Any Witches Here?- Part 17.

[speakout]

Or Wiccans. or Pagans? Or anyone who is interested in a magical path or feels some magical stirrings.
A place for support, learning, swapping ideas and magical inspiration..
This is the 17th thread- anyone looking for a deep dive into juicy magical topics may like to browse previous threads.....

It is a long list!!

Part 1 //www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3241689-Any-witches-here?pg=1
Part 2
//www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3338025-Any-Witches-Here-Part-2?pg=1
Part 3
//www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3366411-Any-Witches-Here-Part-3?pg=1
Part 4
//www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3404406-Any-Witches-Here-Part-4-Edited-by-MNHQ?pg=1
Part5
//www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3437092-Any-Witches-Here-Part-5?pg=1
Part 6 //www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3482023-Any-Witches-Here-Part-6?pg=1
Part 7 //www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3520269-Any-Witches-Here-Part-7?pg=1
Part 8 //www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/a3568622-Any-Witches-Here-Part-8?pg=1
Part 9 //www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3637696-Any-Witches-Here-Part-9?pg=1
Part 10
//www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3726266-Any-Witches-Here-Part-10
Part 11
//www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3850635-Any-Witches-Here-Part-11
Part 12
//www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/3997761-Any-Witches-Here-Part-12
Part 13 //www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/4116107-Any-Witches-here-Part-13
Part 14www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/4213962-Any-Witches-Here-Part-14
www.mumsnet.com/Talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/4328830-Any-Witches-Here-Part-15?msgid=113505801
www.mumsnet.com/talk/philosophy_religion_spirituality/4435233-Any-Witches-Here-Part-16?page=40&reply=118807589

I'm so relieved to hear so many people say this. I thought maybe my PEs were partly responsible, and that was a worry.

Managed 40 lengths in the pool today. That usually helps my breathing, but it's still not great: very shallow. Hopefully my back won't take too big a hit for this.

@speakout, it's so rough. Sending you healing vibes. As I can no longer ride, I've also been thinking about taking up yoga. Sounds as though you find it very beneficial, I hope you can get back to it soon.

@MarieIVanArkleStinks Whilst it is normal that doesn't mean to say i am not under the strict supervision of both my consultant and my GP. Please do not take the fact that random people on the internet say this is normal as an excuse to not seek medical attention! If you have a medical condition and these after affects you are supposed to be checked - even if it is confirmed it is ok. You might need monitoring or even intervention. I have both monitoring AND intervention. Just because it is normal for someone with my conditions to be more tired/coughy/breatheless after covid does not mean that those symptoms should be ignored. And I personally have had a change of meds and routinely have to submit my peak flow and periodically have to have my 02 stats checked. So please go get checked by someone who professionally knows. Random people on the internet are very bad people to listen to for medical advice.

Absolutely, and thanks for posting this. I'm still under the care of my consultant and undergoing checks regularly. No issues with low oxygen, etc, all that's fine. I just meant it's a relief this is merely an after effect of COVID that a number of people seem to be experiencing. Not that I would wish it on anyone!

So sorry to hear so many sister are differing post Covid. Sending healing vibes to you all.

Physically, I'm feeling much better now, but emotionally I'm drained. It feels like everyone around me - friends, family, colleagues - are all struggling with either physical or mental health or having relationship problems. I don't seem to have had a conversation all week that hasn't involved someone pouring their woes out to me. I hate seeing people I care about struggle, but I must admit that I'm feeling rather frazzled!

Yoga is my therapy and release from it all, Soeakout I know exactly how you feel when you say your mental health is suffering from. It being able to get to your classes. Have you tried yoga nidra? The best form of yoga for when you're ill as all you need to do is cuddle up in bed!

VioletCharlotte your words and understanding are soothing. I can relate to having everyone around struggling- it is hard to be the anchor.
I haven't tried yoga nidra- is that something I could do online?
I was hoping to get to a class tomorrow but I have a constant cough.
I have been lifted today by messages from people from my yoga class- not people that are close friends, but I have known for several years- so touching to have good wishes.

Speakout** yoga nidra (or yogic sleep) is great for sleep and relaxation. There's lots on You Tube. I like this channel https://youtube.com/@YogaNidraNetwork

How lovely that your friends from your classes have been in touch, I hope your cough eases soon so you can get back on the mat.

VioletCharlotte thanks for that link- I will give it a go. Sleeping is something I am doing a lot of at the moment!
Feeling a little brighter today, still not well enough for exercise, but managed to visit my favourite local charity shop, and picked up some lovely winter woolies, new plates and fabric- my little local chariity shop is my favourite shop of all!
Home now for a break of tea and fruit loaf with lemon curd.
I have to work, but planning a long meditation this afternoon.

I am down again. Caught another whatever the heck it is this time. So i am guessing this is the year my immune system strengthens itself and i spent a lot of time allowing it to do so. I'd like my flu shot though, but can't get a stretch long enough well enough to get it.

Anyone got plans for the upcoming season?

I am so sorry that you are all still feeling unwell. I hope you all can get back to what you want to be doing soon. I've not got any lurgey, but have been having a bad heart day, so have had a quiet day, just doing the basics. Sometimes my body just tells me to slow down. I've been carrying on with the planning of the herb garden, and also reading about the paganism. So despite being a bit breathless and easily tired, Ive had a really nice day.

Sorry to hear of my sisters still unwell.
I am working this weekend- although still in bed drinking coffee at the moment!
I am trying to do as much as I can before I have my winter break, also postal industrial action in December is ramping up, with 7 days of strike action in the three weeks before christmas.
I want to be done and dusted a couple of weeks before christmas so I can relax.
Planning a herb garden sounds such a lovely thing to do in winter. Despite her fearsome appearance the Cailleach kept a fistful of seeds tightly preserving them against her body as her icy winds scoured the landscape- reminding us that potential for growth is always around- no matter the circumstances.

I have been digging out christmas wrapping paper today and came across some lovely cards that some of my sisters from this thread sent me last year. They are so precious.
I love the tradition of sending cards and a little sad it is a dwindling trend.
If anyone would like a real christmas card from me drop me a pm, with your name and address I will be happy to send.

I would also like to share this video.
For those of us who enjoy shadow work, working with the inner child or looking for ways of easing the burden we have carried for far too long.
This is a beautiful 20 minute meditation, poignant and full of love.
I have listened to the meditation a few times- it is very healing, very powerful.

Thank you for the meditation link @speakout I listened to it and it was very moving. I will listen again tomorrow.

So cold here- I have no option but to have the heating on.
It's minus 2, everything is white outside, not sure if it is a layer of snow or hard frost, it is still too dark to see.
Today's new moon in saggitarius brings lots of opportunity to set new intentions, plan new adventures.
Probablymagrat I am glad that meditation was useful for you, I have found working with my inner child so healing, transformative.
Especially for those of us who didn't experience the best childhood years, the opportunity to heal and bring that healing into the present is huge.
I have started to feel a lot better in the past 24 hours, my cough is easing and I can feel energy starting to return to my body.
It is a good feeling after being unwell for 5 weeks. And a reminder not to take my health for granted. and to enjoy it while it is here.
I know some of you follow The Witch's Cookery on Youtube, she has a lovely new video, packed full of self care tips during the winter months. I watched it twice yesterday- so many ideas and links to products, podcasts, recipes.
I am off for a sweet orange and bergamot spa shower while my cosy clothes warm on the radiator.
I finally have the warmest socks of my life- thanks to a Nordic company I found online.
Have a magical day friends.

Good morning everyone. I’m glad you are feeling a bit better @speakout
sending healing vibes to all those who need it.
My mother in law is coming home from the hospital today. Sadly there is only end of life care for her now. It’s been a bit of a shock for dh as she was told she was cancer free early this year. My two (grown up) sons have arranged between them to go together to see her. They have barely bothered with each other since their teen years, two very different people who each thinks the other doesn’t like them and haven’t got on well. I was very surprised and heartened to hear of this arrangement. It’s a sad time but there’s a glimmer of hope that this might be the beginnings of a renewed relationship between my two boys that I’ve always hoped for.

@speakout would you mind sharing where you bought your socks from ? I desperately need some warm socks and I’m thinking that maybe I could buy some as presents too.

Elasticatedwaist I am sending energy to your MIL, that she remains peaceful and pain free.
Also healing thoughts to your sons, that their relationship may be kindled during this dificult time.
I buy my socks from here- OH bought me a pack two years ago, I bought myself another pack last winter, and they are all still going strong the warmest socks I have worn.

They are a little pricey, but you could split the packs ( of 5 ) for gifts.
www.thenordicsocks.co.uk

Thankyou @speakout they look just the job !

It's felt cold here today too...although not as cold as where you are Speakout minus 2!! brrrr! It's been about 6 degrees here, I think I've felt colder as I've been sat at a computer for most of the day, not moving enough.

Those socks look brilliant, although a little pricey to buy as a gift for myself. I like the idea of buying them as gifts and splitting them (and maybe gifting one pair to me!) I bought some bamboo socks recently that are lovely and soft, but those Nordic ones look really cosy.

Thank you too for the reminder about The Witches Cookery. I'm looking forward to watching her latest video and picking up some nice ideas for self care. I'm feeling very 'busy' at the moment and need to carve out some time to switch off.

Elasticatedwaist I'm very sorry to hear about your MiL, very sad news. Although a possible reconciliation between your sons could bring a little bit of light. My colleague lost her FiL last week in similar circumstances (thought he was free of cancer). Always very sad, but it seems particularly hard at this time of year when people are preparing for the festive season.

I meant to add, I'd love to exchange Christmas cards again, thank you for the suggestion Speakout Please pm me with your address if you'd like one

Glad you like christmas cards too VioletCharlotte- we are a dying breed!
I have had a bad night, coughing has returned, with a disturbed sleep and bad dreams.
I had booked a yoga class this morning, but I have cancelled. Although my body is regaining strength my coughing fits would not be welcome in class.
I woke feeling despondant and low, but have thought through my day to give myself a lift.
I will book a doctors appointment to have them check me over.
I only have a little work because of the postal strike, so may take myself off for a short amount of christmas shopping- I need fuel at Costco anyway, and there are a few shops around the retail park.
Also a M&S Food shop, so I will buy myself some nutritious fruit and veg for dinner. I will keep the shopping trip quick- no more than an hour, it is tiring and stressful.
Home for a rest then some restorative youtube yoga with Adrienne ( who doesn't mind if I cough!).
I love the look of The Witch's Cookery baked stuffed apples, so will find some magical ways to weave into my evening as I wind down.
I hope everyone finds time to care for themselves today.

Yes please to card exchanges - please pm me with address if you'd like one from me 😁 I'll note to send my own pms when I am on a device less sulky than my phone 😂

Big hugs to all who need them, sisters, and @Elasticatedwaist I'm so sorry about your MIL.

I am also ill, couldn't get my breath at an event on Sunday and it was only when another lovely stallholder lent me her inhaler that I felt able to breathe properly. Have been coughing ever since and although I don't have asthma officially yet, gp has prescribed a new inhaler and insisted I come back for peak flow etc if it doesn't ease in a couple of weeks. Joys!

Also just completely silly season with the chocolate and have had too much to do in not enough time so have missed catching up here!

The post strikes are causing chaos for me and I'm battling my website today in an attempt to get stuff out before Christmas but tech has not been playing nicely.

But I do have winter solstice plans with my coven of 3, and hoping that will cheer me up.

Hope we're all feeling brighter soon!

hilariousnamehere I am sorry to hear you are unwell,
Hard at this time too when we are all so busy, and your work will be hectic too.
Royal Mail strike is challenging, I am switching off sporadically and posting same day first class in an effort to manage the situation.
My postie tells me there are huge backlogs at the sorting office too- I'd better get my cards posted soon- I would love to send you a card hilariousnamehere, I will pm you.
I had a slow day yesterday, and I feel much better for the self care I was able to weave in.
A really strange thing happened to me yesterday.
I cancelled my yoga class- still coughing too much- and decisded to do just a short easy 15 minute session at home.
I looked on youtube and counldn't find an instruction video, so decided on some ambient music and just move as I wanted. I looked at the clock before I started, and sat on my mat bathed in sun from the window.
I have been doing yoga for decades, so have a good understanding of the basics, I did some sun salutations, vinyasas, balance, standing, balance, twists.
I focussed on my breath and my body moved with ease, building pranyama and following that. I was aware of hardly thinking, just allowing my body to move as it wished, almost as an observer as the pranyama moved through me. I stopped in some poses for longer, allowing time for the breath to work though my body.
It felt like a trance state, very powerful.
As I reached the final few moments of meditation I glanced at the clock, hoping I had managed to move for at least 15 minutes.
An hour and a half had passed!
I checked the kitchen clock to make sure- and yes, that session that I thought lasted 10 minutes was 90 minutes.
How did that happen? And all without a single cough- I felt energised and calm afterwards.
I have always been interested in the spiritual aspects of yoga, and use yoga in my craft too, but what happened yesterday was not of this realm- just blew me away.
And reminded me that yoga is always a tool even when I am unwell.
Off for a morning bath to heat my bones- there is something about a morning bath that feels decadent and a little irreverent.
Evening baths are lovely, but a morning soak feels like I am taking pleasure seriously!

Just catching up on the thread. Sending healing to everyone who is unwell, hope you're feeling a bit better today.

It's been so cold today! My car says it's been 6 degrees but it's felt much colder than that because of the wind. Winter has most definitely arrived. I went out for a long dog walk with my friend this afternoon, it was nice to be outside, despite the cold.

Your solstice plans sound good Hilarious. I have a 'coven of three' too. We try and meet at the new moon so it's the 21st this month. I'm going to a yoga/ going bath ceremony to mark the solstice so looking forward to that. I've been the last couple of years and it's always a lovely, nurturing event.

I love the sound of a coven of three. How wonderful to have like minded people in your lives.
I know people who are very supportive, curious and accepting of my path, but none who practice themselves.
I am starting to feel a lot better this weekend, my cough is easing, and my optimism returning, which is a big relief.
It is very cold here today, 2 degrees, we are forecast for some snow later this week so time for thick coats and winter woolies!
I love winter magic and crafts, if I have freezer space I may have a go at making ice candles again- I know a few of us made some a couple of years ago, setting magical intentions into the ice, to manifest when melting. The opposite of a freezing spell I guess- and perfect for making social occasions, or intimate suppers go well.
A ginger and mandarin shower this morning, then a quick trip into the city to an Asian spice shop to buy some ingredients for dinner.
The Taurus moon today will bring harmony, ease with others, bringing comfort and feelings of security.
Just the day for being cozy and making warming food in our burrows.

Good morning sisters. Another one still coughing here. Thought i had beaten it but its back with a vengeance. Love the herb chat. The ones I've used most have been chamomile and calendula, but also grow mint,rosemary,sage,yarrow,thyme etc.