All Categories
Review An entertaining compilation of myths and rituals surrounding the four seasons and the planetary cycles of the year. Written with wit and reverence, the author often unearths some startling tales in her research into ancient and modern cultures. From the early origins of Halloween to the appearance of the blue moon to the connection between ancient Egypt and contemporary Easter eggs, this book presents a fascinating cross-cultural exploration of the rites and rituals inspired by astrological events. Here is a good introduction to the traditions that unite humanity to the cosmic center of the universe. --New VisionsThis marvelous book, full of inspiration, wisdom and instruction, is useful for all occasions. --Joan Halifax, author of The Fruitful DarknessI appreciate her sense of spirituality and how the workings of the cosmos have an influence on it. --Suzanne Chippindale, Director of the Santa Fe Planetarium Product Description From ancient times to the present there have been special days that mark the passage of time, announce the arrival or retreat of the sun, moon, and stars, and signify holy days and holidays alike. Celestially Auspicious Occasions presents a fascinating cross-cultural exploration of the rites and rituals inspired by heavenly events, from Valentine's Day to the blue moon to connection between ancient Egyptian beliefs and Easter eggs. From Library Journal Humans have always observed the passage of time and the changes in the heavens. Moreover, we have marked these observations with customs, celebrations, and observances. In this delightful compilation, Henes, an artist, writer, lecturer, and author of the syndicated column, "Celestially Auspicious Occasions," provides a lively narrative on the solstices, the equinoxes, mid-seasonal celebrations, eclipses, birthdays, and leap year as well as days, months, weeks. Combining folklore, customs, and poetry, she covers many different cultures in this well-written, readable book. Recommended for public libraries, folklore collections, and where there is an interest in seasons and ceremonies.?Gail Wood, SUNY Coll. of Technology Lib., Alfred, N.Y.Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc. From the Back Cover From ancient times to the present there have been special days that mark the passage of time, announce the arrival or retreat of the sun, moon and stars, and signify holy days and holidays alike. Celestially Auspicious Occasions presents a fascinating cross-cultural exploration of the rites and rituals inspired by heavenly events. More than just a history, Celestially Auspicious Occasions examines everything from the early origins of Halloween to the appearance of the blue moon to the connection between ancient Egyptian beliefs and contemporary Easter eggs. In addition, it reveals the traditions and practices that unity humanity to the cosmic center of the universe. Celestially Auspicious Occasions is a unique celebration of the varied and wonderful ways people have interpreted cycles of the seasons across the planet and across time, and suggests how these practices can inspire us to honor and safeguard our place in the cosmos. About the Author Donna Henes is an internationally renowned urban shaman, ritual expert, award-winning author, popular speaker and workshop leader whose joyful celebrations of celestial events have introduced ancient traditional rituals and contemporary ceremonies to millions of people in more than 100 cities since 1972. She is the author of The Queen of My Self, Moon Watcher's Companion and Dressing Our Wounds in Warm Clothes. She writes for The Huffington Post, Beliefnet and UPI Religion and Spirituality Forum. A noted ritual expert, she serves as a consultant on Hollywood films. Mama Donna, as she is affectionately called, maintains a ritual practice where she works with individuals, groups, institutions, municipalities and corporations to create meaningful ceremonies for every im