to be honored by the Romans with a temple in their capital city. Among the Gaulish Celts themselves, she was worshipped as goddess of horses, asses, mules, oxen, and, to an extent, springs and rivers.

Epona is depicted sitting side saddle or lying on a horse, or standing with multiple horses around her. Her symbol is the Cornucopia (“horn of plenty”) which suggests that she could (originally) have been a fertility goddess. She is also identified with the Celtic goddess Edain.

Lighten Up – Footprints

Footprints

I dreamed that I was walking down the beach with the Goddess. And I looked back and saw footprints in the sand.

But sometimes there were two pairs of footprints, and sometimes there was only one. And the times when there was only one pair of footprints, those were my times of greatest trouble.

So I asked the Goddess, “Why, in my greatest need, did you abandon me?”

She replied, “I never left you. Those were the times when we both hopped on one foot.” And lo, I was really embarassed for bothering Her with such a stupid question.

(I don’t know who wrote this, so unfortunately I can’t give credit to the author…)

Daily Feng Shui Tip for Aug. 8 – “Feng Shui Prosperity Energizer”

I never stray far from the eight/eight Feng Shui prosperity activator. On the eighth day of the eighth month take a gold ink pen and draw an infinity symbol (the number eight on its side) on red paper. You can make this any size you like. On the opposite side of this symbol (also a Feng Shui prosperity energizer) write the amount of money that you would like to see coming in each year. That could include income, inheritances or loans. Dream big and write something even bigger on the back of this talisman. Then place the symbol in the ‘Wealth’ area of your main floor or bedroom and leave it there for 27 or 49 days. After that time you can either keep the symbol in this space or burn it, sending smoke signals of gratitude to the invisible givers of fortune and luck that will be putting all the same on your fortune-filled pathway!

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Your Daily Number for August 8: 1

Your Daily Number for August 8:  1

 

A sense of renewed energy dominates the day. This is a time for new beginnings, and you’ve got raw dynamic power on your side. The best way to seize the moment? Sharpen your powers of concentration and take the lead, without losing your sensitivity.

Fast Facts

About the Number 1

Theme: Masculine, Creative, Independent, Aggressive
Astro Association: Mercury
Tarot Association: Magician

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for August 8 is 11: Harmony

11: Harmony

Hexagram 11

General Meaning:  The trigram earth is above that of heaven, and heaven seems to be on earth. The gravity of matter merges with the upward radiation of light to merge in deep harmony. This juxtaposition denotes a time of peace and blessings for all living things. In the affairs of humans, tranquility comes when the good, strong and powerful show favor to those of lower status, and those of more modes means are well disposed towards those who are currently blessed. This condition marks an end to feuding. In such a state, it is best to let the energy ride high. The way is cleared, and the prospects for great success are outstanding.

Chaotic forces still abide in nature, but man, by carefully responding to the rhythms and cycles of the world around him, can find peace in the natural world. By planting the right crop in the right place in the right season, the farmer brings harmony to the cultivation of plants, and prosperity to his family. Similarly, any business must adjust to the natural cycles of the season; only through flexibility and adaptation can order and growth be maintained. Peaceful times produce a time of flowering and prosperity; the wise person channels positive energy to all quarters, to each in proper proportion, just as a farmer waters his field. But be vigilant. Otherwise, peaceful conditions will foster the growth of weeds as well as flowers.

Today’s Runes for August 8 is Hagalaz

Hagalaz is the rune of hail. Hail is a destructive and elemental force, so one can expect this rune to represent the disruption of one’s life. In the harsh northern winter there is a halt to activity, and so delay or hindrance is frequently associated with this rune. The opposite of chaos is yet more chaos, as illustrated by the fact that this rune cannot be reversed.

Today’s Tarot Card for August 8 is The Fool

The Fool

This Tarot Deck: Chinese

General Meaning:  Pamela Coleman-Smith’s artful rendition of an “innocent Fool” archetype (Rider-Waite deck) is often used to represent Tarot in general. Early classical versions of the Fool card, however, portray quite a different character — a person driven by base needs and urges, who has fallen into a state of poverty and deprivation.

In some instances, he is made out to be a carnival entertainer or a huckster. In others, he is portrayed as decrepit and vulnerable — as the cumulative result of his delusions and failures. Not until the 20th century do you see the popular Rider-Waite image of the Fool arise — that of an innocent Soul before its Fall into Matter, as yet untainted by contact with society and all its ills.

Modern decks usually borrow from the Rider-Waite imagery. Most Fool cards copy the bucolic mountainside scene, the butterfly, the potential misplaced step that will send the Fool tumbling into the unknown. Don’t forget, however, that the earlier versions of this card represented already-fallen humanity, over-identified with the material plane of existence, and beginning a pilgrimage towards self-knowledge, and eventually, wisdom. The Fool reminds us to recognize the path of personal development within ourselves — and the stage upon that path where we find ourselves — in order to energize our movement toward deeper self-realization.

Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, August 8

We finally exit the starting gate, yet are cautious about moving too quickly. Nevertheless, we are determined to reach our goals by beginning slowly and building up steam until we attain a productive pace. Although mental Mercury turns direct today, giving us the green light to go ahead, it takes a few days to regain its speed. Meanwhile, the Moon’s shift into stable Taurus at 3:27 am EDT advises common sense rather than impulsive action.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You are at a fork in the road, anticipating the journey ahead. Although you aren’t sure of all the details yet, you have probably given them quite a bit of thought. Don’t let your optimism overshadow potential obstacles. Shortcuts taken today will be problematic tomorrow, but doing the right thing now will pay off in the weeks ahead.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

The Moon’s current visit to your sign may sugarcoat your memories as you think about your past. As you look to the future, your plans seem more reliable than they actually are. Fortunately, your chances for success are still good if you make sure everything is in order and that you keep a practical perspective. Although you won’t reach your goals overnight, your dreams can come true if you remain focused on your destination.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Your key planet Mercury has been retracing its steps in the sky since mid-July, requiring you to revisit mental ground you thought was already covered. However, now it’s time to set your sights on where you will be going next and to start moving in that direction. Stop talking about what you want to do and begin doing it today.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

There is a conflict between your head and your heart now, but you have tools at your disposal to work out the differences. No one said this current transition would be easy, but the energy does seem to be lightening up. You feel positive today about the very same things that were overwhelming you just last week. Take advantage of your newfound optimism to overcome any fears you might have of failure. Anything is possible as long as you believe.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You may start the day feeling good only to find frustration knocking at your door later on. Unfortunately, you are so enthusiastic about what’s happening that you want everything right now. However, the present moment cannot give you all that you need. A more successful strategy is to give yourself a couple of weeks to see how things develop. In the meantime, practice patience while concentrating on your goal.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You are particularly sensitive to the movements of your ruling planet Mercury. The messenger planet hangs apparently motionless in the sky today and you may feel that same stillness reflected within your thoughts. Cut yourself some slack if you aren’t as far along on a project as you think you should be now. Mercury speeds up over the days ahead and your efforts will begin to reap the rewards you seek.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You’re feeling self-indulgent today and you are willing to do whatever you must to get your share of pleasure. However, striving for satisfaction seems to be an uphill battle and you might be unpleasantly surprised that your desires are going to take longer to fulfill than you originally believed. Maintain a positive attitude, for that will make your trek easier. Remember, appreciating the journey is just as important as reaching the destination.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You know what you want professionally and you want it now. You’ve been working hard for weeks yet you aren’t sure you have enough to show for your efforts. Still, clever Mercury’s direct turn in your 10th House of Career is a harbinger for the success that’s coming your way. Everything has taken a long time, but your confidence is returning and you know you’ll be rewarded. Don’t give up; you’re closer to your dreams than you think.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Plans that you made at the beginning of summer could finally be coming together now. However, it’s too soon to take your work to the next level because there may be just a few final details that need to be put in place before you’re off and running. Try not to be in such a hurry. You will arrive at your destination at exactly the right moment.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

It’s tricky to find balance today, since you may be tempted to extend beyond your usual limits. Reaching too far might upset your equilibrium, and you stand to lose the gains you already made through hard work. If your dream is just out of reach now, you probably can get along without it. And if it’s something you were meant to have, you should be able to earn it more easily in the days ahead.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Focus on your work now; powerful lessons are yours for the learning. Often there is some pain associated with assimilating what we need to know. But the difficult side of this cosmic equation is minimal today, since you can dig deeply, experience the emotional juice and then get on with your day. Slow down and you’ll have more time to soak it all in.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Although you may be happily engaged in a very busy day filled with a variety of activities, you have a keen ability to find stability amidst a storm. Ironically, you’re not as flexible now as you seem with the stubborn Taurus Moon visiting your 3rd House of Immediate Environment. Don’t worry so much about meeting others halfway today; be strong and hold your position. Once you establish that you mean business, you can negotiate from a position of strength, not weakness.

Daily Cosmic Calendar for August 8

Be aware that yesterday’s void lunar cycle in Aries ends its shadowy presence at 12:29AM PDT this morning when the Moon enters earthy Taurus — the sign of its exaltation. You can now start to put into solid practice many of the ideas and insights that were floating around in your consciousness during the past 2+ days when the Moon was in fiery Aries.  Meanwhile, it is important to realize that Mercury may no longer be in reverse, but it is certainly not dashing ahead like a speed demon. Mercury virtually motionless all of today is a reminder to be cautious as a communicator, investor or business entrepreneur. With each passing day, Mercury will gain speed until it travels close to 2 degrees of the zodiac per 24-hour time-period at the end of August and during the first 10 days of September. Mercury moving fast often represents quicker wits, and more alacrity with bringing ideals into physical manifestation.  You can rejoice today around the time that the Moon in Taurus forms a supportive, 60-degree tie with Venus in Cancer (1:55AM PDT). Romance and the arts receive an enormous boost.  Later on your productivity quotient can soar — courtesy of a constructive, 60-degree tie from Ceres to Jupiter (2:16PM PDT). This is also a strong reminder to really commune with the birds, trees and sky. Embrace Mother Nature with enthusiasm. Add more nutritious foods to your weekly grocery shopping.  Your creative genius is fired up tonight as Mercury makes a subtle and yet still resourceful, 30-degree tie with Venus (10:15PM PDT).