Month: November 2015

Consecrating Your Tools

Consecrating Your Tools

 

Most magical traditions make use of the familiar magical Elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water. Some traditions have specific tools which are important to them. There is also a fifth magical element – that of spirit. The simplest consecration that can be made is to offer each of the objects to spirit that they may be used for the best purpose possible. You can specifically dedicate any tool using a short invocation such as:

I dedicate this magical tool to the purpose for which it is intended

You can, of course, be as creative with your speech as you desire. Anything else that is done will be according to the traditions of your own belief.

With all your tools, when you first purchase them or have them made, cleanse them before use, then dedicate them by filling them with your own energy as you did with your altar objects. You might also offer them to your appropriate deity.

Consecrating Altar Objects

Consecrating Altar Objects

If you are not using completely new objects on your altar – here we are referring to the basic ‘furnishings’ of candle holders etc – you should cleanse them before you dedicate them to your purpose. Treat them in the same way as you would any crystals you use, by soaking them overnight in salt water to remove anyone else’s vibrations and then standing them in sunshine (or moonshine) for at least 12 hours to charge them with the appropriate energy.

 

When you are ready, hold each object and allow your own energy to flow into it, followed by the energy of your idea of Ultimate Power. (That way you make a very powerful link between yourself, the object and the Ultimate.) Ask this Power to bless the object and any working you may do with it and perceive yourself as truly a medium or channel for the energy.

 

Hopefully, each time you use any of the objects, you will immediately be able to reinforce that link rather than having to re-establish it. It is like a refrain continually running in the background. Now place the objects on your altar however it feels right for you.

 

Finally, if appropriate, create and caste your circle so that it includes yourself and your altar. The magic circle defines the ritual area, holds in personal power and shuts out all distractions and negative energies. You now have a sacred space set up which is your link to the powers that be. Again it is a matter of personal choice as to whether you choose to re-dedicate your altar and what it contains on a regular basis

Dedicating Your Altar

Dedicating Your Altar

 

Now you have turned your space into an altar, dedicate it in such a way that it will support any workings you may choose to do. One good way is to dedicate it to the principle of the Greater Good – that none may be harmed by anything that you may do. (Remember that traditionally any harm you instigate deliberately will return to you threefold, particularly when it comes from such a sacred space.) It will depend on your basic belief just how you choose to dedicate the altar further, perhaps to the Moon deity and all her manifestations, perhaps to the Gods of power.

 

Try to put as much passion and energy into the dedication as you can and remember to include a prayer for protection of your sacred space. Some people will need to cast a circle each time they do a working, while others will feel that just by setting the altar up in the way suggested that that space is consecrated henceforth. If you wish to follow the principles of feng shui rather than Wicca within your work, your placings will be slightly different, as they will also be if you choose to follow the tenets of other religions.

 

However, whatever you do, you should take care to dedicate all of your tools and altar furnishings to the purpose in hand. You are empowering them and making them usable only in ritual and magical work. If you try to use them for any other purpose, you will negate that magical power.

Setting Up Your Altar

Setting Up Your Altar

 

To turn your dressed table into a proper altar, you will need as basics the following objects:

 

1. Two candles with candle holders – you might like to think of one representing the female principle and one the male. You may also choose, in addition, candles of a color suitable for the ritual or spell you are working.

 

2. An incense holder and incense suitable for the particular working.

 

3. A representation of the deity or deities you prefer to work with. An image of the Goddess, for instance, could be anything from a statue of the Chinese Goddess of Compassion, Kuan Yin, to seashells, chalices, bowls, or certain stones that symbolize the womb or motherhood.

 

4. A small vase for flowers or fresh herbs.
Other objects appropriate for ceremonial working are:

• • An athame, which is a sacred knife for ceremonial use; it should never be used for anything else.

• • A white-handled knife (called a boline) for cutting branches, herbs, etc.

• • A burin, which is a sharp-pointed instrument for inscribing magical objects such as candles.

• • A small earthenware or ceramic bowl, or a small cauldron, for mixing ingredients.

• A bowl of water.

• • A bowl of salt or sand, representing Earth.

• • A consecrated cloth, or a pentacle, on which to place dedicated objects.
Some people additionally use bells to summon the powers of the Elements, whilst others have additional candles with the colors representing both themselves and the work they wish to do. You can also have other items on your altar, such as crystals, amulets and talismans.

 

You can do what you wish with your own altar provided you have thought through very carefully your logical or emotional reasons for including whatever you have there. You might, for instance, choose to have differing representations of the Earth Mother from diverse religions or include a pretty gift to establish a psychic link with the person who gave it to you.

Consecrating Your Sacred Space

Consecrating Your Sacred Space

 

If you are going to be carrying out a fair number of rituals or spells, you will really need a sacred space or altar along with various other altar furnishings. Whether your altar is inside or outside does not matter. To set it up indoors, your altar and or sacred space should preferably be in a quiet place in the home, where it will not be disturbed and where candles can be burned safely.

 

The space first needs to be dedicated to the purpose of magical working. You can do this by first brushing the area clean with an ordinary brush, concentrating your thoughts on cleansing the space as you work physically to bring this about. Mentally cleanse the space three times, imagining doing it once for the physical world, once for the emotional space and once spiritually.

 

If you wish, you may sprinkle the whole area with water and with salt (which represents the Earth). You might perhaps also burn incense such as jasmine or frankincense to clear the atmosphere. Think of the space as somewhere you would entertain an honored guest in your home – you would wish the room you use to be as welcoming as it can be. You will later use your besom to keep the sacred space clear.

 

If you travel a lot or are pushed for space, you might dedicate a tray or special piece of wood or china for ceremonial working. This, along with your candles and incense, can then be kept together in a small box or suitcase. Otherwise, you could dedicate a table especially for the purpose. Ideally, you should not need to pack up each time.

 

You will also need a ‘fine cloth’ – the best you can afford – to cover the surface. Place your cloth on your chosen surface and spend some quiet time just thinking about its purpose. You may, if you wish, have different cloths for different purposes or perhaps have one basic cloth which is then ‘dressed’ with the appropriate color for each ritual.

Astronomy Picture of the Day – A 212-Hour Exposure of Orion

Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

2015 November 23

A 212-Hour Exposure of Orion
Image Credit & Copyright: Stanislav Volskiy, Rollover Annotation: Judy Schmidt

 

Explanation: The constellation of Orion is much more than three stars in a row. It is a direction in space that is rich with impressive nebulas. To better appreciate this well-known swath of sky, an extremely long exposure was taken over many clear nights in 2013 and 2014. After 212 hours of camera time and an additional year of processing, the featured 1400-exposure collage spanning over 40 times the angular diameter of the Moon emerged. Of the many interesting details that have become visible, one that particularly draws the eye is Barnard’s Loop, the bright red circular filament arcing down from the middle. The Rosette Nebula is not the giant red nebula near the top of the image — that is a larger but lesser known nebula known as Lambda Orionis. The Rosette Nebula is visible, though: it is the red and white nebula on the upper left. The bright orange star just above the frame center is Betelgeuse, while the bright blue star on the lower right is Rigel. Other famous nebulas visible include the Witch Head Nebula, the Flame Nebula, the Fox Fur Nebula, and, if you know just where to look, the comparatively small Horsehead Nebula. About those famous three stars that cross the belt of Orion the Hunter — in this busy frame they can be hard to locate, but a discerning eye will find them just below and to the right of the image center.

Sun in Sagittarius

 

 

 

 

Sun in Sagittarius

Live it up as the Sun visits the adventurous Archer

Tarotcom Staff

Tarotcom Staff on the topics of videos, sun, sagittarius, fall, astrology

 

It’s time to emerge from the dark and into the light! The Sun moves from mysterious Scorpio to sunny Sagittarius on Saturday, November 22, encouraging us to step outside and explore the big, beautiful world out there.

Sagittarius is a bold Fire sign that loves to travel, socialize and learn new things. So this is a great time to adopt that Archer attitude for yourself and push beyond your boundaries to try something new.

Sagittarius is known for having a happy-go-lucky good time, but they can also be impulsive and somewhat reckless. So, make sure you use a little more caution than usual now to avoid getting yourself into trouble. Watch out for things like being too blunt and hurting someone’s feelings, or overindulging in food or drink.

Then again, Thanksgiving takes place while the Sun is in Sagittarius, so maybe it’s OK to indulge just a little. After all, Sagittarius is all about abundance!

Here’s how to make the most of life with the Sun in Sagittarius:

What to do: Anything new! Sagittarius loves adventures, whether that means taking a trip, signing up for a class or meeting someone new. The point is to explore all your options now while the eager Sagittarius Sun gives you a boost of optimism and good luck.

What to say: Yes! Sagittarius is the quintessential opportunist, and they’re always up for anything at a moment’s notice. So whether you get a last-minute offer to travel abroad or if someone asks you to babysit their triplets for a weekend, don’t worry about it or overthink it — just say yes!

Where to go: Someplace different. Sagittarius gets the biggest thrill from going places they’ve never been before. So this is the time to finally book that ticket to a city you’ve always wanted to visit, or at the very least go to a restaurant where you’ve never eaten before.

What to wear: Something versatile enough to wear anywhere, durable enough to do anything in, and inexpensive enough that you won’t be upset when you spill on it, tear it or lose it. Sagittarius is pretty casual, so loosen up and love your jeans-and-T-shirt uniform for the next month!

What to buy: If you can’t buy an airline ticket right now, beer and books are all you need to have a good time while the Sun is in Sagittarius. Even better if you’re buying international beer and have someone to share it with, and if the books you’re reading area bout travel or philosophy.

What to watch out for: Accidents and hurting other people, either physically or emotionally. Sagittarius tends to leap before looking, which can sometimes create problems for themselves or others. This is a month to watch your step and watch your mouth so reckless behavior or blunt speech doesn’t spoil the good times.

What to look forward to: Expanding your mind! Take advantage of the Sun in Sagittarius’ outgoing and enthusiastic approach to life and use this time to learn new things, meet new people and attract and spread positive energy. Everyone loves a Sagittarius, and now’s your chance to experience their lifestyle for yourself!

 

Tarot.com is a Daily Insight Group Site

Thanksgiving Feng Shui Tips

 

 

 

 

Thanksgiving Feng Shui Tips

Give thanks and attract positive energy in return!

Stephanie Dempsey

Stephanie Dempsey on the topics of thanksgiving, feng shui

 

Thanksgiving is a marvelous opportunity to acknowledge all of the bounty we enjoy on a daily basis. By being more receptive to abundance, you can attract it more readily.

If you have a hard time counting your blessings, get calming insight by try integrating these Feng Shui cures into your living and office spaces. They will help you focus on what you have, instead of concentrating on what you lack.

Mellow out

Muted colors like chocolate brown, goldenrod, pumpkin and olive lend a sense of safety, protection and support. If you’re preoccupied with financial worries, integrate these colors into your decorating scheme. They will make you more content with what you have. Earth tones can also make you more resourceful.

Back to square one

Sturdy and reassuring, square shapes promote contentment. Using square plates instead of round ones will make you slow down and appreciate meals more fully. If you have a hard time sitting still and enjoying your surroundings, put some square cushions on your sofa or square pillows on your bed. And a square-shaped mirror will make you more satisfied with your appearance.

Soft as silk

Soft textures can make you more receptive to warmth, kindness and affection. Go ahead and splurge on a downy comforter, some plush pillows or a set of luxurious sheets. Positioning a plush, comfortable love seat in the far right corner of your home or office will make you more open to loving, nurturing relationships. This will also stimulate your own generous instincts …

A trip to bountiful

It’s easy to be thankful when you’re surrounded by symbols of abundance. A bowl filled with fresh fruit, a vase of colorful flowers, a rack filled with fine wine, a painting of a harvest field … all of these things will make you feel prosperous and content. If you have a collection, display it to its best advantage. The sight of it will remind you that there is more to wealth than money in the bank.

Stay focused

Do you have a hard time putting work aside, even after you come home? Hang a shelf bracket in the far left corner of your bedroom, and then place a beautiful vase or sculpture on it. This will help you lift your thoughts to a higher plane.

Picture this

Sometimes a desire to get ahead at work can cause you to neglect the people and things you love most. Displaying a recent photo of your loved ones on the far right corner of your desk can help you to strike a better balance between work and home.

Create boundaries

If you have no choice but to keep a desk in your bedroom, create a barrier between your sleep and work stations. Suspend a flowing curtain so that you can’t see your desk when you’re lying in bed. Alternately, you can shield the desk with some lush plants.

Soften up

Your bathroom represents your ability to nurture yourself. Make this space more inviting with soft lighting, fluffy towels and a tactile rug. Add soaps, candles and lotions that are pleasing to your sense of smell. A radio tuned to a relaxing music station can also transform your bathroom from a utilitarian space to a mini-spa.

Give thanks

The best way to enjoy the fruits of your labor is to pause and acknowledge them. Make a list of 27 things for which you are grateful, and then place this list in a red envelope. Put the envelope under your mattress and keep it there until the Winter Solstice. The energizing power of your list will suffuse you with peace and contentment, allowing you to enjoy autumn’s blessings to the very fullest.

 

Tarot.com is a Daily Insight Group Site

Your Daily Influences for November 23

Your Daily Influences
November 23rd, 2015

 

 

The Hierophant
A lover of tradition and ceremony, The Hierophant needs social approval and appreciates the positive aspects of conformity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Naudhiz
Naudhiz reversed may tell of needs met and harmonious relationships. Your passions for someone or something may be at their pinnacle.

 

 

 

Pisces the Fishes
This aspect of your life will be strongly influenced by a person who is escapist and idealistic, secretive and vague, weak-willed and easily led. This person probably relies to heavily upon you to make decisions for them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Daily Influences represent events and challenges the current day will present for you. They may represent opportunities you should be ready to seize. Or they may forewarn you of problems you may be able to avoid or lessen. Generally it is best to use them as tips to help you manage your day and nothing more.

Your Daily Charm for November 23 is The Food Charm

Your Daily Charm

Today’s Meaning:
Your health vibration is very high! You are energetic and feel you can accomplish anything. This aspect reflects positive vibrations due to diet. This will continue for a few weeks.

General Description:
The Lamas of Tibet encourage all sorts of magic. Their religion is a form of Buddhism, introduced into Tibet about 750 A.D. It is corrupted with the worship of demons, and many curious magical beliefs. The Food Charm is used to stamp the form of their god Buddha on their food for protection against the powers of evil, and for happiness, both of the physical and spiritual body. The device shows the god Buddha probably surrounded with the emblematic circle of rice, which in Tibet means the Wheel of Life, or misfortunes roll off, and good fortune rolls on.

Your Animal Spirit for November 23 is The Deer

Your Animal Spirit for Today
November 23, 2015

Deer

If you can imagine Bambi, you can imagine the message Deer brings to you today—a message of sweetness, innocence, and gentle spirit. Be delicate today in your communication with other and with yourself. This is definitely not a time for being critical, mean-spirited, or sarcastic. Just as Deer’s heart can be easily wounded, so can the heart of your friends, co-workers, or family members.

Shuffling the Cards, Your Past Present & Future Reading for November 23

Shuffling the Cards, Your Past Present & Future Reading for November 23

 
Past Influence whose impact on your life is waning.

The Believer

The Believer represents Faith and the realization that you have an important place in the workings of the Universe. Although The Believer may not always understand why things are the way they are, they none-the-less feel an underlying cosmic rhythm which is moving events in a direction that is good. The Believer rejoices in their celestial role, because they realize their life has purpose on a grand scale.

 

 

 
Present Influence whose impact on your life is very strong.

Alturism

Altruism denotes the noble act of giving to those in need without the expectation of a return. The act of giving has been seen as one of humankind’s greatest attributes throughout history. It is honored in nearly every culture. To give is a gift to both those who receive and those who give. Giving is usually associated with addressing the material needs of others, but the gift given can take many forms such as wisdom or protection or simply a shoulder to cry on.

 

 

 

Future influence whose impact on your life is growing and will be very strong in the future.

Solitude

Solitude is represented by a single person standing at the end of a boardwalk staring out at a vast, empty panorama. They are truly alone, but may not feel loneliness. They are at a place in their life where the need to withdraw from the our secular world is strong, because their focus should be on their inner self, their morality, and their dreams. The view before them is empty, but it is a canvas on which they may paint their future–a future restricted only by the size of their imagination and courage. For them Solitude is a choice. They chose to take the walkway that distances them from the rest of us. It is also a choice that can be undone. Just as they chose to take a path that leads them away from us, they may choose to turn around and come back at anytime.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for November 23 is The Golden Egg

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Golden Egg


The Golden Egg denotes the opportunity for substantial material gains. However, the Golden Egg is also a reminder that unmanaged greed ensures what gains are made will be lost.

As a daily card, The Golden Egg suggest that the prospects for you to increase your financial wealth are very strong today. Seize whatever opportunities come your way, but don’t ride them too long or you may find yourself no better off than you were before they came along.

Your Daily Witches Rune for November 23 is The Blank Rune

Witches Rune for the Day

The Blank Rune

Meaning: This is a rune of difficulty and negative influences will rule your life for a time, but as all difficulties are a learning experience it will lead to improved personal perspective and progress on your life’s path. Always consult the surrounding runes with this stone. If it lies with a positive stone, it indicates that the pain of this experience will lead to a beneficial change in circumstances

Your Crowley Thoth Tarot Card for November 23 is Aeon

Your Crowley Thoth Tarot Card for Today

Aeon


Aeon deals with our journey and constant transformation through time. It denotes both endings and beginnings, our ability to redeem ourselves through action, and hope for the future. Aeon teaches us to accept our past–embrace it as an essential component of our being–but not to allow it to keep our spirits from moving towards the future and finding our personal utopia.

Your Daily Rune for November 23rd is Dagaz

bw-dagaz

bw-dagazYour Rune For Today
Dagaz

Dagaz represents the fresh light of a new day. You are close to making a breakthrough. You have the will to change whatever you deem necessary. You may see the world with absolute clarity at this time.

 

Additional information about Today’s Rune

 

ðagaz : day

Phonetic equivalent: d (pronounced as ‘th’, as in ‘this’)

 

DIVINATORY MEANINGS:
happiness, success, activity, a fulfilling lifestyle, satisfaction

 

MAGICAL USES:
to bring a positive outcome

 

ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES:
Sunna, Baldr, Nerthus, Yggdrasil

 

ANALYSIS:
This rune effectively marks the end of the third aett, leaving only oþila to complete the cycle. As in the previous two aetts, ðagaz concludes the third with light and hope. However, while wunjo represented earthly glories and the sun, heavenly power, the day brings these two realms together, bringing the more abstract light and power of sowulo ‘down to earth’ and applying it to our everyday lives.The shape of the rune itself denotes this kind of interconnection. It is reminiscent of gebo, with its balance of masculine, feminine and the four elements, but ðagaz makes further connections to the celestial and the realm of nature.
Like inguz, it symbolizes harmony with one’s environment. but again takes it a step further, implying a harmonious relationship with the spiritual environment as well. It is a bringing together of all six cardinal points – the four compass directions, the celestial realm above us where the Gods are thought to dwell; and that which is below – all the spirits of the earth and of nature. All of these things are balanced and integrated through ðagaz and brought into our daily lives.