Preparation is the first element in my ritual template. This can include cleansing and purification, getting together your tools and altar, engaging your senses, and creating a ritual outline.
Category: Ritual
Connecting with Aphrodite: Introduction to a Simple Ritual Template
There is no one right way to do a ritual. Find what works for you and Aphrodite! Here I share a very general template that I use for my rituals.
Unexpectedly Aphrodite
I like to think I’ve gotten used to Aphrodite showing up in unexpected ways. I’ve written multiple posts on this blog about how my experience of Her doesn’t usually match the lore, and doesn’t jive with the frilly, superficial way She is often portrayed in modern Paganism. I no longer assume that She will fit into any mold that we humans prescribe for Her. And yet, there are still times when She surprises me.
Connecting with Aphrodite – Seeking Out the Goddess
The process and experience of connection will be different for each person. You can use what follows as a general guide, but do not feel limited by it. If you feel called to do something different, do it! As I’ve said before, pursuing a Goddess is an experimental process. You have to figure out what works for you and for Her. Your connection with Aphrodite will be unique.
Beltane in a Pandemic – One Year Later
One year ago, my local Pagan group held its first-ever virtual Sabbat - Beltane of 2020. At that time, we were starting to realize the gravity of what the pandemic would bring. Off-handed statements of “It will all be over in a month or two” were starting to fade as COVID-19 took the world by… Continue reading Beltane in a Pandemic – One Year Later
Self-Compassion Ritual – Pandemic Edition
Our modern society doesn’t teach us self-compassion. Quite the opposite. It teaches us self-criticism, shame, guilt, and blame. It tells us that we have to follow the rules, meet its unrealistic expectations, and practically achieve perfection before we are worthy of loving ourselves. This, quite frankly, is an utter load of crap.
No Words of Wisdom
I wish I had some profound words of wisdom to share with you today, in the wake of the chaos of this week. I don’t. Just this: Take care of yourself, take care of those you love, and do what you can.
Adaptive Spiritual Practice for Pagans: A Response to Challenging Times – Part Two
In my previous post, I discussed the need for us to adapt our spiritual practices to better address these challenging times. In this post, we will cover how to navigate changes in your practice, including examining your view of devotion and trying new things. Cultivating an adaptive spiritual practice needs to take place in the context of your life. This means that you have to leave space for the unexpected and acknowledge your need for rest.
Adaptive Spiritual Practice for Pagans: A Response to Challenging Times – Part One
I don’t know about you, but for me, pandemic fatigue has been kicking my butt the past few weeks. It’s hard to feel inspired when just getting through the day is difficult. I am an advocate for living, evolving, personal religion. I believe that spirituality should be applicable to modern life, and it should support us and nourish us. When our spiritual practices are no longer relevant to our circumstances, it is time for them to change.
Dealing with Spiritual Doubt as a Pagan – Shared Spiritual Experiences
While my personal spiritual experiences form the foundation of my religion, spiritual experiences shared with others have been some of my strongest allies against doubt.
