July 15th, 2014

I got to go with my family and some family friends to a state park this afternoon, which made for a nice change from our usual schedules (not to mention VBS again this morning). We went to a huge forest/bog area alongside one of our rivers. It was cold for July (in the mid 60's) and we could tell a storm was brewing, but the sun was still out and the air was fresh. It was just really great to relax outside for once and see some wildlife (cranes, swans, egrets, butterflies...). Before we started out walk on the trails, I made a little offering to the local energies and asked that we have a safe, refreshing walk. I guess they must have heard, because the rain held off for something like three hours and then started the instant we were all back and buckled into our cars for the trip home!
If you're going to take a walk through a local park or nature preserve, consider making an offering of your own. It could be something as exquisite as a small gemstone or as simple as a crust of bread from your picnic lunch, a splash of water, or a bit of hair. It's a good way to introduce yourself to regional powers, or to strengthen existing relationships. That being said, you needn't spend your entire afternoon trying to establish contact with the intangible, either. There's plenty of magick to be had just in finding raspberry bushes, watching fat squirrels climb up tree trunks, and seeing little three-year-olds stalk a butterfly.

Kiyomizudera

And you thought I was done talking about my Japan trip! ;) Not even close. It does give me a lot of blog fodder, though, so I may stretch it out just a bit.

Otowa-San Kiyomizudera

Literally "Clear Water of Mt. Otowa Temple", Kiyomizudera is another famous Buddhist temple in Kyoto. Founded in 778, before Kyoto was made Japan's capital, the temple buildings have been burned down numerous times. Most of the present buildings were rebuilt by the Shogun Tokugawa in the 1630s. In 1994, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list as a historic monument of ancient Kyoto. 

Kiyomizu Temple is a stunning example of Japanese architecture and worship, but regrettably, I only have a few pictures since many of the buildings prohibit photography. 

This is the Deva Gate and primary entrance into the temple grounds. Devas (Ten in Japanese) are Buddhist entities who live on higher planes. They are invisible to the human eye, but those with special extrasensory capabilities may possess the power to hear their voices or see them psychically, or the spirits may take on an illusory form to manifest themselves on the human plane. Their powers include flying and moving from place to place with great speed; the more powerful varieties neither eat nor drink. Under the umbrella term "Deva", there are many varieties of spirit, each having their own abilities and place in the universe. They are arranged hierarchically and in this way could be considered comparable to angelic choirs in Christianity, but a Buddhist would likely caution one to not assume that Devas are equivalent to angels; indeed, some important distinctions exist that one should be aware of. For starters, Devas are not paragons of morality. They certainly can be, and many are, but it is not a requirement. Some possess human vices like arrogance or pride, and likewise they are not omnipotent. Furthermore, Devas are not immortal (though their life span may be billions of years), and they reincarnate just as all other mortal beings do in Buddhist belief. A Deva may come back as a human, another Deva, or something else altogether. It is not easy to work with this brand of spirit, as getting their attention is a challenge, but if they can be contacted they tend to give valuable advice and insight.

Remember the Komainu from Itsukushima? Here's another one, right outside the Deva Gate.

This one is not my picture. It shows the main hall of the temple and the terrace which provides a stunning overlook of the valley and of Kyoto beyond. In this hall is enshrined Kannon Bosatsu (remember her from Kinkakuji?) and I got to see a group of monks performing mass here as well as individuals making offerings and prayers.

This (also not my picture) is the goddess Kannon shown in her form of having 11 heads and 1,000 arms. According to legend, she saw all the misery and suffering in the world but could not answer all the prayers of her supplicants, so her head split into 11 pieces and now she has 11 mouths with which to answer. Likewise, her hands could not offer help to all of humanity, so her arms split apart and now she has 1,000 of them to aid her in her task. The Kiyomizudera statue is hidden most of the time; according to my research, it is only viewable once every 33 years.

The name, Clear Water Temple, comes from the fresh mountain springs which have been flowing since the temple was founded. There are three springs, and patrons wait in a long line to hold a bamboo ladle under the water and drink. Each spring has a different association - longevity, wisdom, and love - but it is generally considered bad form to drink from all three.
I did buy lucky amulets here, of course. One is a small figure of the "god of Business Success", and the other has a dragon printed on the fabric for good fortune.

August 15th, 2013

Andalusite Fairy Cross

Physical Characteristics: This unique crystal bears the shape of an equal-armed cross when sliced vertically.

In Nature: Usually found near granite deposits, Fairy Crosses made of Andalusite (also called Chiastolite) form when bulges of Andalusite fuse to a central (often square) piece of Mica.

Chemical Composition: Al2SiO5

Mohs Scale Hardness: 6 - 7.5 (middle-high)

Can be Found: United States, Spain, Switzerland

Healing Properties*: These stones reduce stress and help their bearers deal with addictive habits, especially smoking. They reduce fever and have been a historical helpmate for those suffering depression. Crosses of the Andalusite variety heal disorders of the hands and eyes, oxygenate the blood, and promote proper chromosomal development. They may also strengthen the body's ability to learn and remember. The stones prove especially useful to those wishing to heal pets or children, as these are creatures favored by the Fey.

Magickal Properties: In Christian folklore, it is said that the first Fairy Crosses were formed when the Fey wept tears over Jesus' crucifixion. From a Pagan perspective, the same story could be told, only in reference to the sacrificial death of the Horned God. Additionally, an equal-armed cross often denotes the four elements; use this stone to balance elemental energies in your life. Those in possession of a Fairy Cross may work stronger weather and gardening magicks as well. The stone casts a protective aura around its bearer, and is excellent for grounding work. Fairy Crosses are a "cross"roads for the physical and astral realms - use it to strengthen communication with all creatures of spirit: angels, fairies, devas, guides, etc. They dispel illusion and misunderstanding and represent devotion, change, and power.

Chakra Association: First (Root) chakra

Element: All four elements can be accessed with a Fairy Cross.

Energy: Receptive and Projective

Planetary Association: Pluto

*Magickal healing should never take the place of seeing a doctor and following any recommended prescriptions, actions, or other advice. Magick works best in tandem with physical efforts, anyway, so don't skimp on those check-ups!

November 25th, 2012

Happy Elder Moon, everyone! Yes, ladies and gentlemen, today is the first day in the Celtic month honoring the Elder tree.
The Elder tree belongs to the genus Sambucus, and can be found in temperate to sub-tropical regions in both the North and South hemispheres. The tree's flowers are found in branching clusters, often white in color, and later produce berries that are a dark blue to black. The berries are a valuable food source for many birds, and planting the Elder tree around the home is an excellent way to support native animal species.

The Elder Mother

In popular folklore, the Witches' association with the tree varies - some stories say that the Elder tree will ward off Witches, while others say that it is under the tree where Witches may congregate. Elder wood is one of those trees mentioned in the Wiccan Rede; unlike its compatriots, however, the Wiccan is warned that "Elder is the Lady's tree; burn it not, or cursed ye'll be". Other stories tell us that instruments made from Elder wood produce a sound that the Faeries find most favorable. Accordingly, it is said that on Midsummer's eve (Litha), one can find the Faerie folk making merry beneath the Elder trees. Like the Rowan, the Elder is considered protective - the Rowan guards the front of the house, and the Elder protects the back. These protective qualities extended to the business world as well - Elder trees were often planted near bakeries and dairies to protect the food and prevent evil from touching it. However, any food actually left under the tree was considered a gift for the Faeries, and couldn't be reclaimed. In Scandinavian mythos, Elder trees had a guardian spirit known as the Elder Mother, and any damage done to the tree could invoke her wrath. It is from this spirit that the tree may have gotten its name.
Many spells for beauty call for elderflowers - and with good reason! The cosmetic industry has gotten clued into this, and employs Elder derivatives in skin cleansers and eye lotions. If you are looking to freshen up your exterior, infuse warm water with a teaspoon or two of elderflowers and chamomile; then empower, and use daily as a facial cleanser. The tree's protective qualities are just as strong today as they were hundreds of years ago, and growing an Elder in your yard invites friendly Faeries while warding off negative influences. Elder wands have the same protective power as the tree does (JK Rowling clearly did her magickal research!), as does music played on an instrument made of Elder wood. Before cutting an Elder branch for any reason, be sure to respectfully ask the Elder Mother for permission, and leave an offering in thanks (a piece of cake, water, a stone, etc.). The leaves and berries can be used in spells to turn away negativity.
The flowers and berries of the Elder tree are edible, and are often used in foodstuffs in European countries. The flowers can be pressed into a drink known as elderflower cordial. An extract from the flowers is turned into a syrup, typically found in drinks, baked goods, and sweets. Both flowers and berries are also found in everything from yoghurt to wine, fruit pies, marmalade, and more. However, it should be noted that the leaves, branches, twigs, and seeds of the Elder tree can contain small amounts of cyanide, that, when consumed in large quantities, can be toxic. Think apple seeds, here.

Moon Garden

In honor of Earth Day, you may consider planting a Moon Garden. Given the choice, I'd probably turn the entire backyard into a garden (but somehow I don't see my parents going for that).
A Moon Garden is one filled with those plants that have white or light yellow/pink flowers, many of which are nocturnal in nature. The best known of these is, somewhat obviously, the Moonflower. The Moonflower is a climbing plant, cousin to the Morning Glory, whose flowers only open at night. The white flowers smell slightly of lemon, and, when open, are about 5 - 6 inches in diameter. Phlox, one of my favorite flowers, has a nocturnal variety, called the Night Phlox. These smell like honey, and open at twilight. A final intriguing such plant is the Angel's Trumpet, which opens in the evening in a horn shape, with a strong, floral scent. One could also consider mixing in non-flowering plants with silver leaves, such as Lamb's Ear, or diurnal white flowers to continue the look in the daytime.
To make your garden, check the planting instructions of all species you intend to plant. Make sure that the garden size you plan on can accommodate your new friends. Then, if not already available, dig the area for your plants, or, if space is limited, purchase pots. Consider making your garden circular or in the shape of a half or crescent moon. Plant your plants, add any stepping stones or statues (preferably keeping to the white and silver theme) as desired, and then hold a small ritual outdoors to dedicate the space to the Goddess.

Feeling creative? Design a Sun garden to complement it!

April 22nd, 2012

Happy Earth Day! Today is beautiful; open the windows and enjoy the sunshine. Here are a few things you can try to make your Earth day a little more special:

• Consider making an offering to Gaia, any local nature spirits, or simply to the earth itself.
• Plant a garden.
• Go out locally and pick up trash.
• Take a walk or a bike ride through a local forest preserve.
• Attend a spiral dance, or make up one of your own.
• Go to an environmental rally, or make a donation.

March 13th, 2012

I did end up going out and having a bit of a chat with the local sprites the other day, and had just barely walked out the door when Nick pointed out the tundra swans, which were returning after flying off for the winter. They were too high up to get any good pictures, but were so loud and numerous that I could hear them clear as a bell, making something of a honking coo, if that makes any sense. While outside, I fixed up a fairy house which got somewhat destroyed over winter (I'm wondering if unhappy fairies were contributors to the energy imbalance), and I took pictures of the crocuses which are now blooming.



We were outside today for gym, and it was wonderful. The sun was out, the sky was clear, and it was a balmy 65 degrees or so. What with play practice and all, it was literally the first time I have been outside in daylight (on a school-day) since early February. Pathetic, isn't it?

If anyone has any suggestions on how to correct energy flow, please do let me know. Otherwise, enjoy the lovely weather, and happy-almost-spring!

March 11th, 2012

Whew! I've thought I was busy before, but this last week has literally been a whirlwind! I've had play practice, musical practice, and/or choir practice every day, so I haven't been returning home until 8:40 or so, hence my lack of posting. My mom actually had to have surgery on Friday, so that's been adding to the craziness. However, she's recovering well, and ought to be home tomorrow. Nevertheless, positive thoughts are appreciated. :) Today I actually have some quiet time while Ben is at a birthday party. I'm thinking of putting some bread and honey out at the shrine I built with Hazelnut in the garden. It's tiny, but powerful. The weather has been wonderful recently, so I can visit now without freezing my toes. I really feel it has helped in getting in touch with the local fairies and devas (nature spirits, for those unfamiliar). Things have been gong a little nuts here of late, and I'd like to figure out where the imbalance is. We've had internet, cell phone, computer, washing machine, and tire issues, and for whatever reason, everything I plant keeps growing and then dying on me. I can't decide if the issues are interconnected, or a whole bunch of energy imbalances that require correcting. Additionally, I looked back on all that feng shui stuff I posted last Spetember, and yet, that doesn't quite seem to add up either. Currently, Saturn and Mars are in retrograde which could be potential contributes, but they don't have a major impact on communication with others, and a majority of the appliances we've had fail have had to do with communication. No, it's time to take this one up with the local flora and fauna.