Healing Bath Ritual & Fairy Bread for Beltane

Healing Bath Ritual 

&

 Fairy Bread for Beltane

Baths have been around for centuries, and for good reason. They're not just a way to get clean, they're a way to relax and unwind. Plus, they have some serious health benefits. From reducing stress to relieving muscle pain, a good soak can do wonders for your body and mind. And let's not forget about the ambiance. Candles, bubbles, and maybe even a glass of wine can turn a regular bath into a spa-like experience. So, if you're feeling stressed or just need some me-time, I highly recommend taking a bath. Trust me, your body and mind will thank you.

Taking a bath on Beltane is a great idea! It's a time to celebrate the coming of summer and the renewal of life. Plus, it's a great way to cleanse yourself of any negative energy and start fresh.

Try to use essential oils and bath salts or minerals and oils in your bath. Rose and lavender or geranium are great for this time of year.

Fairy Bread

We do it gluten free around here

 To make fairy bread, you will need white bread, butter, and rainbow sprinkles. First, spread a generous amount of butter on the bread. Then, sprinkle the rainbow sprinkles on top of the buttered bread, making sure to cover the entire slice. Cut the bread into small triangles or squares and serve immediately. Fairy bread is a popular party snack in Australia and is loved by both kids and adults.

The Importance of Slowing Down in a Constantly Moving Society

It can feel like our lives are constantly moving and we are pressured to do more, faster. We live in a world where it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and it’s easy to forget the importance of slowing down. In this blog post, we'll explore why taking time to slow down is essential in today's society. We'll look at how slowing down can help us become more productive, reduce stress, and even increase our enjoyment of life.

We live in a fast-paced society

We live in a world that is driven by the need to achieve, perform, and constantly succeed. Our society is fast-paced and everyone is competing to make something of themselves; this leads to stress, fatigue, and lack of quality time for relaxation and personal growth. Everywhere we turn, we're bombarded with messages about how we should be living our lives and what accomplishments we should strive for. 

This fast-paced environment puts us under a tremendous amount of pressure, which can lead to feelings of overwhelm and anxiety. Our lives are full of tasks, obligations, and deadlines and it can be hard to keep up with the pace. Even when we take breaks, it seems like we have too much on our plates. We're constantly connected to our devices and being inundated with information, which only adds to the frenetic energy. 

It's easy to get caught up in the fast-paced lifestyle of our society and feel like we must always be doing something. But it's important to take time out for ourselves and remember the importance of slowing down.

The pressure to do more

This pressure comes from a variety of sources: media, advertising, our peers, our parents, and even ourselves. 

This relentless pressure has led to a phenomenon known as “keeping up with the Joneses”. We often find ourselves trying to outdo others in terms of material possessions and accomplishments in order to make ourselves feel better. We feel the need to keep up with those around us by buying the latest gadgets, taking expensive vacations, or having the nicest cars. 

The pressure to do more can also come from our parents. They want us to succeed and may pressure us to pursue certain educational or career paths that they deem necessary for success. They may encourage us to work long hours in order to get ahead, or to join extra-curricular activities that they believe will help us to stand out. 

Our own ambition can also lead us to pressure ourselves to do more. We strive to be perfect and expect a lot from ourselves. We often push ourselves too hard and set unrealistic goals for ourselves that can lead to burnout and unhappiness. 

The pressure to do more can be overwhelming and can lead us down a path of exhaustion and discontentment. It is important that we take the time to slow down and remember what is important in life.

How to slow down

Slowing down doesn't have to be an overwhelming task, it can actually be quite simple and enjoyable. Here are a few tips on how to slow down and create more moments of peace and serenity in your life:

1. Set Boundaries: One of the first steps in slowing down is to set clear boundaries around your time and activities. Be sure to say no to things that don't feel right or won't benefit you in the long run. Also, take the time to unplug from electronics like phones and computers and just relax. 

2. Prioritize: Prioritize what tasks you need to complete each day and focus on those instead of trying to do everything all at once. You can also give yourself permission to not do something if it’s not absolutely necessary. 

3. Take Breaks: Take regular breaks throughout the day so that you can step back and reset your energy levels. This could include anything from having a snack break or taking a few moments for yourself to read a book, listen to some music, or just close your eyes for a few minutes.

4. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of bringing your attention to the present moment without judgment. Taking the time to be mindful can help reduce stress and bring more calm into your life. Some simple mindfulness practices include deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation. 

5. Connect with Nature: Spend some time outdoors in nature and take in the beauty of the world around you. Whether it’s taking a walk or going for a hike, connecting with nature can help restore balance and bring a sense of peace. 

These are just a few ideas on how to slow down and enjoy life more fully. By taking the time to prioritize what’s important and setting clear boundaries, you can find more moments of peace and serenity in your life.

How to do all this while being a parent

Being a parent is one of the toughest and MOST IMPORTANT jobs out there. With all the demands that come with parenting, it can be difficult to find the time to slow down and take care of yourself. However, it is possible to make slowing down a priority for both you and your family. 

Start by making sure your children understand why it’s important for you to take care of yourself. Explain to them that if you’re not taking care of yourself, you won’t have the energy to take care of them. Encourage them to practice self-care too, so that they can grow up in an environment where slowing down is seen as a positive thing.

In addition to teaching your children the importance of slowing down, you should also focus on carving out time for yourself. Whether it’s a few moments of mindfulness or an entire weekend of rest, make sure you’re setting aside some time to relax and recharge. And when you do get some time for yourself, don’t be afraid to use it wisely. Read a book, meditate, go for a walk — whatever it is that brings you joy and helps you destress. 

By carving out time for yourself and teaching your children the importance of self-care, you can give your family a healthy and balanced lifestyle that will help everyone stay calm and relaxed in a constantly moving society. One final tip is to try and involve your child when you’re practicing self-care. Doing activities together, like yoga or painting, can help you both relax and reconnect. You can also try giving them chores that allow them to practice mindfulness and self-care, such as setting the table for dinner or helping you water the garden. By spending quality time with your children while practicing self-care, you can help them to better understand why it’s important to slow down.

Thanks for reading

Annie-Kelsey

What is slow living and how did it save my mental health?

 

Practicing slow living has been an essential part of saving my mental health as a mother in my 30s. From the time I was a small child, becoming a mom was something I'd always dreamed of. But the reality of motherhood was
much different than my expectations.

First of all dont get me started on my the birth of my son or our 3 month Nicu stay. That is just too much to go into here and now but right away.. The sleepless nights, endless responsibilities, and overwhelming pressure to be the perfect mom had taken a toll on me.

One day, I decided to take a step back and reevaluate my life. I searched for ways to simplify and slow down my routine, and that's when I discovered slow living.

Now, I take the time to appreciate the little things in life. THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS TO BE THANKFUL FOR!.

I've also learned to let go of my need for control and perfectionism.

I've become more patient, compassionate, and present with my family and As I continued on this slow living journey, I started to notice a change in my mental state. The constant anxiety and stress began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of contentment. I felt more grounded, more centered.

And with this newfound peace came a greater appreciation for the world around me. (Even with the grief of losing my Dad) I began to notice the beauty in the small things - the way the sun filtered through the trees, the sound of the wind rustling through the leaves, our morning walks and when my son brings me nature gifts.

I started to prioritize what was truly important in my life - my family, my health, my happiness. And in doing so, I found that I was able to let go of the things that didn't matter as much. The laundry could wait, the dishes could pile up. What mattered most was being present with my loved ones and enjoying the simple moments that life had to offer.

Now, as I sit on my bed writing this at the end of the day, I am grateful for the peace and calm that slow living has brought me.

I am grateful for the ability to let go of my need for control and perfectionism. I no longer feel the pressure to be the perfect mom, wife, or person. I am learning to accept myself just as I am, flaws and all.

And as I lay down to sleep, I know that tomorrow will bring its own set of challenges and responsibilities. But I also know that I will continue to practice slow living, to appreciate the little things, and to prioritize what truly matters in my life. Because in the end, that is what will bring true happiness and fulfillment.

Thank you for reading

Love, Annie-Kelsey

Happy EARTH DAY, EARTHLINGS...

Happy EARTH DAY,
EARTHLINGS... 

Idea - MAKE FLOWER BOMBS: a flower bomb is like bombing for peace against the pavement jungle

I  wrote a poem & a song. I hope you don't mind me sharing 

A mother on this earth. 

Annie's heart beats with a love so pure,

As she stands strong, a mom for sure.

Through trauma and turmoil, she has been,

But Liam brings light to the darkness within.

She worries for him, each and every day,

Praying to the gods to guide his way.

Thankful for the earth and its healing grace,

As she teaches Liam to keep his own pace.

Her dad, now passed, a spirit in the sky,

Watchful eyes, never far from her side.

Healing through grief, finding solace in love,

Annie's heart soars, blessed from above.

Liam, her son, a treasure so dear,

Bringing her joy, and calming her fear.

Annie sees in him the promise of tomorrow,

And with each passing day, she'll heal her sorrow.

So thank god and goddess, the earth, and her dad,

For with them by her side, she'll never feel sad.

Annie, a mom, a healer, a friend,

Forever grateful that Liam is in her life till the end.

Annie-Kelsey

💚

My song

Earth Day by Annie-kelsey

Verse 1:

Earth Day comes around, a time to celebrate

Our planet and its beauty, let's appreciate

The love we have for Mother Earth, let it shine

Protect and heal her, it's time

Chorus:

Earth Day, love and healing

A mother's love, unyielding

We'll make this world a better place

For generations to embrace

Verse 2:

As a mom, I know the love of nurturing

Holding tight, keeping safe, unwavering

Let's give the same to the Earth we call home

Our love and care, a ripple to be shown

Chorus:

Earth Day, love and healing

A mother's love, unyielding

We'll make this world a better place

For generations to embrace

Bridge:

The world may be hurting, but hope still shines

We can make a change, if we combine

Our strength, our love, and our care

We'll heal the Earth, and make it fair

Chorus:

Earth Day, love and healing

A mother's love, unyielding

We'll make this world a better place

For generations to embrace

Outro:

On this Earth Day, let's vow to be

The guardians of our planet, for eternity

With love in our hearts, we'll make a start

And heal this world, with our part. 

kitchen witching

 As a self-proclaimed kitchen witch, I've always believed that cooking is a form of magic. The way we mix ingredients, infuse them with intention, and nourish our bodies with the resulting dish is nothing short of transformative. And as someone who also happens to be gluten-free, I've found that my kitchen magic is even more potent when I use recipes that are tailored to my dietary needs. So, if you're looking to cast a delicious spell in your kitchen, here are some gluten-free recipes that are sure to enchant your taste buds.

What is a Kitchen Witch?

Before we dive into the recipes, let's talk about what it means to be a kitchen witch. In essence, a kitchen witch is someone who practices magic through cooking and baking. This can take many forms, from infusing your recipes with intention and energy to using specific herbs and spices that correspond with your desired outcome.

For me, being a kitchen witch means approaching my cooking with mindfulness and intention. I try to be present with each ingredient and each step of the recipe, infusing it with love and gratitude as I go. I also like to incorporate herbs and spices that have specific magical properties, such as rosemary for protection or cinnamon for abundance.

But the beauty of kitchen witchery is that there are no hard and fast rules. Every witch's practice will look different, and that's okay. The important thing is to approach your cooking with curiosity and a willingness to experiment.

Spells in Your Recipes

One of the simplest ways to infuse your cooking with magic is to set an intention for your recipe. This can be as simple as saying a few words of affirmation as you chop vegetables or as elaborate as creating a full-blown ritual around your meal.

For example, if you're making a soup to nourish your body, you might say something like, "With each chop of this carrot, I infuse it with healing energy. May this soup nourish my body and restore my health." Or, if you're making a dessert to share with friends, you might say, "As I mix this batter, I imbue it with love and joy. May this dessert bring happiness to all who taste it."

Of course, you can also incorporate more traditional spells into your cooking if that feels more aligned with your practice. For example, you might make a batch of cookies with the intention of attracting abundance into your life. As you mix the ingredients, you could visualize a stream of golden light flowing into the dough, infusing it with the energy of prosperity. Or, if you're trying to banish negativity from your home, you might make a pot of tea with herbs that correspond with protection and cleansing, such as sage and lemon balm.

Recipes with Love and Healing Intentions

Now that you have a sense of how to infuse your cooking with magic, let's get to the recipes! These gluten-free dishes are designed to nourish your body and soul, with each ingredient infused with love and healing energy.

Gluten-Free Stuffed Cauldron Cookies

These adorable little cookies are perfect for any witchy gathering, whether you're celebrating Samhain or just having a cozy night in. The cookies themselves are gluten-free and dairy-free, and the filling can be customized to your liking. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 cup gluten-free flour blend
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, or butter, melted
• 1 egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Filling of your choice (I like jam or raisins)

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour blend, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in each ball.
7. Fill each indentation with your desired filling.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden.

As you make these cookies, infuse each ingredient with love and joy. Visualize the people you'll be sharing them with and the happiness they'll bring. And if you're making them for a specific occasion, like a full moon celebration or a coven meeting, set an intention for the gathering as you bake.

Cooking is a powerful form of magic, and as a gluten-free kitchen witch, I've found that tailoring my recipes to my dietary needs only enhances the potency of my spells. Whether you're whipping up a batch of cookies infused with abundance or a pot of soup imbued with healing energy, remember that every ingredient and every step of the recipe is an opportunity to infuse your cooking with magic.

So go forth and cast delicious spells in your kitchen! I'd love to hear about the magic you've created in your own home.

-Annie AKA Prisma