Tag: Moon

Dieter’s Magickal Bath

Dieter’s Magickal Bath

 
2 parts Rosemary
2 parts Fennel
1 part Lavender
1 pinch Kelp
 
For best results, repeat this bath morning and night. While in the tub, visualize yourself as possessing complete control over your eating habits. See yourself eating sensible foods in sensible quantities. For symbolic associations, begin this bath regime two days after the Full Moon and continue until the New Moon. On the last day of the two-week period, visualiz yourself as you wish to be-slim, fit, healthy.

Your Daily Horoscopes for Sunday, December 11th

We may retreat to reconnect with our feelings when the Moon shifts into reflective Cancer at 8:25 am EST. But the Moon’s square to wild Uranus and opposition to intense Pluto suggest that our inner journey won’t be an easy one if we reconsider old insecurities that resurface now. We must think before we speak, since a stressful Mercury-Venus semisquare encourages us to ask for what we want without being concerned about other people’s feelings.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You may have a familiar sinking feeling today as you realize that your actions are not supporting your desires. It’s no fun to encounter this same dilemma again, yet you’re still tempted to take the path of denial by ignoring the message of your heart. Keep in mind that you will be happier once you stop long enough to listen to your emotions. Unfortunately, intuition isn’t useful if you keep overriding it with rational thoughts and empty justifications.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You could feel stuck behind a wall of worry as you hold on to old beliefs that aren’t relevant to your current situation. Nevertheless, you may still create convincing stories to justify your fears today. But self-doubt isn’t helpful and only increases your sense of isolation. Rather than looking back to the past, envision the future just as you wish to see it. Focusing on positive affirmations is smarter now than playing into a more negative outlook.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You don’t have to stay in constant motion today, even if you’re accustomed to running around. Although you may not be accomplishing much while moving at high speed, you could be pleasantly surprised with all you can get done just by slowing down. However, you might need to make other changes, too. Instead of trying to demonstrate your cleverness to everyone, listening more attentively will probably impress others more.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

The Moon returns to your introspective sign today, increasing your sensitivity and making you more aware of your inner process. You’re finally able to find the right words to describe how you feel. However, being clear about your needs is complicated because your moods change often now. You may be happy one moment and sad the next, so it’s crucial to inform others that your disclosures are true, but your thinking is still in flux.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Events may take a turn for the better today, yet you’re reminded that everything still takes longer than you expect. You might end up feeling disappointed if you think that you can push the river faster than it’s already flowing. However, you should be able to relax a bit once you remember that all water reaches the sea in time. Be smart and allow current events to follow their own natural course without any unnecessary pressure.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Your mental gymnastics could be a way to maintain your illusion of control today. However, there’s nothing to be gained now by struggling with your analysis of a crucial issue. Sticking to the facts isn’t helpful because important information can come to you through the symbols in your imagination. Obstacles will be easier to overcome once you acknowledge the significance of your dreams even if they don’t make sense.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You might not normally like to play the role of a mother hen, but the nurturing Cancer Moon is visiting your 10th House of Public Responsibility, encouraging you to stick your nose in everyone else’s business. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to distinguish between your need to be in control and your well-intentioned desire to help someone. Still, you can derive benefit from your intervention if you’re willing to stop to re-examine your motives prior to offering assistance.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You can feel the rejuvenating effect from the Moon’s presence in fellow Water sign Cancer. Unfortunately, you might have been so busy recently that you forgot to check in with your feelings. Thankfully, it’s time to reconnect with your own center today. Once you move through your initial resistance, fears will dissipate and your reluctance will morph into the anticipation of what comes next.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

A difficult emotional encounter isn’t usually enough to adversely affect your naturally upbeat attitude, yet you still might forget to count your blessings today. Although you’re quite able to sidestep the oncoming negativity, you could feel like a deer trapped by its own fear as it stares into the oncoming headlights. Nevertheless, you are in control of your own destiny and a passionate exchange could put you in touch with an important spiritual truth that leads you out of danger.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You may grow annoyed if a close friend or partner seems overly needy today. You might even misinterpret someone’s emotional behavior as an apparent sign of weakness, especially if you don’t want your own feelings to stand in the way of your ambitions. Be careful; suppressing your more vulnerable side creates the wrong impression. Ironically, being open about your discomfort with someone else’s problems can actually lead to a deeper and more meaningful relationship.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You may be worried about how your close friends and family perceive you today, but don’t waste any time or energy on brooding. Thankfully, you should receive sufficient support so you can move through your fears pretty quickly. Shifting your focus away from your inner world and onto external events helps you maintain a positive attitude so you can make the most of the day.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

An unspoken attraction could turn into an obsession today if you are trying to ignore the strong feelings you have for someone special. Avoiding your desires by pretending they don’t exist is not a healthy strategy because your secret feelings gain power if they remain in the dark. Just remember that you can acknowledge what you want without necessarily acting on it.

Daily Cosmic Calendar for Sunday, December 11th

Yesterday’s Full Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse may seem like ancient history, but their vibrations remain potent. The 48-hour time-period after any solar-lunar polarity represents an opportunity to distribute the illuminating energy-field that has just activated the Earth and humanity. How do you sign up to be an erstwhile distributor? There is no group to join – only the awareness of what is happening in the sky just before, during and after every Full Moon. Helping you send out revelations to dear ones and colleagues is a Moon-Neptune flowing trine in air signs (2:25AM PST) followed by a Sun-Chiron 72-degree link (4:35AM PST) and Venus-Uranus 72-degree connection (5:45AM PST). Both 72-degree aspects – based on dividing the 360-degree zodiacal circle by 5 – are high-level, empowering sky patterns. The only challenge partially holding back your efforts this morning is a 3-hour void lunar cycle happening from 2:25AM PST to 5:27AM PST (when the Moon enters its natural abode of watery Cancer). However, once the Moon is swimming happily in the fourth sign of the zodiac, home and family interests rise to the top of the totem pole. Nurturing loved ones is reinforced as the Moon makes a supportive, 60-degree rapport with expansive Jupiter (6:50AM PST) while also forming a harmonious trine of 120-degrees with shaman-like Chiron (7:35AM PST). While communications are somewhat constrained when Mercury forms a frictional, 45-degree tie with Venus (4:57PM PST), Vesta in Aquarius is helping you increase the value of your investments and assets by making a fairly rare trine to Saturn in Libra (11:57PM PST). Learn more about how stock, bond, precious-metal, currency and commodity markets work.

Wishing You A Very Relaxed & Blessed Sunday, dear friends!

Inspirational Comments
Good Sunday afternoon to you all! I hope everyone is a having a fantastic day so far. Believe it or not I don’t have anything lengthy to talk about today. Today is my lazy day, lol! Though I know some that would say everyday is my lazy day.   

So let’s get down to business…….

  

Sunday

 
Magickal Intentions: Growth, Advancements, Enlightment, Rational Thought, Exorcism, Healing, Prosperity, Hope, Exorcism, Money 
Incense: Lemon, Frankincense 
Planet: Sun 
Sign: Leo 
Angel: Michael 
Colors: Gold, Yellow, Orange and White 
Herbs/Plants: Marigold, Heliotrope, Sunflower, Buttercup, Cedar, Beech, Oak  Stones: Carnelian, Citrine, Tiger’s Eye, Amber, Clear Quartz and Red Agate  Oil: (Sun) Cedar, Frankincense, Neroli, Rosemary 
The first day of the week is ruled by the Sun. It is an excellent time to work efforts involving business partnerships, work promotions, business ventures, and professional success. Spells where friendships, mental or physical health, or bringing joy back into life are an issue work well on this day, too.  

 

 Spellcrafting for Today  

 

WITCH’S HEALING CANDLE SPELL

To help speed a recovery from illness, write the sick person’s name upon a white human-shaped
candle of the appropriate gender. As you anoint it with three drops of myrrh or mint oil, visualize
healing energy in the form of white light flowing from your hands into the candle and say:
In the divine name of the Goddess
Who breathes life into us all
I consecrate and charge this candle
As a magical tool for healing.
Place the candle on top of a photograph of the sick person and then light the wick.
As the candle burns down, concentrate upon the person in the photograph, willing him
or her to be well again, and chant the following incantation:
Magic mend and candle burn,
Sickness end; good health return.

 

SACHET FOR HEALING

2 parts Cinnamon 2 parts Sandalwood 1 part Rose petals
1 part Cayenne 1 part Ginger 1 part Rue
Mix and tie in a blue or purple cloth. Anoint with Eucalyptus oil and wear or place near bed at night.
Some herbs that are medicinally good for pain relief and magically good for healing that
you might add into the sachet would be Chamomile, White Willow bark, and Wood Betony.

~Magickal Graphics~

ROSE QUARTZ GARNET AND CARNELIAN LOVE SPELL

ROSE QUARTZ GARNET AND CARNELIAN LOVE SPELL


Moon phase: Waxing to full
You will need:
Jasmine Incense or Jasmine Essential Oil
Three stones: Rose Quartz, Garnet. Carnelian
Candles: 1 red candle, a few beeswax candles (or whatever you have about your home)
In you bedroom, open your curtains.
If it’s warm enough, open your windows and let the moonshine and breezes in.
Light some candles around your bedroom and make yourself comfortable on your bed,
placing the unlit red candle on your bedside table.
Hold the stones in your power hand (the one you write with).
Visualize yourself in love; your life enhanced with love, both given and received.
What type of partner do you want to share your days with?
Don’t focus on who you want, rather what you want.
Honesty, trust, respect, love. Visualizing yourself with love in your life is a wonderful thing.
Charge the three stones with the emotions you generate and your wish to attract love into your life.
Set the stones around your red candle. Light your candle and let it burn all the way down.
As the candle slowly burns, the energy you charged the stones with is slowly released.
Give thanks and close the Circle.

SPELL TO LET GO OF ANOTHER

SPELL TO LET GO OF ANOTHER


Take a photo of you and your ex-lover depicting a time or event in the past when
the relationship was still good for the both of you. Then cut out the ex-lover’s image.
Cast a circle and burn the image while envisioning a hopeful, joyful life without this person.
Do not blame yourself or your ex-lover, nor hold any thoughts of recrimination or revenge while engaged in this meditation. Continue the projection of your future life for a few minutes.
Bury the ashes in an appropriate place.

Protective Invocation to Hecate

Protective Invocation to Hecate

 

Wise Hecate, bless me please
And all that does belong to me.
Bless my work and my endeavors
Protect and keep me safe forever
From every hex and negative thought,
From every place that harm is wrought,
From every evil that’s allowed,
Protect me, Wise One. Guard me now.
Help me to walk in harmony
With every stone and bird and tree,
With every creature on this Earth.
Let me live in joy and mirth
That I may always be their friend
And gain their protection ’til this life ends.
Oh, Wise Hecate, watch over me
Until my soul, at last, is freed.

Chant To Cleanse Magickal Space

Chant To Cleanse Magickal Space

Incense, air of high refine, purify this space of mine.
purged and purified be this place that I have chosen as magickal space.
Herbs of Mother Earth give blessings here to me, this rite, this sacred sphere.
Protect and cleanse this sacred place Hallow it now as my magickal space.
Walk around the space you’re cleansing with the lit incense chanting this,
hands up to the moon/sun/sky moving clockwise in a circle.
Do this at least 3 times or until you feel all energy is positive.

The Witches’ Chant

The Witches’ Chant

Darksome night and shining Moon,
Hearken to the witches’ rune.
East then south, west then north
Hear! Come! I call Thee forth!
By all the powers of land and sea,
Be obedient unto me.
Wand and Pentacle and Sword,
Hearken ye unto my word.
Cords and Censer, Scourge and Knife,
Waken all ye into life.
Powers of the witch’s Blade,
Come ye as the charge is made.
Queen of heaven, Queen of Hell,
Send your aid unto the spell.
Horned Hunter of the night,
Work my will by magic rite.
By all the powers of land and sea,
As I do say, “so mote it be.”
By all the might of moon and sun,
As I do will, it shall be done.

© 1974, Lady Sheba

Original Post By Natural Wytch

The Power of Chanting

The Power of Chanting
By: Christopher Penczak


Sound, tone, voice, and music are powerful forms of magick and celebration.
Before I became a witch, the part of traditional religious services I loved
the most was the music; using song as celebration. When I got involved in
Wicca, the traditions I first learned were very stoic and formal. There was
no real song or chant involved in our Moon and Sun celebrations. I missed it
a lot, but felt there was no place for music in my new practice. At the time
I was a professional musician, completing my degree in music, but our
training in music history only delved into the sacred music of the Christian
era. Not much time was devoted to ancient civilizations or tribal lore. I
knew music was a part of the pagan world, but was not exposed to it.

When I explored other traditions of witchcraft – as well as mystical
traditions in yoga and Eastern religions – I found mystics using sound,
chant, and rhythm to do magick and create ritual. The more shamanic, primal
traditions would use chant and simple dance to raise energy and connect with
the spirit of the ritual. Simple repeated rhythms and melodies could induce
altered states and focus the will. I was so excited to find a religous
outlet for my musical _expression.

Later in my practice, I found myself the celebrant (or officiating high
priest) for a public pagan group that celebrated at Unicorn Books in
Arlington, Massachusetts. I had originally replaced a priestess who was no
longer able to commit to the group, and due to this shift, the group only
included around five participants at any time. Soon we formed an identity
and theme together, and the group began to grow. The rituals went from
intimate groups of five to ten people to larger and larger gatherings. Soon
we filled the room’s forty person capacity. Everyone was great, but coming
from different backgrounds they lacked a cohesive sense of tradition or
ceremony. We loved being eclectic, but needed to have some focus to bring
our group together. I needed to find a way to let everyone contribute to the
ritual and create a sacred space. After many fumbled attempts with a variety
of ritual techniques and tools, I relied on music as a common denominator.
Chant became the key!

As part of each of the eight Wheel of the Year celebrations in our little
loft space, I wrote a short chant with a simple melody, which we used to
raise energy. Those chants became the basis of the chants recorded on The
Outer Temple of Witchcraft CD Companion. We sang about the gods and
goddesses relating to each of the holidays. The chants focused our attention
raised energy, and helped get us into the moment as we passed the chalice
or anointing oil. The songs also helped teach newcomers the basic meaning of
the holiday, quickly relaying powerful themes and key words with the melody.

The use of music in our rituals totally transformed them, and is one of the
most popular parts of our celebrations. Because of my experience, I started
to encourage the use of more and more music in my smaller celebrations and
private coven rituals. I even use chants when I am doing rituals and spells
all alone. I highly suggest adding some music to your own rituals, no matter
the size.

Here are some tips in using music in your own circles:

* Find traditional chants and more recently composed ones that you can use.
Metaphysical stores often have a section of pagan music, song and chants.

* If you visit larger pagan festivals, you may be taught some of the
traditional chants if you don’t know them and can’t find a recording. Many
are passed along through the oral tradition of pagan gatherings. Take notes
and write down lyrics so you won’t forget.

* Use simple melodies with a limited vocal range so everybody can sing them
without straining their voices.

* Try setting pagan poetry to familiar melodies, such as well-known holiday
songs. Sometimes they sound silly, but they can be a great way to focus
everybody on a melody they already know sung with different words.

* Use simple beats and rhythms to keep the group focused – or use a drum to
help induce an altered state. Beats that fall on even numbers (based on
groups of two or four beats) are more direct and dynamic. Some consider them
more masculine. Beats based in 3, like the familiar waltz pattern, are
considered more feminine and have a connection to the triple goddess.

* Feel the music as you perform it. Let the vibration fill your body, heart,
and mind. Let it move you. When you are open to sound, you can make the
experience very healing or energizing.

* Don’t be afraid to be loud or to make a mistake. Sing with feeling and
worry about the technicalities later. If everyone is into the chant, that’s
more important than sounding perfect. Don’t make anyone feel bad if they
don’t have a perfect voice. Remember the circle is about Perfect Love,
Perfect Trust, and celebration. Keep the spirit alive when you chant and
when you pass the cakes. Each is an opportunity for love, compassion, and
transformation.

Original Post by Natural Wytch

RITUAL FOR FERTILITY

RITUAL FOR FERTILITY

Moon Phase: Waxing to Full
Time of day: The time you are usually most creative, for me it is the morning
Props: Sandalwood incense for mental fertility, Peach incense for physical fertility.
Tools: Incense burner.
Gods/Goddesses to Call (choose 1 or 2): Diana, Freyer, Ishtar, Liber, Liberia, Brigit, Cerridwen, Cernunnos.
Food and Drink: Salad of shredded carrots, cucumber, and rice with an olive oil and garlic
dressing (served cold, use brown rice) a banana for dessert.
Tea: Peach
Do what you need to do to prepare for ritual. cast a circle and invoke your deities.
State your purpose and goal. Make it VERY specific.
Light your incense. Imagine the incense filling that part of you that you wish fertility to touch.
It must fill you, grow around you and touch every part of you.
Starting in the east you face each of the four directions imploring them:
East: “Watchtowers of Air send your winds to wash the stagnant part of me away”
South: “Watchtowers of Fire send your heat to fire my (brain, womb, loins)”
West: “Watchtowers of Water fill me with fertility
North: “Great Goddess, Mother, I make me as fertile as your rainforests, your oceans
you are fill me with life and hope”
Lie on the floor head toward the north arms and legs outstretched. If you are not alone
have your significant other or coven mates place their hand above your loins (not touching)
or head and send you healing energy.
“Oh great _____ I implore you to fill me with ripened fruit that I may bear __________.
Fill my (womb/loins/mind) with power and light.”
Feel your body fill with power. Feel the power emanate from the place you wish to be fertile.
Kneel before your alter: The HPs blesses the food and tea.
You eat the food with your fingers imagining the food feeding that which about you is infertile,
you then drink the tea in one draught. (This is not meant to be a meal, merely fill you with the
energy of the food).
Close your circle in a normal manner. Ground and center.
If you are doing the spell to be physically fertile be sure and have unprotected sex within 24 hours.
*for female physical fertility this spell should be done 14 days after a woman’s cycle begins.
For a man it does not matter.

Full Moon Ritual

Inspired by Rituals and Practices with the Motherpeace Tarot, by Vicki Noble (Inner Traditions, 2003).

Tonight is the night of full moon, a time of beauty and magic. Ever since people began to notice the waxing and waning of that silver orb in the night sky, they honored its connection to women, with their monthly cycles. Full Moon Night is a favorite night for women to reconnect with their ancient birthright of mystery, remembering a time when women were sacred embodiments of a life-giving goddess.

This simple ritual is meant to be performed on the night of the full moon, but you can do it any time you need a reminder of your ancient nature (and men can do it, too). Read the ritual here:

If you like, you can prepare for this ritual by taking a special candlelit bath and dressing in clothing that feel especially beautiful to you.

1. Find a time when you will not be disturbed. Turn out the lights where you are. Notice the light entering the room from the moon, if it is visible. Take a moment to remember a time when the full moon made night travel easier, so people gathered on this night to celebrate community and to honor the great healing Mystery.

2. Stand or sit in front of a mirror. Can you see your face? Allow yourself to pause in your busy life as you gaze. Take a moment to listen to the sounds where you are. What do you hear? Now bring your conscious attention down from the place behind your eyes, down through your throat, down into your heart. Let your attention pause there. As you allow yourself to become aware of your heart, keep looking in the mirror. Allow your gaze to soften and become more loving. See yourself with the eyes of love. Ask yourself, “Who am I?”

3. Now bring your attention down from your heart to your solar plexus, your will center. See yourself with the eyes of courage and will. Ask yourself, “Who am I?”

4. Now bring your attention down into your belly, the place of gut-knowing. See yourself with the ancient eyes of the deep self. Ask yourself, “Who am I?”

5. Give some time to imagining the self you might have been in another time, in the mists of time, in the beginnings of time. Imagine the beauty and majesty of the full moon reflected in your eyes. See yourself with the eyes of the glorious, magical full moon. Ask yourself, “Who am I?”

6. Now gently bring your awareness back up through your solar plexus, back through your heart, back through your throat, back into the place behind your eyes. See yourself with new eyes. Say to yourself, “I am I.” Bring yourself gently back into ordinary reality with gratitude for what you have seen and learned.

Ritual to Overcome Addiction

Ritual to Overcome Addiction

 
 
Items needed:
 
paper and pencil
wide-tipped black marker
green candle
matches or lighter
orange calcite or quartz
fireproof dish or small cauldron
cloth bag (optional)
chrysoprase
hematite
 
Write your addiction on a piece of paper, then mark through it with a heavy black line. Put it aside.
 
Inscribe the candle with your name. Light the candle and say:
 
Healing Ancients, I ask of Thee
Take this pain away from me.
Remove any trace of this addiction,
And heal me of all related afflictions.
 
Hold the hematite to your forehead and say:
 
Grant courage now and healing power
Strengthen my will hour by hour.
 
Place this stone on the right side of the candle. Lift the chrysoprase to your forehead and say:
 
Stone ofjoy and happiness
Put my urges now to rest.
 
Place this stone on the left side of the candle.
 
Hold the orange calcite or quartz to your forehead and say:
 
Amplifier of energies
Magnify their powers, please.
 
Place this stone in front of the candle.
Stand in front of the altar and turn your hands palms up. Say:
 
Powers of the Earth unite
Bind the powers of this addiction right
So it will have no hold on me
As I will, so mote it be!
 
Take the paper in your hand and say:
 
Chains that bind me, now break free
I am power, strength, and resiliency
I have the courage to overcome
This addiction–go now–run!
Begone from me! Do not return!
Your power over me, I burn!
 
Light the paper with a match or lighter, then burn it in the fireproof dish, saying:
 
By flame of Fire, I’m purified
Of your delusionary lies.
I’m free of you and all the strife
That you once cast upon my life.
I am healed now I am free
As I will, so mote it be!
 
When the candle has completely burned out, carry the stones with you either loose or in a cloth pouch. Repeat the ritual as often as necessary to get control of the problem.

Morning Ritual for Learning Acceptance and Tolerance

Morning Ritual for Learning Acceptance and Tolerance

 
This ritual works well for granting you acceptance of matters that you cannot change, and for increasing your tolerance of others’ beliefs and opinions. It is also effective against racist attitudes.
 
Upon rising each morning, light a white candle. Sit down in a comfortable position facing the candle and focus on the flame. Say:

Gracious Lady, hear my plea,

Grant me tolerance that I might see
The need for diversity on the Earth
And see its value and its worth.
Help me find the harmony
In accepting what is meant to be,
And replace my negative attitude
With perfect love and fortitude.
Gracious Lady, Hear my plea.
As I will, so mote it be!
 
Watch the candle flame for ten minutes while concentrating on your desire to become more accepting then snuff the flame.
 
Perform this ritual every morning for seven consecutive days.

Your Daily Number for December 10th: 3

Look out! You yield enormous power to influence others today, and may even appear more attractive than usual. You’re upbeat and playful, and the world knows it. If there’s a deal or project you’ve been waiting to close, now is the time to do it. Make sure you’re organized, because there’s also a tendency to be a bit scattered and forgetful.

Fast Facts

About the Number 3

Theme: Expansive, Sociable, Dramatic, Diversified, Creative
Astro Association: Venus
Tarot Association: Empress

Your Daily Horoscopes for December 10th

The tension between our most immediate needs and our future goals is amplified today when the unsettled Gemini Full Moon Eclipse is illuminated by the Sun in far-reaching Sagittarius at 9:36 am EST. Unexpected events can suddenly relieve the stress because erratic Uranus ends its retrograde period. Additional weirdness abounds as the Sun forms otherworldly septiles with conservative Saturn and rebellious Uranus, turning this busy day upside down.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

It’s challenging to find your groove today because the Gemini Lunar Eclipse rattles your 3rd House of Immediate Environment. However, you may finally establish a sustainable rhythm later in the day once your frustration peaks. It’s pointless wasting energy worrying about what you could have done if only you were able to focus sooner. Instead, just do what you can, knowing that your concentration will improve over the days ahead.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Although you probably won’t want to deal with financial concerns today, it’s wise to attend to money matters with the Gemini Lunar Eclipse stressing your 2nd House of Personal Resources. At least make sure your bills are paid before you purchase a luxury item. It’s smart to know exactly how much you have to spend, especially with the holidays rapidly approaching. Keep in mind that the best gifts are the ones that come from the heart and not just the wallet.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You may feel anxious today with the Full Moon Eclipse in your restless sign, especially if you recently made commitments that you’re now reconsidering. Your vulnerability leaves you feeling uncomfortable, tempting you to escape by withdrawing socially or running away from an unsatisfactory romantic involvement. Nevertheless, don’t make any impulsive moves that could adversely affect a meaningful relationship because your emotions are still in a state of flux.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

It’s challenging to understand your own feelings today as the Gemini Lunar Eclipse polarizes your 12th House of Fantasy. Although your emotions may be quite intense, frustration is high because words can’t express what you want. Don’t try so hard to get your message across now. It will be much easier to say what you want tomorrow after the Moon enters your sign and you can speak from your heart.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

This could be a very social day as the Gemini Full Moon Eclipse energizes your 11th House of Friends. But the stress level may be amplified because you wish you could have quality time with a special companion instead of being one of the group. However, losing yourself in a crowd isn’t all bad, for it allows you to maintain some anonymity. But it’s a good idea to wait until you’re ready before talking about a topic that you’re not ready to share.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Today’s Full Moon Eclipse in adaptable Gemini stimulates your 10th House of Career, revealing your ambiguity about work these days. You’re being pulled in two directions, making it tough to choose a single course of action. Meanwhile, personal activities or projects at home could distract you from professional responsibilities. Postpone major decisions for a few days until you have had more time to think things through.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Your desire to go somewhere far away accentuates your restless feelings today as the Gemini Lunar Eclipse activates your 9th House of Adventure. However, the Moon is offset by the Sun in your 3rd House of Immediate Environment, giving you good reasons to stay close to home. Don’t worry if you can’t resolve your current travel dilemma right away. Daydreaming about an incredible journey from the comfort of your couch may be better now than actually taking one at this time.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You might believe that you have chosen the easier path, only to realize that the Gemini Lunar Eclipse in your 8th House of Deep Sharing has drawn you into a complicated emotional situation. Thankfully, you’re quick to establish a healthy perspective; your communication skills come to your aid today as you extricate yourself as gracefully as possible from any unnecessary drama. Remember, it’s your choice; only you can decide where you want to direct your energy now.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You’re focusing on the distance now as you dream and scheme your way into the future. You might wish that nothing was standing in your way, but you still may need to stop and consider someone else’s point of view, too. Today’s Gemini Full Moon Eclipse shakes your 7th House of Partners, suggesting the presence of an unseen aspect of a relationship that complicates your current plans. Don’t make any major decisions until you share your thoughts with those you trust.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You may have so many chores to do today that you feel pushed and pulled in a variety of directions. The Gemini Full Moon Eclipse in your 6th House of Daily Routine scatters your energy, making it difficult to follow through on any single task. However, you can use your imagination to help create your future. Keep your dreams alive at any cost, even if you’re feeling frustrated because of your lack of progress. Don’t worry; you will soon regain your focus and continue on your path.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Today’s interactive Gemini Lunar Eclipse stimulates your 5th House of Love and Creativity. Actions usually speak louder than words, but communicating your feelings now is the most direct way to connect with others. But don’t get distracted by witty phrases and clever comebacks. Hold on to your vision of what you want to say and keep bringing yourself back to the essential point so that your message is well-received.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You may have community responsibilities today, but the Gemini Full Moon Eclipse in your 4th House of Home and Family encourages you to remember the importance of your personal life, too. Naturally, you must keep up with your worldly obligations, but don’t use them as an excuse to evade domestic issues. Balancing your public life with your private affairs helps to minimize problems in the future.

Lunar Eclipses – The Science Behind These Events

Lunar Eclipses

The Science Behind These Events

By John P. Millis, Ph.D

What Is A Lunar Eclipse?

Simply put, a lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon. (This means that lunar eclipses, by definition, can only occur during a full Moon.) The result is that direct sunlight from the Sun does not strike the lunar surface. However, this does not mean that no light reaches the surface.

Under certain types of eclipses, light from the Sun can actually be bent by Earth’s atmosphere, casting the Moon in a red or orangish color. Other types of eclipses will simply block a percentage of the Sun’s rays, making the Moon appear darker. And of course, some eclipses are a combination of the two phenomenon (see below).

How Does This Differ From The Normal Lunar Cycle?

While the Moon does go around the Earth, it’s path is actually normally tilted with respect to the Sun. Therefore the different phases of the Moon that we observe during the normal lunar cycle are a result of only half of the Moon getting sunlight at any given time. Then depending on where you are on Earth, you see the Moon at an angle.

The Different Types of Lunar Eclipses

Boiling lunar eclipse down to the Earth’s shadow being cast over the surface of the Moon is quite an over simplification. As already stated, some of the Sun’s light can still reach the surface because of the bending of the light around the Earth. But to complicate the matter further, the Earth’s shadow is actually broken up into two distinct parts (see image).

The umbra is the portion of the Earth’s shadow that does not contain any direct radiation from the Sun. The focus of the umbra is the point at which all three celestial bodies are properly aligned. Despite this, the eclipse does not completely drape the Moon in darkness because light from the Sun can actually be refracted through the Earth’s atmosphere and find its way to the Moon.

The result of this refraction is that the Sun’s light will be separated into individual colors. The more directly aligned the Earth, Moon and Sun are the Moon’s color will transition to more of an orange hue, then red. This is actually the same phenomenon that causes the sky to appear reddish at sunset and sunrise.

When the Moon is fully contained within the umbra, the Moon is said to be in total eclipse. This event can last nearly two hours, while the Moon can be in at least partial eclipse for nearly four hours.

The penumbra is the region of space where the Earth is only partially blocking the light from the Sun. As the Moon moves from outside the shadow toward the umbra the Moon will begin to appear darker and darker. Again, the Moon never appears in complete darkness because some of the light from the Sun is always reaching the surface up until the Moon reaches the umbra.

Normally the Moon will lie only partially in the penumbra area (known as a penumbral eclipse), but occasionally, the Moon will find itself completely in the penumbra. These events, called total penumbral eclipses, are rare. And they are typically characterized by one side of the Moon appearing darker than the other due to one side approaching or receding from the umbra.

These total penumbral eclipses can immediately precede or follow a partial eclipse where the Moon is partially in each of the umbra and penumbra regions.

The Danjon Scale For Lunar Eclipse Brightness

There are obviously a variety of lunar eclipses, causing a variety of different Lunar appearances. In order to classify what kind of lunar eclipse is occurring a scale known as the Danjon scale was developed by André-Louis Danjon.

Essentially an L value is determined based solely on the appearance of the Moon. Using only the naked eye, the observer estimates which category the eclipse falls into to.

    • L=0, This represents the darkest eclipse, and is probably what most people imagine when they think of a lunar eclipse.

 

    • L=1, While still very dark, there is a grey or brown hue to the Moon. However, details of the Moon are still difficult to identify.

 

    • L=2, During this type of eclipse the Moon will appear dark red, possibly with a slight hint of orange. The Moon still appears very dark at this value.

 

    • L=3, The Moon is now brick-red and noticeably lighter than the previous value. Also, the edges can appear lighter, possibly with a yellowish hue.

 

  • L=4, The Moon now appears bright red or orange, while the edge of the Moon appears almost bluish

The problem with the Danjon scale is that it is not based on an absolute flux or color level, meaning that scientific instruments aren’t used to decide what L value the eclipse represents. Therefore, different people observing the same eclipse can arrive at different L values. So, it’s not very precise, but typically it yields a fairly good idea of what kind of eclipse you are observing.

When Is the Next Lunar Eclipse?

There are always at least two lunar eclipses per year. However, these are sometimes penumbral eclipses which can be difficult to see because the Moon simply appears slightly darker. And given atmospheric conditions, no noticeable different may be apparent.

Total and partial eclipses are far more exciting however, although these are more rare. Typically there are anywhere from zero to three total or partial eclipses each year. To determine when the next eclipse will occur, NASA has put together a handy online tool, which will tell you the date and time of the next lunar eclipse given your location on the Earth.

Lunar Eclipse

Lunar Eclipse

In the Earth’s Shadow

By Molly Hall

The Full Moon is always the alignment of the Sun and Moon in opposite Zodiac signs. The lunar eclipse happens when the Earth is smack dab in the middle, altering how the Moon reflects the solar light. Eclipses come in pairs, and usually come every six months, as that’s when the Moon’s orbit hits the ecliptic.

There’s a mysterious, underworld quality to the lunar eclipse. The Moon turns orangey or blood red, because of the shorter wavelengths being filtered through the Earth’s atmosphere. This frightened people in earlier times, as the cool lunar surface turned a malevolent red. Some cultures believed the Moon was swallowed by a three-legged toad (China) or a jaguar (Maya), and was a herald of demonic or destructive energies afoot. They shouted, clanged pots and pans, and banged drums to dispel the dark spirits lurking around.

What does it bring?

 Since full Moon’s are a time of illumination, the lunar eclipse momentarily throws up shadows of darkness. And often it’s the shadows of the “unlived life,” buried potential, being brought to the surface. It’s a bit like the rich void of the New Moon, where you’re in touch with a well of psychic material. It can be disorienting, as your feet are often leaving the ground of the known!

If you’ve been living in a fantasy world, you’re knocked back to earth. It can be destabilizing and rock the foundations. You are forced to be fully present to some event. You may get shattering news. It takes awhile to fully understand what’s happening, and to find your footing again. Sometimes the events of the eclipse are worked out over a long period, say six months.

Full Moons are times of super high energy, and surging emotion across the spectrum. The eclipse intensifies the sense of being overwhelmed, and events are experienced in vivid color. You’ll get this hit in the house in which the eclipse is taking place. It also loosens the moorings of any planet it touches. You’re in the rapid transformation chute, and clues to how it’ll manifest come from the Zodiac sign of the Sun and Moon at the time. Eclipses liberate us from the status quo, and get things moving. It’s a time to trust, though the outcome may be uncertain, that all things work toward progress in the end.

New Moon Report for December 10th – Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Gemini

New Moon Report

By Jeff Jawer

 

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Gemini

Saturday, December 10, 6:38 am PST, 9:38 am EST

The opposition of the Moon in multi-faceted Gemini and the Sun in philosophical Sagittarius always increases mental activity and intensifies conversations. This one, though, is also a lunar eclipse meant to reduce distractions so we can focus on one task at a time. Mars in meticulous Virgo reinforces this principle with its squares to the Sun and Moon. Conflicts may arise over minor matters or system failures. Yet concentrating on the work that must be done will turn nervous energy in a productive direction and replace excessive chatter with constructive action.