What have you noticed in other people's eyes throughout your lifetime? Sadness, joy, pain, sympathy, love, anger, sincerity, compassion- so much can be seen in the eyes. The eyes speak a thousand words. The eyes can speak so loudly that it is something that cannot be ignored. In Chinese Medicine, the Shen or Spirit of a person is evident in their eyes and treatment is based on the health of the Shen. We have all heard that the eyes are the window to the soul.
As a medicine woman, it is important to look your client directly in the eyes. What do you feel or know about the person from their eyes? It is also equally important to have the awareness of what you are saying through your own eyes. Practice having a clear awareness of what you are presenting to the client. Take the time to look at your eyes in the mirror for a moment each day. You may be surprised at what you find out about yourself!
Audio Interview with Veronica Clarke
Many women today are starting families a little later in life than in years past, and may feel overwhelmed and scared embarking upon the process of becoming pregnant. We live in a culture today where by and large, we are an "island" when it comes to pregnancy and birthing. In indigenous cultures and early American culture, support and advice from women of the community was a profound cushion for the rite of passage that is the child-birthing journey. Nowadays in mainstream American culture, women typically seek out western physicians as a first recourse for fertility support instead of the wisdom and time-tested secrets from the elders, the community, and Midwives.
Before ever having to inquire with physicians, many women attempting to get pregnant actually have some very simple, natural options that they can explore first in order to support healthy fertility. The beauty and earthiness of natural fertility approaches have the power to be especially beneficial for mamas-to-be, since it empowers women to easefully reflect and observe their natural body’s rhythms. Women who start the process of becoming pregnant a little later in life tend to often want instant results, and focus intently on the end goal. Allowing time to truly relish the process and become acquainted with your body’s innate brilliance and power is a very feminine approach to fertility, since receptivity and “allowing” are natural feminine qualities, and you are engaging in a feminine body process in itself. One of the most beneficial aspects of this process is that you get to know your body intimately, and develop a relationship with it that only you can truly have.
All matter of energetics aside, the benefit of these approaches is that they are incredibly inexpensive compared to western processes that cost anywhere from $300 (Intrauterine Insemination) to upwards of $20,000 (In Vitro Fertilization) to perform.
Below are some of the natural methods used today that engage the receptive, feminine aspect of fertility and conception:
Charting:
Daily observation and charting of your Basal Body Temperature, cervical mucus, and cervical position can give you an accurate sense of your ovulation as well as your most fertile days in your personal cycle. You can chart any one or all of these observatory techniques in order to get clear about your ovulation and fertility.
Basal Body Temperature:
Basal body temperature (BBT) is your temperature when you first wake up in the morning. The body’s resting temperature increases four-tenths of a degree Fahrenheit under the influence of progesterone at ovulation.
To record your BBT, you need to use a basal thermometer (an electronic thermometer is perfect for this- BD brand is preferred). To use a basal thermometer, you need to take your temperature before you get out of bed. Try to take your temperature at the same time each morning, and before you have anything to eat and drink , and preferably before 7:30 am.
When you ovulate, hormonal changes trigger a slight rise in your BBT, which lasts at least until your next period. Ovulation is indicated when your temperature spikes and stays that way for at least three days in a row. You are most fertile on the day of the temperature spike and on the few days before. So, the first month or two of charting your temperature will only tell you when you've already ovulated. But you'll be able to see whether there is a pattern.
If there is a pattern, you'll be able to predict your most fertile days the next time around and work out the best days to have sex . If you do become pregnant, your temperature will stay elevated throughout your pregnancy.
If you are ill, or forget to take your temperature immediately on waking, any pattern you find may be inaccurate.
A great resource with step-by-step instructions can be found here.
You may download a free fertility chart found here.
Cervical mucus:
Cervical mucus changes throughout the month depending on what physiologically is occurring in your cycle. Fertile type mucus is produced by the cervix during the days when the ova are maturing and preparing for ovulation, and is integral to fertility.
Your cervix is located at the top of your vagina, connecting to your uterus. Glands in your cervix produce this mucus, and around the time of ovulation, the consistency becomes very similar to that of egg whites: it is clear and is very string-y and if you have it on your fingers and move them apart, you will notice that it stretches without breaking. This is your fertile cervical mucus. It helps lubricate everything during your most fertile days and helps sperm have a better chance at penetration of the uterus. It also is indicative of your most fertile time, since this estrogen-rich, fertile type of mucus is produced during the days leading up to and including ovulation.
If you are trying to conceive, use the wet, slippery days for sexual relations. You can chart these days as well along with your BBT.
Cervical position:
The position of your cervix changes throughout the month depending on the phase you are on in your menstrual cycle. You can examine your cervix’s position by yourself on a daily basis so that you may notice the patterns of change, and thus determine your most fertile days.
Again, your cervix is located at the very top of your vagina, so you may want to kneel or put a foot up on the tub or toilet to have easier access. Remember to wash your hands well before starting the process. Your vagina has a sort of spongy feel that gives way easily to pressure, and the cervix is like a firm, round dimple. Some say it feels like the tip of your nose when you’re not in the fertile phase of your cycle, and like the firmness of your lips when you are fertile — this is what you’re feeling for.
Reach your index or middle finger inside of your vagina, and slowly (don’t scratch yourself!) slide your finger in as far as you can reach, a sort of in and upward motion. If you’re not close to ovulation, you should find your cervix easily. If you are ovulating, your cervix may be higher in your body and more difficult to reach.
When you’re just learning how to check your cervical position, you should check your cervical position every so many days, even when you don’t think you’re ovulating. It’s much easier to find when you’re not ovulating, and you’ll have a better idea of what you’re feeling.
As ovulation approaches, the cervix moves higher up, becoming softer and less firm and the opening in the center feels more spacious and open. High, soft and open is a possible indication of approaching ovulation: you should make time for sex if you want to get pregnant. Low, firm and closed is not a fertile sign, and you’re probably not ovulating yet.
Once you get used to checking your cervical position, fertile signs become very easy to recognize, but it does take practice and time to learn. Be patient with yourself, try to do it the same time every day, and don’t check it during or after sex because intercourse shifts the position of the cervix. You can chart this as well in your fertility charting process.
Other Natural Methods of Fertility Enhancement
Castor Oil Packs:
Castor oil, which is derived from the Castor seed (also known as Ricinus Communis), has been used for many years because it is thought to be incredibly healing and detoxifying. It is used in packs for a variety of reasons and is said to help heal digestion and increase elimination, stimulate the liver and help detox, relieve pain (especially menstrual and uterine pain), reduce inflammation, and increase lymphatic flow (your lymph system is like the “trash pick up” system of your body; it flushes out the trash and toxins but can become sluggish and slow due to diet and overall health).
Castor oil packs are very popular today, and women use them to help detox their bodies before conception, as well as to support ovarian, fallopian tube, uterine, and egg health. Castor oil packs are good to use during the infertile days of the month, and should not be used if you are pregnant or think you may be.
A great online resource with directions for using Castor oil packs is available here.
Acupuncture & Herbs:
Acupuncture & Herbs are highly regarded in the natural fertility world for their ability to assist qi (the natural energy of the body) and fluids (including blood and clear fluids) in circulating and flowing properly. If there is a blockage in the natural order of energy in the body, blood and fluids cannot properly assist in their fertility duties. Acupuncture & Herbs administered by a professional is a safe approach to fertility support and can open up any blocked or stagnant energy channels that may be preventing healthy conception.
Before ever having to inquire with physicians, many women attempting to get pregnant actually have some very simple, natural options that they can explore first in order to support healthy fertility. The beauty and earthiness of natural fertility approaches have the power to be especially beneficial for mamas-to-be, since it empowers women to easefully reflect and observe their natural body’s rhythms. Women who start the process of becoming pregnant a little later in life tend to often want instant results, and focus intently on the end goal. Allowing time to truly relish the process and become acquainted with your body’s innate brilliance and power is a very feminine approach to fertility, since receptivity and “allowing” are natural feminine qualities, and you are engaging in a feminine body process in itself. One of the most beneficial aspects of this process is that you get to know your body intimately, and develop a relationship with it that only you can truly have.
All matter of energetics aside, the benefit of these approaches is that they are incredibly inexpensive compared to western processes that cost anywhere from $300 (Intrauterine Insemination) to upwards of $20,000 (In Vitro Fertilization) to perform.
Below are some of the natural methods used today that engage the receptive, feminine aspect of fertility and conception:
Charting:
Daily observation and charting of your Basal Body Temperature, cervical mucus, and cervical position can give you an accurate sense of your ovulation as well as your most fertile days in your personal cycle. You can chart any one or all of these observatory techniques in order to get clear about your ovulation and fertility.
Basal Body Temperature:
Basal body temperature (BBT) is your temperature when you first wake up in the morning. The body’s resting temperature increases four-tenths of a degree Fahrenheit under the influence of progesterone at ovulation.
To record your BBT, you need to use a basal thermometer (an electronic thermometer is perfect for this- BD brand is preferred). To use a basal thermometer, you need to take your temperature before you get out of bed. Try to take your temperature at the same time each morning, and before you have anything to eat and drink , and preferably before 7:30 am.
When you ovulate, hormonal changes trigger a slight rise in your BBT, which lasts at least until your next period. Ovulation is indicated when your temperature spikes and stays that way for at least three days in a row. You are most fertile on the day of the temperature spike and on the few days before. So, the first month or two of charting your temperature will only tell you when you've already ovulated. But you'll be able to see whether there is a pattern.
If there is a pattern, you'll be able to predict your most fertile days the next time around and work out the best days to have sex . If you do become pregnant, your temperature will stay elevated throughout your pregnancy.
If you are ill, or forget to take your temperature immediately on waking, any pattern you find may be inaccurate.
A great resource with step-by-step instructions can be found here.
You may download a free fertility chart found here.
Cervical mucus:
Cervical mucus changes throughout the month depending on what physiologically is occurring in your cycle. Fertile type mucus is produced by the cervix during the days when the ova are maturing and preparing for ovulation, and is integral to fertility.
Your cervix is located at the top of your vagina, connecting to your uterus. Glands in your cervix produce this mucus, and around the time of ovulation, the consistency becomes very similar to that of egg whites: it is clear and is very string-y and if you have it on your fingers and move them apart, you will notice that it stretches without breaking. This is your fertile cervical mucus. It helps lubricate everything during your most fertile days and helps sperm have a better chance at penetration of the uterus. It also is indicative of your most fertile time, since this estrogen-rich, fertile type of mucus is produced during the days leading up to and including ovulation.
If you are trying to conceive, use the wet, slippery days for sexual relations. You can chart these days as well along with your BBT.
Cervical position:
The position of your cervix changes throughout the month depending on the phase you are on in your menstrual cycle. You can examine your cervix’s position by yourself on a daily basis so that you may notice the patterns of change, and thus determine your most fertile days.
Again, your cervix is located at the very top of your vagina, so you may want to kneel or put a foot up on the tub or toilet to have easier access. Remember to wash your hands well before starting the process. Your vagina has a sort of spongy feel that gives way easily to pressure, and the cervix is like a firm, round dimple. Some say it feels like the tip of your nose when you’re not in the fertile phase of your cycle, and like the firmness of your lips when you are fertile — this is what you’re feeling for.
Reach your index or middle finger inside of your vagina, and slowly (don’t scratch yourself!) slide your finger in as far as you can reach, a sort of in and upward motion. If you’re not close to ovulation, you should find your cervix easily. If you are ovulating, your cervix may be higher in your body and more difficult to reach.
When you’re just learning how to check your cervical position, you should check your cervical position every so many days, even when you don’t think you’re ovulating. It’s much easier to find when you’re not ovulating, and you’ll have a better idea of what you’re feeling.
As ovulation approaches, the cervix moves higher up, becoming softer and less firm and the opening in the center feels more spacious and open. High, soft and open is a possible indication of approaching ovulation: you should make time for sex if you want to get pregnant. Low, firm and closed is not a fertile sign, and you’re probably not ovulating yet.
Once you get used to checking your cervical position, fertile signs become very easy to recognize, but it does take practice and time to learn. Be patient with yourself, try to do it the same time every day, and don’t check it during or after sex because intercourse shifts the position of the cervix. You can chart this as well in your fertility charting process.
Other Natural Methods of Fertility Enhancement
Castor Oil Packs:
Castor oil, which is derived from the Castor seed (also known as Ricinus Communis), has been used for many years because it is thought to be incredibly healing and detoxifying. It is used in packs for a variety of reasons and is said to help heal digestion and increase elimination, stimulate the liver and help detox, relieve pain (especially menstrual and uterine pain), reduce inflammation, and increase lymphatic flow (your lymph system is like the “trash pick up” system of your body; it flushes out the trash and toxins but can become sluggish and slow due to diet and overall health).
Castor oil packs are very popular today, and women use them to help detox their bodies before conception, as well as to support ovarian, fallopian tube, uterine, and egg health. Castor oil packs are good to use during the infertile days of the month, and should not be used if you are pregnant or think you may be.
A great online resource with directions for using Castor oil packs is available here.
Acupuncture & Herbs:
Acupuncture & Herbs are highly regarded in the natural fertility world for their ability to assist qi (the natural energy of the body) and fluids (including blood and clear fluids) in circulating and flowing properly. If there is a blockage in the natural order of energy in the body, blood and fluids cannot properly assist in their fertility duties. Acupuncture & Herbs administered by a professional is a safe approach to fertility support and can open up any blocked or stagnant energy channels that may be preventing healthy conception.
Materials
• • • • •
A soft, clean, thick material like flannel, wool, or cotton (organic is best)
A bottle of castor oil
A glass bowl or glass jar that you can pour the castor oil in over your flannel
A hot water bottle or heating pad
Old clothes that you don't mind getting stained since castor oil stains fabric
A plastic bag (I find kitchen or regular garbage bags work best)
A large towel
Instructions:
Put on your older clothes. Take your piece of flannel and place it in your bowl or glass container and pour enough castor oil over it to soak it (make sure it's saturated, but it doesn't need to be dripping in oil). Get your hot water bottle or heating pad ready. Place your towel on a flat surface (either a couch, your bed, or the floor). For added protection you can also put down a garbage bag so that your bed or couch won't get stained from any oil that manages to escape the plastic cover. Once you lie down, place your saturated flannel over the affected area of your body. Cover the pack with plastic.
Place the heating pad or hot water bottle over the pack and let it sit for at least 45-60 minutes. During this time you can rest or read a book. When the time is up, remove the pack and clean the area with water and a bit of baking soda. You can keep the pack in a plastic bag in a cool place or the refrigerator. I keep mine in a sealed glass jar in one of my kitchen cabinets. Just add another tablespoon of castor oil for the next session.
(Activity Source)
All nutrients that aid cells in general. Many ‘anti-aging’ nutrients are thus relevant:
1. Coenzyme Q10 for Fertility
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10 as it is often called, is a vitamin-like substance that has been used to enhance fertility – both male and female – for several years. Originally known for its benefits to cardiac and neurological health, CoQ10 has been the subject of considerable research into its effects on overall sperm health and egg quality.
We ingest CoQ10 naturally in our diet through the consumption of meat, fish, and certain vegetables and fruit. Present in each cell of your body, CoQ10 plays a key role in energy production. Particularly prevalent in mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell, CoQ10 is a component of the electron transport chain responsible for generating energy in the cells. Levels of CoQ10 tend to diminish as you age, resulting in reduced cellular energy capacity, which has obvious fertility implications. Particularly relevant for use in enhancing fertility, CoQ10 also functions as an antioxidant, decreasing the damaging effects of free radicals on the reproductive system.
CoQ10 & Male Fertility
A number of studies have examined the role of CoQ10 in relation to male fertility and have found it to play a key role. One study published in Fertility & Sterility revealed that men with lower-than-normal levels of CoQ10 in their seminal fluid tend to have sperm with low motility. Fortunately, the study also found that by supplementing with CoQ10 (200 mg/day), subjects experienced a significant increase in sperm motility. Another study published in the Journal of Andrology examined the results on sperm health on men supplementing with 300 mg of CoQ10 daily. In addition to a significant increase in sperm motility, this study also
indicated a benefit to both sperm count and morphology.
CoQ10 & Female Fertility
Experts theorize that the powerful energy producing activity of CoQ10 is the mechanism by which this ingredient benefits female fertility. As we age and our naturally occurring levels of CoQ10 diminish, the high energy consuming processes associated with fertilization and embryo development become less efficient. A study published in the Journal of Fertility and Sterility found that older women taking up to 600 mg of CoQ10 daily experienced an improvement in both egg quality and subsequent fertilization rates.
2. Anti-aging nutrients such as Resveratrol. There are limited studies linking fertility in humans – but many about anti-aging. I have found this to be beneficial with my patients.
3. Good oils in general, think Omega 3’s, DHA etc.
4. A diet that includes balanced electrolytes daily.
5. A diet rich in protein. Vegetarians may want to consider adding meat proteins whilst trying to get pregnant or supplement with amino acid supplements that include the 8 essential amino acids.
6. All nutrients that ‘build’ blood. Dark leafy greens, chlorophyll, proteins etc
Audio Interview with Anni Daulter
Audio Interview with Tina Divine
Audio Interview with Barbara Hannelore
Moxabustion is an external heat therapy that is applied on or over an acu-moxa point or an affected site. Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the burning of mugwort, a small, spongy herb, to facilitate healing. Moxibustion has been used throughout Asia for thousands of years; in fact, the actual Chinese character for acupuncture, translated literally, means "acupuncture-moxibustion." The purpose of moxibustion, as with most forms of traditional Chinese medicine, is to strengthen the blood, stimulate the flow of qi, and maintain general health.
How does moxibustion work? Does it hurt?
There are two types of moxibustion: direct and indirect. In direct moxibustion, a small, cone-shaped amount of moxa is placed on top of an acupuncture point and burned. This type of moxibustion is further categorized into two types: scarring and non-scarring. With scarring moxibustion, the moxa is placed on a point, ignited, and allowed to remain onto the point until it burns out completely. This may lead to localized scarring, blisters and scarring after healing. With non-scarring moxibustion, the moxa is placed on the point and lit, but is extinguished or removed before it burns the skin. The patient will experience a pleasant heating sensation that penetrates deep into the skin, but should not experience any pain, blistering or scarring unless the moxa is left in place for too long.
Indirect moxibustion is currently the more popular form of care because there is a much lower risk of pain or burning. In indirect moxibustion, a practitioner lights one end of a moxa stick, roughly the shape and size of a cigar, and holds it close to the area being treated for several minutes until the area turns red. Another form of indirect moxibustion uses both acupuncture needles and moxa. A needle is inserted into an acupoint and retained. The tip of the needle is then wrapped in moxa and ignited, generating heat to the point and the surrounding area. After the desired effect is achieved, the moxa is extinguished and the needle(s) removed.
What is moxibustion used for?
In traditional Chinese medicine, moxibustion is used on people who have a cold or stagnant condition. The burning of moxa is believed to expel cold and warm the meridians, which leads to smoother flow of blood and Qi.
Moxabustion, also called moxa, assists with postpartum healing by warming the abdomen, stops pain, moves Qi, circulates the blood, safeguards health, facilitates a speedy recovery and energizes the mama. Another name for postpartum moxa healing is “Mother Roasting.” Moxa is a useful treatment given between day five and ten post-birth. It should not be used if the woman presents with signs of heat. For example, a high temperature, night sweats, inflamed cesarean scar or infection.
Are there any precautions I should be aware of?
Although moxibustion has been safely used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, it is not for everyone. Because it is used specifically for patients suffering from cold or stagnant constitutions, it should not be used on anyone diagnosed with too much heat. Burning moxa also produces a great deal of smoke and a pungent odor. Patients with respiratory problems may request that their practitioner use smokeless moxa sticks as an alternative.
(source)
ST-36, LONGEVITY & MAXIMUM OXYGEN UPTAKE:
One of the most famous preventative Moxa therapies is to do indirect Moxibustion on St-36 (Stomach 36 /Zu San Li) a point one hand's width below the patella (knee cap) Zu San Li means 'Foot Three Miles' and increases endurance, digestive power, and stimulates the immune system.
Clinical research now posits that stimulating St-36 increases ‘Maximum Oxygen Uptake.’ It is known that increased Maximum Oxygen Uptake prevents and improves recovery time from diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. Maximum Oxygen Uptake also decreases the cancer rate. Thus, we may assume that the modern idea of maintaining health by increasing Maximum Oxygen Uptake is based on the same mechanism as our traditional wisdom for attaining longevity by stimulating St 36.
St-36 is located on the network called the Stomach Meridian. Stimulation of St-36 not only enlivens the point but also the entire meridian and stomach organ. According to this classic medical theory, the organ and meridian of the stomach are a part of the foundation of our life energy. Thus, stimulation on St-36 not only affects the leg where St-36 is located, but also affects the health of the whole body. (source)
There are a few ways to use moxa for Mother Warming:
1. Smokeless Moxa Sticks are used to warm the lower abdomen and low back. To prepare for the treatment, hold the moxa stick over a flame until it is glowing red like a coal. When it is lit and ready to be used then you may begin. With the mother lying on her back, pass the lit moxa stick close to the skin (be very careful not to touch the skin) from the top of the pubic bone to the umbilicus area. Warm this area for about 10 minutes by slowly moving the stick up and down. With the mother lying on her stomach or side, pass the lit moxa stick from the bottom of the sacrum to the middle of the back for another 5- 10 minutes.
2. Umbilicus moxa is a wonderful way to warm the mother deeply. To prepare for the treatment, have your supplies set up and ready to be used. You will need loose moxa, a lighter, natural sea salt, a hemostat, a small bowl of water and a hand towel. With the mother lying on her back, pour the sea salt into her umbilicus. The salt needs to be in a mound with a flattened top that is about ¾ inch above the skin and about 1 ½ inches in diameter. You will create a medium sized cone with the loose moxa and place it on top of the salt mound. Light the moxa cone and allow it to burn ¾ of the way down. Use the hemostats to put the moxa cone into the bowl of water. It is best to burn 5- 10 moxa cones on the umbilicus during the treatment. The mother sounds feel warmth. If it feels hot to her, add more salt to the mound. After the treatment, have the mother use the hand towel to remove the salt from her umbilicus.
3. Hospital safe moxa spray is a great way to work within the hospital safety guidelines. To use the moxa spray, apply 2- 3 sprays to the lower abdomen and gently rub in. Then apply a heating pack to the area for 20 minutes.
Book Recommendation:
Moxibustion: A modern Clinical Handbook by Lorraine Wilcox, L.Ac.
Audio Interview with Ariah Ripley
Healing (womb)
Calendula
Arnica
Staphysagria
Ferrum Phos
Bleeding
Sabina
Sepia
Puls
Phos
Fertiltiy
Sepia
Puls
Nat Mus
Ignatia
Endopath F (from Energetix)
Audio Interview with Nicole Schwartz
Herbal tisane recipe for the womens moon cycle.
The herbs in this blend are known allies to the female reproductive system. Especially during her moontime. Enjoy!
To further enhance the energetic vibration of these herbs; infuse your tisane with Moonstone, Unakite and Carnelian. Moonstone is gentle and soothing and encourages you to "go with the flow". Carnelian is associated with the root and sacral chakras - it stabilizes energy and is known to revitalize the blood. Unikite is a gentle yet powerful stone that brings about connection and aids in female reproductive health. To infuse your tisane simply place the stones near the base of the cup while the herbs are steeping.
To brew: Add 2 tsp of loose herbs to infuser of choice. Pour freshly boiled water over herbs and steep 5-8 minutes covered for a general sipping tisane. For a stronger medicinal brew, steep 8-15 minutes.
Sweeten to taste with a drizzle of local organic honey and garnish with a fresh slice of ginger root.
Creating a moon bag is a sacred tradition similar to a mojo bag/ bundle. Traditionally a red silk cloth was used as the container of objects, herbs and stones. Crafting a moon bag is a beautiful way of honoring the wisdom of womanhood.
You will need
• • • • •
cotton drawstring bag
red string / ribbon
Cowrie shells
Grandmother Cedar leaves
Any stones, crystals, herbs, feathers you feel drawn too
Instructions:
Find a time during your moon where you can sit quietly with your cup of Red Tent tea and gather the items you wish to go into your moon bag. Light a red candle and take a few moments to focus on your breathe. Inhale a count to 4. Pause. Exhale a count of four. Simple breathing exercises like this will ground you and allow you to focus greater intention on the craft you are preparing to make.
Find a time during your moon where you can sit quietly with your cup of Red Tent tea and gather the items you wish to go into your moon bag. Light a red candle and take a few moments to focus on your breathe. Inhale a count to 4. Pause. Exhale a count of four. Simple breathing exercises like this will ground you and allow you to focus greater intention on the craft you are preparing to make.
Lay out all your objects and carefully place the items that call to you in the bag. With each item you place inside repeat the following:
“My sister, the moon. Sings her song to my womb, we dance in the spiral of life”
(from Songs of Bleeding, by Spider)
Once you have finished with your bag, use the red string/ ribbon to tie around the bag to seal the intentions. You can keep this bag on a sacred space in your home, such as an altar. Use it to honor your monthly moon or carry it with you when an extra dose of protection and guidance is needed. A word of advice: The contents of this bag may change over time, as we continue to grow and evolve. However, the contents are never removed, only added too.
Cherry Opal ranges from an orange-red to pink-red color. The color itself has a link to the womb. The stone works directly with the base and sacral chakras. This mineral is used for the treatment of any gynecological disorder, especially menopause. Cherry opal provides comfort and ease during childbirth. It is also used to purify the blood. It helps a person to amplify their natural talents, and to overcome their perceived lesser attributes. Cherry opal helps to increase creativity and the imagination. The use of this stone assists one in centering and energizes ones activities.
Audio by Myrriah Raimbault
