lost-celestial

[lost-celestial]

49 Ways to Celebrate the Descent to Hades

Day 1: Preparation

Cleanse! Take a full body bath, cleanse your house/space, etc.

Create a self-care box filled with items that ground you. This can be a physical box or a list of things you like to do for self-care.

Petition Hades to take care/watch over you during this celebration.

Consider donating things you don't need anymore.

Pour librations for Hades.

Decide what you'll focus on during this celebration (ex., honoring the dead, celebrating personal achievements, accepting the past, etc.)

Send the day with loved ones (if you can't, consider sending a message or writing a letter).

Day 2: Styx, the River of Hate and Fear

Shadow Work/Journaling (geared towards letting go of anger).

Write your emotions on paper and then wash them away with water (NOTE: Don't leave paper in open water or outside).

Perform a cord-cutting ritual to separate you from negative energy (especially if it's a person).

Try something new for the very first time.

Write a list of things you are afraid of and/or hate.

Mediation

Leave coin offerings to Charon or Hades.

Day 3: Acheron, River of Pain

Give yourself a time limit (e.g., 1 hour) and dedicate yourself to creating something. Once the time is over, offer that item to Hades regardless of its state.

Say positive affirmations to yourself and mean it.

Write a list of personal achievements; reflect on how those achievements make you feel in the present moment. Is there anything else you'd like to add to that list?

Practice death positivity—learn about another culture's death practices and values.

For the remainder of the celebration, try incorporating something new into your life (e.g., wearing a new perfume, styling your hair differently, wearing a new color, etc.).

Create a personal epithet for Hades.

Reflect on some personal bad/negative habits you have that you'd like to get rid of.

Day 4: Cocytus, River of Wailing

Create a temporary altar for the deceased (ancestors or not).

Petition Hades to welcome the departed into his realm.

Give offerings for the departed (ex., water, incense, food, etc.)

Pour librations for Hades.

Create a eulogy for those who are deceased: write how you remember them and your experiences. If you don't have any, write how their energy feels.

Reflect on your life over the last year. What things have left your life? Have new things entered?

Dedicate an hour to silence (ex., dumb supper, no talking, etc.)

Day 5: Phlegethon, River of Fire

If you created something on Day 3, try to recreate it now without the time limit. (Don't try to fix the first attempt; start from scratch).

Write a hymn, petition, or piece of artwork for Hades.

Consider this a cheat day: spoil yourself and do self-care.

Create a bucket list of things you want to do before you die.

Consider donating things you have in abundance (e.g., food, money), but only if you can comfortably do so.

Cook a homemade meal and offer some food to Hades.

Write a letter to Hades and then burn it (NOTE: SAFETY FIRST)

Day 6: Lethe, River of Obvilvon

Write down your dreams (if you had any) from the previous night. If you have any dreams tomorrow, include those on the same note.

Reflect on your celebration efforts. Did you achieve what you set out to do on the first day?

Shadow Work/Journaling (e.g., What are some unconscious influences in your life?)

Set aside a bottle of water to drink throughout the day. As an offering to Hades, drink the recommended amount of water and then a bit more.

Pour libation to Hades.

Try automatic "spirit" writing.

Do some divination with Hades and/or spirits or other spiritual team members.

Day 7: Celebration of the Descent to Hades

Create a devotional playlist for Hades.

Give Hades as many offerings as you (comfortably) can.

Write praise about Hades and thank him for receiving the Departed.

Have fun in the name of Hades! Hang out with friends, have a party, sit somewhere, etc. Do something you enjoy in his name.

Try to minimize light today (e.g., Keep lights off, stay inside).

Dance to some songs on your playlist. If you are of age and comfortable doing so, drink alcohol in his name.

Write a list of things you are grateful for in your life.

[lost-celestial]

Descent to Hades (Overview)

Description: This is a modern festival for King Hades/Haides that follows the stories of the five Rivers of Hades (Archeron, Cocytus, Phlegation, Lethe, and Styx). This celebration spans seven days following the retrogrades, directs, and transits of Pluto, the planet. In this celebration, we celebrate your life, the lives of those around you, and even Death/Transformation. More information will be posted later.

If you aren't interested in astrology, you can choose not to include those aspects in your celebration and celebrate whenever. On average, Pluto enters retrograde annually for 5-6 months, meaning that the Descent to Hades will be celebrated twice yearly unless Pluto transits into another sign, which occurs every 10 to 30 years--and in which case, the Descent will be celebrated 3 times that year.

Divider by @/xxbimbobunnyxx

Day 1: Preparation

This celebration can get a bit heavy. It focuses on literal and spiritual death, which can be a lot for anyone. Day 1 is a day of preparation. It's a day for checking in on yourself and assessing your mental state.

🪦 Theme: Self-Care, Preparation 🪦 Honoring Ἁιδης Πολυδεγμων, Hades, Host of Many.

Day 2: Styx, River of Hate

The River Styx is an amalgamation of hate and fear. It represents the divide between the living and the dead, the fear of the unknown, and hatred. We must learn to let go. This doesn't immediately mean forgiving or forgetting, but not letting fear or anger consume us.

🪦 Theme: Letting go, Embracing the Unknown 🪦 Honoring Ἁιδης Ἀγήσανδρος, Hades, he who carries all away.

Day 3: Acheron, River of Pain

The River Acheron embodies our woes and pains. It reminds us that we are flawed and imperfect, that we've endured life, and that we will continue to endure.

🪦 Theme: Accepting Imperfection 🪦 Honoring Ἁιδης Ἀїδωνεύς, Hades, the Unseen One.

Day 4: Cocytus, River of Wailing

The River Cocytus represents mourning: the grief and sorrow after a loss, the sadness of missing something that is now gone, etc. It reminds us to honor those who have made the descent to Hades before and not returned.

🪦 Theme: Honoring the Dead 🪦 Honoring Ἁιδης Νεκροδεγμων, Hades, the Receiver of Dead

Day 5: Phlegethon, River of Fire

In mythology, the River Phlegethon is connected to Tartarus. It represents passion and what motivates us—greed, lust, desire. It embodies the beautiful and ugly side of passion while reminding us to be mindful.

🪦 Theme: Igniting Creativity 🪦 Honoring Ἁιδης Πλουτων, Hades of Wealth

Day 6: Lethe, River of Obvilvon

The River Lethe is where the Dead forget their memories of their mortal lives. However, we don't want to completely forget ourselves, so we'll use the River Lethe to reflect on ourselves in a way we have yet to do in the celebration.

🪦 Theme: Self-Reflection and Transformation 🪦 Honoring Ἁιδης Εὐβουλεύς, Hades the Good Counsel

Day 7: Celebration

On the last day of the Descent to Hades, we celebrate by having a party in the name of Hades. This journey was not meant to be sad or depressing. It was meant to be a much-needed conversation with ourselves to remind us of what we've achieved in our life. To end, we celebrate with Hades.

🪦 Theme: Celebrating Life 🪦 Honoring Ἁιδης, Hades, the King of the Underworld.

[lost-celestial]

PAC ෆ Lesson from your past mistakes

Left to Right 1 -> 3

Pick a Card: Lesson from your past mistakes ⌇ Placeholder. This PAC is meant to give you some insight into some lessons from your past that you've been ignoring. These may already be things you already know but have yet to actually put into practice. Please take this reading with a grain of salt. Take what resonates!

Book a Reading (Ko-Fi) 🍁๋࣭ Let me know if this resonates with you!

Pile 1

Hi, Pile 1! You are often your own greatest enemy. Your anxieties, self-doubt, and insecurities often cloud your thoughts. Sometimes, it manifests as passivity; other times, it comes as impulsivity. Opportunities seem to pass you by. In moments like that, think about everything you've endured in your past. Recognize that /you/ are the one who has persevered through it all. While others may have helped you, you've made it this far due to your strength. You're more resilient than you give yourself credit for. Don't let your past be an anchor dragging you down; let it inspire you. Let it remind you that you are strong and deserving of good things. Even in your weak moments, you're still capable.

Cards: Moon (s: World)

Pile 2

Hi, Pile 2! Some people may call you a busybody. You're always on the move; your hands always working on something. You can never stay still for longer than 5 minutes without getting restless. You're the type that'll bite off more than they chew and never take a break until something gives out—your body or your mind. You've done it countless times before: felt so passionless, burned out, and tired that even 48 hours of dead sleep could not help you. Perhaps you need to hear it again: there's no shame in taking a break. You're not a failure for needing time to yourself and prioritizing yourself.

It's time to give up some of your responsibilities; running yourself into the ground has never helped again, and that isn't going to change now. Allowing yourself a moment of repose—a couple of minutes to just sit with your emotions—is not a crime. You deserve a break.

Cards: Magician (s: Hanged Man)

Pile 3

Hi, Pile 3! You may feel that you need to be perfect to make everyone happy. You vehemently want to be liked, appreciated, and loved by others. If that means forcing a smile, playing nice, and ignoring the red flags, you'd be happy to do that to keep the peace you've built. In truth, you already know how that ends—tears and hurt feelings. It's impossible to get everyone you meet to like you, even if you break your back and bend backward to meet their every whim and wish. You don't already need me to tell you that, though. Don't waste time pretending to be someone you aren't. You are not perfect, but that's okay. You don't need to strive for perfection anymore.

There are people out there who love you just as you are—people who don't expect you to do everything right the first time. Who are willing to learn and grow alongside you rather than force you to carry the burden of life alone. Strive for people who will love you for the person you are today rather than sacrificing yourself for those who love what you do for them.

Cards: Two of Cups (s: Three of Pentacles)

Thank you for stopping by! Please let me know what Pile you picked and if it resonated with you. As always, my asks and DMs are open!

Divider by @/cafekitsune

[lost-celestial]

Giustiniani Hestia, Mercury Brings Psyche up to Olympus, Statue of Hades

May Lady Hestia give the Departed a seat before the flame; may Lady Psyche watch over them as Lord Hermes guides them; and may King Hades kindly accept them into the realm of the Dead.

Butterfly divider by @/huramuna

Detailed Petition Hestia, Psyche, Hermes, and Hades

Petition Hestia, the One Rich in Blessings. May Lady Hestia light the way for the Departed.

O' divine One, Lady Hestia; Kind, daughter of lovely-haired Rhea; Goddess of the Home herself.

Lady Hestia, who was the first Olympian devoured by the King of the Titans and the last to be spit out, who refused Lord Apollon and King Poseidon and swore by King Zeus' head to remain an eternal virgin, who now guides the sacrificial flame and receives a share of every offering; please hear my words.

You, who presides over the Home; You, who reigns over the hearth and the flames. Over communal feasts and family meals, domestic bliss, and family blessings. You, who manifests in every corner of a home, in the familiar smell of a beloved house, in the coziness of a fluffy blanket on a cold night, in the flame of every fire.

Please hear me, o' divine One.

Kindly welcome the Departed with your warm flames. Please give them a moment of rest on their long journey to the gateway of Hades and a seat before the fire. And when the time comes, may I also sit in front of your lovely hearth.

May you become the hope in the dark for the Departed.

Petition Psyche, the Winged One. May Lady Psyche watch over us during our time of transformation and struggle.

O' divine Winged One, Lady Psyche; Lovely-haired, beloved Mortal Princess, loved by Love himself. Lady Psyche, who unrelentingly sorted seeds under Lady Aphrodite's command, who gathered the golden fleece from the rams of the Sun, who collected water from the River Styx and traveled to the depths of Hades, twice in the name of Love; please hear my words.

You, who personifies our Soul and Spirit; You, who manifests in the gentle flutter of the passing butterflies, in the feeling of loneliness that comes from being the odd one in a room, in the triumph of succeeding after failing, in the days spent laying in bed to the days where one feel on top of the world.

Please hear me, O' divine Winged One.

Watch over those who came before me and walk alongside you in the form of butterflies; watch over those who will eventually go and walk the same path; and watch over me as I am in this moment.

May you watch as we make the most of this one Mortal life.

Petition Hermes, the Immortal Guide. May Lord Hermes guide us into the unknown.

O' divine Immortal Guide, Lord Hermes; Winged boots-wearing, beloved Son of Maia, Messenger of the Deathless Gods.

Lord Hermes, who escaped his cradle and stole Lord Apollon's cattle, whose silver tongue marked him as a thief with the wit and charm to persuade even the King of the Gods Zeus himself, who now guides the Shades to the gateways of Hades and traverses through the realm of the Living and the Dead; please hear my words.

You, who acts as the herald of the Gods; You, who reigns over travelers, thieves, herds, and flocks. Over persuasive words, language, and communication. You, who manifests in the random coins found in the corner of one's room while they clean, in green streetlights all the way home, in the swell of pride of a well-received speech, in the safe returns of a loved one.

Please hear me, O' divine Immortal Guide.

Guide those who walk this Earth in the form of butterflies to their rightful resting places—to the sides of their loved ones and those who honor them, to Hades so they may rest eternally. Guide their loved ones through the perils that await us all, and guide me, too.

May you lead us through the unknown.

Petition Hades, the Unseen Host of Many May King Hades kindly receive the spirits of the Departed.

O' divine Unseen One, Lord Hades; The receiver of all, brother of King Zeus and King Poseidon; King of the Underworld himself.

King Hades, who was devoured by the King of Titans, who was the first son swallowed and the last son to be spit out, who received the realm of the Underworld from a draw of lots, who now supervises the dead and ensures they are judged fairly by Minos, Aeacus, and Radamanthus; please hear my words.

You, who acts as King of the Underworld; You, who reigns over funeral rites and the Souls of the departed. Over the hidden resources of the World, the fertile soils, and the changing seasons alongside the Queen of the Underworld, Lady Persephone. You, who manifests in the newly fallen autumn leaves, in the warning barks of dogs, in the unwavering darkness of the night, and in the shadows that lurk in one's peripheral vision.

Please hear me, o' divine Unseen One.

Receive the Souls and Spirits of the departed and take them into your domain. Celebrate their arrival as they leave the upper world behind and join you in the form of butterflies and Shades. Please receive my offerings and host a celebration in the name of Death.

And may you join them in a joyous celebration, too.

[lost-celestial]

Ritual to Guide the Departed

5. Who are your ancestors? What do you know about them? Where did they come from, and what was the culture of that place at the time?

You likely won't discover your ancestors within a week unless you have living relatives to ask, and even then, not everyone has answers. Researching your ancestors is honoring them.

I can say from experience that my road to finding my ancestors has been challenging. However, you may feel that you want to do more, either for your ancestors or for other Spirits. You can do a simple ritual to guide the departed back to their rightful resting places, wherever that may be.

Materials Needed

Incense (alternative. candles, aromatherapy, perfume, etc.)

Offerings (ex., Water or Alcohol, Food, Coins, Letters, etc.)

***(Optional) Photo or Item that reminds you of the Departed

***(Optional) Prayer to a Deity with associations to the Underworld (ex. Hades, Hermes, Hekate, etc.)

Starting the Ritual

This Ritual can be as formal (or casual) as you'd like. There's no specific order or correct way for this spell. Remember, your intention is about 90% of the work—as you get started, think about your loved ones or those you hope can find their way home. It does not need to be family or someone you know personally. Here are the steps that I prefer to take:

Light the Incense; you may use an alternative. If you can't use any type of scent, use food instead.

***(Optional) This is where you'll set out any items that remind you of the Departed person. Don't forget to say kind words about this person in their memory.

***(Optional) Then, I petition the Gods; you can petition any God you'd like. I'll petition Hestia, Goddess of the Sacrificial Flame, to give the Departed a place to rest, Hermes and Psyche to guide the Departed safely, and Hades to take the Departed into his domain.

Afterwards, I'll set out each offering. I like to offer sun (or sometimes) moon water, coins, and food. If you leave offerings for an ancestor, I recommend writing a letter and leaving it out for them. If you cannot leave a letter, I suggest reading it (aloud or in your head) in front of your offerings as encouragement.

Spend some time with your offerings. Speak your intentions out loud at least once. Say: "May these offerings find the Departed well and help them on their way home," or something to that effect.

Once you are ready, leave your ancestor. Consider leaving it out for a few days, although be mindful if you include perishable or alcohol in your offerings.

If you need more guidance, I recommend "Sphere and Sundry's Guide." Good luck!

Maxims No. 001: Γνῶθι σεαυτόν, "Know thyself" CotS: Honoring the Past

Honoring the past can be a really daunting task. It can refer to the person you were last week, your childhood, or even your ancestors and those who came before you. Our interpretation of the past constantly changes; however, one thing remains constant—you. No matter how you define the past, it is /your/ definition.

Whether looking at your personal journey over the last 12 months or looking into your lineage/ancestors and even past selves, they will always be connected by the person you are today. Figuring out how your past(s) have moulded you today is still considered honoring the past, even if it may not feel like it.

🍁 (Shadow) Prompts to Honor the Past

What is your earliest memory? How does that memory make you feel, and who was there with you?

What are the core values you were taught in your upbringing? Do you still follow those values? Why or why not?

What's one thing from your childhood that influences your behavior in the present day? How do you feel about that influence?

Think about the person you were five or ten years ago; how has your life changed? Who was in your inner circle then, and where were you? How have you grown and changed over the years?

Who are your ancestors? What do you know about them? Where did they come from, and what was the culture of that place at the time?

[lost-celestial]

Writing a Letter to the Future

4. Think about the person you were five or ten years ago; how has your life changed? Who was in your inner circle then, and where were you? How have you grown and changed over the years?

One of my favorite yearly events is writing a letter to my future self. I don't think I've written one recently, but I always find it interesting to see how much my life has changed in just 12 months (or whatever duration you decide for yourself).

If you've never done it before, I recommend you sit down for 5-10 minutes and just write whatever comes to mind about your life. Include your recent achievements, the people in your life, how you feel, and your goals for the future. You might be pleasantly surprised when the time comes to receive your letter.

I like using FutureMe (https://www.futureme.org/)! You’ll get an email when the time comes. This isn't meant to be stressful, so write as little (or as much) as you'd like. Have fun with it!

Maxims No. 001: Γνῶθι σεαυτόν, "Know thyself" CotS: Honoring the Past

Honoring the past can be a really daunting task. It can refer to the person you were last week, your childhood, or even your ancestors and those who came before you. Our interpretation of the past constantly changes; however, one thing remains constant—you. No matter how you define the past, it is /your/ definition.

Whether looking at your personal journey over the last 12 months or looking into your lineage/ancestors and even past selves, they will always be connected by the person you are today. Figuring out how your past(s) have moulded you today is still considered honoring the past, even if it may not feel like it.

🍁 (Shadow) Prompts to Honor the Past

What is your earliest memory? How does that memory make you feel, and who was there with you?

What are the core values you were taught in your upbringing? Do you still follow those values? Why or why not?

What's one thing from your childhood that influences your behavior in the present day? How do you feel about that influence?

Think about the person you were five or ten years ago; how has your life changed? Who was in your inner circle then, and where were you? How have you grown and changed over the years?

Who are your ancestors? What do you know about them? Where did they come from, and what was the culture of that place at the time?

[lost-celestial]

Exploring Our Childhood Influences

3. What's one thing from your childhood that influences your behavior in the present day? How do you feel about that influence?

Looking at your past objectively can be really hard. I realized I didn't have a specific answer to this prompt, which is why I decided to create a tarot spread to get a different perspective on how my childhood has and continues to influence me. You may use this spread however you'd like! I hope it's helpful. 🧡

Maxims No. 001: Γνῶθι σεαυτόν, "Know thyself" CotS: Honoring the Past

Honoring the past can be a really daunting task. It can refer to the person you were last week, your childhood, or even your ancestors and those who came before you. Our interpretation of the past constantly changes; however, one thing remains constant—you. No matter how you define the past, it is /your/ definition.

Whether looking at your personal journey over the last 12 months or looking into your lineage/ancestors and even past selves, they will always be connected by the person you are today. Figuring out how your past(s) have moulded you today is still considered honoring the past, even if it may not feel like it.

🍁 (Shadow) Prompts to Honor the Past

What is your earliest memory? How does that memory make you feel, and who was there with you?

What are the core values you were taught in your upbringing? Do you still follow those values? Why or why not?

What's one thing from your childhood that influences your behavior in the present day? How do you feel about that influence?

Think about the person you were five or ten years ago; how has your life changed? Who was in your inner circle then, and where were you? How have you grown and changed over the years?

Who are your ancestors? What do you know about them? Where did they come from, and what was the culture of that place at the time?

[lost-celestial]

CW: Brief Mention of Death

I won't be going into any graphic details about death; however, I understand that the topic can be highly triggering, so please read at your own discretion. I'll be answering Questions 1 and 2 from the reblogged post.

1. What is your earliest memory? How does that memory make you feel, and who was there with you?

I've thought about this question a lot recently, and I'd say my earliest memory is the death of my Great-Grandmother. I was extremely young when she died—maybe I was 3 or 4 years old—so my memories are a bit fuzzy.

I have vague memories of standing in her hospital room with my Mom and Grandma, looking at her lying in bed with her eyes closed. The all-white room had a beautiful blue reflection from the light outside. I don't remember walking up to her; however, I remember standing by her side while she passed. My entire attention was on how long her nails were—long like how my Grandma keeps hers and long like how I keep mine now.

I was too young to understand what death and dying meant at the time. But looking back at that memory, I feel a bit bittersweet. It's sad that I never got to know her, but I think my earliest memory is with her in her last moments. I know that, in her last moments, she was with people who loved her, and I will always hold that memory close.

2. What are the core values you were taught in your upbringing? Do you still follow those values? Why or why not?

My Mom was always firm about treating others how you wanted to be treated—if you treat someone well, they'll treat you nicely in return, and the opposite was true. I still live by this today, but growing up, it made me very petty. If I treated someone well, I expected that in return, but that was not always the case. If someone treated me poorly, I'd do the same thing back. I know that's not exactly what she meant, but I am always mindful of how I treat others because I can't be mad at someone for doing something I have done myself.

Maxims No. 001: Γνῶθι σεαυτόν, "Know thyself" CotS: Honoring the Past

Honoring the past can be a really daunting task. It can refer to the person you were last week, your childhood, or even your ancestors and those who came before you. Our interpretation of the past constantly changes; however, one thing remains constant—you. No matter how you define the past, it is /your/ definition.

Whether looking at your personal journey over the last 12 months or looking into your lineage/ancestors and even past selves, they will always be connected by the person you are today. Figuring out how your past(s) have moulded you today is still considered honoring the past, even if it may not feel like it.

🍁 (Shadow) Prompts to Honor the Past

What is your earliest memory? How does that memory make you feel, and who was there with you?

What are the core values you were taught in your upbringing? Do you still follow those values? Why or why not?

What's one thing from your childhood that influences your behavior in the present day? How do you feel about that influence?

Think about the person you were five or ten years ago; how has your life changed? Who was in your inner circle then, and where were you? How have you grown and changed over the years?

Who are your ancestors? What do you know about them? Where did they come from, and what was the culture of that place at the time?

[lost-celestial]

Maxims No. 001: Γνῶθι σεαυτόν, "Know thyself" CotS: Honoring the Past

Honoring the past can be a really daunting task. It can refer to the person you were last week, your childhood, or even your ancestors and those who came before you. Our interpretation of the past constantly changes; however, one thing remains constant—you. No matter how you define the past, it is /your/ definition.

Whether looking at your personal journey over the last 12 months or looking into your lineage/ancestors and even past selves, they will always be connected by the person you are today. Figuring out how your past(s) have moulded you today is still considered honoring the past, even if it may not feel like it.

🍁 (Shadow) Prompts to Honor the Past

What is your earliest memory? How does that memory make you feel, and who was there with you?

What are the core values you were taught in your upbringing? Do you still follow those values? Why or why not?

What's one thing from your childhood that influences your behavior in the present day? How do you feel about that influence?

Think about the person you were five or ten years ago; how has your life changed? Who was in your inner circle then, and where were you? How have you grown and changed over the years?

Who are your ancestors? What do you know about them? Where did they come from, and what was the culture of that place at the time?

[lost-celestial]

14 Ways to Celebrate the Soul's Journey into Autumn

🍁 Theme: Honoring the Past 🍁 Timing: Autumn/Fall Migration, Late Aug. to Nov. 🍁 Personal Preference: Sept. 16 to Sept. 20

Honoring Ψυχή Πτερόεσσα, Psyche, the Winged One, and Ἑρμης Αθανατος Δαικτορος, Hermes, the Immortal Guide.

Clean and cleanse your space.

Consider planting milkweed. NOTE: MILKWEED IS TOXIC TO HUMANS, PETS, AND LIVESTOCK. Before you plant anything, check that you can handle the maintenance and that your preferred species is not invasive to your area.

Light incense or a candle to guide the Souls of the departed.

Leave offerings for your ancestors and departed family members. If you don't want to leave offerings for them, give an offering to Psyche, Persephone, or Demeter as the seasons change again.

Connect with your ancestors or passing Souls (after taking the necessary precautions, such as protection, warding, etc.)

Clean someone's grave or tombstone.

Write a letter to your future self.

Visit a butterfly garden or butterfly sanctuary.

Consider donating winter clothes, socks, or canned goods to those in need.

Go on a nature walk before it gets too cold.

Pour libations to Hades or the Souls of the departed to aid Souls on their journey.

Reflect on where you are now and where you came from.

Consider what you've been doing for the last year. Are you satisfied with the work you've been putting in? Write a journal prompt with your answer.

Write a petition to Psyche to watch over you before the winter.

[lost-celestial]

Celebration of the Soul (Overview)

Description: This is a modern collection of festivals for Psyche and Hermes that follows the migration of Monarch butterflies. The timing may change yearly. There are four festivals, one for each stage of migration/season to celebrate and honor our past, present, and future. More information will be posted later.

If Monarchs aren't local to your region, I suggest using the migration of a different butterfly in your area. Otherwise, feel free to use the Equinoxes instead!

Inspired by @starry-polytheism's festival for the Southern Hemisphere and @lavenderwaterfall's festival for the Northern Hemisphere. Dividers by @/k1ssyoursister

Soul's Journey: Spring

🦋 Theme: Looking to the Future 🦋 Timing: Spring Migration, Mid-Mar. to Early Apr. 🦋 Personal Preference: Mar. 31 to Apr. 2

Honoring Ψυχή Ἀνθεία, Psyche, the Friend of Flowers, and Ἑρμης Εριουνης, Hermes, the Luckbringer and Helper.

This is the first generation of a yearlong journey that will span multiple generations of monarchs.

Monarchs are one of the only butterflies that Monarch twice a year. The start of their adventure begins here, usually sometime in mid-March. As the temperature gets warmer, Monarchs will leave their overwintering spots (where they spend the winter) and migrate North. By Spring fully rolls around, the Monarchs have already started their next adventure.

Our first Soul's Journey begins here. This is the time to celebrate the start of a new chapter in our lives and look towards the future. We honor Psyche, the Friend of Flowers, by celebrating the return of the Spring and breathing spirit back into our lives. We honor Hermes, the Luckbringer and Helper, by asking for Hermes' guidance in the next chapter of our lives. He will be our guide through the unknown.

In this soft grassy spot, Psyche lay pleasantly reclining on her bed of dewy turf and, her great disquiet of mind soothed, fell sweetly asleep. Presently, refreshed by rest, she rose with her mind at ease. What she now saw was a park planted with big trees and a spring of crystal-clear water.

Soul's Journey: Summer

☀️ Theme: Enjoying the Present ☀️ Timing: Summer, June to Mid August ☀️ Personal Preference: Jun. 18 to Jun. 20

Honoring Ψυχή ἐρωμένη, Psyche, the Lover of Love and Ἑρμης Δαις Ἑταιρος, Hermes, the Comarde of the Feast.

After Spring comes Summer.

For the next couple of Monarch generations, they’ll dedicate their lives to continuing North and breeding. Monarchs die, are born, and die again; yet, time continues to move. Monarchs are never stagnant and are always flying towards their next goal.

This is the time to celebrate the present moment and find joy in the little things. It’s the time to remember that everyday we are progressing, even if it feels like we aren’t or that we’re regressing. Every day that we’re alive is a day well spent. We’ll honor Psyche, the Lover of Love, by spending time appreciate the people we care about in our lives and spending time offline. We’ll honor Hermes, the Comrade of the Feast, by showing gratitude for the things we have and actually celebrating ourselves and what we are achieving in the moment. It’s a celebration of self.

As far and wide as the house extended, every part of it was likewise of inestimable price. All the walls, which were built of solid blocks of gold, shone with their own brilliance so that the house furnished its own daylight, sun or no sun; [....] As [Psyche] gazed at all this with much pleasure, a disembodied voice came to her: 'Mistress, you need not be amazed at this great wealth. All of it is yours.'

Soul's Journey: Autumn

🍁 Theme: Honoring the Past 🍁 Timing: Autumn/Fall Migration, Late Aug. to Nov. 🍁 Personal Preference: Sept. 16 to Sept. 20

Honoring Ψυχή Πτερόεσσα, Psyche, the Winged One and Ἑρμης Αθανατος Δαικτορος, Hermes, the Immortal Guide.

After several months of the heat, the temperature begins to drop and the plants begin to die.

By this point, three generations of Monarchs have lived and died. Now, it’s time for the Monarchs’ biggest journey: migrating down South once again.

Flying down South will be completed in one generation, throughout the Autumn/Fall months. Monarchs of this generation are significantly different than their great-grandparents, whom started the journey to the North in the spring. These months live significantly longer and won’t reproduce as much until they’ve reached their destination.

In the most literal sense, these Monarchs have transformed into something completely different than their parents, and their parent’s parents. This is the start of the end of a long adventure. We’ll honor Psyche, the Winged One, by reflecting on how we can learn from our past. We’ll honor Hermes, the Immortal Guide, by leaving offerings to our ancestors and asking Chthonic deities for their guidance with change.

NOTE: I recommend you take your time with this part of the celebration. It can be heavy, as much of this part revolves around the departed and the end of something. Really take your time to allow yourself to feel your emotions and process what you're feeling. You want to take your time with this.

Then, indeed, Psyche knew that her last hour had come and, that all disguised was at an end and that she was being openly sent to instant destruction. So much was clear, seeing that she was being made to go on her own two feet to [Hades] and the shades. Without delay, she made for a certain lofty tower, meaning to throw herself off it, for in that way, she thought she could most directly and economically go down to the Underworld. But the tower suddenly broke into speech: 'Why, poor child, do you want to destroy yourself by a death leap? Why needlessly give up at this last ordeal?'

Soul's Journey: Winter

❄️ Theme: Repose (Rest) ❄️ Timing: Winter, December to Early March ❄️ Personal Timing: Dec. 30 to Jan. 3

Honoring Ψυχή, Psyche, Personification of the Soul and Ἑρμης, Hermes, God of Communication, Boundaries and Divine Guide.

After the long migration South again, the generation of super Monarchs will die. Unlike the generations before them, these Monarchs will begin reproducing and laying eggs once Spring rolls around again. Like Autumn, this season is spent mostly traveling South until the temperature warms up again, and they migrate North again to start the next breeding cycle. This generation is truly the most special of all previous generations, and both symbolize the Monarchs' incredible journey and the end of an era. It’s the time to reflect, appreciate, and acknowledge what we’ve done over the course of the seasons. To celebrate, we’ll honor Psyche herself with some much-needed self-care and R&R. Alongside that, we’ll honor Hermes for his help in guiding us every day.

Cups of nectar were served to Zeus by his own cupbearer, the shepherd lad (Ganymede), and to the others by Dionysus; Hephaestus cooked the dinner; the Seasons (Hoare) made everything colorful with roses and other flowers; the Graces (Charities) sprinkled perfumes; the Muses discoursed tuneful music. Then Apollo sang to the lyre, and Aphrodite, fitting her steps to the sweet music, danced in all her beauty. [...] This was Psyche's marriage to Eros, and when her time came, they had a daughter, whom we called Hedone [Pleasure].

[lost-celestial]

The Soul's Journey into Autumn 2024 has officially concluded for me; however, anyone can continue celebrating for as long as they like.

14 Ways to Celebrate the Soul's Journey into Autumn

Prompts to Honor the Past

Exploring Our Childhood Influences w/ Tarot

FutureMe - Write a Letter to Your Future Self

Ritual to Guide the Departed

Petition Hestia, Psyche, Hermes, and Hades

PAC - Lesson from your mistakes

This blog will return on December 2nd for the Soul's Journey into Winter 2024; until then, have fun in Autumn! ♡

This blog is dedicated to celebrating my modern festival to honor Psyche and Hermes called "Celebration of the Soul." Any posts related to the Soul's Journeys will be housed here. If anyone wants to celebrate with me, submissions and asks are open!

Main: @wayfind-er - Marie (She/They)

❣️ "Wait, what is a Soul's Journey?" Celebration of the Soul is a modern festival I created for Psyche, the personification of the Soul, and Hermes, the God of Communication and Divine Guide. It follows the migration of Monarch butterflies and celebrates the four seasons in four celebrations called Soul's Journeys.

If you are interested in reading more, check this out. As we approach the celebration, more information will be posted.

❣️ "What are the four Soul's Journeys?" Simply put, the Soul's Journeys represent our life through the seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn/Fall, and Winter. While the Celebration of the Soul was created with the Monarch butterfly migration in mind, these celebrations are meant to be individualized for you and your practice—meaning, you can celebrate at any time, in any season. Spring represents hope for the future; Summer represents love for the present moment; Autumn represents gratitude for our pasts; Winter represents a time of rest. Throughout the seasons, we'll honor different epithets of Psyche and Hermes.

Divider by @/cafekitsune