moon

Across the Great Divide

R. Wolf Baldassarro July, 2011

divide1 300x188 Across the Great Divide

Environmental Factors of Ghost Hunting: The Moon

MoonPhases Across the Great Divide

We left off last month discussing some of the mainstream scientific and environmental factors that contribute to paranormal research and ghost hunting. I touched on many of those topics as best I could and ended with a mention of how the Moon affects investigations. We’ve got a whole new month and column to stretch out our minds and comfortably talk about this important aspect of our otherworldly stroll.

The Moon has played an important role in spiritual and psychological matters for as long as there’s been recorded history; many modern terms, such as lunacy, derive from the effects that the Moon is claimed to have on our psyches.

As the lunar cycle waxes to full, incidents of psychotic behavior, violence, and crime seem to escalate; the phase of the New Moon also seems correlated to a rash of abnormal behavior. Current understanding of human psychology and physiology supports the observation that the Moon can exert significant influence on the human mind.

But is there really any scientific support for such claims?

Well, it so happens that this pattern has been proven in a variety of studies. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry (1978); a 1987 survey; and at the University of New Orleans (1995) are a few examples.

Statistically, the studies found that psychiatric admissions actually drop at the New Moon, but that they increase during the first quarter; homicides, suicides, aggravated assaults, and fatal traffic accidents all increasing as the Full Moon arrives.

As a professional in the psychology field, I find this interesting. If the Full Moon exerts an influence on rising ocean tides and also an increase in erratic human behavior, and psychiatric admissions drop at New Moons, that supports a hypothesis that the gravitational pull of the Full Moon is counteracted by the equal but opposite effect of the New Moon having an adverse effect on the chemical imbalance in the brain, perhaps due to a reduction in the gravitational pressure exerted on the fluids within the body.

It is well established in science that the Moon’s gravity is the cause of the ocean tides and affects many different phenomena in weather and nature. The Earth is mostly water; but the human body is also made up of mostly water to the same percentages. So if the Moon affects the planet due to its abundance of water, why not the creatures on the planet made up of the same materials?

As long as we’re discussing the Moon’s effect on water, it may be interesting to note that sites with poltergeist activity report unexplained drops or small puddles of water in the room, and in general more poltergeist activity is reported near water; many poltergeist reports involve kitchens. Several of the best EVP recordings and other captured evidence for hauntings occur near streams or in close proximity to groundwater. Early studies suggested that running water may generate a frequency that renders some people more sensitive to psychic phenomena.

Some scientists argue that the lunar effect on gravitational forces doesn’t just affect the tides, but are linked to earthquakes as well. A study of 2000 earthquakes demonstrated that they occurred when tidal forces where over the epicenter of the earthquake. The study showed that there seems to be a lunar trigger. Another study in 1978 found that the Moon triggers particle flow, which disturbs the Earth’s magnetic field.
Eclipses are known to have an effect on the conductivity of the atmosphere, especially the E-region, which in turn affects the Earth’s geomagnetic field- the largest effects occurring in the morning around the time of equinoxes. A 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Japan occurred on the same day of the joint winter solstice/eclipse on December 21, 2010.

So if a major parapsychological theory contends that paranormal activity is tied to fluctuations in the geomagnetic field of the planet, then it stands to reason that investigations can benefit from close association with lunar events to produce effective results.

Activity often increases on the anniversary of death, especially if the Moon was full or new on the date that the person died. A possible cause of this is due to the gravitational forces being increased and therefore providing additional energy to bridge the gap between the different planes of existence. Whether or not the person’s death correlates to a Full or New Moon, it’s wise to check for increased activity on those nights each month, or on whichever moon phase was nearest the time of death.

Paranormal activity is often easily influenced by subtle factors so it’s possible that the Moon has a greater effect on them now that they exist in the non-physical realms.

Some researchers have noticed slightly better statistical results during investigations held during the New or Full Moon.

In addition to the effects of the Moon on spirits, researchers can have greater psychic sensitivity during the Full and/or New Moons. The Full Moon has been shown to affect the physical body, including menstrual cycles (which in turn affects the body mentally and physically); whereas the New Moon is related to increased influence on mental states.

There is definitely a lot of room for speculation about lunar cycles and increased paranormal activity, or perhaps more awareness of it.

So, have any of you noticed an increase or decrease in activity during certain Moon phases? Is there any credit to these theories, or is it all just lunacy? Let me know what you think. The floor is yours.

© 2011 R. Wolf Baldassarro/Deep Forest Productions

Tags: , ,

Rebel Rede

Hoi Sum July, 2011

Remembering to Honor the Moon

As a witch I try to be faithful about honoring the wheel of the year. Every sabbat I do my best to at least have a  solitary ritual if I am unable to attend a group ritual. I used to to have a full moon ritual every esbat too. My full moon rituals are my favorite. They are such a magickal and intimate time between me and my deities. Unfortunately I have gotten so busy lately that I have been forgetting to celebrate the esbats. I get bummed out every month when I realize another full moon has passed me by. Sometimes we are so busy in our mundane lives we neglect our magikal lives. It is important to honor the moon and to celebrate her phases. The moon phases are not just important to witches because of the different energy aspects for spell work, but the moon phases also represent the life stages of the Goddess and all women. An esbat ritual is a chance to honor and worship the Goddess and to honor our own womanhood. It is important as a witch to take the time to honor the moon and to honor our own feminine energy. Esbat rituals are a great way to do this. Even when we are busy we need to remember to take the time to have an esbat ritual. An esbat ritual doesn’t always have to be long and complex. Sometimes a simple ritual of lighting a candle and taking time to meditate on the moon is enough. The important thing is to take time, even a small amount of it to honor the moon every month. The moon is an integral part of our craft as witches. I am personally taking a pledge to make an effort to honor the moon every month and to take the time to celebrate the Goddess with esbat rituals! I hope you will join me in this pledge! Blessed Be!

Tags:

Me,Myself and I, Notes from a Solitary Practitioner

Rayneschild March, 2011

A couple of years ago I read about using the energy from the full moon to charge water for future use in spells, cleansing, whatever.  I don’t remember which author it was to give proper credit, but I use it quite often and Ostara happens to come under that category.  It’s best to use spring, ocean, or rain water, something from the elements and catch it in a non-metallic container.  Put the container outside where the light of the full moon can shine on it unobstructed all night and then bring it in before it is touched by the sun.  Keep it somewhere dark like a closet, etc., and dip it out to charge for use.  In my Ostara ritual I am specific about the mountains I’m lucky enough to live in since Spring here is like watching the Earth Mother reawake every year and that in and of itself is a blessing, Happy Ostara!!!

On this blessed first day of Spring I cleanse and claim this sacred ring

With water touched by Goddess light under the Horned God’s golden light

My altar too is sacred ground, blessings of love and joy abound

Witnessed by both stone and tree

This is my will so mote it be!

I give thanks for the blessings of Spring

The mother brings new life to everything

She lovingly whispers to each creature and tree

Come dance in my circle I have new life for thee

And here in my own circle I ask the Mother’s gift

That along with all the seeds and bulbs

My spirit too will lift

It’s Ostara in the mountains which are a gift to me

And it is with deepest reverance I give my thanks to thee.

Tags: ,

Rites and Rituals

John Conlin December, 2010

The Long Night’s Moon and Yule

“The Wheel turns and I feel my fire has burned away.

I feel the Earth holding me tight. I know the Crone now walks through the night.

And I know the Wheel still slowly turns, back to me to make me burn,

With the love, I forever, hold for thee…..”

For me, both of these moments separately mark very significant changes upon the Wheel. When they coincide within the same night, something that occurs roughly once every 19 years, there is magick in the air.  This night, I am able to witness and emerge myself in the middle of the dance that shadow and light eternally share. I am able to stand at the edge of the deep dark and reach out to touch the spark of the journey anew. It is to me, both the end and the new beginning of my own path around the Wheel.  As I sit in the quiet darkness I try to recall all of the signs, all of the sights and smells and the sacred moments I experienced throughout this turning of the Wheel. From the inward searching Winter’s hold asks of my spirit, to the first fragile glimpse of the dreams of Spring, I remember how the air felt upon my skin. Soon, the maiden began to dance away the snow, awakening the earth from her slumber and chasing away the last grasp of Winter. I remember feeling the forest come back to life. I remember the rich, deep breath the forest shared and how the air tingled with energy. The stillness of the cold was long gone, replaced with the passion and vibrancy new life promised. Where there was only black and white, there now exploded a world of color, fueled with the magick of wet and warm touching, and the days grew. Longer, warmer, filled with the sounds and scents of Nature’s rejoicing, the days stretched themselves into the night. The Tiger Lilies returned and the Ghost plant made its brief appearance as the shadows all but disappeared from the forest. The Spring rains faded and the Sun rose higher.  Sitting by the altar in my house, holding a rock I borrowed from the river, I think back to the morning of the Summer Solstice. I pick up my wand and trace my finger over the ring I burned into it that day, with the Sun’s fire. I remember how connected I felt that day, standing beneath the Sun, between the forest and the river.  Slowly I gaze over everything I’ve placed on the altar and savor the memory each item conjures. Shadow and light, love and death, the endless dance that weaves itself within the change beckoned by the turning of the Wheel, it all lies represented upon my altar. Beneath my altar I notice the coiled black cord. The black cord we used in our Mabon ritual to represent the Mother pulling up the shadows from the God’s passing. I reach out and hold the cord. I   wonder what the end of the ritual is like, for I have never witnessed the closing, choosing instead to embrace the path the God walks that night. I close my eyes and drift within the shadows of the Fall. I remember the way the feel of the air changes, a damp heaviness on my skin as I begin to smell the decay of those things forgotten by the fading Sun. My thoughts turn to the Crone and her lone walk through the trees under a stark moon. I recall the way her touch turns the leaves to the colors of his fire. I think about the last days of the salmon, keeping their long promise to return, giving themselves back to the forest and the river. I have come full circle once more and although my memories of the past flow with similarities, I recognize my need to embrace change. Here at the place where I believe the end and the beginning touch, I ready  my spirit to step into the unknown. In this night, within this moment the Goddess sheds the Crone’s dark mantle, her shadows sliding back into the Earth, revealing the Mother. I consider how I should honor the past and remember its weight as I acknowledge the Mother’s presence, breathing in the present. I light a single yellow candle to celebrate the return of the God. It is a small spark of light that will slowly push against the edge of the dark, until the days are once again long and warm.  Until then, I will hold space for the future and the untold promises of wonder, the new year that turns to me, can manifest.  Blessed be and Merry Yule to all,

John

Tags: , ,

Rites and Rituals

John Conlin November, 2010

A Full Moon in November

november moon helford 175 Rites and Rituals

A heavier darkness now eats at both the beginning and the end of the day. The colors of Autumn have fallen and yielded to gray shadow. Spring and Summer drift further away, carried deeper into memory, upon the colder winds that have started to blow. The Full Moon rises over the river, Her bright light illuminating a world laying on the edge of sleep, waiting for the Wheel’s inevitable turn to Winter. Native people called this moon the Beaver Moon for they saw them using the last few days before the ice formed, readying themselves to outlast the impending cold. Others call this the Dark Moon or the Hunter’s Moon but I think they all seek to acknowledge the same awareness and sense of purpose. For me this moon is a reminder to be sure that I am prepared for the long dark journey through Winter back to Spring. Some rain laden clouds begin to stack up against the mountain and temporarily obscure the Moon’s light. The path I’m on is quickly swallowed by the darkness and I can feel the cold trying to wrap more tightly around me. Unable to see I simply stand and wait, breathing deeply tuning myself to this exact moment. I can hear the river, stronger now with the Fall’s rains, rushing past. Its sound is deeper and more serious than the carefree sounds it carried past in Summer.  There is nothing else moving this night. I feel the forest withdrawing. The harmony and united breath I felt within this place before, no longer exists. I can feel each tree standing alone, centering its energy within its core and grounding itself to the earth. They are all bracing for Winter’s onslaught. I wonder if those trees standing along the river’s banks now sense the vulnerability of their position. What was enchanted real estate through the Summer can unforgiving turn to misfortune amidst Winter’s storms. As I think about the trees, the Moon’s light breaks free from the clouds allowing me to resume my walk down the path. It was not that long ago when this path was seemingly covered with spider webs of all shapes and sizes. The air was a buzz with insects and the deciduous trees were ablaze in color .That is gone now, returned to the earth to be re-claimed. I am reminded of this with each noisy step I take down upon the crunchy leaves. Only the evergreens look the same, though I sense they worry about the burden of snow they’ll have to endure in the months that lie ahead. I slowly make my way to a spot that overlooks the river from the tree line. There is an old stump there, a tree felled by loggers long before I was born, that offers a perfect vantage upon the river while remaining within the forest’s hold. I sit down on the stump thinking it is not too wet and pull a small cauldron from my pack. I am pleased that I managed to keep almost all of the sand from the river inside the cauldron as I set it on the forest floor. Without a breeze blowing I am able to ignite the charcoal with a single match and shortly it is glowing red. I ritually place some sage on the coal and embrace the magick released. Throughout all the years I’ve tried to walk my path, breathe within a sacred moment and reach into another realm, I have found and collected those things that inspire my spirit. It is so simple a thing to burn sage, yet for me, there are few things that pull me away from the mundane so effortlessly and move me so deeply to another place. My thoughts turn to this Full Moon, the Beaver Moon and I think about what it should mean to me. I am so blessed to live where I do and actually have beavers that live not far from where I currently sit. I remember seeing all the young branches they had gathered a couple weeks ago when I was fly fishing. I think about the basic things I have gathered to prepare for the months ahead. My list is a bit different than what the Native people who were here had to do, but it seeks to capture the same assurance. Elemental basics, food, fire and water that I will need to sustain my physical self through the coming Winter, have all been gathered. What though of my spiritual self? What should I gather to nurture my spiritual self through the dark?  I sit in the dark stillness, staring through the gray smoke from the burning sage, searching the forest for the wisdom of the Crone. Her aspect for me singularly and poetically captures the essence of being alone in the dark. It is She who offers to take me on a journey to let go of everything that binds me to possibly discover what more I am.  I sit here in the cold darkness and I try to glean what Nature is showing me. I feel the forest around me, individually, tree by lone tree gathering strength. I begin to understand that unlike Spring and Summer now is not the time reach outward and spread one’s self too thinly. It is time embrace solitude while strengthening the core of my being. It is time to focus my vision into the great darkness and without fear, wonder. It is time gather my resolve, embracing my singular awareness that I might better understand my connection to the universe. I place one last pinch of crumbled sage upon the charcoal as I think about what I want to accomplish. Peering through the rising gray smoke of the sage to the place where the Moon’s light yields to the dark, I hear the Crone whispering, take what the natural world gives and trust it to lead you.  .

Tags: ,

Rite and Ritual

John Conlin August, 2010

Lughnasadh and the Moon of August

“I remember I held you, up high on the mountain’s side.

As I looked out over the land, all your magick filled my eyes.

I hear the ravens call my name, reminding me everything must change.

For the Earth, she lays waiting for me.”

This month I stand between the Summer Solstice and the Autumnal Equinox. It is a moment upon the Wheel that seems to defy my ability to discern the turning changes still taking place. The morning air is warm and sweet. I can see and feel a richness of the land. The bounty of Summer’s end is now ripened and ready to be savored within the lazy last days before the turn to Fall. The forest around me is so quiet as the Sun’s light peaks over the tree covered ridge. An occasional bird briefly sings but their calls now sound more like a contented sigh than anything else. Although I realize the Wheel must still be turning at the same speed, it surely does not feel that way to me. All around me there is a deep stillness. As if the forest was trying to take one last nap in the light before the shadows of the Fall claim their place, pushing Summer back into dark memory. Not yet though I think to myself as I pick some grapes and a few plums before heading down to the river. Slowly, as I breathe in the warm morning air, I step further away from the mundane allowing my senses to align with the natural world. The deeper I step, the clearer the subtle changes that mark Lughnasadh and this Moon become. I can see that the light, ever so slightly, has a hint of darker gold within it. There are spider webs everywhere, commanded by large garden spiders and adorned with the empty carcasses of the less fortunate. The moss on the trees is now dry and brittle. The once vibrant green has now faded toward a more sage like gray as it yields to August’s heat. My steps are noisy as the parched ground beneath my feet crackles under my steps. There are no more wildflowers in the small clearings and the few bees I see seem frustrated by their disappearance. Making my way down to the river I notice there is an osprey sitting upon one of the large branches reaching out from a shoreline tree. The river is at its lowest levels of the year now and although she is a little off colored from glacial melt, the water is too low to provide any decent cover for the fish. As a result, the ospreys and kingfishers are now having their day but even they seem relaxed. I finish making my way down to the river and head over to one of my favorite rocks. It has been scoured smooth and partially hollowed by the river’s rage but at this time of the year it makes a comfortable vantage point for observing. I set down my backpack, pulling out some water and sit on the cool rock. The morning Sun has not yet reached this spot and for a few minutes longer I am within the shade of the large trees. I think about the coming of Lughnasadh and the traditional start of the harvest season as I bite into one of the plums I picked earlier. I close my eyes, remembering the mornings I first saw the blossoms appear and then the initial signs of the fruit to come. For all things given there is an equal amount of energy given back, returned to the source for the Circle to flow and be complete. I remember the baby birds I found beneath the tree that had fallen from their nest to be returned to the Earth. Sitting quietly, the Sun now embracing me, I can see the ebb and flow of energy around that tree as the Wheel turned, the seasons changed and the Circle spun. The Sun is warm but now in August not nearly so direct and it feels gentle upon my tanned skin. I open my eyes, looking around and notice a heron fishing just upstream from where I sit. I watch him catch a few fish and wonder how much harder it will be for him to be so successful once the rains return in a short while. The native people call the moon of August the Full Sturgeon Moon, for it is one of the best times to catch these large fish. Others call it the Grain Moon, the Fruit Moon, the Full Red Moon for the reddish tint it takes on rising through the sultry haze of late Summer, as well as the Moon when all things ripen. They all have their connections and depending upon ones own relative perceptions a stronger or lesser personal relevance. I simply call it the Moon of Harvest, for it marks the first hint of noticeable transition the seemingly endless days toward those requiring a more structured and responsible effort. Not yet though I remind myself as I walk over to one of the larger pools in the river. This is one of the few times during the year when Fire and Water are gently entwined. The energies between the two seem closer and for a short time the river is refreshingly cool and not freezing cold. As I drift in the pool and then sit at its edge I think about everything I harvest from this world around me. Not just those things I physically consume but all that I take, borrow and use along my journey. Do I return or give back anything close to what I take?  While I sit there in the river, wondering, I see the first Chinook salmon of the season to make it this far up river. She is a large female, her fins torn and tattered from her long promised journey. She has come to spawn and then give back all that she has left, returning what she has harvested along her way.  Once again I am awed by Nature’s magickal perfection and as I head back home I have a deeper understanding of this moment upon the Wheel.

Tags: , , , ,

Rites and Rituals

John Conlin April, 2010

Reaching the Moon through the Forest

moonforrest Rites and Rituals

The night has settled in. The birds are quiet, welcoming a brief respite from the rigors of Spring’s demand, as I enter the forest. The cool air feels heavy and damp upon my skin. I can taste the richness as the carpet of deep green breathes and fills the dark. Slowly, I make my way to a small clearing where the old cedars and firs tower above me, disappearing into star light. It feels more still here. Their sentient presence dominates this part of the forest, the open ground beneath them a testament of patient, enduring strength. I set down my knapsack and place the few items I’ve carried on the flat stone facing north. This month’s full moon, I know, seemingly passes directly over this copse of trees. The openings between the tree tops and the stars are small but on a clear night the full moon is still able to reach the forest floor with her light. After I find the moon’s path, I ignite a charcoal on the stone and burn an offering of sweetgrass and sage. I close my eyes as the scent of my offering triggers a ritually conditioned response, touching memories born within such moments as this. I stand still, letting my thoughts pour over all the different names that have been given to this full moon. The Growing Moon, the Egg Moon, the Sprouting Grass Moon and the Full Pink Moon, different perspectives from different realities and experiences, all of them seeking to reach a similar connection. I think about which name resonates with me, naturally, indifferent to my influence. My mind begins to quiet, as I cycle through my incomplete thoughts and ground them to contented conclusions. Who else has stood here before me, beneath these very trees, gazing at the moon and wondering? Does the forest remember? Just as the trees absorb, from above and below, the energies around them, might they draw in something more? I wonder what other information may lie within the stories of their rings. That makes me smile, and allows me to step into a magickal space. My ears now fill with the music of the river’s rush and I imagine the vast amounts of energy she carries from the mountain to the sea. I listen to the sounds of all who move inside the night, who thrive within the darkest shadows. I am so still and I feel, for these few sacred moments, accepted as a part of the forest. It is time to open my eyes and reach for my blade. I make a fist around the oaken hilt with my right hand, my left hand open to honor the Goddess. I seek solid ground for my feet. Facing the north, I mimic the form of the great trees around me,) (, with my arms and my legs, and I breathe. Three times do I breathe into the below and pull the energies up into my spirit. Three times do I breathe into the above and draw the energies down into myself. Then three times I breathe into my center to connect the above and below within my being. “Deep within the Earth I call”, I state into the dark, dropping to my knees and tracing a pentagram with my blade into the earth. I reach inward, waiting for the connection, then I stand. “Convergence of power and my will form,” I command, directing my blade out in front of me, beginning to trace a pentagram into the dark. I trace it three times saying,”Star of crystal, star of elements, star of life born. To coalesce, to manifest, to stand before,” Then starting with my blade focused at the top point of the star and pulling down to the left bottom point, I begin, ”In spirit (top), by truth (bottom left), by wisdom (middle right), with love (middle left), with strength (bottom right), and in magick of which I am sure (back to the top point).Energy of the Goddess, of the God and of the Core, into the star of life you flow once more. Around all points times three is true, the sphere is born in a band of blue”, I charge, drawing a circle around the star. Still facing the north and turning clock-wise I begin, “With Earth the band grows, by Air the band breathes, by Fire the band burns, with Water the band flows.”Around all the band circles, protects and grows, (repeat), around all the band circles protects and glows. And as it is willed, so mote it be,” I finish. At this point, I cleanse with earth and water, then purify with fire and air, before sealing the Circle. To seal the Circle I reach above and say,” with the Goddess and by the God above”, then reaching down, continue,”with the Goddess and by the God below, the circle is sealed by in the blue sphere I know. I stand within, I open my mind, with the love of the Goddess, truth shall I find. I stand within; I share and bind, with the strength of the God in the realm aside time. The Circle is cast, a sphere of blue, as strong as the will of me and the will of you”, I finish while taking the hand of the person to my left, if I am in a group, and having each successive person repeat the words, taking the hand to their left until the Circle is joined.

I wanted to share this cast for I feel it to be both poetic and powerful in its ability to combine the mind and the heart in creating a scared space. It is not only visual but equally physical, which I believe aids with the importance of pulling all of my being and senses into the moment. I have purposely omitted some of my own hand gestures and body movements because I think beyond this foundation, should lay the individual’s unique expression and connection. I am honored however to further share my own interpretation with any who might be interested.

To close or take down the Circle, I begin by releasing the seal. “With the Goddess and by the God above, with the Goddess and by the God below”, “the seal is opened to spiral down, returning to the band which I shall take around.”  I continue, starting in the north and turning counter clock-wise and say,” return to the Water with which you have flowed, return to the Fire by which you have burned, return to the Air by which you have breathed, return to the Earth from which you have grown and to the star of life from which you have shone” Then with my blade focused at the star’s top point and pulling down to the right to un-trace the pentagram I say, “ I release the star, the energies freed, may they teach, may they heal, may they open eyes to see. The Circle is open, but unbroken, merry meet, merry part and merry meet again. Blessed be.”

Tags:

)O( March Moon Report )O(

Rev. Melissa King Ph.D April, 2010

“Under the full moon life is all adventure.” -Sigurd Olson, The Singing Wilderness

Full Moon:

APR 28  5:18 am

Full moons occur from fourteen to seventeen-and-a-half days after the new moon. Full moons are prime time for rituals for prophecy, protection, divination. Any workings that needs extra power, such as help finding a new job or healing for serious conditions, can be done now. Also, full moons aide work for love, knowledge, legal undertakings, money, divination, and dreams. It is said that full moon magic is like a white candle — all purpose.
Full moon magic can be conjured during the 3 days prior to the rise of the full moon, the night of the full moon and during the 3 days after.

This full moon finds itself in Scorpio and because the Moon and Mars are at odds during this time it’s best to focus on healing and action-planning. With the Moon in Scorpio it brings a very postivive outlook for emotional and physical connections, this is why you may find yourself behaving a bit more flirty and emotional at this time.

Last Quarter:

APR  6  2:37 am

Between the full moon and the dark moon is the period of waning moon. The waning moon is best used for banishing and rejecting those things that influence us in a negative way. Negative emotions, diseases, ailments, and bad habits can all be let go and special spells for clearing can be performed at this time. Saging your home is a great idea during this time.

From three-and-a-half to ten-and-a-half days after the full moon.The waning moon is used for banishing magic, for ridding oneself of addictions, illness or negativity.

New Dark  Moon:

APR 14  5:29 am

The new moon is for starting new ventures, new beginnings. Also a good time for love and romance, health or job hunting, anything that is for personal growth, healing and blessing of new projects or ventures. The new moon is also a good time to cleanse and consecrate new tools and objects you wish to use during rituals, ceremonies or an up coming festival or something you just obtained. Some people call the new moon the dark moon and the terms are often interchangeably used.

New moon workings can be done from the day of the new moon to three-and-a-half days after.

With the new moon in Aries, it brings out the impetuous side in each of us and it has a helpful aspect in Mars to boot. Note that quick decisions can arise as well as impulsive purchases.

First Quarter:

APR 21 11:20 am

The first quarter, called the waxing moon is best used for attraction and constructive magic, love spells, wealth, success, courage, friendship, luck, and healing energy.

Between the new and full moon from seven to fourteen days is a period of the waxing moon.

Please Note:

*Moon Phases (above) are at Pacific Standard Time

*Moon in Signs (below)  are at Eastern Time

April Full Moon  Names and Traditions :

April is known as Growing Moon, Hare Moon, Seed or Planting Moon, Planter’s Moon, Budding Trees Moon, Eastermonath (Eostre Month) Ostarmanoth, Pink Moon, Green Grass Moon.

“If I was the moon, I’d feel bad. We never write. We never call. And we certainly don’t come for a visit anymore.” -James Lileks

Other events in April:

April 1: Festival of Kali in India. The Fortuna Virilis of Venus in Rome. Day of Hathor in Egypt.

April 4: The Megalesia of Cybele, or Magna Mater, in Phygia and Rome, commemorating the arrival of goddess to her Roman temple. A seven-day festival.

April 5: Festival for Good Luck in Rome; the goddess Fortuna.

April 8: The Hana Matsuri, the Flower Festival in Japan’ honor of the ancestors and decorations of shrines. The Mounichia of emis in Greece; a day of Moon cakes.

April 11: In Armenia, the Day of Anahit,  goddess of love and the Moon.

April 12-19 The Cerealia, or Return of Persephone, in Rome, honoring Ceres and her daughter.

April 15: Festival of Bast in Egypt.

April 22: Festival of Ishtar in Babylon.

April 28-May 3: The three-day festival of Flora and Venus, or the Florialia, in Rome; goddess of sexuality and Spring flowers.

Though this is the focus for this report is on the Moon, don’t forget to take time out for Earth Day on the 22nd, afterall the Moon was once part of the Earth!

Moon In Signs

Moon phases are crucial to everyday workings but there is another valuable tool in the Moon’s magickal arsenal, Moon in zodiac signs. We know the Moon sets the emotional mood for the day, and using those subtle changes to your advantage can change a result from ‘fuzzy or vague’ to ‘perfect!’ To understand how this works, you need to understand how the Moon travels. Simply, it is the astrological sign the Moon travels through and it is something that should be considered when planning anything and everything. As the Moon’s phases gives off different energies, so too do the astrological signs she visits.  To figure out how the Moon in any particular sign will effect you, consider the nature of the sign the Moon is visiting.  For example,  if the Moon is in Virgo, it would be a great time to tend to details, tidying up, being efficient, make plans, but watch out for anxiety about what could go wrong, overthinking an issue etc., Plan activities for when the moon is in one of the astological signs governed by the element that corresponds to your desire. For example if you wish to bring the Earth element into your plan, choose a time when the moon is in Taurus, Virgo, or Capricorn. For Air qualities choose a time when the moon is in Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. For Fire choose a time when the moon is in Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius. For Water, choose a time when the Moon is in Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. The chart below tells you when the Moon is moving out of her last aspect and into the new.

April

Last Aspect                                                           Moon Enters New Sign

Date       Time                                                        Date                                           Sign                                         Time

2             8:54 am                                                   2                                                 Sagittarius                              12:53 pm

4             4:57pm                                                    4                                                 Capricorn                                 9:07 pm

7             4:18 am                                                   7                                                 Aquarius                                  8:51 am

9             5:44 pm                                                   9                                                 Pisces                                      9:48 pm

12           8:51 am                                                   12                                               Aries                                        9:31 am

14           3:23 pm                                                   14                                               Taurus                                     6:55 pm

17           12:57 am                                                 17                                               Gemini                                     2:08 am

19           6:21am                                                    19                                               Cancer                                     7:39 am

21           10:07 am                                                  21                                               Leo                                         11:42am

23           11:35 am                                                  23                                               Virgo                                       2:24 am

25           2:21 pm                                                    25                                               Libra                                       4:16 pm

27           3:45 pm                                                    27                                              Scorpio                                    6:28 pm

29           8:39 pm                                                    29                                              Sagittarius                              10:36 pm

Moon Void-of-Course

In about 28 days the Moon circles the Earth and she moves through each zodiac sign in two and a half days as you can see from the chart above. Because she moves one degree in two-two and a half hours her influence is short lived.  Though from the point where she reaches her highest degree within a sign to the point where she is reaching the next sign, it is called ‘void-of-course.’ It’s best to think of this short time period, as ‘dead time’ because plans usually don’t work properly. These are the times when we uncharacteristically exercize poor judgement because actions initiated during this time period aren’t given the full picture. But, all is not lost, this is a good time for just reflecting, not acting. If you are a person that likes to periodically ‘put things off’ well this is a great time for that. You can think about what to do when the Moon is right for it!

April V/C times

2- 5:54 am

4-1:57 pm

7- 1:18 am

9- 2:44 pm

12- 5:51am

14-12:23 pm

16- 9:57 pm

17-12:57am *

19-3:21 am

21-7:07 am

23- 8:35 am

25-11:21 am

27-12:45 pm

29-5:39 pm

*This is in Eastern time and it only effects those in that time frame.

Lunar  Notes:

  • On the 6th after the Moon squares the Sun at 2:37am, until the void of course Moon on the 7th. This brings about an energy great for creative types of work.
  • The New Moon on the 14th, is an Aries Cazimi Moon*. Because Mercury is in Storm, you can work with the energies of the New Moon for about an half hour before and after the Sun-Moon conjunction at 5:29 am.  Because it’s an Aries Cazimi Moon,  it’s best if you only use this time for following through on projects, it will give you an extra push to get them done.  *Any planet whose center is within 17 minutes of arc of the center of the Sun in celestial longitude is said to be Cazimi. This is considered the hightest form of accidental dignity. A planet is thougth to be weak when under Sun’s beams, and weaker stil when combusst but very powerful when Cazimi.
  • The Moon opposes Pluto on the 19th, until Moon enters Leo on the 21st. This energy is very productive is very good for follow-ups.

A Hare Moon Invocation

by Dorothy Morrison

“O Fertile Mother, I now ask of Thee

To fill my life with Hare Moon energy

My spirit and mind so decisions are wise

I ask for my body a healthy condition

I ask that my goals come at once to fruition

And bring, too, the positive magic of fey

Bring foth this energy, Mother today.”

Lunar Agricultural Working

Since spring is on the wind, it’s time now to think of all things outdoors. Below are a few topics you may find useful in your agricultural workings.

Cultivate- when the Moon is in a barren sgin and waning, the best time begin in the fourth quarter in Aries, Gemini, Leo, Virgo, or Aquarius or the third quarter of Sagittarius.

Fertilize and Compost- Fertilize when the Moon is in a fruitful sign such as Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces. Organic fertilizers are best when the Moon is waning. Start compost when the Moon is in the fourth quarter of any water sign.

Harvest- Root crops should be harvested when the Moon is in a dry sign, Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Gemini, and Aquarius and in wane. Harvest grain crops for storage just after a Full Moon, and avoid the signs of water for storing grain, wait and harvest grains during the third and fourth quarters in dry signs listed above. For dry crops, harvest in Fire signs during the third quarter.

Mow Lawn- Mow in the waxing phase to increase the lawn’s growth and mow in the waning phase to decrease growth.

Pick Mushrooms- Because mushrooms are often used in holistic ways, they should be gathered at the Full Moon for most potentcy.

Planting- Root crops are best if planted in the Earth signs of Taurus and Capricorn. Beans, peas, tomatoes, peppers, and other fruit-bearing plants are best if planted in a sign that supports seed growth. Leafy plants like lettuce, broccoli or califlower, are best planted in water signs.

Transplant- Transplant when the moon is decreasing when the Moon’s forces are straming into the lower part of the plant. This is good also for root growth.

Prune- Prune during the third and fourth quarters of a Scorpio Moon to retard the growth, to yield better fruit. To promote healing, prune when the Moon is in Capricorn.

Because our planetary conditions are changing and our environment is precious, I’ve included in this section a few tips on water conservation.

Make the most of the water you have by capturing rain. For those who are in an independent dwelling, you can attach a pipe from your gutter to a closed rain barrel and fill it up to use for watering later. Place a trellis in front of it and plant a climbing plant to camouflage the barrel. Alternatively, barrels or large pails can be left out to catch the rain but any water left out must be used quickly or it will become stagnant and buggy. Also be careful around children and pails of water.

Digging a trench alongside a row of crops is an instant irrigation system. In this way you will only have to fill the trench occasionally, saving water, Mother Nature does the rest.

If you use a non-toxic dish-washing liquid (such as Seventh Generation) you can recycle the water into the soil and plant pots. The mild soapiness can also kill off aphids.

And all the while, the moon was shining,
And with its feeble rays outlining
Tatyana’s graceful, pallid air,
Her flowing tears, her loosened hair
And there, reclining in a cranny,
Before her youthful charge’s eyes,
Wrapped in a jacket twice her size,
And capped with scarf, sat gray-haired Nanny.
The whole room shimmered in a trance
Beneath the moonbeam’s silent dance.
-A. Pushkin, Eugene Onegin (Johnston’s translation)

References:

http://www.griffithobs.org/skyfiles/skymoonphases2010.html

http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/MoonPhase.php

http://lunaf.com/english/moon-phases/lunar-calendar-2010/01/16/

http://astrology.about.com/od/themoon/a/FollowingMoon.

http://www.everythingunderthemoon.net/

The Moon Through the Zodiac Following the Lunar Waves By Molly Hall, About.com Guide

Everyday Moon Magic by Dorothy Morrison

Moon Magick by D.J. Conway

The Book of the Moon by Tom Folley

2010 Llewellyn’s Moon Sign Book

Dry Gardening by Janice Sharkey

Llewellyn’s 2010 Daily Planetary Guide

The New A to Z Horoscope Maker and Delineator by Llewellyn George

Electional Astrology by Vivian Robson

Rev. Melissa King Ph.D. is an Interfaith Minister, Metaphysicial Theocentric-Transpersonal Psychologist, Intuitive Tarot Reader, Channeller, and Registered Astrologer. For more information and list of services contact mking53713@yahoo.com

Tags:

Rites & Rituals

John Conlin March, 2010

The Promise of Spring is Ours to Keep

Ostara and the Quickening Moon

The light has changed and all but the most stubborn shadows have yielded their hold. Darkness gives way to green. All that was forgotten by the Sun and left to Fall’s descent, now lies transformed, ready to fulfill the promise of Spring. Ostara, the Vernal Equinox, brings us to the moment where the dreams of Imbolc begin to physically manifest. It is the point upon the Wheel where color begins to return in earnest to the world around you. The solemn quiet of Winter gives way to Nature’s chorus, as more and more of Her creatures follow the Goddess’ and God’s lead into the throes of the great dance. You can feel the energy blowing across fields and through the forests, refreshing your senses. You can feel it dancing over your skin; cool yet warm, flickering back and forth like a candle, as the seduction of Spring reawakens the desire to want more. Under the Spring rains and within the growing incandescence of the heightening Sun, you can feel wet and warm touch. The sky above fills your eyes with blue and the ground below vibrates with new life reaching outward. In all of this I can hear and feel the Earth, through Nature, speaking to me and showing me, that it is time to move ahead. It is time for me to take action on those dreams born at Yule and then nurtured at Imbolc. To act upon those discoveries I made, venturing into the darkness while embracing the wolf moon and those ideas I thought over as I sat in the stillness and quiet of the snow moon.  The Wheel has turned, the energies are converging and it is our moment, as well to apply our energy to a time and place. I recognize that traditionally the union of the Goddess and the God, (the aspect energies of each within Nature), is celebrated on May 1st at Beltaine. From my perspective, where I live, I feel their energies unite much closer to Ostara. And by the 1st of May, feminine and masculine energies have not only embraced but have been set to their destinies. I guess what I am trying to say is that I feel Ostara marks the union of the Goddess and the God, while Beltaine is the celebration of that prior union. The mystery and wonder of Nature move with her whim and such things are difficult at best to capture with even the most enlightened of calendars. I give this explanation, not so any who read this will follow my interpretation word for word, but instead, hoping that they will seek to feel what is present in their own world and interact accordingly. Before I address the ritual components I use for Ostara, I would like to talk a little about the Quickening Moon. This month’s full moon falls just after Ostara and as such, it directly corresponds to the same energies. To me it is the Quickening Moon but many know it by other names. The Full Worm Moon, the Crow Moon and the Sap Moon are some of the most common names. They all speak to the same concept though, a recognition and acknowledgement of the convergence of energies present at this point upon the Wheel. Each name serves as a reminder for us to constantly tune our awareness, a reminder for us to try to see the small, subtle actions taking place around us that ultimately shift the seasons. There are many ways to see and experience this world. Through both the mundane and the poetic we can find ways to make sense of all we encounter, thereby furthering our own understanding. No two beings find their way in exactly the same manner, because each of us interfaces with a different way or rate, to the Universe. What I see, what I feel, when I walk through the forest will be completely different and quite possibly somewhat irrelevant to another. For I think it is true, that each of us, can only experience, some lesser part of that which we imagine possible. That being said, there are still some things, like the turning to Spring, that can move and make us smile. It is not realistic to hold every ritual outside or travel to some natural location you deem to be sacred. Ostara however is one that I highly recommend you try to take outdoors. Whether you hold your ritual on the Vernal Equinox or need to wait a week to find the time, do what it takes in order to have it in Nature. I prefer to keep my ritual simple, heading down to where the forest touches the river, with just a few items. A candle each for the Goddess and the God, a chalice and my blade, a bottle of water, (not plastic), a piece of cake, (usually something slightly cinnamon), some incense and a magnifying glass, is about all I will bring. I like to use water for this ritual, as I see the coming together of fire and water as the catalyst of Spring. I tend to use the same cake recipe throughout my rituals, increasing or decreasing the cinnamon levels according to the season, in relation to the aspect present of the God’s energy. The magnifying glass is for lighting the incense, but it’s a good idea to bring along a few matches just in case the Sun does not cooperate. After doing everything involved with casting circle, I will light some incense and just sit or stand quietly. I will close my eyes at times to rely more heavily upon my other senses and allow myself to drift in between. The most important aspect of this ritual though is to breathe and feel the Spring. To pull the energy of the great dance within yourself, melt away the last of Winter’s hold and re-ignite your flame. Then as you stand in the Sun’s light, feeling the Earth tremble with energy, hold your vision brought forth from Imbolc and wrap it with the magick of Ostara. I will then tap three times on large rocks, trees and upon the Earth while saying,” Mother Earth, through soil and stone I call to thee,

For Father Sun has returned the light to see.

Awaken anew from your Winter’s sleep,

the promise of Spring is yours to keep.”

Tags: , ,

)O( March Moon Report )O(

Mi Kali D. March, 2010

)O(  March Moon Report  )O(


“Nothing that is can pause or stay;
The moon will wax, the moon will wane,
The mist and cloud will turn to rain,
The rain to mist and cloud again,
Tomorrow be today.”
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

March Moon Phases

Full Moon:

MAR 29  7:25 pm

Full moons occur from fourteen to seventeen-and-a-half days after the new moon. Full moons are prime time for rituals for prophecy, protection, divination. Any workings that needs extra power, such as help finding a new job or healing for serious conditions, can be done now. Also, full moons aide work for love, knowledge, legal undertakings, money, divination, and dreams. It is said that full moon magic is like a white candle — all purpose.
Full moon magic can be conjured during the 3 days prior to the rise of the full moon, the night of the full moon and during the 3 days after.  .

Last Quarter:

MAR  7  7:42 am

Between the full moon and the dark moon is the period of waning moon. The waning moon is best used for banishing and rejecting those things that influence us in a negative way. Negative emotions, diseases, ailments, and bad habits can all be let go and special spells for clearing can be performed at this time. Saging your home is a great idea during this time.

From three-and-a-half to ten-and-a-half days after the full moon.The waning moon is used for banishing magic, for ridding oneself of addictions, illness or negativity.

New Dark  Moon:

MAR 15  2:01 pm

The new moon is for starting new ventures, new beginnings. Also a good time for love and romance, health or job hunting, anything that is for personal growth, healing and blessing of new projects or ventures. The new moon is also a good time to cleanse and consecrate new tools and objects you wish to use during rituals, ceremonies or an up coming festival or something you just obtained. Some people call the new moon the dark moon and the terms are often interchangeably used.

New moon workings can be done from the day of the new moon to three-and-a-half days after.

First Quarter:

MAR 23  4:00 am

The first quarter, called the waxing moon is best used for attraction and constructive magic, love spells, wealth, success, courage, friendship, luck, and healing energy.

Between the new and full moon from seven to fourteen days is a period of the waxing moon.

Please Note:

*Moon Phases (above) are at Pacific Standard Time

*Moon in Signs (below)  are at Eastern Time

March Full Moon  Names and Traditions *

March is known as ‘Storm Moon’ to many, but has also been called Moon of Winds, Seed Moon, Plow Moon, Worm Moon, Hrethmonah (Hertha’s Month) Lentzinmanoth (Renewal Month), Lenting Moon, Sap Moon, Crow Moon, and Moon of the Snowblind.

“The moon has endured more than anyone can know.” -Maddy, in FOXFIRE the book

Other events in March:

March 1: The Matronalia in Greece and Rome, a festival of Hera and Juno Lucina. This day also celebrates the Feast of Rhiannon.

Hera

Hera is the Greek Goddess of the Sky and Queen of the Gods, and one of the twelve Olympians. Her name is said to derive from a root meaning “sky”. She was originally a powerful goddess in Her own right, and was only joined with Zeus when invaders brought His worship into Greece.

She is a goddess of Women, and of marriage and childbirth. She is decribed as very beautiful and queenly, virtuous and faithful to Her husband. Her worship was widespread, with many temples and festivals dedicated to Her.

March 4: In Greece, the Anthesteria, a festival of flowers, dedicated to Flora and Hecate.

March 5: Celebration of Isis as the ruler over safe navigation, boats, fishing, and the crossing over into the final journey of life. (for more on Isis see below)

March 14: The Diasia to ward off poverty in Greece.

March 17: Festival of Astarte in Canaan. The Liberalia in Rome, a women’s festival of freedom.

March 18: Sheelah’s Day in Ireland, honroing Sheelah-na-gig, the goddess of fertility.

Shiela-na-gig

The Sheila-na-gig is a figure from medieval stone carvings of the British Isles (mostly Ireland), of a grinning woman holding open Her vulva. The vulva as holy symbol of birth and life is a very ancient idea that symbolizes the life-giving and regenerative powers of the Earth Mother. The image of the vulva has a long history of being carved in stone, and is found all over Europe from the Paleolithic and Neolithic Ages. Passage graves were built in the shape of the Goddess, with the passage the vagina, and the tomb chamber itself representing Her uterus. “Tomb” and “womb” were equated, thus ensuring regeneration and continuity after death, in the same way that a “dead” seed is planted in the fertile earth and sprouts up to grow into a complete plant. The word “gyg” is Norse for giantess, in other words, a supernatural or deified female, while “Sheila” is a woman’s name, or used as a word for “girl”.

March 19-23: The Lesser Panathenaea in Greece, honoring Athene.

March 20: In Egypt, the Spring harvest festival honoring Isis.

Isis

The goddess Isis is the Great Goddess of Egyptian religion, a powerful sorceress and protectress, who represents the power by which the Pharoahs ruled. In heiroglyphs, Her name incorporates a throne-symbol, and this attribute was often depicted on Her headdress.  Her titles include: Divine Mother, Mistress of the West, Queen of the Earth,

March 21: Spring Equinox, Festival Kore and Demeter in Greece. For five days over the Equinox in Rome, Minerva is honored.

March 22-27: The Hilaria, festicals honoring Cybele in Greece.

March 23: The Quinquatria, the birthday of Athene/Minerva in Rome.

March 29: The Delphinia, or artemis Soteira, of artemis in Greece.

March 30: Feast of Eostre, the German goddess of Spring, rebirth, fertility, and the Moon.

March 31: Roman Festival of Luna, the Moon goddess.

)O( Goddess information here is found on http://www.thaliatook.com

Moon In Signs

Moon phases are crucial to magickal workings but there is another valuable tool in the Moon’s magickal arsenal, Moon in zodiac signs. We know the Moon sets the emotional mood for the day, and using those subtle changes to your advantage can change a result from ‘fuzzy or vague’ to ‘perfect!’ To understand how this works, you need to understand how the Moon travels. Simply, it is the astrological sign the Moon travels through and it is something that should be considered when planning magickal workings, or  even mundane tasts. As the Moon’s phases gives off different energies, so too do the astrological signs she visits.  To figure out how the Moon in any particular sign will effect you, consider the nature of the sign the Moon is visiting.  For example,  if the Moon is in Virgo, it would be a great time to tend to details, tidying up, being efficient, make plans, but watch out for anxiety about what could go wrong, overthinking an issue etc.,

Elemental-Moon Magic

* EARTH *
spells should be preformed when the moon is in one of the astrological signs governed by that element: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn.

* AIR *
spells should be performed when the moon is in one of the astrological signs governed by that element: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius.

* FIRE *
spells should be performed when the moon is in one of the astrological signs governed by that element: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius.

* WATER *
spells should be performed when the moon is in one of the astrological signs governed by that element: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces.

March

Last Aspect                                                           Moon Enters New Sign

Date       Time                                                        Date                                           Sign                                         Time

1               12:36 pm                                                 1                                                   Libra                                         7:31 pm

3                3:43  pm                                                  3                                                   Scoprio                                   9:11 pm

5               11:32 pm                                                  6                                                  Sagittarius                              2:36 am

8               6:13   am                                                   8                                                 Capricorn                                 12:13 pm

10             4:59  pm                                                   11                                                Aquarius                                  12:42 am

13             7:57 am                                                    13                                                 Pisces                                        1:44 pm

15             8:01 pm                                                    16                                                 Aries                                          2:32 am

18             7:23 am                                                    18                                                Taurus                                      12:29 pm

20            3:41  pm                                                    20                                                 Gemini                                        8:28 pm

22             9:49 pm                                                     23                                                Cancer                                        2:16 am

25            12:39 am                                                    25                                                  Leo                                             5:39 am

27             3:04 am                                                     27                                                  Virgo                                           6:57 am

29             2:55 am                                                     29                                                   Libra                                           7:21 am

31             8:13 am                                                     31                                                   Scorpio                                     8:41 am

Moon Void-of-Course

In about 28 days the Moon circles the Earth and she moves through each zodiac sign in two and a half days as you can see from the chart above. Because she moves one degree in two-two and a half hours her influence is short lived.  Though from the point where she reaches her highest degree within a sign to the point where she is reaching the next sign, it is called ‘void-of-course.’ It’s best to think of this short time period, as ‘dead time’ because plans usually don’t work properly. These are the times when we uncharacteristically exercize poor judgement because actions initiated during this time period aren’t given the full picture. But, all is not lost, this is a good time for just reflecting, not acting. If you are a person that likes to periodically ‘put things off’ well this is a great time for that. You can think about what to do when the Moon is right for it!

March V/C times

Date       Time

1                9:36 am

3                12:43 pm

5                 8:32 pm

8                 3:13 am

10              1:59 pm

13              4:57 am

15              5:01 pm

18              4:23  am

20              12:41 pm

22               6:49  pm

24                9:39 pm

25              12:39 am

27              12:04 am

28             11:55 pm

29                2:55 am

31               5:13 am

*v/c  times are set to Pacific Time Zone.

)O( Moon Magic Tip:

In March Tibetian people have a ceremony to expel the ‘demons of bad luck’ from their lives, homes and their outer communitites. On a new Moon the people of Bali hold public expulsions of demons and it is during this time of year it happens. Each village sets out food at the nearest crossroads and then everyone goes into the temple to pray as they blow horns to summon the demons. Then the people bang on anything that will make noise which is said to frustrate the negative beings and flee from the area, as they pass over the area where the food’s been left out the negative beings pause and are ambushed by a waiting priest who curses them which causes the demons to leave the area and luck is then restored.

For us negativity comes in all forms from people we have to deal with on a daily basis. Even walking through a grocery store can leave you feeling like you picked up some negative vibes and entities that are negative will leap into our auras while we are feeling blue. A good way to get rid of these feelings and entities are to do the ritual above in your own way, or to do a thorough cleansing of your home. Take a handful of salt and bless the salt and sprinkle the salt all over your house, don’t forget corners or closets. Once you have finished take a nice long bath with salt to cleanse your own aura.

References:

http://www.griffithobs.org/skyfiles/skymoonphases2010.html

http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/MoonPhase.php

http://lunaf.com/english/moon-phases/lunar-calendar-2010/01/16/

http://astrology.about.com/od/themoon/a/FollowingMoon.

http://www.thaliatook.com/AMGG/sheilanagig.html

http://www.everythingunderthemoon.net/

The Moon Through the Zodiac Following the Lunar Waves By Molly Hall, About.com Guide

Everyday Moon Magic by Dorothy Morrison

Moon Magick by D.J. Conway

The Book of the Moon by Tom Folley

2010 Llewellyn’s Moon Sign Book

Llewellyn’s 2010 Daily Planetary Guide

Tags:

Next »