Daily Horoscopes for Monday, February 3

We are conflicted today between our attachments to the past and wanting to experiment with new ways to do the same old things. The pioneering Aries Moon joins independent Uranus to give us courage and prompt us to take risks. However, the Moon’s squares to Jupiter, Pluto and Venus throw a series of minor crises in our path as reality tests our willingness to work for what we want. Clinging to the familiar only makes life more complicated.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Your energy runs hot and cold today, making it tricky to choose your direction. One minute the adrenaline is flowing and you are full of excitement, ready to take on the world. But the next minute you feel like curling up and taking a nap. Carefully monitor your vitality so you don’t run out of gas before the day is over. Be sensible and don’t push too hard without considering your limitations. After all, you’re still human like everyone else.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

You may be responsible for a task that makes you feel uncomfortable today. Keeping an open mind is required to overcome your current resistance to change; there is much to be gained by thinking outside of the box. The craziest ideas are the ones that might be the most effective now. Whatever worked in the past won’t necessarily work in the present, so find ways to let go of old habits and move yourself into the future. Embrace the unknown.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

Slow down, take a long deep breath and let your body catch up with your mind. Your brain is buzzing with brilliance now; however, maintaining balance in the midst of all this excitement is essential today. However, without a stable foundation, the insights you have could fly away with the breeze. Luckily, staying calm enables you to put your intelligence to good use.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Open your heart and expand your mind to accept the inspirational messages that are now available to you. Granted, you may find some of these new ideas to be rather unconventional. However, your current experiences could help you reach your destination, even if they don’t lead you to the answers you’re seeking. A little flexibility goes a long way when it comes to planning your future.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Partnership matters may be confusing today because your feelings are all over the place. People appear and disappear suddenly now, and plans must be altered without notice. Opportunities arise one minute only to crumble in the chaos moments later. Thankfully, this can be a wildly exciting day if you appreciate the element of surprise. Go with the flow instead of attempting to run the show.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You might want to experiment with a new approach when working with others, since sticking to an old formula is not necessarily the most successful strategy. There are alternative methods which would allow you to accomplish more in less time with less effort. Treat this experience as a learning challenge which can stimulate your thinking and increase your productivity. Making the transition may slow you down at first, but the changes will pay off in the long run.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Relationships may seem unstable today, especially if someone isn’t playing by your rules. However, upon closer examination, another person’s erratic behavior might actually be acting out emotions that you are suppressing within yourself. Instead of questioning what others want, explore your unexpressed desires for a while. Let your fantasies flow freely now before deciding how to follow up on the most meaningful ones. Remember, no one can take your feelings away from you, whether you verbalize them or not.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your passions can rise and fall with unexpected suddenness today, stirring up rough waters. Although you might be tempted to fight against the changing tides, don’t try so hard that you wind up frustrated. Unfortunately, you cannot manage the process; it’s a wild ride that requires a light touch and unwavering courage. Take advantage of these turbulent times by surfing the wave of change to see where the currents carry you. Letting go of control could be more fun than you expect.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You don’t have to travel too far to discover the answers to big life questions today. The best advice you receive are the most down-to-earth responses. Simple solutions arise to what you perceive as complex problems. Sometimes you seek out more information than you need, but the most direct route is likely to be the best one now. Funny enough, the knowledge you seek may be found within.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Taking a financial risk isn’t your regular style, since you’re generally very practical about spending your hard-earned resources. Typically, you do copious research before shelling out large amounts of money for anything, but you might sidestep this safe strategy today. Of course, reckless behavior can get you into trouble, yet giving yourself permission to be a little more spontaneous now and again could work in your favor. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You are here to shake up the world today and even if that’s not your original intent, people may respond as if you’ve shocked them with a live wire. However, it’s in your best interest to act cautiously and carefully when involving others in your process if you really want to manifest lasting change. Paradoxically, a more methodical approach brings faster results. Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Someone can catch you off guard by surprising you with an unexpected gesture today. Although he or she might act as if it’s just a game, their intentions may be less friendly than you think. Taking advantage of you is certainly not a great way to build trust. Remember, you are not obligated to play with anyone who isn’t playing nicely. Don’t be afraid to set clear boundaries; a little privacy could be exactly what you need right now.

Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of February 3

Just when you thought your love life was in the clear, the universe casts yet another sucker punch. Yes, Venus turned direct on January 31, and this week she’ll truly begin to regulate her orbit. The trouble is that on Thursday communication planet Mercury turns retrograde in sensitive Pisces. There might be love in the air until February 28, but there will also be a distinct problem conveying your feelings or thoughts to your sweetheart in the way you hope to.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

The good news is that the ruler of your partnership sector, Venus, is now moving forward. This will allow you to make progress in your relationship if things have been sluggish between you and your mate. The Moon in your sign will help you reveal your emotions easily on Monday and Tuesday. By Thursday, however, you might not want to talk about your innermost feelings as much. In fact, you might prefer extra alone time to think, dream and fantasize. Honor it.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Now that your ruling planet, Venus, is waking up from her short winter’s nap, you might feel as if you’re gaining more perspective around your moral requirements in matters of the heart. If you’ve been cheating yourself on some level by staying in a dead relationship, you might begin to take steps to end things. What may confuse you, however, is the opinion of friends in the background. They might mean for their input to be helpful, but it’ll only muddle things even more. You’ll need to figure this one out on your own.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

The ruler of your romance sector is strong and direct now, allowing you to enjoy the physical and emotional qualities of a love relationship more. The only rub? Your mind may not receive the same stimulation. Emotions will be out in the open on Saturday and Sunday, but mixed messages to your lover might only leave both of you feeling deflated. Be as clear as you can in all communication after Thursday, and if you’re not hearing what you hope to from your love give him or her the benefit of the doubt.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You likely spent the last few weeks re-evaluating the status of your marriage or close relationship. Now that you’ve processed these thoughts you may feel as if you’re ready to make a firm decision. Should you stay? Should you go? Should you insist on changes that will make you feel more valued in the relationship? While you’ll want to press ahead with changes, remember that communication may be on shaky ground starting Thursday and until February 28. Your mind could change quickly, and you won’t want to lock yourself into something you can’t undo later.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

If you’re involved in an office romance, you may notice that you can finally breathe easy again this week, and enjoy dating this person without all of the gossip or recrimination. If you’re married or in a committed partnership, a conversation with your mate about joint finances might cause confusion. Now is not the time to pool your resources if you haven’t already done so. Wait until after February 28 for all major decisions about your shared resources.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Love is good for those of you in the fresh and fun dating stage right now. In fact, it’s great now that Venus is moving forward once more in your romance sector. You might meet someone very special over the next couple of weeks if you’re single. The only trouble is that your ruler, Mercury, turns retrograde on Thursday, and that is not a good time to make firm decisions about life and love. If you meet someone new, take things slow. If you’re married, you and your mate may have trouble reaching a mutual agreement. Be patient.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Now that your ruler, Venus, is moving direct once more, it’s likely you’re feeling more attractive and less socially awkward than you may have felt since December 21. With sexy Mars moving through your sign you are in a good place now to go after who and what you want so be sure to act now while you’ve got strong support from both cosmic lovers. Next month Mars will turn retrograde in your sign, and this will be a temporary game changer for your love life. For now, have your cake and eat it too.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

If you’re married or in a committed relationship you might feel as if you can make progress once more as you work on your union. Partnership is certainly more effort than play these days for you, but it’s also likely you’ve learned that anything worth having is also worth working for. If you’re single, however, now is not a good time to begin a love affair. Mercury will turn retrograde in your romance sector on Thursday and your judgment may not be the best.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Romantic prospects will be strong early in the week — especially on Monday and Tuesday. You’ll be in the mood for fun, and it’ll be a great time to go out after work for cocktails or dinner with friends. You might even meet someone who captivates you! If you’re in a committed relationship, however, there might be extra confusion between you and your mate about a domestic matter after Thursday. You may not find it easy, but if you work together a resolution is possible after February 28.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Your attractive quotient is off the charts this week now that Venus is once again strong and direct in your sign. Not only will you feel a boost in self-esteem, it’ll also be easier to convey the very best qualities you have to others. This makes you impossible to ignore, and it’ll be easier than ever to snatch up that special someone you’ve had your eye on. Sleeping beauty is officially awake. Make the most of it!

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

If you’ve felt unsettled about a private love matter over the last several weeks, this week you’ll begin to let go of any anxiety surrounding it. Perhaps you’ve been involved in a clandestine relationship, and although it feeds you on some level, it leaves you feeling empty in other ways. We attract the love we think we deserve, and now is the time to figure out why you feel you deserve only to love someone in the dark. Guess what? You don’t.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Thursday, Mercury will turn retrograde in your sign, making mix ups in communication more of a hassle. This may be particularly troublesome when it comes to love and partnerships. Your sweetheart might insist that what you say you don’t mean and what you mean you don’t say. Remind him or her that you’re a lover, not a fighter.

Your Daily Cosmic Calendar for February 3rd

The dark-of-the-moon phase happens every month just before the lunar orb reunites with its solar companion. There is usually a strong need to complete odds and ends that have been percolating for the last few weeks, but which require an extra oomph to reach the finish line. From the realm of partnerships comes one solid boost as Venus — even though still retrograde until tomorrow — forms a supportive sextile of 60-degrees to Juno (2:18AM). Don’t allow mental fatigue to interfere with your skillful modes of problem-solving and strategic thinking as the Sun makes a 150-degree tie with Pallas (8:06AM). Be tuned into high-technology and the multi-media during a 60-degree connection from the Moon to Uranus (11:17AM). The New Moon — energizing 11 degrees of Aquarius — arrives at 1:40PM. Think of this dynamic conjunction as a leaping off point for reaching important creative, business and professional goals. Mercury trine to productivity-enhancing Ceres (4:09PM) and Pallas making an inspirational, 72-degree link with task-oriented Saturn (10:17PM) should be feathers in your cap. [Note to readers: All times are calculated for Pacific Standard Time. Be sure to adjust all times according to your own local time so the alignments noted above will be exact for your location.]

Calendar of the Moon for Monday, February 3rd

Calendar of the Moon

3 Nion/Anthesterion

Day of Llyr

Color: Sea-blue
Element: Water
Altar: On a sea-blue cloth place a chalice of salt water, a skull, a dolphin, and a ship.
Offerings: Paper ships. Deal with fearful emotions that threaten to drown you.
Daily Meal: Fish or seafood.

Invocation to Llyr

We cross the sea at our own risk,
Be it the sea of water
Or the depths of our own
Internal tides of feeling.
We cross the sea at our own risk,
Knowing that the smooth expanse
Could at any moment become turbulent,
Degenerate into a vast whirlpool
And draw us screaming into the darkness.
We cross the sea at our own risk,
Navigating our way with signs
And symbols that have nothing
To do with the vast expanse we see,
But are just numbers, spun out of
The mind’s vast abilities,
The world of air and sky,
And sometimes they fail us.
We cross the sea at our own risk,
But if we do not cross it
We will be separated forever
By those terrible watery chasms.
Ocean god, we pray to you for mercy;
Bear us up and do not let us drown
In any ocean, within or without.

Chant:
Born of water, cleansing, powerful, flowing, healing, we are…..

(Let one who has been chosen to do the work of the ritual come forward with the bowl of salt water, and each shall dip their hands into it and mark themselves on their heart chakras and their heads. Then the salt water shall be poured out as a libation.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Calendar of the Sun for Monday, January 3rd

Calendar of the Sun

3 Solmonath

Festival of Sulis Minerva

Colors: Blue and white
Element: Water
Altar: Set with a blue cloth and lay upon it a great earthenware bowl filled with well water, in which are laid several crystals. Around it place a dipper and many cups, and a blade.
Offerings: Secret offerings whispered into the cups and poured back into the bowl.
Daily meal: Nothing to drink but spring or well water all day. Light, cold, raw vegetarian food except for fresh-water fish and crayfish.

Invocation to Sulis Minerva

Lady of the sacred well
And holy spring,
You whose cold waters
Cleanse our hearts
And clear our minds
Of the collected grime
Of everyday life,
You who inspire us
With one sip from your flowing stream,
You who hold our secrets
And give us respite,
Keep us clean and flowing,
Water bearer, water giver,
Like the purest spring,
And may our depths
Echo with your song.

Chant: Sulis Minerva Aqua Vitae

(All circle about the altar and receive cups, into which water is ladled out from the bowl. Each takes a sip of the water, whispers, “Hail Sulis Minerva”, and then whispers into their cup some private personal offering that they agree to make to Her. They then pour the water back into the bowl, and it is poured out as a libation to Sulis Minerva.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Current Moon Phase for Jan. 3rd is Waxing Crescent

Crescent Moon

(waxing/30% of illumination)

During this Moon phase, there is a slight slowing down of enthusiasm due to an emerging desire to produce tangible results from the energy being expended. The issue of values enters into the equation and an urge to tie together the data available so that you can utilize current opportunities. There is still plenty of forward motion, and this is a great time to continue initiating and progressing forward. This Moon phase favors gaining more information and the input of others to further your plans.

Witches Magick for February 3rd – Five Finger Money Spell

Witchy Comments
Witches Magick for February 3rd

Five Finger Money Spell

The number 5 is associated with abundance and wealth, so this Wiccan money spell focuses on that energy. The last spell did too, I suppose. Anyway, this is what you need for this spell:

A green marker (washable)

A silver coin

Do this spell on a Thursday if you can. Write the number 1 through 5 on the pads of your fingers, starting with 1 on the index finger to 4 on the pinky, then 5 on the thumb. Set the coin on a table or altar, and focus on why you need additional abundance in your life right now. If you don’t actually need money, this spell may not be that successful.

Repeat the following, touching the numbered finger to the coin each time:

By the number 1, the spell’s begun,
By the number 2, let it be true,
By the number 3, so mote it be,
By the number 4, I just need more,
By the number 5, the spell’s alive

Then set your open palm over the coin, and repeat all 5 lines again. Leave the coin where it sits for 5 days, then carry it with you after that.

Source:

Free Witchcraft Spells

Let’s Talk Witch – Moon Magick

Moon & Witch Comments & Graphics

Let’s Talk Witch – Moon Magick

Spells and rituals honoring or involving the element of fire should be done when the Moon is in either Aries, Leo or Sagittarius.

Spells and rituals honoring or involving the earth or earth healing should be done when theMoon is in either Taurus, Virgo, or Capricorn.

Spells and rituals honoring or involving the element of air should be done when the Moon is in either Gemini, Libra or Aquarius.

Spells and rituals honoring or involving the element of water should be done when the Moon is in either Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces.

The circle is a sacred place in which magic is worked, where Wiccans can meet with the god and goddess. The word circle, may be misleading though. It is actually a sphere made of energy that encompasses all the participants and the altar. The magic circle defines the ritual area, holds in personal power and shuts out all distractions and negative energies. You can use objects on the ground to show the boundaries of the circle, such as stones, flowers, branches and candles, or crystals. It is formed of personal energy which is visualized as streaming from the body to form what looks like a bubble made of mist. Some Wiccans use tools such as the Athame, to direct this power, some use their hands.

Once the energy is flowing through your fingertips or chosen tool, walk the circle three times clockwise, envisioning the mist, or light or energy, whatever, trailing outward from you to form the sphere. When the circle is complete, shut off the energy flow by shaking your hand or pulling it back into your tool. Once the circle is cast, you are ready to perform your ritual, or magic.

The Moon continually moves through the Zodiac, and each sign has its own significance:
Aries – Good for starting things, but lacks staying power. Things occur rapidly, but quickly pass.
Taurus – Things begun now last the longest, tend to increase in value, and become hard to alter.
Gemini -Things begun now are easily changed by outside influence.
Cancer – Pinpoints need, supports growth and nurturance.
Leo – Showmanship, favors being seen, drama, recreation and happy pursuits.
Virgo – Favors accomplishment of details and commands.
Libra – Increases self-awareness, favors self-examination and interaction with others.
Scorpio – Increases awareness of psychic power. Ends connections.
Sagittarius – Encourages flights of imagination and confidence.
Capricorn – Increases awareness of the need for structure, discipline.
Aquarius – Favors activities that are unique and individualistic.
Pisces – Energy withdraws from the surface of life, hibernates within, secretly reorganizing and realigning.

The Witches Correspondence for Monday, February 3rd

Magickal Intentions: Psychic Sensitivity, Women’s Mysteries, Tides, Waters, Emotional Issues, Agriculture, Animals, Female Fertility, Messages, Theft, Reconciliations, Voyages, Dreams and Merchandise
Incense: African Violet, Honeysuckle, Myrtle, Willow, Wormwood
Planet: Moon
Sign: Cancer
Angel: Gabriel
Colors: Silver, White and Gray
Herbs/Plants: Night Flowers, Willow Root, Orris Root, Birch, Motherwort, Vervain, White Rose and White Iris
Stones: Carnelian, Moonstone, Aquamarine, Pearl, Clear Quartz, Fluorite, Geodes
Oil: (Moon) Jasmine, Lemon, Sandalwood

Monday belongs to the Moon. Monday’s energy best aligns itself with efforts that deal with women, home and hearth, the family, the garden, travel, and medicine. It also boosts rituals involving psychic development and prophetic dreaming.

February 3 – St. Blaise’s Day or Blaze Day

February 3

St. Blaise’s Day or Blaze Day

St. Blaise is considered to be one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, a group of saints venerated for the supposed efficacy of their prayers for human necessities. He was a Bishop of Sebaste in Armenia who, on his way to execution, miraculously cured a boy who had a fishbone lodged in his throat. He was thus invoked against throat ailments. An old Armenian folk custom explains that if one ties a knot in a cord while asking for St. Blaise’s blessing, he or she will be protected from throat ailments.

The Witches Almanac for Monday, February 3rd

Book & Candle Comments

The Witches Almanac for Monday, February 3rd

Monday (Moon): Peace, sleep, healing, compassion, friends, psychic awareness, purification and fertility.

St. Blaise’s Day

Waxing Moon

The Waxing Moon is the ideal time for magick to draw things toward you.

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 Phase: First Quarter

Incense: Lily

Color: Gray

A Very Blessed Monday Morn’ To All Our Family & Friends Of The WOTC!

Great Gaia, Earth Mother

Help me to reconnect

With the land below and the sky above

Help me to see the beauty that surrounds me

And appreciate all that gifts you have given

So I might live more fully

See more clearly

Breathe more deeply

Of all that is you.

So Mote It Be

‘THINK on THESE THINGS’ for January 31st

‘THINK on THESE THINGS’
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler

Everyone is a collector of something. And everyone’s collection looks peculiar to someone else. And yet, who knows why an item may have a certain appeal to one particular person. The shape, the color, the whole idea may have a hidden background, but it is most definitely there!

It may be old books, or magazines. Perhaps it is pill bottles, fishing hooks, or something “I may need someday when…” Who knows the reason old calendars continue to hang, and scraps of this and that may someday be just what I need.

But more dear than any of these are the happy thoughts we collect to use along the way. We can use them to cheer someone, to pass along a word of courage, a simple prayer, a smile. And when someone has time to share with us an experience that we may profit by the pain they felt – yes, these are collector’s items. These priceless bits of life’s fabric, woven by someone’s cares and offered to us in hopes that it will help.

Whatever it is that we collect, we must never forget the dearest collections are the kindnesses, the thoughtful acts, the smiling faces that can be ours by giving the same.

What could be so priceless as true friendship? Friends for which time and space do not exist! It is written, “What a great blessing is a friend with breast so trusty that thou mayest safely bury all thy secrets in it, whose conscience thou mayest fear less than thy own; who can relieve thy cares by his counsels, thy sadness by his good humor, and whose very looks give thee comfort.”

All of us have had many friends, but the special ones remain forever in our memories. The dearest are those who believe in us and are willing to trust us with their friendship.

We cannot force friendship. It is something mutually understood and silently accepted. It is our opportunity to demonstrate our very best selves – to as no questions and to pass no criticisms.

“Before us is a future all unknown, a path untrod;
Beside us a friend well loved and known –
That friend is God.

_________________________________

Available online! ‘Cherokee Feast of Days’
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler.

Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones……and also for those who don’t have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com
Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com

Elder’s Meditation of the Day
By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org

Elder’s Meditation of the Day – January 31

“In sharing, in loving all and everything, one people naturally found a due portion of the thing they sought, while in fearing, the other found need of conquest.”

–Chief Luther Standing Bear, SIOUX

There are two systems of thought that are available for us to choose from. One is the love-thought system and the other is the fear- thought system. If we choose love, we will see the laws, principles and values of the Creator. If we choose fear, the results will be so paralyzing that it will cause us to take over and not rely on the Great Spirit. The fear-thought system will automatically cause attack, conflict, need to control over others. The love-thought system seeks peace of mind, unity and causes us to be love seekers.

Great Spirit, today let me see only love.

January 31 – Daily Feast

January 31 – Daily Feast

Sensible people do not get ruffled easily and are known to be reliable in a crisis. We want these stable people with us as friends and team members when the game is terribly important. We have heard the calm voice and felt the strong hand when our knees wobbled and our hands shook. It is easy to recall those who sustained us with their words, their caring. And sadly, we remember those who did not. Whatever common sense is, the heart has it, not the head. It is having the right priorities, knowing what is important, and giving as much as, or more than, we have received. Indians of old has this stalwart strength to stand like straight arrows to give support. They reached out to lift someone before they stopped to think whether he deserved it. The price is the same now as then – patience, love, loyalty – those things that seem so scarce.

~ I learned many English words….could recite some of the Ten Commandments….I knew how to sleep in a bed, pray to Jesus, comb my hair, use a toilet….I learned that a person thinks with his head instead of his heart. ~

SUN CHIEF, 1890

‘A Cherokee Feast of Days’, by Joyce Sequichie Hifler

Daily Motivator for January 31 – Fulfilling journey

Fulfilling journey

What matters much more than where you are is the direction you are going. That’s something you can change instantly if you wish.

You cannot create an instant achievement, yet you can instantly be headed in the direction of whatever achievement you choose. From wherever you are, there is a path and a direction.

Your task for right now is not to get all the way there. Your responsibility in this moment is to keep yourself moving in the direction that will eventually get you all the way there.

No matter how long you’ve been off track, or how far away from the path you’ve wandered, you can begin right now to get back on track. Your very next action sets your direction, so wisely choose that action and go with it.

Don’t waste your time with regrets about where you’ve been or empty wishes about where you’d like to be. Use this very moment to firmly establish and maintain a positive, meaningful direction for your life.

Whatever the challenges may be, however ambitious the goal, your direction is yours to choose in each and every moment. Choose the direction that most authentically expresses your unique value, and enjoy a truly fulfilling journey.

— Ralph Marston

The Daily Motivator

Daily OM for January 31 – Your Comfort Zone

Your Comfort Zone
Create a Soft Place to Land

by Madisyn Taylor

Create a soft place to land in your home a refuge from the stress of the day.

Our day-to-day demands can quickly take their toll on our well-being if we are not vigilant about caring for ourselves as best we can. One way we can ensure that we have an opportunity to relax and recuperate each day is to create a soft place to land when we arrive home. This landing pad, whether it

is an entire room or merely a small corner of a larger area, can provide us with a safe and comforting refuge in which we can decompress and recover from the day’s stresses. There, we are enveloped in feelings of security that transcend other issues that may be unfolding in our homes. Our landing pads also act as way stations that enable us to shift our attention away from our outer-world concerns and back to our inner-world needs.

To create a soft place to land in your home, begin by scouting potential locations. Or perhaps your entire home is your landing pad in which case you may only need to declutter. Your habits can often provide you with insight into the perfect spot, as there may be an area of your home you gravitate to naturally when you are in need of comfort. Any space in which you find it easy to let go of stress and anxiety can become your landing pad. A basement or attic, spare room, or unused storage area, furnished with items that soothe you, can give you the privacy you need to unwind. If you appreciate the elements, you may find that spending time in a section of your garden or outdoor patio helps you release the day’s tensions. Preparing these spaces can be as easy as replacing clutter with a small selection of beautiful objects that put you in a relaxed frame of mind. Remember to consider noise and activity levels while choosing the site of your landing pad. If you know that ordinary human commotion will distract you from your purpose, look for a secluded spot.

The soft place to land that you create should inspire within you the mantra, “I can breath here. I can relax here. I know I am safe here.“ When you return to your home after braving worldly rigors, you will feel a subtle yet tranquil shift occur inside of you as you settle in to this most personal of retreats and feel centered once again.

Daily OM

Hold An Imbolc House Cleansing Ceremony

By Patti Wigington, About.com

Give your whole house a thorough cleaning at the end of winter.

A clean physical space feels good spiritually.

Be sure to clean your windows so they’re free of winter’s grime.

No one really likes to clean, but we all know we feel better when our physical space is tidy. It’s one of life’s necessary chores. Start your spring off with a good thorough cleaning, and then follow that up with a spiritual cleansing. This is a great ritual to perform at Imbolc — remember that for many of our ancestors, washing came only a few times a year, so by February, a house was probably smelling pretty ripe. Pick a bright sunny day to do a clean sweep, and then invite friends and family to join you in a blessing of your home.

First, do a complete physical cleaning of your house. Put on some music and thoroughly clean every room. Strip sheets off the beds, turn the mattresses, dust every surface, and vacuum every floor. Sort through those piles of paper on your desk, and get rid of things you don’t need to keep; file everything else. Gather up the kids’ toys and put them in baskets for easy storage. If you need to get rid of things, do it now — set aside a box for charity and put gently used items in it. Set aside another box for trash, and see if you can fill it up!

Once your house is clean — and this assumes you did the kitchen as well — it’s time to have some fun. Call up some friends and invite them over for a potluck. Cook up some Imbolc-themed comfort foods, such as Braided Bread or Beer Battered Fish & Chips, and have a small potluck celebration. Ask each guest to bring a small token to bless your house — pebbles, shells, interesting bits of wood, beads, etc.

You’ll also need the following:

A bowl of water
Some sea salt
A smudging bundle of sage or sweetgrass
A blue candle
Some Blessing Oil
A bowl or bag

Begin at the front door — it is, after all, where you welcome guests into your home — and go through the house in a sunwise direction (clockwise). Ask your guests to help you by smudging the perimeter of each room with the salt, sage, candle flame and water. You may wish to say some sort of incantation as they do this, something like:

With the purifying power of water, with the clean breath of air, with the passionate heat of fire, with the grounding energy of earth we cleanse this space.

As you pass from room to room, anoint each door and windowsill with the Blessing Oil by tracing the shape of a pentagram or other symbol of your tradition. This prevents anything negative from crossing into the home. If you like, you can offer a small incantation as you do this, something like:

May the goddess bless this home, making it sacred and pure, so that nothing but love and joy shall enter through this door.

Finally, once you’ve gone through the house, ask each of your guests to deposit their blessing token in your bowl or bag. Keep it in a place of honor in your home — on the mantel or in your kitchen is a good idea. Gather around the dinner table, break out the goodies, and enjoy a feast with your friends and family!

Tips:

* If you don’t have Blessing Oil, you can use rosemary oil instead. Make your own by infusing fresh rosemary in grapeseed or flaxseed oil.

How To Hold an Imbolc Candle Ritual (for Solitaries)

By Patti Wigington, About.com

Imbolc is a festival of light — celebrate it with candles and flames!

Hundreds of years ago, when our ancestors relied upon the sun as their only source of light, the end of winter was met with much celebration. Although it is still cold in February, often the sun shines brightly above us, and the skies are often crisp and clear. As a festival of light, Imbolc came to be called Candlemas. On this evening, when the sun has set once more, call it back by lighting the seven candles of this ritual.

** Note: although this ceremony is written for one, it can easily be adapted for a small group.

Difficulty: Average

Time Required: Varied

Here’s How:

First, set up your altar in a way that makes you happy, and brings to mind the themes of Imbolc. You’ll also want to have on hand the following:
- Seven candles, in red and white (tealights are perfect for this)
- Something to light your candles with
- A large bowl or cauldron big enough to hold the candles
- Sand or salt to fill the bottom of the bowl/cauldron
Prior to beginning your ritual, take a warm, cleansing bath. While soaking, meditate on the concept of purification. Once you’re done, dress in your ritual attire, and begin the rite.
If your tradition requires you to cast a circle, do so now.
Pour the sand or salt into the bowl or cauldron. Place the seven candles into the sand so they won’t slide around. Light the first candle. As you do so, say:

Although it is now dark, I come seeking light. In the chill of winter, I come seeking life.

Light the second candle, saying:

I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth. I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life. I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.
Light the third candle. Say:
This light is a boundary, between positive and negative. That which is outside, shall stay without. That which is inside, shall stay within.

Light the fourth candle. Say:

I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth. I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life. I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.
Light the fifth candle, saying:
Like fire, light and love will always grow. Like fire, wisdom and inspiration will always grow.

Light the sixth candle, and say:

I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth. I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life. I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

Finally, light the last candle. As you do so, visualize the seven flames coming together as one. As the light builds, see the energy growing in a purifying glow.

Fire of the hearth, blaze of the sun, cover me in your shining light. I am awash in your glow, and tonight I am made pure.
Take a few momemnts and meditate on the light of your candles. Think about this Sabbat, a time of healing and inspiration and purification. Do you have something damaged that needs to be healed? Are you feeling stagnant, for lack of inspiration? Is there some part of your life that feels toxic or tainted? Visualize the light as a warm, enveloping energy that wraps itself around you, healing your ailments, igniting the spark of creativity, and purifying that which is damanged.
When you are ready, end the ritual. You may choose to follow up with healing magic, or with a Cakes and Ale ceremony.

What You Need

Seven candles, white and red, and something to light them with
A bowl or cauldron with sand in the bottom

Setting Up Your Imbolc Altar

By Patti Wigington, About.com

It’s Imbolc, and that’s the Sabbat where many Wiccans and Pagans choose to honor the Celtic goddess Brighid, in her many aspects. However, other than having a giant statue of Brighid on your altar, there are a number of ways you can set up for the season. Depending on how much space you have, you can try some or even all of these ideas — obviously, someone using a bookshelf as an altar will have less flexibility than someone using a table, but use what calls to you most.

Colors

Traditionally, the colors of red and white are associated with Brighid. The white is the color of the blanket of snow, and the red symbolizes the rising sun. In some traditions, the red is connected with the blood of life. Brighid is also tied to the color green, both for the green mantle she wears and for the life growing beneath the earth. Decorate your altar with a white cloth, and drape a swath of red across it. Add green candles in candleholders.

The Beginnings of New Life

Altar decor should reflect the theme of the Sabbat. Because Imbolc is a harbinger of spring, any plants that symbolize the new growth are appropriate. Add potted bulbs — don’t worry if they’re blooming yet — and spring flowers such as forsythia, crocus, daffodils, and snowdrops. If you don’t have much luck planting bulbs, think about making a Brighid’s crown as a centerpiece — it combines flowers and candles together.

Celtic Designs

Brighid is, after all, a goddess of the Celtic peoples, so it’s always appropriate to add some sort of Celtic design to your altar. Consider adding a Brighid’s cross⁶ or any other item incoporating Celtic knotwork. If you happen to have a Celtic cross, don’t worry about the fact that it’s also a Christian symbol — if it feels right on your altar, go ahead and add it.

Other Symbols of Brighid

Cauldrons or chalices — she’s often connected to sacred wells and springs
A small anvil or hammer — Brighid is the goddess of smithcraft
A Brighid corn doll and Priapic wand
Sacred animals such as cows, sheep or swans
A goddess statue
A book of poetry, or a poem you’ve written — Brighid is the patroness of poets
Faeries — in some traditions, Brighid is the sister of the Fae
Healing herbs — she’s often connected to healing rites
Lots of candles, or a cauldron with a small fire in it

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