Store BLOG of Shadows

2012 Calendars: Only a few left!

noreply@blogger.com (Eri) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:15:00 +0000

2012 calendars were in high demand this year, so much so that we only have a very few left and so do our suppliers. What we have in stock now is likely to be the last we will get this year so hurry and get yours before they are all gone!

Here's what we still have in the store:

Maynard's Pocket Astrologer 2012 (Pacific Time)

Maynard's 2012 Astrologer's Datebook

Llewellyns 2012 Daily Planetary Guide

The '12 Lunar Calendar

2012 Multifaith Calendar

2012 Witches Calendar

What is Technopaganism?

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:13:00 +0000

Introduction to Technopaganism

What's a Technopagan? Like most Pagan terminology, people like to argue about its definition. A broad interpretation suggests that a Technopagan is just someone who isn't averse to including electronics or modern technology in their practices. A narrower interpretation might claim that someone calling themselves a Technopagan must actively make use of the Internet, or some other specific device, when doing magick. I consider myself to be a Technopagan and a Wiccan; personally, I prefer to say that a Technopagan is anyone who recognizes the importance and relevance of technology to our modern spirituality. To understand exactly what I mean by this requires a bit of an explanation.

The Spirit of Technology

The word 'technology' has been around for many centuries. According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, 'technology' was used as early as 1610 to refer to a "discourse or treatise on an art or the arts." In the mid-eighteeen hundreds, the word came to refer specifically to scientific arts. Once, society used the word 'technology' to refer to the loom, the cotton gin, typewriters, the steam engines, and other exciting scientific advances which were current at the time. Today, when we think of technology, we think of microchips, high-definition screens, and the Internet.

Technology is now, and always has been, an unavoidable reality of daily life. To some modern Pagans, technology is viewed as a kind of enemy: it spoils nature, 'clogs up' the energy in a room, or destroys the ambiance of their rituals. But technology is still the same thing as it ever was; it is a daily tool in our lives which can be used for good or for ill. Those who disdain a computer in their ritual room but enjoy the use of indoor running water are therefore missing an important bit of perspective. Town wise-women used any and all materials around their home in order to craft their spells; they turned their daily lives into something magickal. The spells we have from them may still be valid, but if we are to turn our spellcasting into something personally meaningful in this day and age, we cannot afford to pretend that technology does not exist: it is entirely too pervasive and too present in our lives.

We like to romanticize old inventions: the horse and carriage, gaslight lamps, waterwheels, and others. Just remember that once upon a time, these golden age inventions were eyed suspiciously by people just like you. "I don't want some giant carriage and its horses trampling through town square" some would say, or "these gas lamps will be the death of us-- I bet they'll explode one of these nights and kill us all." Modern inventions are just as miraculous and mysterious as our romantic horse-drawn carriages... we just need to see them from the correct perspective.

What About Technopagan Magick?

I know what you're thinking: "This is all very interesting, I suppose, but where's the magick at?" That's a valid question, and I'm perfectly happy to answer it.

My magick involves a certain awareness of the energy and function of technology. When I do a ritual, I always make myself aware of the energy field and the consciousness of each piece of technology in the room. I believe that all objects, people, and areas have a consciousness of their own-- it may not be the sort of consciousness we're most used to, but something is there all the same, and it can have an effect on your magick. Some Pagans will handle having technology in the room by pretending it isn't there, but this is a flawed methodology which will only lead to irritations and interruptions in your spellwork. Mentally and spiritually recognize your technology, if only briefly, while creating your sacred space. Your technology does its best to be useful to you in your daily life: it's only fair that you recognize it for this importance, rather than sweeping it under the rug because it's not quite as 'natural' as your wand or your incense.

One thing most Technopagans can agree on is the idea that your computer has a spirit of its own, which can be either properly cultivated or else woefully neglected. If you use your computer extensively, and put large parts of your life on it, you should respect it enough to give it a name. This name can be serious or affectionate or even just a bit of a joke, as long as it is given in the right spirit. You can even sanctify your computer, or dedicate it to a particular God or Goddess, as long as your computer is all right with the idea.

In a similar vein, tell your computer how much you love it and how grateful you are that it does what it does for you so very tirelessly and efficiently. No, I'm not kidding. Ever since I started doing this, I've found that my computers work a lot harder for me, and have even developed their own personalities and energy 'flavors.' More than once, I've begged my computer to try just a little harder, or go just a little longer on a low battery during a critical moment: and it does. Now that's love.

Are there other Technopagan techniques I use in my spellwork? Absolutely! I'm a webmaster, a computer programmer, and a database security gal by trade. I take this stuff pretty seriously, and it bleeds over into my spiritual life as a natural consequence. I wouldn't recommend all my techniques for a non-techie, but I do find that a lot of my methodologies make a lot of sense to the modern Pagan-- even if they barely know how to check their email.

Want to know more? I'll be giving an in-depth workshop on some of the more interesting techniques I use in my practices; I'll elaborate on a lot of the basic concepts here, and even teach you a few easy ways to tighten up your traditional spellwork using techno-logic. Stop neglecting your technology, and give it the love it deserves!

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, February 11th, 1:00pm - 3:00pm, $30

FAQ: Ouija Boards (or Witch Boards)

noreply@blogger.com (Eri) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:28:00 +0000

We get a lot of people in here asking about Ouija boards. They are certainly one of the more publicly accessible divination tools, featured in any number of pop culture references. Everyone seems to have a story about when they used one, or their friend used one or their cousin used one. The actual term "Ouija Board" is trademarked by Hasbro and refers to the board with the triangular pointer that most people are familiar with and is likely the one used by someone you know. This board is considered a game and is available at places like Toysrus. This is why most boards that are created by other companies are referred to as "Witch Boards" or "Talking Boards."

What is a Ouija Board and how does it work?

Ouija boards are pretty much a flat board made of anything from paper to cardboard to wood (the more genuine ones will be made either of paper so they can easily be destroyed or of rosewood) with the alphabet printed on it and "yes, no, hello and goodbye." A guider is placed on top, which can be as simple as a cup placed upside-down. Using this simple tool, you call upon a spirit to talk to you, using the board and the guider as the medium through which you communicate. In other words, the idea is that a spirits you contact and question will guide the guider with their energy to the appropriate responses. Some people claim that it is really your own energy that guides it, in which case it is either you receiving the messages directly and translating them through the use of the board or you are in fact speaking to your subconscious. Either way, a Ouija Board is used to contact and communicate with spirits.

What's with all those stories about people being haunted/possessed/having bad luck/ having their houses burned down etc. when they use a Ouija Board?

We've all heard those stories. Once upon a time a friend of yours used a Ouija Board and then freaky things started happening. Some of these stories certainly are exaggerated or just plain urban legends but there is in fact a very real risk to using any sort of divinitory tool to contact spirits, particularly one as unspecific as a Ouija Board. What I mean by "unspecific" is that a Ouija Board, as opposed to say a tarot or oracle deck, has no particular energies or spirits that it is tapping into. A Ouija board can be used to talk to any spirit and therefore any spirit can answer, whether it is the spirit you wanted or not.

Using a Ouija board, then, is the spiritual equivalent to running into the middle of a busy city street with a megaphone and going "Hey! Bob! I wanna talk to you!" The person who answers may or may not be Bob, any other Bob, Bill who heard wrong, Sarah who was curious why you were shouting, Mary who was looking for Bob too, Creepy Steve, or worse, Creepy Steve pretending to be Bob. And then once Creepy Steve starts talking to you, and has an in with you, it's really hard to get rid of him. That's more or less what happens when people use Ouija Boards without any knowledge (like most people who pick them up from toy stores) and end up with trouble: they accidentally invited Creepy Steve to hang out with them.

Practicing safer spell-craft

So, lets say you want to use a Ouija Board or any other type of board to contact a spirit, but you obviously don't want to attract anything bad. What do you do?

You can minimize the type of negative effects you will receive with any sort of spell-crafting or divination by being safe. Magic is a tool, and like any tool, you need to know how to use it safely in order to use it effectively. Here are some tips:

- Learn to cast a circle: "Casting a Circle" is a very basic magical practice where you surround yourself with an energetic circle to prevent any energies you are invoke from leaking out. Casting a circle can be as easy as tracing an imaginary circle around yourself but to begin with you might want to use chalk or sea salt. Be sure to banish the circle when you are done! There are several ways to do this. You can smudge the circle with sage, purify and cleans it with water and with fire (i.e. incense), sweep the circle counter-clockwise with a broom among other things. Some rituals like the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram can be used both as an elaborate casting of a circle and banishing of it if done before and after. I suggest reading The Witch's Sheild by Christoper Penczak for a good book on different protection rituals and practices you can do to help keep you safe during a magical working.

- Be specific: If you want to contact Bob, make as sure as possible you get the right Bob. Write his whole name down and as much information as you can give: birthday, appearance, a picture, the emotions you associate with Bob, his signature, anything that would directly link to your Bob. The more specific you are, the more likely you will get the right entity.

- Have clear intentions: Don't just pick up the board and fiddle around with it until you get a result. Magic comes from will, so you need to will something to happen for it to work, and the clearer you are about what you want the easier it will be, and the less likely you will come across something you don't want. Also, the flavor of your intentions are important. Like attracts like, so if you have positive intentions, you are more likely to have a positive experience. Don't use a Ouija Board just because you are bored, or you want to impress your friends or you think it will freak out your little brother. Use a board to communicate with a loved one for peace of mind, or an angel for advice or to help a spirit move on.

The Ouija Board is a very simple tool and can therefore be very useful and powerful. But like with any tool you have to know how to use it correctly in order to use it safely. Now that you've got a few tips on how to use your board I hope you can do so without fear of becoming and urban legend.

Guardian Protector Stuffed Animal

noreply@blogger.com (Eri) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:32:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but it seems to me that there has been a bit of a baby boom in this last year. It seems like every time I turn around I see someone either pregnant or with a newborn. I blame it on the recently finished year of the rabbit.

With this mini upsurge in pregnancies I've had quite a few customers ask me how they can protect the new baby in their lives. The biggest problem with this is that you need to be careful with what you give a newborn and also it's difficult to explain to a young child how or why what you are doing will protect them from those awful nightmares or that monster under the bed.

But if there is one thing that children instinctively understand it is the power of stuffed animals. Stuffies (as my family calls them) are perfectly designed to become what we call in the magical community fetishes, that is, a receptacle for a spirit. All it takes is a little bit of love and a little bit of personification and there you go: you have a magical object with its own little soul. Of course, for this we want to program that stuffy soul to be a guardian and protector of our little ones. Here's how you can do it, and how I did it for my yet unborn niece:

The first part of this spell is to find a stuffed animal that both speaks to you and represents protection to you. Some good protection animals are bears, lions or panthers, dogs, dragons, wolves among others. Once you have your stuffy it is important to treat it like a living being. Talk to it, hug it, love it, explain its duties to it, put it in a place of honor while you get the rest of the spell together.

You will need:

Malachite (for protecting children)
Obsidian (for psychic protection)
Rose Quartz (for love)
Howlite (to combat nightmares and for reducing stress)
Spring Water
Sandalwood
Lavander
Rose
Orris Root
Sage
(Any other protective herbs you feel like adding)
Guardian Protector Candle or a black candle with Guardian and Protection oil on it.

Place the stones and herbs in a bowl with water. Soak on a windowsill for an evening and a morning.
Carve the candle with the name of the child and some affirmations and/or prayers naming the stuffed animal as the child's protector and for the child's safety and love.
Place the candle in the bowl with the water, herbs and stones. Place the stuffy nearby (but obviously far enough away not to get singed.)
Light the candle and imagine the energy flowing into the stuffy.
When the candle is burned down, take the stones out of the water, dry them off and sew them into the stuffed animal.
Hold the stuffed animal in your arms, look at it tin the eyes and explain to it its duties: that it is to keep the child safe, happy and loved.
Give the stuffy to the child. If they are over two years old, tell them the stuffy is going to protect them from bad dreams and monsters.

Workshops for Jan-Feb 2012

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:01:00 +0000

Tarot Series (Catharine)

This solid program introduces you to the major and minor arcana of the tarot, along with various techniques and skills for reading the cards. Please contact the teacher for more information (river.rain.catharine@gmail.com).

*Please bring your own deck.

Cost is $40 per class (or $300 if you register for the entire series starting January 21 through April 28 for a discount of 50%)

Major Arcana part 1: Saturday, January 21st, 12-2pm

Major Arcana part 2: Saturday, January 28th, 12-2pm

Major Arcana part 3: Saturday, February 4th, 12-2pm

Major Arcana part 4: Saturday, February 11th, 12 -2pm

Minor Arcana swords: February 18th 12 -2pm

Minor Arcana Wands: Saturday, February 25th 12 -2pm

Please note this this class continues right through to the end of April, more details to come.

Psychic Development Series (Catharine)

Introduction to the many abilities that fall under the term "psychic". Exploring your own intuitive gifts with like-minded people so you trust yourself more than ever before!

Cost is $40 per class or $230 for the entire 9-part series (that is a discount of $130)

Clairvoyance: Saturday, January 28th 3 -5:30pm

Clairaudience: Saturday, February 4th 3 -5:30pm

Clairsentience: Saturday, February 11th 3-5:30

Predictive Dreams: Saturday, February 18th 3-5:30

Channeling: Saturday, February 25th 3-5:30

Cleansing and Smudging: Saturday, March 3rd 3 - 5:30

Spirit Contact - Guides, Angels, Entities: Saturday, March 10th 3-5:30

How to Give a Reading: Saturday, March 17th 3-5:30

Practice Practice Practice: Saturday, March 24th 3-5:30

CMS Open House

Welcome to Crescent Moon School, Canada’s longest running public training school for magic and Paganism since 1995.

This Open House is a unique opportunity to see what students of all levels have done, speak with teachers and students about what it is like to attend classes, and to register for the coming session.

Go to www.mtl-magicalcircle/cms for more information about the school.

OPEN HOUSE: Friday January 27^th, 7-9pm

Level 1 New Session: Wednesdays, 6-9pm, starting February 8th for 20 weeks

Cost: $300 (3 installments of $100 every 6 weeks), includes 3 workbooks & a reading pack

IMBOLC PATH OF LIGHTS RITUAL (MPRC)

The MPRC will be running a public path of lights ritual for Imbolc in the upstairs room of Melange Magique. During the below times, we will be offering visitors the chance to walk the labyrinth of candles in meditation or contemplation.

Thursday, February 2nd, 6pm – 8pm, FREE

Water Walking: Managing the Emotional Body (Matt)

Tossed hither and thither by your emotions?

In this workshop we will explore effective techniques of rapid mood shifting. Things that used to trigger fear, sadness, or worry, will soon trigger laughter, empowerment, and confidence.

Sunday Feb 5th 2-5 pm. $35

Love and Attraction

How to bring love into your life? The rules of meddling in magick for matters of the heart. Simple love spells and divination tools that work! What you can control, what you simply can't. How to use your psychic energy to manifest a fitting partner in your life.

Tuesday February 7th 7-9pm $30

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 9th through 8 classes to March 29th 7-9pm

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

Root Chakra: Thursday February 9th, 7-9pm

Navel Chakra: Thursday February 16th, 7-9pm

Solar Plexus Chakra: Thursday February 23rd, 7-9pm

Heart Chakra: Thursday March 1st, 7-9pm

Throat Chakra: Thursday March 8th, 7-9pm

Third Eye Chakra: Thursday March 15th, 7-9pm

Crown Chakra: Thursday March 22nd, 7-9pm

Aura Cleansing: Thursday March 29th, 7-9pm

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, February 11th, 1pm - 3pm, $30

Candle Magick

How to carve and create magick candles for your inner desires. How to manifest your dreams in reality? Taking the que's from old gypsy magick, incorporating magick symbolism from Old pantheons, such as Norse, Celtic, gypsy, as well as old ceremonial practices. Using symbolism, herbs, oils and psychic energy to manifest your dreams.

THE CLASS WILL BE HANDS ON!

Each will get one candle, with a choice of herbs and oils and decoration to make their own magick candle.

Friday February 17th 7-9pm $30

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

This workshop focuses on the 24 runes of the Elder Futhark. We will explore basic meanings from historical and contemporary sources, and learn how to 'read' them for oracular purposes.

Sunday Feb. 19th 2-5 pm. $35

Year of the Water Dragon

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 20:59:00 +0000

January 23rd begins the Year of the Water Dragon on the calendar of the Chinese zodiac. On this calendar, each year is split into two parts, reckoned by one of ten heavenly stems (the five elements in their aspects as yin or yang) and one of twelve earthly branches (the animals of the Chinese zodiac). This year, we are in the year of the Yang Water Dragon.

The Dragon is the fifth animal in the Chinese zodiac, and the only mythical creature in the lineup. Those born under the sign of the Dragon are expected to be confident, headstrong, charismatic, and powerful, with an extra dose of luck. These qualities are double-edged: a Dragon can accomplish most anything he sets his mind to, but he is also quite capable of pushing down those who get in his way.

The Year of the Dragon is generally held to be an economically lucky year, as the Dragon brings prosperity wherever he goes. Since this is the year of the Water dragon, though, those who already have a lot of Water in their charts may need to exercise a little extra caution.

If you're looking to find out more about what the Year of the Water Dragon holds for you, you may opt to join one of our clairvoyants, Catharine, as she goes over the astrological significance of this Chinese year. Check out the details below!

Chinese Astrology Night
Thursday, January 26th, 7-9pm; $20

For up-to-date information on our workshops, keep up with our workshops page!

The Book of Shadows

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 03:39:00 +0000

What is the Book of Shadows?

Essentially it is your magical diary. You can keep such things as lore and lessons, reference material (stones, herbs, and other correspondences), recipes for oils and other potions, spells, rituals, prayers and incantations, even dreams.

Dedicating a Book of Shadows is not complicated.
Start by either making your own book or personalizing one you have purchased. At your altar, you want to cast circle, call quarters, and invoke whichever divine you are comfortable working with. Purify the book with salt or purification incense (like sage or frankincense or rosemary). Bless the book by the four/five elements (earth, air, fire, water, and spirit). Consecrate it by blessing it in the name of your gods and with such things as holy water or blessing oil. Select a pen or quill of your choice and an ink (we recommend Dragon's Blood Ink or Ink of Jupiter). Write onto the first page a Book Blessing declaring the purpose and intent of this book. This is the actual Dedication part of the ritual. You complete the dedication by signing the book with your personal sigil or signature and then bind the book to you. Some will imprint it with a drop of their own blood or add a lock of their own hair. The last step is to add in some form of protection. Anoint a silk cloth with protection oil and wrap your book of shadows in it.

You might have more than one Book of Shadows or simply one that contains all that you do.

A coven will have one that is specific to the coven with all its unique traditions and practices. Initiates copy direct from this as they learn. This is often how a tradition is passed down in writing supplemented by the guidance and teaching of mentors in the coven.

Sometimes Books of Shadows vary according to theme: Spellcrafting, Rituals, Celtic lore, Healing, Dream work, Divination, Poetry, Insights from Asian Philosophies, Teaching of the Yogis, Norse lore, Voodoo & the Loas.

Whatever your theme or practice, there is a book out there for you to record all you learn and do.

Sisterhood of Avalon

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 23:16:00 +0000

Wonderful Yuletide blessings!

I am hosting two Open Tea information sessions in January for allMontreal-area women interested in the Sisterhood of Avalon and aneight-week Learning Circle starting in February.

All women are welcome to join us on:
Saturday, January 21st at Om West Yoga studio in Pointe-Claire Villagefrom 7-9:30PM
http://www.westislandyoga.com/
OR
Saturday, January 28th at Happy TreeYoga Studio on Ste-Catherine Street West from 7-9:30PM.
http://happytreeyoga.com/

Cost: Free but small donations to help pay for space rentalappreciated(Cookies and snacks are welcome!)Please feel free to pass this info along to any like-minded femalefriends and contact me with any questions. Also, please RSVP by sendingme a message (daughter.of.seas@gmail.com) so I know how many women toexpect. Thank you!

Looking forward to sharing sacred space with you!

Kelly Morgaine

The Sisterhood of Avalon - http://www.sisterhoodofavalon.org
"Avalon Within" by Jhenah Telyndru- http://www.ynysafallon.com/publications.html

January 2012 Workshops

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 21:37:00 +0000

Pagan Discussion Night (MPRC) FREE

Everymonth on the first Thursday, the MPRC (Montreal Pagan Resource Center) hosta afree discussion on various current issues in the pagan community. All arewelcome, though occasionally the content may not be appropriate for minors.

Thursday,January 5th, 6:30-8:30pm – FREE

GypsyMagic 101: Beginnings of Magick (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, andcandle magick. We will walk through what magick is, how to call upon the elementsfor simple intention magick, what herbs and colors to use for a purpose, and whatdivine powers to call, associations etc.
You will walk away with a few simplespells to start their 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 asa simple attraction magick candle spell
Calm and Clear mind: Herbs to use in baths or aromatherapy to aid in meditationand clarity of mind spell
Friday, January 13th, 7-9pm - $30

Howto do a Ceremonial Banishing- The LBRP (Eri)
In this workshop we will be learning the history,symbolism, visualizations and theories behind the famous Qabbalisticand Ceremonial Magic ritual of the Lesser Banishing Ritual of thePentagram. Students will also go through a practical demonstration and learnhow to do this powerful ritual on their own. The LBRP uses divine andangelic energies to remove influences from your sphere and is great forbanishing, balance and protection.
Saturday,January 21st, 1-3pm, $25

TarotSeries (Catharine)

This solid program introduces you to the major andminor arcana of the tarot, along with various techniques and skills for readingthe cards. Please contact the teacher for more information (river.rain.catharine@gmail.com).

*Please bring your owndeck.

Cost is $40 per class (or $300 if you register forthe entire series starting January 21 through April 28 for a discount of 50%)

MajorArcana part 1: Saturday, January 21st, 12-2pm

MajorArcana part 2: Saturday, January 28th, 12-2pm

MajorArcana part 3: Saturday, February 4th, 12-2pm

MajorArcana part 4: Saturday, February 11th, 12 -2pm

MinorArcana swords: February 18th 12 -2pm

MinorArcana Wands: Saturday, February 25th 12 -2pm

PsychicDevelopment Series (Catharine)
Introduction to the many abilities that fall under the term"psychic". Exploring your own intuitive gifts with like-minded peopleso you trust yourself more than ever before! Please contact the teacher for more information (river.rain.catharine@gmail.com).

Cost is$40 per class or $230 for the entire 9-part series (that is a discount of $130)

Clairvoyance:Saturday,January 28th 3 -5:30pm

Clairaudience: Saturday, February 4th 3-5:30pm

Clairsentience:Saturday,February 11th 3-5:30

PredictiveDreams: Saturday,February 18th 3-5:30

Channeling:Saturday,February 25th 3-5:30

Cleansingand Smudging: Saturday,March 3rd 3 - 5:30

SpiritContact - Guides, Angels, Entities: Saturday, March 10th 3-5:30

How toGive a Reading: Saturday,March 17th 3-5:30

PracticePractice Practice: Saturday,March 24th 3-5:30

CMS Open House

Welcometo Crescent Moon School, Canada’s longest running public training school formagic and Paganism since 1995.

ThisOpen House is a unique opportunity to see what students of all levels havedone, speak with teachers and students about what it is like to attend classes,and to register for the coming session.

Goto http://www.mtl-magicalcircle/cms formore information about the school.

Level 1 New Session: Wednesdays,6-9pm, starting February 8th for 20 weeks

Cost: $300 (3 installments of $100every 6 weeks), includes 3 workbooks & a reading pack

Come to our Annual Hourly Boxing Day Sale!

noreply@blogger.com (Eri) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 19:14:00 +0000

Hope you all had a great Christmas. Today is Boxing Day! and we have specials happening ALL DAY!

Store hours: 1-6pm

Specials Today:
1-2pm 10% off all Candles
2-3pm 10% off all Apothecary related stuff (incense, powders, oils, bath salts, etc.)
3-4pm 10% off all Jewelry
4-5pm 10% off all Books
5-6pm 10% off all Tarot

Have a great Boxing Day and take advantage of our in-store specials!

The Yule Sabbat

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:42:00 +0000

Tonight is the longest, darkest night of the year; it's also an important holiday if you celebrate the Wheel of the Year. The Sabbat known as Yule is celebrated on the Winter Solstice, which falls on December 22nd this year. By tradition, we consider Yule to begin at sundown, the night before the 'calendar date'. That means that many Pagans will be celebrating Yule tonight!

The God's Rebirth

If Samhain is the end of the year, then Yule represents the beginning. On Samhain, the Goddess mourns the passing of the God. On Yule, the God is reborn from the Goddess once again, and we celebrate his return to the world. Since the God is associated with warmth and sunlight, we consider dawn the moment of the God's arrival: the moment of his rebirth.

Symbolism

Yule is just as much about the symbolism of kinship, family, and rebirth as it is about the God's actual rebirth. The winter months can be cold and bleak, and that's why it's more important than ever to remember our better qualities and help the people around us.

In many ways, the dark cold winter is the perfect time to keep a fire going in our hearts, minds, and hearths. Yule is about sharing your warmth with others, and about being with your family-- both the family you grew up with, and your second family: the friends you've chosen yourself. All beings are the children of the God and the Goddess, and kindred in spirit and divinity, so remember during this season that even complete strangers on the street are a part of your larger family. Give what small kindnesses you can to those you can, and allow yourself to shrug off the everyday irritations and upsets of life. Take care of yourself, knowing that a new day is just around the corner.

Ritual Celebrations

Most Pagans will light at least one candle when the sun descends in order to keep the light going and encourage its return tomorrow morning with the sun. Another common Pagan tradition on Yule involves a night-long vigil, held until the first rays of dawn; during this vigil, by candlelight or firelight, you are given a chance to review your past year and make resolutions for the new year ahead.

Though the release of old things is more of a Samhain tradition, I personally enjoy writing down my anger, upsets, regrets, and embarrassments from the past year and throwing them into the Yule fire in order to symbolically let them go and move on to new things. Alternatively, you might write down your dreams, wishes, and goals for the new year and tie them to your Yule tree to strengthen your resolution and keep them in your mind. When the Yule tree comes down, bury your resolutions somewhere and let them spur on new growth, or burn them in a cauldron and spread the ashes somewhere with verdant plant-life.

Holiday Schedule

noreply@blogger.com (Eri) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:49:00 +0000

Happy Holidays! Here is our Holiday schedule for the rest of the month:

For the next week we will be open until 9pm every day to help you get all your last minute shopping done:

Monday Dec. 19: 10am-9pm
Tuesday Dec. 20: 10am-9pm
Wednesday Dec. 21: 10am-9pm (Happy Hannukah!)
Thursday Dec. 22: 10am-9pm (Blessed Yule and Tohji-taisai!)
Friday Dec. 23: 10am-9pm
Saturday Dec. 24th: 10am-3pm

Sunday Dec. 25: Closed (Merry Christmas!)
Monday Dec. 26: 1pm-6pm (Happy Kwanza!)
Tuesday Dec. 27: 10am-6pm
Wednesday Dec. 28: 10am-6pm
Thursday Dec. 29: 10am-9pm
Friday Dec. 30: 10am-9pm
Saturday Dec. 31: 10am-3pm

Sunday Jan. 1: Closed (Happy New Year!)
Monday Jan. 2: Closed

Holiday Hours

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:47:00 +0000

Melange will be open until 9pm all week until Christmas Eve to help you get that last minute shopping done!

So, just to be clear, our schedule for the Holidays is:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday we are open from 10am-9pm.
Saturday we are only open from 10am-3pm and we are closed on Sunday the 25th.
We will be open on Boxing Day from 1pm-6pm.
The 27th and 18th we will be open 10am-6pm, the 29th and 30th we will be open 10am-9pm.
New Year's Eve we will be open from 10am-3pm.
New Years and the day after (the 1st and 2nd) we will be closed.

Happy Holidays!

Yule Sale

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 20:33:00 +0000

Le Melange Magique / The Magical Blend

Online shoppers! Local shoppers! Yule is fast approaching...
This Sunday is our Yule Sunday Sabbat Sale where everything is 10% off all day.

If ordering online then you can enter the code YULE2011
(valid only this Sunday December 18th, 2011).

SUNDAY SABBAT SALE
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18TH, 2011

FAQ: What is the LBRP and what is it for?

noreply@blogger.com (Eri) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 22:46:00 +0000

The Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram is a banishing ritual that first made it's appearance in the famous Ceremonial and Hermetic order, the Order of the Golden Dawn. No one is quite sure where the LBRP ritual came from. The founders of the Golden Dawn claimed to have received the ritual from the same "Secret Chiefs" who had theoretically passed to them all the information for the order. Certainly the LBRP draws on many Judeo-Christian and even Hindu mystical sources an some of the prayers reflect ones of Christian or Jewish origin so the LBRP as a ritual may be quite old. However whether Mather's, Westcott and Woodman were given the LBRP by the Secret Chiefs or whether they made it up (for which there is quite a bit of debate)it remains that the LBRP is am intense, powerful and balanced ritual. Since its first recorded appearance in the Golden Dawn the LBRP has been published in many different books on Ceremonial Magic, rituals, psychic and magical protection and metaphysical books and magazines, often with slightly different variations. Unfortunately due to the fact that the Golden Dawn is a secret society it is very difficult to pin point which version is the correct one, even among practitioners of the Golden Dawn today. However all the versions agree on the basic outline and principal of the ritual, and it is mostly upon the proper visualizations that the versions disagree.

The LBRP uses divine Qabbalistic symbolism to center, balance, cleanse and protect the practitioner. First the magician will draw divine energies down through their body in the shape of a cross touching upon Sephirothic attributions (the translations of which interestingly are the same words as at the end of the "Our Father"). This is called the Qabbalistic Cross and it helps to balance the practitioner and infuse them with energy. After this the practitioner traces four banishing pentagrams in each quarter (i.e. east, south, west, north) and infuses these with divine names which helps to banish and shield the sphere of the magician. The final layer of protection is made by invoking the four archangels associated with the four quarters who are placed around the sphere, protecting the inside. Finally there is an affirmation and a final Qabbalistic Cross to recenter and balance.

The LBRP is a very complex, deep and layered ritual that is extremely efficacious. In the Golden Dawn it was the only ritual that was taught before a member reached adeptship and it is often said that if you are going to learn one ritual, the LBRP is it.

December 2011 Workshops

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:10:00 +0000

Sacred Moons Series: 1st Moon: Birch/Cold Moon (Scarlet)
Throughout the year we often hear that there are 13 moons. There are! But the cycle is not exact. Each month has a full moon and every few years we have two full moons in a single month or two dark moons. We can blend this cycle with the 13 sacred trees of the Celtic Ogham and deepen our understanding of ourselves and our spirituality. The first full moon after Samhain is the Birch Tree or December Cold moon. Learn about the basic cycle of trees and moons. Explore how you can connect to the first moon of the new Celtic year. Join us monthly to learn about the next moon’s energies.
Friday, December 9th, 7-9pm $40

Tarot: Major Arcana part 1 (Catharine)
This course covers the first half of the Major Arcana exploring the major themes and progression of the cards. We always look at your deck with the group so you come away with a deeper awareness of your own tarot.
Saturday, December 10th, 12-2pm $40

Psychic Development: Clairvoyance (Catharine)
Introduction to the many abilities that fall under the term "psychic". Exploring your own intuitive gifts with like-minded people so you trust yourself more than ever before!
Clairvoyance or "clear seeing" is an ability that many of us can have or develop. We are a visual culture and we can learn to differentiate what is a psychic vision that is reliable vs our own projection or imagination.
Saturday, December 10th, 3 -5:30pm $40

How to Give a Reading (Catharine)
This course will show you how to do various tarot spreads, and give you good ways of approaching how to read for yourself and for others. We will be doing readings for each other to practice!
Thursday, December 15th, 6:30 -9pm $40

Major Arcana part 2 (Catharine)
This course covers the second part of the Major Arcana, once again considering your deck as well as others, and going into the themes and progression of the tarot as a whole life cycle
Saturday, December 17th, 12-2pm $40

LBRP Workshop (Eri)
In this workshop we will be learning how to perform the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram as well as some of it's visualizations and symbolism. The LBRP is a powerful Qabbalistic and Ceremonial banishing and protection ritual that uses divine and angelic energies to remove influences from your sphere.
Saturday December 17th 1-3pm $25

Psychic Development: Clairaudience (Catharine)
Introduction to the many abilities that fall under the term "psychic". Exploring your own intuitive gifts with like-minded people so you trust yourself more than ever before!
Clairaudience means "clear hearing" and is remarkably more common than you may realize. Many of us channel words and phrases without understanding it. Once you learn to detect this and know which messages to trust it can change your life for the better!
Saturday, December 17th, 3 -5:30pm $40

Annual Yule Fair 2011 Schedule

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:34:00 +0000

Saturday & Sunday, December 3 & 4

The Yule Fair is coming up this WEEKEND, and we've got a packed schedule! We're looking forward to celebrating the holidays with you and your family! Bring a friend or a child-- our speakers and events are family-friendly, with exceptions clearly marked! All workshops and panels are absolutely free-of-charge!

Enjoy in-store specials and find something unique from the vending room full of local artisans.

SATURDAY: DECEMBER 3rd

Tea & Chat
Time: Saturday, 10:00am - 11:00am
Location: Upstairs and Downstairs
Settle in, have some tea, and be social!

Community Organizations (Lena)
Time: Saturday, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Upstairs
Lena moderates a round table introducing community services and groups.

Spiritual Counseling (Catharine)
Time: Saturday, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Downstairs
Spiritual counselling is a progressive form of counselling which treats the whole person. It is more open to the fact that many matters concerning the resolution of issues are based in energetic patterns that can have many origins, including spiritual beliefs. It includes the person's will to manifest and create their own lives.

Alternative Healing Panel (Valerie, Monika, et al)
Time: Saturday, 12:45pm - 2:45pm
Location: Upstairs
As times change and people become less certain of the Western healing system, we are seeing more and more people searching for other solutions for their health and wellness. There are many modes of of alternative healing out there to choose from and finding which one is right for us can sometimes prove to be confusing. Come join us in this panel to explore and discuss several different methods of healing. Styles to be discussed: Reiki, Osteopathy, stone healing, energy work, Thai Yoga Massage, Therapeutic Touch.

Virtues (Brendan Myers)
Time: Saturday, 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Location: Downstairs
Brendan Myers discusses topics related to his book, The Other Side of Virtue: Where Our Virtues Come From, What They Really Mean, and Where They Might Be Taking Us.

Bardcraft: How to Tell Your Story (Hobbes)
Time: Saturday, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Location: Downstairs
Our local bard and storyteller Hobbes will show you how you can become a bard yourself. He will teach you how to find the story that moves you, how to prepare it, and how to deliver it to an audience. Bring out your inner bard!

Energy Work: Creating Sacred Space (Scarlet)
Time: Saturday, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Location: Upstairs
Discussion & presentation of various ways to set up both temporary and permanent sacred space, as well as the energy work behind the methods.

Celebrating the Yule Holidays (Courtney)
Time: Saturday, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Location: Downstairs
Celebrating your own spiritual path without compromising family and friends who follow different religious practices.

Dinner
Time: Saturday, 6:15pm Onward
Location: Cafe Theatre (1832 rue St. Catherine O.)
Impromptu dinner at the location of our brunch.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 4th

Pagan Sunday Brunch (MPRC)
Time: Sunday, 10:00am - 11:30am
Location: Cafe Theatre (1832 rue St. Catherine O.)
Join the MPRC for brunch.

On Being a Christian Witch (Adelina)
Time: Sunday, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Location: Upstairs
Based on her book, Path of the Christian Witch, this talk will be about the trials and discoveries along the path to being a Christian Witch.

Les questionnements spirituels et religieux (Jean-Phillipe Theobald)
Time: Sunday, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Location: Downstairs
La spiritualité est quelque chose de très personnel et de très délicat. Parfois, il est difficile d'aider quelqu'un ou de donner des conseils religieux ou spirituels sans brusquer. S'appuyant sur des principes de la psychologie développementale, l'exposé explore des outils possibles pour discuter de la manière de vivre l'expérience religieuse, en contexte de relation d'aide.

TBD (Mark Hughes)
Time: Sunday, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Location: Downstairs

Tales of the First Lovers (Brendan Myers) 18+
Time: Sunday, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Location: Upstairs
What a sex-positive theology looks like (18+ age or 14+ with accompanying parent).

L’Astrologie, qu’est-ce que ça dit? (Carol & Denise)
Time: Sunday, 2:15pm - 4:30pm
Location: Upstairs
Carol parlera des principes fonctionnels de cette géométrie céleste, des planètes, des signes zodiacaux, des maisons. Denise parlera de notre futur prochain après avoir passé en revue des techniques de prévision, notant au passage la capacité d’analyse psychologique préludant à la capacité d’aider à prendre des décisions éclairées, de gérer ses relations aux autres, en somme d’établir sa biographie.

De formation scientifique, à l’école Polytechnique de Paris puis à l’université McGill (Ph.D. Mathématiques), Carol Meyer, d’abord sceptique, s’intéresse à l’astrologie en 1980 et l’étudie pour en découvrir la logique interne. Depuis ce temps, il participe à diverses recherches en astrologie. Il développe et distribue des logiciels astrologiques et publie chaque année un Agenda Planétaire.

Linguiste et professeur de français, Denise Chrzanowska devient consultante en astrologie en 1980 de façon régulière; également elle devient formatrice en astrologie sur 4 ans et aussi conférencière à Paris, aux États-Unis et au Québec. Elle a écrit « Astrologie stellaire et mythologique », « Les étoiles soufflent » et enfin « La signature de l’analogie ». Depuis 1998, elle publie une revue trimestrielle d’astrologie mondiale : « Cosmoscope ».

Crafting the Craft (Adelina)
Time: Sunday, 2:15pm - 3:15pm
Location: Downstairs
Yule is a time when our creativity soars. Arts and crafts is a fun way to explore the magical realms and to improve our magical abilities. This lecture will look at different forms of arts and crafts and will teach how to use them to improve focus, induce trance, manifest an intent and receive messages from our allies. It will explore different theories from occupational therapy and psychodynamics and will let each participant experience first-hand the effects of arts and crafting in a magical way. No arts and craft experience required.

Discussion: Pagan Hindsight -- What We Thought We Knew (Karyn Torrie)
Time: Saturday, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Location: Downstairs
A talk about the preconceptions many of us had before we came fully into our religion, and how our perceptions have since changed. (Tentative)

VENDING ROOM CLOSES AT 5PM

Public Yule Ritual (Hobbes)
Time: Sunday, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Upstairs

Mindfulness –Using Meditation as a Tool to Find and Connect to Your True Self

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 22:09:00 +0000

We often hear about meditation and the importance of being mindful but what does that really mean? What is meditation? How does it work? What is mindfulness? How can meditating bring about mindfulness thus helping you connect to your true self?

Meditation is a natural ancient practice that has been used over five thousand years to calm the body, mind and spirit. Meditation’s main purpose is to quiet the mind. Making the mind still leads to calm and centeredness. With calm awareness we tap into and connect with our heart center. Without the interference of troubled thoughts we can release negativity and begin to see our true nature, our true self and unfold into mindfulness.

“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way; on purpose in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.” Jon Kabat-Zinn Mindfulness means more than simply being aware.

Although, mindfulness requires being aware of our actions and thoughts, it is deeper and more deliberate. Being mindful means being purposely aware of thoughts and actions, not vaguely or habitually but being aware with conscious deliberation. Take for example, the simple act of eating, eating with mindfulness means that one would be conscious of the act of eating; paying attention to the sensations, taste and textures and the body’s response to these stimuli. If the mind beings to wander we would then refocus our attention back to the present. Being in the present and mindful of our selves leaves allows the storm of our thoughts to die down and what is left is the silence of our heart. We can then pay attention to and attune ourselves to the language of our body, mind and spirit. We become more aware of our needs. The shift slowly starts to take place and the benefits of meditation, awareness and mindfulness are felt in every area of our daily lives.

Although meditation is relaxing and calming it should not be mistaken as a method of relaxation. Meditation is a method used to de-clutter and calm the mind. Doing so, we gain clarity, a clearer view of who we really are. Seeing the real you clearly, without blinders, without negative mind chatter, without belief systems, without stigma, we start to develop awareness and mindfulness. You will start to see the true potential that is you.

In life we normally place a lot of energy into thinking; thinking of doing something or accomplishing goals, but as we begin to practice meditation we begin to free ourselves from constant conversation. By freeing ourselves from negative thoughts, and the never ending internal dialogue the focus of energy shifts from doing to being, we get back to balance, to the heart, to your true self.

Below I have added a couple simple meditations. Practicing, sitting as often as you can, for as long as you can, will help bring your attention back to your true path. Be patient with yourself.
Breathe. Simply be aware of your breathe. Focus on your nose, the nostrils in particular. Feel the cool air on in the in breath, then the warm air on the out breath.

• Take a deep breath, counting until four: 1,2,3,4
• Hold for 1,2,3,4
• Exhale counting until four:1,2,3,4
• Repeat

Be aware of your body and mind. If thoughts of the day seem to stay or creep in, it’s ok, don’t judge them, they are just thoughts. As quietly as they appeared, allow them to leave with the out breath. Try to sit for 5-10 minutes for the first session. Then as you begin to feel more comfortable and at ease, extend the duration of your sit.

Grounding Meditation is good for bringing you fully and consciously into the present moment, the here and now. It is especially helpful if you are undergoing lots of stress in your life, have undergone an especially difficult situation and are having a hard time clearing your mind and thoughts.

• Find a comfortable, undisturbed space and time for this sit
• Take a few deep breaths, as mentioned above.
• Now focus in on the soles of your feet, bringing all your attention to that body part
• Visualize two roots growing out of the soles for your feet working their way down into the earth.
• Allow the roots to grow and expand, branching off the deeper down into the earth they go.
• Feel yourself becoming more centered, calmer
• Keep visualizing the roots spreading and growing deeper down, passing through different layers of the Earth.
• Keep your attention at your feet and the roots growing from your feet downward into the Earth. Continue to do so until your feet feel heavy and firmly secure to the ground.
• Bring your attention back to the feet.
• When feel ready, bring your attention back to yourself and open your eyes, ending the sit.

Monika Marczuk : www.holisticenergy.ca

Classy pens, incense burners, and leather oil!

noreply@blogger.com (Le Melange Magique) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 23:37:00 +0000

We have 3 kits of "classy pens". Colored glass pens with their assorted inks come in either black, green, red, yellow or blue. Wooden pen kits come with inks of 3 different colors: black, blue or violet. We also have musical pens with 2 interchangeable points: one to draw the 5 musical lines, and the other to draw the notes. Perfect for composers who are nostalgic of the old times, or for pagans who like to create their own chants for rituals.

The incense burners we recently received are rectangular wooden boxes, rectangular soapstone boxes, cubic soapstone burners (require a tealight candle) and brass cone burners (small and big).

The leather fragrance oil is now available! It can be rubbed on a journal or any other object to make it smell like genuine leather! Perfect for vegans! You can come at the store to get a bottle, or you can order it through the website in 5 ml and 15 ml volumes.

FAQ: What are the elements and what are their attributions?

noreply@blogger.com (Eri) — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 22:48:00 +0000

In Wicca, most Pagan paths, spell-craft and Ceremonial Magic we place a high importance on the five elements which are, as the term would suggest, the magical and natural components which form in each thing. Some traditions see these elements in slightly different ways or have slightly different attributions but here is a basic guide:

Earth
Association:Earth is the element of stability and the physical. Earth is often associated with material well-being such as money, home and prosperity, stubbornness and healing on the physical level.
Color:Black or Green or Brown
Tool/Tarot Suit:The Shield and the Pentacle.
Symbols: Salt, Soil, Bread, Horns, Stone, Leaves, Bark.
Sense: Touch
Scents: Pine, Cedar, Amber, Patchouli, Sandalwood.
Direction: North
Time: Night

Air
Association: Air is the element of the mind, communication, language, writing and imagination. Air is often associated with anything having to do with the mind or mental processes and is often invoked for study, philosophical thought or automatic writing and healing of mental illness.
Color: Yellow
Tool/Tarot Suit: The Dagger and the Sword
Symbols: Feather, Rose, Quill or Pen, Parchment, Book of Shadows, Fan.
Sense: Smell
Scents: Hyssop, Mint, Violet, Moonflower, Lavander.
Direction: East
Time: Sunrise

Water
Association: Water is the element of emotions. It is associated with peace and calm but also sadness and every other emotion. Water is also associated with empathy, mystery and healing on an emotional level.
Color: Blue
Tool/Tarot: The Cauldron and the Cup (or Chalice).
Symbols: Water, Wine, Shells.
Sense: Taste
Scents: Lotus, Vetiver, Cucumber, Rosemary, Orris, Jasmine.
Direction: West
Time: Sunset

Fire
Association: Fire represents the will, creativity and passion as well as renewal but also destruction. Fire is also associated with strength and power.
Color: Red
Tool/Tarot: The Wizard's Staff and the Wand
Symbols: Flame, Candles, Lamps, Censer, Incense.
Sense: Sight
Scents: Neroli, Nag Champa, Cinnamon, Allspice, Ginger, Clove.
Direction: South
Time: Midday

Spirit
Associations: Spirit is the element of the soul, the divine and the supernatural.
Color: White or Purple
Tool/Tarot: Spirit does not have a tool but is associated with the Major Arcana in the Tarot deck.
Symbols: White Light, Quartz, Crystal, Crystal Balls, Crosses, Doves, Smoke.
Sense: Hearing
Scents: Frankincense, Myrrh, Sandalwood
Direction: Up
Time: All Time.

Come check out our Elemental display at the store for more ideas of tools and associations for your altar or elemental workings!

Turning forgotten New Years Resolutions into Remembered Change

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 02:24:00 +0000

The New Year is long gone, and so are good intended New Year’s resolutions. During the turning of the year we become introspective and start mulling over the past year’s events. We see what improvements need to be made and hopefully keep our big promises long enough to see change manifest. We think back on our short comings, should have, would have, could have’s show their ugly faces; when the realization that our big plans for major self-renovations did not all go according to plan we look to the future. Not to worry, we have the birth of yet another year to make more resolutions in hope that this New Year will heed better results.

The cycle continues. We set unrealistically high expectations on ourselves that are unfortunately a set up for disappointments. “I resolve to lose 30 pounds in 6 months!’ “I resolve to exercise daily!” “I resolve to …” Although, these mentioned examples are fantastic in nature, it is unrealistic to stock pile one resolution on top of another with such high expectations and have lasting fruitful outcomes. It is impossible to eat an elephant in its entirety in one sitting, just as it is to conquer all of our phobias, balance our imbalances, exercise daily, renovate the kitchen, volunteer at the local shelter, give up coffee and all sugars in one night! Then if stock piling does not work, and expecting the world from us only leads to disappointment, then what is the answer?

I say baby steps. It would be considered unfair and unrealistic to expect an infant to crawl before they sit upright, so why do we place such high self- expectations on ourselves when it comes to our own self growth? Try a new approach, treat yourself as gently and with as much acceptance as you would an infant. Stay true to yourself, meaning, practice the art of self- love and acceptance. Have compassion and loving kindness for the areas in you that are struggling and imbalanced as much as the strengths and more pleasing attributes of yourself. Love is what love does. Being more mindful, a day at a time, one step at a time, your thoughts and actions will naturally reflect and flow in a healthier, more balanced direction.

In the end, you will keep the best resolution of all, the promise to be true to yourself.

Monika Marczuk, Founder and Owner of Balanced Steps
www.holisticenergy.ca

---

You can make an appointment to see her for a healing session on Mondays between 11am and 5pm. 30-minute sessions are $35 and 1-hr sessions are $70.
514-938-1458

noreply@blogger.com (Le Melange Magique) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 03:57:00 +0000

The store was unable to get unscented colored taper candles for a long time, because the suppliers were actually lacking them in the last few years. Some specialized candle stores even went out of business! Well, good news! We have a very large selection of candles made in Germany! They are roughly 8 inches (20cm) long and they're perfect for 7-day spells!

Our section of crystals and tumbled stones is very full!

Come see what we have in stock!

Annual Yule Fair 2011

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 19:36:00 +0000

This year the Yule Fair will be held over the usual first weekend of December upstairs of Le Melange Magique/The Magical Blend (1928 St-Catherine West, Montreal). A selection of local artists and artisans will have their wares for sale.

Great place and time to find unique gifts for the holidays!

Saturday & Sunday, December 3 & 4, 2011
10:00am to 5:00pm both days.
Saturday the store will be open till 7pm!

Throughout the weekend we also offer workshops, presentations, discussions, lectures, author talks and more!

If you wish to offer a talk, please contact us. If there is a subject that you think would be interesting, let us know!

On this year's list of talks:

■ Healers Panel Discussion
■ Authors Panel Discussion
■ Energy Work: Creating Sacred Space
■ Way of the Warrior
■ Astrology 2012 (en francais)
■ and more (ALL FREE)

Also on the plan is a Yule Ritual in the evening on Sunday December 4th at 6pm.

New products in store!

noreply@blogger.com (Le Melange Magique) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 21:24:00 +0000

We have received the long-awaited Witch Balls! They are so wonderful and shiny! We have small (3 inch/7 cm diameter) and large (5 inch/13 cm diameter) balls in 2 distinct series: Trees of Enchantments and Birth Months. Each ball is blown by hand, so no two balls are exactly alike, even if there are similar patterns and colors. The best way to choose them is to come in the store and select them yourself.

Small balls are all $20.95.
Large Birth Month balls are $32.95.
Large Tree of Enchantments balls are $42.95.

We also have 2 super cute large glass pumpkins on display, which can be sold as Halloween is over now, at $42.95 each.

We also received a very diverse selection of soapstone incense burners and boats. There are rectangular boats, square and round plates with very nice patterns, either Asian or "witchy" style.

We are restocked in sage bundles, so if you feel like there are nasty energy pockets around your home, you can smudge the corners of each room with sage in a counter-clockwise fashion. This action is useful if you feel there are spirits observing you, whether they are friendly or seem hostile.

The newest items in store as of today are crystal drops and hanging crystals, all with Chakra colored crystal pieces and clear pieces. Their prices vary depending on their style and size, from $11 to $35.

November Workshops & Events

noreply@blogger.com (T. Scarlet) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 15:54:00 +0000

Dia de los Muertos
On this day, all voodoo kits and Voodoo/Santeria books, and Day of the Dead gifts will be 10% off !!
November 2nd

Pagan Discussion Night (MPRC) FREE
Pagans, Conflict, and the Warrior Path
What is the Warrior Path? What is the difference between a Warrior and a Soldier? Are Warriors still relevant in modern society? What is the Pagan perspective on War? Dealing with Witch Wars. Ethics and Dark Magic. Balancing Respect for Life and Defending Yourself.
Thursday, November 3rd 6:30-8:30pm FREE

Major Arcana Part Two (Catharine)
Saturday November 5th 1 to 3:30pm $40

Id al-Adha: Festival of Sacrifice (Muslim) - offering of meat to the poor, making a sacrifice for the gods
Kathina: (Theravada Buddhist) – monks & nuns get new robes
November 6th

Discover Your Animal Totems Part 3 (Catharine)
Animal totems are medicines. The animals that cross our paths literally or in dreams have a deep meaning in our lives and can be used for healing and guidance. Come discover yours and how to connect to and benefit from them
Thursday November 10th 7 to 9pm $40

Remembrance Day
At 11h00am, please take a few minutes of silence to remember those who gave their lives for us in times of war.
November 11th

Minor Arcana - Cups and Pentacles (Catharine)
Saturday November 12th 1 to 3:30pm $40

Tarot Interpretation Part One (Catharine)
Tarot interpretation is a new class I am offering to help you read your tarot better. How do we know what cards mean when they are side by side? How do we reconcile meanings when they are seemingly contradictory? We will focus on the Major Arcana in combination. Come on out, see and practice!
Saturday November 19th 1 to 3:30pm $40

Universal Children’s Day
Children’s & Teen books are all 10% off today!
November 20th

US Thanks Giving
November 24th

Past Lives Exploration (Catharine)
How do past lives really work? Do they exist? If so how can I identify mine and why they have an effect on my life?
These are the questions we will explore in this workshop. We will also do guided meditations to help you remember your past lives (not all! but perhaps one).
Week 1 Introduction to Past Lives Theory
Week 2 Guided meditation to remember a past life
Week 3 How we use this information in daily life to heal
Thursdays, November 24th to December 8th, 7-9pm
$40 per class or $100 for series (deal available if registered officially before or on the start date).

Tarot Interpretation Part Two (Catharine)
Tarot interpretation part two will allow you to practice more combinations and more spreads to see how we assess the meanings. We will include both Major and Minor arcana in the analysis.
Saturday November 26th 1 to 3:30 pm $40

YULE FAIR 2011
Annually the 1st weekend of December
December 3rd & 4th, 10am - 5pm both days
Store specials, free workshops & discussions, local artisans.
Sunday morning brunch with the MPRC.
Sunday evening Yule Ritual.
More info to come later in November...