September 21st: International Gratitude Day

  Tomorrow is international Gratitude Day, a day created by the United Nations Meditation Group to encourage people to express thanks and gratitude towards one another.

  This might seem like a simple enough thing but its amazing how often we don't express our gratitude towards the people and things in our life. Here are some suggestions:

- As you go through your day, mark all the things that support you and keep you going and try to foster a grateful attitude towards them. For example: "I am grateful for the bus and metro system (even if it isn't as efficient as you might like!) which allows me to get almost anywhere in the city without the expense and ecological harm of a car," or "I am grateful for my tea cup which allows me to drink my tea." It's amazing how many little things contribute to our existence and acknowledging them really makes you feel blessed and in tune with the universe that sustains and is part of you!
- Tell someone why you appreciate them. Maybe even write them a letter and give them some flowers!
- Instead of saying you are sorry (or as well as), try saying how much you appreciate the person instead. I do this every day! Instead of feeling like a mess-up, you feel blessed for the understanding and supportive people around you.

As well, here are some books in the store that talk about having a grateful outlook:

The Secret Gratitude Book:

The Secret is an international phenomenon that has inspired millions of people to live extraordinary lives. Now The Secret Gratitude Book provides an incredibly powerful tool to live The Secret, and to bring joy and harmony to every aspect of your life. Filled with insights and wisdom from Rhonda Byrne, this beautiful journal offers a framework for practicing the power of gratitude each day, enabling you to attract every magnificent thing you want into your life.

The Power of Infinite Love and Gratitude: An Evolutionary Journey to Awakening Your Spirit:

With a foreword by Louise L. Hay, The Power of Infinite Love & Gratitude will help readers discover the mysteries of the subconscious mind and learn how to transform their lives. Key lessons help unleash the mind and body's infinite capacity for healing and provide a deeper understanding of stress, enabling one to move more easily through life.

Attitudes Of Gratitude:

In Attitudes of Gratitude, M.J. Ryan teaches readers how to unlock the fullness of their hearts and lives through the expression of gratitude. "Gratitude helps us to return to our natural state of joyfulness," she writes, "where we notice what's right instead of what's wrong. It makes us feel complete, that we have everything we need, at least in this moment." In her introduction to this 10th anniversary edition, Ryan recounts current research that bolsters her original thinking - people who practice gratitude on a daily basis are, by and large, happier, healthier, and more effective in the world. She also shares with readers brand new, top 10 gratitude practices, which readers of the first edition and people she?s taught and counseled over the years have provided to her. The concept of this book is very simple and very profound: - Gratitude creates happiness - It?s a fact of life (and science as it turns out). Plants create carbon dioxide and gratitude creates happiness.

  Also, come join us from 6pm-7pm to show out appreciation for a wonderful member of our community without whom the Montreal Pagan community would certainly be poorer!

Thanks to all our customers and friends who help keep the store going and make the Pagan community in Montreal better and brighter! We are grateful for your support! You're the best!

Blessed be!

MABON SABBAT SALE!

Sunday September 18th is going to be our Mabon Sabbat Sale! Like for all Sabbat sales, everything in the store will be 10% off!

Mabon is about harvest and the Fall equinox, reminding us about the balance between Day and Night, Light and Dark, Male and Female energies, etc. Come in and see what we have in store for the occasion!

Enjoy the harvest festival! Arrrr!

Shiatsu/Reiki On Tuesdays

Matt Risk (Shiatsu Healing Practioner & Reiki Master)
Every Tuesday 11am - 5pm
$35/30-min or $70/1-hr

Matthew Risk has been practicing Zen Shiatsu since 2003 when he graduated from the Shiatsu School of Canada’s 2200 hour professional program. He is a Reiki master, a musician, and a writer. He has practiced Shiatsu in Toronto, Halifax, Montreal, Victoria, Vancouver and Calgary.

What is Shiatsu?
A form of therapy of Japanese origin based on the same principles as acupuncture, in which pressure is applied to certain points on the body using the hands.

Tokujiro Namikoshi discovered the practice which became Shiatsu as a child when his sick mother seemed to feel better when he applied holding pressure to her arthritic limbs. Later in life, he studied medicine in earnest, and coined the term “Shiatsu” to describe the practice he discovered. (circa 1940)

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Call us to make an appointment!
514-938-1458

20th Anniversary and Mid-Autumn Moon Ritual!

20TH ANNIVERSARY (September 11)

On September 11, 1991, Debra Aubin created the Mélange Magique/Magical Blend store. She thought it would remain a small magical herb store, but it became much more with time. Indeed, the Mélange Magique has been the host of several services, workshops and rituals for the Montreal Pagan Community. In 2011, new owners Scarlet Jory and Valérie Laville are working towards keeping the top-notch reputation the Mélange Magique has acquired over time. In the last years, the business has been shipping Pagan-related supplies everywhere in North America and even in France! Since the change of ownership, Le Mélange Magique has been offering some French books and French Tarot/Oracle decks, as well as healing services on the premises 3 times a week.

To start a new cycle into the store's existence, we will launch our NEW WEBSITE on Sunday! It has a fresh green look and is more organized than the older one, especially for its French translation (it will be fully bilingual very soon). There will not be any special event in the store itself, as we will receive Christopher Penczak on the weekend of October 1st for book signing and divination. We will celebrate our anniversary fully during that weekend.


MID-AUTUMN MOON RITUAL (September 12)

The Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋節), also known as the Moon Festival, is a popular harvest festival celebrated by Chinese and Vietnamese people, dating back over 3,000 years. In Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines, it is also sometimes referred to as the Lantern Festival or Mooncake Festival. The Mid-Autumn Festival is held on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese calendar, which is in September or early October for us. It is a date that parallels the autumnal equinox of the solar calendar, when the moon is at its fullest and roundest. The traditional food of this festival is the mooncake, of which there are many different varieties. The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the few most important holidays in the Chinese calendar, the others being New Year and Winter Solstice, and is a legal holiday in several countries. Farmers celebrate the end of the fall harvesting season on this date.

A free Full Moon ritual will be led by Scarlet for this occasion. There will be ambient Asian Music, tea and traditional Asian treats. It will be located upstairs of Le Mélange Magique and will start at 7pm. Please bring a cup for the tea.

International Literacy Day: September 8th

Tomorrow is International Literacy day, a day when we try to promote literacy and understand it's contributions as a human right. This day was created by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation) in 1965 and has been celebrated since. UNESCO's goals are to promote literacy all over the world because, as they say:

"Literacy is a human right, a tool of personal empowerment and a means for social and human development. Educational opportunities depend on literacy.

Literacy is at the heart of basic education for all, and essential for eradicating poverty, reducing child mortality, curbing population growth, achieving gender equality and ensuring sustainable development, peace and democracy. There are good reasons why literacy is at the core of Education for All (EFA).

A good quality basic education equips pupils with literacy skills for life and further learning; literate parents are more likely to send their children to school; literate people are better able to access continuing educational opportunities; and literate societies are better geared to meet pressing development."

Here at Melange we are going to be celebrating International Literacy Day by giving you ten percent off all books in hopes that we can help you and your loved ones to expand your horizons. Also take this opportunity to contribute to raising Canada's literacy rate (99% of the population over the age of 15) by buying some of our children's books to read to your children or encourage a friend to read!

Ninja Teleportation

Breaking News!

Apparently one of our black cats is very well named. Ninja.
He ninja-ed his way out of our store last night by unknown means.
We were sure he was inside when we closed.
The janitor called to let us know he was on the roof crying to come in through the fire escape.

We suspect feline teleportation.

Just thought we would share one of the many mysterious experiences we have within the sanctuary walls of the store.

:)

September Workshop & Events

CMS (Crescent Moon School)
Level 1 and 2 courses begin.
Wednesdays, September 7th, 6-9pm

International Literacy Day
To celebrate the International Literacy Day, the store will offer10% off all books throughout the day!
Thursday, September 8th

Tarot Series (Catharine)
Come learn the symbolic and archetypal language of the tarot. You will be introduced to the entire 78 cards and learn how to spread the cards to give a reading.
Please bring your own deck.

Week 1 Major Arcana part one
Week 2 Major Arcana part two
Week 3 Minor Arcana - Swords and Wands
Week 4 Minor Arcana - Cups and Disks
Week 5 Spreads and readings

Thursdays, September 8th to October 6th, 7-9pm
$40 per class or $150 for the series (deal available if paid in full before or on the start date).

Psychic Development Series (Catharine)
This is a complete introduction and training in clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience, spirit contact, psychometry and channelling. Each week focuses on one of the abilities under the Psychic umbrella. We all have gifts. This series will show you what yours are and how to develop them further.

Week 1 Introduction to Using Your Intuition
Week 2 Clairvoyance
Week 3 Clairaudience
Week 4 Clairsentience
Week 5 Psychometry
Week 6 Predictive Dreams
Week 7 Spirits - Earthbounds vs Angels and Guides
Week 8 Smudging and Shielding
Week 9 Your Spirit Guides
Week 10 Past Lives
Week 11 Colours and Auras
Week 12 Symbols and Symbolic Messages
Week 13 Giving a Reading

Saturdays, September 10th to December 10th, 12-2pm
13 weeks: $40 per class or $375 for series (deal available if paid in full before or on the start date).

Magical Blend’s 20th Anniversary
We launch our NEW WEBSITE today!
We are postponing the in-store celebration to the weekend of October 1st to coincide with a surprise guest speaker launching his new book about Plant Totems (Christopher Penczak).
Sunday, September 11th

Mid-Autumn Moon Festival (Chinese)
Come celebrate with us for a tradition Chinese festival evening. Ambient Asian music, traditional foods, Full Moon ritual. All are Welcome!!
Monday, September 12th, 7-9pm

Sunday Sabbat Sale
Sunday, September 18th

World Gratitude Day
Show gratitude to yourself and others. Tell someone why you appreciate them. List 10 things in your own life that you are grateful for.
Join us at as we show our appreciation to a special member of our community!
Wednesday, September 21st, 6-7pm

MABON: AUTUMN EQUINOX
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23RD

Higan Service (Japan: Buddhism & Shinto)
Make an offering of flowers at the altar to your ancestors, recite an excerpt from the Diamond Sutra and ring the bell to invite a change for the coming year.
Friday, September 23rd

Rosh Hashanah (Jewish)
Jews embark upon the serious task of examining their lives and repenting for any wrongs they have committed during the previous year. Take this opportunity to say sorry to anyone or to make amends.
September 28th - 30th

Labour Day

Please note that the store will be CLOSED on Monday September 5th.

New Oils in Stock!

  Melange has restocked our oils and has also got some exciting new scents in! Come by to give them a sniff and help us make up some new and interesting oil blends that incorporate them. Here are the new scents and some of their properties so you can use them to your best advantage:

Bamboo
  Tap into the Chinese bamboo forests with this light scent. Reminiscent of sake, rainwater and a slight hint of flowers, bamboo has a beautiful smell which isn't overpowering.
  Bamboo is a powerful protection and hex-breaking herb. Place it on your threshold to protect your home or on yourself to protect against evil spirits. Bamboo can also be used for luck and to contact positive spirits. Place some Bamboo in an oil burner and diffuse it in your home to bring all this positive energy to you!

Cedarwood Amber
  The crisp smell of cedar is blended with the sweet smell of amber to make a truly wonderful combination. Both scents mix to mellow and enhance each other leaving you with an uplifting fragrance.
  Cedar is most commonly used for protection and purification whereas amber is used for healing and love. Combined they make a wonderful mix of positive energy: grounding, healing and cleansing all at once. In my own personal experience I have found this oil, when placed on the stomach, to be very effective for calming and purifying an overactive solar plexus chakra. Cedarwood Amber is also great for bringing a calm positive energy to the home or yourself, especially when placed somewhere where it's scent can be enjoyed.

Ginseng
  The Chinese wonder root can now be enjoyed as a scent. This complex woody aroma with a hint of spice has been used in Chinese medicine for millennia particularly as a tea. The oil is subtle and tasty smelling and makes you wish you were drinking it. (Don't though! Perfume oils taste terrible, speaking from personal experience.)
  According to Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs ginseng is good for just about everything. It ensures sexual potency and brings beauty, wards off evil spirits, hexes and curses and protects one's health. Ginseng can also substitute for Mandrake root, which is unsurprising when taking a look at the oddly humanoid form ginseng grows in. Ginseng is particularly used these days for its energizing properties and is often used as an additive to energy drinks. Maybe you could make your own energy blend with some ginseng, ginger and cinnamon?

Heather

  Heather is a beautiful floral scent that reminds one of a nice bubble bath. Similar to lilac and rose but milder, heather is a great smell for any flower lover.
  Heather grows all over the Scottish moors and mountains and has long been dried and used as talismans. It is particularly used to ward against sexual abuse and violent crimes which gives all those Scottish songs featuring lovers amongst the heather an interesting twist; Perhaps that was the songwriters assurance that his or her love interest would be well looked after? Heather can also be burned to bring rain, though with my personal experience of Scotland, perhaps this is more of a warning then an instruction.

Honey
  This sweet flowery scent smells more like nectar than honey. One can imagine this scent being what a bee experiences going from flower to flower and gathering all the different nectars in a field of wildflowers.
  Honey is good for many things. The Ancient Egyptians used honey to heal wounds and ward of demonic presences very similar to our modern conception of germs. Honey is also a favorite food of the Fae and can be used to attract them or as an offering to them. As well, honey can be used to attract sweetness into one's life as in the Jewish custom of dipping apples into honey at Rosh Hashannah (the new year) to assure one of a sweet new year. As well, honey might be a great way to align oneself to the energies and medicine of Bear.

Juniper
  Juniper smells of a mix between pine and a hint of berry and in fact pine and juniper are often used interchangeably. It has a sharp cleansing smell with a soft woody undertone.
  Juniper is an ancient herb used for protection. Juniper hung at the door prevents evil forces and people from entering and specifically against theft. It is also burned inside the house for exorcisms and can be worn (in this case as a perfume) to protect against attacks by wild animals and accidents and to break curses and hexes. Try drawing a pentagram on your doors and windows with the oil to protect your home and one on your heart chakra to protect yourself.

Moonflower
  Moonflower has an interesting and potent smell reminiscent of orange blossoms. This sweet, floral and slightly citrus flower smells fantastic and haunts you for the rest of the day.
  As the name suggests, moonflowers only bloom at night. As such they most certainly have lunar aspects to their energies. They are also round like a full moon and when opened a little pentagram can be seen within their petals. I cannot seem to find any information on the magical properties of this flower (if you know of any, let me know!) but I suggest using it for rituals pertaining to the Triple Goddess, particularly the Mother or any other Lunar deity and for tapping into one's subconscious particularly while dreaming. Let's experiment and see what else this oil does!

Oakmoss Sandalwood
  This extremely earthy combination of scents smells like rich loam. The mellow smell of the sandalwood helps to compliment the musky, earthy smell of oakmoss.
  Oakmoss is often used as a substitute for patchouli and they have a similar smell and almost identical properties. Oakmoss is used for male energies, lust and money: all things associated with the element of Earth. Sandalwood however is a very spiritual and spiritually cleansing incense. Sandalwood is often used to clear a space of negativity, to raise spiritual energies and to promote spiritual awareness. Together oakmoss and sandalwood have a somewhat balancing "as above so below" aspect to them. Use oakmoss sandalwood in meditation or during a grounding ritual to achieve a balance of ones spiritual and material natures.

Crescent Moon School

Welcome to the
Fall 2011 Open House
Friday August 26th
7-9pm (FREE)

Meet the teachers
and see what students have done
in their classes!


Register for the new Fall sessions!

Level 1: Wednesday September 7th 6-9pm
runs every Wednesday for 20 weeks
$300 includes 3 workbooks and a reading pack
(payable in 3 installments of $100)

Level 2: Wednesday September 7th 6-9pm
runs every Wednesday for 24 weeks
$375 includes a reading pack
(payable in 3 installments of $125)

Level 4: Private dates TBD
runs for 24 weeks
$375 (payable in 3 installments of $125)

Dr. Wayne Dyer in Montreal! (Traduction simultanée)

We, Pagans and New Age lovers, know and use the power of intention and manifestation. It is always nice to see a renown educational counselor, who has published 30 books and is present on several tv and radio shows in the USA, come to Montreal and talk about these aspects that may make one's life easier.

We do not have books of Dr. Wayne Dyer in our store, but we are happy to provide this link for his coming conference in Montreal on September 24:

Dr. Dyer's biography: http://www.hayhouse.com/authorbio.php?id=89

The lecture's description: http://www.hayhouse.com/event_details.php?ref=89&event_id=1498

The reservation website: http://ideasfestival.ca/3/miscellaneous6.htm

The lecture is in English but a French translation is provided through headphones.
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Le Dr. Wayne Dyer est un conseiller spécialisé dans le domaine de l'intention et de la manifestation de nos désirs en réalité. Nous, païens et adeptes du Nouvel Âge, connaissons ces méthodes et les appliquons au quotidien. Il est spécial d'avoir à Montréal un connaisseur, ayant publié 30 livres sur le sujet et bien connu de la radio et de la télé américaine, venant nous en parler pendant une soirée. Nous vous invitons à vous renseigner sur cette conférence.

Nous n'avons pas les livres du Dr. Dyer sur nos étagères, mais voici quelques liens que vous pouvez cliquer pour avoir une idée de la conférence (contenu en anglais surtout):

La biographie du Dr. Dyer: http://www.hayhouse.com/authorbio.php?id=89

La description de la soirée: http://www.hayhouse.com/event_details.php?ref=89&event_id=1498

Le site internet pour réservations: http://ideasfestival.ca/3/miscellaneous6.htm

La présentation est en anglais mais une traduction française simultanée est disponible grâce à la location d'un casque d'écoute.

Tea the Week

This week's tea is Two Doves Silver Needle White Tea a wonderful tasting and particularly healthy tea!

White tea is the least processed of the teas from the plant Camellia sinensis which includes Black Tea, Green Tea and Oolong. Unlike these others however, white tea does not go through a long process of fermentation but is simply the sun dried early buds of the plant. The young buds have fine silver hairs which is what gives white tea it's name.

As the least processed of the teas it is speculated that the health benefits of Camellia sinensis remain more intact than in other teas. Some studies have shown tea, and particularly white tea, can help prevent cancer, high cholesterol, high iron in the blood, skin damage due to UV rays and severe depression. Studies have also shown that tea helps boost ones immune system and is particularly beneficial for people who have low immune systems. It has also been suggested as a complementary therapy for people suffering from HIV as it has been seen to prevent the infection from binding to cells.

White tea is also lower in tannins than other teas so some of the possible harmful side effects are lower in white tea. Try not to drink too excessively however because tea can also have some negative side effects like dehydration or lowering your iron absorption.

Aside from all these health benefits, white tea tastes great (I've had three cups of it just while writing this blog! A very light tea, white tea lacks the grassy aftertaste of green teas or the bitterness of black teas. You can steep it for longer while maintaining a full flavorful cup. White tea has an almost sweet floral taste due to the fact that it is made out of springs first buds. Come in to the store to have a taste!

International Relaxation Day

Tomorrow, August 15th, is International Relaxation Day! Take a leisurely stroll through the sunshine to join us at 10AM for a free Tea Meditation to start off your week.

While your here why not browse through our selection of books and teas? For tomorrow only save 10% on all Meditation books, teas, and tea related items!

Also for International Relaxation Day we will have in our Reiki Healer, Monika. Monika is a certified Reiki practitioner and a member of the Canadian Reiki Association. She also works with different techniques such as magnetism, colour projecting, Chakra balancing, and aura cleansing.

Call or drop by to make an appointment*.




*$35.00 for minimum of half hour

Healers in August

To end this very lovely and sporadic summer we've been having we will have Healers here at Melange on the 15th and the 22nd!

Monika (Reiki) will be here on the 15th from 11-5 to help you recharge your energies, your emotions, and help you relax.

Valerie (Osteopathy) will be here on the 22nd from 12-4 to help your body and your energy realign and begin to heal.

Call or drop by for more details.

If you have never had a chance to get away on a Monday, we have some great news! Starting September our Healers will be here three times a week! Monika every Monday, Valeria every Thursday, and introducing Matt (Shiatsu) every Tuesday. (More details to come)

Prices remain the same at $35.00 per half hour and, yes, we do accept walk ins!

Updated schedule for healers

15 AOUT – 15 AUGUST

MONIKA MARCZUK: Reiki, magnétisme/magnetism, thérapie par les couleurs/colour therapy, thérapie par l’art/healing through art, équilibre des chakras/chakra balancing, purification de l’aura/aura cleansing. 11am-5pm.


22 AOUT – 22 AUGUST

VALERIE LAVILLE : ostéopathie pour le corps et l’esprit/osteopathy for body and spirit. 60 mins idéal pour un traitement/60 mins best for a treatment. Reçus d’assurance RITMA disponibles/RITMA receipts for insurances available. Valérie est aussi la co-propriétaire du magasin/Valerie is also co-owner of the shop. 12-4pm.


29 AOUT - 29 AUGUST

To be announced


SEPTEMBER (more details later)

Monika will be present on all Mondays (except for the 5th).
Matt Risk (Shiatsu) will be present on all Tuesdays.
Valerie will be present on all Thursdays.

International Indigenous People's Day

August 9th

International Day of the World's Indigenous People is observed on August 9 each year to promote and protect the rights of the world’s indigenous population. This event also recognizes the achievements and contributions that indigenous people make to improve world issues such as environmental protection.

To celebrate, here at Melange you can come in and save 10% on all Shamanism books, sage smudges, and sweetgrass braids. Show your BAND CARD for a special gift!

Meet Valérie, our newest healer! (2nd Monday of the month)

VALÉRIE LAVILLE

Osteopathy/Osthéopathie
Co-owner of Le Mélange Magique/The Magical Blend

Osteopathy is an alternative medicine that combines meticulous anatomy knowledge and the ability to sense the vital energy of patients. It is suitable for post-surgery, visceral and mechanical problems, prevention for good health, even pregnant women and babies.
Valerie spent 5 years of full-time training in one of the best schools in Quebec and has over 800 hours of clinic experience. Before becoming an osteopath, she has studied Reiki up to the Master Level (without students) and was a M.Sc. Zoology graduate. She is now eager to heal patients inside and outside the store!

L’ostéopathie est une médecine alternative qui nécessite une excellente connaissance de l’anatomie et la capacité de sentir l’énergie vitale des patients. Cette approche peut être utile pour récupérer en post-chirurgie, pour des troubles mécaniques et viscéraux, en prévention générale, et même pour les femmes enceintes et les nouveaux-nés.
Valérie a une formation à temps plein de 5 ans dans une des meilleures écoles du Québec et a accumulé au-delà de 800 heures en clinique. Avant d’être ostéopathe, elle a étudié le Reiki jusqu’au niveau de Maître (sans étudiants) et a une maîtrise en zoologie. Elle a hâte de traiter des gens dans le magasin et aussi à sa clinique!

Membre/Member RITMA. 60 mins idéal pour traitement/60 mins best for treatment. Reçus pour assurances disponibles/receipts for insurances available.

As for all healers, please call the store at least 24h in advance for an appointment. There might be a chance to have an appointment on the spot though so you can always try you luck!

Comme pour tous les guérisseurs au magasin, contactez-nous au moins 24h d'avance pour un traitement. Il se peut que nous ayons encore de la place le jour-même alors vous pouvez quand même tenter votre chance!

Totems

Did you know that you can have more than one totem?
Did you know that totems could be plants or rocks and not just animals?

Here is a little about totems, spirit animals, guides and familiars.

Familiar:
Familiars are animals of the living world that work with you magically. They help with meditations, ritual work and protect your home. Familiars are usually pets that are very intelligent and have a deep connection to you. Common familiars include: cat, dog, certain birds, rats or ferrets. Yes, fish and reptiles can be familiars too. Skinks, snakes and betta fish rank among familiars. There are plenty of others as well.

Guide:
This is a being/entity who is like a spiritual teacher guiding you through life. This guide might be human or not. You may have more than one guide or teacher at a single time. Also, your guide may change as your life changes and new lessons are to be learned.

Spirit Animal:
This is what your spirit becomes on the astral plane. If you were to become a plant, animal or other entity, what would it be? At your core, what are you? This may also be a mystical creature like a dragon or griffon.

Totem:
A totem is a power creature. It represents something to you and you can call upon it to protect you, guide you, lend you its strength. We have many of these. There are Totems of Place (country and city). For example, Canada has the totem of the Maple Tree as well as the animals of Moose, Beaver, Loon. Montreal has four plant totems: rose, clover, thistle and fleur de lys. Next are family totems (tribe, family, household). The Quebec French peoples have the plant totem of the fleur to lys. Someone's family might show a badger on their family crest. A household might have the totem of the turtle. Lastly is your personal totem. The power animal that is your protector on the astral can be anything.

Meeting your Guides and Totems:
Do some research on the place that you live to find out about the totems of your environment and those of your family.

There are many methods of meditation to meet your guides and totems or to understand what the message is behind an animal that recurs in your life.

I kept dreaming of the raven and saw raven images all over. Every time I entered a shop, there was a raven or crow on a t-shirt, in a poster, as a pendant. It kept catching my eye. Ravens and crows seemed to always fly by as well. I now know that the raven is one of my totems and so I did some research on them. RAVEN: teacher, trickster, mystery, magic, bringer of light.

You can learn more about your totems and guides in workshops here at our shop!

Here is a list of books that are staples in anyone's research on understanding animals and totems:

• Animal Speak by Ted Andrews
• Animal Speak Pocket Guide by Ted Andrews
• Totems by Brad Steiger
• Power Animal Meditations by Nicki Scully

New in from Ted Andrews is the book Animal Wise (10 anniversary edition). You can email us or call us for your copy. It contains a collection of animals not features in Ted Andrews' other books.

And here is a sneak peak to October!

In October, we will have a book on plant totems (The Plant Spirit Familiar) by Christopher Penczak. He will also be visiting us the first weekend of October to offer a workshop on plant totems as well! Stay tuned for more information on this event.

Tea of the Week

Merry Lughnasadh! (Or Lammas, if you prefer.)


Lughnasadh, aka Lammas or The First Harvest. A time to acknowledge the descent of the sun into the dark of winter and to celebrate the time we have left in the sun with fresh ripe fruits and vegetables.


And in celebration our tea choice for this week is a tea we have specially blended just for the occasion!

Rooibos base with a delicious mixture of chamomile, clove, and the smallest hint of cinnamon helps to keep you calm and to bring you in to the season.

Today is Lammas but that doesn't mean you can't rejoice once the day is over!
This tea will be here all week so drop by and try a cup.

Sunday Sabbat Sale!

Don't forget, tomorrow we have our Sunday Sabbat sale where everything in store is 10% OFF! Why not drop by for some last minute items to help celebrate Lughnasadh? Or even just to take advantage of the sale?

We have a specialty tea blend just for the occasion. As well as oil blends, bath salts, sprinkling powders, and more!

Still unsure about what you would like to do for the occasion? Just ask our staff for some ideas, we'd be happy to help.

Amber!

Yay! We have restocked our Amber!

Once again we have our hand carved wooden cases with amber resins inside, both gold amber and blue amber!

Amber (which is actually fossilized tree sap) does more than just smell amazing and make your skin feel great. It helps give a soothing and light energy to any room, helps manifest desires and increase intellectual ability, draws out negativity and bring love protection and balance to those that burn or wear it.
And when applied to the skin is it great for drawing out toxins, great for the pores, and general healing.

Almanacs and Calendars for 2012-13 year!

For those of you wanting to get a head start on planning your 2012-2013 year you might be interested in this one..

We just got in a small selection of almanacs and calendars!

With a range from Buddhism to Faeries to ECOlogical themes, we have a beautiful variety of 2012 calendars.

Also, our beautiful wonderful almanacs that I'm sure I'm not the only one excited about. Along with our Herbal Almanac and our Magical Almanac we also have..




Llewellyn's 2012 Sun Sign Book by Kris Brandt Riske, M.A.
Yay! Horoscopes for everyone! Use this book in the coming year of 2012 for insight, guidance, tips, and even a chapter on what the oh-so-famous Mayan calendar reveals about the planetary shifts in 2012.




Llewellyn's 2012 Moon Sign Book
To aid with conscious living by the cycles of the moon. Includes a monthly lunar table, weather predictions, guidance, tips, and even a guide for gardening.

And - la piece de resistance!




Llewellyn's Witches' Datebook 2012
A great way to keep track of your personal events as well as moon phases, esbats, sabbats, planetary alignments. Even an at-a-glance guide to the best days to plant and harvest. Not to mention a whole lot more!


They'll go fast so make sure you get your copy!

August Workshops & Events

Kaleidoscope Gathering Festival
THE MAGICAL BLEND is HERE FOR THE WEEK
http://www.kaleidoscope-gathering.ca
July 27th through August 1st

Pagan Discussion Night (MPRC) FREE
Pagan Community Etiquette
Public Ritual Etiquette, Public Event Etiquette, Pagan Conference Etiquette, Pagan Festival Etiquette, Pagan Affection Etiquette, Respecting Traditions, Pagan Tools Etiquette
Thursday, August 4th 6:45-8:45pm FREE

International Indigenous People's Day
August 9th
Save 10% on all Shamanism books, sage smudges, and sweetgrass. Show your BAND CARD for a special gift!

Find Your Totem Animal (Catharine)
Animal totems are such powerful tools to work with for personal development. They help us uncover aspects about ourselves previously unconscious, and they can help us to know how better to act in our current circumstances. Some are temporary, some are for life. Come discover what yours are and how they affect your life.
Thursday, August 11th 7-9pm $40

Chakra Intensive Workshop (Catharine)
In this intensive workshop we will describe what each Chakra is about and do meditations to cleanse them, You will gain a good sense of what each one is about, it's corresponding thoughts and emotional states when in balance, as well as the body areas, gems and scents that symbolize them... wear whatever Chakra colour fits you best.
Saturday, August 13th 12-4pm $100

Reiki I (Robyn)
Join us in this intensive course to learn all you need to know to become a First Degree Reiki Practitioner. Topics covered will include: the history and origins of Reiki, the ethics of being a Reiki practitioner, what the hand positions are in a full Reiki session, how to treat others as well as yourself, and formal initiation to the Usui Shiki Ryoho style of Reiki. Time will be given for practice as well.
*Please note that this will be the last offering of this class from Robyn while she takes a break for the rest of her pregnancy. Take advantage and sign up now!*
Saturday, August 13th 10am - 5pm $150

International Relaxation Day
August 15th
Save 10% on all Meditation books and teas.
10-11am you may join us for a FREE Tea Meditation to start your week off right!

Tarot: Major Arcana I (Catharine)
From the Fool to the Wheel of Fortune, come learn the Major Arcana.
*Please bring your own deck*
Thursday, August 18th 7-9pm $40

Introduction of Paganism & Pagan Training (Scarlet) FREE
This is a short introduction to what is Paganism. What does it mean to be pagan? What goes on a simple altar? Pagan Holy Days are holidays?! Codes, creeds and beliefs. Now, how do you find a place to learn? Are there schools and where can I find one? Are there covens and where can I find one? What other resources are at my disposal?
Friday, August 19th 7-9pm FREE

Psychic Development Intensive Workshop (Catharine)
This intensive is designed to introduce you to a wide variety of psychic abilities to help you identify your strengths and to do exercises to help you develop others. We will discuss and develop your Clairvoyance, Clairaudience, Clairsentience and more with fun and insightful activities.
Saturday, August 20th 12-4pm $100

International Homeless Animals Day
August 20th
$1 (ONE DOLLAR) from every purchase over $10 will go towards the SPCA.
$2 (TWO DOLLARS) from every purchase of an Animal book will go towards the SPCA.

Introduction to Covens (Scarlet) FREE
Welcome to Northern Cougars, BFC, Traditional Euro-Celtic Wicca & Witchcraft. Come learn about covens versus solitaries and what it is like to work in a traditional yet contemporary coven. Ever had any burning questions you wanted to ask about coven work or joining a coven? Wondering how to safely find and join a coven? What kinds of covens are out there and is this for you? Come find out!
Sunday, August 21st 1-3pm FREE

Tarot: Major Arcana II (Catharine)
From the Strength card to the Universe.... now you are set to do readings!
*Please bring your own deck*
Thursday, August 25th 7-9pm $40

CMS Registration & Open House
Crescent Moon School is Montreal's longest running school of magic and paganism, having started in 1995. It's goal is to help you find your path. Come to the Open House to meet some of the teachers and to see what students of all levels have done the past year. Registration is open throughout August and will end September 1st.
Level 1: Wednesdays 6-9pm starting September 7th for 20weeks
$300 (or 3 x $100 every 6 weeks)
Level 2: Wednesdays 6-9pm starting September 7th for 24-27 weeks
$375 (or 3x $125 every 8 weeks)
Level 3: TBD
Level 4: Private

Reiki II (Robyn)
This course is only open to Reiki practitioners who have already received their First Degree of Reiki. Topics covered will include Reiki symbols and their uses, long-distance treatments, mental/emotional healing treatments, mind-to-mind techniques, chakra harmonization, Crystal grids and and formal initiation to the second degree of the Usui Shiki Ryoho style of Reiki using the American Reiki Mastery Association's style of initiations.
*Please note that this will be the last offering of this class from Robyn while she takes a break for the rest of her pregnancy. Take advantage and sign up now!*
Saturday, August 27th 10am - 5pm $250

International Dream Day
August 28th
Save 10% on all Dream books.
Do you have a dream you would like to see manifest? Write it down and add it to our cauldron in the Public Altar space within the shop. At the end of the day, staff will work some magic to help your dreams come true!

Chakras and their Stones

Chakras are the energy points of our bodies. They are where we store, process, and send out our vital energies. If any one of these is out of balance than we ourselves are out of balance. Physically and emotionally.

One way of keeping these balanced is with the use of crystals. While meditating you can hold the crystal in your hand or even place it on the energy point of your body.

There are a few different options of stones for each individual chakra, so if one type does not suit you there could be another to do the job!

The Root Chakra: Located at the base of the spine. Stones for this chakra are Onyx, Black Obsidian, Jet, Red Jasper, Hematite, Bloodstone, Garnet, Smokey Quartz, and Black Tourmaline.

The Navel (Sacral) Chakra: Located below the navel. Stones for this chakra are Fire Agate, Carnelian, Moonstone, and Copper.

The Solar Plexus: Located below the breast bone. Stones for this chakra are Citrine, Tiger's Eye, Amber, and Brass.

The Heart Chakra: Located in the center of the chest. Stones to use for this chakra are Emerald, Aventurine, Jade, Malachite, Rose Quartz, and Rhodocrosite.

The Throat Chakra: Located above the collar bone. Stones for this chakra include Blue Lace Agate, Lapis Lazuli, Sodalite, Sapphire, Blue Tiger's Eye, Turquoise, and Aquamarine.

The Third Eye: Located above the eyebrows, centered in the forehead. Stones to use for this chakra are Iolite, Fluorite, and Lapidolite.

The Crown Chakra: Located at the top of the head. Stones for this chakra are Amethyst, Clear Quartz, Silver, and Diamond.


If you have any questions we are fully stocked in books and our staff can help out with any Chakra inquiries you may have. And never be shy to call!

Tea of the Week

A lot of people use summer as a chance for transformation and for new beginnings and new adventures. What better way to start off than to use a little bit of Uncrossing to take away accumulated negativity and blockages from the past.

That is precisely what our Tea of the Week is for! Our Uncrossing Tea (blend recipe #2) is not only good for chasing away those bad vibes but also tastes great and is very good for the body.


Also in the way of Uncrossing we have candles, incense, oils, floor wash, bath salt, and even a fully equipped and easy to follow talisman spell kit.

Need helpful tips or suggestions related to Uncrossing or removal of spells and negativity? Come on in and ask any one of our staff!

Lovely & New!

The new items are just flying off the shelves!

We received new journals this week. Soft leather in light brown with the triple moon embossed on the front and back. A black on with a mysterious black cat. Stunning navy blue with the celtic moon and circle in iridescent silver. And an iridescent fairy. All are hard cover and unlined inside. Perfect for traveling, camping, and if you like a small sized Book of Shadows.




















How is a Book of Shadows used? Why are they important for your practice?

They are your personal magical journal. Record the knowledge and correspondences (herb lore, stone lore, animal lore, meanings of days and colors, recipes for oils and other potions). You can also record your spells and rituals. It is a must have for any practitioner.

Also in stock are limited editions of the once famous pin wooden storage boxes for 12 of the 5ml oil bottles. These are handcrafted boxes with a cover to store and protect your oils. Each box is $30.


Within this box you can store the whole collection of oils for astrological signs or maybe the sabbats and moon phase oils. Have a box for core oils that get used for most activities (blessing, frankincense, myrrh, protection, jasmine, lavender... just to name a few).

Come Fall, we hope to see more from this artisan as he will be crafting ouija boards, tarot boxes, altar patens, burins (which have not been available for almost 10 years), and other ritual tools.

Good tea, good health, good books!

Today is definitely a good day to drop by!

We start off our week with our new tea of choice: Honey Jasmine White. The light taste of our 2 Dove White tea combined with jasmine and hints of honey make this cool tasting tea great for a hot day.


We also have our Healer in today, Benoit Cote. Benoit is a massotherapist (therapeutic and relaxation). A graduate from the Guijek massotherapy school in the Swedish technique and a member of the federation des massotherapeutes du Quebec. Benoit can also aid in a bit of energy work as he is currently working on his Reiki Level 2.


New stock! New books! New pretties! We have just received a shipment of books (for those of you that have been waiting our Crystal book section has been refilled!), candles, and even a few goodies such as Himalayan Salt candle holders and Healing Drum Kits.

Among crystal books, yoga and meditation books, some other new ones we have are:

Animals as Teachers & Healers by Susan Chernak McElroy
A wonderful and touching read of true life stories on how animals of all sorts have taught, saved, and healed people in all sorts of situations.

If you are interested in getting a feel for what sort of work the author does, check out her blog. It will give you a good idea of just how even helping an animal can help you help yourself. Hopefully some will be inspired!

http://susanmcelroy.wordpress.com/


Seeking Silence by Anthony Strano
Explore and practice the spirituality of silence. This book provides a practical tool for escaping the clashing sounds of everyday life. Through gentle insights and guided meditations, it provides a quiet space for making mindful choices and learning to enjoy the profound benefits of tranquility even in the midst of a world of physical noise.


Complete Idiot's Guide to Alchemy by Dennis William Hauck
Dennis Hauck reduces many of the most complex subjects in alchemy to easy-to-understand concepts and definitions. What the author does is give the long-time student and the new seeker the basics to understand alchemy.

Transformation

Transformation of our readers corner: courtesy of April-Anna who painted the mural.



Check out her VLOG for the full story!

It is still a work in progress, but we just had to share now because the mural painting is now finished.

Next steps are the final touches: window ledge, shelving, new furnishings, lighting, and more.

Book an appointment with one of our two readers next week to experience our amazing new space with wonderful energy that is perfect for spiritual guidance and personal transformation.

Monday Healer & Tea of the Week

Today we have in our Healer, Monika Marczuk! She is certified in Reiki as well as a practitioner of other healing arts such as: Magnetism, Colour Healing/Projection, Chakra Balancing, and Aura Cleansing.

It is $35.00 for each half hour session.

Call or drop by for more details or to make an appointment.



Also, we have a new Tea of the Week!

This week, come try out one of Melange Magique's personal blends for Relaxation. This mix of green tea, lavender, and mint gives a wonderful calm and harmony while cooling you down. Perfect for a hot summer day.

If it's hot outside we'll make it into a delicious iced tea!

July Workshops & Events

Reiki I (Robyn)
Join us in this intensive course to learn all you need to know to become a First Degree Reiki Practitioner. Topics covered will include: the history and origins of Reiki, the ethics of being a Reiki practitioner, what the hand positions are in a full Reiki session, how to treat others as well as yourself, and formal initiation to the Usui Shiki Ryoho style of Reiki. Time will be given for practice as well.
Saturday, July 2nd, 10am - 5pm $150

Pagan Discussion (MPRC)Technology and Modern Paganism
Internet and pagans: Blessing or Curse? Websites, elists, Facebook, Techno-Pagans. How does modern tech blend with ancient religion? How does modern tech clash with ancient religion? How has religion evolved around technology?
Thursday July 7th, 6:30-8:30 pm FREE

Psychic Practice Circle (Catharine)
This is a workshop open to everyone who has the desire to practice their intuitive skills. You will be guided to do various types of readings on each other - so come on out!
Thursday July 7th, 7:00 pm -9:00 pm $20

Psychic Development I (Catharine)
Discover the many ways we receive our psychic gifts. Intuition, Clairvoyance, Clairaudience, Channeling etc. Practical exercises to help identify your particular gift. Discussion and questions answered. There will be a guided meditation and message circle where everyone will get psychic messages from Catharine!
Saturday July 9th, 1-3pm $40

Reiki Share (Robyn)
Are you a Reiki practitioner looking to practice your skills? This is the event for you! Now offered on a monthly basis, you will be able to come and exchange Reiki sessions with other Reiki practitioners with help and supervision from a Reiki Master of the Usui Shiki Ryoho tradition. This is an excellent way to gain confidence in your skills as a healer and to connect with other students of Reiki. Please RSVP early, as space is limited.
Saturday, July 23rd, 1-4 $10 suggested donation

Meet your Spirit Guides (Catharine)
Saturday July 23rd, 1-3pm $40

Psychic Practice Circle (Catharine)
This is a workshop open to everyone who has the desire to practice their intuitive skills. You will be guided to do various types of readings on each other-- so come on out!
Thursday July 28th, 7:00 pm -9:00 pm $20

Kaleidoscope Gathering

July 27th - August 1st, 2011

The 2011 Kaleidoscope Gathering (KG) will be the twenty-second year of this non-denominational Pagan/New Age camping event, and will be held at Raven’s Knoll Special Events Campground. This Pagan-owned campground was obtained for the purpose of putting down roots for our community and growing events like Kaleidoscope Gathering. Everyone is welcome!

The theme for this Summer’s festival is “Voyages.” Voyages are trips of transformation, quests of becoming, events and memories in both physical and spiritual spaces. The spiritual traditions we look to have been created through voyages, our lives are voyages. Special honour will be paid to the water spirits of our land. And of course there will be much silliness and shenanigans involving pirates, Vikings and even the occasional sea-going Celt.

The Magical Blend will be out in full force and glory at the festival. Hope to see you there!

Registration is handled online or on-site.
Cost is $120 per person.

http://www.kaleidoscope-gathering.ca

Happy Canada Day!

Just a reminder to everyone that Melange Magique will be closed tomorrow (Friday) for Canada Day. We will be open once again Saturday and back on our regular schedule.

Let's hope the weather is gorgeous and everyone gets out to enjoy some fireworks. Yaayy fireworks!

Happy Canada Day! :)

Come Visit Ninja: Our New Familiar!

With Tequila retired, we have brought in a new cat to join the Melange family! Scarlet has rescued Ninja and now he is living with us as his new family. Ninja is a four-year old black cat (in fact he matches so well with Luna that we sometimes have trouble telling them apart). Our new little man is strong and handsome and very affectionate. He'll even let you pick him up for snuggles!

Though Ninja and Luna look very similar, their meows are totally different. Whereas Luna a a cute little "muw" Ninja sounds a bit like a duck that's been stepped on; poor thing.

Come by the store to say hello!

Goodbye Tequila!

Today Melange Magique says farewell to it's oldest resident as he retires from fourteen years of loyal customer service.

Tequila will be spending today at the store saying his farewells to customers, staff, and dear little Luna. He will be spending his retirement in the home of one of our very own staff members to be pampered and spoiled.

Tequila has been like a mascot for Melange Magique and a comforting presence to it's regulars for many years now. If you're in the area why not pass by and give him a nice send off?




Best wishes, blessings, and love!

Today at the Magical Blend

Tea of the Week

This week drop by and enjoy our Candy Ginger Peach Rooibos-- in iced tea!

This caffeine free herbal tea fits a great summer mood with its taste of peach and light hint of ginger-- a great blend that will tickle your taste buds without giving you a caffeine buzz. Delicious as an iced tea for those hot summer days!

Today in Store

We are joined by our Healer Catherine Lipscombe, a practitioner of Medical Qi Gong. She is here today from 2:00 until 4:00 and it is $35.00 for each half hour session. Call in or drop by to make your appointment!

Saturday Workshops

Don't miss our workshops coming up on Saturday!

Reiki II with Robyn

This course is only open to Reiki practitioners who have already received their First Degree of Reiki. Topics covered will include Reiki symbols and their uses, long-distance treatments, mental/emotional healing treatments, mind-to-mind techniques, chakra harmonization, Crystal grids and and formal initiation to the second degree of the Usui Shiki Ryoho style of Reiki using the American Reiki Mastery Association's style of initiations.
10AM to 5PM
$250

Astrology 101 - Uranus, Neptune and Pluto - Meet the outer Planets with Catharine

Your Sun sign is your identity, your moon tells us your inner self, and your Ascendant or rising sign is your filter to the world. The outer planets tell us about your generation and how this affects your life cycles...this is a big part of prediction. Come see how they all work together in your chart.
12PM to 3PM
$40

Chakra Cleansing - Third Eye Chakra with Catharine

Chakras are your bodies energy centers that govern many aspects of your physical, emotional and energetic well being. There are 7 main ones we will work with to explore the deeper meanings, symbolism and associations (each chakra has a sound, gem stone, body parts, activities etc.) We will do meditations to help you discover where your strengths and imbalances are and correct them with energy work. Please where violet for this workshop if possible.
3:30PM to 5:30PM
$40

Call or drop by the store to reserve your spot!



Just a reminder that we will be closed on Friday the 24th for St Jean Baptiste. Hope everyone enjoys their celebration!

STARHAWK IN MONTREAL!

TODAY!
Please join us for a special film screening to celebrate the NDG Food Depot’s 25th Anniversary.

Permaculture: The Growing Edge

A Film by Starhawk & Donna Read
Special guests : Starhawk & Donna Read
Musical performance by Kyra Shaughnessy & Jean Elliott Manning
Discussion moderated by Anne Lagace Dowson
June 22, 2011 at 7pm at the Crowley Arts Centre 5325 Crowley
(2 minutes from the Vendome metro)
Tickets $20 (Sliding scale available for those on a budget)
www.depotndg.org

Permaculture: The Growing Edge explores how ordinary people around the world are making changes in their lives and trying out new ways of growing food, providing for human needs, and building community. Permaculture is a sustainable system of earth care that offers solutions to many of our environmental problems and a hopeful, proactive vision of change. The film documents the immensely creative and regenerative ideas that are inspiring people around the globe. The viewer is invited to learn about the positive steps people are taking and the solutions that do exist.

Starhawk is the author of eleven books on feminist and earth-based spirituality, an activist, permaculture designer and teacher, and director of Earth Activist Training. Find out more about her at www.starhawk.org.

Donna Read is a producer, director and film editor. She was a member of the National Film Board of Canada's renowned women's studio, Studio D, for many years where she directed the Goddess trilogy and many other films before forming Belili productions. Find out more about her at www.belili.org.

New Blog Layout!

Stay tuned everyone! As part of our improvements, we'll soon be showing you a brand new layout for the same old Blog of Shadows you know and love. As part of this process, the blog may look odd for a few moments today, but it should be awfully pretty looking when it's done. We look forward to seeing how you like it and hearing your input on the matter!

Sunday Sabbat Sale

Don't forget today is our Sunday Sabbat Sale! Everything in the store is 10% OFF! And right on Father's Day, too-- great timing!

To all of the fathers, father figures, fathers-to-be...

Happy Father's Day!

Weekend Workshops June 17-19

Just a reminder of this weekend's workshops:

Coming up on Friday:

Série de 4 ateliers sur les 4 piliers de l'Être avec Sylvie & Suzanne
L'éthique
Choisir sa réalité devient de plus en plus urgent et important afin de trouver la joie, la paix et la sérénité. L’évolution va de plus en plus vite, comment demeurer centrée et calme, peu importe ce qui se passe autour de nous.
17 juin
19h00 à 21h00
$30.00 par personne

Coming up on Saturday:

Astrology 101 - Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn - Meet your inner planets! with Catharine
Your Sun sign is your identity, your moon tells us your inner self, and your Ascendant or rising sign is your filter to the world. Come see how they all work together in your chart.
June 18th
12PM to 3PM
$40.00 per person

Chakra Cleansing - Throat Chakra with Catharine
Chakras are your body's energy centers that govern many aspects of your physical, emotional and energetic well being. We will do meditations to help you discover where your strengths and imbalances are and correct them with energy work. Please where blue for this workshop if possible.
June 18th
3:30PM-5:30PM
$40.00 per person

Coming up on Sunday:

Série de 3 ateliers sur des méditations guidées avec le focus sur les divers chakras avec Sylvie & Suzanne
Chakra 5, 6 & 7
19 juin
14h00 à 16h00
$25.00 par personne

Litha Tea

Our very own Litha (Midsummer) tea blend is both delicious and serves a purpose. Whether it is to incorporate it into a ritual, use it to celebrate with a friend, or just to get into the feeling of the season.
With it's mix of berries, peach, pear, hints of spices and mint this tea is the perfect taste of Midsummer.

Drink it hot to finish off a summer feast or drink it cool during a day out enjoying the sun.

Don't know how to make your own iced tea yet? Here's how:

1. Steep your tea as normal, though make it twice as strong.
2. While the tea is still hot, add sweetener to taste.
3. Let it cool down a bit before pouring it into a good quantity of crushed iced.
4. Allow it to sit for a while and enjoy!

As far as foods go for your festivities, think summer and you'll be fine! Anything made with fresh fruits and vegetables and spices is perfect.

New Books in Stock and Father's Day Book Suggestions: Celebrate the God!

Melange just got a crazy amount of new books in stock! Both of our "New in Stock" shelves at the front of the store are crammed with books. In celebration of our new Healers, we have quite a few new books on Reiki and other types of alternative healing. Also come check out some of the books we've set aside to celebrate Father's Day!

Here are some of the new books we have in stock:

The Healing Energy Of Your Hands
by Michael Bradford
The Healing Energy Of Your Hands demystifies the art of healing. Beginning with a basic explanation of the nature of healing energy, illness, and the role of the mind in the healing process, Bradford offers techniques so simple that anyone, even a child, can work with healing energy. The author's intention is that anyone using his book can awaken his or her natural healing talents quickly and easily.
Topics include sensing energy, clearing energy blockages, eliminating negative self-talk, using affirmations, balancing the chakras, cleansing the auric field, relieving pain, and creating forgiveness.

Reiki: The True Story: An Exploration Of Usui Reiki
By Don Beckett
Reiki: The True Story is a comprehensive investigation of Reiki as both a healing practice and a lifelong path of spiritual awakening. Author and Reiki expert Don Beckett weaves together a new story about Reiki's origins and its founder's true vision. The foundation of this book is the teachings of a group of Reiki founder Makao Usui's original students, who held their master's knowledge in secrecy for more than seventy years.

After a general introduction to Reiki, Beckett presents a thorough history of the discipline (including the testimony of some of Usui's students) as well as an in-depth manual for practice. The author rounds out his exploration with material from world renowned, contemporary Reiki Masters, Beckett's own insights into the nature of Reiki energy, as well as information about the chakra system, yin and yang, and the Five Transformations. The book concludes with a chapter entitled "Beyond Reiki," which bridges knowledge of Reiki with the lesser-known practice of Johrei. Thorough explanations coupled with cutting-edge discoveries about Reiki's past make this a compelling volume for novice and experienced practitioners alike.

Reiki Meditations for Beginners
By Lawrence Ellyard
Reiki Meditations for Beginners is a complete guide to the practice of meditation and shows how these two practices are in fact an integral experience for anyone wishing to cultivate inner peace and happiness in daily life. Far from being abstract ideas, the methods presented in this book make meditation readily accessible for the reader, whether they are a complete novice or seasoned practitioner.

The Witch's Bag of Tricks: Personalize Your Magick & Kickstart Your Craft
By Melanie Marquis
Increase your power, improve your spellcasting, and reclaim the spark of excitement you felt when you took those very first steps down your magickal path. The first book of its kind to offer solitary eclectics a solution to the problem of dull or ineffective magick, The Witch's Bag of Tricks will help practicing Witches boost creativity, improve abilities, and cast powerful spells that work. Whether your rituals have become rote or your spells just aren't working, you don't have to settle for magickal mediocrity!

Designed for the experienced eclectic practitioner, this guidebook offers advanced spellcasting techniques and practical hands-on exercises for personalized magickal development. You''ll gain the skills and knowledge you need to custom-design your own spells and advance your mystical development. Breathe fresh life into your practice and take your magickal skills further than ever with The Witch's Bag of Tricks.

Daily OM: Inspirational Thoughts for a Happy, Healthy and Fulfilling Day
By Madisyn Taylor
An inspirational companion to the popular DailyOM website, Daily OM is a valuable guide that will enable readers to find balance and wellness through conscious awareness. The gentle and affirming wisdom contained within these pages is intended to make each day a little happier, less stressful and more satisfying. Passages touch on topics such as meditation, relationships, nature and more.

Sacred Sage
By Silver Wolf Walks Alone
Learn about the ceremonial uses of sage and how sage can help with physical, mental, and spiritual healing. Includes information on gathering sage and the author''s personal reflections on healing.

Advanced Psychic Development
By Becky Walsh
There are many psychic development books on the market, but the vast majority are aimed at beginners. This is the psychics'' bible, whether you want to tap your intuitive potential for everyday use or whether you are already a professional. The skills detailed in it can transfer to any relationship, any situation. These are not party tricks, they are life skills.

How To See Faeries
By John Matthews
International bestselling artist Brian Froud and New York Times bestselling author John Matthews come together for the first time to create a spectacular interactive book that opens the doors to the enchanted world of Faerie. How does one discover faeries in one's backyard or a garden, forest, or meadow? Through insets, hidden messages, magical signs, reflective mirrors, and other paper mechanics, Froud and Matthews reveal how anyone may discover the way to the land of Faerie. All you need is to believe and to own this book!

The Last Wild Witch: An Eco-Fable for Kids and Other Free Spirits
By Starhawk
The first children's book by a visionary author and activist, "The Last Wild Witch" tells a tale of how the children of a perfect town let a little wildness get inside of them, how they find their joy and courage, and how they save the last wild witch and the last magic forest from disappearing. Full color.

You Are Clairvoyant: Simple Ways to Develop Your Psychic Gifts
By Belinda Grace
Connect with both divine guidance and your inner wisdom by following the simple techniques in this book. You already are clairvoyant-you simply need to learn how to activate this powerful skill and then use it to create greater happiness and fulfillment.

Discover how you can meet and talk to angels and spirit guides for assistance; gain insights into past lives to overcome negative patterns and find healing; conduct psychic conversations to get your point across; and get answers to important questions through automatic writing. Written by clairvoyant healer BelindaGrace, this inspiring guide features true-life stories, easy exercises, and countless ways to use the gift of clairvoyance to transform your life-and yourself.

Ritual Body Art
By Charles Arnold
This fascinating new book covers: a brief history of body art and how it works symbols (and their meanings) used in body art meanings of the colors ritual and makeup, jewelry, apparel and props masks and masking scents, with and without art uses in sabbats, esbats and other rituals everyday uses for body art 16 pages of color photographs.

And to celebrate Father's Day and Midsummer check out these books celebrating the male deity and male archetypes:

The Witches' God
By Stewart Farrar
Exploring the Masculine Principle of Divinity This companion volume to The Witches' Goddess re-establishes the ancient balance between God and Goddess. Part I covers the many concepts of the God examined, including: His faces throughout history; The Son/Lover God; The Vegetation God; The War God; The Anti-God; and more Part II gives a close look at 12 individual gods of history with an appropriate invoking ritual for each. Part III presents a comprehensive dictionary of over 1000 gods from many world cultures, past and present. The Farrars are among the best-known authors on the Craft, and in The Witches' God have written what is likely to become the standard work on the masculine god aspect.

Walking With The Green Man: Father Of Forest, Spirit Of Nature
By Bob Curran
Almost since the dawn of time, the image of the Green Man-- the carven enigmatic head surrounded by leaves and foliage-- has both intrigued and mystified viewers and folklorists alike. Appearing in churches, taverns, and even on stately buildings, the carving seems shrouded in supernatural obscurity.

Is it merely a fertility symbol, or is it something much deeper, which calls for a response from us all? Though it seems a predominantly Celtic icon, does the concept of the Green Man also appear in other places and in other cultures? What is its relevance for the world today?

In the absorbing new book, Walking With the Green Man, Dr. Bob Curran traces the many strands that make up this enigmatic image. Tracing its origins from prehistoric times, he explores its significance in the medieval world and discusses its development in the modern world. He also investigates the image's psychological appeal, which has allowed it to continue down through the ages, and, pulling from a variety of sources, its impact upon other cultures in various parts of the world.
From heroic archetypes such as Robin Hood to Demigods such as Herne the Hunter; from the King of the Woods to the Jack in the Green, Walking With the Green Man examines the interconnection of man and Nature throughout history. Whether as a man amongst the trees, a man of the trees, or a symbol of Nature used to express secrets and solidarity, the Green Man's visage is traced throughout lands and cultures.

Walking With the Green Man will appeal to all those who are interested in the image of the Green Man as an example of symbolic art, as well as to those who are interested in folklore and the interplay between folklore and culture. It is a fascinating study, which not only examines the history of the icon but also its development within human perception.

When I See The Wild God: Encountering Urban Celtic Witchcraft
By Ly de Angeles
Deepen your knowledge of the sacred mysteries... enter the space where nothing begins and nothing ends... reclaim your pagan heritage. A unique blend of witchcraft instruction, Celtic mythology, and urban fantasy, this work goes beyond ordinary witchcraft manuals. Ly de Angeles provides insight into the Celtic perspective of sacredness, and presents invocations, visualizations, and urban magic rituals for the equinoxes, solstices, and the four Fire Festivals. Other magical theory and practice explored in this handbook:

The Law of Three; logos and mythos; animism; pantheism; the Four Worlds; death and timelessness; the Elements; shapeshifting; Tuatha dé Danann; the Quicken Tree.

Literary, eclectic, and infused with a masculine sensibility, When I See the Wild God is your guide to the Déithe and draíocht-- the gods and magic that exist within and around you.

Fathering Right from the Start: Straight Talk About Pregnancy, Birth, and Beyond
By Ph.D., Jack Heinowitz
Becoming a father is a life-changing event, and not an easy one. The new feelings, emotions, and reactions surfacing every day can be confusing and overwhelming, summoning new dads to resolve old issues. Fathering Right from the Start guides men through this life passage, helping them navigate difficult times and participate meaningfully in parenting. Complete with exercises, checklists, and firsthand accounts by fathers from all walks of life, this indispensable book carries the seeds for a new tradition of men’s involvement in the emotional, cultural, and physical structure of the family.

Father's Day Weekend!

Here at Melange and in the Pagan community we often focus on the Goddess and the Mother, but this Father's Day weekend we should remember to celebrate the God and the Father. Take some time to reflect on male archetypes like the Green Man, the Horned Man, the Sun God, the Sky God (or Thunder God), the Warrior, and the Sage.

This year Father's Day is only two days earlier than Midsummer, a holiday which is appropriately associated with Fire, the Sun, and other male aspects. In Wiccan mythology, Midsummer is the height of the strength of the Oak King and the forces of Summer. The Oak King is not only associated with the Warrior, but also with the nurturing aspects of the sun that bring life and vegetation to the world, as reflected by his guise as the smiling Green Man. Like a father who nurtures and guides his son, the Green Man nurtures and guides all living things, bringing them to their full potential and fruition: especially at Midsummer.

Reflecting on this aspect of the Green Man, here is a small craft project and ritual you can do with your children:

Go to a park with lots of trees and gather as many interesting leaves as you can. Be sure to ask the trees for permission before taking any leaves off of live branches!

Now sit down and ask your kids what they think about when they think about fathers. Write it all down, then crumple up the paper in a little ball and have your kids pick a tree. Bury the paper beneath the tree, near its roots; explain that just as their dad takes care of them and helps them grow, the paper with stuff that they associate with fathers will help the trees grow too.

Tell them that the daddy of trees and plants is called the Green Man, and he has a face made out of leaves. Take the leaves you have gathered, some cardboard paper and glue (and maybe some googly eyes for effect), and help your children make some Green Men for themselves. At the end of the day, put the pictures on the mantel or on your altar, and light a candle for the Father of Nature!

Tea of the Week

Angel's Dream is a specialty tea of the Metropolitan Tea Company, and if you haven't tasted it yet you should as soon as possible! Still relatively new to Melange Magique and our tea selection it is gaining popularity quite fast with it's sweet taste of maple, blackberry, Assam, and mystery green tea.
Have a cup, relax, and have a few dreams of your own.

On another note, Father's Day is coming up on Sunday! Have you figured out what to give your dad this year? We have rings, Runes, incense, and a variety of items that would make any man feel like father of the year.

Our Sunday Sabbat Sale falls on Father's Day this year! Can't think of what to get him? Give him a gift card or bring him in to the store on Father's Day and take part in our sale of 10% OFF everything in the store!

What Can Melange Magique Actually Do for You?

You read about our stock, our events.. But what can Melange Magique actually do for you?

No matter your beliefs, culture, or technique we are here to support and inform and aid you in your spiritual journey. Whether you are in search of a religion or want to get deeper into your religion, whether you want to open yourself to the energies of the universe or protect yourself from them, we are here to help you.

To anyone scared of the supernatural or fascinated by it, we can give you advice on how to deal with the situation or how to continue in your study of it.

To any skeptics or scientific minds, you have not been excluded! Stress relievers, aromatherapy, and teas are all things that can help you change your mood, which changes yourself, and changes a situation. Domino effect!

Energy is energy no matter which direction you approach it so no matter which direction you come from we can help you find something suitable for you and your needs.

Looking for a gift for someone? We have a gorgeous selection of cards and a wide variety of gift appropriate items. A spellcraft candle for a Happy Marriage or House Warming, jewelery, regular or customized bath salts, wind chimes, and much more.

Give us a call, send us an email, or drop by the store and see just how we can help you.

At last we have oils back in stock! And along with your old favourites we have two new additions: Juniper Oil and Honey Oil.
Juniper can be used for protection, anti-theft, love, exorcism, and health. Physically, Juniper can be used for stomach issues such as indigestion and inflammation.
Honey is very effective way of natural healing. Great to use on chapped lips or cracked/injured skin is aids the healing process and revitalized the skin. While people use it in tea as a delicious sweetener it is beneficial to the health of your throat, which is why so many recommend it during a cold or strep. Also used for those with respiratory issues and to compliment a prosperity or fertility blend/spell.
*Note: Our oils are not for consumption.

Don't miss our workshops taking place soon:

Totem & Power Animals with Scarlet Today from 7:00PM to 9:00PM $40.00/person
Animals have power. Totems are guides that help us on our path. Power animals lend us their very gifts when we need to call upon them. Find your totemic guide and power animal in this workshop and learn how to tap into their power and wisdom.

Série de 4 ateliers sur les 4 piliers de l'Être avec Sylvie & Suzanne Parti: L'intention. Demain à 19H00 - 21H00
L’évolution va de plus en plus vite, comment demeurer centrée et calme, peu importe ce qui se passe autour de nous. Nous vous proposons une série de 4 ateliers portant sur des thèmes qui permettent de devenir conscients du rôle que jouent nos pensées, nos émotions, nos croyances dans notre processus décisionnel.



It's getting hot and humid out! Do you know how to stay safe in this weather?
- Be sure not to over do it with the physical activity. Work and play at a steady pace and be sure to take breaks when you need to.
- Keep cool. Open the windows, turn off the lights, and draw the curtains. Still too humid? Take a stroll in an air conditioned mall or go to the movies.
- Most importantly, keep hydrated! Be sure to drink plenty of water. Tired of drinking so much water? Try making some of your own iced tea from your favourite tea blend! Not sure how that would taste? Melange will be starting up our iced teas once again very soon so stay posted and drop by to try it out.

Iced Tea:
Steep your tea as normal, though make it twice as strong.
While tea is still hot as sweetener to taste.
Let it cool down a bit before pouring it into a good quantity of crushed iced.
Allow it to sit for a while and - voila! Home made iced tea!

- And if all else fails you can always put your shorts in the freezer for a little bit :)

Artistry

Art is one of the many ways we can beautify our homes and ritual spaces. Engaging in art (painting, writing, dancing) stimulate our creativity and is good for the soul.

The store is doing BOTH!

April-Anna, a local artist, has provided us with some of her stunning photos and paintings in card form for all to enjoy. Gift them with gift instead of the boring birthday cards you usually find. Something this unique can be treasures for a long time. Frame it and put it on the wall, too!
Scarlet has many such works on her walls at home.

April-Anna has also recently been contracted to paint a mural in our Readers Corner. You can see it from the street in the various stages of development. When you come in for an appointment with one of our clairvoyants, you will be treated to sitting in a space infused with art.

For more about April-Anna's art,
You can find her here: http://www.aprilanna.com
Or on FaceBook at: http://en-gb.facebook.com/aprilanna.arts

Tea of the Week

Ice Wine is an orange pekoe grade tea from Sri Lanka. This black tea joins with sweet pear, hints of berry and caramel in their delicious all natural flavours to make a tea of wonderful summer evening taste.
Even tastes great if you add a little sugar and ice the Ice Wine!

Books in stock!

The Small-Town Pagan's Survival Guide: How to Thrive in Any Community by Bronwen Forbes Have any worries over living in a small town and still living your life in peace or worried about being singled out? Here's a book all about the struggles that sometimes come with small town life. Covering topics such as starting a coven, getting along with non-Pagan neighbors, when and how to reveal your beliefs, raising Pagan children, and more!

Fairy Tale Rituals Engage the Dark, Eerie, & Erotic Power of Familiar Stories by Kenny Klein A very interesting read, this book goes through childhood favourites such as SnowWhite, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Hansel & Gretel, and others. "Each tale is explored in two ways: first by looking at the story itself,.. its mythic roots and magical elements. Next, a powerful ritual is presented based on (the story) which you can use.."

Heal Yourself with Qi Gong Gentle Practices to Increase Energy, Restore Health, and Relax the Mind by Suzanne B. Friedman Qi Gong is a Chinese practice of movement, meditation, and breathing to connect with your energies in order to strengthen your body and spirit. It uses the vital life force in the body to establish better health, higher energy. With chapters such as Instant Enetgy Boosters, Exercises for Restoring Physical Vitality, Emotion Balancing Techniques, and Practices for Calming the Spirit you can combine any of the techniques to suit your own needs and practices.