Bloodstone

Bloodstone used to be more commonly known as 'heliotrope' which translates from Greek meaning 'sun-turning' (due to a philosopher, Pliny using a mirror of Heliotrope to look at eclipses)
 Regardless of the name change this crystal has been known and used as a blood purifier, and for detoxifying the organs commonly residing near the sacral chakra; bladder, kidneys, intestines, and liver, for over 5000 years.
   In many cultures Heliotrope was dipped in cold water, and then placed on the body to aid circulation. Warriors often carried it as an amulet of protection, they believed that wearing it into battle would cure any wound they suffered. There is also documentation of Heliotrope being ground up and mixed with honey, and then ingested to cure tumours or stop excessive haemorrhaging. It is found to be a wonderful aid for those recovering from colds and illnesses.

 In terms of it's magical properties, Bloodstone can be worn to deter bullies, and protect against physical and verbal threats. It gives it's wearer a sense of self-confidence, often referred to as The Stone Of Courage.
 Due to it's connection to blood, this crystal is a very active and energised crystal. Energy that is easily transferred to it's wearer - boosting endurance and empowering the self and projects. (Also great for athletes.) It's element is fire which makes perfect sense, although a lot of sites state it's element is earth, which would also explain it's more grounding properties.
Bloodstone has a strong connection to weather magic. It was often used as an 'audible diviner', said to emit noise warning of storms and coming weather changes.

Most bloodstones have a dark green base, with flecks of red in them. This red is the cause of the common name we use. And it is these red flecks that provoke an air of fearlessness to those in its presence. It gives us a call to action and stimulates excitement.

 The red part of bloodstones are usually Red Jasper, and because of this, this crystal has strong powers in divination. Specifically divination revolving around the weather or dreams.
 Placed under ones pillow Bloodstone stimulates dreaming, as well as providing a more rejuvenated sleep.

Blessed Be,

Jade

xoxo

Ostara

March 21st/22nd

A point of perfect balance on the journey through the wheel of the year.
The natural world is coming alive, thanks to the growing days, and warming sun.
Ostara's energy is expansive and exuberant, the first real day of Spring.

Ostaras name comes from the Germanic Goddess, Eostre or Ostara - a goddess traditionally honoured in April with festivals to celebrate the cycle of rebirth and fertility. (Fun Fact it's where the name for the female hormone oestrogen comes from.)

Ostaras symbols are all revolving around the idea of fertility; both the hare and the egg.
Flowers are used a lot on Ostara altars, and are wonderful to have throughout the house to mark this sabbat - daffodils, pussy willow, crocuses, primroses, violets to name a few.

Ostaras colours are; bright green, yellow, and purple.

This is the festival of new life.

It is also the Spring Equinox - a time of harmony, a time of balance between light and dark, day and night.
As we move into this time of new life, and beginnings, a wonderful way to bring things into being involved planting in your garden.

Find a type of flower or plant that really calls to you.
Buy a packet of seeds for this type of plant.

Getting a new pot, which you can paint sigils or runes on to aid your magic, fill it with soil.

On a piece of paper write down a wish.
A dream for yourself.
Something you want to manifest into your life with spring.

Using your bare hands, hold the paper after folding it, and dig deep into the soil you've just potted. Place your paper about a third of the way up from the base of the pot.
Cover it back up, before planting your seeds above it, as instructed by the packet.

Take some time in nature with your pot, and meditate on the thing you want to bring forth.
You could say something like; 

"Lord and Lady, with the turning of the wheel new beginnings come.
Sewn with the seed, I ask my wish be done.
As it grows, green and true;
May my dream grow too."

Water, love and tend to your growing seeds.
As your plant grows, it will manifest your desire into being.