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Doppelganger

Meaning "double walker" a doppelganger is a shadow-self that accompanies every human. Only the owner of a doppelganger can see it, otherwise it is invisible to human eyes. Dogs and cats have been known to see doppelgangers. Providing sympathetic company, a doppelganger almost always stands behind a person, and they cast no reflection in a mirror. They are prepared to listen and give advice to humans, either implanting ideas in their heads, or a sort of osmosis. It is said to be bad luck if it is seen, and rarely a doppelganger will make itself visible to friends or family, often causing great confusion. Doppelgangers can be mischievous and malicious.

Cherokee Dream Pillow

The following recipe is said to keep away nightmares and bring prophetic dreams.

Stitch a small pillow of muslin of another light weight fabric. It is best to create a pillow that is able to be opened by putting velcro at one end, so you can refresh the pillow from time to time with new herbs without having to unstitch the end or make a new pillow. You may wish to cover muslin pillow with a light weight, washable "casing" as well. Once you stitch the pillow together, fill with:

4 oz dried lavender flowers
4 oz dried sage
2 oz ground orris root-as a preservative-(optional)
4 oz deer's tongue herb
2 oz cedar shavings
4 oz coltsfoot herb
4 oz sweet fern
2 oz violet

Keep dream pillow under or inside of your regular bed pillow. When storing your pillow each morning you may either leave it where it is or put it inside of a plastic bag by your bed. Storing it in the bag will help the herbs retain their freshness for a longer period of time.

Symbolic Animal Guardians Around the House

When examining the surrounding landforms of your home, we often refer to the 5 symbolic celestial animals. Locating and observing the position of each animal helps us identify certain feng shui aspects, which can be enhanced or remedied accordingly. Once you understand the basic principles behind the placement and function of each celestial animal position, you will be able to balance and streng then the surrounding land form around your home in order to encourage harmonious and nurturing energy for you and your family.

THE PROTECTIVE BLACK TORTOISE

The Tortoise area refers to the rear of your home (ie, the back yard). In order to feel secure and supported within your home, your back area should contain a protective ‘mountain effect’ which is symbolic of the Tortoise’s strong, hard shell. You can introduce this Tortoise feature by having a solid fence or a row of trees or a collection of large earthenware pots or statuary along the back boundary behind your home. You can also simulate the Tortoise support with a shed or other building structure at the rear of the property, which is solid, uncluttered and tidy. A statue of a single Tortoise will symbolically add the Tortoise influence to your backyard, however you will still need to add a ‘mountain’ feature to enjoy the protective qualities of the Tortoise support. The Tortoise feature helps retain accumulated chi that has entered your property, as well as protecting your back. If the rear of your property slopes away from the home, then your back is weakened. You will need to add tortoise support via the above-suggested features, and you should also consider adding up-lights to the back area to symbolically raise the chi.

THE GREEN DRAGON

When standing in your front yard looking towards your home, the Dragon side is on the right hand side of your property. The Dragon side of your property should ideally be higher than the Tiger side, as the Dragon keeps the Tiger energy benevolent. If your neighbor’s house on the Dragon side is taller than yours, then this is OK from a feng shui perspective, as their house represents protective dragon energy. Keeping this in mind, it is still important to retain a sense of balance in your surroundings - so you don’t want to be totally overshadowed by any neighboring buildings. If they tend to substantially rob your home of sunlight, block a beautiful view or overhang above your property, then the building is potentially draining beneficial chi from you. You can introduce Dragon energy by planting a raised garden area with flowering trees and shrubs, having your driveway on the Dragon side (the yang activity activates the benevolent Dragon energy), installing up-lights to symbolically raise the chi, placing 9 stepping stones in this area in a meandering fashion, and/or by placing statues or pots with dragon images on the Dragon side of your property.

THE CRIMSON PHOENIX

The Phoenix area is the front yard of your property. This is the area where chi first enters your property. From a feng shui perspective, we want to attract and accumulate positive sheng chi energy to this area. One of the fundamental key principles behind the term ‘feng shui’ (translating literally as ‘wind water’) is the concept that positive energy is carried along by the ‘wind’ (or unseen energy currents all around us) and is attracted to and captured by ‘water’. You can simulate the chi-attracting benefits of water in the Phoenix area by adding a ‘Footstool’ effect to the front yard, in order to capture and retain beneficial chi as it enters your property. You do this by creating a mound of earth (ie garden bed) that is raised (like a footstool in front of the home), while also maintaining an open area in the middle of the front yard for the chi to accumulate (known as the ‘Bright Hall Effect’). You can further stimulate the attraction of beneficial chi to your Phoenix area by planting bright displays of flowers in the front yard to add positive growth and abundance chi. Red colored flowers are especially auspicious for the front area. The Phoenix influence can also be symbolically introduced to the front yard (in conjunction with the above suggestions), by adding statuary, artworks, whirlygigs and symbols depicting birds (ie rooster, phoenix, peacock etc). If your front yard is lower than the road level, then you can symbolically raise the chi by installing up-lights in the front yard, which shine up onto the front face of the house to make it visually appear taller.

THE WHITE TIGER

When standing in your front yard looking towards your home, the Tiger side is on the left hand side of your property. Ideally, any neighboring buildings on this side should be lower than your home, otherwise the Tiger energy can become too strong and it can turn against you (often in the form of negative relations with the neighbors). Try to ensure that the garden area on the Tiger side is lower than the Dragon side. Plant low-growing shrubs and plants on this side. White flowering plants are considered auspicious for the Tiger side. If your driveway is located on the Tiger side, then each time cars travel along this part of your property, the Tiger is said to be prowling. This is especially symbolized at night when the car headlights traveling up the side of your property resemble Tiger-eyes glowing in the dark. The yang activity connected with a driveway on the left side of your property can turn the Tiger against you. If your driveway is situated on this side, make sure it is kept uncluttered and relatively quiet, and concentrate on building up your Dragon side to keep the Tiger energy benevolent.

THE SNAKE

This celestial creature represents the heart of your home, (ie the Center of your dwelling). Ideally, the Center of your home should be open and uncluttered, so the Snake energy can flow freely and communicate with the surrounding external guardians. In feng shui, the Snake is known to be a wise and sagacious creature. Its position in the Center of your home indicates the need to utilize your knowledge of the surrounding celestial guardians in order to feel balanced and centered within your own home environment.

Feather Magic

FEATHER MAGIC

In natural magic feathers are used in spells and ceremonies to promote change. They are used as catalysts to help focus concentration while carrying out spells and wishes.

The medicine bag, also called power pouch or sachet, often includes special feathers which have meaning to the wearer and help attracting good luck as well as driving away bad things.

Feathers are often used to focus concentration in spells.

Feathers are magically ruled by the element of air. This makes them good communication helpers. But each feather also can hold other special powers; depending on the bird it came from, its color and place of discovery and other factors.

The knowledge what kind of feather is best used for what kind of intent can only be found out for oneself by trial and error. A pigeon feather is not as helpful for creating a defense strategy than a feather taken from a bird of prey.

The general rule for future feather magicians is always to use self found feathers rather than bought ones. A shop cannot substitute a walk in nature, nor the joy when the wanted feather is finally found.

Feathers are often used to focus concentration in spells

Feathers used for magical undertakings are mainly determined by the energy which is brought into the feather by the magician him/herself through concentration and thought. Beside from the energy the magician brings into the object, feathers hold certain natural abilities.

PEACOCK:

Peacock Feathers were thought to be very unlucky, because they resemble an eye. The eye shape represented the evil eye which people were afraid of. Today the beauty and natural strength of the peacock feathers are again recognized. They are specially valued for their multicolored eyes.

BLUE JAY BIRD

Blue Jay feathers are valued as bringer of light and joy and are said to have the ability to brighten up even the darkest places.


FEATHER COLOR CORRESPONDENCES

WHITE:
Purification, spirituality, hope, protection, peace and blessings of the Moon.

GREEN:
Money, fertility and growth.

BROWN:
Health, stability, grounding and matters in the home.

ORANGE:
Attraction, energy and success.

YELLOW:
Intelligence and blessings of the Sun.

PINK:
Love.

GRAY:
Peace and neutrality; hope and balance.

BLUE:
Psychic awareness, peace and health; change.

BLACK:
Not recommended.

RED and BROWN:
Healing animals.

BROWN and WHITE:
Happiness.

BLACK and WHITE:
Union and protection.

GREEN and RED:
Finances.

BLACK and PURPLE:
Deep spirituality.

Talking Stone Pouch

Stones do speak to you. Rock people have much to say. They hold the history of this earth. They find that many people just don't want to take the time to listen.

Here is something that everyone can do:

Talking Stone Pouch

Pick out 5 of your favorite stones. They do not have to be precious stones or even semiprecious stones. Any stone you are drawn to. Place them in a little (or big) pouch. Sit quietly for a bit and calm yourself and ground to the Earth Mother. When you are ready, pull one stone out of the pouch and hold it in your hand. Note its color, shape and any markings it might have. Notice if is cool or warm. Then listen. You can ask if it is female or male gender energy. Ask for its message and be prepared for some wonderful conversation. Keep a small stone journal and write down its message. After thanking the stone for its message and its existence in your life, set this stone aside and proceed with the next stone.

You can put sea shells in the pouch as well and as time passes, add several other stones and shells. When you want to hear them, just pick out the stones you'd like to talk with. You can choose any number that you are inclined to seek wisdom from. You can use six stones (four for the 4 directions/elements, and one in the center to represent yourself). Pull only one stone at a time from your pouch, and listen to 1 stone at a time. Pulling more than one stone can result in conflicting or confusing messages, as all the stones will try to speak to you at once.

10 Healing Crystals for Women

Excerpt from: A Guide to Gem and Crystal Therapy
by Karen Ryan, Crystal Energy Therapist

Crystals can be used to assist women of all ages and in all stages of healing. The awakening of the Self to a spiritual journey is not an easy task. It can demand much time and resources to achieve self-development and growth. Some choose not to undertake the risks and perils of peeling off our defenses to become fully human and alive, and to experience the full wealth of life.

"Isis Unveiled" is a term which refers to the Egyptian goddess whose face and form was covered with a red cloth, symbolic of the ignorance and emotionalism that stood forever between a person and Truth. To the wise, Isis lifts her veil, dispelling and revealing the mysteries of the Universe. The inner journey becomes sacred to those who can withstand the intensity of full consciousness.

Crystals have a healing role to play in this fantastic journey. Like the mysteries of a woman's consciousness, crystals help to contain the inner processes of "Isis Unveiled", and help to prepare the unveiling of female consciousness through healing all levels of her being. Crystals provide protection and give sanctuary for the deep healing a woman does within herself. I have listed a selection of ten crystals and gemstones from a group of forty-four that are useful in healing women and women's issues.


Amber

A "Gentle Stone". Amber is very soothing and calming to the nerves. It can uplift a negative disposition and encourage you to take life less seriously. It promotes fidelity in relationships. As a self-healing stone, amber guides the emotions into a clearer mental outlook and to take greater responsibility for one's choices in life. It is also excellent for soothing emotions during post-operative care. See also Jade.


Amethyst

A "Master Healing Crystal". Amethyst purifies and transmutes negativity. Amethyst provides protection and balance during transition periods. It reduces the feeling of being victimized,
giving you a spiritual perspective on life's circumstances. The lavender-pink colour amethyst relates to the Heart chakra, to open and lighten up a betrayed heart and to heal the sense of loss of life and innocence. The blue-red colour amethyst promotes a deep spiritual connection between one's self and one's life challenges, supporting the challenge one has taken on, giving patience and calmness despite overwhelming odds. The Chevron Amethyst (banded white and purple) helps peel off old karmic patterns to promote self-love and the ability to get along with others especially with one's Soul Mate or family members.


Apache Tears (transparent Obsidian)

The "Grief Stone". Apache Tears allow for tears to be shed, stimulating emotional spontaneity and the release of barriers that prevent you from experiencing deep sorrow. This stone is excellent for transmuting one's own negativity under stressful situations. The Apache Tear is a dark black stone of obsidian and when held up to the light appears transparent. However, it has been noted that the grief one feels goes into the stone and can turn it opaque.


Coral - Red Coral


A "Woman's Stone". Red Coral quiets the emotions and dispels feelings of despair and despondency. It encourages a passionate energy, and stimulates and strengthens female reproductive organs through tissue regeneration. This stone relates well to the Spleen meridian for blood circulation, and to purification of the kidneys and bladder. Red Coral is considered to be "The Blood of Mother Earth" by Native Americans and is considered particularly precious by Tibetan women for menstruation and fertility.

Garnet

The "Sex Stone". Garnet strengthens the life force and provides for the spontaneous availability of energy when needed. This gemstone is especially good for the restoration of victimized and abused women, helping them reclaim lost power. It promotes regeneration of emotional energy and the acceptance of one's thoughts and emotions. Garnet stabilizes energy devoted to accomplishing one's purpose. It also empowers and strengthens the Root and Navel chakras. Garnet heightens sexuality (the physical aspects) and increases fertility.


Jade

A "Crystal of Tranquility". Jade soothes the emotions and helps keep the peace for community relations. It provides a sense of self-worth, self-sufficiency and capability in dealing with any situation. Jade promotes harmony, balance, and tranquility through emotional detachment. Jade is excellent for recovery after an unpleasant experience (minor surgery, divorce, funerals, loss of job). See also Amber.


Jasper

A "Nurturing Stone". Jasper makes it easier to use one's own power and to know that it cannot be taken away. It calms aggressive energy, and facilitates safety and protection during recovery periods (e.g., from stress, operations, and other life traumas). Red Jasper provides lively fresh energy and reduces feelings of being victimized. Yellow Jasper balances hormones and protects during travel. Green Jasper restores energy and focus during recovery from burnout.

Rose Quartz

"The Love Stone". Rose Quartz is a Master Healer and transmutes emotional negativity at all levels. It enhances meditation and healing by harmonizing and balancing energy fluctuations. Rose Quartz embodies the _expression "Love Conquers All". It is excellent for calming the Heart and Solar Plexus chakras after situations involving emotional upheaval, chaos, trauma, or crisis. Rose Quartz allows love to come to the wearers who have trouble finding love within themselves to give to either themselves or to others. This is also a great friendship stone to give to someone you care for.

Smokey Quartz

The "Emotional Balancer Crystal". Smokey Quartz clears and transmutes negative emotions. This crystal is an excellent stabilizer for mood swings and grounds all kinds of negative energy. Excellent for PMS sufferers and other cranky persons. It is an excellent crystal to use in times of stress, and to rebuild emotional burnout by offering protection during the healing period. Smokey Quartz reduces the fear of failure, unblocks self-limitations, and lets you risk trying some new experiences.


Sodalite

"A Stone of Peace". Sodalite helps alleviate insomnia caused by overactive mental chatter. It helps to dispel irrelevant thoughts, provides mental focus, and maintains logical reasoning with regard to emotional upsets. Sodalite promotes issues of trust, enhances companionship and the commonality of goals with others. It is excellent for busy women who find no time for peace, who need to relax and to restore one's mental energies. [Sodalite is actually
a "rock" composed of several types of micro-crystals.]


A Note on How to Use Crystals for Healing

By wearing the crystals throughout the day for 21 days - preferably as a full necklace, as a pendant, or in a small pouch at the Heart Chakra -the vibrations of the crystals will continue to affect areas of the imbalance, restoring a positive state where the imbalance has occurred. The effects of crystal healing at the emotional and psychological levels are subtle, yet are often noticed more by others than yourself!


Some Hints On Crystal Healing

Your commitment to the crystal is part of the healing process. Let the crystal do the work for you.It is best not to wear more than two crystals at any one time if you are new to crystal healing, as many find the effects too distracting. The length of time to obtain the effects desired will depend on the quality of the crystal (size, colour, energy charge), location of wear, duration, and the crystal's appropriateness to your healing issue. Some crystals are better suited to the overall underlying problem than to just treat superficial symptoms. Select your crystal with an honest outlook on the problem.