March 2013 Events & Workshops

Healer Discussion Panel - FREE

A monthly discussion panel is organized with the healers of Mélange Magique's. Do you wish to know more about specific methods of healing, such as Reiki, Shiatsu, Reflexology or Osteopathy? Are you curious about how healing can affect not only your physical body, but your energetic and psychic abilities? This month we will have a general and open discussion. As time goes on, we will focus on specific aspects of healing that may raise questions in the public.

Friday March 1st, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Cost: FREE

Meditation in Pregnancy (Katherine Seiler)

Throughout pregnancy and childbirth meditation can be of great use! Learn the benefits, techniques, and more. Come talk to other moms and moms-to-be about how meditation can help!

*Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring whatever makes you feel comfortable (slippers, pillow, etc).*

Saturdays throughout March, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Cost: $25 per person per session or $40 if you sign up with a friend (saving you each $5)

House Cleansing, Blessing, & Protecting (Scarlet)

Your home is your sanctuary! It should always feel like the safe and happy place you wish to return to. Come learn how to do a house cleansing, purification and blessing. Also discover ways to protect your home from negativity.

Saturday, March 9th, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Cost: $40

Reiki Share (Anouk Mackenzie)

Do you enjoy gentle, hands-on healing? Need a boost to help you get through the winter? Relax and renew your body, mind and spirit with a 30-minute session of Reiki energy healing for only $10.

Sundays, March 10th & 24th, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Cost: $10 donation

Introduction to Meditation (Katherine Seiler)

Come learn the basics, the how's, the why's of meditation, and more! Followed by discussion and guided meditation. All are welcome!

*Please wear comfortable clothing. Nothing too constricting.*

Sundays, March 10th & 24th, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Cost: $5 per person per session

Aura Cleansing (Scarlet)

This course will teach you several techniques of aura cleansing, as well as how to cleanse your chakras. It involves alternative healing, energy work, and guided meditation. These are skills you will be able to use on yourself and others.

*Please dress comfortably and bring a cushion to sit on if possible.*

Saturday, March 16th, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Cost: $40

Aura & Chakra Series (Scarlet)

Welcome to this weekly in-depth exploration of the chakras. Each week will focus on a different chakra with the first 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 comfortable yoga clothing and bring a mat or cushion to sit upon.*

March 16th through May 11th, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Cost: $40 per class or $250 for all 8 classes (savings of $70)

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, March 17th, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Cost: $150

Herbes et plantes pour vous soigner: Atelier pratique (Diane)

Venez apprendre comment faire quelques soins pour vous et votre corps à base de plantes et herbes médicinales.

Repartez avec un échantillon de chaque chose que nous aurons préparé ensembles. (Vous le faites avec moi). Nous travaillerons entre-autre avec: cire d'abeilles, vodka, souci, mourron, huile végétale, huiles essentielles, sel d'epsom, et bien plus encore. Parmi les soins que nous ferons se trouvent: Crème apaisante pour les mains, Pommade pour coupures et éraflures, Teinture contre l'insomnie, Sel de bain vivifiant. Habillez-vous pour vous salir car nous utiliseront des huiles.

*Le coût est relié aux ingrédients et objets nécessaires pour cet atelier.*

(Min 4 personnes sinon annulé)

Dimanche, 17 mars, de 13 à 16 heures
Cost: $150

Runic Crash Course: Three-Part Series (Matt)

Are you curious about the ancient Germanic system of divination and magick known as THE RUNES? In this series we will be working through 24 powerful meditations on the energy of the runes. Instead of rote memorization, or book study, you will be taking up the runes directly by going into trance and interacting with their energies and the deities that imbue them with power, and then watch as your life starts to take on the landscape of those energies.

Saturdays, March 16th, 23rd, & 30th, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Cost: $100

Selling Your Handmade Goods on Etsy (Josie Blanchette of Angelyques Trinkets)

Do you make neat things and want to sell them on the most popular handmade site? In this 1-day seminar you will learn how to do everything from photographing your products to promoting your store. A personal review of your current online store is also included in the seminar price.

*You Need: A link to your online store for review at the time of sign up, and note-taking implements.*

Saturday, March 16th, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Cost: $40

Public Ostara Ritual (MPRC: Hobbes & Ryan)

The MPRC wants to celebrate Earth Hour and Oestra, so we'll do it at the same time! We're proposing an outdoor drumming session to celebrate the heartbeat of the earth!

Outdoor Drumming Session: Esplanade Ernest-Cormier (the park across from the Canadian Centre for Architecture) corner of duFort and Rene-Levesque. In case of rain, the drumming session will be moved to the second floor of Melange Magique (1928 Ste. Catherine Street West).

*What to bring: Warm clothing, a drum, noise makers, dancing shoes, a chair to sit on.*

Saturday, March 23rd, 7:00 pm
Cost: FREE

Intro to the Medicine Wheel (Sarah Orr)

The Medicine Wheel is a tool that reveals that which exists in the invisible realm. It has existed for thousands of years and continues to offer insights relevant to everyday living. Through stories, dreams and ritual, we will explore the connections between ourselves and the natural world. Join us for an evening of phenomenon.

*Please feel free to bring drums or rattles with you to this class.*

Thursday, March 28th, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Cost: $25

FAQ: What are the Elementals?

Elementals are beings that inhabit nature, specifically through the elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water. After this basic definition things get a bit fuzzier. Some people claim that all spirits associated with nature such as nymphs, faeries and devas are elementals. Others restrict elementals to the four beings described by the 16th Century Occultist Paracelsus: Earth Gnomes, Air Sylphs, Water Undines and Fire Salamanders.

The elementals are considered by most Occultists to be "lower beings" in that they rarely exhibit a will or intellect of their own. (Elemental spirits are not to be confused with elemental Kings, Queens and Intelligences, which are considered "higher beings" and do have their own will and intellect.) One can think of elementals as the little worker bees of the natural world: busily going about their assigned tasks without much thought. The task that they perform, however, is the all-important one of maintaining the spiritual structure of the material world and the world of nature. As such, people who are sensitive to spirits can often sense a disturbance in the natural order of things by a disturbance in the flow of the elementals. When this happens it is important for those of us who are nature conscious to try to correct whatever imbalance has set them off course.

Magically speaking  elementals have been invoked for centuries to lend a magical hand in rituals, particularly those involving the elements. They are often invoked at the beginning of rituals in order to lend their energies to the work at hand. Working and meditating with the elementals is also a great way to get yourself in tune with an element. However, because elementals do not have great intelligence or will if you invoke them and especially if you give them a certain task to do, make sure you release and banish them after! Otherwise they will stick around forever continuing the task or filling the space or your aura with their elemental energy until you tell them to stop. This can cause great imbalance in the spaces, yourself and those around you, and even some harm. On the other hand, doing a meditation where you become aware of the elementals all around you is completely safe and very interesting.

Here are the prayers to each of the elementals as described by Eliphas Levi, the French Occultist, which can be used to invoke them or if said silently during meditation to become aware of them and to give them some recognition and thanks for their part in maintaining the universe.

The Prayer of the Gnomes or Earth Spirits.

O Invisible King, who, taking the Earth for Foundation, didst hollow its depths to fill them with Thy Almighty Power. Thou whose Name shaketh the Arches of the World, Thou who causest the Seven Metals to flow in the veins of the rocks, King of the Seven Lights, Rewarder of the subterranean workers, lead us into the desirable Air and into the Realm of Splendour. We watch and we labour unceasingly, we seek and we hope, by the twelve stones of the Holy City, by the buried Talismans, by the Axis of the Lodestone which passes through the centre of the Earth – O Lord, O Lord, O Lord! Have pity upon those who suffer. Expand our hearts, unbind and upraise our minds, enlarge our natures. O Stability and Motion! O Darkness veiled in Brilliance! O Day clothed in Night! O Master who never doest withhold the wages of Thy workmen! O Silver Whiteness – O Golden Splendour! O Crown of Living and Harmonious Diamond! Thou who wearest the Heavens on Thy Finger like a ring of Sapphire! Thou who hidest beneath the Earth in the Kingdom of Gems, the marvellous Seed of the Stars! Live, reign, and be Thou the Eternal Dispenser of the Treasures whereof Thou hast made us the wardens. Amen.

The Prayer of the Sylphs or Air Spirits.

SPIRIT OF LIFE! Spirit of Wisdom! Whose breath giveth forth and withdraweth the form of all things: THOU before whom the life of beings is but a shadow which changeth, and a vapour which passeth; THOU who mountest upon the clouds, and who walkest upon the Wings of the Wind. THOU who breathest forth Thy breath, and endless space is peopled; THOU who drawest in Thy breath, and all that cometh from Thee returneth unto Thee! CEASELESS MOTION in Eternal Stability, be Thou eternally blessed! We praise Thee and we bless Thee in the Changelss Empire of Created Light, of Shades, of Reflections, and of Images, and we aspire without cessation unto Thy immutable and imperishable brilliance. Let the ray of Thy intelligence and the warmth of Thy love penetrate even unto us! Then that which is Volatile shall be Fixed; the Shadow shall be a Body; the Spirit of Air shall be a Soul; the Dream shall be a Thought. And no more shall we be swept away by the Tempest, but we shall hold the Bridles of the Winged Steeds of Dawn. And we shall direct the course of the Evening Breeze to fly before Thee! O Spirit of Spirits! O Eternal Soul of Souls! O imperishable Breath of Life! O creative sigh! O Mouth which breathest forth and withdrawest the life of all beings, in the flux and reflux of Thine Eternal Word, which is the Divine Ocean of Movement and of Truth! Amen.

 The Prayer of the Undines or Water Spirits.

Terrible King of the Sea, Thou who holdest the Keys of the Cataracts of Heaven, and who enclosest the subterraean Waters in the cavernous hollows of Earth. King of the Deluge and of the Rains of Spring. Thou who openest the sources of the rivers and of the fountains; thou who commandest moisture which is, as it were, the Blood of the Earth, to become the sap of the plants. We adore Thee and we invoke Thee. Speak Thou unto us, Thy Mobile and changeful creatures, in the Great Tempests,Thou unto us, Thy Mobile and changeful creatures, in the Great Tempests, and we shall tremble before Thee. Speak to us also in the murmer of the limpid Waters, and we shall desire Thy love. O Vastness! wherein all the rivers of Being seek to lose themselves – which renew themselves ever in Thee! O Thou Ocean of Infinite Perfection! O Height which reflectest Thyself in the Depth! O Depth which exhalest into the Height! Lead us unto the true life through intelligence, through love! Lead us into immortality through sacrifice, that we may be found worthy to offer one day unto Thee, the Water, the Blood and the Tears, for the Remission of Sins! Amen.

The Prayer of the Salamanders or Fire Spirits.

Immortal, Eternal, Ineffable and Uncreated Father of all, borne upon the Chariot of Worlds which ever roll in ceaseless motion. Ruler over the Etherial Vastness where the Throne of Thy Power is raised from the summit of which Thine Eyes behold all and Thy Pure and Holy Ears hear all – help us, thy children, whom Thou hast loved since the birth of the Ages of Time! Thy Majesty, Golden, Vast and Eternal, shineth above the Heaven of Stars. Above them art Thou exalted. O Thou Flashing Fire, there Thou illuminatest all things with Thine Insupportable Glory, whence flow the Ceaseless Streams of Splendour which nourish Thine Infinite Spirit. This Infinite Spirit nourishest all and maketh that inexhausible Treasure of Generation which ever encompasseth Thee replete with the mumberless forms wherewith Thou hast filled it from the Beginning. From this Spirit arise those most holy Kings who are around Thy Throne, and who compose Thy Court. O Universal Father, One and Alone! Father alike of Immortals and Mortals. Thou hast especially created Powers similar unto thy Thought Eternal and unto Thy Venerable Essence. Thou hast established them above the Angels who announce Thy Will to the world. Lastly, thou hast created us as a third Order in our Elemental Empire. There our continual exercise is to praise and to adore Thy Desires; there we ceaselessy burn with Eternal Aspirations unto Thee, O Father! O Mother of Mothers! O Archetype Eternal of Maternity and Love! O Son, the Flower of all Sons! Form of all Forms! Soul, Spirit, Harmony, and Numeral of all things! Amen!

Lupercalia: the bloodier precurser to Valentine's Day

Back before Christianity when Rome was barely even a Republic, the ancient Romans celebrated a ritual every year on February 15th called Lupercalia. Though many of the origins and original practices are lost to the mists of time, there is enough literature mentioning the ritual that it's basic form can be devised and its purposes can be conjectured at.

The myth most often associated with Lupercalia is that of Remus and Romulus, the two founding brothers of Rome. Remus and Romulus were thrown into the river by their uncle who wanted to seize their kingdom. Saved by driftwood, the twins were found and raised by a she-wolf (Lupa).

Lupercalia, which derives from the Latin root "lupus" meaning "wolf" started off in the cave called the Lupercal where Remus and Romulus were theoretically suckled by Lupa. There two sets of men (which was later made into three by Julius Ceasar) called the Luperci Quinctiales and the Luperci Fabiani would gather and sacrifice a goat, and often a dog. The goat is said to represent the fertility aspect of the ritual, especially since goats were sacred to Pan or Faunus, a fertility and lust god. The dog is more obscure, though it is suggested that it was sacrificed because dogs are seen as the enemy of wolves. The blood of the sacrifice would be smeared on the Luperci and strips would be made of the skins to use as small whips. The Luperci would then laugh and feast on the meat before starting their ritual run through Rome by the "sacred way," the Palatine. As the Luperci ran through the city purifying it they would whip married women with the skin thongs they carried. This was supposed to impart fertility on the women, as can be seen represented by the picture below:

These actions may seem a bit distasteful to modern ears but Lupercalia was an incredibly popular ritual. It was practiced all over the Roman empire, theoretically since the founding of Rome up to 494 CE, when the Pope finally outlawed it's practice. Even so it was still practiced in some Roman Orthodox countries for quite some time afterwards.

Some people like to claim that Valentine's Day was made popular in order to eradicate Lupercalia, or that Valentines Day was made to replace it. Though the former was probably true in some manner or other, Lupercalia and Valentine's day hold very few similarities other than date which argues against the latter. Unlike All Hallow's Eve, Christmas and Easter which quite clearly borrowed Pagan traditions, Valentine's Day does not seem to borrow any traditions from Lupercalia unless you consider the broad connection of love and marriage with fertility and lust. The renewal and purification aspect of Lupercalia is certainly lost however, even if the Catholic Church was trying to convert the ancient Roman ritual into a more "acceptable" pattern.

As Neo-Pagans, Lupercalia proves an interesting ritual. The symbolism is clearly very potent and visceral, as can be proved by it's huge and lengthy popularity. However I'm pretty sure if you ran down the main roads of your city or town naked and bloody whipping women today you would most likely get arrested. Be that as it may, the baby does not have to be thrown out with the bathwater. February 14th can still be celebrated by interested Pagans by following it's major themes of lust, abandon, fertility and purification. Maybe instead of sacrificing a goat you can eat some goat curry at your local West Indian restaurant. Instead of blessing and purifying your city by running naked through it's streets (which would be pretty uncomfortable in most of Canada anyways), maybe you could use a map or a labyrinth as a representative. Lupercalia might also be a good time for those with Wolf as a totem to give praise to their guides or even donate some money for preservation of wolf packs in the wild. Those who worship the ancient Greek and Roman gods can take this opportunity to make an offering and a prayer to Pan, Faunus, Bacchus or Dionysus. And for those of you who are fond of Ancient Rome, Lupercalia can be used as a way to read the myth of Remus and Romulus and toast to one of the worlds greatest civilizations.


References:
http://ancienthistory.about.com/od/socialcustomsdailylife/a/010908Lupercal.htm
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/351677/Lupercalia
http://www.manygods.org.uk/articles/festivals/lupercalia.shtml

February 2013 Workshops & Events

Meditation in Pregnancy (Katherine Seiler)

For any stage of pregnancy, meditation is important for you and your baby. Come connect with your baby, yourself, and create a stress free environment. During any stage of pregnancy, childbirth included, meditation is very beneficial. Come learn these benefits as well as safe postures, teas, and energies for both you and your baby. This and much more!

*Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring whatever makes you feel comfortable (slippers, pillow, etc)

Fridays and Saturdays throughout February, 1-2 pm

Cost: $25 per person per session or $40 if you sign up with a friend (saving you each $5)

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Public Imbolc Ritual (MPRC & Melange Magique) FREE

Saturday, February 2nd, 1-7pm

Pour la version en français, voir plus bas.
There will be Walking Labyrinth, a public path of lights ritual for Imbolc in the upstairs room of Melange Magique.
You can show up anytime during the open hours of the ritual as it is not a formal ritual structure. We will be offering visitors the chance to walk the labyrinth of candles in meditation or contemplation. Your walk is the ritual.
Note: Please bring a small item to put on the altar. This item will be passed on to another person. Please no flowy robes/clothes as the candles are all on the floor.
Many bright blessings
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Il y aura un labyrinthe public de lumière pour le rituel de Imbolc au second étage du Mélange Magique.
Vous pouvez vous présenter à n’importe quelle heure durant les heures de disponibilités du rituel car il ne s’agit pas d’un rituel structuré. Tous les visiteurs auront la chance de marcher au travers le labyrinthe soit en méditant ou par pur contemplation. Votre parcours est le rituel.
Note : Nous vous prions d’apporter un petit objet à placer sur l’autel. Cet item sera transmis à quelqu’un d’autre. SVP, ne portez pas de robes ou de vêtements longs car les chandelles seront placées sur le sol.
Joyeux Imbolc!

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Introduction to Meditation (Katherine Seiler)
Come learn the basics, the how's, the why's of meditation, and more! Followed by discussion and guided meditation. All are welcome!
*Please wear comfortable clothing. Nothing too constricting.
Sundays, February 3rd 1-2pm & February 17th 1-2pm
Cost: $5 per person per session

Crescent Moon School Level 1 Program

Crescent Moon School is Montreal's longest running school of magic and paganism, having started in 1995. Its goal is to help you find your path. Come to the Open House to meet some of the teachers and students and to see what students of all levels have done the past year.  (Maximum 8 students)
Fridays 6-9pm, starting February 8th for 20 weeks (Scarlet & Marc)
Cost: $300 (or 3 x $100 every 6 weeks) Reading pack & workbooks included.

The Magik of Flirtation: everyone edition (Matt Risk)
Are you looking for love? Tired of being lonely, or getting into relationships with losers? In this class we will be exploring powerful techniques to transform your energy body into a Beacon of Sensual Awesomeness! You will learn what it feels like to have your choice among many suitable partners, and to know how to choose the right people for you and keep them interested in the amazingness of the gifts you have to offer.
From controlling your Vibe to communicating your desire by using the magical power of symbolic language, we will learn not only how to turn yourself into a beacon of joy, but also how to use your will, intent, language, gesture, and tapped unconscious to get the Joy You Want out of Love.
February 9th 12-5 pm

Cost: $50

Reiki Share (Anouk Mackenzie & others)

Do you enjoy gentle, hands-on healing? Need a boost to help you get through the winter? Relax and renew your body, mind and spirit with a 30-minute session of Reiki energy healing for only $10.

Sunday, February 10th & 24th, 1-3 pm

Cost: 10$ donation

The Basics of Storytelling (JD "Hobbes" Hickey)
Learn how to tell a story aloud as performance art. This is NOT a creative writing class: this workshop is designed to teach people how to tell a story to an audience as a spoken word artist.
Students will be asked to bring a short (5 minute) story to perform and receive feedback on. If a student doesn't have a story, he will be shown how to write one in class.
Date & Time: February 10th, 2013, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: $30 (pre-registration required)
www.johndavidhickey.ca

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, February 17th, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Cost: $150

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.

Sunday, February 17th, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Cost: $30

Intro to the Medicine Wheel (Sarah Orr)
The Medicine Wheel is a tool that reveals that which exists in the invisible realm. It has existed for thousands of years and continues to offer insights relevant to everyday living. Through stories, dreams and ritual, we will explore the connections between ourselves and the natural world. Join us for an evening of phenomenon.

*Please feel free to bring drums or rattles with you to this class*

Thursday, February 21st, 7-9pm

Cost: $25

NUTRITIONAL MAGIC WORKSHOP (Nicole (Nixsy) Reilkoff ND)
How can food choices affect mood, appearance and energy levels? Having the knowledge of what foods to work with can greatly enhance self-empowerment towards all life goals. Questions and interaction of stories and experience welcome to be shared.
Friday, February 22nd, 6-9pm
Cost: $25

Astral Architecture (Matt Risk)
Interested in visiting the Astral Plane but find yourself blocked by not knowing where to start? In this workshop we will be learning the trance states necessary to access this realm, and then building an Astral Temple: a personal corner of the Astral Plane customized to your own needs which you can use to practice, to perform powerful rituals of self transformation, or to use as a gateway into the many worlds and beings that inhabit the great beyond.
February 23rd 1-5 pm

Cost: $40

The Zen of Seeing: Meditation through drawing (Sienna)

Meditative states can be achieved through activity: The key to meditation is getting into ''the zone'', and some people find it uncomfortable to sit still and focus. This can be stressful and the end result is the opposite of your initial goal. In this class you to find a new way to enter a Zen state, as well as begin to learn the art of seeing what is truly there.

*wear comfortable clothes

February 23rd, 2-5pm

Cost: $40

Magie des chandelles 101 (avec Valérie)

Aimez-vous les bougies et les chandelles de tous types et couleurs? Savez-vous que les chandelles ont été utilisées depuis la nuit des temps pour faire des sortilèges? Venez apprendre quelle couleur ou quelle forme de chandelle peut être utilisée pour vous aider à manifester des changements dans votre vie. Des sortilèges touchant des sujets populaires tels que l'amour, la prospérité et le succès seront abordés.

Samedi le 23 février, de 14h à 16h.

Frais: 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, February 24th, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Cost: $250

THEURGY AND THE OGDOADIC TRADITION (Martin Béliard)

This is a practical and philosophical workshop on Theurgy (the operation or effect of a supernatural or divine agency in human affairs) as it is vehiculed in the Ogdoadic Tradition (a tradition stemming from Mediterranean mystery traditions of Ancient Greece) of the Order Aurum Solis. Participants will be introduced to efficient techniques balancing and strengthening the aura, noetic visualization (visualization of or relating to mental activity or the intellect), Soul-flight and invocation as well as the basics of theurgic rituals and hermetic philosophy. 

The workshop will be given in French and/or English.

Thursday, Feb. 28th, from 19:00 to 21:00.

Cost: 15$ per participant.

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Healer Discussion Panel - FREE

A monthly discussion panel is organized with the healers of Mélange Magique's. Do you wish to know more about specific methods of healing, such as Reiki, Shiatsu, Reflexology or Osteopathy? Are you curious about how healing can affect not only your physical body, but your energetic and psychic abilities? This month we will have a general and open discussion. As time goes on, we will focus on specific aspects of healing that may raise questions in the public.

Friday February 1st, 5-7pm.

FREE

Calenders!

Come check out the Calenders still in stock:

Celtic Mandala Wall Calendar 2013 by Jen Delyth: 9781602376083

Llewellyn's 2013 Daily Planetary Guide: 9780738715193

Llewellyn's 2013 Astrological Pocket Planner: 9780738715209

Illuminated Psalms Wall Calendar 2013 by Adam Rhine: 9781602376243

Thich Nhat Hanh Mini Calendar 2013 by Thich Nhat Hanh: 9781602377097

Zen Mind Engagement Calendar 2013 by Amber Lotus: 9781602376625

Agenda Planetaire 2013 (French) by Astro-Log Communication Enrg

New healer schedules!

Welcome to Nixsy, our new reflexologist!
Tuesdays from 11am to 5pm.

Reflexology is a modality in the healing of the spirit via the feet and their life experiences. It is widely known to significantly reduce stress, and can also help heal body memories. Nicole has been practicing Reflexology since 2008.

Reflexology is helpful for: immune-strengthening, detoxification, deep relaxation, the moving of the lymphatic system, pain reduction and management, better sleep cycles, and more.

Pricing: $35 per half hour; $70 per hour.




Valerie, our osteopath, changed her hours!
Thursdays from 4pm to 8pm.

Valerie offers osteopathy treatments for the betterment of the body, mind and spirit. Treatments of a duration of 60 minutes are recommended, although half-hour treatments are also available.  She reviews your health status thoroughly to be able to give the best treatment  possible according to your state. RITMA receipts for insurance purposes are available.

Osteopathy is an alternative medicine that addresses problems of the musculo-skeletal system, similar to massotherapy and chiropractics, but it can also address problems of the organs and the viscera, the nervous system, circulatory issues, troubles of low energy and bad sleeping quality, etc. For these reasons, osteopathy is suitable for treating most health problems, whether acute, chronic, simple, or complex.

Oftentimes, osteopathy is the "last resort" for someone, as some doctors suggest osteopathy to their patients when they run out of the "regular" solutions. It may well be the only method that can alleviate fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, and other complex conditions, as western medicine tends to focus on the symptoms but not the possible causes. However, one does not have to wait to suffer from a chronic complex condition to seek osteopathic treatments. Osteopathy is a wonderful preventive method which may help younger adults avoid the development of more serious issues later on. Osteopathy gives the power to the patient, as the patient is very active during a session, and exercises are often suggested after a treatment for long-term recovery. I suggest osteopathy to pregnant women to ensure an easy pregnancy and a less risky birthing. Newborn babies can also benefit from osteopathy, as the cranial bones undergo severe pressure during the birthing process.

Some of the most common reasons someone might need an osteopathic treatment would include acute musculo-skeletal pains (often after an accident), chronic pains due to work, bad posture, or repetitive movements over several years. However, other treatable issues include such things as blocked sinuses, digestive troubles, arythmia, insomnia, stress, or even infertility, which can be diminished or solved with osteopathy.

Pricing: $70 per hour. (Half-hours possible but not advised. $35 per half-hour.)

Monika is available on Fridays!  
From 11am to 5pm.

Monika is a certified Reiki practitioner, accredited and a member of the Canadian Reiki Association. She has been interested in energy work for over eleven years, specializing in Reiki since 2007, and also experienced with different modalities of energy work.

Monika founded Balanced Steps to incorporate her experience with energy healing and art to help people reach their true potential. Monika believes that the key to a healthy body, mind and spirit is the healing of the soul. She works cooperatively with traditional medicine to enhance and promote a healthier individual. Energy worker, teacher and artist, Monika has a deep understanding that each person is an unique individual and uses various techniques to meet your specific needs.

Treatments offered for both adults and children. For more information, visit Monika's website at http://holisticenergy.ca.

Pricing: $35 per half-hour; $75 per hour.

Welcome to Hot Tea Month!

January is hot tea month! This month we will be featuring weekly teas as well as having workshops introducing tea and tea tasting on the 18th and 25th. To get the ball rolling here are some facts about tea:

All true teas come from the leaves of the same plant: camellia sinensis. What makes the difference between, say, black tea and green tea is the amount, and process in which they are fermented. The least processed and fermented tea is White tea, followed by Green, Oolong and finally Black tea which is the most processed. The amount of caffeine in the tea tends to follow this order as well, with white having the least amount of caffeine and black the most. Within each category of tea there are hundreds of different types and breeds like Darjeeling or Orange Pekoe for black teas, Sencha and Dragon-well for green etc. Here at the store, we try to use the best quality of each type for our base teas.

For those who want something that is naturally decaffeinated, there are two other categories of "teas." The first is an herbal tea or tisane, which is basically any blend of dried fruit, herbs or flowers that you would steep in hot water, like our Cranberry Apple herbal tisane. The other is made from Rooibos, sometimes called "red tea." Rooibos comes from an African bush and has many of the same health benefits as tea but is naturally non caffeinated (as opposed to decaffeinated teas which have the caffeine removed like decaf coffee). Rooibos has a tasty, woody flavor and makes an excellent base for herbal teas, especially for sleep aids.

One of the unique things about our tea selection here at Melange is that we also offer a variety of tea additives that you can use to make your very own blend of tea! Choose a base tea that you like and then add some herbs and spices blended to your liking; could be intended for specific magical or health purposes, or your simple enjoyment. Here at the store we have invented and collected quite a few recipes with our knowledge of herbalism. So here is a quick guide to some of the magical properties of our tea additives (according to the trusty Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs) to help you make your own unique tea for exactly the purpose you want!

• Anise Seeds: Anise is good for protection, purification, and youth. It is associated with the planet Jupiter and the element of Air. Anise has been traditionally been used to ward off nightmares, drive off and protect from evil, and as a purification herb. Anise has also been used to help summon useful spirits and to restore lost youth.
• Chamomile: Chamomile is used for money, sleep, love and purification. It is associated with the Sun, and the element of water. Chamomile is used for gambling luck, to help induce sleep, to attract love and to remove curses and spells.
• Chopped Chai: Chai is a mix of spices traditionally from India and boiled in milk. Because it is a mix of spices it has a lot of fiery aspects namely increasing energy, protection, and purification. 
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon  has many properties including spirituality, success, healing, power, psychic powers, lust, protection and love. This hot spice is unsurprisingly associated with the Sun and fire. Cinnamon has also traditionally been used by several cultures for offerings and anointing.
• Ginger: Ginger is used for love, money success and power. It is associated with Mars and the element of fire. Eating (or in this case drinking) ginger is supposed to help lend power to spell working, particularly to love spells. Ginger is also used  for healing, which has a scientific basis: ginger has bacteria fighting capabilities and is used around the world by medical professionals and herbalists alike to help with nausea and upset stomachs. 
• Honeybush: Honeybush is good for gentle cleaning, love and beauty, and protection.
• Jasmine Buds: Jasmine's powers include those of love, money and prophetic dreams. It is highly associated with the moon and also with the element of water. Jasmine flowers are used to attract spiritual love and is also traditionally used to attract money. Jasmine causes prophetic dreams and is also used to induce sleep.
• Lavender:  Lavender is traditionally used for many purposes: including for love, protection, sleep, chastity, longevity, purification and love. This cerebral herb is associated with Mercury and the element of air. The scent of lavender is said to attract men, and for this reason it is often used for love spells. Lavender is perhaps best known to induce sleep and peacefulness and is very effective aromatherapy for insomniacs. Lavender is also used to rid one of sorrow and also promotes long life, helps one see ghosts, is used for protection against the evil eye and for purification baths.
• Lemon Balm: Ancient Romans thought lemon balm promoted healthy life. It is said to improve mood and mental performance and is traditionally used to bring a lover into one's life.
• Orange Peel: Orange is used for love, divination, luck and money. It is associated with the sun and fire, probably largely due to its color. Dried orange peels are supposed to lead to wedded bliss as well as prosperity.
• Peppermint: Peppermints powers include those of purification, sleep, love, healing and psychic powers. It is associated with the planet Mercury, the element of fire and the god Pluto. The scent of peppermint raises the energy and purifies a space. It also helps induce sleep and give prophetic dreams. It has also been used since ancient times for purification and to incite love.
• Rose Buds and Petals: Rose is a favorite flower of magicians and is used for love, psychic powers, healing, love divination, luck and protection. It is associated with Venus, the planet of love, the element of water and host of gods and goddesses: Hathor, Hulda, Eros, Cupid, Demeter, Isis, Adonis, Harpocrates and Aurora. Rose is well known for its use in love potions. Rose is also used to relieve headaches, calm stress and relieve tension in the home. It can also be added to luck mixtures and is also used for protection.
• Rosehip:Rose hip is the berry at the bottom of the rose flower and so it has many of the same properties and associations as rose petals. However rosehips are particularly associated with healing. Rose hips contain iron, calcium, and vitamines A, B, and C. One of the richest plant sources of vitamine C and is a powerful antioxidant. Rose hips are used to help prevent colds and the flu.

So now that you have some information, start dreaming up your own tea mixtures, write them down and bring in the recipe for us to make your tailor made tea!

January 2013 Workshops & Events

January is HOT TEA MONTH!

Come in each week to taste our weekly featured tea.

Meditation in Pregnancy (Katherine Seiler)

For any stage of pregnancy, meditation is important for you and your baby. Come connect with your baby, yourself, and create a stress free environment. Learn the benefits, as well as safe postures, teas, and energies for you both.

*Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring whatever makes you feel comfortable (slippers, pillow, etc)

Fridays and Saturdays throughout January, 1-2 pm

Cost: $25 per person per session or $40 if you sign up with a friend (saving you each $5)

POETRY WORKSHOP - FREE (Elizabeth Johnston)
Explore the poetic realm with Elizabeth Johnston during this free, 45-minute poetry workshop.

Material required: pen and notebook.

Thursday, January 10, 7pm
Cost: FREE

BODHRAN DEMO & TALK - FREE (Elizabeth Johnston)

Join Elizabeth Johnston for a free talk on the bodhran, the Irish frame drum. During this 45-minute event, you'll have an opportunity to learn about its origins, its use in traditional music today, and the basic rudiments of playing.

Materials needed: Extra bodhrans will be on hand for people to use, but if you have your own bodhran, bring it along.
Thursday, January 10, 8pm.
Cost: FREE

Reiki 1 (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, January 12th, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Cost: $150

The Magic of Flirtation (Matt) (two-part series for men)

Are you a man who is frustrated in love? Have you ever been stuck in the dreaded 'friendzone'? Or find yourself unable to connect with the women who you're attracted to? In this course we will be looking at magical techniques for building satisfaction and seductive power. We'll be exploring the magick of how to become that which is so highly attractive to women they will be fighting over you. We will explore powerful techniques on how to get out of your own way and get the attention you want by building enticing feelings around yourself that women find intensely compelling. If you want to see your love life change from constant frustration to abundant satisfaction, then this workshop series is a must. Just imagine how many things in your life will change once you are satisfied in love.

Saturday January 12th, 12-5 pm, and February 2, 12-5 pm  

Cost: $125

Paper making workshop (Diane)
Come join me to learn how to make paper at home, using all types of old papers you have on hand.
Dress to get dirty, and bring something heavy so you can put inside the paper you will have made.

This is simple and fun, using simple tools!

Sunday, January 13, 1-4pm

Cost: $35

Intro to the Medicine Wheel (Sarah Orr)
The Medicine Wheel is a tool that reveals that which exists in the invisible realm. It has existed for thousands of years and continues to offer insights relevant to everyday living. Through stories, dreams and ritual, we will explore the connections between ourselves and the natural world. Join us for an evening of phenomenon.

Thursday, January 17th, 7-9pm

Cost: $25

POETRY WORKSHOP (Elizabeth Johnston)
There's poetry all around us. It's rooted in the real and tangible. Every silent object around us is waiting for us to give it voice. Explore the poetic realm with Elizabeth Johnston during this 10-week workshop.
Material required: pen and notebook.
Thursdays, 6-8pm, Jan. 17, 24, 31; Feb. 7, 14; 28; Mar. 7, 14, 21, & 28. -- Please note there is no class on Feb. 21.
Cost: $250

BEGINNER BODHRAN CLASS (Elizabeth Johnston)
Bbeginner bodhran class is where you can learn how to play this magical instrument.
Bring your own bodhran and tipper.
Thursdays, 8-9pm, Jan. 17, 24, 31; Feb. 7, 14; 28; Mar. 7, 14, 21, & 28. -- Please note there is no class on Feb. 21.
Cost: $150

Introduction to Tea and Tea Tasting (Scarlet)

Learn about different kinds of tea and their health benefits. Taste a variety of types and witness a tea ceremony each day.

January 18th will feature herbal teas through the green tea ranges. Witness the Japanese macha tea ceremony.

January 25^th will feature the darjeelings, oolongs, and black teas. Witness the Chinese tea ceremony.

Fridays, January 18th & 25th, 6-7pm

Cost: $10 each day

Introduction to Paganism (Scarlet)

What is magic? What is Paganism? What is witchcraft? What is Wicca? Learn the basics and history of these terms, the similarities and differences, related holidays, and tools for ritual. This is a brief introduction the Contemporary Paganism and where you can go to find out more.

Friday, January 18th, 7-8pm

Cost: FREE

Crescent Moon School Open House

Crescent Moon School is Montreal's longest running school of magic and paganism, having started in 1995. Its goal is to help you find your path. Come to the Open House to meet some of the teachers and students and to see what students of all levels have done the past year. Registration is open throughout January and will end February 2nd.
Open House & Registration Friday, January 25th, 7:00pm
Level 1: Fridays 6-9pm, starting February 8thh for 20 weeks (Scarlet & Marc)
$300 (or 3 x $100 every 6 weeks) Reading pack & workbooks included.

Pierres et crystaux 101 (par Valérie, en français)

Vous êtes-vous déjà demandé dans quel but certains minéraux ont été utilisés en bijouterie, à des fins spirituelles, ou pour de la guérison? Saviez-vous que les minéraux contiennent des propriétés naturelles qui sont associées à des aspects de votre vie et à des parties de votre corps? Venez découvrir les propriétés d'une douzaine de pierres et crystaux utilisés couramment en magie, en spiritualité et en guérison.

Samedi le 26 janvier, de 14h à 16h.

Frais: $30

Walking on Water (Matt)

Do you find yourself thrown around by your emotions? Do you have trouble with anger outbursts, or does worry cripple you in your life? Do you wish you could be calmer, or experience bliss at will? This workshop will explore powerful techniques for gaining control over your emotions. You will learn how to turn examine the building blocks of emotional states, increase or decrease their intensity, or replace them with other feelings all together. Furthermore, you will learn how to set yourself up to feel wonderful feelings in future situations that in the past made you feel horrible. Emotional freedom is within your grasp.

Saturday, January 26th, 1-5 pm

Cost: $35

Sunday Sabbat Sale

Sunday, January 27th

10% off everything in store all day!

Wicca 101 (par Diane et Valérie, en français)

La Wicca est une branche spécialisée du paganisme, terme utilisé pour décrire les religions révérencieuses de la nature. Venez découvrir l'origine de la Wicca, ses principes fondamentaux, et ses particularités qui peuvent varier d'une région à l'autre. Deux adeptes chevronnées de la Wicca partagerons leurs connaissances et leurs expériences avec vous.

Dimanche le 27 janvier, de 14h à 16h.

Frais: $30