#hai odin

[waloeders]

also on an odin note, the whole fight with him against bahamut is SO good

(video under cut, tw for lots of flashing lights)

the music change when dion stops his attack is !!!! agrgrhhrh that one bit was when i went okay. this game fucking slaps so hard

n odin and sleipnir are MASSIVE like i feel like i havent expressed this enough, they are giants!!!!!

[aidatapoisoningbyblue]

Usually idol out of annoying pain a wet nap tu o a nap we jack left off some time

[writergeekrhw]

THE REASON FOR THE SEASON

I don't think I've posted this here before, but time for my favorite Christmas story!*

Once upon a time, every Winter Solstice, Odin Yulefather would ride though the sky on his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir.** Children would leave boots full of hay out for his horse, and Odin would repay them with sweets or small toys.

So that was a thing.

Also worth noting that the way you sacrifice to Odin is you hang people and animals from huge trees. But maybe you don't want to actually do that anymore. Because, you know, human sacrifice is kind of a lot. Maybe you just want a small tree, one you can hang effigies of people and animals from. Or maybe just little round balls that aren't technically severed heads. Plus, while you're at it you can move it inside the house! And hey, you can still have green, white, and red be your solstice colors without thinking of pools of blood on the snow under an evergreen.

Anyway, Happy Yule!

*DISCLAIMER: There's some scholarly debate about this stuff, and I'm sure there're professors out there who'll take issue with this, but it's a good story, so who cares?

**Sleipnir has 8 legs because 4 people carry a dead body to the bonfire. Or at least that's one theory. See above.

[taw-k]

Hcs about baby loki

-He cried A LOT because his poor little fragile body wasn't built for the sudden change of environment.

-He was constantly uncomfortable at even normal room temperature so his room had to be a little cold and dim lights.

-I'm not exactly sure how long after birth a baby can be separated for prolonged periods of time from their mother but I doubt Loki was old enough so he cried for his mommy a lot.

-He loved a frozen pacifier, it would calm him almost instantly.

-Holding him didn't burn you as he hadn't developed the frost bite yet, which I assume to be a defense mechanism that's developed during puberty as developing it too young could cause issues during pregnancy or for the baby as they can't control their emotions.

-Consuming *Frigga's breast milk helped the magic in his body adapt his form so he'd be more comfortable but he couldn't consume it directly from her right away. She had to pump and then chill it so he could stomach it.

-His bio mom (who I think loved him) called him "snowflake" because he was tiny and unique.

-When he learned how to crawl he made a beeline for anything cold or outside of it was snowing, this was very frustrating for Frigga and Odin.

-He loved chewing on cold things like a chunk of ice or eating snow. His caretakers would look away from a second and he'd be munching face down in the snow.

-I've made a post about this one but since Asgard didn't have many sweets, the sweetest thing he could find was jam. He'd reach his little grabby hands for the jar anytime he was in the kitchen, watching Frigga cook for him. He'd get Thor to reach the jar and he would immediately dig his hands into it, ending with loki covered in bright red jam.

-ive always thought of jotuns as jotuns predatory animals, so he'd crawl very slowly behind people to "attack" them.

-would pick up any and every animal he could find. Especially the different ones, extra limb, blind, deaf, missing a limb, too small, because they needed the most love.

-nocturnal, didn't sleep at night for a long time. Even now he has trouble, but that's more so because of the nightmares.

-frequent night terrors

-anxiety for no reason? (like how animals get anxious outside of their natural environment, he developed anxiety as a young child because of this but no one , who didn't know hai origins, could explain it)

All in all he was very unhappy and both Odin and Frigga didn't know how to take care of a fussy frost giant baby so. I'll probably think of a few more some other time but that's all I got for now.

[cadeloverforever]

Hello! I wanted to make a Headcanon of Thor from GOD OF WAR, simply because I fell in love with the character 😔, I hope someone read this xD, then I'm going to make one of another character from Mk1, I hope you like it! (La versión en español está en esta misma publicación!)

_________________________________________

Thor Odinson Headcanon!

⛈ He sleeps on his back, of course he could change sleeping position if you are there but you will almost always see him sleeping on his back, I feel that he moves a lot when he sleeps although somehow he is going to wake up in the same position in which he slept, I also feel He snores a LOT but it's a sign that he feels calm and doesn't need to be tense or overwhelmed.

⛈He makes dad jokes, I know, I feel like literally while they're eating or doing whatever when there's silence he 100% has to tell a dad joke 😭

⛈Although he doesn't say it, he loves hugs, he loves it if he gives you hugs or if you give him a hug, he loves to hug you, if he could he would hug you very VERY tightly, but for fear of hurting you he would do it very delicately. (SOMEONE PLEASE GIVE THIS MAN A HUG 😭)

⛈He likes it when you comfort him when Odin said something that hurt Thor, it makes him feel loved by you, it is very easy to know when he is wrong, even if he doesn't say it, there will be many clues that give him away, such as: he doesn't respond with words, he just blurts out a type of grunt or responds with very short words, has an expression as if he is really emaciated, will sit staring at some fixed point for a VERY long time

⛈His belly is huge, and do you know what that means? It means greater comfort when you hug him! He will be like a very huggable giant bear!

⛈One day at night he opened most of the windows in his room, for what purpose?, with the purpose that when you feel cold you get closer to him, making you hug him and of course he won't complain about such an action.

_________________________________________

¡Hola! Quería hacer un Headcanon de Thor de GOD OF WAR, simplemente porque me enamoré del personaje 😔, espero que alguien lea esto xD, luego voy a hacer uno de otro personaje de Mk1, espero que les guste!

Thor Odinson Headcanon!

⛈ Duerme boca arriba, claro que podría cambiar de posición para dormir si estás ahí pero casi siempre lo verás durmiendo boca arriba, siento que se mueve mucho cuando duerme aunque de alguna manera se va a despertar en el misma posición en la que durmió, también siento que ronca MUCHO pero es señal de que se siente tranquilo y no necesita estar tenso ni abrumado.

⛈Él hace chistes de papá, lo sé, siento que literalmente mientras comen o hacen lo que sea cuando hay silencio él 100% tiene que contar un chiste de papá 😭

⛈Aunque no lo diga, le encantan los abrazos, le encanta que te abrace o que le des un abrazo, le encanta abrazarte, si pudiera te abrazaría muy MUY fuerte, pero por miedo a hacerte daño lo haría con mucha delicadeza. (ALGUIEN POR FAVOR DENLE UN ABRAZO A ESTE HOMBRE 😭)

⛈Le gusta cuando lo consuelas cuando Odin dijo algo que lastimó a Thor, eso lo hace sentir amado por ti, es muy fácil saber cuando se equivoca, aunque no lo diga, habrá muchas pistas que lo delatan, como por ejemplo: no responde con palabras, solo suelta una especie de gruñido o responde con palabras muy cortas, tiene una expresión como si estuviera realmente demacrado, se sienta mirando a algún punto fijo durante MUCHO largo tiempo

⛈Su barriga es enorme, ¿y sabes lo que eso significa? ¡Significa mayor consuelo cuando lo abrazas! ¡Será como un oso gigante al que podrás abrazar!

⛈Un día en la noche abrió la mayoría de las ventanas de su habitación, ¿con qué propósito?, con la finalidad de que cuando sientas frío te acerques a él, haciendo que lo abraces y por supuesto él no se quejará de tal acción.

[kiiriminna]

Second (and hopefully (?) final) part of my PKNA + W.I.T.C.H. -crossover: Donald and Odin Eidolon substituting Will and Cornelia as guardians of Kandrakar.

As what comes to costumes, this was a hard pick, but finally I decided to go with New Power -style. The wings aren't quite right, but close enough, I think...

If I ever go around drawing the rest of guardians, who should I cast? Lydia could probaby be either Irma or Hay Lin (I'm leaning towards Irma), but what other characters should I use?

Anyway, I just finished coloring this; it's now 2am, so I'll just post this quickly and get to bed before I start looking for anything to fix.

[compahuitzil1416]

hola son un nuevo seguidor te puedo perdir si puedes hacer una historia de odin x nostradamus por favor

Hola! Ya hay un fanfic de ellos en hetero, solo que si esta un poco subido de tono, es un poco antimoral y nada correcto ¿Te sirve?

[decemberwind]

Năm 2025 – BẢN HÒA CA KHÉP LẠI MỘT CHU KÌ

🎯 Năm 2025, các con số hợp lại thành 9 (2+0+2+5=9). Số 9 tượng trưng cho sự kết thúc một hành trình dài, để lại những bài học quý giá và mở ra cánh cửa cho những khởi đầu mới. Giống như một du khách đã chạm đích sau bao chặng đường, mang theo những câu chuyện đầy ý nghĩa, sự từng trải và lòng biết ơn dành cho hành trình đã qua.

Nếu năm 2024 – năm số 8 – khiến bạn tập trung mạnh mẽ vào thành tựu vật chất, xây dựng nền tảng tài chính vững chắc và theo đuổi thành công, thì năm 2025 là giai đoạn lùi lại, nhìn nhận toàn diện hành trình đã qua. Đây là thời khắc để buông bỏ, chữa lành và hướng đến các giá trị tinh thần cao hơn. Số 9 khuyến khích lòng vị tha, tinh thần cống hiến, và kết nối với những điều vượt ra ngoài lợi ích cá nhân.

🎯 Con số 9 cũng xuất hiện trong nhiều nền văn hóa và các học thuyết thần bí.

▪️ Trong Ấn Độ giáo, số 9 được xem là con số hoàn chỉnh và thần thánh, đại diện cho sự kết thúc chu kỳ trong hệ thập phân.

▪️ Theo thần thoại Trung Mỹ, chín vị thần cai trị chín đêm tạo thành một chu kỳ lịch, mang ý nghĩa về sự tái sinh và tuần hoàn.

▪️ Trong thần thoại Bắc Âu, số 9 liên kết với thần Odin và cây thế giới Yggdrasil, nơi chứa đựng chín thế giới đại diện cho mọi khía cạnh của vũ trụ. Odin đã treo mình trên cây này chín ngày để đạt được sự giác ngộ và hiểu được cổ ngữ rune.

▪️ Các nghi lễ Phật giáo cũng thường liên quan đến 9 nhà sư, tượng trưng cho sự giác ngộ và kết nối tinh thần.

▪️ Trong Cơ đốc giáo, số 9 đại diện cho chín quả của Đức Thánh Linh, như: tình yêu, niềm vui, bình an, kiên nhẫn, nhân từ, tốt lành, trung tín, dịu dàng và tự chủ – những đức tính mà các tín đồ luôn hướng đến.

Tất cả đều chỉ ra rằng số 9 không chỉ là một con số mà còn là biểu tượng của sự kết thúc để bắt đầu mới, của giác ngộ để dẫn đến lòng từ bi bác ái.

🎯 Trong Chiêm tinh, số 9 tương ứng với ngôi nhà thứ 9, ngôi nhà của Nhân Mã, chi phối triết lý sống, tín ngưỡng, giáo dục cao cấp, và sự mở rộng thế giới quan. Đây là ngôi nhà thứ hai tính từ nhà 8, nên quá trình lột xác và tái sinh từ những gắn kết cực đoan giữa người và người, khiến bạn am tường và trưởng thành về tâm lí. Sẽ là nền tảng cần thiết để bạn tìm thấy sự giác ngộ, kết nối tinh thần, và mở rộng hiểu biết, sẵn sàng mang những bài học ấy chia sẻ với thế giới.

🎯 Theo Tarot, số 9 liên kết với hai lá bài Ẩn chính là The Hermit (IX), The Moon (XVIII), mang đến những thông điệp quan trọng cho năm 2025

▪️ The Hermit (Ẩn sĩ): biểu tượng rõ ràng nhất của số 9, khắc họa hình ảnh hình ảnh của người thầy tinh thần, kẻ lữ hành mang theo ngọn đèn soi sáng con đường. Đây là biểu tượng của hành trình nội tại, dừng lại để chiêm nghiệm và tìm kiếm ánh sáng trí tuệ từ bên trong. Trong năm 2025, The Hermit nhắc nhở rằng những câu trả lời mà bạn tìm kiếm không nằm ở thế giới bên ngoài, mà ở chính nội tâm. Đây là thời gian để lắng nghe bản thân, học cách buông bỏ và tập trung vào sự trưởng thành tinh thần. Hành trình này có thể cô đơn, nhưng đó là sự đơn độc cần thiết để bạn tái kết nối với chính mình.

▪️The Moon (Mặt trăng): Gắn với số 18 (1+8=9), lá bài này đại diện cho những giấc mơ, trực giác, và cả những ảo ảnh. Năm 2025 mang theo lời nhắc từ The Moon rằng không phải mọi điều bạn thấy đều là sự thật. Đây là lúc bạn đối mặt với những nỗi sợ sâu thẳm, chấp nhận những điều chưa rõ ràng, và để trực giác dẫn lối. Lá bài cũng khuyến khích sự nhạy cảm và lòng bao dung khi đối diện với những cảm xúc phức tạp của bản thân và người khác.

🎯 Năm 2025 – năm số 9 – không chỉ là cái kết của một chu kỳ mà còn là sự chuẩn bị cho chương mới của cuộc đời. Đây là thời gian để bạn buông bỏ những gánh nặng không cần thiết, chữa lành những tổn thương, và tìm thấy sự kết nối sâu sắc với chính mình cùng thế giới xung quanh.

Hãy để lòng vị tha và trí tuệ dẫn dắt, để bạn không chỉ khép lại một hành trình đầy ý nghĩa mà còn sẵn sàng bước vào những trải nghiệm mới mẻ với trái tim và tâm hồn rộng mở ^^

~MãNhânNgư~

[thelanternsglow]

Let’s talk about Santa, the bells, the elves, the reindeer and sleigh, not forgetting the good ole mince pies.

Yeah, they’re all pagan too.

From Shamans to Sleigh Bells: The Magical Origins of Santa and His Traditions

Imagine a winter’s night lit by the soft glow of candles, where the air is crisp with frost and ancient spirits stir beneath the snow. In this world, a figure dressed in fur and red robes rides through the night sky, pulled by magical reindeer, guided by the sound of jingling bells. The traditions of Christmas—elves, reindeer, mince pies—are all steeped in something older than the modern holiday we know. They’re rooted in the deep, ancient practices of pre-Christian festivals, folklore, and rituals that celebrate the winter solstice, the return of the sun, and the magic of the season.

Christmas as we know it may feel like a modern, festive affair, but its heart beats with the ancient rhythms of pagan celebrations and winter rites. From the shamanic origins of Santa to the sacred symbols woven into every tradition, Christmas is a tapestry of forgotten stories and deep, seasonal magic. So, let’s unwrap these ancient customs and explore the pagan roots behind Santa, his elves, the reindeer, and all those other festive wonders.

When Santa Was a Shaman

These days, Father Christmas is all about the presents, mince pies, and a slightly questionable Coca-Cola advert from the ’30s. But if you dig a little deeper into his story, you’ll find he’s not just the jolly bloke in red we see today. Once upon a time, Father Christmas—or Santa—was something much more magical. Beneath the layers of Victorian cheer and commercial sparkle lies a figure rooted in ancient shamanic traditions, Pagan rituals, and the deep mysteries of winter.

Let’s take a journey back to when Santa was a shaman, shall we?

Odin, the Shaman of Winter

Long before the red suit and reindeer, there was Odin, the Norse All-Father. If you’re wondering what Odin has to do with Santa, the answer is quite a lot! Odin was the original mystical wanderer: a bearded old man who travelled the worlds, bringing wisdom and blessings to those who needed it. Sound familiar?

1. The Wild Hunt:

During Yule, the Norse midwinter festival, Odin led the Wild Hunt, a ghostly procession of spirits racing through the skies. People would leave offerings to Odin and his spectral entourage, hoping for protection and good fortune. This tradition of leaving gifts for a winter visitor feels a lot like putting out mince pies for Santa, doesn’t it?

2. The Flying Horse:

Instead of reindeer, Odin rode Sleipnir, his eight-legged horse, across the heavens. Kids would leave hay and treats for Sleipnir, just like we do for Rudolph and his gang.

3. Wisdom and Gifts:

Odin didn’t drop toys down chimneys, but he gave something even better—knowledge, poetry, and magical runes. He was a bringer of light in the darkest time of year, much like Father Christmas bringing joy in winter’s chill.

Odin’s role as a traveller between worlds, a guide through the dark, and a bringer of gifts ties him firmly to the shamanic tradition. Shamans were the bridge between the earthly and the spiritual, just like Odin, and just like Santa in his more mystical moments.

The Siberian Shaman Theory

Now, here’s where things get even more magical. Some people reckon our modern image of Santa—red suit, flying reindeer, the whole shebang—has roots in Siberian shamanism.

1. The Red and White Mushrooms:

In Siberia, shamans used Amanita muscaria mushrooms (the red ones with white spots) in their winter rituals. These mushrooms were thought to connect them to the spirit world. The idea is that Santa’s iconic red and white outfit mirrors the colours of this sacred fungus.

2. Flying Reindeer:

Reindeer in Siberia were sacred and central to shamanic practices. They were said to eat the same mushrooms, becoming “intoxicated” and leaping around. From there, it’s not too big a leap (pun intended) to flying reindeer pulling a sleigh.

3. Chimney Entrances:

With snow piled high, Siberian shamans would sometimes enter homes through the smokehole or chimney to perform rituals and bring blessings. Remind you of anyone?

The shamanic Santa isn’t about consumerism or even just merrymaking—he’s a symbol of transformation, guiding us through winter’s challenges and reminding us of the gifts hidden in the dark.

The Magic of Holly, Mistletoe, and Robins

Winter’s full of these little seasonal touches—holly on the mantle, mistletoe in the doorway, robins on Christmas cards. They’re not just decorations, though; they carry a lot of symbolic weight, tied to both shamanic and Pagan traditions.

1. Holly:

Holly is evergreen, defying the cold and standing strong through the darkest months. Its bright red berries represent life and vitality, while its prickly leaves were thought to ward off evil spirits. The Druids saw holly as sacred, a plant of protection and resilience. Maybe that’s why early depictions of Father Christmas often showed him crowned with a holly wreath.

2. Mistletoe:

Mistletoe was another sacred plant for the Druids, seen as a gift from the gods. It grows high in the branches of trees, almost like a bridge between heaven and earth—a very shamanic idea. Kissing under the mistletoe is a later addition, but the plant’s role as a symbol of connection and blessing is ancient.

3. Robins:

The cheery robin, with its bright red breast, is a symbol of hope and endurance in winter. Some stories say the red comes from a flame it fanned to keep baby Jesus warm, but its deeper roots tie it to the life force—the spark of energy that keeps going even in the coldest times.

When Santa Was More Than Just a Gift-Giver

Back in the day, Santa—or his many predecessors—wasn’t just about dropping presents down chimneys. He was a figure of mystery and magic, tied to the cycles of nature and the deep wisdom of winter.

• Gift-Giving: Like Odin or the Holly King, he brought blessings rather than toys—a reminder of abundance even in scarcity.

• Journeying Through the Dark: Whether it’s Odin on his Wild Hunt or the Siberian shaman entering homes, Santa’s roots lie in guiding us through the toughest time of year.

• Symbols of Light and Life: From holly’s evergreen strength to the robin’s bright flash of hope, his imagery is all about finding life in the midst of winter’s chill.

So next time you see Father Christmas in his sleigh or hang up some mistletoe, remember this: you’re not just celebrating a jolly old man in a red suit. You’re tapping into something ancient, magical, and deeply human—a connection to the past, to the earth, and to the mysteries of the season.

What do you reckon? Still fancy a mince pie, or are you craving some mushrooms now?

Ah, Santa’s elves! Those cheeky little helpers working away in the North Pole are a fascinating addition to the Father Christmas story. But like much of his legend, the elves have roots that reach deep into older, more magical traditions. Let’s explore where these merry little beings might have come from, shall we?

Elves in Myth and Folklore

The idea of elves didn’t start with Santa’s workshop. Far from it! Elves have been part of European folklore for centuries, and they were anything but the cheerful toy-makers we imagine today.

1. Norse Álfar:

In Norse mythology, the álfar (elves) were powerful, otherworldly beings tied to nature and magic. They were said to inhabit Álfheim, a mystical realm, and were often associated with light, fertility, and protection. But they could be tricky too—helpful one moment and mischievous the next, depending on how they were treated.

2. Fairies and Household Spirits:

In Celtic and Germanic traditions, elves overlap with fairies and other household spirits like brownies or kobolds. These little beings were known to assist with chores—if you kept on their good side. Leave them offerings like milk or bread, and they’d help around the house. Forget their due or offend them, and you’d regret it!

3. The Wild and the Weird:

Some elves and fair folk had darker reputations. They could lead travellers astray, cause illness, or play tricks on humans. While Santa’s elves are all about joy and creativity, they carry an echo of this wilder, more unpredictable energy.

Elves and Santa: The Connection

So how did these mystical beings end up in Santa’s workshop? It’s not entirely clear, but there are a few theories:

1. Yuletide Spirits:

In Scandinavian folklore, the nisse or tomte were little household spirits who became closely associated with Christmas. These small, bearded figures wore red caps and were known for protecting farms and homes. Like elves, they were industrious, magical, and fond of good cheer—definitely a vibe you can see in Santa’s helpers.

2. Victorian Reinvention:

Elves were officially recruited into Santa’s story in the 19th century, thanks to Victorian writers and illustrators. They wanted to give Santa a whimsical, magical workforce, and elves—already tied to Christmas through Nordic traditions—fit the bill perfectly.

3. Workshop Magic:

The image of elves toiling away to make toys for children might also draw on the idea of dwarves from Norse myths. These master craftsmen forged powerful objects like Thor’s hammer. Combine that craftsmanship with a bit of fairy mischief, and you’ve got Santa’s modern elves.

Shamanic Links to Santa’s Elves

If we’re sticking with the “Santa as shaman” theme, the elves might represent spirits or guides. In many shamanic traditions, shamans work with helper spirits—beings from the otherworld who assist them in their journeys and tasks.

1. Magical Helpers:

Just as Siberian shamans had reindeer and spirit allies, Santa’s elves could be seen as his otherworldly helpers. They take on the work of manifesting magic in the material world—making toys, preparing gifts, and keeping the seasonal energy alive.

2. Connection to Nature:

Elves are often tied to nature and the unseen world. As Santa’s helpers, they could represent a link between the human world and the magic of the natural and spiritual realms, working behind the scenes to bring joy and abundance.

The Symbolism of Elves

Santa’s elves aren’t just about making toys; they carry deeper meanings tied to ancient traditions:

• Creativity and Craftsmanship: Like the dwarves of Norse lore, they remind us of the importance of skill and hard work—turning raw materials into something extraordinary.

• Magic and Mystery: As beings of the unseen world, elves embody the wonder and enchantment of the season. They remind us that there’s more to life than meets the eye.

• Teamwork and Harmony: Santa may be the star, but it’s the elves who keep everything running. They represent the power of collaboration and community.

From Mischief to Magic

So, while Santa’s elves have been sanitized into cheerful toy-makers, their roots are far more magical—and a bit mischievous. Whether they’re inspired by Norse álfar, Celtic fairies, or the household nisse, they carry an echo of the wild, ancient forces that make midwinter such a special time.

Next time you picture them hammering away in the North Pole, imagine them with a wink and a nod to their untamed past—creatures of magic, mystery, and a dash of mischief. What’s a bit of Christmas without a little chaos, after all?

Reindeer and Sleigh: A Ride Through History

Picture this: a snowy winter’s night, the jingling of bells, and the whoosh of a sleigh gliding through the sky, pulled by a team of flying reindeer. It’s classic Christmas, right? But have you ever wondered why it’s reindeer? Or where the flying sleigh came from? Spoiler: it didn’t just pop out of a Coca-Cola advert. Like much of Santa’s story, it’s steeped in ancient myths, magical traditions, and a bit of winter folklore.

Why Reindeer?

First off, let’s talk about reindeer. They’re not just randomly plucked from the Arctic tundra for festive vibes—they’ve got a rich history tied to survival, magic, and midwinter celebrations.

1. The Arctic Connection:

Reindeer are the animal of the far north. For the Sámi people of Scandinavia and northern Siberia, reindeer are life—food, transport, warmth, everything. It’s no surprise they feature in so many legends and rituals. These weren’t just animals; they were seen as sacred, with spiritual ties to the natural and unseen worlds.

2. Shamanic Symbolism:

Now, here’s where it gets magical. In Siberian shamanic traditions, reindeer were thought to be messengers between realms. Shamans—often dressed in fur-trimmed outfits that sound a lot like Santa’s—would travel in reindeer-drawn sledges or enter trances to journey into the spirit world. Some legends even say shamans “rode” reindeer on these spiritual flights. Sound familiar?

3. Flying Reindeer:

The idea of reindeer flying might also come from the reindeer’s connection to Amanita muscaria mushrooms—the red-and-white ones shamans used in rituals. Reindeer eat these mushrooms and are said to act a bit… well, let’s say trippy. People watching them might have thought they were flying! Add that to stories of shamans soaring through the skies, and you’ve got the makings of Rudolph and his crew.

And the Sleigh?

Santa’s sleigh is another part of the story that has deep roots, both practical and mythical.

1. Winter Transport:

In the snowy northern climates, sleighs weren’t just handy—they were essential. They were the only way to move people and goods across the frozen landscape. So it makes sense that Santa, delivering gifts in the dead of winter, would need a sleigh to do the job.

2. Mythical Rides:

Sleighs aren’t just practical—they’ve got a magical side, too. Think of Odin riding through the skies on Sleipnir, his eight-legged horse. Sleipnir wasn’t your average steed—he could gallop between worlds. Swap the horse for a sleigh, add some reindeer, and you’ve got a supernatural vehicle fit for a Yuletide legend.

3. The Spirit of the Wild Hunt:

Speaking of Odin, his Wild Hunt is another big clue. This ghostly procession of gods, spirits, and animals tearing across the winter skies might be where the whole idea of Santa’s airborne sleigh comes from. The Wild Hunt wasn’t just a spooky tale—it symbolized the passage of winter, the gathering of spirits, and the mysteries of the dark season. Santa’s sleigh, with its gift-giving magic, feels like a kinder, gentler echo of this ancient ride.

The Team of Eight (and Rudolph)

So, what about Santa’s famous reindeer? Their names—Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, and so on—came from Clement Clarke Moore’s 1823 poem A Visit from St. Nicholas (better known as ’Twas the Night Before Christmas). But even before that, reindeer pulling sleighs had been tied to Christmas and winter lore.

1. Eight Reindeer = Eight Legs?

Some folks think the number eight might be a nod to Odin’s eight-legged horse, Sleipnir. It’s a nice link between Norse mythology and Santa’s reindeer team, don’t you think?

2. Rudolph, the Latecomer:

And then there’s Rudolph, who showed up in the 20th century as a bit of a marketing stunt. But even he’s got ties to older traditions. His glowing red nose? It feels like a symbol of light guiding us through winter’s darkness—just like a shaman or a lantern in the night.

Reindeer, Sleighs, and the Magic of Winter

At its heart, Santa’s sleigh and his flying reindeer are all about connection—between the earthly and the divine, the practical and the magical. They remind us of:

• Survival in Winter: Reindeer and sleighs were tools for getting through the harshest months, and they carry that sense of resilience and endurance.

• The Wonder of Flight: Whether it’s Odin’s Wild Hunt, Siberian shamans journeying through spirit realms, or Santa delivering presents, the idea of flying through winter skies is pure magic.

• The Bridge Between Worlds: Like the reindeer of shamanic lore, Santa’s team are a link between the mundane and the mystical, carrying us into the heart of the season’s mysteries.

So next time you see a reindeer decoration or hear those sleigh bells jingling, remember this: they’re not just symbols of Christmas cheer. They’re echoes of ancient journeys, magical flights, and the enduring wonder of winter.

Makes you wonder if Rudolph’s ancestors were tripping on mushrooms, doesn’t it?

Ah, the sleigh bells! That distinctive jingle is as much a part of Christmas as the smell of pine or the taste of mulled wine. But where did the idea of bells on Santa’s sleigh come from? Spoiler alert: like everything else in this story, sleigh bells have ancient and magical origins that go way beyond festive carols.

The Practical Side of Sleigh Bells

First things first, sleigh bells were originally a very practical invention.

1. Safety First:

In snowy regions where sleighs glided silently over the ground, bells were used to alert others to an oncoming sleigh. Think of it like an old-school car horn, but much prettier sounding. The jingling also helped the driver know the horses were still moving properly through the snowdrifts.

2. Identification:

Bells were sometimes a sign of status or identity. Wealthy folks would deck out their sleighs with elaborate bells, both to show off and to help people recognize who was coming. Imagine Santa’s bells clinking, announcing the arrival of the man of the season—proper VIP vibes!

The Magical Side of Bells

But sleigh bells aren’t just practical. They’ve long been tied to magic, protection, and the spirit world.

1. Warding Off Evil:

Bells were traditionally thought to scare away malevolent spirits. In many cultures, the sound of ringing bells was believed to break curses, banish bad energy, and keep mischievous entities at bay. When Santa’s sleigh is dashing through the night, those bells might not just be for show—they could be keeping him safe from all the unseen spooks lurking in the winter darkness.

2. Calling the Spirits:

On the flip side, bells were also used to summon friendly spirits or deities. In shamanic practices, the sound of bells was said to mimic the jingling of the spirit world, helping shamans communicate with other realms. Santa, with his sleigh bells jingling, could be channeling some of that energy as he zips between the earthly and magical worlds.

3. Celebration and Ritual:

Bells were often rung during midwinter festivals to mark the turning of the year and to celebrate the return of the light. Their bright, clear sound cuts through the cold and dark, symbolizing hope and renewal—perfect for a sleigh carrying gifts of joy and warmth.

Sleigh Bells and Santa

So how do we get from ancient bell-ringing to Santa’s iconic sleigh jingles?

1. Yuletide Traditions:

In old winter customs, bells were often rung during the darkest nights to drive away the gloom and bring in festive cheer. Santa’s sleigh, jingling across the skies, fits perfectly into this tradition—spreading joy and light as he goes.

2. Victorian Christmas Charm:

The Victorian era, which shaped so much of our modern Christmas, adored the sound of sleigh bells. They became a symbol of snowy landscapes, cozy celebrations, and nostalgia. Writers like Clement Clarke Moore added sleigh bells to Santa’s legend, and the rest is history.

3. A Magical Signal:

In the context of Santa’s story, the sleigh bells have become something more—a signal of his arrival. That faint jingle on the roof? It’s not just practical or decorative; it’s the sound of magic, the promise of wonder, and a reminder to believe.

What Sleigh Bells Symbolize

When you hear those sleigh bells, they carry layers of meaning, from the mundane to the mystical:

• Protection: They guard Santa and his reindeer as they travel through the winter night.

• Magic: They’re a link to the spirit world, echoing ancient rituals and summoning joy.

• Celebration: Their cheerful sound cuts through the stillness, reminding us of warmth, community, and the return of light.

So next time you hear a sleigh bell, think of it not just as a bit of Christmas decoration, but as an echo of something ancient and magical. It’s a tiny chime that connects the modern world to long-lost traditions—keeping the magic of midwinter alive, one jingle at a time.

And who knows? Maybe Santa’s sleigh bells are also his way of saying, “Don’t forget to leave out the mince pies!”

Ah, mince pies—little pockets of festive joy that have graced British Christmas tables for centuries. But these aren’t just tasty treats; they’re loaded with history, symbolism, and a touch of the magical. Let’s unwrap the story behind these Christmassy delights and see how they went from ancient offerings to Santa’s favourite snack.

Where Did Mince Pies Come From?

To really get to the bottom of mince pies, we have to travel back to the Middle Ages. Back then, they weren’t the sweet little parcels we know today. Oh no, these pies were savoury and packed with a mix of meat, fruits, and spices—basically medieval comfort food.

1. Spiced and Sacred:

The spices in the pies—like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—weren’t just for flavour. They symbolised the exotic gifts brought by the Wise Men to baby Jesus, so these pies were seen as a holy nod to the Nativity story.

2. Crusader Influence:

Spiced meat pies became popular in England thanks to returning Crusaders, who brought back a taste for Middle Eastern flavours. Over time, this mix of sweet and savoury turned into a festive staple, particularly during the 12 days of Christmas.

Why Are They Associated with Christmas?

Mince pies were deeply tied to the season’s spiritual and social traditions:

1. Midwinter Feasting:

In the darkest days of winter, mince pies were a real treat—filled with preserved fruits and spices that brought a little warmth and sweetness to the season. Sharing them was a way to spread joy during feasts and gatherings.

2. Lucky Offerings:

There’s an old belief that eating a mince pie every day of the 12 days of Christmas would bring good luck for the year ahead. And who doesn’t want a bit of festive fortune?

3. Symbol of Generosity:

Giving mince pies to guests became a symbol of hospitality and abundance, fitting for the spirit of Christmas. It’s easy to see how this tradition evolved into leaving one out for Santa, a magical visitor bringing gifts of his own.

Mince Pies and Santa

So, how did mince pies become Santa’s go-to snack? It’s all about the age-old tradition of offering food and drink to winter visitors—whether they were human, divine, or something in between.

1. Pagan Roots:

Long before Santa, people left offerings for household spirits, ancestors, and even the gods during midwinter. These gifts were meant to ensure protection, prosperity, and good harvests. Mince pies—rich, spiced, and full of care—fit right into this custom.

2. The Saint Nicholas Connection:

By the time Saint Nicholas morphed into the modern Santa Claus, leaving out treats for him had become a common tradition in Britain. Mince pies were a natural choice, being both festive and easy to share with the reindeer (Santa’s not selfish, you know).

3. A Taste of History:

Over time, mince pies became less about meat and more about sweet. By the Victorian era, they were the buttery, fruity pastries we love today. And while Santa might have swapped his mulled wine for milk in some parts of the world, mince pies have remained his snack of choice in the UK.

Symbolism of Mince Pies

These little pies aren’t just a tasty treat—they carry layers of meaning:

• Generosity and Sharing: Offering mince pies is a way of spreading warmth and goodwill, especially during the cold, dark months of winter.

• Spiritual Connection: With their roots in sacred spices and offerings, mince pies remind us of the season’s deeper meanings.

• Luck and Prosperity: Eating them during Christmas is thought to bring blessings for the year ahead.

The Shape of Magic

Ever noticed how mince pies are usually round? There’s a bit of symbolism there too. The round shape is said to represent the manger where baby Jesus was laid—or, if you go even further back, the cycles of life, the sun, and the turning of the year.

In earlier times, they were sometimes shaped like little cribs or coffins, tying them even more closely to the Nativity story. Over time, practicality won out (round pies are easier to make), but the symbolism still lingers.

Mince Pies Today

Now, mince pies are a quintessential part of a British Christmas, whether you make them from scratch or grab a box from the shop. Leaving one out for Santa, alongside a glass of sherry and a carrot for the reindeer, is a lovely nod to old traditions—and maybe a little bribe to make sure he leaves the best presents.

And let’s be honest: they’re not just for Santa. Mince pies are for us—a little bit of festive magic we can taste, reminding us of all the warmth, wonder, and shared joy that makes this season so special.

So, when you’re munching on a mince pie this year, remember: you’re taking part in a tradition that’s older and richer than you might think. And if you’re lucky, maybe Santa will leave an extra present under the tree for your good taste!

WHY LEAVE THEM FOR SANTA

Right, let’s talk mince pies and why we leave one out for Santa. It’s one of those traditions we all just do without questioning, isn’t it? But like most things about Christmas, it’s not just random—it’s tied to ancient customs, a bit of superstition, and good old-fashioned hospitality. So, grab a brew, and let’s dig in.

The Old Days: Feeding the Spirits

Back in the day, before Santa was even a twinkle in the festive eye, people believed in all sorts of magical visitors turning up during midwinter. Gods, spirits, ancestors—you name it, they’d be dropping by. And the way to keep them happy? Food.

• Pagan Offerings:

In Yule celebrations (proper old-school Christmas), people would leave out food and drink for the gods or household spirits. The idea was that these offerings would keep the spirits sweet and bring a bit of good fortune your way. Sound familiar? Santa and his mince pie fit right into that tradition.

• A Warm Welcome:

Winters were long, dark, and cold, so sharing food with any visitor—human or otherwise—was a sign of hospitality. Leaving a little something for Santa is just a modern version of that, isn’t it? A sort of, “Cheers for stopping by, mate. Have a bite on us!”

Why Mince Pies?

So, why not a sausage roll or a packet of crisps? Why did mince pies become the go-to snack for the man in red? Well, that’s all down to history.

1. Medieval Feasts:

Back in medieval times, mince pies weren’t sweet. They were filled with meat, fruit, and spices—a proper hearty winter dish. The spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, were a nod to the three wise men’s gifts, so they had a bit of religious symbolism too.

2. The Christmas Treat:

Fast forward a few centuries, and mince pies evolved into the sweet, fruity, buttery goodness we love today. By Victorian times, they were already a Christmas staple, so when people started leaving treats for Santa, mince pies made perfect sense.

Santa the Guest of Honour

Now, Santa’s not just any visitor, is he? Whether you think of him as Saint Nicholas, the Norse god Odin, or just a jolly bloke in a red suit, he’s got this air of mystery and magic about him. In the old days, people left offerings for gods and spirits during midwinter. These days, we give Santa a mince pie instead—it’s a nod to those ancient customs.

And, let’s be honest, if you want someone to leave you the best presents, you butter them up, don’t you? A mince pie and a cheeky glass of sherry never hurt your chances of staying on the Nice List!

The Spirit of the Season

At the end of the day, leaving a mince pie for Santa is all about generosity. Christmas is the season for sharing and spreading joy, and that little pie is our way of giving something back. Sure, it’s symbolic—Santa doesn’t actually need snacks to fuel his sleigh ride—but it’s the thought that counts, isn’t it?

So next time you’re putting out a mince pie, remember: you’re carrying on a tradition that goes back centuries. It’s part superstition, part thank-you, and part bribe. And, let’s be honest, Santa probably sits there every Christmas Eve thinking, “You can keep the milk, but these mince pies—absolute winners!”

As we settle into the warmth of modern Christmas traditions, it’s easy to forget the deep, ancient roots that stretch back to pagan times. From the shamanic origins of Santa and the mystical power of the winter solstice to the symbols of elves, reindeer, and sleigh bells, the holiday season carries with it echoes of centuries-old customs that celebrate the turning of the wheel, the return of the light, and the magic of winter.

Christmas, in its essence, is a blend of celebration, reverence, and connection to the natural world. The gifts, the feasts, and the joy we share with loved ones are all part of an ongoing tradition that links us to our ancestors, their myths, and their ways of welcoming the return of hope and warmth. So, as you enjoy the festivities this year, remember: you’re not just celebrating the present—you’re honouring an ancient legacy of magic, mystery, and the promise of brighter days ahead.

Follow the Lanter’s

Glow

[dragonmasterhiccup]

She took note of his expression, the way he seemed hurt, but she didn’t care, he was probably faking it anyways.

———

Danny had eventually made her way home, the sun having set completely by that point. Her anger didn’t diminish though, it only seemed to multiply.

In her eyes, Hiccup had been using her this entire time, using her as a symbol of his accomplishments, to show how he was able to create peace.

She thought that she finally had people that cared about her, but she guessed not. She had clearly been conned into believing that; Hiccup had successfully manipulated her using fake kindness and false care.

When she had gotten home that night, Valka had been awake waiting for her, explaining that since Danny was never usually out that late, she wanted to make sure she returned safely.

Danny had roughly brushed her off, going to her room right away without even saying goodnight. Who knows? Valka could’ve been manipulating her too.

———

Spitelout had also continued stirring up rumors throughout the village; rumors about Hiccup, Astrid, and their not-yet-marriage. Safe to say, it was slowly starting to become cause for concern.

———

Over the next couple of days, Danny avoided Hiccup like he was the Scourge of Odin. Every time she even thought about him she felt a wave of anger wash over her.

He clearly hated her and was only using her for his selfish motives.

She still continued working in the stables though, helping out washing, feeding, and tending to the dragons…

(I hope this was enough to work with! Tell me if I need to resend my ask!)

As Hiccup flew home that night, he wondered what else he could've done differently, how the way Danny saw him could get skewed so easily.

He wished he could ask his father for advice, he'd know what to do.

-------------------

Tuffnut approached him a couple days later, offering to help Hiccup with his 'relationship troubles'.

"What relationship troubles, Tuff? Astrid and I are fine."

Tuffnut just shook his head. "Oh, you're in denial. Well, let me assure you, the whole village is talking about it."

"That's...that's the opposite of reassuring, Tuffnut."

---------------

As he tried to figure out what these rumors were and its source, he could tell Danny was avoiding him.

When he asked his mom about it, she just shrugged, saying Danny was distant with her the past couple days as well.

"What happened?"

"I...I don't want to talk about it..."

---------------

It was Toothless who decided enough was enough. As they passed by the stables, Toothless caught wind of Danny's scent, confirming she was in there.

In a sudden motion, he quickly grabbed Hiccup by the leg and started running into the stables, the young chief protesting the whole way.

Dragging Hiccup inside, Toothless finally stopped by Danny.

Hiccup, who was still on the ground, let out an achey groan. "Toothless? What was that about?" Sitting up, he had hay stuck in his hair, and he rubbed the back of his head, eyes closed.

"Thank Thor your teeth were retracted, bud, but still, why drag me--oh." He finally saw Danny. Awkwardly scrambling to his feet, he brushed the hay off of his armour.

"Uh...hi...are--are you doing okay?"

[aisakalegacy]

Été 1915, Saillant d’Ypres, Belgique (10/14)

Pour nous occuper, on continue de nous faire faire de l’exercice. On nous fait sauter des haies et des fossés, on nous entraine au tir. Nous faisons toujours des marches le matin, parfois très tôt - l’autre jour, on nous a fait lever à trois heures du matin pour nous faire patrouiller de nuit ; enfin, ils nous occupent pour ne pas que nous restions sans rien faire, et pour ne pas que nous soyons démunis et rouillés le jour où il y aura vraiment du combat.

[Transcription] Odin Delacroix : Pour le Canada… Je me souviens ! Tous : JE ME SOUVIENS ! Odin Delacroix : En avant ! Bert Simmon : OUAIS !!! sifflets

[musingsofthehiddenshrine]

The results of a first meditation

So as mentioned on my question I don't feel a call to my ancestors... I don't have a connection to them, and having asked here, Odin and Loki came with an answer. But first I should give some context.

Earlier this year I was doing a walking meditation as I walked into work - was walking both the real world and one of the ways between worlds, and at this point I'd already raised a question in the past, as my relationship with Loki and Odin felt 'different', felt like it had grown. Loki at this point ... for want of a better word stated that I was his child, and gave me permission (for want of a better word again) to use the surname Lokesbairn. Odin also gave me the title of The Wordsmith. Anyway back to the solution they provided.

My craft has never included ancestor worship as I feel disconnected from my ancestors, I only know my family line as far back as my grandmother, beyond that my great grandmother/grandfather are just faces in photos, stories aren't ever told about them etc. My craft however has always included working with deities, the spirits of the land and the spirits of Hearth and Home.

Both Loki and Odin suggested that I use the stories told of the Norse pantheon, and the myths and legends in general as my starting point and meditate on them. I've just done this as a trial, not specifying any point or anything, but instead let myself fall into meditative state, took my normal visualisastion to set up the wards and space (so entered my forest clearing), from there the first thing I could smell was smoke... that smokey smell from a fireside, and the smell of hay, and damp reeds and an earthy smell. So I 'followed' the smell, and the scene showed itself as very dark, the main illumination coming from a fire in the center of a room, the room distinctly feeling round and closed in. I had a strong sense of 'goats' penned in a corner, and a figure huddling near the fire, mixing a stew. Another figure was there, but upon a knocking on the door went to fling it open.

There was no further visual scene but instead the very strong sense of words flashed across my main 'A visitor' 'Snow' 'Offer hospitality' 'stew and drink' 'warm by fire' 'ginger hair' 'trickster' 'new lineage' mend the rift' 'mischief' 'balance'. I'm -not- 100% certain what to make of this, as I had a sense of familiarity with the visitor.... but ginger hair and trickster is who I'd normally associate with Loki... but the only myth I know of that's widely told would be of Heimdall and the creation of the class system.

I'm open to comments on this - but this is more a personal note on my own practice, as I'm working on paying more attention to my craft now in a more organised manner - and using this for what it's meant for as a long (if only to save me buying more notebooks and journals!). I will be trying to draw what I 'saw' but just a ramble really.

[henryjonathan]

AARON HERNÁNDEZ

BIBLIOGRAFÍA Y CARRERA DEPORTIVA

**Aaron Josef Hernández** nació el 6 de noviembre de 1989 y falleció el 19 de abril de 2017. Fue un jugador de fútbol americano que jugó para los New England Patriots y fue condenado a cadena perpetua por homicidio.

Durante su carrera, Hernández fue reconocido como uno de los deportistas sobresalientes y obtuvo honores All-American en la Universidad de Florida. En 2010, firmó con los Patriots de Nueva Inglaterra, confirmando una carrera prometedora en la NFL.

Sin embargo, su vida dio un giro oscuro cuando fue arrestado y acusado del asesinato en primer grado del jugador de fútbol semi-profesional Odin Lloyd en junio de 2013. Este evento atrajo una gran atención mediática, especialmente debido a las crecientes preocupaciones sobre la Encefalopatía Traumática Crónica (ETC) en atletas, una condición asociada a cambios de ánimo, impulsividad y agresividad.

Posteriormente, se reveló que Hernández padecía Encefalopatía Traumática Crónica (ETC), una enfermedad asociada a los jugadores de fútbol americano debido a los golpes reiterados, y que los daños que presentaba su cerebro, a los 27 años, eran comparables a los de un hombre de 67 años. Esta condición pudo haber contribuido a sus acciones violentas.

La vida de Hernández fue el foco de una investigación del equipo Spotlight del Boston Globe y un podcast llamado "Gladiator: Aaron Hernández & Football, Inc." También se lanzó un documental de Netflix titulado "Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez" en enero de 2020.

En resumen, Aaron Hernández fue un destacado jugador de fútbol americano cuya carrera prometedora se vio empañada por su arresto, condena y posterior fallecimiento, y su caso ha generado un gran interés y debate en torno a las implicaciones de la Encefalopatía Traumática Crónica en los deportistas de alto rendimiento.

Detalles del Caso Legal de Aaron Hernández

Aaron Hernández, ex jugador de fútbol americano de los New England Patriots, estuvo involucrado en un caso legal altamente mediático que incluyó arrestos, condenas y su posterior fallecimiento. Aquí hay algunos detalles relevantes del caso:

1. Arresto y Condena

Hernández fue arrestado y condenado por el asesinato en primer grado de Odin Lloyd, jugador de fútbol americano y novio de la hermana de la prometida de Hernández, Shayanna Jenkins.

Su vida y el caso legal atrajeron una gran atención mediática, especialmente debido a las crecientes preocupaciones sobre la Encefalopatía Traumática Crónica (ETC) en atletas.

2. Documentales y Series

El caso de Hernández fue el foco de una investigación del equipo Spotlight del Boston Globe, un podcast llamado "Gladiator: Aaron Hernández & Football, Inc.", y un documental de Netflix titulado "Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez.

La serie documental de Netflix explora la vida tumultuosa de Hernández y trata de entender qué lo llevó a cometer los crímenes por los que fue condenado.

3. Causas Subyacentes

Se reveló que Hernández padecía Encefalopatía Traumática Crónica (ETC), una enfermedad asociada a los jugadores de fútbol americano debido a los golpes reiterados, lo que pudo haber contribuido a sus acciones violentas.

Durante su estancia en la Universidad de Florida, Hernández fue conocido por su estilo de vida que incluía fiestas, consumo constante de alcohol y marihuana, y protección por parte de las autoridades.

4. Veredicto y Apelaciones

Hernández fue absuelto por un jurado por dos cargos de asesinato del 2012, pero ya enfrentaba una cadena perpetua en prisión por otro caso de homicidio.

El asesor legal principal del Colegio de Abogados de Massachusetts mencionó que la condena por asesinato de Hernández en 2015 no había sido completamente apelada ante el más alto tribunal del estado, lo que implicaba que sería anulada.

En resumen, el caso legal de Aaron Hernández fue complejo y generó un gran interés público, especialmente debido a las implicaciones de la ETC en los deportistas de alto rendimiento y a la serie de eventos que rodearon su vida y sus acciones.

IMPACTO EN LA NFL Y EL EQUIPO (NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS)

El caso de Aaron Hernández tuvo un impacto significativo en la NFL y en el equipo de los New England Patriots.

Desempeño en los New England Patriots

Aaron Hernández se destacó como jugador de los New England Patriots, siendo elegido para el Pro Bowl y siendo titular en el Super Bowl. Su rendimiento fue reconocido por el equipo, que extendió su contrato por 40 millones de dólares por los siguientes cinco años.

Impacto en la NFL

El caso de Aaron Hernández generó controversia y tristeza en la NFL. Su historia, desde su destacada carrera como jugador hasta los eventos trágicos que lo rodearon, fue un tema de discusión en la liga y entre los aficionados al fútbol americano.

Conclusión

El impacto de Aaron Hernández en la NFL y en los New England Patriots fue significativo, generando discusiones sobre diversos aspectos, desde la salud de los jugadores hasta la responsabilidad de las autoridades y la liga en situaciones similares.

Es importante recordar que este caso es complejo y ha generado diversas opiniones y debates en la comunidad del fútbol americano y más allá.

COBERTURA DE LOS MEDIOS SOBRE EL CASO

La cobertura de los medios sobre el caso de Aaron Hernández ha sido extensa y ha generado un gran interés en el público. Aquí hay algunos aspectos destacados de la cobertura:

Serie de Netflix y programas de televisión.

El estreno de una serie de Netflix ha vuelto a poner de actualidad uno de los casos más mediáticos e insólitos del deporte profesional, manteniendo los motivos que llevaron a esta estrella del fútbol americano a cometer sus crímenes como un misterio.

La cadena CBS sacó al aire en su programa '48 Hours' la historia del ex jugador de New England, Aaron Hernández, cuyo suicidio fue uno de los acontecimientos más controversiales y trágicos alrededor de la NFL.

Detalles impactantes revelados por la serie de Netflix

La miniserie documental de Netflix, "La mente de un asesino: Aaron Hernández", explora la vida tumultuosa del jugador condenado a cadena perpetua por el asesinato de su amigo Odin Lloyd, revelando detalles impactantes sobre su vida y los eventos que lo rodearon.

Repercusión en la NFL

El caso de Aaron Hernández ha sido uno de los temas más oscuros y controvertidos en la historia de la NFL, generando discusiones sobre la salud de los jugadores y las implicaciones de su comportamiento fuera del campo.

La cobertura mediática ha arrojado luz sobre los aspectos más oscuros y desconcertantes de la vida y la carrera de Aaron Hernández, generando un intenso debate y reflexión sobre diversos aspectos relacionados con el deporte profesional y la conducta personal.

CONSECUENCIAS PARA LA SALUD MENTAL Y CTE(encefalotepia tramautica crónica)

El caso de Aaron Hernández ha puesto de relieve las graves consecuencias para la salud mental y el desarrollo de la Encefalopatía Traumática Crónica (ETC).

Impacto en la salud mental

La ETC, relacionada con la enfermedad de la NFL, es un trastorno vinculado a traumatismos craneales, como el síndrome de conmoción cerebral y el síndrome de segundo impacto. Esta enfermedad se ha descubierto principalmente en personas que practicaban fútbol americano y otros deportes de contacto, así como en militares expuestos a explosiones.

El cerebro de Aaron Hernández presentaba síntomas de esta grave enfermedad, que es una condición degenerativa inducida por repetidos golpes en la cabeza. Su estado estaba en la categoría tres en una escala de uno a cuatro, siendo similar al de alguien de 60 años de edad.

Repercusión en la NFL

El caso de Aaron Hernández ha generado un debate candente sobre los peligros de los golpes en la cabeza en el fútbol americano y su relación con la Encefalopatía Traumática Crónica (ETC). Esta enfermedad ha sido un tema de discusión en la liga y ha puesto de manifiesto los riesgos asociados con los traumatismos craneales en el deporte profesional.

El caso de Aaron Hernández ha puesto de manifiesto la importancia de comprender y abordar los riesgos para la salud mental, así como la necesidad de investigar y tomar medidas para proteger la salud de los deportistas, especialmente en deportes de contacto como el fútbol americano.

[piscesseer]

Celebrating the Winter Solstice: Exploring the Traditions and Rituals of Yule

The Winter Solstice is a time of celebration for many cultures. It is a time to mark the return of the sun, the lengthening of the days, and the hope that comes after darkness. In some cultures, the Winter Solstice is a time to honor the gods of the sun. In others, it is a time to celebrate the changing seasons. And more so in modern times, it is a time to simply gather with family and friends and enjoy the winter weather.

Learn more about the Winter Solstice in my previous post.

How to Celebrate Winter Solstice & Yule

While the Winter Solstice is observed around the world, Germanic cultures of northern and western Europe primarily celebrated Yule. Yule celebrations included bonfires, decorating with holly, mistletoe, and the boughs of evergreen trees, feasts, and gift-giving. Many of the traditions used at Christmastime were derived from Yule traditions of old. Whether they are from myths, feasts, folklore, ancient beliefs, oral stories told, or festivals, we have woven them into the fabric of our modern-day customs.

Evergreen trees were decorated with gifts such as food, carvings, and food for the tree spirits to encourage them to return in the spring.

The Celts believe Mistletoe possessed healing powers as well and would ward off evil spirits.

In Norse tradition, Old Man Winter visited homes to join the festivities. The Viking god, Odin was described as a wanderer with a long white beard and is considered the first Father Christmas.

Viking children left their shoes out by the hearth on the eve of the winter solstice with sugar and hay for Odin's eight-legged horse, Sleipnir.

Children traipsed from house to house with gifts of apples and oranges spiked with cloves and resting in baskets lined with evergreen boughs.

The midwinter feast usually lasted 12 days. (variations say longer or shorter)

The Yule log was a whole tree meant to be burned for 12 days in the hearth. The Celts believed the sun stood still during the winter solstice. They thought that by keeping the Yule log burning for these 12 days encouraged the sun to move, making the days longer. Everyone took turns feeding the length of timber into the fire as it burned. Letting it burn out would bring bad luck.

Today, many Pagans still celebrate Yule on the day of the Winter Solstice. Pagans celebrate the rebirth of the sun through gift exchanges, merriment, and deep spiritual reflection. For Pagans, this is a time of new beginnings, rebirth, transformation, getting rid of unwanted habits, and creativity. If you can’t celebrate that day, it’s okay because you have the rest of December to celebrate!

Symbols used to decorate your home and altar for Yule (or the Winter Solstice)

Yule (or Christmas) Tree. It’s a pagan solstice custom to hang decorations on a pine to symbolize various things, such as the sun, moon and stars, honor ancestors, and hanging offerings on trees to gods and goddesses. Even if you just find some beautifully colored ornaments, you are practicing a centuries old tradition!

The Yule Log dates back to ancient solstice celebrations and bonfires. 

It was customary to fell a tree, usually Oak, Spruce or Pine, and drag it through the village to eventually be placed upon the hearth and burned through Solstice Night and sometimes beyond. The ash from the log was often saved and used in various cultures to bless the crops, aid in fertility, protect against storms, and heal the sick.

The Yule log because that is how it was popularized by Victorian Era England, but it has many names and many customs tied to it. Yule is derived from Juul, a Scandinavian midwinter feast when a Juul Log was burned in honor of the Lightning God, Thor. In France, the Tréfoir de Nöel was burned for all 12 nights of Christmas, and the ashes were saved to protect against lightning strikes. In Italy, the log was laid upon Juniper boughs, which coins were placed upon it. In England, a branch from the old log of the year before was saved to light the new.

The origin calls for the burning of the log for Twelve Nights. You can place a piece of firewood, preferably found from the woods, into the fireplace to burn. Place nice smelling and symbolic herbs into the fire. The Yule Log brings luck and fortune for the next year.

No bon fire or fire place? Place a piece of wood on your altar and light your candles around it to symbolize the same things. I will be finding a log to place on my altar and attaching candles, pine, pinecones, and dried citrus to it.

Colors. Incorporate the colors of the season like green, red, gold and white.

Symbols. Use symbols like wreaths, bells, snowflake decor, and anything winter themed! Bring light back into your home and life with candles and faerie lights.

Use animal symbolism with bears, deer, reindeer, owls, ravens, crows, snow geese, and wrens. 

Decorate with plants and herbs of the season, or leave them out for offerings, such as: apples, chamomile, cinnamon, evergreen, holly, ivy, juniper, mistletoe, oak leaves, pine, pine cones, poinsettias, rosemary, sage and wintergreen. 

Work with the stones diamond, emerald, ruby, garnet and bloodstone.

Gods & Deities that can be worshiped or celebrated during this time: Aphrodite, Apollo, Attis, Baldar, Baccitus, Brigid, Cronus, Demeter, Dionysis, Fortuna, Gaia, Greenman, Hel, Helios, Holle, Istar, Isis, Jesus Christ, Krampus, Lugh, Oak King, Odin, Ra, Santa Claus (aka Father Winter or Saint Nicholas), Saturn, Sol

Here are some more ways to celebrate:

Feast

Bake cookies, make cinnamon cakes, gingerbread and anything with apples! Drink something warm like hot chocolate, mulled wine or apple cider. Roast meat, dry fruit and drink eggnog. Anything that makes you feel warm and cozy.

Bake a Yule Log Cake for Christmas Dessert or any day!

Share dinner with friends and family.

Spellwork, Simmer Pots and more

Types of spellwork you can do at this time include: happiness, hope, peace, love, strength and world healing. 

You can also use snow in your magic. It can be used for cleansing, purification, and emotion. Enjoy the peace that comes from the quiet of a snow day.

For a Winter Solstice Simmer Pot, take apples, oranges, cloves, cinnamon and anything else that reminds you of the holidays and put them in a small pot of water. Stir with the intention of bringing in prosperity and happiness.

[tobiasdrake]

I really like Laufey. I think he's a good portrayal for the ruler of a hostile enemy power with whom we are not presently at war. (Especially since the we in question are colonizers.)

On the surface, Odin and Laufey both want the same thing: Not war. They want to maintain the fragile peace that exists between them, and they both try to discourage Thor from rash action.

But once Thor spills Jotun blood, it's too late. Odin pleads with Laufey for peace, but Laufey can't let this go unanswered. There's an interesting parallel here to Thor's own brash action.

But let's be real. There's a huge difference between the vault invasion and Thor killing Laufey's men in the middle of his throne room. And that difference is consequence for the perpetrator. During the vault invasion, Thor wanted retribution but Odin rightly pointed out that retribution's already been had. The people who invaded the vault are dead. The act had consequences.

At the time of Odin and Laufey's confrontation, Thor and the others have faced no similar consequences. Odin isn't asking Laufey to accept their deaths as punishment enough and open a diplomatic channel. He's asking Laufey to let bygones be bygones and accept no consequence for the invasion of his lands and the murder of his people.

Odin does intend a harsh punishment for Thor, mind you. But he does not share that with Laufey. He expects Laufey to accept that the Asgardians will police their own, and that Jotunheim is owed no amount of justice for the crime committed against them.

(The logic of a colonizer.)

I think the scene suffers for being over a little too quick, and not really exploring these ideas, however.

The scene also suffers for designing Laufey to look like an Uruk-hai's right scrotum and speak in a snarling beastman voice. So it's pretty clear that the creators weren't thinking very hard about the political ramifications of this. The scene's intent is that Laufey is a snarling monster man, but Thor still shouldn't provoke the snarling monster man anyway.

[10blue10]

Snoggletog Songs

Happy Snoggletog everybody! If you don’t know them, here are the lyrics to some classic Snoggletog carols XD. Enjoy the holidays everyone!

Sleipnir The Eight Legged Stallion 

Sleipnir the eight legged stallion 

Born when Loki was a mare 

And if you ever saw him 

You would surely stop and stare! 

All of the other horses 

Noble steeds of Asgards Hall

Think he is kind of a freak 

You should hear the names they call!

Then one stormy winters eve 

Odin came to say 

“I need a mount who’s swift of foot 

And who’s not just stuffed with hay!” 

Sleipnir the eight legged stallion 

Came prancing up and volunteered 

For having eight legs made him faster 

So into battle he was steered! 

Now when the wild hunt thunders 

As through the stormy night they ride 

Sleipnir the eight legged stallion 

And Odin lead the hunt with pride! 

/

Mingling Smells 

Mingling smells, jingling bells 

Snoggletog is here!

It’s dark and cold, we’re missing toes 

But let’s have a cup of cheer! 

No crops to grow, the fields fallow 

The sheep are in their fold

As snow falls down, let’s gather round 

And hear the tales of old!

Skalds sing sagas long 

Of gods and of great men 

We all sing along 

And clap and dance and then 

We will stoke the fire 

Drink ale and call for more 

As we listen to the tales 

Of the great heroes yore! 

Mingling smells, jingling bells 

Snoggletog is here! 

It’s dark and cold, we’re missing toes 

But let’s have a cup of cheer! 

No crops to grow, the fields fallow 

There’s no jobs for us here 

So have a blast, cos it won’t last 

We’ll be back to work next year! 

/

The Wild Hunt Is Coming To Town 

You’d better stay put 

You’d better not cry 

You’d better not look 

I’m telling you why 

The Wild Hunt is coming to town! 

Through the night they ride 

Keep out of their way 

Best to stay inside 

Lock the doors and pray 

The Wild Hunt is coming to town!

They ride out from Valhalla

A huge and mighty horde 

Roaring all their battle cries 

Armed with shields and spears and swords! 

You’d better stay put 

You’d better not cry 

You’d better not look 

I’m telling you why 

The Wild Hunt is coming to town!  

/

Deck The Halls (With Trophy Glory) 

Deck the Halls with trophy glory, Fa la la la la la la la! 

Skulls of enemies so gory, Fa la la la la la la la!

Hang up all the spoils of battle, Fa la la la la la la la!

Whilst we sacrifice some cattle, Fa la la la la la la la!

In the hearth we burn a huge log, Fa la la la la la la la! 

In the kitchens roast a great hog, Fa la la la la la la la!

Flowing free the mead and ale, Fa la la la la la la la!

Drunkards throwing up in pails, Fa la la la la la la la!

Shut the doors, keep out the weather, Fa la la la la la la la!

If only this could last forever, Fa la la la la la la la! 

Warm and well fed, by the fire, Fa la la la la la la la!

But for now let’s stoke it higher, Fa la la la la la la la!