Upcoming Events - Crystal Visions: Books-Gifts-Spiritual-Intuitive-Readings-Events

10-12 / SpiritTalk – Break on Thru to the Other Side w/Jonna Rae Bartges

Saturday, October 12th
Noon – 1:30 PM
Cost: $20

In physics, the first law of thermodynamics is that energy can’t be created or destroyed – it just changes form. “Life” is an energy, and doesn’t cease to exist when we’re no longer in physical form. Jonna Rae has been tapping into the spirit world since she was a child, and her abilities increased with her own near-death experience when she was 35. In this Second Saturday: PSI Works afternoon, come get answers to your questions for loved ones in spirit, and learn how to go into a higher state of consciousness, so you can connect with them yourself. SpiritTalk is always a powerful time of love, connection and healing.

Pre-registration is not required. Participants can enter a drawing for a free intuitive reading valued at $100.

*************************************************************************************************************

Every second Saturday at Crystal Visions, Jonna Rae Bartges will shine a light on a different topic selected to raise consciousness, spark curiosity, and increase intuitive ability. Psychic and empathic since childhood, when she was 24 Jonna Rae left her newspaper editor job to go on a spiritual quest to learn if she was psychic, or psychotic. During that two-year period, she was shown, in a deep meditation, how to help others tap into and learn to trust their own intuitive ability. She created PSI: Practical Spirituality Institute, as an international educational resource to share the happy medium between science and spirituality. Jonna Rae is an author, Emmy-winning television producer, and an approved provider of professional development contact hours for nurses. Learn more at PSIstudies.com.

Filed Under: Highlight

08-24 / Healing Depression & Anxiety Through the Chakras w/ Kelly Janae Harris

Saturday, August 24th
11:30AM – 1:30PM
Cost $20 – Register here

Experience the power of Chakra Magic to Conquer Depression & Anxiety

Why the Chakras?

Chakra medicine offers a 100% holistic, natural path to healing mental and emotional health challenges on many levels of our multidimensional being!

❤️If you are a sensitive person who struggles to feel okay on a regular basis...

❤️ If you feel uncared for within mainstream mental healthcare environments…

~ Chakra Medicine Magic ~

⭐ Leverages the natural healing abilities of the human body

⭐ Releases blocked emotions

⭐ Transforms limiting beliefs that keep you stuck in undesirable mental states

⭐ Connects you with spirit guides & Divine frequencies

⭐ Supports your spiritual path to happiness & wholeness!

Chakra Magic is the perfect mental healthcare for sensitive Souls like you who need to feel balanced, loved, & free to be yourself in order to thrive in your life on Earth.

In This Workshop, You Will:

Physically experience & check the health of chakras within your body
Learn how disrupted chakra development leads to patterns of chronic depression and anxiety
Connect with other like-minded, sensitive Souls who share your struggle
Be guided into your chakras to identify & experience your own blocks through interactive exercises
Brainstorm practical solutions to relieve your chakra blocks
Spend quality time with a practitioner to ask questions & learn how to integrate chakra magic in your daily life

*************************************************************************************************************

Your Guide: Kelly Janae Harris

Energy Healing Practitioner & Emotional Resilience Coach

I Know How it Feels to be Trapped in Anxiety & Depression.

I spent most of my adolescent and adult life suffering from:

Social Anxiety
Suicidal Ideation
General Anxiety
Emotional Discomfort
Bipolar mood swings
Depression
Low Self-Esteem

(I also spent 2 years on a mood stabilizer, and 3.5 years tapering off that drug, using 100% holistic lifestyle changes, spiritual tools and energy healing.)

I have spent the past 10 years discovering how to heal my chronic depression & anxiety naturally.

Now, my healing work focuses on helping people move out of chronic depression & anxiety, and into a life of personal freedom, joy, inner peace, & confidence.

Filed Under: Highlight

08-10/ Shamanic Family Constellations w/ Eric Lopez

August 10th
2:30 to 5:30 pm
$44 cash at door

Shamanic Family Constellations with Eric Lopez

Join us for an Amazing Journey into the Energies of your Ancestry.

Resolve Fates that may Not Belong To You!.

Explore the Hidden Dynamics of Your Life’s Challenges.

SET YOURSELF FREE!

Eric Lopez’s Shamanic Family Constellation Work is a powerful group process that can dramatically shift generations of suffering and unhappiness.

Filed Under: Highlight

09-05 / Brenda Lee “International Psychic, Medium”

Thursday September 5th 12:00 – 5:00 pm
1 hr readings on the hour (5 slots) Call Store to reserve a slot
by Appointment ONLY!
Cost: $115

Brenda Lee is a Natural Born Trance Medium and Psychic with over 30 years’ experience. She brings forth Insights and Guidance from Divine Source, St. Germain and Lord Michael.

Brenda Lee is internationally known for her ability to connect with the Angelic Realms, Akasha Records, Your Guides, and Unseen Friends to bring forth clarity and deep insights.

Brenda Lee is also a Soul Artist (painter of soul prints) and has a CD entitled “Soul Purpose Meditation & Sacred Journey.”

Filed Under: Highlight

08-17/ Red Full Moon Guided Akashic Records Immersion w/ Holly Hawkins

Red Full Moon Guided Akashic Records Immersion!
Date: Saturday, August 17th
Time: 12 – 2 pm
Cost: Complimentary, Donations Gratefully Received

Celebrate and honor August’s full moon, known as the Red Moon, the Grain Moon or the Sturgeon Moon.

It is also the Full Moon in Aquarius

During this 2-hour event, we will
* chat about the energies of this full moon
* reflect on how it is personally working with us, and then…
* Be taken on a Guided Journey in Your Own Akashic Records in support of these transformational full moon energies!

No Prior Experience in the Akashic Records is Required!

Registration is Required since space is Limited

Link to register: https://bookme.name/hollyhawkins/red-full-moon-ar
Contact Information: Holly@HollyHawkins.Love
************************************************************************************************************

Your Guide:
Your guide for this Akashic Records workshop is Holly Hawkins. Holly is in her 14th year passionately working on a professional level, in the Akashic Records. She has taught spiritually striving individuals from all over the globe to access their own Akashic Records, as well as facilitated thousands of 1:1 sessions with clients from all walks of life.
Holly’s courses are offered in a safe, compassionate & supportive environment with plenty of time to digest, ask questions and receive guidance throughout. She knows that it is everyone’s birthright to access their Akashic Records if it is the right time for them personally. She is here to impart her deep understanding, gained from consistent work on both a personal and professional level, to give everyone the confidence to know that they, too, can be successful working in this sacred, spiritual and personally empowering dimension.
It is her JOY to celebrate each and every person who attends her classes, or comes for a 1:1 session, as they step into alignment with the deep Soul Wisdom that is flowing through them and live in deeper alignment with it.

Filed Under: Highlight

Food Cravings and the Emotional Body By Dianne Carol

Food Cravings and the Emotional Body
by Dianne Carol

We have all had food cravings, some odder than others (pickles and ice cream have been a running joke for pregnant women for years). Cravings are our body’s way of telling us it wants something.

In interpreting those cravings, we can better understand what is needed. Are we hungry? Are we missing specific nutrients that the body needs? Are there emotional reasons for the craving?

In Ayurveda, (an over 3,000-year-old natural system of medicine from India that translates to “knowledge of life”) each of the 6 tastes is tied to a specific emotion. Knowing this connection, we can better understand the language of our body and what it may be trying to tell us.

Let’s briefly look over the 6 tastes and what their cravings may be telling us. For each one, there is a positive emotion as well as a negative emotion.

Sweet – the sweet taste is the building block for our body, it is the first taste we experience as a baby. Mother’s milk is sweet in taste and all our bodies need to grow. It is tied to love, compassion, joy and happiness. When we crave the sweet taste, maybe what we need is a hug. Is compassion, joy, or happiness what is needed? This is also why we often crave the foods of our childhood or something a loved one made – as it was made with love and what we crave is the memory of that moment more than the food itself. When we overindulge in sweets to the point of excess, the emotions connected are greed, attachment, & possessiveness.

Salty – sodium is needed to balance the fluids in our body and for nerve and muscle health. It can enhance the other flavors in our foods when used in a balanced way and can be used in excess to preserve foods. The salty flavor is tied to the emotions of courage, enthusiasm, and confidence. How are you feeling emotionally when you crave the salty taste? Sad? Depressed? Bored? When in excess the emotions connected are greed, addiction, temptation, possessiveness, and irritability.

Sour – the sour taste helps us with digestion and appetite. The positive emotions are appreciation, comprehension, understanding, & discrimination. We not only digest food but we digest thoughts and emotions as well. If you crave sour things, you may be looking for clarity. It also awakens the mind and gets energy moving. In excess, it is tied to jealousy, criticism, hyperactivity, & agitation.

Pungent – think onions, garlic, chilis, and anything that adds heat to foods. This taste also helps with digestion and helps move stagnation in the body (think about runny noses after having spicy food). The emotions tied to this taste are enthusiasm, excitement, clarity, and vitality. When you crave the pungent flavor do you feel stagnant in your life? Are you craving excitement and adventure? In excess, it can point to aggressiveness, anger, competitiveness, and envy.

The next two tastes are not craved as often as the others as they are typically consumed mixed with other tastes.

Bitter – the bitter taste is quite cleansing and beneficial to the liver (think greens) – at one time it warned us of ingesting foods that contained toxins and to some is still a turn-off or is masked with other tastes such as sweet (coffee cocoa, tea). The bitter taste is tied to self-awareness, introspection, clarity, and detachment from the material. In excess, loneliness, separation, and cynicism.

Astringent – this “taste” is more of a mouth reaction than a flavor. It is the drying or sometimes puckering of the mouth typically due to tannins (think dry wine, underripe bananas, and pomegranate). The astringent taste is found subtly in a lot of herbs and spices as well as some foods. It is beneficial for the organs and helps release moisture and waste from the body. The positive emotions are grounded, collected, and cohesive. In excess; fear, resentment, rigidity, and anxiousness.

The next time you crave a certain food or find yourself eating a lot of one thing, consider the taste associated with it and ask yourself – is my emotional body trying to tell me something? How do I feel in this moment and what void am I trying to fill? Is it hunger? Nutrients? Or do I need to address some emotions?

************************************************************************************************************

Dianne Carol is an Ayurveda wellness coach as well as being trained in various healing modalities. You can find her working at the register of Crystal Visions where she loves to meet and talk to the customers. She is also available for readings and energy work at the store.

Link to previous Blog Post: Animal Communication: A Pet Project by Jonna Rae Bartges

Filed Under: Enjoyables

09-14 / Death & Dying – Creating a Sacred Legacy w/ Jonna Rae Bartges

Saturday, September 14th
Noon – 1:30 PM
Cost: $20

Death & Dying – Creating a Sacred Legacy

As Steve Jobs lay dying, his last words were a joyful, “Oh! Wow!” He was overwhelmed with the expansive beauty of the new world he was entering. While our culture is so hesitant to talk about death, none of us gets out of here alive. We can’t avoid dying, but we CAN learn compassionate and deeply meaningful ways to enrich the process for loved ones, and even ourselves. This Second Saturday: PSI Works presentation replaces fear with facts, and provides positive, proactive steps to help us navigate the emotionally charged passage from this life to the next. Jonna Rae will also share details about her own near-death experience. Tuition: $20

Pre-registration is not required. Participants can enter a drawing for a free intuitive reading valued at $100.

*************************************************************************************************************

Filed Under: Highlight

08-31 / Introduction to Energy Medicine w/ Dr. Filiz Bakir

Introduction to Energy Medicine

Date: August 31st
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Free

Discover the Magic of Energy Medicine!
Join Dr. Filiz Bakir for a transformative 90-minute class where you’ll embark on a journey into the world of
Energy Medicine, guided by the teachings of her mentors Donna Eden and Carolyn Myss and Dr. Patrick Veret,
MD, renowned pioneers in the field.

What You’ll Learn:
 The Basics of Energy Medicine
 Understand the fundamental principles that make Energy Medicine a powerful tool for enhancing your life.
 Awakening Your Inner Vitality
 Learn how to tap into your body’s natural energies to boost resilience, joy, and enthusiasm.
 Practical Techniques for Balancing Energies
 Experience hands-on practices such as tapping, tracing energy pathways. Learn how to keep your Polarity
strong, balance your Chakras, weave a strong Auric Field and much more.
 Healing Through Energy
 Discover how to use Energy Medicine to regulate your body’s chemistry, improve your mood, and enhance
cognitive clarity.

Why Attend?
 Enhance Your Well-being: Learn techniques to help you feel better, think better, and thrive in today’s world.
 Hands-On Experience: Engage in practical exercises that you can incorporate into your daily routine.
 Community Connection: Connect with like-minded individuals and share in the collective energy of the group.

RSVP Today!
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the healing power of Energy Medicine. Whether you’re new to the concept
or looking to deepen your understanding, this class is for you.
Reserve your spot now and step into a world of vibrant health and vitality.
For more information:
Call 954-224-4461

*************************************************************************************************************

Dr. Filiz Bakir is a beacon of holistic healing with over two decades of experience in Oriental and Integrative Medicine. Licensed in both Florida and North Carolina, Dr. Bakir now brings her wealth of knowledge and expertise to the serene landscapes of Hendersonville.

Nestled within the historic walls of Inspiration-House, Dr. Bakir’s practice is a testament to the seamless fusion of tradition and innovation. Built in 1935 by the esteemed first head physician of Pardee Hospital, Inspiration-House serves as the perfect backdrop for holistic health care, community building, and personal empowerment.

Drawing from a rich tapestry of healing modalities, Dr. Bakir’s approach encompasses Energy Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Homeopathy, Nutrition, Trauma Resolution, and Western Functional Medicine. With a philosophy rooted in blending the ancient wisdom of the East with the cutting-edge science of the West, she offers a unique path to restoring health and vitality—naturally.

Whether you seek personalized medical care or wish to participate in enriching events, Dr. Bakir extends a warm invitation to join her on a journey towards holistic wellness and empowered living. Step into Inspiration-House and embark on a transformational experience for your body, mind, and spirit.

Filed Under: Highlight

08-31 / Experience Reiki Healing

Experience Reiki Healing
Saturday, August 31
11:20 am – 1:20 pm

$20 for 20 min – All proceeds donated to Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue

The public is invited to experience a 20-minute session of this gentle form of energy healing. Reiki involves universal life energy flowing through a Reiki practitioner’s hands into the recipient, who is relaxing, fully clothed, on a treatment table. Healers’ hands can lightly touch the recipient’s body or stay a few inches above it – both methods are equally effective.

Reiki energy goes where it is needed, offering a sense of peace and well-being in body, mind and spirit. Over 800 US hospitals have incorporated Reiki Healing into their wellness programs.

Each 20-minute session is $20, with ALL proceeds being donated to Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue in Fletcher, NC.

To reserve your space, call Crystal Visions at (828) 687-1193. Sessions are limited, so call today. Walk in’s welcome.

Filed Under: Highlight

08-10 / Soul Contracts – Our Sacred Connections w/ Jonna Rae Bartges

Saturday,August 10th
Noon – 1:30 PM
Cost: $20

Soul Contracts – Our Sacred Connections

What does it mean when we meet someone, and instantly feel a strong attraction, or an equally strong aversion? Why do we keep facing the same challenges over and over again? What is it about family members that can push our buttons? In this Second Saturday: PSI Works afternoon, find out how agreements we make with others before we come into this lifetime have a profound impact on all of us. You will learn to get clarity on the most positive way for these connections to play out, and gain insight into learning the deep karmic lessons these soul contracts offer.

Pre-registration is not required. Participants can enter a drawing for a free intuitive reading valued at $100.

*************************************************************************************************************

Filed Under: Highlight

07-27 / Sound Meditation w/ Resonance for Healing

Date: Saturday, July 27th
Time: 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm

Join Resonance for Healing for a supportive and healing sound meditation. We will create a healing container in which we will balance the energy systems, support the nervous system and drop into a deeply relaxed and nourishing space for healing. Attention will be given to each individual in attendance for a personalized experience.

Instruments such as gongs, Himalayan bowls, crystal bowls, handpan, drums and more will be used.

Bring a yoga mat, blanket or anything you need to feel comfortable during the meditation. Please arrive ten minutes early to allow yourself to settle into your spot.

Space is limited for this event.

Cost is $25 : Registration can be found at resonanceforhealing.com/book-a-session

*************************************************************************************************************

As a teacher for the Sound Healing Academy and a Sound Healing practitioner Eric brings extensive experience to working with methods for reducing the effects of stress, regulating the nervous system and supporting the natural healing ability of the body to each session.

resonanceforhealing.com

Filed Under: Highlight

09-21 / Mabon Celebration

Mabon Celebration
Saturday, September 21st
11:00 am – 12:15 pm

⬧Come celebrate Mabon with local author and Brigid priestess, Lisa Wagoner.

Mabon marks the Autumn Equinox on the Wheel of the Year.

A meditation, discussion of Mabon/Autumn Equinox, a brief ritual, and a Mabon activity will be offered & more!

Love offerings gratefully accepted.⬧

This will be an ongoing Sabbats Series.

*************************************************************************************************************

Lisa Wagoner is a writer, author of Positive Pagan: Staying Upbeat in an Offbeat World, a healing guide, teacher, and coach. She lives in Asheville (NC), and is a devoted follower of the goddess Brigid. She offers private readings, coaching, healing sessions and workshops, and can usually be found outside tending to her home wildlife sanctuary. Her latest offering is her Substack, “Opener of Stuck Spaces”. She is passionate about herbalism, worldwide community and healing.

Filed Under: Highlight

07-27 / Lammas/ Lughnasadh Celebration

Lammas / Lughnasdh Celebration
Saturday, July 22nd
11:00 am – 12:15 pm

⬧Come celebrate Lammas/Lughnasadh with local author and Brigid priestess, Lisa Wagoner.

Lammas/Lughnasadh marks the first harvest on the Wheel of the Year.

A meditation, discussion of Lammas/Lughnasadh, a brief ritual, and a Lammas activity will be offered & more!

Love offerings gratefully accepted.⬧

This will be an ongoing Sabbats Series.

*************************************************************************************************************

Filed Under: Highlight

09-21/ Past Life Regression Workshop w/ Hypnotherapist John Till

Traveling To The Past… For insight, Healing and Awareness!

Past Life Regression Workshop with Hypnotherapist John Till

Saturday, September 21st
3:00 – 5:00 PM
Cost: $15

I will be sharing teachings about reincarnation and how Hypnosis is used to experience lives we have lived before, then take the group through Past Life Regression.

Join us for an interesting and insightful afternoon. I may be reached for further information at: johntillhypnotherapy.com or at 760-285-6535

Filed Under: Highlight

08-03 / Reiki II Practitioner Class w/ Jonna Rae Bartges

“Reiki heals the cause, and eliminates the effect.”

— Virginia Samdahl
First Occidental Reiki Master

Reiki II Attunements and Certification
Saturday August 3rd 1:00-5:00 p.m.
Pre-registration and Reiki I certification required
Tuition $175

Take your Reiki I skills to the next level. In this Reiki II certification class, you will receive attunements to take you deeper into the practice, and learn how to send healing energy into the past, present, and future.

Students will:
 Review the history of Reiki and the 12 hand positions.
 Be attuned by a Reiki Master Teacher with 46 years in the field.
 Be introduced to Reiki power symbols.
 Learn how to send distance healing.
 Direct distance healing to a specific person, place or thing.
 Learn how to use Distance Reiki to heal events in the past.
 Receive their Reiki lineage and certificate acknowledging them as a second degree member of the global Reiki community.

Reiki Master Teacher Jonna Rae Bartges was attuned to Reiki Healing in 1978 by Virginia Samdahl, the first occidental Reiki Master. That puts her students just two generations removed from Reiki Grand Master Teacher Hawayo Takata. Jonna Rae has attuned hundreds of students to Reiki One and Two, and brought 53 to Reiki
Mastership. She works extensively with nurses, social workers, and others in the healing arts.
To pre-register and reserve your space, visit jonnarae.com/Reiki

Filed Under: Highlight

08-21 / Medical Intuitive Reading & Healing Touch sessions w/ Jennifer Van Dillen

Wednesday, August 21st 12:00 – 5:00 pm

Jennifer offers a one-hour session including 30 minutes hands on healing with a 30 minute reading.

Cost: $115 cash for Initial session $95 cash for Follow up

APPOINTMENT ONLY
Call store to reserve a time 828-687-1193

Jennifer Van Dillen is a Medical Intuitive with over 30 years experience in the medical field as a Pediatric Occupational Therapist. She became certified as a Healing Touch practitioner in 1997 and began receiving specific information about her clients while in session. Significant life experiences would play out as a movie clip, often conveying specific information of physical impact within the body. She studied with Carolyn Myss and Dr. Mona Lisa Shultz to further hone these skills in a grounded fashion to protect energetic boundaries.

Please go to jennifervandillen.com for further information.

Filed Under: Highlight

09-28 / ORDINATION CLASS (Order of Melchizedek) w/ Rev. Dan Chesbro

Become an Ordained Minister in the Order of Melchizedek

(Priesthood Workshop & Ordination)

with Rev. Daniel Chesbro

Internationally Known Healer, Teacher, Psychic Counselor, Founder of “Sanctuary of the Beloved” and Author of “The Order of Melchizedek”

Dan’s goal is to help us realize our common destiny in pursuit of ones Higher Spiritual Self!

The Order of Melchizedek is a priesthood of individuals committed to teach and/or heal the Human Condition. Priests are self-selected, and their ultimate commitment is between God and themselves. There is no dogma, no hierarchy. Everyone is welcome.

Whatever your calling – officiate weddings, raise your vibration, have a transformational experience – you may experience all of these as well as receive an “energy boost” enhancing your current work.

In this special workshop for ordination into the priesthood, Dan will speak about the history of Melchizedek and its energies, detail the story of the priesthood with explanations of the commitment and the legal ramifications in becoming a priest to perform weddings, baptisms, sacred rituals and ceremonies.

A ceremony will follow at which time he will work with each person choosing to be ordained. Each priest is legally ordained under “Sanctuary of the Beloved” a non-denominational church in New York.

Recommended Reading: The Order Of Melchizedek, & The Gospel of Thomas by Daniel Chesbro.

Saturday, September 28th from 1:00 – 5:00 pm

Pre-Registration Open

Payment Due August 31st

Cost : $200 for New Students
$85 for repeat

Reverend Daniel Chesbro combines sensitive intuitive abilities with a ministerial background, psychological training and metaphysical knowledge to teach, guide and enhance the lives of those he encounters. A dynamic lecturer and teacher, he encourages others to achieve self-love, self-confidence, balance and the pursuit of their own High Spiritual Self. He is an American Baptist minister who trained at Andover Newton Theological School, Crozer Seminary, and Colgater Divinity School.

For more info : https://www.danielchesbro.com/

Filed Under: Highlight

Planetary Trends for July 2024 by Belinda Dunn

WHAT’S UP – July 2024

Belinda C. Dunn

Cancer New Moon

July 5 @ 6:57 pm

Capricorn Full Moon

July 21 @ 6:17 am

Fireworks and fanfare, parades and picnics, the United States celebrates 248 years of history. However, at this crucial turning point, July begins with more questions than answers. No matter where one turns these days, there is little availability of forthright and reliable answers, much less consensus.

No doubt, pundits and prognosticators of every persuasion are attempting to predict outcomes. It’s almost laughable, except so many prevailing issues are dead serious.

At every turn we hear the word, “unprecedented,” and astrologers agree. A major confluence of planetary trends confirm the unique and unpredictable nature of current events, but used wisely, astrology is a cosmic weather report. With this in mind, let’s begin with overall trends for July, and conclude with my annual, “Astrological State of the Union.”

The first week of July is very active as Mercury enters Leo on the 2nd. On the positive side, Mercury transiting through Leo is playful and entertaining, fun loving and creative. Symbolized by the majestic lion, this zodiac sign of leadership is naturally proud, strong and courageous. Inspirational speaker Simon Sinek has this to say, “Leadership is the awesome responsibility to see those around us rise. You, everyone of us, can choose to be the leader we wish we had.”

In general, Mercury is the planet of communication, governing the essential processes of thinking, learning, writing, speaking and listening. At its best, Mercury bestows intelligence, mental agility, curiosity and discernment. As Mercury transits through Leo, individuals and groups may proudly and vehemently defend their point of view. Fixed opinions and stubborn mindsets may prove difficult to counter. Even under threat, the lion will never back down, and fight to the end. This is a month to avoid getting caught in circuitous arguments, and choose your battles wisely.

In particular, Mercury opposes Pluto on July 2-4, stirring up trouble. Watch for obsessive thinking, power struggles, confrontation, disclosures and revelations. Later in July, Mercury squares Uranus on the 21st, the first of three aspects. Due to a retrograde phase in August, Mercury will activate this planet of unexpected turnarounds over the next seven weeks. Anything goes in this turbulent and stormy election season as Mercury squares Uranus for the second time on August 18, and again on September 6-7.

Life happens against the backdrop of the 28 day lunar cycle, and New Moons are optimal for planting seeds of intention. Time set aside for contemplation, assessment and goal setting is fruitful and productive. Like having a wind at our back, the more we consciously participate in natural cycles, the more cosmic forces can assist.

On July 5th, New Moon in Cancer sets the stage for upcoming events. In addition to Moon conjoining Sun, beautiful Venus joins the party, beginning to rise in the evening sky on July 11. All together, these factors indicate a return to home base. Also transiting through Cancer, Venus amplifies heartfelt issues surrounding home and family life. Venus reminds us that security is not just material comfort, but a sense of emotional safety, bonds of affection and acceptance.

Fast forward to the Full Moon on July 21st. Now things really begin heating up in a perfect storm of astrological trends. In addition to the uncertainty of Mercury square Uranus, the Full Moon intensifies power struggles. And pouring more fuel on the fire, Mars conjuncts Uranus on July 15, entering communicative Gemini on the 20th. All together, these trends collide during the RNC Convention, and although outcomes are undetermined as of now, the social atmosphere is obviously inflammatory and volatile.

Let’s zero in on the Full Moon, and the message it presents. Along the eastern seaboard, illuminating the nation’s capital, Sun rises at dawn as Moon sets in the west. Additionally, conjoining the Moon, Pluto is setting in the west. Astrologically, this is an amazing synchronicity with long term implications for the nation and world. Symbolically, it’s all about authority and leadership, power and control. Heavy handed, forced control is no longer advisable or effective for society at large. At its best, despite appearances, these planetary trends support a widespread redefinition of power for generations to come.

With all this in mind and heart, let’s turn to the United States as reflected in astrological trends. The most widely used chart is calculated for July 4, 1776, 5:10 pm, Philadelphia, PA. This is an ideal time to take a broad view of the nation’s destiny since Neptune is stationary, and retrograde on July 2nd. In other words, Neptune continues to be a prominent influence similar to that historic day in 1776. In fact, if Neptune had been discovered, and the founders had telescopes, they would have seen Neptune directly overhead. Getting perspective on Neptune is key to understanding the country.

Neptune’s influence can be difficult to detect, because it manifests in extremes. The highest expression is idealism, the perfect picture, as put forth in the Declaration of Independence, “We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” While these are inspiring and admirable ideals for the founding of a country, at this juncture, this brings us to another gigantic question mark. How realistic are these ideals given the current social environment?

This brings us to the darker side of Neptune which distorts spiritual truth for personal gain, and thereby codifies it into ideology. Depending on social norms, culture and historical context, beliefs shift and change over time. So, what happens when idealism meets reality? The natural spiritual aspiration of Neptune gets lost in translation. Ideals become tainted, spun, twisted and turned into concepts, dogma, religion, politics, and moralistic declarations of right and wrong.

Even the Bible states, “For now we see through a glass, darkly.” It is virtually impossible to replicate, or even understand, spiritual reality in this world of form. Neptune’s influence is otherworldly, literally out of this world.

Again, the United States chart is very revealing in that Neptune is overhead, but in stressful aspect with another prominent planet, Mars. Not only does this increase patriotic tendencies, but the collective identity asserts itself blindly at times, driven by passionate beliefs that may, or may not, be true. Mars fights for what it “thinks” is right.

Not only this, but Mars is in communicative Gemini. On the plus side, the country has led the world in telecommunications, transportation and technology. Mars in Gemini is naturally curious, exploring and traveling the globe. An interest and appreciation of other nationalities has made it the most diverse country in the world. Home to the everyday hero, this planetary combination supports humanitarian outreach at home and abroad.

As of May 25th, Jupiter entered Gemini, and over the coming year, these characteristics will become even more pronounced. In perfect synchronicity, Jupiter conjoins Uranus in the USA chart on July 4th. And, Jupiter conjoins Mars in the USA chart next spring, April 30, 2025. Promising a pivotal year for the country, Jupiter bestows optimism, abundance, opportunity and good fortune. So no matter what is happening politically, many circumstances stand to benefit from Jupiter’s positive rays.

In fact, Jupiter is the planetary ruler of the USA chart (Sagittarius Ascendant), and the overall social environment leans toward friendliness, honesty, joviality, generosity and growth. However, when taken to extremes, Jupiter’s potential morphs into prideful arrogance. Comedian and commentator Bill Mahar says, “In a study of eight developed countries, USA students scored dead last in math skills, but were #1 in confidence in math skills. Yes, we’re #1 in thinking we’re #1 !”

The next important piece to the puzzle is more technical, but bears interpretation. Astrologers pay attention to the calculated timing of a progressed Moon 30+ year cycle. As of March 25, 2024, the country experienced a progressed New Moon in Pisces. Loosely interpreted, this trend represents conclusion, the ending of cycles, but literally the dark of the Moon without clear direction. Generally, it takes a full year before new direction becomes apparent, and this brings us to 2025.

Additionally, transiting Saturn is exactly conjoining the USA progressed Moon in Pisces. To review, Saturn is bottom line reality, down to earth, practical and responsible. Society is enduring a tremendous push and pull between illusory and fabricated “truth,” and common sense. In the end, Saturn will prevail, but using the analogy of a jet plane coming in for a very bumpy landing . . . what will it take for citizens to come to their senses?

To answer this question, let’s return to the USA chart. As mentioned, Neptune is prominent at the apex of the chart. But, importantly, Neptune was in Virgo that July day in 1776. This position is the epitome of pragmatic and practical realism, putting ideals to work in the name of service to the greater whole.

However, currently transiting through Pisces, Neptune is opposite its original placement in Virgo. Essentially, Neptune dissolves boundaries of everyday awareness, opening consciousness to greater meaning and purpose. Presently, a majority of people find themselves stuck in the daily grind in lives devoid of meaning, and bereft of purpose.

Over time, this has created a vacuum for other forces with their agendas to take hold and take over. This is the most challenging effect of Neptune. The human psyche is malleable, and depending on conditions, susceptible to manipulation, programming, coercion and control. And if this isn’t enough adversity, the darkest side of Neptune involves all manner of intoxicating substances, and mental illness.

On national and global levels, one planetary cycle after another is peaking and ending this year. In so many words, the call to pray for the soul of America is not too far off. Individually and collectively, we are hard pressed to examine and redefine guiding principles in order to effectively address a multitude of issues. This is not the time to hide one’s head in the sand, but face reality squarely, heroically, and “keep on keeping on.”

…

Belinda C. Dunn is a professional astrologer with over 40 years experience. She is available for your personal consultation.

belinda@astrodelight.com; 828-215-2101; www.astrodelight.com

Previous Month’s Forecast

Filed Under: Enjoyables

STORE HOURS *** MONDAY – SATURDAY / 11 – 6 pm

Filed Under: Highlight

Books New and Gently Used!

Crystal Visions offers a comprehensive assortment of spiritual and self-improvement NEW and USED books. We are the premiere store for New and Used Metaphysical Books. We have an extensive selection of used books many of which are no longer in print. A great place to find books on Astrology, Energy Work, Psychic Development, Goddesses, Crystals, Chakras, Sound Healing, Buddism, Herbs, Wicca, Spirituality and More!

You’ll routinely find titles here by classic and current best-selling authors. We also carry works from several local authors including Michelle Payton, Jonna Rae Bartges, Bobby Baranowski and many others! Remember to ask about our book club! Looking for a particular title? Call us at (828) 687-1193 or send email to us at cvisions@crystalvisionsbooks.com.

Filed Under: Divination

Incense

Incense – including standards such as Nag Champa and smudging tools! Candles of all sizes and shapes.

Filed Under: Divination

Divination

Divination Tools assist one in gaining insight to a question. We have many forms of divination tools to aid you in your quest for knowledge including Tarot Decks, Runes, Oracle Cards, Pendulums and Dowsing Rods. Whether you are a novice or experienced practitioner, we have books and materials that can assist you on your journey.

divining-rods

Filed Under: Divination

A Wide Selection of Crystals and Gemstone Jewelry

In our mineral case you’ll find treasures from around the world with a large assortment of sparkling clusters, spheres, points and rough minerals.

If you’re seeking massage points, crystals for healing, or beautiful mineral specimens for display, you’ll find them here.

Diverse traditions and designs are found in our jewelry department! Most pieces are Sterling Silver with gemstones, with several being unique, one-of-a-kind items.