Dreaming True Incense
1 part Camphor
1 part Wood Aloe
1 part Jasmine
1 part Cucumber seeds
1 part Sandalwood
Author Unknown
Category: Articles
Dream Incense
Dream Incense
2 parts Sandalwood
1 part Rose
1 part Camphor
A few drops of Jasmine Oil
Burn a bit in the bedroom to produce psychic dreams.
Author Unknown
Making Your Own Incense
Making Your Own Incense
Things You’ll Need
Herbs, woods and resins Mortar and pestle Makko Bamboo sticks GlovesIncense is used in many cultures for purposes such as accents in religious ceremonies or aromatherapy. The process to make incense sticks is fairly simple and can be very rewarding to those interested in creating their own scent.
1. Decide what kind of incense you want to make and purchase the proper ingredients and supplies.
2. Research different incense recipes based on the scents and herbs that you prefer and gather these materials along with tools to prepare to make stick incense.
You will need at least 3 ingredients: an herb, a resin and a wood. You will also need binding materials such as gum Arabic, makko (an incense powder ingredient derived from tree bark), and charcoal to make the mixture combustible.
3. Gather your ingredients, according to your preferred scent strength, along with bamboo sticks and prepare to mix.
4. Crush your herbs or solid ingredients in equal parts to make a smooth powder. Use a mortar and pestle for best results.
5. Combine all dry ingredients until thoroughly mixed. Add makko.
6. Allow the mixture to sit overnight.
7. Prepare distilled water or fragrant hydrosol and add to your incense mixture slowly.
The mixture will need to be pliable, not runny and able to adhere to the bamboo sticks.
8. Knead the incense dough thoroughly.
9. Roll your mixture onto the bamboo sticks, allowing the mixture to coat the stick evenly.
10. Lay the sticks on a drying rack to enable them to dry evenly.
11. Allow your incense sticks to dry for 1 to weeks prior to attempting to use them.
Tips
Keep incense sticks out of direct sunlight and heat while they are drying.
Experiment with different herb, wood and resin combinations until you obtain a mixture that is most pleasing to you. Also, try other methods of incense making to become familiar with the mixing process and learn how to use the ingredients.
Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands while you mix ingredients and form them onto incense sticks.
Depending upon which scent you choose, sandalwood versus frankincense for instance, you may need only 10% of makko added to the mixture.
Break up incense sticks that didn’t produce the expected end result and try the process again.
Warnings
Never attempt to dry incense by baking or microwaving it as this creates a fire hazard.
Don’t allow incense to burn unattended. Always burn incense in a well-ventilated area away from pets and children.
Wiccans Who Never Experience Magic
Wiccans Who Never Experience Magic
Ro Longstreet
BellaOnline’s Wicca Editor
Though it seems like a contradiction, many Wiccans do not experience obvious magic or other mystical states. Understandably, no one wants to admit to being too mundane, earth-bound, or any other label that implies that we are not real Wiccans who walk around in continuous mystical state. So should we just work harder to force the magic? Give up? Or accept our inferior lot in life?
One of the most appealing things about Wicca is its emphasis on each Wiccan’s personal connection with magic and deity. Wiccans are expected to communicate directly with their patron gods and goddesses. Most religions expect you to interact with the divine through an ecclesiastical authority such as church, minister, or priest. Others emphasize the need for metaphysical intervention such as with saints, lwa, or ancestor spirits. But Wicca is built on an acceptance of personal mysticism. This includes the possibility that Wiccans may experience extensive psychic phenomena such as seeing ghosts, having visions, divining the future, accessing past lives, and casting spells with immediate and obvious results.
So what happens if you are a Wiccan who has never had a mystical experience? The gods have never spoken to you – not even a few cryptic lines in a dream. You try divination and are successful only fifty percent of the time. You have never glimpsed an aura or a ghost. When you attempt to practice witchcraft, the results from your spells are so open to interpretation that you feel you are fooling yourself. You might feel frustration, guilt, shame, and even desperation.
Meanwhile, your envy may intensify as you encounter other Wiccans who seem to live with one foot in a supernatural realm. Some claim to have such a close connection to their patron god that they are spouses or lovers. Others see portents and currents of psychic energy everywhere. Many speak of extensive exploration of past lives, or long meaningful conversations with spirit guides. Are these Wiccans faking it for competitive reasons? Are they completely deluded? Or is all this magical stuff really happening? And why isn’t it happening to Wiccans like you and me?
Believe me, I can relate to these questions. I have been studying Wicca and paganism for years – reading the right books, meditating, and observing the sabbats. However, I have never had a profound mystical experience. The gods have never spoken to me though I have always been drawn to Odin All-Father (or Wotan, as we Anglo-Saxons call him), and was even born on his day (Wednesday). When I hear about other Wiccans having a close connection with the gods, I sometimes I wonder if I am feeling the same way as most of the Carmelite nuns did, plodding along with their bookkeeping and chicken raising while living in the shadow of the great Spanish mystic Saint Teresa of Avila.
I wish I could offer reassurance that you and I will have a dramatic supernatural break-through someday, if we work hard enough. But I don’t know for sure. Opening up to the otherworldly realms is not something that we can force. For most of us, it might have to happen naturally in a state of pure relaxation. This means that we should probably let ourselves forget about it while concentrating on learning as much as we can about the Wiccan path. Meanwhile, our subconscious will be free to open to the mystical realms. Maybe the gods intend some of us to walk our Wiccan path, feeling alone amidst self-doubt, and we will never communicate directly with them. Maybe they know that we can develop the strongest and deepest faith of all Wiccans because we are not getting rewarded with obvious feedback from our efforts. Therefore, our faith has to be strong enough to guide us.
Try not to compare your own Wiccan path to anyone else’s or you may come to the false conclusion that you are doing something wrong, or even that you are not intuitive, psychic, or spiritual enough to be Wiccan. There are many ways to be Wiccan, and not every path is the path that gets the most publicity – the magical mystery tour. Your intuition guided you to Wicca for a reason. Until you feel in your heart that it is not right for you, you should practice Wicca with an open heart and an inquiring mind to find out not what marvels Wicca can show you, but how you can refine yourself through Wicca in order to help bring light to the world.
Wiccan Atheists and Agnostics
Wiccan Atheists and Agnostics
Ro Longstreet
BellaOnline’s Wicca Editor
Can Wiccans also be atheists or agnostics? This may seem a strange question because the worship of the Lord and Lady is so central to many Wiccans’ daily spiritual practice. But the short answer is yes. It is possible to concentrate on the cultural aspects of Wicca rather than its religious concepts.
According to the Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, Eleventh Edition, the definition of atheism is, “1. archaic: Ungodliness, Wickedness 2a: a disbelief in the existence of deity, b: the doctrine that there is no deity.” And, from the same source, here is the definition of agnostic: “1: a person who holds the view that any ultimate reality (as God) is unknown and prob. unknowable; broadly: one who is not committed to believing in either the existence or the nonexistence of God or a god.”
Atheists do not believe in deities. Agnostics believe that there is no way to prove or disprove the existence of deities. But that does not necessarily mean that atheists and agnostics limit their curiosity only to those phenomena currently verifiable by science. Sometimes it takes the scientific method awhile to explain things that previously seemed like magic such as the laws of gravity, solar eclipses, electricity, hypnosis, and acupuncture. An atheist might not believe in the existence of gods, but she might acknowledge flows of electromagnetic energy that make up the universe. She might keep an open mind about an individual’s ability to influence energy by honing intent through ceremony, which is another way to describe witchcraft.
Atheists or agnostics might believe in witchcraft but not in gods. Maybe they feel strongly that the universe invented itself to its own pattern – which includes the ability of individuals to influence the flows of energy through witchcraft – but the universe itself is not a sentient being that requires worship. Or maybe they believe that everything in the universe is randomly generated, including witchcraft. There are also Deists (not atheists or agnostics) who believe that a deity or deities existed long enough to create the universe and its energy flows, but then ceased to exist and left us all to our own devices.
A Wiccan atheist or agnostic might recognize no higher power than his own moral code. And he might see his moral code and experience as sufficient to guide him through the practice of any skill from accounting to knitting to witchcraft. This type of Wiccan is the opposite of the Wiccan I described in a previous article who is not interested in practicing witchcraft, but seeks only to worship deity.
Another type of Wiccan atheist or agnostic disbelieves in deity AND witchcraft, but finds a strong identity in Wiccan cultural concepts. This might include reverence for nature, a heightened awareness of environmental issues, attraction to Celtic and Anglo-Saxon history, and an affinity for seeking balance and symmetry between the male and female energies present within each of us.
This type of Wiccan is similar to a secular Jew such as J. Robert Oppenheimer, father of the atomic bomb, who was an atheist and a scientist, but culturally Jewish. A secular Wiccan might not be interested in practicing witchcraft, and might observe the festivals of the Wheel of the Year mainly as a way to enjoy and connect with the ancient harvest rituals and not as a religious observance. So, as you can see, there is much diversity in what it means to be a Wiccan, which means that our cultural and religious identity has the potential for broad horizons if we can accept our differences.
WOTC Daily Cartoon – ‘Why Argue With Someone Who Knows Everything?’
A Little Humor for Your Day – You Might Be a Redneck Pagan If…..
You Might Be a Redneck Pagan If…..
-If you call the God & Goddess by hollerin’ “Hey, Y’all! Watch me!”….
-If you’ve ever harvested ritual herbs with a weed wacker…..
-If your Wand of Power is a cattle prod….
-If your Bard plays the banjo…..
-If your favorite painting of the Goddess gives her hair like Reba McEntire…..
-If your power animal is a pitbulldog…..
-If you worship the gods of cheap beer and Nascar…….
-If your broom has four-wheel drive and SC plates…..
-If your coven-stead is propped up on cinder blocks….
-If your favorite Great Rite partner is your first, second AND third
cousin……
-If you envoke the spirits so that your beer lasts longer……
-If you pray nightly to the god of big tires…..
-If you can play “The Burning Times” on the banjo…..
-If your favorite ritual libation is brewed in an illegal backyard still…..
-If you sacrifice bbq and pork rinds on a altar made of old car hoods….
-If you have a combined Maypole Dance/Tractor Pull/Turkey Shoot for Beltane….
-If part of your rite includes throwing shotgun shells into the fire….
-If when your priestess says “Blessed Be” in circle, you respond with “YEEE-
HAW!”
-If you shoot guns into the air when the priestess says, “The circle is open but
unbroken…”
-If your robes are made out of denim with Harley Davidson patches…..
-If your high priestess’ hair gets caught in the ceiling fan…..
-If your most sacred altar items include, hubcap a velvet painting and a half-
empty can of chaw…..
-If your altar cloth is a Confederate flag…..
-If you carry your ritual sword in your pickup’s gun rack…..
-If your craft name starts with Bubba…..
-If your maiden sweeps the circle with a weedwacker…..
-If you’ve ever cooked road-kill stew in your cauldron…..
-If your cauldron looks a whole lot like a spitoon…..
-If your altar cloth is vinyl…..
-If you bought your chalice at the Piggly Wiggly…..
-If you buy your incense and candles at Wal-Mart (ouch!)…..
-If you’ve ever done a candle spell for your local high-school football
team…..
-If your neighbor thinks “the Great Rite” has something to do with Jerry
Falwell….
-If you’ve ever meditated to “Dueling Banjos”….
-If you leave beef jerky out for Samhain….
-If your circle dance is a two step…
-If your familiar can point quail…
-If your familiar keeps mice out of the grainery….
-If the bell on your altar was ever worn by an animal in a pasture….
-If your altar has a spit cup….
-If any part of your invocation of the South Quarter includes any line from any
song by Lynard Skynard….
-If your athame is by Bowie….
-If you smoke Salem cigarettes for the historical significance…
-Or you found out your familiar is an opossum – and still ate it,
…….you might be a redneck Pagan!
Daily Aromatherapy Tip for January 20th
Daily Aromatherapy
Monday, January 20th, 2014
Essential Oil Info
Essential oils are the fragrant and therapeutic essences distilled from herbs, flowers, leaves and bark. Each essential oil has unique therapeutic properties which have been documented by use throughout history. For centuries essential oils have been considered the most therapeutic and rejuvenating of all botanical extracts. They are highly concentrated, regenerating, oxygenating and contain hormones, vitamins, and antiseptics that work on many levels. They are used in aromatherapy diffusers, aromatherapy lamps,blends, baths, massages and inhalations. Choose the aromatherapy oils that appeal to you and begin to experience the wonderful world of scents and aromatherapy.
Daily Feng Shui News for Jan. 20th – ‘Penguin Awareness Day’
It’s ‘Penguin Awareness Day’ and I thought I might fill you in on the lore involving having a penguin as your power animal or totem. Should you adopt a penguin as your power animal, expect a two-month period in which you will nurture, protect and then hatch creative energies that will propel you up the ladder of success. This information is ages-old and in black and white, so if you want to stir up some creative opportunities, then put an image of a penguin in the ‘Creativity’ area of your living space (middle of right-hand wall) and watch how things start to go swimmingly for you.
By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com
Crack The Cookie
Your Charm for January 20th is The Book of Charms
Your Charm For Today
Today’s Meaning:
A would be intruder into your private affairs will be averted by steps you take to protect this aspect. The book of charms indicates you should take extra steps to protect information and beware of anyone asking for personal data.
General Description:
The Batak, or Bark Book of Charms, is a magical ritual implicitly believed in by the natives of Sumatra. It is consulted as a reliable guide and counselor in their private and important affairs. In the East Indian Archipelago superstition talismans, and amulets, play a most important part in the lives of the natives. Sickness is attributed to the patient being possessed of an evil spirit, and their witch doctors profess to expel the intruder by the means of charms. Often the names of the sufferers are changed in order to deceive the evil spirits.
Your Rune For Monday, January 20th is Othala
Your Rune For Today
Othala
Othala represents a solid, immovable home, prosperity and safety. Good fortune based on your heritage and character is yours to enjoy.
Your Animal Spirit for January 20th is the Bear
Your Animal Spirit for Today
January 20, 2014
Bear
Bear represents a time of reflection and stillness—a time of entering the inner cave of Self to contemplate life’s challenges. Bear often appears during times of confusion and unrest—those unsettling moments when you turn to everyone you know for answers—everyone except yourself. Go within, ask the hard questions—then listen.
Your Ancient Symbol Card for Jan. 20th is Wisdom
Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today
Wisdom
A very, very few of us are fortunate to be born wise. For most of us our Wisdom evolves, grows as we move through life gathering experience and knowledge. Wisdom denotes your thoughts and feelings derived from the melding of your life experiences with all that you have learned. Our Wisdom can get us through the difficult moments in our lives as well as provide the mental and spiritual tools we need to succeed.
As a daily card, Wisdom indicates a time when you should rely heavily on past experiences and knowledge attained to make important decisions in your life. This is a time where reflection and planning should guide your actions. To act rashly, on impulse at this time may well cost you in the future. Go slow, think things out, weigh all of your options carefully and then proceed.
Today’s Tarot Card for January 20th is Judgment
Judgment
Monday, Jan 20th, 2014
What has traditionally been known as the Judgment card, sometimes entitled Resurrection, represents the great reunion that the ancients believed would happen once in every age. This was the time when souls are harvested and taken Home to their place of origin, outside the solar system. Then the World is seeded with a batch of new souls and the process starts over.
From a modern point of view, this great reunion — which includes every personality that you have ever been and every soul that you have done deep work with — reunites to consciously complete the process. In a way, we symbolically celebrate this returning to center every year on our birthday.
In personal terms, the Judgment cards points to freedom from inner conflicts, and so clear a channel, that the buried talents and gifts of past incarnations can come through an individual in this lifetime. This card counsels you to trust the process of opening yourself, because what emerges is of consistently high quality. You can effortlessly manifest as a multi-dimensional being, and assist in evoking that response from others.
Gemstones of the Zodiac
Gemstones of the Zodiac
Helpful and healing gemstones for every zodiac sign
Emily Trinkaus on the topics of zodiac, insight, astrology
Gemstones are more than just pretty ornaments. These natural, Earth-based beauties also have the power to heal, protect, relax and clarify. Certain gemstones are particularly beneficial for each zodiac sign. When thinking about which gem is appropriate for you, a friend or a loved one, consider not only Sun signs, but the Moon and Rising signs as well.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Diamond: Like Aries, a sign known for its strength and survival skills, the diamond is the hardest of the gems. The diamond carries masculine energy, evoking your inner warrior and helping you to pursue your goals and persevere in challenging times. Considered the stone of innocence and purity, this precious gem also assists you with attaining spiritual clarity and speaking your heart’s truth. The diamond, associated with wealth, can help you attract abundance in all areas of life.
Additional gemstones associated with Aries: Bloodstone, Jasper, Ruby, Carnelian, Garnet
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Amber: Amber is not actually a stone, but the petrified resin of trees that once grew in forests along the Baltic sea — appropriately earthy origins for nature-loving Taurus. Amber’s gold-orange color is known for grounding and stabilizing higher spiritual energies into the physical body. Its influence is simultaneously calming and energizing, enhancing patience, protection and balance. Amber is said to absorb negative energy, thereby promoting the body’s ability to heal itself.
Additional gemstones associated with Taurus: Rose Quartz, Turquoise, Blood Coral, Emerald, Sapphire
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Agate: Mentally active (and sometimes hyperactive) Gemini can benefit from the grounding and calming influence of this stone. By strengthening the body’s connection to the Earth, agates enhance courage and vitality while protecting from energy drains and stress. Considered a stone of harmony, the agate can inspire the Twins’ multiple personalities to come into a state of balance and integration. Carry or wear agate when you have to make an important decision — this stone will sharpen your sight, stimulate your intellect and dispel fears.
Additional gemstones associated with Gemini: Citrine, Chrysoprase, Pearl, Moonstone, White Sapphire
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Moonstone: This magical gemstone is, not surprisingly, associated with the Moon, Cancer’s planetary ruler. Moonstone is said to absorb the healing power of the Moon, and the most powerful time to wear it is during a Full Moon. Moonstone offers protection for Cancer’s sensitive nature while enhancing intuition, feminine energies and psychic abilities. Considered a stone of inner growth and spiritual perception, Moonstone is an excellent ally during meditation. Additionally, Moonstone brings success in both love and business.
Additional gemstones associated with Cancer: Pearl, Emerald, Ruby
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)
Tourmaline: Tourmaline is often associated with the heart, the part of the body ruled by Leo. This stone can help you open yourself to love, and it enhances compassion, happiness and serenity. Leo is a naturally creative zodiac sign, and tourmaline provides added inspiration — or can help jumpstart the process if you’re feeling blocked. Tourmaline strengthens your ability to manifest your goals, and it attracts abundance and prosperity as it makes others more receptive to your talents. Traditionally used as a meditation stone, tourmaline is also considered helpful for channeling.
Additional gemstones associated with Leo: Carnelian, Sardonyx, Onyx, Golden Topaz
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)
Blue Sapphire: Considered a sacred stone in Buddhism, the blue sapphire brings order and clarity to the mind, thereby increasing your ability to access spiritual wisdom. Since Virgo is prone to anxiety and worry — populating the mind with distracting or unproductive thoughts — this gemstone is particularly useful. The color blue is traditionally associated with the heavens, and Virgo benefits from this reminder of a higher perspective. Blue sapphire also increases mental flexibility, helping Virgos release hardened attitudes and open themselves to new possibilities.
Additional gemstones associated with Virgo: Jasper, Carnelian, Jade, Moss Agate
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
Lapis Lazuli: Considered a stone of universal truth and friendship, lapis is said to foster harmony in relationships — always a priority for significant-other-oriented Libra. At the same time, Lapis supports expressing your authentic self and inner truth, which can sometimes be challenging for this peace-seeking sign. Highly valued for its spiritual properties, lapis helps you to access sacred knowledge, expand consciousness, communicate with your spirit guides, and purify your mind and soul.
Additional gemstones associated with Libra: Opal, Emerald, Rose Quartz, Peridot (Chrysolite)
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)
Aquamarine: The name of this beautiful blue gemstone refers to the ocean, and resonates with Scorpio’s watery nature. The element Water represents the emotional realm, and Scorpio’s waters run deep — so deep, in fact, that this sign sometimes gets lost in the depths. Aquamarine can soothe Scorpio’s intense emotions and counteract the forces of darkness, bringing a sense of tranquility, as well as clear insight, to underlying feelings. By aligning the physical and spiritual bodies, Aquamarine can help you attune to higher levels while remaining grounded.
Additional gemstones associated with Scorpio: Black Obsidian, Topaz, Beryl, Apache Tear, Coral
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)
Turquoise: Valued as a sacred stone in many spiritual traditions, turquoise helps truth-seeking Sagittarius attune to higher consciousness. Additionally, turquoise is considered a communication stone, enhancing a speaker’s eloquence, honesty and creativity — and offsetting the Sagittarian foot-in-mouth syndrome. Turquoise improves the mind by increasing intuition, sensitivity and positive thinking, resulting in a calmer mental state that leads to greater wisdom.
Additional gemstones associated with Sagittarius: Topaz, Sapphire, Amethyst, Ruby
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)
Ruby: By enhancing confidence, courage and joy, ruby can compensate for the Capricorn tendency toward melancholia and negativity. Ruby’s deep red color strengthens the heart and invites love for self, others and spirit. Capricorn has a well-deserved reputation as the hardest-working sign of the zodiac, and ruby is a great ally in restoring depleted energy reserves and promoting stamina, vitality and strength. Ruby is said to increase generosity as well as attract abundance and prosperity.
Additional gemstones associated with Capricorn: Black Onyx, Garnet, Agate
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)
Garnet: If Aquarians get stuck in the mental realm, garnet can help bring this sign back into the body by boosting sexual energy, passion, sensuality and general vitality. Friends and community are of great importance to Aquarius, and garnet both stabilizes relationships and enhances popularity. Garnet is said to promote success in business and improve higher education and professional prospects. On a spiritual level, garnet heightens clairvoyant abilities and is considered a powerful ally for accessing the wisdom of dreams.
Additional gemstones associated with Aquarius: Sugilite, Amethyst, Moss Agate, Opal
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)
Amethyst: Hyper-sensitive and energy-absorbent Pisces can greatly benefit from amethyst, which repels vibrations that the body does not need. Calming both the mind and nervous system, amethyst has been called “nature’s tranquilizer,” and is useful for releasing tension and soothing anxiety. Amethyst can also assist with healing from grief and releasing addictions, and supports general emotional stability. Considered an excellent meditation stone, amethyst enhances psychic abilities and spiritual awareness.
Additional gemstones associated with Pisces: Jade, Aquamarine, Bloodstone, Rock Crystal, Sapphire
Your Daily Horoscopes for Monday, January 20th
It feels as if responsibilities are easing and we have more inclination to be social as the Sun moves through community-oriented Aquarius over the next month. Although we’re projecting our visions into the future, we may feel less ambitious now. The Aquarius Sun stimulates nervous energy, including the tiny sparks that fire the neurons in the brain. Meanwhile, the analytical Virgo Moon helps to narrow our focus and meet our current obligations.
Aries Horoscope
(Mar 21 – Apr 19)
You are growing more aware of your surroundings these days as you focus your attention on the people around you. You want to spend more time with your friends now, but you can’t just walk away from your work. Be very careful about what actually makes it on to your calendar so you don’t end up feeling overloaded. Oddly enough, you’ll be more productive in the long run if you can fit some social activities into your day.
Taurus Horoscope
(Apr 20 – May 20)
Although you’re reaching further ahead now, your futuristic lean doesn’t mean that you are any less practical. In fact, remaining true to your fundamental sensibilities is part of your strategic process. Ironically, you can have your cake and eat it, too. In other words, look forward to the exciting possibilities, but fix whatever is broken in the present moment. Your can-do attitude and unwavering determination are a winning combination.
Gemini Horoscope
(May 21 – Jun 20)
You might not know what to do with the messages the universe is sending you now, but you sense that something significant is on your radar. You go back and forth emotionally, first feeling open and chatty, believing everyone is your friend. However, only a few moments later you may pull back, realizing that you should be more careful about what you say and who you trust. Taking a wait-and-see approach is your smartest strategy and gives you the best of both worlds
Cancer Horoscope
(Jun 21 – Jul 22)
This is an odd time of year for you because you really just want to dig yourself deep into your cave and hibernate. But a glint of awareness sparks your soul and sets your thoughts on the upcoming spring — even if it is, in fact, still a long way off. Don’t be overly concerned if you’re hiding safely behind your protective shell; just use this time wisely to recharge your batteries and to work out the details of your next adventure.
Leo Horoscope
(Jul 23 – Aug 22)
You have faced some big issues recently and you should feel proud of your progress. Although the stress isn’t quite over, the energy is beginning to settle down today. But you’re not off the hook just yet because relationship dynamics intensify over the next few weeks. This extra spark of electricity applies to all your interactions, not just romantic encounters; just be aware that your passions are running very strong now. Think twice before turning your initial attractions into action. You will make wiser choices if you’re not in such a hurry.
Virgo Horoscope
(Aug 23 – Sep 22)
It’s as if you have received temporary permission from the universe to be even quirkier than usual — not that anyone necessarily knows about all your eccentricities. Your imagination is overflowing now and you may finally feel free to demonstrate what’s in your heart to an appreciative audience. Even if you choose not to share your feelings, they will be obvious anyway, so there really isn’t any point in hiding them. Sometimes taking a risk is the best way to get closer to someone you love.
Libra Horoscope
(Sep 23 – Oct 22)
You are entering a productive time of year as the Sun moves through unconventional Aquarius, a fellow air sign. This solar movement inspires your creativity, encourages spontaneous behavior and lightens your attitude. There’s no need to rush anything. Keep in mind that it might take a few more days to fully shift into this expressive phase. In the meantime, establish a healthy balance between work and play so you can carve out more time for pleasurable pursuits.
Scorpio Horoscope
(Oct 23 – Nov 21)
You might begin the day feeling on edge, as if there aren’t any solutions for the problems that are bothering you. However, tides do change, and by midday the earlier dilemmas have settled down enough for you to manage them effectively. Keep in mind that things are even more complicated because your inner feelings don’t seem to match what you are showing to others. Nevertheless, it’s also your time to grow in ways you never expected as long as you keep your heart open.
Sagittarius Horoscope
(Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Your life might mellow out a little and, luckily, just in the nick of time. You’ve been riding some pretty big emotional waves lately and although most of it was pleasant, it is still exhausting. Now, however, you are entering a time of accentuated communication that shifts the energy into the mental realms. You could be networking more than usual because of your work or your role in the community. Even if you are busy, don’t lose sight of your own personal goals.
Capricorn Horoscope
(Dec 22 – Jan 19)
It might seem as if the spotlight is no longer shining on your corner of the world, and that’s just fine with you. Finally, you can get back to the real work at hand, instead of being required to play to the audience on command. Establish a productive work pace early on so you can take care of business right away. It won’t take long to feel good about your accomplishments once you’re back in your comfort zone.
Aquarius Horoscope
(Jan 20 – Feb 18)
The Sun is now making its annual trek through your sign, signaling the beginning of your astrological birthday month. Regardless of when your special day is, use these next four weeks to dream wildly about your year ahead. Light candles, visualize your future, and then blow the candles out and make a wish. You can do this simple ritual as often as you please. You may be happily surprised by the magic you manifest.
Pisces Horoscope
(Feb 19 – Mar 20)
It’s time to tie up the loose ends of your life — and you may have more frayed edges now than others realize. In fact, you might secretly thrive on the uncertainty of boundaries. However, the opportunity for positive change is on its way, and you can fully embrace it if you are not held back by all the little things that you meant to do, but haven’t yet completed. Don’t wait for a better time; get busy and make room for your future today.
Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of January 20th
Venus continues to move retrograde in Capricorn, reminding all of us that the “business” side of love needs attention. Time your conversations early in the week — before Friday — to take advantage of a sexy communication link between Mercury and Mars. Move quickly to ask for what you want, though, before the weekend is underway. By Saturday, Mercury will square off with Saturn, and the weight of your words can stabilize love — or bury it.
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)
Take advantage of the boost in social energy early in the week. Leading up until Friday, it’s possible you and your partner will enjoy a party or other event with mutual friends. There’s a good chance you’ll meet up with pals who share a similar interest that is somehow “out of the box.” Your mind will enjoy a boost of stimulation, which will help you keep things interesting in all aspects of your life — especially romance!
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)
You may not feel as if your mate is fully supporting you with a career decision that looms ahead. He or she might have the perspective that you’re pushing your luck and threatening your security by making the next move you plan to make. While this might be a valid point, don’t allow pessimism to deter you. Realize it’s also possible that your sweetheart is projecting his or her own fears onto you. Pursue what you know is right for you.
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)
Set your sights on an adventure with your lover this week — or at least plan to talk about one. A brilliant opportunity to expand your horizons is possible, and of course you’ll want to include your sweetheart. You might decide to take a class together that allows you to explore an offbeat topic that interests you both. You may also talk about planning that exotic vacation. Keep talking, but don’t commit just yet — wait until after Venus turns direct on January 31 for any big ticket purchases.
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)
If you feel tightness in the romance department this week it’s not your imagination. As a matter of fact, you and your sweetie might endure a stressful conversation — especially near Saturday. This will likely have to do with shared resources, such as your partner’s income, insurance benefits or even shared debt. You might realize that taking a vacation together or spending extra cash isn’t a smart idea right now. Taking a mature and responsible approach in handling your joint finances won’t feel fun. But it is necessary.
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)
Domestic responsibility might squeeze the romance out of your life this week. You might need to take care of an elderly relative or attend to another family obligation, and if so it’s likely to take your attention away from your mate. What might make this more unsettling is that your partner isn’t likely to support you while you carry this extra family weight. In fact, he or she may resent the fact that you’re focused so much on your clan. A happy medium may not be possible … push through.
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)
A serious conversation about who’s pulling more weight in your relationship may be called for. If you’re still feeling resentment about doing more of the everyday work to keep the nuts and bolts intact around your love nest, you may finally voice your frustration. Try your best to approach your mate in a way that won’t put him or her on the defensive. If you express how you feel honestly, and without reproach, a resolution is possible. In the end, however, it’s you who might need to draw boundaries. Did your lover really insist that you clean every nook and cranny of space you share? Probably not … that’s a “you” thing. Own it.
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)
Your love life will be on fire this week — at least in your mind. The good news is that your ability to talk to someone special will be incredible — especially if you act by Friday. Go ahead and ask out someone who isn’t usually “your type.” You may be pleasantly surprised to learn the two of you have so much in common and plenty to talk about. Just remember that your ruler, Venus, is still in retrograde motion. Starting a new relationship isn’t ideal under this condition. Even so, there’s nothing wrong with talking and getting to know someone. Just take it slow.
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)
Talking to a relative about your love life might not always appeal to you, you might make an exception this week. There’s a strong possibility that someone in your clan understands more about what you’re going through romantically these days than you might ever have guessed. In fact, you’ll only know just how startling the parallels in your love life are if you have the courage to talk about your own first. It’s OK — go there. You won’t regret it.
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Time with friends might prove beneficial for you in more ways than one this week. If you and your partner attend an event with a group of pals, you’re likely to find it renews sparks between you. Stimulating conversation in a group setting will likely lead to extra-curricular romance behind closed doors later on, when it’s just the two of you. Unfortunately, your ideal social time this week will be before Friday. The weekend will be a dud, so plan accordingly.
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Your love life might remain in a fragile state for just a little bit longer. Venus is still traveling retrograde in your sign — a phenomenon that will continue to test relationship and your lovability factor until January 31. This week, you might feel as if you’re making progress when it comes to courageously talking about what you know you’re worth. Remember, you’re a rare and beautiful find and anyone who loves you should treasure that fact. Don’t sell yourself short!
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)
A heated debate between you and your sweetheart might send sparks flying all over the place this week — especially between the sheets! Don’t be worried about adamantly defending your stance on a particular subject, even if your mate doesn’t agree with your perspective. For most of this week you’ll have a remarkable ability to sound sexy and informed all at once. Use it to your advantage. Go after your lover by seducing his or her brain first!
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)
A deep and meaningful conversation with your partner this week might help you forge a greater bond, physically and spiritually. Don’t worry about freaking out your mate with wild or eccentric thoughts now. Sharing what’s really on your mind is what your lover craves from you and what he or she will respond to most. Even if it’s a silly fantasy or an irrational fear, talking about it will help you feel more connected to your mate. Open your mind and your heart.
Born on the Capricorn-Aquarius Cusp (Jan. 17th – Jan. 23rd)
Born on the Capricorn-Aquarius Cusp
The Cusp of Mystery and Imagination is never a dull thing
Tarotcom Staff on the topics of cusp, capricorn, astrology, aquarius
What happens when you combine the energies of capable Capricorn and quirky Aquarius? You get highly unique individuals, that’s what. If you were born between about January 17 and January 23, you were born on The Cusp of Mystery and Imagination, and there’s never a dull moment.
Whether outwardly flamboyant or shy and quiet, Capricorn-Aquarius cuspers always have much excitement going on internally. They have vivid dreams and rich fantasies that need to be expressed creatively if they’re to be happy.
Prone to leading unusual lives, “Capriquarians” often struggle to balance the two very different sides of their personalities — they are reserved yet social, security-craving but independent, and traditional yet offbeat.
Capricorn-Aquarius cuspers love to talk and entertain, and they especially enjoy intellectually stimulating conversations about any manner of strange topics. This is why no matter how hard they work or how dedicated they are to achieving their goals, things are never dull.
While hard-work and high standards bring these cuspers much success in most career endeavors, they can have more difficulty maintaining personal relationships. This is perhaps due to a need for independence, and a tendency to seem aloof and critical — sometimes even selfish. However, if they can put forth the loyal, funny and friendly sides of themselves they’ll make fast friends.
Daily Cosmic Calendar for Monday, January 20th
Put more heart and soul into your artistic creations — courtesy of a trine in earth signs between the Moon in Virgo and Venus in Capricorn (1:43AM). Keep track of the fact that Venus is still retrograde until the last day of January. In the meantime, the little things in life can either make or break your day. Small is beautiful becomes your motto whenever the lunar orb energizes the sixth sign of the zodiac. Stock up on cereals, grains, veggies, fruit, vitamins, seeds, nuts and seasonings. The Moon in Virgo begins a void cycle at 12:56PM that continues until 4:44AM tomorrow morning when the Moon enters airy Libra. Even though there is a substantial void lunar cycle happening, the Sun’s entry into Aquarius last night can shine a powerful beam of light into the realm of arcane knowledge and the wisdom teachings of ancient civilizations. [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.]
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