AFRICA: Nowa
AMERICA: White Buffalo Woman
AZTEC: Coatlicue; Tlazolteotl
CHINA: Kuan Yin; Nu-Kua
EGYPT: Bast; Isis; Nut; Selkhet
GREECE: Aphrodite; Artemis; Athena; Cybele; Daphne; Demeter; Gaea; Hera; Persephone
HAITI: Erzulie
INDIA: Durga (shown at right); Kali; Parvati; Tara
JAPAN: Amaterasu; Uzume
MALI: Nommo
MEXICO: Xochiquetzal
NIGERIA: Ala-Ale-Ane
NORDIC: Freya; Hel
POLYNESIA: Hina; Taranga
SUMERIAN: Ereshkigal; Inanna
UNIVERSAL: Goddess of Growth

Ala-Ale-Ane – she who blesses the harvest

NIGERIA – Mother Goddess
Creator of the living, queen of the dead. Guards morality and society. Upholds the law, nothing functions without her blessing.

Central to any Ibo village is the sacred tree shrine to Ala, the all-important Earth Goddess of Nigeria.

Associations: flowers, fruit, produce.

JAPAN – Sun Goddess
Goddess of all deities, guardian of the people, keeper of cultural unity. Ancestress of humanity.

Fought with her destructive brother Susano-o and hid in a cave, hiding the sun. Returned after long enticement.

Associations: Rising Sun

GREECE – Moon Goddess
Goddess of love, physical love, beauty, passion, generosity, fertility, creation and renewal.

She has the power to unite all things by love. Protectress of marriages, flowers and gardens.

Associations: Dove, dolphin, tortoise, swan, ram.

Artemis – Diana – she who protects the newly born

GREECE: Moon Goddess
Virgin Goddess guardian of wild animals and childbirth. Fiercely protective of modesty. Also patron of archery.

Roaming the forest with her gang of nymphs, she is always ready to kill any man who approaches her.

Associations: Bow, arrow, wild animals, unicorn.

GREECE – Wisdom Goddess
Maiden Goddess, controls lightning, thunder, blue sky, unlimited powers, wisdom and intelligence. Goddess of war and conflict.

Brought the benefits of plough, yoke, bridle, spindle, loom, trumpet and flute to earth, for humans to use.

Associations: Helmet, shield, owl.

EGYPT – Sunrise Goddess
Goddess of dawn, civilisation, home, plenty, art, music, dance, creation, birth, fertility, sexual pleasures, enlightenment and lesbians.

She is the cat-headed incarnation of Isis, related to Neith, the Night Goddess and personifies the benefits of the Sun.

Associations: Cats, lynx, kittens.

Coatlicue – the serpent-skirted goddess

AZTEC – Earth Goddess
Goddess of life, death and rebirth. Loves human sacrifice. Also called the Fivefold Goddess as she guards all directions.

Fearful appearance with skirt of serpents, necklace of human hearts. Gave virgin-borth to the God Quetzelcoatl.

Associations: Serpent, skull, pyramid.

GREECE – Earth Mother
Mother of Hades, Hera, Poseidon and Demeter. Her priests performed self-castration to be closer to her. Worshippers can be reborn every 20 years.

Zeus tried to rape her but failed, ejaculating on the ground. As all of nature is Earth Mother, she became pregnant.

Associations: Wild animals, lion, dog, bees.

GREECE – Virgin Priestess
Determined to keep her virginity in a celebration of earth’s femininity. Escapes Apollo’s advances by changing into a laurel tree.

Performed secret rituals which were spied on by a mortal male. The intruder was exposed and killed.

Association: laurel wreath.

GREECE – Earth Goddess
The eternal Earth Mother the grower of all things. She and her daughter Persephone together symbolise the seasonal cycle, and the forces of rebirth.

Angry at the loss of her daughter she withheld growth energy, causing plants to wither & die.

Association: torch, crown, sceptre, stalk of grain.

INDIA – eternal mother
The fiercest form of Devi – the all-embracing Hindu goddess. Born of flames she is the slayer of demons.

Invoked to annihilate the negative forces of weakness and indecision. Represents the female principle of energy.

Association: lion, tiger, buffalo.

SUMERIAN – Death Goddess
So terrifying that no humn dared to draw her image. She absorbs the dead into her body. Her lips were black, her face was blue.

When Inanna invaded her underworld, she slew her and hung her naked corpse on a snake.

Association: lion, lion cubs, boat.

HAITI – Love Goddess
She possesses her voodoo worshippers with frightening force, demanding surrender and making them speak in high-pitched voices.

She flirts with her worshippers, demands gifts of beads, combs, sigar cakes, honey and champagne.

Association: flowers, fish, shells.

NORDIC – Ruler of Death
As well as being the Ruler of Death, Freya also represents sexuality and promiscuity. Controls spirits killed in battle.

Wore a magical amber necklace. Drives a cat-drawn chariot.

Association: Boar, dove.

Crystals can be natural or man-made. Natural crystals which have been made by nature over millions of years provide far greater benefits than their man-made counterparts. Natural crystals should always be chosen for your personal use.

Using crystals for meditation can be just holding the crystal you feel most drawn to in your hand whilst focusing on your breathing. More elaborate methods such as arranging the crystals in a circle around your meditation area and holding a particular crystal to focus on its specific qualities. Healing meditation can involve holding the crystal over the area of the body in need and focus on the energy of the crystal pouring in to the body to heal the tissues below.

Agates are translucent and are found in various colours. The blue agate is calming, moss agate has especially grounding qualities and red agate helps to energise the body. Agates have a balancing effect and work to increase self-acceptance and consciousness.

Amethyst crystals are violet to purple in colour. This is a wonderful quartz crystal for use in meditation as it promotes calming and increases your powers of intuition. Amethyst is often used for healing and can assist with insomnia when placed under or near the pillow. This crystal also increases clarity of mind and can help to change negative thought patterns.

Carnelian crystals range from red to orange in colour and can sometimes exhibit a dark brown hue. The Carnelian possesses grounding qualities and can help you to tune into the Earth’s energy. This crystal has stimulating qualities which can increase positive motivation and ease stress and anxiety. Using Carnelian in meditation can bring greater happiness and helps you to realise your dreams by encouraging you to follow your life’s true path.

Emeralds range in colour from pale to very deep green. In meditation, it is thought that the paler emeralds hold the highest energy. The Emerald assist in maintaining emotional balance and is believed to be the stone of true love, increasing one’s capacity for giving and receiving love. Theis crystal also improves self-esteem and memory, increases inspiration and intuition and is excellent for spiritual growth, providing soothing and calming properties.

Lapis Lazuli is a deep blue stone used in ancient Egypt for spiritual rituals and decorative needs. It’s energising qualities assist in improving communication, creativity and mental focus. When used in meditation Lapis Lazuli helps one to attain spiritual enlightenment and to achieve the understanding of universal truths.

Quartz crystals are a large group of stones mad emostly of silicon dioxide. Clear quartz is used for healing work as it allows pure white light to pass through unaltered. Quartz crystals contain a beautiful energy which increase emotional peace and wisdom. They increase positivity and allow you to reach your highest potential.

Rose Quartz crystal is infused with a soft pink colour. It’s gentle energy promotes love and compassion. The Rose Quartz possesses nurturing, feminine qualities which bring about a sense of calm. This beautiful crystal can be beneficial at a time of grieving and loss.

Tiger’s Eye is a very recognisable glossy brown stone with golden stripes. It helps us to use our inner resources and enhances self-confidence. It assist to unite your will and desires and brings your ideas into reality.

Topaz is a golden yellow or brown stone which can also be found in green or blue colours. The Topaz crystal sends out healing rays of energy, like the sun. This stone brings inspiration and increases intuition and wisdom. It can assist in communicating harmoniously with difficult people using its properties which promote tolerance and peace.

Each sign and those born under it, are represented by one of twelve animals, and are ascribed a set of attributes the Chinese believe comprise the nature of each particular animal.

Legend says that the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac were chosen by Buddha. When Buddha was close to death he invited all animals to visit him. Only 12 animals came, the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. To show his appreciation for their visit, Buddha honoured each animal by allowing them to represent the 12 phases of the Zodiac.

Year of the RAT
	Feb 05 1924 – Jan 23 1925 Jan 24 1936 – Feb 10 1937 Feb 10 1948 – Jan 28 1949 Jan 28 1960 – Feb 14 1961 Feb 15 1972 – Feb 02 1973 Feb 02 1984 – Feb 19 1985 Feb 19 1996 – Feb 06 1997 Feb 07 2008 – Jan 25 2009 Jan 25 2020 – Feb. 11 2021 Feb 11 2032 – Jan 30 2033
Rat people are lovable, generous and possess a wonderful imagination. Rats can also be opportunistic, short-tempered and critical of others.

Year of the OX
	Jan 24 1925 – Feb 12 1926 Feb 11 1937 – Jan 30 1938 Jan 29 1949 – Feb 16 1950 Feb 15 1961 – Feb 04 1962 Feb 03 1973 – Jan 22 1974 Feb 20 1985 – Feb 08 1986 Feb 07 1997 – Jan 27 1998 Jan 26 2009 – Feb 14 2010 Feb 12 2021 – Jan 31 2022 Jan 31 2033 – Feb 18 2034
An Ox (Buffalo) person is a born leader and has the ability to inspire confidence. Ox are also methodical, conservative, egoistic and at times, demanding.

Year of the TIGER
	Feb 13 1926 – Feb 01 1927 Jan 31 1938 – Feb 18 1939 Feb 17 1950 – Feb 05 1951 Feb 05 1962 – Jan 24 1963 Jan 23 1974 – Feb 10 1975 Feb 09 1986 – Jan 28 1987 Jan 28 1998 – Feb 15 1999 Feb 15 2010 – Feb 02 2011 Feb 01 2022 – Jan 21 2023 Feb 19 2034 – Feb 07 2035
A tiger person possesses bossy traits. Although sensitive, emotional and capable of great love, persons born under this sign are stubborn and arrogant.

Year of the RABBIT
	Feb 02 1927 – Jan 22 1928 Feb 19 1939 – Feb 07 1940 Feb 06 1951 – Jan 26 1952 Jan 25 1963 – Feb 12 1964 Feb 11 1975 – Jan 30 1976 Jan 29 1987 – Feb 16 1988 Feb 16 1999 – Feb 04 2000 Feb 03 2011 – Jan 22 2012 Jan 22 2023 – Feb 09 2024 Feb 08 2035 – Jan 27 2036
Rabbit people have a charming presence and make sensitive friends. Faithful, determined and hard-working they also seek comfort in their daily lives.

Year of the DRAGON
	Jan 23 1928 – Feb 09 1929 Feb 08 1940 – Jan 26 1941 Jan 27 1952 – Feb 13 1953 Feb 13 1964 – Feb 01 1965 Jan 31 1976 – Feb 17 1977 Feb 17 1988 – Feb 05 1989 Feb 05 2000 – Jan 23 2001 Jan 23 2012 – Feb 09 2013 Feb 10 2024 – Jan 28 2025 Jan 28 2036 – Feb 14 2037
Persons born under this sign are tough negotiators and can be a strong ally and a determined leader. They are also sentimental and supportive friends with vibrant personalities.

Year of the SNAKE
	Feb 10 1929 – Jan 29 1930 Jan 27 1941 – Feb 14 1942 Feb 14 1953 – Feb 02 1954 Feb 02 1965 – Jan 20 1966 Feb 18 1977 – Feb 06 1978 Feb 06 1989 – Jan 26 1990 Jan 24 2001 – Feb 11 2002 Feb 10 2013 – Jan 30 2014 Jan 29 2025 – Feb 16 2026 Feb 15 2037 – Feb 03 2038
Snake people are emotional charmers and make honourable associates. Lovers of fashion, an irresistible personality and a seductive companion.

Year of the HORSE
	Jan 30 1930 – Feb 16 1931 Feb 15 1942 – Feb 04 1943 Feb 03 1954 – Jan 23 1955 Jan 21 1966 – Feb 08 1967 Feb 07 1978 – Jan 27 1979 Jan 27 1990 – Feb 14 1991 Feb 12 2002 – Jan 31 2003 Jan 31 2014 – Feb 18 2015 Feb 17 2026 – Feb 05 2027 Feb 04 2038 – Jan 23 2039
People born under the sign of the Horse are determined, trustworthy and great achievers. Characteristics of the Horse person are patience, forgiveness and an irresistible sense of humour.

Year of the GOAT / RAM
	Feb 17 1931 – Feb 05 1932 Feb 05 1943 – Jan 24 1944 Jan 24 1955 – Feb 11 1956 Feb 09 1967 – Jan 29 1968 Jan 28 1979 – Feb 15 1980 Feb 15 1991 – Feb 03 1992 Feb 01 2003 – Jan 21 2004 Feb 19 2015 – Feb 07 2016 Feb 06 2027 – Jan 25 2028 Jan 24 2039 – Feb 11 2040
Ram people have a distinct talent for for art. Eccentric, altruistic and quick to defend, a Ram person is a gifted naturalist.

Year of the MONKEY
	Feb 06 1932 – Jan 25 1933 Jan 25 1944 – Feb 12 1945 Feb 12 1956 – Jan 30 1957 Jan 30 1968 – Feb 16 1969 Feb 16 1980 – Feb 04 1981 Feb 04 1992 – Jan 22 1993 Jan 22 2004 – Feb 08 2005 Feb 08 2016 – Jan 27 2017 Jan 26 2028 – Feb 12 2029 Feb 12 2040 – Jan 31 2041
If you were born in the Year of the Monkey you are a charming companion and a supportive friend. You display tolerance towards others and are very diplomatic.

Year of the ROOSTER
	Jan 26 1933 – Feb 13 1934 Feb 13 1945 – Feb 01 1946 Jan 31 1957 – Feb 17 1958 Feb 17 1969 – Feb 05 1970 Feb 05 1981 – Jan 24 1982 Jan 23 1993 – Feb 09 1994 Feb 09 2005 – Jan 28 2006 Jan 28 2017 – Feb 18 2018 Feb 13 2029 – Feb 02 2030 Feb 01 2041 – Jan 21 2042
Those born in the Year of the Rooster are tough competitors and enthusiastic friends with a great talent to entertain others. Practical and open minded, the Rooster is also a master of the comeback line.

Year of the DOG
	Feb 14 1934 – Feb 03 1935 Feb 02 1946 – Jan 21 1947 Feb 18 1958 – Feb 07 1959 Feb 06 1970 – Jan 26 1971 Jan 25 1982 – Feb 12 1983 Feb 10 1994 – Jan 30 1995 Jan 29 2006 – Feb 17 2007 Feb 19 2018 – Feb 04 2019 Feb 03 2030 – Jan 22 2031 Jan 22 2042 – Feb 09 2043
A Dog person is a true and loyal friend, a seeker of justice and a protector of the truth. Supportive and devoted the Dog person makes a selfless partner.

Year of the PIG / BOAR
	Feb 04 1935 – Jan 23 1936 Jan 22 1947 – Feb 09 1948 Feb 08 1959 – Jan 27 1960 Jan 27 1971 – Feb 14 1972 Feb 13 1983 – Feb 01 1984 Jan 31 1995 – Feb 18 1996 Feb 18 2007 – Feb 06 2008 Feb 05 2019 – Jan 24 2020 Jan 23 2031 – Feb 10 2032 Feb 10 2043 – Jan 29 2044
Those born in the Year of the Pig /Boar are a true soul, an honourable companion and a common sense realist. Pigs make genuine friends and charming companions.

(Originally Published at Imbolc 1997)

The Willow is the tree most associated with the moon, water, the Goddess and all that is feminine. It is the tree of dreaming, intuition and deep emotions. Symbolically it belongs to the beginning of spring, when all of life is stirring in the depths and begins to shoot outwards once again. In the ogham alphabet, the willow is Saille which became anglicised to “sally” which means a sudden outburst of emotions, action or expression (to “sally forth”). The Old French “saille” also means to rush out suddenly and the Latin “salire” means to leap. This is the underlying energy of the willow, and the key to understanding the powerful spirit of this beautiful tree.

The early spring festival of Imbolc, Oimelc or Imolg is one of the two great female fire festivals among the yearly cycle of four. Imbolc is celebrated at the beginning of February and, like the willow, is sacred to Brigit, Brigantia, Bride, being the maiden aspect of the triple Goddess. It celebrates her re-emergence as a young virgin from the mountain fastness of her mother Cailleach – she who is of winter, the burial mounds and dark places. Cailleach, the crone aspect of the triple Goddess, drinks from the well of youth and is transformed into Bride/Brigit who is her other self. This is the Celtic version of the Demeter/Kore story, representing the mysteries of life, death and rebirth. Imbolc is sacred to women and the power of the feminine principles of inspiration, illumination and seership. In Ireland, Bride is the Goddess of healing and smithcraft. The church transformed this festival into Candlemass and kept much of the pagan symbolism. It is a time of initiation and of beginnings and celebrates the renewal of the potency of the Earth Mother and the union with the male principle of the returning light.

The willow has much to teach us in its associations with our feminine aspects. By spending time with willows, or using the wood to make a talisman or wand, by taking it herbally or as a Bach flower remedy, we can deepen this connection. Spending time with willow trees at the full moon can only increase the potency of the insights and understanding to be gained. Working with the willow in the early spring, when the willow energy and the Earth’s energy are aligned, is also a particularly potent time to explore its aspects.

The willow has always been known as a tree of dreaming and enchantment, and it was associated in Celtic legend with poets and with spells of fascination and binding. This is the willow moon energy, which puts us in touch with our feelings and deep emotions, and it is the ability of the willow to help us to express these, let them out, own them and charge them in fantastical leaps of inspired eloquence and understanding. Our deep unconscious thoughts speak to us through our dreams. If you have lost touch with your dreams or wish to increase their potency, make yourself a willow wand and sleep with it under your pillow. You will find your dreams will immediately become more vivid and meaningful. Studying your dreams, writing them down, opening your intuition to interpreting them can lead to healing emotional problems and releasing tensions in your life.

This movement on the emotional level, of allowing the emotions to come through to the surface, is the power of the willow’s essential energy. Deep emotional pain blocks the energy of the body and can cause many illnesses. The willow will allow the person to move through the many levels of sadness, express the pain though tears and grief, and, by moving through these emotions, facilitate healing. The Bach flower remedy Willow is to be taken by those who have suffered adversity or misfortune in life and remain embittered by it. Willow will help the movement out of this negative state to a greater interest and involvement in the present.

When you are either over-stimulated by your feelings or cut off from them, connecting with a tree with a water attunement will greatly help. If you are attracted to a particular tree, then follow this and reach out to the tree with an openness and a willingness to accept your intuitive responses. Physical contact with a tree will help balance your body’s energy, and as you stand or sit with a tree you might receive some insights and inspirational thoughts. If you feel you have made a deep connection with a tree and want to end that communication, move slowly out of it and focus some love-light around the tree. It has been proven that the plant world is greatly enhanced by this. An attitude of thanks and gratitude for nature is also a sure way of opening up the channels of communication with trees and plants.

On a herbal level, willow bark has been used for its pain-relieving qualities for at least 2,000 years. The Salix alba (white willow, withe, withy) contains salicin, which is converted to salicylic acid in the body. Salicylic acid is closely related to aspirin, the synthetic drug that has displaced willow bark from popular use. Willow bark reduces fever and relieves rheumatism, a common ailment in these damp isles. A decoction can be used for gum and tonsil inflammations and as a footbath for sweaty feet. The bark is collected in the spring time, being careful not to ring the tree or it will die. The decoction is made by soaking 3 teaspoons (15ml) of the bark in a cup of cold water for 2 – 5 hours. Then bring to the boil. Strain and take a wineglassful each day, a mouthful at a time. The bark can be dried, powdered and stored in an airtight container.

Black willow (Salix nigra) is the pussy willow and has black bark as opposed to the light greens of the white willow. Its properties are much the same, but herbally it was used in the past as an aphrodisiac and sexual sedative.

Goat willow or sallow willow (Salix caprea) is used in very much the same way as the white willow, but sallow bark tea is recommended for indigestion, whooping cough and catarrh. It can also be used as an antiseptic and disinfectant.

Culpeper says in his Complete Herbal “The moon owns the willow” and it was known as the witches’ tree and the tree of enchantment. Robert Graves suggests that witch, wicker and wicked are all derived from willow. Willow rods are certainly used for binding magical and sacred objects and the popular witches’ broom is traditionally made with an ash handle and birch twigs bound with willow.

Willow wands are used for any ritual associated with the moon and as a protection on deep journeys into the underworld and the unconscious. The willow will always enhance inspired leaps of the imagination and is recommended to be used when seeking to assimilate the teachings of a wise woman or master, because understanding another person’s enlightened place is made easier. Also when seeking to understand ancient ways, so that you can assimilate these past levels of information, and quickly move through the underlying emotions, to appreciate humankind’s patterns and utilise this information for change.

By working with the moon and the cycles of the moon, we reconnect to the duality of the light (waxing) and the dark (waning) and the tides, the seas, water and the qualities of water which include flowing, surrender, harmonising and accepting. Moon magic puts us in touch with our emotions and unconscious, which balances out our solar rational conscious views. The moon represents the Goddess and everything which reflects and suggests the power of women.

Willow is used for charms of fascination and binding, and during the spring moon we have the power of the Spring Maiden who fascinates and binds the power of the young King. Aphrodite is associated with the spring and the bright half of the moon, courtship and the union which blesses the land with fertility. British and Irish mythology is also rich with legends of the beguiling, Willowy Spring Maiden who is called Olwen, Niwalen, Gwenhyver, Cordelia, Blodeuwedd and many others, who initiate the young King into a deeply sexual experience.

Tree magic generally falls into the class of sympathetic magic which operates through the doctrine of signatures. This states that a plant will act on that part of the body which it most resembles. This can be sub-divided into homeopathic magic (the Law of Similarity) and contagious magic (the Law of Contact, using a magically charged object).

Homeopathic magic words on the principle that “like begets like”, and by using willow wood for a wand or talisman it will be charged with the properties of the willow. The flexibility of the willow’s twigs inspires us to move with life, rather than resist what we are feeling, and can also help you to let go of conditioned responses to life’s experiences and to move towards a greater acceptance of self and others.

Willow’s weeping stance reflects its association with grief. By wearing a piece of willow (as in the popular song “All around my hat I will wear the green willow”) a person will be able to access all the levels of grief connected with a loss, and be able to move through all these different levels, expressing the whole deep emotional experience, to gain healing and inner strength.

When one of the willow’s branches or twigs becomes disconnected, it will easily grow into a new tree if it finds some soil and water, teaching us that contained within a loss, or a new direction, is the capacity for growth and healing. Willow is one of the best water-divining woods, along with hazel and birch.

Homeopathic magic and contagious magic can be combined in the making of wands, talismans and any other objects made for personal or ritual use. Making a wand from willow means that all the willow’s qualities are naturally contained within the wood, although you may want to charge or empower certain aspects for specific use. Willow wands are used whenever there is a need to connect with intuition, dreams, seership, visions, poetic and inspired writing or images, and whenever there is either an emotional numbness or emotional excess, or where there are negative emotional feelings which need to be worked through. Use a piece of fresh willow, cut from the tree with appropriate reverence and ritual, or a newly fallen piece which the tree has recently shed. You may like to take the bark, or some of the bark, off and carve it with magical symbols or anything else you may wish to use to energise your wand. It is easier to carve fresh wood and then let it dry out. Small twigs will dry out quickly without cracking in a house, but it is better to let larger pieces of wood dry slowly in an outhouse or shed, or under a hedge. When it is dry, it may be polished with several layers of beeswax to protect the wood, or left natural.

Talismans may be made in the same way, perhaps using the natural shape of the wood to suggest and inspire a carving. Talismans may be worn round the neck or as a brooch, or carried within a pouch and kept close. They may be magically carved with symbols relevant to their use.

Symbolism is not fixed, there are no correct versions of anything, and the willow particularly stimulates our ability to follow our intuitions and find out own meanings behind the symbols. It is true there are traditional meanings associated with things, but traditions must evolve and include new insights and ways of working. We may evolve a new set of symbols, particularly relevant to ourselves, which others may adopt and integrate into a new system. What was meaningful to people in one part of our evolution or history may no longer apply. Interpretations may no longer speak to the conscious or the unconscious. The patterns which a seer can unfold need to be potent and meaningful to our present spiritual evolution. We have been taught to regard our intuition as unreliable but we know that this isn’t true and we must use it more in order to develop our ability to use it to the full. The power of the willow can enhance this resolve.

Article Copyright White Dragon Magazine 1993-2006

Pure Essential Oils can be used in many ways. For meditation we suggest burning your oil in an incense burner in a base of water or almond oil. Essential Oils are very potent and care must be taken when using in any manner other than an oil burner.

This list includes a number of oils which are particularly useful in meditation exercises and explains their psychological value.

Basil | Bergamot | Cedarwood | Chamomile | Cinnamon | Fennel | Frankincense | Geranium | Jasmine | Lavender | Lemon | Myrrh | Orange | Rose | Sandalwood | Ylang Ylang | Essential Oil Blends

Basil

can assist when concentration is needed for a particular task. Uplifting and strengthening.

Fragrance: warm, sweet, strong, spicy

Best Used: Bath, burner

Keywords: anxiety, depression, insomnia.

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Bergamot

is a grounding oil which brings you into the present. Bergamot lifts the spirits and brings a sense of increased happiness.

Fragrance: fresh, fruity, aromatic

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage, perfume

Keywords: depression, balancing, calming.
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Cedarwood

is best used in an oil burner before and during meditation. Cedarwood will help to increase your spiritual awareness.

Fragrance: dry, woody, sweet

Best Used: Burner

Keywords: soothing, depression, insomnia.

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Chamomile

is excellent for meditation. Aids in promoting calmness and relaxation.

Fragrance: herbal, sweet, warm

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage

Keywords: stress, tension, depression, insomnia

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Cinnamon

assists in development of psychic abilities. A sweet-scented oil that increases spirituality.

Fragrance: cinnamon

Best Used: Burner

Keywords: abundance

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Fennel

is an aniseed-scented oil that helps us to find the courage to make beneficial changes in our lives.

Fragrance: warm, sweet, soft

Best Used: Bath

Keywords: self-esteem, confidence
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Frankincense

is a powerful oil which assists to increase meditative experiences by helping us to connect with the universal energy.

Fragrance: balsamic, spicy, heavy

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage

Keywords: grounding, relaxing

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Geranium

protects against and dispels negative energy. Brings harmony and grace into our lives.

Fragrance: soft, rose-like, friendly

Best Used: Burner, massage, perfume

Keywords: uplifting, relaxing, calming

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Jasmine

uplifts and transforms your state of mind. Relieves emotional suffering. Jasmine is a stimulant which acts as an aphrodisiac. Excellent for easing a sense of pessimism and dispelling paranoia.

Fragrance: sweet, heavy, intense

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage, perfume

Keywords: aphrodisiac, relaxing, pleasant

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Lavender

cleanses the mind and spirit. Creates calm and harmony. Recommended for mood swings and irritability.

Fragrance: soft, light, herbal, flowery

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage, perfume

Keywords: stress, sleep, clarity, understanding

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Lemon

is an uplifting oil that has a high energy vibration. It assists with concentration and focus and clears the head. Helps to brighten those who suffer from depression or fearfulness.

Fragrance: fresh, cool

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage

Keywords: clarity, memory, depression

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Myrrh

has been used as a meditation aid since ancient times. Myrrh brings calm and peace and settles the thoughts.

Fragrance: balsamic, warm, sweet, spicy

Best Used: Burner, massage

Keywords: spirituality, depression

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Orange

is an uplifting oil which dispels negativity and increases positive thinking. Orange brings a sense of joy and helps us to find peace.

Fragrance: fruity, sweet, crisp, citrus

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage, perfume

Keywords: focus, harmony, confidence

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Rose

is a nurturing oil which increases all aspects of love in our lives. Rose helps to bring your thoughts back from the stresses of every day life to thoughts of beauty and harmony.

Fragrance: sweet, soft, intensive, strong

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage, perfume

Keywords: enlightenment, tension, depression, patience

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Sandalwood

has been used traditionally in temples and for meditation. Sandalwood brings peace and calm, opening the mind for a spiritual experience.

Fragrance: warm, balsamic, soft, woody

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage, perfume

Keywords: peace, harmony, stress, insomnia

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Ylang Ylang

This oil is an aphrodisiac and helps you let go of fears, anger and negative thoughts. Unashamedly sweet and feminine it warms the senses and cleanses the body, mind and soul.

Fragrance: sweet, flowery, heavenly, feminine

Best Used: Bath, burner, massage, perfume

Keywords: Self-confidence, calmness, depression

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Essential Oil Blends

Simply add two drops of each of the following essential oils to your oil burner or a bowl of steaming water and place close to your meditation space.

Energy Lift

• Basil
• Jasmine
• Lemon

Ease Depression

• Bergamot
• Chamomile
• Myrrh

Ease Stress

• Bergamot
• Lavender
• Frankincense

Assist Concentration

• Lemon
• Peppermint

Boost Self-Esteem

• Fennel
• Orange
• Ylang Ylang

So what are our statues made of? At Willowtree Gift Shop most of our statues are made of either resin, or a composite of crushed stone and resin or shaoshan stone and resin. Here’s a quick rundown of these materials.

Resin

Fiberglass resin is a durable synthetic polymer. Resin statues can have an excellent finish as can be seen in the Egyptian Cat Statue Bastet on the right.

Shaoshan Stone

Shaoshan Stone is a composite of crushed marble and resin. Depending on the finish a Shaoshan Stone statue can have many textures.

I adore this little statue of the Aztec Dog Xolos above – so cute. Also in Shaoshan Stone is this beautiful aqua blue finish Buddha to the right.

And not to forget the serene statue of the Peaceful Buddha above.

Pewter

Pewter is an alloy of tin, lead, antimony, and a bit of silver or copper. Tin is the greatest component with up to 99% content. When possible we always source Australian Made pewter statues such as this exquisite Pewter Wizard with Crystal Ball and the absolutely unique Pewter Wand on Stand decorated with faceted stones.

To view the full range of statues and other giftware visit

THE QUATERNARIES

There are three Quaternaries in the 12 signs of the Zodiac and each quaternary represents four signs. They are known as the Cardinal, the Fixed and the Mutable signs.

The Cardinal signs – these signs represent enterprise and ambition, change and vitality.

The Fixed signs – relate to stability, strength and willpower. A true determination.

The Mutable signs -these signs represent adaptability, flexibility and versatility.

THE 12 SIGNS OF THE ZODIAC

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

Symbol: The Ram

Ruling Planet: Mars

Element: Fire (Inspirational)

Quaternary: Cardinal

Sign: Masculine

Keywords: Dynamic, adventurous, ambitious, impulsive, enthusiastic, energetic

TAURUS

April 21 – May 21

Symbol: The Bull

Ruling Planet: Venus

Element: Earth (Practical)

Quaternary: Fixed

Sign: Feminine

Keywords: Reliable, gentle, even-tempered, jealous.

GEMINI

May 22 – June 22

Symbol: The Twins

Ruling Planet: Mercury

Element: Air (Mental)

Quaternary: Mutable

Sign: Masculine

Keywords: Ambivalent, elusive, intelligent, humane. A complex personality.

CANCER

June 23 – July 23

Symbol: The Crab

Ruling Planet: Moon

Element: Water (Emotional)

Quaternary: Cardinal

Sign: Feminine

Keywords: Energetic, home loving, wise, inspired, devoted. Moody.

LEO

July 24 – August 23

Symbol: The Lion

Ruling Planet: Sun

Element: Fire (Inspirational)

Quaternary: Fixed

Sign: Masculine

Keywords: Ambitious, courageous, independent. Extrovert, dominant.

VIRGO

August 24 – September 23

Symbol: The Virgin

Ruling Planet: Mercury

Element: Earth (Practical)

Quaternary: Mutable

Sign: Feminine

Keywords: Discreet, charming, common sense. Hardworking and conscientious. Fastidious, worries a lot.

LIBRA

September 24 – October 23

Symbol: The Scales

Ruling Planet: Venus

Element: Air (Mental)

Quaternary: Cardinal

Sign: Masculine

Keywords: Diplomatic, principled, affectionate. Indecisive, frivolous.

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 22

Symbol: The Scorpion

Ruling Planet: Mars

Element: Water (Emotional)

Quaternary: Fixed

Sign: Feminine

Keywords: Passionate, sensitive, a loyal friend. Impatient, brooding.

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 – December 22

Symbol: The Centaur

Ruling Planet: Jupiter

Element: Fire (Inspirational)

Quaternary: Mutable

Sign: Masculine

Keywords: Honourable, trustworthy, independent, moral. Outspoken, frivolous.

CAPRICORN

December 23 – January 19

Symbol: The Goat

Ruling Planet: Saturn

Element: Earth (Practical)

Quaternary: Cardinal

Sign: Feminine

Keywords: Self-critical, logical, clear-headed. Slow, unyielding, melancholy.

AQUARIUS

January 20 – February 19

Symbol: The Water-Bearer

Ruling Planet: Uranus

Element: Air (Mental)

Quaternary: Fixed

Sign: Masculine

Keywords: Tolerant, genial, refined, practical. Unforgiving, detached.

PISCES

February 20 – March 20

Symbol: The Fishes

Ruling Planet: Jupiter

Element: Water (Emotional)

Quaternary: Mutable

Sign: Feminine

Keywords: Gentle, patient, artistic, good-natured. Unreliable, careless.

Visit Willowtree Gift Shop to see the full range of charts and zodiac products.

The Elder Futhark Runic Alphabet contains 24 runes. The runes are broken into three sections, each one containing 8 runes. These sections are known as aett (meaning plural). This assists in remembering the order of the runes and also has some significance in their meanings.

A purchased rune set will often contain a blank rune. This blank rune has no meaning and should not be used in casting. Their purpose is to replace a lost rune if needed.

Each of the 24 Futhark Runes are identified below together with its image, followed by its rune name, phonetic name and the meaning used when casting the runes.

FREE DOWNLOAD – USE OUR RUNE IMAGES IN YOUR PROJECTS OR WEBSITE.

Freyr / Freyja’s Aett

Fehu – domestic cattle, wealth. This is a sign of success and fulfillment of goals.

Meaning: Wealth

Element: Fire

Corresponding English Letter: F

Uruz – a wild ox. Represents physical strength and untamed potential. Energy and health.

Meaning: Strength

Element: Earth

Corresponding English Letter: U

Thurisaz – thorn or giant. Represents strength in facing an enemy. A reactive force.

Meaning: Force

Element: Fire

Corresponding English Letter: TH

Ansuz – ancestral god (Odin). Signals inspiration, true vision, truth, good health.

Meaning: ancestor, god

Element: Air

Corresponding English Letter: A

Raidho – wagon, chariot. Represents travelling, both spiritually and physically. Renewal and safe journey.

Meaning: Journey, wheel.

Element: Air

Corresponding English Letter: R

Kenaz – Beacon or torch. Represents vision, knowledge, creativity, inspiration.

Meaning: Torch fire, light

Element: Fire

Corresponding English Letter: K

Gebo – gift, partnership. Represents a gift of both sacrifice and generosity. Indicates balance.

Meaning: Gift

Element: Air

Corresponding English Letter: G

Wunjo – Joy, comfort. Represents harmony and spiritual reward.

Meaning: Joy, perfection

Element: Earth

Corresponding English Letter: W or V

Heimdall’s Aett

Hagalaz – Destruction, uncontrolled forces, testing, trials.

Meaning: Hail

Element: Ice

Corresponding English Letter: H

Nauthiz – Accomplish the impossible, necessity, innovation.

Meaning: Need

Element: Ice

Corresponding English Letter: N

Isa – Challenge or frustration. Authority, power. Symbol of masculinity.

Meaning: Ice

Element: Ice

Corresponding English Letter: I

Jera – A fruitful season. Hopes and expectations. Long term success and luck.

Meaning: Year, Good Harvest

Element: Earth

Corresponding English Letter: J or Y

Eihwaz – Reliability, trustworthiness. Potential. Motivation to succeed.

Meaning: Yew Tree

Element: Air

Corresponding English Letter: EI

Perthro – Uncertain meaning, secret. Determining the future. Feminine matters.

Meaning: Feminine

Element: Water

Corresponding English Letter: P

Algiz – Awakening, higher life, follow your instincts. Protection, defence.

Meaning: Elk, Protection

Element: Air

Corresponding English Letter: Z

Sowilo – Achievement of goals, success. Health, life-force.

Meaning: Sun

Element: Air

Corresponding English Letter: S

Tyr’s Aett

Tiwaz – Authority, leadership, self-sacrifice. Resolution of conflict.

Meaning: Tyr the Norse God of Justice

Element: Air

Corresponding English Letter: T

Berkano – Fertility, mental, physical and personal growth. Healing and protection.

Meaning: Birch Tree, Beloved

Element: Earth

Corresponding English Letter: B

Ehwaz – Represents a horse, car, boat, plane or other vehicle. Movement, change for the better.

Meaning: Horse, Friendship

Element: Earth

Corresponding English Letter: E

Mannaz – An individual, friends and enemies. Social order. Intelligence, ability.

Meaning: Mankind, Knowledge

Element: Air

Corresponding English Letter: M

Laguz – Healing power of renewal. Water, sea, an energy force. Imagination.

Meaning: Lake, Water

Element: Water

Corresponding English Letter: L

Ingwaz – Male fertility, gestation. Common sense, family love, caring, the home.

Meaning: True Love, Fertility

Element: Earth

Corresponding English Letter: NG

Dagaz – Breakthrough, awareness, clarity. Time to plan a new enterprise.

Meaning: The Day, Dawn

Element: Fire/Air

Corresponding English Letter: D

Othala – Property, homeland, inheritance. Land of birth, spiritual heritage.

Meaning: Ancestral Property

Element: Earth

Corresponding English Letter: O

Visit Willowtree Gift Shop to purchase this incredible rune set. Available in Rose Quartz or Hematite and comes in a suede pouch with detailed information card.

Each lunar month is associated with one of the 13 trees sacred to the Druids. The contemporary name of the tree can be found below alongside it’s Celtic name and Celtic sign. Here we provide details of the dates for each of these lunar months as well as the Celtic symbol and the Ruling Planet. Each lunar month also has an Ancient God associated and here you will find the names of both the Greek and Celtic gods.

There are many other dates you may find for Celtic Astrology which may be different to these compiled here. We believe these to be the correct dates as defined by practicing astrologer Helena Patterson.

The Birch Tree
BETH

December 24 – January 20
Celtic Symbol – The White Stag
Ruling Planet – The Sun – Sul

Ancient Gods Associated with the Sun:

• Greek: Helios, Apollo (also known as Phoebus), Cybthius and Pytheus
• Celtic: Hu, Lugh, Beli, Taliesin, Arthur

The Rowan Tree
LUIS

January 21 – February 17
Celtic Symbol – The Green Dragon
Ruling Planet – Uranus – Brigantia

Ancient Gods Associated with Uranus:

• Greek: Chaos, Aether and Hemera, Uranus
• Celtic: Brigantia, Brigid

The Ash Tree
NION

February 18 – March 17
Celtic Symbol – The Trident or Sea-Horse
Ruling Planet – Neptune – Lir

Ancient Gods Associated with Neptune:

• Greek: Oceanus, Poseidon
• Celtic: Lir, Manannan

The Alder Tree
FEARN

March 18 – April 14
Celtic Symbol – The Pentacle or the Hawk
Ruling Planet – Mars – Maurth

Ancient Gods Associated with Mars:

• Greek: Ares
• Celtic: Bram, Arthur, Airem, Teutates

The Willow Tree
SAILLE

April 15 – May 12
Celtic Symbol – The Sea-Serpent
Ruling Planet – The Moon – Llun

Ancient Gods Associated with the Moon:

• Greek: Artemes, Selene, Hecate
• Celtic: Ceridwen, Morrigan, Morgan le Fay

The Hawthorn Tree
UATH

May 13 – June 9
Celtic Symbol – The Chalice
Ruling Planet – Vulcan – Govannan

Ancient Gods Associated with Vulcan:

• Greek: Vulcan or Hephaestus
• Celtic: Govannan or Goibniu

The Oak Tree
DUIR

June 10 – July 7
Celtic Symbol – The White Horse or the Golden Wheel
Ruling Planet – Jupiter – Jovyn

Ancient Gods Associated with Mars:

• Greek: Zeus
• Celtic: Dagda

The Holly Tree
TINNE

July 8 – August 4
Celtic Symbol – The Unicorn and the Flaming Spear
Ruling Planet – Earth – Abred

Ancient Gods Associated with Earth:

• Greek: Gaia, Ceres, Persephone
• Celtic: Danu

The Hazel Tree
COLL

August 5 – September 1
Celtic Symbol – The Rainbow Salmon
Ruling Planet – Mercury – Mugher

Ancient Gods Associated with Mercury:

• Greek: Hermes
• Celtic: Ogma, Manannan

The Vine
MUIN

September 2 – September 29
Celtic Symbol – The White Swan
Ruling Planet – Venus – Gwena

Ancient Gods Associated with Venus:

• Greek: Aphrodite
• Celtic: Branwen, Guinevere, Etain

The Ivy
GORT

September 30 – October 27
Celtic Symbol – The Butterfly
Ruling Planet – Scorpio

Ancient Gods Associated with Scorpio:

• Greek: Persephone, Hecate, Ariadne
• Celtic: Arianrhod, Rhiannon

The Reed
NGETAL

October 28 – November 24
Celtic Symbol – The White Hound or the Stone
Ruling Planet – Pluto – Pwyll

Ancient Gods Associated with Pluto:

• Greek: Pluto
• Celtic: Dis, Pwyll, Arawn

The Elder Tree
RUIS

November 25 – December 22
Celtic Symbol – The Black Horse or the Raven
Ruling Planet – Saturn – Sadorn

Ancient Gods Associated with Saturn:

• Greek: Saturn, Chronus
• Celtic: Pryderi, Bran

There are many commercial household chemicals and poisons which contribute significantly to environmental degradation and everyday health problems such as asthma and allergies.

Here we provide some natural methods to keep your home clean using essential oils. These include how to make your own non-toxic flea collar, deodorising your dishcloth and making a natural repellent to deter a common household pest.

ALL NATURAL FLEA COLLAR – non-toxic, repels fleas

Citronella, Cedarwood, Garlic

A few drops of oil applied undiluted directly to your pets collar will repel fleas on dogs and cats. Harmless to your pets.

DISINFECTANT – for dishcloths

Eucalyptus, Lavender, Tea Tree, Thyme

Soak cloth in a bowl of boiling water with one drop of oil before washing. Washcloths become bacteria havens.

MOUSE REPELLENT – discourages mice

Spearmint, Peppermint

Add a few drops undiluted to nests, in ceilings and places where mice may enter the house.

ENTERTAINING – welcomes & relaxes

Geranium, Clary Sage

Use vaporiser, light bulb ring or candle. A scented candle will generate a friendly ambience.

WARDROBE – freshens clothes and repels moths

Lavender

For subtle aroma or moth repellent, use impregnated cotton wool balls or paper strips. Place in wardrobe.

Visit Willowtree Gift Shop to see the full range of charts and essential oils.