Alex | Sagittarius | Official Vodka Aunt.
/// Tarot reader, writer, and professional drama queen.
///
I'm really chatty so if you don't want to listen to me, just blacklist the tags spksies (chatting with people) and alexstuff (personal updates and rants)
I’m pretty
sure this refers to my latest mood, where I cannot let go of past things. Like the sadness and
depression over my grandmother’s death, which was an inevitable turn of the
wheel. I keep having nightmares and ignoring the sadness I feel over it. A few
days ago I thought “maybe I still need to cry more”. And it was a
fleeting thought, but this reading reminded me of it, and I think it’s true in
a way. I feel as if I didn’t have enough time to mourn. I feel as if I had to
go on too fast and pretend that I was ok when I wasn’t, and the feelings have
stayed there, bubbling under the surface.
Perhaps it
is telling me to let go of my grieving (which a few people have told me, among them my mom last weekend), and of the uncertainty I now feel; and
instead of wallowing in uncertainty, confront all the things that I’ve been
avoiding. Confront those feelings of sadness, the fear of the uncertainty about
the future, and everything that has been holding me down these past few weeks.
As for what
is going to happen today…being dissatisfied and self absorted. Turning
inwards for answers and holding off of making decisions… I’ll be damned if that
hasn’t been me for a while.
So, plan
for today: Ennumerate and confront the things that I have been avoiding. Talk
with myself honestly about exactly what I’m feeling and what I’m ignoring about
my own emotions. Be active. Actually DO the things I have to do. Use the
conclusions that I have arrived at to cause change in the world through
physical action.
I did not
expect these answers, and actually drew the cards on a whim because I had a few
minutes to spare, but I like that my Steampunk Tarot cuts through the bullshit,
right to the core of the issues. Sometimes it is a bit too harsh, but I love
the honesty.
Deck Used: Steampunk Tarot by Barbara Moore and Aly Fell
Synastry is, to
put it simply, the astrology of relationships. It’s commonly
referred to as compatibility, though most references to astrological
compatibility only reach the very surface of synastry, and thus are
not reliable.
Much of
astrological compatibility refers solely to the sun signs, or rejects
the importance of sun signs entirely. Neither approach is correct.
Think of the saying “can’t see the forest for the trees” - in
this case, some can’t see the trees for the forest. There must be
balance.
All of the
energies in the natal chart must be acknowledged when studying
synastry, not just the Sun’s or that of Venus or Mars, and not just
ruling elements.
In the following
article, I will explain the divisions of the Zodiac. This is the third part of the series on synastry, you can find the rest at #synastry basics.
The Zodiac is
divided three different ways: Element, Polarity, and Modality. Each
method of division defines the qualities of the signs, their
personalities, and their overall drive. The overlap of these
divisions creates each sign’s unique identity, which is discussed
at the end of this section, under The Signs in Full.
These divisions
create not only personality but compatibility. When looking
specifically at signs, it is important to acknowledge these parts of
their identity as they are so influential.
Elements
The Elements
divide the Zodiac into four groups of three. Traditionally, these
energies were considered the soul of the universe, the heart of its
design, and in astrology they are key building blocks of the signs’
identities. Each element represents a basic construct of the human
psyche, or personality, meaning the elements and their presence or
lack thereof can be revealing.
Before I go
further, it is important to specify that the elements of single signs
in the chart, while important, should not be focused on solely.
Remember how we began: Can’t see the forest for the trees.
Elements are just one part of a sign’s identity, and not only that
the element ruling over one planet should not be focused upon so
greatly that the dominant element in an individual’s chart
is forgotten, or the dominant element so focused upon that the
individual elements are forgotten.
In synastry,
signs of the same element are considered the most compatible in the
long run. They share similar views on life and the same polarity,
which I’ll get to momentarily. The next most compatible would be
the other element that makes up the same polarity - again, because of
this shared viewpoint and general personality.
Fire:Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius
The initiator,
the leader, the seeker - Fire is an element of great energy and
response. These signs can come off as egotistical, simply
unsympathetic, or immature. As lovers, they are highly loyal, seek to
care for their partner, and often desire to take the lead in their
relationships. Those with strong Fire influences in their natal chart
will be outgoing, optimistic, determined, and energetic.
Fire signs are
most compatible with other Fire signs, or Air signs, but there can
also be difficulties in these relationships. When Fire signs engage
with other Fire signs, there’s always the possibility of butting
heads or being consumed by their attraction.
With Air, Fire
signs can take too much from their partner, feeding off of their
energy in a sense. A balance must be found between the two.
Venus in Fire
Venus in a Fire
sign means that an individual will express their affection actively.
They seek to show love physically and through acts of kindness and
love. They want to go out with their partner and dote on them, often
desiring to provide for them fully.
To show them
love, accept their displays. Simply going along with their dates, no
matter how wild they may be, is enough to show Fire signs you truly
love them.
Earth:Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn
Earth is the
source of endurance in the Zodiac. It represents hard work,
practicality, and control. When there is a strong influence of Earth
in the natal chart, natives will be reliable, logical, and
responsible.
Earth signs are
extremely loyal and seek commitment above all else in their
relationships. They will fight for their relationship, and their
partner, their faith being unwavering. At the same time, they can
often come off as cold or too materialistic, not to mention their
stubbornness.
Earth signs are
most compatible with other Earth signs, or Water. With other Earth
signs, solidarity is to be expected, but also conflict. While Earth
signs share similar views on love and life it can be extremely hard
for them to work things out considering their reluctance to admit
when they’re wrong.
As for Water,
Earth can provide the perfect support for the volatility of Water,
and Water the perfect nurturing for Earth’s often neglected
emotional needs. This match, too, can be difficult considering the
sensitivity of Water and the seemingly insensitivity of Earth.
Venus in Earth
Venus in Earth
signs are physical and material lovers. They seek to show their love
through providing material and financial goods for their partners.
Supporting someone financially is, to Earth signs, a great show of
love. They also show affection through the body, though they avoid
public displays for the most part.
The best way to
show them love is through time. They don’t expect you to repay them
or anything like that, but instead to spend the day with them and
they will often try to find small ways to be around you, even if you
aren’t engaging with each other.
Air:
Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius
This element is
highly versatile. In the natal chart, Air indicates a native will be
open-minded, animated, and sharp.
Air is associated
with intellect, wit, and communication, and these signs need to feel
mentally matched by their romantic partners. Communication is at the
heart of all of their relationships, as is a sense of friendship
beneath the romance. They also need a lot of freedom in their
relationships which can manifest as a sort of “casualness.”
Air is most
compatible with Air, and then Fire. With other Air signs, the shared
need of freedom and appreciation of communication can make
relationships harmonious. There is a unique ease to these connections
that is unmatched. Still, there can be struggles for them, the two
drifting apart without more of a spark.
With Fire, Air
signs will flourish. They enjoy the freedom and lightheartedness of
the connection between them. The relationship can also be stifling,
however, as Fire feeds on Air.
Venus in Air
Air signs show
their romantic love in ways most would associate with platonic
affection. Their dates are usually simple, if they aren’t taking
their partner out to some new and interesting - if strange -
restaurant, art festival, or something similar that is. They show
their affection by keeping a level head and helping their lover
through their problems or emotional struggles, though this method of
theirs can sometimes come off as cold.
To show them
love, speak with them. Tell them outright that you love them. Show
them you love them by making it clear you enjoy speaking with them.
Water: Cancer,
Scorpio, Pisces
Strong Water
influences in the natal chart indicate an intuitive, emotive, and
compassionate native. Water signs seek comforting, deeply emotional
connections with others. They need a supportive partner, someone who
can provide stability as, just like the element they are defined by,
Water signs are somewhat volatile and intense.
Water is most
compatible with other Water signs, or with Earth. When two Water
signs connect, there are a lot of intense emotions and passion. Just
as the others, when Water is with its own Element, there is an
easiness to expression and relationships due to their shared views.
At the same time, the volatility can compound when two Water signs
come together.
With Earth, Water
can sometimes overwhelm their partner entirely with their needs and
emotions, but they also can soften Earth, assisting them in their own
way.
Venus in Water
Individuals with
Venus in a Water sign in their chart are highly receptive
emotionally. The best way to show them love is to open up to them and
express your true feelings. They recognize this as a show of trust
and, in a way, devotion. They need intimacy to feel appreciated and
adored.
Water signs show
love much in the same way they need to be loved. They are there for
their partner emotionally, and often seek to show love in small ways.
They provide creature comforts for their partner: Food, a place to
stay, and the like.
★
Polarities
Polarity is the
largest division of the Zodiac, as it splits the signs into two
groups often referred to as Positive and Negative or Yin and Yang.
Polarity will be referred to as Yin and Yang in this article as the
symbol of the Yin-Yang, the unity and perfection of the circle, truly
embodies the polarities.
For some
background, the Yin-Yang is a symbol in Chinese philosophy used to
represent how seemingly opposing or contradictory forces in nature
may actually be interconnected and interdependent. This applies to
the concepts of light and dark, fire and water, earth and air, and so
on. Just as the image itself suggests, these two forces are united,
and they each contain a part of the other. This is true of the
polarities within the Zodiac.
Polarities mark
the most basic of personality traits: Are you extroverted or
introverted?
Yin is made up by
Earth and Water: Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and
Pisces.
Yin signs are
introverted, introspective, and prefer to spend time with their
partners alone. They show love through very personal ways. Quiet time
with their partner is what they seek above all else.
Yang is made up
by Fire and Air: Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, and
Aquarius.
Yang signs are
extroverted, social, and prefer to spend time with their partners out
and about, among others. They show love in bolder, more social ways.
They want to go out with their partner and their friends, not stay
in.
This is a simple
but key difference in desire, one that can greatly affect a
relationship. Yin is most compatible with other Yin signs, Yang with
other Yang signs, and yet the attraction to the opposite polarity can
be intense.
In cases like
this, it’s important to look at the dominant polarity above all
else, but the polarity of highly influential heavenly bodies such as
the Sun, Moon, and Venus can shift an individual’s leaning greatly.
★
Modes
This division is
determined by the position of the sign in the movement of the wheel,
the evolution of the Zodiac signs. The three Modes, otherwise known
as Quadruplicities, shape the goals and worldviews of the signs.
Unlike the Elements and Polarities, however, signs of the same Mode
are the least compatible. This is due to the fact that they naturally
form a square aspect.
In this case, the
views shared by these signs can make them too similar, and
thus create tension in a relationship.
Cardinal:Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn
These signs are
literally the starters of the Zodiac. They are leaders, creators, and
makers. Self-motivated and confident, these are the types that can do
anything they put their mind to. Naturally, they seek to control, not
to be controlled, meaning they can often clash even if their methods
of “control” are very different.
When these signs
come together, there can be a great struggle to find a balance of
power that works for the couple, even when they are compatible in
other areas. Both will seek to take charge, and unless they can
compromise, allowing one partner to perhaps lead in one area of life
and the other to take charge in a different area, they’re certainly
going to clash and clash hard.
With Fixed signs,
there can be tension due to the Cardinal desire to lead and the
stubbornness of Fixed signs. Otherwise, these two groups can be
highly compatible. Both are protective, in a sense, and the respect
between them is great. When they work together, they can make quite
the power couple, with the Cardinal signs charging ahead and the
Fixed signs supporting their cause.
Mutable signs can
be both frustrating and quite pleasant with Cardinal signs. Mutable
signs are naturally more yielding than their fellow Modes, meaning
they are typically content to let Cardinal signs take the wheel. The
dynamic between them is more harmonious because of this.
Fixed:Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius
Fixed signs are
the conservationists and stabilizers. In honor of the evolution of
the Zodiac, they take what was created by the Cardinal signs before
them and maintain it.
To put it simply,
these are the stubborn signs, but that hardly does them justice. The
Fixed signs endure, persist, and have endless patience. Their
role is to protect and care for - even nurture, at times - and they
bring this part of themselves to their romantic affairs more often
than not.
This can be
extremely beneficial to any relationship, but at the same time
dangerous. The Fixed signs’ unwillingness to give up can shift from
positive to negative. They can become possessive and obsessive they
are so determined to maintain a relationship, no matter what that
relationship may be.
This is why it
can be extremely difficult for these signs to engage in a
relationship with each other. Their unwavering focus can so easily
become all consuming if their partner possesses the same trait. It’s
best if they are balanced by another sign.
With Cardinal
signs, Fixed signs can feel as if they have come upon a kindred
spirit in many ways, but at the same time this similarity can cause
some tensions. Again, however, their possessiveness can prove
stifling to Cardinal signs, and Cardinal signs’ desire to control
stifling to them in turn.
Fixed signs can
form very solid relationships with Mutable signs when they are not
clashing over their conflicting goals. Mutable signs seek to change,
to evolve, and grow while Fixed signs are all about maintaining,
stability, and keeping certain things unchanged - even revolutionary
Aquarius seeks to maintain their unyielding beliefs. This clash can
be unmatched, but it can also lead to amazing growth when the couple
is able to overcome it.
Mutable:Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces
Mutable Signs
bring about the end of each quadrant of the Zodiac and, with Pisces,
the entire Zodiac cycle. They are here to expand, to move on from
what has already been formed. These are the signs that roll with the
punches, that are bendable, and highly adaptable. They let go of the
control kept by the signs that came before them, letting the natural
course of things to take place.
Part of their
role requires them to have blind faith and confidence in themselves
and others. This makes them more flexible and open than the other
Modes, and in their flexibility lies both their greatest strength and
their greatest weakness.
Mutable signs are
highly dynamic and find it easy to expand, grow, and face challenges
because they are so open to shifting focus. At the same time, they
lack direction and typically don’t have long-term goals. In
relationships, they can get through almost anything, and help their
partner along while they’re at it, yet they can prove unreliable to
those they love in one way or another.
When Mutable
signs are together, their relationship can feel messy and unfocused.
The couple doesn’t have set goals, and if they do manage to form a
plan they struggle to stay on the same page. If they can overcome
this, however, their relationship can be very powerful as they assist
in each other’s growth.
With Cardinal
signs, Mutable signs can feel quite at peace. Both seek to change in
their own unique ways, and Mutable signs will yield control to the
Cardinal. Cardinal can respect Mutable’s resilience, and Mutable
Cardinal’s confidence. Together, these seemingly opposing forces
can do great things.
We can’t allow this to continue. A petition has also been launched by change.org and signed by tens of thousands of people.
It demands a full investigation of all the facts and unlawful repression in Chechnya of the LGBT population and calls for punishment for the ‘guilty parties’ and the end to the practice of extra-judicial violence.
According to their updates, the people who launched this petition were detained on their way to handing in the signatures to the General Prosecutor’s Office. Two of them were issued fines yesterday, two others are still awaiting trials on June 21.
For the original ask, requesting the definition of squick, please see this post.
Squick is a fun term that was often used as both a noun and a verb. Either X was one of your squicks, or X squicked you, or squicked you out, or squicked you hard.
It was often used in fic exchanges. They would ask for a list of your squicks so that the gifting author would know not to include any hint of them. It was also used in casual conversation with fandom friends, authors, artists, etc. It could be left in comments, or as a reason you just didn’t read your best fandom friend’s latest fic. “Sorry, bff, you know I love your writing, but you have X tagged at the top, and that just squicks me out.” “Hey, no worries, best reader friend! I totally get it. Give this one a pass, but I’ll send you a note when I post my next one! I promise it will be totally X-free!”
Here’s the thing though. In your example, you explain why X is your squick with Y. But the beauty of squick was that (at least in my experience) no explanation was necessary. Not only was it not necessary, it was rarely asked for. A squick is a squick, and there doesn’t have to be any rhyme or reason. In fact, why would you have a rational, bullet-pointed, well-thought-out argument as to why something squicked you out? Very often it’s a visceral reaction, and if you don’t like the thing, you’re likely not going to sit and do deep meditation on why not.
Squicks were respected by fandom. You don’t like the thing, okay, we will tag the thing appropriately, you do not have to read the thing, no judgments on either side. There was no fandom policing, only respect.
And this, I think, is super important, because fandom policing is a problem, especially when it comes to triggers. “Trigger” has become so overused, so all-encompassing, that people feel they have to defend their legitimate triggers. If X triggers you, it triggers you, and you DO NOT need to provide an explanation. But because “trigger” is so often used in place of “squick,” some people feel they have the right to “call out” those who use the word. They want explanations, they want you to tell them what that triggering concept does to you, so they can call bullshit and feel superior. You don’t have to explain either your squicks or your triggers, but using the correct word stops the fandom police from feeling as though they have the right to ask.
Bring “squick” back, people. Don’t devalue triggers, which are horrible, nasty, dangerous things.
the culture of justifying dislike on an ideological/moral basis in part one: chapter one of my novel, Let Me Show You My Issues With Tumblr Fandom. the requirement for ideological purity has become so impossibly strict, and is valued so highly, that tearing the thing you dislike from an ideological standpoint is the quickest way to shut it down. it’s a cheap, disingenuous shortcut that exploits social justice language for personal leverage. it’s not like we were free of wankery and ship wars back in ye olde lj days, god, far from it, but at least the insults we flung at each other were subjective: A is so bad for B and if you can’t see that you’re an idiot!!! B/C OTP!!! (i should also disclaim that we did have moral policing as well, it was just FAR less extensive.) leveraging social justice concepts is an attempt to gain a kind of objective superiority. “they’re a dark ship and i don’t like that” holds little power; “they’re abusive and you support abuse by shipping this” is a trump card to shut down the content you don’t like and the people who fan it. that kind of rhetoric is all over the damn place and it continues to be propagated because it works and it has created a culture from which a variety of problems like the trigger issue explained above consistently arise.
…i would go into further chapters on my novel but i am tired now
As an additional data point, as far as I know the term “squick” comes from the BDSM community, originally. At least that’s where I first encountered it, on BDSM message boards on usenet in the mid-90s – yes, I was on BDSM message boards in the mid-90s; long story. As such, the implicit lack of judgment is important to the meaning of the word; you need a word to mean “I really don’t want to do that, and I don’t want to watch you doing that, but I don’t judge YOU for liking that and I don’t mind if YOU do it … somewhere far away from me.”
I can’t really think of any other words we have for the same concept that aren’t judgmental to some extent. Anything I can think of to try to define “squick” using non-slangy words (disgusting, unpleasant, etc) have a judgy sort of vibe. And we really do need a word to talk about tropes and kinks in the same kind of way we can talk about how you like that ship and I like this ship but that doesn’t make your ship bad.
(Er, ideally we’d be able to talk about ships that way, obviously, in a perfect world … XD)
I was also thinking about how the original ask implies a very modern fannish mindset that’s just … not there, in the original fandom milieu that the squick concept came out of. Not that I’m saying fandom was better in the old days or anything, god no. But trying to explain why you have a squick, or asking someone else why they have theirs, is just not a thing you’d generally do. Squicks are irrational; that’s baked into the meaning of the word. Squicks aren’t something you explain. They just are. I mean, you could obviously try to figure it out, just like you can try to figure out why you have a particular kink, but in both cases, you don’t have to explain or justify it in order for other people to accept it as valid. I don’t need to explain that I like h/c for X and Y reasons in order to request it in an exchange. And squick functions the same way.
All of which makes it a very useful word for talking about fandom concepts without implying that someone else’s tastes make them a bad person!
My tired old soul reflecting on how ideas, concepts, sensibilities, can just disappear.
Squicks are not triggers. I have both: much better as I’m feeling these days, certain visuals can trigger my OCD. Once triggered, my OCD must be handled or it will fucking impair me.
This is so utterly different from encountering a squick. Look, dude, Omegaverse dynamics are a squick of mine. Stumbling over Omegaverse Turkfic will not force me to get my CBT and exposure practice going on. It will make me feel icky and I will stop reading and move on, grateful for all the kind souls who tag their Omegaverse fiction.
Now I live in this world where no one, apparently, should produce content that squicks anyone else, because squick=trigger, and triggering people is immoral. I can’t figure out how we landed here, as fans.
An important distinction like the difference between “squick” and “trigger” should not disappear in the name of protecting people from culture.
Squick is such a great word and really necessary. I have zero triggers, but there’s stuff that, as Judy said, makes me feel icky and I stop reading/watching.
I took a ten year long black out from fandom anything online (life happened) and when I got back, I was so confused. Bring back squick. Use it, own the expirence you want without the need to judge or demand or label what other people want from their expirence.
Integrating your craft into your living space can be a daunting task. Unless you’re just a stellar housekeeper your home is likely at least a little messy all of the time. Unopened mail might still be sitting on the counter, that pile of laundry that you just didn’t get to this week is still on the floor or maybe you’ve just got a little extra clutter from too many missed spring cleanings. Despite how much these things can make your space feel distinctly un-magical, making your home into a sacred place for yourself can be quite simple.
Turning your home into a witchy haven isn’t for everyone, there are a lot of reasons to give it a go and everyone is going to have different motivations (or no motivation, which is ok too). Your home is where you base yourself. You sleep, eat and come together with loved ones there. Using witchcraft to ensure that space is always positive and energetic can improve the quality of the time you spend there, help you unwind more easily and give you a place of stillness in the midst of the chaos of life. Personally, I turned my home into a magic space to bring more focus on my craft, I take more time writing in my spiritual journal, traveling the realms and just generally maintaining my craft when my home looks and feels like a witchy home.
Start off just working on one room. It can be your kitchen, bedroom, living room, any room that you spend a decent amount of time in. It isn’t necessary to do a huge cleaning and wear yourself out, doing a little bit here and there can make a substantial improvement over time and you’ll be a lot more likely to continue maintaining your home instead of getting worn out and giving up.
Now, I’m certainly not your expert on cleaning, for those of you who really need help with this step I suggest checking out Unfuck Your Habitat. Personally, I like to do a deep cleaning using as few chemical cleaners as I can manage, I make all of my own cleaning agents with the purpose of magical as well as physical cleansing.
Cleaning Recipes
All Purpose Disinfectant Spray/Wash:
I use this for almost everything. I mix up 10 parts warm water with one part white vinegar and a few drops of essential oil OR I let the vinegar water sit with fresh or dried herbs in it for about a week before using it to clean. The herbs you use here can change depending on what your space needs. For example I use lavender for protection, purification and peacefulness. Basil draws wealth and soothes tempers between lovers. Orange is good for luck and wealth (though NOT good for cats so if you have kitties stay away from orange oil!). And mint is good for healing. This is great for wiping down counters, cleaning windows and mopping.
Shower Cleaner:
Cleaning showers is one of my least favorite tasks and trying to do it with safe cleaning products can be a nightmare but I’ve got a solution that does the trick. This isn’t so much a magical cleaning product (though I’m sure you could turn it into one) but it’s certainly a handy one to have around. Mix one part warm white vinegar with one part liquid dish soap in a spray bottle. It does require a bit of scrubbing if your shower is bad but compared to every other DIY shower cleaner I’ve tried it’s a miracle.
Floors
Sweeping has long been used by witches as a method of cleansing our homes magically and while a lot of sources will tell you to reserve a broom for the task and to sweep just above the floor to properly cleanse the area I just do it all at once. Who has time to sweep twice? I can do the same magical task with a little intent and focus while I’m also cleaning up pesky crumbs and cat hair.
Vacuuming is perhaps a less common way to tidy up the energy of a room but I find it works just as well as sweeping does! I make sure that when I empty a vacuum bag or dustpan I do it in the can outside to make sure I’m not just shuffling energy around in my house.
Mopping is another excellent mundane cleaning task for witches, especially when it comes to entryways and exits to the house. In addition to picking grime up off of your floor your mop water can be charged and used to lay down spells. I like using herbs for my mop water usually but once a year in the spring I mop with sun charged water to bring the vibrant spring/summer energy into my house and once a year in the fall I mop with moon charged water to welcome the introspective fall/winter energy in.
Doors and Windows
Doors and windows are important, they both protect our homes from the unwanted and welcome us in every day. When I make a magical wash for my doors and windows I like to use cinnamon, for protection, healing and enhancing my craft or, if I feel like I need a serious boost on my home protection or I need to break a curse I use chili pepper, which has the added bonus of strengthening love ties. In addition both of these are bug repellant.
One suggestion I would make is when you are cleaning your house you should try to have windows open. This allows fresh air to circulate into your home and it allows an outlet for all of the stagnant energy that you’ll be stirring up. Doors can be left ajar as well if you aren’t worried about pets taking themselves outdoors. Obviously this isn’t something you can do all the time, very hot or very cold weather would put a lot of strain on you heating/AC bill and it’s always best not to let the rain in.
Immediately post cleaning is a good time to place sigils on doors and windows as well. I like to use my Binding Chalk to make a line just in front of doors and windows, it acts very similar to having a line of salt in the same place.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms can be an excellent place to do magic. If you share a bedroom with a lover spells to enhance your relationship are favored. Tucking away herbal pillows or lighting candles can draw honesty and good communication for you and your partner or you could try something a little spicier and use spells intended to ignite a little passion.
If your bedroom is a solitary place it can be an excellent place to do dreaming magic, to meditate and to do spells for gentle self improvement.
In a child’s bedroom protective magic or sweet dream spells would be a good idea. A lot of small children have a fear of monsters and when I was little my parents would use “monster spray” every night to help me sleep. I know now that it was just water but infuse the water with lavender and it could easily double as a sleep aiding and protective spell.
A Few More Magical Home Ideas
Enchant the mirrors in your house to give everyone who looks into them a boost in their self esteem/body image.
Place a candle on the stove to symbolize the hearth fire tradition
Make a magic welcome mat that draws in good company and keeps away the bad
Pay close attention to the sort of energy your decor creates and adjust it to help create the energy you want in your home.
Is the TV the center of your home? Electronics can drastically change the feel of a space, try moving it to a less central spot and focus your rooms on something else
Playing music and changing the scent in a room can suffice for a quick energetic shift. Try setting a small pot of water with cranberries, orange peel, cinnamon or mint on the stove to simmer.
Get rid of stuff! I say this for people like myself who have trouble letting go of anything. Your stuff hangs onto energy. Gifts from people you don’t like? Stop being polite and letting their energy invade your house. Chuck it. Anything that reminds you of past relationships can go. In fact, cleaning house post breakup is super important! Get rid of any lingering reminders, wash their smell out of everything and clean your mattress thoroughly.
If it’s broken do away with it. I know, I know, you’re planning to get around to fixing it eventually. How often do you actually do that though? If you aren’t willing to sit down right now to fix it you probably won’t ever get to it. Throw it away or give it to someone who will have a use for it.
If you haven’t used it in the last year, chances are you won’t use it in the next year either. Get rid of it.
Make a habit of de-cluttering in small ways every day. Don’t let the mail pile up, clean up dishes left in odd rooms, pick up laundry, and just generally put things back where they belong. This goes a long way toward keeping the energy flow moving through your home smoothly.
Put bells on your doors. Bells help to clear energy, every time you open a door that room gets a little cleansing boost.
Cleaning your house can be turned into more than just house magic. You can visualize yourself sweeping away worries or scrubbing old habits that aren’t serving you away as well.
Bake bread. This really falls more under the heading of kitchen witchcraft but the smell of baking bread (or cookies!) wafting through your home can alter the energy in lovely ways and it’s also great for bringing prosperity to the house.
Hopefully this gives you guys some ideas and motivation to start making your home a little more magical :) Remember not to overdo it, making a home is a constant, gradual process, not a marathon. My ask box is always open if anyone has questions!
Deciding to practice witchcraft and magick can be equally daunting and exciting. Here are some tips about what to do if you are thinking about becoming a witch!
—————————————————————-
First, a few things
that you should NOT do:
1.Do
not do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, period. Trust your intuition, and always stay true to
yourself.
2.Do
not do anything that puts you in danger. This includes casting a spell without
protection, or opening yourself to spirits before you know what you are
doing. This also includes running out in the middle of a storm to collect rain
water, or agreeing to meet a witch that you met online, alone. Use common sense in all matters of your
craft; your safety and health, both physical and mental, must come first.
3. Do not
do anything that contradicts your own
personal, spiritual, moral, ethical, or other beliefs. Unless you plan on changing what you believe,
just don’t do it. It doesn’t matter if
everybody and their familiar is doing something; if it doesn’t agree with you,
walk away from it.
4. Do
not start actually practicing anything witchcraft-related until you have researched it. Do not do a spell until you have a working
understanding of magick, as well as all
of the ingredients involved in the spell – even ones you intend to substitute (especially the ingredients that you intent to
substitute, actually).
5. Don’t
take witchcraft lightly.
Your craft doesn’t need to be all serious spells and spiderwebs, but you
do need to have a healthy respect for
the energies and powers that you will be working with. You shouldn’t fear them - never work with anything that makes you afraid - but you should respect them.
6.Don’t
take your studies lightly. Put yourself through witch school. Research everything; ask yourself questions
and give yourself homework. Ask others
questions and ask them to give you
homework! Be creative in your studies,
but still take them seriously. You don’t
have to be hunched over spellbooks all day, but you should make an effort to at
least mentally review your existing knowledge, on days that you can’t find the
time for more.
7. Do
not be afraid to ask questions or for help – but do not automatically assume
that everybody actually knows the answer. Most witches around here will do their best
to answer your questions, but they’ll also usually straight tell you if they
don’t know something themselves; you should respect that, whether or not they
point you in the direction of somebody else. On the other hand, if something sounds wrong,
trust yourself and double check. Get
a second opinion, if need be.
—————————————————————-
Next, a few things
that you should know before you enter the world of witchcraft:
1.Witchcraft
is real, and magick is real. Whether or not you believe in it, it believes
in you (as the saying goes). Approaching
magick as if you were cosplaying Harry Potter is an attractive but ultimately
unwise idea. Approaching magick as if
you were learning to operate a highly beneficial but potentially dangerous
piece of machinery – now, that is a
wise idea.
2.Witchcraft
isn’t inherently evil, but neither is it inherently pure good. Witchcraft is power, plain and simple. It is what one chooses to do with that power that gives it such
meaning, and even then, the concept of good and evil is an ethical and
spiritual one, and thereby tends to vary from person to person, and from
witch to witch. You have to use your own
morals to guide you. The only type of magick
that should be in your witchcraft is the magick you intentionally choose to put
there. On a related note: I personally
don’t agree with classifying magick as ‘black magick’ or ‘white magick’, period
– not because magick can’t have precise descriptors, but because there’s no
need to use terms that have such negative racial undertones. Light can be harmful and ‘evil’, while
darkness can be protective and ‘good’.
Your intentions aren’t “to do dark” or “to do light”, anyway. Your intentions are “to do harm” or “to do
healing”; your intentions are “to take away” or “to give”.
3.
Witchcraft
is a personal practice.
You do not need to follow any one specific path, spiritual or otherwise,
in order to practice witchcraft. There
are many different types of witches, and many different types of magick. If there is not one specific path that you
feel is absolutely perfect for you, don’t choose one that feels ‘close enough’ –
walk your own path and mold your witchcraft into something that is uniquely
yours.
4. Witches worship in varying ways. Some do not worship at all, and are purely
secular witches. Some are simply
spiritual and do not follow one set path.
Some are polytheists and worship many gods; some are monotheists and
worship one. Some are atheists and
worship none! Some are Wiccan. Some are Christian. Some are Satanists. Some worship ancestors. Some worship the stars. Witchcraft
is a personal practice, and should co-exist with all other aspects of your
life.
5. You don’t need a whole lot to get
started. Twigs
can be used as wands; rock quartz can be used as a crystal. Tea mixes contain herbs, and your spice
cabinet is basically a magick cabinet. Most
of what is in your house can be used for magick, for that matter. While it is definitely helpful to have the
proper tools and ingredients when performing magick, it is possible to DIY your
way through witchcraft until you can afford otherwise. Also, it is probably smarter to wait a second
before you run out and purchase anything, anyway. As you learn more, you’ll start to see which
tools you really need, which ingredients you’ll likely be using the most, which
items really call out to you. If you run
out and buy everything that you see right away, you risk wasting money on
things that just don’t work for you, or that you don’t even need.
—————————————————————-
Lastly, here are the
things that you DO need to do, no matter what:
o
Be
true to yourself. Do not compromise
yourself or your beliefs.
o
Be
safe. Don’t do or use anything
that you do not have a working knowledge of.
o
Be
educated. Never stop seeking out
new knowledge; try to learn something new daily.
o
Use
common sense. Don’t get caught up in
things; think before you take action.
o
Trust
your intuition and instinct. We often know more than we consciously
realize.
o
Be
creative. Write the spell that you’ve
been looking for. See what is laying
around the house that you can use for your witchcraft. Be inventive!
o
Have
patience. Learning takes time;
magick takes time; developing your craft takes time.
That’s it for the moment! Tune in tomorrow for a post regarding more tips and information
on what to do when you do decide to go ahead enter the world of witchcraft ^_^
Hey you! I dare you to try your
best to follow this checklist tomorrow! But hey! Not so fast. Why not try it
again the next day (and every day after that)? Sometimes it’s the smaller
changes that can in fact help improve our health and wellbeing, especially when
we think we’re short of time. School stressing you out? Everything is going to
be ok. Try a few little things here. Tick everything off that you completed! Tell
me how it goes for you!
This was a spontaneous post and I’ve found that I’ve been making errors in my posts recently! Plz correct me bc I am an egg. Hope u like it anyway.
Morning:
Wake up as soon as you do
naturally or when your alarm goes off. Make your bed! Open the blinds!
Get out of bed and s t r e t c h
– all the way from the very tips of your fingers to the tips of your toes.
(Trust me, this feels good)
Set your intention for the day.
This might be weird for some, but try it. Example: Today I will be productive. I will be focused on my tasks and I will
take the time to relax when needed. It doesn’t have to be as complicated –
Example 2: I can do this. Remind
yourself again.
Eat breakfast. A MUST. Try my
favourite: eggs (poached, scrambled or fried) on toast with avocado or baked
beans. Yes. We are on a roll today.
Drink one full glass of water
within the hour of waking (don’t down it all in one go though!).
Add 1/8 of a lemon to this. Lemon
is great to alkalise the body and getting that digestive system of yours goin!
This will flush out toxins in the body and support your immune system too!
Side note: Wait half an hour
before brushing your teeth after this (or maybe do it before) because lemons
are acidic after all and can probably do some damage to your shiny whites.
Try having a water bottle by your
bedside and beside you throughout the day as a constant reminder to drink water
as you see it. Trust me, this has helped improve my water intake a lot.
Organise your day. What are your
plans? What are of priority and what are not? Try brain dumping this, and then
organising each task/item into a list, categorised in importance. This will
help decrease stress throughout the day and easy referral back to this list.
Dress in some lovely clothes!
Your fave sweater and some cool black tights? 100%!! What about that pretty
skirt you like with a nice top? HECK YEAH!!!
Midday:
Lunchtime! Eat again. Wholesome
foods are an absolute must whenever you can.
Aim for 3-4 cups of water by
lunchtime (inclusive of the glass of lemon water you had this morning).
Remember that intention you set
this morning? Say it again.
Throw a compliment at someone. Be
genuine. This will have a butterfly effect. If someone throws one at you to –
don’t disagree! Say thank you. You rock, don’t doubt that.
Are there any ticks beside those
tasks on your checklist from this morning? I hope so!
Throw in a random burst of
exercise! In public too – who cares! Pick one of these: 50 starjumps! 3 sets of
10 squats! A quick walk around outdoors!
Arvo (/Afternoon… Straya):
Hit that 3pm slump? Same. Here
are a few ideas to get you going, especially coming home from a long day:
NAP! 15-20 mins. No longer. No
less. Be strict here or your sleep pattern might go funny and we don’t want
that. (And groggy headaches are gross)
Exercise! This is so fundamental
to our health and wellbeing. Try out short pilates videos (no equipment) here (that as living proof, work) or some really cool yoga videos here, here, and here. Yoga is great. Try this
daily. Or take a brisk walk for 30
minutes = wake up your brain, pick up
your mood AND burn some fat. C’mon, go get your shoes!
Have a healthy snack, such as
those listed in this great post by @tbhstudying. Get your brain and bod going,
my friends!
Write down your to do list for
any work, study or event related things that you need to complete this
afternoon. Set out all your equipment, sort out your papers from the day and
get organised!
Clear your
(bedroom/bed/desk/floor/work/closet) space for 5 minutes every day. I’m
guessing that you’ve started to pile a few things here like I do. This will
save you time and help maintain cleanliness, staving away from the complicated
stress that comes from having to reorganise just about everything which we all
know to hate when we’re busy with other things.
Have you had your 5th
to 6th cups of water of the day yet? Get to it!
Sit up straighter and you’ll look
more confident and feel more confident. Your back will also be very grateful
for this.
Night:
Continue all your extra to-dos.
Get this done. You can do it!
Make sure to put something in
your body guys. I’m talking food here by the way… don’t let that sentence
mislead you! This is especially important for those of you probably thinking “I’ll just eat later” or “I’m not hungry”. Eat. EAT NOW. PleASE.
Spend some quality time with your
family. How’s their day been? Tell them about yours too.
Glasses of water no. 7, 8 and
beyond should be here.
Prep your meals, lists, notes,
outfits, etc. for the next day. Getting these things sorted now will help you
get it out of the way and save you time!
Settle down a little. It’s time
to wiiiind doooooooownnn. Read a book. Scroll through Tumblr (aaayeee!) – but
not too deep into the pits okay guys. Watch a little TV.
I know a lot of posts say to
switch off 1-2 hours before bed. If you’re literally glued to your electronics,
try switching off 5 minutes earlier every day and replace that with something
else. What about doing your prep items for the next day (listed two points
back!!)? Or, do get those pesky chores out the way.
Side note: Cleaning your room
often will help freshen it, get rid of itchy dust and decrease the chances of
bugs and other smol random things to crawl around your room. (If that’s not a
little motivation then I’m not sure what is…). It’ll also keep your space
maintained so you don’t have to do it all at once. *Shudders* Plus the
likelihood of those gross germs from the world hanging around and building up
in there is a no-no.
Sleep! 7-8 hours. Your body will
thank you for it. CRUCIAL for healthy brain and body function. Plus your mood
and skin will improve (i.e. gOODBYE EYEBAGS and hELLO GLOWING SKIN).
Side note: I see you reading this
at 12am when you should be sleeping. I see you.
I hope this has helped you guys a little or at
least inspired you to make a small change to your daily routine! Try doing a
few items here (e.g. glass of lemon water, sitting up straighter, 8+ cups of
water) and record this on a habit tracker! The smallest changes often have the
greatest effects!
Individuals with this combination are enthusiastic, passionate, and active. They know what they want, and how to get it, and don’t hesitate in doing so. They can be rather egocentric and arrogant at times, but also have a genuine concern for their family, friends, and other loved ones, and have a knack for taking care of and protecting them.
Fire Sun, Earth Moon: The Meteorite
Charming and tactful, these individuals have the ambition and drive to attain anything they desire. They’re often torn between following impulses and thinking things through, and often succumb to the former. These individuals are strong and tough, though it may not always be apparent at first. They’re also very genuine and nurturing to those they care about.
Fire Sun, Air Moon: Heat Lightning
Energetic and spontaneous, those with this combination of Sun and Moon Signs radiate optimism. They’re active and tend to be rather extroverted. Sometimes rather unpredictable, and often quite hot-headed, these individuals can have intense mood shifts, but calm down rather quickly, too.
Fire Sun, Water Moon: The Obsidian
Individuals with this Sun and Moon combination are intense and passionate. They are compassionate, generous, and genuine. They have a soft side beneath their bravado, that only a select few get to see. They’re kind and sensitive, while remaining proud and true to who they are.
Earth Sun, Fire Moon: The Volcano
While individuals with this combination appear aloof and detached, there’s usually a fire burning within them waiting for the perfect moment to manifest itself. They’re the type of people who invest themselves into what they care about, the type to get things done. They can have rather explosive tempers, but it usually takes a lot to get them to that point.
Earth Sun, Earth Moon: The Plains
Strong and stable, these individuals aren’t prone to mood or personality shifts. They’re reliable and consistent. People with both their Sun and Moon in Earth Signs are also warm and nurturing, providing welcoming habitats for the loved ones in their lives - much like the fertile plains.
Earth Sun, Air Moon: The Cave System
These individuals are logical, through and through, relying mostly on what they know rather than what they feel. They can be rather complex, much like an underground labyrinth, and take patience and skills to navigate. They often appear aloof or otherwise unattached, but are easily brought back down to Earth.
Earth Sun, Water Moon: Underground Lake
On the surface, these individuals appear calm, cool, and collected, but often have much more going on internally than they let on. They often feel a struggle between emotion and logic, and prefer the latter. They tend to be rather secretive, but are compassionate, nurturing, and protective over their friends, family, and other loved ones.
Air Sun, Fire Moon: The Thunderstorm
Energetic, social, and passionate, individuals with this combination tend to enjoy life from center-stage. They’re passionate and driven, though often conflicted between following what they know and what they feel. They can be a bit unpredictable, much like a lightning strike. They often have a presence that makes itself known.
Air Sun, Earth Moon: The Tornado
Individuals with this combination of Sun and Moon Signs are known for their aloof and logical natures. They have an ability to be compassionate towards others, while still taking care of themselves. They’re determined, like the mighty Tornado, and nothing can stop them when they set their mind on something.
Air Sun, Air Moon: Wind
Individuals who have both their Sun and Moon are social, and energetic. They have a lively nature to them, and thrive on intellectual stimulation. A bit unpredictable, these people can go from 0 to 60 in a relatively short amount of time, and sometimes the stimulus causing it is unapparent to everyone else.
Air Sun, Water Moon: Hurricane
Unpredictable and compassionate, individuals with this placement are known for following their own paths. These natives can be rather intense, and are known for fighting for the freedom they know they deserve. These individuals are a powerful and passionate blend of following what they know and what they feel.
Water Sun, Fire Moon: Hydro-thermal Vents
Individuals with this combination are passionate through to their core. They’re intuitive and impulsive, often acting based off of what they feel more than what they know. Similar to Hydro-thermal Vents (or Hot Water Vents), which are created by water being super heated by magma and then erupting from the vent, these individuals can be rather hot-headed, most often when they’re watery emotions are compromised.
Water Sun, Earth Moon: The Islands
Individuals with Water Suns and Earth Moons are a blend of emotion and logic. Much like underwater mountains rising up from beneath the waves of the Ocean, there’s an underlying steadiness to those who have this placement.
These people, much like tropical islands, are warm and welcoming, but are prone to stormy weather.
Water Sun, Air Moon: The Clouds
Individuals with a Sun in Water, and a Moon in Air are compassionate and friendly. Like the clouds gently drifting above, they have a knack for seeing everything. Their Watery intuition combined with their Airy logic gives them quite an insight into the affairs of others.
Similarly to clouds, these individuals can change with their moods. Sometimes they’re light and calm, other times dark and ominous of impending storms.
Water Sun, Water Moon: The Iceberg
Individuals with both their Sun and Moon in Water have a lot that lays under the surface. There’s much more to them than meets the eye - much like the Iceberg, where 85% of it’s mass resides below the surface of the water.
They tend to drift through the waves of the ocean peacefully, but can be lethal to those who underestimate them.
These perspectives come from a Scorpio moon (in the Third House)
The understanding of each astral body deepens as you factor in what each works with or opposes. This is where it is crucial to see what else is creating discord or harmony with your moon. You are attempting to perceive the universe as a whole rather than isolating each individual part. Your sun and rising sign especially help to define what exactly your Moon is to your conscious mind. How you feel is not always what you present to others –something most people would agree on. The drives of the moon are not always easily understood by the intellect.
These are my experiences with each individual moon sign. I don’t have an equal amount of experience with each and so I apologise if some signs have longer write-ups than others.
ARIES MOON
Bold, yet child-like, yet anxious. Dramatic, explosive, quick and then bored. There is a wonderful sincerity and silliness about the Aries moon. They are the first to get up and boogie. I find many of the pains Aries moons carry very visible to me and I respect that vulnerability. I think it is part of what makes them direct. They play by fighting you. Imaginative and raw. I think of the archetypal anime protagonist gleaming a toothy grin and then fist-pumping in the air as we embark on a quest up Candy Mountain. They are social-spiritual pioneers. Sometimes, they don’t stand up to the people they should and take their anger out on those who don’t deserve it (ala ‘kick the cat’ syndrome). Sexually open and willing though the roles are traditional, primal. They can get quite down when their flame flickers out and the warmth fades. Their competitiveness can get the better of them and it can be hard for them to detach from their identity into a larger unified picture. However they are equipped with fantastic gusto and enough of it to make it up those mountains. They may see themselves as that youthful inner child however that image can become the justification for roaring anger – to protect the child.
TAURUS MOON
Oh, man. I have an intense level of respect and also, to be frank, fear of the Taurus moon. I fear getting too close, and I think they do too (maybe that’s why I feel it) (hold on maybe they’re afraid of me?)
So yes of course they progress slowly, steadily, stubbornly, charmingly… With a silent and deep appreciation for the small pleasures in life. They are beautiful and frustrating. Wise and sometimes closed minded. Forgiving but not forgetful. I think the patterns and routines Taurus moon carves deeply can lead them to believing that people are limited or ‘they are who they are.’ It may seem like a safe thing to do but it inevitably leads to buried feelings that manifest as irritation. This is why they feel that magnetic attraction to their opposite, Scorpio, as buried feelings is what Scorpio specialises in. They need to be released! If they do have transformative experiences with people, however, there is not much in the world they cannot accomplish. You don’t want the limits of your perception to become the balcony you lean over to judge others. Taurus moons are, regardless, unendingly kind, caring, generous and full of good humour with those they love truly. They do not seek outright praise, preferring the smilingly cheer you on from behind the scenes. They step into a nurturing authoritative role with ease because it is easier for them to do that than be on the receiving end. They do want both sides though. They understand boundaries instinctively.
GEMINI MOON
I wish I knew more Gemini moons!! I do not feel that qualified to comment as I have not gotten terribly close with one. I can only think of a few people I know with Gemini moons who will have to serve as my inspiration. I am still grasping mutability (or not, you changeable bastards) and I imagine Gemini moons to have fervent mental chatter, a whole cast of different characters their radioheads tune into.
The wittiness is always a go-go and I also do wonder if the ‘identity crisis’ many astrologers report with Gemini could be more to do with conditioned language patterns Gemini is highly attuned to. Seeing as being overly identified with words and labels can trap you, Gemini dances between contradictions and in the in- between, wonders who the heck they are. But crises can purge and the truth is always what’s left behind. There is a lot of restless energy here. Gemini’s curiosity is something they must accept in its entirety if they wish to wield it to its utmost potential. If only we were inside a simulation game, these guys would be the game masters for sure. Gemini moons may feel like keeping the dialogue internalised but actually they should share it. It is the way they will attain the peace and relaxation they crave. By communicating with meaning and truth –these are the lessons they must embody and bring to us all.
CANCER MOON
Ah yes the intuitive understanding of Cancer moon. Sensitive, headstrong and goofy they can swim in the natural affection they feel all around, breaking the ice and helping us all accept the sweetness of the moon, forever watching us at night. Their sacrifices (farts) are a blessing. Like Gemini moon, I have yet to get really deep with a Cancer moon but I know it would be powerful. They have a contagious excitability and sincerity that will forever be taken advantage of if they do not learn to love and value the magicians they are.
They must never slip into a Madonna/Whore complex or let purity be defined for them by others. Lucky that their intuition is always so on point. Expressing their anger in healthy ways that don’t perpetuate victim-centred scenarios is something they are learning. It is easy for Cancer moon to suck in aaaaall the bad vibes as water signs do. Don’t ignore your feelings and don’t be compliant, especially if you know you’ll regret it or backtrack it! Cancer moon’s energy is precious and magical. They do not always see the doors they open for people because they can get distracted by shitty thoughts or past emotional residue. Love you guys
LEO MOON
Leo moons are insanely loveable, proud, gleeful, naughty, fun, dramatic, loyal… They are like a non-submissive Pokemon who wants to kick as much ass as possible with you. They are less forthcoming with their emotional issues, preferring to be a proud lion. Pride is a lonely cage though and isolation, especially for Leo moons, can lead to very depressed slumps. Ultimately though, all their lows help them appreciate comraraderie all the more. They dislike being ignored.
Leo moons are inventive and creative practically, they will really do it, not just say it. Their impulsiveness can get them into all kinds of trouble and even then they are so friendly and groovy that they can get away with it. Their hearts are powerful and when all is aligned they exude warmth followed by big headed claims and roaring laughter.
They really are the party Kings and Queens of the zodiac because no one else will get so wrecked and hold it down so well and also still look like they had the best time ever. Their things are their treasures. A mere scarf becomes a robe, a daisy chain a crown.
VIRGO MOON
There is a quiet (and somewhat bitter) determination to Virgo moons. They are aware of the bullshit in this world and make sure you know it too. Their kindness is not loud or showy but a quieter, understated recognition of all the work we do to help this Ferris wheel of a life be better for all. They are secure when they are in their homes or a place where they are understood for the dexterous work they do, whatever it may be. It has been said before but I will say it again: you Virgo moons are too hard on yourselves. Yes you must be brave, Virgo moon, and share your legitimate concerns when they arise. Once you feel accepted for your thoughtfulness, even if it’s a bit sharp, the pressure will be released. Don’t hold it all in, or you will suffer from nervous tension that can fester. They need to be wary of the preconceptions they bring into conversations that may have people thinking they are more closed minded than they really are. Virgo moons are a lot cooler than they give themselves credit for so let them know (though they will laugh it off). They need to be not stuck in their own heads. Analysing is fine but only if you already have material, a project or a relevant issue to use those powers on. Otherwise you are putting the needle right into your soul and it is destructive. Facing your fears and mistakes instead of hiding will open you up and others will finally get to see the very real and down to earth being that you are. I am very grateful for Virgo energy. Their conservativeness may polarise and they may get stressed but they are never ones to ignore good common sense or injustice. Their shyness and dirtiness reflect the contrary mutability they possess. Someone you can underestimate but will surprise you when they pull out the perfectly sharp edge of the knife.
LIBRA MOON
Libra moons are playful and intelligent; they quickly slide in golden nuggets of advice during a conversation, like their words are the lubricant to help everybody get along… And they do. A libra moon (or sun) who believes in love and in people can open up the mind of the most hardened of cynics. It is essential that they make room however to have quality alone time. That way they will feel far more centred and their own person when interacting with others, instead of getting lost in a room of mirrors. They can be so nice and compliant that they can slowly lose their true sense of who they are and what they believe in as they care a lot about the wellbeing of everyone. Only when they are unbalanced do they get defensively self righteous. Or block everything out. That said a Libra moon won’t go to bed after an argument – they really can’t tolerate the tension and would rather apologise and seek a peaceful resolution.
There is a very natural understanding here that the state of being people are in greatly affects the environment. Ideally though (see what I did there) they are cool, calm, collected, filled with balanced thoughts for us all and ever graceful. And pretty. Conflicts and issues in relationships can shake them up so much that they may deny and avoid them for a long time. It can result in a lot of heaviness – and this sign wants to be light! Comfort, like with the also-Venus-ruled Taurus moon, can become the enemy if they are not doing work they truly believe in or are not supported by real friends who care for them. Most Libra moons wisen up to the limits of superficiality, as beautiful and interesting as some people/places may seem. They don’t want to waste beauty. Libra moons are also awesomely progressive and they should share their great ideas with people who can help them manifest it all, or at least push them to. They can’t cope with being on one side of a fight unless there is extremely good reasoning behind their choice, the possibility of being bigoted really screws with their principles, which are essential to them. Bitching about people hurts them a lot because they want to be liked and for everyone to co exist peacefully. It may take a while to get close with them and they can flake out when it comes to routines and schedules but if you are patient they prove to be the most loyal of friends.
SCORPIO MOON
Aaaaaahhhhh!!!!!!! Why do we try to fix things by controlling them MORE??!?!?!?!? Scorpio moons need to learn, on as many different levels and in many different ways, to relax. For real. Surrender, as much as you can, to whatever the situation is, and let yourself relax. Whenever a Scorpio moon transforms though, everything changes. People are gob smacked by how low to how high a Scorpio moon can go. They think we must be utterly mad ;-) It is extremely difficult but extremely necessary for Scorpio moons to transmute and transform their emotions. Only then can we unleash our gifts. Otherwise, yes, we will become the villain in any given scenario (unless cap moon is on a rampage)
okay so yes sex and death deeply changes the vibe in the room but is that all we want to be known for?? Not at all. Not at all. Scorpio moons must not numb themselves because then they are building and building and building up all the pain and gearing up for another destructive bender. It is far better to cry and scream and simply let yourself feel the pain. All the answers are in that pain. Don’t you forget it. As always and with all signs, Scorpio moons are their own worst enemy. By not showing our emotions we create and perpetuate a MASSIVE LIE about WHO WE REALLY ARE. This is what I believe to be at the root of the notorious intolerance Scorpios have for lies. It is intolerable precisely because we are already experiencing lies on a soul level, lies that do not allow people to see our depth of feeling and understanding. Vicious cycles of lies that lead Scorpio moons to believe that by closing more people out or building taller walls, will be better for us. Note how close Scorpio is to Libra and the theme of relationships. Sometimes people need to see those flowers that bloom in the dark, when they’ve lost all hope.
The sooner we can relax and reveal more of who we are the better– not only will people have a better idea of how to respond to us but ultimately those who matter don’t mind and those who mind don’t matter! The more a Scorpio moon argues the more everyone in the room feels that painful non-acceptance of reality building tension. Such is our force. We are equipped to do incredible things and incredible never means easy. Sex is not the sole route to intimacy and life does make that lesson torturous and clear. Scorpio moons can get very lonely and will push themselves to extremes when they are not accepting reality. The struggle to express our feelings, fear of vulnerability and other peoples wariness of us all plays into us thinking we are some long-living Gollum creatures. We are not. Believe that you are sexy. You don’t have to prove it to anybody but you. Power is knowing you already know. Yes the know-it-all controlling nature destroys all our relationships. It’s only because we are overdoing it. Pull back and let people impress you back! Take note of people’s discomfort and make changes in the moment to show you do feel it too. You do have a lot to share, don’t hide behind your pride. (And yes we do know when we are being lied to or if you are having sexual thoughts)
SAGITTARIUS MOON
My best friend since childhood has a Sagittarius moon. Intelligent, at times too cool for school, wild and loud and self-conscious- where do I begin? Sagittarius moons are righteous and don’t hold back on delivering the truth to your face. Their friends will think it’s the most hilarious thing ever and you will feel dumbbb. They are damn good at that, however if they are having internal struggles they will stir the pot just to stand up righteously, or wait for you to fuck up. It’s understandable that many fall for Sagittarius moons – they’ve been there and done that and their sense of humour demonstrates that well. You want to impress them! Their open minds are a turn on, and I have found it to be true that they have a lot stories to tell surrounding cults, religions, specific groups and cultures of people… I can always see myself skydiving with a Sagittarius moon. They don’t do well with clingy people, but accepting that emotional attachment is a naturally occurring phenomena would help them.
They need to work on staying humble in their hearts not just in words or in clothes or style– that is what led to the bountiful knowledge of the spirit in the first place. They can chase after the original high until they’ve burned down the path entirely. There is a cheeky, mysterious side to them that is sexy and their joy and gratitude is so vibrant it can reverberate right up your spine.
CAPRICORN MOON
I really love Capricorn moons, even though we likely roll our eyes at each other and really have no clue about the other at times. You can’t get away with everything, boss or not, and Saturn makes sure these people know that (eventually). They are industrious, ambitious with high expectations, professional, suave, aware of the ‘audience’ and have great reserves of ancient knowledge stored in their laughter and often pained expressions.
Capricorn moons, surprise surprise, are really hard on themselves, like Virgo but with far more whiplash. They keep it under wraps. They need to be careful they don’t get crushed by the weight of the burdens they carry…and maybe to remember too that those burdens may in fact be wings they have yet to unfold and fly with. Shrewd and covertly manipulative, they can bring out the criminal in people, yet at the same time their logically intuitive judgement is there, watching you make an ass of yourself. They don’t always share their shady observations, but should with confidence, not anger, because they make a lot of really great points the right people don’t get to hear. Their realistic feedback could serve to really improve a myriad of issues.
Capricorn moons are great at working the system (that includes within a family system) but need to remember not to become slaves to that system and cold to everyone else. That system could be based on lies or agendas that don’t factor in their personal success at all. Luckily as soon as they know that they will dump anything that is holding them back. Their feelings are private and reserved only for them, and if you’re lucky and earned their trust consistently, you too. They know how to work you into a state of compromise.
AQUARIUS MOON
I go through periods of being intensely fascinated by Aquarius moons and then I dismiss them. This may be a mutual thing between us. They really are ahead of everybody though (and slow to admit they care!) and they do know what they’re talking about. Try not to always believe everything they say, as they need to be pushed to be the best messengers they can be. Otherwise it comes a predictable Gaslighting exercise, sorry to say it.
Their emotional detachment can get in the way of people engaging on a real level with them and of course their own ego. The gifts they do bring are life changing but hence the struggle. The pride of being an original, of giving no fucks, of going anywhere and everywhere, of laughing at the aliens in your mirror… This is the Aquarian. However as the moon is much more internal people may not realise how weird and zany those with an Aquarius moon are, and they may hold themselves back socially..and then erupt into a nutty character when they’re drunk. They work hard to maintain objectivity and a logical mind state, though the bellows of emotion from others can send them back into their rooms for a while. They may struggle to deal with one on one interactions for extended periods of time, preferring to thrive in a group where they can disperse their knowledge through vivid storytelling or in juicy snippets. Aquarius moons far reaching perspective does make them a boss, but the fear of getting ‘too close’ can really stop them reaching out. I know it’s crazy to say to them that not all emotions were manufactured by Disney but it’s true. It is the fear ITSELF that warps their visions, not experiencing intimacy. It would really help them express their natural eccentricities a lot more if they could dare to go there, don’t hide out in space! It is true that in some of my darkest times I have been inspired by an Aquarius moon, or they have simply pointed to all the space above us and smiled, because with so much space how you can get caught up in such pettiness? Anyway they are lovely souls and friends, their intelligence is anchored in carefully thought out principles and they will still listen to you before disagreeing! Hahaha
PISCES MOON
With all water moons it is important that they stand up for themselves before they feel violated by too aggressive people. Such is true for the Pisces moon. They are natural space cadets, dreamy, creative, musical, impressionable and empathetic. They also give no fucks about current fads and trends that enslave people in time. They are not ones for tedious, high pressure work with no creative or tangible productive merit (and fair enough too). There is far beyond all of that and they know it. What they aren’t always aware of though is how powerful their empathy is, how strongly people feel understood by them to the point where people will unleash their demons on them because they think it’s okay–Pisces moon will understand, right? Wrong, it’s never cool to abuse people like that and we should aim to get more on their level rather than pull them down to ours. Pisces moon needs a consistently peaceful and chilled out environment where they feel they can creatively nourish themselves without getting dragged into any of the preceeding 11 moon signs’ drama. They are wise in that they know how closed off people can be whilst still having a heart.
When Maedhros cedes to Fingolfin on the basis of ‘eldest blood’, it appears that someone has put some thought into the rules of succession. But why? Finwë is immortal and, under normal circumstances, would not need a successor. How and why do the Elves develop rules of succession, and do the rules apply only to the Noldor or also to the other clans?
Fifty-two Years of the Tree (about 500 Years of the Sun) after the Elves awoke at Cuiviénen, Elwë, Ingwë and Finwë apparently rule their respective clans. Assuming that Cuivienyarna is more than just a children’s tale, Enel, Tata and Imin must have met their ends at some point during those 500 years. They can only have descendants or designated heirs, since they have no siblings. Their heirs must be equally short-lived (in Elven terms), so that rules of succession are needed.
In succession by seniority, a monarch’s brother is his rightful heir. Not until all the brothers are dead does the crown pass to the children. Under Salic seniority, inheritance is exclusively through male lines. More familiar to Westerners is succession by primogeniture, in which descendants of the monarch have priority over siblings.
Fëanor, under any rules of succession, would be the heir, unless Finwë either designates another heir or asks for the Elven equivalent of annulment of his first marriage and its issue to be declared illegitimate. Melkor hints at an outright coup or act of violence, not a change in the line of succession. That does not become a concern until Fëanor’s death.
The Noldor appear to have no established tradition, as both Maedhros and Fingolfin have a claim. Maedhros elects to go by the tradition that supports Fingolfin’s inheritance. He does not seem to be changing the rules - he is choosing seniority over primogeniture. Perhaps the Vanyar and Nelyar developed the traditions - as Elwë, Elmo and Olwë are brothers, the question of succession must have been resolved when Elwë assumed leadership of the Nelyar. We also know that Ingwë has a sister and perhaps other siblings. Since the Sindar will later go by primogeniture, we might suppose that the Vanyar developed the tradition of seniority. Perhaps Finwë is the only son of Tata, and the Noldor thus had no need for rules of succession at Cuiviénen. Though Maedhros makes the choice for political reasons, the rule of seniority, and particularly Salic seniority, will become the custom of the Noldor.
After Fingolfin, the crown should revert back to Maedhros. Some forms of succession by seniority will only allow the son of a king to inherit, but Fëanor does assume the title after Finwë’s death. Though many of the Noldor prefer Fingolfin, he does not claim the kingship at this time. In any case, affiliation to a previous high king cannot be a requirement among the Noldor if Gil-galad is, as Tolkien finally decided, the son of Arothir. (1,2)
Again, politics probably alter the succession upon Fingolfin’s death. Given the close friendship between Fingon and Maedhros, and the general will of the Noldor, Maedhros would be unlikely to wrestle with his cousin for the crown.
After Fingon’s death, Turgon is stated to be ‘by right’ the High King of the Noldor. This derives from old texts, appearing in the version given in The Lost Road, and is preserved even after Gil-galad materialises as Fingon’s son. The succession, then must be by seniority, as there is no mention of Turgon ruling as regent or in Gil-galad’s place - he inherits ‘by right’. (3,4,5)
Maedhros is bypassed again. At this point, he has lost Himring and is wandering with his brothers and their people in Ossiriand. However, Gil-galad is in a similar situation when he inherits the crown - he is in exile on Balar. In the Third Age, after the loss of Fornost and many of his people, Aranarth of the Dúnedain does not give up the position, only the title. He is still the leader of his people. Turgon, by contrast, has no means by which to lead the Noldor, as he has no contact (other than by eagle) with his people outside Gondolin. Even without a realm of his own, Maedhros would be a more credible High King, but makes no attempt to claim the title.
Turgon designates an heir to the crown of Gondolin, indicating that both Aredhel (seniority) and Idril (primogeniture) are ineligible because they are female. Turgon first names Maeglin as his heir. Later, it appears (but is not stated outright) that Maeglin is displaced by Eärendil’s birth. This applies only to Gondolin, however. Gil-galad becomes High King upon Turgon’s death. By seniority or primogeniture, Eärendil and Elrond would have the higher claim, but Salic rule determines the succession among the Noldor - neither a female nor her male descendants can inherit. (It should also be noted that in between Fingolfin, the great-grandfather of Eärendil, and Finarfin, the great-great-grandfather of Gil-galad, there is a sister, Lalwen. Assuming that she is still alive, she and any of her descendants are also ineligible by Salic rule. Findis, the eldest of Indis’ children, was likewise disinherited when her father renounced the crown.) (6)
Meanwhile, Maedhros is still around, and is passed over once more. After Doriath, neither he nor his remaining brothers can have any hope of leading the Noldor. There is, however, an heir with higher claim than Gil-galad and no guilt in Doriath: Celebrimbor. Perhaps he has no desire for the title, or perhaps he simply accepts that his House is forever disinherited.
Gil-galad leaves no heir and after Celebrimbor’s death, he is the last of the male line of Finwë. With no other choice, he designates Elrond as his heir, but Elrond never takes the title. The time of the Elves is ending, especially for the Noldor, and one might guess that he has fewer Elves at Imladris than Círdan has at the Havens, and that there are fewer Elves in all of Eriador than in the Greenwood and Lórien. (7)
What about the Sindar? Primogeniture seems to be the rule, and not merely for practical reasons. Dior’s ascendance to the throne through a female line is not, as Maeglin’s claim to the throne of Gondolin, a matter of necessity because a male relative to Thingol, descended through exclusively male lines, exists: Celeborn. Lúthien is passed over, but this appears to be by her own choice, as Elwing later becomes ‘queen’ of the Iathrim (people of Doriath) at the Havens. Evidently, among the Sindar, not only can descendants through the female line inherit, but females themselves can inherit. (It should be noted that the concept of Thingol as High King of all the Sindar is somewhat problematic and not borne out by the texts. The previous lines refer primarily to Doriath and its people.) (8,9,10)
In the Second Age, Gil-galad is said to be ‘High King of the Elves of the West’, (Eriador) apparently including both the Sindar and Noldor in this region. In the Second and Third Ages, the only Sindar who take the title of king are the rulers east of Hithaeglir, Oropher and Thranduil of the Greenwood and Amdír and Amroth of Lindórinand. However, while they certainly did not acknowledge Gil-galad as High King, they are kings of their realms, (Sindarin aran), not high kings of their people (taur). (11)
Much of this is conjecture, and aside from what is supported by LOTR, subject to bias in the choosing of texts. (The revision of Celeborn as grandson of Olwë, for example, is not considered here.) One could certainly argue that it is impossible to determine anything about the succession in Doriath, as Celeborn and Círdan as kin to Thingol were relatively late conceptions and developed well after the original story of Dior was written. (12)
Support for Salic seniority among the Noldor is better testified, as Maedhros specifically refers to right by eldest blood. Moreover, it adds weight to Galadriel’s sacrifice when offered the One Ring: ’“And now at last it comes. You will give me the Ring freely! In place of the Dark Lord you will set up a Queen.”’ In The Silmarillion, we are told, ‘No oaths she swore, but the words of Fëanor concerning Middle-earth had kindled in her heart, for she yearned to see the wide unguarded lands and to rule there a realm at her own will.’ By her sex, she becomes the subject of her much younger kinsman after Turgon’s death. Though she eventually rules Lórien with Celeborn, she never becomes a queen. By refusing to take the One Ring, she denies her heart’s desire, and so releases the ban on her return to Aman. Thus, the question of succession is not entirely derivative - it matters to Galadriel and ultimately influences the outcome of the War of the Ring. (13,14,15)
Notes:
(1) he does not claim the kingship himself
’…By no means all were of a mind to take Fëanor as King. Greater love was given to Fingolfin and his sons, and his household and the most part of the dwellers in Tirion refused to renounce him… . Nor did he forget his words before the throne of Manwë.’ (The Silmarillion, 'Of the Flight of the Noldor’ p 75 pub Houghton Mifflin Kindle Edition) These last words are important - his 'words before the throne of Manwë’ were: 'Thou shalt lead and I will follow.’ (Ibid, 'Of the Darkening of Valinor’ p 67), and imply that Fingolfin accepts Fëanor’s claim as Finwë’s successor.
(2) Gil-galad is, as Tolkien finally decided, the son of Arothir
(The Peoples of Middle-earth, 'The Shibboleth of Fëanor’ p 351 pub Houghton Mifflin)
(3) Turgon is stated to be 'by right’ the High King
(The Silmarillion, 'Of the Fifth Battle’ p 198)
This derives from old texts, appearing in the version given in The Lost Road
(4) (The Lost Road, 'Quenta Silmarillion’ p 344 pub Ballantine/Del Rey)
(5) Gil-galad materialises as Fingon’s son
(The War of the Jewels, 'The Grey Annals’ pp 56 and 77 pub Houghton Mifflin)
(6)Eärendil and Elrond would have the higher claim
Even if one prefers Tolkien’s original conception, that Fingon was the father of Gil-galad, it is notable that Tolkien saw no problem with Gil-galad inheriting from Turgon, whether he was the son of Fingon, Finrod or Arothir, showing that although he did not originally write The Silmarillion with Gil-galad as Arothir’s son, he always understood the succession to follow exclusively male lines.
(7) he designates Elrond as his heir
'At that time also Gil-galad gave Vilya, the Blue Ring, to Elrond, and appointed him to be his vice-regent in Eriador… .’ It may be that Celebrimbor was considered Gil-galad’s heir (or potential heir), as Elrond was not named vice-regent until after Celebrimbor’s death. (Unfinished Tales, 'The History of Galadriel and Celeborn’ p 230 pub Houghton Mifflin Kindle Edition)
(8) a male relative to Thingol, descended through exclusively male lines, exists: Celeborn
Celeborn’s movements are uncertain due to Galadriel’s statement in LOTR that “…Ere the fall of Nargothrond or Gondolin I passed over the mountains… .” (LOTR, 'The Mirror of Galadriel’ p 357 pub Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Kindle Edition) It may be that they travel east and return. Perhaps Galadriel leaves Doriath to travel east by herself. Celeborn’s dislike for Dwarves seems unlikely if he is not in Doriath when the Dwarves sack the city. (Unfinished Tales, 'The History of Galadriel and Celeborn’ p 226) Moreover, Christopher Tolkien cites evidence that, in at least one conception, Celeborn is present at the fall of Doriath. (Ibid, p 225) In any event, they - or at least Celeborn - are in Lindon at the beginning of the Second Age. (LOTR, 'Appendix B’ p 1082) Celeborn does, in fact, 'inherit’ eventually - he is said to hold a fief (presumably under Gil-galad) in Harlindon, where most of the Sindar settle after the First Age. (The Peoples of Middle-earth, 'Of Dwarves and Men’ p 328)
(9) Elwing later becomes 'queen’
(The Lost Road, 'The Lhammas’ p 191)
(10) the concept of Thingol as High King
Thingol is said to be both High King of all the Sindar and contemptuous of the Mithrim, who occupy lands ruled by Fingolfin and Fingon in the First Age. (The Peoples of Middle-earth, 'Last Writings’ p 385; Ibid, 'The Problem of Ros’ p 372) As for Círdan, he is variously said to acknowledge Thingol as High King and to be a vassal of Finrod. (The War of the Jewels, 'The Grey Annals’ p 117) However, Círdan notably sends the Falathrim to the Nirnaeth, without regard for the recusance of Finrod’s successor (Arothir) and Thingol. (The Silmarillion, 'Of the Fifth Battle’ p 190) One can conclude that Círdan simply does what he thinks wise and rules his own affairs.
(11) Gil-galad is said to be 'High King of the Elves of the West’
(LOTR, 'Appendix B’ p 1082)
(12) Celeborn and Círdan as kin to Thingol
An older text (noted previously) does name Elwing queen of the Iathrim at the Havens. The Silmarillion refers to Eärendil as ’ lord of the people that dwelt nigh to Sirion’s mouths’ and another (that I cannot locate) states that they are lord and lady of the Havens. (The Silmarillion, 'Of the Voyage of Eärendil’ p 254) Although Eärendil is Turgon’s designated heir among the refugees from Gondolin, he derives his authority over the Iathrim as consort to Elwing. A similar, but far more sinister example is found in the story of Ar-Zimraphel and Ar-Pharazôn. (Ibid, 'The Akallabêth’ pp 277-278) Moreover, numerous versions, from the older texts cited above to The Silmarillion, refer to the Iathrim at the Havens as Elwing’s people. (Ibid, 'Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin’ p 252)
(13) ’“And now at last it comes. You will give me the Ring freely! In place of the Dark Lord you will set up a Queen.”’
(LOTR, 'The Mirror of Galadriel’ pp 365-366)
(14) 'No oaths she swore, but the words of Fëanor concerning Middle-earth had kindled in her heart, for she yearned to see the wide unguarded lands and to rule there a realm at her own will.’
(The Silmarillion, 'Of the Flight of the Noldor’ p 74)
(15) releases the ban on her return to Aman
’…Her personal ban was lifted, in reward for her services against Sauron, and above all for her rejection of the temptation to take the Ring when offered to her. So at the end we see her taking ship.’ (The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, No 297 p 386n pub Houghton Mifflin)
sonata-k said:
Dawn is Coming
