Showing posts with label well-being. Show all posts

The Chakras Handbook - A Review

Today I'm reviewing The Chakras Handbook by Athena Perrakis, Ph.D.

Photography - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - The Chakras Handbook



Author Links - Link
Amazon Book Link
Amazon Author Link
Good Reads Book Link
Good Reads Author Link
My Good Reads Profile
My Facebook Page
Release Date 1-22-2019


Generally I like to start out with a disclaimer. I am an atheist witch.  I look for the connection between magic and science without the need for a deity. I receive no compensation for these reviews and all my links are standard Amazon links and not affiliate links. I am a practicing photo reader and have spent the last 15 years honing my craft.  I offer personal readings by request and have a strong online history that boasts nearly 400,000 views.



As with my other reviews we're going to start with a review of the physical book.  First, I love the size of this book.  It is large enough that the font size isn't an issue, but small enough I can toss into a handbag or backpack for on the go reading. I was sent a hardcover to review.  The cover is a brilliant purple and teal blue. The colors soothing and the cover smooth to the touch without going over into that suede feel that drives me insane.  This book has a very small index. With a total page count of 176 I would expect that.  I do miss a detailed index in any book, especially one whose title claims to be the handbook on a particular subject.  Unlike some other books I have read, this book offers a "purpose" if you will, in the prologue that tells us exactly what to expect from the book.  The pages are smooth, with a aligned page edge and brilliant photos.  The images in this book are simply amazing. I love the connection with each chapter to the color and explanation of the chakra represented.  Over all the physical presentation of this book is stellar.

Photography - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - The Chakras Handbook
Photography - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - The Chakras Handbook
 


Getting into the root (pun intended) of the book, each chapter is broken down by sections related to a definition of the chakra, a table of correspondences as well as gemstones, essential oils and herbs related to that chakra.  I'm going to look at the third eye chakra as that has been my focus over the last few months.

The author begins to explain the third eye to us on page 118.  They explain the chakra itself and then explain what we experience when that chakra is blocked.  For example if your third eye chakra is blocked you may feel unclear, unfocused, and unable to sense what is happening around you.  A clear third eye chakra would have you feeling you see the world in full vibrant colors. All of your senses are available and are sources of wisdom and information.

Photography - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - The Chakras Handbook
Photography - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - The Chakras Handbook
 


I was hit with a jolt when I saw that Hecate is associated with this chakra. While a modern connection, none the less it was an eye opener for me as I spend so much of my time working on divination and offering assistance for those at the threshold or crossroads, if you will, in their current life situations. With the author providing background on this connection I was not surprised to see several of the herbs, stones and crystals associated with Hecate to also be included in opening up or awakening this chakra.

The author tells us that Lapis Lazuli, Labradorite and Sodalite are all used to focus, open and strengthen the third eye chakra. The Labradorite looks to ignite the imagination while the Lapis Lazuli build confidence and self-esteem. Sodalite, the dream-catcher Stone is said to prevent nightmares and night terrors.  It helps release our fears and stay present and focused on the moment.  The author also includes references to herbs and oils to build focus and includes anointing oil blends at the end of the chapters.

Photography - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - The Chakras Handbook
Photography - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - The Chakras Handbook



Over all this book is a valuable resource to those interested in getting started with the Chakras. It is easy to read and offers vibrant images to keep your interest.  The recipes are easy to follow and provided you have a basic witch's pantry, pretty easy to replicate. I did see a few rare oils mentioned but with a little investigation, these can be replaced with more readily available alternatives.

This is a good resource for those beginning research in chakras and I do recommend this for your healing library.


Herbal Remedies Made Simple - A Review

Today I'm reviewing Herbal Remedies Made Simple by Stacey Dugliss-Wesselman and Susan Gregg.

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - Herbal Remedies Made Simple



Author Links - Link - Stacy & Susan
Amazon Book Link
Amazon Author Link - Stacy & Susan
Good Reads Book Link
Good Reads Author Link - Stacy & Susan
My Good Reads Profile
My Facebook Page


Generally I like to start out with a disclaimer. I am an atheist witch.  I look for the connection between magic and science without the need for a deity. I receive no compensation for these reviews and all my links are standard Amazon links and not affiliate links. I am a practicing photo reader and have spent the last 13 years honing my craft.  I offer personal readings by request and have a strong online history that boasts nearly 400,000 views.


As usual I'll start out with a review of the physical book.  This book is great for using as a working reference book.  The cover is hard, smooth and very sturdy. It is over average size, but slightly wider than your average book.  When the front cover is opened it is immediately apparent that this is not your normal herbal book.  This book comes in a spiral biding with the pages split in half.  There is, however not in the traditional sense, a contents page and a small index in the back of the book. 

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - Herbal Remedies Made Simple
Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - Herbal Remedies Made Simple
 


The top and bottom halves of the book are not intended to be read together. It appears that the self care (skin, hair, etc) are on the top half while the herbs associated are on the bottom.  This book includes excellent photos of the process of creating assorted body products such as the Comfrey Joint & Bruise Salve on page 52 and 53.  I personally have used Comfrey many times for this type of treatment and let me just say it works wonders.  Other recipes include a body powder, a clarifying shampoo, Almond & Orange Sugar scrubs just to name a few.  The instructions are clearly written and the ingredients are somewhat common.  Most traditional kitchen, garden or herbal witches will have these ingredients readily available.

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - Herbal Remedies Made Simple
Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - Herbal Remedies Made Simple



The bottom half of the book is dedicated to herbs. It is separated in the categories such as strength and heart & mind.  Each page comes with a vibrant photo and an explanation of the herb.  Thyme for example is covered on page 50.  The author tells us that Thyme strengthens our will. It is recommended to use Thyme to purify the space and fill it with love and peace.  It is said to fill you with peace, love and increase willpower.  Witch Hazel branches are said to relieve the pain of loss and it is recommended to carry leaves from the branch in your pocket if you have lost someone to ease the pain on page 44 of the book.  The author offers us a page on Willow and how to use it to clear spirits, conduct a healing ritual or use them as a window to manifest dreams.

Overall this is a great book for getting started with Herbal Remedies. I think that it would make a great addition to any witch's personal herbal library.

Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - Herbal Remedies Made Simple