lost-celestial

[lost-celestial]

Last Journey of the Year

5. Genuinely ask yourself: when was the last time you felt well-rested? How do you feel right now?

It's time for everyone's least favorite time of the year: shadow work.

If you don't feel like you are in a good mental space, I will never recommend trying shadow work. However, if you are in a safe environment and know how to ground yourself properly, it is worthwhile to do this before the year ends.

This is the perfect time to declutter your house and delete old apps, photos, and contacts from your phone, get rid of some emotional baggage, and literally everything else so that you can start the new year as a new person. Shadow work is just one way to do it. But you can do all I just suggested and more!

With this, you're officially ready for the new year!!! I wish everyone a fantastic start to the year and thank you to everyone who joined me for this season's celebration. ❄️

Maxims No. 088: Λέγε εἰδώς, "Tell when you know." CotS: Rest and Repose

Towards the end of the year, time seems to speed up. There's always something to do, a message to send, a deadline, an exam—it feels endless. In the chaos of it all, it can be hard to remember to take a break and breathe.

As much as we try, we can never work past tiredness. It will always catch up with us in the end. Rather than waiting until we cannot bear the growing weight on our shoulders, consider having a moment of downtime to sit and relax for once. You'll definitely appreciate it in the long run.

❄️(Shadow) Prompts to Relax and Reset

What are 4 lessons you learned this year?

What's one small thing you've wanted to do but have not had time for? How can you find time to do that?

What are 5 things you did well this calendar year?

What's one way your practice has changed or inspired you? This can include religious practices, witchcraft-related practices, etc.

Genuinely ask yourself: when was the last time you felt well-rested? How do you feel right now? Try to label your emotions and sit with those feelings. If you're interested, you can use these shadow prompts to help you better understand your needs.

[lost-celestial]

Writing a Letter to the Future

4. What's one way your practice has changed or inspired you? This can include religious practices, witchcraft-related practices, etc.

Future Me is going to hate me for the amount of emails I'm going to get, but honestly, there's something really comforting about writing a letter to my future self. It is like affirming that I will be there to receive the message.

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. While the prompt is centered on how your practice has changed or inspired you, use this time to write about anything and everything on your mind. There's really no reason to hold back.

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. 088: Λέγε εἰδώς, "Tell when you know." CotS: Rest and Repose

Towards the end of the year, time seems to speed up. There's always something to do, a message to send, a deadline, an exam—it feels endless. In the chaos of it all, it can be hard to remember to take a break and breathe.

As much as we try, we can never work past tiredness. It will always catch up with us in the end. Rather than waiting until we cannot bear the growing weight on our shoulders, consider having a moment of downtime to sit and relax for once. You'll definitely appreciate it in the long run.

❄️(Shadow) Prompts to Relax and Reset

What are 4 lessons you learned this year?

What's one small thing you've wanted to do but have not had time for? How can you find time to do that?

What are 5 things you did well this calendar year?

What's one way your practice has changed or inspired you? This can include religious practices, witchcraft-related practices, etc.

Genuinely ask yourself: when was the last time you felt well-rested? How do you feel right now? Try to label your emotions and sit with those feelings. If you're interested, you can use these shadow prompts to help you better understand your needs.

[lost-celestial]

Messages from Psyche and Hermes

3. What are 5 things you did well this calendar year?

The Soul's Journey celebrates Psyche as the Personification of the Soul and Hermes as the God of Communication. As a fun way to celebrate, I've compiled five of my favorite messages I've received from Psyche and Hermes this year.

Hopefully, some of these messages will help you out, too.

From Psyche

"It's your first time living this life."

"You are imperfect, and you are flawed. Yet, you are unique and wonderful at the same time. It's okay to make mistakes and to have regrets. You are human, and this life belongs to you—enjoy it."

"What do you need right now? You know yourself the best, so listen."

"That anger you feel makes you human."

"...and even in your darkest moments, I will always be there to help you."

From Hermes

"You have the knowledge, the tools, and the skillset."

"You need to decide. Will you continue to stew in your anxiety, or will you do something?"

"Some things happen for a reason, but we will always be there to help you."

“Once again, you’ve chosen to repress and ignore. Once again, I shall tell you that you must look inside—at what you know you need but are too afraid to get.

"Yes, those feelings are normal, but you cannot let them confuse and control you anymore."

Maxims No. 088: Λέγε εἰδώς, "Tell when you know." CotS: Rest and Repose

Towards the end of the year, time seems to speed up. There's always something to do, a message to send, a deadline, an exam—it feels endless. In the chaos of it all, it can be hard to remember to take a break and breathe.

As much as we try, we can never work past tiredness. It will always catch up with us in the end. Rather than waiting until we cannot bear the growing weight on our shoulders, consider having a moment of downtime to sit and relax for once. You'll definitely appreciate it in the long run.

❄️(Shadow) Prompts to Relax and Reset

What are 4 lessons you learned this year?

What's one small thing you've wanted to do but have not had time for? How can you find time to do that?

What are 5 things you did well this calendar year?

What's one way your practice has changed or inspired you? This can include religious practices, witchcraft-related practices, etc.

Genuinely ask yourself: when was the last time you felt well-rested? How do you feel right now? Try to label your emotions and sit with those feelings. If you're interested, you can use these shadow prompts to help you better understand your needs.

[lost-celestial]

Time of Rest & Repose

2. What's one small thing you've wanted to do but have not had time for? How can you find time to do that?

Without knowing your wishes, I can guess that what you want to do is offline or—if it requires the internet—does not need social media.

I challenge you to spend some time disconnected from the internet this week. It could be just an hour, two days, or the entire week. Spend as much time offline and away from social media as you can. Dedicate the time you would typically spend on social media and scrolling the internet to do what you want.

Maxims No. 088: Λέγε εἰδώς, "Tell when you know." CotS: Rest and Repose

Towards the end of the year, time seems to speed up. There's always something to do, a message to send, a deadline, an exam—it feels endless. In the chaos of it all, it can be hard to remember to take a break and breathe.

As much as we try, we can never work past tiredness. It will always catch up with us in the end. Rather than waiting until we cannot bear the growing weight on our shoulders, consider having a moment of downtime to sit and relax for once. You'll definitely appreciate it in the long run.

❄️(Shadow) Prompts to Relax and Reset

What are 4 lessons you learned this year?

What's one small thing you've wanted to do but have not had time for? How can you find time to do that?

What are 5 things you did well this calendar year?

What's one way your practice has changed or inspired you? This can include religious practices, witchcraft-related practices, etc.

Genuinely ask yourself: when was the last time you felt well-rested? How do you feel right now? Try to label your emotions and sit with those feelings. If you're interested, you can use these shadow prompts to help you better understand your needs.

[lost-celestial]

Journey of You

1. What are 4 lessons you learned this year?

Twelve months is a long time. It can be hard to remember each lesson you learned this year. And no one expected you to keep track of all your life lessons, either! Instead, consider trying this tarot spread I've created to highlight some key lessons you should carry with you into the new year. You may use this spread however you'd like! I hope it's helpful.

**You can substitute Cards 2 through 5 as one massive lesson to learn or use one card to represent one lesson through the four seasons.

Maxims No. 088: Λέγε εἰδώς, "Tell when you know." CotS: Rest and Repose

Towards the end of the year, time seems to speed up. There's always something to do, a message to send, a deadline, an exam—it feels endless. In the chaos of it all, it can be hard to remember to take a break and breathe.

As much as we try, we can never work past tiredness. It will always catch up with us in the end. Rather than waiting until we cannot bear the growing weight on our shoulders, consider having a moment of downtime to sit and relax for once. You'll definitely appreciate it in the long run.

❄️(Shadow) Prompts to Relax and Reset

What are 4 lessons you learned this year?

What's one small thing you've wanted to do but have not had time for? How can you find time to do that?

What are 5 things you did well this calendar year?

What's one way your practice has changed or inspired you? This can include religious practices, witchcraft-related practices, etc.

Genuinely ask yourself: when was the last time you felt well-rested? How do you feel right now? Try to label your emotions and sit with those feelings. If you're interested, you can use these shadow prompts to help you better understand your needs.

[lost-celestial]

Maxims No. 088: Λέγε εἰδώς, "Tell when you know." CotS: Rest and Repose

Towards the end of the year, time seems to speed up. There's always something to do, a message to send, a deadline, an exam—it feels endless. In the chaos of it all, it can be hard to remember to take a break and breathe.

As much as we try, we can never work past tiredness. It will always catch up with us in the end. Rather than waiting until we cannot bear the growing weight on our shoulders, consider having a moment of downtime to sit and relax for once. You'll definitely appreciate it in the long run.

❄️(Shadow) Prompts to Relax and Reset

What are 4 lessons you learned this year?

What's one small thing you've wanted to do but have not had time for? How can you find time to do that?

What are 5 things you did well this calendar year?

What's one way your practice has changed or inspired you? This can include religious practices, witchcraft-related practices, etc.

Genuinely ask yourself: when was the last time you felt well-rested? How do you feel right now? Try to label your emotions and sit with those feelings. If you're interested, you can use these shadow prompts to help you better understand your needs.

[lost-celestial]

14 Ways to Celebrate the Soul's Journey into 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.

14 Ways to Celebrate

Clean and cleanse your space.

Spend less time on social media/online.

Reflect on what you've achieved recently.

Dedicate an entire day to your hobbies/passion projects.

Spend time with loved ones, either online or in person.

Write a letter to Psyche and Hermes about how you feel you've changed over the calendar year. Tell them about your highs and lows, what you did well, and what you still want to do.

De-clutter your space and remove what you don't want/need.

Do something artistic in Psyche's name (watch a play/movie, make something by hand, cook, paint, read some philosophy, etc.)

Light incense or a candle for Psyche and welcome her into your space during this period of self-care and rest.

Write a gratitude list of all the things you're grateful for.

Do some shadow work, self-reflection, or general journaling.

Create a song playlist for Psyche or Hermes.

Consider donating to a butterfly or plant conservation or a mental health organization.

Write 5 things you did well during the calendar year.

[lost-celestial]

Maxism No. 133: Τῷ βίῳ μὴ ἄχθου, "Don't be discontented by life." Descent to Hades (Overview)

The Descent to Hades (DtH) follows the mythological stories of the five Rivers of Hades: Styx, Acheron, Cocytus, Phlegethon, and Lethe. Each river represents a different aspect of the human experience: hatred and fear, pain, sadness, passion, and the subconscious. While this post can be used as a guideline, you should only do what you feel comfortable with.

While honoring Hades every day, the festival emphasizes accepting the unknown, not letting our emotions consume us, and celebrating life (creation) and death (transformation).

🪦(Shadow) Prompts to Celebrate the Descent

How are you feeling right now as you prepare for this festival? How has your week been? What do you hope to gain or experience from this festival?

When was the last time you felt hate or fear? How does that situation impact you today?

What do death rites look like in your culture/practice?

What's on your "bucket list" or list of things to do before you die?

What are some things that ended for you this calendar year? On the flip side, what things have entered your life?

Reflect on a time you felt genuinely proud of yourself.

What are seven things you are grateful for?

[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.

Divider by @/xxbimbobunnyxx

If you aren't interested in astrology, you can choose not to include those aspects in your celebration and celebrate whenever you want. 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.

Giulio Romano, wall painting of the Olympian gods

D1: Preparation

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

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.

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).

Nicolas Poussin, The Death of Chione, 1622.

D2: Styx, River of Hate

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

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.

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.

Andrea Schiavone, The Marriage of Cupid and Psyche, 1540

D3: Acheron, River of Pain

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

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.

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.

Evelyn De Morgan, Demeter Mourning for Persephone, 1906

D4: Cocytus, River of Wailing

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

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.

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.)

Eugène Delacroix, The Barque of Dante, 1822

D5: Phlegethon, River of Fire

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

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.

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)

John William Waterhouse, Hylas and the Nymphs, 1896

D6: Lethe, River of Obvilvon

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

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.

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.

Banquet of the Gods

D7: Celebration

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

On the last day of the Descent to Hades, we celebrate by having a party in Hades' name. 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 life. To end, we celebrate with 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.

When it comes time for the Descent, you may not want to visit the River of Hate and Fear (River Styx) or the River of Wailing (River Cocytus). Instead, you'd prefer to spend a day (or all 7 days) exploring the River of Fire, Phlegethon. And that's totally fine!

If you plan on celebrating the Descent, you don't have to spend each day in the order I created or celebrate every day or river. I've just created an outline, and deciding how you want to celebrate is up to you! You can celebrate three out of the five rivers in one day or the same river for all seven days. For all I care, you can turn it into a 10-day celebration.

Have fun with it and try to make it your own celebration.

[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

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.

14 Ways to Celebrate

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.