July 26th

Festival of Sleipnir

For members of Norse traditions, July 26 honors Sleipnir, the mythical horse of Odin that represents time and permits him to ride between the worlds. In Asatru, the eight-legged steed takes Odin between the three worlds: from the upper one of the Gods (Asgard), through our own middle kingdom of Midgard, down into the underworld of the shades (Utgard). As the Norse God of war and poetry and conductor of the dead, Odin’s ability to transcend the planes of consciousness is what allows him the ability to oversee the fate of humans, and Sleipnir serves as his magickal transportation.

Tuesday Is Ruled By Mars

Tuesday is a Mars day, and just like the god of war, this is the time to tap into magicks to call for strength and courage. This day of the week is for rebels and warriors. If you are facing a challenge of any kind, need a boost to your courage, or want to enhance your passions, Tuesday is the day of the week for you. Some suggestions for Tuesday enchantments would include:

*Wearing the fiery colors associated with this day: scarlet, red, black, and orange. Don some of the more daring and bewitching colors of your wardrobe on Tuesdays and turn a few heads.

*Carrying a bloodstone in your pocket or wearing garnet-studded jewelry to reinforce your convictions

*Working with protective and fire-associated plants such as the snapdragon, thistle, and holly to boost your shields and bravery

*Burning spicy-scented energy-enhancing candles to add a little magical aromatherapy to your home

*Cooking up a hearty meal featuring carrots, peppers, and garlic (all Mars foods and spices) to empower yourself for victory and success

The Witches Correspondences for Tuesday, July 26

Tuesday (Tiw’s-day)

Planet: Mars

Colors: Red and Autumn Shades

Crystals: Bloodstone, Ruby, Garnet, Flint, Rhodonite, Iron and Steel

Aroma: Basil, Ginger, Black Pepper, Mars Oil, Dragon’s blood and patchouli

Herb: Basil

The day of Mars. This day could only ever symbolize the sheer power of the god of war! The ideal spells to be cast on this day are that of force, power war and protection.

Dedicated to the powers of the planet Mars, personified as Ares, Tiwaz, Tiw, and Tyr.

Magical aspects: controlled power, energy, and endurance, passion, sex, courage, aggression, and protection.

This is the proper day of the week to perform spells and rituals involving courage, physical strength, revenge, military honors, surgery, the breaking of negative spells, dynamic energy, matrimony, war, enemies, prison, hunting, politics, contests, protection, victory, and athletics.

Aspects of the Moon in Taurus

Taurus Moons are down-to-Earth, and have a mellow attitude no matter what the Sun Sign.
The Moon is traditionally known to be “exalted” in Taurus. Taurus is an earth sign, and that’s feminine, and thus receptive. And the Moon is the receiver of the Sun’s light, so Taurus is a synchronous home for all the Moon represents — responding, instincts, feelings, the comfort zone.

Taurus Moons are more responsive than active, and that’s why they often seem passive, immovable. They want to feel sure of the steps forward, and can be ultra conservative about change.

Taurus generally is a sign that likes the familiar, the cozy and stable. The Moon shows what makes us feel secure, so for Moon Taurus, it’s all about building a solid life, with solid people.

Taurus is fixed energy, and that’s the current of settling in, and fleshing things out. Once Taurus Moon fixates on something — or someone — that goal becomes the stabilizing focus.

It can be hard to budge a Taurus Moon from his or her course, because there’s so much determination there.

Yes, they’re stubborn, and bull-headed, especially you’re trying to get them to welcome a change.
And yet, Taurus Moons are pleasure-seekers, and so, a pleasure to be around. Because they value relaxation, they make it a priority, and fully relish it. That has a jovial effect on the mood of the moment, and many good memories can shared.

To warm up to a Taurus Moon, invite them to a sensual feast of any kind — something that leaves the senses buzzing long afterwards.

Life is Good
The Moon in Taurus knows how to savor the good things in life, but also excels at taking care of business. They’re blessed with an emotional stability that gives them focus when all others are lost in confusion.

They have a take-charge nature, but everything is done with a deliberate style so that each step is on solid ground.

You might sense a confidence in money matters that makes them sought out for financial advice, and all kinds of practical wisdom. The Taurus Moon has an instinct for how to make the best use of the resources at hand. There might be long pauses as they weigh all the facts, and then blow everyone away with their thoughtful conclusion.

They know that “tending your own garden,” is how to build security, and don’t look to others to show them the way. In the cozy patch where they call home, they’ll likely have many intimate dinner parties that are a feast for the senses. A relaxed gathering suits their basically mellow nature over more frenetic and crowded situations.

They’re trustworthy, and will expect the same from their tight-knit circle of friends. The Taurus Moon is there to help with the favors that matter day to day, like fixing the car, helping you paint or lending you a little cash ‘til payday. But don’t make it a habit or take advantage of their willingness to help, or you’ll surely lose their respect.

The Moon in Taurus wants an affectionate mate that can dwell in that world of “sensing things.” It means not necessarily having to talk to communicate. For them, much begins in the kitchen, preparing and eating sumptuous meals, all the while staying connected to their lover through touch. You’ll discover this slow sensuality translates to a lingering and very romantic atmosphere in the bedroom.

Keywords:
deliberate, sensual, affectionate, artistic, capable, discerning, trustworthy

The Shadow Side:
possessive, stubborn, immovable, inflexible, narrow-minded

Quality and Element:
Fixed and Earth

Reference

Molly Hall, Astrology Expert
Article originally published on About.com

The Witches Almanac for Tuesday, July 26th

Tuesday (Mars): Passion, sex, courage, aggression, and protection.

St. Anne’s Day

Waning Moon
The Waning Moon (from the Full Moon to the New) is a time for study, meditation, and little magical work (except magic designed to banish harmful energies).

Fourth Quarter 7:00 pm

Moon Sign: Aries
Aries: Good for starting things, but lacks staying power. Things occur rapidly, but quickly pass. People tend to be argumentative and assertive.

Moon enters Taurus 11:37 am
Taurus: Things begun now last the longest, tend to increase in value, and become hard to alter. Brings out appreciation for beauty and sensory experience.

Incense Geranium

Color: Scarlet

Magickal Days of the Week – Tuesday

Named for the Norse god Tyr, who was a deity of heroism and combat, Tuesday is a very martial sort of day – color associations include bright red and oranges, as well as warrior-like metals such as iron and steel.

The ancient Romans called this day Martis, after the warrior god Mars – other deities associated with Tuesday include Ares, the Morrighan, and other gods of battle and glory. Red gemstones like rubies and garnets come into play on Tuesdays, as do herbs and plants such as thistles, holly, coneflowers and cacti – you’ll notice these are all sharp, prickly plants!

One of the interesting – and more than a little amusing – aspects of Tuesday magic is that in addition to war and conflict against your enemies, this is a day also associated with marriage. You can also use this day of the week for magical workings connected to protection and initiation. Use Tuesday to assert yourself, make a mark and stake your claims.

Reference:

Patti Wigington, Paganism/Wicca Expert
Article originally published on & owned by About.com

Tuesday’s Witchery

Tuesday is the day to work any magick that falls in the category of increasing strength, courage, bravery, and passion. All of these intense emotions are linked to this day’s energies, and spells designed around these themes will have extra punch when performed on this magickal day.

So, let’s add a little passion and conviction into your life! Break out the daring red pieces of your wardrobe, and put a little pizzazz into your day. Work with Lilith, and see what she has to teach you about personal power and sexuality. Meditate on Tiw/Tyr and Mars, and see what those ancient warrior gods will show you about new tactics, strategies, and claiming personal victories in your life. Practice conjuring up that astral weapon from the meditation and use it wisely for protection and for courage.

Create a philter for courage and protection or handcraft your own Witch’s jar to remove negativity from your home. See what other Witch crafts you can conjure up with Tuesday’s magick. Create some kitchen magick on this Tuesday by whipping up a spicy stew-add in a few Mars-associated ingredients such as carrots, peppers, and garlic. Empower the stew for success, and then treat yourself and your family to a good, hearty meal. Try working with a little aromatherapy and burn some spicy or coffee-scented candles to increase your energy level.

Check the sky at night, and see if you can find the reddish planet Mars up in the heavens. Not sure where to look? Check an astronomy magazine or search the Web for more information. Become a magickal warrior and move forward in your life with strength, courage, and compassion. Embrace the side of yourself that loves a good challenge and that is passionate and daring! Banish fear, and face your future with strength and conviction. Believe in yourself and in your dreams, work hard, and you will win every time.

—-Book of Witchery: Spells, Charms & Correspondences for Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan

Tuesday

A god, goddess, or planet governs each day of the week. It is usually easy to spot the ruler of the day by its name. The word Tuesday, however, is not so easy, but if we look at the word in Spanish, Martes, we clearly see its connections to Mars.

Because Tuesday revolves around the energy of Mars, Tuesdays are good for business, mechanical things, buying and selling animals, hunting, beginning studies, gardening, sexual activities, and confrontation. This is a day for sex magick, energy, stamina, and health. As in the old saying, Tuesdays child is full of grace, is also good for success magick and defense against enemies.

Angels of Tuesday are Camael, Samael, Satael, Amabiel, Friagne, and Hyniel. When invoked, Camael takes the form of a leopard. In Druid mythology he is a god of war, which is why we see him associated with Mars. Camael is said to be a member of the “Magnificent Seven” in some circles. Camael is another “terminator” angel.

Samael walks both worlds as a magician and sorcerer. some see him as the angel of death, others as “the bright and poisonous one.” Many consider him more of a demon, and accuse him of being Satan. However, there is reference to the satans (plural) as enforcers of the law, a sort of angelic police, if you will. Supposedly, when Samael is around, dogs howl in the night. On one hand, he is the ruler of the fifth heaven and in charge of two million angels; on the other, he is the one who changed into a serpent and convinced Eve to partake of the forbidden fruit of knowledge.

Satael is an angel of air invoked in magic rites and is the presiding spirit of the planet Mars. Amabiel is another spirit of the planet Mars; however he spends his energy on issues of human sexuality. Friagne, also an angel of this day, is invoked from the east. He is a member of the fifth heaven. Hyniel also belongs to this day and is subject to the east wind.

On Tuesdays the hour of sunrise and every eight hours after that are also ruled by Mars, and that makes these times of the day doubly blessed. These four hours are the strongest ones to do ritual in. Check your local newspaper, astrological calendar, or almanac to determine your local sunrise.

Source: Gypsy Magic

On Tuesday, July 26th, We Celebrate….

Feast of Saint Anne (Brittany, Canada)

ANNE

Themes: Miracles; Wishes; Kindness; Health

Symbols: Freshwater; Household Items

About Anne: Saint Anne is a freshwater goddess who helps us learn the value of abounding selflessness, and how to better tend to our household matters when the chaos of summer seems to have our attention elsewhere. In Canada she is also credited with miraculous healing powers.

To Do Today: Traditionally, supplicants come to Saint Anne wearing outfits from their cultures, kneeling, and speaking their requests. This is a little awkward in our workaday world. So, instead, quaff a full glass of spring water first thing in the morning so Saint Anne will stay with you all day, protecting you from the sniffles and encouraging a little domesticity. If your house is cluttered, you can invoke Saint Anne and welcome her energy into your home simply by straightening up and using a little magical elbow grease as you go! Visualize white light filling your home, sing magical songs, burn some incense, and use plain water to wash the floors so Saint Anne’s power can be absorbed into every nook and cranny.

If you know of a person who’s been laid up and unable to do such things for themselves, I also suggest offering a helping hand. This will draw Saint Anne’s well-being to that individual and fill his or her living space with healthful energy. The act of kindness will also draw Saint Anne’s blessings to you.

365 Goddess: A Daily Guide To the Magic and Inspiration of the goddess
Patricia Telesco

The Goddess Book of Days for Tuesday, July 26th

The 26th Feast of St. Anne, Church calendar. She is Nana, Anna, Aine, Anu, Danu, Athne, Yngona, Cat Anna. In Taos Pueblo and Santa Anna Pueblo (Native America) there are Buffalo and Com dances to the Buffalo God (Homed God) and Com Mothers. In Haitian Voodoun, St. Anne is Grand Delai and Grande Aloumandia.

The Goddess Book of Days
Diane Stein

The Pagan Book of Days for Tuesday, July 26th

Sleipinir is the shamanic steed that can be used to travel to other levels or states of consciousness. The associated Asatru festival commemorates Odin’s eight-legged steed, which takes the rider between the three worlds, from the upper one of the gods, sgard, through our own middle one, Midgard, into the underworld of the shades, Utgard.

Reference

The Pagan Book of Days
Nigel Pennick

Today is Tuesday, July 26

Tuesday is dedicated to the powers of the planet Mars, personified in Ares, Tiwaz, Tiw, Tuisco and Tyr. Tuesday rules controlled power, energy and endurance.

Deity: Tiwaz

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Planet: Mars

Tree: Holly

Herb: Plantain

Stone: Agate

Animal: Crab

Element: Fire

Color: White

Number: 2

Rune: Tyr (T)

Celtic Tree Month of Tinne(Holly) – July 8 – August 4. Holly, an evergreen plant reminds us all year long about the immortality of nature. The Holly moon was called Tinne, pronounced chihnn-uh, by the Celts, who knew the potent Holly was a symbol of masculine energy and firmness. The ancients used the wood of the Holly in the construction of weapons, but also in protective magic.

Runic Half-Month of Ur (primal strength) – July 4 – July 28

Goddess of the Month of Kerea – July 11 – August 8

Reference

The Pagan Book of Days
Nigel Pennick

Sky This Week for July 26 to July 31, 2016

This week is all about the planets, the Moon, and the Delta Aquarid meteor shower.
By Richard Talcott

Tuesday, July 26

Last Quarter Moon occurs at 7:00 p.m. EDT. It doesn’t rise until nearly 1 a.m. local daylight time, however, by which time its phase has diminished almost imperceptibly to 46 percent lit. Earth’s only natural satellite appears against the relatively inconspicuous background stars of northeastern Cetus.

Wednesday, July 27

Pluto reached opposition and peak visibility nearly three weeks ago, and it remains a tempting target all night. It glows dimly at magnitude 14.1, however, so you’ll need an 8-inch or larger telescope with good optics to spot it visually. Pluto currently lies in northeastern Sagittarius, some 0.8° west-southwest of 3rd-magnitude Pi (p) Sagittarii and 0.7° northeast of 4th-magnitude Omicron (o) Sgr. See “The quest for distant Pluto” in the July Astronomy for complete details on finding this world.

The Moon reaches perigee, the closest point in its orbit around Earth, at 7:37 a.m. EDT. It then lies 229,698 miles (369,662 kilometers) away from us.

Thursday, July 28

The Southern Delta Aquarid meteor shower reaches its peak overnight. Although the waning crescent Moon rises around 2 a.m. local daylight time tomorrow morning, it doesn’t really detract from the show. The meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Aquarius, which rises in late evening and appears highest in the hours before dawn. At its best, the shower produces 15 to 20 meteors per hour under a dark sky, a rate that stays nearly constant for a couple of days on either side of the peak.

Friday, July 29

The Southern Delta Aquarid meteor shower isn’t the only event you’ll want to keep an eye on this morning. As the waning crescent Moon marches eastward relative to the background stars of Taurus, it passes directly in front of the Bull’s luminary. Our satellite occults 1st-magnitude Aldebaran for observers south of a line that runs from southern New Mexico to northern Maine. While viewers north of this line will see the Moon and star just miss each other, those along the line will witness the star skimming Luna’s northern limb. Be sure to set up ahead of time, center the star in your telescope’s field of view, and watch the magnificent show.

Uranus’ eastward motion against the background stars comes to a halt at 10 p.m. EDT. This so-called stationary point marks the beginning of the best period to observe the outer planet. Uranus rises before midnight local daylight time and appears more than halfway to the zenith in the southeastern sky as morning twilight commences. The magnitude 5.8 planet lies in Pisces, 2.7° due north of magnitude 4.8 Mu (m) Piscium. A telescope reveals Uranus’ blue-green disk, which spans 3.6″.

Saturday, July 30

Although Saturn reached its peak nearly two months ago, it remains a lovely sight. You can find the planet nearly due south around 9 p.m. local daylight time. Saturn shines at magnitude 0.3 and appears far brighter than any of the surrounding stars of southwestern Ophiuchus. When viewed through a telescope, the planet measures 18″ across while its dramatic ring system spans 40″ and tilts 26° to our line of sight.

Sunday, July 31

The two inner planets lurk low in the western sky shortly after sunset all week. Your best chance to spot them comes when they lie highest in the twilight this evening. If you scan the western horizon through binoculars 30 minutes after sunset, you should pick up Venus standing just 3° high. It shows up only because in shines so brightly, at magnitude –3.9. Mercury appears 6° above the horizon but will be harder to see because it glows more dimly at magnitude –0.2. And if you have a haze-free sky, you might spot the 1st-magitude star Regulus between the two planets.

Reference:

Astronomy Magazine

Last Quarter

The Last Quarter Moon or Third Quarter Moon phase occurs when the Moon is 270 degrees after the Sun.

This is a time of action, but it’s about reviewing, receiving, paying, planning, closing, sorting, storing, and reaping. Most suitable activities now include paying debts, asking for money owed to us, giving rewards, receiving rewards, making evaluations, taking inventory, tying up loose ends, dealing with people and matters from the past, contacting people from the past, dealing with endings, acting with wisdom and maturity, and letting go if necessary. This is an accountable time when following the rules is most appropriate.

MOON PHASES FOR JULY

New Moon – July 4, 2016
First Quarter – July 11, 2016
Full Moon – July 19, 2016
Last Quarter – July 26, 2016

Your Daily Sun & Moon Data for Tuesday, July 26th

The Sun
Sun Direction: ↑ 86.90° E
Sun Altitude: 29.00°
Sun Distance: 94.404 million mi
Next Equinox: Sep 22, 2016 9:21 AM (Autumnal)
Sunrise Today: 5:55 AM↑ 65° Northeast
Sunset Today: 8:06 PM↑ 295° Northwest
Length of Daylight: 14 hours, 11 minutes

The Moon
Moon Direction: ↑ 231.35° SW
Moon Altitude: 48.64°
Moon Distance: 229834 mi
Next New Moon: Aug 2, 20163:44 PM
Next Full Moon: Aug 18, 20164:26 AM
Next Moonset: Today1:02 PM
Current Moon Phase: Waning Gibbous
Illumination: 54.7%
 

Reference:

timeanddate.com