~ full moon ~ music ~ new year ~

What a long, strange trip it's has been, this wild year 2020.

Usually I wind down the year reflecting on my intentions. Like any year, I nailed some of them and others not so much.

Looking back on my many NYE celebrations, I've never had a year when music wasn't central. Concerts, dance, chanting—the music has always been there.

And even though this year has been singular in what feels like all the ways, I'm grateful that music is still central. And for once I can share it with you, and you can listen at your leisure.

Astral & Skyeris (Jennifer Proctor & myself) just released another sound journey, specifically in time for the new year. We recorded it early this month, and now seems like the perfect time to share.

I recommend dim lights, a comfortable place to lie down, and a scarf or eye pillow over your eyes. This sound journey is an hour, which is plenty of time to activate the parasympathetic nervous system—which just means you might get a bit chilly. So, I recommend a blanket or shawl nearby, in case you get cold.

If you need any ritual ideas, see my list below. Otherwise hit play and enjoy the ride.

For those of you who, like me, love intentional spaces, pick what you like:
~ Light a candle.
~ Light incense.
~ Anoint yourself with whatever scents or oils you like. I'm fond of earthy scents in general, and piney ones this time of year.
~ Choose a simple, gentle practice if your monkey mind is yanking you around—watching the breath is my favorite way to return to present.

Be sure to take your time sitting up, especially if you really travel far. And don't forget to hydrate after that.

This long, strange life trip is always going. Some earlier lyrics in that song are quite poignant right now too:

Sometimes the light's all shinin' on me,
Other times, I can barely see.

In the dark and cold of winter, it's easy to feel abandoned by the light. But, like your ancestors, you can trust its return. In the meantime, bask in the cave of this new year portal. See you on the other side.

Blessings,
S. 


—
she / they
Siderealchemy