Monday #Motivation #Meditation #RuneReading #DragonCard

The weeks are flying by! Am I the only one feeling that?

Today’s meditation takes us into a circle of stones, but not just any kind of stone, different gemstones, and crystals. I was drawn to the Shungite stone, which interestingly enough, I do not own. I took it as a sign. I will be purchasing a Shungite stone soon to add to my collection. Enjoy the meditation! I’d love to know which stone you are drawn to.

The reading for the week comes from the Runes. I found the message to be compelling and energizing!

Photo taken by Jan Sikes 11-8-21

The first rune, Gifu or Gebo, in the past position, represents a gift of some kind. The gift may be material or emotional but given in love. It can also represent some type of partnership. Often this rune will appear when there is about to be relief from your troubles (another form of a gift). It usually indicates a time of peace and contentment.

In the present position, Ingwaz represents a strong force available to you to complete any project. It signifies a project coming to an end and a new one beginning. It can also indicate that you are reaching your full potential in the moment. That doesn’t mean we stop learning or growing because that is a continual process, but it comes in ebbs and flows. Life is made up of beginnings and endings – cycles. This is a most positive rune.

The keyword to the rune in the last position, Jera, is harvest. Reaping rewards for efforts expended is the general meaning. In the result position, Jera usually shows a positive outcome to any dilemma at hand. This fits perfectly with the other two runes. As always, we have to do the work, but then we get to enjoy the rewards of our efforts. And we should.

My takeaway:

As the quote from Richard Bach says, if we are given a dream, we are also given what we need to bring it to fruition. I see a dream or idea as Gifu, the gift. And with the Ingwaz following the gift, the energy needed to bring that dream to life is there for the taking. Then, we get to reap the rewards of our efforts. So, go on and dream! Then be willing to do the work to make that dream come true!

The Dragon Card for this week is stunning!

Monday #Motivation #Meditation #RuneReading #DragonCard

This is the last week in October. It is a time when the veil between worlds thins. Let’s take advantage of that!

Instead of sharing a meditation today, I am sharing a ten-minute affirmation exercise. Affirmations are powerful and can cause a big shift in our mindset.

I was drawn back to the runes for today’s reading.

Photo by Jan Sikes 10-25-21

This is the second time I’ve gotten the Othala Rune in a reading. That tells me there is an important message. You may remember that Othala represents our heritage or our roots. This is in the past position and that tells me we are perhaps all leaning more toward tradition, looking back to our early and basic teachings. The caution is not to hang onto old ways of thinking that no longer serve us. We may be inclined to lean on family for support or perhaps to give support to another.

The second rune in the present position is Ansuz and is the rune of communication. It represents all forms of communication, but especially verbal. It may indicate that an important message or revelation is coming your way. This rune also refers to knowledge, wisdom, and reason.

In the future position, Dagaz, is the rune of daylight and is considered a very beneficial sign in any reading. Increase, growth, prosperity, strength, good health, and general well-being are indicated by this rune. It can represent new hope, light emerging from darkness. Or it could also indicate a breakthrough, insight, or inspiration, whether on an artistic creative level or in terms of spiritual enlightenment.

My takeaway:

Often in turbulent times, we find ourselves reaching backward to our original roots, or bonding more with family. There is no disputing that we are living in turbulent times. It is more important than ever before that we lean on each other and embrace our basic truths. With Ansuz, it is saying that we have the ability to express ourselves in this truth and that it may help bring about some light, a breakthrough, or inspiration, whether in ourselves or others.

This gorgeous Dragon Card reinforces that thought!

Have a great week ahead!

#TuesdayRunes – Othala

Today’s Rune is the last one in the Elder Futhark Script. There is one more that is considered a modern addition and even though some of the rune sets don’t include it, mine does. So, I will cover it next week.

Anyway, today’s Rune is Othala (oh-thee-lah).

Photo by Jan Sikes

As the final rune of the Elder Futhark, Othala is the rune of heritage and speaks to what we come into this world with, in terms of who we are born to and raised by. This rune may refer to the literal inheritance of land or other property, but most often it is about the intangible things we inherit from our family origin. No matter how we may resemble or differ from the rest of our family, and no matter how far from home we have traveled or how independently we have established ourselves, all of us carry traits, beliefs, habits, and influences from our family of origin.

When Othala comes up in a reading, it may indicate that the aspect of your current situation is related to your background, perhaps unconscious beliefs you absorbed as a child, or some other element that shaped your upbringing.

Othala is often associated with wealth, not moveable wealth, such as cattle, but ancestral wealth in the form of land. In some cultures, land may not be sold, but instead, is always passed down, keeping a strong foundation of community, families, clans, and cultural traditions rooted in place.

If you live close to your extended family, Othala may suggest that you lean on them for emotional or material support in a challenging matter, or you could be called upon to provide support to a family member in need. Of course, this can also apply if you live further away, although in this case, the rune could be nudging you to check in with your people back home.

In many readings, Othala points to a tension between the traditions you inherited and the current way you’re approaching your life.

It can also represent maintaining a status quo – the way things have always been done. In an ever-changing world, it’s up to you to distinguish between what is useful to hold on to and what needs to be discarded so that you can live and grow in your own authenticity on the physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

Reversed, Othala often points to conflict and disharmony with family. Patience and careful observance are recommended with as much emotional detachment as possible. Othala in the reversed position can also indicate feeling alone, isolated from family or community.

The birthdates associated with this rune are May 29th to June 14th.

#TuesdayRunes – Laguz

Welcome back! We’re continuing our journey through the Runes, with only three more to go!

Photo by Jan Sikes

Today’s Rune is Laguz (lah-gooze).

Photo by Jan Sikes

Laguz is the water rune, symbolizing the element in all of its forms. It is also connected to emotions, the cleansing of unwanted energy through tears, and the unpredictability of life.

If you are being tossed around in the emotional waters of a situation, Laguz advises you to release your resistance and go with the flow. Adaptability is key here, as continuing to resist your circumstances will only plunge you further into disharmony. The same is true when it comes to positive circumstances – acknowledge and enjoy them, but don’t cling to them as the source of your happiness. Let the fluidity of life guide you.

As the rune of water, Laguz is the rune of intuition and the subconscious. It also represents psychic ability which can be nurtured and strengthened with practice.

Laguz is symbolic of feminine energy and can represent the woman in the context of male-female relationships. Creativity and growth are further aspects of this rune.

Reversed, Laguz points to a lack of flow in your life, perhaps from feeling stagnated in a current situation. You may be blocking some unpleasant emotions that need to be allowed to come through in order to move forward. Also, in the reversed position, Laguz can point to a woman in your life who has hidden ulterior motives or is in some way a source of trouble for you at this time.

The birthdates related to this rune are April 29th – May 14th.

#TuesdayRunes – Mannaz

Photo by Jan Sikes January 2021

Welcome to another exploration into the Elder Futhark Script Runes! The rune we are taking a look at today is Mannaz (mah-nahz).

Photo taken by Jan Sikes

Mannaz is the rune of humankind and symbolizes the characteristics that set humans apart from the rest of the Earth’s living creatures. This rune reminds us that we are part of a shared experience among all humans, no matter our specific language, physical appearance, or beliefs. At the same time, Mannaz represents the self with particular emphasis on one’s inner being.

Often, this rune points to some aspect of tension in the relationship between your inner self and your perceived place in the outer world. You may feel at odds with the attitudes and expectations of society. If this is the case, be sure you are listening to your intuition rather than your ego to determine the best course of action.

Mannaz reminds you to maintain self-awareness, checking in with yourself physically, emotionally and spiritually as you choose how to respond to your circumstances.

This rune can also indicate assistance provided from others. Its shape evokes a sense of mutual support as in two individuals coming together to stabilize each other, creating a stronger structure as a result. Be sure to remain open to help from others, but also be willing to lend a hand where needed.

Mannaz also symbolizes human intelligence and creativity (hmmm, sounds a lot like the Ace of Swords from yesterday’s reading). It is considered a rune of the mind and indicates success in academic studies as well as success in matters related to language or law.

In a reversed position, Mannaz can indicate isolation, low self-esteem and/or self-preoccupation. Take some time to examine the role you’ve played and be honest with yourself. It can also indicate that no one is on their way to help you.

The birthdates associated with this rune are April 14th – April 29th.

#TuesdayRunes – Ehwaz

Welcome back to another segment in our study of the Elder Futhark Runes!

Photo by Jan Sikes

Today’s rune is Ehwaz (ay-wahz).

Photo by Jan Sikes

The shape of Ehwaz is symbolic of the horse, revered as a sacred animal in the cultures of the ancient Germanic tribes. This rune represents the qualities of faith, loyalty, and trust – all necessary to a successful relationship between a horse and its rider.

Ehwaz is the rune of partnership and friendship, and indicates the need to be faithful and accountable to the people in your life.

The concept of faithfulness also applies to yourself and your goals. You have what it takes to accomplish them but must dedicate yourself fully to see any endeavor through. Steady progress is made by putting one foot in front of the other. If you do your part, the support you need will arise and you will gain momentum.

Horses are able to change direction swiftly, so another meaning of Ehwaz is change. This is a positive change, although it may seem daunting at first. Ehwaz is also related to movement and travel. This can be a journey in the physical world but is most likely an internal spiritual journey, as horses are related to astral travel in many shamanic traditions around the world. Thus Ehwaz is a helpful tool in attempting astral travel.

If Ehwaz is in a reversed position in a reading, it could indicate that you or someone else in a relationship is not demonstrating loyalty. It can also indicate that you lack momentum in reaching your goals. Perhaps you don’t have faith in yourself. If reversed in regards to travel, it is a warning that now is not the best time to go on a journey.

The birthdates associated with Ehwaz are March 30th to April 14th.

Thank you for stopping by and joining in!!

#TuesdayRunes – Berkana

Welcome back for a look at another rune!

Photo by Jan Sikes

As we continue exploring the runes, the next one up in The Elder Futhark Script is Berkana (bair-kah-nah).

Photo by Jan Sikes

The keywords associated with this rune are: Birth, new beginnings, family, growth, regeneration.

A very positive rune, Berkana symbolizes new beginnings. This makes me think of the Aces in the tarot deck. New beginnings can take the form of a new project, a new relationship, a new phase of spiritual development, or a new idea that leads to successful outcomes. This rune indicates that the Universal energies are fertile and lined up for bringing forth new manifestations. This puts you in an excellent position to begin your next adventure.

Berkana is the rune of female energy and is also known as the birth rune. It can indicate an actual birth of a child, a wedding or other happy family occasion. It is a very good sign for women who are trying to conceive.

Depending on the context of a reading, Berkana may be asking you to look at where your own caretaking energy is being directed. While you’re nurturing others, your dreams and goals, don’t forget to nurture yourself.

This rune reminds us to not be afraid to accept loving assistance from others.

Berkana’s translation is “birch,” a highly revered tree associated with renewal and regeneration. The birth was among the first trees that returned to reforest the land after the last Ice Age, and is one of the first to leaf out in the spring.

If you are struggling with difficulties, drawing Berkana is a reminder that no matter how cold or dark things may seem, warmth and light will return. Often we are in a dormant phase that precedes a spiritual awakening. Soon enough we will bloom again.

The birth sign associated with Berkana is March 14 – March 30.

This is definitely a rune I would love to see turn up in a reading!

#TuesdayRunes – Tiwaz

Photo by Jan Sikes

It’s time to continue our journey through the runes! The next segment of the Elder Futhark runes is Tyr’s Aett. These runes speak to the aspects of the dance between the visible and invisible realms, with runes directly connected to the ancient deities, natural forces, and humanity itself. The first rune in this segment is Tiwaz (tee-wahz).

Photo by Jan Sikes

As the first rune in Tyr’s Aett, Tiwaz represents the qualities of the god Tyr. It is associated with courage, strength, and the forward-moving nature of masculine energy.

Tiwaz speaks of the need to put our causes above personal desires if the greater good requires it. If you are facing a decision that involves potential discomfort in order to achieve a positive outcome, Tiwaz is signaling that you possess the courage and ability to withstand the sacrifice and emerge victorious. You are ready for the challenge, provided you act with integrity and remain true to your inner knowledge.

Victory is another primary interpretation of Tiwaz, particularly when it comes to competitions of all kinds. Harness the enthusiastic energy and motivation to achieve your goals and you will succeed. This rune is also a positive sign for success in legal matters, providing that you are being honest and just in your actions.

The shape of Tiwaz resembles a spear and the upward pointing arrow symbolizes the force of masculine energy. Action is indicated. However, you are cautioned not to act impulsively.

Another aspect of the masculine energy of Tiwaz is passion and sexual energy, so romance is indicated by this rune, depending on the context of a reading. It could refer to a new romance or a reinvigoration of an existing relationship.

If Tiwaz is reversed in a reading (downward pointing arrow), it signifies a lack of courage or motivation when it comes to achieving your goals.

The birthdate associated with this rune is February 27 to March 14.

Thanks for coming along on this journey and I hope you enjoyed learning about this rune!

#TuesdayRunes – Sowilo

Welcome back for another look at the mystical and magical runes from the Elder Futhark Script.

Photo by Jan Sikes

Today’s Rune is Sowilo (so-we-lah).

The keywords associated with this rune are: light, energy, good health and success. What a great rune to get in any reading at any time!

Sowilo is the rune of the Sun and the life-sustaining light it provides. It represents the light of day where all is illuminated and there is no darkness to obscure our vision. It is the rune of the light’s victory over the dark and can bring much needed clarity and healing to a situation.

Sowilo’s verse in the Anglo-Saxon rune poem describes the sun as “a joy in the hopes of seafarers,” keeping the sailors’ spirits up as they move across the water toward a safe landing. This rune is telling you that you are surrounded by warmth and light. Success, good health and joy are yours if you allow yourself to have them, as are good luck and prosperity.

Depending on your situation, you may need to open yourself up more and clear out your own inner shadows to let more light into your experience.

While the sun is crucial to life on Earth, its power can also be harmful if its intensity is not balanced with other forms of energy. You may be asked to look at how you are directing your vitality. Are you scattered over too many activities and commitments? (I think we can all probably answer ‘yes’ to that question!) Do you find that you are neglecting your health or at risk of burning out? If so, it’s time to ground yourself and possibly re-prioritize.

Use the Sun’s power to illuminate the issue with rational clarity rather than through the lens of emotions. Be honest with yourself and with others, as deceit keeps everyone in the shadows.

The birthdates associated with Sowilo are February 13-27.

Thank you for stopping by and continuing this journey with me!

#TuesdayRunes – Elhaz

Welcome back to another segment of the journey through the runes! We are more than halfway through the Elder Futhark Alphabet.

Photo courtesy Jan Sikes

The rune we are exploring today is Elhaz (el-hahz) also known as Algiz.

The keywords associated with this rune are: Protection, Defense and Opportunity.

Sounds uncannily like our Tarot Reading yesterday. 🙂

Elhaz is the rune of defense and protection and its shape is said to represent both the elk, with its imposing antlers, and the sedge plant, whose sharp leaves act as a natural protection from would-be predators. Both images illustrate the power represented by this rune.

Drawing Elhaz in a reading indicates that you are safe from danger, and there is no need to fear. However, don’t take the protective energy for granted by being reckless with your actions. As long as you remain alert and clear-minded, in touch with your intuition, you are headed for a positive outcome.

Elhaz has also been associated with reaching up to connect with the divine for support. It can refer to an upcoming opportunity or quest. Usually this involves one or more other people who may bring an offer or an invitation to join in a venture of some kind. As long as your intuition agrees, go for it. This is a favorable time for a new endeavor, and it is likely to produce positive results at a rapid pace.

Elhaz indicates protection from negative energy and people, protection of property, strengthened friendships, and possible astral communication.

The birthdates associated with this rune are January 28th – February 13th.

Thanks for stopping by!