Hi to all,

On Saturday 4 members (including myself), went to Edinburgh to visit Rossyln Chapel, made famous by the book “Da Vinci Code”.  I had watched the movie a couple of times and read the book, so I wanted to see the place for myself. The Chapel is located 7 miles South of Edinburgh and pretty easy to get to from the city centre. On arrival to the village of Roslin, the chapel is a small walk off the main road. It looks alot smaller in real life, but nonetheless very impressive. It costs £7.50 to get in to see it. The chapel was built in the 14th Century by the St Clare family and continues to this day as a working church, with services taking place on a Sunday.

From a Pagan perspective, I was primarily interested in the Pagan and Masonic elements found in the Chapel. There are 100 Green Man Sculptures within the chapel walls and many Masonic references, Pentagrams and a Nature theme running through the chapel.  When i asked the tour guide about the Green Man figures, he told me he was not sure but one theory was to use the religion of the time to convert the locals to Christianity (sounds very familiar doesn’t it?).  We spent a couple of hours around the grounds of the Chapel and could have spent longer. The surrounding countryside (Rosslyn Glen) is absolutely stunning!!!

If anyone enjoys  sightseeing, religion and historical folklore then this chapel is a must to visit. FFI visit: www.rossylnchapel.org.uk  Blessings Jo xxxx

Many thanks to Holly who gave us a talk on candle Magic and how it works. (write up to follow) BB Jo x

The following discussion took place at the last moot and was a fasinating insight to herbal medicine.

HERBAL HISTORY

One of the first well-known and important books written about herbs was written about A.D. 60 and is attributed to a Greek physician Dioscorides. The manuscript (De Materis Medica - the Latin title), was used as a reference source by many herbalists and was circulated for hundreds of years throughout the Middle East and the West. It contained the properties of over 600 plants.

Occasionally, superstition became associated with the use of herbs, but basically the information was founded on sound plant lore and use. Ancient herbalists became familiar with the uses of herbs through experience. The knowledge was kept and handed down through the ages by people like you and me.

Documents found in the ancient pyramids were passed on to the ancient Greeks, then, to the Romans. many different sources comment on the uses of herbs. Herbs are mentioned in the Bible, as well as many of the sacred texts of our major religions. The Druids were among the first known to use plants for religious rites.

In Great Britain, monasteries served as early herbal laboratories. The Monks grew, collected and used the herbs. They kept records of their uses. They opened hospitals and were among the first to use plants in a scientific way. Their herbal knowledge soon became commonplace. Today, we have reached the point where we can again, with increased appreciation, learn to use these natural products.

Herbal teas can be used to treat an ailment that is not serious enough to go to the doctor with. A herbal tea infusion is steeped, whereas a decoction is boiled.

HERBAL TEA INFUSION - prepare a fresh cup for each dose - sip the dosage slowly, never gulp - swish around mouth before swallowing - this helps liquid to mix with enzymes in the saliva and rapidly assimilates the herbs into the blood stream.

DOSAGE - 3-4 cups per day. Herb chosen for infusion should steep for anywhere from 10-25 minutes covered. Strain and drink warm, not hot, unless the recipe tells you so.

PREPARATION - 1 teaspoon of the herb mixture to 1 cup of boiling water is the general recipe. Sometimes the recipe will call for more of the herb. Follow the instructions of each specific recipe because there are exceptions to every rule.

DECOCTION - A decoction is a concentrate. The usual recipe for a decoction is 1 tablespoon of the herb’s bark or roots to 1 equal quart of water. The liquid is boiled (covered) until half of it has evaporated. It is then strained and placed in the refrigerator until it is needed. Whe preparing a decoction dose, you would add 1-3 tablespoons of the liquid to a cup of warm water. Then it is ready to drink.

STIMULANTS - The herbs increase stimulus to the system and will increase blood circulation: CARRAWAY SEED AND CORRIANDER SEEDS

DIURETICS - Diuretics increase the output of urine, taking harmful substances from the system.

SAGE - Sage is a stimulating herb for the kidneys and helps to remove toxins from the system. The sedative properties are well known, so it can be used to treat headaches. Also used to treat colds, as it removes catarrh in the alimentary and bronchial systems.

GARDEN THYME - The whole top of the growing herb is used. Has a therapeutic action on the bronchial system. It is a stimulant and has antiseptic properties for use in cleansing the alimentary, urinary and bronchial systems. If too much is ingested, it can over-stimulate the thyroid gland and lead to poisoning.

EXPECTORANTS - These herbs cause the expulsion of mucus and break up congestion.

GINGER

NERVINES - Nervines relieves nervous irritation caused by strain and tension

BASIL - The leaves are used. Aides digestion and is used as a mild laxative. Since it also acts as a mild sedative, it is used to treat headaches.

ROSEMARY - The needles are used as an astringent. id does relax the muscles and is used to treat depression, muscle spasms and headaches.

SAGE

TONICS - Tonics benefit the whole body. They strengthen the organs that are affected by the action of the digestive system. They do take time to work, so keep the treatment going until the system has time to adjust.

ROSEMARY

CINNAMON

GINGER

OTHER USES

BAY LEAVES - Good for indigestion

FENNEL - All parts are used. Aids digestion and helps calm nervous stomach. Increases milk production.

FENUGREEK - Use the seeds. Soothes the lining of the stomach and the intestines

NUTMEG - Use in small doses to help stomach disorders and digestion. CAUTION: It is a powerful narcotic if used in too large a dose.

The above information are basic guidelines to herbary. However, if you are interested in looking at this topic further make sure you know the correct use and dosage before having a cuppa!! Many thanks to Lennie Philip, the lovely lady who gave us an informative talk. BB Jo x

Notes of interest: Carl Linnaeus (1707-1778) published Systema Naturae 1735.

Hiya all!

A wee while ago, some close friends and I went to Tir Na nog, to do something that not alot of people think about. That is a Firewalk. When I was first asked, I thought, jings thats something I have never done, whats it all about?

Well, some of us got together and met at Tir Na nog (outside Glasgow). Being that the seasons of our Goddess and God have now changed, the night was dark and windy, but no rain (for which we were all grateful for!). We arrived at Tir Na nog around 6pm, met up with lots of lovely people who were there for the same experience (around 40 plus). Many of the people there were doing the Firewalk for charity, which added to the excitement of the night’s festivities. After having a discussion and team-building workshop, we all went to the place where the firewalk was going to take place. We all took turns at lighting the fire (which made it extra special), and watched it take hold.
Then the organiser asked us to go back to the workshop, to let our fire grow. After a while, it was time to go. There was a feeling of expectation, excitement and bonding between everyone. We all went to the fire, which by this time was in full force. I remember thinking Great Gods do I have to walk through these roaring flames!!!!.

Well….. before the actual firewalk, we were all blessed to see fire-dancers around the fire. Have to say the 2 females dancers were fabulous and helped us all in communing with the fire. Also, in the background, but equally potent were African drummers, who accompanied us all with their drum beats and soul catching sounds. Then it came the time to do the firewalk. The organiser and helpers raked the fire and coals to make a pathway for all of us to walk upon. All stood back to look at the hot embers, mesmerised by the element, and before I knew it………………… people had walked across it!!!!

It was a strange feeling, I knew I wanted to do it. So……………………… I rolled up my trouser legs, walked towards the glowing coals and said (to myself)…

I will do this..

I walked into the fire, and felt a crunchy feeling beneath my feet and a small bit of heat (like warm toast). And then, I’d done it!!!! My friend took a photo of me. I felt elated, I could do something if I put my mind to it!!!

Well…………………. I enjoyed the experience so much that I went through the fire again with a close friend! There was a feeling of everyone having a natural high after the walk. Prior to doing this I’d had some doubts of my capability, some people tried to put me off it with horror stories about burning your feet. I say to them, try to open your mind a bit more. Things dont always turn out bad!

Everyone can do this, you just have to believe in yourself and your blessed friends around you. I would recommend it to those of us who seek new experiences. On a final note, I would like to thank Oona, who runs Tir Na nog (and the firewalk). To me, personally, she is a Goddess gift. Thankyou Oona.

And to my very blessed friends that were with me. This is an experience that touched my heart and spirit. I love and thank you all.

I have told you my story. Live it for yourself! Many Blessings Jo xx

Hi to all,

The recent meeting of Ayr Pagans (1st October), saw a brilliant and informative talk on Tarot, given by Andy Guthrie. Andy kindly explained meanings of the Tarot and in particular, he explained meanings behind his own illustrated Celtic set. Everyone who was there would like to thank Andy for his time and fascinating insight into his Tarot cards!! A great time had by all. Andy your welcome anytime!! BB Jo x

Ayr pagans held a divination workshop at the most recent moot. Many thanks to those who attended. Everyone brought along a selection of tarot cards, runes, pendulums and dowsing rods. The purpose was to learn a wee bit more about different methods of divination and ways of testing each method. The results were pretty much random, however we had fun in watching everyone have a turn of trying their hand at this skill. BB Jo x

I had the fortune to come across this place last weekend. A few of my very close and dear friends, took me to Tir na nOg as a birthday treat and what a treat it was!!!! Tir na nOg is a holistic therapy centre, situated off the banks of Loch Lomond and the Trossacs National Park. It is 40 miles outside of Glasgow, on the way to stirling. The centre itself is made up of a number of small buildings beautifully situated within a country estate.

The centre runs regular classes and workshops in subjects such as: crystals, Reiki, herbal courses and even firewalking! The cafe sells a wide range of organic, vegetarian food, freshly made to order. There is also a craft shop selling pagan, wiccan and angel items.

The place has an air of tranquility and peace, you really feel yourself relax here. (some of it due to the fact my pals bought me an aromatherapy massage while I was there as well!!!!!!)

Tir na nOg is a place where you can spend all day, particularly if you attend one of the many full day workshops. I hope to attend some of the workshops as they look fantastic. I definately recommend this place whether you are seeking to learn new skills or just to have a peaceful day to amble about.

Tir Na Nog

Hi all,

After our recent and very successful spell workshop, I have the honour of putting all the spells on our website. Everyone who took part did a grand job in coming up with fantastic spells, at very short notice!!!! So, as promised to the folks at the moot here they are:

To Attract Love Into Your Life

Carry out this spell on a Friday night (night of Venus and Aphrodite, Goddesses of Love)

Do this spell after the new moon (for attracting)

First bathe in a bath with sea salt, sprinkled with rose petals and lavender oil. Surround your bath with pink candles, whilst having a wee glass of pink champange or rose wine!

On your altar, (prior to your relaxing bath) you should have a Rose Quartz crystal which has already been charged, a pink candle, Aphrodite incense blend (you may wish charcol) and a fresh Rose.

(more…)

Hi folks!

For any of you that feel the need to treat yourself to a well deserved pampering, there is a beauty salon in Glasgow that will give you just that, with a touch of magic!

Bewitching Beauty in the South side of the city, is the brainchild of Pauline Reid, practicing Wiccan and High priestess of the Hearth Coven (Glasgow). Pauline is a highly qualified therapist, with many years experience of working within diverse areas of beauty therapy. What makes Bewitching Beauty distinctive is that it provides Magical consultations and Spell clinics as part of the salon service to clients. Giving advice and guidance to clients on ways to enhance their inner beauty,self confidence and assertivness is the main focus.

The prices are very reasonable. Not only can you receive a quality of service to the highest standard, you can also expect a warm welcome in a relaxed, calm and peaceful environment.

So, if your looking to take time out and give yourself a hard earned rest then get yourself here!!

Bewitching Beauty, 670a Pollockshaws Road, Strathbungo, Glasgow, G41 2QE

Tel: 0141 422 1333

www.bewitchingbeauty.co.uk

BB Jo X

Ayr pagans had their first practical workshop (July). I am pleased to say it was a success!!! A huge big thankyou for everyone who turned up and for their hard work and coming up with fantastic spells. I will shortly be putting these spells on our website!! Many thanks to Pauline, Chad, Scott, Elaine and Jean for helping out. The next practical workshop will be in a month or 2 topic will be on divination. If anyone has ides please feel free to comment. BB Jo x