Tuesday 31 December 2013

Introduction to Tarot...with a twist...


The fabulous Kate Bowman of Truly Tarot UK asked me to help out with a Tarot Workshop which I was more than happy to do - should be great fun and guaranteed to have a few laughs... oh...and learning lots about tarot as well of course...

Deposits now being taken to secure places.

For more details:

https://www.facebook.com/events/570698946311475/?source=1

or

http://www.rachelpatterson.co.uk/#!tarot-workshop/cz4

Monday 30 December 2013

Win a free tarot reading...


Time for a competition!

It's easy peasy lemon squeezy...

All you need to do is hop on over to my facebook author page


Like the page, find the above image on a post on that page, like the post and share it to your own facebook page.

On 6th January I will put all the names in a hat and draw a winner, that person will receive a free tarot reading via email.

Thank you

Sunday 22 December 2013

a big wet, soppy thank you from the heart ♥

It is at this time of the year that I look back on the year that has passed, reviewing the highs and the lows and being thankful for all that I have and all that has happened - good or bad, because even the not so good parts are life lessons.

2013 for me has been a whirlwind, 100 miles per hour, amazing and awesome year...

This time last year I had just finished writing my first book (Pagan Portals Kitchen Witchcraft) which happened purely by accident and I am still overwhelmed now that I was asked to write it (it has now sold well over 2100 copies for which I am eternally grateful for).  At one point it was an Amazon best seller and remains in the top listing for Occult and magical books.

Following on from the first book this year has seen me write three more, Grimoire of a Kitchen Witch that is pretty much my own Book of Shadows, then Pagan Portals Hoodoo which is my own personal spin on the magical art of Hoodoo and the latest Pagan Portals Moon Magic which will be published in January but already has a huge number of pre-orders (humbled again).  Thanks must go to my publishers Moon Books for all their support.

This year has also seen regular Kitchen Witch rituals at the Queen Elizabeth Country Park, now in a beautiful spot at the top of the park with a yew tree grove and a beech tree grove all to ourselves, we are truly blessed to have such a wonderful group of people that regularly join us ♥

Earlier in the year a spiritual cafe opened just around the corner from me with yummy lattes and cakes but also giving me the opportunity to have my first ever book launch with cake (of course) and the lovely Kate Bowman reading tarot for everyone that purchased a book - it was so busy we had people sitting on the floor because all the seats and tables were full...very overwhelming :-)

Chi Coffee has also given myself and Kitchen Witch the opportunity to run workshops which has been amazing fun, more planned for next year too.

The Kitchen Witch School has grown and grown and celebrated a year up and running in May and we have such wonderful students we really are blessed.  Huge thanks has to go to my partner in crime Sunchylde who does a lot of work for the school in front of and behind the scenes.

2013 also heralded my first invitations to talk to groups and at moots, initially incredibly nerve wracking I now thoroughly enjoy doing it, great fun to meet such interesting people and share experiences and knowledge.  Including going on stage with Spriggan Mist to tell a spooky tale which was fabulous fun.

This year my lovely hubby helped me design and produce a set of Herb & Plant Oracle Cards (well all the design was actually down to him, huge amounts of hours spent at the computer).  Very expensive to produce so a lot of smaller publishers won't take them on, we found our own printer and put them together ourselves, many man (and woman) hours went into them, but we are very pleased with the end result.

Overwhelmingly (sorry I know I use that word a lot but it pretty much sums up this year for me) all you lovely people also helped me to become Moon Books best selling author for 2013.

On the study front I am now a certified Crystal Therapist and a Reiki Master Teacher (having completed Reiki I and II back in 2009).  I have also been studying mediumship and past life vibrational healing with Steve Bradshaw (courses highly recommended).

I also now write for four magazines (I know mad right?) The Magical Times, The Mystik Way, Moon Tribe and Wild Star Forest.

Along with regular tarot share on a Friday at Chi Coffee with Kate Bowman, attending healing sharing evenings with Steve Bradshaw, Jane & Wayne Davis and wonderful meditation and drumming workshops with Wayne - life has been extremely busy.

An enormous thank you has to go to my husband Pete, who not only supports me in everything I do but has put up with me disappearing for most of the year to 'do my gigs' and of course his artistic work on all the posters and leaflets for myself, Chi and Kitchen Witch - couldn't have done it without you ♥

Another big thank you to Sunchylde (Tracey) who I speak to every single day, who supports me in everything, writes the most amazing rituals, does the accounts (which I am eternally grateful for) and reassures me that I am not totally mad ;-)

I also have to thank some lovely students Starlit (and her hubby) and her co-conspirators for the most amazing surprise birthday party...my first ever and a total surprise, I didn't even have a clue.

Thanks as well to Storm for doing so much on the Kitchen Witch facebook page and within the school and to Starlit for the most amazing Kitchen Witch blog posts.  Many congratulations to Storm, Starlit, Amunhart, Autumn and DragonRose for completing their Forest of Beginnings (our first degree equivalent) this year too, we are so proud of you all.

AMAZING year...no, it hasn't all been plain sailing - life does throw in some curve balls too but I like to put the positive spin on those, they are all life lessons and all happen for a reason.

I have made some wonderful new friends this year however a couple have also gone their separate ways, but sometimes change is needed, death occurs to allow rebirth to happen...

I predicted that 2013 was to be 'the year of the witch' and for me it certainly has been, and I am truly thankful and grateful for all that has happened, it has led me to where I am now and I am feeling extremely blessed.

The diary for 2014 is already pretty full, in fact I am nearly fully booked which is totally mad but wonderful including a book launch and signing in Glastonbury at the Mystical Arts Fayre in February.

Apologies if I have missed thanking anyone personally...big hugs to everyone that has been a part of my journey this year.

Wishing you all greetings of the season and a most prosperous and abundant 2014.

Saturday 21 December 2013

On the twenty first day of Yule...

On the twenty first day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The World

Achieving balance, realizing goals and prospering, attainment of the heart's desire, fulfillment, peace of mind.


21st December

He's got the whole world in his hands, he's got the whole world in his hands...

Satisfaction, peace of mind, achieving balance, a quiet moment in time when you can see your dreams.  The Winter Solstice is for me, a time to look back at what I have achieved over the past year, see what worked and what didn't and why.  A time to pat yourself on the back for your successes and learn lessons from the things that didn't work so well, look back over good times and bad and celebrate them all.  

Candle spell for thanks

Simple candle spell to end with, look back over all the candle magic you have done over the past twenty one days...we have worked with a lot of issues, energies and emotions.

Light a simple white candle and give thanks to the Divine, Deity or the Angels, send gratitude for your life, your health, your being.

I think it is also nice to give an offering as a sign of gratitude too, a crystal, a flower, herbs, even chocolate - just a symbol that you are thankful for the help, advice and guidance that you are given.


Wishing you all a very Happy Winter Solstice, Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukkah - whatever way you celebrate this season do it with love in your hearts and a smile on your face - peace, love and kindness to all ♥




The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Friday 20 December 2013

On the twentieth day of Yule...

On the twentieth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

Judgement

Making a judgment, reawakening, the mystery of birth and death, hearing a call, absolution.


20th December

This might seem like a bit of a come down after the fun and celebration of yesterday but it's not...let's focus on the reawakening...release, renewal, facing decisions, recognising and forgiving so that you can move forward with a fresh new soul awakening.

Candle spell for reawakening

For this we are going to use the power of three and work with three candles to represent your three selves. This is about bringing your three inner selves together to work in harmony and reawaken your soul.  One candle should represent your conscious mind, your inner self.  The second candle should represent your psychic mind, your lower or younger self.  The third candle should represent your divine mind, your higher or older self.

Place the three candles in a triangle but try to place them so that they are touching each other.

Light the first candle and acknowledge your personality, ego and the mind that deals with everyday things.
Light the second candle and acknowledge your intuition, your psychic abilities and your magical self.
Light the third candle and ackowledge that this mind connects the other two and brings us our connection to the divine

Bring your three selves together.

When you are ready allow the candle to burn out safely and go forward in the knowledge that your three selves now work together in connection with the Divine and your soul is reawakened.




The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Thursday 19 December 2013

On the nineteenth day of Yule...

On the nineteenth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Sun

Enlightenment and understanding, glory, achieving prominence, vitality, radiant joy and energy, invigoration, health, assurance, confidence.


19th December

The sun has got his hat on ...hip hip hip hooray...

The Winter Solstice is a celebration to welcome the Sun back, longer and warmer days are on the way.

With this card we should be dancing, singing and celebrating...where's my cake?

Spell for enlightenment

I have to choose a bright yellow candle for this one but go with what works for you.

You could surround the candle with brightly coloured crystals, whatever you like the look of but go with happy, cheerful colours.

Light the candle and focus on the flame.  If you want to sing then you can or play the drum would be brilliant, get some energy raised - dance around the room, clap, jump, celebrate...

Allow the Divine, Deity or the Angels to speak to you and share in the energy that you have raised.

When you are ready allow the candle to burn out safely and treat yourself to a cake or chocolate ;-)




The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Wednesday 18 December 2013

On the eighteenth day of Yule...

On the eighteenth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Star and The Moon

Regaining hope, faith in the future, inspiration, tranquility amid trouble, harmony, offering without reservations, sharing and being generous.

Fears and anxieties, believing illusions, experiencing distortion and chasing after fantasy, dreams and visions, disorientation.

18th December

I have put these two cards together (not only because we have 21 days of Yule and 22 major arcane cards...) because I think together they both create a feeling of releasing fears and gaining hope and inspiration.  Over the past couple of weeks we have released negative energy, gained courage and let go of illusions so now it is time to plan for the future, to realise our dreams and be inspired for the future.

Candle spell for hope and faith

I think this one works well with a pink candle but use whatever colour you are drawn to.

You will also need three crystals, I like to use rose quartz but again go with what works for you.

I also like to sprinkle rose petals around the base of the candle.

Light the candle and focus on the flame, think wonderful happy positive thoughts, fill your head with amazing visions of a fabulous future, it doesn't matter how outlandish they are just fill your head and heart with joy.  Obviously we can't all hope for Jonny Depp to arrive on our doorsteps (there is only one of him and quite a lot of us) but this is about being hopeful so you never know...;-)

When you are ready allow the candle to burn out safely.  If you like you could pop the crystals and the rose petals in a little pouch and carry them with you as a reminder of hope and faith that everything will turn our rosey.



The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Tuesday 17 December 2013

On the seventeenth day of Yule...

On the seventeenth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Tower

Upheaval and sudden change, crisis, releasing all emotion, suffering a blow to the ego, revelation and seeing through illusions.

17th December

Change happens...FACT...sometimes you don't like it, quite often it turns out to be for the best...whatever way you've got to deal with it.   Part of change can also be about seeing through illusions and gaining clarity about a situation and then making those changes yourself.   We can all get caught up in the illusions that life creates around us, it is beneficial to clear rub your eyes and see things as they really are...it can help you to make decisions and move forward.  It might be an illusion created by another but we are also very good at creating illusions for ourselves...

Candle spell to dispel illusions

A white candle is excellent for this one, you can dress the candle with herbs such as eyebright or rosemary and use any crystals that you are drawn to such as amethyst or clear quartz.

You will also need a small piece of paper, draw four open eyes, one in each corner of the paper (it doesn't have to be a perfect drawing).

Place the candle on top of the paper and light the candle.

Focus on the candle flame and ask that any illusions are dispelled and that truth and clarity are shown to you.

When you are ready thank Deity, the Divine or the Angels and allow the candle to burn out safely.




The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Monday 16 December 2013

On the sixteenth day of Yule...

On the sixteenth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Devil

Losing independence, addiction and enslavement, caught up in the material, overindulgement, choosing to stay in the dark, pleasures, lust, and desire.


16th December

Yep...it's the Devil...but don't be scared...;-)

He is a pesky little so and so but we all have our dark sides, we have to have that to balance with the light.

Sometimes we get caught up  in destructive cycles, we may end up in friendships that are unhealthy for us or situations that are  no good, it does happen, we are human after all.  This is about setting yourself free and gaining or should I say RE-gaining your independence, take back control and your own power.

Candle spell for independence

We are going to use the power of the four elements for this one:

Earth for stability and grounding
Air for intellect and intuition
Fire for passion and energy
Water for control of emotions

You get to make more decisions with this spell LOL

You can either use one plain white candle in the middle and have four items to represent the elements (for example a pebble for Earth, a feather for Air, a red crystal for Fire and a shell for Water)

OR
you can have four candles each one a different colour to represent each element (for example green for Earth, yellow for Air, red for Fire and blue for Water).  Be creative and have fun with it.

Sit in front of the candle/s and items.

If you have four candles light each one individually or if you have four items light the white candle first and then hold each item individually.

Take it in turn and focus on each element, starting with Earth. Ask each element what they will bring to you and your life, what postive energy they will add to bring about your independence.  Visualise each element filling your body and soul with their energies.

Allow the candle/s to burn out safely.

If you used items such as pebbles and shells you could pop them into a small pouch and carry them in your bag or pocket for added energy.




The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Sunday 15 December 2013

On the fifteenth day of Yule...

On the fifteenth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

Temperance

Harmony and equilibrium, balancing of opposites, creating synthesis, healing.


15th December

I always think of this card as 'alchemy' it is about bringing together things that meld and mix to make something even better.  It is about healing yourself and any rifts you might have with others and bringing harmony and peace.

Candle spell for healing

This can be for health reasons but also for healing of the heart and soul.

I like to use a blue candle for healing but green or pink works well too, or go with what works for you.

You will also need a crystal, there are sooooo many crystals for soooo many different healing purposes so I am going to put the decision on your shoulders (again)..pick a crystal that you believe matches your healing intent.

Write your name or the name of the person that needs healing on a slip of paper.  If your intent is to bring two people together for healing after an argument or a rift put both names on the paper.

Fold the paper up and place the crystal on top of it in front of the candle.

Light the candle and visualise a pure white light coming from the candle and spiralling around deosil (clockwise) encompassing the candle, the crystal and the paper, bringing together the people, closing the rift and bringing about harmony and peace to your life, their lives and your homes.

When you are ready allow the candle to burn out safely.

The piece of paper can be disposed of either burying, burning or putting out with the rubbish, or if you think it needs a bit more 'attention' leave the paper and the crystal on your altar for a while.





The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Saturday 14 December 2013

On the fourteenth day of Yule...

On the fourteenth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

Death

Closing the door to the past and opening a new one, going through transition, changing status, shedding the old and excess, inexorable forces and sweeping changes.

14th December

OK let's  not panic...forget Hollywood...the Death card does not mean what you might think it means, look at the beautiful image on this tarot card...it is a Phoenix rising gloriously reborn from the flames.  There has to be a 'death' to enable a rebirth.  What do you need to shed in your life to make way for something more wonderful and truly fabulous to become a reality?  What are holding onto that is stopping you from living the dream or even just moving forward?

Candle spell for rebirth

This is another two candle spell.

You will need one candle to represent the 'old' you, I like a darker colour such as brown or black.

Then you need a candle to represent the 'new' you, I like to use a white candle for this but go with the flow...and choose a colour that represents rebirth to you, it could be red like the flames with the phoenix.

It is also useful to have some object that represents the old you, your old way of life, it might be a small object, piece of jewelery, an ornament or even a photograph.

Sit in front of both candles.  First light the darker candle, the one that represents the old you.  If you have an item then hold that in your hand as well.  Focus on the flame and visualise how you have acted, what you have done that you didn't like and any negative areas of your life or personality that you would like to change.  If you have the time allow the candle to burn out before you move onto the second candle, if not snuff it out.  Put down the object or photograph if you have been holding one.

Turn to the second candle, this one represents your new life, the new you, the you that is rising through the flames from the ashes.  Focus on how you would like things to be, how you would like to act and what changes you would like to make your life more positive.

Allow the second candle to burn out safely.

If you have a candle stub bury it or dispose of it.

If you had an idea to represent your old life, if possible it helps to get rid of it, throw it away if it is just a photograph or give it away to a charity if it is of value.  (This isn't mandatory, if you want to keep the item do so, as long as you no longer have any emotional energy attached to it).









The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Friday 13 December 2013

On the thirteenth day of Yule...

On the thirteenth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Hanged Man

Letting go and surrendering to experience and emotional release. Accepting what is, and giving up control, reversing your view of the world and seeing things in a new light. Suspending action. Sacrifice.

13th December

And...LET GO...

Sometimes we have to just let go and allow life to carry us with it, trust that this is the right course of action. We can control a lot of our lives but there are parts, especially those that involve other people that we can't and maybe even shouldn't try to command.  Letting go can be very cleansing and in fact a huge relief...so give it a try.

Candle spell to release

I like to use a pale blue or lilac candle for this but as you are probably fed up with me saying by now...go with your instinct and use a colour that works for you.

You will also need either a crystal, pebble or shell - you will need to throw this away to make sure it is not a precious one.

If you want to, dress the candle in lavender oil or sprinkle with lavender buds (or any other oil or herb that works for you).

Hold the crystal, pebble or shell in your hand (people often use the right hand for receiving and the left for releasing but go with what feels right for you).  Light the candle.

Sit and focus on the flame and allow any negative situations or problems that are bugging you to come to your mind, visualise them and send them down your arm and into the crystal (pebble or shell).  Empty out all that negative energy into the item into your hand, let go of it from your mind, heart and soul.

When you are finished, allow the candle to burn out safely and then take the crystal (pebble or shell) and get rid of it.  You could bury it (away from your own property), throw it into the sea, river or pond.  Take a walk into the woods and throw it into the undergrowth or bury it at a crossroads or even put it into the rubbish for the dustmen to remove.  Just make sure you get rid of it away from your own home.







The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Thursday 12 December 2013

On the twelfth day of Yule...

On the twelfth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

Justice

Balance, harmony, equilibrium, assuming responsibility, weighing all sides of an issue before making a decision, choosing with full awareness.


12th December

Justice for all...today is about creating balance, harmony and taking responsibility for all the decisions and choices you have made.  We all seem to be seeking balance in all areas of our lives and it isn't always easy to get it right.  Take some time out today to make a plan of attack...

Candle spell to find balance

Let's mix it up a bit and use TWO candles today LOL.

As always go with your own instinct but I like to use two different colours such as black and white or red and blue.  Put the candles side by side on a safe holder, but try and get them as close to each other as you can.

Place two crystals at the base of the candles, this is a personal choice so think about the intent of finding balance in your life and pick two crystals that 'speak' that to you.

Light the candles and watch the flames, focus on them and allow your mind to drift.  Ask what you need to do to gain balance in all areas of your life...allow suggestions to come into your heart and mind.

Let the candles burn out safely.








The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Wednesday 11 December 2013

On the eleventh day of Yule...

On the eleventh day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Wheel of Fortune

Destiny, the weaving of life's threads coming together, fate, turning points, movement and change, patterns and cycles, an interconnected world.


11th December

Does anyone else feel the need to 'spin the wheel' wearing a sequinned dress with this card?...Nope? ... Just me?  OK...;-)

This card is all about fate and your destiny...you hold the power to create this yourself, yep YOU...all the decisions and choices you make play a part in how you live your life and how life treats you.

Candle spell to weave the web of YOUR life.

For this I like to use a purple, lilac, brown or black candle - but as always...go with what colour your instinct tells you to use.

We need a bit of artistic talent for this one...you don't have to be brilliant at it I promise.  Draw a spider's web on a small piece of paper, the centre of the web is YOU and all the strands leading out from it are parts of your life...going back into the past and moving forward into the future.

Stand the candle on the spider web drawing and then light the candle.

Sit and focus on the flame of the candle and on the web that you have drawn, start with visualising yourself at the centre and take a look...backwards into your past and then forwards into the future that you want to create for yourself.

What parts of the past do you need to let go of?  What old negative thoughts are you hanging on to?  Let them go...

Where do you want to take your life?  What direction do you want to take?

Remove the old threads that no longer serve you and build new positive ones.

Keep an eye on the candle and make sure that the paper doesn't set fire to your house ;-)

Bury the stub and any remaining paper web.








The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Tuesday 10 December 2013

On the tenth day of Yule...

On the tenth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Hermit

Being introspective, seeking, solitude and withdrawing from the world, giving or receiving guidance.


10th December

Today is all about you...spending time just doing something for YOU.  I know it is a busy time of the year but just taking five minutes out of your day to sit quietly and focus on calming, balancing and centring yourself will be sooooo worth it.  Just stop...if only for a couple of minutes...make a cuppa, treat yourself to a choccie biscuit or a mince pie and sit down...

Candle spell to connect with your inner self

This one is another easy peasy lemon squeezy one, all you need is a white candle (or any colour of your choice).

Light the candle and focus on the flame...let your mind drift...let your focus haze over...and ask yourself "what do I need for ME?"...








The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Monday 9 December 2013

On the nineth day of Yule...

On the nineth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

Strength

Unshakeable resolve, calm composure and patience, compassion, persuasion and soft control, tempered force.


9th December

Compassion, courage, patience, control of emotions and...faith.   Today is about believing in yourself and in your own inner strength and talents.  You have courage, you have compassion, you have faith and you can keep those emotions in check...now go kick some butt!

Candle spell for inner strength

Today we are gonna burn stuff!

You will need a cauldron or flame proof container.

I like a red or yellow candle for this go with what works for you.  Place the candle in a holder and you might like to pop a couple of crystals around the base, citrine, garnet or lapis lazuli all work well.

Then you need a slip of paper and a pen or pencil.  
Light the candle and sitting quietly in front of it write down any fears or worries that you have onto the slip of paper (you can use more than one piece of paper).  
Then take the slip of paper and light the edge in the flame of the candle, visualising the flame burning away your fears and worries, drop the paper into the cauldron to burn out.
Once the paper has burnt, focus back on the candle flame and fill the space that your fear and worry has left with positive energy focusing on inner strength and peace.

Allow the candle to burn out and dispose of the paper ashes outside, throw them to the wind or bury them.








The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Sunday 8 December 2013

On the eight day of Yule...

On the eighth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Chariot

Achieving victory, focusing intent and will, establishing an identity, self-confidence, maintaining descipline, assuming the reins of power and authority.

8th December

So...today is all about focusing your intent, your will and self confidence.  Time to triumph over any obstacles that are in your way.

Candle spell for self confidence

I think red or green is a good candle colour for self confidence but go with what works for you.

Light some incense to help you focus, whatever scent you like best.

And either sit in front of the candle looking into a small mirror or place a small photograph of yourself behind the candle.

Light the candle and concentrate...what we are looking for here is a positive affirmation that will make you feel self confident, I am not going to give you the affirmation, this is personal to you so you need to come up with it yourself.  Focus on the flame and ask the Divine to give you an affirmation that will work for you. (For example it might be "I am a beautiful, confident woman and I can achieve all that I set out to").

When you have your affirmation, write it down and use it each day.

Allow the candle to burn out safely.




The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Saturday 7 December 2013

On the seventh day of Yule...

On the seventh day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Lovers

Union, balance, energy, flow, passion, melding of heart and mind, forming a union or marriage. Though it can be romantic in nature, it is not necessarily so. The lovers is also about determining values and struggling with choices -- the innocence embodied in the turtledoves is a contrast to the shiny red apple in the embrace of the snake, one of the oldest symbols of temptation.

7th December

OK so it doesn't have to be all about the luuurve thang ♥  Today you can focus on a romantic relationship if you want to, if you need a bit of a boost, but you can also use the energy of today's card to work on other relationships - friendships, parents, children, siblings or even on a business partnership that needs some help.  Mending bridges, crossing chasms...bringing things and people together.  Or...focus on bringing about balance within yourself.

Candle spell for union

Use a pink or red candle for this (or as always go with your intuition...or what you have in the cupboard, white candles are always good back ups as they cover everything).

Sprinkle a few rose petals around the base if you have them or just a sprinkling of cinnamon will work too.  A piece of rose quartz is useful to place by the candle if you have some.

Light the candle and then visualise the union or coming together between those that need it, bringing peace,  harmony and balance.

When you are ready give thanks, but leave the candle to burn out (safely).

Friday 6 December 2013

On the sixth day of Yule...

On th sixth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Hierophant

The Hierophant's roots are deep reaching, entwined around secrets and traditions and the ages. Ritual and cermony, pursuing knowledge and deeper meaning, the rigidity of a belief system.

6th December

Today is all about mysteries, traditions, ritual and ceremony.  Time to crank up your spiritual connection, seek out the mysteries of the divine and think a little about what rituals and ceremonies you incorporate into your everyday life.

Candle spell to honour Deity/the Divine

I like to use a white candle for this but silver would be good too (but as always go with your intuition on this one).

Then place crystals, shells, pebbles or leaves, anything of your choice really that you want to use in honour of deity (the divine or angels) around the base of the candle.

Light the candle and just spend some time connecting with the Goddesss, the God, the Divine or the Angels.  Give them your thanks for all that they do for you and if you have any requests or questions now would be a good time to ask.

When you are ready leave the candle to burn out (safely).

Thursday 5 December 2013

On the fifth day of Yule...

On the fifth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Emperor

Creating order out of chaos, authority, leadership, strength, establishing law and order. The carvings on the wall bear the symbols of the domain, and of dominion. The eagle rises above mountains and sea, night and day, and all the earthly creatures bow. But even though the imagery of the carvings may be magnificent, still a wall is a man-made edifice; man's measure and means of controlling the wildness of the world by attempting to carve it into unchanging stone. The Emperor is a man rooted in his ways and views and regimens, but confident that this is the right and way of things; structure.

5th December

Today the key words are strength, order and structure.  Time to take stock of your life and all that surrounds you and give it a bit of a shake up.  Get organised, plan, plot and scheme and get some structure in place, make some sense of any chaos that might be surrounding you.

Candle spell for organisation

This one is really simple...

Take a white candle and maybe a clear crystal quartz if you have one. 

Ground and centre yourself, take a couple of deep breathes in and out...

Light the candle (make sure it is in a safe holder).
Take a few moments to look at your life and see what areas could do with a bit of organisation or re-structuring...

Ask the Goddess/God/Angels/Divine to show you the areas that need attention and to give you guidance as to how to achieve it.

When you are ready give thanks, but leave the candle to burn out (safely).








The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Wednesday 4 December 2013

On the fourth day of Yule...


On the fourth day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Empress

Creativity, nurturing, abundance, fertility, experiencing the senses, and embracing the natural.


4th December

Today is all about abundance and generosity.  Which really is what the festive season is all about isn't it? Goodwill to all men...
We could all do with a bit of abundance now and then, I am not talking about winning the lottery (we can't ALL win it) but about having enough to cover our needs and maybe just a little bit more for something nice, especially at this time of year.

Candle spell for abundance

Using a green or gold candle (or one of your choosing) stand it on a silver coin, making sure it is set it on a safe holder and won't fall over. You might actually want to stand the candle in a cauldron or fire proof pot for this one.

Dress the candle with peppermint or basil oil, or go with your intuition (and what you have in your cupboard).

Set a green crystal in front of the candle, aventurine or malachite are both good.

Light the candle and visualise abundance coming your way, as you watch the flame you can also drop (very carefully) basil or mint leaves onto the candle, I like to use dried honeysuckle flowers too.

Ask the Goddess/God/Angels/Divine to provide you with abundance.
Sit for a few moments and visualise what you want to achieve.
When you are ready give thanks, but leave the candle to burn out (safely).

Don't forget that abundance can also come you way by 'paying forward', giving to charity, helping out a friend, just giving your own time to help someone that needs it ♥ and of course it makes you feel good about yourself too.








The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Tuesday 3 December 2013

On the third day of Yule

On the third day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The High Priestess

Wisdom, knowledge, learning, intuition, purity, virtue. The Owl is a keeper of knowledge, and he bears a key to unlock mysteries. The pomegranate is an icon of Persephone, who tasted the seeds and thus tied herself to Hades -- it is a fruit of fertility and death; and the moons embroidered upon her garments wax and wane. The new crescent, and gibbous moon that create the full cycle, embraced in one.

3rd December

Today think about learning something new, seeking out knowledge.  Is there something you have always wanted to study or train in?  Ask that the Divine show you the way to unknown mysteries, to send you the right teacher, study group or books.

Candle spell for knowledge:

Using a yellow or blue candle (or a colour of your choosing) carve your name into the wax. 

Dress the candle with oil and/or herbs if you would like to (honeysuckle, rosemary and lilac work well).

Ground and centre yourself, take a couple of deep breathes in and out...

Light the candle (make sure it is in a safe holder).
Focus on the flame and then think about all the knowledge and wisdom you would like to have and also think about the knowledge and wisdom that you already have.

Trace the rune symbol Ansuz on your forehead (third eye) - this is for wisdom.


Trace the rune symbol Kenaz on your forehead (third eye) - this is for knowledge.

Ask the Goddess/God/Angels/Divine to aid you in your study and learning and bring you the wisdom that you seek.
Sit for a few moments and visualise what you want to achieve.
When you are ready give thanks, but leave the candle to burn out (safely).







The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Monday 2 December 2013

On the second day of Yule...

On the second day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Magician

Originality, creativity, skill, will-power, self-confidence, dexterity and slight of hand. It is about grasping the unseen around you, and harnessing it to become reality. This Magician draws upon relics representative of the elements: Fire in his lantern, the voice of the Sea in the shell, a breath of Wind in the raven's feather, and Earth from the leaves.

2nd December

Today think about creativity, what you can make and do to change things for the better,  not just for you but for others.  It doesn't have to be grand, small gestures mean a lot too.  "Grasp the unseen and make it reality".

Candle spell for creativity:

Using a green, red or yellow candle (or one of your choosing) carve a symbol with a pin into the wax.  Good symbols to use are planetary ones such as Venus, Saturn, Jupiter or Mars.  If you work with runes you could use a rune symbol - Kenaz is a good one to use.  Or draw any symbol that means creativity to you, it might just be a simple flower design.

Ground and centre yourself, take a couple of deep breathes in and out...

Light the candle (make sure it is in a safe holder).
Focus on the flame and then send our your intent, say it out loud or say it in your head it doesn't matter which.
Ask the Goddess/God/Angels/Divine to aid you in your creativity.
Sit for a few moments and visualise what you want to achieve.
When you are ready give thanks, but leave the candle to burn out (safely).




The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com

Sunday 1 December 2013

The first day of Yule...

On the first day of Yule the Goddess gave to me...

The Fool

The Fool is a symbol for new beginnings and adventures, pleasure, passion, thoughtless and rash. Like the Fool, you may stand upon the precipice gazing out into the unknown; and there is either an oblivious foolishness to the terrible plunge you may experience, or else a wild spirit of adventure and great faith and knowledge in that which can and will bear you up and guide through the times to come. There are unlimited possibilities opening up for the seeker.

1st December

Today think about what you can do to move forward, are there any projects or ideas that have been floating around for a while but haven't gotten off the ground?  Or just the idea that you want to be a more positive person.  Today think about what new beginnings you want to make or what fresh starts you can create.

Candle spell for new beginnings:

Using a white or yellow candle (or a colour of your choosing, one that represents new beginnings to you).
If you have any pumpkin seeds left over from Samhain sprinkle a few around the base of the candle as they represent new growth.
You can also place a crystal at the base of the candle such as a clear quartz or a moonstone (again use on that feels right to you).
You can dress the candle with essential oil and roll it in herbs to add to the power as well, oils/herbs such as pine, peppermint or cinnamon would work well (or whatever your intuition tells you to use).

Ground and centre yourself, take a couple of deep breathes in and out...

Light the candle.  
Focus on the flame and then send our your intent, say it out loud or say it in your head it doesn't matter which.
Ask the Goddess/God/Angels/Divine to grant you your new beginning, new project, new direction.
Sit for a few moments and visualise your new start happening.
When you are ready give thanks, but leave the candle to burn out (safely).




The tarot deck used is Shadowscapes by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law & Barbara Moore
www.shadowscapes.com