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Hello Moonbeams!!!

We have a beautiful FULL MOON rising today, 12/26,  This final full moon of 2023 is known as the Cold Moon because it is the closest to the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere which is also why it is also called Moon of the Long Night, This one is in the powerful sign of Cancer, known for its emphasis on emotions. Cancer is ruled by the moon so expect intensified feelings and intuition. Take some time to ground yourself and prioritize self-care as we embark on the new year.

The Cancer archetype is all about connecting with home, family, and finding stability within ourselves. It brings in the watery energies of the Feminine and encourages us to explore our feelings and emotions. As we open up to our true selves, we may feel a sense of release and the need to let go of energies that no longer serve us. This can be a vulnerable time, but by nurturing ourselves with love and attention, we can offer our unique gifts to the world. Let's embrace our true essence with the Cancer archetype and find the peace and stability we seek.

As you draw down the energies of the moon tonight allow it to align your energy as you step into 2024 with renewed spirit and clarity. On the Wheel of the Year, every Earth change is a celebration, and every celebration is an opportunity to strengthen your connection to yourself, your people, your planet, and your God/Goddess. So Mote it Be

Cancer Full Moon Bathing Ritual

(after the year we’ve had I think we all deserve some juicy self-care lovin'!)

Please note this is a bathing ritual, if you don’t have a bath, you can prepare all the ingredients in a large pot/jug and then pour it over yourself in the shower, or alternatively, you can do this ritual as a hand or foot bath.

This ritual can be done anytime but for the best results aim to do it the night of the full moon or 3 days before or after.

You will need:

•         Cleansing tools of choice (dried herbs, incense, palo santo sage, oils, candles, flowers, etc.)

•         Ingredients for your bath (choose at least three of the following)- essential oils, rose petals, lavender buds, flowers, chamomile/herbal tea, sea salt, lemon slices, fresh or dried herbs

•         clear quartz and/or amethyst crystal

Prepare your bath by brewing a botanical bath tea made up of any ingredients of your choice. Once your tea has steeped for at least 15 minutes, strain it, and pour it into your tub. Place your crystals in the tub.

To bring your bath experience to life, surround your tub with candles and fresh flowers. Burn sacred smoke to clear energy, purify the air and create space to tune in. Now climb into the tub and just let yourself be. Stay in your bath for as long as it feels comfortable.

When ready drain the tub and visualize the water rinsing away toxins and cleansing your entire body in new light energy. To complete your ritual bath, remove, rinse, and dry your crystals placing them in a bowl of sea salt for an hour to cleanse them.

Winter Solstice-December 21st
The Winter Solstice, celebrated as Yule in many European pagan traditions, is the darkest and shortest day of the year. The occasion marks the turning of the wheel and, though months of winter lie ahead, each day that follows slowly moves us towards the light. Solstice is a reminder that as soon as we hit our darkest point, there is a light on the other side. 
Lasting for 12 days, Yule begins when the sun is at its lowest point in the sky (Winter Solstice), symbolizing the rebirth of the Sun, an embodiment of hope and renewal that brings a stillness that mirrors the cycle of death and rebirth. It is a time to go inward, to embrace the darkness before the return of the light. 
However, while this sabbat is meant to ring in the returning of the light, it is important to remember that this is a time fraught with deep spiritual significance. Time should be spent in contemplation of that darker side. The act of calling back the light is one where we ask to have our conscious awareness awakened because without introspection and reflection there cannot be inspiration. This is the time to nourish and allow the stillness and quietude of the world around us to create the space needed to really dive into the true desires of our hearts.
Take some time to reflect on the year behind you. This year, Winter Solstice also falls at mid-point during Mercury Retrograde, which means that we are all going to be given a glimpse into the thoughts, feelings, and emotions we have buried within. To look at the fears we had...to look at all the chances we took....to see all that we lost...and look at the joy we gave. Know in your heart that you are strong enough...fearless enough to walk through the gate (or the fire, are you listening Kali?) into the next year. So, stand still for a moment today & reflect. Be fearless-for you are your own sun...and you shine so brightly.
Lastly, as we celebrate the stillness of this longest night, remember those who have left this physical world, those new souls who were born this year, and make a joint call for peace across the world. May Iris, Rhiannon, Hera, Lucina, Bona Dea, Frigga, Lucia, and Freya show you the beauty of the season and bless you many times over. 
Happy Winter, Everyone!
 

Winter Solstice Rituals, Crystal & Plant Magick

• Candle Lighting…a reminder of the return of light…red, green, white, gold, silver
• Sharing a meal with loved ones…honors community and abundance
• The Yule Log: burning the Yule Log was a ritual of protection and prosperity, symbolizing the light overcoming the darkness.
• Crystals: bloodstone, garnet, ruby, quartz, obsidian & selenite. 
• Oils…frankincense, myrrh, cedar, spruce, pine, cinnamon, copal
• Decorations: holly, mistletoe, ivy, pine, pinecones 
• Herbs: blessed thistle, bayberry, chamomile cedar, cinnamon, mistletoe, hawthorn, clove bud & orange peel

Debbi’s Solstice/Yule Incense:

2 parts Fir needles 
1 part clove
1 part frankincense tears
1 part myrrh resin
5-star anise seeds
½ part amber resin
Mix all together. If frankincense, myrrh, and the amber are not moist enough to stick add a bit of honey to the mix. This will bind your loose incense. Make sure to dry completely. Use in incense warmer or burn on a charcoal disk set in fireproof bowl.
 

Hello Moonbeams!!!
On December 12 at 6:32 p.m. ET, the moon will disappear into the night sky, marking the beginning of an exciting Sagittarius New Moon. The lack of visibility of the moon should not be underestimated, as it marks the opportunity for profound renewal, restoring optimism, and ushering in a major shift in energies even in the face of challenges.
This moon is the perfect time to start fresh as we head into a new year. Ruled by Jupiter, the planet of growth and abundance, the message coming in now is all about change, the pursuit of truth and transformation. However, it will be important to practice restraint if we wish to see our visions and goals come to fruition. This cosmic cycle will offer the opportunity to rediscover who we truly want to be and have the courage to embrace new beginnings. 
Like the “Archer” point that arrow and focus on intentions based on your deepest desires, your own truths, becoming fearless and most important...trust your inner vision. As the Wheel turns towards Winter Solstice, it is a powerful time for rituals and practices that focus on letting go of the old to make way for the new.  Magickally speaking, Sagittarius is associated with fire, making it an ideal time for rituals involving candles or bonfires. Fire symbolizes transformation and purification, making it a potent tool for releasing stagnant energy and inviting in positivity. Use this energy to create a sacred space for manifesting your desires. Our beautiful Moon Goddess will help you tune into your emotional body, bringing balance as you move forth with intention. 
As 2023 comes to a close allow this energy to be the start of something new, a new starting point in your life. 
Blessed be, my lovelies
Herbs of the Sagittarius Moon: anise, basil, borage, chestnut, clove, dandelion, endive, fig, honeysuckle, horse chestnut, hyssop, linden, sage and yellow dock
Crystals of the Sagittarius Moon: black obsidian, labradorite, lepidolite, blue lace agate, tigers’ eye, citrine and 
Rituals: Spend time in stillness and quietude. Rest, eat simple foods, swim or bathe in moonlight. Use a journal and practice self-inquiry. Surrender to the moment and sit in the stillness and serenity of the new moon.
Moon Drink: Cacao is a wonderful, natural earth medicine that is good for our physical health and has the power to open our hearts. Sip on it as you soak in water or while you reflect and journal.

Hello Moonbeams!!! 
The full moon in Gemini peaks on Nov. 27 at 4:17 a.m. ET/1:17 a.m. PT.  Known as the "Beaver Moon" it symbolically reflects the need for preparations as the colder, darker months approach…just as the beavers prepare for their own harsh winter. This moon urges us to assess our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being as we rise out of the shadows of our souls to embrace new horizons. As the last full moon before the winter solstice, it’s a powerful reminder of the cycles that govern not just nature, but our very lives. It emphasizes the importance of preparation, the beauty of transition, and the inevitability of change.
There are many planetary forces at play now, making it both busy and perhaps a little chaotic. During the Sagittarius season, the moon rises, bringing dynamic energy to the Gemini-Sagittarius axis. This combination fuels lively discussions and debates, while also pushing us to seek the truth in all matters. However, with Gemini's lack of filters, it's crucial to be mindful of our words. Though we may be tempted to speak our minds or hearts, it's important to remember that our words can have a lasting impact. Take a moment to pause and consider the power of your communication. The Throat Chakra is the center of energy for communication, and maintaining balance in this area can help us become more aware of our words, thoughts, and actions.
The energies of Mars and the feminine goddess, Lilith are active now as well. These planetary forces are known for their strength and ability to create tension, which may cause emotions to overflow. If there has been something bubbling up within you, this Full Moon may trigger it. Because full moons mark the end of the lunar cycle, it's time to let go of anything that's been holding us back or keeping us stagnant. There will be a strong emphasis on figuring out what makes you happy and revealing the things that matter. What do YOU need to clear out? 
Meditation Ritual
During this full moon, take time to sit and breathe. Find a comfortable place to sit and relax and begin to set up your sacred space & light a smudging tool of your choice, wafting the smoke to cleanse the energy so you may receive clarity on what comes through for you during this practice.
Ease your nerves, loosen up those shoulders, and raise your arms overhead, exhaling as you bring them back down. Gemini rules these areas of our body, as well as the lungs. So, honor the breath and all that can be released when we deeply inhale and exhale. Breathe in deeply through your nose for a count of 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, then slowly breathe out through your nose for a count of 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and repeat.
It’s best to do this at least 7-8 times in order to stimulate your parasympathetic system. This produces a calm and relaxed feeling in the mind and body. 
When we are in a state of awareness and connection to ourselves and source energy, it is much easier to clearly see what we need to achieve our goals and dreams.
 

Hello Moonbeams!!!

Get Ready to Embrace New Moon Magick!

The upcoming New Moon in Scorpio on November 13th marks a time of intense transformation and new beginnings. As the sun and the moon unite, the veil between worlds is thin, allowing for powerful magick to take place. When we’re talking about Scorpio, we’re talking about all things deep, transformative and mysterious. That all or nothing intensity will push you to confront the hidden truths within yourself, your relationships, and within your world. Ask yourself what it is you most want to conjure in your life. It's time to embrace those intense emotions and let go of what no longer serves. Let's harness the power of this New Moon and set intentions for the transformative journey ahead.

A loving, sexy vibe will fill the air as Mercury connects with Venus in Libra on November 15th. This energy will push you to speak the truth especially within your love relationships. It's easy to ignore our inner voice, but the upcoming New Moon in Scorpio on November 18th will force us to listen and allow our inner muse, voice, or guide to express itself. True healing is never complete without a walk into the dark. I encourage you to use the darkness to your advantage, and rather than feel imposed upon by it, let it catalyze you! The transformations we make now can help you feel ready to face the darkness of the season with a new sense of purpose and strength.

Tis the season of change. Can you feel it? 

New Moon Ritual

Over the days after the new moon, carve out some time in your life to sit in the dark and listen to what you are being led or called to create. Get still and hear the voice deep within your soul. From a place of stillness, develop a vision you feel compelled to move towards in the next few months. Set your intentions around what you want to create in your life. Write down your vision, read it out loud. Light a candle... diffuse your favorite meditation blend…burn your favorite incense… and just relax.

This is a good time to celebrate these festivals and Goddesses days…

November 14 – Diwali (Hindu Festival of Light) Lakshmi, Goddess of Abundance honored

November 14 – Kali Worship Day- The Goddess who breaks down the old to make way for the new

November 16 –Night of Hecate-Goddess of Magic and the Crossroads

For your ritual work…

Herbs of the Scorpio Moon: sage, basil, bloodroot, devils club, hibiscus, patchouli, uva ursi, foxglove, hops, horsetail, nettles, grape root, catnip, coriander

Crystals of the Scorpio Moon: aquamarine, black tourmaline, labradorite, red jasper, rose quartz, sodalite

Happy New Moon!

In The Wheel of the Year, Samhain (pronounced as "sow-in" or   "sah-win") is one of the four major Celtic festivals that marks the end of harvest season and the beginning of winter.  Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh, and Samhain align with the solstices and equinoxes, and mark the agricultural cycle, with each festival representing a different aspect of nature. It is a time when the veil between the physical and spirit realms is at its thinnest, allowing for communication with ancestors who have crossed over. From October 31st to November 2nd, the fires are burning, and our loved ones can cross over into our world, bringing messages of support and guidance. This is why divination tools are so popular on Samhain, as they can help us to communicate with our ancestors and receive their messages. (Be sure to light a candle or two in your windows so they can see their way home).
This is the night of power and magick, also known as All Souls Night, Halloween, Feast of the Dead, Festival of Remembrance, Feast of Mongfind, and Witches' New Year. This sacred season is a time for honoring the dark, the crone, our elders, ancestors and the other world-a time for introspection and renewal, as we mourn our losses and let go of all that we are ready to release. Samhain is the womb stirring a world of possibility as we stand at the threshold of a new year. As our Dark Goddesses teach, it is only through death that we find rebirth. Samhain gives us that sense of promise and as the Wheel of the Year turns once again, we are reminded as women that this cycle of seasons is like the endless spiral we walk as women of the Wise Woman Tradition. 

Have a Moon Altar? 
Celebrate Samhain by adding seasonal symbols of the season like dried leaves, mementos, crystals and heirlooms from transitioned loved ones. Some ideas are:
Food: apples, pumpkins, spiced cake, gourds, squash, mulled wine
Herbs: mugwort, rosemary, calendula, thistle
Crystals: moonstone, amethyst (stone of the witch), carnelian, lapis, spirit quartz 
Scents: cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, patchouli, amber
Goddesses: Hecate, Persephone, Demeter Cerridwen, Eir
Symbols: skulls, jack o’ lanterns, cats, pictures of ancestors, cauldrons, candles
, Fenn
Two Samhain traditions that have been passed down through generations are my personal favorites.
DUMB SUPPER
This is a silent meal held on the night of Samhain. You set a place at the table for those who have passed. This is simply a way to honor and communicate with the spirits of loved ones. The meal is eaten in silence. 

SOUL CAKES
Soul Cakes are biscuit-like cakes that brings back the custom of leaving food offerings outside the home for wandering spirits

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1 stick 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 egg yolks
1/2 cups of raisins
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Combine the flour, spice and salt in a small bowl. Mix well with a fork.
Warm the milk and remove from heat.
Cream the butter and sugar together; add the egg yolks and blend in thoroughly. Add the spiced flour and combine as thoroughly as possible; the mixture will be dry and crumbly.
One tablespoon at a time, begin adding in the warm milk, blending vigorously with a spoon. When you have a soft dough, stop adding milk; you probably won't need it all.
Turn the dough out onto a floured counter and knead gently then roll out to a thickness of 1/2 inch. Using a floured 2-inch round cookie or biscuit cutter, cut out as many rounds as you can and set on an ungreased baking sheet. 
Decorate the soul cakes with raisins and then brush liberally with the beaten egg yolk. Bake for 15 minutes, until just golden and shiny. Serve warm.

The Witches Sabbat
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njoJTpXptks
 

Hello Moonbeams!!!

October's full moon, called the Hunter's Moon, on Oct. 28 is about to be a spooktacular one because it will also take place during a lunar eclipse. The power of the moon cannot be overstated –it pulls the tides as well as our emotional oceans. For those in the US, the eclipse will not be visible, however energy and power will be felt.

The lunar eclipse presents a unique opportunity for release and closure. As the energy of the eclipse encourages us to let go of what no longer serves us, we have the chance to shed old skin and make room for personal growth and transformation. This is a time to break free from toxic relationships, unhealthy habits, and negative thought patterns. While full moons invite us to be more yin and let go, lunar eclipses force us to face endings. We may have to confront some shadows or peek into corners we may not have dared too before. We may find ourselves unearthing things that are uncomfortable. However, by embracing this energy and facing these challenges, we can emerge stronger and more resilient. What was once hidden may now step into the light. As you stare up at the moon, you can always look to the signs involved for guidance-and this is a Taurus Moon…Taurus, the feminine, fixed earth sign that is practical and determined. Taurus, the Moon, and Venus are all related to love, fertility, sexuality, and connection – the essence of life.

As we welcome the October Full Moon, we also open ourselves up to the awakening of the realm of the Crone. This powerful lunar event offers a unique opportunity to connect with our inner magic and tap into the transformative energy of the universe. The word "crone" comes from the word "crown," meaning light or wisdom that emanates from the head. With the veil between the physical and etheric worlds at its thinnest, this is a time of soul alchemy and inner transformation. Despite the challenges and upheavals of 2023, this astrological transit offers hope and the potential for our collective wishes and desires to come true. By casting our aspirations on the evening of the Full Moon, we can tap into its potent energy and trust in the unknown. Let us allow the light of the moon goddess to erase the darkness and guide us towards a brighter future.

Until next time,

Blessed Be

Debbi

Time for a bit of Crystal Healing AND cANDLE mAGICK

Taurus, as an earth sign, is known for its connection to crystals and other earth elements. This makes it the perfect time to incorporate crystal healing into your spiritual practice. To tap into the power of Taurus-inspired healing, try using stones like rose quartz for love and self-love, amethyst for spirituality, and hematite for grounding. You can place these crystals around your space or hold them during your meditation to enhance the healing properties. Additionally, lighting a candle in green or pink, which aligns with Taurus and Venus, can help to set intentions for love, abundance, and spiritual growth. As you do, visualize the positive changes you want to manifest in your life and allow the energy of Taurus to guide you towards your goals.

Hello Moonbeams!!!
Welcome gorgeous Librans… We are excited to announce that on October 14th a New Moon/Solar Eclipse occurs in the sign of Libra, making it the most life-defining month of the year for Librans! This eclipse will bring unexpected twists and developments in areas like finances, spiritual growth, friendships, and steamy romance. As Venus rules Libra, the love guru, personal relationships will be in the spotlight, revealing any imbalances. But don't worry - Libra knows how to cut through the BS and see things clearly. This month is all about balance, justice, and the sacred connection between the divine feminine and sacred masculine. So, get ready to shake things up and embrace the changes that will lead to your rebirth.
If that eclipse energy has you scattered, don't stress. You aren't alone. The key to coming out of all this chaos is to tap into your own scales of justice & find balance, amidst a very rocky landscape. Thankfully, you'll feel the call to water your roots (get that root chakra grounded, loves!) and tend to your inner garden.
Known as the month of spooky happenings. witches and a time to honor our dead, October is all about connecting with the spirit world. Being there are two eclipses this month, you'll want to refrain from doing any ritual work or magick at this time as eclipse energy can be chaotic. Grounding routines and tools will be especially helpful to protect your energy. Get ready by wholeheartedly committing to loving yourself! Your body and mind will benefit from regular self-care rituals.
BATHE IN VENUSIAN ENERGY
A ritual bath is a bath drawn with a spiritual purpose or intention. Include salts, oils, flowers, herbs, and crystals, to activate, heal or attract specific experiences and qualities into your life. Imagine the goddess Venus herself bathing you in love and light. 
Dedicating an evening to soaking in a ritual bath will help you receive and sink into your yin energy. Try it before bed to wind down, followed by journaling about whatever comes up during the bath.

Hello Moonbeams!!!

This year, look for September’s full Harvest Moon to peak at 5:58 A.M. EST on Friday the 29th. Each lunar cycle offers us an opportunity to reconnect with our natural rhythms. When we work with this powerful natural resource, we’re able to create some real positive changes in our lives. You can expect some of the Equinox energy to affect this full moon as we “harvest” the results of the seeds we planted back in the spring! Given that we're working with Aries, expect boldness and heightened passions as this is an intense fire sign.
 Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac and while full moons are times of endings there can be some new starts. As you maneuver through this emotional time you may feel the drive to express your desires and needs more assertively than usual. Expect surprises, unexpected changes, and heightened emotions to affect your personal relationships, love life and financial matters. Equality and balance are the key traits in the Libra world, so allow that Aries-Libra axis to pour some harmonic energy onto any frustrating or tension filled situations. There may be some chaos, but rainbows cannot rise without storms.
Moon Water and the Harvest Moon…fill some jugs with water and set out under the moonlight. Adding a piece of selenite to honor Selene, Goddess of the Moon or a Rose Quartz, the universal stone of love, relationships and self-love. Add to bath water, clean your altar or sacred space, anoint objects with intention, dab on chakra points, add to spray bottle to cleanse area or aura, and charge your crystals or jewelry. This is sure to bring on some moonlight magick.

For Women: Drawing in the light of La Luna…

Stand under the light of this Full Harvest Moon and thank Her for Her wisdom or…one of the oldest methods of union with the moon was to lay nude beneath the Full Moon in the Full Moon Goddess Posture. This posture is also referred to as the Star Goddess Posture, and is an X formation, arms and legs spread out wide. Next anoint yourself with your favorite moon oil just below your navel forming a crescent. Staring steadily up into the face of the moon, mentally picture drawing the light into yourself with each deep breath. Women draw power through the navel-the center of a woman. 
Come dancing on this most magical night and let healing and blessings flow! 
Big love and moon day blessings

A special treat for your listening delight… My favorite September Song
https://youtu.be/9uIBy71MRQk
 

Hello Moonbeams!!!
New Moon in Virgo: September 14th 2023 (9:40PM ET/6:40PM PT)
A New Moon acts as a turning point, lighting a path to help release us from the old. At every New Moon we’re creating, healing and building new dreams.   As this Dark/New Moon arrives, we have six major planets in retrograde. Strong retrograde energy under the New Moon can draw us within, getting us to look over things to ensure we fully understand where we have been before we move forward. We are guided by the Virgin, who in essence is “a woman whole onto self”. Knowing herself and rooted in her grounded power she is there to help strip away the blockages and obstacles that are impeding us from getting things done. There is an awakening happening. We are at the beginning of a new cycle.  Earthy Virgo vibes remind one to stay grounded and somewhat flexible as we enter a new phase. Without the Virgo attention to detail, big, dreams would never reach fruition.
Summer’s over and the Wheel of the Year is now turning towards Mabon (fall equinox)-Harvest time. This new moon in Virgo will offer beautiful energy for us to work with…harvesting with gratitude all that we’ve gained and allowing all else to drop away. If the changes you are facing are challenging, take a moment to quiet your mind and connect with your inner self. On the night of the dark moon much healing and guidance can come through. Dream your dream and choose what you wish to create. Wondrous things are beginning to bubble in the cauldron.
Remember, beautiful yogis, when you allow your true self to shine through, your soul will truly sparkle!