Aromatherapy for Coughing

AROMATHERAPY FOR COUGHING

An inhalation of Allspice Leaf oil can suppress coughing and speed recovery from colds.

2 drops Allspice Leaf Essential Oil
2 drops Frankincense Essential Oil
2 drops Roman Chamomile Essential Oil


Add oils to a big bowl of steaming water. Mix well. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the vapors.

 

 

Source:

MoonDragon’s Aromatherapy Information

 

Aromatherapy for Firmer Skin

AROMATHERAPY FOR FIRMER SKIN

Lotion containing Allspice Leaf oil can help nourish the skin and protect it from dryness. It also has a firming effect.

2 drops Allspice Leaf Essential Oil
2 ounces lotion of choice.


Mix Allspice Leaf oil with lotion. Caution: Do not use as a facial lotion.

 

Source:

MoonDragon’s Aromatherapy Information

 

Aromatherapy for a Good Night’s Sleep

AROMATHERAPY FOR A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

A bath containing Allspice Leaf oil can have a relaxing, balancing effect and can help promote a restful sleep.

2 drops Allspice Leaf Essential Oil
2 drops Clary Sage Essential Oil
3 drops Lavender Essential Oil
2 ounces Jojoba Carrier Oil


Mix oils and blend well. Add to your bathwater.

 

Source:

MoonDragon’s Aromatherapy Information

 

Aromatherapy for Mild Depression

AROMATHERAPY FOR MILD DEPRESSION

The stimulating, harmonizing effect of Allspice Leaf oil can help ease mild depression, especially when it is blended with soothing Lavender and Bergamot oils.

3 drops Allspice Leaf Essential Oil
2 drops Bergamot Essential Oil
2 drops Rosewood Essential Oil
1 drop Lavender Essential Oil

Place the oils together in a diffuser or aromatherapy lamp.

 

Source:

MoonDragon’s Aromatherapy Information

Witches Reed of Chivalry

Witchy Comments & Graphics

Witches Reed of Chivalry

Insofar as the Craft of the Wise is the most ancient and most honorable creed of humankind, it behooves all who are Witches to act in ways that give respect to the Old Gods, to their sisters and brothers of the Craft, and to themselves.

Therefore, be it noted that:

Chivalry is a high code of honour which is of most ancient Celtic Pagan origin, and must be lived by all who follow the Old ways.

It must be kenned that thoughts and intent put forth on this Middle-Earth will wax strong in other worlds beyond, and return… bringing into creation, on this world, that which had been sent forth. Thus one should exercise discipline, for “as ye sow, so shall ye reap.”

It is only by preparing our minds to be as Gods that we can ultimately attain godhead.

“This above all…to thine own self be true….”

A Witch’s word must have the validity of a signed and witnessed oath. Thus, give thy word sparingly, but adhere to it like iron.

Refrain from speaking ill of others, for not all truths of the matter may be known.

Pass not unverified words about another, for hearsay is, in large part, a thing of falsehoods.

Be thou honest with others, and have them known that honesty is likewise expected of them.

The fury of the moment plays folly with the truth; to keep one’s head is a virtue.

Contemplate always the consequences of thine acts upon others. Strive not to harm another.

Though there may be differences between those of the Old Ways, diverse covens and circles may well have diverse views. These views, even if they are different than yours, should always be given respect. When a coven, circle, clan, or grove is visited or joined, one should discern quietly their practices, and abide thereby.

Dignity, a gracious manner, and a good humour are much to be admired.

As a Witch, thou hast power, and thy powers wax strongly as wisdom increases. Therefore exercise discretion in the use thereof.

Courage and honour endure forever. Their echoes remain when the mountains have crumbled to dust.

Pledge friendship and fealty to those who so warrant. Strengthen others of the Brethren and they shall strengthen thee.

Thou shalt not reveal the secrets of another Witch or another Coven. Others have laboured long and hard for them, and cherish them as treasures.

Those who follow the mysteries should be above reproach in the eyes of the world, and should always seek to make this so.

The laws of the land should be obeyed whenever possible and within reason, for in the main they have been chosen with wisdom for the well-being of all.

Have pride in thyself, and seek perfection in body and in mind. For the Lady hath said, “How canst thou honour another unless thou give honour to thyself firstly?”

Those who seek the Mysteries should consider themselves as select of the Gods, for it is they who lead the race of humankind to the highest of thrones and beyond to the very stars.

 

Author Unknown

The Celtic Connection

A Little Humor for Your Day – ‘Rules for Work’

Rules for Work

1. Never give me work in the morning. Always wait until 4:00 and then bring it to me. The challenge of a deadline is refreshing.

2. If it’s really a rush job, run in and interrupt me every 10 minutes to inquire how it’s going. That helps. Or even better, hover behind me, advising me at every keystroke.

3. Always leave without telling anyone where you’re going. It gives me a chance to be creative when someone asks where you are.

4. If my arms are full of papers, boxes, books, or supplies, don’t open the door for me. I need to learn how to function as a paraplegic and opening doors with no arms is good training in case I should ever be injured and lose all use of my limbs.

5. If you give me more than one job to do, don’t tell me which is the priority. I am psychic.

6. Do your best to keep me late. I adore this office and really have nowhere to go or anything to do. I have no life beyond work.

7. If a job I do pleases you, keep it a secret. If that gets out, it could mean a promotion.

8. If you don’t like my work, tell everyone. I like my name to be popular in conversations. I was born to be whipped.

9. If you have special instructions for a job, don’t write them down. In fact, save them until the job is almost done. No use confusing me with useful information.

10. Never introduce me to the people you’re with. I have no right to know anything. In the corporate food chain, I am plankton. When you refer to them later, my shrewd deductions will identify them.

11. Be nice to me only when the job I’m doing for you could really change your life and send you straight to manager’s hell.

12. Tell me all your little problems. No one else has any and it’s nice to know someone is less fortunate. I especially like the story about having to pay so much taxes on the bonus check you received for being such a good manager.

13. Wait until my yearly review and THEN tell me what my goals SHOULD have been. Give me a mediocre performance rating with a cost of living increase. I’m not here for the money anyway.

Source:

JokesWareHouse.com

Daily Feng Shui News for May 8th – ‘Iris Day’

Today is ‘Iris Day’ and I am reminded of how taking an Irish Flower Essence under the tongue a few times a day can help to unblock old patterns, particularly those related to self-limitation and stagnation. This flower essence purports to inspire us to heights of beauty and grace while also restoring a love of art and a purpose-filled path to creativity. If you’ve been feeling stale or stuck lately, the wonderful Irish Flower Remedy can connect you with creative energies that will make you feel alive again.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Your Charm for Thursday, May 8th is The Dorje

Your Charm for Today

The Dorje

Today’s Meaning:
You are at a physical peak–particularly from a sexual perspective. Enjoy the next few weeks, for they can be remarkable if you let them.

General Description:
In India and Tibet the Dorje or Thunderbolt of Jupiter, is a favorite and greatly valued talisman. It is worn to protect against magic, all spiritual evils and to bring abundance, fruitfulness, and riches. The Dorje is shaped much like a dumb bell with pointed ends, and is the symbol of power and indestructibility. It is supposed to overcome the Buddhist gods Ahi and Vrittra, the serpents, which the Buddhists believe swallow up the waters and cause drought, starvation and death; compelling the serpents to disgorge the waters, and to pour down the fertilizing showers.

Your Animal Spirit for May 8th is The Cougar

Your Animal Spirit for Today
May 8, 2014 

 

Cougar

Cougar has long been associated with leadership. Cougars are powerful, agile, and unhesitating. When Cougar attacks, he throws one hundred percent of himself into the pursuit. Although cougar is strong, he is also elusive —hard to spot in the wild—until he decides to pounce. His lesson to you today is one of being a balanced leader—not rushing into the attack, not always lurking in the brush.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for May 8th is The Tower

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Tower

As in the game of chess, where the towers stand guard at the corners of the battlefield, The Tower represents a defense and stronghold, perhaps at the edge of life, of change, of sanity. The tower rises out of solid bedrock and is a place to take refuge, to recoup, to meditate upon the next step. United as it is with solid earth, it also rises into the heavens, and it is there the answers appear to us, when we have climbed above daily worldly matters into a higher consciousness. When the Tower appears, seek solitude and cultivate inner strength, prepare for coming challenges.

As a daily card The Tower suggests you are in a time when you are likely to face major challenges. The Tower indicates that the best way for you to face these challenges is to fortify your inner resources and keep yourself solidly grounded

Your I Ching Hexagram for May 8th is 15: Humility

15: Humility

Thursday, May 8th, 2014

hexagram09

 

 

 

 

 

Humility is often rewarded in human affairs, just as the erosion of a great mountain fills the valley. It is the way of nature to fill the empty cup. Regardless of your position, humility is a positive and deceptively powerful attribute. If you are in a high position but are still humble, people will be drawn to you and the causes you espouse. If your position is lowly, humility will endear you to those of higher status. True humility is a virtue to which all should aspire.

The most successful and happiest people are those who know how to bring each situation into balance by reducing that which is too great, and adding to that which is too little. Such a person craves not power, but balanced and stable relationships. Humility is the virtue that supplies the balancing power, as humble people are not prey to the many illusions that grow out of self-importance. If humility is not natural to your disposition, make a conscious effort to develop a strain of self-effacing humor.

Your Daily Tarot Card for May 8th is The Chariot

The Chariot

Thursday, May 8th, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Traditionally, the card usually entitled the Chariot points to a triumphal feeling of freedom, as if the charioteer is being paraded through the streets as a hero (or heroine). The card reflects congratulations for high achievement, and serves as a sign of empowerment.

Huge wheels and frisky steeds speed the rate at which the driver’s willpower can be realized. This kind of charge makes more of the world accessible to anyone ambitious enough to seize the Chariot’s reins. But there is danger in this feeling of freedom, because of the increased rate of change and its power to magnify mistakes in judgment. As a seasoned warrior, the Charioteer is called upon to be extra attentive to the way ahead.

 

Get A Jump On Tomorrow, Your Horoscopes for Fri., May 9th

Maintaining a steady work pace on a project is easier today because we can depend on the laser-like focus of the critical Virgo Moon. Meanwhile, the Sun’s transformational alignment with nebulous Neptune blurs our boundaries. The tension between these opposite forces flips us back and forth between two contrary states of consciousness. Our imagination may reveal future potential, but we still must apply ourselves if we want to realize our dreams.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You’re reluctant to show your vulnerability, often covering it by jumping into action instead of waiting for something to happen. However, you might not be so quick to react because you’re better at imagining all your possible responses today than actually putting one of them into motion. But it’s not self-doubt that blocks your way; it’s your current desire to take the most practical step possible. Ultimately, letting your dreams guide you is a better strategy now than trying to keep your feet on the ground.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Although your days may be as busy as ever, you are growing more adept at filtering out the excess noise. The choice is yours today; you can smile and walk away instead of engaging in all the commotion. Make use of the time you gain by relaxing in a quiet space. Meditating or daydreaming recharges your batteries and if you time it just right, you might not even be missed when you slip away for your little escape. Luckily, others will appreciate your improved attitude when you return.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You might have to reconsider your previous plans if you decide to add any more activities to your schedule now. However, you can take the power of positive thinking too far today. Your blind optimism could tempt you to over-commit, letting others down in the process and leaving you discouraged. Be cautious; managing your time wisely prevents unnecessary problems and enables you to accomplish more than you originally thought possible.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

It seems as if you’re receiving more help than you asked for today. Unfortunately, your first reaction might be to shut it all down by telling others that you can take care of your commitments by yourself. But you are in a unique position now and are capable of making steady progress on your long-term goals if you don’t try to do everything on your own. In fact, accepting assistance is a sign of intelligence. Don’t let your ego stand in the way of success.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Enjoying simple pleasures whenever you get the chance comes naturally to you these days. However, you have chores to do now and it’s not wise to put off your current obligations. There’s no reason to tell everyone about your inner process, making it a good idea to keep your feelings to yourself today. Instead of stopping to justify your behavior, just continue to move deliberately through your day while taking the time to smell the flowers and savor the coffee along the way.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You’re not interested in being the leader of the pack today; you prefer to be just another face in the crowd. But the reality is that not everyone is as committed to perfection as you are. The Moon’s visit to your efficient sign now places you in touch with your drive to get things exactly right. Fortunately, you can be a valuable team player if you relax your high performance standards enough to collaborate with others. Sometimes it’s more important to just get the job done.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You’re hesitant about making a decision today that has a direct impact on others at work because you’re not willing to determine the outcome on your own. You can usually take a few steps back and let someone else assume leadership responsibility. But it might be impossible to pass the buck now because everyone’s depending on you. You have nothing to worry about as long as you check in with your intuition before choosing a path.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Don’t waste time lost in analysis because logical thinking won’t bring you the best answers today. The rational realms can only take you so far now. Instead, trust your instincts because your psychic radar is right on track. Stop trying to explain your decisions to anyone; just listen to your gut. Oddly enough, your imagination offers solutions that are currently more practical than traditional methods. Dream your way to success.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You appear to be the life of the party today as the Moon in your 10th House of Status aligns with your key planet Jupiter. Nevertheless, you may be a bit worried that you’re missing something very important. Go about your daily routine, but take some time to make sure you don’t glide over unexpressed feelings that need to be addressed. Put away your philosophical justifications and move past your own resistance to explore deeper and more personal issues. Taking an emotional journey might be more rewarding than you can imagine.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Someone may be tuning into your thoughts today, but you could be so busy working toward your goals that you don’t even notice. However, connecting with others makes a big difference in your progress, so don’t withdraw because you are worried about appearing vulnerable or dependent. Be bold; take the initiative and share your concerns with a friend you can count on. You might be pleasantly surprised by the positive reaction you receive to your disclosure if you are willing to speak from your heart.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You’re fully engaged with your immediate environment today and everything seems to be copacetic as long as you don’t stop moving. You may believe that your emotions hamper your productivity. However, slowing down to consider the deeper significance of your current circumstances might be the smartest thing you can do. Fortunately, once you are back in touch with your heart, you will see things in a completely different light than earlier in the day when you were stuck inside your head.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You might be feeling more content today, even if your life is busier than you prefer. As long as you know you gave your best effort now, it’s okay to be satisfied with your recent job performance. Ultimately, it may not matter if someone is on your case because you didn’t pay enough attention to the details on a project. Thankfully, your happiness is not dependent on external events or the opinions of others. Integrate your own values into everything you do to lessen the importance of receiving approval from anyone else.

 

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Your Daily Horoscopes for Thursday, May 8th

Unrestrained optimism cannot withstand a confrontation with the truth and our attempts to sidestep reality won’t work now. The Moon shifts into practical Virgo at 2:23 am EDT, emphasizing useful facts over indulgent fantasies. However, the Moon’s opposition to phantasmagorical Neptune later in the day makes it tough to simply forget our dreams. It’s helpful to remember that our imaginations can play a significant role in creating the future.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You can derive great benefit from applying your knowledge in a practical way today, especially if you keep your mind on point. Unfortunately, a string of distractions could set you off on a circuitous mental meandering, causing you to waste precious time. Give yourself permission to daydream now instead of being so self-critical because you are not as productive as you wish. The seeds of ambition are first planted in the fertile ground of your imagination.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Your long-term goals may not be as in touch with reality as you think. You might even face disillusionment if you try to cling to them too tightly. Unfortunately, working harder doesn’t automatically turn a fantasy into something tangible. Take an objective look at your aspirations and consider whether or not they fit into a sensible plan. Once you have stepped through this preliminary review you will know whether or not to move forward.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You are like a butterfly that is flitting from dream to dream today, unable to stick with one long enough to make it real. If you insist on detaching from reality, at least pick your fantasies with as much consciousness as possible. However, don’t get so caught up with your intellectual analysis that you lose touch with your imagination. There’s a delicate dance between being inspired by your visions and misled by your illusions.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

The boundaries between you and your closest friends are blurry today as the Moon’s opposition to foggy Neptune challenges your ability to separate your feelings from the facts. You are eager to be in a fun-filled social setting now, placing you in close proximity with people you like. However, you should tread carefully because your emotional needs can lure you into tricky waters before you know it. Your colorful visions are a rich source of inspiration as long as you don’t confuse them with the truth.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You would prefer to float away on a big puffy cloud of dreams today, but it’s wise to be conscientious about honoring your previous commitments first. It’s unlikely that you can evade your responsibilities, yet neither can you take them too seriously. Practice walking in two worlds, with one foot grounded in reality while the other is exploring the outer reaches of your fantasies. Dancing with duality has its advantages when there is so much work to do.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Relying on help from others is tricky today, so consider striking out on your own. It’s not that anyone will necessarily flake on you; it’s just that it’s very easy to misunderstand each other now. Even if you believe you hear everything clearly, you can still misinterpret the intent of what’s being said. Don’t try to fill in the spaces between the words with your false assumptions. Just listen closely so you don’t inadvertently steer off track.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You take great pride in your ability to weigh and balance a lot of information to decide what’s most significant. Nevertheless, this sorting process feels like a real struggle today. Paradoxically, your cerebral tools are working fine; it’s just that your imagination is functioning even better. Don’t try to control your thoughts; slipping in and out of fantasy can reveal something important now about how you might be even more efficient in the long run. There’s an infinite ray of possibilities ahead when you’re open to the symbols of your subconscious

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

This might be a perfect day to make something special, create a masterpiece or redecorate your office. However, you may not be able to take time off from your regular work to pursue your artistic talents. Ideally, you could combine your desire to express your vision of beauty with what you must do in the real world. Don’t give up on your dreams; channeling your passion into your creativity enables you to leave your world a better place than you found it.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You may be operating under the false illusion that if you could just stay home today, all your problems would be solved. As much as you need a serious chunk of time to yourself, escaping the real world won’t make you any happier in the long run. Instead of wasting precious time withdrawing into Fantasyland, dedicate your efforts toward making your most important dreams come true. You have to build a ladder first if you want to reach for the stars

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The best of intentions aren’t sufficient to keep your mind on the work that is in front of you now. Nearly everything that happens appears to be another intriguing distraction which prevents you from honoring your obligations. Nevertheless, it’s still crucial to demonstrate your tenacity today and come through for someone that matters or there could be a big price to pay later on. Work first, play later; your conscience will thank you for it.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You can unknowingly project uncertainty and confusion today, even if you’re quite sure of yourself. There is a surprising split between your drive for practical accomplishment and your desire for artistic expression. Just make sure that your need to know the truth doesn’t actually prevent you from finding it. Instead of being the scientist or technician now, try a more philosophical approach to balancing the mundane and the magical.

When the Astrology Doesn’t Fit

When the Astrology Doesn’t Fit

No drama or crises?! What now?

Maria DeSimoneMaria DeSimone on the topics of blogs, astrology

The other day I was visiting my mother. Over cake and coffee, she inhaled her electronic cigarette while staring at me in that “I’m your mom and I know something’s up” kind of way. Finally, she spoke up: “OK, Maria, what’s wrong with you now?”

I looked up from my plate of chocolate oblivion and sighed. “Nothing. Nothing’s wrong … and that’s the problem. For the first time since I can remember, I don’t have a major life crisis to deal with. I feel lost — unsettled. What do I do with my life when I don’t have a fire to extinguish?”

You see, I don’t know how to float in the sea of normal. I’m used to fighting for my life; flailing in an ocean of chaos. I thought for sure that the recent April insanity of the Cardinal Grand Cross combined with eclipse season would bring an intense catastrophe my way. I even consulted colleagues about how direct my personal birth chart would be hit. Everyone corroborated: Something major was up.

But nothing happened. Nothing that would fit the bill of life-changing or traumatic or shocking. I was not brought to my knees. In fact, all has been calm. Anything that did transpire in April was, dare I say … GOOD!

Disturbed by the lack of disturbance…

This left me more than a little disturbed. If I’m being honest, I felt punked by the universe. Exact math … stressful astrology. I was dumbfounded. Where’s the crisis? Where’s the drama?

I was so sure April would bring me a major personal fire to put out that I did as much advance preparation as I could. I decided to clear my schedule and not see clients or teach classes for the second half of April. I figured if I had a lighter load it would be easier to deal with whatever the universe planned to hurl my way.

What did I get? An unexpected mini-vacation. Time to think and reflect. Why wasn’t the Astrology “working,” I wondered. It didn’t make an ounce of sense.

Until my mother helped me put it into perspective.

She pointed out that maybe, for me, the developmental stress suggested by April’s planetary patterns was more about learning how to bury the saga of a trauma filled journey and learn to accept — even enjoy — something a little less abrasive. A life that is a bit more peaceful. Normal.

Maybe April’s tense sky mixed with my own birth chart in a way that’s similar to the strange mathematical process where two negatives multiplied equal a positive.

It’s actually OK to be happy!

Either way, now that May is here and I’m about to celebrate my 40th birthday, I realize something about myself as a person. Not surprisingly, it was the Astrology of April NOT fitting that led to this awakening. You see, I tend to deny myself permission to be happy and at peace. And you know what? That’s not cool anymore.

Maybe I can blame natal Venus square Saturn, but for the majority of my current incarnation all I remember thinking is that: “When I’m older I’ll enjoy my life more. Later. Joy will come later.” I spent the first 40 years of my life convincing myself that I hadn’t earned the right to be happy yet.

Yeah, that’s a Venus-Saturn thing alright. But there’s good news. Venus-Saturn people ARE supposed to improve with age. The second half of my life IS supposed to be better than the first half. That’s probably because, for us, it takes the first half of our lives to realize that we DESERVE it.

I just need to get out of my own way first. I need to give myself permission to live life without expecting never-ending crisis and instead embrace happiness.

When there are major planetary shifts, as there were in April, astrologers presume activity. We anticipate outer events to transpire. For many people, that DID happen. But for me, personally, I initially felt blindsided by the lack of outer events in my personal world over the last month. I didn’t give enough credit to the volcanic eruptions that occurred INSIDE.

Oftentimes, those internal explosions are way more potent than anything the world can see.

How did April’s energy treat you? Did the Astrology fit? Or did it make you aware of what no longer fits? For me, it was most certainly the latter. And I’m not just talking about those size 0 jeans I wore in 2009.