Dream Journal Shorthand

I believe dreams are wonderful and useful messages sent from the Divine and coded through our complex brains whilst we sleep.

I used to give dream work workshops a couple of years ago. And I would always teach my students the importance of keeping a dream journal. 

I have one, and some entries are as long as War & Peace.  For a while, I felt I had to write down every single minute detail that I could remember. But as time went by, going about composing entries in this manner actually deterred me from writing them down at all. Just thinking about doing a long entry would just make me say, "UGH". I would go about my day and promise myself I would write it down later when I came home from work. Spoiler alert: I never would. 

So I discovered 2 different ways to make it easier to post entries. I wanted to share them with you in case you have wanted to keep a dream journal, but the thought of writing a short novel made you want to (rightfully) say "UGH!"

• Writing using Keywords - this has probably been the best form of writing entries for me. Not only is it SO much faster, but using this technique has also immensely helped my dream recall!! Instead of writing every detail, just write main points that you remember as keywords. It should look something like this: 
•  Keywords: Purple ocean, found rose quartz necklace, felt sad, Uncle John as movie ticket teller, laughing at me, movie theatre looks like my high school gymnasium, sat next to ex-boyfriend, so in love, smell mom's chicken cooking from theatre

As you can see, sight, sound, and even smell is recorded; as well as how one FEELS. This is very important as our emotions at times during our dreams can tell us so much more than what we see. I find that as I begin to write down keywords, they begin to serve as triggers for easier dream recall.

• Voice Recorder -  If a pen and pad are not your thing, how bout an iPad? Or a smartphone? This is the 21st century for Goddess' sake! We have technology up the wazzoo! iPads and iPhones come with Siri. And almost all smartphones now come with some form of "Voice Recorder" or "Voice Notes". Since most of us sleep with our phones close by us, this gives us easy and fast access in the morning to roll over, turn on voice recorder, and mumble as much of your dream as you can before you fall back asleep for an extra 10 minutes (love you "snooze button") . You can either keep multiple audio files, or listen to your recordings and write them down in your journal. Half the fun is listening to your recording later and trying to decrypt your sleepy, verbal diarrhea. Hysterical. 

No matter which one you choose (you can do a combination of both by the way!), make sure you write/say THE DATE. Keeping a dated record can help you compare the time difference between when the dream happened, and when an incident associated with the dream occurs.

Sweet dreams!!

~*Atreya*~

 

For the Love of Technology and Spirtuality

Lately, technology has gotten the better of me. TV, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, Tout, Vine; you name it. For the past couple of months, I've felt sucked into this fast-paced, electronic driven, addictive social party.  I've even got back full force into professional wrestling (Hey!...don't judge me!) I've been inspired to do short videos, work on my music, use Photoshop in ridiculous and interesting ways. So many different outlets!

None of which has contributed to my spiritual development. At all.

 Me

In fact, I feel like I've been pulled away from my spiritual practice. Who am I kidding? I've done the pulling. I've been drawn to this multi-media frenzy like a witch to a crystal shop. And for a while, I felt absolutely horrible about it. I felt like a spiritual failure. Like I lost all my connection with the Divine, with nature, with the Elements. Even this blog!!!

But then I remembered (I believe) things happen for a reason. And I was given these opportunities to have new experiences and to develop talents that I was always too scared to show. 

A while back, I went to visit the wonderful Urban Priestess herself, Ms. Vanessa Codorniu. 

She was giving me a reading, and said,"You have a million things/projects you want to do."

"Yes!"

"But you don't know which one to pick."

"YES!"

"Honey, who said you only have to pick ONE?"

"..............oh."

I don't have to do just ONE thing I love. I can do everything.

Modern Durga

And now that I'm feeling the pull again back towards my spiritual life, I think the lesson now is BALANCE. I need to set time for BOTH my spiritual and non-spiritual interests. I can connect with today's rapid technological advancements (as well as use it to my advantage) AND grow spiritually.

I can make YouTube videos AND practice Reiki.

I can Tweet AND study Chakra balancing.

I can produce music AND post on the blog.

I can wrestle AND meditate.


I CAN OPERATE ON 3D EARTH AND CONNECT TO MY HIGHER SELF.

  
Now to find time.

NO.

Now to MAKE time.


~*Atreya*~



Check out our lovely Vanessa here!:
http://www.vanessacodorniu.com/

Blessed Beltane!

Blessed Beltane to one and all!!! 

And Blessed Samhain to our readers Down Under!!

As the veil thins once again, and the days grow longer,
may the Love of your Ancestors shine down upon you
and may Light constantly grow within you.

And may a lil' Lust leave you with a smile on your face... ;-P

~*Amethyst & Atreya*~

Crystals Need Cleansing Too

     Today is the full moon and it's also a partial lunar eclipse.  The full moon is a great time for meditation, spell work and ritual, but it's also a great time to cleanse your crystals.  With the added umph we're getting from the eclipse (we won't see the eclipse in the northern hemisphere but the effects will still be felt) I decided it's a good time for a massive crystal cleansing. I've been meandering through my apartment for the last hour, digging out all my crystals, rocks and seashells.  These guys are getting a good bath whether they like it or not!  But first, there are a lot of different ways to cleanse crystals:

• Earth Cleansing ~ If you're lucky enough to have a yard or a bit of earth that won't be disturbed dig a whole and bury your crystals. Once buried, visualize the old, stale, negative energy being drawn out and away from your crystals. Then visualize them being filled with new, positive energies.  Leave them in the ground for at least 24 hours, allowing Mother Earth to cleanse and restore your crystals. This method is especially good for geodes. Just make sure you remember where you buried them!

• Rain Water ~ Leaving crystals outside in the rain is a great way to cleanse them.  Put them in a secure spot or in a bowl and just let them hang out in the rain.  Spend some time visualizing the old energies dripping away from them.  Don't be afraid to put them outside in a storm.  Storm energy is a great cleanser but will also give crystals a powerful charge.  Just make sure, if the storm is accompanied by strong winds, the crystals are secure and won't get blown over. 

• Running Water ~ Holding your crystals under lukewarm, running water is a quick way to cleanse them.  If you have access to a body of water like a stream or lake, you can hold your crystals in the water (hold on tight!). Visualize the stagnate, old and negative energies flowing down the drain or down stream.

• Smoke ~ Cleansing with smoke, or smudging, is another easy way to cleanse crystals.  There are a variety of cleansing herbs and incenses that can be used but I stick with sage.  Hold the crystal in the smoke and visualize the old energies being carried away in the smoke.  If possible, have a window open so the smoke can travel out and away.  

• Full Moon & Sunlight ~  This is the method I use most often, especially when cleansing a lot of crystals (I'll discuss this method in greater detail below).  Place your crystals on a windowsill or outside. Make sure they are in a spot where they will get full moonlight and sunlight.  The full moon light will cleanse the crystals and the sunlight will recharge them. Allowing crystals to spend some time in sunlight is especially beneficial for clear quartz but can cause crystals, such as rose quartz, to fade over time.  

My Crystal Cleansing Method

     I'm a city girl and can't readily perform all the cleansing practices I mentioned above.  I can't bury my crystals in the ground because I'm surrounded by concrete and the NYPD frowns upon burying things in Central Park.  Holding crystals in running water isn't a possibility either, putting my head in water around here might send me to the doctor for a tetanus shot.  Rain water is also a bit iffy, I'd rather not know what's dripping off the building along with the rain.  That leaves me with smoke cleansing and Full Moon/Sunlight.  Since I'm basically cleansing every crystal in the apartment, smoke cleansing is out the question. It will take too long and I'd like to avoid having to explain myself to the fire department (although, the firemen in my neighborhood are pretty cute, hmm...?).  So, cleansing with Moon and Sun it is!!  As long as the sun and moon are in the sky this method is pretty easy. 

What will you need?

• a bowl large enough to fit your crystals (the bowl should not be made of metal)
• salt for cleansing (not required, just my personal preference)
• rosemary (not required, just my personal preference)
• water  - I use filtered water but tap water is just fine. 

Place the salt and rosemary on the bottom of the bowl

     Why salt? Have you ever had a cyst, blister or sore throat? (I know it's gross but stick with me, there's a point, I swear.) What did your mom and grandmother tell you to do? Add salt to warm or hot water and gargle your throat or hold it on the cyst/blister with a clean cloth.  Salt draws out the impurities. It helps purify and cleanse the crystal.  A little salt is all you need, to much and it could scratch and alter the surface of the crystals.  Rosemary is included when I cleanse crystals because it has the ability draw out the negative while simultaneously drawing in the positive.


      Once the salt and rosemary are in the bowl you can begin placing the crystals in the bowl.  If your a crystal hoarder like myself, you may need to use multiple bowls.  When the sun sets I'll place the bowl holding the crystals, salt and rosemary outside on the fire escape.  Next, I'll add the water (this should be the final step. Walking around with a bowl full of crystals and water is a bad and messy idea. Trust me!). Now the crystals can be left to their own devises until morning, allowing Mother Moon and Father Sun to do the rest. Or, once the moon has risen, you can spend some time focusing on the crystals.  Visualize the energies that are no longer needed being pulled out of the crystals and drawn up toward the moon where they will be recycled.  Leave them out for the entire night and the following morning.  Transparent or brightly colored crystals (ie. rose quartz, amethyst, citrine) are at risk of fading from direct sunlight. Consider keeping them separate and bringing them in early to prevent fading.  The next morning, drain the water out of the bowl and bring all the crystals inside.  Rinse them off, removing the salt and rosemary.  Dry them and place them back where they belong in your home. The energy should feel lighter and the crystals are now cleansed and charged.

No water for these guys

     Placing crystals in water is not always necessary and sometimes should not be done. There are crystals that will dissolve when placed in water for extended periods of time.  An easy way to remember this is 'ite'.  Most water soluble crystals end in 'ite'. You can also do a scratch test with a steel knife.  Try scratching a small area of the crystal, if the knife easily leaves a scratch avoid putting it in water.  Selenite, calcite, fluorite, sodalite, gypsum and lapis lazuli are some crystals that are water soluble.  Holding these crystals in running water for a short period of time is fine but they should not spend hours soaking in water.  Research your crystals before placing them in water or leave out the water altogether.  They will still be cleansed and recharged if placed outside without water.  




     This is the cleansing method I'm using today but remember there are multiply ways you can cleanse your crystals.  Cleansing and recharging your crystals is vital to keeping them clear and working at their highest ability.  Think about how you feel after a long shower or bath. You're cleansed, energized and ready to work and your crystals will feel the same after a good cleansing.  Don't forget to include seashells, coral and other rocks you keep around. These guys carry energy too and also appreciate a good cleansing.  Some crystals need to be treated like a Mogwai: no food after midnight and absolutely no water!  Always cleanse a crystal when you first bring it home and before working with it in a healing capacity.  Crystals hold memories and energies and we have no idea what they go through before they find their way to us.  Clearing that energy and giving the crystal a clean slate is very important.  Remember to use visualization and make sure your crystals get good and cleansed on a regular basis (whatever schedule works for you).

Happy crystal cleansing!

Bright Blessings,
~Amethyst~

Outside waiting for the Moon to rise

April 2013 Full Moon

April's full moon is normally called the "Full Pink Moon". This name comes from the herb moss pink, or wild ground phlox, which is one of the earliest widespread flowers of the spring. Other names for April's moon include the Full Sprouting Grass Moon, the Egg Moon, and among coastal tribes the Full Fish Moon, because this was the time that the shad swam upstream to spawn.

This month's full moon is in Scorpio! Transformation and rebirth are the key words here. The Scorpio Full Moon represents change, transition and growth through trial and error. This trial and error is based on the balance between the tangible left-brained, mathematical thinking process and the empathic, intuitive, and creative right-brained instincts that have served humanity throughout cosmic history. Since Scorpio is the stabilizing force of the water sign continuum, expect higher achievement in emotional growth, fortitude and consistency. Try and keep in mind that such growth only come at the price of experience. Scorpio’s influence pushes us to learn by tenaciously gathering information and evidence to support our conclusions. However, Scorpio’s strong will usually only grows through the adversity of experience, no matter what the logical choice of the information may be. The intense forces between the stubborn Taurus sun and the Stubborn Scorpio moon creates a lot of fast changes that are tied to heightened emotions. Such drastic changes and emotions often lead  people to make decisions out of anxiety and fear while stubbornly holding onto their ideas about how to solve all their problems in a simple and organized way.

But hold on sports-fans! We've got a one-two punch here! Not only is it a full moon, but we have a partial lunar eclipse happening also!!

It’s a Full Moon and (partial) Lunar eclipse in Scorpio…Scorpio, ruled by Pluto, is about stripping away artifice, what’s false, corrupted and diseased…In these days before the eclipse, we can tune in deeply, and be alert to points of tension…Eclipses can sometimes be destabilizing in some way. But breaking apart could be the very thing that leads to true healing, inner treasure or solid footing. Expect the shadow of the earth to be cast upon the face of the moon. This eclipse symbolizes the people, places and things in our lives, that are about to disappear. So pay close attention to whom or what you may be dismissing from your life.

So...

What do you need to let go of in order to realign with your new upgraded value system?

Are you lying to yourself about something? Are you manipulating others to get your needs met? 

Are you stealing energy from others because you haven’t put in the time and effort to fortify your own core?

Where are you engaged in a power struggle, internally or externally, in order to maintain the illusion of control instead of trusting that the Universe has your back?

It’s time to get a grip on these unconscious patterns and work with them, or else the consequences of your energy will come back around with a force and vengeance to get your attention (and with Scorpio, things can get fierce.) Yet Scorpio is intense for good reason: The truth of who you are is so much grander than anything you can control, or manipulate, or out-smart, or avoid, or fear.

The Moon in Scorpio conjunct Saturn is about taking emotional responsibility for your deep needs and inner work. Saturn is retrograde, so this is an internal job. The authority is within you regardless of external events. Also, be mindful about throwing your emotions around outside of you. Time to reel those tentacles back in. You are being pushed and shoved to acknowledge where your Soul is ready to release the past and merge with your Soul’s plan.


Have a very blessed Full Moon (and eclipse!)

~*Amethyst & Atreya*~


Sources:

http://lightworkers.org/blog/180937/lunar-eclipse-full-moon-scorpio

http://www.mysticmamma.com/full-moon-and-lunar-eclipse-in-scorpio-april-25th-2013/

http://astrolosophy.net/universe/2013/04/full-moon-in-scorpio/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=full-moon-in-scorpio
  

Stone Of The Month ~ April 2013

Stone of the Month for April 2013 ~ Citrine 

     Citrine is a  favorite among crystal lovers (stones and crystals are words I use interchangeably when writing these posts) and I can't believe I didn't write about it sooner.  When I started working with crystals, Citrine was one of the first I noticed because it's everywhere.  Almost all stone stores and crystal shops carry something called Citrine.  The popularity of this stone and the kerfuffle about it, is why it's SOTM for April 2013.  Quartz is one of, if not the, most common crystal residing in the Earth's crust and Citrine is part of its family.  Citrine is silicon dioxide (quartz) and gets its pale yellow, transparent color from small traces of iron.  The name, Citrine, comes from the french word citron, meaning lemon.  Citrine in its natural state is very hard to find and can be identified by its pale yellow color and well defined points.  Dark orange and brown stones sold as Citrine are not Citrine at all, but we'll get to that later.  Citrine is ruled by the Sun and/or Mercury, its element is air, and its astrological sign is Gemini. Although Citrine is closely associated with the solar plexus chakra (3rd chakra), it can be used to cleanse and reenergize all of the chakras.

Natural Citrine

Natural Citrine

     Citrine is a stone with many benefits including physical, emotional and spiritual healing.  Energy, energy and more energy is carried within this stone.  Because of its association with the Sun, Citrine is a powerful energizer and cleanser.  In fact, because it is such a powerful cleanser, it rarely (if ever) needs to be cleansed.  Citrine helps protect the environment that it's in and removes negative energy. This is especially beneficial in a room where healing exercises (reiki, yoga, meditation etc) occur regularly because Citrine will absorb, transform and ground negative energies.  Citrine will also bring the aura and physical body back into balance.  If you're feeling depleted after a stressful event use Citrine to raise your energy levels and restore balance. 

     Citrine also attracts abundance in regards to material things and wealth.  If you own a business, keep a piece of Citrine in the cash register to increase money and attract sales.  Add it to abundance spells, especially where finances are concerned, place in the home for the same purpose.  Citrine should also be kept in the home to combat family discord and ease tensions among people in the household.  This stone promotes calm, inner peace, and awakens wisdom and common sense.  Use it to reverse self destructive behaviors and become emotionally balanced.  Citrine also promotes creativity, inspiration and opens up the mind.  This stone will help make your dreams and ideas a reality.  To enhance your creativity and bring inspiration, meditate with a piece Citrine on your forehead.  

Interesting Tidbits

1) Some believe that lighter shades of Citrine (very pale yellow, almost clear) govern the physical body while darker shades (dark yellow) govern the spiritual.

2)Citrine has been used in jewelry dating back to at least the Roman empire.  Usually set in rings and pendents, examples of this ancient use of Citrine survive today.  This stone is popular in jewelry making.

3)Citrine will fade if placed in direct sunlight for to long (FYI: so will rose quartz). 
4)Has been called 'The Merchants' Stone' because of its ability to attract prosperity.

The Great Citrine Caper

     So you may be wondering why I put the wrong pictures of Citrine above.  This post is, after all, about Citrine and the pictures above don't look anything like the Citrine most of us are accustomed to seeing.  The bearer of bad news will be knocking on the door in 3...2...1: the Citrine you've been using or wearing is an imposter!!! OH, THE HUMANITY!! Gods deliver us from this heinous deception! ....I'll dial back the theatrics and explain.  
      Citrine, in its natural state, is pale to medium yellow in color.  The shades are similar to ginger ale, champagne and white wine.  Citrine in its natural state is also very hard to find and very expensive.  

Natural, Untreated Citrine

Heat Treated Amethyst/False Citrine

So if this (picture above) is real Citrine what does 'false' or commercial Citrine look like and how is it made?  What most people consider Citrine is actually....wait for it, wait for it.... AMETHYST!  To make the Citrine that we see at virtually every rock shop in creation, amethyst is exposed to extreme heat (temperatures reaching up to 840 degrees F).  When the amethyst is nice and burnt, it turns orange and can even go as far as brown.  The points/tops of the cluster are darkest and the color begins to fade as you move down into the cluster.  Furthermore, the shape of heat treated/false Citrine is different from the real thing.  Natural Citrine will have 6 sides and come to a point, similar to clear quartz.  False Citrine is made using an amethyst geode or cluster that is heat treated and later broken  into pieces.  This gives the crystal a tapered look that is similar to a tooth.  The most important thing to realize is that all the attributes I described earlier in this post apply to natural Citrine and not the heat treated amethyst most of us own.  
     So what does this mean for you and the crystal formally known as Citrine???  First, don't toss out the pieces of false Citrine you currently own and turn your back on this crystal forever.  It still comes from within the Earth. It still holds useful energies and can be of use to you.  Atreya gave me a large piece of false Citrine as a gift and I don't love it any less because of its origins.  It still hangs out on my altar and I don't judge it because it's different. In this witch's opinion you can do three things: 

My Burnt Amethyst

1)If you currently own the crystal formally known as Citrine, remember, it started out as amethyst. Apply the properties of amethyst (maybe amethyst will be SOTM for May 2013) to it and work accordingly. 

2)Treat it as a clean slate with no properties, attributes or ruling planets. Sit quietly with it, tune into it and decide for yourself what this crystal is meant for in regards to you and your needs. Decide how it feels to you and go from there.

3)It's still pretty and can be used in jewelry or as a kick ass paperweight. 

    Natural Citrine is another beautiful member of the quartz family.  Its shades of yellow range from ginger ale to white wine.  Mined mostly in Brazil, it is hard to find and crazy expensive.  Use it to ease tensions in a tumultuous household and reverse self destructive behavior.  Natural Citrine rarely (if ever) needs to be cleansed. It snags negative energies and transforms them all on its own.  Place it in your place of business to draw prosperity and use it to raise energy levels and bring balance to your aura.  The great Citrine debate has been raging for a while with no sign of ending.  Some believe that these crystals are abused pieces of amethyst that should never be used magickally or for healing.  Others believe a Citrine is a Citrine and should be used as such.  What is most important, in my opinion, is that we are educated consumers when buying crystals.  There are a lot of people out there selling burnt amethyst as real Citrine, mostly because they themselves don't know the difference.  Do your research and know what your buying.  Don't disconnect from the false Citrine you currently own and make sure your other crystals refrain from judging as well.  I gave a few points about Citrine but, trust me, there is a ton of information out there about this stone (and burnt amethyst). Do some research on your own.

Side Note: I hate calling it false/fake Citrine or burnt amethyst.  Maybe we should take a page out of Prince's book and give the crystal formally known as Citrine a symbol?? 

Bright Blessings, 
~Amethyst~

Source: 1) Crystals by: Jennie Harding 

2) The Encyclopedia of Crystals  by: Judy Hall

Herb Of The Month ~ April 2013

Herb of the Month for April 2013 ~ Mandrake (Root)

     The HOTM post for April was originally going to belong to another herb.  When I sat down to begin writing the post, I heard the voice of one my guides say, "No, it's mandrake". So, not wanting to annoy my inner voice and helpful guide, I scrapped the post I was working on and began anew.  I'm not entirely sure why, (perhaps someone out there needs this information) but this month the HOTM is Mandrake.  Mandrake (Atropa mandragora, Mandragora officinale) is a masculine herb, ruled by Mercury and the element of fire.  It is associated with multiple deities including Hecate, Hathor, Diana and Circe.  The folk names for Mandrake are (to name a few): Sorcerer's Root, Wild Lemon, Brain Thief, Herb of Circe, Gallows, Satan's Apple, Witches Mannikin and, my personal favorite, Ladykins.  
     The Mandrake plant as a whole can grow to be quite large.  The flower portion of the plant resembles a Pebbles' style ponytail coming directly out of the top of the root. The flowers each sprout from their own individual stalk, are bell shaped and purple/white in color. When purchasing, Mandrake the root is what you're getting and it's either whole or dried and cut into pieces.  The root can grow as much as 4 feet deep into the ground and can be split giving it a human like appearance or a single/whole root.  Because of that appearance, Mandrake is often depicted in illustrations as man with arms, legs, wild hair and possibly a beard.     

Mandrake plant

Mandrake Root dried and crushed

Mandrake Root

     Mandrake has many magickal uses including fertility, money, health, protection and love.  It is widely used in various forms of magick, thus giving it the folk name "Sorcerer's Root".  Mandrake is often used to protect a home and its inhabitants.  Demons can't enter or reside in a place where there is Mandrake.  Because of this, Mandrake Root is used in exorcisms and for protection.  Place a whole Mandrake Root above the mantel or the main entryway into your home for protection, prosperity and fertility.  You can also brew Mandrake Root as if you are making a tea or just soak the root in water, then sprinkle the water around your home for protection (inside and out) and to guard against any negative magick sent your way. Forget you just read that sentence if you have pets or small children, I'll tell you why in a minute.  Mandrake can also be hung above or on the headboard of a bed for protection while sleeping and the scent will help you fall asleep.
     

     Carry Mandrake to ward off sickness and major illness, attract love and to increase wealth. To increase wealth place money (at least one bill and a few coins) under Mandrake Root and leave it somewhere in your home undisturbed. You can also place the money and Mandrake Root in a glass jar; sealing the jar with wax from a green candle. If you prefer to carry it with you, place Mandrake in a small pouch with silver coins.  
     Because of the appearance of the Mandrake Root, it can be used as a poppet. What is a poppet?  A poppet is a small figure of a person that is used in sympathetic magick and is also known as a Voodoo doll.  The poppet represents an actual person and what is done to the poppet will be done to the person.  Poppets are usually made for healing and love spells and can be made out of wax, clay, cloth or, in this case, Mandrake Root.  To draw the appropriate partner to you or to strengthen an existing relationship, select two Mandrake Roots that resemble human form.  One root represents you while the other represents your partner (or the partner you're looking for).  Bind the roots together using red string or cord to strengthen your current relationship or draw the right partner to you.  Mandrake Root can also be carved into different shapes or magickal symbols can be carved into the root.

Interesting Tidbits
1) Mandrake Root was once considered to be divided into male and female roots (and still is depending on who you talk to). A root split into two was considered female and if the root had no split it was considered male.  The female roots were more desired because they were seen as lucky and useful for drawing wealth. 
2)Mandrake is mentioned multiple times in the bible.
3)Small dolls were once made from Mandrake and kept in the home to protect and invite happiness into the household.  This was risky business at the time. Finding this in someones' home was cause to scream 'WITCH' and chase them down the street carrying torches and pitchforks.  
4)There is a legend that says when a Mandrake Root is pulled from the ground it screams. The scream is so powerful it will kill anyone that hears it.  Because the screams were detrimental to ones' health, elaborate instructions were given on how to pull Mandrake from the ground. A small trench had to be dug around the plant, exposing the lower part of the root. Next (and I'm sure this step had Medieval PETA groups up in arms), a dog is tied to the plant.  The person must then walk away urging the dog to follow or put considerable distance between them and then offer the dog food. When the dog walks or runs away, the Mandrake is pulled from the ground and the dog dies from screams instead of the person.

If you're a Potterhead you know what you're about to watch....

Professor Sprout, educating witches everywhere. Personal Note: Atreya and I sat across

 from Professor Pomona Sprout (Miriam Margolyes) on the subway. 

Somehow we kept the screaming fangirl behavior on the inside.... it wasn't easy.

Will Mandrake Kill Me?

     Remember that sentence I told you to forgot about? No, you forgot? Good, because Mandrake will absolutely kill you, this stuff is poison! If ingested Mandrake will cause all kinds of problems including violent vomiting, heart problems, confusion, hallucinations, blurred vision, overheating and worst of all death.  I recommend keeping Mandrake away from children and pets therefore, sprinkling the water around your home is a no-no if you have little ones.  Children crawling through it and pets walking through it is potentially harmful. If you're planning to use it in your home (i.e. hanging over the door for protection) keep it where no one will disturb it.  Make sure you wash your hands immediately after working with Mandrake.  If you're going to be working with Mandrake for an extended period of time consider wearing gloves.  ***

Mandrake: The Magician is a comic book
 that began June 11, 1934. It's regarded as
the first superhero comics. What's his power?
Mandrake hypnotized  his enemies
making them see illusions and
experience confusion.

     
     Mandrake is a powerful herb that intensifies the magick in any situation.  Use it to protect your home and keep bad magick and demons away.  Combine Mandrake with silver coins and carry them with to attract money.  Create a money jar with Mandrake as a main ingredient and leave it in your home undisturbed allowing it to work your will.  Hang the root over your bed if your having trouble sleeping and use it keep sickness away.  Add Mandrake to fertility and aphrodisiac spells, this root can help awaken things that are dormant.  Whole Mandrake roots that resemble the human form can be used as poppets, especially where love and healing are concerned.  Although dried and ground Mandrake Root is easily obtained and affordable, whole Mandrake Roots are much harder to come by and can be pricey.  If a whole root is what you need but it's out of your price range there are substitutes that can fill the void.  I gave you some points about Mandrake but there is a lot of information out there so do some research on your own.

Brightest Blessings, 
~Amethyst~

***I am not a doctor and I don't play one on TV. Do your research before you consume any herbs via potions etc.

Sources:

1)Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by: Scott Cunningham
2)The Encyclopedia of Magickal Ingredients by: Lexa Rosean

3)witchipedia.com

Where Does Your Heart Want To Take You??

Stone Of The Month ~ March 2013

Stone of the Month for March 2013 ~ Blue Lace Agate

     So March has been a weird month for me in the motivation department. I'm sure the first Mercury retrograde of the year had a lot to do with me feeling as though I'm stuck in the mud.  The fog is finally beginning to lift, motivation is on the rise and I didn't want another month to go by without a SOTM month post. Better late than never I suppose.  The SOTM for March 2013 is Blue Lace Agate (BLA for the remainder of this post).  
     

"Agates are a type of quartz found in many different variations, colors, and effects. They are micro crystalline in form, meaning that their structure is too small even to be seen through a microscope. They are usually opaque in texture and form in large masses, rather than in large defined  crystal points as is the case with pure quartz."  (1)

BLA gets its name from its appearance. The stone is literally blue (a light/pale blue) with cream colored stripes or specks throughout the stone.  It is easy to find, any gem store worth visiting carries BLA, and is inexpensive. BLA is associated with the throat, crown, third eye and heart chakras.  Its ruling planet is Mercury and it's associated with Gemini and Pisces zodiac signs. 

Rough Blue Lace Agate

Tumbled/Polished Blue Lace Agate

     

My new Blue Lace Agate earrings and a piece of rough  Blue Lace Agate from Atreya's altar 

     BLA is great for promoting peace of mind.  This stone's calm nature is also great for starting over/new beginnings, opening yourself to higher energies and the free expression of your personal truths.  BLA will help you conquer fear of rejection and fear of being judged by others.  Counteract stress by using this stone and men can use BLA to get in touch with their feelings and quell a hot temper.  BLA is such a peaceful stone, anger doesn't stand a chance in its presence and is neutralized.    If you have problems with anxiety use BLA to keep calm, relax your entire body and improve the quality of your sleep.  BLA will also calm a racing mind and promote clear thinking.  Meditation is also enhanced using BLA.  Place BLA in the room where you meditate or practice any form of healing and it will keep the atmosphere light and calm.  During meditation, BLA will promote relaxation and expansion of the mind.  

     Blue Lace Agate is associated with the throat chakra and can help remove that which blocks the flow of this chakra.  When worn around the neck, it facilitates clear, honest and gentle communication.  When your voice is stifled in any way (you don't feel free to express your opinions, thoughts, feelings etc), the throat chakra will become stagnate and blocked. The throat chakra can also become over active when a person gossips, talks over people, is judgemental and a poor listener.     Physical manifestations of an out of balance throat chakra are: lingering sore throat, neck pain, constant throat infection or bronchitis flair ups and problems with the thyroid gland.  I, personally, know these symptoms to be true.  As a child, I was plagued with sore throats, bronchitis and other ailments of the neck and throat.  I wasn't able to speak my truth about my religious beliefs among other things and these illnesses were a physical manifestation of my blocked throat chakra.  Now, in adulthood, I've come to a place where I no longer allow repression of any kind in my life. I speak my truth and express my thoughts and opinions freely.  My throat chakra is more balanced and I'm no longer plagued by the illnesses that manifest when the throat chakra is out of balance.  Use BLA to bring your throat chakra into balance. Wear it around your neck or drink it as a crystal remedy/energized water to internalize the effects of the stone.    

How to Make a Crystal Remedy 

Place a cleansed stone into a clear glass bottle that is filled with clean, drinkable water.  

(Cleansed = the stone is physically clean and energetically cleansed. You can pass the stone through the smoke of  burning sage or hold it under running water to clear its energy. You can use a tall drinking glass and cover it with a coaster.

 If you want to make more than just one glass you can use a glass jug.)

After combining the crystal and the water leave them in direct sunlight for at least one hour.

Once the hour has passed REMOVE THE CRYSTAL and drink the water.  This will internalize the properties of the crystal.  Carry the stone with you or wear it to deepen your connection with it.

     Blue Lace Agate will help you overcome the fear of being judged and rejected by others.  If your throat chakra is out of whack, wear BLA around your neck or try making a crystal remedy.  Any stone that resembles a peaceful and calm blue sky this much has to instill those feelings in the bearer.  If you're feeling angry, use BLA to keep calm and find your happy place.  BLA is associated with positive thinking, smooth flow of energy and an easy going nature.  Carry a piece with you and give your mood a pick-me-up.  This stone also fights anxiety and insomnia. Place it under your pillow to have a better bedtime experience and have it close by when anxiety starts to creep in. BLA keeps the mind clear, verbal communication open and flowing, and will help keep you calm in a stressful situation.  Take it with you on your next job interview, to an important meeting, a first date or any situation where clear communication is needed.  Blue Lace Agate is easy to work with, easy to find and inexpensive.  I gave you a few points about the stone but there is more information out there. As always, do your research.  

Bright Blessings,

~Amethyst~

Source: 1) Crystals by: Jennie Harding 
2) The Crystal Bible by: Judy Hall

3) The Encyclopedia of Crystals  by: Judy Hall



Herb Of The Month ~ March 2013

Herb of the Month for March 2013 ~ Dragon's Blood 

      The older I get, the quicker time seems to move.  It seems like we were just digging out from snowstorm Nemo yesterday and now, suddenly, spring is here.  With the arrival of spring and the Spring Equinox, I decided this would be a good time to talk about Dragon's Blood.  As the weather warms, many of us feel the need to begin spring cleaning, tackle projects around the house, and perform some cleansing rituals.  Dragon's Blood can be a potent addition to cleansing and protection spells and it's the HOTM for March 2013.

     Dragon's Blood does not come from dragons nor is it actual blood.  Dragon's Blood (Daemonorops draco or D. propinquos) is the resin of a palm tree and gets its name from its bright red color.  It is a masculine herb (VERY masculine). It is ruled by Mars and fire is its element.  Folk names for Dragon's Blood are Draconis Resina, Dragon's Blood Palm, Blume, Blood and Sanguis Draconis.  Dragon's Blood is powerful and can be used for spells that focus on banishing, love, protection, healing and increased potency. 

This is the Dragon Blood Tree or Socotra Dragon Tree.  It is native to Socotra in the Indian Ocean.

Dragon's Blood Resin

Dragon's Blood Powder

     Dragon's Blood is very potent and powerful.  Sprinkling the powder around your home and property creates a protection barrier.  Burning Dragon's Blood will drive away negativity and evil.  Dragon's Blood will increase the potency of any spell and any incense it is added to.  A little goes a long way with this resin so remember, less is more.  This herb can also be used for love and potency in the bedroom:

"This resin from a palm tree is burned to entice errant lovers to return.  This is usually done by women seated near an open window, looking outside, at night."  (1)

If your lover hasn't gone anywhere, but things in the bedroom are a little.... stale, try using Dragon's Blood.  Place a stick of Dragon's Blood under your bed or pillow or sprinkle powdered Dragon's Blood around your bedroom to increase a man's potency and combat impotency.
     Because of its bright red color, Dragon's Blood is great for making ink.  The ink is used to create talismans, magickal seals, write spells and draw runes.  Since Dragon's Blood increases the potency of any spell it is added to, using it as an ink will greatly enhance spell work.  Consider using Dragon's Blood ink to: write a protection spell on/in your book of shadows, writing a list of things you'd like to manifest or banish, or when a spell requires you to write something down (a wish or something to release) and burn it.  Mix Dragon's Blood with gum arabic and alcohol to create the ink.  
     Dragon's Blood is a powerful protection herb and can drive away negative energies, but it can also be used to attract something to you. If you're short on money, love, or success, use Dragon's Blood to help attract it to you.  If money is what you're after, place a money drawing stone (green calcite will do the trick) in a pouch with a piece of Dragon's Blood.  Carry it with you when you're headed to a job interview or, if you own a business, place it in the cash register.  If finding love is on your mind, carry a love drawing stone (rose quartz is the universal love stone and will work just fine) in a pouch with a piece of Dragon's Blood.  Carry it with you when you're on the prowl at the club, going on a date, or trying to spark someones' interest.

Interesting Tidbits:
1) Dragon's Blood doesn't just make great ink, it can also be used has a varnish.  Anything from furniture (tables, bookcases etc) to musical instruments like violins can be varnished with Dragon's Blood. It can also be used as a dye for paper and clothing.
2) Dragon's Blood combined with myrrh and frankincense will provide psychic protection when burned.
3) If you're longing for a little peace and quiet, use a mixture of salt, sugar and powdered Dragon's Blood.  Mix them together, put the mixture in a bottle or jar and hide it in your home in a spot where it won't be found.  Enjoy the peace and quiet! (Remember I mentioned this herb is very masculine? Think of your dad demanding your music be turned down.)

Will Dragon's Blood Kill Me?
     Dragon's Blood will not kill you.  It has been used medicinally to wash wounds, promote healing and stop bleeding.  Natives of Socotra (where the Dragon Blood tree is located) use it as a cure all.  They use it to lower fevers, relieve diarrhea, wound cleaning/healing, fight ulcers and as an antiviral for stomach and respiratory problems.  As with anything, do your research before consuming herbs or using them medicinally.  Make sure you know what you're doing and if you're unsure, consult someone that's in the know.  Also, make sure you are purchasing real Dragon's Blood when shopping for this resin.  There are a few trees out there that produce a similar resin and some people sell it as genuine Dragon's Blood.  It is not and won't have the same magickal or healing properties as actual Dragon's Blood.  Shop around, ask questions and know what you're getting.  ***

     Remember, Dragon's Blood is potent and a pinch may be all you need.  When carrying it with you, place it in a pouch because the resin will turn whatever it touches red including your pockets.  Use it to protect your property, home and its inhabitants.  Dragon's Blood drives away negative energy and negative spirits so consider adding it to your cleansing rituals, especially after a healthy dose of spring cleaning.  Use Dragon's Blood to coax a lover to return or use it to increase the potency of your current lover's performance.  This resin not only banishes but can also draw things near.  If your in the market for new love, money, success or a fresh batch of good karma, consider working with Dragon's Blood. The key to using Dragon's Blood is remembering its power because it will increase the potency of and extend the reach of any spell it is added to.  So be mindful of when you use it, how much you use and, as always, be careful what you wish for (i.e. adding a huge handful of Dragon's Blood to love spell and suddenly having men coming at you from all directions may not be as awesome as it sounds).  I gave you some points about Dragon's Blood but there is a lot of information out there so do some research on your own.



Brightest Blessings, 
~Amethyst~

***I am not a doctor and I don't play one on TV. Do your research before you consume any herbs via potions etc.

Sources:

1)Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by: Scott Cunningham
2)The Encyclopedia of Magickal Ingredients by: Lexa Rosean