Author: Paula Cas

I write fiction, non-fiction, verbiage for all our websites, and have been publishing my fan fiction on my various sites for many years. https://paulacas.com I am a Spiritual Medium and use Tarot cards as one my primary tools in doing readings. For 30 plus years have been doing readings in settings from my living room to truck stops. I tell you what Spirit wants you know for your betterment, not what you think you need to know. I’ve worked on computers since before there was such a creature as Windows. A Mountain Maryland native, but have spent years spent living in Oklahoma, Colorado, Texas, Oregon, California, Nevada, and Arizona. My husband, Oro Cas, and I spent 10 years driving tractor-trailer across the 48 contiguous states. Oro Cas and I produced and hosted Internet Radio shows on BlogTalk Radio, video productions on KDCL Media and Oro Expeditions YouTube Channels.

Wild Ground Phlox {April’s Full Moon} – Good Witches Homestead

Source: Wild Ground Phlox {April’s Full Moon} – Good Witches Homestead

The April full moon is also known as the Full Pink Moon, which was named for the herb moss pink, or wild ground phlox, one of the earliest flowers of the spring.

pink full moon Spring has arrived, and the energy is moving into the action phase. The Moon is full with fertility, growth, planting, and it is now the time to sow new seeds (both literally, and figuratively). This is a time for earth magick, and that dealing with growth and fertility. This is a time to empower and encourage growth. Also, now is a great time to do spell work dealing with fertility, self-confidence, self-improvement, and for seeking knowledge and wisdom. It is now time to put to actions the plans made throughout winter. For gardeners, it is the time to empower seeds.

APRIL; Growing Moon (April) Also known as Hare Moon, Seed or Planting Moon, Planter’s Moon, Budding Trees Moon, Eastermonath (Eostre Month), Ostarmanoth, Pink Moon, Green Grass Moon
Nature Spirits: plant faeries
Herbs: basil, chives, dragon’s blood, geranium, thistle
Colors: crimson red, gold
Flowers: daisy, sweet pea
Scents: pine, bay, bergamot, patchouli
Stones: ruby, garnet, sard
Trees: pine, bay, hazel
Animals: bear, wolf
Birds: hawk, magpie
Deities: Kali, Hathor, Anahita, Ceres, Ishtar, Venus, Bast
Power Flow: energy into creating and producing; return balance to the nerves. Change, self-confidence, self-reliance, take advantage of opportunities. Work on temper and emotional flare-ups and selfishness.

APRIL MOON FACTS AND FOLKLORE

A full Moon in April brings frost. If the full Moon rises pale, expect rain.

On April 20, 1972, the lunar module of Apollo XVI landed on the moon with astronauts John Young and Charles Duke aboard. Thomas Mattingly remained in orbit around the moon aboard the command module.

One day later, on April 21, 1972, Apollo XVI astronauts John Young and Charles Duke drove an electric car on the surface of the moon. It’s still up there along with some expensive tools and some film that they forgot.

The period from the Full Moon through the last quarter of the Moon is the best time for killing weeds, thinning, pruning, mowing, cutting timber, and planting below-ground crops.

One of the most dramatic sights in the night sky—and inspiration for poets, artists, and lovers for millennia—full moons captivate us like nothing else.

Every month Earth’s moon goes through its phases, waning and waxing in its constant transformation from new moon to full moon and back again. Full moons occur every 29.5 days or so as the moon moves to the side of Earth directly opposite the sun, reflecting the sun’s rays off its full face and appearing as a brilliant, perfectly circular disk.

For millennia, humans have used the movement of the moon to keep track of the passing year and set schedules for hunting, planting, and harvesting. Ancient cultures the world over have given these full moons names based on the behavior of the plants, animals, or weather during that month.

January: Wolf Moon
Native Americans and medieval Europeans named January’s full moon after the howling of hungry wolves lamenting the midwinter paucity of food. Other names for this month’s full moon include old moon and ice moon.

February: Snow Moon
The typically cold, snowy weather of February in North America earned its full moon the name snow moon. Other common names include storm moon and hunger moon.

March: Worm Moon
Native Americans called this last full moon of winter the worm moon after the worm trails that would appear in the newly thawed ground. Other names include the chaste moon, death moon, crust moon (a reference to snow that would become crusty as it thawed during the day and froze at night), and sap moon, after the tapping of the maple trees.

April: Pink Moon
Northern Native Americans call April’s full moon the pink moon after a species of early blooming wildflower. In other cultures, this moon is called the sprouting grass moon, the egg moon, and the fish moon.

May: Flower Moon
May’s abundant blooms give its full moon the name flower moon in many cultures. Other names include the hare moon, the corn planting moon, and the milk moon.

June: Strawberry Moon
In North America, the harvesting of strawberries in June gives that month’s full moon its name. Europeans have dubbed it the rose moon, while other cultures named it the hot moon for the beginning of the summer heat.

July: Buck Moon
Male deer, which shed their antlers every year, begin to regrow them in July, hence the Native American name for July’s full moon. Other names include thunder moon, for the month’s many summer storms, and hay moon, after the July hay harvest.

August: Sturgeon Moon
North American fishing tribes called August’s full moon the sturgeon moon since the species was abundant during this month. It’s also been called the green corn moon, the grain moon, and the red moon for the reddish hue it often takes on in the summer haze.

September: Harvest Moon
The most familiar named moon, September’s harvest moon refers to the time of year after the autumn equinox when crops are gathered. It also refers to the moon’s particularly bright appearance and early rise, which lets farmers continue harvesting into the night. Other names include the corn moon and the barley moon.

October: Hunter’s Moon
The first moon after the harvest moon is the hunter’s moon, so named as the preferred month to hunt summer-fattened deer and fox unable to hide in now bare fields. Like the harvest moon, the hunter’s moon is also particularly bright and long in the sky, giving hunters the opportunity to stalk prey at night. Other names include the traveling moon and the dying grass moon.

November: Beaver Moon
There is disagreement over the origin of November’s beaver moon name. Some say it comes from Native Americans setting beaver traps during this month, while others say the name comes from the heavy activity of beavers building their winter dams. Another name is the frost moon.

December: Cold Moon
The coming of winter earned December’s full moon the name cold moon. Other names include the long night moon and the oak moon.

The Blue Moon
Each year, the moon completes its final cycle about 11 days before the Earth finishes its orbit around the sun. These days add up, and every two and a half years or so, there is an extra full moon, called a blue moon. The origin of the term is uncertain, and its precise definition has changed over the years. The term is commonly used today to describe the second full moon of a calendar month, but it was originally the name given to the third full moon in a season containing four full moons.

Venus Я in Pisces squaring Saturn Я Apr.-Aug. 2017

Written by Iya Olusoga – Bisi Ade

For The Astrorisa Moon Forecaster

XAPANA

Obaluaiye’s planet, Saturn will officially go retrograde April 6, 2017 at 27° in the sign of Sagittarius in house 1. Saturn will later station direct on August 25, 2017 at 21° Sagittarius.

Saturn is the “Lord of Karma” and Obaluaiye, offers the experience of ‘’ we reap what we sow.” The Ancestors/ Egungun identified the overall theme of 2017 as “The Year of the Reckoning.” This is telling, because it means that the dirty, dastardly, deeds which we’ve gotten away with for many years, catches up with us during the ‘Year of the Reckoning.’

The last decade Saturn went retrograde in Sagittarius was Thursday, March 7 1985, 08:04 AM ET; 1 month (+) 1 day (-), and 32 years ago.

Saturn retrograde governs our experiences surrounding maturity, health, self-discipline, responsibility, our fears, loneliness, and anxieties. Saturn retrograde creates a type ‘forced’ isolation. We are ‘forced’ to re-address aspects and elements about our core being which has been a hindrance to our development and growth. This is when we’re thrown into the ‘lion’s den’ so it may feel or seem. We are exposed to the elements of chaos, we face redemption, or ridicule. We come face to face with our own fears and realizations of internal truths, and then we work hard to climb out of the pit. Through the act of ‘climbing out’ of our pits, we develop the psychological and emotional muscle to endure, then to sprint, moving forward in a new direction

Currently Venus Я in Pisces squares Saturn Я. What we’ve previously enjoyed, felt comfortable doing, or admired either becomes exposed, becomes lost, or experiences a sour note. Whatever Venus ruled in our lives; if we were undisciplined in its specific area Saturn, will assist us to gain sight of it, and then judge it.

During this Venus Я in Pisces squaring Saturn Я transit

Be mindful if you feel depressed, or unworthy. These are suppressed emotions which require your attention, and or release.

Think back to 1985 through 1988 when Saturn was in Sagittarius.

What did you lose then gain?

What did you experience which offered a clear lesson?

Did you master the knowledge of that lesson or is it up for a repeat?

Public comment needed on Nevada mine that will use over 2 billion gallons of water in 10 years | Straight from the Horse’s Heart

This map shows the Gold Bar Mine area, the approximate HMA (in solid red) and HA boundaries(in broken red lines), the approximate Mt. Hope Mine Project area and well field, and the approximate combined Gold Bar Mine and Mt. Hope Mine 10′ water drawdown area (in blue). The 10′ water drawdown (in blue) effects almost the entire Roberts Mountain HMA. The 1″ water drawdown will effect a much larger area. (Streams can dry up with as little as a 1′ water drawdown.)

BE SURE TO LOOK AT ALL 8 MAPS AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS ARTICLE.

It’s best to write comments in your own words so that the BLM counts each comment as one, instead of counting a thousand similar comments/form letter as only one. You can read the joint comments submitted by Wild Horse Freedom Federation and The Cloud Foundation below, and a quick summary on pages 5-41 of the DEIS HERE. Comments are due by April 17, 2017.

Some suggested talking points are:

Be sure to ask for the NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE.
The Gold Bar mine project will use over 2 billion gallons of water in 10 years. The BLM needs to take into consideration past (historic), current and likely future droughts and climate change when deciding if they will approve this DEIS.
The Project will negatively impact the water, forage, safety, and “free-roaming” abilities of the Roberts Mountain wild horse herd on the Roberts Mountain HMA, as well as the nearby wild horse herds on Whistler Mountain and Fish Creek Herd Management Areas.
The BLM is minimizing the area of impact by only indicating the 10′ water drawdown, and not the 5′ or 1′ water drawdown. The 5′ and 1′ water drawdown will cover a much larger area of land. A stream can dry up with as little as 1′ of water drawdown.
When the nearby Mt. Hope mine becomes operational, it is proposed that it will use an additional 7,000 gallons per minute for the life of the mine (40-50 years). Mt. Hope mine will use over 3 1/2 billion gallons of water per year and over 36 billion gallons of water in 10 years.
The BLM refers to the Cyanide Management Plan (1992), (noted in Vol. 1A, 1.4.3) and the Solid Minerals Reclamation Handbook (1992), (noted in Vol. 1A, 1.4.4). These are 25 years old and outdated. Ask for updates of this Plan and Handbook for this DEIS.
The area of Gold Bar Mine will be expanded by 40,000 acres or 62.5 square miles, creating more environmental degradation.

The DEIS is available online at HERE. Interested individuals should address all written comments to Christine Gabriel, Project Manager, using any of the following ways:

Fax: (775) 635-4034

Email: blm_nv_bmdo_mlfo_gold_bar_project_eis@blm.gov

Mail: Bureau of Land Management

Mount Lewis Field Office

50 Bastian Road

Battle Mountain, NV 89820

Wild Horse Freedom Federation and The Cloud Foundation submitted these joint comments regarding the BLM’s Gold Bar Mine Project:

Bureau of Land Management

Mount Lewis Field Office

50 Bastian Road

Battle Mountain, NV 89820

Email: blm_NV_bmdo_mlfo_gold_bar_project_eis@ blm.gov

DATE: April 5, 2017

Subject: DEIS MMI Gold Bar Mine Project

Dear Ms. Gabriel:

On behalf of The Cloud Foundation (TCF) and Wild Horse Freedom Federation (WHFF), 501(c)3 non-profit corporations, and our hundreds of thousands of supporters throughout the United States, we would like to thank you for the opportunity to submit scoping comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for McEwen Mining Inc.’s (MMI) Gold Bar Mine Project (Project).

TCF, a wild horse and burro advocacy group and an advocacy group for all wildlife on our public lands in the West, and Wild Horse Freedom Federation, a voice for the protection of wild horses and burros and public lands, strongly oppose the expansion of the Gold Bar mining project and we urge the NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE in this DEIS for the following reasons:

Wild Horse Herds To Be Affected:

The Project will negatively impact the Roberts Mountain Wild Horse Herd as well as the nearby herds of Whistler Mountain and Fish Creek Herd Management Areas.

Sage Grouse Habitat Affected:

Not only wild horses will be affected in this area. All wildlife will suffer.

Open pit mining is the most environmentally destructive type of mining anywhere. Extreme weather events can overwhelm all mandated precautions, threatening migratory birds and small mammals. In the case of a flood, even large mammals like wild horses risk exposure to potentially lethal mining waste.

Direct habitat damage due to mining plus further fragmentation by roads and large equipment traveling on these roads will eliminate hopes for the recovery of the Greater Sage Grouse in this area. The transport process in itself is dangerous—accidents, dust, spread of contaminants, noise, etc.

Greater Sage Grouse were once so numerous that the “sky was black” with these large birds, according to Ginger Kathrens’ late Uncle, Allan Ralston, who spoke of this area after his return from WWII. Now the birds are threatened and a species of critical environmental concern. BLM should prioritize these risks.

Impacts on Water Sources:

Per the Gold Bar DEIS, page 4-147, under 2 different scenarios, the mine will either pump 380 gpm (gallons per minute) or 500 gpm (gallons per minute).

If the mine pumps 380 gpm, this equals 22,800 gallons per hour, 547,200 gallons per day, and 199,728,000 gallons per year. Over 10 years, it will pump over 2 billion gallons of water.

If the mine pumps 500 gpm, this equals 30,000 gallons per hour, 720,000 gallons per day, and 262,800,000 gallons per year. Over 10 years, it will pump over 2 1/2 billion gallons of water.

This does not include the water which the Mt. Hope mine will use once mining begins. Mt. Hope is projected to use 7,000 gallons per minute for the life of the mine (40-50 years).

The project will deplete surface and ground water resulting in the drying up of ephemeral streams. Reducing water tables to dangerously low levels will negatively impact perennial streams. This DEIS minimizes the impact on water resources by not providing 5’ or 1’ water drawdown maps and thus minimizing the additional area of land that will be effected. A stream can dry up with as little as 1’ of water drawdown.

Maps created by Wild Horse Freedom Federation are included in the Appendix.

Map 1 – (Figure 4.23-11 of DEIS) Gold Bar Mine Wild Horse CESA (Cumulative Effects Study Area). On page 4-265 of the DEIS, it states “The CESA for the wild horses and burros includes Roberts Mountain, Whistler Mountain, and portions of the Fish Creek HMAs, as well as Kobeh Valley and Roberts Mountain HAs where wild horses existed based on past inventories, and where they could be potentially affected by the Project…”

Map 2 – shows the addition of the approximate 10′ water drawdown area – (Figure 4.19-3 of Gold Bar Mine Project), 500 gpm (gallons per minute) for 10 years.

Map 3 – shows the addition of the approximate HMA and HA boundaries.

Map 4 – shows the addition of the approximate Mt. Hope Mine Project area and well field – (Figure 3.13.1 Mt. Hope Project EIS).

Map 5 – shows the addition of the approximate Mt. Hope Mine 10″ water drawdown area – (Figure 3.2.18 Mt Hope Project EIS).

Map 6 – shows approximate sketch of Gold Bar Mine and Mt Hope Mine with HMA and HA boundaries

Map 7 – shows approximate HMA boundaries over grazing allotments map – (Figure 3.7 – 1, Gold Bar Mine EIS)

Map 8 – shows approximate mining, water drawdown, and grazing with the HMA and HA boundaries.

BLM writes in their description of the Roberts Mountain HMA: Water availability is a key influence to wild horse use during summer months. Wild horses will generally travel much farther to water than will livestock. In many HMAs water sources are plentiful and supplied by perennial streams, springs, and human constructed water developments such as livestock water tanks and ponds. In other cases, water sources are limiting, and in drought years, wild horses may have difficulty accessing sufficient water, (emphasis added) especially if the population exceeds the Appropriate Management Level (AML). In these cases, wild horse distribution is closely tied to the location of the available waters, which becomes very important to the health of the herd.

Drought Ridden Region

Drought is common in this driest state in the Union. Emergency removals of wild horses because of the lack of water are common. Removals of 14 wild horse herds occurred in 2009 south of Ely by BLM. The Agency cited the lack of reliable water sources as the reason for the removal of wild horses on 1.4 million acres of public land.

The proposed expansion and creation of more water dependent, extractive uses of the land is irresponsible.

Outdated Plan and Manual

This DEIS is based, in part, on a plan and a manual that are each about 25 years old and outdated. We are referring to the BLM Cyanide Management Plan (1992), (noted in Vol. 1A, 1.4.3) and the Solid Minerals Reclamation Handbook (1992), (noted in Vol. 1A, 1.4.4). We ask that you review these outdated materials and update them if you are going to base any part of this DEIS on these outdated plans.

Economic Uncertainty

The potential for failure of this project is so high that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) states: . . .in addition to greater uncertainty as to the economic feasibility of Mineralized Material compared to proven and probable reserves, there is also greater uncertainty as to the existence of Mineralized Material. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that measured or indicated resources will be converted into economically mineable reserves. The estimation of inferred resources involves far greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic viability than the estimation of other categories of resources.

Couple the above with the failure of the previous mine developers, Atlas Corporation, who filed for bankruptcy and abandoned the land in an unreclaimed condition in 1999.

Wide Scale Damage

McEwen Mining, a Canadian Mining company, is poised to take over and create even more environmental degradation. The area would be expanded by 40,000 acres or 62.5 square miles, or about 1/3 the size of the Colorado Springs metropolitan area where TCF is headquartered. In other words, this is destruction on a grand scale.

Damage from gold mining is permanent. No amount of mitigation can return the landscape to anything approaching a natural state. Over flights of the area reveal large-scale destruction. Increasing this permanent destruction for the hope of short-term gain is not a reasonable, and certainly not an environmentally friendly decision.

For the above reasons, we urge you to select the NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE for the Gold Bar Mine Project.

Thanks very much for your consideration of our position on this important issue.

Sincerely,

Ginger Kathrens Debbie Coffey

Executive Director, Vice-President,

The Cloud Foundation, Inc. Wild Horse Freedom Federation

107 S. 7^th Street P.O. Box 390

Colorado Springs, CO 80905 Pinehurst, TX 77362

MAPS:

Map 1

http://wildhorsefreedomfederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Gold-Bar-Mine-Map-1.pdf

Map 2

http://wildhorsefreedomfederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Gold-Bar-Mine-Map-2.pdf

Map 3

http://wildhorsefreedomfederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Gold-Bar-Mine-Map-3.pdf

Map 4

http://wildhorsefreedomfederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Gold-Bar-Mine-Map-4.pdf

Map 5

http://wildhorsefreedomfederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Gold-Bar-Mine-Map-5.pdf

Map 6

http://wildhorsefreedomfederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Gold-Bar-Mine-Map-6.pdf

Map 7

http://wildhorsefreedomfederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Gold-Bar-Mine-Map-7.pdf

Map 8

http://wildhorsefreedomfederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Gold-Bar-Mine-Map-8-with-mining-water-drawdown-and-grazing.pdf

Source: Public comment needed on Nevada mine that will use over 2 billion gallons of water in 10 years | Straight from the Horse’s Heart

Herbal Immersion | Southeast Wise Women – Good Witches Homestead

Join Corinna Wood for the Wise Woman Herbal Immersion ~ May 22-27, 2016, near Asheville, NC. An inspirational journey into herbal medicine, nourishment, and self-love.

Source: Herbal Immersion | Southeast Wise Women – Good Witches Homestead

13th International Herb Symposium | June 9th-11th, 2017 – Crooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs

Source: 13th International Herb Symposium | June 9th-11th, 2017 Wheaton College, Norton Massachusetts – Crooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs

Democrats Ask Teachers To Destroy Books Written By ‘Climate Deniers’ | The Daily Caller

Young woman with burning book in hands (Shutterstock/Mikhail Klyoshev)

Andrew Follett

Energy and Science Reporter

Three senior House Democrats asked U.S. teachers Monday to destroy a book written by climate scientists challenging the environmentalist view of global warming.

The Democrats were responding to a campaign by the conservative Heartland Institute copies of the 2015 book, “Why Climate Scientists Disagree About Global Warming” to about 200,000 science teachers. Democratic Reps. Bobby Scott of the Committee on Education, Raúl M. Grijalva of the Committee on Natural Resources, and Eddie Bernice Johnson of the Committee on Science, Space and Technology all issued a statement telling teachers to trash the book.

“Public school classrooms are no place for anti-science propaganda, and I encourage every teacher to toss these materials in the recycling bin,” Scott said. “If the Heartland Institute and other climate deniers want to push a false agenda on global warming, our nation’s schools are an inappropriate place to drive that agenda.”

The book’s three authors all hold doctorates and taught climate or related science at the university level. The book was written by former Arizona State University climatologist Dr. Craig D. Idso, James Cook University marine geology and paleontology professor Robert M. Carter, and University of Virginia environmental scientist Dr. Fred Singer.

Grijalv accused the scientists of “lying to children about the world we live in to further corporate polluter profits” and said that doing so was “cruel.” Johnson stated that the scientists had sent “scientifically inaccurate materials on climate change to public school teachers across the country” at the behest of ominous right wing donors and the Charles and David Koch brothers.

The best way to get adults to act like environmentalists is by brainwashing their children, according to research published by Oregon State University. Talking to kids about global warming caused their parents to use less energy and act more like environmentalists. The research was run on was run on 30 Girl Scout troops in northern California and had a “lasting impact on family energy consumption” for at least eight months after the end of the program.

Based on the study’s success, the researchers are now disseminating the curriculum to Girl Scout leaders around the country and attempting to adapt it to other groups of kids, including schools and youth-focused organizations such as 4-H with the help of other universities, such as Stanford. The research was financially supported by government grants.

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Send tips to andrew@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.

Source: Dems Tell Teachers To Trash Global Warming ‘Denier’ Books | The Daily Caller

CRYSTALS FOR YOUR PLANTS – Good Witches Homestead

The integration of crystals alongside nature’s bounty can be a wonderful benefit for growth and regeneration.

By placing these minerals at the base of any plant or burying them alongside your vegetables, they can bring an added sense of encouragement and even spirituality to your hard work.

Minerals Used In The Garden

Agate (Moss): is a transparent stone that has inclusions of minerals that make it look like the stone has foliage in its matrix. This pretty stones can make a decorative border around any plant or flower bed.

Boji Stones are actually a registered trademark of stones discovered in Colorado. The appear smooth on one side (female) while others have a small protrusion on one side (male). These pair of stones are many composed of pyrite and palladium and have been used to facilitate growth and encourage telecommunication between plants.

Cerussite is a mineral, which occasionally resembles trees branching out with icicles. This stone has been used in gardens and work fields to assist in relieving infestation. It can be used to energize and protect house plants.

Daphnite: has been used by agricultural associations, farmers, and growers of herbs, plants, and flowers as the stone of transformation and transmutation. It appears to facilitate the communication with the plant world in order to enhance gardens, terrariums, and crops of any kind.

Fossils are the organic materials that have turned to stone. Minerals incorporate into the cellular structures of animals, bones, insects, shells and wood, filling in the spaces and are often found with inclusions of other plants or animals. Fossils are a stamp from the past that can be used to adorn any garden, indoor/outdoor potted plants. Their high mineral content is said to supplement any type of plantings.

Quartz: is considered solidified light and oxygen. Quartz encompasses a large family of stones and crystals, all of which are made up primarily of silicon dioxide, one of the most common and most important substances in the world. This mineral is found over 2/3 of the earth and can be used in many ways throughout your garden. Create beautiful borders.

Bury a few quartz points facing upward next to your potted plants. Lay some clear quartz tumbled stones alongside your flower garden. Use an elixir (see below) of quartz and water your plants with them. Make a crystal grid (see below) around your field or plant beds to encourage growth, harmony, and transform energy.

Sphene: is a mineral that grows in plate-like or wedge-shaped form and has been used in grids (see below) to encourage growth.

Tourmaline (Green): is a healing stone that some gem healers consider the strongest of all green stones. It is used to help achieve balance in all areas. Botanists, herbalists, farmers and gardeners have all used this stone to increase the effectiveness of a herb’s healing properties. Green tourmaline is said to hold the “essence of the plant kingdom” within it and is used to conduct energy between the earth and the plants for smoother transitions during growth.

Creating A Garden Grid

A ‘Grid’ is a way to arrange the stones in a sacred geometric pattern. They are then consciously ‘activated’ by connecting a ‘line of Light’ between the stones so that they radiate an energy field in the immediate environment in which they are constructed.

Those of you who are sensitive to energy will be able to tell immediately that there is a shift of energy in the area where you construct a Grid. Depending on which stones you choose, there will either be a gentle shift… or a very tangible one.

Creating a Sacred Space:

We live and work in a variety of environments. Many of these environments have a specific function to fulfill that can be consciously and energetically supported. The current attention on Feng Shui and similar ‘getting the energy in the room just right’ techniques have shown that we, as a society, are becoming more aware of how our immediate spaces can either be harmonious or disharmonious to our goals.

Constructing a Crystalline Grid in your garden or an environment that supports the function of the area is yet another way to contribute to the overall energy flow.

You may add a Grid that supports harmony in your garden or general feelings of love and comfort. There are no right or wrongs. Choose the space. Familiarizing yourself with the various metaphysical properties of minerals can be very helpful to you as you make your choices.

You can get a nice list of stones you may want to use and then use a pendulum to figure out which ones would be the most effective for you.

The first thing to do is develop clear intent of the purpose of your grid.

Hold your crystals in your hands at heart level. Say a prayer of intention or affirmation that will program these stones to work their highest good for your garden.

Place them in a formation. Consider using sacred symbols around your plant or garden such as a star, a circle, a cross or a square. Save one crystal before placing it into the earth.

To connect the grid lines start by pointing the last crystal toward the first stone you laid down. Holding it a few inches above the grid, draw a line of energy, that connects each crystal you have laid out. Once you have traced these energy lines over your stones, plant the last crystal in your hand into the earth.

Making Crystal Elixirs

Crystal concoctions or elixirs are the recipes of the past. It is recommended to place clean stones or crystals into clean, clear distilled water and place it in the morning sun through the day and into the night of a full moon for 24 hours.

This allows the (male) sun energy and (female) moon energy to reflect through the water and into the crystals, therefore, charging the water with this vibrational force of light and color.

After 24 hours, place this elixir into a dark glass bottle and use it to water your plants, flowers, and vegetables.

Quartz crystals such as clear rose, amethyst, citrine and smokey all respond very favorably to a water and light remedy method. They also offer a complete light spectrum within them. The best for healing.

Top 10 Ways To Make A Crystal Garden

1. Choose crystals that will work for your appropriate situation.

2. Choose crystals you are drawn to.

3. Program crystals to their greatest and highest good

4. Place in a grid around plants, shrubs, and trees.

5. Plant elixir water can be used to enrich your garden.

6. Use crystals as a border around your plants or herbs.

7. Blend sand (high in quartz crystal content) with potting soil.

7. Invoke the elements by coordinating your garden with crystals associated with each season and direction.

8. Enhance plant food with crystals by placing them in the food 24 hours before use.

9. Cut flowers and potted plants make great gifts. Include one of your garden crystals with the gift.

10. Enjoy the work you have created.

Source: CRYSTALS FOR YOUR PLANTS – Good Witches Homestead

What Is Prana? – Good Witches Homestead

By Diana L. Jones

Prana is the vital life force that sustains life. In a human, it is all the cosmic Energy that causes the physical actions within one’s body. Prana is the fuel for our bodies, from the food we eat to the air that is breathed.

Prana is energy, vitality, power. Prana is the foundation and essence of all life; the energy and vitality that permeates the entire Universe. Prana flows in everything that exists.

Furthermore, Prana is the connecting link between the material world, consciousness, and mind. It is what makes life on the material level possible. Prana regulates all physical functions, for example, the breath, the supply of oxygen, digestion, elimination and much more. The function of the human body is much like a transformer, receiving energy from the Universal flow of Prana, distributing that energy, and then eliminating it. If a person or a room has a healthy, harmonious vibration, we say: “There is good Prana here”. Illness, on the other hand, disturbs or blocks the flow of Prana. As we develop the ability to control Prana, we gain harmony and health, of both body and mind. In addition to this, with long and consistent practice an expansion of consciousness is experienced.

Prana is divided into ten main functions:

The five Pranas – Prana, Apana, Udana, Vyana and Samana.
The five Upa-Pranas – Naga, Kurma, Devadatta, Krikala and Dhananjaya.

The Five Pranas

PRANA

Prana is that special function of the Cosmic Prana, which supplies the human body with essential oxygen. Its energy flows from the nostrils to the level of the heart.

Clean air is vital for health, however, on its own air, is not the decisive factor in good health. Some people are prone to illness, even though they are frequently out in the fresh air. On the other hand, people who live in rooms or suburbs with relatively poor air quality remain healthy. Our health is not influenced by external factors only. Health is also governed by our inner condition, by the power of resistance and the inner will – Atmabala – the inner vitality. When Atmabala is strong within, external forces can barely harm us. The practice of “Yoga in Daily Life” strengthens our vitality. Certain techniques, in particular, activate Prana Shakti, these are Bhastrika, Nadi Shodhana, and Ujjayi Pranayama.

APANA

Apana Prana influences the lower part of the body from the navel to the soles of the feet. This Prana regulates the elimination process. Diseases that affect the lower abdomen, intestines, kidneys, urinary tract, legs, etc., are the result of disturbed Apana Prana. The techniques of Nauli, Agnisara Kriya, Ashvini Mudra and Mula Bandha serve to strengthen and purify Apana Prana.

VYANA

Vyana Prana flows through the nerve channels of the human body. It has an effect on the whole body and particularly on the Nadis. Poor circulation, impaired nerve stimulation and nervous breakdowns, originate from a deficiency in Vyana Prana.

Vyana Prana is activated and strengthened in the practice of Kumbhaka (breath retention). With each natural, relaxed breath that we take, there is an automatic pause between inhalation and exhalation. In the practice of Pranayama, this pause is consciously lengthened. When we retain the breath, we withhold energy in the body with a resultant build up in pressure. This pressure has the effect of releasing energy blockages. Kumbhaka stimulates the nervous system. Anyone who has combined the techniques of Kumbhaka and Maha Bandha knows the subsequent, pleasant sensation of peace that flows through the body. This is the reason for being able to meditate well after this practice. The feeling is produced by the increased flow of Vyana Prana throughout the whole body.

It is highly recommended to perform the following breath exercise several times a day.

Inhale deeply and exhale once
Again inhale and hold the breath for as long as comfortable (counting to 20, 30, etc.)
Exhale and hold the breath again for a while
Repeat this exercise 4-5 times.

The benefit of this simple breath exercise is quickly noticed and our nerves are truly grateful.

UDANA

Udana Prana is the ascending energy that flows from the heart to the head and brain. Udana Prana accompanies the awakening of the Kundalini Shakti. It is with the assistance of Udana Prana that the Astral body separates itself from the physical body. A strong Udana Prana eases the phase of death.

With the control of Udana Prana, the body becomes very light and one may gain the ability to levitate. When Udana Prana is in our control, external obstacles such as water, earth or stones no longer obstruct us. Intense practice of the Yoga breath exercises also gives the possibility of walking on water or even floating in the air. Fakirs who sit or lie on a bed of nails possess the ability to control their Udana Prana. Yogis who live in the forest and remain unaffected by heat, cold, thorns, and insects, etc., are protected through the control of Udana Prana. Udana Prana is activated by the practice of Ujjayi Pranayama, Bhramari Pranayama, as well as Viparitakarani Mudra.

Bhramari Pranayama Technique

Close the ears with the fingers and inhale. While exhaling through the nose, hum like a bumble-bee (the mouth remains closed).
After about 5-7 breaths sit motionlessly and breathe normally with the ears still closed. Concentrate on your inner space and listen to the inner sound.
This exercise will calm the nerves and thoughts, promote concentration and bring you into contact with your Self.

SAMANA

Samana is a very important Prana that connects two main Chakras – Anahata and Manipura Chakras.

Samana Prana distributes the energy of nutrition throughout the human body. We are aware that food not only influences our physical body but also affects our psyche and consciousness. The quality of our Prana (all types of Prana), is directly associated with the quality of our food. Pure, sattvic, vegetarian food and the practice of Pranayama will provide a healthy and balanced body for life.

Samana Prana has an influence on the Manipura Chakra, whose corresponding element is fire. When Yogis are able to control Samana Prana it is a pure flame within them. Those in whom Samana Prana is completely pure are surrounded by a radiant aura, which is even noticeable by those who do not have the ability to see auras.

This Prana is strengthened through the practice of Agnisara Kriya and Nauli. The practice of these two Kriyas prevents digestive problems and Diabetes. It also improves one’s resistance to infectious disease and cancer, due to the digestive fire that is awakened in the whole body, which purifies and cleans.

The most effective technique for awakening Samana Prana is Kriya Yoga. The practice of Kriya Yoga warms the entire body. This is due to the rising of Samana Prana. A very aware person can observe the aura of a Kriya practitioner becoming brighter and stronger with each round of practice.

The Five Upa-Pranas

The five Upa-Pranas regulate important functions in the human body.

NAGA – Burping

Removes blockages of Prana and Apana and prevents gas formation in the digestive system. Constant suppression of Naga can lead to Cardiac Arrhythmia. Other functions include triggering of the vomit reflex due to indigestion and dissolving blockages of Samana Prana.

KURMA – Blinking

This Upa-Prana functions in the area of the eyes, controlling opening and closing of the eyelids. The energy of this Upa-Prana is active when we are awake and is revitalized when we sleep. Kurma protects the eyes from the penetration of dust and foreign bodies etc. Disturbance of this Upa-Prana causes uncontrolled blinking and twitching of the eyelids. The practice of Trataka provides balance and strength to Kurma, as does the chanting of OM, placing warm palms over the eyes and Asanas where the head is bent forward.

DEVADATTA – Yawning

The function of Devadatta is similar to that of Samana Prana. Yawning expels gas, reducing tiredness after eating. Certain foods such as grains, onions, and garlic cause fatigue. Many Yogis only eat vegetables and some milk products in order to sustain their level of vitality and thereby reduce lethargy.

KRIKALA – Sneezing

Clears blockages in the respiratory system. Sneezing can also ease a headache as it releases energy blockages in the head and neck. A sneeze should not be suppressed, as this may affect vertebrae in the cervical spine. In folktales, it is said that he who sneezes loudly and strongly, has a long life. Weak sneezes indicate weak vitality.

DHANANJAYA – Opening and Closing of Heart Valves

Dhananjaya resides close to the Heart. It influences the whole body and in particular the muscles of the heart by opening and closing the heart valves. Cardiac Arrhythmia and even Heart Attack may occur due to a serious disturbance of Dhananjaya.

There are four areas in the human body where the flow of Prana is particularly intensive – through the sole of each foot and the palm of each hand. The feet are closely related to the earth element and represent negative polarity. Therefore one should never concentrate on the feet in meditation. Conversely, the energy of the palms originates from the heart. It is related to the air element and produces positive polarity.

There is an exercise through which we can very clearly feel Prana in the hands.

Raise the arms out to the sides of the body with palms facing to the front. Keep the arms straight and move them in a half-circle to the front of the body, slowly bringing the palms towards each other. Remain completely relaxed, slowly reducing the distance between the hands. As the palms become closer, you will be conscious of a growing sensation between the hands, or a feeling of pins and needles in the palms. Bring the palms closer until the distance between them is only about 1 centimeter. Now, due to the energy that streams from your hands, it feels as though the hands are really being pulled towards each other. Prana causes this. If you now move the hands apart again, you will feel pressure on the back of the hands, producing the opposite effect. This is also Prana because Prana flows without hindrance throughout the entire body.

Prana is distributed throughout the whole body, through the network of the Nadis (nerves). There are 72,000 Nadis in the human body. Of these, there are three Nadis of particular importance.

IDA, the “Moon System”, correlates with the left nostril and the Parasympathetic Nervous System.
PINGALA, the “Sun System”, correlates with the right nostril and the Sympathetic Nervous System.
SUSHUMNA, the “Central Nadi”, penetrates the spinal column and correlates with the Central Nervous System.

The practice of Asanas and Pranayamas, harmonize the Ida and Pingala Nadis and has a purifying, strengthening and balancing effect upon the energy flow in all 72,000 Nadis. Pranayama and Meditation practice enhance energy flow in the Sushumna Nadi. When spiritual energy begins to flow in the Sushumna certain brain centers and Chakras are activated, creating a development and expansion of our consciousness to higher spiritual levels.

Prana itself is totally pure and neutral, just as the spring-water of a river is clear and clean. In its course, the river picks up many substances which change the quality of the water. Exactly the same occurs with Prana. Prana flows into the body clean and pure, but how it departs depends on the individual – on their lifestyle, their inner qualities and feelings, the type of food consumed and the environment and company in which one lives. The quality of the Prana that radiates from people impacts on both the surrounding environment and the individuals themselves.

The level of vitality existent in the blood and individual cells determines the condition of the human body.

The more cells that die, the weaker one becomes, and the quicker one ages. When the flow of Prana is restricted, the result is the same. The flow of Prana is affected by the worries we create for ourselves. The more we feel disheartened or depressed, the weaker the flow of Prana, leaving us more susceptible to illness, and the aging process occurs more rapidly. On the other hand, those who are balanced and content radiate vitality, and their strength reaches out to touch fellow human beings. Therefore, we should always endeavor to radiate positive Prana.

The Prana that we radiate (our “vibration” or “aura”), is clearly perceptible to others. The type of aura depends upon the purity of our thoughts and feelings, and also our internal Biorhythm and physical state of health. Mental unrest, inner tension, and illness are clearly seen in the aura, as is a harmonious balance of body, mind, and soul.

It is most advantageous for others, and ourselves to cultivate positive, confident, trusting and good thoughts. Above all else, negative, self-destructive and hostile thoughts are most harmful to us. With such a mental attitude we poison ourselves. That is why Yoga aspirants always endeavor to keep their thoughts and feelings pure and positive. The practice of meditation and Mantra maintains pure Prana and the practice of Pranayama increases our capacity to store Prana.

When the soul leaves the body and death comes, the life energy also escapes from the body. It is our destiny to die one day, but we always forget this fact. When we die we leave everything behind – our body, worldly possessions, friends and also enemies. So wherein lies the meaning of life? The purpose of life is to recognize reality. This reality is the Divine Self (Atma) within us. This is what we seek in meditation when we ask ourselves the question: “Who am I?”. When we recognize our Self, we have Realised our Self.

In order to achieve this, physical exercises and breath techniques alone are too little. One’s whole life must be directed towards the good. When we are free of hatred, greed, anger, envy, jealousy, passion and dependency, and live in love, harmony, and understanding with the environment and ourselves, all our problems will be resolved. When daily practice and a positive way of life merge with each other in such a way that they become one, our practice has become effective and successful.

Source: What Is Prana? – Good Witches Homestead

20 Environmental Groups Jointly Demand Wildlife Services Ban M-44 Cyanide Bombs in Idaho | Straight from the Horse’s Heart

by Julia Travers as published on EnviroNews Idaho

Since 2000, Wildlife Services has killed more than 50,000 members of more than 150 non-target species, including federally and/or state-protected animals such as Mexican gray wolves, grizzly bears, kangaroo rats, eagles, falcons, California condors, red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, armadillos, pronghorns, porcupines, long-tailed weasels, javelinas, marmots, snapping turtles, turkey vultures, great blue herons, ruddy ducks, sandhill cranes and ringtail cats.

On March 28, 2017, a coalition of wildlife and conservation groups petitioned the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Wildlife Services (WS) and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to immediately ban M-44 devices in Idaho. M-44s are cyanide bombs used by WS to kill local predators such as coyotes, as part of a larger taxpayer-funded wildlife eradication campaign wherein WS, on behalf of the federal government, slaughters millions of wild animals every single year.

The recent hospitalization of a youth and killing of a family dog in Idaho who encountered one of these ground weapons near their home was one motivator for the creation of this petition. The document lists many other incidents of indiscriminate pet injuries and killings by M-44s in Appendix A.

The petition specifically calls on the agencies to:

1. Cease all use of M-44 explosive cyanide devices on all land ownerships in the State of Idaho, and
2. Immediately remove any and all M-44s currently deployed on all land ownerships in Idaho.

Signage on BLM contractor’s property housing former wild horses. ~ photo by R.T. Fitch of Wild Horse Freedom Federation

In November 2016, WS committed to cease the use of M-44s on Idaho’s public lands. Also, in 2016, a workplan between WS and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Idaho Falls District forbade the placement of these devices within a quarter mile of residences.

The recent incident with the teen and his pet occurred within a quarter mile of his home. The petition concludes this incident shows the “commitment to cease using M-44s on public lands in Idaho is inadequate to protect public safety and wildlife,” because either WS personnel are not carrying out the commitment or older bombs are still present on public land.

“Cyanide bombs are indiscriminate killers that must be banned,” Andrea Santarsiere, a senior attorney with the Center for Biological Diversity, said in a press release. “Any animal that might pull on the baited trigger is at risk, including endangered wildlife like Canada lynx and grizzlies, as well as people and pets. And in just the past few weeks these cruel devices have injured a child and killed an endangered wolf and several family dogs. Enough is enough.”

The petition explains:

Since 2000, Wildlife Services has killed more than 50,000 members of more than 150 non-target species, including federally and/or state-protected animals such as Mexican gray wolves, grizzly bears, kangaroo rats, eagles, falcons, California condors, red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, armadillos, pronghorns, porcupines, long-tailed weasels, javelinas, marmots, snapping turtles, turkey vultures, great blue herons, ruddy ducks, sandhill cranes and ringtail cats.

The petition also discusses how the cyanide bombs and other non-selective killing methods are actually unproductive because they disrupt ecosystem balances, can actually increase livestock losses and have not been shown to be economically effective.

Bethany Cotton, Wildlife Program Director for WildEarth Guardians, previously asserted to EnviroNews that “many ranchers peacefully coexist with coyotes and report no conflicts,” and that nonlethal predator response options include solar powered electric fencing and livestock dogs, amongst others.

“Ranchers can use less vulnerable types of livestock, hang flagging called ‘fladry,’ or actually put cowboys out there with their animals to discourage predator losses without resorting to demands for poisons and poisonous land mines that kill pets and non-target wildlife,” Erik Molvar, Executive Director of the Western Watersheds Project, told EnviroNews. He signed the petition on behalf of the coalition of environmental groups. “It is senseless and irresponsible for federal agencies to use taxpayer dollars to sow land mines and poisons in open country to kill native wildlife to prop up failing ranching operations,” he stated.

Federal law requires the petitioned agencies to provide a final decision in writing to the petitioners: Western Watersheds Project, Predator Defense, WildEarth Guardians, the Center for Biological Diversity, Friends of the Clearwater, Alliance for the Wild Rockies, Western Wildlife Conservancy, Nevada Wildlife Alliance, Gallatin Wildlife Association, Environmental Protection Information Center, the Wolf Conservation Center, Wilderness Watch, Klamath Forest Alliance, Northeast Oregon Ecosystems, Yellowstone to Uintas Connection, Footloose Montana, Animal Legal Defense Fund, Project Coyote, Voices of Wildlife and the Mountain Lion Foundation…(CONTINUED)

http://www.environews.tv/033017-20-environmental-groups-jointly-demand-wildlife-services-ban-m-44-cyanide-bombs-idaho/

Source: 20 Environmental Groups Jointly Demand Wildlife Services Ban M-44 Cyanide Bombs in Idaho | Straight from the Horse’s Heart

Mercury Retrograde April 2017 ~ Angry Damsels by Darkstar Astrology

By Marina

The 2nd Mercury Retrograde 2017 lasts from April 9 to May 3 and travels from 4º Taurus back to 24° Aries. Even though Mercury retrograde starts in the beginning of Taurus, the whole retrograde period has a fiery Aries theme as Mercury will spend half the period in Aries and will ignite heroic themes of courage and rescue. This is because the major star being activated will the ‘damsel in distress’ star Mirach in princess Andromeda’s girdle.

Perseus, rescuer of the princess is an Aries archetype in that he is heroic and brave. In the Greek myth Andromeda’s father agreed to sacrifice his daughter to Poseidon in order to save his kingdom. (What is it with these Neptunian gods always demanding child sacrifice?!) It looks like this Mercury Retrograde will start off extremely challenging with Venus retrograde square Saturn. Saturn is on a poisonous star too. Etamin in the right eye of Draco the Dragon is associated with the scattering of poison. (In modern days this could even be chemical weapons.)

Damsels In Distress

If that wasn’t enough, there is a cardinal T-square with Jupiter retrograde (Religious zealots) square Pluto (Globalists) square a Sun/Eris/Uranus stellium. (Persephone child abduction theme overlaps child sacrifice theme.). Mars is conjunct Ceres (The rape of mother earth and pagan principles.) in a decan hotspot that contains stars Algol (Medusa’s head) and Capulus the slayer.

When this Andromeda Mercury goes retrograde then, we have an opportunity to do in-depth research in this very volatile area that it travels through. Facing the disturbing topics of child sacrifice and abduction is unavoidable. All news and alternative media will become super-dramatic, and the themes mentioned in this post should play out, whether they are truthful or not! Mercury is one of three visible planets that are retrograde at this time which makes it even more challenging. (At least until Venus turns direct on April 15.).

Mercury Retrograde April Dates & Times

March 27 ~ Mercury Pre-Shadow Period starts at 24° Aries.
April 9 ~ Mercury Retrograde at 4° Taurus.(11.14 pm UT.)
May 3 ~ Mercury Direct at 24° Aries. (4.22 pm UT.)
May 19 ~ Post-Shadow ends at 4° Taurus

April 9 to 19 ~ Mercury Retrograde 2017 In Taurus Decan 1

RAGING BULLS. In the personal realm, those touched by this retrograde will either talk until the cows come home or be very reticent. Much depends on how confident they are feeling. The shy ones might become surprisingly chatty after a few glasses of wine. Words could get them into trouble.. a lot. Mercury in this decan create terrible gossip, and bring out tactless behavior. There are rousing speeches however, but a need to temper getting carried away. Overconfidence leads to moving towards Taurus decan 1’s dictatorship potentials. It will be hard to contain political rants and protests. Having said all that, Mercury is very powerful here in terms of its dignity as it rules this decan in the Chaldean system. This position, even retrograde, can assist merchants, orators, singers and writers. Use this time to prepare for an important business meeting, interview or public performance.

Apr 19/20 ~ Sun conjunct Mercury at 0º Taurus on Mirach

Midway through the Mercury retrograde 2017 cycle opens a window of wonderfulness where we can stand in the eye of the hurricane but miraculously come out in one piece. This way you can avoid the vacillation generally of Mirach but also gain its more positive attributes mentioned below. You can make use of the special Sun exact conjunct Mercury moment (Cazimi in traditional astrology). Either send a romantic message that really hits the mark or pitch an artistic idea. Try as close to these times as you can. Apr 19: 11.03pm PDT. Apr 20: 2.00am EDT, 7.03am UT, 8.03am CEST, 4.03pm AEST. (Sorry I know they are quite impractical for those in the US, Cazimi lasts about 3 hours either side of the hour.)

Mirach 0º with Mercury “Vacillating, unstable, peculiar events, many travels and changes.”

Mirach is found in the girdle of Andromeda. Despite the ‘peculiar events’ driven by Mercury on this star, it is generally extremely fortunate “portending renown and good luck in matrimony.” [1] The myth has Princess Andromeda chained to a rock as a sacrifice to Cepheus the sea monster. All to appease an offended Neptune! It all ends well however, as Andromeda was rescued by brave Perseus whom she married. Robson echoes the myth saying Mirach “gives personal beauty, a brilliant mind, a love of home, great devotion, beneficence, forgiveness, love, overcoming by kindness, renown, and good fortune in marriage.” The Ebertins emphasize a creative side saying Mirach endows “Many interests, tendency to inspiration and medium-ship as a base for artistic creations, altruism, cheerfulness, happiness, love of company. These people have a stimulating effect on others, they make friends easily and are helped on in life by others.” [2]

April 21 to May 3 ~ Mercury In Aries Decan 3

BOUNTY HUNTERS: Small words make big impressions during this time! Those touched by this part of the retrograde journey are aided in oratory and giving a persuasive sales pitch. The mind will be brilliant too in a way that weaves many different ideas into one cohesive ideology. Mercury has no dignity here so the gift during this time is its power of persuasion, rather than innate genius. However those with genuine talent will have the ability to transmit their message with great emotional punch. This almost guarantees that their ideology or products will reach a large audience. Mercury Aries 3 can be as seductive as it is highly critical. At its most negative it can inflict emotional abuse on others in the form of mental cruelty. Verbal attacks can feel like one is being machine-gunned with words. On the positive side Mercury here can use words to heal and uplift also. You can use this period to sweet-talk lovers with the most heartwarming poetry. Words are a big turn on!

May 3 ~ Mercury Direct

Mercury direct is a far more positive chart! The Yod to Jupiter is interesting in that it could be used for positive, spiritual transformation. The Sun/Neptune midpoint between an earthy Taurus the moisture of Pisces could bring some healing… mud. Mercury itself joins hands with rebellious, independent Uranus to bring, freedom of speech? With ever increasing censorship on alternative media we can only hope.

There is a nice balance from Saturn by trine to this Mercury direct. What was Saturn’s Draco poison in the Mercury Retrograde chart could be made into anti-venom perhaps? During this Aries/Taurus Mercury Retrograde we learn how transmute offensive words and turn their energy around for defense, much like in martial arts.

Source: Mercury Retrograde April 2017 ~ Angry Damsels by Darkstar Astrology