July 2012 Workshops & Events

CANADA DAY: JULY 1st

CLOSED

Hours may be reduced on Monday July 2nd

Connecting to Divine Self (Sarah)

The key to a Life of Wisdom, Miracles and Joy is in your hands when you learn to Consciously Connect to your Divine Self.

On this guided journey you will learn: the simplest route to deep meditation, how to download all the Wisdom you could ever need from your Source, how to upload your dreams and intentions to Manifest Miracles, and how to access the Joy, Peace, and Contentment that you came into this life to enjoy.

This transformative workshop is for you if you seek simple and practical tools to experience Wisdom, Miracles and Joy in your everyday life.

Learn how to:

- Receive Wisdom directly from Source

- Manifest Miracles

- Experience True Joy

Sarah Wilson is a Clairvoyant Spiritual Counselor from Vancouver Island, BC. She works as psychic and international lecturer in the field of Consciousness. Sarah is currently completing her Master’s Degree in Metaphysics. www.sarahwilson.ca

Thursday, July 5th, 6:15-9pm   $60

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 7th, 10am - 5pm  cost: 150$

Training in the Craft (Scarlet) FREE
A look at the difference between traditional vs eclectic Wicca and witchcraft, as well and coven vs solitary training. We will explore the many facets of the craft and try to understand which is the best path for you to take. How do you find a group or mentor? What are the pros and cons of each path?

Thursday July 12th 6-8pm FREE

Quantum Psychology (Matt Risk)

Back in the late '60s Dr. Irving Blum (AKA: T. Leary) wrote about the 8 circuit model of human psychology which was later popularized by Robert Anton Wilson, Chris Hyatt, and other writers. This model allows us to reflect on the basic needs and drives of the Human and Trans-human aspects of our psychology and to explore and navigate these needs in order to transcend the neuroses of terrestrial consciousness and increase our Intelligence in preparation for the next inevitable stages of human evolution. Incorporating conventional psychology and mystical experience into a greater whole which shows the way forward into the post-terrestrial future. 

Playing with this useful map allows us to learn about and take care of the psychological needs that may be baulked by our neuroses, as well as to develop those faculties of mind that mystics and magikians of the past have called 'Psychic', 'Mystical', or 'Spiritual' without falling for the greatest obstacle to Illumination: Taking Ourselves Seriously.

Saturday, July 14th, 1-5 pm $40

Fire Scrying (Scarlet)
How does one create a safe contained fire for ritual and divination? What are the techniques for scrying in the flames? learn and practice this during this workshop.

Thursday July 19th 6-8pm $30

 

Walking on Water (Matt Risk)

Are you plagued by emotions that are out of control? In this workshop we will learn about what it is that triggers our emotional states, why we get carried away by feelings outside of our control, and how to reprogram those triggers so that things that used to bother us lead to feelings we'd prefer to have. By employing creative use of the post-hypnotic state, we can easily learn to master our emotions, make our lives more effective, and more satisfying.

Saturday July 21, 2-5 pm, $35

Building the Astral Temple (Matt Risk)

Long ago the concept of the Astral Temple was brought forward as a means of working one's spells and making changes on the deeper levels of one's practice. An Astral Temple provides you with a work space that is accessible anywhere without the need for carrying an elaborate magickal kit with you. Simply close your eyes and relax and you can make use of your own astral temple. In this workshop we will learn how to access the powerful states of mind that allow us access into the astral, as well as techniques and considerations for building the temple, and making a home on the astral plane.

Saturday July 28th, 2-5 pm $35

OH-HARAI-TAISAI: JULY 30th

Shinto Day of repentance and purification.

Meditatively walk through a ring of woven grasses for self-purification.

One will be woven by our staff and erected in our public altar space for you.

Many bright blessings upon you at the half-way point in the Asian year.

KALEIDOSCOPE GATHERING FESTIVAL: AUG 1-6

http://www.kaleidoscope-gathering.ca/

We will be vending at the festival, so if you are at fest, come visit us there!

Staff will be hosting three activities at the festival:

The Need Fire History: Discover the connections through land and time of the concept of a sacred flame or need fire. Where does the idea come from? Why do we use this tool in our rites? How to create a sacred need for your home.

Fire Scrying: Learn how to create a safe fire within your cauldron for the purpose of magic, ritual, and scrying. Engage in a fire scrying experience!

Rite of Passage for Girls: This is a non-denomination ceremony for girls aged 12 through 18 who have had their first mensus. They must be sponsored by a parent/guardian to attend with that parent present for the ceremony. This is both ritual and learning experience for girls and parents alike. This is an overnight experience where the girls will encounter the divine and themselves through ritual. $25 preregistration required by July 26^th (paypal payments to scarletcougar@gmail.com)

Ritual Tools: Limited Items

For a limited time Melange has in stock beautifully hand-tooled leather tomes: This stunning handcrafted Book of Shadows is an heirloom-quality tome which will serve you for years. Each book has a sword on its 3" binding. The front cover overflows with the ancient Celtic symbolism of Morrigan, who appeared as a crow to lead warriors into battle, and escort souls to the afterlife. The back cover celebrates the harvest, prosperity, and fertility. This book is 8.5" x 10", weighing in at a hefty three pounds. The covers are made out of high grade vegetable, tanned leather that softens with use and age. This spell book is coptic bound with 3" binding so that its pages always lay flat! Featuring: Handmade, Old World, tree-free, acid-free, archival quality linen parchment paper!

  Also back in stock are our ritual horns: A ceremonial horn, made from waterbuffalo horn-- approximately 6" in length. Excellent for representing the horned god on your altar or being used as a drinking horn. Magical properties include strength, stamina, masculinity, and virility. Elemental associations with fire. Bull horns are also associated with the astrological sign Taurus and therefore earth and stability.

Order them online or come to the store before the fly away!

Father's Day

Wondering what to get your father? Here are some ideas:

- Leather perfume oil
- Men's Spiritual Cleansing Bath Salt
- Gratitude banner
- healing session with one of our amazing healers
   --- Monika (Reiki & Energy Healing)
   --- Matt (Shiatsu Massage)
   --- Valerie (Osteopathy)
- Green Man talisman or decorative box (for his keys!)
- Book: "Sacred Paths for Modern Men"

Select one of our beautiful art cards and tell your dad how much you love and appreciate him!

What Makes a Dad

God took the strength of a mountain, 
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun, 
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature, 
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages, 
The power of the eagle's flight,
The joy of a morning in spring, 
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity, 
The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so, 


He called it ... Dad

~~Author Unknown.~~

June's Full Moon

This June 4th, 2012 will be a spectacular full moon with partial lunar eclipse that will be absolutely dazzling to watch! To ramp it up, there will be a transit of Venus joining that energy.

What you might want to know about June's Moon and things you can do.

In Celtic lore and sacred trees, the full moon of June can be associated with either one of 2 trees (Oak and Holly) which is appropriate for the Celtic epic battle that happens twice a year at the solstices, the Battle of the Oak King and Holly King.

If you follow the Oak Tree for this full moon, then you want to focus on these themes: Strength & Protection.

If you follow the Holly Tree for this moon, then you want to challenge yourself. Take yourself out of your comfort zone and then re-establish your balance.

The Farmer's Almanac for North Eastern America refers to this full moon as the Strawberry or the Rose Moon for its tendency to take on a pinkish hue and the harvesting of strawberries at this time. It is a time to celebrate your achievements and accomplishments. What have you done that you should celebrate? Go to your local farmer's market and buy their strawberries. Celebrate with Strawberries and cream. Don't forget to offer some to your local faeries! Give a rose to someone you love and share your celebration with them.

At the shop, we have featured a few very special items:

• Moon Water - $5.00 per bottle
• Moon Magick by DJ Conway - $28.50
• Everyday Moon Magic by Dorothy Morrison - $16.95
• Moon Spells by Diane Ahlquist (NEW) - $13.95
• Full Moon candle by Coventry Creations - $17.95

June 2012 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, June 2nd, 10am - 5pm  cost: 150$

Energy Work for Beginners (Monika)

If you are interested or have a piqued curiosity for energy work this is the place to start! Lecture and open panel conversation on what is energy work, how it can benefit all areas of your life. Will be touching base on different kinds of energy work. Come and see which is best suited for you!

Saturday, June 2nd, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm  cost: 10$

Chakra Workshop (Monika)

Are you ready for change? Are you ready to live your best life? Are you ready to take hold of your life and move into the next level to live abundantly? Come and learn how having a balanced chakra system can benefit your life, increase love, health and balance.

To be held every Thursday June 7, 14, 21, & 28 from 6:30- 8:30pm  cost:$160 (chakra booklet included)

Practical Sigil Magic (Matt)

In 1910 Austin Osman Spare presented a new magical technique to the world. One with which a magician could perform a potent magical act armed with no greater weapon than a pen and a piece of paper. Come out to learn how to construct, charge, and launch sigils.

Monday, June 11th, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm  cost: $35

Role of Handmaiden in History and Traditional Wicca & Witchcraft (Scarlet)

The history of the handmaiden is seen throughout our past. They were lady attendants, otherwise known as ladies in waiting, or handmaidens. In Japan, they served as concubines to the emperor. The history of the Robin (or Fetch or Page) is similar to that of the Handmaiden, except that it is a male assistant to a man. The role of the handmaiden in Wicca stems from the historical references to handmaidens in both the male and female sense. They were the intimate aid that was crucial for the smooth continuation of a practice. I propose to look at the various historical references and roles of the handmaiden (both male and female) as seen in history and compare these to the traditional practices of the handmaiden role in Wicca and Witchcraft. I will conclude with some of the issues and concerns facing this tradition in today's contemporary Pagan practices.

Thursday, June 14th, 7-9pm  cost: $25

FATHER’S DAY & SUNDAY SABBAT SALE

JUNE 17^th ALL DAY

10% OFF all items in store

Come see what we have for your dad!!

Qigong: Energy Play for Health, Power, and Virility (Matt)

For centuries the Chinese Taoist and Buddhist monks have been studying the body's energetic system. Join us to learn some simple techniques for improving your energy flow by removing energetic obstacles in your body leading to improved organ functioning, a higher rate of bodily comfort, and peace of mind.

Sunday, June 17th, 2-5 pm  cost: $35

MIDSUMMER (LITHA)

June20th all day

Have a Happy Holiday!!

NATIONAL ABORIGINAL DAY

June 21^st all day

10% off all sage smudges

Crafting Ritual: An Introduction (Amanda)

Ritual is a space in time carved out for spiritual or transformative work. It usually involves set forms to create and contain the energy of that moment; and is an integral component of many contemporary Pagan practices. This introductory workshop provides an overview of common ritual formats and some basic considerations when crafting a ritual for yourself or small groups.

Thursday, June 21st, 6:30-8:30pm  cost: $30

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 formal initiation to the second degree of the Usui Shiki Ryoho style of Reiki using the American Reiki Mastery Association's style of initiations.

Saturday, June 23rd, 10am - 5pm  Cost: $250

ST-JEAN BAPTIST DAY

June 24^th CLOSED

GHAMBAR MAIDYOSHEM

Zoroastrian celebration of the creation of water and the sowing of summer crops.

In-store display featuring all water related products and ideas to keep cool this summer!

June 29th through July 3rd

Jewish Mysticism & Qabalah

Shavout is here, so we figured we'd give you the low-down on Jewish mysticism. According to Google's dictionary, a mysticism, in general, is defined as 'belief that union with or absorption into the Deity or the absolute, or the spiritual apprehension of knowledge inaccessible to the intellect, may be attained through contemplation and self-surrender.' Many world religions have mysticisms associated with them which draw on and interpret their common doctrine for this purpose. Judaism is one of them. Judaism's associated mysticism is known as Kabbalah. Kabbalah is very well-accepted for a mysticism; many Rabbis and other Jewish adherenets openly practice Kabbalah as a supplement to their normal practices. The goal of Kabbalah is generally thought to be ultimate understanding of the oneness and timelessness of the universe, but mileage may vary depending on the person practicing it. There exists a Christianized form of Kabbalah, which is generally referred to as Cabalah. Cabalah is much less accepted in tandem with other denominations of Christianity, but it has a good number of practitioners all the same. Qabalah is the practical application of Kabbalah for purposes of ceremonial magick. Qabalists need not be Kabbalists, or even Jewish adherents; in fact, most of Western magick is based on Qabalah in at least some respects. Qabalah rituals often involve summoning or calling upon the name of various angels and archangels, each of which rules some aspect of reality. Qabalah can be used for the purposes of ceremonial magick, but it may also be used to attain a greater general understanding of the universe around us and our place within it. These spellings are a rough rule of usage; many practitioners switch between them with relative freedom, without worrying much over specific letters. This is due to the difficulty of transliterating the original Hebrew word into Latin letters. Technically speaking, one could translate the original Hebrew letters into English as 'kabbalah', 'qabalah', or 'cabalah' with equal accuracy, since Hebrew letters do not distinguish between the 'ka', 'ca', and 'qa' sounds. Because of this, it is safe to assume that older books on the subject, such as the Sefer Yetzirah, are still Jewish in origin, even if they are marked 'Cabalah.' The books below are all associated with Qabalah, though many also bleed into Kabbalah-- in particular, note the Zohar and the Sefer Yetzirah, both of which are famous for forming the basis of Jewish Kabbalah. The Chicken Qabalah Of Rabbi Lamed Ben Clifford ($26.95) by Lon Milo DuQuette Sefer Yetzirah - The Book Of Creation - In Theory And Practice ($39.95) by Aryeh Kaplan The Bahir Illumination ($31.95) by Aryeh Kaplan Essential Zohar - The Source of Kabbalistic Wisdom ($21.00) by Rav P. S. Berg Godwin's Cabalistic Encyclopedia - A Complete Guide to Cabalistic Magick ($53.95) by David Godwin The Kabbalah Unveiled ($31.95) by S.I. MacGregor Mathers Mystical Qabalah (2nd ed.) ($25.95) by Dion Fortune Universal Meaning Of The Kabbalah ($27.95) by Leo Schaya The Witches Qabala: The Pagan Path and the Tree Of Life ($23.95) by Ellen Cannon Reed

For Mom

The above is for any online order placed through our website. Click above to go to the website.
Also for Mother's Day for those who come into the shop, get 10% off selected items for Mother's Day on Sunday all day only (May 13th, 2012).

We have Bath Salt just for MOM!! Also among the selected items are:

• Goddess Milk Bath
• Women's Spiritual Cleansing Bath Salt
• Moon Water
• Affirmation Blessed Herbal Candle for Inner Beauty
• Kwan Yin Goddess Candle
• Evolving Body Badger Balm
• Healing for Hardworking Hands Badge Balm
• Tension Soother Badger Balm
• TWO styles of pewter goddess pendants
• BOOK: Womanspirit Rising
• BOOK: The Goddess Companion
• BOOK: The Great Cosmic Mother

Don't forget the beautiful floral print cards by artist Tina Jory. Use one of these to send your mother a words of love and gratitude for all she has done for you.

M - O - T - H - E - R 
"M" is for the million things she gave me,
"O" means only that she's growing old,
"T" is for the tears she shed to save me,
"H" is for her heart of purest gold;
"E" is for her eyes, with love-light shining,
"R" means right, and right she'll always be,
Put them all together, they spell 
"MOTHER,"
A word that means the world to me.
Howard Johnson (c. 1915)

Suffering from chronic pain, anxiety or insomnia? Feeling the aftermath of an accident, a surgery or a non-physical trauma? Enjoying pregnancy but not the heavy legs coming with that state? All these situations, and more, are indications for osteopathic treatment.

Osteopathy is a manual medicine that focuses on the musculo-skeletal, the visceral and the nervous systems. It tries to eliminate the cause of a person's physical problems, and looks at the person in a holistic way. It opens up healing on deeper level: emotional, psychological, energetic and spiritual.

Valerie offers osteopathic treatments at the store on Thursdays, generally from 1-5pm. Special arrangements can be made if you call in advance and mention that you wish to speak with Valerie prior to booking an appointment. Otherwise, please call the store and give your preferred time slot to the staff.

FAQ: What is Astral Projection and Astral Travel?

What is Astral Projection?
Astral projection, or an "out of body experience," is the process of separating one's consciousness from the physical world so that it can perceive and explore the Astral realms more easily. The Astral realms are the energetic and spiritual planes that lie just beneath the physical one, giving and reflecting its spiritual substance. By separating your consciousness from your physical body you enter the astral planes making it easier to perceive and navigate.

What is Astral Travel?
Astral travel is the next step after astral projection. Once you have entered the astral plane with your consciousness you can go exploring. Your astral self will maintain it's link to your physical body through a anchor which will make it easy to find your body again no matter where you wander.

Why Would I Astral Travel?
Even though the astral realms reflect the physical realm it is much more vast and varied. As well the first Astral realm works as a sort of gateway to many realms such as Faery, the realm of dreams, the astral planes associated with other planets as well as angelic and demonic realms and many others. In your astral body you can explore all these places and gather information on the spiritual state and health of the universe, information about these other realms and maybe even speak to some of the entities that inhabit them.

What Are the Dangers?
Just like any sort of mundane travel, astral travel can be fraught with problems. You might lose your way, or find yourself in a part of the astral that is strange, confusing or frighting. The biggest problem most people have with astral travel is allowing yourself to feel disconnected from your physical body. The sensation is often dizzying and uncomfortable and can cause a lot of anxiety. People tend to keep their consciousness firmly rooted inside themselves and having it separate away can be extremely disorienting and can even cause a "flight or fight" reaction from a misconception that one is dying. Preparing yourself with meditation and lots of practice can help to overcome the unconscious fear of astral projection. A few people also experience an inability to find one's way back to one's body or trouble reintegrating into it properly. Learning to sense your tether and even to use it to snap back into your body is a good way to prevent this. As for and inability to reintegrate, learning to ground or simply doing something very physical like working out or eating can correct this.
Other dangers of astral travel tend to do with what sort of entities you might encounter. Spiritual entities are much more powerful on the astral plane. Learning psychic protection techniques, creating astral weapons and armor and testing entities with holy symbols are all a good way of protecting yourself from negative spirits you may encounter.

How Do I Astral Project?
Astral projection can often be hard to achieve as it involves allowing your spirit or consciousness to separate from your physical body which is counter to your natural state except perhaps during sleep. One of the ways to achieve this is to but yourself in a state of conscious dreaming, such as lucid dreaming. Another way is to place yourself in a trance-like state. Certain stones, oils and herbs are also helpful for learning to astral travel.The best way to learn how to astral travel however is to learn from a practitioner. For a good book try Astral Projection for Beginners by Edain McCoy  or check out Matt's workshop on astral projection happening this Sunday in which "you will be given the tools to make use of this time honoured skill. You will be given anchors to powerful trance states in which you can easily achieve out of body experiences."

May 2012 Workshop

WESAK: Buddha’s Day

Celebrate the Buddha with books, tea, and meditation.

-10% off all meditation, tea, and east Asian books and items.

Sunday, May 6th

Practical Energy Work (Scarlet)

This two-part workshop will introduce you to tapping into and managing your own personal energy and protecting yourself from psychic attacks and evil intentions. The first night focuses on basic energy work: centering, grounding, your personal space, sensing energy, casting circles, and creating a ball of energy. The second night focuses in intermediate energy work: sensing and moving energy, charging and draining and programming energy of objects, shielding yourself and your home, and creating a cone of power.

* Crescent Moon School students may attend both classes for $20*

Thursday, May 10th & 24th 7-9pm $80

Fun with Hebrew Letters (Eri)
Trying to study Qabbalah? Can't figure out how to draw Hebrew scripture? Can't remember the order of the alphabet or that "Aleph" means "ox," is associated with the element of Air and represents the number 1? In this workshop all these problems will be dealt with and we will make flash cards to help future learning.
Saturday, May 12th 2-4pm $10

MOTHER’S DAY

Honor your mother with pampering Women’s Spiritual Cleansing bath salts or Goddess milk baths. Add in a beautiful floral print art card for spring and tell her how much you love her! Check out our Mother’s Day display table for ideas and discounts and other surprises!

Sunday, May 13th

Evoking and Invoking Personalized Godforms (Matt)

Throughout history people have been calling spirits into their circles and bodies in order to make use of their abilities. Do these spirits exist? Join us to find out why it doesn't matter, and how you can make custom spirits to enhance your work with traditional entities, or to use your own creativity to make entities suited for your own personal needs.

Sunday, May 13th 2-5 pm, $35

GAIA GATHERING (Canadian National Pagan Conference)

The Canadian National Pagan Conference (CNPC), Gaia Gathering, is held every year over the long Victoria Day weekend in May. Each year, the event is hosted by a different city, which is determined through a bid and vote process. Gaia Gathering is a place where people from across Canada and from across the spectrum of this country’s Pagan religions an come together to talk about who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we might be going as a religious community in Canada.

The 2012 conference will be held in the cultural, entertainment and financial capital of Canada; Toronto, Ontario from May 18th to 21st, 2012 and the theme will be "Building the Mosaic."

www.gaiagathering.ca

ABORIGINAL AWARENESS DAY

Free sage and shell with every purchase over $25.

-10% off all sage bundles and books on Shamanism & Native Spirituality.

Tuesday, May 22nd

KEILLIENA GUEST VISITOR

Come meet Keilliena right out of Halifax’s Pagan shop, Little Mysteries.

Visiting us for the day to do clairvoyant readings and launch her new book.

Wednesday, May23rd

Vision Board Workshop (Monika)

“If you don’t design your own life plan, chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not much” ~Jim Rohn

Come and envision the life you always wanted, with intent, then create the life you always deserved with intentional manifestation.

Saturday, May 26th 1-3pm $25

How to do a Ceremonial Banishing - The LBRP (Eri) 
In this workshop we will be learning the history, symbolism, visualizations and theories behind the famous Qabbalistic and Ceremonial Magic ritual of the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram. Students will also go through a practical demonstration and learn how to do this powerful ritual on their own. The LBRP uses divine and angelic energies to remove influences from your sphere and is great for banishing, balance and protection.
Saturday, May 26th, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, $35

Achieving Lucidity: Dreaming Your Way to Enlightenment (Matt)

In answer to the question 'are you a god', Gautama Buddha replied 'I am awake'. To wake up in the dream is to become a deity within the world of your own dreaming mind. Join us to explore practical techniques for achieving lucid dream states, and what powers and adventures you can have once you're awake within the dream.

Sunday, May 27th 2-5 pm, $35

Fun with Faeries on Beltane!

The holiday of Beltane (May Day) which falls on May 1st marks the mid-way point of the Pagan (namely Celtic and Wiccan) year. Opposite from Samhain (Halloween), Beltane marks the beginning of the "summer" or the "light half of the year." During these two festivals it is said that the barriers between this world and the other are thin and this makes such things as ghosts, ancestor spirits and faeries much more accessible. Being as this is the light half of the year, Beltane is associated more with life then death, and as such the Fae, who are often most directly related to plants and the earth and their wellbeing are more revered.

A Simple Offering
One of the things you can do for Beltane to garner the favor of the Fae is to leave out an offering for them. Traditional offerings include honey, milk, bread, apples and jasmine. Mushrooms and toadstools are also appropriate gifts, as well as pennies, quartz, labradorite, and anything pretty or shiny you find lying around. Make sure however that none of your gifts are made out of iron. Faeries are allergic to iron, and they won't look kindly on a gift made of it. Leave your offerings in as natural a setting as possible (the Mountain is a great place for this, but your yard can work just as well). Organize your gifts and prettily and enticingly as you can and leave it there for the faeries to enjoy at their leisure.

Make a Faery Home

If you want to invite some Faeries into your home or garden (though beware, this may lead to random disappearances of keys!), a great way to do this is to make a Faery Home. This is also a great project to do with your kids. Go to a forest or a park and gather as many rocks, twigs and leaves as you can. I also suggest getting some crystal quartz ahead of time, as quartz is very spiritually receptive and can act as a "fetish" or a spiritual home for an entity. Using either craft clay or a glue gun, fashion your stones, twigs and leaves into a little house with a hole for a door. Not only are these little homes adorable but they are also very inviting for the Wee Folk. Place your house near some plants in your home or in your garden to help promote their growth and liveliness.

Make Garlands of Flowers for the Summer Lady At Beltane the Summer Courts (or in Celtic myth the Seelie Courts) of the Fae are in their full power. The Queen of the Summer Fae sings through the lands and creates warmth and beauty. One way to welcome her is by creating flower garlands in her honor. Wearing garlands and singing lusty songs like this one are traditional for Beltane and are particularly enjoyed by the Summer Court and it's Lady. Join in their summer revels by adorning yourself in flowers and dancing through the trees. Even better, adorn the trees and passers-by with garlands, bringing the Beltane Faery spirit to all. Faeries thrive anywhere there is spontaneity and joy!

Did you enjoy the pictures in this blog? Favorite them and support the artists by buying their prints on Deviant Art. Featured in this article are: Tam Lin by Pui Mun Law, Faery House 14, Flower Garland 1D, and The Seduction. 

April 2012 Workshops & Events

INVENTORY DAY 
Sunday April 1st All Day
CLOSED

Elements of Magic Intensive Weekend (Amanda) 
 In this class we explore the practice of magic and witchcraft by working with the elements--Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Spirit. We learn the ritual technologies used in the Reclaiming tradition to create sacred space and time, and to create magic; and we explore our connections with the Divine and Mysterious Ones, in whatever form we understand them. Some techniques that are typically touched on include breath, dancing, drumming, chanting, trance, visualization, working with will, sensing and projecting energy, raising a cone, basic spellcraft, and ritual.
Saturday & Sunday, April 14 & 15, OFF PREMISES (in Verdun), $75
Contact Witchy Ways at: ravenka@cosmic-muse.com

How to do a Ceremonial Banishing - The LBRP (Eri) 
In this workshop we will be learning the history, symbolism, visualizations and theories behind the famous Qabbalistic and Ceremonial Magic ritual of the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram. Students will also go through a practical demonstration and learn how to do this powerful ritual on their own. The LBRP uses divine and angelic energies to remove influences from your sphere and is great for banishing, balance and protection.
Saturday, April 14th, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, $35

Circles of Meaning, Labyrinths of Fear Book Launch (Brendan Myers) FREE
You have heard of sacred places, writings, relics, and rituals, holy days and magical times of year. But these are actually representations of relationships that people have with each other and the elements of the world.
Sunday, April 15th, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm, FREE
*Book Signing following the lecture*

Walking on Water: Mastering the Emotional Body (Matt)
Has your mind ever kept you awake at night? Have you ever been crushed by careless words of a co-worker, or parent? Do you hold back from joy to appease your fear of having what you want more than anything? Learn to work with your emotional body to move past habits and anxieties, to heal and find joy.
Sunday, April 15th, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm, $35

Advanced Magical Self-Defense (Courtney) 
Basic shields are not always the right tool for the job. Learn some advanced techniques and theories for magickal self-defense, from quantum resonance to the technopagan concept of emotional 'anti-viruses.' Some prior experience with energy work is required. There will be take-away materials.
Sunday, April 15th, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm, $30


Energy Work for Beginners (Monika) FREE
If you are interested or have a piqued curiosity for energy work this is the place to start! Free lecture and open panel conversation on what is energy work, how it can benefit all areas of your life. Will be touching base on different kinds of energy work. Come and see which is best suited for you!
Saturday, April 28th, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm, FREE

REIKI ONE (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 using the American Reiki Mastery Association's style of initiations. Ample time will be given for practice as well.
Saturday, April 21st, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, $150 OFF PREMISES
*Teacher will contact students*

Gypsy Magick: a guide to divination (Ameara) 
We will be discussing and demonstrating divination techniques. Learn the basics, or help your own gifts and skills become more accurate.
Crystal scrying 
Tarot cards 
Tea leaves 
Pendulum scrying 
Come with any divination tools you own and help refine your skills, or learn where to start. Demonstrations and readings to be done in the workshop as well.
Sunday, April 22nd, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm, $25

An Introduction to the Elements (Amanda) 
Many contemporary Pagan and esoteric traditions use the five foundational elements of earth, air, fire, water and ether/spirit. What are they, where do they come from, what do they represent, how can we tune-in to their energies for our magical or spiritual work, and why would we want to? This 2-hour introduction scratches the surface of these questions and offers some practical exercises to explore the five elements.
Thursday, April 26th, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, $30

Egyptian Gods and Goddesses (Eri) 
Learn the basic history, myths, personalities and attributes of some Egyptian Gods and Goddess's. We will look at how to identify some of the Gods and Goddesses in hieroglyphs, like Anubis, Isis, Osiris, Thoth and Ra. Learn how they relate to one another and how you can use them to empower your spells, rituals and yourself!
Saturday, April 28th, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm, $35

SUNDAY SABBAT SALE
Sunday April 29th ALL DAY

Astral Projection for Beginners (Matt) 
For centuries we have been told that astral projection requires years of practice and hard work to accomplish. In this workshop you will be given the tools to make use of this time honoured skill. You will be given anchors to powerful trance states in which you can easily achieve out of body experiences.
Sunday, April 29th, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm, $35

The Store Will Be Closed This Sunday, April 1st

Just a reminder that the store will be closed this Sunday, April 1st for inventory. (This is not an April Fool's joke :p )

Brendan Myers Returns to Montreal

SUNDAY APRIL 15TH

BOOK LAUNCH LECTURE 1-3PM

BOOK SIGNING 3-5PM

Brendan Myers will be visiting The Magical Blend / Le Melange Magique (1928 St-Catherine West, Montreal) to launch his newest book. Come attend the free lecture. get any of the books of his that you own signed. Buy Pagan Testament or Circles of Meaning, Labyrinths of Fear his newest book (being launched this day).

Circles of Meaning, Labyrinths of Fear

978-1-84694-745-2

$26.95

You have heard of sacred places, writings, relics, and rituals, holy days and magical times of year. But these are actually representations of relationships that people have with each other and the elements of the world.

Some of these relationships environmental: they involve landscapes, animals, and the streets of your home town. Some are personal, such as families, friends, and elders. Some are public, involving musicians, storytellers, medical doctors, and even soldiers. This book studies twenty-two relationships, from a variety of traditions, and shows their place in the good life.

Yet these relations are always fragile, and threatened by fears, from the fear of loneliness, to the fear of the loss of personal or political freedom, to the fear of death. To escape from these fears, people often trap themselves into ways of life that are bad for everyone, including themselves. This book studies how that happens, and how to prevent it.

More than beliefs, laws, and teachings, our relationships are the true basis of spirituality, and freedom.

The twenty-two relationships of a spiritual life and culture - and why they need protection.

To learn more about Brendan Myers:
http://www.brendanmyers.net/wickedrabbit/index.php?option=com_content&view=section&layout=blog&id=3&Itemid=5

New teas!

We've just gotten in a beautiful new series of Zodiac blooming teas, as well as a few other tasty teas! We have blooming teas for all twelve signs, each of them with special properties fitting the zodiacal sign attributes. They are lovely to see and very tasty! Take a look below!

(Aquarius / Infinite Tranquility)

Personality: Quiet, shy, ambitious, and sharp.

Ingredients: Jasmine green tea and carnation flower.

Functions: Relieves stress, improves body metabolism and blood circulation.

(Aries / Sensual Interlude)

Personality: Attractive, affectionate, and artistic.

Ingredients: Jasmine green tea, chrysanthemum, globe amaranth, and
jasmine flowers.

Functions: Helps cure coprostasis and relieve stress.

(Leo / True Love)

Personality: Systematic, understanding, and imaginative.

Ingredients: Jasmine green tea, globe amaranth, and jasmine flowers.

Functions: Eliminates body toxins and maintains emotional balance.

(Capricorn / Winter Fantasy)

Personality: Hard-working, smart, sensitive, and loyal.

Ingredients: Jasmine green tea, chrysanthemum, and jasmine flowers.

Functions: Reduces internal heat, and cleanses grease and impurities.

We have Ginseng Oolong, Milk Oolong and Red Lychee loose teas as well. Not only are they yummy in the tummy, but they also have interesting health benefits.

Ginseng Oolong Health Benefits:
Lower blood pressure and cholesterol, aid with indigestion, immune-system boost, anti-carcinogen, heart disease preventative, strengthening against stress and fatigue.

Milk Oolong Health Benefits:
Immune boost, antitoxin and anticarcinogen, helps fight disease and aging, reduces cholesterol, aids in weight loss.

Red Lychee Health Benefits:
Immune boost, healthy skin, improved blood circulation, lowers blood pressure.

Make a wish!

Want the "Luck of the Irish"? Come by the store and make a wish in the wish-book at the public altar. On St-Paddy's day the staff will use all that lucky energy to do a spell to help grant your wish. Just follow the guidelines of the spell inscribed in the book:



Make a wish
For what you need
Not in hate
Or in Greed
May God and Goddess
Give you aid
And grant the wish
That you have made.
Write your wish and trust in the Luck of the Irish to grant it!

New Crystals!

Melange just received a new shipment of stones including some new and interesting ones! Here they are with their properties:

Aragonite: is a stone that is strongly associated with the Earth Goddess. As such it exhibits many of the qualities one would associate with Earth; it is grounding, promotes a wish to be eco-friendly, clears blocked ley-lines, centers, grounds, and stabilizes root and sacral chakras. Aragonite promotes stability, concentration, tolerance and patience.

Iolite: is a very good stone for clairvoyance, visualization, insight, and is associated with the Third Eye. Iolite can also be used to help you contact and express your true self, freeing you from others' expectations. Emotionally Iolite releases discord within relationships.

Kyanite: is a very spiritual stone, helping you to stay true to your spiritual self. It is also related to the Throat Chakra and promotes self-expression and communication and helps one to see spiritual and psychological truths. Kyanite helps you to deal with karmic fallout and your past by helping with the realization of your role in causing your own fate and karma. This stone is also useful for increasing your capacity to be logical and linear and helps to remove stress, confusion, anger, frustration and other blockages.

Larimar: is a beautiful stone from the Caribbean and is used to protect oneself from oneself. On a spiritual level it harmonizes you with new vibrations, helps dissolve spiritual boundaries and aids in communication with the angelic realm. Larimar is good for finding one's soul mate and heals trauma from past (and past life) relationships.

Pink Tourmaline: is an aphrodisiac that attracts material and spiritual love. It inspires trust in love and self love. It cleanses the heart chakra and removes blockages and emotional pain and old destructive feelings. Pink tourmaline also promotes peace, relaxation and connects physical and spiritual love.

Shungite: This mysterious stone is only found in one region of northern Russia. Though no one is quite sure where this stone came from or how it was formed, Shungite's healing properties have been historically and scientifically documented thoroughly. Shungite contains a powerful anti-oxidant called a "fullerene" which, until it had been discovered in shungite, was only found in small doses around the world, supposedly where lightning had struck. Despite the presence of fullurenes however, scientists are still at a loss to explain all of shungite's healing properties such as: a vast improvements in those with chronic diseases such as liver disease, kidney diseases and gastrointestinal diseases,  aiding recovery from skin diseases and prevention hair loss and revitalization of hair.  Shungite is also said to help with wrinkles and restore skin elasticity. As well, Shungite has been said to block electromagnetic radiation from cell phones, radios and other modern appliances.

Super Seven: This stone, also known as Sacred Seven, contains amethyst, clear quartz, smokey quartz, cacoxenite, rutile, goethite, and lepidochrosite. It is a powerful stone for healing the mind, body, and spirit. Super Seven can cleanse negative attachments, assist in clearing emotional issues, and help contact spirit guides.

March Workshops & Events

Chakra Balancing Series (Scarlet)

Welcome to this weekly in-depth exploration of the chakras. Each week will focus on a different chakra with the last class being a cleansing of the auric bodies. Learn about blocks and how to release them, correspondences to help you tap into the chakra energies and cleanse your own chakras, and exercises to help you become more in tune with each chakra.

*Please bring a cup for tea at the start of each class, wear warm yoga clothing and bring a mat or cushion to sit upon.

Every Thursday starting February 21st through 8 classes to April 17th 7-9pm

$250 for all 8 classes (saving you $70 if prepaid in full) or $40 per class

Root Chakra: Tuesday February 21st, 7-9pm

Navel Chakra: Tuesday February 27th, 7-9pm

Solar Plexus Chakra: Tuesday March 6th, 7-9pm

Heart Chakra: Tuesday March 13th, 7-9pm

Throat Chakra: Tuesday March 20th, 7-9pm

Third Eye Chakra: Tuesday April 3rd, 7-9pm

Crown Chakra: Tuesday April 10th, 7-9pm

Aura Cleansing: Tuesday April 17th, 7-9pm

Gemstone Healing (Catharine)

Every gemstone has multiple properties from geological to symbolic and energetic. This course explores some of the more common gems we find in stores, shows or in jewellery pieces, and goes in depth to explore your relationship to the stone and its' healing properties for your life.

Thursday, March 1st, 7-9pm, $40

Pagan Chants Workshop (Amanda)

Chant plays an important part in many Pagan rituals for creating a group mind and raising energy. It's also fun! In the first hour Amanda will introduce us some of the classics, as well as newer Pagan chants that she has learned in her travels to Pagan communities across North America. In the second hour, participants will be invited to share chants with the rest of the group. Don't worry, if no one brings chants for the second hour, Amanda has plenty of her own to fill the time! Song sheets will be provided for the first hour.

Sunday, March 4th, 2-4pm, $10 (All proceeds will go to the MPRC)

Pendulums for Divination and Diagnosis (Catharine)

Pendulums are amazing at determining answers based on our natural magnetic fields. They can react differently with different people too. Certain gems will resonate with you for your pendulum. A lot of people will ask questions of love or money, but did you know it can also give us answers that can assist in diagnosing a multitude of issues?  It's all in asking the right questions. You will have a chance to try a number of pendulums and practice using yours in a variety of ways. Come on out!

Thursday, March 8th, 7-9pm, $40

Gypsy Magic 101 (Ameara)

This introduction to gypsy magick will explore working with magickal energy, how to cast a spell, how to call upon the divine forces, herbal properties, and candle magick. We will walk through what magick is, how to call upon the elements for simple intention magick, what herbs and colors to use for a purpose, and what divine powers to call, associations etc.

Sunday, March 11th, 1-3pm, $30

You will walk away with a few simple spells to start your magickal practice:

Making Money: With simple cinnamon, green tea, and a green candle.

Attracting or Choosing a Lover: Bottle caps or other objects in water as well as a simple attraction magick candle spell.

Calm and Clear Mind: Herbs to use in baths or aromatherapy to aid in meditation and clarity of mind spell.

Spellcrafting 101 (Courtney)

Craft and cast your own spells, from start to finish! Learn the simple underlying concepts which make particular spell constructs work the way they do. By the end of the class, you should be able to create your own spells for any purpose. The class includes take-away spellcraft reference materials, and one of Courtney's personal favorite spells for luck!

Saturday, March 17th, 3-5pm, $35

PUBLIC OSTARA RITUAL (MPRC- Diane & Alain)

Come join us to celebrate Ostara and welcome spring at the same time. Spring is a time for new births, planting, new beginnings, and fertility. Cold and darkness are leaving us, nature will come to life again, exposing a beautiful vegetation and marvelous colours.

Please bring a small flower pot and your feast (to share) and feast gear.

Sunday, March 18th, 2pm (after the St-Patrick’s Day Parade)

Re-Programming Reality: Techno-Pagan Techniques for Beginners (Courtney)

Learn a few new spellcrafting techniques from a Techno-Pagan point of view! Courtney goes over some of the most basic techniques and thought-patterns which she uses in her spell work, from re-programming reality to ‘running’ a spell in the background. This class requires that participants have basic knowledge of how to cast a spell, but does not require any prior knowledge of computers.

Saturday, March 24th, 3-5pm, $30

Basic Runelore pt. 1: Reading the Runes (Matt)

In this workshop, you will learn how the runes of the Elder Futhark can be used to magickal effect. With references to Eddic and Sagic sources, you will learn how the energetic currents of the runes can be tamed and channelled to create all manner of magickal effects. The Ancient Viking tools of liberation can become your allies, allowing you to make changes in your perception, your mode of activity, and your world. Join us to experience the liberation that comes with self-empowerment.

Sunday, March 25th 3-5 pm. $35

Magick of Incense Making (Ameara)

Fire is the element of Magick, the Magick spark, sacred fires, candles. And air is the element of incense, smoke, smudge. Bring these elements together with earth and herbology. How can these elements work together to create Magick?

Friday, March 30th, 7-9pm, $35

Reiki Level 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, March 31st, 10am-5pm $150