tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86807918246324267422024-03-14T09:32:44.949+00:00Kitchen Witch BlogOnline School and BlogRPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.comBlogger678125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-34756089091384254652018-06-06T15:23:00.002+01:002022-11-17T09:27:10.568+00:00Our blog has moved...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">OUR BLOG HAS MOVED...</span></b></h2>
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<span style="font-size: large;">From 1st June 2018 our blog has moved to a new home...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">You can now find us at:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b style="background-color: #ea9999;"><a href="http://www.kitchenwitchhearth.net/blog">www.kitchenwitchhearth.net/blog</a></b></span><br />
<br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Come on over...pop in and borrow a cup of sugar...</span><br />
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♥RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-60756963764009702302018-05-30T12:23:00.000+01:002018-05-30T12:23:14.135+01:00Blodeuwedd by Unity<br />
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Blodeuwedd by Unity</h2>
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The tale of Blodeuwedd, the Welsh Spring Goddess, is found
in the forth branch of the Mabinogion, the earliest collection of Welsh prose
stories of Gods, heroes, myth and legend. In order to share with you the legend
of Blodeuwedd, it is necessary to tell the whole story, although this is only a
brief description, for more information see 'The Mabinogion', translated by
Lady Charlotte Elizabeth Guest. It is a twisting tale of betrayal and
transformation, that involves several other characters and starts long before
the creation of Blodeuwedd.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The tale begins with the Welsh King Math ap Mathonwy, or
Math son of Mathonwy. Math could not exist unless his feet were laid in the lap
of a maiden, unless he was in battle. At the time his maiden was Goewin, the
fairest maiden in the land, but unknown to Math, his nephew Gilvaethwy had
become obsessed with her and with the help of his brother Gwydion devised a
distraction to take Math away from home, leaving Goewin without protection, he
then raped her, and she became pregnant. On his return Math married her to save
her honour and banished his nephews, turning them into a breeding pair of three
different animals for three years.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When the three years were up and the brothers forgiven, Math
asked Gwydion for advice in choosing a new foot holder, Gwydion suggested his
sister Arianrhod, but when she was taken before the King she was asked to step
over his wand to prove her virginity, as she did so she gave birth to a son,
she fled in shame, dropping another small bundle as she went. Before anyone
could have a proper look, Gwydion scooped the bundle up and hid it in a chest.
Math picked up the first son and decided to have him baptised and named Dylan,
as Dylan was baptised he plunged into the sea and swam away.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gwydion discovered that the small bundle was in fact another
son and took on the care and upbringing of him, when the child was four he took
him to visit his Mother, who out of shame and anger cursed the boy that he
would have no name unless she gave it to him. Gwydion was a wise and powerful
magician and tricked Arianrhod into giving the boy a name, Lleu Llaw Gyffes,
meaning ' the fair- haired one with the skilful hand.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Realising she had been tricked, Arianrhod placed another
curse on Lleu, that he would never take up arms, unless she gave them to him.
Time passed and Lleu grew into a strong handsome young man. Again, Gwydion used
trickery to deceive Arianrhod into giving Lleu arms. Realising she had again
been tricked, furious Arianrhod placed a third curse on Lleu, that he would
never have a wife of the race that inhabit the earth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gwydion was out of tricks, so he visited a sympathetic Math
and together they created a beautiful maiden from the blossoms of Oak, Broom
and Meadowsweet, they gave her the name 'Blodeuwedd', meaning 'Flower face'.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Soon after Lleu and Blodeuwedd married and seemed very happy
together. But one day when Lleu was away visiting Math, a nobleman named Gronw
Pebyr, who had been out hunting called at the castle of Lleu asking for
shelter, Blodeuwedd agreed and during the course of the evening they fell in
love with each other. Blodeuwedd knew that she would never be free to be with
Gronw while Lleu was alive, and he was virtually impossible to kill.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Together they came up with a plan to kill Lleu and once he
returned to his home, she set about persuading Lleu through flattery to tell
her how he could be killed. He told her that he could only be slain by a spear
that had been made over the course of a year, on a Sunday at dusk, while
standing on a bath beside a river, with a thatched roof covering it, and he
must have one foot on the edge of the tub, and the other on the back of a goat.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blodeuwedd passed this information onto Gronw, and a year
later tricked Lleu into demonstrating how he could be killed. Suspecting
nothing Lleu did so, and at that precise moment Gronw, who had been hiding
nearby leapt out and threw the spear at Lleu. Instead of dying Lleu transformed
into an eagle and flew away. Gronw and Blodeuwedd believed that they would not
see him again and set up home together in Lleu's castle.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gwydion was distraught when he heard the news and went
searching for his nephew. Eventually he followed a pig and found an eagle
sitting in the top of a tree, his decomposing flesh falling to the ground where
it was eaten by the sow. Gwydion called Lleu down from the tree by reciting
three stanzas of poetry called an Englyn, he transformed him back into a man
and over the following year, nursed him back to health. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When Lleu recovered he swore revenge on Gronw and together
with Gwydion they made their way back to reclaim Lleu's castle. When Blodeuwedd
heard they were coming, she fled with her ladies to the mountains, they were so
scared they walked backwards to ensure they were not being followed, they feel
into a lake and were all drowned except Blodeuwedd. Whilst Lleu went after and
killed Gronw, Gwydion quickly caught up with Blodeuwedd, and instead of killing
her he turned her into an owl, saying that: ' thou shalt never show thy face in
the light of the day henceforth' and that all the other birds would attack her
and chase her away from wherever they may find her.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He allowed her to keep her name and she has remained in this
form ever since, mourning the loss of her one true love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It's easy to initially judge Blodeuwedd as a betrayer, but
in a more sympathetic light she was created to be nothing more than Lleu's wife
and had no say in the matter. She could never follow her own dreams or be her
own person while Lleu lived.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Amy Sophia Marashinsky writes in her Goddess Oracle that the
real story is about the archetypal forces. Blodeuwedd represents the fertile
earth goddess, hungry for the blood of the sacrificial king to fertilize her
soil.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whatever the true meaning behind the story, Blodeuwedd reminds
us that relationships are fragile, and that beauty is only skin deep. She is a
goddess of life and death and can be worked with for: <o:p></o:p></div>
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Love, independence, wisdom and transformation.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Image - <a href="http://www.rachelpatterson.co.uk/" target="_blank">Gods & Goddesses Colouring book </a>by Rachel Patterson</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Mabinogion - Translated by Lady Charlotte Elizabeth
Guest<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">druidry.org<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wikipedia<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Goddess Oracle - Amy Sophia Marashinsky</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-67731383874551776302018-05-26T12:43:00.000+01:002018-05-26T12:43:13.579+01:00White Howlite by Autumn Ravenflower<br />
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White Howlite by Autumn Ravenflower</h2>
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It was my birthday on April 1st and I was blessed to be
gifted, from a very dear friend of mine, a beautiful white howlite skull.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m a bit of a fan of skulls - not real ones, I hasten to
add. I used to collect and was given, all sorts of different ones - pewter
gothic ones, Celtic tribal tattooed ones, skulls with ornamental ravens on top,
alchemy gothic worry stones etc... </div>
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Although I still have them all, I prefer to
collect the crystal variety. I only have one other to date - blue apatite but
this white howlite one was a crystal skull that I have wanted to get for a
while, so was very pleased when I received it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Holding the crystal in my hands, I closed my eyes and let
the words and feeling come to me... clarity, understanding, expression,
thoughts, healing, intuition. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Howlite originates from Canada and depending on the grade, will
be of varying shades of white. Mine is a good grade of howlite - snow white
colour with grey markings and opaque. It is also a stone that can be dyed -
very often you will see the blue variety or maybe a red one. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Howlite has many properties - mainly to do with helping
stress, anxiety and tension. It will calm and soothe the mind and in turn, aid
a restful night’s sleep. Feel angry? or aggressive? White howlite can remove
those feelings. Hold one in each hand, sit and close your eyes and feel the
energies of this wonderful stone work to calm and restore feelings of calm and
placidness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Howlite does have properties relating to clarity,
understanding, expression and thought which was what I felt while holding it.
If you’re seeking inspiration or motivation, this is one to work with. It
allows you to understand what it is you want from life and from others and
yourself and gives you the confidence to go for it. It lets you express
yourself verbally too - freely and effectively. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Howlite can help with your metabolism and to heal various
skin conditions as well as promote a healthy skeleton. It can assist with
purifying the blood system and to reduce pain associated with the muscles. <o:p></o:p></div>
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White Howlite also has some wonderful magical properties - <o:p></o:p></div>
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Energy - Protective<o:p></o:p></div>
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Element - Earth<o:p></o:p></div>
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Planet - Moon<o:p></o:p></div>
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Powers - Patience and Peace<o:p></o:p></div>
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Focusing on howlite can assist while journeying allowing you
insight to past lives. Burning a grey candle too will amplify your experience. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I referred back to my blog post on my blue apatite crystal
skull and it was interesting to read that my thoughts on that crystal almost
mirrored this one - thought, intuition, knowledge, higher self and inspiration.
I definitely think the skull aspect of the crystals tie in with the crystals
own properties - harmonizing with them and giving you a focus to understand how
each one works for you...<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-58403756047158385932018-05-23T12:20:00.000+01:002018-05-23T12:20:05.536+01:00Protection Ritual by Autumn Ravenflower<br />
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Protection Ritual by Autumn Ravenflower</h2>
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You will need: black candle. This is to dispel negative
energies.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Black tourmaline crystal - this transmutes into positive
energies.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jet - to absorb negative energies.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sage and Rosemary bundle to burn as incense for cleansing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Cloves - may be burned for protection and to purify the
energy of the area that the ritual is to be held also.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Set these items up on your working altar or a small table in
the middle of the room.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Circle casting:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Standing at your altar, light the candle and incense and say
the following: <o:p></o:p></div>
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"Here I stand in this sacred space<o:p></o:p></div>
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Our energies are connected<o:p></o:p></div>
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By the powers of the elements that reside<o:p></o:p></div>
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This circle is now protected!" <o:p></o:p></div>
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Calling in the quarters:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Element of Air, I call upon you in this ritual<o:p></o:p></div>
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Show me positive thinking so that I may banish all negative
thoughts.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Teach me the knowledge of freedom so that I may protect
myself<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hail and Welcome!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Element of Fire, I Call upon you in this ritual<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bring with you your fiery force, teaching me to protect what
is ours.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Show me your will-power and drive so that I may stand our
ground.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hail and Welcome!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Element of Water, I call upon you in this ritual<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bring with you your purification so that I may wash away
negative energies<o:p></o:p></div>
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Teach me intuition so that I may be guided and protected.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hail and Welcome! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Element of Earth, I call upon you in this ritual<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bring with you your focus and your strength so that I can be
guided in my quest for protection. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Show me stability and wisdom so that I may stand our ground.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hail and Welcome!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Depending on what you need the protection for, you can do
the following:<o:p></o:p></div>
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House protection - sprinkle black salt into each corner of
the home. Smudging with the sage and rosemary bundle into the corner of each
room also has the same effect. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Sit and focus on the lighted candle. Visualise the candle
flame spreading out to protect every room in your house. This can also be used
for self protection too! If you need protection from a person, write their name
on a piece of paper, light it with the candle flame and place in a fireproof
dish to burn out. Visualise being protected from that person as the paper burns
away. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Thanking the quarters:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Element of Earth I thank you for your presence in this
circle<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have focus and strength, stability and wisdom and will
work with these to protect what is mine <o:p></o:p></div>
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Hail and Farewell! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Element of Water I thank you for your presence in this
circle<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have washed away all that is negative and am guided by my
intuition to remain protected<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hail and Farewell!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Element of Fire I thank you for your presence in this circle<o:p></o:p></div>
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Your fire is my strength to keep myself and those I love
protected<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the willpower to stand my ground<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hail and Farewell! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Element of Air I thank you for your presence in this circle<o:p></o:p></div>
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You have shown me positivity and have banished all negative
thoughts<o:p></o:p></div>
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I now have the knowledge I need to protect myself and my
home. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Hail and Farewell! <o:p></o:p></div>
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"I have stood in this sacred space<o:p></o:p></div>
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My energies are connected<o:p></o:p></div>
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By the powers of the elements that reside<o:p></o:p></div>
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This circle is undone but still protected!" <o:p></o:p></div>
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So mote it be!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-63869844704763533192018-05-19T12:39:00.000+01:002018-05-19T12:39:15.179+01:00The magical banana by Autumn Ravenflower<br />
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I enjoy thinking of new and interesting things to research
and write about on the Kitchen Witch blog. Sometimes I’ll have a new crystal,
or an idea will come to me while out on a walk but during a chat with the other
Hearth Guardians, for whatever reason, one of us found a gif of a dancing
banana which made everyone laugh. Someone else found another 'banana' gif and
talk got around to bananas - Hey! our chats always go off on a tangent before
coming back to the topic in hand. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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That’s when I decided to look at the properties of bananas -
both as healing and magical...</div>
<h2>
The magical banana by Autumn Ravenflower</h2>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wIekhKWkT0w/WtcudfLuvxI/AAAAAAAAFE0/X99CY6hYXSsQ-HeIBRKLnoryP7v5ynn2wCLcBGAs/s1600/head-of-bananas_mkZWwN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wIekhKWkT0w/WtcudfLuvxI/AAAAAAAAFE0/X99CY6hYXSsQ-HeIBRKLnoryP7v5ynn2wCLcBGAs/s320/head-of-bananas_mkZWwN.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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A banana is technically speaking a berry and is from several
kinds of flowering plants that are native to warmer climates like Indomalia and
Australia but were originally from Papa New Guinea.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The word 'banana' is actually a general name for what is
several types of this high in potassium fruit - plantain is a firmer, more
dense version which is usually used in Eastern cookery, but there are other
types too - scarlet banana, pink banana and snow banana, although I haven’t
come across these versions in the grocers or in any of the Asian Supermarket
that I visit.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Bananas are a wonderful fruit with huge amounts of medicinal
properties. I've already said that bananas are high in potassium (this
maintains fluid balance in our bodies) - they also contain a lot of fibre which
is essential for our digestion. They contain anti-oxidants which help preserve
our bodies cells as well as helping our circulation. Rutin is another addition
to this super fruit - rutin helps to maintain our blood vessels as well as
having anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They also have a compound
produces serotonin - a chemical in our brain that gives us that 'feel good'
factor.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Bananas can be worked with magically also - they are said to
improve fertility and cure impotency. Use the leaves, fruit and flowers in
spells for prosperity. If a bride should marry under a banana tree, she will be
blessed with good luck! Carrying a banana with you on your travels prevents you
from harm or accidents.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This is my favourite recipe for delicious Banoffee Pie - as
well as being highly indulgent, it also has all those wonderful healing
properties and if you make it with magical intention...well, you never know...<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<h3>
Banoffee Pie</h3>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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For the base -<o:p></o:p></div>
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150g digestive biscuits<o:p></o:p></div>
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75g butter<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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For the filling -<o:p></o:p></div>
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75g butter<o:p></o:p></div>
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75g light muscovado sugar<o:p></o:p></div>
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397g tin of full fat condensed milk<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 tsp vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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For the topping -<o:p></o:p></div>
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3 small just ripe bananas<o:p></o:p></div>
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300ml double cream<o:p></o:p></div>
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cocoa powder to dust<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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20cm springform tin<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Break the biscuits up - I put them in a bowl and use the end
of my rolling pin to smash them into fine crumbs. Melt the butter slowly in a
pan and add this to the bowl of biscuit crumbs. Mix together until all the
crumbs are coated and transfer to the tin which has been lined. Flatten it down
with a spoon until firm and it covers the base of the tin. Pop into the fridge.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Next, melt the butter and sugar together in a pan, stirring
until the sugar has dissolved. Add the condensed milk and bring to the boil. Stir
continuously for a couple of minutes, taking care not to burn or overcook the
mixture. Take off of the heat and add the vanilla extract. Pour the mixture
into the tin that you have now taken out of the fridge. The caramel mixture
should have a consistency to pour but not be runny. Cool for a while then pop
back into the fridge to set for at least an hour.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Slice the bananas and put them on top of your caramel in a
single layer but close together. Whip the cream to a firm piping consistency
and either pipe or use a spoon to cover the bananas. Using a small sieve, dust
the top with cocoa powder. You can either serve immediately or pop back in the
fridge until ready...<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-75945131094184355772018-05-16T12:12:00.000+01:002018-05-16T12:12:13.515+01:00Stillbite by Unity<br />
<h2>
Stilbite by Unity</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJs34KSGGqw/WtcoHwbX9eI/AAAAAAAAFD0/WVCtHJHTxmQYx6v0m2LgOPPbx0DIBF9HgCLcBGAs/s1600/260px-Fluorapophyllite-Stilbite-Ca-indi-52b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="260" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJs34KSGGqw/WtcoHwbX9eI/AAAAAAAAFD0/WVCtHJHTxmQYx6v0m2LgOPPbx0DIBF9HgCLcBGAs/s1600/260px-Fluorapophyllite-Stilbite-Ca-indi-52b.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
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I recently obtained a lovely raw piece of Stilbite, I felt
an instant connection with it and was intrigued to find out more about this
beautiful pale pinkish/white crystal.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Stilbite belongs to the Zoisite family of minerals and is
often found joined to Apophylite, when their energies are combined they can
help to bring the heart and mind together to function as one, helping you to
make loving decisions and choices. Stilbite can clear the aura of debris and
be placed on the heart or third eye chakra.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Stilbite has a loving, supportive and gentle energy and can
be used to enhance your intuition and inspire creativity. It can be used as an
aid for spiritual journeying, connecting to deity and for those who have
difficulty meditating as it quietens the mind and brings inner peace. It can
also be used to bring deep insight and intuitive thoughts to those who need
direction on their spiritual path.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Kept under your pillow or on your bedside table, Stilbite
can help bring relaxation to help those who suffer from sleep problems, it is
known to enhance and increase dreams and protect from nightmares.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Stilbite is a useful crystal to have on hand when mental
focus and concentration is needed, it shields the mind from external influences
and clears away the annoying brain chatter that constantly threatens to
distract us. I have my Stilbite on my lap while I'm typing this, and feel it
is definitely helping me feel more focused.</div>
<h3>
Healing</h3>
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Stilbite is said to heal brain disorders and help rid the
system of toxins. It can treat laryngitis, sunburn, strained ligaments and skin
pigmentation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Stilbite gently heals emotional issues such as relationship
breakdowns and its gentle supportive energy make it an ideal crystal to bring
comfort and healing to those suffering from loss and grief.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Colours: White, Pinkish, grey, yellow, red, orange or brown<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Magical Properties: Clearing, channelling, Invocation,
Meditation, Sleep, Intuition, Focus<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Chakra: Heart and Third eye<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Crystal Bible - Judy Hall<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">New Crystal Bible - Cassandra Eason<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Book of Stones - Robert Simmons & Naisha Ashian</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Image - Wikipedia</span></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-85488996784631250592018-05-12T12:32:00.000+01:002018-05-12T12:32:11.047+01:00The Apple Tree by StormloverWolf<br />
<h2>
The Apple Tree by StormloverWolf</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ky7xGzMvOAs/WtctPDoCfRI/AAAAAAAAFEo/bUdOqO6W_w4_33xsBDX0u7RcFWhYQiJswCLcBGAs/s1600/apples_fyIAjr5_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ky7xGzMvOAs/WtctPDoCfRI/AAAAAAAAFEo/bUdOqO6W_w4_33xsBDX0u7RcFWhYQiJswCLcBGAs/s320/apples_fyIAjr5_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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I know, I know you are thinking “Storm, apples are really
about Fall aren't they”? Well with Ostara and Spring coming on I wanted to talk
to you a bit about the apple tree, as in Spring is when it first begins to
breathe again for the coming season.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Spring brings us such beauty does it not? Vibrant colours of
new grass, and flowers popping up and then there is the incredible beauty of
fruit trees breathing new life into some of the most beautiful flowers that I
have ever seen.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>A bit of background -</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Malus, a genus in the large rose family (Rosaceae),
comprised about 25 different species of small deciduous trees of the northern
temperate zone. Apple leaves are softer with a more downy feel than those of
the pear tree (Pyrus). The flowers of the apple trees have five styles as
against the solitary styles in the flowers of plum trees (Prunus).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The wild apple tree of north western Europe is the crab
apple, M. sylvestris. The white or pink flowers are followed by a
greenish-yellow, sometimes even red flushed, with fruits that are smaller than
2 inches (5cm) in diameter, crowned by the persistent calys, calys being the
sepals of a flower forming a spiral that encloses the petals and forms a
protective layer around a flower in bud.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Let’s look at apples and Natural Healing, shall we?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Apples are a wonderful source of various minerals, such as
potassium and iron, as well as vitamins such as E and A, many of which are more
abundant in the apple's skin rather than in the flesh itself. These fruits help
the body to detox, and are beneficial to the bowels, the liver and also the
brain.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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They are used to treat headaches, gout, rheumatism and high
blood pressure, and are of special value to heart patients (apple with honey
has been a remedy for heart problems since ancient times). The health benefits
of eating apples indeed justify the English saying, “An apple a day keeps the
doctor away”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In traditional Chinese medicine, apples are categorized as
cool, sweet and sour, and ton yin, they produce fluids, lubricate the lungs,
enhance digestion and detoxification, and increase the blood sugar level. I do
have to add here, I am a diabetic and must watch my blood sugars daily. My
“treat” instead of candy or ice cream in the evening is to have an apple with a
bit of cheese, or even some walnuts. I do not have a problem with this making
the sugars too high for me and they are really good to eat, and I love the
sweeter apples of Gala, Bremerton and Fuji. I live here in Spokane, WA so we
have a lot of apples from here Always check first with your Doctor to make sure
this is alright for you!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In Ayurveda, apples are regarded as sweet and astringent.
The Bach Flower Remedy of crab apple has an emotionally cleansing effect, as
does the tree essence of the orchard apple.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Myth, Symbols and Culture -</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The apple was already a symbol of fertility in ancient
Greece, having been sacred to Demeter, the goddess of corn and sustenance, and
also (along with quince and the pomegranate) to Aphrodite, the goddess of love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The apples association with fertility and marriage customs
lasted down through the ages, becoming particularly pronounced in Europe during
the Middle Ages and the centuries that followed. In many European fairy tales,
the eating of an apple ensures offspring. In France, during the Renaissance
period, a young man would woo a girl by offering her an apple. In Transylvania
(Rumania), there is a custom in which a red apple is waved at the bride at her
wedding. A medieval love charm from Germany suggests writing certain letters on
a “love” apple and then giving it to the object of your affection to eat. An
Italian tale relates how such a love apple was eaten accidentally by a pig,
with the result that subsequently the pig would not leave the wooer's side
which I find extremely funny. Nothing against piggies, love them; just maybe
not so much in the “wooing area” if you will. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In Arthurian legend, Avalon is the Isle of the Blessed, the
Celtic paradise into which King Arthur passes, mortally wounded, on a boat with
three accompanying maidens or priestesses. “Avalon stems from the word apple
(Welsh afallen, Scottish Gaelic abhab. In the real world, this place is
believed to be related to Glastonbury (and its famous Tor or hill) in Somerset,
England, which still has many an orchard (in Latin “avallonia”).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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According to a Saxon myth that was first recorded in the
Middle Ages, the goddess of spring, Iduna, supplies the gods with fruits that
give eternal life. This is an ancient theme connected with the Tree of Life,
but we don't know whether or not we can trust the scribe's use of the word
“apple” here. However, we can see this tale as a medieval way of paying homage
to the apple by extolling its health-giving and life-enhancing properties.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Symbolism: Health and fertility</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Divine Associations: Demeter, Hera (both Greek; Pomona
(Roman), Frigga, Freya (both Norse); Rhiannon, Aphrodite, Morgan le Fey,
Cerridwen, Apollo, Hera, Gaia, Athena, Zeus, Astarte, Diana, Venus and more
yet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Astrological Associations: Sun and Venus<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Element: Water<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Gender: Feminine<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Zodiac association: Cancer<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Magical Properties of Apple Tree:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Love, luck and is used in immortality spells. Apple is a
great wood for a magical wand. It is a favourite Witch tree. The fruit is used
at Mabon and Samhain, as well as for most love spells. Apple is also offered in
the Dumb Supper at Samhain by some.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Eating an apple opens the gateway into other realms, most
often fairyland. It provides illumination and the gaining of knowledge.
Dreaming of apples symbolizes prosperity and the good life. At Samhain, winning
the game of bobbing for apples meant that you would be blessed by the Goddess
for a year.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Since apples were symbols of Avalon, capturing one from the
water represented crossing the holy isle. The apple is also considered one of
the foods of the dead, so they are often piled high on Samhain altars, for
Samhain is sometimes known as the “Feast of Apples”. If cut horizontally, the
apple reveals the pentagram pattern, which is considered the gateway to occult
powers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Egyptians offered apples to their highest and most
powerful priests, whom they considered guardians of hidden knowledge. In the
Middle Ages, sliced apples were used to foretell the future and eating them
regularly was said to enable a person to live over 200 years. Apple blossoms
were included in love sachets and used to scent candles to attract love into
your life. To insure happiness in your relationship, cut an apple in half and
share it with your loved one.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Magicians like Merlin and Taliesin were said to carry a
silver bough from the apple tree hung with bells and ripened fruits that allow
them to cross in the other worlds, and then to be able to return to ours.
Unicorns have also been associated with the apple tree, whose fruits they are
said to really enjoy eating!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two spells that you might like to try....<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<h4>
Apple Seed Love Spell – to Bring Love into Your Life</h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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You will need:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One piece of Rose Quartz Crystal<o:p></o:p></div>
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One red rose<o:p></o:p></div>
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One red apple<o:p></o:p></div>
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One green candle<o:p></o:p></div>
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One pink candle<o:p></o:p></div>
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One oil burner and rose essential oil<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pick a time when you know you will not be disturbed. While
getting all the things you need together, think of the kind of love you would
like to invite into your life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Light the oil burner and the red and green candles.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Place the red rose in front of the burning candles.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hold the Rose Quartz in your hand and as you stare into the
candle flame, repeat the Angel Invocation below:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Archangel Anael, I invoke thee<o:p></o:p></div>
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To grant me my wish<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I ask for love eternal and true<o:p></o:p></div>
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May the flame of the candle<o:p></o:p></div>
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The fragrance of the Rose<o:p></o:p></div>
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Carry it afar<o:p></o:p></div>
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And grant me my heart’s desire<o:p></o:p></div>
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So Mote It Be!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank the Archangel Anael for helping you and leave the
candles to burn out in a safe place. Eat the apple and save the seeds.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Place the rose, the apple seeds, and the rose quartz crystal
on a window ledge where they will attract the magic of the noon. The following
morning as soon as you wake up, plant the apple seeds in a pot with suitable
growing soil.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Look after your seeds in a caring way and as the seedlings
begin to grow, love will come into your life. Keep the rose in a vase and when
it wilts, dry the petals and keep them in a special place along with your rose
quartz as a keepsake of your love spell! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<h4>
Quit an Addiction Spell</h4>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You will need:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Apple<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Boline/knife<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Black salt<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Something to represent your addiction<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take your apple and carve the name of your addiction on it
with your boline. Then, spread the black salt on it so the word is easily
visible. Go outside and dig a hole two apples deep. Place the things
representing your addiction into the hole. Now, place your apple in the hole as
well. As you are covering the items in the hole with soil, imagine yourself
quitting the addiction forever. Finally, stand on top of the fresh soil and say...<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“This addiction I shall stop,<o:p></o:p></div>
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as this fruit in the ground rots”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Go on with your day and remember what you vowed to do. You
might want to leave something on top of the fresh mound where all your
ingredients are so that you can remember and even continue to say the ending
sentence!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Superstition: In the 19th century in Lower Saxony, Germany,
the first bath water used by a new born baby was poured over the roots of an
apple tree to ensure that the child would have red cheeks, and if it was a
girl, large breasts as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hope you all enjoy apples in your diet, they can be used in
so many ways and always of course, for the “good” in all spell work!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
StormloverWolf<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">“The Meaning of Trees” - Fred Hageneder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">herballore.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">wiccanaltar.com</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-89493894304989688592018-05-09T12:09:00.000+01:002018-05-09T12:09:17.818+01:00The Magic of Salt by Unity<br />
<h2>
The Magic of Salt by Unity</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Salt is a mineral composed of Sodium chloride which occurs
in the form of transparent cubic crystals. The earliest method of salt
production was evaporation of seawater by the heat of the sun, this was soon
followed by the quarrying of rock salt which developed into the mining of
underground deposits of salt. Rock salt is crystallized salt, also known as
Halite, it is the result of evaporation of ancient oceans and lakes millions of
years ago. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Salt was prized by many ancient cultures, as a seasoning and
an important method of food preservation. With the spread of civilization, salt
became one of the world's main trading commodities. In parts of Africa it was
used as currency and Moorish merchants in the 6th century traded salt for gold.
The Romans used shallow lead pans to boil seawater over open fires. Wars have
been fought over salt and various governments have at different times imposed
salt taxes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Salt has been used in religious ceremonies for centuries.
The ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans invoked their gods with offerings of
salt and water, and in Aztec mythology Huixtocihuatl was a fertility goddess
who presided over salt and salt water. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In modern times Hindus see salt as an auspicious substance
and use it in house-warming ceremonies and weddings. In Jainism, salt is
sprinkled on a person's cremated remains before being buried. The Mahayana Buddhists
throw a pinch of salt over their left shoulder after returning from a funeral
to prevent evil spirits from following them, which is similar to the well-known
European superstition that spilling salt is bad luck which requires you to
throw a pinch of it over your left shoulder, into the face of the devil. One
explanation of this is that Judas is said to have spilt salt at the Last
Supper, but a more probable explanation is that salt used to be an extremely
expensive and precious commodity.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Many different magical traditions use salt as a symbol of
Earth on the altar and for protection, purification and cleansing. Ritual tools
and some crystals can be cleansed by either immersing them in salt water or
burying them in salt. Do check before doing this to any crystals though as some
can be damaged by salt and/or water. Salt can also be used to cast the ritual
circle, but I wouldn’t use it outside as it can be harmful to plants, grass,
insects and other wildlife.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Salt can be added to pre-ritual baths for purification and
cleansing, and it can be used to asperge, which is a purification method of
using a small bunch of herbs, dipped in salt water and sprinkled around the
circle or home. It is a good alternative to smudging if you suffer from asthma
or other respiratory conditions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Salt can also be sprinkled around doorways and windows to
keep negative energies from entering your home or added to witch bottles and
sachets for protection. In Hoodoo traditions Black salt can be used in the same
way, for personal protection and banishing. Salt is mixed with ashes, iron
scrapings from cauldrons or iron pans, charcoal and black pepper to create it.
It is also used as an ingredient in Goofer dust, which is used to cause trouble
and harm to enemies.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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If you have a visitor to your home who you don't want to
come back, sprinkle salt on the floor as they leave and sweep it out of the
same door through which they left.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Any type of salt can be used for magical purposes, but if
you want to try different salts, there are many to choose from:</div>
<h4>
Table salt:</h4>
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Used for protection, creating boundaries, representing
earth, casting circle. Table salt often has iodine and anti-clumping agents
mixed with it.</div>
<h4>
Sea Salt:</h4>
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A product of evaporated seawater, thought to be more natural
than table salt and to have undergone less processing.</div>
<h4>
Kosher Salt:</h4>
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This has larger grains than table salt and has no iodine
added, although some brands will have small amounts of anti-clumping agents.
The term 'Kosher salt' comes from its use in making meat kosher by removing
surface blood. Contrary to popular belief, it is not blessed by a Rabi and is
no more magical than table salt.</div>
<h4>
Blessed Salt:</h4>
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Used by some Christian faiths throughout history and in
recent times for rites such as Baptism, blessing holy water and as a
sacramental to be sprinkled in a room or across a threshold for divine
protection.</div>
<h4>
Dead Sea Salt:</h4>
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Made from evaporated seawater from the Dead Sea in Israel.
Thought to be particularly healing and cleansing. It is a popular choice for
relaxing and ritual baths.</div>
<h4>
Epsom Salt:</h4>
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Named for a saline spring in the town of Epsom, Surrey,
England. It is not actually salt, but a naturally occurring mineral of
magnesium sulphate. It is well known for its numerous health benefits as well
as beauty, household and gardening uses. It is especially popular in baths to
ease pain and muscle cramps.</div>
<h4>
Himalayan Pink Salt:</h4>
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This salt gets in pink colour from its high iron content. It
comes from the Himalayan mountains and has high amounts of trace minerals and
elements. It can be used in cooking and as a seasoning and as a soothing bath
salt. Himalayan salt lamps are beautiful and particularly popular with claims
that they purify the air and heal many conditions. Huge lists of these claims
can be found on the internet, so I won’t list them here.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Below I have included a couple of bath salt recipes, omit
the essential oils if you have sensitive skin as they can cause irritation.</div>
<h4>
Bedtime Bath Salts</h4>
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<i>2 cups of Epsom salt<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>2 cups of Dead sea salt<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>1 tbsp of chamomile essential oil<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>1 tbsp of lavender essential oil<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Large glass jar</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Pour salts in the jar, add the oils and stir. Seal the jar
and shake well. Leave for 48 hours. To use add 1-2 cups per bath and soak for
at least 20 minutes.</div>
<h4>
Healing Bath Salts</h4>
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<i>2 cups of Sea salt<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>1 cup of Epsom salt<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>1/2 tsp of peppermint, pine needle or lavender essential oil
or a combination of them.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Place salts in a non-absorbent bowl (glass, ceramic or
stainless steel) Sprinkle on the essential oil and stir with a stainless-steel
spoon. Use immediately or store for 2 weeks to maximise the results.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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To Use: Run a bath and add 1 1/2 cups of the salt mix, swish
around with your hands to dissolve, get in and relax. Will keep for 3 - 6
months.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A Kitchen Witches world of magical food - Rachel Patterson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hoodoo Folk magic - <a href="http://www.rachelpatterson.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rachel Patterson</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wikipedia<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sticks, Stones, roots and bones - Stephanie Rose Bird<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">spiritinfo.blogspot.co.uk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">madehow.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">seasalt.com</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-45243946190600699042018-05-05T12:28:00.000+01:002018-05-05T12:28:04.327+01:00Candle Spell to enhance your psychic abilities by Unity<br />
<h2>
Candle Spell to enhance your Psychic abilities by Unity</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br />
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<br /></div>
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This spell is best done at the Full Moon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Needed:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Purple candle and holder<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Essential oil, Rose, Thyme and Cinnamon are all great for
psychic work, but go with what you have to hand. You could even charge olive
oil with your intent if you haven't got any essential oils.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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A selection of the following herbs, Bay, Cinnamon, Dandelion,
Mugwort, Rose petals, thyme, yarrow, honeysuckle. Again, go with what you have
to hand or with what you are drawn to use.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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3 Crystals, the following are great for psychic work, Lapis
lazuli, Amethyst, kyanite, labradorite, Apatite, Moonstone. I don't want to say
it again, but go with what you are drawn to use :)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Something small and sharp to carve the candle - needle,
thorn, cocktail stick etc.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Small purple drawstring bag<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Incense if you want to use it can be made of any of the
above dried herbs for a loose incense or use an incense stick of your choice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-----------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Carve a symbol of an eye on the candle with your needle.
Dress the candle with your oil and place in the holder. Surround the candle
with your herbs and crystals. Light the candle and incense. Sit and watch the
candle flame for a few minutes, thinking about your intent. Acknowledge any
thoughts that come to you, then let them drift away. When your mind is clear
repeat the following chant (which I found on Pinterest Wink or words of your own)
until you feel you have raised enough energy, then direct the energy at the
candle.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>' Second sight, Second sight<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Come to me now, by this light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Let my psychic mind be open<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>As this charm is now spoken.'</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let the candle burn down if it is safe to do so; if not
snuff it out and continue to light it whenever you can. Once the candle has
burnt out completely, put the herbs and crystals into the purple bag and keep
it under your pillow.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-69830446010654319362018-05-03T12:03:00.000+01:002018-05-03T12:03:16.331+01:00Hyacinth by Gypsy Willowmoon<br />
<h2 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Hyacinth by Gypsy Willowmoon</h2>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Hyacinthus orientalis.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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A bulb which
produces highly scented very pretty flowers, in a mixture of colours: pink, purple,
white and yellow, on stems that come up from between long green leaves in early
spring. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
According to
Gerald's Herbal - The roots can be beaten and applied with white wine, hinder
or keep back the growth of hairs...<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Ruling planet:
Venus<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Element:
Water<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Gender:
Feminine<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Magical properties:
Love, Happiness, peace, sleep, nightmares & abundance.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Hyacinths
scent can bring a sense of peace, happiness and calm (or hay fever...)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Keep in your
bedroom to aid a good night’s sleep and keep away nightmares. Guards against
nightmares when used as an oil, burned as incense, or included in dream
pillows.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Use the
petals dried, in spell work for love and abundance or crystal grids or pot
pourri or incense...<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The smoke
from hyacinth incense can aid crossing the etheric planes. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Worked with
as a de- hexing smudge, helping to rid of negative energies, whilst replacing
with positive energies - As the final smudge used.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Can also be
used in uncrossing spells.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Can be made
into a perfume to wear on Saturdays, as Hyacinth corresponds to Saturday.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Roses may be
safely used in place of any flower in ritual or spell work.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Named for
Hiakinthos, Greek God of homosexual love, this is the patron herb for gay men.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Carry in
amulet or sachet to ease grief or the pain of childbirth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Sources:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">themagickalcat.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">teenwitch.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">herbs-info.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">A Kitchen
Witch's World of Magical Plants & Herbs - Rachel Patterson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Kitchen
and Garden Book of Herbs, Jessica Houdret and Joanna Farrow<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Gerald's
Herbal -John Gerard</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-5100543670704653332018-05-02T09:08:00.000+01:002018-05-02T09:08:07.074+01:00Forget-me-not by Unity<br />
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Forget-me-not by Unity</h2>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_H6QOcJTvQ/WuLa8t0QbGI/AAAAAAAAFFM/Og5KBYePhCc0xjpsQ5xa-fcMq8V1m-4ggCLcBGAs/s1600/forget-me-not-flower_G1LuT8uO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="362" data-original-width="600" height="193" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_H6QOcJTvQ/WuLa8t0QbGI/AAAAAAAAFFM/Og5KBYePhCc0xjpsQ5xa-fcMq8V1m-4ggCLcBGAs/s320/forget-me-not-flower_G1LuT8uO.jpg" title="forget me not" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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Myosotis sylvatica/ arvensis<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Planetary
Ruler: Venus<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Element:
Water<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Gender:
Female<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Magical properties:
Protection, true love, memory, clarity, success<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The border
in my front garden is full of forget-me-nots at the moment. I love these pretty
delicate flowers, that self-seed and take over the border, although I know some
people see them as invasive weeds. When I was trying to decide what plants to
add to an ancestor altar this week as part of a course I am doing, I immediately
thought that Forget-me-not would be perfect for it and popped a few into a
small vase for it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Forget-me-not
is a short-lived perennial that prefers shady damp soils, they seem to like my
border, which doesn't get much sun. The generic name 'Myosotis' means 'mouse
ear' and refers to the shape of the leaves. The flowers are usually blue, but
can also be white, pink and violet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Somerset
folk wore forget-me-not to protect them from Witches in the month of May. It
was also a remedy for snake and dog bite.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Forget-me-not
was once called 'Scorpion grass' as the curled flower heads were thought to
resemble scorpion tails.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Henry IV
adopted forget-me-not as his emblem in 1398.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the
Victorian language of flowers, Forget-me-not symbolised true love, friendship
and remembrance.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In Germany
forget-me-nots were planted on graves for remembrance and worn by lovers to
ensure they would not forget each other while they were apart.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I've found a
couple of stories about Forget-me-nots. The first tells of a young goat herder
who found a beautiful small blue flower in a meadow and attached it to his
crook as he sat against a rock to rest. As he did a small man with pointed ears
appeared before him and told him that if he tapped the rock with the flower
three times something amazing would happen. He then vanished. The young man did
as he was told and was startled when the rock split in half to reveal a flight
of steps leading down to a large chamber. As he started down the stairs he
heard the little man's voice telling him to 'remember the most important'. He
made his way down the stairs and couldn't believe his eyes when he entered the
chamber and saw that it was filled with piles of gold, silver and precious
jewels. He flung his crook down and filled his rucksack to the brim with the
treasures. When it was so full he could hardly carry it, he picked up his crook
and made his way back up the stairs and went home as quick as he could. When he
got there he excitedly told his wife about his good fortune and tipped the
rucksack onto the table. The treasures had vanished, in in their place was a
pile of dust. The goat herd couldn't believe his eyes and dashed back to the
rock. The gap had vanished and all that remained was a tiny crack. He peered
into the crack but could not see anything. As he stood up he again heard the
little man's voice saying, ' remember the most important - forget-me-not' It
was then the man remembered the little blue flower, he checked his crook, but
it was gone. From that day on the meadow was full of the little blue flowers,
but although he picked them and tapped them on the rock many times it never
opened again.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Legend tells
that a medieval German Knight was picnicking on the bank of the Danube with his
lady love. He walked down the bank to the water's edge to gather some dainty
blue flowers, but tragedy struck, a flash flood suddenly appeared and pulled
the young man into the river. As he was swept away he tossed the bouquet to his
lady on the bank and shouted 'Forget-me-not!' <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Herbcraft -
Anna Franklin and Susan Lavender</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-41475037631729003142018-04-30T11:16:00.000+01:002018-04-30T11:16:00.222+01:00Pyrolusite by Stormloverwolf<br />
<h2>
Pyrolusite by Stormloverwolf</h2>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eIUBdYqMmPg/WrtrzR-aCUI/AAAAAAAAFBw/8ZtIw0GWHY4EM_ktJoBBMDVysQs1gI7AwCLcBGAs/s1600/220px-Pyrolusite_-_USGS_ID_Stose%252C_GW_1425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="220" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eIUBdYqMmPg/WrtrzR-aCUI/AAAAAAAAFBw/8ZtIw0GWHY4EM_ktJoBBMDVysQs1gI7AwCLcBGAs/s1600/220px-Pyrolusite_-_USGS_ID_Stose%252C_GW_1425.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pyrolusite is the most common manganese mineral. It is one
of several manganese oxide minerals.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The colours of this beautiful stone are silver, black, blue
and dark grey. It has large shiny, fan-like images on it that flash in the
light as you turn it in different directions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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You can find Pyrolusite readily available from specialty
shops, they are from Britain, Brazil, India and the United States.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This stone is one of the most important ores of the
manganese. It is also a component of the production of steel and was once used
for the manufacture of batteries. It is also used in the preparation of
chlorine, and as an agent in colouring in dyes. It is likely to leave some
residue on your hand when you hold it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The attributes of this amazing stone are that it holds the
ability to transform and then restructure energies. To be most beneficial,
consciously directed by you it can restructure life. This beauty heals energy
disruptions and then can change “dis-ease” into the physical, emotional and
mental bodies for us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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If you want a calm, serene meditation area bring Pyrolusite
with you before you begin. It repels negative energy and can release psychic
interference from any source, strengthening your aura in the process.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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If you feel you are under psychic attack of some kind
Pyrolusite and help dissolve emotional manipulation and then provide a barrier
to the attentions of those who inhabit the lower astral worlds.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Keep Pyrolusite with you if you are going to be in the presence
of someone in authority that wants to push their feelings/opinions on you – it
will enable you to stay true to your own thoughts and ideas.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Psychologically, Pyrolusite helps to give you confidence,
have optimistic thoughts and aids you in your determination to accomplish what
you need to in life. This is a tenacious stone that helps you to realize your
actual problems and then offers a way to transform those problems for a
positive result. It also adds great support if you are feeling weak with
emotions as well as Pyrolusite can assist with past-life or body work to
release emotional 'dis-ease' and blockages in the emotional body.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This beauty can assist in stabilising relationships that
might be faltering. It can transform negative emotions into more positive ones
that can assist you in your life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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For healing Pyrolusite helps to treat bronchitis, regulates
the metabolism, reinforces blood vessels and can stimulate sexuality. This stone
also assists in strengthening your eyesight.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Because of its delicate construction, some Pyrolusite is not
suitable for wearing or keep on your person, but it can be held whenever its
protection energies for needed. Place or hold as appropriate as it can be heavy
on the body. You can make this into an elixir by the direct method and can be
applied topically or taken internally. Research all stones and crystals to make
sure they are safe to ingest any of their properties.<o:p></o:p></div>
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StormloverWolf<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources: “Crystal Bible” - Judy Hall<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Minerals.net</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">image - Wikipedia</span></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-22067565058147398122018-04-27T11:39:00.000+01:002018-04-27T11:39:06.301+01:00Eyebright by Gypsy Willowmoon<br />
<h2>
Eyebright by Gypsy Willowmoon</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfkheILc3dQ/Wrtwusn44gI/AAAAAAAAFCg/-VodNSK83FAq1MCv6yU1yL2F_8GyCYtowCLcBGAs/s1600/220px-Augentrost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="218" data-original-width="220" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfkheILc3dQ/Wrtwusn44gI/AAAAAAAAFCg/-VodNSK83FAq1MCv6yU1yL2F_8GyCYtowCLcBGAs/s1600/220px-Augentrost.jpg" /></a></div>
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Planetary association - The Sun<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gender - Masculine.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Element - Air<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Zodiac - Leo<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The botanical name for Eyebright, comes from the Greek word for
gladness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It was first introduced as an "eye" herb by
Hildegard of Bingen, in her Physica, compiled circa 1150. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In the 26th Century Fuchs and Dodoens credit it as a ‘specific
for eye complaints’.<o:p></o:p></div>
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An annual semi - parasitic herb,5-30 cm in height, it attaches
itself to the roots and stems of grasses, absorbing the mineral substances.
leaves are rounded, toothed and small around 1 cm long with tiny white flowers,
which are double - lipped with yellow throats and dark purple veins.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a difficult one to cultivate due to its parasitical
nature. If you are going to try and propagate, plant seeds close to potential
host grasses.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The whole plant is used, which is dried for use in infusions
and herbal preparations.<o:p></o:p></div>
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According to legend, the linnet, a bird whose Greek name
comes from the same root. Said to be first used to clear the sight of its
young, it then passed the knowledge onto mankind...<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Spenser, Milton and Other poets mention eyebright in their
works.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Medicinal uses - Eyebright reduces inflammation.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It is said to be helpful for treating hay fever, allergic
rhinitis, catarrh and sinusitis.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Externally it is made into washes for sore, itchy eyes and
or conjunctivitis. Also used for skin irritations and eczema.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Magical uses -<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Worked
with for clairvoyance and to see Faeries. Mental powers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Psychic powers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Named after one of the three charities of the Hellenic Pantheon,
Euphrosyne, Goddess of joy and Mirth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Associated with the tower card in Tarot.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Work with in spells to help yourself or others to see
situations clearly.<o:p></o:p></div>
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To see the silver lining in a bad situation.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Good to use in any workings for gratitude or joyous events.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Add to spell/charm bags as a memory aid.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Used in compresses over the eyes to increase clairvoyance.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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brings clear thinking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Worked with in tea for divination purposes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Worked with in beauty spells.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Worked with in amulets to restore and protect the sight.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In Queen Elizabeth's reign, Eyebright Ale was said to cheer
the spirit.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Place a few drops on eyelids before sleep to have prophetic
dreams, and during the day to see what is not normally seen<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Witchipedia.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">herbal riot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The kitchen & Garden book of herbs -Jessica Houdret
& Joanna Farrow<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">image Wikipedia</span></div>
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<br /><br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-73693079524951688742018-04-25T11:32:00.000+01:002018-04-25T11:32:23.821+01:00Lotus Tree/Flower by Stormloverwolf<br />
<h2>
Lotus by Stormloverwolf</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rIEA5WbuwNs/WrtvohOcMZI/AAAAAAAAFCY/lg6p15Aa9lIcBQkUwwEweCKpwGpji6sBQCLcBGAs/s1600/lotus-flowers-with-leaves_z17C-vt_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rIEA5WbuwNs/WrtvohOcMZI/AAAAAAAAFCY/lg6p15Aa9lIcBQkUwwEweCKpwGpji6sBQCLcBGAs/s320/lotus-flowers-with-leaves_z17C-vt_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As I was studying the Ancient Goddess Nuit of Egypt (see previous blog post), I was
interested in finding out about the different trees and plants that grew
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I imagined much beauty there, so
I decided to do some research on the Lotus Tree and the Lotus Flower.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Let me introduce you to the Lotus Tree...<o:p></o:p></div>
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The original native place of lotus is south Europe and Himalayan
mountains north of China.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
naturally grown in Egypt in the Sinai Peninsula, Eba mouton, Nubia, besides
Ethiopia and the Arabian Peninsula.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One
of the largest valleys in Sinai is known as the Valley of Lotus, as it has been
cultivated in Egypt since the oldest ages.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It was well known to the Egyptian Pharaohs as Nebes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the past Egypt, lotus fruit was cultivated
in all homes, in their court yards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lotus trees nowadays grow in Upper Egypt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are shady, and the wood is used for
making agricultural tools, furniture and also in building supplies.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Lotus fruit is sweet and has a nice scent to it, most
Egyptians like to eat it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lotus tree
slowly grows with large branches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
leaves are permanently green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are
oval and glossy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The neck of the leaf is
reddish green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The branches are hanging
with sharp nails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fruits are small
and yellowish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are grown in autumn
and are similar to an apple in shape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It's fruits diameter is 2 cm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
is very tasty when ripe.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lotus Flowers -<o:p></o:p></div>
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The flowers and the leaves all appear to be reaching for the
sun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The petals of the flower close and
open with the sunshine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The leaves and
pods remain upright, facing the sky until they bend at some point in the stem
when they are dying or ripening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then
these parts of the plant seem to return to the surface of the water, back into
the depths at their roots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They prefer
the still water of lakes and ponds in deep dense clay/mud.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Lotus embodies all four elements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The plant springs from the Earth and must be
very firmly rooted there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Water is
necessary to sustain the plant and the stalks are hollow and filled with milky
sap when growing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The leaves and flowers
rise from the depths and are held above the water's surface, representing Air. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, the orientation of the leaves and
flowers until they dry is upward, reaching into the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The flowers and leaves unfurl, representing
transformation of Fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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In Summer, or the season of Fire, is when the Lotus
blossoms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In spring, and through the
summer, the plant is vigorously growing, enjoying the warmth and humidity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fall, the Lotus leaves wither, the seeds
within the pods ripen and eventually bend down to release the seeds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During winter, the plant sleeps beneath the
water's surface with dormant roots.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lotus for Magical use -<o:p></o:p></div>
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This beautiful flower is sacred to Lakshmi, Goddess of
prosperity; brings material and spiritual abundance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is the symbol of spirituality and the centre
of the universe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lotus has been used to
invoke Isis, Osiris, and Hermes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anoint
a candle with the oil or wash a wash of the flowers for spiritual protection
and cleansing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Breathe in the wonderful
scent for your protection or place a piece of the root under the tongue and say
“SIGN, ARGIS” in the direction of a locked door and it might open for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can use the seeds or pods as antidotes to
love spells and carried or worn to attract luck and the blessings of the
Gods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lotus is associated with both
amber and aquamarine.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lotus for Personal Growth -<o:p></o:p></div>
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The beauty symbolizes purity, peace and serenity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It's physiology of reaching into the murk for
nutrition and flowering in the sun symbolizes embracing our true inner self
with loving respect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It calms the mind
and subdues restlessness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The seeds open
the heart centre, aid devotion and aspiration and improve speech and
concentration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The root opens the root
chakra and helps us to listen to and with the heart.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Medicinal uses of Lotus Seed and other Lotus Plant Parts -<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lotus seeds are classified as astringents, being sweet and
neutral, and benefiting the spleen, kidney and heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sweet taste and nourishing qualities of
the seed are responsible for the benefit to the spleen, this helps stop diarrhoea
associated with qi deficiency.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
astringent quality helps prevent loss of kidney essence, so the seeds are used
to treat weak sexual function in men and leukorrhea in women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The seeds also have calming properties and
alleviate restlessness, palpitations and insomnia (more so in the whole seed
with embryo).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The medicinal dosage is
6-15 grams when it is combined with other herbs that have similar applications
and double that when used as the main ingredient.<o:p></o:p></div>
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All parts of the plant are used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The leaf juice is used in the treatment of diarrhoea
and is doct0red with liquorice for the treatment of sunstroke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The flowers are recommended as a cardiac
tonic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A decoction of the floral receptacle
is used in the treatment of abdominal cramps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The flower stalk is haemostatic meaning able to stop blood flow and is
used in bleeding gastric ulcers, excessive menstruation, post-partum haemorrhage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are several uses for all parts of this
beautiful plant, I urge you to research them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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** Please refer to a qualified practitioner before ingesting
any herbal remedies.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lotus used as Food -<o:p></o:p></div>
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The seeds are roasted or candied for eating directly, made
into a paste for producing sauces and cake fillings (in mid-autumn it is
customary to serve “moon cakes” which have a filling made of lotus seeds and
walnuts); and cooked in soups, usually with chicken or beans.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The lotus root is sweet and can be eaten as fruit, sliced
and stir fried, or stuffed with glutinous rice in its flue-shaped holes and
steamed as dessert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tender young lotus
roots are good for salads while starchy mature lotus roots are good for making
soups.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lotus root can also be candied,
pickled or deep-fried.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A delicious and simple way to prepare lotus root:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>peel roots and slice crosswise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sauté in oil over medium high heat (peanut
oil works well), stirring constantly, for 10 to 15 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add a little sesame oil, a little soy sauce,
a small pinch of salt and a pinch of sugar, stir quickly to combine and coat
slices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When lotus is “al-dente”, add a
handful of snow peas, sauté till they are bright green, then serve.<o:p></o:p></div>
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**Please make sure you have identified the lotus correctly
before eating!<o:p></o:p></div>
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StormloverWolf<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">www.exploreegypt.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">http.buddists.org<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">http.mythologian.net<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">en.wikipedia.ord<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">www.ancientegypt.com</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-29847584956081180832018-04-24T12:15:00.000+01:002018-04-24T12:15:04.726+01:00Beltane Ritual by StormloverWolf<h2>
Beltane Ritual by StormloverWolf</h2>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oi3dUE8W81w/WtcpeFPCsfI/AAAAAAAAFEA/2UHmpnj5CoAHZtKJsVaYBIRDGEyjpE30wCLcBGAs/s1600/18319188_10154692457708741_485472929018502865_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="729" data-original-width="1086" height="214" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oi3dUE8W81w/WtcpeFPCsfI/AAAAAAAAFEA/2UHmpnj5CoAHZtKJsVaYBIRDGEyjpE30wCLcBGAs/s320/18319188_10154692457708741_485472929018502865_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Colours: The deep plum of wine/grapes, gold for the
returning of our beautiful sun, green for the lovely fields of grass and white
for the purity of love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Items Needed: One tea lite candle for each person at the
ritual. Ribbons in the above colours, or the colours of your choice that
represent Beltane to you about 12 inches in length, a stick of wood for a
handle to secure the ribbons to hopefully found loose on the ground. If you
need to trim from a tree, please make sure to ask its permission first.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Altar: Cloth of gold. A shell to hold water for the West. A
green candle for fire for the South. A few rocks and a bit of earth to
represent North and sandalwood incense for air for the East.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Walking Deosil to open the circle: “As I walk our circle I
sprinkle sea salted water to not only give us strength within, but a barrier in
which we can be safe to join our forces and be successful in our work.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Casting Circle: “I cast this circle now one time, so Ancient
One's will hear my rhyme. I cast this circle now times two, for hidden wonders
and secret truths. I cast this circle three times round, and now declare this
sacred ground.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Calling Quarters: “To the East, I call to thee fill my
visions and set us free. Share your strength, build it strong, that we may
succeed in this day’s throng. Hail and Welcome!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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To the South I turn my gaze, bright the lights and clear the
haze. Strengthen our will, keep it sound, that we may succeed all around. Hail
and Welcome!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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To the West and water, I turn to now, feeling the spray upon
my brow. Clear our minds and help bend our ways. Stand strong with us and
increase our stays that we will succeed in all our days. Hail and Welcome!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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To the North I do now turn, for our mighty Earth will help
us learn. Bring us your will to see things through. Aid in our work and all
that we do. Help us find our dreams and make them come true. Hail and Welcome.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Calling the Goddess: Goddess beautiful, Goddess true. Join
us in honouring the Beltane fires through. That we may join the throng of love,
passion and bring our hearts together as one, for the promises of the future
have now begun. Hail and Welcome!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Calling the God: Great God we ask that you join with us in
our Beltane Rite. We call to our fires, our passions and the light. Stand with
us and join us now, we honour you come be with us now. Hail and Welcome!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Introduction: Beltane, the festival of passion, a
celebration of fertility. When the stag races through the woods to join and
marry our beautiful Goddess.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We join our hearts with the intent to call a bountiful
harvest to come. We honour the Beltane fires not only calling the warmth and
brightness of the Sun so desperately needed for the coming seasons, but for
these beautiful fires to inspire our own passions – not only in love of one
another but our beautiful earth. The animals mate and bring forth their young,
our plants, trees and flowers share pollen and strengthen each other that we
might continue to live on our beautiful planet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Work: Gather your ribbons and your wooden sticks. With
having a friend to hold the stick, or if by yourself, set the stick somewhere
where you can have it secure and do this yourself. Secure each ribbon with a knot
at the top of the wood, move around the diameter of the stick. With each colour
as you begin to braid the ribbons, think over what you are passionate about.
Your sweetheart, your children, your families, your homes, your gardens, your
work. Imagine the fires of Beltane rising higher and higher with each thought. You
can braid all of the ribbons or do just part of them so that there is a “tail”
of free ones. I enjoy re-braiding mine each year and find that small children
loved to play with them. Honour your lives, what you have accomplished thus
far, and that which you still intend to do. Set your goals and find ways to
reach them. Let the rising flames of Beltane remain in your heart along with
your passions. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“May this Maypole of Beltane be a constant reminder to us to
continue to follow our passions, succeed in our goals and never give up.
Blessed Be!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Releasing the God: “Great God we thank you for your
presence, love and passion. We are grateful for you in our daily lives. Hail
and Farewell!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Releasing the Goddess: “Beautiful Goddess, thank you for
joining us this day. We honour you and strive to carry goodness in our hearts,
Hail and Farewell!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Release the Quarters:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Spirit of the North, of might mountains, Stag and Bear. We
thank you for your presence this day. Hail and Farewell!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Spirit of the West, water so nourishing and refreshing.
Thank you for your presence this day. Hail and Farewell!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Spirit of the South, the mighty fire and heat. Thank you for
your presence this day. Hail and Farewell!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Spirit of the East, the breeze that clears the cobwebs from
our minds that we may realize our possibilities. Thank you for your presence
this day. Hail and Farewell!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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In closing: To each and every one of you here this day for
our blessed Beltane ritual. Thank you for your love and strength in our work
today. May we be ever mindful for all that we have in our lives. May we go
forth as the Wheel turns and be of help to those in need, share our love and
passions and bring forth positive feelings and work for our beautiful planet.
Blessed Be!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Open Circle: Walking Widdershins, I now open this circle.
May the work we began this day carry in our hearts and minds through the summer
months bringing us great bounty to sustain us through the cold winter months to
come. May this circle be open, but never broken. Blessed Be!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-5117004228247057162018-04-23T11:51:00.000+01:002018-04-23T12:47:26.699+01:00Goddess Sati by Gypsy Willowmoon<h2>
Goddess Sati by Gypsy Willowmoon </h2>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K0H6S0BmKQ8/Wrt0IvZEpYI/AAAAAAAAFC8/bOGFJxI5CIAI-pxhseQoHEs93ccsPhdQwCLcBGAs/s1600/220px-Kamakhya_Guwahati.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="165" data-original-width="220" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K0H6S0BmKQ8/Wrt0IvZEpYI/AAAAAAAAFC8/bOGFJxI5CIAI-pxhseQoHEs93ccsPhdQwCLcBGAs/s1600/220px-Kamakhya_Guwahati.JPG" /></a></div>
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Goddess of longevity, marital bliss &
menstruation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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An aspect of Parvati, or Goddess Adi Shakti.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Said to be very fiery and have a nasty temper.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sati took human form at the bidding of the God Brahma. Sati
was born as daughter of Daksha Prajapati and his wife Prasuti.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Daksha was considered the son of Brahma, a great King and
magnate. as the daughter of Daksha, she is also known as Dakshayani.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sati is first consort to Shiva, with Parvati second.<o:p></o:p></div>
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According to Indian legend, the Goddess Sati also known as
Kamakhya - committed suicide because her Father insulted her husband Shiva.
Shiva, insane with rage, picked up Sati's body placing it on his shoulders, as
he performed the tandav or 'dance of destruction'. The God Vishnu, who did not
want the cosmos to be destroyed by Shivas dancing, cut Sati's body into pieces
and scattered them around the earth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Everywhere a piece of her body fell, a shrine for the Goddess
was built. Her vagina(yoni) and womb fell on the Kamakhya hill in Assam, which
is now home to the Kamakhya temple. Goddess Sati is worshipped here in a natural cave (the
womb), in the shape of a yoni -like rock with a spring.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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The temple is said to be one of 108 shakti peeths.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once a year, in June, the temple, situated in Guwahati,
Assam, India - Remains closed for 3 days as the spring water turns red: The
Goddess bleeds...<o:p></o:p></div>
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No one knows how or why this happens, always during the
monsoon. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Some say the red colour, is due to iron oxidation. Whilst
others say the Temple's Priests dye it with vermillion powder...<o:p></o:p></div>
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People use this time to celebrate the fertility of the earth
and female life power. Devotees of Sati can receive ' prasads' which are pieces
of cloth dipped into the Goddess' menstrual blood. Said to bring power and Good
luck.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The God of love, Kamadeva had lost his virility due to a
curse. He sought out Sati's womb and genitals and was freed from the curse.
This is said to be where 'love' gained potency.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Some say the temple is where Shiva and Sati had their
romantic liaisons...<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">period.mediadollsofindia.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">reckontalk.com</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">image - wikipedia</span>RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-91527778117454374912018-04-20T11:27:00.000+01:002018-04-23T12:47:00.945+01:00Amazonite by Unity<h2>
Amazonite by Unity</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OO-khiPoNQU/WrtuM7dkOgI/AAAAAAAAFCM/nwaPjY_rQwMrrUxjaKlxYNBbYKUHVoXhwCLcBGAs/s1600/Amazonita1.jpeg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="173" data-original-width="260" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OO-khiPoNQU/WrtuM7dkOgI/AAAAAAAAFCM/nwaPjY_rQwMrrUxjaKlxYNBbYKUHVoXhwCLcBGAs/s1600/Amazonita1.jpeg.jpg" /></a></div>
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Planet: Mercury</div>
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Element: Earth</div>
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Chakra: Heart and Throat</div>
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Birthstone: Virgo<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Magical energies: Success, gambling, luck, prosperity,
courage, truth<o:p></o:p></div>
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Amazonite is a member of the Feldspar family of minerals, it
gets its beautiful blue-green colour from small amounts of lead and water and
often has white, yellow and grey particles. A soft stone, it fractures easily
so care must be taken when handling or storing it. This crystal gets its name
from the Amazon river which is one of the main places it is found, but it is
also found in Colorado, India, Madagascar, Namibia and Russia.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This beautiful stone has been used in jewellery and as a
talisman of luck and prosperity since ancient times. The seventh chapter of the
Egyptian Book of the Dead was engraved on Amazonite and an Amazonite ring was
found amongst Tutankhamun’s treasures. It was also believed to be the third
stone in the breastplate of the Jewish High Priest and to have adorned the
shields of the formidable Amazonian tribe of warrior women, said in Greek
mythology to be the daughters of Are's and Harmonia.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I've been carrying a natural piece of Amazonite around with
me for the last few days, it has a subtle, gentle and soothing energy that is
said to calm the nerves and bring peace when feeling troubled, alleviating
worries, anger and irritability and will help those who fear confrontation and
judgement from others. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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As a stone of truth and courage, Amazonite assists those who
have difficulty expressing their thoughts and feelings clearly, it dispels
negative energy and enables one to see both sides of a problem, becoming more
tolerant and compassionate towards others. It will balance masculine and feminine
energies and many personality issues and can aid in manifesting Universal love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Amazonite heals and opens the heart and throat chakras, it
encourages one to speak the truth in their heart, aligning your thoughts and
actions and connecting with your inner knowledge; it can increase self-respect,
especially in women, and can reduce tendencies to self-neglect, it can enhance
loving communication on all levels.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Like other Turquoise and green stones, amazonite can help
with strengthening physic skills and intuition. Sleeping or meditating with
this stone can bring awareness and understanding of dreams and visions, and as
a stone of truth you can trust any images or thoughts that surface while
working with it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Physically, Amazonite has a powerful filtering action and
can block geopathic stress, absorb microwaves and emanations from cell phones;
place it beside computers, laptops and microwaves or tape a small one to the
back of your cell phone. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Amazonite is said to aid in healing many conditions. It can
ease the pain of rheumatism, gout, muscle spasms and arthritis; it can help
with calcium deficiency, throat and thyroid problems and nerve and neurological
issues. It can also support those recovering from illness, encouraging a
healthy lifestyle.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Hold Amazonite to calm your nerves and bring you peace when
feeling anxious or stressed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This crystal can help when you need to focus, perfect for
when your studying or taking exams.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Amazonite is a lucky charm and has been used by gamblers to
attract money; keep beside you when filling out competition forms or for all
matters that need luck and success or make a lucky charm bag by adding 3
amazonites and a small amount of cinnamon and Basil to a small drawstring bag
or pouch.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Crystal Bible- Judy Hall<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Book of Stones - Robert Simmons & Naisha Ahsian<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Little book of crystal tips and cures - Philip Permutt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Crystalvaults.com</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">image - Wikipedia</span></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-77173184675391559182018-04-18T11:56:00.000+01:002018-04-18T11:56:09.161+01:00Vervain by Unity<br />
<h2>
Vervain by Unity</h2>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-prGsbxD_9lY/Wrt1FToLm2I/AAAAAAAAFDE/jz8n8itIL38i4QqrqblXbU8MzOU7fCmBQCLcBGAs/s1600/220px-Eisenkraut%252C_Passau.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="220" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-prGsbxD_9lY/Wrt1FToLm2I/AAAAAAAAFDE/jz8n8itIL38i4QqrqblXbU8MzOU7fCmBQCLcBGAs/s1600/220px-Eisenkraut%252C_Passau.JPG" /></a></div>
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Verbena officinalis</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Other names: Herb of Grace, Herba veneris, Herbe sacrée,
Enchanter's plant, Holy herb, Herb of the Cross, Juno's Tears, Pigeon grass,
Pigeonwood, Simpler's joy, Verbena.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Ruling Planet: Venus<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sign: Gemini<o:p></o:p></div>
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Element: Earth<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Gender: Feminine<o:p></o:p></div>
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Associated Deities: Cerridwen, Mars, Venus, Aradia, Isis,
Jupiter, Thor, Juno, Aphrodite.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Magical Properties: Protection, love, purification, peace,
sleep, healing, prosperity, inspiration.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I've been busy planning what I want to grow in my small
garden this year, and after finding out how useful it is I think it will make a
fantastic addition to my magical plants and herbs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vervain grows wild in meadows, hedgerows and roadsides in
Europe, US and the Far East. It is a perennial herb that has pale green
serrated leaves and spikes of small lilac flowers. Blue vervain is the American
variety.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The name Vervain is thought to come from the Celtic
'ferfaen' from fer-meaning 'to drive away' and faen - meaning 'stone', because
of its reputation of being able to purge bladder stones from the body.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vervain has been considered a sacred and healing plant since
ancient times and by many cultures. It was often referred to as 'Druid's Herb'
and was revered by the Roman's, Egyptians and Greek's who used it as an altar
herb.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pliny wrote that Vervain was one of four herbs used by the
Ancient Druids and that they harvested it at the dark of the moon with Sirius
rising. It had to be cut with a sickle and raised aloft in the left hand, after
which prayers and an offering of honey were given to the earth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Modern Druids believe Vervain can stimulate the flow of Awen
(Inspiration) as it is mentioned in the poem ' The Chair of Taliesin' as being
one of the ingredients in Cerridwen's cauldron. An infusion can be drunk as a
tea or added to a pre-ritual bath.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Anglo-Saxons used Vervain as an ingredient in their Holy
Salve as they considered it to be a powerful protector against the demons of
disease.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vervain is said to have been the plant that was used to
staunch the wounds of Jesus after he was brought down from the Cross, although
Gerard considered it an herb of the Devil and it was often associated with
witches and enchantment!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once considered a cure-all, Vervain was believed to cure
everything from freckles, wounds, migraines, the plague and even bestow immortality!<o:p></o:p></div>
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In 1837 the British Pharmacopoeia advised that tying a
Vervain root onto a white silk ribbon and wearing as a necklace would protect
against infection and evil influences.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vervain was believed to have lock opening qualities, it was
said that if you made a small cut on your hand and pressed a fragment of
Vervain leaf on it, allowing it to heal, that keys would turn, and bolts would
slide at the slightest touch!<o:p></o:p></div>
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An herb of love, washing your hands in an infusion of
Vervain is said to engender love in the one you touch. A sprig picked by a
bride and added to her bouquet ensures her husband's fidelity and eternal
devotion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Add Vervain to incense blends or homemade smudge sticks to
bring protection and purification to your home and altar.<o:p></o:p></div>
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An infusion of Vervain can be sprinkled around your property
to ward off negativity, it can also be used to consecrate your magical tools. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Add dried Vervain to small pouches or bottles and place
around the home to bring peace and prosperity. Keep some beside your bed or
under your pillow to keep away nightmares and bring peaceful dreams.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A small sprig of Vervain hung out of reach on a baby's
cradle will encourage the child to grow up with a happy disposition and a love
or learning.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Drink Vervain tea before practising divination to heighten
the consciousness and intensify clairvoyant powers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Bury a small amount of the herb in your garden to encourage
strong and healthy plants.</div>
<h4>
Vervain Tea</h4>
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Pour 1/2 pint of boiling water onto 2 tsp dried Vervain.
Infuse for 10-15 minutes, strain and drink. Add honey for sweetness if
preferred.</div>
<h4>
Divination Incense</h4>
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2 parts Dried Vervain leaves<o:p></o:p></div>
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1-part Dried Rowan berries.<o:p></o:p></div>
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1-part Cinnamon<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A Kitchen Witches world of magical plants and herbs - <a href="http://www.rachelpatterson.co.uk/" target="_blank">RachelPatterson</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Druid Plant Oracle: Philip and Stephanie Carr-Gomm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A Druids herbal for the sacred year - Ellen Evert Hopman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Discovering the Folklore of Plants - Margaret Baker<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs - Scott
Cunningham<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Herbcraft - Anna Franklin and Susan Lavender</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">image - wikipedia</span></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-30902501217709827492018-04-15T11:22:00.000+01:002018-04-15T11:22:21.228+01:00Ocean Jasper by Autumn Ravenflower<br />
<h2>
Ocean Jasper by Autumn Ravenflower</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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The ocean is something that has resonated with me for a
while. I spend a lot of time walking along my local shore with my dog and it’s
time for me to connect with the elements, look at the wildlife and see Mother
Nature at work.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve written about <a href="https://kitchenwitchuk.blogspot.co.uk/2018/01/white-horses-by-autumn-ravenflower.html" target="_blank">‘white horses’ of the sea</a>, which then led
me to invoke Poseidon at a recent <a href="http://www.kitchenwitchhearth.net/" target="_blank">Kitchen Witch ritual</a>, so it was no surprise
that Ocean Jasper called me at a mooch around a local crystal shop.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My piece is an unpolished triangle - creamy brown with a
couple of deep green circles on one side.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ocean Jasper which is also known as Ocean Orbicular Jasper,
Cellular Jasper and Atlantis Stone, is quite a rare stone, only being found in
Madagascar. It is a member of the quartz family and can be found in a variety
of colours - brown, green and white being the most common with yellow, pink,
grey and black also found.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Holding the crystal, it has a soft energy. Meditating with
it brings feelings of floating on calm seas, my mind thinking deep thoughts.
Clarity, vision and understanding. It was quite interesting to learn that Ocean
Jasper has a strong and positive heart-based energy, giving you feelings of
hope, joy and happiness. In other words, love your life! Let go of the past,
focus on now.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This stone will promote change - for the better! It will
allow you to throw away old habits and ways that you know are no good for you.
Meditate with Ocean Jasper and let it do some work for you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ocean Jasper has many properties and connects with the
throat, heart and solar plexus chakras - keeping you balanced and centred, allowing
you to voice your thoughts from deep within, positively and calmly. It can also
help you on a physical level in that area too: aiding the digestive system,
eliminating bloating. It’s also useful for the female reproductive system
particularly Pre-Menstrual Tension.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s a wonderful stone for, surprise! relieving water
retention and is said to aid in salt baths and with hydrotherapy too. Carry a
piece with you to help with nausea. Travel sickness comes to mind - I would
imagine that with sea sickness, Ocean Jasper would be most useful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ocean Jasper can also be used in your magical workings too.
"it will keep you organised and on track" - this is definitely one
that I will keep by my side then. But it will also ensure that you keep a
work/family time balance. Work with Ocean Jasper for abundance spells, adding
it to other Jaspers for a super prosperity boost.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ocean Jasper is a talisman of patience. Things that you
want, need to be worked for, not expected. Working with this stone will
encourage you to wait, to understand that if things are meant to be, they will
happen only when the time is right.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A very useful crystal for all things positive, that's got to
be a good thing, right?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-53752150190478331862018-04-13T11:45:00.000+01:002018-04-13T11:45:02.231+01:00Menarche by Gypsy Willowmoon<br />
<h2>
Menarche by Gypsy Willowmoon</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Menarche - The initial onset of menstruation, usually
occurring between the ages of 10 and 15.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There are a few different variations on claims of the
etymology of the word menarche.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Menarche is a Greek word originating from the 19th Century, 'men' - comes from the Greek for month, 'arkhe' - comes from beginning. <o:p></o:p></div>
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1896, from German menarche (1895), from Greek men (gentive
menos) <o:p></o:p></div>
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"month" and arke "beginning"<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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"At Menarche a woman enters her power!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Through menstruation she practices her power!<o:p></o:p></div>
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At Menopause she becomes her power!"<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Native American proverb.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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A Menarche ceremony as far as I see it, is a chance for the
Mother & a supportive group of women to educate the young woman into the
mysteries of her changing body, to understand what is happening & why, to show
her the joys of these changes and how they can positively affect her. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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To feel part of a group that empathise with her and her
emotions and the journey to womanhood that is in front of her. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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To encourage her to stand in her power and be PROUD to be a
woman!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Be proud of her lineage and all the women who have gone
before her.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The young woman will choose a special dress and invite whom
she wishes to be there. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The Mother & women will set the scene, perhaps with an
archway and altar, there will be singing, dancing & drumming, some story
sharing. Some women choose to have a woman's blessing as part of the ceremony,
which I think is beautiful - it acknowledges all the women in your lineage,
making it a real family/ community gathering.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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There is a portion of the ceremony where the young woman
will be asked to pick an item from her childhood to leave behind so she can
pursue her journey to womanhood, this is followed by passing through an archway
or stepping over red rope, to symbolise the start of the journey. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is followed by sharing a celebration meal &
dancing, maybe fire and drumming afterwards too - Which is when the men of the
community and the younger children would join in the festivities. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I had not heard of a Menarche ceremony before the <a href="http://www.kitchenwitchhearth.net/" target="_blank">Kitchen Witch School</a> lesson I
worked through for Rites of Passage.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have read about a few girls who experienced this ritual
and found it a very happy and encouraging experience, they feel it set them up
to talk about their feelings & emotions etc, not to feel ashamed about
periods as a LOT of women did growing up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I have really warmed to this idea and will be writing a
ritual for my own 3 girls, as they grow on their journey into womanhood. I feel
our ancestors would have used this time to also talk about shadow work and
teach the girls all about this, to give them more tools to use on their journey
of self-discovery. This is a powerful time for our young women, one which I
feel they should reclaim!<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have written and planned a Menarche ritual for my eldest
daughter to take place this summer, if nature allows...<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have invited friends and family members whom I know will
be supportive and nurturing influences for her in this often confusing time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">sources: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">mothering.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">etymologyonline.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">encyclopedia.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">web.mdmatriarchy.info<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">moontimes.co.uk</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-69676048624328952442018-04-10T11:20:00.000+01:002018-04-10T11:20:08.077+01:00Earth Mother Goddesses by Unity<br />
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Earth Mother Goddesses by Unity</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a43LdwhMS2s/WrtsxKPz-RI/AAAAAAAAFB4/ovI_6IbPwBwyY2gtrRM1zHilh4HF9ZpQwCLcBGAs/s1600/green-eco-globe_z1t0ytBd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a43LdwhMS2s/WrtsxKPz-RI/AAAAAAAAFB4/ovI_6IbPwBwyY2gtrRM1zHilh4HF9ZpQwCLcBGAs/s320/green-eco-globe_z1t0ytBd.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's April, and in the Northern Hemisphere this means it's
Springtime! The energies of the season to work with are: fertility, growth,
renewal, rebirth, new life, transition, new beginnings and change<o:p></o:p></div>
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The 22nd April is also <a href="https://www.earthday.org/" target="_blank">World Earth Day</a>, when events such as
tree planting and litter picking are held all over the world to encourage
people and governments to become more environmentally aware and to respect and
appreciate Mother Earth. As Pagans I feel it is something we should all get
involved with, and most areas of the UK will have different events going on
that you can join in with. If that’s not possible for you, have a think about
what you could do to make a difference, even if it's taking a reusable cup to
the coffee shop on your way to work, or turning your heating down a notch or
two!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Spring is the perfect time for Pagans to work with and
honour the Earth Mother Goddesses.<o:p></o:p></div>
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An Earth Mother Goddess is a goddess who represents, or is a
personification of the earth, motherhood, nature, fertility, abundance,
creation and destruction. She is the nurturing primal source of all life,
Universal Mother and Cosmic Womb, and to her all things must return at the end
of their days. She provides food and shelter to sustain all life, she is both
the womb and the tomb and is sometimes described as Mother Earth or Mother
Nature. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Call on the Earth Mother to bring growth and fertility to
your gardens and local wild spaces. Dedicate seeds and bulbs to her before
planting; create a mandala from flowers, leaves, herbs and stones in her name.
Research ways to become more environmentally aware<o:p></o:p></div>
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Spend as much time as you can outside, connecting with
nature, walking in woodlands and hills, breathing in the fresh air and just
appreciating all that the earth gives us. If you haven't got a garden you could
plant up some culinary herbs in pots for your kitchen or learn about native
plants and trees. If you have any old packets of seeds you don’t want, try a
bit of Guerrilla gardening and bring beauty to neglected waste land.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Below I have listed a few Earth Mother Goddesses, that you
may want to research or work with this Spring.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Terra Mater: Also known as Tellus Mater. An early Roman
Earth Mother Goddess of fertility who watched over marriage, childbirth and
agriculture. Terra was often connected with Ceres and they shared several
festivals throughout the year including Fordicidia, a festival of fertility and
animal husbandry on April 15th and Sementivae in January, a sowing festival;
she was also honoured at the Secular Games.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gaia: The Greek primordial Earth Mother goddess. She was
said to be the mother of all creation. The gods were descended from her union
with Uranus, the sky god, the sea gods, from her union with Pontus and the
giants, from her union with Tartarus (The Pit) and mankind, who were formed
from her earthly flesh.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Nerthus: The Roman historian Tacitus wrote about this early
German Earth Mother goddess. A sacred image of her was taken around the country
in a covered chariot by priests, and everywhere she went there were
celebrations and peace. She was associated with fertility, fecundity,
sexuality, abundance, the harvest, wealth, creativity and passion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pachamama: Also known as Mama Pacha. To the Pre-Incan
people, Pachamama is the earth personified in her many forms. She was honoured
at planting and harvesting times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
believed that Pachamama embodied the mountains and fields and caused
earthquakes when people failed to honour her; her name translates as 'Mother
Universe'.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Papatuanuku: Also known as Papa, the Maori earth goddess who
with her consort the sky god Ranginu or Rangi created six children: Tawhiri,
god of weather, Rongo, god of crops, Tu, god of war, Tangaroa, god of the sea,
Tane, god of forests and Huamia, god of plants. They also created the first
humans, water and everything between the earth and the sky.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Coatlicue: In Aztec myth Coatlicue was the primordial earth
goddess who gave birth to the moon, stars and Huitzilopochtil, the god of the
Sun and war. She was seen as the creator and destroyer of the earth and mother
of the gods and humans. The goddesses Toci, 'Our Grandmother' and Cihuacoatl,
'Snake Woman' patron of women who die in childbirth, were also seen as aspects
of Coatlicue.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Asase Yaa: The Ashanti people of Ghana regard Asase Yaa as
Mother Earth. She governs the fertility of the soil and sacrifices were made to
her to ensure an abundant harvest. Asase Yaa has no temples, and is worshipped
in the fields, her themes are death, truth, fertility, morality and the
harvest.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">ancient-origins.net<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The White Goddess.co.uk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Theoi.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">goddessesandgods.blogspot.co.uk</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-26537185643982966522018-04-08T11:41:00.000+01:002018-04-08T11:41:44.103+01:00Nirvana Crystal by Gypsy Willowmoon<br />
<h2>
Nirvana Crystal by Gypsy Willowmoon</h2>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-djd0di7Ls/Wrtxspy7v1I/AAAAAAAAFCo/xlguf9yeRNAX-2FWS7_DoWKZ2S15jglzgCLcBGAs/s1600/NirvanaQuartz2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-djd0di7Ls/Wrtxspy7v1I/AAAAAAAAFCo/xlguf9yeRNAX-2FWS7_DoWKZ2S15jglzgCLcBGAs/s320/NirvanaQuartz2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nirvana Quartz is a form of Quartz that was only discovered
in 2006, when the Himalayan glaciers started melting, in northern India. The
piece I have is from Kullu Region, India.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Colour - White, pink & lilac purple<o:p></o:p></div>
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Appearance - jagged and crevassed, almost looks like chunks
of an ice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rare crystal - hard to get hold of.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A powerful spiritual - alchemy crystal.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Source - Himalayas. Found at an altitude of 18,000 ft<o:p></o:p></div>
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Most are wand shape and trigonic - one of the faces would
have an upside-down triangle<o:p></o:p></div>
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exceptionally high vibration crystal which is attuned to the
white flame of pure consciousness. Which furthers spiritual illumination, opens
the soul star chakra and grounds these energies into the earth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Nirvana Quartz enables a shift into the enlightenment of
inner nirvana - the bliss state of pure illumined mind combined with
unconditional love of all that exists.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Nirvana Quartz feels like crystallised divine consciousness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Holds wisdom that can cause profound shifts in awareness,
and a rapid acceleration to accept your spiritual destiny as a universal being.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Removes any blocks to spiritual or psychological growth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Awakens undreamed of and unformed potential - May provoke a
healing crisis, as the soul sheds its karma.<o:p></o:p></div>
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creates a bridge to channel energy through a healer and
another person.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Particularly useful for spirit release work.<o:p></o:p></div>
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combine with Ice Quartz<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pink Nirvana Quartz is attuned to the divine feminine and
Goddess energy, opening the higher heart to an influx of divine love and
reminding you that all is love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Can dissolve inner emotional wounds and encourages
acceptance of self.<o:p></o:p></div>
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White or Purple Nirvana Quartz is attuned to the divine
masculine and assists in joining our inner male and female to move beyond
gender into pure spirit.<o:p></o:p></div>
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You may feel Nirvana Quartz's energy in the higher chakras
especially the third eye, crown and souls star chakras.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Also known as Lemurian Scalar, Himalayan Ice Quartz and
Growth Interference Quartz, so called, because of the other crystals growing
with them<o:p></o:p></div>
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such as calcite, fluorite and anhydrite - which later slip
away causing the strange shapes and indentations in the Nirvana Quartz.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Some have smooth sections, some have beautifully clear
windows.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Many have the hexagonal structure of quartz, but again, some
to do not.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Brilliant to work with for meditation - making it easier to
focus, allowing you to embrace the state of complete inner silence.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Helps you to gain an awareness of your spiritual destiny,
aids you in confirming, trusting and accepting your soul’s self.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Working with one white or purple(masculine) and one pink
(feminine) will help you fully discover their power. The combination of the two
is highly beneficial.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Great for working with the higher realms and spirit guides.<o:p></o:p></div>
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You may experience heightened intuition.<o:p></o:p></div>
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AN interesting thing may occur after working with Nirvana
Quartz a few times, you may feel a movement of energy in your brain. Similar to
Golden Herderite - which opens up new channels in the brain.<o:p></o:p></div>
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MAKE SURE TO GROUND FULLY AND PROPERLY WHEN FINISHED!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Judy Hall - Crystal Bible 2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Healingcrystalsforyou.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">howlatm.com (inc. image)</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-25113484990820864512018-04-06T11:10:00.000+01:002018-04-06T11:10:21.602+01:00Nuit, Egyptian Sky Goddess by Stormloverwolf<br />
<h2>
Nuit, Egyptian Sky Goddess by Stormloverwolf</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nOKY9tYzvcs/Wrtp_osJOKI/AAAAAAAAFBc/KgIoJBgUgfA0tiItlAqZoCW1LtIO_bnoQCLcBGAs/s1600/woman-in-field-with-her-hands-lifted-in-praise_SQMrjRWlC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nOKY9tYzvcs/Wrtp_osJOKI/AAAAAAAAFBc/KgIoJBgUgfA0tiItlAqZoCW1LtIO_bnoQCLcBGAs/s320/woman-in-field-with-her-hands-lifted-in-praise_SQMrjRWlC.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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In ancient Egyptian mythology Nuit or Nut was the Sky
Goddess. She is the daughter of Shu and Tefnut and was one of the Ennead – the
9 great Osirian Gods. It is said that the sun God Ra would enter Nuit’s mouth
every evening after the setting of the sun, only to be reborn from her vulva
the next morning. She also swallowed and rebirthed the stars. She was
considered a Death Goddess and her image was found on most sarcophagi.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Some of the titles of Nuit were - “Coverer of the Sky”; “She
Who Protects”; “Mistress of All” and “She Who Holds a Thousand Souls”. Nuit
became a key God in many of the myths about the afterlife. “The Book of Nuit”
is a modern title of what was known in ancient times as “The Fundamentals of
the Course of the Stars”. This became a very important collection of ancient Egyptian
astronomical texts, perhaps the earliest of several other such texts, going
back at least to 2,000 BC.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In art, Nuit is described in a few different ways. In some
she is seen as a dark nude woman covered in stars holding herself up in an arch
facing downwards, in the image of the Great Kau (Cow) whose udders gave forth
the Milky Way; and other art show her has having huge wings that spread over
the earth being supported by Shu; then opposite of Nuit (the sky), is her
husband, Geb (the earth). With Geb she was thought to be the mother of the five
extra days of the Egyptian calendar. Osiris was born on the first day; Horus
the Elder on the second, Set on the third, Isis on the fourth, and Nephthys
being the last, born on the fifth day. The days on which these deities were
born were known as the 'Five Epagomenal days of the year' and they were
celebrated all over Egypt. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The story goes that during the day Nuit and Geb are
separated, but each evening Nuit comes down to meet Geb, which then brings the
darkness. If there was any stormy weather, it was believed that Nuit came
closer to the Earth. She is the barrier of all forces of chaos from the
'ordered' cosmos in the world. It was believed that her arms and legs would
touch each of the four directions North, South, East and West being the pillars
of the sky. Nuit gives birth to the sun each morning in the East, and she then swallows
the sun in the West in the evening.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Being a Goddess that birthed the sun each day she was also
associated with the Underworld, resurrection and the tomb. Nuit was considered
a friend to the dead, and a motherly type protector of those who journeyed
through the land of the dead. Many times she was painted on the inside lid of
the sarcophagus, protecting the dead until he or she could be reborn like RA in
their new life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The following is from the Book of the Dead -<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Homage to thee, O thou who hast come as Khepera, Khepera
the creator of the Gods, Thou art seated on thy throne, thou risest up in the
sky, illumining thy mother Nuit stretchedth out her hands, and performeth an
act of homage to thee...<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Company of the Gods rejoice at thy rising, the earth is
glad when it beholdeth thy rays; the people who have been long dead come forth
with cries of joy to behold thy beauties every day. Thou goest forth each day
over heaven and earth, and thou are made strong each day by thy mother Nuit...<o:p></o:p></div>
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Homage to thee, O thou who art Ra when thou risest, and who
art Tem when thou settest in beauty. Thou risest and thou shinest on the back
of thy mother Nuit, O thou who are crowned the king of the Gods! Nuit welcometh
thee, and payeth homage unto theee, and Maat, the everlasting and
never-changing Goddess, embraceth thee at noon and at eve.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Gods rejoice greatly when they see my beautiful
appearance from the body of Goddess Nuit, and when the Goddess Nuit bringeth me
forth”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The following explains how Nuit was also called upon to
assist the dead in one of the Spells in the Book of the Dead...<o:p></o:p></div>
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“The Chapter of snuffing the air, and of having power over
the water in Khert-Neter. The Osiris Ani saith: Hail, thou Sycamore tree of the
Goddess Nuit! Give me of the (water and of the) air which is in thee. I embrace
that throne which is in Unu, and I keep guard over the Egg of Nekek-ur. It
flourisheth, and I flourish; it liveth, and I live; it snuffeth the air, and I
snuff the air, I the Osiris Ani, who word is truth in peace.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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There were several festivals to Nuit throughout the year
some of which are the 'Festival of Nuit and Ra' and the 'Feast of Nuit'. Though
she was known as a protector of the dead Nuit was the personification of the
sky, a cosmic deity, however no temples or specific cult centres were linked to
her.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I hope this interests you in the Egyptian pantheon and
encourages you to do further research. There is so much out there for us to
learn from.<o:p></o:p></div>
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StormloverWolf<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ancientegyptonline.co.uk/nut.html<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">crystallinks.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">en.wikipedia.ord</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-1593048513909755432018-04-04T11:14:00.000+01:002018-04-04T11:14:14.772+01:00The magic of Daffodils by Autumn Ravenflower<br />
<h2>
The magic of Daffodils by Autumn Ravenflower</h2>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQkq1YJwi6w/Wrtq1GIULfI/AAAAAAAAFBk/-xpn6ubNY3022Rsz_3VgCuyiFSFUOeYHgCLcBGAs/s1600/daffodils_MJxzYN9d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="600" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQkq1YJwi6w/Wrtq1GIULfI/AAAAAAAAFBk/-xpn6ubNY3022Rsz_3VgCuyiFSFUOeYHgCLcBGAs/s320/daffodils_MJxzYN9d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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At this time of year, we start to look forward to warmer
days and longer hours of daylight. Last month we started to see the first signs
that spring was on its way - snowdrops and crocuses sprouted forth from the
cold damp earth and has given us positive signs that the earth is awakening.
Daffodils are also springing up everywhere. The ones I have seen have still got
their heads closed shut - not quite ready to show their faces. Maybe it’s still
too cold...<o:p></o:p></div>
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But soon, their bright yellow petals will brighten up our
countryside, gardens and hedgerows.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Daffodils, like any other flower and plant has wonderful
properties, both medicinal and magical and it was very interesting to find out
just what they are...<o:p></o:p></div>
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Beautiful shades of yellows, ranging from deep butter to the
palest lemon and whites, this is one of the first flowers to give us a sign of
rebirth. Rebirth isn’t the only meaning connected with this beautiful scented
flower which once originated from Spain and Portugal - there are many others
too -<o:p></o:p></div>
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Creativity, Renewal, Inspiration, Awareness and Memory to
name a few.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The word 'daffodil' is a term that is used to describe an
assortment of flowers that come under the genus "Narcissus". Jonquils,
Paperwhites and the little versions of daffodils are all included. We tend to use
the term Narcissus to describe the smaller versions and Daffodil to describe
the larger ones, but they are all Narcissus. The majority of bulbs now are
exported from Holland and they are grown all over the world. There are over 50
species and approximately 13,000 varieties - that is amazing!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Each country has its own symbolism for the daffodil - In
China, it means 'Good Fortune'. It’s probably no surprise that its flowering
coincides with the Chinese New Year and is therefore deemed a very prosperous
flower.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In France, the daffodil is a symbol of hope, in Wales, it is
said that the first person to find the first flowering daffodil will be blessed
with more gold than silver that coming year.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Medieval Europe believed that if you should stare at a
daffodil and it should droop, then you can expect a death in the immediate future.
That one isn’t so good! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Moving on to the medicinal properties of daffodil, I was
quite surprised to learn that the bulb of the daffodil is, in fact, poisonous
and should be used with caution. There are limited uses for remedies because of
this, but there are a couple:<o:p></o:p></div>
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A plaster made from the bulb of the daffodil can be used to
treat burns, wounds and strains.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Essential oils can be made from this plant too to promote
relaxation and reduce stress, but again, caution is advised as too much use can
induce vomiting and cause headaches. Daffodil oil can be used in pot pourri or
perfume making, which is a safer option in my opinion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Daffodils are a wonderful flower for your magical workings
too. Placing a vase of daffodils in your home or on your altar will attract
abundance.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Placing daffodils in your bedroom is said to increase the
chances of fertility and if you wear a plucked flower next to your heart, you
will attract love and luck.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Daffodil blooms only last for 8-10 days which doesn’t seem
that long, but we are fortunate in that these beautiful first signs that warmer
weather is on its way, don’t flower at once. </div>
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Depending on where they are
sprouting up from and also the current weather conditions, these flowers can be
seen around for a few weeks, reminding us of the ever increasing warmth of the
sun and longer days are on the horizon. </div>
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When it’s time for them to sleep,
they'll bury down in the earth and await their turn to shine the following
year...<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8680791824632426742.post-92017834186713287182018-04-02T11:05:00.000+01:002018-04-02T11:05:06.040+01:00What the Kitchen Witches read in March...<br />
<h2 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
What the Kitchen Witches read in March...</h2>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JDp6i_fSnuI/Wrto0iQaImI/AAAAAAAAFBU/_XIIKN_fsVwZMWxBs8Pd_PP_oMMHdbTMgCLcBGAs/s1600/books_G1l7v8du.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="600" height="235" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JDp6i_fSnuI/Wrto0iQaImI/AAAAAAAAFBU/_XIIKN_fsVwZMWxBs8Pd_PP_oMMHdbTMgCLcBGAs/s320/books_G1l7v8du.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>The Sidhe -
Wisdom from the Celtic Otherworld</b> by John Matthews</h4>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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From EarthStar</div>
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<br /></div>
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Is quite
simply a brilliant book, I have read it twice, once in 2012 when I bought it
and again quite recently.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Essentially,
he writes it as a story, but it contains channelled messages from the Sidhe or
shinning ones.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Sidhe
pronounced Shee are he say's living within our world and a far advanced race of
beings now coming forward to bring messages to help us help our world.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The story
based in Ireland is about a friend of his who is an archaeologist that
discovers very interesting finds in burial mounds, the story is true but
written as fiction to preserve the secrecy of the place in Ireland and calls on
John Matthews to come and give his opinion on what he has found there.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I couldn't
put the book down, it changed me significantly forever.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>The Silent
Companions</b> - Laura Purcell</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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From Natsu No Kuma</div>
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<br /></div>
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This is a
gothic creepy as story which has left me with so many questions. It shifts
between two time periods and three settings and revolves around these wooden
'companions' that keep appearing in the protagonist’s home. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I highly
recommend this book and I have a feeling it will be one of my top ten reads of
2018. </div>
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<b>All Souls
Trilogy - A Discovery of Witches</b> - Deborah Harkness</h4>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This book
came to me highly recommend and I dived in trusting the information without
having read the synopsis. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Well I was
met with a shock. Not only did I find it hard to get into it took me a good
month to read. The characters although I did eventually warm to them came
across as bland at first and the plot seemed very similar to Twilight. However,
according to my Fitbit I have had 2 hours 50 minutes of sleep and that is because
the final few chapters brought me in and I had to keep reading. It was a shame
to finish the book, but I am relieved that I came to this series late as all
three books are available. So now I am speed reading The Hazel Wood, so I can
pick up the second instalment.</div>
<h4 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>La Belle
Sauvage - The Book of Dust Volume One</b> - Philip Pullman</h4>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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From Sunchylde</div>
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<br /></div>
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I read and
enjoyed "His Dark Materials" trilogy many years ago, so I was excited
to read another instalment from the world of Lyra. Philip Pullman didn't
disappoint with his great story telling. The story was captivating, and I love
the character of Malcolm. The second half of the book was filled with tension
and had me on the edge of my seat for most of it. Really looking forward to
book 2</div>
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<b>Voyager</b> -
Diana Gabaldon</h4>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I've become
completely obsessed with everything Outlander and spent last month reading
Voyager by Diana Gabaldon<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I don't want
to give away any spoilers, but the story picks up with Claire back in her own
time having left Jamie at the beginning of the Battle of Culloden. Is this the
end of the romance across the distance of time? You'll have to read to find out...<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />RPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16777807426183386641noreply@blogger.com0