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COSMIC Q ASTROLOGY
Aries
 You've been very quiet lately, Aries. Quite out of character for you. But you recognize that times are changing faster than even your quick mind can seem to keep up with, and you know that to stay ahead of the game, you need to watch the action and make a plan. Aries loves an adventure, but even an Aries knows that to get ahead you have to plot a course. So, stay focused...time for fun and games will be back soon. Right now, you're setting yourself up for the next few years, and you need all the concentration you can get.
Taurus
 Poor Taurus! You love to have things planned out and know which way you're going, but these days, things are changing every five minutes. You can't even count on what you'll be having for lunch, much less how your family and career are going to change. Try to stay sane. These are not ideal Taurean working conditions---but you can do this. Keep the 'big picture' in your mind, and roll with the punches.
Gemini
 Gemini, you are feeling the love. It's good! Just don't let yourself get too distracted from some of the important things. You can easily get carried away on moonbeams and rainbows--but there are some dull and uninteresting details that need your attention, too. Get your work done, and then you can play some more!
Cancer
 Things have been a bit of a roller coaster. You were up-up-up for a while, then you came ZOOOOOMING down, which was not a bad thing---on the contrary it was a little thrilling---but you've had a lot going on in your life. In another month or so, things will start to slow down and level out, and you will be able to focus a little better. At this point you're almost in danger of sensory overload! Don't try to start anything major right now. Tie up the stuff you've started already, take a little break, and then get ready for the new year with renewed energy.
Leo
 Leo, you're building up momentum. You're about to reclaim your place as King or Queen of the Hill. For a long time you've been struggling with mundane details of life--not something that a Leo suffers gladly. Soon, though, the clouds will part and a ray of light will burst through, illuminating your golden crown and you will have a chance to revel in the glory.
Virgo
 You're very popular these days! You've had some company, tried some new things, made some new friends, and you're feeling pretty darn good about yourself. You absolutely should! Virgo tends to be pretty reserved, but you have definitely been the outgoing and fun one recently---and you can see other people really lighting up around you in response to your positive energy. This is a good time to be you, Virgo.
Libra
 Libra, you are not the kind that likes to admit when things aren't going well, but it's obvious that you're struggling a bit these days. Don't worry...it's not a reflection on YOU. Everyone goes through this. Just handle your obstacles with your usual Libra grace, and rest assured this time will soon pass.
Scorpio
 Scorp, you had a good November. People have been coming out of the woodwork to meet you and you feel like a celebrity. Your magnetism is almost tangible these days, and what's more, you feel totally in control, even doing new things. Prepare yourself, there will be a dip in your energy, but it won't last long. Meanwhile, enjoy your power, and use it for good!
Sagittarius
 Sag, you're finally leveling out. Although, honestly, almost anything would be an improvement over the past few months. Don't be afraid to relax and trust the cosmos. Things will continue to get better, and you will regain some of your confidence. Meanwhile, keep on taking care of yourself and focusing on your spirit. Things are going to pick up for you soon, and you need to be strong and ready for the action ahead.
Capricorn
 Time to kick it into high gear, Cappies! Things are about to get extremely exciting! Most people are winding down during the end of the year, but you're getting ready to amp up and carry yourselves into the new year with some supercharged energy. You've never had a problem with making a plan, but you are going to be like a kid in a candy store with so much energy--so try to think ahead a little. And then GO FOR IT.
Aquarius
 Aquarius, for the first time in a long time, your vision has become VERY clear. You have suddenly remembered a part of you that was buried for a long time, and you're welcoming that part back with open arms. You're feeling excited and creative, but more focused than you have in a few years. Try to channel your energy into some constructive endeavors, and don't do it all alone. It's ok to ask for help!
Pisces
 Pisces, you're starting to see the light. For a long time you've been trying to make your way through the murky depths...and you've lost your way a couple times. Now, you see the direction you're headed and it has recharged you with some much needed energy. One more big push and you should be there---gather up your strength, and GO FOR IT!
My Life After Losing My Husband
Marie Schmied
No one is ever prepared to experience grief. It drains all of your energy and sends you into such a low level of self esteem. It's not only loosing your loved one, but also the circle of friends you once associated with as a couple. Everyone is there when everything is chaotic in life, but when its over; they assume life should be back to normal. I would like someone to describe what is normal for a widow. I come to believe that our life on earth is considered a road of spiritual paths and each day there is a number of directions that you can take; some freely and others are given to you. I never planned for having to walk the road alone. Your then faced to force the memories. Where do you properly store the memories? Do you put them in a box on a shelf or maybe a memorial out in the open. For me, I choose to live the memories by sharing stories, walking through nature and listening to our favorite music. James Theodore Schmied was my husband. He departed this world loving me and it's too early for me to stop living because of my sadness. I realize that he's gone but he's still alive around me in the home we shared and the land that he worked on every day continues to thrive with wildlife that is allowed to live freely without fear.
I've chosen a road and later had to change directions as the first one wasn't working. I was sad and depressed for a very long time. Time didn't heal my wounds it just allowed me to learn with the feeling. Now I've come to realize that it's alright to share how I'm feeling and talk about my memories. I also needed to acknowledge that space is important for one who is grieving. I was so worried about being alone but have come to appreciate the serenity of having moments of quiet. I recommend for anyone who knows someone who has lost a loved one that you don't tell them " you must move on with your life, start living again ". This fact is true, living for yourself is important but healing must take place and that time is not the same for every individual.
Figuring out the steps to take isn't always easy and periodically you must lean on others. I had to learn how to take those steps again but this time it's without my husband.
My name is Marie, I'm a widow with two beautiful daughters and eight wonderful and alive grandchildren. Thank you for reading my story.
(discuss this article)
Tarot's Corner
Chelsea Eriksen
I use this spread when I know there's going to be a lot of activity or big changes coming to me in the next 30 days or so.
The Moon Spread
Yvonne Rathbone
Card One: New Moon: What you are beginning. What began this cycle.
Card Two: Waxing Moon: What you are starting to get feedback on.
Card Three: Full Moon: What is at its peak.
Card Four: Harvest Moon: What you are reaping.
Card Five: Waning Moon: What you are letting go of.
Card Six: Dark Moon: What is resting. What is being recycled.
Card Seven: Heart of the cycle: What is at the heart of this cycle.
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photo by Carline Sitterud
Olive Leaf Extract
Kim Anderson
Olive Leaf extract has become my favorite herbal defense against many common maladies. I usually get my Olive leaf from Natures Sunshine Products www.naturessunshine.com which provides a total for 400mg of olive leaf extract, standardized to contain 12% oleuropein and comes in capsules. I have also seen it in liquid from other companies, but haven’t tried it. One should be able to find it in most health food stores, too. I like to use it at the first sign of a cold or flu or if I think I might have been exposed. I’ve given it to all my family members- 2 teenage sons and husband. According to HART’S Herb Allure, p2., “Researchers have determined that a bitter glucoside known as oleuropein, along with its active constituent elenolic acid, are primarily responsible for olive leaf extract’s extraordinary antibacterial, antiviral and antiparasitic activity. For example, studies have shown that oleuropein inhibits the of Staphylococcus aureus, antibiotic-resistant organism that is the cause of nearly all hospital infections. Oleuropein is also a powerful antioxidant and the compound responsible for olive leaf’s extract’s ability to successfully inhibit oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Elenolic acid is the element that is the primary destroyer and growth inhibitor of viruses, interfering with bacterial and viral growth, while simultaneously activating immune cells that fight infection. Elenolic acid also kills numerous flatworm, hookworm, roundworm and tapeworm parasites.”
So, here we have an herb that not only fights infections; but also boosts the immune system. There have been no known side effects from taking olive leaf extract, but it is still not recommended for pregnant or nursing mothers. Also, according to A-Z Guide to Drug-Herb-Vitamin Interactions Revised and Expanded 2nd Edition, by Healthnotes copyright 2006,p.296, “At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with olive leaf.” So, it’s also presumed safe to take with other medications. Please note that if you begin to take this herb, especially in a large dose, a “healing crisis” may occur in which you may feel some flu like symptoms. Just reduce the dose until your body can adjust. I haven’t found anywhere that a person would have to cycle on and off doses to maintain its effectiveness-unlike some information on Echinacea. However, I don’t personally take it when I don’t need it. Realize that one should always consult their health care professional, pharmacist or prescribing doctor to get all the necessary information to make informed decisions about your health care. (discuss)
To your perfect health! (discuss this article)
| Kim Anderson began her spiritual journey after a bout with breast cancer 6 years ago. Since then she has embraced a new life paradigm and explores various complementary health practices and procedures. She is a Shamanic practitioner, Reiki Master, certified teacher and healing arts student. She lives on a small farm with her husband and 2 teenage boys. Kim is not only full of life but she is filled with information and has joined us here at HippyMom as a guest writer to share her knowledge of alternative healing. |
Why is color so important?
Tonia B
Color can play a major role in creating the ambience and mood because its vibrational energy will charge our emotions and energy levels.
Those living in a crowded city will often be longing for the country because it offers a noticeable relaxing and lifting feeling. What people don't realize is their lighting has changed to one predominanantly filtered through green leaves which creates a sense of calmness and increased sense of connection with our surroundings.
When asked to relax, often you will take yourself back to a dream holiday. The first image that often comes to a persons mind is their vacation. Beaches being an image sought out by many. The image of the mind brings the colors of yellows and blues of the seaside which will increase your energy and soothes the nervous system.
You can use color in your life to change your mood, increase energy, bring order and clarity in your life, stimulate the immune system, increase concentration and digestion. The list can go on and on.
Try adding these two colors in your life and see what changes you feel.
Add Violet in your life when....
You want to regain balance
You want to stimulate the natural healing
You want to remove obstacles in your life
You want to calm hyperactivity
You want to lift depression or lethargy
Add Orange in your life when...You want to blocked energy
You want to increase creativity
You want can't let go of the past
You fear experiencing pleasure
You lack interest in what's around you
How do you add color in your life. Try adding it to your clothing, paint on your walls or furniture. Bring bright flowers in your home or office and place them in areas where you will be in contact with them often. Eat foods that are of the color you want to add to your system. If you're on the computer change your mouse pad to a solid color. Bright yellow will help with concentration and staying alert. Eat outside in natural sunlight. Little changes can make major impact on your body and mind. (discuss this article)
Vegetarian Recipe
2 cans black beans
3 c water
1 envelope Italian salad dressing mix
1/2 c chopped onion
2 c cooked rice
Pour black beans into the blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a sauce pan, add water, salad dressing mix, and onion. Stir. Cook on high/med heat until boiling. Add rice and simmer for a few minutes. Enjoy!
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photo by Carline Sitterud
The Crunch
Miss Maxie
Do millions of turkeys really have to suffer and die for us to celebrate the holidays??
Why not start a new family tradition this holiday season? You can celebrate, instead of destroying a life, by adopting your very own turkey, and saving him from a thankless fate at the dinner table.
The Farm Sanctuary has been doing this since 1986, and is the nation's largest farm animal rescue and protection organization. They have saved more than 1000 turkeys, by either having people adopt a turkey to live on one of their farms in CA or NY, or by having them do a home adoption, where you provide a safe, permanent home for 2 or more turkeys.
www.adoptaturkey.org
Please, choose to celebrate a compassionate Holiday season, by saving a turkey! (discuss this article)
Herb & Rock
of the month
Tonia B
Lobelia Liquid Herb
(Lobelia Inflata)
This is a wonderful herb that will help your entire whole system. It will help you body relax and counter the irritant. For teething infants, rub the lobelia extract on the swollen gums. For congestion and mucus, use it by rubbing in into your neck, on your chest and between the shoulder. (discuss this article)
photo by Carline Sitterud
Rose Quartz
Is a gentle, pale to medium pink, translucent form of quartz. It comes from Brazil. It is an important stone for the heart chakra and for giving/receiving love. It will help to dissolve all burdens and traumas that have burdened the heart. The stone promotes the vibrations of universal love and inner serenity. (discuss this article)
Tonia B
photo by Carline Sitterud
Self Realization
Kristi E.
The Webster’s Dictionary defines self-realizationism as:
"The ethical theory that the highest good for man consists in realizing or fulfilling himself usually on the assumption that he has certain inborn abilities constituting his real or ideal self."
Further, Webster’s defines self-realization as:
"The fulfillment by oneself of the possibilities of one’s character or personality."
So, what does this mean? In short, it means that by realizing who you are on the inside, based on your character, personality, personal qualities and abilities, you can lead a more fulfilling life.
To do this, take a sheet of paper and make 4 columns. Head these columns, Personal Qualities Pros, Personal Qualities Cons, Physical Abilities Pros, and Physical Abilities Cons.
In each of the 4 columns, list what you can as referring to yourself. Now, take a look at what you have listed. You have realized both your good and your bad qualities. The goal is to focus on the Cons and work on improving them. For the next month, take one Con a day/week and try to eliminate it. Not only can this make you a better person to your peers, but it will make you feel better about yourself. (discuss this article)
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