Star Nations Magazine February 2021 Issue 93

S tar N ations

Yo u r B r i d g e t o A n c i e n t a n d M o d e r n S p i r i t u a l I n f o r m a t i o n

THE

ELEMENTSISSUE

February 2021 | Issue 93

Contents Featured Articles Sacred Medicines of the Anishinaabeg Jan Beaver (Air)

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A little boy journeyed to the Grandfathers in the Sky World long ago when the people had forgotten how to live in a good way. The Grandfathers reminded him that our lives remain in balance when we remember to live according to the seven gifts: Truth, Love, Wisdom, Respect, Humility, Courage and Honesty. Jan teaches us the sacred medicine of the directions of the Anishinaabe Medicine Wheel.

The Bel Fire of the Celtic Gauls Karen Crowley Susani (Fire)

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When we consider sacred celebrations from the point of dark and light, Beltane and Samhain were the two most important times. Samhain marked the time of darkness and symbolic spiritual death, while Beltane was the celebration of light returning to the land. The Bel fire was a symbol for a nourishing summer sun and it also marked a time where daily activities of life changed: the summer rhythm was beginning.

The Chi of Water

Minnie Kansman (Water)

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Earth Chi, the life force that flows along the surface of the earth, is greatly affected by the waters of our planet. From trickling streams to raging waterfalls, water dances over planet earth in a variety of ways. Read along as Minnie discusses the two distinct Feng Shui categories of water (moving and still) and how they correspond to our home and lives.

Earth Ceremonial Magic

Adriane Campbell (Earth)

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The Earth is very much alive, just as we are, with a soul and an inner fire that burns brightly within the core of its being. It has a collective energy as well as its personal power. We use this energy in our daily healing practices. We ask her to join us when we are practicing magic to bring forth the element of Earth. We call upon the Earth to ground us and sustain a balanced root chakra. Adriane presents a recipe for an Earth Day Incense.

The Fifth Element—Ethers Yvette Neshi Lokotz (Ether)

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When Neshi began her study of Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art of placement, she learned about the 5 Chinese elements: wood, metal, fire, water, and air. Mayan Elders announced that they were led by spirit to include the 5th element, Ether (also spelled Aether). Neshi was very excited and interested in how the Mayan Elders came to this “new” element. She researched and meditated about the 5th element of Ether, which gave her a deeper understanding of her Feng Shui practice as well as a deeper understanding of herself.

Credit: ESA/Hubble & NASA | Robert Frost Photo via WikiCommons Public Domain

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 2

Contents From the Archives Editorial Sacred Medicines of the Anishinaabeg Voice in the Wind The Bel Fire of the Celtic Gauls The Pentacle and the Element of Fire Healing Our Inner Flame

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Burn

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Mbish Bmadzewen— Water is Life

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Earth Ceremonial Magic

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Water of Life

Buying a Crystal as a Gift

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Water for Health and Life

Stone People Medicine

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The Chi of Water

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Chi, Prana, and the Ether Element 50

Speaking Her Language

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The Fifth Element— Ethers 53 Sacred Anatomy

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Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 3

Editorial

Living with the Elements

By Yvette Neshi Lokotz

“The Native American Medicine Wheel is an energy map or template that can help you understand your life and how life force energy, the Creator, flows through your life. On the Wheel, the energy of each of the directions (east, south, west and north) flow into the center of the Medicine Wheel. The center is where the Creator. All life flows to and from the Creator, the center of the Medicine Wheel.” —Neshi Lokotz Life is so interesting, and when we pay attention to the nudges from spirit, we receive welcome miracles and surprises.

As I was planning how to create the January 2021 issue while going through the initial grieving for my mother and mother-inlaw, I realized Star Nations Magazine has a deep wealth of information across the six years of publishing the magazine.

In December, I decided that the January and February issues would be created from diving into

the depth of information found in our past issues. This curation process gives my husband, ­sister-in-law, and myself a bit of ease through the magazine issue creation process.

One of the best surprises that the nudge from spirit gave me was how our contributing writers had shared their experience, knowledge, and wisdom about the four elements. We even included the 5th element found in the beliefs from Feng Shui and the Maya Elders.

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In this issue of Star Nations Magazine, we mined the best articles over the six years for you about living with the elements.

The four elements are Air, Fire, Water, and Earth. The fifth element is known as spirit, ether, metal, or the void.

My experience with the elements comes through my cultural filters, Native American. The Native American Medicine Wheel gives me both a physical and metaphysical way of understanding my journey through life. The Medicine

Editorial

Wheel can be thought of as an energetic map or template that includes the four elements and the four directions.

Of course, there is a caveat to using the Native American Medicine Wheel. The caveat is that there are multiple beliefs and understandings of the Wheel.

There is not just one Medicine Wheel or one meaning of the Medicine Wheel. Each Native American tribal nation has a different meaning for each direction that can be very different to just a bit different. The common thread is the belief in the spirit of the Wheel.

I want to share with you how I understand each of the elements in the Medicine Wheel directions with the hope this will help you have a deeper enjoyment and perception of the articles in the magazine issue.

The element of Air is found in the eastern direction. This direction’s color is yellow; it is about mental energies (thoughts), Spring,

includes items that can take flight—such as birds, and the sacred plant is tobacco.

The element of Fire is found in the south direction. This direction’s color is red; it is about our spirit/soul, Summer, includes items about heat—such as the sun and Fire, and the sacred plant is sage.

The element of Water is in the western direction. This direction’s color is black or blue; it is about our emotions, Autumn, includes items about Water, drums, wolf, and the sacred plant is sweetgrass.

The element of Earth is in the northern direction. This direction’s color is white; it is about the physical body, Winter, includes items about soil, stones, bear, and the sacred plant is cedar.

The fifth element in Feng Shui is Metal, which is about humanmade items, the colors of gold and silver—it can be about coins, and items can be made of iron.

In this issue of Star Nations Magazine, we mined our best articles from our last six years of publishing, articles about living with the five elements: Air, Fire, Water, Earth, and Ether. If these articles pique your interest, please check out the issues they were drawn from.

The fifth element in the Mayan traditions is spirit or ether. This element is the energy of all creation. I place this element in the center of the Medicine Wheel.

I would like to share with you one of Star Nations Live Stream Shows with Minnie Kansman and me as we share about the element of Air. Please click the link or the image to watch this recorded live stream.

The cover for this magazine issue is our respectful nod to the elements. Please enjoy reading the articles, listening to the podcasts, and watching the videos.

Wishing you all well.

Jage Nangonan,

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 5

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Sacred Medicines of the Anishinaabeg

By Jan Beaver (April, 2019)

W

e begin this medicine sharing with tobacco (semaa, as it is called in Anishinaabemowin, the language of the Anishinaabeg, the First Peoples of the Great Lakes region). Semaa is the plant medicine that always comes first, activating all of the other plant medicines. It is the sacred medicine of the eastern direction of the Anishinaabe Medicine Wheel, a teaching that represents all of life and all of Creation. The seven directions of the Medicine Wheel are north, east, south, west, above, below and within.

In the eastern direction, Mgizi, the eagle guards the doorway.

The eagle is the bird that flies

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closest to Creator, Gzhemnidoo, acting as the messenger between the people and Creator.

Eagle saved the people from destruction once by interceding for us with Creator. It was a time when the people had forgotten how-to live-in harmony with the Earth and so Creator was going to cleanse everything and start over but the eagle pleaded with Creator to wait and see if eagle could find some people who still remembered how to live in a good way. Eagle told Creator that he would fly out each morning at sunrise and if he could find one person who

Credit: Jan Beaver

All of our new life and understanding comes to us from the east.

The smoke from semaa carries our prayers into the Spirit World. It is used in sacred pipes, as offerings to the plants we are harvesting, to the sacred fire or to elders when we are asking them to help us with something, such as performing a ceremony.

Sacred Medicines of the Anishinaabeg

the Great Lakes region. Cedar is burned to cleanse and purify your body of disease and to protect you. It can also be made as a tea to drink for cleansing and strengthening your immune system and respiratory system.

Cedar is the medicine used inside sweat lodges and around the fasting lodges. After tobacco is placed in a sacred fire, we put cedar into the fire. It crackles loudly, alerting Gzhemnidoo that prayers are coming.

Credit: Heidi Lokotz

The Anishinaabeg have a teaching that people go through the western doorway when they pass away and leave the Earth for the Spirit World. For the Anishinaabeg, the buffalo or bison,

Credit: Joshua Mayer_Wikipedia

On the 4th day, eagle saw a family offering their semaa with prayers of gratitude to the sacred fire. They remembered how to live in a good way and so Creator spared the Earth. That is why traditional native people know how important it is to have a sunrise ceremony at dawn to offer tobacco to the sacred fire, giving thanks for the new day and for all of Creation.

Moving into the south direction, the gatekeeper is the deer, Waawaashkeshi, for the Anishinaabeg. The sacred medicine of the south is cedar, Giizhik.

This beautiful medicine is from the fragrant white cedar tree in

Credit: Pixabay.com

still remembered how to live in a good way, Creator agreed to spare the Earth.

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Sacred Medicines of the Anishinaabeg

Credit: D Ceotzee_Wikipedia

Our lives remain in balance when we remember to live according to the seven gifts: Truth, Love, Wisdom, Respect, Humility, Courage and Honesty Shkode-bzhiki guards this doorway. The bison is sacred to the Anishinaabeg it provides so much to help us to survive. The bison teaches us to find the strength and wisdom that is within us.

Credit: Wikipedia Commons

Credit: Wikipedia Commons

The sacred medicine of the west is sage, Bashkodejiibik, a powerful pungent smelling medicine.

The smoke from sage cleanses our spirits and helps us hear, see, smell, taste and feel things in a good way. Tea made from sage is also strong medicine for a sore throat.

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Moving into the northern direction of the medicine wheel, we find sweetgrass, Wiingashk.

Long ago, after the Great Flood, Anishinaabe oral history tells us that sweetgrass was the first plant to grow on Turtle Island (North America). Sweetgrass is the hair of Mother Earth. This powerful medicine has a lovely fragrance. We braid it using 21 strands of grass always thinking about what those strands represent. Seven strands are for the 7 generations who have gone before us. Seven are for the 7 generations coming after us and seven are for the 7 gifts of the 7 Grandfathers.

Sacred Medicines of the Anishinaabeg

Sweetgrass, Wiingashk, is a native plant of North America as well as Eurasia. It is the sacred medicine located in the north of the medicine wheel. Braids of sweetgrass are used for smudging to cleanse and purify the spirit and the physical body. Anishinaabe teachings about sweetgrass say that is the medicine of kindness. Sweetgrass teaches us about the importance of braiding body, mind and spirit as well as past, present and future together so that we can be strong.

The animal of the north is the bear, Mkwa. The bear teaches us about the importance of fasting

Credit: Pixabay.com

A little boy journeyed to those Grandfathers in the Sky World long ago when the people had once again forgotten how to live in a good way. The Grandfathers reminded him that our lives remain in balance when we remember to live according to the seven gifts: Truth, Love, Wisdom, Respect, Humility, Courage and Honesty.

The little boy took the teachings of those seven gifts back to the people and they began to live life in a good way once again. because the bear goes to sleep in the winter, travelling into the Spirit World. Bear doesn’t eat for a long time until the spring. When we are fasting, we sometimes smudge with sweetgrass to help us deal with hunger. The lessons we learn in the north are about strength and truth and how to speak with a voice of wisdom, sharing what we have learned throughout our life to help those younger people who need guidance.

I hope that this medicine sharing has deepened your understanding

of the Anishinaabe medicines.

Elders have often said that all of the plant medicines we need grow all around us if we have the eyes to see. I leave you now with the wise words of Anishinaabe elder Art Solomon, now in the Spirit World:

“ To heal a nation, we must first heal the individuals, the families and the communities.”

Jan Beaver is an educator, author, storyteller, curriculum writer, workshop presenter and traditional dancer from Alderville First Nation. She was a classroom teacher and an outdoor education teacher for many years in the Toronto District School Board. She also served as the Senior Education Advisor for Ogemawahj Tribal Council in Rama.

Jan has written two graphic novels for Scholastic Canada entitled Rebel Leader and Crying for a Vision and one graphic novel for the Boldprint Series at Oxford University Press entitled Running Deer. She is also the author of 2 Canadian history books for older students entitled The 10 Most Significant Crossroads in Aboriginal History and The 10 Most Inspiring Aboriginal Leaders (Scholastic Canada). @ jb4933@rogers.com

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The WisdomKeeper’s Path

Voice in the Wind Eddie Mullins (August, 2018)

Sedona has always been a very sacred place for me. When I made my first visit in 2008 for a three-day workshop, I felt a deep, ancient connection with Sedona, the Red Rock Canyons, and the surrounding area. I made several spiritual trips to Sedona between 2008 and 2011. It became the place I would go to for my personal soul quest ceremonies when I felt stuck in my life. In 2011, I moved to Sedona for a short time, as I started a new life venture. I quit my full-time day job and shifted my part-time spiritual healing practice to a full-time business.

One of the vortex locations I love in Sedona is Cathedral Rock. I have had many deep, spiritual visitation experiences while on Cathedral Rock. A few days after moving to the Village of Oak Creek outside Sedona I made a hike to Cathedral Rock.

The night before, I was feeling the call to make the hike to Cathedral Rock; it felt more like a spiritual call that I was hearing loud and clear. You just can’t ignore those requests when you are feeling and hearing them.

Tuesday morning, I headed out early, hiking cross-country from where I was living to the base of Cathedral Rock and planned to climb up to the plateau that overlooks the canyons. I had made this hike many times before moving to Sedona.

This was an exciting new beginning in my life but I was doing some very deep, painful healing and evolving deeper into my spiritual path. I knew this hike and being out in nature was the best thing for me. As I made my way to the base of Cathedral Rock, walking along the path through the woods, I could feel a deep frequency stirring inside me, very much like a presence.

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From time to time, I felt the presence of a woman, who was saying, “Stay connected with your heart as you walk the earth inside your soul.” Every time I heard these words, I stopped and felt the centering of the frequency that was present. It was very healing, loving and heart-opening.

After making my way to the base of Cathedral Rock, it was time to climb the side of the rock to the first plateau. I thought it was odd there was nobody climbing the rock on this morning as in the past, it had always been very busy. I began the second part of the journey of climbing up the rock.

As I was climbing, I heard a muffled whisper once in a while, saying, “Goddess!” There was a word after goddess I couldn’t quite hear or make out.

Again, the words had a very strong frequency with them that I could feel inside my body.

I was anxiously excited to get to the plateau. It was a bit of a climb since I was still getting used to the elevation difference from where I previously lived. I finally made it to my destination, and as always, the views were breathtaking. There was only one other person on the plateau and they left

The WisdomKeeper’s Path

shortly after I arrived. Just as they left, the wind picked up in a strange way; it would suddenly stop and start again. I decided to lean up against one of the rocks and enjoy the experience of the views and energy. I decided to close my eyes for a moment. Shortly after closing my eyes, I heard the hoot of an owl; I opened my eyes, but nothing was there. I closed my eyes once again, and I heard the sound of an object hitting the ground in front of me, like a stick. I opened my eyes; again, I didn’t see anything but I felt the frequency of the ground shaking underneath my feet. The frequency traveled up in my body to the top of my head. It was peaceful with a feeling of compassion bursting through my heart. I felt calm and in a somewhat altered state of consciousness.

Through my third eye, I saw a transparent white owl manifesting in front of me. The owl was hooting. Then, a woman holding a medicine stick manifested right in front of me. The medicine stick was fascinating; it had an owl carved on the top of it, with a quartz crystal on top of the owl’s head.

She was stamping it into the ground, which was making the open frequency I was feeling under my feet and in my body. Her eyes were crystal blue,

like a clear lake. She had a strong warrior presence and a deep long stare through her eyes.

After a short time, she said, “I am Athena!”

The sound of her voice vibrated through my heart and body.

The messages we receive about our destiny path for humanity do not always arrive in order, further illuminating nothing in nature is created in a straight line. The unfolding of our destiny path arrives in all directions like the medicine wheel.

Athena’s message arrived through me in February 2011 and the initiation took place 2 years after that; I transitioned to the work she was speaking of in late 2015.

When we stop looking for the steps, the how, the why, and when will it happen, the unfolding appears as we experience the wisdom and knowledge frequency through the spiritual heart.

This will take you into the path of your destiny for humanity, instead of continuing to be in search of your human life purpose. We are all here for humanity, not through thinking, but through the power frequency and presence of infinite love. ✦ Love & Infinite Grace, Eddie

Eddie Mullins found a path of re-awakening through deeper self-exploration and later to teaching, mentoring, and guiding people through their own deeper spiritual consciousness and wisdom.

Eddie is a spiritual teacher, story weaver and healing guide of deep infinite spiritual presence, shamanic healing and wisdom with peace through stillness, grace and love.

He embodies a spiritual foundation of living from the origin of love, nature wisdom, soul enlightenment, and the infinite Source consciousness.

K www.eddiemullins.com f eddie.mullins1 d eddiemullinsofficial

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The WisdomKeeper’s Path

Excerpt of the Warrior Goddess Athena’s message …

“You are not here at this time on this sacred land for the reason you think. Do not waste time, because you will not be here long on this sacred geographic land. Pay very close attention to what you are experiencing within your time here. Let the land show you the past, the now, and the future. Not in chronological order, but in all directions of time, sacred son.

The red mountains are your ancestors, elders, guides, and teachers. Lay upon the red mountain rocks and be silent, listen to their movement and frequency. Let your body sink into the rocks, feel the separation of the physical and spiritual source and the parting of the oneness as you sink into the core of the sacred knowledge. You will remember their medicine way, for you were one with the ceremony on this land in another time. Pay attention to the ways of the medicine; you will be tested through initiation with the shamanic star elders. I will be helping and watching over you.”

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Earth Energies

The Bel Fire of the Celtic Gauls Karen Crowley Susani (April, 2019)

Night has come and the community is completely dark; all remaining light sources throughout the entire area have been extinguished in anticipation of Bel’s fire.

It is the full moon in May and the celebration of Beltane begins. The druid, with a magical spark, ignites the fire and the flames hungrily lick the air.

Incantations uttered by the druids imbue magical power into the fire. As the heat and light grow stronger and stronger, celebration and rituals begin.

People dance around the fires and feasting commences. Later as the flames die down, people would leap across the remaining flames and livestock are driven between bonfires.

These massive fires dot the countryside on the eve of Beltane in the Celtic world of Gaul. This is a time of celebration and rituals to welcome back the season of light and ensure the health of the community.

Beltane, the anglicized name of the Gaelic celebration of Spring, means bright fire. It was one of the most critical seasonal changes of the year for the ancient Celts. It marked the change from the dark season to the light-filled season of the summer. They used a different calendar than ours, one based on the solar and lunar rhythms.

The moon indicated the beginning of each new season and the four significant celebrations in each year. Imbolc began the new year in February, Beltane followed in May, then Lughnasadh was celebrated in August, followed by Samhain in November.

When we consider these celebrations from the point of dark and light, Beltane and Samhain were the two most important times. Samhain marked the time of darkness and symbolic spiritual death, while Beltane was the celebration of light returning to the land.

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Earth Energies

The Bel fire was a symbol for a nourishing summer sun and it also marked a time where life changed in daily activities. The summer rhythm was beginning and now was the time of hunting, war and conquests for the warriors and time of agrarian pursuits and breeding work for the herdsmen and farmers.

time of change from the season change of dark to light. It was a time where the boundaries between the natural and supernatural were believed to be very thin. Special measures were taken to appease the gods and so sacrifices were made to them mostly of young lambs.

Because the Celtic people were predominantly herdsmen, protection, and care over their cattle and sheep, and to a lesser extent, their fields were paramount. It was a time when the herds returned to their pastures. Symbolic rituals were performed to protect their livestock, ensure a good harvest, and to encourage fertility and growth.

Druids were in charge of the Bel Fire and ensured it was very powerful and full of magical powers. It needed the abilities to purify and protect from evil and disease, also to increase the fertility of livestock, crops, and people.

The Gauls, who predominantly lived in France were the most ancient of the Celtic people. This was also a time when they would gather their young men and women and send them out into the world to start new communities. The druids would determine by divination in which direction the young people would travel to begin their new lives.

The Celtic Gauls worshiped many gods, but the most important for Beltane was the Goddess Belisama and her consort Belinus. Belisama’s name means very brilliant and Belenos’ name means the glorious, shining god. These two ancient Celtic deities were both connected with fire, light, the sun, and healing springs.

Belenos was associated with the fire festival and the sun. He later became associated with Apollo, another bright and shining sky god. He has the same healing and medicinal powers as the Irish god, Diancecht.

Belisama was associated with the hearth fire, metallurgy, the creation of weapons, and hot springs.

She is also a warrior and healer in relationship to the springs. In fact, the miraculous healing waters of Lourdes were dedicated to Belisama. She was the sister to Belen, the Gaul god of the sun. She was a triple goddess and thus had parallels and connections to the Irish goddess Bridget, Belisama became assimilated in the Roman pantheon as Minerva who represents lightning. She was so important that she was considered the feminine principle of the universe.

It was essential for the Celts to keep their gods happy and ensure right relationships with them during this

The Bel fire celebration started by extinguishing all the fires in the community; every light was put out from the hearth fires to candles and torches. No light could shine that could take away the power of the Beltane fires. Then the most powerful druid would light the fires. Because the Bel fire was so important and powerful, the druid that lit it must also be the same. Next, the magical incantations from all the druids would begin as they gathered around the fires adding their power to the flames.

After the fires were at their strength, people would dance around them with torches lit from the Bel fires.

The entire fire from the flames to the embers and ashes all had protective powers and were used. As the Bel Fires burned down, people would leap over them for various reasons. For example, if someone were going to take a long journey or risky venture, they would jump over the fire three times for protection and a happy ending. Young girls jumped over the dying flames to ensure finding a good husband. Pregnant women would go over the embers to provide for a good birth and to have healthy children. Even children were led over the ashes for protection and health.

Animals were driven between two fires or even made to jump over the embers of the fires to ritually cleanse them and keep them disease free. Every household would take some of the embers to rekindle the fires in their hearths. After the fires died down people would daub the ashes on their bodies. Then the ashes and other small pieces left from the fire would be spread over the fields to protect them from pestilence and to ensure the fertility of the crops.

As mentioned earlier, Beltane was a time when the veils were thin, similar to Samhain celebrated in

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Earth Energies

November. On the night of Beltane, people made a point of avoiding places frequented by the fairies, elves and otherworldly creatures. Additionally, care was taken to ensure the fairies were included in the feast with offerings. Food and other offerings were placed near areas the fairies frequented.

Beltane through the years has changed as all things do. In addition to the fires, it is associated with fertility rites and spending the night in the forest making love until the early morning. Maypoles with their beautiful ribbons, dancing, feasting and fertility rites originated in Germany and is celebrated in France too. Presenting flowers to lovers on May 1st became popular beginning in the 16th century. But, under the beauty of flowers the primal power of the Bel Fire calls to us even today.

Karen Crowley Susani is a Master Builder specializing in energetic solar geometry.

She loves sharing her wisdom in online classes, sacred site tours, and by creating energetic healing structures. Her love for sacred sites began with a passion for art history. She received her degree from UC Santa Barbara, and this began her exploration of religious and sacred sites.

She also is the owner of Sacred Geometry World and blogs about her adventures. Karen is excited to be one of the authors of the book: Secrets of Sacred Geometry: Solar Geometry for Health and Life K energeticgeometry.com f @EnergeticGeometry d @energetic_geometry ù Energetic Geometry

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Credit: Karen Crowley-Susani

Karen is happy to announce her book, Secrets of Sacred Geometry: Solar Geometry for Health and Life is ready for purchase at https:tripleenclosurepublishing.com

An Eclectic Pagan’s Journey

The Pentacle and the Element of Fire

By Carla Jo Worth (July, 2017)

Merry Meet, Friends and Welcome to my Circle.

I remember a few years ago, I had been at a Pagan gathering and was still wearing my pentacle on the outside of my shirt as I drove home. The car was low on gas, so I stopped at a station. While I was inside paying for my purchase, a woman I’d never seen before walked up, looked at my pentacle, and said, “What a lovely Star of David. I didn’t know you were Jewish.”

I looked at this stranger and said, “Thank you. I’m not.” I walked away as she looked at me with a confused expression.

We have discussed the Goddess and the Triple Moon before; today I’d like to talk about the Pentacle.

Most spiritual paths have one or more symbols they are identified by Islam has the crescent and star; Christianity has the fish, the empty cross, and the crucifix; Taoism has the Yin/Yang; pagans have the pentacle, the Spiral Goddess, and the Triple Moon.

The Pentacle is a five-pointed star within a circle.

Each of the points represents an element: Fire, Water, Air, Earth, and the top point is Spirit. The circle around the star joins the elements showing that they are all connected. The Five becomes the One. As the Elements are connected, so is all of life.

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An Eclectic Pagan’s Journey

Because of this connection, the Pentacle is often used in Spell Work and is one of the objects that lies on an altar. In the instance of my personal altar, it is not an object but is part of my altar cloth, along with the Triple Moon.

Drawing the pentacle for spell work depends on what type of working you intend to do. If I am calling something into my life, an Invoking Pentacle is drawn. Beginning at the top point, a line is drawn to the lower left point, then the right arm point, to the left arm, then the lower right, and back to the top.

The points are then connected by the circle from the top in a sunward (clockwise) direction.

If the intention is to banish, you begin at the lower left point, move to the top, then to the lower right, left arm, straight across to the right arm, and back to the lower left. The connecting circle is drawn from the lower left point to the widdershins (counter-clockwise) direction. This type of Pentacle is called the Banishing or Warding Pentacle.

Such is the energy/power of the Elements working together in the form of the pentacle.

I call upon the Elements as One and separately depending on the Working I am engaged in. When I invoke the Guardians for casting a Circle, all Elements are called. If I am looking for a way to do something, Air (thought) is called; inspiration is Fire; help in working with emotions, Water is my go to; and money, Earth is called.

As a Pisces (the Fishes), you would naturally think that Water is my primary Element but, although I crave the touch of water on my skin, the tinkle of water over rocks, and the sound of waves crashing on the beach, Fire has drawn me from early childhood. The

Image Credit: http://www.sacred-magick.com/

As an example of the Warding Pentacle’s use, my supervisor had a habit of coming around just to talk.

He did this two or three times a week, interrupting my work for an hour or so and then would, later on, reprimand me for missing something or not cleaning as well as he expected.

I had enough and took just a few moments on my way into the building one night to draw a Warding Pentacle on the entrance with my finger saying, “Rob, stay out of my area unless you have an important question or message for me. You may also enter if I have a question or message for you” I did this three times in a row (three is a magick number) that evening, setting a clear boundary for my intention.

From that night until my retirement nearly 18 months later, the boundary held. He didn’t even come to the custodial holiday potluck that became my retirement party!

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An Eclectic Pagan’s Journey

light and heat, the images in the live embers and the dancing flames rising to the sky entertain me for as long as they live. Even the ashes and charred pieces of the wood call to me.

The images I see are Otherworldly beings or scenes from life. The embers are eyes watching us from somewhere Else; looking out on us in this cold dark world they cannot understand. They want to share their heat and light, seldom realizing that we frail humans cannot tolerate their world.

In the Tarot, the Element of Fire is symbolized by the suit of Wands (also called Rods). Each Wand bears living leaves on its top, and some also have sparks of fire in the air around them.

Fire is passion. Fire is an inspiration. Fire is heat. Fire is light. Fire is the direction of the South, watched over by the Archangel Gabriel, patron of writers and artists. On my altar, the Element of Fire is represented by the flame of the candles and the embers of the incense.

I call upon the Element of Fire to light my way when decisions are to be made or when the path ahead

is unclear. Fire gives me insight to my problems and into those of others. The Flames hold not only the Otherworldly but also answers if I look with open heart, mind, and soul.

As I said, I see things in the flames and embers. At times, it seems I see scenes from past lives: A Gypsy dancing ‘round the campfire or dying while locked inside her wagon as it burns. There are happy times and sad. I have seen dragons and firedrakes in the flame of candles.

And, once, a city rising from the flames to stand on a mountaintop.

Make friends with the Element of Fire.

Learn that you can ask for help but that you do not control this Element or any of the others. They will work with you if you approach them with humility and respect.

But, they will turn on you if used incorrectly or with disrespect. Learn to work with Fire, Earth, Air, Water, and Spirit both within and outside of your body and there will be little you cannot do. The Circle is Open yet, Unbroken.

Merry Part and Merry Meet again.

Blessings of Fire be with you this Summer.

Carla Jo Worth bought her first deck of Tarot cards with her high school graduation money. She lives in a home and property purchased in 2013 with a black cat (surprise, surprise) named Loki. Carla spends her time reading, crocheting, writing, studying, giving card readings, and helping at Gathering Thunder Foundation. @ tellerstidbits@yahoo.com

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 21

Chakra Sessions

Healing Our Inner Flame

Polly Jo Labbé (March, 2018) Many of us go through periods of exhaustion, disillusionment, and overwhelm. We create these phases by burning ourselves out, literally.

With prolonged stress, anxiety, frustration, or overwhelm, we begin to use up the Fire energy that lies within our Solar Plexus Chakra, often referred to as the Third Chakra.

Just as we would with a fire in a fireplace, we need to stoke our Fire energy, add logs or kindling to create a steadier and more even burn. We instinctively know how to do this when we see a fire going out in front of us, but how do we reignite the fire that resides in our Third Chakra?

exercise, or time in nature. To stop energy leakage, try avoiding activities or people that leave you feeling drained or exhausted just being around them.

Any time our energy boundaries collapse or weaken, we may become cranky, tired, or resentful, which impacts the Third Chakra even further.

The easiest way to do this may seem completely obvious but is extremely difficult for most people to do: reduce your stress. Stress reduction comes in many forms, all worth exploring to protect your Third Chakra. Why does the Third Chakra need protection? Well, the Third Chakra contains our sense of Self. Our self-esteem, our self-worth, and our self-confidence all gather their energy in this location. When our Fire begins to dwindle, we can experience moments of doubt or fear, which can turn into depression if carried over an extended period of time. Reducing our stress now is beginning to seem like an idea worth exploring!

Excess resentment and frustration are stored in our belly surrounding the Third Chakra, which can cause even more stress on our bodies and mental health. If we feel resentful about work (or anything else), the Air energy compresses along with the Fire energy creating conditions for our Fire to burn out of control. This leads to anger becoming accelerated, sometimes leading us to push back at others energetically. This is what happens when we feel bullied by others, or they feel bullied by us. It is simply our Third Chakra in overdrive, which can even lead to anxiety or panic when things seem out of control. This is also when our boundaries have weakened, but this time because of too much energy in the Third Chakra.

Stress reduction has two components: avoiding stress-inducing situations and administering generous amounts of self-care. Avoiding stressful situations may be difficult, but we often create unnecessary stress that can be controlled. This is what I refer to as creating stronger boundaries: with yourself, with others, and most importantly with your time and energy.

Begin with your time: plan out your day, week, and month. Set designated times for work, play, family, activities, exercise, and sleep. Make sure that work does not leak into time designated for another purpose! Boundaries on your energy include taking time to recharge through activities like meditation, yoga,

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 22

With the Third Chakra out of balance, we decipher whether we have too little or too much energy and build our self-care accordingly. Remember that the key is to get back in communication with your body, what it is feeling or needing physically, emotionally, psychologically. Or spiritually. No matter how our Fire energy burns, we create more time for ourselves, through a self-care practice.

To calm the energy, we want to focus on activities that encourage us to breathe deeply. This can be meditation, yoga, stretching, going for a walk, gardening, journaling, painting… and the list goes on.

Also engage in activities that allow others to take

Chakra Sessions

care of you through spa treatments like massage, manicures, energy healings, or facials; or give yourself activities with others like going out to dinner or the movies. Notice how these are activities that allow us to relax, reconnect with our breath, and in general terms, slow down the pace of our hectic lives.

With a low or leaky energy in the Third Chakra, we choose things in our self-care practice that fire us up! These are activities that expend a lot of energy and get out heart rate revved up. This is why many people turn to exercise. Aerobic exercise, jogging, bike riding, and even dancing can accelerate the heart, which needs your Fire to burn more fully to keep up.

Another aspect to creating more energy in the Third Chakra connects to ways that the Inner Child might like to play. Get outside! Play in nature any way that you can imagine. Even things like coloring, painting, blowing bubbles, playing board or video games can activate the Inner Child whose energy will fill the Third Chakra. By adding play activities for the Inner Child, we also clear the toxic energy that may be built up in the Heart Chakra—bonus!

Getting down to basics of the Third Chakra, we begin to reconnect with the Fire that burns within each of us. This Fire energy is meant to create passion, desire, and the energy to create our amazing lives. Without our inner flame burning bright, our life begins to feel lackluster, dull, and

Credit:© Dirk Czarnota | Dreamstime.com

tedious. It is imperative that we take care to nurture and love the flame that makes us uniquely who we are. We each contain a Divine spark that ignites our inner flame. Without the passion or desire to move forward, our flame begins to dim. Healing our inner flame can bring healing, not just for ourselves, but also for everyone connected to you. I encourage you to look deep within yourself to nurture your flame of Divine light. We are in need of everyone to shine their Divine light brightly to release the negativity that is impacting so many on Grandmother Earth. Ignite your inner flame and shine your light! ✦

Polly Jo Labbé a renowned healer and educator is the founder of the Trinity School of Mystical Energy.

Her knowledge of both traditional and energy medicine enable her to accomplish her mission of “Healing the Healer.”

A Usui Reiki Master Teacher and Six Sensory Practitioner, her areas of expertise include Reiki, Alchemical Healing, IET, AromaTouch Technique, Angelic Essence Healing, Psychic Development, Tarot, and Empath Work. Polly Jo studied at the Rhys Thomas Institute of Energy Medicine and received her BA in Education from the Univ. of Massachusetts with a concentration in Dance and minors in Psychology and Mathematics. Polly Jo hosts Chakra Sessions with Polly Jo Labbé on Star Nations Live Stream.

K www.trinityhealingsanctuaries.com | K www.trinitymysticalenergy.com | f ChakraSessionsLiveStreamShow

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 23

Poetic Wisdom

—Julie Hedges (April, 2018)

Burn

When you burn Phoenix,

Delicious and Pure Golden Sun behind Torrid storms and Siren squall, Remember your Plumes— Sleek Graceful Glistening flames Licking the Sky When you Burn.

Julie Hedges is the host of Cosmic Conversations on Star Nations Live Stream the third Monday each month at 8pm ET. She offers readings and healing sessions to those around the globe. Her breakthrough book, The Tarot Journey Volume 1, is full of practical Tarot tips and tools to help readers develop a deeper relationship with the Tarot. @ TheTarotJourney@gmail.com | K TheTarotJourneyVolume1.weebly.com | K JulieSoliloquy.weebly.com | f CosmicConversationsWithJulieHedges

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 24

AT

Mbish Bmadzewen—Water is Life

By Yvette Neshi Lokotz (March, 2017)

Most of the Indigenous Nations in the United States have special ceremonies just for water. Why is water so important? I know this question sounds contrite, but there are some people who may not know the interconnectedness we have with water.

Humans can survive 8–10 days without water. Water (H₂0) is imperative to life just like oxygen (O). The need for water on the physical level is the easiest one to understand as it is very straightforward; if you have water to drink,

you live. Science tells us that the earth’s surface, Grandmother Earth, is 71% water. Indigenous people have known for generations that the amount of water on the earth’s surface and beneath the earth is extremely important. When we are well hydrated, humans have a 70% level of water in our body.

As indigenous people, our Elders taught us that our bodies emulate or are similar to Grandmother Earth’s body. It is no coincidence that our optimal level of hydration

RedHawk Photographer

Writing an article about water requires a large amount of information and experiences to share. I can research information and write an article for you that just reiterates information you can find for yourself, but I would rather share with you about my perspective of water and how water is the force that has brought awareness to the world about human rights, Native American treaty rights, civil rights, and civil liberties.

is the same as the level of the earth’s surface amount.

For Indigenous people, the spiritual aspect of water is just as important as the physical. Water is the life-blood of Grandmother Earth. Her blood spiritually nourishes us. Water is our first medicine because as human babies we are in our mother’s womb surrounded by water called amniotic fluid. The water surrounds us both inside and outside of our body.

It is this spiritual connection with our first medicine—water—that is also our emotional connection.

In my family, when we have an emotional trauma, or we are feeling sad about an issue, we pray for assistance with tobacco and place the tobacco offering in a body of water such as a lake or pond and asking the Creator to take our emotional troubles from us. We also place tobacco

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 26

Mbish Bmadzewen—Water is Life

in moving water such as a stream or river as part of a Naming Ceremony. It is our belief that the water will take our tobacco and prayer out over the entire world as the water flows to all parts of the world. The water announces the person’s spirit name to the world.

Water is in jeopardy all over the world due to pollution, and it has been this way for decades.

Indigenous people take this seriously and stand against corporations such as oil pipelines and corrupt governments. The first forward feeling country, Slovenia, has made water a human right in their country’s constitution.

Here in the U.S., we have a long way to go. We were on the path of clean, protected water. Then a new president was elected and he nominated Scott Pruitt to be the secretary of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA.) Pruitt was recently voted on and passed

by Congress. Scott Pruitt is known for suing the EPA 3 times and will be the lead in dismantling the EPA

by December 2018.

For First Nations People here in the US (Turtle Island), we have a double jeopardy: the dismantling of the EPA and broken treaties.

Many times the place that corporations want to place pipelines is

through reservations or unceded treaty territory. This placement of a pipeline is what has happened in North Dakota at the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and the six other bands of the Sioux, known as the Oceti Sakowin. The Oceti Sakowin stand to protect the Missouri River, which is drinking water for 18 million people and to stop the Dakota Access Pipeline from being placed under the river. The pipeline was originally planned to be placed north closer to Bismarck but being a more populated area where there were many complaints made, it was moved by the Army Corps of Engineers South toward the Standing Rock Sioux and will cross their unceded treaty territory.

This protection of the Missouri River is also a stand for treaty rights—treaty rights between the First Nations people and our federal government that the U.S. government did not honor and broke. I am referring to the Fort Laramie Treaty of 1851 and 1868.

Water is the common thread that connects all of us humans, all flora and fauna from every corner of the world. We all need water to live, to survive. The movement to protect the water at Standing Rock became a movement not just in North Dakota, but all across the

U.S. and across the world. Water, the blood of Grandmother Earth, is precious and deserves to be respected and protected. Humans are hardwired to protect what they love. Some of us love water more than oil, more than corporations, and more than money. What would you do to protect what you love? How far would you go to protect what you love?

In this month’s issue, we have some great topics: Good Friday, Tolerance, Equinox, Noodles, Women’s History, Falcon, Laughter, Water, and Purim. Enjoy your time with us as you read the articles, listen to the audio clips and watch the videos.

The cover picture this month [March, 2017] is a special image taken by photographer, Redhawk— Water Protector. The image is of the Missouri River where the Dakota Access Pipeline will cross.

You can purchase Water Protector prints from Redhawk; check out his Facebook page, www.facebook.com/StandingRock-Rising-1131347910264898/ Please watch this video about sacred water and those who protect it at Standing Rock.

Bama Mine (Until We Meet Again), Neshi

Yvette Neshi Lokotz is a tribal member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, with Ho-Chunk Nation and Yaqui Nation descent, who was raised in the traditions of Ho-Chunk and Potawatomi cultures. She is a publisher, drum maker, and a Medicine Dress Dancer.

Neshi is the C.E.O. of Star Nations Organization, which includes Star Nations Publishing, Star Nations Magazine, Star Nations Live Stream, and Star Nations Academy. She holds a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in Management and Organizational Behavior. @ starnationspublishing@gmail.com | f StarNationsOrganization

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 27

Ascension

Water of Life

By Ortrun Franklin (March, 2017)

In our lives, water is a crucial concern. The Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) has certainly brought to the forefront its sacredness and the need to keep it safe and pure. 70% of our planet is covered with water and our bodies are composed approximately of the same amount. Water is Life!

Water is not only essential in maintaining our physical well being but also our spiritual well being. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s view is; “Water is an intrinsic part of most spiritual beliefs. Its uses and symbolism in religion are many and varied; its spiritual and healing properties are seen in rites and rituals; and its representations are as numerous as they are diverse.

These different religious and cultural aspects of water reflect the vast array of civilizations that have made water the central element in their practices.”

Water is sacred, be it a lake, stream or river. And its importance is mirrored again and again in religions across the world.

It is no different in Egypt. The physical source of life there is the Nile River. It is the main tributary of water between Upper and Lower Egypt. It supplies Egypt’s inhabitants with drinking water. The annual Inundation brings rich, fertile soil for great food harvests, feeding and nourishing the population.

The Pyramid Text Translations by students of sacred science- priest and priestess of the ancient Mystery Schools- show the Nile to have great spiritual significance.

In Egypt, those of the Mystery Schools believed that the creation of Egypt came from Nun, the watery abyss. This “watery abyss” is found in what is commonly called Upper Egypt. The ancient texts reveal that from the darkness of the abyss a large vapor arose, creating a mound [Egypt], which reflected the heavens. These learned ones went on to say that heaven exists within everyone. They believed in the

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 28

concept of “as above, so below,” indicating that everyone is a projection of the Divine.

Inundation or flooding of the physical Nile River begins in Upper Egypt and continues to flow downward feeding the land with rich soil and nutrients. As it reaches the delta region of the Nile River, it joins with the Mediterranean Sea. It then links with the oceans and all of the waters of the world.

Symbolically, Egypt is a reflection of each of us. As physical Inundation take place within us, Source energy rushes down our Celestial Nile (spinal column) from the heart and mind of Creator. It balances the Ida (feminine) and Pingala (masculine) aspects of our being. Source energy continues to wash over our energy centers, cleansing and purifying every cell. Heaven and earth become equal partners within the Divine us, allowing both the energies of heaven and earth to flow freely.

These energies then flow through every pore of our being reaching out to unite with all upon the planet and beyond.

The ancient ones recognized that we are holograms: the great Nile River being a reflection of the Milky Way Galaxy and the temples along the Nile being the planets; likewise, the river of Divine consciousness that flows within us is a reflection of the Milky Way Galaxy and our energy centers a reflection of the planets. Source energy flows through us and nourishes us. This source energy is then to be shared with others, so that peace on earth can transpire. We are all connected, not only physically, but spiritually. Our common denominator is water. Respecting

Ascension

source, impacts all of us on our planet, the universe and beyond. Water is life, physical and spiritual.

The Berean Study Bible, Revelation 22:1 says it beautifully, “then the angel showed me a river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb, down the middle of the main street of the city. On either side of the river stood a tree of life, producing twelve kinds of fruit and yielding a fresh crop for each month. And the leaves of the tree are the healing of the nations.”

Join me now and experience a guided meditation/ visualization where Inundation of the Celestial Nile occurs within your being. Make yourself comfortable, close your eyes, become still, be at peace…. * Remember that being in the meditative state slows

References: www.wikipedia.org www.pureinsideout.com/water-myths-mysteries-and-symbolism.html Some of the practices and beliefs around water: In the Judeo-Christian story of creation, it is indicated that at the beginning, the spirit of God is stirring above the waters, then, God creates a firmament in the midst of the waters and finally becomes the fountain of living water.

In the Catholic tradition, the term water of life refers to living water as the Holy Spirit. During the Baptismal ritual, the priest pours water over the infant’s forehead as the Baptismal prayer or the “Prayer to the Holy Spirit” is spoken, “give it [the water] the power to become the water of life.” The purification ceremony of Baptism removes original sin and allows the fountain of living water or Holy Spirit to flow.

The Vedas or Hindu holy books proclaim that the inhabitants of the earth came from the primordial sea.

Hindus believe that water aids in spiritual purification.

Washing oneself is a necessary daily duty. Their temples are located near water sources and followers are not allowed to enter the temples without first bathing.

down your reflexes. It is advised that you do not listen to this recording while driving or performing services where acute attention is required. Now, take a deep breath, relax, become still and listen…

Interested in learning more about Ortrun Franklin, the many services she offers or how to tune into her free radio show, visit www.ourspiritualascension.com.

In the Buddhist tradition, the lotus-stream of the Buddha rises up from the waters of the soul. It is rooted in darkness, but its flower blossoms are on long stalks as if floating above the muddy waters.

According to Zoroastrian beliefs, clean water is sacred. Pollution is considered evil. It is forbidden to spit or wash one’s hands in rivers since it might contaminate the purity of the water.

Ortrun Franklin is a columnist for Star Nations Magazine. She is the co-host of the live stream show “Living in Two Worlds” which focuses on the connecting the physical world with the spiritual world. It airs the last Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. CT. K www.ourspiritualascension.com | @ Ortrun71@aol.com | f Living in Two Worlds

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 29

Health & Healing

Water for Health and Life

By Sharon Rosenblum (March, 2017)

Did you know that the adult human body is made up of 50-65% water? According to Water Science School 60 % of your body is water. Clearly this tells us just how important water is to our body. Water is one of those things we take for granted. Doctors will tell us we need to drink eight glasses of water a day to maintain proper hydration. What we may not realize is what that water does for us in our bodies.

Credit: Sharon Rosenblum

Mayo Clinic’s online website, Mayo.org, has a very good graphic that shows all the areas of the body that need water. We need water to keep the tissues in the mouth, eyes and nose moist. Water regulates the body’s temperature, protects the body organs and tissues, lubricates joints, helps prevent constipation, carries nutrients and oxygen to cells, lessens the burden on the kidneys and liver by flushing out waste products and helps to dissolve minerals and other nutrients to make them easily accessible to the body.

Whew! That’s a lot! It is easy to see how humans need water to live. It seems to be necessary for our body to function properly just

as it is important for plants and animals to have water as well.

It is what I like to call the keystone to life.

We, as a society, do not drink enough water. I am guilty of this too! I much prefer tea though for many of us drink to excess coffee and lots of soda (Coke, Pepsi etc.). Our bodies are dehydrated!

Many of our illnesses or dis-eases are a result of dehydration.

Dr. Fereydoon Batmanghelidj, M.D. has written a book titled: Our Body’s many Cries for Water.

In his book he explains how dehydration can cause a multitude of symptoms and illnesses, from “headaches to diabetes, arthritis and muscle cramps to

Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease”. That’s quite a range of diseases. He further states that caffeine and Aspartame (artificial sweetener) are poisons.

His studies and their results are quite impressive. In a lecture given at “The Governmental Health Forum” in Washington, D.C., Dr. Batmanghelidj talks of dehydration as being “the underlying cause of many chronic diseases”. I could write pages listing all about these diseases but I will give you the link to the article for you to read yourself. Better yet—buy the book or get it on loan from your library. It is a truly fascinating way to look at our health and the needs of our body.

(www.naturalscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/wfns_special_report_water_03-03_english.pdf)

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 31

Health & Healing

Throughout history and culture there have been many deities of water. In Celtic mythology we find Acionna—a water Goddess and Boyne—Goddess of the River Boyne in Ireland. There is the Mayan Goddess, Ix Chel, who was feared for her extreme storms and tides. Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of Water was born out of sea foam, she is very well known, as is Anuket the River Nile Goddess of the Egyptian traditions. The Orisha religion/ tradition of Africa has several water deities: Oshun—the Goddess of Love and Sweet Waters, Olokun—the Goddess of the Bottom of the Ocean and Yemaya—Goddess of the Ocean, Mother of all Living Things and the Upper Ocean. According to Hawaiian Mythology by Martha Beckwith, Kane is the Hawaiian God (one of the four major Gods) of water. Kane, also known as Kanaloa, is the keeper of water life. Also in Hawaiian mythology is Namaka—Goddess of the Seas, a water spirit and older sister of the Goddess Pele. Hina is another Hawaiian water goddess associated with the color white and awareness. There are many, many more that are not mentioned here. These deities have been prayed to and offerings

have been made to them throughout the centuries.

I mention them to point out that water has always been an important part of life for all living things.

It is used to cleanse and purify the body. It sustains life of plants, animals and humans. It is, for the most part, readily available and free. It is the most basic part of the foundation of life. I am sure that others will write this month about the Standing Rock Water Protectors so I will not write of that here other than to say, Thank You to all the water protectors everywhere. We honor you and are grateful for your efforts to maintain the right to water and life.

Dr. Masaru Emoto has written many books on water. He was able to take beautiful photos of water crystals to show that water is life, has feelings, and can be changed in its “sense of being” to reflect emotions and health of water. His studies have become known worldwide and been reproduced successfully thereby making them valid and relevant.

The photos of the water crystals themselves are beautiful and show how positive thoughts can create a full beautiful water crystal. The opposite is also true however, and bad thoughts or pollution will

produce a small gray or yellow crystal as seen in his book, The Hidden Messages in Water.

Another interesting way to look at water is in Chinese Medicine where it is one of the five elements.

Water is the element of the kidney/ bladder, is the color black, has a salty taste, represents the ears as a sensory organ, the emotion is fear, it represents the bones of the body and reflects the climate of cold. Water in this modality promotes wood and controls fire. So when treating the body in Chinese medicine these aspects are taken into consideration. For example, if you have an excess of fire in your body the remedy is the cooling aspect of water. I love using the five elements when working with clients, it’s fascinating! I also use water in my Feng Shui practice which is another entire article in itself. Minnie Kansman wrote a wonderful article on Feng Shui in our December 2016 edition— check it out!

Water is indeed the keystone of life and health for all living things.

I encourage you to take some time and offer gratitude to the water around us. We could not survive without it!  Blessings, Sharon

Sharon Rosenblum adopted a Gluten Free and Whole Food lifestyle and is adept at modifying recipes to suit different dietary needs. A healthy approach to eating also serves her as an Empath and Intuitive.

Eating “clean” foods brings clarity when working with her guides and spirit. Her joints are no longer achy or sore.

Sharon is an Assistant Editor on our Star Nations Magazine Executive Staff and has her own editing business—The Feathering Quill. | f FeatheringQuillEdits

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 32

Nature Adventures

All photos credit: Minnie Kansman unless otherwise indicated

By Minnie Kansman (Oct, 2018)

Ireland Bridge

The Chi of Water

Earth Chi, which is that life force which flows along the surface of the earth, is greatly affected by the waters of our planet. From trickling streams to raging waterfalls, water dances over planet earth in a variety of ways.

In Feng Shui the color representing water is black and the very dark navy blues. Round freeform shapes and curving lines symbolize water in our environments, as well as, of course, the actual element of water. When studying the Five Element System in Feng Shui, we learn water is

divided into two distinct categories, moving water and still water.

Let us discuss moving water first.

Too little water movement, like that in a shallow pool, does not provide enough Chi to sustain us.

Dirty, slow-moving water lacks balanced levels of oxygen and slows down even more with the

growth of algae and other plant life to become stagnant. On the other hand, fast-­moving water can be violent and dangerous, like a stormy ocean side or the severe flooding that seems to be happening more often on our planet.

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 33

Nature Adventures

The opposite Chi quality of water is still water. In Feng Shui still water also symbolizes the stillness of our minds. This is the type of water you would like to have an abundance of. A large calm lake at sunrise is the perfect depiction of the peaceful energy of still water. This speaks to our depth of meditation practice and personal inner growth.

Mountain Stream

The ideal flow of water to sustain and support living beings would be a meandering river that is self-cleaning and flowing with enough movement to keep it well oxygenated. Its banks would be easy to gather water from and for wildlife to drink from.

In Feng Shui, the Water element also corresponds to the Career area of our home and life. It is often described as our Life’s Journey. When our Career is flowing well, we have just enough work to keep us engaged and inspired. Too little and we become bored, too much and it is like the raging river below that gives us no time or space to catch our breath.

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 34

Glacier River

Nature Adventures

Lily Lake

Flow Be as water is Without friction Flow around the edges of those within your path Surround within your ever moving depths those who come to rest there.

Enfold them while never for a moment hold on.

Accept whatever distance others are moved within your flow Be with them gently As far as they will allow your strength to take them

And fill with your own being The remaining space when they are left behind.

When dropping down life’s rapids Froth and bubble if you must Knowing that one of you now many Will just as many times be one again.

And when you have gone as far as you can go Quietly await your next beginning ✦

Minnie Kansman

A certified Master Feng Shui Consultant and Educator and Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, she assists others with Feng Shui, Sacred Space Clearing, and Nature Spirit Connection. She is author of Spirit Gardens: Rekindling our Nature Connection, and Missing Nana: Lessons from the Nature Spirits, a playful children’s story about the afterlife based on love.

Join Minnie for her Nature Connections live stream the fourth Wed. of the month at 4 pm ET, and contact her for Feng Shui Consultations and Space Clearing Ceremonies. Check her website for a Forest Therapy walk near you.

K www.minniekansman.com | @ ecobalance99@gmail.com | f minniekansman99 | f Nature Connections with Minnie Kansman

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 35

Sacred Hoop

T

Speaking Her

he Ancestors, the ancient ones, knew the importance of our connection to Earth and Sky. In fact, they knew that our survival here on Earth depends on our understanding the language of Sky and Earth.

People who are called indigenous in modern times are those who still remember the importance to understanding the language of both Grandmother Earth and Grandfather Sky. I am an indigenous woman to the North American continent, specifically, the United States, which we call Turtle Island. Please understand that we are all indigenous people to one of the major continents of the world. But, not everyone remembers the language of Grandmother Earth or Grandfather Sky. I believe there is a disconnect from this innate language in modern times.

In my family, we refer to Earth as Grandmother. Our ancestors, our many generations of great-grandparents, knew our physical bodies were created here on Earth while our spirit-self comes from the Grandfather—Sky and Stars. We carry the very elements of Earth in our physical bodies as well as the Stardust; this is why it is vital for us to remember our original language of both Grandmother Earth and Grandfather Sky. The language reminds us of our connection to the earth, sky and to all of creation.

We are the blend of the physical and spirit manifest on Earth.

Let us focus on the language of Grandmother Earth.

In the Potawatomi language Grandmother Earth is “Kok-mis-kikan”, and in the Lakota language, “Unci Maka”. The innate language of Kok-mis-kikan contains no words. This language is a non-verbal language. We feel this language in our hearts first and then it is translated to our minds as images and feelings. This language could be considered a female language because of the use of these feeling and images.

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 38

The Mamos, holy men, of the Kogi in Guatemala call this language the Language of the Heart. If we master this language of the heart, we are closest to our original spirit vibration or signature with which we arrived as we came into physical form here on Earth.

You might be asking, how can I achieve this language and how do I know when I have this language of the heart? Literally, in plain English, the language of Kokmiskikan is the feeling we have when we are in nature.

When we are in nature, a place that we enjoy and find beautiful, we are at ease and in awe of such beauty. This ease of mind and body is the language of Grandmother Earth. She speaks to us most audibly in these places. Our minds eventually quiet down when we are in nature. Our heart and mind are in sync during this time. The alignment of heart and mind means you are at peace and alert. She speaks to us to calm us so that we can feel the balance. She prepares us for the active life we humans experience.

Even if we spend a good portion of our day inside a building, it is important that we continue to remember Unci Maka’s language. Our minds cannot tell the difference between a remembered image and being in the physical place as long as the remembered image has a strong emotional feeling attached to it. I would like to be clear in this statement. Our remembered image of being in nature has to be a clear image and our remembered feeling of being in that place is just as strong as when we are physically in that place.

Sacred Hoop

Language Having images around us in our offices and homes of those special places in nature can help us remember the language of Unci Maka and these pictures or pieces of art can help us to bring that feeling of the language back to our minds.

We all know Unci Maka’s language. We are master linguists of this language. We simply have to remember. We just have to listen and allow the remembering to flow within us. Let’s practice. Let’s remember.

Credit: © Patrick | Dreamstime.com

Find a nice quiet place. You may be outside if you like or sitting at your desk. Do this practice listening, quietly, without talking. Take a couple of deep breaths through your nose and let them out slowly through your mouth. If you are outside, just bring your full attention to the trees around you. Notice the sound of the wind. Close your eyes and listen.

Notice the different sounds of nature around you.

There is nothing to do but listen. Open your eyes and now listen with your eyes open. Quietly notice how you feel and where you feel this emotion in your physical body. You recognize the language of Unci Maka’s.

Yvette Neshi Lokotz (Feb, 2017)

Imagine being at this beautiful place in nature.

Imagine and remember how the trees looked.

Spend some time with this memory of the trees.

Remember how the wind sounded or how the sun was warm on your skin. Remember. Remember the scents in this place in nature. Notice the loamy smell of Grandmother Earth. Remember. Take a couple of deep breaths and open your eyes when this feels complete for you. Notice how your body feels; notice how quiet your mind is at this moment.

We came into this physical life knowing the language of Unci Maka and Grandfather Sky, Wanka Tanka.

We are master linguists of this language. We need only to turn our attention to this memory stored in our hearts.

I thought you might like to watch a video about honoring Mother/Grandmother Earth. Enjoy.

Jage Nagonan, (All My Relatives) Neshi See Neshi's Bio on page 27

If you are doing this practice indoors, please do this quietly, no talking. Take a couple of deep breaths through your nose and exhale through your mouth.

Bring to your mind a place in nature that you just love. It is a beautiful place that you have been to and find it very beautiful. You will probably have more than one image come to mind. Just select one and stick with that one image at this time. You can always use one of the other images at a different time.

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 39

The Witch's Cauldron

Adrianne Campbell (April, 2019)

Ear th Ceremonial Magic

The Earth is very much alive, just as you are or I am. It has a soul with an inner fire that burns so brightly within the core of its being. It has a collective energy which we all feel, as well as its personal power. We use this energy in our daily healing practices. We ask her to join us when we are practicing magic to bring forth the element of Earth. We call upon the Earth to ground us and sustain a balanced root chakra.

When we stand on her grass barefoot and close our eyes, we can drop into her medicine fully. Our feet can grow roots and extend them into her core where we become fully planted. It spreads through her existence like a streaming Hara Line into the inner fire of the core and then travels back to us.

This allows us to feel her experience and to create a firm Earth—aligned foundation for ourselves. We are one with the Earth and our souls have a strong desire to be out in nature. We need the balancing and peace of Earth to become grounded in our everyday lives. This is magic and we are offered it daily to use whenever we wish without question. The Earth Mother graciously shares her energy with us to assist our healing and our journey. She is selfless and she is love. It is a true extension of who we truly are beneath our costumes and flesh.

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With the unlimited amount of resources we are given from the Earth, it is important to show our gratitude.

Anytime that I am working with Earth energy (which is all of the time) I offer her my sincere thanks. You can leave an offering if you wish such as a piece of fruit or dish of milk or water. You should do what you feel is best. This is your time with the Earth. Gratitude does not have to be monetary. It does not have to be a certain way. Gratitude can be expressed and felt in any nature. Intimate experiences with the Earth are sacred and are your personal ritual.

Earth Day is celebrated on April 22, 2019. It is a magical time to give thanks and pay special attention to our planet. Earth provides for us around the clock and this is a magical time to simply show her that we sincerely appreciate everything that she does for us.

The Witch's Cauldron

Some people choose to volunteer to clean up parks or help an Earth related organization. Some people choose to go for a nature walk and acknowledge her beauty and wisdom. I use this time to do a spell which honors the Earth Mother, to extend to everything that exists on this planet as well; from every drop of water to every tree. It is a simple ritual which has so much power. You can do this ceremony at home or out in nature. Remember that you hold your own magic and personal intention is the most powerful tool in magic. Drop into your heart and always do what feels right for you. This Earth Day ceremony is an incense ritual. I combine herbs that represent all of the elements that she blesses us with, and includes items for Earth, water, fire, and air.

Roses are used to represent the element of water which also connects to Aphrodite and the Egyptian Goddess Isis. Roses bring forth love, compassion, magic, and wisdom. In alchemy practices, the rose represents a point of unity between the cosmos and life. The white rose is connected to the feminine side and the red rose is connected to the masculine side. For this particular ritual we will be using pink roses which are a balance of both the feminine and masculine.

For the fire element we will add rosemary which is ruled by the sun. It is sacred specifically to the Virgin Mary and Aphrodite. This herb also carries many magical attributes such as love, purification, and protection. It attracts healing energy and removes negative or stagnant energies from a space.

Sandalwood is our herb for air. Sandalwood magic originated in India where it was utilized as a Holy incense. People observed that the Sandalwood trees were never invaded by termites, so it quickly became known as the protective wood. This herb is considered to be very highly vibrational and devotional. In ritual practices, it will create and bring forth peace, purification, and relaxation. In this particular ritual incense blend we will be using sandalwood resin.

Resins are highly aromatic and have been used in healing ceremonial incense blends for thousands of years. I always try to use a tree resin in every incense blend that I create. Tree resins are created by beautiful tree magic. When a tree is damaged it seeps resin in the area to protect it from intruders. The resin

Earth Day Ceremonial Magic ½ ounce Sandalwood resin 2 TBSP dried Rosemary 2 TBSP dried Sage 3 TBSP dried pink roses I do recommend using a mortar and pestle to crush and combine the herbal blend.

If you do not have one any mixing bowl will do, but please keep in mind that the resin incense mixture will become sticky.

Have your herbs, incense burner, candle, matches, and mixing tools ready for use so you can relax and allow the magic to unfold. I typically lay them out carefully and organized, as this is your ceremony.

Now clear your mind and take a deep breath. Imagine your feet planting into the earth and that you are one with the Earth Mother. Welcome her into this time, thank her for her energy and presence. Light your green Earth candle.

Begin adding your herbs into your mixing bowl. Once they have all been added begin blending them as one.

Add a small amount to your incense burner and allow it to slowly burn.

As the smoke wafts, visualize that the incense smoke is extending all throughout and around Earth. It is cleansing and providing peace to this planet. Once the incense has burned you may add more or you can complete the ritual.

This is your spell. Thank the Earth Mother, yourself, and all of the herbs used. Blow out your candle and feel the magic you conjured.

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 41

The Witch's Cauldron

hardens in time much like a scab when we become hurt to allow the area to heal. This is such a powerful protecting tool to utilize in magic and is yet another example of how we are no different from a tree.

All herbs are ruled by the Earth element. However, there are some herbs that are specifically used for the Earth element while many carry several elements.

For this spell we will be using Sage. In Roman times Sage was even gathered in a ritual way. This herb

carries a feeling of healing and preserving. It is a highly protective herb which also carries purification energies. It dispels stagnant energy and transmutes the negative qualities before releasing it back to the Earth.

So now we have our herbal elements. Let the magic begin!  Have a magical Earth Day! — Adriane

Adriane Campbell A solitary witch who works with plant spirits and herbs, Adriane believes everyone and everything is very much alive. She uses the energies of living plants to invoke their magic.

She creates ceremonial items and concoctions to aid spiritual growth, and has a passion for teaching individuals how to do their own spell work as she understands the powerful magic of personal intention. Adriane doesn’t categorize herself as a particular type of witch, but rather embraces every aspect of herself and the Craft. She welcomes everyone to free their inner witch and surf their water of truth.

K www.moonstonedalchemy.com | @ moonstonedalchemy@gmail.com

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 42

Buying a Crystal as a Gift

From Star to Stone Mervyn Kelly (Sept, 2018)

We all love to give gifts, the recipient usually being someone who holds a significant position in our life.

Whether it is a friend or a loved one, we always hope the person accepts the gift with great joy. However, the choosing of a gift can be simple and complicated in equal measure. Simple when we stumble upon the perfect thing by chance, difficult when all we have is an idea of what we want to give, but with little idea of where to begin in its discovery. Giving a crystal can certainly fall into the second category.

Let us begin by assuming that you know little about the world of crystals and stones and that the gift will be for someone taking their first steps along this path. But before we start thinking about where to start looking for this special gift, or even which stones and crystals to consider looking for, I feel it is important that I say a few words upon your budget. It can be very easy to get caught up in the excitement of selecting the crystal that will be the perfect gift, and within that excitement spend more than we had intended. So, I strongly recommend you set your budget and guard it well. I would also highly recommend writing a small list of crystals to look for, because it is very easy to get distracted with all the crystals on display, believe me, I know!

Now a few words about where to begin your quest to find your gift because this relates to your budget. Prices can range wildly from store to store and website to website, which admittedly can be confusing when to select the best place to buy your stones and crystals.

But honestly, a few very simple rules will help guide you. First, do some legwork, which is looking in as many of the stores in your local area that sell crystals and stones. You may wander around the Internet in your search.

This research will help you find an average price for the crystals you have picked for your list, what is high, and what is low. The next thing I would recommend you do is to ask questions, lots and lots of questions. The more information you have, the more confident you will be in your choice of gift. But I will just warn you, the more you delve into the crystal world, the less likely you’ll ever want to leave, and you’ll begin collecting them for yourself!

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 43

From Star to Stone

The first place I always go to when I have asked for some advice on which crystal to buy, especially for the first steps into the crystal world, is Clear Quartz. Although it may be one of the easiest crystals to find and can often be reasonably priced, it is an incredibly powerful stone. Quartz is a Master Healer, and whilst there are others, this for me is the first one.

QuartzCrystal

It is difficult to overstate what an amazing crystal this is. Because of its unique crystal structure, it is considered to be the most powerful healing crystal and energy amplifier. Quartz is the crystal that can be used in any situation and will work with any healing method, and assist in any healing situation. It is so much more than

that though if this is a crystal that you give, the person who receives it will have a lifetime journey with it. Clear Quartz is not a crystal on its own either. It is part of a whole family. Quite a large family.

There is Smokey Quartz which is a powerful grounding crystal, Rose Quartz is particularly good at emotional healing, Lemurian Seed crystals are just amazing on every level, and that’s just to name but a few. The list goes on, even Citrine and Amethyst are a part of the family. So, it is here where I become in danger of confusing you, so don’t worry about all the different types of Quartz for now, and I will introduce you to Amethyst and Citrine next.

Amethyst and Citrine are two stones thought to be more commonly available crystals. But as with Clear Quartz, don’t assume that means these crystals are not special or have little to offer. Every crystal and stone that we encounter is equally special, and important, as all of the others. Amethyst can be quite striking in its colour, and it ranges from purple to a lighter lavender. Although, I did find a piece in which the colour is so dense it appears black! It has very strong healing and cleansing powers.

The ancient Greeks wore it to prevent drunkenness. This Amethyst is a really great crystal to give someone who practices meditation, whether just beginning or as

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part of their daily life for many years, as it aids in calming the mind. It helps us let go of the usual mundane thoughts and more easily find a place of tranquillity where deep understanding resides. Having a piece beside your bed can assist you in having a more restful night, especially if sleep is a problem.

Citrine is a crystal of pure joy and another powerful cleanser. Golden yellow its energy is like that of the sun, and it can absorb and transmute negative energy. Citrine is a wonderful crystal for people who work with the Chakra system. It can cleanse all the Chakras, but it is especially useful when it used with the Solar Plexus. Quite easily found in stores, I offer a note of caution in purchasing Citrine. Natural Citrine is not as common as Quartz or Amethyst and is often heat treated and sold as Citrine. I always ask the question if the crystal is heat treated. Any reputable store owner will always tell you the truth.

There is a fun and interesting combination that may show up as you are questing for the perfect crystal gift, it is a little rarer, but you can find it, Ametrine. Ametrine combines both Amethyst and Citrine giving it amazing properties, and it’s a really pretty crystal!

Those are just a few of the options you will find, but there are so many more. Rather than try and make a big list, I will simply offer

Credit: Wikipedia Commons

Now we will begin exploring the fun part, what to look for in a crystal or stone. Before I give you some suggestions on what crystals to consider, I want to talk for a moment about the formations or shapes you will encounter. Just as a few examples there are tumble stones, points, spheres, clusters and so on. If, as I have assumed, you are new to crystals, I think it is very important that you do not worry about this. Once you have set your budget and selected the store, just browse through the selection they have of the crystals on your list, and you’ll see that the right stone will reveal itself to you.

From Star to Stone

you my next piece of crystal buying advice.

Let the crystal call you.

Browse your chosen store with a clear and open mind, allowing your gaze to fall upon the selection that is available and see what happens.

As you look around, there may be one that draws you more than the others. Perhaps you will hear literally it call to you, or maybe it will look just that bit brighter than the others.

Amythest

Perhaps you will just know that this is the one that is needed. The crystal selecting you is an enjoyable way to choose the gift you are seeking. But remember to ask for as much information about it as you can when you make your purchase, what it is, what it does and so on, so you can give that information along with the crystal.

I assume that the world of crystals is both new to you and also how to purchase a crystal as a gift. But what if you are buying this gift for someone whom is well versed in the knowledge of crystals and has a great deal of experience

with them. I shall let you in on a secret, it does not matter what you give, and it matters even less how expensive it may have been.

Whatever your crystal gift is, it will be loved as much as all the other stones they already have and use.

In fact, you needn’t spend any money at all. A stone picked up from the ground from a special place you visit, especially if it is a place of power and legend, will be a perfect gift and will be held in a special place among all the other stones and crystals they have around them.

This item is very important. If you choose to do this, you must ask

permission of the stone and the Spirits of the place before you take anything.

This request does not need to be anything elaborate. Simply reveal why you need the stone; whom the stone is for; why you feel the person receiving the stone needs it. If you feel you received permission, you are good to go, but if you feel permission is not granted, don’t go against that feeling. We humans have, for far too long, been told that we can do whatever we want to the world.

Human dominance has never been true, so ask for permission and follow your guidance to the right way and the good way to do gift the stone.

I have one last thing to tell you.

When you go in search of a crystal or stone to give as a gift, whether it is for someone just starting their work with crystals or who has been working with them for many years, your journey with crystals and stones has also begun. ✦

Mervyn Kelly lives and works on the east coast of Britain. Spiritually, he walks the Druid path and is a Reiki Master and Teacher, but continues to study other alternative and natural healing methods.

Mervyn has been involved with exhibiting photography nationally.

He is the host of “From Star to Stone” on Star Nations Live Stream and is co-author the book 53°12’49”N 0°20’31”E available on blurb.com. It is a book of photographs taken at sunrise every Sunday for the whole of 2012, with accompanying poetry. Each image was taken at the same spot on the east coast of England, regardless of the weather or the need to wake up very early during the summer! @ m.kellyreiki@btinternet.com | f From Star to Stone

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 45

Stone People Medicine

By Patricia Fox (Dec, 2015)

Healing Arts

“The mystery of life isn’t a problem to solve, but a reality to experience.” —Frank Hebert A number of years ago I was introduced to stones and crystals. I found it quite fascinating that stones and crystals emanate electromagnetic fields just like people and other living life forms.

I was also intrigued to learn about their metaphysical properties and how they can affect our physical, mental, spiritual and emotional bodies. As I started becoming acquainted with their energy through meditation, I never realized where that journey would take me.

The first stone I purchased was Creedite. I was drawn to one particular stone because it reminded me of a small hedgehog. It was light brown, had a flat bottom and a round crystal fan on top. There was a bare spot on the left and right of the stone. One looked like a little face with a small snout, and the other resembled a little bare bottom. I meditated with the stone often but as my collection of stones grew I worked with the Creedite less frequently.

Some months went by and one day I was drawn to pick up the Creedite. I noticed that the bare spots were filling in with new crystals. Some were just erupting through the surface where others were fully formed. The crystals on the bottom of the stone were long, and the stone was no longer flat.

The stone was growing.

I began to notice changes in some of the other stones. Quartz crystals that had been cloudy were now clear. Rainbows were appearing in stones where previously, there were none and other changes, such as fine internal cracks or surface changes occurred, and one stone changed color. These observations not only altered my perception about the stones but also sparked a deep interest in wanting to learn more about them.

There is a wide range of information, all with varying views, about whether or not stones could possibly be alive, even if it’s in a way we do not understand. I’m

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 46

clearly not a scientist, but I have found it intriguing that stones and crystals generate energy. Crystal radios can receive signals from a broadcast tower, and crystals are used in clocks and watches. I have also found it interesting that they contain water, a living element. The human body contains minerals that are essential to our overall health; it made me wonder whether our own chemistry might interact with stone energy in ways we cannot comprehend.

I began working with stones from the standpoint that they are living beings and created a sacred space for doing that work. When doing any energy work if there is respect, pure intention, and high integrity it is a space where miracles can happen. I invited the stones to work with me in my energy work.

Over the course of the next couple of years, I researched, experimented and worked with the stones. It led me to the making of stone essences.

Healing Arts

A stone essence is a substance prepared from a natural element that is used therapeutically for its beneficial effects. An essence does not contain parts of the element only the energy from the element. Typically, that energy is preserved using purified water and a small amount of grape brandy. Non-alcohol versions can also be made. When prepared correctly, essences are safe to use and can be taken internally (under the tongue or in a glass of water) or applied externally to any part of the body.

All photos this page courtesy of: Patricia Fox

What I have learned is that all stones serve different purposes.

Even stones from the same variety may vary in purpose. For example not every Amethyst can be used to make an energy essence, and the amount of time it takes to create an essence varies from stone to stone.

Introducing stone essences in my energy work has altered both the client and practitioner experience. As a practitioner, working with an essence is a symbiotic relationship where you and the essence are working together toward one intention. Forming that energetic bond activates their energy and their metaphysical properties, causing them to work much more differently than when you simply place or hold a stone.

For example, in one session I was

working with a Rutilated Rainbow Quartz. The intention was to work with me to release a blockage. I could feel and, with inner sight, see the energy of the Quartz over the area of blockage. It was in the shape of many tiny prisms, all reflecting a rainbow of light up and down the area above the client’s spine. After a few minutes, I could feel that blockage release.

Once the stone energy completes what it sets out to do, one can feel the stone’s energy holding the space until the session ends.

Quartz

Working with stone essences tends to heighten the sensitivity of the practitioner and, at the same time, also increases the sensitivity of the client. Clients often report deeper energetic sessions and have an easier time working through a blockage. Sometimes the deepest part of the work happens after a session; it’s not unusual for a client to take a dosage bottle of essence home with them as they work through the transition.

Stone essence dosages are also effective when used separately.

The key to making a selection is for the client to set a correct intention. (I have a client who uses Amethyst essence to relieve tension headaches and to help relieve stress.) And, as I share with all my clients, the essences described in this article provide

Creedite

Dendritic Opal spiritual support to healing and are not promoted or intended to be used as a substitute for medical advice, treatment or diagnosis.

Stones are the ancient ones who continue to shape our world.

Perhaps, if we listen in silence, we’ll be able to hear what they have to teach.

Patricia A. Fox, CH, CPH, CRM/T Pat has combined her talent and experience to launch “Healing Arts of the Andovers” a holistic wellness center that provides Energy Work with Stone Essences, Hypnotherapy, Reiki services and training. On-site and distance sessions are available. Pat is a certified Hypnotherapist and practitioner in Neuro Linquistics Programming (NLP). She’s a certified Reiki Master and Teacher in both Usui Reiki and Usui Holy Fire Reiki.

K healingartsandovers.com | f HealingArtsOfTheAndovers | @ Pat@HealingArtsAndovers.

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 47

Star Nations Academy Classes & Workshops For more information, please see our websire: K starnations.org/academy/ Watch for promotions on social media! Classes are held at the Star Nations Academy in Tomah, WI except where noted. June 2021

Sacred Drum Making with Neshi at Wood’s Edge Retreat near Hastings, Michigan

THER

By Karen Crowley-Susani (Oct, 2018)

Life force is the mysterious essence that permeates all of life. There are many names for it, such as chi, qi, ki, prana, and even the element ether can be thought of as facets of the same force. They each have slightly different qualities but are all part of the same vital energy. This wonderful healing life force energy essence is everywhere and is always available but if you want to use effectively, you need the key, which is intention.

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 50

Credit: Karen Crowley-Susani

Earth Energies

Earth Energies

To begin with, chi, also called ki or qi, is the whole vital force or life force that is within every living structure. Prana is very similar and is also considered as an essential life force. There is the prana contained in our body structure, in the atmosphere, and in the air we breathe. Finally, there is the element of ether, which Francois Rabelais, a French philosopher of the 15th century, described as the “substantifique moelle” or the marrow that sustains us, the vital force.

The Western World is not as familiar with the ideas of these different vital life forces as the Eastern World and can be harsh in its criticism of it. For example, Orgone energy, discovered by Austrian Psychoanalyst, Wilhelm Reich, in the 1930’s, is also a type of chi.

Reich went on to build orgone accumulators, devices in which patients sat inside to harness the reputed health benefits of more life force. The device was able to help cure cancer.

He died serving a 2-year sentence for “fraud of the first magnitude” and many of his publications were burned by order of the court.

In the Eastern world, the Hindus and the Chinese both developed many different ways of working with chi and prana. For example, Taoism is a Chinese religious or philosophical tradition that emphasizes living in harmony with the “Tao” or the “Way.” The Taoists developed many ways to work with chi such as Chi Gong and Tai Chi. Both are martial arts that help you restore your energy or “chi.” There are also meditation techniques employed by the Taoists to increase chi. One example is called the Microcosmic Orbit. This meditation technique works directly with the chi of the body and helps with harmonizing, healing, and improving the flow of life force in the body.

Another example of utilizing chi can be found in the Buddhist tradition. Very accomplished monks have the ability to accumulate a unique substance in their bodies that ordinary people do not. It is called sarira and looks little pearls or beads. These individual pearls are fabricated and accumulated during a lifetime of meditation. Sarira was used as a booster for their energetic bodies to reach higher

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 51

Earth Energies

spiritual levels and it is found in their ashes after cremation.

In India, there are many stories of yogis meditating for years in the same place and position without any food or liquid. At the Fire Element Temple, in Thiruvanamalai, India, we were told about one such yogi who meditated in the same place for 3 years.

These yogis gather the prana in the air and nourish themselves with it. Another example is the holy man and Breatharian, Prahlad Jani, who didn’t eat or drink for 70 years. The medical experts have tried to understand how he did it during several medical observations.

In recent years it has become more popular for people from around the world to learn how to become Breatharians and to live off the vital life force of prana. One example is a couple named Akahi Ricardo and Camila Castillo. They have been Breatharians for over 9 years. Camila even went through the entirely normal and healthy pregnancy and the birth of her son with no food or liquids.

Another example is Jasmuheen, who is a proponent of “pranic nourishment” and is considered the western grandmother of the Breatharians. Henri Monfort, a French man, is another famous example of a practicing Breatharian for over 40 years.

As you can see, people throughout time have used the life force that surrounds us. There are monks and holy men who spend their lives cultivating their abilities to use it and there are ordinary people who learn to use prana in their daily lives. These people have accomplished this because they were able to clean their bodies and raise their vibration enough to sustain themselves through the life force available to us all in the form of chi or prana. They also demonstrate that prana and chi are real and a life force that can be utilized through intention.

Now, I’d like to take a look at the third life force energy, which is the element of ether. The Indians call this 5th element, Space. The ancient Indians even built a temple dedicated to this essential element, called Chidambaram Nataraja. This Hindu See Karen Crowley Susani's Bio on page 18

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 52

temple in Tamil Nadu was built in the 5th century and is an energetic masterpiece showcasing the ancient Vastu Shastra builder’s abilities to include all the aspects of the element of ether in their structure. In this rare building, one can feel all the aspects of ether in the body. It is a joy to visit. The space or ether element can be experienced in the spaces of the body that relate to ether, beginning in the heart chakra, rising to the throat, the ears, the 3rd eye, and ends in the crown chakra.

This life force was also found by the Master Builders of Europe as the length of a vibration connected to the rhythm of the sun. In the solar mandala, there are five elements, earth, water, fire, air, and ether.

Ether is special; it is the fifth one and consists of the sum of the first four. Think of it like making a cake.

You have four separate ingredients, flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. They are mixed together and baked, and something new is created out of the four. Ether is like this, and therefore is unique.

In energetical geometry connected to the mandala of the sun, you can make a double square using the ether measurement. Its diagonal is related to the Golden Mean by the square root of 5. This rectangle is a very healing structure, full of life force energy.

But to access this healing, you need to be like the Buddhist monks or Taoists in their meditations and use intention. Even though this vital life force is always available, it must be directed. Healing with chi, prana and the element of ether is not a passive activity. It needs the intention that comes from meditation.

Chi, prana and the element ether are all wondrous in their abilities to increase life force and to heal and sustain us. As we have seen, there are many ancient ways to work with this life force as well as modern ways to interact with this vital energy. One thing is for sure, intention is the most crucial parameter in working with this mysterious essence that permeates life on Earth. ✦

Sacred Hoop

The Fifth Element– Ethers

By Yvette Neshi Lokotz (Jan, 2017)

W

hen I began my study of Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art of placement, I learned about the Chinese 5 elements: wood, metal, fire, water, and air. I have to admit it was a stretch for me because of my cultural beliefs as a First Nations person. In the Potawatomi and Ho-Chunk cultures we believe in 4 elements of air, fire, water and earth. Understanding the fifth element metal in the Chinese Feng Shui was a challenge. I continually researched and read about the 5 elements to see how I could come to a deeper understanding in order to be a good Feng Shui practitioner and teacher.

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 53

Sacred Hoop

Mayan Elders made a worldwide announcement that they were led by spirit to include the 5th element, Ether also spelled Aether.

I was very excited and interested in how the Mayan Elders came to this “new” element to its conclusion.

One of the Mayan Elders and Ajq’ij who made the public announcement is Carlos Barrios, who is a ceremonial priest and spiritual guide of the Eagle Clan.

Elder Barrios explained that the Mayan’s believed in 5 Suns, which are like worlds, or dimensions. In 2012, Earth was moving toward the transition from the 4th Sun to the 5th Sun. The Mayans believe that everything is made up of energy. The energy in the 4th Sun is moving differently, it is evolving into a higher vibration of itself, and this is the essence of the transition to the 5th Sun. Elder Barrios says that the element associated with the 5th Sun is Ether, which is the realm where energy

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lives and weaves. He describes Ether as the space between space; it is the place of spiritual energy.

Elder Barrios described this space as celestial and the balance of polarities. Earth is known as a school of polarity. Unity is found in the 5th Sun, as the disparity of light and dark within people is balanced.

Here is one of my favorite quotes from Elder Barrios: “We are disturbed—we can’t play anymore.

Our planet can be renewed or ravaged. Now is the time to awaken and take action.

Everyone is needed. You are not here for no reason.

Everyone who is here now has an important purpose.

This is a hard but a special time. We have the opportunity for growth, but we must be ready for this moment in history.” —Carlos Barrios To really understand the root of where the elements come from, I found one of my answers in sacred geometry. The Platonic Solids correlate to the elements as the Platonic Solids are the building blocks of all life. The Platonic elements are octahedron=air; tetrahedron=fire; icosahedron=water; hexahedron=earth; and the dodecahedron= prana or ether.

In my years of studying ascension principles I have had the privilege to be a student of and to train as a teacher with Drunvalo Melchizedek. Drunvalo shares that the dodecahedron represents ether or spirit which is light. He adds that in ancient times, the Egyptian Priests in the mystery school would teach only select adepts, students, about the elements and the platonic shapes.

Credit: en.wikipedia.org

I began my study of Feng Shui in 1996. Years of study passed; 16 years of trying to blend the use of 5 Element Feng Shui with 4 Element First Nations. I found it impossible, so I would begin with the client and their house to see which school of Feng Shui would be the best for them. Most often I was using the 4-element type of Feng Shui or rather using First Nations method of being with the four elements. I learned how to use what is called a nurturing cycle to balance the elements in a home rather than a controlling cycle used by most Asian based Feng Shui practitioners.

Then, something miraculous happened in the First Nations four-element belief.

Credit: Yvette Neshi Lokotz

Sacred Hoop

The information about the dodecahedron was so special and private that those speaking about it in casual ways were killed.

In Wikipedia, I found this information about the dodecahedron and ether: “Of the fifth Platonic solid, the dodecahedron, Plato obscurely remarks, “... the god used [it] for arranging the constellations on the whole heaven”. Aristotle added a fifth element, aithēr (aether in Latin, “ether” in English) and postulated that the heavens were made of this element, but he had no interest in matching it with Plato’s fifth solid.”

This ancient information about Aether or Ether is very important to our understanding of spirit, of creation, and about our very ascension to the next octave or vibration of the 5th Dimension known as the 5th Sun to the Maya.

The time and energy I took to research and meditate with the 5th element of Ether, of Spirit, took my practice of Feng Shui to a deeper understanding and a deeper understanding of myself. The 5th element of Spirit, Ether, is an important element to our soul growth here on Earth.

The Mayan Elders knew we would need this information during this time so that we may truly use every ounce of our Being in our experience here and to assist others to elevate our unified vibrational field called the Christ Consciousness, the vibration to the 5th Dimension, for ascension.

Jage Nagonan (Potawatomi for All My Relatives), Neshi

See Neshi's Bio on page 27

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 55

Sacred Anatomy

By Beth Cosmos (April, 2015)

The January 2015 issue of Star Nations Magazine ran an article called HEALING WITH LOVE by Elizabeth Cosmos. This article is the first in a series of articles that will speak about energy for purposes of healing. This second article Elizabeth (Beth) presents an interview via video with her guest Desda Zuckerman. This interview aligns strongly with The Golden Rule of “doing to others as you would do to yourself”; this is a principle that invites the very basic foundation for any relationship. Knowing the self as it relates to the subtle bodies gives the foundation for being fully present—a state of being for the Golden Rule to flourish.

If we lived in a social environment that was highly aware of the subtle worlds, then we would gradually learn these ways, either from example or by direct sharing; or, if we exhibited sensitivity, we would enter a school for subtle energies. But, alas, most of us are fully engaged in the physical world, looking for balance and harmony on our own. Little over a year ago I came across a most extraordinary work that not just supports the understanding that “we are more

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than our bodies,” but also actually gives you the knowledge of how “to be fully present,” whether working or playing or doing anything else in your life.

This video will introduce you to Desda Zuckerman, born an intuitive with extraordinary clairvoyant abilities. Desda has made an in-depth study of the subtle energies that, since childhood, she has witnessed around all living things. She has spent the better part of her life working to understand and use her gifts. Presently, Desda works with professionals only, teaching some of the most fundamental steps in working with subtle energy to give practitioners the ability to protect themselves. “I was really tired of hearing about and working with energy healers, massage therapist, acupuncturist who were getting sick,” Desda explained to me. “So I have since been dedicated to teaching some core values.” Her work is called CoreIndividuation™, and more can be found at her website: www.yoursacredanatomy.com

Credit: © Hpphoto | Dreamstime.com

We are experiencing a flood of different ways, techniques and methods to access and work with Divine Light and Love, and most of these methods are just taught in weekend workshops. Gone are the times of living in a cave to learn or an ashram or a pilgrimage to the desert. Have you ever wondered about the Great Mystery Schools, and how they prepared students?

Are you finding yourself continually grounding, attempting to stay present, looking for ways to protect yourself, and when you are healing, are you taking on your clients’ pain and issues for yourself?

Sacred Anatomy

But, for now, let’s meet Desda, and Beth, as they discuss her most extraordinary book, Your Sacred Anatomy one of the most comprehensive presentations available of the subtle anatomy and how

the knowledge of this anatomy that makes up our whole self is of primary importance, to ourselves and our health.

Reverend Elizabeth Cosmos, PhD, ThD is an author, lecturer and oral traditional carrier for Ama-Deus method of healing.

Traveling internationally to share this method to all who request. The above in part are extracts from the book Ama-Deus Healing with the Sacred Energy of the Universe. @ ama-deus-international.com/

Star Nations Magazine • February 2021 • 57

S tar N ations

Yo u r B r i d g e t o A n c i e n t a n d M o d e r n S p i r i t u a l I n f o r m a t i o n

K www.starnations.org f StarNationsOrganization

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Yo u r B r i d g e t o A n c i e n t a n d M o d e r n S p i r i t u a l I n f o r m a t i o n

Star Nations Magazine Guest Contributing Writers Leslie Cirinesi Sharon Rosenblum

Star Nations Publishing Staff Executive Staff C.E.O. & Executive Publisher: Neshi Lokotz, Tomah, WI @ Neshi@starnations.org

Adriane Campbell Karen Crowley Susani Jan Beaver Carla Jo Worth Eddie Mullins Mervyn Kelly Patricia A. Fox Beth Cosmos

Star Nations Live Stream Contributing Writers Neshi Lokotz

Star Nations Academy Manager:

Julie Shumway Hill, Wisconsin Dells, WI @ AcademyManager@starnations.org

BIAR (Beans in a Row): Bookkeeping and Organizing @ beansinarow@gmail.com 608-477-1162

Associate Editor:

Sharon Rosenblum, Fox Point, WI @ TheFeatheringQuill@gmail.com

Live Stream Producer: Robert Colter, Detroit, MI

Ortrun Franklin Polly Jo Labbé Julie Hedges

Subscriptions Assistant:

Deborah Clark Clemens, New Lisbon, WI

@ starnationsmagazineassistant@gmail.com

Minnie Kansman www.starnations.org

Graphic Layout:

Elf Elm Publishing K www.elfelmpublishing.com

Website & Bkgd Photos:

Dan McCormack, K www.elfelm.com

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“

Listen to the Wind, it talks.

Listen to the Silence, it speaks.

Listen to your Heart, it knows.

— Native American Proverb

”