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Yuletide Reflections: Embracing Magick and Manifesting Joy

Yuletide Reflections: Embracing Magick and Manifesting Joy

A Weekly Journey Through the Seasons, Tarot Wisdom, and Building Our Coven Community

Joy Seage
December 29, 2024

December Vibe: Return of the light

Hello & Intro
Your Fortune Told
Personal Review
Feedback

December Vibes, Return of the Sun after Solstice

Hello there,

Thank you for subscribing to my newsletter and joining our community. I'm very pleased to share my weekly catch-up letter with you and look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Firstly, I'd like to thank you for sticking with me. I’m manifesting a newsletter for us as a community, I want to step towards my coven of belonging. This is also a great techy learning curve for me. Don't worry this old witch isn't done yet, so mote it be!

Your feedback from last month was very helpful, going forward we will have a shorter weekly catch up. Each week i’d like to connect with you with some regulars and a special feature

We have joined again at a Special time of year for the old religion Yuletide, 12 days starting at the Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year, on the 21st celebrated since our last stone age and ending with New Years. At Newgrange in Ireland which I had the privilege of visiting last year there is a Temple built for the purpose of celebrating the Winter Solstice. At sunrise on the shortest day of the year, for 17 minutes, direct sunlight can enter the heart of the temple, 19 meters in, where there is an altar, the light shines into this chamber through the specially contrived small opening above the entrance known as the ‘roof box’. This day was undeniably important to them as a community, and continues to be for us today.

The outside of the building is lined with white stones that reflect the glow of the sun for the wider crowds to enjoy. Newgrange was built over 5,200 years ago, 3200 BC, before Stone Henge and 600 years before the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the early ones. All I can say about the place is goose bumps of magickal vibes! And if you ever want to go somewhere special, go.

Later the Celts believed the sun stood still for 12 days at this time. To celebrate they would light a log using the remains of last year's fire and feast until the log burned out. The log was believed to banish evil spirits.

Where you join me today, during the 12 days of Yuletide I reflect on the past year and assess hopes for the upcoming year. This ancient time of celebrating the rebirth of the sun and each day of Yuletide brings with it traditions that some like to celebrate. For me I light more candles than normal and burn them throughout the day. I consider the pagan virtues (which is an article I will share another day) For me this is the “no time between the years, it's a pause, the letting go of what no longer serves me on the darkest night. Identifying any lingering issues and overcoming them or planning to, clearing, so what cycles with me into the next year is abundance. As the light is returning literally and meta-phorically I consider what seeds I'm planting in my life, what will I grow next year.

This weeks’ “Your Fortune Told” Tarot horoscopes feature will very much resonate with you I sense. I was so surprised to see how many ‘Major Arcana’ cards came through in the reading, definitely a time of embracing change for us all.

Your Fortune Told

This is the time of the month I tune into your energy and draw a tarot card with you in mind. Please note, this is not an in-depth personal reading, but remember, it’s no coincidence that you’ve chosen to be here today. If your Sun sign doesn’t completely resonate, I encourage you to explore your rising and moon signs as well. Your birth chart is unique to you and may be balanced across the elements or influenced strongly by one zodiac element this month. This reading unfolds over the course of the following month from print, with a special spotlight on Capricorn as we celebrate your birthdays.

Capricorn: The World

(December 22 – January 19)
Capricorn, this month brings the culmination of a major cycle in your life. The World reminds you that you’ve worked hard to reach this point, and it’s time to celebrate your achievements. It also signals the integration of lessons learned and the opportunity to step into a new chapter. Embrace the harmony of completion and prepare to align with your highest potential. As it’s your birthday season, the card urges you to reflect on your personal growth and set intentions for the year ahead. Let the energy of The World remind you that you are capable of manifesting greatness.

Aquarius: Ace of Coins

(January 20 – February 18)
Aquarius, the Ace of Coins signals new opportunities for abundance and growth in the material world. This card encourages you to plant the seeds for financial stability, career growth, or a personal project that has great potential. It’s a time to ground your vision into reality and take practical steps toward success. Stay open to blessings, as the universe supports your efforts to create a solid foundation for the future.

Pisces: 4 of Cups

(February 19 – March 20)
Pisces, the 4 of Cups invites you to re-evaluate your emotional focus. You may be feeling dissatisfied or stuck, but this card reminds you to look beyond the obvious opportunities for joy and connection are closer than you think. Avoid becoming overly introspective or lost in fantasy, as it may lead to missed chances. Open your heart to gratitude and see the beauty in what’s already present in your life.

Aries: 3 of Swords

(March 21 – April 19)
Aries, the 3 of Swords represents heartbreak, loss, or emotional pain, but also serves as a reminder that healing is possible. While this period may feel heavy, it’s an opportunity to release old wounds and make space for new growth. Honesty with yourself and others will help you move forward with clarity and strength. Trust that through the storm, brighter days lie ahead.

Taurus: The Lovers

(April 20 – May 20)
Taurus, The Lovers speaks of choices, alignment, and relationships this month. Whether it’s a romantic connection or a personal decision, you are being guided to act from a place of authenticity and balance. This card also highlights the importance of harmony and union, encouraging you to strengthen meaningful connections. Remember, true love, whether for yourself or another always begins with self-awareness and self-respect.

Gemini: The Star

(May 21 – June 20)
Gemini, The Star brings a sense of hope, renewal, and inspiration. This card encourages you to trust in the universe’s guidance as you navigate your path. It’s a reminder to stay optimistic and align your actions with your dreams. Let your inner light shine brightly, as this is a time for healing and spiritual clarity.

Cancer: 6 of Cups

(June 21 – July 22)
Cancer, the 6 of Cups brings a sense of nostalgia and emotional warmth. You may find yourself reconnecting with people or experiences from your past that bring joy and comfort. This card also encourages you to approach life with a sense of childlike wonder and openness. Balance the wisdom of your past with the present to create a harmonious emotional foundation.

Leo: The Hermit

(July 23 – August 22)
Leo, The Hermit invites you to turn inward and seek wisdom through introspection and solitude. This card encourages you to take a break from the external world to reflect on your personal path and purpose. Trust your inner guidance as you navigate this period of self-discovery. The Hermit’s lantern illuminates the way, reminding you that clarity and enlightenment are found within.

Virgo: Justice

(August 23 – September 22)
Virgo, Justice emphasizes truth, fairness, and accountability this month. You may be called to make decisions that require a balanced and objective perspective. This card also reminds you to take responsibility for your actions and their consequences. Trust that integrity and honesty will guide you toward the best outcome for all involved.

Libra: Queen of Wands

(September 23 – October 22)
Libra, the Queen of Wands radiates confidence, charisma, and creative energy. This card encourages you to step into your personal power and lead with courage and passion. Trust in your ability to inspire and influence those around you. The Queen reminds you to stay true to your vision while nurturing your creative spark.

Scorpio: Knight of Wands

(October 23 – November 21)
Scorpio, the Knight of Wands speaks of adventure, ambition, and a fearless pursuit of your goals. This card encourages you to embrace your fiery determination and channel it into meaningful action. Be mindful, however, of impulsive decisions. Focus your energy to avoid burning out. The Knight reminds you that passion and purpose can lead you to great success.

Sagittarius: 7 of Cups

(November 22 – December 21)
Sagittarius, the 7 of Cups highlights a time of choices and possibilities. While you may feel overwhelmed by options, this card urges you to ground yourself in clarity and discernment. Not all opportunities are as they appear. Trust your intuition to guide you. Focus on what aligns with your highest values and long-term goals.

Remember, your reality, your choices, your journey. As we explore these energies together, may you find empowerment and inspiration in every step you take. Embrace your magick, this month and all it has to offer.

Dear Joy: Your Personal Questions Asked

On my Etsy shop JoyWellnessWitch my practice is open to the whole world. I'm very grateful to the openness and connection I have with my clients. Each week I'll be sharing someone's energetic queries and my intuitive advice.

- Dear Joy

Question:

Dear Joy,
I’ve recently started experiencing physical symptoms and a heavy emotional toll that feels like the energetic "cord" from someone I’ve been trying to release is coming back. It feels like this person is intentionally trying to harm me energetically, and at this point, it almost feels like being bullied on a spiritual level. I’m at a loss, despite my efforts to stop this connection. Could she have replaced a binding on me? Would repeating an unbinding ritual help? I’m just not sure what else to do, and it’s left me feeling quite sad and overwhelmed.

My Response:

Dear Seeker,
Firstly, blessings to you. I hear the worry and exhaustion in your words, and I want to reassure you that your efforts are not in vain. If you've recently performed an unbinding ritual and have layered your space with protection, it is unlikely that any binding could have a significant impact on you. That protective energy, when renewed with intent, continues to shield you for quite some time, like a magical armor.

For now, I recommend a clearing ritual to help you feel lighter and more grounded. If you have access to a bath, fill it with plenty of bath salts, light a white candle, and create a ring of salt around the bath. As you relax in the water, after cleansing, gently push the salt into the bathwater and rinse yourself three times, reciting the chant: “Goodbye old energy, welcome health, wealth, and happiness.” Blow out the candle with gratitude.

If you only have a shower, you can achieve the same effect. Sprinkle salt around the shower’s base (acknowledging that much will wash away), then gently sprinkle yourself with salt. With your hands about half a foot from your body, sweep downward from head to toe three times, focusing on wiping away any lingering energy as you say the same chant. Let the water rinse away all traces of negativity and heaviness.

Be reassured your spiritual work and intent are strong. Trust in the layers of magic you’ve already cast, and repeat these small rituals to reinforce your boundaries. A big virtual hug from me to you.

Blessings,

Joy by JoyWellnessWitch x

Special Dates and Celebrations This Week

- Wheel Of The Year

SUNRISE 08:05 SUNSET 16:00

SUN 29th

The ninth day of Yuletide - Y Fari Lwyd, Mari Lwyd, is a part of ancient Welsh Folklore. The day serves to honor the legend of a female horse which goes from house to house trying to break in.

MON 30th

New Moon known as a Black Moon

The tenth day of Yuletide celebrates the Scandinavian mythological creatures called tomten, which are elf-like creatures. Tomten offer protection and company throughout the cold winter months. Although they protect, if mistreated, they tend to become very mischievous. It is known among Pagans that the tomten will peek in windows to see if there is anything to steal. In exchange for the protection of the tomten, Pagans leave out porridge for them

For magick the New Moon, monthly moon phase magnifies new beginnings, setting intentions, and planting seeds for future growth. It's the perfect time to start fresh projects, manifest desires, or focus on self-discovery.

A black moon is a rare astronomical event that occurs when there are two new moons in the same month. It's caused by the calendar months being slightly longer than a lunar cycle, which takes about 29 days to complete.

TUE 31st
New Years Eve

The eleventh day of Yuletide, Hygge, serves as a day of relaxation. The word “Hygge” originates from Scandinavia and means “protect from the outside world.” On this day, Pagans stay inside, share food, drink warm beverages and light candles.

WED 1st JAN
New Years Day

The twelfth day of Yuletide, Hogmanay marks the end of the 12 day celibration.

This day represents death, life, rebirth, success, and good health. On this day, Pagans attend their church, gather and feast as well.

*(I’m using GMT)

We feel good as we connect with our world and our tribe, the way I celebrate the cycles of the year and being connected to the elements may look very different to you, please share your practice with me, we grow as a community and how you celebrate may really inspire others, This is your space to fill.

This is a new adventure for me please share what you like and don't, this will support me in building our Community

This week's coven share really tickled me, it came with this comment “You don’t have to worry about telling me you are a witch” from a friend here in North Devon

If you have a picture of how you appreciate nature, celebrate the cycles of the year or of your practice please share them with me, I will only be able to pick one that I feel best represents this time, but I’d love to know how you are getting along. Please say if you'd like an anonymous share or if you're happy for me to use your name and location in the world.

Personal Review

Every week, I will take the opportunity to share a heartfelt and meaningful review from one of my clients. These reviews have deeply touched me and offer a glimpse into the positive experiences and connections I strive to create.

Name: Charlotte

Date: 16 Dec, 2024

Start Review: 5 out of 5 stars

Review: Brilliant Reading! Exactly what I needed to hear to help me find more clarity and understanding

Career Tarot Card Reading - Get Clarity and Answers to Your Burning Questions with My Personalised Intuitive Guidance

Feedback

Thank you for taking your time in reading my newsletter today. Looking forward to exploring Moon Magick with you next week, sharing how I use the moon phases and Special Moons to enhance my magick. And sensing into a clients generational trauma or is it a hex?I hope the Coven share this week, (below) tickles you as much as it did me