Letter 17: Aquarius Season, Pluto Retrograde & Scrying

This week, as we dive into Aquarius season, the cosmic spotlight turns to innovative and progressive energies that encourage embracing individuality and contributing to collective consciousness. Pluto retrograde in Aquarius adds a transformative layer, prompting introspection and a re-evaluation of our connection to societal structures, as well as our connection to how we can be of service to ourselves. Amidst this astrological tapestry, we explore the ancient practice of Scrying, a mystical art that involves gazing into reflective surfaces for profound insights. Incorporating Scrying into your magical toolkit during this period can enhance spiritual exploration and intuitive growth, providing a unique perspective on the self and the collective. Together, these celestial influences invite us to undergo deep transformations, both spiritually and mentally, fostering a holistic approach to well-being during this astrologically significant time.

So get cozy, take a few deep breaths and let’s get started.

Starting January 19th and ending February 18th we have entered into the sign of Aquarius. This sign is represented by the 11th house in the zodiacal chart and is ruled by the seventh planet from the sun, and third largest celestial body, Uranus. Aquarius is one of the three air signs in astrology and shares similar traits to the other air signs as well as harboring very unique traits. These include humanitarian ideals, intelligence, practicality, service, and showing an importance of connecting to a community. This sign marks a period of innovation, intellectual exploration, and discovering our individuality. Aquarius is known for progressive and creative takes on bettering our society as a whole, as well as forward thinking and fostering unique perspectives on otherwise challenging decisions and problem solving. 

This is a time that is marked by our collective energies and communities breaking free of confined thought patterns, past hurts, negative actions, embracing change and overall stepping out of the mold we have found ourselves stuck in. If you have seen a lot of people doing off the grid living, eliminating certain products from their lives and making their own, or even just people giving up social media all together, you have Aquarius season to thank for showing people exactly what they need to do to change our collectives energetic vibration and embrace their own individuality. 

“The highest and most noble form of rebellion against a system designed to conform us to a structured and failing lifestyle, is independence. Through independence we cannot only learn to heal ourselves and our mental health, but our planet and our society as well. Through connection to these things and refusal to be led along by social traps and distractions, we can evolve and heal in a more respectable and efficient way.”

Aquarius not only brings us healing on a societal level and a collective level, but an inner level as well. It allows us to see how we can be of service to ourselves by bringing about clarity of what needs to be changed. Through things like change in our diets, our work schedules, our career choices, and our boundaries. Coming full circle around with how we can raise our independence by healing our external worlds, we can take into account the healing and integration of our inner worlds and mental health as well. Fresh out of Capricorn season which was revealing to us about how we can see our futures from a more logical stance and getting us into alignment with our true selves, Aquarius season couldn’t be more perfectly placed to keep that energy shifting and that momentum going. 

A full moon in Leo combined with Aquarius season creates a dynamic blend that not only balances individuality but the way we create and express ourselves as well. This is a perfect time to re-evaluate your hobbies and passions and get reintroduced to them! There is an emphasis on embracing one's unique talents and passions. Simultaneously, Aquarius season adds an air of innovation and a focus on community involvement. This celestial combination encourages individuals to shine in their authentic selves while contributing to the greater good. It's a time when the Leo energy prompts a celebration of individual identity, and the Aquarian influence promotes collaboration for social progress. This alignment encourages a harmonious interplay between personal expression and the collective ideals.

Pluto retrograde refers to the apparent backward motion of the planet Pluto in its orbit around the Sun, as observed from Earth. Retrograde motion is a common phenomenon among planets, and it occurs when a planet appears to move backward in the sky, even though it is not actually changing direction. In astrology, the retrograde periods of planets are believed to have certain influences on individuals and the collective energy. When Pluto, the planet associated with transformation, power, and regeneration, goes into retrograde, it is often seen as a time for introspection and reassessment. It's a period when the intense and transformative energies associated with Pluto turn inward, prompting individuals to delve into their innermost desires, fears, and subconscious patterns. 

This introspective phase may lead to a newfound clarity of personal power dynamics, letting go of old habits, and undergoing profound internal changes. It's considered a time for self-discovery and shedding aspects of the self that may no longer serve one's growth. While Pluto retrograde can be intense, it offers an opportunity for deep inner transformation and personal evolution. As with any astrological interpretation, it's essential to consider individual birth charts and other planetary influences for a more comprehensive understanding. Pluto is the ruler of the sign Scorpio, and is the furthest planet. I have spoken in depth about Pluto’s meaning and influence in past newsletters, but the overarching theme for the retrograde that we are amidst is combining with Leo full moon and Aquarius season to show us how we can intimately, and effectively be of service to our inner selves as well as our outer selves.

Shadow Work Journal Prompts for the current astrological happenings:

How can we come back into connection with ourselves? 

How can we take care of our health and take it back into our hands? 

How have we been affected in the past by not taking time for ourselves? 

How can you benefit from changing the narrative and start your healing journey? 

How can you start your healing journey, what is step 1?

Since we are always seeking answers, and diving deep into our inner selves and getting introspective and being given opportunities to become aware of our shadows, I want to discuss an ancient modality that has been used by many a witch in many different backgrounds and practices. My favorite thing about witchcraft and work is that no matter how it changes and shifts and no matter where it came from, we can all benefit from it no matter what we currently practice and believe in. We can all use different spells and crafts that allow us a deeper connection to spirit, ourselves and the energies around us. 

Scrying, also known as crystal gazing or divination, is an ancient practice with a rich history spanning various cultures and civilizations. The term "scry" comes from the Old English word "descry," meaning to reveal or make out. The practice involves gazing into a reflective or translucent surface to gain insights, often of a mystical or spiritual nature. 

Scrying can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia, where priests and diviners used various methods, including water scrying, to seek guidance from the divine. Babylonian priests are known to have used oil lamps with water to enhance their scrying abilities. In ancient Egypt, scrying was often associated with the goddess Hathor. Egyptians used scrying with bowls filled with oil or water to communicate with the spirit world and gain insights into the future. The Greeks practiced scrying, with early mentions in works by philosophers like Plato. The Oracle of Delphi, a renowned prophetic priestess in ancient Greece, is believed to have used scrying techniques as part of her divination practices. Romans, too, adopted scrying methods for divination. Scrying continued to be practiced in medieval Europe, with individuals using various mediums such as mirrors, crystals, and bowls of water. During the Renaissance, interest in occult practices, including scrying, experienced a revival. The 19th century saw a resurgence of interest in spiritualism and mysticism, with scrying becoming a popular tool for mediums and seers. During this time, scrying with crystal balls gained prominence.

Okay great! Now that you know the history, we can discuss how to do it yourself! 

Here is a general Scrying Guide:

If you are just beginning, I have been told that 5-10 minute sessions to begin with are beneficial rather than jumping into longer sessions.

1. Choose Your Scrying Tool:

• Select a scrying tool that resonates with you. Common tools include crystal balls, black mirrors, bowls of water, or reflective surfaces.

2. Create a Sacred Space:

• Find a quiet and comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. Consider lighting candles, using incense, or playing calming music to create a sacred atmosphere.

3. Relax and Center Yourself:

• Take a few deep breaths to relax your body and calm your mind. Clear your thoughts and focus on the intention of your scrying session.

4. Focus Your Gaze:

• Gently gaze into the chosen scrying tool. Soften your gaze, allowing your eyes to relax and defocus. Avoid straining your eyes; let your vision become slightly blurred.

5. Be Open to Impressions:

• As you continue to gaze, be open to any impressions, images, or thoughts that come to you. Trust your intuition and let your mind wander.

6. Pay Attention to Symbols:

• Look for symbols, shapes, or images that may appear in the scrying surface. These could be meaningful and carry messages or insights.

7. Practice Patience:

• Scrying may take time and practice. Be patient with yourself and allow the process to unfold naturally. It's normal to have varying experiences during different sessions.

8. Keep a Journal:

• Record your experiences in a journal. Document any symbols, images, or feelings you receive during scrying sessions. Over time, you may notice patterns or recurring themes.

9. Close the Session:

• When you feel you've received the information you need or when the session naturally concludes, express gratitude for the insights and close the session. Ground yourself by focusing on your breath or connecting with the present moment.

10. Reflect and Interpret:

• After the scrying session, take time to reflect on the images or impressions you received. Consider how they might relate to your current situation or questions.

Remember that scrying is a personal and intuitive practice, and interpretations can vary. Trust your instincts, and approach it with an open and receptive mindset. Additionally, if you have a specific question or intention, focus on that during your scrying session for more targeted insights.

Thanks so much for joining in this week! I hope the information finds you well and you are able to utilize it to your best intentions.