Archive for Full moon

Full Moon in Sagittarius-Ready, Aim, Shoot!

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, Full Moon, Lunar with tags , , , , , , on June 12, 2014 by themagickalpen

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Full Moon in Sagittarius
6.13.2014
12:11 am (EDT)

Sun in Gemini

The Moon waxes full early tomorrow morning (12:11am EDT) in the astrological sign of Sagittarius. The Full outpouring of moonlight punctuates the fiery nature of Sagittarius and its dynamic of reaching outward expansively and intentionally. As with every Full Moon the astrological sign of placement is that which lay directly in opposition to the placement of the Solar Month on the zodiacal wheel. We have been exploring the energy of the solar month and Gemini’s very stylized and expressive method of communication. Sagittarius also is a master of communication with its style being one of gathering everyone together, establishing community and then letting the natural rhythm of communal dialogue run its course. There is an underlying goal of expanding horizons while remaining within a specific comfort zone. The point of tension between these two styles produces the potential for the sharing and distribution of community based communication that reaches a much larger audience and has enough momentum (Gemini is the movement of air and Sagittarius the spark of flame that rises higher with air’s fueling).

Both Gemini and Sagittarius are of the mutable modality; meaning each has the a natural predisposition towards expansion, flexibility and being able to extend beyond the norm as long as rigidity does not set in. Sagittarius as a Fire sign heats those full and ripe waters of the lunar tides. Using this energy in conjunction with the cooling air of Solar Gemini keeps those waters moving and flowing never reaching the boiling point that would evaporate what efforts had been made. It is a sign of action. Sagittarius not only walks the path but blazes the trail and lights the way as it moves through new experiences.

The symbol associated with Sagittarius is that of the archer. The overwhelming energy of Fire is that of transformation through change. Typified by the Archer, this is the fire that sends its sparks out in many directions with the aspirations that one or two will energize, take root and ultimately become the bonfires that quicken and transform. Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the Zodiac and as such the action of this energy initializes and catalyzes the will to action.

The ruling planet of Sagittarius is Jupiter. This planet as no other naturally causes expansion, whether it is desired or not. Prosperity and abundance are common themes of this planetary energy and it is this dynamic that ensures that the fiery arrows of distribution released from the bow of Sagittarius are propelled far and wide before touching down. Making use of this expansive energy is as simple as filling the lungs and then sighing into the release.

Energetically, this Full Moon is ripe for workings that are directed towards bolstering the will (Fires of Sagittarius) within the creative waters (Moon) that spur you on towards your desired goals. This is the basic premise of successful working. Being emotionally engaged in what is desired is not enough. Those emotions need to be fired up enough to encourage will full action towards the goal. As the old adage goes- “wishing won’t make it happen”. Add the strength of the Solar Month and the inventive mind of Gemini and all are working towards manifestation and realization of what is most desired.

Additionally, we have some other astrological refinements that make this Full Moon one that could really become the pivotal point where change can begin. Neptune stationed retrograde a few days ago so the focus is on the deep waters that hold the mystery of our emotional nature. This supports the fullness of the Moon in a way that allows for some retrieving of those subconscious past memories that have informed your present state; bringing up for closer look and then applying the healing that may be needed.

Mercury also stationed retrograde a few days ago as well. The focus is on hypersensitivity to what is being communicated and making sure that there is no misunderstanding. Have this pause as the archer is gearing up to shoot the arrows of networking and communal effort gives that extra point of re-sighting so the arrows hit the intended mark and don’t go astray.

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Tomorrow as I sit in the energy of the Full Moon, I will reflect on where I want to actively fire (Sagittarius) up my intentions. I will let this thought (Gemini) settle into my sacred waters of feeling and intuition (Moon). I will breathe deeply and submerge myself a little more deeply (Neptune) into what I truly feel about this intention. I will make declaration in witness (Sun) of my guides and guardians of my desired goal. As inquisitive mind gives pause (Mercury) and my will to action expands, I rise from these waters of inspiration, bow at the ready , aim my arrow of intent and with the passion of one who has seen a new trail to blaze will release and shoot (Sagittarius) for the heavens. This, my Full Moon intent blessed by the Mother and affirmed by Father Sun’s golden eye.

Resources and Reflections:

Mercury Retrograde

Meet Me at the Station-Temple of Mercury
Mercury Retrograde Tomorrow- Temple of Gemini

Neptune Retrograde

Lifting the Veil-Neptune Retrograde

Related Sagittarius Posts

4th Qrt Anchoring

Temple of the Moon
Day Twelve: Networking-Waxing Moon in Sagittarius
Day Eleven: Reaching Out-Waxing Moon in Sagittarius

 

Next Post: June 21.2014

Temple of the Sun- Cancer

Summer Solstice

 

 

The Magick of Gemini

Posted in The Temple of the Sun with tags , , , , , , , , , , on June 8, 2014 by themagickalpen

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The Magick of Gemini is based in the realms of the mental and creation of an outcome that is flexible and adaptable in its inventive style. Whatever we apply Geminian energy towards is going to receive the advantage of keen perception and the ability to swiftly communicate what it needs to complete the cycle of seed thought to finished product. Its strength lay in being able to change course as new ideas emerge from a seemingly never ending stream of flow. This can also be a detriment, if the breaks are not put on soon enough and a final determination is made. Indecisiveness, largely from being able to see many views is a caution. However, any workings that require a think tank type of kick-start receive the greatest boost from Gemini’s energy.

Gemini works directly on the Nervous System (it is after all our communication center), so workings that require a calming or slowing down of hyperactivity are best served by using Gemini’s energy during the phases of Waning Lunar or Solar month energy. Similar to a homeopathic approach of like negating like (remember the attribution of Twins to this astrological sign) focus of release of excess nervous energy can be quite effective. Conversely, using Gemini’s action during a Waxing phase (Lunar or Solar Month) can rev up a sluggish decision making process that may be waylaid by too much emotional impact and not enough pure logic. Think of this like receiving a Vitamin-B booster shot to restore energy.

Additionally, Gemini can be used quite effectively Caduceus-1in assessing personal health. The symbol of the Caduceus that is associated with Mercury and the healing profession speaks to the healing power found in obtaining the needed information for accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Scanning your body in meditation and asking the aid of Mercury and Gemini’s clarity in seeking out areas of dis-ease is a routine practice that many on a spiritual path make use of. THIS PRACTICE DOES NOT REPLACE SEEKING THE ADVICE OF A MEDICAL PRACTITIONER, but our bodies are dynamic in their own information systems and learning to attune to what our bodies are telling us regarding health, diet and the ways in which we use them can be quite purposeful in bodily awareness.

Solar Month Magick

Enhances exploration of how you think and what forms of expression this thought process will ultimately make use of:

Gemini as the third sign of the Solar Year concerns itself with the intellect and the pursuits of mental expansion and flexibility. The Solar Month of Gemini is an excellent time to begin enhancing the mental faculties, pursue further education/study or ponder the effects of inventive mind on creating a more wholistic worldview that takes into consideration the heart as well as the mind. This is also a time for testing the limits of what your effects are on those you interact with motivated by what you perceive to be your true base of knowledge. The energy of this Solar month of Gemini, next flows into the deep emotional waters of Cancer, so whatever progress is made at a mental level will be called to the task of defining itself through feeling your way in moving forward.

This approach can be used for short-term projects, but is most effective for long-term workings. A goal such as wanting to develop and refine your skills of communication or begin an educational project benefits from beginning its cycle while the Sun is in Gemini.

Similar to the New, Full and Waning cycles of the Lunar Month, beginning the working in the Solar Month of Gemini would be the first phase of stimulating the inventive aspects of the mental process. This may take the form of continuing an education goal, planning a new project (or business venture), or simply plotting out a course of how to more effectively exchange ideas.

Using the cycle of Air and those astrological signs of that element the next point of bolstering the energy would be during Libra. The Solar Month of Libra stands as the Full phase of the mental (Air) energy, and signals readiness to bring to a state of balance those options that have blossomed as the layers of mind reveal more detail about what the possible outcomes may be. Libra is of a Cardinal modality so the opportunity to hone in on a singular goal and move forward with the refined product is at hand.

The stable energy of Aquarius (the last of the Air signs) would serve as the point of coalescing the information acquired and elevate it to the level of use for the broader good. The Aquarian focus is one of seeing the bigger picture, recognizing it for its potential and then offering it up in the visionary style that is of benefit to the greater collective.

Lunar Magick

Engages the movement of ideas through the waters of the subconscious as mind and heart interact:

Use of Lunar energy in the astrological sign of Gemini provides the energetic principle of the breath of creation on the emotional waters that birth the great inventions and inspired actions. Gemini provides the opportunity for coalescing what the mind conceives of and what the heart desires. The natural comfort zone of Gemini is relying on wit and strategy with the emotional responses being secondary. Aligning the Moon’s healing and intuitive force with the mental agility of Gemini draws up from the subconscious those places of “knowingness” that are Divinely inspired and informed by feeling and logic.

Workings that desire the goal of quickening the mental processes, opening to creative communication, healings and business interactions aptly make use of Gemini’s energy. Improvements that are relevant to how you express yourself and what is created from that expression also benefit from Gemini’s application.

The New Moon of Gemini could be used to set up the foundation for beginning the process of being able to express yourself more clearly and with more flexibility. You would spend some time deciding upon which area of your life you would like this support to be given. Sit down and brainstorm how you would be best served by this enhancement. And, once settled upon, begin the process of taking action towards this goal.

The Full Moon would reinforce the steps taken and bring to light the achievements made thus far. The opportunity to refine and add more clarity to what has evolved moves strongly through the ideas that come to the surface and the rationale for continuing to feed them stands in the strength of this fullness. And, the Waning Moon’s energy would be used to release what remains as mental obstacles in allowing you to bring clarity to your communications. This is the time to further tweek and modify what has been learned and formulate a logical conclusion that will sustain your efforts.

Some Additional Astrological properties of Gemini

Keywords: Intellect; agility; education; knowledge, changeability.

The Archetype: The Jester is the archetype associated with Gemini. This exemplifies the aspect of Geminians that is entertaining in their prodigious outpouring of information. Often non-stop, at lightening speeds and at times wavering in final decision there is no lack of conversation to be had when Gemini enters in. For some these antics are amusing and perceived as “trying too hard”, often because the delivery of these sound bytes is handled in such a detached and analytical style. Being ruled by head rather than heart can bring about a general consensus of not taking seriously what is communicated, largely because of the vacillating scope of information that is as difficult to grasp the intended meaning as a moving target is to still.

Rules Astrological House: The 3rd House of the Zodiac, the “House of Expression”.

This is the house that defines the way in which you communicate and express yourself in the world. Moving through the Zodiacal Wheel’s energy, the First House is the singular “you” identified by your personality and who you are presently and who you who hope to become. The second House holds the possessions and things you have acquired that further define you. The Third House represents how you express yourself based on what you have learned of yourself (1st House) and what you have chosen to surround yourself with in the material world (2nd House). How we express ourselves depends on communication as the vehicle. How and what we think defines how we engage the world and others. We invent and then re-invent ourselves based upon our inner dialogue. The results of those perceptions then become our new path of expression.

Color: The vibrant Yellow of mind and clarity. This attribution speaks to the mental nature of Gemini and the clarity that is prodigious in the workings of the Geminian mind. Blue is also associated as a reference to the airy quality of Gemini and the limitless vastness of a sky that holds multiple possible outcomes. The intellect moves and flows moving its energy through the aethers much like the radio waves that carry signals transparently and with clarity. If Qabalistically inclined, the color orange is used relevant to the sphere of Hod (pure Mind).

Connection and Flow: Taurus to Gemini

I flow from foundations
That have been strongly built.

The freedom of Mind has now been released
And I am dynamic in what emerges from
This solid ground of inspired inventiveness
Breathe in the power and rise to take flight
As I soar towards the mirror reflection of myself.

Gemini is the third sign of the Zodiac. Having found the strength of grounding and establishing the necessary roots on Taurus, Gemini is now ready to communicate what has been gifted from the resourcefulness of Taurus. Gemini completes the first level of triad’s that comprise the modalities of the Zodiacal wheel. We have experienced the initial flow bursting from Aries and the wrangling of that flow into a place of stability in Fixed Taurus. Now we arrive at Gemini and the mutable modality that both reaches towards the end goal and heralds the gate that becomes the next flow of catalyzing Cardinal energy (Cancer).

Seasonally, under the potent rays of the Gemini sun we are nearing the Summer Solstice and the fullness of the sun’s light in its phase of waxing. The nature of Gemini is to be present dynamically in every situation, making itself known by its ease of dialogue and unique style of communication. This freedom to express has been enabled by the confidence gained through knowledge of the physical state of our being. When we know ourselves from the perspective of what we have accumulated within this earthly form of life and the pleasures of fleshy existence (Taurus), there is nothing left to do but to interact, collaborate and communicate the joy and pain of this life’s existence and the experiences had thus far. (1.)

Mentally, the flow from Taurus to Gemini is one of probing the inventive spirit that naturally arises when we lay foundations. We build a house and upon seeing what the finished product is, we beginning visualizing what each room should look like; imagine what changes can be made that will more aptly show to the world who you are. Taurus was the child, digging in the dirt, making mud pies and seeing everything from a sensorial approach, learning from the experience in preparation for communicating everything it knows. Gemini lets everyone know how much fun was to be had from the experience.

As we move through each of the Solar Temples in the coming year, it will become more apparent how interconnected they are. The story that is woven is one of growth and evolution that is just as relevant today as it was to the ancients. We learn from these natural cycles and their application is profound mundanely and spiritually.

BONUS PATHWORKING:

Excerpted from The Inner Chamber:Volume One
It’s Written in the Stars(Astrology). R. Fennelly. 2.2013

The Hall of Gemini

Turn your focus and attention to your breath. Allow the space of your consciousness to move with the rise and fall of your chest and the filling and release of the lungs. Continue in this manner for several breaths; allowing each to become softer, smoother and slower. With each breath your physical body appears to become lighter and your center of consciousness floats upwards towards the inner eye. You feel enveloped by the mist of transition between the Physical and Astral. And as this veil thins you step through a veil of dark blue mist and find yourself standing centrally in a circular room. As you look around you see that this space opens out to a star lit night sky. The velvety blackness above holds a twinkling of starry light that fills the panoramic view above. The walls encircle you and are of a deep bluish purple. As your eyes adjust to this room you notice an archway just ahead of you. The glyph of Gemini, the Twins hovers in the entryway.

As you step through the orange glow of the Glyph of Gemini you see two perfectly mirrored twins sitting having a conversation. They are both blonde and although they appear androgynous, as many children do, there are slight nuances and physical features that separate them as being male and female. They pause in mid-sentence for a moment, turning to acknowledge your arrival, and then turn back to one another continuing the same thread of thought. Question, answer, and statement flash back and forth between the two at lightening speed. You feel both energized and a bit exhausted as your mental processes are not of this mind-set and cannot keep pace with the chameleon like changes in rhythm, clarity and intonation. You turn your attention to the room and see that books line shelves which encompass all four walls; and papers are strewn about haphazardly as though they had recently been impatiently rifled through and then carelessly left wherever they were put. You stand off to the side and observe how each of the children seems to change their mental position at will. One will agree on what statement has been made and then completely disagree about another. The other seeming to mirror every change of its twin with a steady and regulated pace.

They are discussing their favorite activity of reading and as the conversation becomes more excited, they stand and begin to gesture and point to make clearer their statement fact. As they move around the room going from one conversation to another surrounding this book or that you sense that somehow although appearing to be two, they are actually of one mind. That the duality you are seeing is actually the mental acrobatics of a mind that shifts and moves in accord with wherever the stronger enticement lay. This is the secret of their mental agility. The sheer ability to adapt and change at will to suit the needs of the situation. Although you are excited to have solved this one piece of the puzzle and are beginning to feel more at ease in following the direction, speed and flow of their conversation, your attention is drawn to one corner of the room.

You see a beautifully decorated standing mirror placed diagonally in the corner space between two of the walls. As you move towards it, the sound of the conversation seems to fade and just as you come to standing directly in front of the mirror you turn to see if the twins have fallen silent, and see that you are in the room alone. As you turn back towards the mirror you see more clearly your own reflection. You are a bit surprised, because although you recognize the reflection as being yourself, you also notice that there is the slightest bit of difference. It is not something you could concretely describe or even attribute to distortion of the glass; but rather, more of a perception.

Thoughts of the Coney Island fun house mirrors flood your mind, but those are more straightforward in their deception. This is almost transparent in its subtleness. Your eyes focus on the images of the room behind you that are also reflected. And, again the same feeling of something being ever so slightly different bubbles up. As you stand looking at this mirrored image, you notice that your mood has somewhat changed. You had felt energized and excited, but now as you stare into the glass, you feel a heaviness of mind in trying to solve this perplexing state of vision. It seems as though the longer you stare into this reflection, the more withdrawn and irritated you feel. You take a deep breath, sighing heavily. Just as you release the last bit of exhale, you hear the sounds of heated debate and conversation flooding back into the space.

You turn and see that the twins are once again sitting at the table and debating which game is the most challenging. As the sounds become louder, your mood begins to lift as well. You look back at the mirror and are surprised to see that your image, as well as the room behind you are just as you thought they should be. You think on the changeability of perceptions and ideas and how there are always two sides to every process of thought. You think on the flexibility that approach from this aspect permits, but you also remember the sheer exhaustion of that flexibility and the never ending cycle that can be created by not fully committing to one stream of thought.

You look towards the twins once again and see that they too have succumbed to the mental acrobatics. Each rests a blonde curly head on the table-top, eyes closed. You imagine that even in their dreams they are exploring new topics of discussion, new ways of problem solving and always sensing the dual nature of each expression.

As you deepen into these musings, you are surprised to find that you are once again standing centrally in the circular room. You make mental note that there had been no obvious transition from one space to the other and you think back to the trickery of the mirror you gazed into. Giving this no more thought, you look upwards towards the night sky and it seems as though a few of the stars are shining a bit more brightly now than when you first entered. You take a deep breath in and as you exhale, you feel enlivened and at peace in this space of celestial beauty. You know you will visit many times again as the solar months progress and the thought fills you with anticipation of what each of your journeys will reveal.

You gently close your eyes and when you open them you are surrounded by the blue veil of energy that carried you to this inner sky. As you take a few more deep breaths and fill the intent with awareness of your physical being and return to your physical space, the mist clears and the smells, sounds and sights of the room in which you began our journey floods your senses. You feel the floor beneath you and the chair on which you are sitting. Noises of the mundane world come back filling ear and mind with thoughts of going about the rest of your day or evening. You take a deep breath in, savoring the vestiges of your astral journey and the insight it provided, and strongly exhale out affirming your oneness with the present moment of physical time and space.

Resources:

1. Another perspective of the Taurean to Geminian energy can be found in my two recent posts in the Magickal Pen:

Knock! Knock! Who’s There?
Leaving the Hermit Behind?

Other Posts to Re-read:

New Moon in Gemini: Temple of the Sun
Brainstorming

Waxing Moon in Gemini: Talking Waters

Temple of the Moon:
Day Twenty-Five-The Epiphany of Silence

Day Twenty-Four- Talk it Up!

And, of Course:
The Temple of Mercury Postings

 

Next Post

Friday, June 13.2014
Full Moon in Sagittarius: Aiming for the Night Sky

Full Moon in Scorpio

Posted in Auspicious Days, Full Moon with tags , , , , , , , , , , on May 14, 2014 by themagickalpen

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Full Moon in Scorpio
5.14.2014
3:16pm

Sun in Taurus

The Moon is Full today in the astrological sign of Scorpio. Although Scorpio is a water sign; there is an underlying nature of fire held within the scorpion influence. This is the sign of ultimate and permanent transformation. Scorpio is noted for its three levels of initiatory interaction; that of the Scorpion, remaining hidden in the darkness and willing to strike out at any perceived foe-The Eagle, soaring high above and having the acute and keen discernment that came selectively choose what is guarded and what is taken as prey and the Phoenix that rises from the ashes of what has been purposefully burned away and soars in its full power and presence as transformer.

The caution here is that Scorpio is also the master of pulling up to the surface those things that lay buried deep within, even if you are not ready for them to be exposed. This Full Moon occurring within the light of Taurus’ sun holds steady in its earthy grasp what rises to the surface. Carried on the wings of transcendence of the primal instincts as the Winged bull, the magnetic call is to that of Scorpio as the Eagle. The Holy Creature directly opposing the Taurean Bull. The result of surrendering to the healing waters (Scorpio) of this ignition of Fiery light is a transformation and burning away in the heated waters of those shadow aspects that keep us buried and hidden in the depths of our inner prison.

Having the vantage of the outpouring of the Solar Month in Taurus we have crafted the support of a foundation that is firmly rooted in our physical presence. The collaborative tension (in the aspect of Sun and Moon in opposition) of Sun (Will/Strength) and Moon (Emotion/Flow) is one of allowing the depths of emotive action to reach towards the pinnacle of their expression while holding ground in Taurus’s earthly field. This is the natural desire of the flowering seed that once it has broken free of the confines of the soil’s containment now reaches and extends upwards, sprouting leaf and ultimately blossoming into what soothes the soul, attracts attention for its beauty and shines fully in its grandeur.

The ruling planet of Scorpio is Pluto. This is the energy of observation from a distance. Pluto is the furthest planet from the Earth and the Sun with very little known of its true nature. This can also be said of the dynamics of Scorpio. Natives of this sign stand in the background silently observing, taking it all in, formulating their opinions and then retreating just as covertly as they arrived. Pluto is the higher vibration of the planet Mars and the assertive energy that is Mars becomes transformed into dynamic and potent powers of persuasion.

This is the perfect time to call into being those aspects of your physical self that await greater transformation. These are the bits of ourselves that hang at the periphery and it is only through the surrender to the instinctual (Taurus) and intuitive (Scorpio) selves that they will become integrated and contributing streams that carry us forward in our spiritual growth. This is the beginning work of actualization and bringing into manifestation all of those things that define you as a living, breathing human being. These are the gifts of greater depth in the stores of fortitude and strength that you may call upon and the discovery of what has been hidden by the shadows of self-doubt.

I will use this Full Moon’s energy to explore what lay at the furthest reaches of my known self. Calling into those moon lit and dynamic waters of intuitive flow the aspects of my physical and manifest nature that serve as the vehicle of my expression in this lifetime. Surrendering to what emerges from within the depths of this journey and allowing the Light of my desire and will towards change to anchor itself firmly in the beneficence of Taurus’ solar infusion. Taurus sun is in its last stages of primed and mature energy as its gets ready to Transit into Gemini next week. Using this energy as the touchstone of being fully present in my physical self and allowing the transformative waters of Scorpio’s intensity to heal, sustain and align all parts of myself is the first step towards realizing the full potential of manifest form shining that maintains its brilliance in the Sun’s Light of Day and the Moon’s Light of Night.

Blessings of self-discovery within this powerful Full Moon!

Next Post:
The Temple of the Sun
Full Disclosure: The Sun in Gemini
May 20.2014

Waxing Moon- Talking Waters

Posted in Full Moon, Lunar, Magick, New Moon, Waxing Moon with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 8, 2014 by themagickalpen

waterfall

March 8.2014

Second Qrtr Phase

Waxing Moon in Gemini

Today marks the second quarter lunar phase and mid-point between the New Moon in Pisces of March 1st and the upcoming Full Moon in Virgo on March 16th. Additionally Mars stationed retrograde late morning on the day of the New Moon and will remain retrograde through May 19th in the astrological sign of Libra. The Sun is in its later stage of progression through Pisces and as such the compassionate outpouring heated by the sun’s energies lends intensity and passion to whatever falls under its watchful gaze. Pisces is the last of the astrological signs and as such brings the sum total of experience of each of the preceding into its intuitive waters and usually placid waters.

Today’s Moon is in the astrological sign of Gemini. This energy is supportive of thinking through the options and communicating (Gemini) the action (Mars) to be taken. The Sun currently in the more mature energetic phase of Pisces oversees all progress made in these specific areas with a decidedly compassionate twist helping to temper what has potential for bursting floodgates rather than flowing organically as cascading waterfall. The upcoming Full Moon’s promise of result is one of calm waters emerging strongly and expansively from the turbulent breakthrough of the Pisces New Moon and Mars retrograde occurring dualistically.

A Mars retrograde will demand that you be assertive in your intent as it carves new paths and new experience from what is inert and stagnating. Mars is a planet of action and will, and if that action is misaligned what would be assertiveness and activated will becomes aggression and tyrannical force. Mars is currently in the astrological sign of Libra, so that lends an energy that strives towards balance and refinement through mental processes. The application of Pisces Moon and Sun to this station provides the initial compassion that will temper Mars fiery energy as it pours its intensity into each endeavor undertaken during its retrograde.

I specifically chose today’s energy to focus on as it is the 8th day of the 3rd month of the year. I like to actively incorporate numerology in all of my activities and find the points of similarities and resonance to a particular number’s energy. The number 8 speaks to the ability to traverse time and timelessness (in the form of the lemniscate) in a flow of cycle that expands and contracts in dynamics. The number eight follows that of the seven of learning and new experiences and is the outcome of moving through the halls of knowledge of one door and emerging newly transformed from the other end of the journey. An additional bolster to the energy of the 8th day is that today is Saturday, whose ruler is Saturn- the great Gate Keeper of time, structure and order (see what I mean about synchronicity and resonance!). In practice, we can use the dynamic energy of this mid-space in reaching back and drawing forward the emotional and compassionate outpouring of the Pisces New Moon and gathering the steam of assertive action towards bringing this energy to its peak at the Full Moon in Virgo; the astrological sign of sorting, analyzing and emphasis on foundational detail.

March is the 3rd Month of the calendar year. The number 3 indicates the creative force of two generating a third from its collaborative efforts. Harmony and the triune of spiritual path- Maiden, Mother, Crone; Youth, Father, Sage and more highlight the movement and progression of one thing merging into the other to create the third of synthesized wisdom and force. Three is also the number of active creation, the triangle of fire and trinity of positive, negative and neutral charge to catalyze are all aspects of this number.

Putting this together means opportunity for a pause in time to align (8/Saturn) and act in creative flow (3/Mars)that will ensure what is carried forward has been informed (Gemini) from the talking waters of compassionate and strengthened experience (Sun/Pisces). As the Moon waxes towards Virgo’s earthy anchoring of fullness those waters will continue to expand in opening out towards the space of new horizons as the sun begins a new zodiacal cycle entering the first astrological sign of Aries at the Vernal Equinox.

In practical application, I will use this day to actively allow the messages and information needed to flow freely from my intuitive self. My intent will be one of dipping deeply into what has served me in the past and set me on a course of productive action towards my goals. These drops of knowing will form the body of my placid waters within and these are what I will carry forward to serve as reflective surface of my greater intent at the fullness of the Moon.

Please join me in The Temple of the Sun on March 20th for a year-long exploration of the solar year.

The Lion’s Share

Posted in Esbat, Full Moon, Lunar, Magick, Mercury, Uncategorized with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on February 13, 2014 by themagickalpen

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Full Moon in Leo
February 14.2014
6:53 p.m. (EST)

Sun in Aquarius

Mercury Retrograde

The Moon is full in the astrological sign of Leo tomorrow. Leo is of the Fixed Modality and the element of Fire. The ruling planet is the Sun, so light and the pursuit of being in the spotlight are some of the motivations of Leo’s energy. In the phase of a Full Moon, the astrological signs of Sun and Moon are opposing in their energies. What that means is that the Sun is in the astrological sign directly opposite the sign of the Moon on the Zodiacal wheel. This alignment or aspect is the basis for the theories of conflict with signs of opposition. There is a natural tension that occurs between the two signs, each of a differing element yet of the same modality. Something like the family that shares biological (modality) lineage but each has their own specific personality (element) that is not always harmonious with the others but shares common experience.  I see these points of opposition as opportunities for great growth and potential for harmonizing the Lunar (intuitive/emotional) with the Solar (will/intent and desire). In the case of this month’s Sun and Moon, both are in fixed signs which offers support, stability, synthesis and the potential for structure.

This February Full Moon holds the energy of Sun in the Air sign of Aquarius and the Moon in the intensity of Fiery Leo. We all know the effects of air on fire, serving to either inflame or to extinguish, so the opportunity lies in our stealthy approach of action (Leo) to whatever we set that breath of Air (Aquarius) towards. The Sun in Aquarius offers the balance of bringing to the forefront (or light of day) those actions and inspirations that will be of benefit to the group and broader community; in contrast to the focus on individual success. The Moon in Leo stimulates change; the firing up of the passions of the emotional tides and the centering of attention on the “me” (the Lunar spotlight in the darkened theater).  The tension between the “we” and the “me” can, if used with just the correct amount of balance and synthesis, produce the ideal combination similar to that of a celebrity who uses their renown taking center stage spotlight to enlist community support for a project to better the lives of those who would have otherwise gone unnoticed held in the anonymity of their needs.

The Full Moon is the phase of peak and expression of the most there is to offer drawn up to a place of expansion from the depths of the emotional and intuitive nature of what has been previously the focus of its transformative work. Because these energies work by default at the subconscious (or often unconscious) levels the “stuff” carried into the full moon’s light is often transparent in its revealing. If this excavation has been done purposefully and with conscious intent the Full Moon works her magick of full disclosure and collaborative change. Using this primary directive filtered through the astrological sign of Leo who is represented as the Lion on the Zodiacal wheel adds the intensity of instinctual action and self-preservation. This is the raw and primal strength of the natural born leader surveying the expanse of the lands that are held within its domain. Arrival at this place of dominance and looming large has been carefully and precisely cultivated by previous successes resulting from the calculated action that will deflect from or draw attention to are part of the stealth needed when navigating the perils of our own emotional landscapes. Despite the pitfalls, this is the time for stepping fully into the glory of what your heart finds of inspiration, adventure and draws attention to your best offerings.

Now the caution to be had in stepping into this potent spotlight is in the added energy of a Retrograde Mercury. The planet, Mercury began its retrograde motion last week on the 6th in the astrological sign of Pisces; a sign of the element Water. Being the great communicator, Mercury’s focus of interaction was fueled from drinking deeply from the depths of the Piscean waters of healing, insight and emotional expression as it transited in its backwards reach into the astrological sign of Aquarius, yesterday, where it will remain until turning direct on February 28th. This retracing of the emotion infused communicative style through Aquarian mind could keep you stuck in bringing to the spotlight (Leo) those inventive ideas inspired by heart (Moon). However, with this opportunity to remain more fully in Mercury’s energy, it is also a good time to really dig deeply into what are the treasures and what are just the masks we put on to gather attention to ourselves as we interact.

This is a good time to re-examine how we present ourselves to the world. What we value as our public persona and what we wish to improve upon so that the image projected communicates more fully who we are. What would have shone brightly during this Full Moon and drawn the magnetic attention that is typical of Leo’s energy may not be what it seems under the influence of Mercury’s duality. Something may be lost in the translation and the tendency towards lackluster replaces what should have been dynamic. Remember that I mentioned in the beginning of this article that the tension of oppositions of Sun and Moon, the “we” and the “me”? Mercury will hold us accountable for re-visiting who we believe ourselves to be. Lady Moon will show us the full potential of that “me”. And Father Sun will call us to our place of community as part of the greater “we”.

As you move through the energy of this Full Moon gathering all of the astrological pieces envision the lion hunting under the brightness of the moon. He remains in the shadows, waiting, observing and calculating just the precise moment that will likely ensure success. From this place of shadow, this skilled hunter emerges into the light; taking action in full speed and full force with power and strength, taking down its prey. He takes his share of what has been killed; leaving behind what will feed others who will scavenge the remains as a result of his dynamic action.

A Poem to Meditate Upon:

fmleo12313

Rest looking out on moon lit waters
Pause anchored strongly in self-knowing
Moon shines on mirrored surface and
Water reaches towards primal force
Majestic in its Power and strength.

Rest looking out on deep expanse
All is your shining domain
The fires of Moon’s glow
Resplendent in its fullness
Lights the way as water’s
Will-filled heart returns to you.

Read More:

About a Mercury Retrogrades: Meet Me at the Station

Full Moon in Cancer: Where Waters Flow

Posted in Esbat, Full Moon, Lunar, Magick with tags , , , , , , , , , , on January 15, 2014 by themagickalpen

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Tonight the Moon shines full in the astrological sign of Cancer.  This is a water sign whose ruling planet is the Moon, so the energy is intensely emotional, flowing and healing in its application.  Wherever emotions have dried up, become stagnant or are blocked will be under the watchful gaze of the intuitive moon’s eye.  Cancer is a Cardinal sign giving the additional support to get those waters moving smoothly and unimpeded as the Cardinal action of initializing stirs the murky depths.  The potency of this Full Moon’s energy lies in the ability to connect fully with those aspects of yourself that nurture and feel most like “home” to you.

Being the first Full Moon of the year, there is great potential to reset the template we use to as our emotional response to our surroundings and those people within them.  Cultivating strong and resilient emotional health is an important component in how we attract people and things that nurture and enable us to grow.  A primary and natural directive of Cancer’s flow is to create stability, trust and love so that the individual may move through stormy and calm seas knowing that they are anchored and supported by friends, family and loved ones. An aspect that is often overlooked is that of self-care and self-love and the ability to “mother” yourself. Intuition or the “gut response” is developed when one allows the emotional tides to flow in accord with the natural laws that govern them, rather than setting up barriers and dams that shut down those gates of inspiration.

Venus is still retrograde and the call to reach back to heal relationships and the way in which we are governed by our emotions acts as amplification to the depth of insight to be gathered during a Cancerian Full Moon.  It is this subtle balance between looking back at what has supported and nurtured; releasing what has not and moving what remains into the fullness of Mother Moon’s loving scrutiny. It is the tenderness and ruthlessness of this Mother’s love that creates the multiple streams of flow, opening her children to deeper connection one to the other; yet all deriving their strength and filter from the same Source and space of emotional strength.

When a Full Moon occurs, the Moon and Sun are in opposing astrological signs.  This Full Moon occurs as the Sun is in the astrological sign of Capricorn- the Sea Goat. Capricorn is an Earth sign and its energy is focused on creating stable and structured foundations that enhance the manifest and physical experience. The dynamics of this Cancer (Water)/ Capricorn (Earth) polarity offers opportunity to hold onto that place of structure, strength and anchor (Sun in Capricorn) as we extend our intuitive (Moon) and emotional (in Cancer) nature outward.  Imagine the waters of the ocean as the tides ebb and flow.  As the tide comes in towards the shoreline it brings with it the bounty of whatever has been carried in with it.  These shells, driftwood and sea creatures are caught in the continual flow that incrementally comes closer to the physical anchor of sand and shore.  It enriches and adds to what has been previously accumulated and now acts as foundation. As the tide flows once again towards the immensity and vastness of the ocean, it carries with it some of these newly formed foundations.  Particles of sand and more move out again towards the sea. This is the necessary cycle and this is the dynamics of opposites of movement working to support and enliven the other.

The Water/Earth polarity that is held within tonight’s Full Moon can aid us in bringing into manifestation a balance of self-love and love for others; emotions that are strong and intuitively guided grounded in both earth and Divine wisdom and the reinventing of the place(es) we call home and those we can turn to for support as family.

I would like to share with you a pathworking that may be used during this Full Moon’s energy as part of your personal working.  It engages the elements of earth and sky, moon and your own inner sun of power.

 

A Pathworking of Release and Empowerment (1.)

Relax your mind and body as you sit in a comfortable position. Close your eyes and take 3 deep breaths; slowly inhaling 1..2..3 and exhaling.. 1..2..3. Allow your body to establish a gentle, even rhythm of breath; taking you to a restful, peaceful state of consciousness.

As your breathing becomes restful allow your consciousness to shift upwards; passing up through the ceiling of the room you are sitting in room and up through the roof of the building. Continue this ascent upwards and out into the moonlit sky. You are aware of the rooftops below and the velvety sky above.

As you travel upwards you become aware of a thick brown and green mist forming around you. You become aware of the smell of rich, loamy, brown earth and you feel the texture and support of soft brown dirt beneath your feet. You realize that you are standing in the midst of a lush green forest with trees forming a canopy above and the support of rich brown earth underfoot. Take a moment to take in the smells, the energy and the feel of this perfect space.

As you look towards the canopy of trees above you are aware of a glowing white orb slowing descending towards you. As this orb of pure white light descends to within arms length, you realize that this place and orb of healing light have been created to bind, contain and transform that which troubles or burdens you.

Now, in this place of perfect grounding and trust, give form to those things that you wish to release.  Give form to those issues and situations which cause you concern. Give form to all that you feel is of challenge and obstacle at this time preventing you from being your highest self. With intent and will reach out, gather these forms together and push them into the center of the brilliance of the sphere in front of you binding them together into this single orb of release.  Once the orb is filled with all that you wish to release, reach out and grasp it in your hands, holding it outstretched and away from you.  Take a moment and take note of the feel and the weight of it. Feel the energy of all that you released to it pulsing within.

Slowly place the sphere into the softness of the earth below, pushing it deep within the ground and allowing the earth to absorb and transform that which has caused you concern. The Great Mother is taking this weight from you and offering you peace and relief.  Brush the dirt from your hands and take a moment to savor the feeling of this lightness of being; of the weight of your burdens no longer a part of your being.

As you think on this, you become aware of something shining in the moonlight, and as you take a few steps forward you realize that it is the reflection of the surface of a small pond a few feet ahead of you. The water sparkles like diamonds in the moonlight and it radiates peace and serenity. You feel that if only you could touch it, and slide into the shimmering liquid that it would wash away all the remaining tension that you have.

Slowly you remove your clothes and drape them over the nearby bush. You step to the edge of the water, sit down on the grass and dangle your feet in the pond, noting that the water is surprisingly warm. The pond is not deep, so you slide in and sit with your head against the bank your head gently resting on the soft grass at water’s edge. As you close your eyes and relax into the warm water you feel all of the tension and concern slipping away; drawn deep into the cleansing waters.  Take a moment and truly feel the peace and calm enveloping you. Rest in the gentle support of the healing waters and feel every cell of your being opening to renewal.

Something gently brushes against your feet and you open your eyes to see that a lily pad is floating towards you with something shiny on it. As the flower moves closer you notice a sparkling powder in the center. You take a little of the powder and wet it. It lathers and foams forming bubbles and you begin to wash your body with the foam. It tingles against your skin, energizing and revitalizing wherever it touches.  Take a moment to relish the feel of this energizing foam and when you are ready slip down into the water and wash the foam from your body. As you wipe the water from your eyes you see that a goblet of fine crystal, filled with a golden liquid has been placed on the grassy edge of the pond. Curious, you take the goblet in your hand and hesitate a moment before lifting it to your lips. You only hesitate a moment because you know that you are in a place of perfect love and perfect trust and that all in this special place are gifts from the Goddess and Her world of Nature.

You slowly tilt the goblet and allow the liquid to flow down your throat and you know intuitively that this is a liqueur of inner strength and self-confidence. The nectar that all have savored who would live their truths and stay strong on their course of purpose. As the nectar fills your being, turn your thoughts to how you would wish to be a stronger person. What truths you would wish to manifest in your life. What the essence of the truth in your heart is and the ways in which you could walk your path in deeper trust and greater love.

As you finish the last drops of liquid you look around and now feel more solid, stable and more substantial and capable of handling any situation which may arise in your life. You gently place the empty goblet on the soft earth and put your clothes on; readying yourself to return to the physical world in a renewed and more loving state. You feel rested and imbued with inner peace. When you are dressed take another look at the pond and know within your heart that this place will always be waiting for you any time you have need. As this thought runs through you and you focus on the inner strength you now feel, you become aware that the pond and forest and earth are beginning to fade from sight. Everything swirling back into an olive colored mist and you feel yourself slowly descending down.  You pass once again through the moonlit night sky and the tops of roofs become more visible as you descend downward.  You pass easily through the outside of the building in which you began this journey and come to rest gently back in the room you started from. You become aware of your physical body resting comfortably in your room and as you gently allow your consciousness to slip back into your physical body you become more aware of the sounds, smells and energies in your space.  Take a few deep breaths and when you are ready gently flutter your eyes open, returning to the here and now.

Resource:

The Enchanted Gate: Musings on the Magick of the Natural World 

R. Fennelly. First Edition: February 2013

New Moon-New Year 2014!

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, New Moon, Uncategorized, Venus with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on January 1, 2014 by themagickalpen

New Moon Capricorn

January 1.2014 New Moon in Capricorn   6:14 a.m.

We kick off the New Year with the Moon New in the astrological sign of Capricorn- the Sea Goat. Capricorn is of the element Earth which gives its energy one of foundation, strength and the ability to manifest.  It is a Cardinal sign meaning that its energy is one of initializing and acting as the first outpouring for what will be gathered into form as it flows into the Fixed sign of Aquarius on Thursday afternoon.

This timing offers a triple bolstering of new and vibrant energy to draw from.  The first day of a New Year boasting a New Moon phase in a Cardinal (Beginnings) astrological sign. We are also still in the hold of a Venus Retrograde so, the opportunity to connect the re-balancing of heart (Venus) and weave that energy into the new paths available with a New Moon in an Earth sign are all supportive towards plummeting the depths (Capricorn- Sea) and sure-footedly scaling the heights (Capricorn-Goat) to lay the ground work for lasting and durable change.

Capricorn’s planetary ruler is Saturn, so structure, order and timeliness are keywords for accessing the sea-goat’s energy.  Self-discipline creates the boundaries that can fertilize and inseminate the fertile ground of our manifest form.  The aspect of determination in achieving the goal desired and the appropriate pacing of energy, focus and adequate time for expansion and contraction of that focus establish a rhythm and orderliness that ensures an outcome.  Notice that I did not say positive, as the determination of whether the outcome is positive or detrimental is all in how discipline is applied and the correct timing for the planting of the seeds.  A detriment of Capricorn is that the individual can get so caught up in the process; creating barriers and faulty structures that are self-perpetuated that what should be glorious success withers into frustrated repetition.  This is where Saturn as the Gatekeeper of time exerts his will in stirring up the pot so it can move freely and of its own accord if the lessons are heeded.

A New Moon Working in Capricorn*:

Workings may include: career- ambition-organization- stabilizing- structuring

My intent for this New Moon (New Year) is one of building a solid and heart-centered foundation for personal growth this upcoming year.

NewMoonCapricorn2014

I will light a white candle to illuminate my mind and thoughts as I reach deeply into the stores of memory. I will sit quietly and reflect on what I have carried forward from this past year.  My achievements, my goals and those things that I did not quite hit the mark in the way I had hoped.

I will light a black candle as the fertile space of incubation and setting held within the mask of the New Moon’s shadow of veiling.  I will draw from each of these memories the seeds of new planting to begin the fertile ground for this year. I will breathe my Intent and Will  into this candle and these seeds of aspiration. I envision it as lit from within ready to shine fully and brightly at the next Full Moon.

So Mote it Be!

* A side note.  

In astrology, each of the zodiacal signs rules a specific house (1-12) when placed in order around the flat wheel. Capricorn sits as ruler at the place of the Midheaven in the 10th House of  the flat astrological wheel (This is the wheel that follows the order of the Zodiac from Aries in the 1st House counterclockwise around to Pisces in the 12th House and is not associated with anyone’s birth).  The Midheaven is the point in the natal astrological chart where “you shine”. It is the space where recognition for achievement and success are held as potential. Capricorn carries this as  latent energy wherever it shows up.  

Full Moon in Pisces

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon, Uncategorized with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on September 19, 2013 by themagickalpen

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Full Moon in Pisces

Sun in Virgo

The Mutable Water of Pisces expressed within the Mutable Earth of Virgo

Today the moon is Full in the astrological sign of Pisces. Pisces offers the energy of compassion and intuitive sight and is considered the path of understanding. It is the last sign of the Zodiac and could be considered the Elder in the cycle. This sign stands at the place of endings and heralds in the bridge that will move towards the re-birthing of Aries- the youngest of the zodiac signs. Drawing on what has preceded from the other signs, each in turn and finally brought to conclusion, Pisces is driven by emotional response. Although, there is not always the appropriate discernment applied to determine what is real and what is illusion. Just as the older person looks to past experience to draw their conclusions in the present, Pisces gathers everything to itself, but is not always well equipped to sort through with the same emotional dexterity that youth would bring.

The ruling planet of Pisces is Neptune (with a co-ruler of Jupiter). This presents as emotional release that is expansive and can become all pervasive, drowning the holder of this energy in their own emotional outpour. If allowed to flow in this way, these energies are non-productive and compassion becomes martyrdom. This overflow is the by-product of its co-ruler Jupiter, whose primary function is expansion without consideration of the container within which it exerts its potency. The modality and element of Pisces is Mutable Water. This is the place of flexibility of emotions and insight with the caution given to be mindful that the flexible nature does not over stress the container. Therefore, the need to create stronger and less permeable boundaries is of high priority. In this way the waters may be guided towards the appropriate space of opening to which they will become the new source feeding into the greater river of humanity as healer and source of compassionate sanctuary.

The support of this Full Moon’s energies is found in the Solar Month of Virgo. The astrological sign of Virgo is Mutable Earth. This provides a flexible, yet fertile foundation upon which to sort through the details of what will newly be started. This is the opportunity for analytical and precise organization and inventory of those emotions and insights of the Pisces Moon that serve and those that drain and water-log progress. Taking time to see our flaws and weaknesses in the strength of the sun allows us to heal and grow through transformation. Healing is the work of Pisces and aligning with your intuitive self opens those flood gates so that what is contained behind their restrictive bars may flow freely; hidden and locked away no longer.

Making use of the attributes of the Moon and the Sun and their respective astrological signs the opportunity is one of Water (Pisces Moon) of Earth (Virgo Sun). These are the waters that are needed and thirstily drawn in for fertile and productive growth on the land. These are the waters that smooth and polish the ragged rocks of our daily experience that provide resistance to the natural river’s flow. These are the waters that provide safe haven and hold the mysteries of the depths that make up the vast amount of the earth’s surface; teeming with an even greater diversity of life. These are the waters that ebb and flow at the moon’s call, responsive and reactive to the universal energy and ever flowing in the cycle that comes to its peak of potential at each of the full moons.

Suggestions for Meditative Focus or Esbat Working:

These themes may be used in mediation tonight or woven into a working for your Esbat ritual.

A Clear Flowing Stream

Spend some time thinking about where you have recently felt drained emotionally. Breathe deeply into this area of feeling. As you exhale, allow these feelings to move as though flowing gently in a stream of water. Look upon the waters as they flow and see them as clear running waters flowing out and away from you.

A Pathworking of Healing

The Healing Temple

Sitting in a space where you will not be disturbed, take a moment to make conscious note of your surroundings and the physicality of your being in this space. Gently close your eyes and turn your awareness to the pattern of your breath. Allow your breathing to lengthen and relax into a calm and steady rhythm.

Shift your attention to the space between your brows and the inner screen of your meditative conscious mind. Sit as observer of this screen, taking note of the form of this inner landscape. Now see yourself standing and walking towards this inner screen. A pin- point of violet light forms just ahead of you and begins expanding in diameter as you walk towards it. When you arrive at the place of being immediately in front of this violet veil, it has expanded, stretched and opened to become an arched gateway. The faint glimmer of starlight flickers within its opening and you feel called to step into this place.

You step through this archway and find yourself in the center of a circular room. The walls are a shade of light sky blue and the floor is emerald green marble. You look upwards and see that the room appears to open and the vast panoramic view of stars twinkling offers view overhead. The room smells of Frankincense and is quiet and serene in ambiance. As you look around at the walls enclosing this space you take note of the sensation that the blues are variant in color and the impression is almost one of being encased within a glass structure and submerged in the depths of a clear beautiful ocean.

The floor sparkles like the facets of a freshly polished emerald and light and shadow co-mingle; entwined like lovers moving in the ecstasy of union. Take a moment to breathe deeply and take in the calming energy of this space. As you exhale you see that a chair is placed centrally in the room. It is ornately carved and made of fragrant wood. You approach and sit down, feeling the resiliency and gentle support of this chair. You sit for a moment and allow your body to rest in its supple support.

As you breathe slowly and deliberately you begin to form the intent for this healing work. Draw up in your mind’s eye the vision of yourself, whole and functioning in a thriving and healthy manner. Now, speak softy the intent of this healing. Speak the words that form this intention of what needs healing and what needs release so that process may begin. As you begin to speak you see that the space of floor around you glows in vibrancy. Each word enlivens and informs this space of living energy. You continue to speak the words of release of what needs healing and they drop away from you, falling into this living mass of vibrant healing green energy. You pause now to allow the intent to fill the space surrounding you. The energy of green veil rising upward and encircling you as it draws from the space the words of release you have spoken. Sit in the energy of this healing release; quietly and simply observing each and every word as it is absorbed by this healing green energy.

The green veiling subsides and withdraws back to the floor beneath. You feel energized and have clearer intent about what you now wish to call into your being and this space as whole, enlivened and healthy energy. As you think on what these words shall be, you notice that the energy of the blue walls moves gently inwards towards you. You begin to speak the words of power and healing that affirm your renewed and whole state of being. Each word is held for a moment in a soft veil of blue soothing energy and then is enlivened and transformed into a sparkling bead of blue light. You continue with the affirmations and take note that the blue beads are increasing in amount and the vibrancy of their glow is palpable in feeling and intent. Speak all that you need, amassing as much of this transformed energy as you feel is needed. The air surrounding you is electrified with the energy of these intentions you have formed and you feel energized and enlivened. When you have spoken all that is needed, take a moment to sit and observe the beauty and power of this veil of pulsing blue light encircling you. Make note of how alive and responsive each of these intentions is. Affirm the potency of their nature and the power held within the core of their being.

As you sit observing you see that the vibrancy of the blue is pulsing more quickly now and with light that is increasing in brilliance and intensity. Each breath you take seems to offer more vibrancy to the growing light held within each. This is the brilliance of healing white light holding the intent of mind, heart and will. You close your eyes in response, as the intensity and brilliance of light continues to expand filling the Temple. You breathe in and with intent and focus draw this energy into you. Each inhalation draws more of this vibrant light of brilliant healing into the core of your being and each exhalation moves it into the areas of your body that need healing and renewal. Each breath fills you with this vibrancy and each breath encourages healing and strength. Continue in this way until you feel complete, strong and revitalized.

You open your eyes and see that the room has cleared of the brilliance of this light and looking upward you take note that the stars appear to be twinkling more brightly. You feel completely at one with all that surrounds you and offer up gratitude for the healing and renewal that has occurred. Remain quietly held in this space of gratitude and renewal for as long as is needed.

When you are ready, you stand and feel a surge of strength coursing through you and a deeper sense of your own power to affect change within your self. You look around once again and the walls are now a more vibrant blue and the floor shimmers like millions of small green emeralds, each separate yet more powerful and vibrant in their combined efforts. Take a deep breath in and feel the energy of this place. Declare it as your own space of healing and renewal and affirm that you will visit this space whenever you have need for healing and enlivening.

You see the archway through which you entered just ahead of you and begin to walk towards the entryway. Each step is now stronger in its placement and more purposeful in its intended destination. You arrive at the entry way and see that the violet veil of energy is sparkling more brightly and you feel its density and plasticity of form as you step through it. You emerge and find yourself once again sitting as observer of this inner screen. You breathe into the energy of your experience and with each inhalation and gently exhale you become more fully aware of your breath; the rise and fall of your chest and the physicality of your body sitting in the space in which you began. Gently flutter your eyes open and take a few more, very deep breaths offering the intention of gratitude, health and a renewed state of being.

So Mote It Be!

Resources:

The Magickal Pen Blog

The Healing Temple Pathworking

Books by R. Fennelly:
Info at http://www.robinfennelly.com

The Inner Chamber: Volume One
It’s Written in the Stars

The Elemental Year
Aligning the Elements of Self

Day Fifteen: On A Clear Day You Can See Forever

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on July 22, 2013 by themagickalpen

July 22

Full Moon in Aquarius at 2:16 p.m.

Sun Enters Leo at 11:56 am.

July 22 Full

Today we arrive at the Full Moon and the progression of the Sun into the astrological sign of Leo. We have moved from the strength and light (the Sun) of the flowing and depth of renewed and healing waters (in Cardinal sign of Cancer) and are now transitioned into the full impact of the Fixed Fire of Leo.  It will be the heat and scrutiny of this Solar energy that will work in tandem with that of the lunar cycle we have begun. If you remember I made reference in the beginning that we were starting this journey at the New Moon in Cancer which falls midway after the Sun had moved into the same sign.  I like to think of this pattern as the strengthening and bringing into the light of the next phase of energy that the Moon in its Newness will take up the work of refining and softening what has been previously established.  Similar to the cooling down and then refining of the heated metal as the sword with direct and sharpness of point is crafted.

Now we have the fixed (or stabilized) energy of the Leo Sun to energize fully the Moon’s flow as the release and waning of the moon begins from the point of fullness here forward. In balance to the Sun’s astrological energy, the Moon is Full in its polar opposite sign of Aquarius.  Aquarius is of the Air element and also of the Fixed Modality.  The expression of the Full Moon in Aquarius is ripe for expression and bringing to the forefront visionary and creative ideas.  The impulse of Aquarius is one of service to humanity- not the individual- but the collective whole of humanity. The tension that is created between the Sun in Leo (Fire and Will) and the Moon in Aquarius (Air and Mind) is often one of ego driven will of the singular “I” (Leo) versus true humanitarian action through inspired thought (Aquarius) for the benefit of “All”.  The mid point of balance between these extremes is in balancing the intelligence (Aquarius) of the Heart (Lunar) with Mindful and overt(Solar) action (Leo).

I know this might seem like a lot to process, but there is nothing simple about today’s energies.  The potential and the density of that potential in being able to step fully into a more service-oriented capacity is abundant.  In fact, one of the attributes of Leo is calling attention to oneself and being in the spotlight as a leader. Add the Aquarian mind of today’s Full Moon and you have the visionary and the role model that can problem solve what the future has yet to birth. So, in simple terms what all of this means is that as we move through the transiting of the Moon in completion of this journey, we can bring these transformed depths of emotion and intuitive sight into the spotlight.  We can more fully live and bring into the light of day the example of all parts of our self working in accord with what our vision of that true SELF is.  This essence of the ferocity of enlivened Will is going to be useful as we move into the waning cycle of the Moon’s phases and approach the shadow of moon and darkening of Her light.

As I sat in meditation today, these were the energies that I wanted to align with. I envisioned the strength and fire of Leo moving across every corner and space of our planet.  I thought of how this Light could heal and cleanse what could no longer hide in the shadows under its watchful eye.  I called to mind the ability to process and understand the greater potential that is held within humanity.  I thought of the courage needed to step across the threshold of a new age and the energies of Aquarius being informed by compassion and insight. I lit the New Moon and Full Moon candles and gave thanks for the work of anchoring I had done two days prior. I felt the surge of energy and saw as though from great heights out beyond the horizon and the scope of what I could possibly dare to dream.  The moon shone full and bright and lit up the sky infused with a deep golden glow that signified the union of Will and Heart. I offered up thanks for all that I have learned about myself so far on this journey and asked for the clarity to be able to share these gifts and insights with others.

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Sun roars
And shakes its
Heavy mane
Standing watch
Across brilliance
Of Sky light.

Echoes of low rumbling
Are made by
Man’s beating of
Heavy wing and
Mind soars
Ablaze with
Lion’s golden breath.

Sun filled Lion sits
Regally surveying
All of his lands
As the gentle
Hand of One
Who knows all
Lovingly strokes
His flaming mane.

Full Moon Ritual of Anchoring

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags , , , , , , , , , , on July 19, 2013 by themagickalpen

July 20

Waxing Moon in Capricorn at 2:39pm

FullMoon1

We are entering the 3 days prior to the Full Moon on Monday. Saturday the Moon transits into Capricorn before going void on Sunday morning.  So, I am going to do the working of the Full Moon phase of Ritual of Dedication on Saturday evening (before the void) and bolster with the Aquarian energies on the actual day of the Full Moon.  I will post the plans for this later this evening so you all will have for tomorrow.  No need for additional supplies beyond what we started with for the New Moon dedication. 

This marks phase two of the Ritual of Dedication begun at the start of this journey. Try to perform this ritual between the hours of 2:39p.m. today and before the moon goes void on Sunday at 11:53am.

Full  Moon Ritual of Anchoring

You will need:

1/Silver (or Black) Candle  (New Moon)

1/White Candle (Full Moon)

1/Black Candle (Dark Moon)

Black and white altar cloths

Journal and Pen to be dedicated to record your experiences.  Be sure to choose a journal you will love to use and/or decorate it in any way that is representative of your intention on this journey.

Set up your altar space with the white cloth on top of black.  This represents the Full Moon phase and the waxing of its light coming to peak.  The candles should be arranged in triangular shape with the White candle at center point, Silver candle as left base and Black candle on right side forming the base.  The Silver candle on the left represents the New Moon phase (1st Quarter Waxing), the White – the Full Moon and the Black candle on the left- the Dark Moon (Last Quarter Waning).

Your  journal and pen can be placed in front of the triangular candle formation.

Establish sacred space in whatever way is in keeping with your path.

Invoke the assistance of whatever Deity, guides or patrons you work with to inform and enliven this journey.

Full Moon 3

Standing in front of your altar begin by lighting the Silver candle.  As you light this candle offer up words stating your intention of gratitude for all that has brought you to this place on the journey as you deepen your connection to the lunar energies and the mysteries of your lunar nature.

Move to stand in front of the White candle.  As you light this candle offer up words stating your intention of anchoring and standing fully in the Light of the Moon’s reflection and the blessings of the work done.

Envision the orb of the blessed Moon full and shining brightly   Open and allow yourself to connect deeply to the image of the waters of moon’s flow gently holding you as you are carried with the ebb and flow of the tides. Envision the Moon in her full orb, glowing brilliantly and welcoming you to join in her bounty. Breathe deeply drawing in this fullness and filling yourself with the knowledge that you have come a great way in refining and experiencing the flow of emotions within your own being. Soften your gaze and draw the stream of light that issues from Her flame into the center core of your being.  Breathe into it, expanding its intensity and lengthening the depths of its connection. Envision this as the continual stream of informed connection that will be the place of deeper gnosis of the Moon and Her mysteries.  Take a deep breath in and allow this energy to move through you; flowing like water, reaching every point of your being.  Exhale long and slowly sending that energy back into the circuit that is forming between you and the energy you have called forth to permeate this candle. Breathe in this manner of receipt and release, ebb and flow for as long as you feel is needed; ending with a long exhale.

Sharpen your gaze and return back to the clarity of focus looking at the Silver candle of the New Moon. Once again soften your gaze and see the lines of connection between the Silver and White candles as they move towards your center and forming a triangle of enlivened space.  Breathe into this connection of cycle of newness, now having matured and moved to a place of full peak.  Breathe deeply and fully feeling the expansion and new information received from this journey.

Full Moon2

Shift your focus to all three of the candles and as you move your gaze from one to the other offer up words of intent:

Monday, at the time of the Full Moon,  the energies I have called forth in their fullness and anchored and strengthened in the bounty of Lady Moon’s grace will continue to flow forth and my opening to the energies of the moon in all of her phases will move in accord with HER cycles. So Mote It Be!!

Breathe deeply into these words (or those of your own) and see them as being held in witness by the guides, deity or others you called into to assist this rite.

Offer up thanks to those you invoked to join in this ritual, and bid them hail and farewell.  Ground and release your sacred space, again, in whatever way is in keeping with your path. And, lastly, snuff out the flame of the New and Full Moon candles.  I have purposefully had you do this after the release of sacred space as symbolic act of carrying these energies back into the mundane world of expression to be used and accessed on all levels of being.

You will light these two candles each night connecting to their combined energies and adding to these from your own energetic experiences.  Continue to do this up to the eve of the Dark Moon (another ritual and dedication and lighting of the Black candle) as you write your impressions of the day.

Full Moon 1

Blessings on your journey as we continue to walk this road together!

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