Afterall,it’s Summertime, and it’s time for vacation – maybe a long distance trip, or – if you live on the coast as I do, a short drive to the beach. But what about your spiritual practice? Let’s take a look at how to become a Sacred Traveler. And while we’re at it, let’s find some really magickal stuff at the beach! And, finally because it IS summer, let’s all pay homage to Thor, the God of Thunder.
So get out your passport, or just clear your schedule, then listen along and relax.
It’s summertime, and you have an opportunity to take a trip. But what about your spiritual practice? Are you going to take a break from it, or are you going to become a Sacred Traveler?
Whether it is for business or pleasure, planning is the key for making your travels more spiritual.
It’s a good idea to keep a Portable Alter - a collection of magickal tools which you use only when you’re on the road. In a small bag keep a pentacle, a small candle, some incense, a vile of salt, a vile of water and some items which represent the Goddess and God for you. They could be small statues or perhaps a rose quartz for the Goddess and a pine cone for the God. You can find also a small letter opener which you could keep as your Travelling Athame.
Before you pack your items into your bag, make sure that they are blessed and charged with your intention. This can be done in a small ritual you can perform on the night before your departure. And, during this ceremony you would want to ask that your home and pets be protected during your absence; and that you come home safely. Then, also ask that you learn something memorable and important on your trip, and remain open to any wonders that may come your way.
If you’re driving, have your car’s registration on your alter, as a symbol of your car, and ask that your car be included in your blessing ceremony.
You can create a fetish to protect your home while you’re away. This could be a doll, or poppet, or it could be a drawing of a gargoyle. Whatever you choose, charge it with the power to protect your home from intruders. Then place your Protector perhaps on a table, or pinned to a wall in such a way that it can watch your front door.
When you leave your home, use your key as a blessing tool. Send a glowing blue energy of protection through your key, into your door and all around your home, or all within your apartment. With this, know that your home is sealed and protected.
Once your on your way - whether it be through your own, or some public transportation - take a moment to breath deeply and bless the trip itself. Ask your special Travel Deities for protection and blessing on this trip. Then, sit back, relax and see what new opportunities await you.
When you arrive at your destination, perform a blessing ceremony as soon as you can - especially if you’re going to be staying in a hotel. Ask that any harmful spirits leave your room, and invite your protective deities in to stay with you.
Take some time to walk around the grounds, or visit the lobby of the hotel where you’re staying. Listen to the energies that reside there and acknowledge them. You could make an offering to them if you wish.
Make sure you perform your daily devotionals and meditations while you’re away, no matter how tired or busy you may be. Always try to leave any place you stay better off than you found it.
One of the most important parts of travel is staying open to new experiences. This doesn’t mean taking unnecessary risks, but rather use the power of travel to physicalize your emotional journey. Be sensually aware about new smells, looks, and tastes. Ask questions, be delighted at unexpected answers. Not only will you be better for having gone someplace new, but any place you touch will be better for having you there.
When you get back home, take the time to do a ritual of thanks. Say thanks for your safety, your new experiences and that your home and pets were protected. Then, take the time to absorb your journey.
Every trip changes you. This means that you, in turn, will change everything around you upon your return. Keep this heightened awareness and openness going for a few days.
That’s how it is, working with the Goddess. She changes everything She touches, and everything She touches, changes. Touch and be touched; and don’t be afraid of the changes you experience.
Playlist for week of Wednesday July 23 - July 30, 2008
The Revels: “The Traveling People”
Heather Nova: “Walk this World”
Laurie Anderson: “O Superman”
Thomas Walker: “The Way”
The Moody Blues: “The Best Way to Travel”
The Moody Blues: “Visions of Paradise”
Loreena McKennitt; “The Gates of Istanbul“
Catherine Duc: “The Essence of Dreams”
Quandary: “Dolphin Spirit”
Dar Williams: “The Ocean”
Quandary: “Searching for Atlantis”
Steeleye Span: “Lovely on the Water”
Revels: “Breton Band Set”
Stan Rogers: “Locke-Keeper”
The Moody Blues: “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere”
