Tag: Wine tasting descriptors

Whip Up A Little Magick For Supper Tonight

That’s a Wrap

Wraps — sandwiches that forgo bread and are instead rolled in tortillas — are a fast, fresh and fun way to make a magickal meal in no time. Choose vegetable such as yellow squash, zucchini, mushrooms, tomatoes, lettuce, onion or cucumber. Charm the vegetables to enhance their natural power: simply connect with the energies in the food and calll out the attribute most suited to the magick, magnifying the ingredient’s inherent qualities or color associations. Prepare the begetable using a magickal slicing technique, then either put them fresh into the tortilla or quickly saute them in a little butter, letting the heat magnify the magick of your empowered ingredients. Add protein with a bit of cold tofu salad, a nice begetarian assimilation of chicken salad — just drain a package of firm tofu and mash it up with a little mayonnaise and curry powder. If you’re a meat eater, simply add sliced turkey or forkfuls of tuna. Serve rolled in wheat or spinach tortillas, adding cheese or honey mustard if you wish.

Excerpt from:
Ten-Minute Magickal Meals
By Melanie Marquis
Llewellyn’s 2012 Witches’ Companion,
An Almanac for Everyday Living by Llewellyn

Daily Motivator for Aug. 12 – Keep reminding yourself

Keep reminding yourself

When you feel like feeling sorry for yourself, stop. Remind yourself that  self-pity won’t get you anything worth having.

When you feel like running away from your problems, stop, turn around and  face those problems. Choose to become stronger and to create real value by  working your way through them.

Is there work to be done, and you don’t feel like making the effort? Remind  yourself that in the long run, getting the job done will feel much better than  endlessly putting it off.

Living with intention, discipline and focus is not all that complicated or  difficult. It’s a matter of reminding yourself that it’s your best option.

You are absolutely capable of creating and experiencing the very best life  you can imagine. You just have to keep reminding yourself to keep choosing it.

A life that’s positive, successful and authentically fulfilling comes from  the quality of the choices you make in every moment. The life you live is the  life you choose, so remind yourself, again and again, to choose the best.

— Ralph Marston

The Daily Motivator

TO GET THE SIGHT

TO GET THE SIGHT
by: Janet and Stewart Farrar

Sight cometh to different people in divers ways; ’tis seldom it cometh
naturally, but it can be induced in many ways. Deep and prolonged meditation may
do it, but only if you are a natural, and usually prolonged fasting is
necessary. Of old the monks and nuns obtained visions by long vigils, combined
with fasting and flagellation til blood came; other mortifications of the flesh
were practiced which resulted in visions.

In the East ’tis tried with various tortures whilst sitting in a cramped
position, which retarded the flow of blood; these tortures, long and continued,
gave good results.

In the Art, we are taught an easier way, that is, to intensify the imagination,
at the same time controlling the blood supply, and this may best be done by
using the ritual.

Incense is good to propitiate the spirits, also to induce relaxation to the
aspirant and to help build up the atmosphere which is necessary for
suggestibility. Myrrh, Gum Mastic, Aromatic Rush Roots, Cinnamon Bark, Musk,
Juniper, Sandalwood and Ambergris, in combination, are all good, but the best of
all is Patchouli.

The circle being formed, and everything properly prepared, the aspirant should
first bind and take his tutor into the circle, invoke suitable spirits for the
operation, dance round till giddy, meanwhile invoking and announcing the object
of the work, then he should use the flagellum. Then the tutor should in turn
bind the aspirant – but very lightly, so as not to cause discomfort – but enough
to retard the blood slightly. Again they should dance round, then at the Altar
the tutor should use the flagellum with light, steady, slow and monotonous
strokes. It is very important that the pupil should see the strokes coming, as
this has the effect of passing, and helps greatly to stimulate the imagination.
It is important that the strokes be not hard, the object being to do no more
than draw the blood to that part and away from the brain; this, with the light
binding, slowing down the circulation of the blood, and the passes, soon induce
a drowsy stupor. The tutor should watch for this, and as soon as the aspirant
speaks or sleeps the flagellum should cease. The tutor should also watch that
the pupil becomes not cold, and if the pupil struggles or seems distressed he
should at once be awakened.

Be not discouraged if no results come at the first experiment – results usually
occur after two or three attempts. It will be found that after two or three
attempts or experiments results will come, and soon more quickly; also soon much
of the ritual may be shortened, but never forget to invoke the Goddess or to
form the circle, and for good results ’tis ever better to do too much ritual
rather than do too little at first.

It has been found that this practice doth often cause a fondness between
aspirant and tutor, and it is a cause of better results if this be so. If for
any reason it is undesirable there be any great fondness between aspirant and
tutor this may easily be avoided by both parties from the onset, by firmly
resolving in their minds that if any fondness ensues it shall be that of a
brother and sister, or parent and child, and it is for this reason that a man
may only be taught by a woman and a woman by a man, and that man and man or
woman and woman should never attempt these practices together, and may all
the curses of the Mighty Ones be on any who make such an attempt.

Remember, the circle properly constructed is ever necessary to prevent the power
released being dissipated; it is also a barrier against any disturbing or
mischievous forces; for to obtain good results you must be free from all
disturbances.

Remember, darkness, points of light gleaming amid the surrounding dark, incense
and the steady passes by a white arm, are not as stage effects but rather they
are mechanical instruments which serve to start the suggestion which later
unlocks the knowledge that it is possible to obtain the divine ecstasy, and so
attain to knowledge and communication with the Divine Goddess. When once you
have attained this, ritual is needless, as you may attain the state of ecstasy
at will, but ’til then or, if having obtained or attained it yourself, you wish
to bring a companion to that state of joy, ritual is best.

Elder’s Meditation of the Day August 7

Elder’s Meditation of the Day August 7

“Everything I know I learned by listening and watching.”

–Vernon Cooper, LUMBEE

Sometimes my mind is talking so fast about so many different things that I can’t slow it down. All day long I am judging and making assumptions about everything.

Great Spirit, help me this day to slow down. Help me to listen – quietly. Help me to watch carefully. Help me to listen to my inner voice. Let me listen and watch only the thing You would have me observe. Guide my eyes and my ears to be focused on You. Grandfather, love me today and teach me to be quiet.

Calendar of the Sun for August 6

Calendar of the Sun

6 Weodmonath

Wheat Day

Color: Golden
Element: Earth
Altar: Upon a golden cloth place a sheaf of wheat, a sickle, a clay jug of wheat beer, and a loaf of fresh-baked whole wheat bread.
Offering: Give food to the poor.
Daily Meal: Wheat bread, pasta, or pastry.

Wheat Invocation

Today, sweet golden king,
My hand belongs to Her
As does your body.
I thank you for your gift of life
And I promise you rebirth next year
With this my very same hand.
And in your turn
Since someday my body will be Hers as well
Promise me
The same hope;
Rebirth me in joy everlasting.

(The sickle is swung in a circle, then the wheat beer is passed around, and the remainder poured out as a libation.)

I sing the praises of Wheat,
First grain of the wagon people of Europe,
You who make the bread rise high,
You who make the soft white dough,
You who are sweet
And can last a thousand years
And still blossom forth in the Earth.
I sing the praises of Wheat.

(The bread is passed around, and the remainder scattered in the garden.)

Song: Corn Rigs

[Pagan Book of Hours]

‘Call your Dragon Guardian Spell’

‘Call your Dragon Guardian Spell’

This is to call upon a guardian dragon to protect anything.

There are 3 stages to it.

First, The Sudden Need Incantation:

This method is short and to the point. Usually used to protect the caster or another in a sudden crisis.

“By Dragon wing and dragon claw,
my defense is without flaw.
Shrouded by dragon might,
remove me from enemy sight.
Fly before me, Dragon bright,
and blind my foe with thy light.
Full of rage and terrible ire,
burn my assailants with Dragon Fire.”
Dark and terrible be thy wrath,
Dragon, protect me on my path.”

Second, The Short Term Protection.

This summoning is used for short term goals and needs such as protecting an object for a brief period, such as a car ride or elevator trip. Mark the object to be protected with the sign of the guardian and repeat the incantation below:

“Gentle Guardian wise and strong
keep it as it belongs.
Safe within thy charge and care,
the current venture to fare.
No harm to come or ill to befall,
guarded and safe through it all.”

Third, The Long Term Need:

This form of summoning is closer to permanent as we would perceive it. Yet in this you must still work with a time frame in mind, however distant it may be.

Guardian Dragons may be summoned in this fashion for protection of people places and things needing or deserving long term care (such as children, houses, spouses, etc). Multiple objects can be protected with but a change in grammar, but they should be together for a single dragon to protect (the objects become like a mini-horde).

“Dragon brave and Dragon wise,
let nothing escape your watchful eyes.
I call to you from your hidden lair,
(name object here) is entrusted to your care.
Permit no harm to come to ( named object),
in your presence may all evils take flight.
No baneful creature born of flesh nor spirit
may touch (name object) nor even come near it.
May those that would bring harm
be filled with fright and alarm.”

Daily Horoscopes for Saturday, August 4

Although we might try to clear up recent sloppy thinking, our fantasies remain larger than life today. Rational Mercury in expressive Leo encourages us to say exactly what we mean, but its retrograde motion makes the right words elusive. Additionally, Mercury’s slippery quincunx to hazy Neptune can hijack logic and blur reality. It’s easy to confuse fact and fiction now, especially as the imaginative Pisces Moon squares opinionated Jupiter.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Your feet might not touch the ground today, for cosmic influences are pulling you into the spiritual and dream realms. You’re eager to leave your chores behind for a while so you can space out. But you cannot completely ignore reality; there will be a price to pay if you do. Nevertheless, you can make the best of both worlds if you allow time for work and play. A balanced approach to life isn’t always the easiest to maintain, but is smartest in the long run.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

There are contradictory messages bubbling up from deep within your soul now. You might even feel as if you are at odds with yourself throughout the day. Every optimistic emotion gives rise to a corresponding uncertainty. Fortunately, your ambivalence can be useful socially because you’re more willing to go along with the group. Stay in touch with your changing feelings, even if you don’t share them at this time.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You may jump back and forth today between an all-inclusive view of your life and a highly specific one that’s very detail-oriented. On one hand, your imagination soars and you can see your life from a global perspective. However, the problem is that you cannot act on the grandiose visions now. Bring the big ideas back down to earth and proceed one step at a time to reach your goals.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Although you may appear to resist change, you are probably much more adaptable than others realize. After all, you Crabs are in tune with the rhythms of the sea. But now, as the emotional tides shift, it’s difficult to tell which way the waters will be flowing. Don’t be overly concerned if you cannot figure out exactly where you are now. Hold on to your present position until you see where you’re going next. Give it a few days; the confusion will pass.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

It is challenging to separate your dreams from what’s real now, but the hard cold facts just won’t go away. You’re caught between the relationship fantasies you create and the limitations that you must acknowledge day to day. Focus on the positive tangible aspects so you can remain open to the love around you, even if it isn’t quite what you imagined.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Your spiritual and metaphysical interests may be gaining a more significant role in your life these days. There are big changes on the horizon, but they might already be influencing the subtle yet powerful realms of your subconscious mind. Instead of staying so wrapped up in your data, let go of the analytical perspective in order to get the most from your imagination. You can always refocus on the specifics later in the week.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You are the zodiac’s champion of balance, and you can now feel the cosmic conflict pulling part of you into the spiritual realm as the other part of you must manage the real world. You could easily idealize your current situation, but it’s important to see things as they truly are if you want to succeed. The future is in your hands. The best way to assure that you will get what you want is to learn to walk comfortably in both worlds.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You may be unclear about where you’re going in your career now that confusing Neptune is aligning with retrograde Mercury in your 10th House of Career. Although your role in the outer world is important to you, thinking about your goals raises confusing issues. If your employment isn’t fulfilling, it might be time to place more attention on the inner dimensions rather than material success. There’s no quick or easy answer as you attempt to discern which is more important. Reflecting on what makes your heart sing is a good place to start.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Your dilemma du jour is a familiar old pattern that resonates from time to time. You wish that you could live your life in a big way, as if you were an action hero in an adventure story. You don’t always want to handle the little things. Now, these unattended details come back to haunt you. It’s best to manage the practical issues first before engaging in discussions of grandiose possibilities.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Although you typically prefer to keep both feet firmly on the ground, you might spend much of today lost in daydreams. You may be presented with complex issues that involve other people’s feelings or their involvement in a joint project. Strive to maintain clarity as you work with them, for there is potential to misunderstand each other’s basic values. Thankfully, conscious communication can help you navigate through this tricky territory.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Intimate relationships could be a source of confusion today, especially if you aren’t really listening to what the other person is saying. Hearing the message behind the spoken words may take extra effort for both of you, as language can actually get in the way now. Try not to push your point of view on to anyone else. A lessening of the current tensions occurs naturally by simply allowing multiple points of view to exist side by side in peace.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

There are demands being placed on you today, but you might not realize it until it’s too late. Someone may assume that you’re helping out with a particular project, but you don’t even know that your assistance is needed. Most problems now stem from your difficulty in staying focused. However, relaxing your mind, daydreaming, reading a book, or going to a movie reinvigorates you. Do something nice for yourself and you’ll be able to work more efficiently later in the day.

Your Horoscopes for August 1, Lammas

Sudden bursts of awareness crash into our consciousness as today’s ingenious Aquarius Full Moon aligns with quicksilver Mercury and electric Uranus. The Moon’s entry into humanitarian Aquarius at 5:55 am EDT shifts our focus from personal issues toward more global realms. Our emotions continue to grow stronger until the Full Moon at 11:27 pm. Although we want to be connected with a larger group, we must stay detached enough to remain unique.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Your energy may run out of control today as your creativity blossoms. The Aquarius Full Moon activates the radiant Leo Sun in your 5th House of Self-Expression, making you even more spontaneous than usual. On the surface, all is well, but there could be more going on than meets the eye. Watch your step; exercising sensible caution now is more than just good advice to follow.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You would like your emotions to settle down, yet the Aquarius Full Moon occurs in your 10th House of Career, pulling you back into a familiar pattern at work today. You may grow anxious when you learn that someone didn’t tell you everything; now you want full disclosure before you go on. Uncovering all the details could be challenging at first, but everyone will feel better once the facts are finally out in the open.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Today’s Aquarius Full Moon falls in your 9th House of Big Ideas, broadening your mental horizons. Unfortunately, this wider perspective can be confusing because you may pick up extra noise along with the important data you need to know. Use whatever psychological or spiritual tools you have to keep a fix on reality, since you’re going to receive some mixed signals from others along the way. Above all, keep your feet on the ground.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You are deeply connected to lunar rhythms and can’t help but be moved by the intensity of today’s Aquarius Full Moon that brightens your 8th House of Intimacy. Let the emotional tide surge with its swells of unexpected power, but remember that you don’t have to express every passing mood. If you must say something now, do it and then let go. Attachment to your desires adds complexity to an otherwise beautifully simple relationship.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

The Aquarius Full Moon is especially powerful for you Lions, illuminating your 7th House of Relationships. Your emotions are intensified by a partner or close friend who is going through a dramatic change. As tough as it may be today, stay connected while still allowing everyone involved plenty of room to feel independent. Life will settle back down in the days ahead.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You are motivated to find new meaning for your life, yet your outer world may seem uninspired in comparison to what’s happening within your subconscious mind now. However, you’re not required to share anything that doesn’t increase your efficiency with the Aquarius Full Moon highlighting your 6th House of Self-Improvement. You will be happier and healthier if you feel everything fully today, even if you keep your revelations to yourself.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Life may be quite pleasant today with an edge of excitement to make things more interesting. However, your outer reactions might be somewhat subdued. Fortunately, good vibrations are buzzing all around you as the Aquarius Full Moon lights up your 5th House of Love and Creativity with spontaneous fireworks. Enjoy the show while you can without worrying too much about the future.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Today’s Aquarius Full Moon is buried in your 4th House of Roots, but it’s not a smart idea to suppress your emotions. It’s even more important to pay attention to your feelings if your head is telling you one thing and your heart is saying something else. Slipping into denial is neither healthy nor productive. Instead, reconsider your priorities and deal with the underlying issues rather than the symptoms for enduring results.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

The Aquarius Full Moon falls in your 3rd House of Communications, inspiring you to write a letter or make a phone call that you were previously avoiding. Do it right away since what you do today will have the impact you desire. But even if you have good intentions, your intensity can be overwhelming. Be patient and allow everyone enough time to assimilate your words before changing the subject.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You are highly productive when you set your mind to a specific goal. However, you could physically exhaust yourself if you aren’t careful now, because you’re riding a surge of energy that continues to build over the days ahead. The Aquarius Full Moon’s presence in your 2nd House of Personal Resources enables you to keep yourself grounded. Make time to care for your body and don’t short yourself on sleep. Being at your physical best improves your chances to accomplish your lofty ambitions.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The thoughts that are flowing in your subconscious are lifted to a high tide level by the brilliant Aquarius Full Moon. Your imagination floods into every aspect of your waking life today. Normally, the Moon works in the realm of dreams, but you cannot contain it now. Embracing the emotional storms can clear the air of stagnant feelings and allow relationships to flourish.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your heightened sense of urgency may stem from unrealistic fears today as the Aquarius Full Moon illuminates your 12th House of Secrets. Although you might feel as if time is running out, it could just be an illusion. Nevertheless, there is still work to do and you want to finish as much as possible. Close your eyes and take several deep breaths. Then, open your eyes and return to the task at hand. Doing this simple relaxation exercise often throughout the day helps you accomplish more than you thought possible.

Activities For Families and the Young at Heart in the Harvest Season of Lammas And Mabon

Activities For Families and the Young at Heart in the Harvest Season of Lammas And Mabon

By Ana

Harvest your herbs and flowers and use them!
This is fun for everyone. Get up early one morning and pick your herbs and flowers. Or, for even more power, go out late in the evening on a full moon to pick them (bring a flashlight! you could also have a fun fire or hot cider or another special treat and make a night of it!). If you like, allow the children to pick their favorite flowers and make a bouquet to hang upside down to dry. They could keep these in their doorways or rooms for whatever blessing they want- you could say a simple chant while you wrap the ties around them to dry, to help focus the intent. I also like to make smudge sticks- they are simple- take a bundle of sage and wrap it with embroidery floss. Hang to dry- usually takes a few weeks, and then each person will have their very own home grown smudge stick to use through the fall or winter. Another idea is to make dream pillows. Sew small pillows together with fun fabric. If you hate to sew, buy fabric glue and glue together three sides. Then have the children place in a small amount of stuffing along with their favorite herbs (you can try to have this coordinate with what their needs are, or just let their heart lead them to what they need). If a child is having nightmares you could go further with this as a protection from that. Once filled, sew or glue the remaining side! One last idea to use your herbs- go ahead and save some lavendar and rose petals while collecting your plants in the morning. When your work is done, take them and let them steep along with you in a hot bath!

Make a Scare Crow
This is easy and fun, and looks best in the height of summer and fall. There are many ways to do this. Ours is made using an old lamp post we had lying around (that had broke a year before!), but you could use an old shovel or broomstick stuck in the ground deep. I have an old shirt of my grandfathers placed on the edges of the post (if you use a stick, you’ll need a cross-stick to make a T for the shirt to have shoulders/arms to rest on). Then we used string to tie on old gloves (ones I couldn’t find the match to!) and an we have him holding onto a garden bulb tool (that I hated using and didn’t work so it was fine to give it to the scare crow:). For the head we took old rags, but straw would be very appropriate, and an old piece of fabric in a circle. We then gave him a nice garden hat. For me it’s a sense of garden protection, but more importantly a remembrance of my grandfather. You could also do this as a remembrance for your ancestor, or a spirit or elemental or Goddess protection, using whatever things (beads, colors, etc.) draws that presence out for you. They can watch your garden with you:) This can be a family project, or a child could work on making small protection for their own space in the yard or garden, or near a playhouse or favorite spot perhaps? The possibilities are endless!

Natural Art:
This is something you could change with each season, or with each year. Go out into nature and have your children collect their favorite items- fall leaves, grass stalks, flowers, etc. Then take a large piece of posterboard (or cardboard you have extra- let’s try to recycle what we already have:), and have the children decorate. Make a Harvest Goddess for your window! Make a Summer Sun God (you could get extra fancy with this one, and make it out of something that could be sacrificed- either to the elements by being left out over the winter, or something that could be burned). Or just fingerpaint with nature! Now, as a crafty pagan mama, while this is going on, I can take those leaves and create a altar environment on my dining table… or find things to make a harvest wreath for the front door. To make it more magical, find herbs of protection and blessings for your home:)

Go Raspberry Picking
Something we do every year in early or mid-September is go raspberry picking! This is great fun, and a great way to celebrate the equinox. Last year my daughter ate so many berries I could not believe my eyes! We always pick up some local honey at this farm as well. Then when we get home, I make a berry cobbler, some berry muffins, and then I rinse all the left over berries and let them dry overnight. The next morning I take them and put them in small baggies and freeze them for smoothies throughout the fall and winter season (this is much cheaper than buying berries at the store in winter!).

Salt Dough
Salt dough is a great way to get creative (and not spend any money:) Take 4 cups flour, 1 cup salt, and a little over a cup of water. Mix it up and there you go- instant clay. You can make all kinds of decorations for the seasons or esbats.
Use star shapes, or moons, spiral goddesses, sunflowers, and more. You can let it dry, or place them on cookie sheets on your lowest oven setting for awhile to dry them out (or stick them out in the hot sunshine). If you want to save them, take a clear paint (I use those sparkly craft ones) and do a few coats over them (this is nice on a yule tree). One fun activity I came up with lately was a bowl. Each person makes a small bowl- mine was a Goddess bowl, but it can be any type of bowl. Let the children make their own designs in it. Then, after it dries (this takes a few days, or else some time in the oven), have each child place something special to them in the bowl. I used affirmations. But, for the harvest season, one could place things they want to either plant (the Goddess plants her seeds in the fall) to grow in the future, or things they want to be released of or transformed through the death of the harvest making room for new things to grow in their life. This would be for older children obviously- my children just like to feel the dough and listen to circle round over and over again:)

.

 

About The Author: Ana is a Level I student in the White Moon School, with Luna Blanca. A stay at home mother of two small children, and focuses much of her energy on them, her home, husband, garden and pets. She is new to the White Moon School this spring, and has been studying pagan paths for the last 13 years or so. Before focusing on mothering, Ana was a yoga teacher and women’s counselor, with a degree in psychology and women’s studies. Her focus as a yoga teacher is on compassion to the self, incorporating meditation and extensive relaxation for the union of body, mind, and spirit. She enjoys reading, gardening, being at the lake, crafts, and vegetarian cooking.

Why Do You Recommend Detoxing?

Why Do You Recommend Detoxing?

by Dr. Frank Lipman

Detoxing helps our bodies cope with the onslaught of toxins and stress which  are an unavoidable part of modern day life. Boosting the detoxification system  helps bring the body back into balance. It’s an important first step in  restoring function and getting the body back to optimal health.

Internally we harbor toxins produced by the billions of bacteria and other  flora in the intestines as well as the waste products produced by the body’s  normal metabolic processes. And externally, our exposure to chemicals in the air  we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, the personal care products we put on our skin and in household  products is greater than ever. Our bodies are constantly neutralizing and  eliminating all these toxins, that is, detoxing. It is a totally natural  process. Just like with cars, our own internal engines are subject to waste  build-up and can become sluggish over time – they both run better when  clean.

So while we are obviously equipped to deal with low levels of some toxins,  our bodies can become overwhelmed and overtaxed by the substantial increase in  the number of toxins to which we are exposed.

If and when our own detoxification systems (predominantly the liver and the  gut) become overloaded and do not function properly, toxins get stored in  various tissues in the body, including fatty tissue. This prevents our system  from functioning at optimum strength and efficiency and is a factor in the  development of various chronic diseases, including cancer. Many of these  external toxins or synthetic molecules are chemically similar to biologically  active substances in our bodies and therefore easily interfere with our cell’s  normal activities. For example,

  • Some interfere with our hormones
  • Some attach themselves to our chromosomes
  • Some disable the immune system
  • Some cause overstimulation of certain enzymes, others      block their  activity

A well functioning detoxification system that is supported nutritionally is  essential to maintaining good health. I have been putting my patients on  “detoxes” for the last 20 years and seen incredible results. An effective,  natural, gentle detox  program can help your body’s natural cleansing ability and put you on the  road to rejuvenation.

10 Ways to Alkalize Your Body Today

10 Ways to Alkalize Your Body Today

by Michelle Schoffro Cook

Acidity has been linked to pain, excess weight and many other health issues.  Fortunately, making your body more alkaline (the opposite of acidic) is  easy.  Here are 10 ways to alkalize your body for more energy and  vitality:

1. Start your day with a large glass of water with the  juice of a whole, freshly-squeezed lemon. While lemons may seem acidic, they  have the opposite effect on your body as it metabolizes them.

2. Eat a large green salad tossed in lemon juice and olive  oil. Greens are among the best sources of alkaline minerals, like calcium.

3. Snack on raw, unsalted almonds. Almonds are packed with  natural alkaline minerals like calcium and magnesium, which help to balance out  acidity while balancing blood sugar.

4. Drink an almond milk and berry smoothie with added green  powder like spirulina, chlorella, or other greens. Choose almond milk over cow’s  milk, since the latter is acid-forming.

5. Go for a brisk walk or some other exercise. Exercise  helps move acidic waste products so your body can better eliminate them.

Keep reading to learn how many glasses of water it takes to neutralize one  soda…

6. Breathe deeply. Ideally, choose a spot that has fresh,  oxygen-rich air. And, sorry Febreze, Glade, and all the other so-called “air  fresheners”: air filled with these scents is not what I’m talking about  here.

7. Go meat-free for a day… or longer if you like. During  the metabolism of meat, there is an acid residue left behind.

8. Skip the sugar-laden dessert or soda.  Sugar is one  of the mosyogt acidic foods we consume. You need over 30 glasses of neutral  water just to neutralize the acidity of ONE can of soda.

9. Add more veggies to your diet. No, potatoes don’t count.  But sweet potatoes are a good choice (provided you’re not slathering them in  sweeteners or butter).  Asparagus, squash, peppers, and other vegetables  are also excellent choices.

10. Sprout it out. Add more sprouts to your daily diet. They  are extremely alkalizing and supercharged with nutrients and energy-boosting  enzymes.

8 Ways Acidic Foods Damage Your Body

8 Ways Acidic Foods Damage Your Body

by Michelle Schoffro Cook

In small amounts, acidic foods like sugar, food additives, meat, rancid oils, trans fats, and fried  food can be handled by your body’s detoxification systems like the kidneys as well as its mineral reserves.  But, over  time, acidity can have many damaging effects on the body. The following are  seven ways acidity damages the body, but they are certainly not the only  ones.

1. Excessive amounts of acid deplete oxygen, which is needed by every cell in  your body to function properly.

2. It damages the mitochondria—the cells’ energy centers—so your cells won’t  have enough energy to perform their vital functions properly.

3. Excessive amounts of acidity need to be eliminated or acid will be stored  in tissues and joints, causing damage over time.

4. If not properly eliminated or neutralized, excessive amounts of acid can  damage brain cells and other cells.

5. When acid levels are excessively high it creates a breeding ground for  bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.

6. Acid can damage tissues, joints, organs, and glands, resulting in any  number of imbalances or dysfunction.

7. It depletes alkaline mineral stores in the body, particularly calcium from  bones and magnesium from muscles.

8. Superfluous acidity overburdens the detoxification organs like the kidneys  and the liver.

Calendar of the Moon for July 21

Calendar of the Moon

21 Tinne/Hekatombaion

Gwydion’s Day

Color: Blue
Elements: Air and Water
Altar: Upon a blue cloth place musical instruments, a bowl of salt water, a chalice of sparkling water, incense of mugwort, and a bundle of twigs.
Offering: Any form of music or poetry.
Daily Meal: Light, cold food, including meat salads.

Invocation to Gwydion

Hail, Lord of the Quick Tongue!
Hail, Lord of the Clever Mind!
Hail, Lord of the Dancing Fingers!
Hail, Lord of Eloquence!
You are the cry of the gull
And the song of the sea,
The wandering mind
And the eternally seeking soul.
Arrogant one who bore the stag’s horns,
Repentant one who bore the boar’s tusk,
Wiser one who bore the wolf’s hame,
Help us to learn from our selfishness
The implacable dance of consequences.
Foster-father of Llew Llaw Gyffes,
Teach us that it is never too late
To learn how to love another unselfishly.
King of Cups, Lord of Wind and Water,
Warrior of harp and sword and wand,
Gift us with eloquence of the tongue,
That we may speak words of power to each other.
Gift us with eloquence of the soul,
That hard-won blessing
You suffered so much to achieve.

(The chalice of sparkling water should be passed around one to the next, with a blessing of “May your words be blessed with grace.” Then the musical instruments should be blessed in Gwydion’s name, and any songs can be sung for the next hour. Poetry can also be read, as an offering.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Elder’s Meditation of the Day July 20

Elder’s Meditation of the Day July 20

“When you begin a great work you can’t expect to finish it all at once; therefore, do you and your brothers press on and let nothing discourage you until you have entirely finished what you have begun.”

–Teedyuschung, DELAWARE

All things have their seasons. All thoughts are real. We must think to cause action and each action creates results. Big visions require many thoughts. It takes a series of thoughts to create a series of actions. A series of actions creates a series of results. These results are what makes vision become real. If we are here to serve the Creator then we can expect to be accomplishing big visions. How do we do this: One step at a time.

Let me focus on what needs to be done today. Give me clear thoughts to accomplish the results that you, my Creator, would have me accomplish.

The Eternal Return

The Eternal Return

Experiencing the Magick of Giving Back

by Sylvana SilverWitch

The smell of the earth is moist and mysterious, the plants are bursting with a vivid kaleidoscope of flowers, the fruit is sweetening on the branch, the sun is shining hot on my back, and I am happy. This time of the earth’s bounty makes me think of giving something back… to the earth, to the greater community, to my clan, to my lover, to a stranger on the street.

One of the things I know unequivocally is that to be competent at creating what you desire in life, you must give, give, give and then give some more. Giving works as if to illustrate to the Goddess/God/universe that you trust absolutely in the greater scheme of things and that the universe will provide for you and your needs, and as if to create a spell of abundance in your life. Sometimes the giving has such an effect on the person given to that it changes his or her life. Such change has happened to me; I have, remarkably, been on both ends.

To receive, you must give; it helps to ask as well. In this time of impending harvest, I offer you a spell in three parts: appreciating and giving thanks for what you have in your life already, giving the universe your desires and giving back to the world just as it gives to you.

I work at making the spell of giving and receiving a part of ordinary life, and I do my best to give to my community, my friends, my coven, my lover and whoever else seems right – whether it’s love, food, money, advice, help, time or energy. I cannot always immediately see the results of giving, and unquestionably, we shouldn’t give with a mind to what we will get back – that ruins the energy of it. But we may give humbly, knowing that our energy will return to us threefold, at least.

Occasionally, something I do or say has an immediate profound effect on a person, and I receive my reward right away in the awareness that I have aided the person. Sometimes I am rewarded in an unusual and unforeseen way. For instance, the phone company keeps sending me money whenever I really need it, and I still have not figured out why. Oh, well – I just trust that everything will come out as it should, and it does.

The following is a very simple spell that anyone can do, any time, any place. It is chiefly about consciousness and awareness and about being present to the gifts that are yours every day of your life. To perform the spell successfully, it helps to be centered in being conscious of what you have rather than focusing your energy on what you don’t have.

First, take a few moments to contemplate and give thanks for all of the amazing, powerful gifts you have received so far this year. Your body, your breath, your life. Your family, friends, children, lover, clan, community. Did you get the job that you really wanted? Did you finally learn some hard lesson, so you can now move on? Did you meet just the right person to help you on a project? What favors have the gods bestowed upon you recently? Take a minute or two from your day every day to focus on what you do have, and what you have received that you asked for or needed.

Then make a list, and on it list everything you can think of that you wish for. Begin with the things that you can easily accomplish in a day or a week. Start with the very next day, as in “I want (fill in the blank) tomorrow,” then move on to next week, then next month. Follow with wishes for three months, six months, nine months, a year, three years, five years, ten years and so on. List material things, job goals, relationship goals, whatever you can think of (you can always add more things later as you remember them). I always make mine a list of dates with items next to them – for example: August 1, 1996, new job making great money in a place I like with people I respect and like.

Next, sense yourself into the future and into what you want to achieve, as if it is already happening. It is! As soon as you put power into it, you begin the movement in the direction of that actuality.

Once you’ve done that for every wish, locate a spot to hang your list where you will view it every day, preferably more than once a day. Seeing the list daily reminds your subconscious of where you are going without you having to think about it. Place the list in a location away from the eyes of those who would deter or discourage you.

Then, once the list is hung up, let the desires go. Doing so is important, and the point where a lot of spells get hung up. Forget about the list except when you glance at it or when you cross off a desire that you have accomplished. (Do cross off listed wishes as you achieve them, but leave them readable, as you want to be able to see the results of your spell and feel the sense of accomplishment that comes from success.)

Once you have hung up your list, sit down, preferably in a quiet place where you can sit on the ground, but anywhere will do. Close your eyes, and give thanks and appreciation to the earth, to the sky, to the God and Goddess, to the elementals, to the fey kingdom for all that is, for your place to live here on the earth.

Give thanks, and then go and give away something that you truly treasure; give away a little something every day. Give a present to your best friend or your lover for no reason. Give some coins to a person less fortunate than you; there are always the less fortunate. Do not judge them, or what they will do with the money; that’s not important; it’s only important that you give freely.

Hugs, kisses and love are things you can give freely whenever you feel affection for someone. Bring a gift when you visit; send a cheerful card or letter to a parent or other family member; give a flower to a child; give a treat to an animal friend; leave out offerings to the fey and to the other wild things. Try the charming Santería custom of kissing your money as you make an offering (or spend it); Santería devotees believe that kissing money ensures it will return to you (and I do too!).

Explore how much you can give with love, joy and generosity, and this will tell you where your prosperity potential is. The more difficult it is for you to be generous, the harder it is for you to be prosperous yourself.

See how it feels to feel as if you have enough, as if you are rich, as if you have all your needs fulfilled – as if you are the opulent Earth Mother giving to all her children!

Thank all for whatever you have. Put out the energy of generosity and good will, and that is what you will manifest in your life.

Give love, every day, to someone who needs some, and if nothing else, give a smile.

2nd Quiz of the Day – Your Favorite Color: What it Says About You

Your Favorite Color: What it Says About You

by Annie B. Bond

 

Whether we’re a vibrant Orange, or a peaceful Blue, our color preferences are  a key to understanding our personalities. Find out what this color expert has to  say about your favorite color. What does it reveal about who you really are?

White: Symbolic of purity, innocence and naivete, white has  strong connotations of youth and purity. If you are an older person, your  preference for white could indicate a desire for perfection and impossible  ideals, maybe an attempt to recapture lost youth and freshness. It may also  symbolize a desire for simplicity or the simple life.

Red: The color of strength, health, and vitality, Red is  often the color chosen by someone outgoing, aggressive, vigorous and  impulsive—or someone who would like to be! It goes with an ambitious nature but  those who choose it can be abrupt at times, determined to get all they can out  of life, quick to judge people and take sides. Red people are usually optimistic  and can’t stand monotony; they are rather restless and not at all introspective,  so they may be unaware of their own shortcomings. They find it hard to be  objective and may blame others for any mishaps. Quiet people with a preference  for red may feel the need for the warmth, strength and life-giving qualities of  the color, or they blanket their true feelings under a sober exterior. Red is  usually chosen by people with open and uncomplicated natures, with a zest for  life.

Maroon: Harsh experience has probably matured the Maroon  person into someone likable and generous. It is often a favorite color of  someone who has been battered by life but has come through. It indicates a  well-disciplined Red personality—one who has had difficult experiences and has  not come through unmarked but who has grown and matured in the process.

Pink: This color embodies the gentler qualities of Red,  symbolizing love and affection without passion. Women who prefer Pink tend to be  maternal. Pink desires protection, special treatment and a sheltered life. Pink  people require affection and like to feel loved and secure, perhaps wanting to  appear delicate and fragile. Pink people tend to be charming and gentle, if a  trifle indefinite.

Orange: This color of luxury and pleasure appeals to the  flamboyant and fun-loving person who likes a lively social round. Orange people  may be inclined to dramatize a bit, and people notice them, but they are  generally good-natured and popular. They can be a little fickle and vacillating,  but on the whole they try hard to be agreeable. Orange is the color of youth,  strength, fearlessness, curiosity and restlessness.

Yellow: The color of happiness, wisdom and imagination,  Yellow is chosen by the mentally adventurous, searching for novelty and  self-fulfillment. Yellow usually goes with a sunny and shrewd personality, with  a good business head and a strong sense of humor. It is the color of  intellectuality and all things to do with the mind. Yellow folks are usually  clear and precise thinkers who have a good opinion of their own mental  capacities and who have lofty ideals. They may at times tend to shun  responsibility, preferring freedom of thought and action.

Green: The color of harmony and balance, Green symbolizes  hope, renewal and peace, and is usually liked by the gentle and sincere. Greens  are generally frank, community-minded people, fairly sociable but preferring  peace at any price. Green people can be too self-effacing, modest and patient,  so they may get exploited by others. They are usually refined, civilized and  reputable.

Blue: Soft, soothing, compassionate and caring, Blue is the  color of deliberation and introspection, conservatism and duty. Patient,  persevering, conscientious, sensitive and self-controlled, Blues like to be  admired for their steady character and wisdom. They are faithful, but are often  worriers with somewhat inflexible beliefs and can be too cautious, and  suspicious of flamboyant behavior.

Blue-Green: Exacting, discriminating, poised and attractive,  the Blue-Green person tends to be sensitive, intellectual and refined,  persevering and stable if rather detached. Blue-Greens have excellent taste, and  are usually courteous and charming, capable but often refusing help or  guidance.

Turquoise: Complex, imaginative and original, Turquoise  people drive themselves hard and may be in a state of turmoil under their  outwardly cool exterior.

Lavender: This is often chosen by a person who lives “on a  higher plane,” who never notices anything sordid and who is always impeccably  and beautifully dressed. Lavender people may be on a continual quest for culture  and the refined things of life, high and noble causes but without the necessity  of getting their hands dirty. A Lavender person is usually creative, charming,  witty and civilized.

Purple: Purples are highly individual, fastidious, witty and  sensitive, with a strong desire to be unique and different. Temperamental,  expansive and artistic, a Purple person may become aloof and sarcastic when  misunderstood. If you chose Purple, you tend to be unconventional, tolerant and  dignified, likely to achieve positions of authority.

Brown: A Brown person has stamina and patience, tending to  be very solid and substantial, conscientious, dependable, steady and  conservative. Browns are not impulsive, and may be inarticulate and tactless but  they love responsibility and are reliable and kindly. If you chose Brown, watch  out for a tendency to be obstinate and inflexible.

Gray: The color of caution and compromise, diligent Grays  search for composure and peace and often work hard without reward. Older Grays  like life to run on an even keel with few ups and downs. Young Grays may be  withdrawing from life and suppressing their personalities. Grays often have good  business ability and tend to work too much.

Black: Dignified and impressive without being showy, Black  people want to give the appearance of mystery, but their preference may also  indicate a suppression of desires and worldly aims, suggesting hidden depths and  inner longings.

Adapted from The Healing Power of Color by Betty Wood (Inner  Traditions, 1998).

 

Calendar of the Moon for July 16

Calendar of the Moon

16 Duir/Skirophorion

Selene’s Day

Color: White and silver
Element: Water
Altar: Lay with a white cloth, on which is sewn moons of silver in cycle from new to dark. Set out two white candles rubbed with jasmine oil, a silver tray with round white cakes, a glass pitcher of goat’s milk, a glass chalice of white wine, a glass of clear anise liqueur, a round mirror, and a silver bell.
Offerings: White foods. Milk, poured in libation. A promise to aid those suffering from mental illness or emotional confusion.
Daily Meal: Nothing but milk or rice milk to drink. Rice. Custard. Cream soups and sauces.

Invocation to Selene

Lady of the Full Moon
White Lady whose rays shine on us
Lighting our path through the darkness
Round as a full belly
Pregnant with possibilities,
White as mother’s milk
And snow on high mountaintops,
Moon mother who sings to us
Lullabies of imagination,
Cascade through our dreams,
Sail us through the ebb and flow
Of our heart’s tides,
And light our spirits
With your serene love.

Chant: Luna Lucina Lumen Lumen

(The cakes are passed around, saying, “Eat of the Mother’s sweetness.” Then the pitcher of milk is passed around, saying, “Drink of the Mother’s love.” Then the chalice of wine is passed around, saying, “Drink of the Mother’s dreams.” Then the glass of liqueur is passed around, saying, “Drink of the Mother’s song.” Then the remainder are poured out as libations and the silver bell is rung six times.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Good Monday Morning, My Dear & Blessed Friends!

Celtic & British Isles Graphics

Goddess My Shield, My Encircler

Goddess my shield, my encircler,
Each day, each night, each dark, each light.
Goddess my shield, my encircler,
Each day, each night, each dark, each light.
In my lying, in my standing,
In my watching, in my sleeping.
Goddess be my strength everlasting.

So Mote It Be.

 

Magickal Graphics

Daily OM for July 14 – Earth Living

Earth Living

Following Nature’s Cycles

Nature, in all its myriad forms, is the most powerful force on earth. Although mankind has tried, we have not found a way to match its awesome power, but we have found ways to work with it. Science often confirms the wisdom of the ancients who observed and then harnessed nature’s rhythms and cycles to shape and enhance their lives. We can begin to do this in our own lives by first paying attention to our own natural rhythms, such as when we wake or when we feel the need to sleep. If possible, we may want to try to rise and sleep with the sun or live without electricity for a weekend and then monitor how we feel. We can make the choice to eat the foods of the seasons and to seek fresher, locally grown, or organic produce whose own cycles have not been tampered with by technology.

We can create harmony in our homes by making a smooth transition between our indoor and outdoor spaces. By bringing some of the outdoors inside and taking some of our indoor décor out, we can simultaneously enjoy nature and the comforts of home and the feeling that our living space is expanded. Then, whether inside or out, we can lounge on a comfortable piece of furniture and feel the wind, inhale the scent of deeply breathing plants, listen for the many songs of life, and observe the moon and the stars. As we do this more often, we may find ourselves noticing the pull of the full moon on bodies of water, as well as the water in bodies, or the music of the night acting as a lullaby.

When we seek balance in our lives, we want to balance not just our roles in life but also the natural elements in our spaces. Having representations of the elements in the colors, shapes, and textures of our homes will appeal to our mind, body, and spirit. We may find that when we sync ourselves with nature’s rhythms, we ride the waves of energy to feel more in harmony with life and the world around us.

Lighten Up – Excerpts from a Cat’s Diary

Excerpts from a Cat’s Diary – Prefers to remain anonymous

Day 752— My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while I’m forced to eat dry cereal. The only thing that keeps me going is the hope of escape, and the mild satisfaction I get from ruining the occasional piece of furniture. Tomorrow I may eat another houseplant.

Day 761—-Today my attempt to kill my captors by weaving in and out of their feet while they were walking almost succeeded, note must try at the top of the stairs. In an attempt to disgust and repulse these vile oppressors, I once again induced myself to vomit on their favorite chair……must try doing this on their bed.

Day768—I am finally aware of how sadistic they are. For no good reason I was given the water torture. This time however it included a burning foamy chemical called (shampoo). What sick minds could invent such a liquid? My only consolation is the piece of the thumb still stuck between my teeth.

Day 771—There was some sort of gathering of their accomplices. I was placed in solitary confinement throughout the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the foul odor of the glass tubes they called ” Beer”. More importantly I over heard that my confinement was due to my Power of Allergies. Must learn what this is and how to use it to my advantage.

Day 774—I am convinced the other captives are flunkies and maybe snitches. The dog is routinely released and seems more than happy to return. He is obviously a half wit. The bird on-the-other-hand has got to be an informant he speaks with them on a regular basis. I am certain he is reporting on my every move. Due to his placement in a metal room his safety is assured. But, I can watch and I can wait. It is only a matter of time.