Mabon Fall Equinox 2012

Open Ways

Issue 163

PEN WAYS Gateway to the Pagan Communities

Mabon Fall Equinox 2012 Mabon Fall Equinox 2012

Open Ways Open Ways Gateway to the Pagan Communities Issue 163—Mabon Fall Equinox Open Ways is published online eight times a year, on the Quarters and Cross-Quarters, by The Nine Houses of Gaia, Inc. Circulation 3400+.

Newsletter Staff Editor— Angel Editor’s Assistant— Jennifer Webmaster / Advertising— Angel Proofreaders— Kate and Ali Submissions Articles, letters, poetry, artwork, etc., are solicited from the community. We reserve the right to edit for length and content.

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Open Ways Our Mission Statement The Nine Houses of Gaia is a non-profit organization incorporated in 1992 to sponsor the Northwest Fall Equinox Festival and publish Open Ways.

Open Ways serves as an introduction to, and, an anchor for pagan communities in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest; a forum for the exchange of scholarly, practical, or experiential information, knowledge, and wisdom; a tool for instruction and communication; a “journal” of events, announcements, ideas, poetry, prose, illustration — anything of benefit or interest to Pagans, Wiccans, or other Nature Spiritualists.

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Cover photo by Blue Capucian

Mabon Fall Equinox 2012

Open Ways OPEN WAYS DEADLINES This deadline schedule includes all articles, artwork, announcements, events and advertisements. Send everything to the Portland address for Open Ways on page 2 . Advertising rates are posted on the bottom of page 2.

Open Ways Issue

Deadline

Available

Spring Equinox 2012

February 21

March 6

Beltane 2012

April 3

April 17

Summer Solstice 2012

May 23

June 6

Lughnasadh 2012

July 4

July 18

Fall Equinox 2012

August 23

September 6

Samhain 2012

October 1

October 14

Yule 2012

November 21

December 8

Imbolg 2013

January 5

January 19

Submission deadlines are 4 weeks before the Sabbats and publication dates are 2 weeks before the Sabbats.

Table of Contents 4 - Letter from the Editor 5– WFEF Goddesses In The Woods 6- 9– Basic Spiritual Path Information—Mabon/Autumn Equinox

by AmberWolf 10-13– How To Honor the Dark Mother at Mabon

by Patti Wigington 14– Dancing to Meet the Goddess

By Meg Turner 15-18- Being Your Authentic Self

By Mama Gaea 19– Cacao—Herbal Remedy For Heart Health & Mind

By Meg Turner 20– Harvest Apple Butter

By Patti Wigington 21– SisterSpirit Calendar of Events—Sept. 2012 22– SisterSpirit Calendar of Events—Oct. 2012 23–25- The Realm of the Brain

By Debra Ochoa 26-27– Ongoing Activities 28– Ongoing Festivals 29-32– Pagan Community Directory 33– Fall Equinox Word Search 34-35– Fall Coloring Pictures 36– WFEF Goddesses cont.

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Open Ways Letter from the Editor I want to thank everyone for joining The Nine Houses of Gaia at our Northwest Fall Equinox Festival this year.

The Goddesses were amazing! A huge thank you to everyone who did their utmost to keep the space clean, orderly and sacred. This was a wonderful community building and strengthening gathering.

May we all have a bountiful harvest season this year!

Blessed Be, Angel

Soul Journey Dance Friday, October 19 6:30-9:00pm, Saturday, October 20, 2012, 10:00am-5:00 pm $165 for both days

Journey to your innermost truth~ Dance the Sacred~ Find your Vision~Live your Dream

Mandarin Duck 4

Join us for a day and ½ of visioning, journeying, dancing and awakening your dream. Through journaling, meditation, journeying and sacred play we will find our way to living life where intuition and soul space touch our dreams.

What to Bring: journal, clothes for comfort and movement, a willing spirit, food to share.

To register: contact Meg Turner @ mttrnrm3@gmail.com, or call: 503-347-6558 Meg Turner is an educator, herbalist, artist, dancer, and spiritualist. Her practice with movement spans over 20 years and includes Native American circle dancing, ecstatic dance, yoga, and tai chi. She has worked in the alternative health field for 30 years as both a massage therapist & herbalist, and health educator.

Mabon Fall Equinox 2012

Open Ways WFEF Goddesses In The Woods

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Open Ways Mabon/Autumn Equinox September 21st

By:

AmberWolf

Is the time of the descent of the Goddess into the Underworld. With her departure, we see the decline of nature and the coming of winter. This is a classic, ancient mythos, seen the Sumerian myth of Inanna and in the ancient Greek and Roman legends of Demeter and Persephone.

In September, we also bid farewell to the Harvest Lord who was slain at Lammas. He is the Green Man, seen as the cycle of nature in the plant kingdom. He is harvested and his seeds are planted into the Earth so that life may continue and be more abundant.

From the moment of the September Equinox, the Sun's strength diminishes, until the moment of Winter Solstice in December, when the Sun grows stronger and the days once again become longer than the nights.

Symbols celebrating the season include various types of gourd and melons. Stalk can be tied together symbolizing the Harvest Lord and then set in a circle of gourds. A besom can be constructed to symbolize the polarity of male and female. The Harvest Lord is often symbolized by a straw man, whose sacrificial body is burned and its ashes scattered upon the earth. The Harvest Queen, or Kern Baby, is made from the last sheaf of the harvest and bundled by the reapers who proclaim, "We have the Kern!" The sheaf is dressed in a white frock decorated with colorful ribbons depicting spring, and then hung upon a pole (a phallic fertility symbol).

Decorations: Autumn flowers, acorns, gourds, corn sheaves and fall leaves. Candles should be brown or cinnamon.

Herbs: Rue, yarrow, rosemary, marigold, sage, walnut leaves and husks, mistletoe, saffron, chamomile, almond leaves, passionflower, frankincense, rose hips, bittersweet, sunflower, wheat, oak leaves, dried apple or apple seeds.

Incense: Pine, sage, sweet grass or myrhh. You can also mix marigold, passionflower, and fern. Using frankincense or myrhh as a resin for Mabon incense (Continued on page 7)

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Open Ways Stones: During Mabon, stones ruled by the Sun will help bring the Sun's energy to you.

Clear quartz, amber, peridot, diamond, gold, citrine, yellow topaz, cat's-eye and aventurine.

Food: Mabon is the Witch's Thanksgiving, a time to appreciate and give thanks to the Goddess for her bounty and to share in the joys of the harvest. Fall fruits, squash, gourds, pumpkins, grains, nut breads and vegetables.

Beverage; Apple Cider.

Activities: Mabon is a good time to cast spells of balance and harmony. It's also a time of change.

Protection, wealth and prosperity spells are appropriate as well.

Make grapevine wreaths using dried bitter-sweet herb for protection. Use ribbons of gold and yellow to bring in the energy of the Sun, and decorate with sprigs of dried yarrow or cinnamon sticks.

Make a Magickal Horn of Plenty Make Magickal Scented Pinecones Make a protection charm of hazelnuts (filberts) strung on red thread.

Make a besom. Tie dried corn husks or herbs (broom, cedar, fennel, lavender, peppermint, rosemary) around a strong, relatively straight branch of your choice.

Make magic Apple Dolls: Apples are sacred symbols of the witch.. Slice an apple through the midsection and its seeds reveal the sacred shape of the pentacle.

You will need two large apples, one for the God and one for the Goddess, 2 pencils and 2 dowels about 12 inches long, a paring knife, a glass or bowl of water to wash your fingers, a plate, and a towel to wipe your hands. Peel and core the apples. Carve a face in the apples. Place apples on a dowel and stand them in a jar to dry (start now). After 2 or 3 weeks, they should look like shrunken heads. Make them into dolls. Use wheat, dried herbs or doll's hair for hair. Dress them in tiny robes if you like. Hang these heads on a Witch's cord or a Mabon wreath.

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Open Ways Create a God/Goddess Altar

By Patti Wigington, About.com Guide

http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/PrayersToDeities/ss/Create-A-God-Goddess-Altar.htm Many Pagans set up an altar space that can either stay in place permanently or be used on a temporary basis. The altar is typically used for ritual or spellwork, and is often set up according to a very basic framework. At some point you may choose to set up an altar with a specific theme to it - for example, a sabbat celebration or a birthday, or even for the children in your home.

If your magical tradition honors a specific deity, why not consider setting up a god or goddess altar? This altar celebrates the Divine aspect of your belief system, whether you honor a single deity or an entire pantheon.

Things to include: Statuary: Find a statue representing the deity of your path Candles: Use candles in colors associated with your deity, or select a god or goddess candle Natural symbols: Do you honor a god of the ocean? Add a bowl of sea water. Is your god or goddess associated with a particular tree? Put leaves, branches or seeds on your altar.

Handcrafts: Have you made a craft item representing your god or goddess? If you honor Brighid, for example, you may wish to add a Brighid’s cross. Have you made a set of prayer beads celebrating the many aspects of Cernunnos? Add those to your altar.

Offerings: If your deity accepts offerings - and many do - then place a bowl, cup or plate on the altar to hold your tributes.

When you set up your altar, remember that it is a sacred space. Be sure to consecrate or cleanse it prior to use, according to the guidelines of your tradition.

Symbols of the Divine Candles and statuary can be used to represent deities on your altar.

Need some tips for ways to honor the various gods on your altar? Take a look at this list for some ideas: Bast Use cat symbols to honor this Egyptian deity of fertility. Catnip plants, feline statues, even a bowl of milk are perfect ways to make offerings to Bast.

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Open Ways Brighid This Celtic goddess of hearth and home is often associated with both fire and fertility. Eggs and milk are great offerings to make for Brighid, and you can decorate your altar with a corn doll, a Brighid's cross, or other symbols of the Imbolc season. Add a brazier or a green candle for some fiery aspects.

Cernunnos This wild god of the forest features prominently in Celtic legend, and is often represented by the stag. Add a set of antler sheds or horns to your altar, as well as phallic symbols such as the wand and staff, or forest greenery such as ferns, vines, and branches.

Freya Freya is a Norse goddess associated with childbirth and fertility. Use cups and chalices on your altar, candles in the color gold, and feathers.

Isis This Egyptian mother goddess can be represented by the ankh, the scarab beetle, the lotus, and the colors gold and red. She is sometimes portrayed with great wings, so feel free to add feathers in her honor as well.

Juno Juno is a Roman goddess of marriage and fecundity, and is often represented by peacock feathers, seashells, and flowers - particularly the lily and the lotus.

Odin Odin was the mighty king of the Norse gods, and can be honored with runes, ash tree branches and leaves, as well as drinking horns. Use symbols of power when honoring Odin.

Poseidon This Greek god of the sea was also known as a mover of the earth - honor him with shells and bowls of sea water, a trident or other threepronged tool, horse symbols, or even a pile of dirt to honor his role as a causer of earthquakes.

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Open Ways How To Honor the Dark Mother at Mabon

By Patti Wigington, About.com Guide Demeter and Persephone are strongly connected to the time of the Autumn Equinox. When Hades abducted Persephone, it set in motion a chain of events that eventually led to the earth falling into darkness each winter. This is the time of the Dark Mother, the Crone aspect of the triple goddess. The goddess is bearing this time not a basket of flowers, but a sickle and scythe. She is prepared to reap what has been sown.

The earth dies a little each day, and we must embrace this slow descent into dark before we can truly appreciate the light that will return in a few months.

Difficulty: Average Time Required: Varied Here's How:

This ritual welcomes the Dark Mother, and celebrates that aspect of the Goddess which we may not always find comforting or appealing, but which we must always be willing to acknowledge. Decorate your altar with symbols of Demeter and her daughter -- flowers in red and yellow for Demeter, purple or black for Persephone, stalks of wheat, Indian corn, sickles, baskets. Have a candle on hand to represent each of them -- harvest colors for Demeter, black for Persephone. You'll also need a chalice of wine, or grape juice if you prefer, and a pomegranate.

If you normally cast a circle, or call the quarters, do so now. Turn to the altar, and light the Persephone candle. Say: The land is beginning to die, and the soil grows cold.

The fertile womb of the earth has gone barren.

As Persephone descended into the Underworld, So the earth continues its descent into night.

As Demeter mourns the loss of her daughter, So we mourn the days drawing shorter.

The winter will soon be here.

We welcome the darkness, in her honor.

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Open Ways Light the Demeter candle, and say: In her anger and sorrow, Demeter roamed the earth, And the crops died, and life withered and the soil went dormant.

In grief, she traveled looking for her lost child, Leaving darkness behind in her wake.

We feel the mother's pain, and our hearts break for her, As she searches for the child she gave birth to.

We welcome the darkness, in her honor.

Break open the pomegranate (it's a good idea to have a bowl to catch the drippings), and take out six seeds. Place them on the altar. Say: Six months of light, and six months of dark.

The earth goes to sleep, and later wakes again.

O dark mother, we honor you this night, And dance in your shadows.

We embrace that which is the darkness, And celebrate the life of the Crone.

Take a sip of the wine, and savor the taste upon your lips. If you are doing this rite with a group, pass it to each person in the circle. As each person drinks, they should say: Blessings to the dark goddess on this night, and every other.

As the wine is replaced upon the altar, hold your arms out in the Goddess position, and take a moment to reflect on the darker aspects of the human experience. Think of all the goddesses who evoke the night, and call out: Demeter, Inanna, Kali, Tiamet, Hecate, Nemesis, Morrighan.

Bringers of destruction and darkness, I embrace you tonight.

Without rage, we cannot feel love, Without pain, we cannot feel happiness, Without the night, there is no day, Without death, there is no life.

Great goddesses of the night, I thank you.

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Open Ways Take a few moments to meditate on the darker aspects of your own soul. Is there a pain you've been longing to get rid of? Is there anger and frustration that you've been unable to move past? Is there someone who's hurt you, but you haven't told them how you feel? Now is the time to take this energy and turn it to your own purposes. Take any pain inside you, and reverse it so that it becomes a positive experience. If you're not suffering from anything hurtful, count your blessings, and reflect on a time in your life when you weren't so fortunate.

When you are ready, end the ritual. **You may wish to tie this rite into a celebration of the Harvest Moon.

What You Need: A candle to represent Demeter A candle to represent Persephone Wine or grape juice A pomegranate (and a bowl)

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Open Ways Mabon Balance Meditation

Celebrating the Dark and the Light By Patti Wigington, About.com Guide A Time of Positive and Negative Energy

Mabon is one of those times of year that affect people in different ways. For some, it's a season to honor the darker aspects of the goddess, calling upon that which is devoid of light. For others, it's a time of thankfulness, of gratitude for the abundance we have at the season of harvest. No matter how you see it, Mabon is traditionally a time of balance. After all, it's one of the two times each year that has equal amounts of darkness and daytime.

Because this is, for many people, a time of high energy, there is sometimes a feeling of restlessness in the air, a sense that something is just a bit "off". If you're feeling a bit spiritually lopsided, with this simple meditation you can restore a little balance into your life.

Setting the Mood

Now that fall is here, why not do an autumn version of Spring Cleaning? Get rid of any emotional baggage you're dragging around with you.

Accept that there are darker aspects to life, and embrace them, but don't let them rule you. Understand that a healthy life finds balance in all things.

You can perform this ritual anywhere, but the best place to do it is outside, in the evening as the sun goes down. Decorate your altar (or if you're outside, use a flat stone or tree stump) with colorful autumn leaves, acorns, small pumpkins, and other symbols of the season. You'll need a black candle and a white one of any size, although tealights probably work best. Make sure you have something safe to put them in, either a candle holder or a bowl of sand.

Light both candles, and say the following:

A balance of night and day, a balance of light and dark Tonight I seek balance in my life as it is found in the Universe.

A black candle for darkness and pain and things I can eliminate from my life.

A white candle for the light, and for joy and all the abundance I wish to bring forth.

At Mabon, the time of the equinox, there is harmony and balance in the Universe, and so there shall be in my life.

Meditate on the things you wish to change. Focus on eliminating the bad, and strengthening the good around you. Put toxic relationships into the past, where they belong, and welcome new positive relationships into your life. Let your baggage go, and take heart in knowing that for every dark night of the soul, there will be a sunrise the next morning.

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Open Ways Dancing to Meet the Goddess

By Meg Turner

Ever since I was a little girl dancing has always been an important part of my life. I danced to bagpipes at parades, I danced to drums, trumpets and rock music in high school, and later as I came into my current spiritual practices I dance to connect to Goddess.

Dance has been an integral part of tribal religions for centuries. Tribes know that connecting with Spirit is easy when you open a portal to the spirit realm. Gabrielle Roth, instructor of Five Rythms and other styles of Conscious Movement entitles it her gateway to God. I suppose you could say that dance has the ability to open our hearts and bodies so that we are entertwined with Spirit, free to express all that is. As a Native American circle dancer, I found connection while processing many old spirit wounds, that I no longer wanted to carry with me. I have used it to heal from many issues, and find that when I dance, nothing else matters.

With the breath, I can connect heart, mind and spirit as one, traveling through layers of time dimensions to another realm. It is part of my shamanic journeying, it is part of my everyday living: I have processed anger, grief, calm, joy, and opening to Spirit, in ways I never dreamed possible. Somehow the dance feeds the spirit, and builds the energy in healing, loving ways to gently break down all that would stop us from fully becoming who we were meant to be. It has also helped me to access new gifts and manifest them in exciting and diverse ways. The journey is the best part of the practice, but the rewards are beyond measure.

I invite you to share in the journey with me. Open your heart to experience all that you can be. Connect with Goddess, and lift your Spirit!

Meg Turner is an educator, healer, artist, herbalist, and conscious movement facilitator. She has been involved in healing arts for over thirty years, and leads workshops on Goddess awareness in Oregon.

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Open Ways Being your Authentic Self A column by Mama Gaea What does it mean to be Authentic?

On and on, you keep hearing how you are supposed to be your “Authentic Self”. What in the world does that mean anymore? How can you even be true to yourself, the actual meaning of being your Authentic Self, if you don’t even know who you truly are? And if you don’t know who you truly are, how in the HECK are you supposed to find out? Do you really want to find out? What if your life up until this point has been filled with nothing but ways of avoiding that which you fear?

Enough! All I can say is Enough! Enough running. Enough hiding. Enough avoiding facing that deep reflection in your mirror. Being Authentic is screaming and crying and breaking down all those barriers that prevent you from being who you were meant to be. Who YOU were meant to be. Not what someone else wants you to be or what others THINK you should be. And that is perhaps one of the hardest things someone can find out about themselves.

Can you imagine how many walls there would be to break through if year after year there was someone in your life who made you feel “less than”? Emotionally, physically, or mentally abused you? Some people would integrate that into their psyche and actually believe it, whether they admitted it to themselves or not. Some people would act out in abusive ways towards themselves or towards others. Examples of self-abuse could be emotional over-eating, drug or alcohol abuse, sexual addiction, cutting, or even TV or video game addiction, just for a start. Outward abuse could be repeating the family cycle of physical, emotional, or mental abuse towards your own family members or towards close friends or even strangers. Anger and resentment would rule your life, manifesting in any number of ways. The ones listed here are only a small example of the layers upon layers of protective fields people put up to avoid facing that which hurts the most, preventing them from discovering who they could be without the pain.

I am here to tell you, however, that it CAN be done. There is a way to become the best Human one can possibly be. Obviously, the methods will be different for each person. What works for one person may not work for another. Just as there are many, many different paths to the Divine, so there are many different ways of discovering your Authentic Self. It is my life’s mission to help those who cross my path to discover theirs.

Welcome to your Journey Mama Gaea, 8/22/12 Mabon Fall Equinox 2012

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Open Ways Getting to the Root of the Matter Every fall, nature tells us an important message from which we can all learn. As the leaves begin to change color and drop, and the air turns crisp, the plants go deeply into their roots and build a strong network of mycelium fibers in the ground to nourish and sustain themselves throughout the winter months of dormancy. They don’t disappear, just recede deep inside their physical bodies in the roots below the ground, and nourish and sleep their way through the cold winter months and early spring.

Sometimes in our busy lives, we forget how important the simple act of nourishment is, whether its calling a friend we’ve not talked with in several months, or spending time with loved ones near and far, or beginning the preparations for the winter months: cleaning, storing, sifting, preparing for the cold winter months ahead. For winter is the time when we will go within, if we choose to honor the wisdom of nature, slow down our busy lives, and spend time in dreamtime, listening to the voices of Spirit and Goddess within. It is a time of dreaming visions, making plans, setting goals, and reviewing what has born fruit the previous growing season, and what needs to be pruned, adjusted, or uprooted to prepare for new growth in new ways.

One of the best ways to nourish and nurture ourselves is through herbs that support our deep immune system: the liver, spleen, adrenals. This is often the system that we overlook during the holiday months of November and December, leaving us depleted and exhausted when we most need our health and resilience! By nourishing our immune system in the fall, like the plants of Mother Earth, we can strengthen and support our health as we move from outdoor activities and sunshine to the quiet reflection, and dark, stillness of winter. It is a time to honor our bodies and the Mother, by building immune tonics, tinctures, infusions, and syrups in preparation for the cold and flu season that lies ahead.

There are many different herbs that support this process:Linden, Burdock root, Comfrey root and leaves, ginger, cinnamon, Milk Thistle root, Licorice root, Oregon Grape Root, Dandelion root, garlic, Elderberry, Blackberry, and many others. A quick look at the list will show how much we depend upon the cycles of nature to guide and influence our judicial use of herbs to help nourish and support our health and well-being. Just as we need it most, the plants that are most helpful to us, offer us their root stock as the deep nourishment we need to support our own immune system through the winter months. Herbs that support the liver such as Milk thistle root, licorice root, Dandelion root, Burdock root, and Comfrey root, help strengthen and support the liver and immune system building strong resilience and endurance through the winter months of germs, colds, and flu.

Ginger and Cinnamon are warming herbs that add flavor and stimulate the action of the nourishing herbs by warming the circulation that often becomes stagnant in the winter months. Berries such as Blackberry, Elderberry and Oregon Grape Root berries, serve as flavor enhancers, and build and nourish the intestinal resilience to aid in removal of toxins and waste in our bodies, as well as being good sources of Vitamin C naturally.Lindensoothes the membranes of the throat and is an excellent demulcent to coat and nourish the throat and tonsils.

Burdock, Comfrey, Milk Thistle, Licorice and Oregon Grape root(s) all need a decoction or overnight infusion of boiling water, to bring out their best and most nourishing qualities. I enjoy making an infusion using my coffee pot as the infusion brewer (I have no glass pans, and metal leaches the nourishing

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Open Ways ingredients from the herbs). Recently, I’ve begun brewing Kombucha again, for its probiotic characteristics; I found that adding a cup of that to the water when brewing really helps promote a rich, healthy brew that is nourishing and supporting to both immune and digestive systems! It also helps bring out the nourishing qualities of the root stock more deeply. Ideally, to be most beneficial, use at least 1-oz. of ea. herb per infusion. A standard 12 cup coffee pot, will brew about a quart of infusion that is rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying for the whole immune system.

The other body system that is overloaded frequently in the winter months is the adrenal/endocrine system. Because our culture is relentlessly busy “doing” all the time, we seldom get a chance to give our bodies the rest that nature and most other mammals enjoy during the winter months. Instead of taking our cue from the animals that hibernate or sleep long sleep cycles in the winter months, humans have some of the busiest holiday/seasonal schedules that cause us to deplete our bodies’ natural hormonal balances. For this reason, Oatstraw, Black Cohosh, Vitex, and Saw Palmetto offer a realm of strengthening properties to nourish and support the body’s hormonal processes.

Siberian Ginseng and and Ashwaganda serve as a buffer to dealing with stress in the body, helping to stabilize the cycle of depletion that occurs when S-T-R-E-S-S interrupts and breaks down the natural hormone cycle at the HTPA (Hypothalamus Pituitary Axis). Additionally, Red Clover is a nourishing herb that is high in many vitamins, minerals, and deep toning~just as it does to the soil that it grows in. A natural nitrogen fixer, it nourishes and stabilizes the hormonal cycle in women of menstruating age, allowing them to keep from depleting their natural estrogen, while nourishing and supporting menopausal women who have naturally lower occurring levels of estrogen.

An infusion of any or all of these herbs helps nourish the adrenal system, stabilize and protect it from STRESS, and build a healthy adaptogenic response to the stressors that wear us down, deplete our energy levels, and make us vulnerable to illness and dis-ease. In addition, by nourishing the adrenal system, we help reduce the effects of aging, cancer, and other debilitating diseases. Clover is a blood cleanser as well, helping to reduce the risk of tumors, and helps keep the body fortified in fighting stress related illnesses.

For best effectiveness, an infusion of 1-oz. per quart of water can be drunk daily to build the body’s immune system, and nourish and support the adrenals. Beware! If combined with Oatstraw, it can also increase your fertility and opportunities to get pregnant:) Additionally, any of the following ingredients can be added for additional immune support, nourishing the body deeply as a tincture in the following ratios: [Schisandra seed 1:5 Manchurian Spikenard 2:1 American Ginseng Root 1:3 Ashwagandha Root 1:1.5 Reishi mushroom 1:2

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Open Ways Cordyceps 1:2] (supporting the adrenal cortex-HTPA response to stress) Rosehip 1:1(Vitamin C) Hawthorn leaf, flower, and berry 1:1(Heart support) Turmeric root 1:1 ( a natural anti-inflammatory) Green tea 95% Polyphenols 1:1 Licorice root 1:1 Elderberry 1:2 Grape seed and skin 95% Polyphenols 1:1 Ginger root With so many wonderful herbs to nourish, support and build the body’s immune system, you’d think there weren’t any other herbs that would add more to the mix! One last herb that is known for its many nourishing properties, minerals, and vitamins is Nettles. This one is best taken in small doses as it tends to cause constipation when taken liberally.

Again, 1oz. of dried nettles per quart of boiling water is a good ratio, which can also be enriched with Burdock, helping to reduce the likelihood of constipation. Nettles is high in phosphorus, calcium, iron, VitaminK, and many other minerals so necessary for good health. There can be no doubt that it offers a wealth of goodness to nourish and support healthy wintering! Remember when preparing an infusion to let it steep overnight or at least for several hours to get as much nourishment as possible from the herbs. Place herbs in a quart jar, cover with boiling water, and then cover and let steep as long as possible. And for additional support to the digestive system, try adding some Kombucha to the boiling water when steeping! :) Bon apetit! Enjoy and let me know how you mix your tonic for good health and well-being! :)

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Open Ways Cacao: Herbal Remedy for Heart Health & Mood

By Meg Turner I am a big fan of Chocolate;in fact it has found its way into many of my medicinal formulas. As cacao is one of the most delicious herbal remedies, this resurgence of cacao's health benefits is good news for your taste buds! The term chocolate refers to the dried, fermented, processed seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree. Raw unprocessed chocolate is known as cacao.

Cacao is extremely high in medicinal constituents known as proanthocyanidins. Similar to the flavonoids found in red wine and bright-colored berries, these compounds are responsible for much of chocolate's health benefits, primarily in the cardiovascular system. Research demonstrates its ability to lower LDL cholesterol, decrease plaque buildup in the arteries, decrease cardiovascular inflammation, moderate blood pressure. So how about swapping out that aspirin a day for a piece of chocolate a day?

Cacao also contains phenylethylamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with feelings of elation, euphoria. This explains its use as a mood enhancer and an aphrodisiac.

Considered the "Superfood of the Gods", ancient Mayan and Aztec culture is immersed with legends and beliefs regarding these precious seeds. The Mayans considered cacao a religious symbol of good health and fertility. They made a drink known as xocoatl, meaning "bitter water," consisting of raw cacao powder flavored with hot chilis and cornmeal. This thick, potent brew was considered a health elixir. Cacao beans were used as currency by the Aztecs culture - as they were believed to have fortifying, aphrodisiac qualities.

Hot Choco-Maca Recipe Perfect for a blustery March day 16 oz. Almond Milk 1 Tb Cacao powder 1 Tb Maca powder 1/3 Tb Agave Syrup 2 pumps Cinnamon extract or a pinch of Cinnamon powder Warm in a sauce pan on the stove, stirring well to mix thoroughly.

Lavendar Cocoa Recipe A delicious variation of the sugary cocoas in retail stores. Mix equal parts of the following: Organic cocoa powder, organic turbanado sugar (may also use stevia in smaller amounts), organic lavender flowers finely ground to a powder. Mix all ingredients together, and add to warm soy/almond or other natural liquid. Heat on stove, stirring gently until all ingredients are steaming. (Amounts will vary)

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Open Ways Crockpot Apple Butter

By Patti Wigington, About.com Guide http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/maboncooking/r/AppleButter.htm Apple butter is a delicious treat all year long, and if you make it in the fall with fresh apple sauce, you can preserve it to eat later on. Enjoy this tasty spread on warm bread, or just straight from the jar! You'll need basic canning supplies like Mason jars with lids, a pair of tongs, and a big pot to get started. This recipe should yield you about ten pints of apple butter.

Cook Time: 12 hours

Total Time: 12 hours

Ingredients: 9 quarts of applesauce 2 C. apple cider 3 Tbs. ground cinnamon 1 Tbs, ground cloves 1 Tbs. nutmeg 3 C. sugar (more if you like really sweet apple butter) Preparation:

You can make this recipe with homemade or store-bought applesauce. Homemade tastes far better, so if you've never made your own applesauce, check out the Applesauce recipe at our Family Crafts site.

Fill a crock pot with as much applesauce as it takes to bring you about an inch from the top -- this will NOT hold all of the applesauce, unless you have a REALLY big crock pot, but that's okay. It should take about half the applesauce if you use a 5-quart crock.

Add 1 C. of the cider, half the cinnamon, half the cloves and nutmeg, and 1 1/2 C. of the sugar. Set the crock pot on Low, and cover. Allow the applesauce to cook on low setting for about 8 - 12 hours.

Around the 10-hour point, check the amount of applesauce in the pot. It should have reduced significantly by now, so add in the remaining quarts of applesauce, spices, cider and sugar. Mix thoroughly to blend with the applesauce that's already in the pot, and allow to simmer for a few more hours, until the applesauce has reduced to a nice, thick brown apple butter.

Optional - use a hand-held mixer to blend the apple butter into a creamy, smooth texture.

Finally, can the apple butter using the following steps: Home Canning Basics, so you'll have apple butter that lasts for months in your pantry.

Serve your apple butter with a loaf of warm, soft bread, or eat it straight from the jar!

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Open Ways SisterSpirit Calendar of Events September 2012

September 2012 Wed. Sept. 12, Healing Circle for women, 7 pm at our office.

Wed. Sept. 19, Nature’s Magick for women, 7:30 at our office.

Thurs. Sept. 27, Women Writer’s Circle, 7:00 pm at our office.

Sat. Sept. 29, SisterSpirit Women’s Spirituality Celebration: “Celebrating Oshun: Honoring the Sweet Waters of Balance.” 4:00'6:00 pm, Whitaker Ponds Nature Park, 7040 NE 47th. Sisters of the Silver Moon Coven will priestess this eclectic celebration. The ritual will be a true integration of cultures! Celebrating the Ifa African Orisha Oshun in a Dianic feminist sisterspirit kinda way. Come join the fun! All women welcome. Feast items and donations appreciated.

Inner Journeys Journal Writing Circle for women: Email Vanessa: vanessatimmons@gmail.com. Vanessa says, “Interested women should email me and I will send them the exact date time and topic for the next meeting.”

Dream Conversations: Generally 3rd Thurs. or the following Mon. Contact Frodo at: frodooku' lam@hotmail.com for info.

All events by donation unless otherwise noted. Donations of $5-$10 greatly appreciated.

SisterSpirit Office: 3430 SE Belmont #102 www.sisterspirit-portland.com sisterspirit.portland@gmail.com, sisterspirit_portland@yahoogroups.com

All events for Women.

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Open Ways SisterSpirit Calendar of Events October 2012 Wed. Oct. 10, Healing Circle for women, 7 pm at our office.

Wed. Oct. 17, Nature’s Magick for women, 7:30 at our office.

Thurs. Oct. 25, Women Writer’s Circle, 7:00 pm at our office.

© JoannaPowellColbert

Sat. Oct. 29, SisterSpirit Women’s Samhain Celebration: Stories from the Cauldron. 6:00 pm, Friends Meeting Hall, 4312 SE Stark. In 1912, women won the right to vote in Oregon. Now, in 2012, their work is not yet done. Rise up, warrior women sleeping at Lone Fir Cemetery! Inspire us with your stories! All women are welcome to join us. Come in costume if you wish. Feast items welcome and dona' tions appreciated.

Inner Journeys Journal Writing Circle for women: Email Vanessa: vanessatim' mons@gmail.com. Vanessa says, “Interested women should email me and I will send them the exact date time and topic for the next meeting.”

Dream Conversations: Generally 3rd Thurs. or the following Mon. Contact Frodo at: frodooku' lam@hotmail.com for info.

Coming in November: Wisdom’s Feast Women’s Spirituality Conference, Nov. 17, Vancouver Unitarian Church. http://womenswisdomconference.com All events by donation unless otherwise noted. Donations of $5-$10 greatly appreciated.

SisterSpirit Office: 3430 SE Belmont #102 www.sisterspirit-portland.com sisterspirit.portland@gmail.com, sisterspirit_portland@yahoogroups.com

All events for Women.

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Open Ways The Realm of the Brain by Debra Ochoa Has this happened to you? You walked into a room to get something and you forgot what you wanted, you misplaced your keys, or, you ran into an old friend and couldn’t recall their name? Well welcome to the realm of the brain.

Science is ever evolving. As new technologies and understandings begin to unfold the brain continues to evoke our curiosity.

Though still mysterious, we go about our everyday activities as if we were in full control. And to a degree we are. The body and brain receive approximately 30% of its tendencies from genetics. This is good news in that 70% is left up to us and how we care for our body and brain. In a sense, the brain is only as powerful as we make it.

Know that it’s not unusual to experience a lapse of memory or moments of forgetfulness, as exampled above. There are many factors at play when memory is needed to work on demand. More likely than not, the brain was busy processing, holding on to a lot of information, perhaps it was under stress, or possibly surprised to where it went into safety mode. When this happens, the brain is doing exactly what it’s designed to do, and therefore we should be thankful.

Examples of major concerns would be when you walk into a room and keep walking because you didn’t remember you were supposed to be looking for something, when you find the keys yet don’t know why they’re useful, or when you run into an old friend and have no memories of them. At this level of memory loss many signs had to have been ignored; perhaps out of fear, denial, stubbornness, or unwillingness to acknowledge changes. What we’re saying is most forms of advanced memory loss occur gradually, therefore it’s best to share concerns as soon as you notice with someone who may be able to help.

So what exactly is needed to fully nurture and nourish the brain so it will be healthy and strong throughout life? First, a very brief overview of the brain.

What is known today is exciting. “Plasticity” is the new buzz phrase. It refers to the brain’s unique lifelong ability to constantly change, grow, and make new connections known as neural pathways. With over a hundred billion neurons, the brain is able to recover from minor injuries to more serious trauma, both physical and emotional. The brain is made up of 60% fat and thrives on oxygen, glucose and nutrients. Also, the brain is approximately 2% of a body’s weight yet consumes upwards of 30% of the calories taken in, and is up to 10 times more metabolically active than the body. So what we eat fuels our thoughts, which can affect our emotions, behaviors and actions.

With that, let’s share a four tips on what most neurologists and cognitive trainers agree will benefit the brain.

1. Exercise.

Generally, what’s good for the body is also good for the brain. With an increase in heart rate through aerobic exercise, blood flows to the extremities including the brain carrying vital nutrients, glucose and oxygen to help nourish the brain. With strength training, muscles help burn fat, thereby creating healthier organs which directly impact the brain. There is no magic number of minutes and days that work for every body. The best suggestions are to simply begin to move and check with your health care provider to make sure you are benefiting from your activities. Focus on the combination of aerobic exercise and strength training. A lot has been said about the many benefits of exercise. So just know that if your life is more sedentary and you’re interested in bettering your mental health, look into an exercise regimen that is enjoyable for you.

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Open Ways 2. Nutrition.

The brain enjoys a balance of nutrients and healthy fats. Truly, fat and protein act as the sheath of the communicating neurons so the brain needs fat in order to function optimally. Now, this doesn’t give us permission to eat a double burger with super-sized fries. The body processes fats so the brain can use the fatty acids to incorporate into its cell membranes. A healthy diet with a balance of fats high in Omega 3 and 6 are most desirable. Unfortunately, Omega 6 is in abundance in our current diets while Omega 3 is flailing in daily nutrition. Omega 3 are the healthy fats like salmon, halibut, flaxseed, yogurt, and eggs. Even a good quality fish oil supplement can benefit the brain.

In addition to healthy fats, introduce 5 to 8 servings of antioxidants to your diet per day. Antioxidants help fight off free radicals that accumulate with aging. You see, free radicals are known to be the culprit of many diseases because they can lead to oxidative stress which can lead to chronic inflammation. Inflammation affects cells throughout the body and is implicated in serious diseases such as arthritis, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, strokes, MS, premature aging, and most degenerative conditions you can name.

Antioxidants are the guards at the door. A healthy amount provides the body with reinforcement for when free radicals are generated through smoking, sunlight, physical strains, emotional and physical stress, food additives, chemical preservatives, toxins, pollution, water, and even air. Antioxidants are generally the very vibrant fruits and vegetables. Enjoy cruciferous vegetables such as kale, broccoli, cabbage and brussel sprouts; a variety of fruits like pomegranates, blueberries, apricots, and cranberries; and remember to include beans, pecans, almonds and sunflower seeds.

When considering a modification of daily food and water intake remember to discuss dietary needs with a nutritionist who will take time to review and oversee specific needs. Let them know you’re interested in lowering inflammation in the body. By doing this you’ll also decrease the amount in the brain which will keep the brain healthier for longer.

3. Reduce Stress | Socialize | Sleep The three are combined because they work beautifully hand-in-hand. Hear this, please reduce your stress. Enough said, right? We know it’s challenging - every day in every way we often have experiences that may result in stress. Regardless if it’s external or internal, there’s an array of chemical reactions caused by perceived stress that play havoc on the body and brain. It’s believed that as soon as stress hormones are released into the brain cells are being permanently affected and possibly killed off. Therefore stress needs to be dealt with as soon as it’s experienced. Meditation, yoga, focused breathing, counseling, music as therapy, and other forms of calming rituals are designed to help reduce stress. In turn, controlling stress has shown to enhance memory since reducing stress calls back cortisol from the hippocampus, the area of the brain that is needed for memory and learning.

Be more social and it will help stress reduction. Generally when we’re with friends and people we like, we’re talking, laughing, smiling, and there’s an overall feeling of wellbeing. Unknowingly we’re relaxing and reducing stress. If for some reason we find ourselves dreading an upcoming event, or we dislike the people we’re engaged with and are relieved when we finally leave their presence then it’s probably best we find a different group of friends. The brain will thank us for avoiding stressful people and situations by keeping our memory sharp and alert.

As for sleep, what’s most important is that we experience a restful sleep. The body’s natural healing properties are signaled once the brain reaches a deep sleep. In addition, it’s believed that the brain generates new synapsis during deep sleep as it processes the day’s information. A restful sleep requires a regular bed time, darkness, cooler temperatures, and at times a quiet mind. It’s helpful to establish a sleep ritual an hour or so before bed time. The body and brain will recognize the patterns and prepare itself for sleep.

Once rested the brain will signal the body when it’s time to awake, for most it will be 6 to 8 hours later. A good night’s sleep can profoundly enhance our memory while positively impacting our attitude which helps to deal with stressful situations.

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Open Ways 4. Brain Training.

Research shows we are able to enhance the flexibility of the brain by exercising it. Much like physical exercise supports a healthy body, mental exercise benefits the brain. When considering a brain fitness program ask questions about the trainer, their background, and the materials/exercises they will be training. A good brain fitness program will have a variety of modules that will exercise different regions of the brain during a given session. A training program should last 2 to 4 months and meet 2 to 4 times per week, approximately an hour each session.

Brain fitness training uses our brain’s ability to readily create additional connections between neurons, and even promotes new neurons in certain parts of the brain. This can be accomplished by a series of modules that are fun exercises and not entertaining games; they increase in intensity rather than getting easier as they are learned; they offer variations instead of becoming repetitive; and the games suggest novelty while avoiding becoming familiar. These facets create the ideal game to translate into a sharper memory, faster processing of information, better attention, and other improved cognitive skills.

One note about games and online brain training services. Most experienced clinicians who facilitate brain training programs would agree – a successful outcome for a client is much harder to predict if conducted without review and support. Left to their own devices, clients would over train, repeat games that become enjoyable and familiar, and train similar regions of the brain. When looking to enhance the brain, seek the guidance of a professional with experience to support and conduct brain fitness training.

The realm of the brain is broad and yet it sits there quietly housed in our skull, conducting our every thought, and orchestrating our responses. The brain’s ability to do what is needed is directly in relation to the nurturing and nourishment it receives. The brain defines our personality, provides the foundation of our perceptions, encourages our interests as it seeks novelty and knowledge, establishes parameters to launch wellness, and is a conglomerate of our life’s experiences as defined through our senses.

We are gifted with but one brain throughout our life. Make this one count.

Debra Ochoa, BSCE, is a Certified Cognitive Trainer with Brain-Buzz.com. She enjoys educating and speaking throughout the Northwest on topics concerning brain health and the aging population. Debra hosts brain fitness classes in the Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA area. She trains people and their brains to enhance their memory and overall cognitive skills.

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Open Ways

ONGOING ACTIVITIES 8 Times a year, each Sabbath — Mystic Art Gathering & Information Circle (MAGIC) holds a public ritual and ceremony for the Solstices, Equinoxes, and cross-quarters in between. Typically in Vancouver or North Portland. These gatherings are free to the public, although a donation can will be passed. Families with kids are welcome. Held on the closest Saturday to the actual Sabbath, 7pm. Locations announced in advance if possible.

Call 360-693-7349 or see our listing in the community directory under MAGIC as well as on My Space.

Full moon Celebration — Held on the day of the full moon each month at 6:00pm. Come meet with your community and friends, bang some drums and hang out! Free Free Free and Fun Fun Fun! Held at Essential Elements Apothecary 3135 SE Hawthorne Portland, OR 97214.For more info www.hawthorneapothecary.com.

Open Full & Dark Moon Rituals Hosted monthly at Celestial Awakenings in Vancouver, WA by The House of the Eternal Circle; a local, eclectic, loving, teaching coven. Please check www.eternalcirclecoven.org or www.celestial-awakenings.com for dates and times. Suggested $10 donation. Or contact brian@eternalcirclecoven.org

SATURDAYS 1st Saturday Movie ight Featuring a movie or documentary which cultivates spiritual growth.. Held at Crystal Temple 7275 Richmond Ave. Portland, OR. For info call 503-249-0303 or by web at crystaltemple.org.

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OR 97214. Please RSVP via http:/ W w w . m e e t u p . c o m / EssentialElementsHerbalists/ this allows us on-denominational Sunday Service Integrate light into your being. Come to to make sure we have plenty of room for receive blessings and an uplifting spiritual all. reading to empower and enlighten your soul. After the service has ended there is a TUESDAYS guided meditation to bring prosperity into your life. Held at Crystal Temple 7275 Fairy Seership Richmond Ave. For info call 503-249- Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month 0303 or by web at crystaltemple.org. from 7-9pm. Held with House of Brigh and Orion Foxwood. Bring a potluck dish to share and a donation if able. Held at 1st Sunday Sare-apy.

Always the first Sunday (no Sare-apy in 7036 SE Brooklyn St. Portland, OR. For August). Join us each first Sunday of the more information: orionfoxwood.com or month. Activities include silent meditation, faerylover@orionfoxwood.com. discussion of healing techniques, individual and group healing sessions and introduc- Open Reiki and Healing Circle tion to healing arts practitioners. Everyone Circle held on the 1rst Tuesday of the is welcome, this is a wonderful opportunity month from 9-11am. Held at the Celtic for healing– receiving and giving, and for Circle 3717 NW 25th St. Redmond, OR. making new alliances. Held at Hands of For info call 541-504-4627 or by email Freedom Healing 8725 NE Broadway, pepsi@bendcable.com.

Portland OR 97220 from 1-4pm. Donations appreciated.

Guided Meditation 1rst Tuesday at 7pm. Come and journey with us. Each months theme will be different. 1235 Commerce in Longview, WA Witches Tea Held the last Sunday of every month at 360-562-1900 or www.werseekers.com. noon. Held at Essential Elements Apothecary and hosted by Raven Greywolf.

WED ESDAYS There will be a different activity/craft each month to enhance your witchy knowledge Witches Meet up and provide a place for community and A social event held on the 4th Tuesday of friends to meet. Usually free but some- every month. At 7PM. We have no set times a small donation is asked for. 3135 agenda or format, just talk and have fun.

SE Hawthorne Portland, OR 97214. info at Held at the Guiding Tree 4831 SE Division Street Portland, OR. For more info www.hawthorneapothecary.com. http://www.pagan.meetup.com.

A social event held on the 1rst Wed. of Herbalism Meet Held the first, second and third Sundays of every month at 7PM. We have no set the month. Learn and discuss the ancient agenda or format, just talk and have fun. art of Herbalism in an actual apothecary. We are a friendly, non-cliquish bunch who Being held at Held at Essential Elements have been meeting for over five years.

Apothecary 3135 SE Hawthorne Portland, SU DAYS

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Open Ways Ongoing Activities (continued)

Reiki Circle Every 2nd Wednesday come and receive healing and develop your Held at the Irishtown Pub, 11600 NE Mill Plain Blvd. Vancou- skills in a sacred temple surrounded by light beings. Held at Crystal ver WA. Temple, 7525 N Richmond Portland, OR. For info 503-249-0303 or on the web at info@crystaltemple.org.

Monthly Pagan Meet up A social event held on the 2nd Wed of every month at 7PM. We Drum circle just get together to talk and have fun. Held at Old Town Pizza Every 3rd Wednesday at 7pm. Lets explore rhythms and escape (between 2nd and 3rd on NW Davis) Portland, OR. For more reality in a sacred temple. A joyous monthly, multi-cultural spiritual info go to http://www.paganmeetup.com. experience. Using sacred phrases drawn from the worlds many religious traditions, with live music and simple devotional movement. Bring an instrument if you have one, if not we can share.

Reiki Share Circle Held at Crystal Temple 7525 N Richmond Portland, OR. For Every 1rst and 3rd Wednesdays at Sellwood Spirit Feathers, m o r e info info@crystaltemple.org.

7704 SE 13th Portland, OR. For info call 503-230-0249. All are welcome!

Healers Circle Second Wednesday of every month at 7pm. Practice , meet or visit Tarot night with others who are interested in Spiritual healing. 7525 N RichEvery 1rst Wednesday. Bring your cards, practice readings, be- mond Ave. in Portland, OR. For more info call 503-249-0303. $5 come more familiar with your card and discuss Tarot with other Donation. â˜ş readers. Held at Crystal Temple, 7525 N Richmond Portland, OR. For info cal 503-249-0303 or on the web at info@crystaltemple.org.

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Open Ways

ONGOING FESTIVALS Northwest Fall Equinox Festival: A celebration of the harvest. Sponsored by The Nine Houses of Gaia. Held in September. For more information visit http://www.ninehouses.org Pagan Picnic: A potluck gathering sponsored by The Nine Houses of Gaia. Sunday July 22, 2012 from noon to 6 pm. For more information visit http://www.ninehouses.org.

Turning of The Wheel: Turning of the wheel is a festival created to take an earth based approach to celebrating the changing of the seasons while empowering and sustaining our diverse and talented community of artists, healers, organizations, and local businesses. We have woven together sacred ritual with entertainment, joyous celebration, abundance, fun, laughter, and love to create a beautiful family friendly festival that we hope to make a seasonal tradition. Our vision: Weaving community, celebrating the earth, and sharing our gifts. www.turningofthewheel.net Spring Mysteries Festival: A recreation of the Eleusinian Mysteries is held in April and is presented by Aquarian Tabernacle Church.

For more information visit http://www.aquiriantabernaclechurch.org.

Beltane in Portland a potluck gathering sponsored by Of Fire and Water. Coming in May 2013. Watch Open Ways Newsletter for further information.

Spiral Rhythms Festival: Magick and music for Mother Earth sponsored by M.A.G.I.C. Usually held in June. For information visit http://www.spiralrythms.org The Mother Earth Gathering: A “green living” celebration – an earth awareness festival, held in June for information visit http:// www.owow.org Pagan Campout: A campout for Pagans! Held in June. For information visit http://www.pagan campout.com Sunfest: A summer Solstice celebration sponsored by OWOW, held in June. For more information visit http://www.owow.org Summerstar Pagan Gathering: A starwood celebration, held in July. For more information visit http://www.summerstar.org Faerie Worlds Festival: A celebration of music, art and imagination inspired by the realm of Faerie. Held in July/August. For more information visit http://faerieworlds.com Beloved: Open air sacred art and music festival. Held in August. For more information visit http://www.belovedfestival.com The Middle Earth Gathering: A fall Equinox celebration, and earth awareness gathering, held in September. For more information visit http://www.earthgathering.org Hekates Sickle: Walk the paths between the worlds and meet and Goddess and Gods learning the lessons of your ancestors and interacting with the divine. For more information visit http://www.aquiriantabernaclechurch.org

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Open Ways Pagan Community Directory Listing various kinds of resources for the Pagan Community, including circles (both open and closed), church groups, meeting places, study groups, and event organizers. Please, no retail outlets. A listing here does not necessarily mean a specific group can or will help you. To be included in this directory, please send information (limit 50 words which includes name and contact information) to Open Ways, PO Box 11183 Portland, OR 97211 ; or email openwayseditor@gmail.com or editor@ninehouses.org

ADF Druids of Portland

Www.cedarmountaincoven.com.

Our study group meets on the last Friday of every month at Essential Elements Apothecary and up to 8 times a year for Public Ritual. Affiliated with ADF (Ar nDraoicht Fein), adf.org. We are in pursuit of authentic scholarship and modern practices. See our website at pdx-druids.org.

Coven Caer Wy’east

Aquarian Tabernacle Church Serving the PNW since 1979. An interfaith church of Wicca and Earth Religions recognized and accredited worldwide.

All are welcome at Open Circles near Seattle at NM & FM. Info and schedule : 360-793-1945, classes : 425-821-7246, Pagan Youth Group: Spiral Scouts International.360-793-9427. www.spiralscouts.org Black Hat Society Get out of the broom closet and knock off the cobwebs from your hat! The witchy gals in Central Oregon have formed a social network for fun, friendship and support. Many traditions are represented and welcomed. Get on our mailing list or upcoming activities. blackhatsociety@yahoo.com Cedar Mountain Coven We are an eclectic Celtic coven, with some Native American influences. We meet for Sabbaths, Esbats, laughter and support throughout the Portland/ Vancouver area. Closed to new members Samhain to Beltane, we do keep a waiting list for anyone interested.

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A traditional Gardnerian Coven, sponsors a non-oath bound, British Traditional Wiccan Outer Court for seekers of traditional training.. We prefer to work with seekers 30 years or older. New training cycles usually begin each spring. For more info contact Steward Creace 503-622-1381 or Steward _Creace@msn.com.

For more info, or to volunteer, please contact jfallenstar@gmail.com http://www.goddesstempleashland.com/ The Hermetic Fellowship

Exploring Western Esoteric Tradition: Ancient Mysteries, Wicca/NeoPaganism, Qabalah, Rosicrucianism, Alchemy, Gnosticism, Theurgy and Grail Quest.

Meets monthly, 3rd Thursday. Informal presentations, open discussion, rituals and workshops occasionally. 1st semester of 2010, special focus on Rosicrucianism.

“Coven Call” For more info call 503-255-7910 or by ( p r e f e r r e d ) Small Milwaukee-based coven seeking w e b new members, age 18-30 willing to meet www.hemeticfellowship.org, miforbi-monthly. Our group is very eclectic and rest@hermeticfellowship.org. tends to focus on energy work. Teaching available. Please email us for an interview Indigo Lights Circle Online Teen Group at Avery.Nachelle@yahoo.com A place for uniquely gifted teens to celebrate and explore the gifts the :Lord and An eclectic spiritual group with frequent Lady granted us with. Site address: http:// get - together’s to discuss various spiritual www.geocities.com/jinksjustjinks/ paths. Sponsors of The Mother Earth Gathering and The Middle Earth Gathering Lyceum of Trees (June and September), Earth Awareness Festivals, honoring diversity and creating We are an educational coven located in Portland, Oregon. The group’s humble spark began to glow balance between wilderness and civiliza- during Samhain 2000, and caught fire the following tion. 503-503-1415 bladu@hotmail.com Yule. Lyceum focuses on classes for people beginwww.earthgatherings.org PO Box 19655 ning to explore Paganism. Members are encouraged to offer classes and form study groups for deeper Portland, OR 97280.

The Earth Gatherings

explorations of areas of interest.

Goddess Temple of Ashland

For more information visit http://www.lyceumoftrees.com/

The Goddess Temple of Ashland is a sanctuary for the nurturance of the divine feminine in all people. Jackson Wellspring, 2253 Highway 99, Ashland, Oregon.

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Open Ways Learn the Craft of the Wise A gathering of heathens, pagans, wiccans, witches, and magickal thinkers in the Portland and Salem areas. This group hosts monthly circles in Portland and Salem, joins in the celebration of the Moon Cycles and the Sabbats, and is a teaching coven. We make it easy for new pagans, providing an open and friendly atmosphere and instruction at the beginning of each gathering. We also offer group classes, private instruction, and an exciting year and a day program. Find us at www.meetup.com/ltcpdx M.A.G.I.C. A Vancouver/Portland based group that holds four gatherings a year, teaches classes in metaphysics, and provides ordaining of clergy, and sponsors the Spiral Rhythms Festival. Call 360-693-7349 or Email sienna@spiralrhythms.org and Www.spiralrhythms.org/magic for more information. ine Houses of Gaia (9HOG’S) A non-profit organization incorporated to facilitate networking among pagans in the Pacific Northwest. Sponsors of Open Ways Newsletter as well as Northwest Fall Equinox Festival. The NWFEF celebrates the great harvest, begun at Lammas and ending at Samhain. Contact info for Open Ways editor@ninehouses.org.

Officers of Avalon, Inc A non-profit benevolent organization representing Wiccans and other Pagans who work as police officers and other professionals in the emergency services members $15/yr for associate members.

Membership dues $25/yr for full Newsletter The Dispatch. Registration forms available at www.officersofavalon.com.

PO Box 22 Baraboo, WI 53913-0022.

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Open Doors Center for Healing Arts We at Open Doors believe that healing is a collaborative process with practitioner, client and source. We believe that each individual has a journey of healing that is unique. Our goal is to provide assistance for realigning, re-connecting and restoring the natural state of vibrational well being.

Our Practitioners are experienced in many varieties of healing modalities that help with this process.

Visit www.opendoorscenter.com for more information about our energy-work and other events.

PDX Pagan Tribe This tribe is for heathens, pagans and free thinking individuals residing in or around Portland, OR, or other metro areas who want to communicate with other like minded folk. Please no political rants, there are other tribes for that. A person has to sign up with Tribe.net for free in order to join this tribe. The tribe is moderated in order to keep out hate mongers and spammers. Web address - http://tribes.tribe.net/ pdxpagans.Portland

Pacific W Pagans Yahoo Group An online community for Pagans in the Pacific Northwest, including Oregon Washington, Idaho, Alaska and British Columbia. When posting announcements for events in this group, please be sure they're in PNW. http://groups.yahoo.com/ group/pnwpagans.

Sacred Oak Grove A Druid Grove in the Arthurian/CelticWiccan tradition. For those seeking a true Druidic path of knowledge, truth, justice, spiritual fellowship, and community service. Esbats, Sabbaths and tutorials. Members commit to both group and individual studies for spiritual growth. Now offering an outer circle. For information call 503235-5774 or oakgrove@teleport.com.

Polyamory Circle A gathering for folks exploring options beyond monogamy. Discussions include Other Worlds of Wonder (OWOW) open relationships, extended families, and A corporation organized to operate exclu- intentional communities. Everyone intersively for charitable purposes, including, ested is welcome to join us. For information but not limited to serving the Pagan com- and location Laury 503-285-4848. munity through sponsoring the Sun Fest festival and purchasing land to be held in Red Cedar Circle (Church of Si. Si. Wiss) trust for the Pagan community.

Northwest Coast Medicine Johnny Moses Email address: owoworg@hotmail.com teachings to all. Portland/Vancouver area Website: www.owow.org Address: P.O. Box 68803, Portland, OR meetings. For information and location call 503-245-5660 or rlouis@hctc.com.

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PACT A democratic, eclectic teaching/training coven in three parts: A semi-private outer circle - by invitation only, two inner-core circles for PACT initiated. Lessons, degrees, and clergy training by PACT university. For info and a waiting list: email lordansurpact@yahoo.com

Seattle Goddess Group A new site dedicated to worship of the Seattle based deity (As first seen in the “Summer of 2008 art book) “Let your love grow” is her prayer. http:// groups.yahoo.com/groups/seattle.godess/ or SeattleGoddess@yahoogroups.com.

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Open Ways Address Mailing: PO Box 9246 Portland, OR 97207. Physical address: 3430 SE Eclectic coven that emphasizes increasing Belmont #102, Portland, OR. (Office, lithe power of the individual through brary, and small group space) strength of our Gestalt, focusing on diversity in beliefs and the practice of Magick Sophia Sanctuary Women’s Temple Members range from Portland to Hood .

River and Mt. Hood. Please send letter of We are a circle of women committed to intent to HPS Belle Evergreen at healing, education ritual and service. belleevergreen@yahoo.com.

(HERS) We celebrate the eight holy days of the wheel: Solstices and Equinoxes are Silver Birch Grove, Order of the Sacred for all genders and families; Cross quarters Oaks are for women only. For information: http://www.sophiasancuary.org or http:// If the bardic arts call to you, and your love groups.yahoo.com/group/SophiaSancuary. of the Goddess and God speaks to you through Celtic and Arthurian-based my- The Ancient and Honorable Order of thology and lore, come walk our Pagan the Sacred Oaks path with us as we renew our grove. Now in Vancouver, WA. Contact silver- A Druidic order in the Arthurian/Celtic birchgrove@hotmail.com or 503-235- tradition, chartering groves meeting estab5774 or 360-936-1035. lished criteria and dedicated to authentic Druidic principles and traditions. For those Silver Star Circle who aspire to the excellence of Druidry, Inc. in OR and 501(c)3. 503-235-5774 A Celtic Pagan circle meeting for Sabbats, www.sacred-oak-grove.org. full and new moons, weekly class and more. Located in Battle Ground Additional. info: email slvrstarcir- The Saint James Project cle@yahoo.com.

A shamanic Arm of the Red Witch TradiSister Spirit tion. Includes Indigenous Shamanic training, pilgrimages and extensive her story/ Eclectic women's spirituality group history from the first century CE to the prefounded in 1985. Sister Spirit's purpose is sent. Prerequisite: Reiki 3 and 3 years of to create a place where women of all spiri- magickal hands-on experience. Meets at tual backgrounds and traditions can cele- Toad House in McMinnville Oregon. Conbrate women’s spirituality. Through fe- tact info is worldtree1@verizon.net. male imagery we celebrate our connections with nature. We come together to explore our own spirits, and learn, grow, The Sacred Cascade Grove and expand to fully realize the divinity within. Website: www.sisterspiritportland.com.

Email/Phone: sister- The Sacred Cascade Grove of The Sacred spirit .portland@gmail.com/ 503-736- Order of Gnostic Druidism offers a Druidic 3297 college in Central Oregon.

Shadowluz

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Our order exists to serve the religious, spiritual and educational needs of its members within the Druidic, Wiccan and Pagan Community. If you are drawn to a Celtic path and aspire to study with the Druids, we welcome you.

Contact us at forestdruids@yahoo.com

The Sorcerers Guild Dedicated to the enhancement of Magickal work within its membership. Public meetup at the Dancing Beans 1615 SE 12th Ave Portland, OR held monthly. Email thebinder7@yahoo.com for date and time. For more information: http:// sorcerersguild.tribe.net or http:www.sorcerersguild.com, or http://groups.myspace.com/sorceryguild The Well of Diancecht Provides free sacred energy healing to veterans, active duty military and their families.

We also list practitioners offering sliding scale services to serve members, veterans and their families. Info: diancecht@yahoo.com The Spiral Scouts Based on the principles of ecology, inclusivity, and balance of gender energies, Spiral Scouts philosophy is rooted in the beliefs of Earth religions, including Wicca.

Though not exclusively Wiccan, many scouts and their families are members of minority religions. Website : www.spiralscouts.org.

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Open Ways 2436.

West Hills Covenant of UU Pagans WHCUUPS/ (WICCA) (WHCUUPS ): As a growing, eclectic pagan community, we welcome new members! We meet bimonthly on 2nd and 4th Monday evenings, 6:30-8:00pm during the school year, and 7:30-9:00pm during the summer months), for structured thematic discussions/ activities and socializing. Together we also celebrate all eight Sabbats throughout the year. We also offer a Year and a Day class for aspiring Pagan (esp. Wiccan) Clergy.

Contacts for the group are as follows: Rachel Walaskay (Moderator) taramathea@yahoo.com or (503) 935-7795; Mary McGar (Co moderator) daraileen@yahoo.com or (971) 242-1321.

Feel free to visit our website and join the group to receive updates and information About upcoming events: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/

Women coming together to celebrate the Goddess in Her many forms. Weekly meetings: Wings-Retreats (called Forwards) Summer Gathering. Rituals email/ phone: normahp@iglide.net/ 541-4853654. Address, PO Box 5296, Eugene, OR 97405 Women of the Goddess Women of the Goddess is a Pagan community in the Dianic tradition. Our purpose is to mark the eight Sabbats of the year in ritual with like-minded women, to strengthen the Goddess connection within ourselves, to share this connection with others, and to bring wholeness to the world and to our journey in it as the Wheel of the Year turns. Location Seattle, WA. Contacts: janicevc@seanet.com or 206-322-

Witches of Westwi ck Paranormal Society Centered in the beautiful foothills of the Columbia River Gorge. Specializing in Esoteric research and Theology. Dedicated to tribal rites of passage as well as the Major and Minor Pagan Holidays & Festivals.

We love to explore the enchanted as well as the chilling. Contact Leanna at devasdelight@yahoo.com or 541-490-5718

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AUTUMN FESTIVAL MABON PINE SPICES

COMMUNITY HARVEST MYRRH SAGE SQUASH

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Open Ways The Nine Houses of Gaia Open Ways PO Box 11183 Portland, OR 97211 E-mail:

editor@ninehouses.org openwayseditor@gamil.com World Wide Web: http://ninehouses.org

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