Seeing the Same Number? Here’s What Your Numeric Messages Mean
Are you constantly stalked by a specific number or combination of numbers? Many people claim to see the same numbers over and over again on digital clocks, license plates, registers, or anywhere numbers show up. You’re not alone!If you’ve experienced this phenomenon you’ve probably been curious about what the meaning of it is, maybe even scared by it. That’s precisely what started my journey into researching numeric communication. If you’re skeptical, keep reading to check out my experience with the number 11, then keep scrolling for the possible meanings behind your numeric sightings.
Are you constantly stalked by a specific number or combination of numbers? Many people claim to see the same numbers over and over again on digital clocks, license plates, registers, or anywhere numbers show up. You’re not alone!
If you’ve experienced this phenomenon you’ve probably been curious about what the meaning of it is, maybe even scared by it. That’s precisely what started my journey into researching numeric communication. If you’re skeptical, keep reading to check out my experience with the number 11, then keep scrolling for the possible meanings behind your numeric sightings.
My number story (for the skeptics)
I’ve been stalked by the number 11 for my entire life, but it really ramped up in 2017. After a while, I was so suspicious of the constantly appearing number that I began taking screenshots of the constantly appearing 11’s on my phone. In just four months I was graced with 11’s over 189 times, just on my phone. This count doesn’t even include all the times I would see 11’s on digital clocks in my home, car, or the number just showing up randomly (which all happen very often). I don’t know about you, but that blows coincidence out of the water for me! If you read my last blog post on numerology basics then you also know that my life path number is 11. Freaky, right?
When I was in college, I was stalked specifically by the number 911. This was before I dove headfirst into all things woo-woo, so it really had me spooked! I remember the first date of 9/11 since this had been happening, I was terrified to leave the house! I thought it must be a bad omen. Fortunately, not only did I make it through that day unscathed, I now know that these are simply messages from my guides, angels, or my higher self.
The artwork shown on my screen display is from The Starchild Tarot Deck by Danielle Noelle.
Why do we receive numeric messages?
Though numerology and numeric messages may have some overlap, they’re not the same thing. Numerology is based on your birthdate and name, whereas numeric messages are seemingly random occurrences that can come and go throughout your life. As I said in my last blog post on numerology basics, numbers are an ideal method of communication because they’re universal, this is also true for numeric messages!
Many, myself included, believe that the repeating numbers that millions report seeing are messages from angels, spirit guides, and/or our higher self. If you’ve been seeing a numeric message so often that you can no longer ignore it, someone or something is likely trying to tell you something. Let’s dig into what these numeric messages could mean.
What do your numeric messages mean?
You may be seeing single digits, repeating digits, or the same combination of numbers, all are common. This list will break down some of the most common numeric combinations that people report seeing.
The best thing to do when you see one of these numbers is to pause and ask yourself what you were just thinking about, it might be able to give you a clue about what your message pertains to. Once you have a better understanding of what each number means you’ll be able to apply this knowledge to combined numbers. For example, if you’re always seeing the combination 211, it could mean that a new relationship is on the horizon, that you need more companionship in your life, or to be aware of people you come in contact with as they may be an important person to get to know.
11, 111 & 1111
Newness and big energy! 1s are the start of a cycle so they usually indicate a fresh start, a new project, a time for a change, or the beginning of a new evolution in your life journey. 1s can signal to you that it’s time to get going on big dreams you’ve been putting off, but they may also come as sweet reminders that you’re onto something and to continue full steam ahead on your current path. Different combinations of 11s are a very common and cosmic numeric message!
22 & 222
It’s time to focus on different partnerships in your life. Is there a relationship that you’ve been avoiding that might need healing? Perhaps, you’ve been trying to do everything on your own and are afraid to ask for help? 22s and 222s are asking you to find balance in your life, possibly through the help and aid of others.
33 & 333
3s signal a time of harmony and possibly creativity and creation too. Are there areas of your life that feel out of whack, like you’re missing something? This numeric message may be signaling to you that it’s time to try something different and get out of your comfort zone. If you’ve felt pulled to try a new creative hobby or physical activity, now’s the time to do it. Notice if investing time in a new creation or project brings you a revived sense of harmony and well-being.
44 & 444
4s are your sign to get manifesting! This number signifies a time of physical and spiritual becoming one and working in tandem. If you’re seeing this number pop up you may notice that your thoughts are becoming reality with ease. If you’ve been holding off on trying to manifest something, it’s a sign that now is the time and your angels and guides are ready to help you!
55 & 555
A change is coming! 5s are here to clue you into a possible transformation or change on your horizon. It could be big or small, but the lesson from this numeric message is to roll with the punches throughout this transition. Trying to resist any upcoming changes could make the situation worse, trust that you’re on the right path even if it feels uncertain.
66 & 666
This is a number that may come with some baggage for you, it might even scare you. Rest assured that anything you were taught about the number 666 will not pertain to its meaning here. 6s are powerful numeric messages that will most certainly get your attention. This numeric message is here to help wake you up if you’re stuck in a negative thought pattern. Maybe you’re stuck in a difficult challenge or situation, 6 messages want to remind you that shifting your thought patterns to more positive ones may be the key to accessing the power you need to move through your difficulties.
77 & 777
There is a powerful wave of love and support riding right behind you! Messages of 7s are full of awakened energy, wisdom, and spiritual attunement. This numeric message wants you to remember how supported you truly are and to trust that you’re on the right path. If you’re seeing 7s this is a great time to meditate and try to connect with your angels, spirit guides, or higher self.
8 & 888
It’s time to step into your power! This commanding numeric message is here to remind you that you have everything you need to claim what is yours and live your truth. If you’ve identified your life path but feel put down or muffled by others 8s are here to remind you that you can and you should claim your power and move forward with your goals.
9 & 999
This numeric message is associated with endings. Don’t fret though, with all endings come new beginnings. 9 messages are here to help you accept any endings that are currently happening in your life. Whether it’s with a partner, career, or way of thinking, now is the time to let go and surrender to what is.
00 & 000
This sweet nudge from the universe is a simple one, the divine is near. When you see a 0 message rest assured that the love of the universe is all around you.
You can find a variety of meanings for number combinations in books and online. I encourage you to find meanings that resonate the most with you and your current situation. Some like to take geometric and sacred geometry symbols into consideration for understanding numeric messages, and some prefer to focus on angels and ascended masters. If you enjoy my interpretations you’ll probably enjoy the book Messages in the Number by Alana Fairchild as much of my inspiration on numbers has come from her teachings.
Once you’re accustomed to seeing these numeric reminders they’ll likely become a natural part of your day. You’ll likely begin to welcome them as sweet signs of encouragement or as a warning from the spirit realm. The more you embrace your numeric messages the more you’ll begin to notice them.
Numerology Basics // Determining Your Life Path Number + Free Guide
Traditional numerology is similar to astrology in some ways. Like astrology, numerologists believe that your birthdate can give you clues about possible challenges you may face and what your purpose is during this Earthly visit.Also, similar to astrology, numerology is a very complex system. No worries though, I’m going to break down the basics for you so you can quickly gain an understanding of what numerology is and how to start applying it to your life. I’m also going to give you an easy printable guide to find your life path number and understand what it means.
Traditional numerology is similar to astrology in some ways. Like astrology, numerologists believe that your birthdate can give you clues about possible challenges you may face and what your purpose is during this Earthly visit.
Also, similar to astrology, numerology is a very complex system. No worries though, I’m going to break down the basics for you so you can quickly gain an understanding of what numerology is and how to start applying it to your life. I’m also going to give you an easy printable guide to find your life path number and understand what it means.
What is numerology?
Numbers are the language of the universe. Numbers cannot lie, no matter your background or faith, 2+2 will always equal 4. Numbers connect all of us, not only with each other but with nature, and the entire universe.
Every number carries a vibration of energy. In numerology, this energy is used to gain insights into your personality and your purpose here.
The numbers used in numerology are 1-9 because all other numbers can be made from these. There are also a couple of “master numbers,” 11 and 22, and some numerologists use 33 as well. More on master numbers below.
What is your life path number?
Your life path number is the most important number to learn when it comes to numerology. It’s the number that was assigned, or, predetermined by you, at the moment of your birth. Your life path number will give you an idea of what challenges you may face while you’re here, your personality traits, and your purpose for being here.
How to determine your life path number
Your life path number is determined by your birthdate. Each number is added up until you end with a single digit between 1-9. I break this down into steps below or click here to receive your free printable life path number guide.
Birth month added until you reach a single digit + birth date until you reach a single digit + birth year added until you reach a single digit = life path numberI’ll use mine as an example. My birthdate is February 14, 1984.
My birth month (no adding necessary) = 2
My birth date of 14 will get added up as follows: 1+4=5
My birth year of 1984 will be added up like so: 1+9+8+4= 22, 2+2=4 and then each of these numbers is added up until I reach a single digit: 2+5+4=11, 1+1=2
Which makes my life path number 11 or 2.
If your life path number adds up to an 11, like mine, or a 22, you may choose to learn more about master numbers. Many numerologists use master numbers, but not all. Some have even added a third master number of 33. I suggest doing research on both your master number (11 or 22) and what that number is added together (2 or 4). If you do fall into this category, you can decide for yourself which number seems to be a better fit for you.
What does your life path number mean?
Now that you know your life path number, let’s dig into what it means! Read below to learn more about your life path number or click here to receive your free printable download of life path number meanings.
Does something seem off about the information provided for your life path number? Here are two things to consider. One reason could be, six numbers make up your complete numerology birth chart, if something seems amiss, it may be worth your time to dive a little deeper into your full numerology birth chart. The second reason that your life path number could seem a little off is if you haven’t yet reached the point in your life where you’ve fully dedicated yourself to your life path. Listen to those inner callings! Perhaps you are more destined than you think to follow your numerology life path.
Independent 1s love to go it alone. Careers that will allow you to make your own decisions and be in charge are ideal for you. Accomplishing your goals will come easily to you because you’re very driven and focused. Be sure to pencil in some alone time regularly as this will help you maintain a healthy balance.
Cooperative 2s feel most at ease in a pair. You thrive in happy and healthy relationships with friends and having a solid partner is very important to your well-being. Two’s work well in fields that involve working with others, mediating, and peacemaking. You tend to be emotionally sensitive, be sure to make your feelings and needs known in your relationships to maintain emotional stability.
Creative 3s feel most alive putting on a show for others. You most likely have a creative gift of some kind, whether it be in the visual arts, performance, or written, and you love to share your gifts. Your purpose is to entertain and share your many talents with others. Make sure you allow yourself time to organize and plan as these traits can often be overlooked by 3s.
Dedicated 4s are committed to accomplishing their goals. You’re a hard worker and never give up on a challenge. Your ability to think through problems with logic and innovation makes you ideal for working in fields that involve finding solutions to unusual predicaments. Because you’re such a proficient problem solver it’s important for you to remain flexible, even when it’s a challenge.
Active 5s are charismatic busybodies. Change doesn’t frighten you at all, in fact, you thrive off of it! You probably find yourself the life of the party in many situations because you have such an alluring personality. Though you’ll likely have a variety of careers, you’ll do well in ones that involve using your wonderful personality like sales and PR. Your constant need for change can lead to a more addictive personality, make sure you’re finding healthy ways to get your thrills.
Nurturing 6s are natural caregivers. You probably find that you’re the person friends come to in a time of need. That’s because your life path is to care for others and give. Any field in the caregiving arena will play to your strengths. There’s a tricky balance to being such a dedicated giver. Be sure to pencil in lots of self-care to ensure you’re striking a healthy balance of giving and receiving.
Contemplative 7s are on a mission to uncover the truth. You’re intrigued by universal unknowns and likely feel a strong pull to find solutions to big life quandaries. Careers that allow you to uncover truths will keep you engaged and content. Time alone is important for your well-being, especially activities that help you calm your mind and allow you to get in touch with your intuition.
Master manifesting 8s have powerful minds and an even stronger will. Be careful what you wish for, your ability to create your own reality is stronger than most. If you have a positive outlook, you’ll likely meet your goals with ease, which is why many 8s are very successful. Be sure to make time for more pleasurable activities otherwise you may find yourself consumed by your work.
Empathic 9s are generous humanitarians. You feel the pain of others and the world and desperately want to fix it. Making money for your own material gains is not a top priority for you. Your friends and family likely find you very trustworthy and honest. Your selfless path of giving can be challenging at times, and you may find yourself angry because others do not share your passion for helping the less fortunate. Be gentle with yourself and patient with others that may not share your passion for giving.
Inspiring 11s are natural-born teachers. You are here on this Earth to carry inspiring messages to your fellow humans. Though this may seem like a daunting task, it is your purpose for being here. Start small and believe in yourself. 11s are intuitive and extremely sensitive. Learning how to cope with your sensitivities will make sharing your gifts more feasible.
Master builder 22s can turn their visions into reality with ease. You are a perfect combination of spiritual and grounded. You’re able to offer solutions that are sound logically and metaphysically because you can easily see the bigger picture. Manifesting comes almost effortless to you and you likely put this skill to good use. Balancing your perfectionism and sometimes controlling ways with relaxing activities will help you find balance.
If your interest is piqued by this blog post there are many resources available to dig much deeper into this topic! The next number you may want to research is your destiny number, but I’ll save that for another blog post. If you've been seeing a number again and again, click here to learn what it means.
Understanding Yourself Through the Sun & the Moon
Ever since the dawn of time, humans have sought to understand themselves and their place in the universe on a deeper level by looking up at the sky.Over thousands of years of observations, astrologers have come to recognize that the Sun and Moon are not only luminous orbs of light in the sky that govern the day and night, but their intriguing symbolism can also tell us a lot about who each of us really are and how we naturally tend to behave and react.
Ever since the dawn of time, humans have sought to understand themselves and their place in the universe on a deeper level by looking up at the sky.
Over thousands of years of observations, astrologers have come to recognize that the Sun and Moon are not only luminous orbs of light in the sky that govern the day and night, but their intriguing symbolism can also tell us a lot about who each of us really are and how we naturally tend to behave and react.
What Do the Sun & Moon Represent?
On an astrology chart, the Sun symbolizes your ego. It’s your life’s expression, your attitude, your ego, and the way you move through life. The Sun can also explain your underlying drive and how you most love to be creative. It’s basically how we act when we’re feeling fully alive!
The Moon, on the other hand, symbolizes inner security, comfort, and how we express our emotions whether we’re happy or sad. It describes your emotional landscape and the conditions you need to feel nurtured, safe, and fulfilled.
By tracking where the Sun and Moon fall in your birth chart - which is a map of where the stars and planets were at the time of your birth - you can also gain a deeper understanding of why you naturally do the things you do and feel and act the way you do, too.
How To Find Your Sun Sign
Your Sun Sign is by far the most common astrological point that most people think of when they think of astrology. When someone asks what your sign is, most people tend to know what theirs is. This is your Sun Sign, which is also sometimes referred to as your star sign, and it’s based on the zodiac sign or zone of the sky, the Sun was in when you were born.
The Sun goes through each of the 12 signs of the zodiac every year while spending 30 days in each sign before it moves on to the next. Astrologers sometimes refer to these as seasons because our collective focus tends to change based on which sign is currently being illuminated by the Sun. When you are born, it’s like you get imprinted by this influence and it becomes your focus throughout your life.
Here’s a basic rundown on when each astrological season occurs:
Aries: March 21 - April 19
Taurus: April 20 - May 20
Gemini: May 21 - June 20
Cancer: June 21 - July 22
Leo: July 23 - August 22
Virgo: August 23 - September 22
Libra: September 23 - October 22
Scorpio: October 23 - November 21
Sagittarius: November 22 - December 21
Capricorn: December 22 - January 19
Aquarius: January 20 - February 18
Pisces: February 19 - March 20
Keep in mind that these dates can change slightly from year to year because the cycle of the Sun does not always match up perfectly with the Gregorian calendar we all know and use.
How To Find Your Moon Sign
Your Moon Sign is based on where the moon was when you were born. This is not quite as easy to figure out because the moon only spends about 2.5 days in each zodiac sign before it moves into the next, moving through all 12 signs over the course of each month. (With the moon moving so quickly, it’s no wonder why our moods tend to be so changeable from day to day!)
By knowing your Moon Sign, you can choose jobs, relationships, and life situations that will help support your inner happiness. It can become more difficult to express yourself fully through your Sun Sign if you are not feeling supported internally.
To find your Moon Sign, can try doing a quick Google search or type your birth date and time in Planetwatcher.com and locate which sign the crescent moon symbol falls on the chart. You may also find it interesting to search for which moon phase you were born under as this can help explain which part of the creative process you are most attuned to.
Decoding Your Sun & Moon Sign
What is your Sun and Moon Sign and what do they have to say about you?
On the most basic level, each sign of the zodiac has a very different set of personality traits which are also based on different elements found in nature:
Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius are Fire signs and they all tend to be very direct, passion-driven, and find great joy in promoting the things they love and influencing others with their great ideas.
Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn are Earth signs and they are more calm and practical when it comes to setting goals. They’re persistent and hard working in going after what they want and are able to do what needs to be done to see their aims through to the very end.
Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius are Air signs and they love to socialize, communicate, and collaborate with others. They’re great at sharing their ideas and thinking intellectually and conceptually.
Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces are Water signs and they can be sensitive, emotional, compassionate, idealistic, and imaginative. They can easily sense how others around them are feeling and long to forge deeper connections.
There is so much more to learn about your Sun and Moon beyond this, but I hope this basic overview has helped you feel more attuned to yourself and the incredible universe we live in.
The Best Crystals For Each Zodiac Sign
Your astrological sign comes with a variety of good qualities. Your zodiac sign also comes with some, let’s call them, growth opportunities. Working with the right gemstones for your sign will make you feel right at home, honing in on your best qualities while bringing balance to some of your pitfalls.
Your astrological sign comes with a variety of good qualities. Your zodiac sign also comes with some, let’s call them, growth opportunities. Working with the right gemstones for your sign will make you feel right at home, honing in on your best qualities while bringing balance to some of your pitfalls.
The gemstones associated with your astrological sign are not the same as your birthstone, though some do overlap. These are all crystals with specific properties to help bring tailored healing for your astrological sun sign. Think of them as your crystal “glass slipper,” they should energetically feel like a perfect fit!
To incorporate these crystals into your daily life, you can place them on your altar or nightstand, carry them in your pocket, or you can wear them. Keep scrolling for a couple of crystal suggestions for each zodiac sign.
Capricorn ♥ Dec 22 - Jan 20
Hardworking Capricorns will feel comfortable and empowered with the aid of grounding stones like these.
Obsidian
This grounding gemstone will make you feel comfortable and at home with Capricorn being an Earth sign. If you’re overworked, like Capricorns often are, obsidian can help strengthen your energy and auric field, bringing you back to balance.
Hematite
Many responsible Capricorns find themselves in management and leadership roles. If you’re one of these lucky Capricorns, hematite is here to help! Hematite is a powerful stone for shielding yourself from negative energy so you can stand your ground and shield your energy.
Aquarius ♥ Jan 21 - Feb 19
Airy Aquarians can find balance with mentally clarifying stones.
Garnet
This stone is the ultimate balancing gemstone for air signs like Aquarius. If you’re an independent and sometimes temperamental Aquarius, garnet can bring you some much-needed stability.
Labradorite
Aquarians tend to have very active minds, always thinking ahead and trying to figure things out. Let labradorite hone your mental chatter so you can put it to better use. Labradorite can help your psychic abilities while stifling some of your negative traits.
Pisces ♥ Feb 20 - Mar 20
Intuitive Pisces will find a needed mental escape with these healing gemstones.
Amethyst
This sign is susceptible to taking on the woes and sadness of others. Retreat to the healing power of amethyst to transmute your sadness into love.
Fluorite
Escape your Earthly troubles with this stone. If you’re a Pisces, you may feel a desire to escape reality, or like you don’t belong here, fluorite can give you a safe place to relax and temporarily withdraw too.
Aries ♥ Mar 21 - Apr 19
Fiery Aries always on the go will find much-needed recharge in these stones.
Red Jasper
Aries can be quick to anger, but red jasper is here to help! The grounding and protective energy of this stone can help quench your temper before you react to a situation.
Ruby
This stone has intense energy and is perfect for a quick recharge. Aries tend to be continually going and love a good physical challenge. If you’ve overdone it and need a boost, ruby can help with this too.
Taurus ♥ Apr 20 - May 20
Practical Taurus will find flexibility and motivation with these stones.
Jade
Taurus signs are masters at completing their goals, and jade will make it even easier! Jade offers support for moving through challenges, tasks, and accomplishing your dreams. This stone will amplify your best traits, making attaining your desires a breeze.
Amber
Sometimes stubborn Taurus signs can find balance with this stone. Amber is excellent for releasing negativity and finding more flexibility in their unmovable personalities. This stone is also great for manifesting, which is a favorite hobby of Taurus signs.
Gemini ♥ May 21 - June 21
Gentle Gemini signs will find balance in the duality of their personalities with these stones.
Agate
If you’re feeling unstable or nervous from your dueling personality traits, agate can bring you a needed self-confidence boost and a sense of stability.
Sapphire
This stone can help you find focus if your mind is flipping back and forth. If you’re feeling indecisive about something, as Gemini’s often do, sapphire can help you follow through with decision making.
Cancer ♥ Jun 22 - Jul 23
Emotional and imaginative Cancer signs will be able to get their water fix with these stones.
Moonstone
Cancer is ruled by the moon and is also a water sign, making moonstone an ideal fit. Moonstone has a special relationship with both the moon and water. Moonstone can help you get in touch with the best parts of your personality. If you’re feeling insecure, like many Cancer signs can, this stone is also very nurturing.
Abalone
Cancer’s often long for the water. Even though Abalone isn't a true crystal, it's often found used in jewelry or as an altar tool. If you’re feeling called to the ocean but are landlocked, abalone can offer some serious water vibes to help you get your fix.
Leo ♥ Jul 24 - Aug 23
Sunny Leo will feel right at home with these radiant stones!
Carnelian
Though Leo’s are loved by many, this can make them lazy. If everything has come easily to you and you don’t feel like trying when the going gets tough, carnelian can give you the boost you need.
Sunstone
Let your best qualities shine brightly with this cheerful stone. Leo is ruled by the Sun and a fire sign, so this gemstone will help bring out all of your best qualities. This is also an excellent stone for Leo’s that happen to live in a cloudy or cold climate.
Virgo ♥ Aug 24 - Sept 22
Kind and cautious Virgo’s can find the confidence they need to speak their truth with these stones.
Blue Topaz
Earthy Virgo’s can have a difficult time connecting to their higher-self. Blue Topaz can help you tune into higher realms and boost your confidence in this area. Taking a less practical path might give you the perspective you need!
Amazonite
If you’ve found yourself consumed by worry or overthinking a situation, as Virgos tend to do, amazonite can help you separate your emotions from the situation so you can gain a sense of clarity.
Libra ♥ Sept 23 - Oct 22
Peace-seeking Libra will find just that in these gemstones.
Peridot
Libra loves to be in relationships but hates conflict. Unfortunately, conflict will show up at some point even in the best of relationships. This master heart healer will help you stay balanced and help you release grudges more easily.
Bloodstone
Libra is an air sign, so grounding energy is always a bonus! Bloodstone will not only help you stay grounded but help you keep your emotions balanced as well
Scorpio ♥ Oct 23-Nov 22
Passionate and intense Scorpio's will find a sea of respite and love in these crystals.
Aquamarine
Scorpio’s can come across as very assertive, which is an excellent quality in leadership roles but might sometimes need tempering when dealing with friends and family. As a water sign, you’ll find aquamarine to be soothing and cooling to your intensities. Aquamarine is also masterful at stabilizing fear and anger.
Rhodochrosite
Scorpio’s have strong emotions that can sometimes be expressed as jealousy and an unwillingness to trust others. This gemstone can balance your powerful feelings and help you understand and accept the actions of others more readily.
Sagittarius ♥ Nov 23 - Dec 21
Positive Sagittarius signs will find needed protection and communication aid in these stones.
Turquoise
Sagittarius loves adventure. Don’t forget to bring some energetic protection along with you as you’re traveling the world. Turquoise is a powerful stone of protection that can also help keep your throat chakra in check.
Lapis Lazuli
Though Sagittarius leans towards optimism, they are fire signs. If you’ve been known to sling some hurtful words at your loved ones, this stone can help balance and restore your throat chakra for optimal communication.These are just some of the stones that will benefit each zodiac sign. Want to find more crystals to balance your zodiac sign? The best way to find more gemstones for your sun or moon sign is to research your signs. Check out blog posts dedicated to each zodiac sign here.
6 Ways to Connect with Goddess Kali Ma
There are many different stories about the Hindu goddess Kali Ma, and she is often thought of as something to be afraid of: a goddess of death and violence.Kali isn’t about death or evil. She is about transformation, and as the counterpart of Shiva the destroyer she brings death to ego and attachment, not physical death or war.She brings death and transformation that creates enlightenment and freedom. She can also be seen as the fierce, divine feminine, warrior energy, a manifestation of Shakti.She can be scary because she brings change. She’s asking you to up-level, to evolve. And your ego never wants to be released. It wants to stay in control and run the show.She reminds us that everything in life is a cycle: the old must be cleared out for the new to come in. Change brings your evolution. Birth and death are natural cycles of life, and we must allow them to happen.
There are many different stories about the Hindu goddess Kali Ma, and she is often thought of as something to be afraid of: a goddess of death and violence.
Kali isn’t about death or evil. She is about transformation, and as the counterpart of Shiva the destroyer she brings death to ego and attachment, not physical death or war.
She brings death and transformation that creates enlightenment and freedom. She can also be seen as the fierce, divine feminine, warrior energy, a manifestation of Shakti.
She can be scary because she brings change. She’s asking you to up-level, to evolve. And your ego never wants to be released. It wants to stay in control and run the show.
She reminds us that everything in life is a cycle: the old must be cleared out for the new to come in. Change brings your evolution. Birth and death are natural cycles of life, and we must allow them to happen.
When to Connect with Kali
When you’re stuck in fear and attachment, call on Kali.
When you’re afraid to move out of your comfort zone, to step into the unknown and into the mystery, she’s your goddess.
When you’re afraid to stand in your power, call on Kali.
When you’re struggling to release that which you know you need to release, call on Kali.
How to Connect with Kali
Mantra
Om krim kalikayai namah is the Kali mantra, meaning I bow my head to the Goddess Kali. It’s even more powerful if you chant it each day for several days in a row.
Meditate with her image
Print her picture out from the internet, buy a small statue of her, or create your own image. If you don’t want to do any of those things, you can also hold her image in your mind.
Bring one palm to your heart center and one palm to your belly, and ask yourself what message Kali has for you today.
Sit in silence, breathing deeply and holding her image in your mind, and allow any messages to come through.
Create a Kali altar
Make an altar dedicated to Kali (a perfect place to chant your Kali mantra and meditate with her image!) to create a physical representation of what she means to you. Some things you might like to include are:
Physical symbols of what you’re ready to release
The Wheel of Fortune tarot card
The Death tarot card
An image of Kali
The 4 Queen tarot cards
Snowflake obsidian, smoky quartz, or petrified wood to release old belief systems and thought patterns
Rutilated quartz to facilitate change
Tree agate to help you stay calm and grounded
Tarot spread
Use this tarot spread to understand your relationship with Kali. Draw 1-3 cards for each of the questions below, and note down your interpretations.
What holds me back from embracing change?
What does my ego tell me about change?
What can I do right now to create space for change in my life?
What message does my highest self have for me about embracing Kali’s energy?
What might I experience if I embrace Kali’s energy?
What might I experience if I don’t embrace Kali’s energy?
Journaling
Break out your journal and free-write to these questions:
How do you feel about change right now?
Think about a time when you resisted change. What happened? How did you feel?
Think of a time when you listened to your intuition and allowed change to flow. What happened? How did you feel?
Where are you being invited to release and evolve?
What makes you feel safe to evolve? What other things have to be happening in your life to make you feel okay to release?
Intuitive movement
I recommend putting on your favorite music, whatever it is, and letting loose. Try shaking every part of your body, flexing your spine, swaying your hips, and maybe flowing through some yoga poses.
Go into this without an agenda, and ask Kali to guide your movement. As you move, notice how each sensation feels in your body.
What other ways do you connect with Kali? Let us know on Instagram!
The Meanings & Origins of the Triple Goddess Symbol
With the current rise in popularity of the moon phases, it can be easy to overlook the meaning and history of these symbols. The Triple Goddess symbol, comprised of a waxing crescent, full moon, and a waning crescent, is often thrown into the mix of trending moon imagery but has deeper roots and more profound meaning than you may have expected.The Triple Goddess symbol has been adopted by most witches, Pagans, Wiccans, and Neopagans as a sacred symbol. Perhaps you’re already quite familiar with the Triple Goddess symbol, and it already holds deep meaning to you, or maybe you’ve always felt pulled to it but don’t know why.
With the current rise in popularity of the moon phases, it can be easy to overlook the meaning and history of these symbols. The Triple Goddess symbol, comprised of a waxing crescent, full moon, and a waning crescent, is often thrown into the mix of trending moon imagery but has deeper roots and more profound meaning than you may have expected.
The Triple Goddess symbol has been adopted by most witches, Pagans, Wiccans, and Neopagans as a sacred symbol. Perhaps you’re already quite familiar with the Triple Goddess symbol, and it already holds deep meaning to you, or maybe you’ve always felt pulled to it but don’t know why. Here is a past post where I talk about the Triple Goddess and also give you a free printable wall hanging, check it out!
Triple Goddess Symbol Meaning
If you’ve been curious about its purpose, that’s just where I’m going to start. I’ll be sharing the meaning behind this symbol and will also touch on its rich, and somewhat controversial, origins as well.
The most common meaning assigned to the Triple Goddess symbol is the maiden, mother, and crone. Each phase of the moon correlates with a phase of a woman's life. Here’s a breakdown of each phase.
The Maiden: Represented by the new moon. The maiden embodies purity, youth, creation, pleasure, naivety, and new beginnings. The maiden invites you to explore your spirituality, sensuality, and creativity.
The Mother: Represented by the full moon. The mother embodies love, fertility nourishment responsibility, patience, gratitude, power, and self-care. The mother invites you to master giving and receiving love.
The Crone: Represented by the fading waning moon. The crone embodies endings, wisdom, death, acceptance, and culmination. The crone invites you to accept that without death there is no birth.
The mother, maiden, and crone is not the only way to honor and connect with this symbol. Here are some other meanings of the Triple Goddess symbol.
Planes and realms: Earth, the underworld, and heaven
Cycles: Life, Birth, Death, and ultimately rebirth as the moon phases continue
Goddesses: Demeter, Persephone/Kore, Hecate
A connection to all women and womanhood
A connection to the divine feminine
What are the origins of the Triple Goddess?
Many support the theory that author Robert Graves spurred the origins of the Triple Goddess with his book, The White Goddess, published in 1948. It was after this that some believe the Triple Goddess, as we know it today, was born. Though there’s evidence that supports this theory, many think documentation of the Triple Goddess can be found much earlier in our history.
I’ll try not to nerd out on you too much in this post, but if you want to dig deep into some of the current literature and theories, I highly suggest reading John Halstead’s three-part series on the history of the Triple Goddess. Here’s part one, it’s long but well worth the read!
A variety of other scholars, practicing Pagans, and practicing Wiccans have also found clues that point to a Triple Goddess well before Graves’ time. Here’s a quick synopsis of my current understanding of the links from the past to our present Triple Goddess:
In the 5th century BCE, the Goddess Hecate was depicted in sculpture as three Goddesses in one.
From this time through the 2nd century CE a variety of texts can be found that reference triads of Goddesses and different phases of life, though none explicitly link them to the moon. Demeter, Persephone, and Hecate are all mentioned. See Halstead’s article for writings from some of these texts.
The 3rd century CE Demeter is associated with the moon, and two different phases (new and full).
4th century CE a full connection is made between the moon and the Triple Goddess in a text by Servius. You can check out the translated excerpt in part 3 of Halstead’s writings.
As I said, this is my basic understanding of some of the theories that branch off from Graves’ hypothesis. I recommend you read up on it further if the topic has piqued your interest!
Why wear or use this symbol?
You don’t have to subscribe to Paganism or Wicca to enjoy this symbol. But if you’ve been sporting it, it’s sure nice to know the meaning behind it.
Wearing the Triple Goddess symbol can be a powerful reminder throughout the day of your connection to the divine feminine and all it represents. Personally, I enjoy wearing the symbol for its remainder of the constant flow of life, birth, death, rebirth. Using the symbol on your altar or in a sacred space can help call in this same energy.
What are the 4 Elements and How to Use Them
The four elements are present all around and within you. They are essential to all life. You and the universe are formed by these four elements: earth, air, water, fire. These elements go beyond the physical and manifest as personality traits and energetic forces too.The elements are here to bring balance. Fire needs water to be quenched and the earth needs wind to move it. Your personality might contain more fire and less water, contributing to specific distinctions in your outlook on life and how you express yourself. The elements of your personality can be balanced just like nature.Each element carries its own set of qualities. No element is inherently bad or good. They each carry an equal amount of positive and negative traits. Check out some of the attributes of each element here.
What are the 4 elements?
The four elements are present all around and within you. They are essential to all life. You and the universe are formed by these four elements: earth, air, water, fire. These elements go beyond the physical and manifest as personality traits and energetic forces too.
The elements are here to bring balance. Fire needs water to be quenched and the earth needs wind to move it. Your personality might contain more fire and less water, contributing to specific distinctions in your outlook on life and how you express yourself. The elements of your personality can be balanced just like nature.
Each element carries its own set of qualities. No element is inherently bad or good. They each carry an equal amount of positive and negative traits.
You can apply the four elements to your life in endless ways. Let’s start with why you’d want to use them!
Why represent the 4 elements?
Balancing your own energy
Did you know that your zodiac sign corresponds with one of the four elements? Check out the chart below to see what element you lean towards based on your sign.
One great way to employ the power of the four elements is to balance your own energy. If you lean towards the earth element you may find that bringing some fire energy into your life may energize you. Try wearing a symbol or object that represents the element you’re needing more of.
Bringing Elemental Energy into your space
Do you live or work in a space that’s really tense or competitive? The energy of the space might be overloaded with fire energy that could really benefit from some balancing water energy. By adding some simple symbols or objects that represent water you may find that the vibe of the space really mellows out.
Magical and ritual practices
Because the four elements are the building blocks of all things, inside and outside of you, they are essential for most rituals and magical practices. Think of them as energetic forces to employ for magical manifesting and ritual. Simply having all four of them represented on your altar or in a sacred space is a powerful balancing force.
How to represent the 4 elements
The four elements can be represented in physical form or non-physical form (a symbol) for different purposes. The symbols and representations of them can be placed in a variety of areas. You can wear them, put them on your altar, on your desk, in your car, or in a room. Here are a few ways that you can represent each of the elements.
Earth
The symbol for Earth element
Earthy stones like jasper, agate, amber, petrified wood, and malachite
Metal and wood objects
Green or brown candle
Plants and flowers
Pentacle
Water
The symbol for the Water element
Vessel of water
Blue candle
Shells, coral, sand dollars, etc.
Moon symbolism
Cauldron or chalice
Fire
The symbol for the Fire element
Burning herbs or incense
Matches or lighter
Fire opal and carnelian
Athame
Air
The symbol for the Air element
Smoke from resin, herbs, or incense
Wand
Yellow candle
Citrine and smoky quartz
Feather
Fan
Butterfly, birds, fairies, or dragonflies
You may have already noticed that many of these overlap. For example, burning herbs can serve for earth (the plant material), air (the smoke), and fire (as it burns). Add in an abalone shell (water) to the mix and you’ve got all four elements represented very easily!
What is the Wheel of the Year & How to Use It // With Free Printable
Learning more about the Wheel of the year will not only help you feel more in-tune with nature, but it will give you rituals to use year-round to connect with yourself and Mother Earth. This topic can seem a little overwhelming when getting started, so I will provide you with a quick overview with this post. I'll cover what the Wheel of the Year is, who uses it, how to use it, and some resources, including a free printable of a wheel that I created.
Learning more about the Wheel of the year will not only help you feel more in-tune with nature, but it will give you rituals to use year-round to connect with yourself and Mother Earth. This topic can seem a little overwhelming when getting started, so I will provide you with a quick overview with this post. I'll cover what the Wheel of the Year is, who uses it, how to use it, and some resources, including a free printable of a wheel that I created. Keep scrolling to read more and find a link to your free copy.
What is the Wheel of the year?
The Wheel of the year is comprised of eight Sabbats or festivals that occur on or around the same day each year. The eight Sabbats include four solar events, i.e., the Summer Solstice, Winter Solstice, Spring Equinox, and Fall Equinox. The remaining four festivals are based on seasonal changes and farming. Here's a rundown of the eight Sabbats, what they align with, and their dates:
Yule: December 21st - January 1st // Winter Solstice
Imbolc: February 1st // Holiday is known as Candlemas, which signifies the first signs of Spring
Ostara: March 20th // Spring Equinox (first day of Spring)
Beltane: April 30th - May 1st // A fire ceremony that signifies the midpoint between Spring and Summer
Litha: June 21st or 22nd // Summer Solstice
Lughnasadh: July 31st - August 1st // Marks the first harvest of the year
Mabon: September 21st - September 23rd // Fall Equinox
Samhain: October 31st - November 1st // Samhain is considered the witch's New Year. It is the third and final harvest season and ends the seasonal Wheel.
Who Celebrates the Wheel of the Year?
You don't have to subscribe to a specific religion or label to use or observe the Wheel of the year. Most notably, Wiccans, Pagans, Neo-Pagans, and practicing witches reference the Wheel of the Year for festivals and rituals. If you don't identify with any of these labels, but like to dabble in ritual or spellwork, that's perfectly fine! You'll still be able to find many uses for this powerful tool.
Where did the Wheel originate?
The Wheel of the year is rooted in several cultures and combines festivals from Romans, ancient Greeks, Germanic cultures of northern Europe, and the Celts. It's for this reason that you'll see a variety of names for some of the festivals and differing dates. For example, Lughnasadh also goes by Lammas or Lughnasa, and Litha also goes by Midsummer.
The full Wheel of eight festivals is a relatively new creation that came about in the 1950s. The groups listed above each celebrated some of the eight Sabbats, but the evidence is lacking that any of them celebrated all eight. Combining all eight into a wheel was a way to honor and streamline all of the celebrations that many Pagans and Wiccans hold dear.
How to Celebrate The Wheel of The Year
Learning to implement the Wheel of the Year can feel overwhelming, but the way that you work with it can be as simple or complex as you want it to be. There are countless ways to celebrate each celebration on the Wheel of the Year. Check out the list below for a general list of ways you can enjoy the Wheel of the Year. For specific rituals and celebration suggestions, check out The Goddess Discovery Book V2 or search our blog for the Sabbat you'd like to learn more about.
Spend time outside in nature.
Attend a local celebration or create your own for some or all festivals.
Conduct a ritual for each Sabbat. You can find several ritual examples for each Sabbat by searching the Sabbat on our blog.
Add decor and scents to your house based on the Wheel of the Year.
Cleanse and update your altar or sacred space for each Sabbat.
Cook specific foods for each of the Sabbats.
Enjoy crafts with your Goddess circle or kiddos based around the Sabbats.
Go within and try journaling for each Sabbat.
Perform a unique tarot or oracle card spread.
Here's an example of how I often perform my altar update for a new Sabbat.
Additional Resources
Want to dig deeper into using the Wheel of the year in your practice? Here are three ways to learn more:
1. Click here to get access to the free Wheel of the Year printout.
2. Click here to purchase Understanding The Wheel of The Year, which goes into detail about the Wheel of the Year and contains wheel images for both the Northern and Southern hemispheres, rituals, card spreads and journal prompts for each Sabbat.
3. Find links to blog posts specifically for each Sabbat below.
Here are other books that I love about the Wheel of the Year: The Magical Year by Danu Forest, The Great Work by Tiffany Lizac, and The Modern Witchcraft Guide to the Wheel of the Year by Judy Ann Nock.
I hope you find the Wheel of the year as special and magical as I do! It has so many positive and powerful applications to bring life to your sacred practices.
The Importance of Sacred Space & How to Create One
I think of sacred space as being very root chakra related. A sacred space feels like home. It feels safe to do your most vulnerable work and have your deepest breakthroughs there. It feels safe to put your worries, your fears, your joys, your disappointments, everything that you have and are on the altar there.The best part is that you don’t need anyone to hold this sacred space for you. You can hold it for yourself.What is it, exactly? It’s any space that you set aside as sacred or holy. It’s a place where you can meditate, do magic and ritual, and connect to your highest self. This might look like an altar, or it might not.
I think of sacred space as being very root chakra related. A sacred space feels like home. It feels safe to do your most vulnerable work and have your deepest breakthroughs there. It feels safe to put your worries, your fears, your joys, your disappointments, everything that you have and are on the altar there.
The best part is that you don’t need anyone to hold this sacred space for you. You can hold it for yourself.
What is it, exactly? It’s any space that you set aside as sacred or holy. It’s a place where you can meditate, do magic and ritual, and connect to your highest self. This might look like an altar, or it might not. If you are interested in creating your own sacred altar, check out this blog post.
Your space is personal and unique to you. This blog post is all about creating sacred space in your home, but remember that you are sacred, too, and any space you hold for yourself can be a sacred space. Divinity doesn’t have to be experienced just at your altar.
With that being said, here are a few ideas for things you might like to include in your sacred space:
A Window
Having your sacred space by a window can be a beautiful way to connect with nature even from the inside. See the sun, the stars, and feel the breeze right in your space.
A Moon Calendar
Connecting with the phases of the moon can help anchor you and connect you with nature. Having moon ritual cards in your sacred space where you do rituals and other healing practices that you might base around moon cycles is ideal.
Crystals
Crystals can raise the frequency of your space and bring in specific energies you want to work with. The options are endless, but some crystals you might like to have in your sacred space are:
Amethyst to help you connect with your intuition and boost your mood
Clear quartz (the ultimate crystal!), the ultimate healer, balancer, manifestor, and energy amplifier
Rose quartz for heart opening
Labradorite for self-discovery
Citrine to bring in energizing and creative energy
Fluorite to cleanse your aura and draw off negative energy
Obsidian or black tourmaline for grounding
Selenite to access higher guidance and open your crown chakra
Candles
Candles and their colors have all different types of uses. You can use them in spell work, rituals, burning ceremonies, or just to bring some soft light into your space. Here are some different candle color meanings (source):
Blue for harmony, peace, and tranquility
Red for passion and action
White for purifying, cleansing, and clarity
Purple for psychic abilities and spiritual awakening
Yellow for inspiration and creativity
Orange for energizing, joy, and success
Pink for love, compassion, and forgiveness
Green for nature, growth, and fertility
Brown for grounding, Earthy energy
Learn more about candle magick here.
A Feather
You can use your feather to direct the flow of smoke when cleansing with a smoke wand or herb. For example, when cleansing yourself you might want to circle the smoke around the top of your head or other parts of your body. A feather will help you do that!
Plants & Herbs
Plants and herbs have so many practical and magickal uses. You can use herbs in your sacred space for burning or tea-drinking, and you might like to also have dried or fresh flowers, or other plants that you feel connected to.Learn more about herbal magick here.
Essential Oils
Like plants and herbs, essential oils also have many practical and magickal uses. Use them in your sacred space for ritual, to anoint your candles, to assist in meditation, or to massage your body. Some go-tos you might like to have are:
Geranium oil for self-love
Juniper for protection and purification
Cilantro oil for releasing negative energy
Lavender oil for peace and healing
Frankincense and myrrh oil for meditation
Yarrow oil to connect with your psychic abilities
Tarot or Oracle Decks
Your sacred space is the perfect place to keep any divination tools you use such as tarot cards, oracle cards, or runes. Display the card or rune you’re working with at the moment on your altar as a visual reminder of the energy you’re working to create, or the intentions you’re working to manifest.
Visual Representations of Goddesses You’re Working With
This could be a printed photo, a statue, an oracle card, a painting, or another creative representation that resonates with you. Everyone’s needs are different, so choose a goddess that you feel drawn to work with. That likely means that she has a message for you.
Salt Lamp
Salt has been touted for its magical properties for a long time. Practically, having a salt lamp in your space releases negative ions (which actually make you feel good, despite the name!) and detoxifies the air. But magically, salt also purifies and protects against psychic attacks. If you don’t want to go for a lamp, you can also opt for a small bowl of sea salt.
Additional Representations of the Four Elements
You don’t actually need additional representations of the four elements (fire, earth, water, and air), since you likely already have them on your altar. But feel free to add any other elements to your space that you’d like, such as a bowl of water.
Learn more about the four elements here.
Any Sacred Possessions
Anything that feels sacred and holds special meaning to you, even if it doesn’t make sense to anyone else, can also go in your sacred space. Maybe it’s photographs, special objects, or mementos. Whatever it is, feel free to add it.
You can customize your sacred space or altar depending on where you are in life and what you’re trying to manifest. For example, you might create an abundance altar centered around money, photos of abundance goddesses like Lakshmi, tarot cards like the 10 of pentacles, and herbs or spices that promote abundance when you want to manifest material wealth.
The most important thing to remember is that this space is for you. All of the above are just options and suggestions. Create a space that feels sacred to you, and you will have created a sacred space.
Manifesting with Runes // With Free Rune Printable
Being a master manifestor is a skill that many seek. There are endless techniques and tools available when it comes to manifesting like a pro and I’m sure you’ve tried some of them. Dream boards, visualization, mantras, and crystals are a few popular manifesting tools.While there’s nothing wrong with these techniques, there’s one powerful manifesting tool that’s often overlooked, Runes.Runes are symbols that each carry unique universal energy. These special symbols were used by Nordic and Germanic cultures in Northern Europe as forms of language, for religious purposes, and as tools of magick and divination.Author Lisa Peschel explains this in her book, A Practical Guide to The Runes.
Being a master manifestor is a skill that many seek. There are endless techniques and tools available when it comes to manifesting like a pro and I’m sure you’ve tried some of them. Dream boards, visualization, mantras, and crystals are a few popular manifesting tools.
While there’s nothing wrong with these techniques, there’s one powerful manifesting tool that’s often overlooked, Runes.
Runes are symbols that each carry unique universal energy. These special symbols were used by Nordic and Germanic cultures in Northern Europe as forms of language, for religious purposes, and as tools of magick and divination.
Author Lisa Peschel explains this in her book, A Practical Guide to The Runes.
Before this time [being used as a form of language] runes were primarily a magickal system of pictographs representing the forces and objects in Nature. It was believed that by calling upon the appropriate rune one could thereby make contact with the force in Nature the symbol represented.
Each Runic symbol creates a specific type of energy and some lend themselves to manifesting more than others. Here’s a list of the most powerful manifesting Runes and what they’re most aligned with manifesting.
Search this list to identify the perfect Rune(s) to aid your current manifesting project!
The Best Runes for Manifesting
Fehu for abundance:This fast-acting Rune is perfect for helping you manifest wealth. It is great for initiating new monetary ventures and circulating abundance.
Uruz to keep you going: Employ the use of Uruz to bolster your strength and remove self-doubt during manifesting. This Rune will also help you with stamina while manifesting goals that take more time
Thurisaz for change: The original meaning of this Rune is “thorn” so it’s not surprising that the meaning of it is all about breaking through. Use this Rune when you’re working on manifesting big changes in your life and you need a powerful and directive catalyst. This Rune can also help you overcome blocks while manifesting.
Gebo for partnerships:This Rune is all about manifesting partnerships. That could be friendships, business relationships, relationships, or marriage. Gebo helps create a balance of energy and is all about equal exchanges. Use this Rune anytime you’re manifesting goals include working with others.
Wunju for happiness: Looking to manifest some more peace and harmony in your life? Wunjo is your Rune! Wunjo is a beautifully powerful Rune that’s great at helping you fulfill wishes, peace, joy, and happiness.
Jara for material objects: If you have your manifesting eye on a material object that requires specific steps to acquire Jera is your Rune. Jera is a great aid for turning dreams into tangible results.
Teiwaz to win: This Rune is all about being victorious. If you’re in the process of manifesting a specific outcome this Rune will be helpful, especially when it comes to competitions. This Rune seeks justice.
Berkana for creation: My personal favorite! Berkano is here to help you birth your big ideas into reality. Recruit Berkano to help lay the fertile ground needed while manifesting new ideas.Now that you know which Runes are your manifesting besties, here are some key ways to work them into your manifesting toolbox. These methods pair perfectly with other manifesting tools mentioned above, so don’t be afraid to mix them up. Already have a vision board for a manifesting project? Put a bird on it! Just kidding, we’ll be using Runes today ;)
Need some Runes to get going? Click here to get your free printable Rune sheet.
5 Ways to Use Runes for Manifesting
1. Put your manifesting Rune in a visible area like your altar, meditation space, bathroom mirror, or on a vision board.
2. Carve your manifesting Rune into a candle that you light regularly as a reminder of what you’re working on manifesting.
3. Wear a Rune talisman. Having a daily wearable reminder is a powerful way to not only be reminded of your manifesting goals but carry the potent power of the Runes with you.
4. Create a Runescript. Linking Runes together in a specific order can have a positive effect on your end results. Learn more about creating a Runescript here.
5. Visualize or meditate on the rune(s) that you’re working with. Hold the image of the Rune you’re using in your mind's eye and try to embody its energy as you meditate or visualize.
If you’ve been unsure about how to use Runes in the past I hope you’re feeling excited to jump in now! Put these powerful symbols to use and start manifesting.
12 Mudras to Shift Your Energy
In Sanskrit, mudra means “seal” or “sign.” Mudras are hand gestures that act as energy “seals” and they also position your hands to symbolize different meanings.The tips of your fingers, the crown of your head, and your feet are where energy leaves your body. You can practice mudras to take that energy back into your body and channel it instead of allowing it to leave through your fingertips.
What are mudras and why are they powerful?
In Sanskrit, mudra means “seal” or “sign.” Mudras are hand gestures that act as energy “seals” and they also position your hands to symbolize different meanings.
The tips of your fingers, the crown of your head, and your feet are where energy leaves your body. You can practice mudras to take that energy back into your body and channel it instead of allowing it to leave through your fingertips.
The Elements of the Hand
The hand has three Gunas or qualities, and every finger has its own energy and its own elements.
In yogic philosophy the three Gunas, fundamental forces, are tamas, rajas, and sattva. They interact to create all of the known Universe (Prakriti) and can be increased or decreased by using mudras.
Sattva manifests as balance, inspiration, and knowledge of what is real. Tamas is a heavy, mindless energy that causes ignorance and inaction. Rajas is the energy of change, manifesting as passion, pain, desire, and effort, and it can lead you to sattva or tamas but is often characterized as an attachment to outcomes and unsteadiness.
Your hand has each of these three Gunas characteristics, and each finger within each Guna is associated with an element.
Your thumb, associated with the fire or Agni element, is rajasic.
Your index finger, associated with air, and your middle finger, associated with space, are tamasic.
Your ring finger, associated with earth, and your pinky, associated with water, are satvic.
A Mudra for Everything
You can use mudras to increase or decrease the Gunas and specific elements. Whatever you need in your life, there is a mudra for it! The list below shares some great mudras to get started with, some of which you might already be familiar with, and many of which balance all five elements.
Jnana Mudra
Use this mudra to balance fire and air, connect to your higher self, clear stagnant energy, and create openness to receiving inner and divine guidance.
Rest your palms facing up on top of your thighs or knees and tuck the tip of your index finger under the tip of your thumb. Your middle, ring, and pinky fingers remain lightly extended.
Anjali Mudra
If you’ve ever been to a yoga class, you know this mudra. It is done by simply connecting your palms in prayer hands in front of your heart chakra.
Anjali mudra is commonly used to close and sometimes open a class because it is a gesture of offering from the heart. It’s a literal connection of your hands, symbolizing one of the key principles of yoga: union. It connects the right and left sides of your brain, and the right and left or feminine and masculine energies in your body.
Kashyapa Mudra
Do you ever spend time with a friend who has a bad attitude, and you feel yourself being lowered to her frequency? Do you ever feel yourself absorbing the energy of somebody else’s bad day?
This is the mudra you need to protect your energy. Kashyapa mudra balances and grounds you while creating a seal against negative energy.
To use this mudra, make a fist with the tip of your thumb between your middle and ring fingers.
Shankhavarta Mudra
Shankhavarta mudra is the mudra of inner wisdom. When you’re struggling to differentiate between the voices of your highest self and fear or ego, use this mudra to find clarity and connect with your inner guidance.
Start with your palms in Anjali mudra and, keeping your fingertips connected, press your palms away from each other to form a triangle with the base as your connected thumbs. Then release your right index finger and allow it to relax toward the center of the triangle your hands have formed.
Yoni Mudra
I like to think of yoni mudra as the goddess mudra. Use it to quiet your mind, connect to your divine feminine energy, and call on the energy of the goddesses.
Bring your palms together, fingers pointing down. Open your palms up into an upside-down triangle with your thumbs as the base. Then turn your pinky, ring, and middle fingers in so that the backs of the fingers are touching and thumbs are pointing slightly upward.
Shunya Mudra
Shunya means “empty.” This mudra balances fire and space to help you open and expand, to clear throat chakra blockages, and release the limiting beliefs of your ego.
Hold the palm of your hand open and bend your middle finger to gently press into the ball of your thumb. Bend your thumb so that it presses into your middle finger and extends your other fingers. Then try it with your other hand!
Use this mudra to clear away energetic blockages holding you back from abundance, and open yourself to receiving.
Padma Mudra
This mudra, also known as the lotus mudra, resembles a lotus flower blossoming open.
You know the phrase “no mud, no lotus.” The mudra reminds you that the lotus has moved through the mud and risen above it to blossom.
Start with your hands together at heart center in Anjali mudra. Keeping the base of your hands, pinky fingers, and thumbs together, allow the rest of your fingers to blossom open.
Use this mudra to balance fire and water, open your heart chakra to love, compassion, and gratitude, and remind you of the peace and wholeness you already possess within.
Buddhi Mudra
If you need help accessing your inner guidance and understanding intuitive messages, use Buddhi mudra to balance fire and water. Simply touch the tip of your thumb to the tip of your pinky finger while holding your other three fingers straight.
Samputa Mudra
Do you ever have those days where you just feel off? You don’t feel like yourself, and maybe your mind is spinning instead of being focused and calm. On those days, use Samputa mudra to find mental and emotional clarity, connect to your true self, and balance all five elements.
Bring your palms together at heart center. Hollow out a small space between your hands, keeping the tips of your fingers connected, and tuck your thumbs into that hollow space.
Garuda Mudra
If you need to be reminded of your personal power and strengthen your solar plexus chakra, Garuda mudra is the mudra for you. This mudra stimulates the fire element, the element of the solar plexus chakra, to energize you and stoke your inner fire.
Hold your hands in front of you with your palms facing your chest. Cross your left hand over right and interlock your thumbs, stretching all of your other fingers out as much as you can.
Ushas Mudra
The Ushas mudra is all about flow and creativity. When you’re stuck in a place of trying to force, push, and control where you aren’t allowing yourself to open, receive, and follow your inner guidance, use this mudra to get back into flow, connect with your feminine energy, and awaken your sacral chakra, your center of creativity and passion.
To do this mudra, clasp your hands together, interlacing your fingers with your left thumb resting on top.
Kubera Mudra
Kubera mudra, also known as the wealth mudra, is the mudra for attracting a regular flow of abundant energy and material well-being. This mudra balances fire, air, and space and reminds you that if you trust the Universe, you will always have enough and you will always be taken care of.
To use this mudra, touch the tips of your thumb, index, and middle fingers together, and tuck your ring and pinky fingers into the middle of your hand.
Try incorporating some of these mudras into your spiritual practice, whether it’s meditation, reiki, yoga, or breathwork, and see how they change your energy.
Create Your Own Protection Rune Wall Hanging with Free Printable
With Samhain and Halloween around the corner, it is the ideal time to perform spells and divination of all kinds. The veil between the physical world and the spirit world is at its thinnest during this time.It’s also a time that communication between you and the spirit realm will be the easiest, because of this some believe that it’s an important time to build in extra protection from unwanted spirits.Using Runes can cover all of these magical bases! You can use them for spellwork, divination, and as a protective tool.
With Samhain and Halloween around the corner, it is the ideal time to perform spells and divination of all kinds. The veil between the physical world and the spirit world is at its thinnest during this time.
It’s also a time that communication between you and the spirit realm will be the easiest, because of this some believe that it’s an important time to build in extra protection from unwanted spirits.
Using Runes can cover all of these magical bases! You can use them for spellwork, divination, and as a protective tool.
What are Runes?
I’m sure you’ve seen these interesting symbols before, maybe you even know what a few of them mean, but beyond wearing them you’re not really sure what to do with Runes. While wearing them is a great way to utilize their power, their uses go far beyond that.
Their roots can be found in Old Norse, and they make up an ancient runic alphabet containing 24 symbols. Rune symbols have been found to date back as far as 150 AD. They have been discovered on spearheads, charms, and even on headstones in the form of spells! It is said that the word “rune” has come to mean “secret, something hidden,” and many people believe the symbols were used as a form of divination. Some people continue this practice today.
How to Use Runes for Spellwork & Intention Setting
Simply carrying or wearing a Rune symbol can hold great meaning. Place your Runes together though, and you’ve got a powerful magical tool. Many wear talismans like this with Runes together, but for this time of year, a banner for the home can not only serve as a meaningful reminder and spell but also a timely decoration!
Rune symbols can be placed together in different orders to mean different things, create a spell, or set an intention. Placing Runes in a particular order for magical purposes is called a Runescript. They can serve as a powerful reminder of what you need help with the most.
To use a Runescript for creating a spell banner, you simply need a basic understanding of what some of the Runes represent, appropriate ordering of your Runes, and some time to get a little crafty. I have created a free printable of Rune images for you to use to create your very own Runescript wall hanging! Click here to grab yours now.
How to Make Your Wall Hanging
To create your wall hanging you’ll need:
Printer or drawing tool
Paper (white cardstock recommended)
Scissors
String
Glue or tape
Optional: salt, herb or smoke tool of your choice for cleansing, candle, water, stick, and protective crystal or stone
1. Print Your Runes
Click here to get your free printable Rune images to use for your Runescript. Alternatively, you can draw your own if you’d like. If you’re using our free printable I suggest printing them on white cardstock.
2. Gather Your Supplies & Prepare Your Workspace
If you want to keep this a simple crafty decoration you can leave out all of the optional tools listed above. If you want to bring more magical meaning and ritual to this project, I’ll outline how you can use the salt, herb or smoke tool for cleaning, candle, and water while you create your wall hanging to bring each of the earth elements in the next step.
3. Prepare the Four Elements
Place your bowl of salt North of your workspace, your herb or smoke tool East, your candle South, and the bowl of water West. Each element coordinates with a direction, and by placing each element in its cardinal direction you invoke their protective powers as you create your Runescript hanging.
4. Select Your Runes
The number of runes in your script should also be well thought out. Runescripts are usually made of 3, 5, 7, or 9 Runes, so if one of these numbers is particularly meaningful to you that would be a good number to go with.
Creating your Runescript is a very personal act. Though you can use a pre-made script they always hold more meaning and power when you create it on your own. Use the guide below to select the Runes that you feel you need most for the kind of protection you are seeking. You can learn more about the meaning of each Rune on the website www.RuneSecrets.com or in the book A Practical Guide to The Runes by Lisa Peschel. I reference the website and the book very often and find them to be helpful resources.
That being said, If you do want to borrow my Runescript shown in the pictures you’re welcome to!
5. Order Your Runes
According to Lisa Peschel, author of A Practical Guide to The Runes, your first and last Rune placed are the most important ones.
The first rune says “this is how I want the operation to start,” the final rune says “this is how I want things to end up.” The runes in between elaborate on the subject … [it] must start out right and end up right in order to be truly effective. Making a correct choice is not really something that can be taught in a fixed sense. It must be very a personal choice based on the needs and wants of the Individual.
6. Cut Out Your Runes for Your Desired Runescript
7. Place your Runes in Order on Your String, Spacing Them Out Evenly
Your Runescript can hang simply on your string or you can use a stick or dowel rod to wrap the string around. This makes it easier to hang and adds a nice earthy element.
8. Tape or Glue the String to the Back of Your Runes
9. Incorporate the Four Elements into Your Runescript
Once your Runescript hanging is complete sprinkle a bit of salt over it, waft the smoke of your herb over it, pick it up and pass it over the top of your candle taking care to not get it too close so it doesn’t catch fire, and sprinkle a few drops of water on it.
10. You’re Ready to Hang Your Runescript!
Your Runescript is now imbued with the power of the four elements and the combination of Runes. Place it in a prominent place in your house or room as a symbol of protection. Add some extra protection to your Runescript wall hanging with a protective stone like hematite, lava stone, or smoky quartz.
Love this craft and want to create more? You can use this same set of steps to create any kind of Runescript. And I would love to see your own Runescript wall hangings, so please tag @cassieuhl on Instagram!
The Divine Feminine & Cauldrons // 5 Uses & Meanings
What do you think of when you imagine a cauldron? Witches, Halloween, and deathly potions perhaps? Along with witches, cauldrons have been given a bad rap, but their mystical meanings and uses go way back and might have a more spiritual meaning than you originally thought!If you’re always on the hunt for meaningful additions to your altar, search no more, the cauldron is a staple and I’m going to share 5 reasons why. First I want to share some history behind its use so you have a complete understanding of what it represents.
What do you think of when you imagine a cauldron? Witches, Halloween, and deathly potions perhaps? Along with witches, cauldrons have been given a bad rap, but their mystical meanings and uses go way back and might have a more spiritual meaning than you originally thought!
If you’re always on the hunt for meaningful additions to your altar, search no more, the cauldron is a staple and I’m going to share 5 reasons why. First I want to share some history behind its use so you have a complete understanding of what it represents.
History of Cauldrons
Cauldrons of varying types can be traced back to a variety of cultures. In fact, one found in Denmark has been traced back to between 200 BC and 300 AD. So basically, they’ve been around for a long ass time.
No surprise, cauldrons started out as a cooking tool. Warm soups and stews were concocted in them to give nourishment to families. They were the heart of the home and life-giving in cold seasons. As cauldrons became more commonplace and important to families, mothers and grandmothers started using them for healing herbal blends and eventually potions.
Cauldrons & The Divine Feminine
After being used for centuries as a cooking and healing tool, cauldrons started to take on more sacred and magical meanings. The cauldron began to represent the Goddess, the Sacred Divine, and a vessel for transformation, healing, and abundance.
The timing of when cauldrons started to be viewed as magical tools is unknown but the reasons why are obvious. The cauldron symbolizes life and abundance through nourishment, transformation by turning herbs into healing concoctions, and the shape of the cauldron itself mimics that of an expectant mother. These reasons combined make the cauldron one of the most sacred tools you can add to your arsenal.
What Kind of Cauldron Should You Get?
Before you jump into the meanings and uses of a cauldron, let’s cover what kinds of cauldrons are best to purchase because there’s no shortage of options.
Hands down, the best cauldron to purchase (if you plan on using it for anything other than sitting on a shelf) is a cast-iron cauldron. Pass by anything that says it’s made out of anything other than cast iron or is plated because it won’t last. You can also purchase earth and wear pottery cauldrons that will work well too. If you go with a ceramic cauldron, ensure that it’s food safe before using it for anything you’ll be ingesting.
5 Cauldron Uses & Meanings
At a loss for what to use your life-giving, transformative, and holy cauldron for? Here are 5 ways to put your cauldron to work:
Looking for a way to represent the four elements on your altar? The cauldron has you covered. Placing a cauldron on your altar is an easy way to represent all four elements with one item.
Represent the Four Elements on Your Altar
Earth: The iron the cauldron is made out of represents earth
Water: The water used while cooking in a cauldron represents the water
Fire: A cauldron would traditionally be heated from a fire underneath it which represents fire
Air: The air around and blow on the soup or potion inside represents the air
The elements are purely symbolic for this use, no need to always have a fire burning underneath your cauldron! You can read more about the four elements here.
Incense, Herbs & Burning Rituals
There are several rituals that call for fire and burning. Whether it’s incense, candles, or burning a piece of paper, a cauldron will not only serve as a sacred tool but will also give you a safe tool for ritual fires. Here are a few ways to use your cauldron for any fire-related rituals.
A safe and meaningful receptacle to burn incense, herbs, or a candle for rituals.
Write a letter to your ancestors or lost loved ones and burn it in the altar for them to receive it.
During the waning moon, write down a habit you’re trying to break or something you’re trying to release on a small piece of paper, then burn it in your cauldron.
Create a small fire in your cauldron to represent light or a God or Goddess of light for a ritual.
Transform with the Triple Goddess Cerridwen
Cerridwen is the Welsh Goddess that represents the triple Goddess or the mother, maiden, and crone. She reminds us that life is all about transitions and transformations. Cerridwen is often shown with a cauldron because she brews a magical potion that grants knowledge and inspiration using a cauldron.
Anytime you’re going through a difficult transition place a cauldron on your altar or in your sacred space as a reminder of Cerridwen. As you navigate through your transition take a few minutes daily in front of your cauldron to imagine Cerridwen taking your fears about your transition, putting them in her cauldron, and taking them out transformed into what you need most.
This excerpt from writer Judith Shaw outlines perfectly the magic Cerridwen wants to bring into your life: "When Cerridwen calls your name, know that the need for change is upon you; transformation is at hand. It is time to examine what circumstances in your life no longer serve you. Something must die so that something new and better can be born. Forging these fires of transformation will bring true inspiration into your life."
Divination
Cauldrons can also be used for a variety of divination purposes. The most common being scrying. To use your cauldron for scrying fill your cauldron with water, wait for the surface to become very still, and begin looking for symbolism. To learn more about scrying you can read this post all about scrying, it’s based on using a crystal ball but the techniques are the same as those used for water scrying.
Abundance Ritual
Because cauldrons have been used as life-giving and nourishing tools, they represent abundance and can be incorporated into any abundance rituals you do. The cauldron can represent abundance of all kinds: money, happiness, friends, etc.
If you’re trying to bring more abundance into your life, place your cauldron somewhere you’ll see it regularly. Let its presence serve as a reminder of your goal to bring more abundance into your life. You can incorporate stones, candle colors, or herbs by placing them in or around your cauldron to strengthen your desire for abundance.
Cauldrons are sacred tools that are often overlooked, but I hope the next time you see a kitschy cauldron decoration for Halloween you’ll smile because you have a greater appreciation for it.
Tea Leaf Reading // How to Do Your Own in 7 Steps
Looking for the perfect divination tool to get a glimpse of your future and entertain guests with for Samhain and Halloween? Tea leaf reading, or tasseography is the art of using tea leaves for divination purposes. Many cultures believe that around the end of October the veil between the physical world and the spirit world is thinned, so it’s the best time to perform divination of all kinds.
Looking for the perfect divination tool to get a glimpse of your future and entertain guests with for Samhain and Halloween? Tea leaf reading, or tasseography is the art of using tea leaves for divination purposes. Many cultures believe that around the end of October the veil between the physical world and the spirit world is thinned, so it’s the best time to perform divination of all kinds.
What is Tea Leaf Reading?
Doing a tea leaf reading involves you indulging in a delicious cup of tea and putting your sharp intuitive skills to work. After you enjoy your warm cup of loose leaf tea, you’ll leave the loose tea leaves at the bottom, where some of these leaves will form symbols, each having its own meaning. That’s where your keen intuitive abilities come in! Anyone can see a triangle at the bottom of a teacup, but your job is to intuit what it means for you or the person you’re reading for.
Where Did Tea Leaf Reading Come From?
You might be wondering where this unusual form of divination came from, so here’s a short history about tasseography. Shortly after tea was introduced to Europe, tea leaf reading, as it’s now recognized, was born. Similar divination tools had been used with an assortment of other materials, but tea leaves seemed to be the favorite! The art of tea leaf reading spread through Europe, especially in Gypsy cultures, and is now practiced throughout the world.
What You Need for a Tea Leaf Reading
Tea cup with a wide brim that’s light enough to easily see your tea leaves. There are a variety of specialty tea leaf reading cups available, they are beautiful but unnecessary. I created mine at a local pottery painting studio. Keep it simple, buy your own, or get crafty with it, any option will work!
Saucer
Loose-leaf green or black tea, preferably organic.
Napkins
Pen and paper
Water
Enough time to savor a cup of tea and get lost in the maze of tea leaf symbols!
How to Perform a Tea Leaf Reading
1. Brew Your Tea
Gather all of your materials. Boil your water. Place about a teaspoon of loose tea in your cup. Pour your water in and steep tea to your preference.For the next 3 steps, if you’re doing a reading for someone else, have them do the following steps.
2. Sip & Swirl
Before you take your first sip, gently swirl the tea counterclockwise three times. Sip and enjoy your tea, but don’t drink it all! When there’s about 1 tablespoon of tea left in your cup, swirl it again 3 times counterclockwise and think about or speak your query aloud.
3. Create Your Tea Reading Canvas
Turn your cup upside down onto your saucer to remove the remaining water, allow it a minute or so to drain, then turn it back upright, and you’re ready for reading!
4. Look for Symbols
Look over your loose leaf tea pieces and see if any symbols or shapes jump out to you immediately. Don’t fret if you don’t see anything immediately, similar to scrying with a crystal ball, it can take some time for imagery to form for you. Try looking at the inside of the cup from different directions to see shapes. Keep in mind the images formed are formed from tea leaves, so you will really need to use your imagination!
5. Record & Decipher Your Findings
If you do start to see some shapes, begin writing them down on your piece of paper so you can decipher them later, note wherein the cup they are too. Now you’re ready to decipher your findings! Here’s a guide for the most common symbols found during tea leaf readings:
6. Understand the Timeline
Where your tea leaves are situated in your cup relate to when they will happen. This is why some of the tea leaf reading cups you find have circles inside of them. Timing is broken into thirds as follows:
Bottom third: farthest away from happening, think 3-5 years out.
Middle third: will happen in about a year from now.
Top third: will be happening in the near future, think within the next few weeks.
7. Form Your Reading
Like most divination tools, a honed intuition is key for success, so be sure to lean on any gut instincts as you form the story for your reading. Once you understand the meaning behind the symbols it’s time to put all of the information into a story that makes sense for you or the person you’re doing a reading for.
This divination tool is so much fun to do with friends and family! Setting in on a fall evening with some loved ones and sip, laugh, enjoy, and maybe get a little glimpse at what’s to come.
Transitioning into the Darker Half of the Year with Yoga, Oils & Crystals
Since you started going to school at age 3 or 4, fall has always been a time of transition.The transitions have changed over the years as you’ve changed. You’re no longer starting a new year of school, but the transitions have gotten bigger and, oftentimes, scarier.A new apartment, a new job, a new partner, a new city, a plane ticket.These tools and grounding yoga poses will remind you that no matter what’s going on in your life as we transition into the darker half of the year, you are exactly where you are supposed to be. You have roots. You are safe. You can withstand any storm.
Since you started going to school at age 3 or 4, fall has always been a time of transition.
The transitions have changed over the years as you’ve changed. You’re no longer starting a new year of school, but the transitions have gotten bigger and, oftentimes, scarier.
A new apartment, a new job, a new partner, a new city, a plane ticket.
These tools and grounding yoga poses will remind you that no matter what’s going on in your life as we transition into the darker half of the year, you are exactly where you are supposed to be. You have roots. You are safe. You can withstand any storm.
Grounding
Grounding has two purposes. The first is to heal trauma, both physical and emotional, to allow you to release fear. The second purpose is to bring earthy energy into the system. For signs that you’re not grounded and how to fix that, check out this past blog post here.
These herbs, teas, oils, and yoga practice will serve both purposes. They will work to balance and cleanse the root chakra, which keeps us grounded and linked to the earth. When we lack sufficient root chakra energy we may feel ungrounded, question our value, feel scattered, or feel disconnected with ourselves and the Earth.
You can dive right into these poses, or you can incorporate grounding crystals, herbs, and oils into your practice. If you’re really feeling flighty, anxious, afraid, or scattered, I recommend taking extra time for yourself here for a full grounding practice.
Drink an Herbal Tea
Valerian, Lotus root, Hibiscus, and Hawthorn are all grounding roots. Besides their healing physical benefits, these herbs are known to release stress and calm anxiety. Try a tea blend with a few of these herbs or keep it simple with just one. Here are 3 healing DIY herbal tea blend recipes for you to try.
Incorporate Oils
Scent is a powerful way to introduce more grounding energy to the system. Lavender, rose, and chamomile are soothing oils that will help you heal trauma to release fear. Sandalwood and patchouli will increase the flow of earthy energy.
There are many different ways to use your oils. For your yoga practice, you’ll want to either dilute the oils with water and create a mist or dilute them with a carrier oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil) and massage the oil into your skin. Massaging the feet as part of your yoga can be incredibly powerful, especially with these grounding oils. Here are a few essential oil blends I love to use in rollerballs.
Set Out or Wear Your Crystals
Hematite, smoky quartz, shungite, jasper, snowflake obsidian, and prasiolite all create grounding energy.
Hematite is a highly protective stone. It helps to open your root chakra, eliminate negative energy, and create a more balanced and centered mind.
Smoky quartz is a good choice for those who find hematite to be too intense or heavy. Smoky quartz grounds and stabilizes while balancing the root chakra, but in a much more subtle and uplifting way than hematite.
Shungite is another powerful stone for balancing the root chakra, helping to bring all your negative energy and toxic thoughts to the surface to release that which does not serve you.
Jasper brings a strong Earthy energy to your practice, deepening your connection with Mother Earth.
Prasiolite is another powerful healing stone that helps you ground yourself to the energy of the Earth, remove negative energy, and replace it with positive energy.
Snowflake obsidian is a grounding and protective stone. It brings balance in the midst of chaos and helps remove negative energy as it draws emotions and toxic thought patterns to the surface. It is also conducive to entering a deep meditative state. For extra grounding, try wearing snowflake obsidian jewelry during your practice.
Roll Out Your Mat
Ancient yogis divided the life force energy, prana, into 5 energetic components known as Vayus. The apana vayu is the energy of elimination that flows downward and out. When you bring awareness and focus to this energy, it will help ground you.
We often direct too much energy upwards, spending too much time thinking and creating imbalance, stress, and lack of emotional stability and mental clarity. These yoga poses will all refocus your energy downward, back to the body and our connection to our home: Mother Earth.
Sukasana, Easy Pose
Begin your practice comfortably seated in sukasana, easy pose. Become conscious of your sit bones pressing into the mat.
Start by meditating on the root chakra bija, or seed, mantra: LAM. As you meditate, visualize the breath beginning at the base of the spine. As you inhale, the breath travels up the spine to the crown of the head, the crown chakra. As you exhale, the breath travels down to the base of the spine, grounding you and growing roots into the Earth.
You can say the mantra out loud, or simply repeat it to yourself quietly.
Virabhadrasana II, Warrior 2
Warrior 2 is an incarnation of Shiva, the destroyer. This pose will remind you of your strength and stability.
Create a firm foundation for this pose by visualizing the feet connecting to the earth. Feel the mat or ground underneath you and strengthen through the legs to send your roots into the earth. Continue to focus your energy downward with the root chakra breath, imagining now that the exhale sends the breath all the way down through the legs into the Earth.
Utkata Konasana, Goddess Pose
Goddess Pose, as the name suggests, is another pose of fierce strength. The pose represents the feminine force that birthed the Universe. The same energy inside you is the energy that created the Universe, and it is the energy that will carry you through this transition into the darker half of the year.
Allow the strength of the pose and the feminine energy it cultivates to bring you back to your center. What are your fears in this time of change? This is the time to reflect on them, and then release them.
Vrikshasana, Tree Pose
This pose improves both physical and mental balance, increases your ability to concentrate, and reminds you that you can bring peace and focus to all situations.
As you enter the pose, firmly ground down with your left foot. Press into each individual toe and through the four corners of the foot. Firm through the left leg, and feel the support of every muscle as you bend and lift the right leg to enter into the pose.
Imagine that you are a tree. You have survived rain, fire, and storms of all kinds, yet still, you stand. Picture the roots that grow from deep within the earth and wrap around your legs.
Malasana, Yogi Squat
This pose helps create strength and calms the body, mind, and spirit. As you inhale, lengthen through the spine. As you exhale, feel the energy of the breath flow down the spine from the crown of the head to the tailbone.
The apana energy this pose cultivates helps you release fear as you root down close to the Earth.
Adho Mukha Svanasana, Downward Facing Dog
How much time do we spend mindlessly in a downward facing dog, letting our minds wander? This pose is often repeated during yoga classes, which makes it easy to space out and spend the pose waiting for the “next thing.”
In this sequence, I encourage you not to do this. Spread through each finger and press firmly into the palms of the hands. Straighten and strengthen through the legs to push the heels closer to the mat.
My yoga teacher actually refers to downward facing dog as a standing pose. That’s how strong your legs should be! On each inhale, visualize the roots of the earth pulling the heels closer to the ground. On each exhale, picture the white-hot energy of the breath flowing down the spine.
As you end your practice, return to sukhasana. Feel the support of the earth beneath you, closing with this mantra:
“All is well. Everything is working out for your highest good. Out of this situation, only good will come, and you are safe.” -Louise Hay
In this season, we move from light to dark together, with the support of the Earth and the support of our yoga practice.
Namaste.