Your Daily Horoscopes for Friday, January 31

We’re in such a period of change that it’s challenging to get a handle on our current feelings. Our fantasies run rampant now that cerebral Mercury is in imaginative Pisces. Meanwhile, the emotionally detached Aquarius Moon shifts into Pisces at 10:44 pm EST to further amplify our dreams. And Venus, retrograde since December 21, turns direct today, freeing our desires from the past. However, it may take a few days to notice any real progress.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

There is no need to stress about whether or not you are appreciated by your peers. If you have been meeting your obligations without stirring up too much trouble, then you will likely receive accolades for your efforts. But don’t obsess about being noticed because your desire for immediate recognition could spoil your success before it arrives. Just keep up the good work without engaging in any attention-seeking behavior; your contribution will be acknowledged sooner than you think.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Your drive to step beyond preexisting boundaries continues to motivate your current choices. However, there’s no guarantee that impulsive behavior will pay off. To the contrary, it’s accomplishing the long-term goals that should be in the spotlight now because this can bring you the most happiness. Don’t succumb to the temptation of shortcuts. Your most reliable strategy today is to stick to the tried and true when it comes to your future.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

Make a commitment to explore the intensity of your shadows; it’s the uncomfortable places within your mind that could offer the most growth now. Given the choice, you often steer clear of the darkness, yet there is a powerful attraction drawing you into your subconscious today. Courage is the key; remember, you will be changed by what you discover. This journey into the unknown can transform your fear into love.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Acknowledging the expectations that others place upon you raises old relationship issues, tempting you to escape from the jaws of commitment. Unfortunately, you might not be in a position to sidestep the promises you made. Thankfully, the tide is turning; if you honor your obligations with a positive attitude, love just might be closer than you think. Don’t let your past define your future.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Although you might feel a sense of urgency to resolve a conflict with a coworker, it’s smarter to let the dynamics play out naturally. Fortunately, you can minimize the pressure by remembering that the current deadlines are arbitrary. Even if your nerves are frayed, the energy will calm down if you fill your day with productive activities. Focusing on the details won’t fix any underlying issues, but it improves your chances of enjoying yourself over the weekend.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Whoever says that you can’t loosen up is missing an important part of your natural expression. While it’s true that many Virgos have difficulty pretending that they are having fun if they’re not, you do know how to kick up your heels when the opportunity arises. Over the days ahead, take a chance and demonstrate another side of your personality; impress others with your spontaneity and charm.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Family obligations seem to be your top priority these days, perhaps even to the extent of avoiding the work that’s expected of you now. Thankfully, you can clearly see the light at the end of the tunnel, motivating you to follow through on your promises. Your willingness to jump in without reserve enables you to get results faster than you expect. More than anything, you want peace at home and this is your chance to make it happen.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your interest in your immediate surroundings continues to grow. Perhaps you have already invested in household items that increase your comfort and beautify your environment. Now it’s time to take the pleasure principle to the next level; give yourself permission to further indulge your senses while the cosmic energies are cheering you on. Taking care of yourself empowers you to make other positive changes in your life.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Although you Archers aren’t typically known for having issues with low self-esteem, sometimes you still face the same insecurities as everyone else. If you have struggled with your self-worth recently, it’s time to complete your process of transformation now so you can get on with your life. Undervaluing your contribution to others limits your development. Take a realistic look at what you do best and focus on that for the next few weeks.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

It’s time to step out from the shadows and let your love light shine now that Venus is turning direct in Capricorn. Thankfully, the Goddess of Love brings the sweet pleasures that were denied or delayed while she was retrograde in your sign over the last six weeks. Review your recent experiences to see what you can learn from them. But don’t linger in the past; follow your heart’s desire as it reveals the numerous possibilities ahead.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You might not be able to clearly express what you want with sensual Venus hanging out in your 12th House of Secrets. However, now that the planet of love turns direct, you may begin to feel the urge to open your heart wide enough to share some previously hidden desires. Don’t rush the process; giving yourself enough time to get comfortable with your disclosures increases the likelihood of your message being well received.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You are being shown again and again how important your friends are now and you really appreciate their unwavering presence in your life. However, if you’re seeking new connections, it’s a great time to reach out and make overtures to others to build a network of support. Remember, being friendly is a conscious choice. Going out of your way to create community continues to bring blessings in the weeks ahead.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Your Weekend Love Horoscope for Jan. 31 – Feb. 2

Weekend Love Horoscope

January 31 – February 2: Sleeping Beauty Wakes Up

Maria DeSimone   Maria DeSimone on the topics of love, horoscopes, astrology

Finally, after having been asleep since December 21, Venus will turn direct this Friday! Over the weekend she might remain a bit groggy but make no mistake … the love planet is gaining momentum. Soon, matters of the heart will go much smoother.

The Moon will remain in spell binding Pisces all weekend starting late Friday night, and Mercury will also enter Pisces on Friday giving an even dreamier feel to this weekend’s energy.

There appears to be fairy tale romantic stories all over and with Venus now direct, you’re more likely to believe you can make them come true. Talk to your lover about your innermost dreams and spiritual yearnings. Love is more than physical this weekend … it’s delicate.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Daily Cosmic Calendar for Friday, January 31

Keep enjoying the fun-and-games, ebullient atmosphere that the lunar orb in Sagittarius seems to usually encourage every month. In addition, key relationships can benefit from greater, in-depth understanding by partners since Juno forms a sextile with Pluto (3:53AM).  The Moon in Sagittarius begins a void limbo time-span — starting at 2:03PM and lasting until 9:05PM when the lunar orb enters hardworking, determined Capricorn. During the void limbo zone, strive to maintain your productivity in major fields of expertise as the Moon contacts Ceres via a supportive, 60-degree rapport (7:15PM). Insights abound shortly thereafter when Pallas in Virgo forms a polarity with Chiron in Pisces (7:56PM).  With the Moon still in void mode, Mercury makes a flowing trine in air signs with Vesta (8:35PM). This potentially auspicious alignment should be utilized once the Moon is in practical, resourceful Capricorn terrain (9:05PM). [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.]

Enhanced by Zemanta

Current Moon Phase for Jan. 31 – New Moon

New Moon

(waxing/8% illumination)

The New Moon is a time best suited for new beginnings! For the first 48 hours following the exact time of the New Moon each month, a window of opportunity opens for making wishes that, if noted, come true in the days and months ahead. There is a tremendous amount of enthusiasm in the atmosphere, making it a great time to go forward and begin projects that you feel instinctively attracted to initiating. Follow your impulses and let yourself make new starts in areas that are important to you.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Celebrating Spiritual 365 Days A Year – Feast of Hecate

Witchy Cat Graphics & Comments

Celebrating Spiritual 365 Days A Year – Feast of Hecate

Hecate is one of the oldest embodiments of the Triple Moon Goddess worshipped today. She holds power over the heavens, the earth and the underworld, where she is in control of birth, life and death. Hecate is the giver of visions, magick, and regeneration. Her chief symbol is the crossroads where all paths connect—the past where one has been, the present where one stands, and future where one is headed. In ancient Rome, statues of Hecate were place at the important crossroads. Those who frequently traveled would make offerings to the Goddess in return for her blessings.

Enhanced by Zemanta

The Witches Almanac for Friday, January 31st

Witchy Cat Graphics & Comments
The Witches Almanac for Friday, January 31st

Friday (Venus): Love, friendship, reconciliation and beauty.

Chinese New Year (Horse)

Waxing Moon

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

Moon Phase: First Quarter

Moon Sign: Aquarius

Aquarius: Rebellious energy. Time to break habits and make abrupt changes. Personal freedom and individuality is the focus.

Moon enters Pisces 10:45 pm

Pisces: The focus is on dreaming, nostalgia, intuition and psychic impressions. A good time for spiritual or philanthropic activities.

Incense: Vanilla

Color: Rose

Enhanced by Zemanta

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Jan. 30th is The Green Man

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Green Man

Where the Green Man appears the mystery and untamed energy of nature abounds. The Green Man indicates the presence of choices and powers that have not been muted by civilization. The Green Man represents the antithesis of technology and industrialization. He offers primal energies veiled in mystery and derived from the spirit of nature in its purest form.

As a daily card, The Green Man indicates you are in a place where you will be well served by exploring your place in the natural world. At the moment the wisdom that will serve you best cannot be found in books or on talk shows or extracted from today’s headlines. What’s called for is an affirmation of your place in the natural world.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Your Daily Horoscopes for Thursday, January 30th

We’re standing on the threshold of change as today’s innovative Aquarius New Moon marks a shift in the cosmic energies. The next emotional cycle begins with the global Aquarius New Moon at 4:38 pm EST, inspiring concern with the future of the Earth and its inhabitants. The current intensity is reinforced by propitious Jupiter’s opposition to transformational Pluto. We have a chance to plant the seeds of intention, water them and watch them grow.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Your future is looking up as the spark of excitement returns today, but your current enthusiasm may carry you too far. Anyone who comes to you with schemes for world domination should wear yellow warning flags because the Aquarius New Moon can overstimulate your 11th House of Hopes and Dreams. Remember things appear bigger and better than they seem. Keep the optimism flowing, but proceed with caution.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

You may be experiencing stress as different parts of your life present you with conflicting agendas today. It’s important that you do the best you can to honor the complexity. Don’t over-commit in your personal world just because you feel guilty about your time away from your home and family. The good news is that the Aquarius New Moon activates your 10th House of Career Objectives; projects started at work now might bring nearly immediate rewards in the days ahead.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

It may be tough to finish everything on your plate because your intentions are aimed at a distant horizon. You feel as if you can change things which are usually beyond your grasp now that the Aquarius New Moon buzzes your 9th House of Adventure. It’s okay if your reach extends past your usual boundaries today, but be careful about grasping for the stars. Your positive attitude doesn’t guarantee your success but it’s still worth the effort. Ultimately, accomplishing your goal is less important than the lessons you learn every step along the way.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You could have highly unusual ideas about how to best work with others today. It seems that you need assistance in your current project, but it isn’t merely about physical labor or analytical research. Instead, consider all the skills, tools or resources your allies have to bring to the table. The Aquarius New Moon falling in your 8th House of Deep Sharing reminds you to be open to whatever comes your way. Success may be closer than you think if everyone has the same goal in mind.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You can’t help but attract unusual people with today’s unpredictable Aquarius New Moon occurring in your 7th House of Relationships. Your romantic feelings can make the situation more complicated, but ultimately this may not be about lasting love. Be spontaneous and let the feelings flow without restraint or expectations. Be bold and creative in order to get the most joy from your current partnerships.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

It is time to set your ducks in a row, sort your recipe cards into alphabetical order and carefully match all your socks. Basically, you get to be as weird as you wish now when indulging in your organizational kinkiness. This is not for public consumption. It’s for your benefit only. Whatever little idiosyncrasy helps you to be more productive in the long run is worth the effort today. Honor what makes you unique as it is an integral part of what makes you shine.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Find something totally different to do now — an intriguing activity that sets the tone for the days ahead. For example, if you’ve been thinking about enrolling in an art class or attending a live concert, invite a friend to join you and make it happen. It’s time to broadcast your creative, fun-loving side whether by phone, email or in person. Partaking in a spontaneous adventure today will inspire you to explore even further later on

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You might prefer to stay at home and attend to your own needs today but your social obligations won’t allow it. You dream of taking shelter from the noise of the outer world now that the Aquarius New Moon emphasizes your 4th House of Security. Don’t worry if you feel shortchanged in the department of rest and relaxation; you will have time for a full retreat soon enough. In the meantime sneak away and steal a few moments for yourself as circumstances permit.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

The pace of your day grows more hectic as your calendar fills up and the overall complexity of life increases. However, the Aquarius New Moon in your 3rd House of Information reminds you that the details will come back to haunt you later on if you ignore them today. Your inclination may be to let the little things slide in favor of the larger picture, but there is much to gain now by bouncing back and forth between the big and the little.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Your personal finances are suddenly moved to the front burner and will continue to simmer for the next couple of weeks. Perhaps today’s Aquarius New Moon falling in your 2nd House of Money adds uncertainty to your cash flow, or maybe you are simply reconsidering a realignment of some of your material resources. Don’t try to fix everything all in one day. Make a plan to use the days ahead wisely in order to bring you closer to your fiscal goals.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The intuitive flashes now coming your way might put you in touch with non-physical dimensions of the spiritual world. This isn’t all fun and games, for integrating your visions with your intellect may require some complicated work. Meanwhile, this New Moon in your unconventional sign could have you chanting spells like a wizard. Don’t be overly concerned if others think you are losing it. You will return to reality wiser for your journey after your magical mystery tour is over.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your colorful dreams may seem quite vivid and real now — so real, in fact, they spill over into your waking life. Today’s Aquarius New Moon hums in your 12th House of Spirituality, amplifying your fantasies, even if they are not clearly defined. Make the time to settle into your imagination and explore the possibilities. Within the quietness of contemplation is a deep power that helps you to realize your full potential.

Enhanced by Zemanta

New Moon in Aquarius Horoscopes

New Moon in Aquarius Horoscopes

Brilliance strikes during January’s late New Moon

Jeff Jawer    Jeff Jawer on the topics of new moon, horoscopes, astrology, aquarius

Innovation is off charts with the New Moon in unconventional Aquarius on January 30, 2014. This Sun-Moon conjunction in this super smart sign is excellent for expanding perception and triggering bright ideas. Idealism and a stronger sense of community can also emerge in the days that follow. Aquarius’ ingenious ruling planet, Uranus, favorably aligns with this lunation as well, making our mental laboratories more productive.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Discovering ways to become a more effective member of a team is a potential gift of this intellectually energizing New Moon. It lands in your 11th House of Groups, where you can get a fresh start within an organization or find a place of inspiration supporting a cause. Idealism is strong in Aquarius, which can help you recognize ways to meet your own needs while being an even more valuable friend or colleague.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Get ready for some radically new experiences in your professional life. This brainy and innovative Aquarius New Moon lands in your 10th House of Career and Public Responsibility to spark a fresh start that challenges your usual ways of doing business. Be as open-minded and flexible as you can, because old rules and systems may start breaking down. Innovation and risk-taking should put you in a more exciting work situation.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Travel and mind expansion are on the agenda with this brilliant Aquarius New Moon in your 9th House of Faraway Places and Higher Education. Your busy brain may suddenly turn in a different direction as you’re stimulated by a radically new idea. Sharing your discoveries, going back to school, or doing business with people in distant places are ways to put more excitement and meaning into your life.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

This quirky Aquarius New Moon lands in your 8th House of Deep Sharing, where it can have a significant influence on your personal and professional relationships. A lunation in your 8th house, associated with emotional intimacy and financial alliances, is about making choices in partnerships. Either you come up with a fresh approach that enriches connections, or fight change and settle for less.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Fresh connections can enliven your personal life with this exciting New Moon in your 7th House of Partners. Sure, you may attract unusual individuals who don’t always follow the standard rules of love and business. But it’s also an opportunity for you to enliven current alliances with original thinking, or to take some chances by sharing brilliant insights that impress others with your original thinking.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

Surprises could shake up your daily routine with this rebellious Aquarius New Moon in your 6th House of Employment and Habits. Although adapting to unexpected circumstances is logical, it’s even better if you take the initiative to make changes. Going into a different profession, getting additional training, and altering the ways that you deal with diet, exercise, and health will work to your advantage.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

Creativity and romance get significant shots of adrenalin from this electrifying New Moon in your 5th House of Self-Expression. Let your playful side show as this lunation is a signal to come up with fresh ways to get attention and to have fun. Experimenting with different approaches and looks will put more pleasure into your personal life and make your professional presentations entertaining and inspiring to others.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

This liberating Aquarius New Moon occurs in your 4th House of Roots to provide you with a fresh perspective on your past. Old issues, especially from your family, can be seen with distance and objectivity that allow you to let go of emotional issues that have been holding you back. You’re becoming free of unconscious conditioning, making this an excellent time to break habits and try different ways feel safe.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

Ideas are firing up with greater frequency thanks to this inventive Aquarius New Moon. It lands in your 3rd House of Information and Communication, cooking up fresh concepts and connections. Learning, teaching and meeting people should be more stimulating than usual. Just remember to ground what you say in a way that others can understand, because your enthusiasm may overwhelm others with more input than they can handle.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

This inventive Aquarius New Moon occurs in your 2nd House of Resources, providing you with inspiration for making money and getting the most out of your assets. But instead of trying to squeeze more from your current abilities, this lunation signals the need to invest in developing different kinds of skills. Consistency is usually rewarding, but being innovative will lead to even more profitable ways to work now.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Are you ready for a fresh start? This exciting New Moon in your sign can light the fuse of change that you’ve been waiting for. Your innovative ruling planet Uranus makes a harmonious angle to this Sun-Moon conjunction in your sign, firing you up with originality. Trying a different look or coming up with a radically new approach to connecting with people are excellent ways to utilize this energy.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

This ingenious Aquarius New Moon occurs in your 12th House of Spirituality to spur awareness of your connections with nature and divinity. Taking more time to be alone provides the peace and quiet needed to tap into the higher knowledge coming to you now. Don’t worry if it’s harder to get others’ attention, because the greatest rewards are more likely to come when you are less concerned with how others see you.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Your Daily Cosmic Calendar for January 30th

Stay on course with supporting loved ones who may be under duress as Pallas opposes Juno (2:16AM). Any talent you have for resolving problems could be useful around this time-period and for several hours afterwards.  The two lights — the Sun and Moon — agree to provide supportive illumination for your key tasks and projects via their constructive sextile of 60-degrees (6:24AM). Bold ideas can inundate your consciousness since the Moon makes a 60-degree rapport with Uranus (10:59AM) followed by an energizing although possibly unsettling 45-degree tie between Mercury and Uranus (1:58PM). Eccentricity and outside-the-box thinking are in; following all rules to the letter of the law is out. The Moon continues in its adventurous romp through fiery, extroverted Sagittarius. [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.]

Enhanced by Zemanta

Calendar of the Moon for Thursday, January 30th

Calendar of the Moon

Dark Moon Night

Color: Black
Element: Air
Altar: Upon a black cloth set a single black candle, incense, an iron sickle laid to mimic the direction of the waning moon, a cup of water, a lock of silver hair, and a white bone.
Offerings: Bones. Stones. Menstrual blood. Give something up.
Daily Meal: Soup of some sort, cooked in a cauldron, eaten in silence.

Dark Moon Invocation

At this time, in the dark of the moon,
When the Silver Lady ages
To an old woman in the dark,
Haunting crossroads, working magic,
Stirring her cauldron
Of poison that heals,
Grandmother Moon of sorcery
And wisdom, who sees all
And reveals little to our searching eyes.
Moon of Death, Moon of mystery,
Moon of silence who hides her face,
Let us learn silence from your averted gaze
Let us learn patience from your aging face
Let us feel for the dark places within us
And find our way down your path in the darkness
Which is utter and complete
But not impenetrable.
As darkness wraps us,
So silence heals us.
As darkness finds us,
So silence guides us.
As darkness speaks,
So silence falls.

(The candle is blown out, and all leave in silence. From the beginning of this rite at Hesperis until the dawn, silence will rule in the house. Talking must be done only in whispers, and between no more than two people, and only for that which is necessary. Long meditation is encouraged, and all work must be done quietly if possible. The evening meal should be eaten by candlelight, and only candles may light the house, except for the sake of certain important work.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Enhanced by Zemanta

Current Moon Phase for Jan. 30th – New Moon

New Moon

(waxing/0% illumination)

The New Moon is a time best suited for new beginnings! For the first 48 hours following the exact time of the New Moon each month, a window of opportunity opens for making wishes that, if noted, come true in the days and months ahead. There is a tremendous amount of enthusiasm in the atmosphere, making it a great time to go forward and begin projects that you feel instinctively attracted to initiating. Follow your impulses and let yourself make new starts in areas that are important to you.

Enhanced by Zemanta

The Witches Magick for Jan. 30th – Purification of Your Ritual Tools

Purification of Your Ritual Tools

Purification and dedication of your Wiccan ritual tools should be done as soon as you can after you get them.

Certainly purify them at least, before using or wearing the object!

Items that have a heavy or dark or hot energy need purification. This is particularly true of crystals. When clear, they will feel cool, tingly, bright, or positive.

A purified object is much more powerful than a contaminated one, and its magick is less likely to go awry.

Purification, dedication, and consecration of ritual objects take place in sacred space – that is, within Ritual. So begin by casting a Circle.

______________________________________

WITCH TIP: Before going further, check that the item won’t be harmed first . . .

Water – Crystals and other stones may be damaged by hot water. Always use cool water. Some crystals may be damaged even by cool water.

Sunlight – Gem stones, crystals, and other items may also be damaged – faded, melted, or broken by the heat.

Salt – Opals, metal, leather, and fabric can be damaged by salt, either dry or in water.

Smudging or Flame – Stones may be damaged by heat. Other items, like cloth and plant material, may be flammable – use extreme care.

_________________________________________

Moon Bath

The simplest way to purify Wiccan tools is to bathe them in Moonlight. This will not only cleanse them, but recharge them as well.

Except for the very lightest cleansing, you’ll probably need to leave them at least one full cycle of the Moon. Full to Full, or Dark to Dark . . . whichever feels right to you. For lighter Moon-washes, use the Waning Moonlight.

If your altar is in the Moonlight, this is the best place to leave your ritual tools for a Moon bath. Otherwise, hanging them in a tree is good. (If it’s sparkly and you have lots of crows, ravens, or magpies around though, they might make off with it when you’re not looking!)

________________________________________

Herb Bath

You can bury your Wiccan tools in herbs for cleansing. Particularly effective are rose petals, sage, and mint. This is a lovely way to clean sacred objects, but it can take a while.

__________________________________________

Salt Bath

A faster method is a sea salt bath. You can bury your Wiccan tools in dry sea salt, or a salt-water bath.

Washing it in the Ocean, or even running wild water like a river, is even better.

If it feels like it needs a very deep cleansing, you can leave it in the salt water for a period of time – even in the Moonlight, for an even stronger affect.

___________________________________________

Earth Cleansing

You can bury certain items in Earth for purification – like stones and crystals. This will do a very deep cleansing.

Simply bury them, pointing downward, into Earth outdoors, between the roots of a tree is ideal. If you can’t manage that, bury them with a potted plant.

The real trick to this method of purification is remembering exactly where you buried your ritual tools! Be sure to leave a marker that is unlikely to be removed.

____________________________________________

Smoke/Smudge Sticks

Even more rapid is smudging, particularly using cedar or sage. Pass the ritual tools through the smoke a few times. This is enough for most purposes. But you can do as much as you need.

This is a great method for healing tools, especially stones.

____________________________________________

Source:
Wiccan & Witchcraft Information Blog

Enhanced by Zemanta

The Witches Almanac for Thursday, January 30th

Witchy Comments & Graphics
The Witches Almanac for Thursday, January 30th

Thursday (Jupiter): Expansion, money, prosperity, and generosity.

Three Hierarchs Day (Eastern Orthodox)

Waning Moon

The Waning Moon is a time for study, meditation, and little magickal work (except magick designed to banish harmful energies).

Moon Sign: Aquarius

Aquarius: Rebellious energy. Time to break habits and make abrupt changes. Personal freedom and individuality is the focus.

New Moon 4:39 pm

Incense: Mulberry

Color: Green

Enhanced by Zemanta

Your Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, Jan. 29th

We’re eager to break away from previous attachments as the progressive Aquarius Sun brilliantly sextiles shocking Uranus. We are so excited about the future that it’s challenging to maintain a balanced perspective today. Additionally, a Mercury-Jupiter alignment inflates the importance of our ideas. Although the reserved Capricorn Moon encourages caution, her shift into unconventional Aquarius at 11:33 pm EST reminds us that anything is possible.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

It seems as if extra effort in the workplace should pay off, but lingering resistance might impede your progress. You may be harboring resentment about your responsibilities, but resisting the inevitable now is not going to land you anywhere but in trouble. Use your intellect and convert your anger into production, regardless of your feelings. You’ll soon look back on today with pride in your persistence and a sense of accomplishment.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Your anticipation is spreading like a field of dandelions on a fertile spring lawn. Unfortunately, it might not feel like you have any way of gaining control over the situation unless you take an extreme approach and bury your emotions as deeply as you can. However, denial is not a good idea because your thoughts will pop up again faster than you expect. Don’t try to suppress your temporary anxiety. Instead, go to the source of the problem and make changes where they can take root.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You might want to hold back your original ideas now because you believe that others aren’t playing with the right attitude. You can sense that something is wrong, but there’s not much you can do about it except honor your own end of the deal. Don’t give anyone a reason to question your motives. Smile and whistle while you work. Let your deeds speak volumes for you today and steer clear of any unnecessary drama.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You bring a fresh perspective to your job today, and your unorthodox approach may untangle a difficult situation that has been bothering you for a while. Don’t be afraid to take a calculated risk now, since you have a healthy balance between your intuition and your common sense. There might not be a better day than this one to initiate the exciting changes you’ve been dreaming about. Make your move while the window of opportunity is still wide open.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You think that you can relax a bit now and maybe even play hooky, but your responsibilities might not give you this kind of latitude. There’s just too much on your plate today and you’re going to need to do your part at work before you sneak off to enjoy some free time. It’s difficult to juggle everything, but you can keep the most important projects in motion if you simply prioritize your tasks.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

If you have taken care of business over the last few weeks, you may be counting your lucky stars today. On the other hand, everything might fall apart if you have been slacking off from your responsibilities. Even if there’s no quick fix for what you should have already done, you still could have a trick or two up your sleeve. Don’t wait for a better time; this is as good a moment as any to make some magic.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Whether it is your lack of self-esteem that holds you back or growing responsibilities that keep you from fulfilling your promises, you could feel caught in a net with no easy escape route. Your mind is running incessantly as you try to find a way out of the predicament, but your own wheels keep getting in the way. Don’t struggle so hard and the solution may come to you in a sudden flash of inspiration.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You have a gnawing urge to spill the beans today. Although you may think that sharing everything is a good idea, it could be problematic if you’re not willing to deal with the consequences of your disclosure. Currently, exercising discretion serves you better than uncensored impulsive outbursts. There’s no need to tell tall tales; it’s probably wiser to leave some of the details out of the story for now.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You could run into a minor financial setback today, but it might ultimately work out to your advantage in the long run. It may be as small as being overcharged a few cents at the market. But it can be more significant, like finding yourself short of cash with others relying on you to cover the tab. Pay close attention to all monetary transactions now, regardless of how this energy plays out in your life. Taking time to reassess your resources is never a bad idea.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You’re experiencing agitation because you don’t want to deal with your emotions, but you must face the music now that the reflective Moon is rattling your 1st House of Self. Your first inclination might be to take your current desire to rebel out on someone else who doesn’t deserve it. Even if being radically honest seems like the right thing to do today, don’t do it. Assuming full responsibility for your feelings is your best bet. Being honest from the start is much simpler than dealing with the resistance you will receive if you shift the blame to others.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You’re feeling the temptation to quit fighting for your beliefs today. You’re tired of all the drama and can’t help but dream of running away. However, it’s smarter to call on your inner strength and listen to your intuition instead. Remember, the largest obstacle facing you now is your own self-doubt. Unfortunately, enemies seem real, even if they are just windmills spinning in the breeze. Change your outer world by changing your attitude first. Lasting transformation starts from within.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Knowing when to quit isn’t an easy task for you big-hearted Pisces. Although you can be fiercely loyal to a cause, you’re not one to go down fighting a losing battle today. However, you still might have trouble letting go at the last moment. The smallest glimmer of hope leads you into believing the clouds will clear and the sun will shine. It may not be as clean a victory as you want, but you could still surprise everyone with your brilliant tactics. Your unwavering faith stirs up a powerful magic of its own.

Enhanced by Zemanta

New Moon in Aquarius Horoscopes

New Moon in Aquarius Horoscopes

Brilliance strikes during January’s late New Moon

Jeff Jawer   Jeff Jawer on the topics of new moon, horoscopes, astrology, aquarius

Innovation is off charts with the New Moon in unconventional Aquarius on January 30, 2014. This Sun-Moon conjunction in this super smart sign is excellent for expanding perception and triggering bright ideas. Idealism and a stronger sense of community can also emerge in the days that follow. Aquarius’ ingenious ruling planet, Uranus, favorably aligns with this lunation as well, making our mental laboratories more productive.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Discovering ways to become a more effective member of a team is a potential gift of this intellectually energizing New Moon. It lands in your 11th House of Groups, where you can get a fresh start within an organization or find a place of inspiration supporting a cause. Idealism is strong in Aquarius, which can help you recognize ways to meet your own needs while being an even more valuable friend or colleague.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Get ready for some radically new experiences in your professional life. This brainy and innovative Aquarius New Moon lands in your 10th House of Career and Public Responsibility to spark a fresh start that challenges your usual ways of doing business. Be as open-minded and flexible as you can, because old rules and systems may start breaking down. Innovation and risk-taking should put you in a more exciting work situation.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Travel and mind expansion are on the agenda with this brilliant Aquarius New Moon in your 9th House of Faraway Places and Higher Education. Your busy brain may suddenly turn in a different direction as you’re stimulated by a radically new idea. Sharing your discoveries, going back to school, or doing business with people in distant places are ways to put more excitement and meaning into your life.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

This quirky Aquarius New Moon lands in your 8th House of Deep Sharing, where it can have a significant influence on your personal and professional relationships. A lunation in your 8th house, associated with emotional intimacy and financial alliances, is about making choices in partnerships. Either you come up with a fresh approach that enriches connections, or fight change and settle for less.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Fresh connections can enliven your personal life with this exciting New Moon in your 7th House of Partners. Sure, you may attract unusual individuals who don’t always follow the standard rules of love and business. But it’s also an opportunity for you to enliven current alliances with original thinking, or to take some chances by sharing brilliant insights that impress others with your original thinking.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

Surprises could shake up your daily routine with this rebellious Aquarius New Moon in your 6th House of Employment and Habits. Although adapting to unexpected circumstances is logical, it’s even better if you take the initiative to make changes. Going into a different profession, getting additional training, and altering the ways that you deal with diet, exercise, and health will work to your advantage.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

Creativity and romance get significant shots of adrenalin from this electrifying New Moon in your 5th House of Self-Expression. Let your playful side show as this lunation is a signal to come up with fresh ways to get attention and to have fun. Experimenting with different approaches and looks will put more pleasure into your personal life and make your professional presentations entertaining and inspiring to others.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

This liberating Aquarius New Moon occurs in your 4th House of Roots to provide you with a fresh perspective on your past. Old issues, especially from your family, can be seen with distance and objectivity that allow you to let go of emotional issues that have been holding you back. You’re becoming free of unconscious conditioning, making this an excellent time to break habits and try different ways feel safe.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

Ideas are firing up with greater frequency thanks to this inventive Aquarius New Moon. It lands in your 3rd House of Information and Communication, cooking up fresh concepts and connections. Learning, teaching and meeting people should be more stimulating than usual. Just remember to ground what you say in a way that others can understand, because your enthusiasm may overwhelm others with more input than they can handle.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

This inventive Aquarius New Moon occurs in your 2nd House of Resources, providing you with inspiration for making money and getting the most out of your assets. But instead of trying to squeeze more from your current abilities, this lunation signals the need to invest in developing different kinds of skills. Consistency is usually rewarding, but being innovative will lead to even more profitable ways to work now.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Are you ready for a fresh start? This exciting New Moon in your sign can light the fuse of change that you’ve been waiting for. Your innovative ruling planet Uranus makes a harmonious angle to this Sun-Moon conjunction in your sign, firing you up with originality. Trying a different look or coming up with a radically new approach to connecting with people are excellent ways to utilize this energy.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

This ingenious Aquarius New Moon occurs in your 12th House of Spirituality to spur awareness of your connections with nature and divinity. Taking more time to be alone provides the peace and quiet needed to tap into the higher knowledge coming to you now. Don’t worry if it’s harder to get others’ attention, because the greatest rewards are more likely to come when you are less concerned with how others see you.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Daily Cosmic Calendar for Wednesday, Jan. 29th

At 12:00AM — as this day begins — Juno merges with Chiron at 12 degrees of Pisces. Put an emphasis on healing and uplifting primary partnerships that need sustenance and support right now. This may be easier said than done as the Moon parallels Saturn (12:28AM) while Mercury piles on by squaring Saturn (3:57AM) and the Moon then also forms the monthly conjunction with Saturn (5:44AM). Pushing the business envelope in any form is taboo.  The Moon in Scorpio is in void mode starting at 5:56AM and lasting over 13 hours until 7:14PM when the lunar orb enters upbeat, goal-oriented Sagittarius. Anticipate some stormy psychic weather and stubborn human emotions blocking forward progress during the void-of-course lunar cycle.  Once Sagittarius Moon materializes at 7:14PM, focus your gaze on reaching long-sought goals — particularly on the literary, educational and publishing fronts. [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.]

Enhanced by Zemanta

Calendar of the Moon for Wednesday, January 29th

Calendar of the Moon

Dark Moon Night

Color: Black
Element: Air
Altar: Upon a black cloth set a single black candle, incense, an iron sickle laid to mimic the direction of the waning moon, a cup of water, a lock of silver hair, and a white bone.
Offerings: Bones. Stones. Menstrual blood. Give something up.
Daily Meal: Soup of some sort, cooked in a cauldron, eaten in silence.

Dark Moon Invocation

At this time, in the dark of the moon,
When the Silver Lady ages
To an old woman in the dark,
Haunting crossroads, working magic,
Stirring her cauldron
Of poison that heals,
Grandmother Moon of sorcery
And wisdom, who sees all
And reveals little to our searching eyes.
Moon of Death, Moon of mystery,
Moon of silence who hides her face,
Let us learn silence from your averted gaze
Let us learn patience from your aging face
Let us feel for the dark places within us
And find our way down your path in the darkness
Which is utter and complete
But not impenetrable.
As darkness wraps us,
So silence heals us.
As darkness finds us,
So silence guides us.
As darkness speaks,
So silence falls.

(The candle is blown out, and all leave in silence. From the beginning of this rite at Hesperis until the dawn, silence will rule in the house. Talking must be done only in whispers, and between no more than two people, and only for that which is necessary. Long meditation is encouraged, and all work must be done quietly if possible. The evening meal should be eaten by candlelight, and only candles may light the house, except for the sake of certain important work.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Enhanced by Zemanta

Current Moon Phase for Jan. 29th – Waning Crescent Moon

Crescent Moon

(waning/8% of illumination)

This is a time to rest, reevaluate and reflect, pulling back into yourself to reconnect with inner sources of strength. Now is not a time to initiate anything new. It’s a phase suited to spending time with friends and getting in touch with the “big picture.” A window of opportunity exists for seeing your life objectively and becoming aware of what is important to you. At this point, what are your dreams and aspirations? What larger goals can you aspire to that will bring vitality and excitement into your life? This is a time for resting and gaining inner strength to prepare for a new cycle.

Enhanced by Zemanta

May the Goddess Bless You With Warmth & Comfort on this Wednesday!

Blessed Be Comments

Faith is the Dark Moon
Unseen in the night
We know it is present
Yet long for the light.
 
Faith is the wind
That whispers around us.
 
We cannot touch it
And must take it on trust.
 
Faith is the soft voice
Of the Goddess of Old
Who warms us in the Winter
And wards off the cold.
 
Let my heart feel the warmth
Let my soul hear Her voice
Let me find faith in the darkness
And my spirit rejoice.
 

So Mote It Be.

Enhanced by Zemanta