New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
August is also known as wyrt, or green plant Moon. It is a time for celebrating health and vitality, family, and friends. Calendula officinalis, also known as ‘Pot Marigold' or ‘Scotch Marigold,' is abundant in August, with bright orange and yellow blossoms shaped like the summer sun. Known for its high levels of antioxidants that fight cancer-causing free radicals, calendula is also known to brighten the spirit and ward off depression. It also has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and ...
After the symbolic acts of reaping that took place at Lammas, people watched their fields for signs that the entire crop was ready for harvest. In Scotland, the harvest ritual was performed by a male head of household, who faced east and made the first sacred cut: On the day of the feast, at the rising of the Sun With the back of the ear of grain to the east I go forth, with my sickle under my arm And I reap the first cut I will let my sickle down While the fruitful grain is in my ...
Monday, governed by the Moon, is a good day for doing purification work. With the warm weather of summer upon us in the Northern Hemisphere, now is a good time for energetically cleansing and purifying your home. Start at the main entrance, and walking clockwise, open all the doors and windows wide letting the fresh air flow in and through. At the main entrance again, affirm: "I purify this home." Using a shell, or bowl, burn dried sage or sweet grass for purification and blessing, and walking ...
High summer is upon us and with the waxing Moon phase, this is an opportune time to work for increasing your creativity. Since it is Wednesday, you could work with the goddess Athena, the patron of handmade crafts and the arts. Ask Athena and for her blessing and inspiration as you go to finish up your arts and crafts projects. Light a purple candle for Athena, and then repeat the charm three times. Goddess of handicrafts, bless me with inspiration today, Guide my heart and my hands as I ...
