The Magic of Massage

Set the stage for hands-on pleasure before you knead your lover’s body into rapturous bliss. Start with your favorite music. I prefer Indian ragas because they seem to have a naturally sexy rhythm. Whether it is the sound of classical guitar, angelic harps, or an ambient electronic band from Iceland, it should relax and bring pleasure. Light pink, red, and brown candles to create a loving, sexual atmosphere that is strongly grounded. Kindle incense your lover has previously complimented, and lay out towels you have warmed and oils and lubricants you have also warmed. Turn up the heat a bit and turn down the lights to simply create a “spa” feeling for complete unwinding. I have some honey, goose feathers, and an edible raspberry-and-mint rub I like to share as well.

First undress your partner, very slowly and gently. If your partner is open-minded to pagan ways, you should speak this incantation in his or her presence. If not, it is your silent prayer:

    I call on you, Pan,

    god of the woods, goat, man, and boy.

    I ask your blessing on this day of joy.

    I call on you, Venus, Goddess of this night,

    may we find new seasons of delight.

    What I want is here and now.

    And so it shall be.

Start with warmed oil and give a classic massage while your partner relaxes face down on the bed or massage table. The basic principles of magical massage are rhythmic yet sensitive gliding strokes, gradually shifting to deeper strokes. Use your body weight for firmer pressure.

After relaxing your partner’s back, legs, and feet, have him or her turn over. Massage the chest, arms, and hands. Then glide down to the legs, occasionally brushing the genitals with a light touch. After you finish the legs and feet, slide back up the body and very delicately brush the genitals in a teasing way. Draw the tease out as long as you can so the energy builds and grows. Now is the time to start shifting the focus to more explicitly erotic activities.

One of the most important tips for an amazing connection: Look your partner in the eye as you pleasure him or her. Locking the eyes and keeping them open during sex will open up new dimensions of gratification.

Blessings for Home and Harmony

On a low table or chest of your choosing, place a forest green scarf and a brown candle to represent your family. Add lovely objects that you have found around your home and garden: a special fallen leaf, ocean- carved driftwood, lacey dried lichen, smooth stones, or whatever your heart desires. It is of utmost importance to add a bouquet of wildflowers native to your area that you have gathered close to your home or purchased locally. This bouquet will help integrate your home into your neighborhood and the geographic area in which you live. If possible, add a sweetly scented sachet of potpourri made from your home kitchen garden: rosemary, lavender, thyme, and mint, all of which imbue your space with positive energy. Add personal mementos like photos or a locket with a photo of your spouse and children.

Burn your favorite essential oils, the ones that create an aura of instant comfort for you, such as vanilla, cinnamon, or sweet orange neroli in an oil lamp. Finally, anoint the brown candle while concentrating on peace and bliss surrounding your home. Chant:

    Here burns happiness about me.

    Peace and harmony are in abundance,

    And here true bliss surrounds.

    From now on, disharmony is gone.

    This is a home of peace and blessings.

    Here sheer joy lives.

This consecrated space will ease your spirits at any time. Your altar connects you to the earth of which you are a part.

Graceful Connection

Before you enjoy this friendly repast together, hold hands and recite this grace:

    Sister, brother, tribe of the soul, ones who care.

    Merry may we meet again to share.

    Breaking bread and quaffing mead

    We draw closer in word and deed.

    Blessing of love to all!

Peridot

Pretty, pale green peridot is the gem variety of oviline. Peridot has been mined as a gemstone for more than 4,000 years, and until recently, the best-quality stones came from Egypt. Now, Arizona has lovely specimens, and Pakistan may have the world’s finest-quality peridot at this point. Peridot has a nearly unmatched clarity and is considered a visionary stone. It helps us connect to our higher life purpose and achieve a deeper soul connection. Peridot is a real confidence booster, too. It cuts through the clouds and helps achieve quick results. If you are shy and slow moving, peridot may make things happen a little too quickly for your comfort level. You should also get really clear about what you truly want. If you are confused about your worldly goals, this is not the stone for you!

Peridot helps release toxins and brings issues to the surface so that they can be cleared away. This gem is peerless for the release of anger. The clarity of peridot will help you realize clarity in your sphere, as well. Peridot is good for the skin and is a stomach soother.