Honoring the Veil: Day of the Dead, New Moon in Scorpio & Diwali

Honoring the Veil: Day of the Dead, New Moon in Scorpio & Diwali

This season is pulsing with deep, transformative energy as we celebrate three sacred occasions: Día de los Muertos, the New Moon in Scorpio, and Diwali. Each of these celebrations reflects a unique way of honoring life, death, and renewal—moments when the veil thins, inviting us to connect with our ancestors and welcome transformative energy.

Día de los Muertos: A Vibrant Dance with Ancestors

Día de los Muertos, celebrated primarily in Mexico, is a joyous remembrance of those who came before us. It’s a time when families create ofrendas—altars adorned with marigolds, sugar skulls, and personal mementos—to welcome the spirits of their loved ones. Every year, I dive into this tradition by watching Coco on repeat (yes, 3 or 4 times!), connecting to the powerful themes of family, memory, and the enduring link between the living and the dead. While I’m African-centered, I deeply appreciate the cultural richness of Día de los Muertos, finding beauty in the way it embraces life and death as intertwined.

The New Moon in Scorpio: A Gateway to Transformation

The New Moon in Scorpio on November 1, 2024, offers a rare cosmic moment for transformation and spiritual insight, heightened by the powerful vibration of the Master Number “11.” In numerology, 11 is considered a portal number—symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and intuitive clarity. This New Moon invites us to look within, harnessing Scorpio’s natural energy of life, death, and rebirth to shed what no longer serves us. Paired with the sacred energy of 11, this lunar phase becomes not only about renewal but also about opening ourselves to higher wisdom and inner alignment.

From an African-centered perspective, this alignment of Scorpio’s transformative energy with the vibration of 11 creates a powerful opportunity to connect with our ancestors. As the veil between worlds thins, we can honor those who came before us through rituals, quiet reflection, or setting intentions that align with their wisdom. This New Moon on 11/1 becomes a moment to embrace the guidance of our ancestral spirits, allowing their strength to guide us as we move into new chapters of growth and healing.

Diwali: A Celebration of Light Amid Darkness

In Hindu tradition, Diwali is a festival of lights that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes are lit with lamps, symbolizing the divine presence and dispelling negativity. Though rooted in Indian culture, the spirit of Diwali’s celebration resonates with those of us who honor ancestors, for light is a powerful symbol across cultures. In African diasporic traditions, candles are used in altar practices to guide the spirits and offer them a place to dwell. Diwali serves as a reminder that, even in the darkest times, we hold the power to illuminate our lives and honor those who came before us.

Ancestor Veneration from an African Perspective

For many African diasporic people, ancestor veneration is at the core of spiritual practice. It’s a way to honor the lives, wisdom, and guidance of those who came before us. As I build my own altar or spend quiet moments in reflection, I’m reminded that my ancestors are always present, helping to light my path. During this season, I call upon their strength to walk through life with purpose and gratitude. Observing Día de los Muertos, the New Moon in Scorpio, and Diwali not only celebrates cultural diversity but deepens my connection to those who’ve passed, binding me to the African-centered practices of remembrance and reverence.

As these sacred days converge, may we all find ways to honor our ancestors, revel in life’s mysteries, and step boldly into the light, knowing we are always supported by those who came before us.

Halloween 2024

Halloween 2024

The veil between the worlds is thin today, as we celebrate Halloween—a time when the physical and spiritual realms intertwine more closely. Today is also National Magic Day, making it the perfect moment to honor the beauty and power of the unseen.

Instead of viewing Halloween as “the work of the devil,” I encourage you to see it as an opportunity for connection, reflection, and communion with those who have come before us. Take this time to honor your ancestors and loved ones who have transitioned. Visit their resting place, create a space for them at your altar, or simply sit in quiet reflection and have a conversation with them. Let their wisdom guide you, their love nourish you, and their legacy remind you of who you are.

Resist the urge to let someone else’s narrative shape your experience—even the one I’m sharing here. Seek your own truth, and let your ancestors illuminate the path. Hoodoo heritage is about honoring the journey, preserving culture, and tapping into the magic we carry within.

Happy Hallows’ Eve. May this Halloween be filled with beauty, wonder, and a deep sense of connection to those who walked this path before us.

#HoodooHeritageMonth #NationalMagicDay #WorkYourMagic #AncestralWisdom #PreservingMyCulture #Conjure

Living an African-Centered Lifestyle: A Journey to Wholeness

Living an African-Centered Lifestyle: A Journey to Wholeness

My take on living an African-centered lifestyle—a path that honors the wisdom, culture, and energy of the African Diaspora and embraces metaphysical practices like reiki, astrology, numerology, hoodoo, and Lucumi. Through the power of AI, I envision my dream surroundings and lifestyle, creating an environment where African heritage and the spirit of my ancestors are present. This way of life is sacred, intentional, and deeply rooted in my identity as a Black woman and practitioner of various spiritual traditions.

My home is my sacred temple, adorned with vibrant African artwork and ancestral altars, inviting the presence of my spirit guides. Each morning, I meditate with crystals connected to my root chakra, calling on the ancestors and Orishas for healing and guidance. Mondays are dedicated to Eleggua, offering sweets or rum to honor his pathways and open roads to clarity.

The images in this post depict my “ideal” living space and style.

My style reflects this connection, incorporating African fabrics and colors that resonate with my spirit. Turquoise, my namesake, embodies calm, intuition, and healing energy. Every color choice is intentional, aligning with the energy I wish to embody each day.

Numerology and astrology also guide my journey. As a Life Path 1, I’m here to lead and pioneer new realms of discovery, which I do by blending African spirituality with everyday life. My Libra Moon and Pisces Rising help me navigate emotional situations and bring harmony to my world.

Practicing hoodoo and Lucumi has deepened my connection to spirit, allowing me to honor the Orishas and work with natural elements. Simple rituals, protection jars, and candles at my altar reinforce my connection to the ancestors and the spiritual energies that support me.

Living an African-centered life is also about community, connecting with others who share these values of gratitude, respect for the earth, and Black joy. Together, we uplift one another, celebrate, and keep our culture alive.

This lifestyle nurtures my body, mind, and spirit. Reiki, meditation, astrology, and numerology keep me grounded, guiding me through life’s cosmic dance with my ancestors walking beside me.

To live this way is to honor those who came before us and to walk intentionally, becoming future ancestors ourselves. Every step in this sacred journey is a reminder of our divine guidance.

My BGT EROTIC STARSHIP: PART II – The Playlist

My BGT EROTIC STARSHIP: PART II – The Playlist

Music is deeply woven into every part of my journey and is influential in all areas of my life—so much so that it only felt natural to create a playlist that embodies the essence of my BGT Erotic Starship. Each song represents a key component of my astrological placements, guiding me through love, passion, communication, action, and spiritual discovery. This playlist captures the cosmic, sensual, and spiritual energy of my starship, taking me on a journey of self-discovery, transformation, and connection.

“You Are My Starship” by Norman Connors

This track is the perfect opening for my BGT Erotic Starship. It sets a cosmic, dreamy tone, speaking to the ethereal nature of my journey. The smooth, soulful vibe represents the sacredness of my starship—a vessel that navigates the depths of love, spirituality, and sensuality. It honors my connection to the cosmos, allowing me to sail into the unknown with grace and purpose.

“Can We Talk” by Tevin Campbell

Mercury in Libra drives my communication style—thoughtful, harmonious, and centered on balance. “Can We Talk” captures the essence of this placement perfectly. The song is about seeking connection through conversation and emotional expression, which is at the core of my desire for intellectual intimacy. It’s a gentle yet direct invitation to connect, aligning with my Libra Mercury’s need for clarity and mutual understanding in relationships.

“Keep On Movin’” by Soul II Soul

As a Virgo Sun, I am grounded, practical, and always moving forward with a sense of purpose. “Keep On Movin’” reflects my steady approach to life. It is a song about perseverance, growth, and staying the course, which speaks to my Virgo energy. This track reminds me to embrace the journey, knowing that even through challenges, I am continuously evolving and improving.

“Fortunate” by Maxwell

Eros in Scorpio is all about intensity, depth, and transformation in love and desire. “Fortunate” by Maxwell captures the emotional and sensual depth of this placement. The song’s heartfelt expression of love and gratitude aligns with Scorpio’s need for profound, transformative experiences. It speaks to the magnetic and powerful energy of my Eros, celebrating love as something life-changing and sacred.

“No Ordinary Love” by Sade

With Venus in Leo, I seek grand, passionate love that feels larger than life. “No Ordinary Love” by Sade perfectly embodies this energy. The song’s intensity, devotion, and regal quality reflect my desire for love that is deep, dramatic, and all-consuming. Venus in Leo thrives on admiration and bold expressions of affection, and this song captures the essence of a love that is anything but ordinary.

“Soco” by Starboy ft. Wizkid

Mars in Gemini brings an energetic, playful, and versatile approach to action and desire. “Soco” by Starboy and Wizkid is vibrant, fun, and lighthearted, which resonates with Gemini’s need for variety and excitement. This track represents the dynamic, adventurous side of my Mars placement, where curiosity and a love for exploration drive me forward in both love and life.

“Bandy Bandy” by Zap Mama ft. Erykah Badu

Vesta in Pisces is all about sacred sensuality, spirituality, and emotional connection. “Bandy Bandy” by Zap Mama featuring Erykah Badu captures the mystical, spiritual essence of Vesta in Pisces. The song’s hypnotic rhythm and otherworldly vibe speak to the fluid, intuitive nature of Pisces, allowing me to connect deeply with both my sensuality and my spirituality. This track aligns with my ability to experience love and desire as sacred, transcendent forces.

“Free Mind” by Tems

To encapsulate the entire journey of my BGT Erotic Starship, I chose “Free Mind” by Tems. This song represents freedom, release, and self-awareness, which are key themes of my starship. It speaks to my desire to break free from mental and emotional constraints, allowing me to move through life and love with clarity and peace. The soulful, introspective energy of “Free Mind” aligns with the transformative and spiritual nature of my journey, reminding me that true liberation comes from within.

The Power of Music on My Journey

Music is an integral part of my process. It moves me, inspires me, and helps me make sense of the world around me. From navigating love and relationships to connecting with my spiritual self, music is a guiding force in my life. Creating this playlist for my BGT Erotic Starship was a natural extension of that process, weaving together the cosmic, sensual, and spiritual aspects of my journey through the power of sound. Each song holds a special place on my starship, reflecting the unique energy of my astrological placements and helping me navigate the depths of who I am.

Navigating My BGT Erotic Starship: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Navigating My BGT Erotic Starship: A Journey of Self-Discovery

When I first embarked on the Tantric Shaman Apprenticeship Program facilitated by Black Girl Tantra, I had no idea how much it would expand my understanding of myself and my connection to the cosmos. One of the most powerful concepts I encountered during this apprenticeship was the BGT Erotic Starship, a unique framework that uses astrological placements to guide us through our relationships, desires, and purpose. It was a revelation—finally, a way to align my inner and outer worlds, particularly in how I navigate love, passion, and spiritual connection.

The Origins of the BGT Erotic Starship

The term BGT Erotic Starship was coined within the Black Girl Tantra community, hence the acronym “BGT.” It was a way for us to understand how our individual astrology and energy impact our personal journeys. The Erotic Starship encompasses the planets that govern communication, passion, love, and spiritual purpose—essentially the parts of ourselves that drive our erotic and relational lives. Learning about this during my apprenticeship was eye-opening, and it immediately struck a deep chord within me.

The first iteration of my BGT Erotic Starship as illustrated in 2023.

Charting My Course

In my personal Erotic Starship, I have Mercury in Libra, the Sun in Virgo, Venus in Leo, Mars in Gemini, Eros in Scorpio, and Vesta in Pisces. Each placement represents an essential piece of my journey, and I’ve found that understanding these energies has transformed how I approach my relationships, passions, and even my career as Madame Turquoise.

Here’s how my starship breaks down and what I’ve learned about myself along the way:

Mercury in Libra – The Head of My Starship

Mercury is the planet of communication, and with it in Libra, I’ve learned that I approach conversations with a deep sense of fairness and balance. I thrive in environments where harmony is the goal, and I have an intuitive ability to see multiple sides of any situation. This translates into my relationships as well—I prefer partners who can communicate with grace and thoughtfulness, and I’ve learned to recognize when I’m leaning too much into people-pleasing at the expense of my own needs.

Sun in Virgo – The Fuel for My Starship

My Sun sign in Virgo gives me a meticulous, detail-oriented approach to life. I’ve learned that my energy is grounded in practicality and a constant desire for self-improvement. I take pride in perfecting the small details, especially in how I show up in the world. The Sun in Virgo fuels my Erotic Starship by ensuring that every move I make is aligned with my purpose and intention. I’ve learned to honor my analytical side, knowing that it’s the engine that keeps my passions moving forward.

Eros in Scorpio – My Passion and Desire

Eros in Scorpio is perhaps the most intense energy on my starship. It represents a deep, magnetic pull toward passion, transformation, and intimacy. I’ve learned that I am someone who craves depth in all aspects of life, particularly in my relationships. Superficial connections don’t fulfill me—I need passion that’s raw, intense, and transformative. Eros in Scorpio has taught me to embrace my powerful energy and use it to form bonds that are truly life-changing.

Venus in Leo – My Heart, My Love

With Venus in Leo, I crave passion, adoration, and grandeur in my romantic life. I’m someone who loves to be celebrated and admired, and I’ve come to embrace that fully. In love, I’ve learned not to settle for anything less than a partner who makes me feel like royalty. Venus in Leo gives me the courage to shine and be bold, both in relationships and in how I express myself creatively. I now see that my heart thrives when I’m surrounded by love that’s not only deep but also celebratory.

Mars in Gemini – The Action-Focused Wing of My Starship

With Mars in Gemini, I’m always on the move—mentally and physically. Mars governs action, and I’ve learned that I thrive on curiosity, change, and intellectual stimulation. My desires are driven by a need for adventure and new experiences, and I’m happiest when I’m exploring different avenues of connection and passion. Mars in Gemini has taught me to embrace my restless energy and use it to fuel my journey toward self-discovery and deeper intimacy.

Vesta in Pisces – The Sacred Body of My Starship

Vesta represents my sacred sensual energy, and with it in Pisces, I’ve learned to view my sensuality as a spiritual experience. I now understand that my connection to the erotic is deeply tied to my spirituality, and I experience love and desire as fluid, transcendent forces. Vesta in Pisces has taught me the importance of connecting with myself and others on a spiritual level, allowing my sensuality to be a bridge between the physical and the divine.

The Power of the Erotic Starship

Understanding my BGT Erotic Starship has been nothing short of transformative. It’s given me a blueprint for navigating my relationships, desires, and spiritual path with intention and clarity. I’ve learned how each of my placements—Mercury, Venus, Mars, Sun, Vesta, and Eros—works together to create a unique energetic flow that guides my life.

In a world that often tells us to hide or suppress our sensuality, the Erotic Starship has given me permission to embrace my erotic nature as a sacred, powerful force. It’s not just about intimacy with others—it’s about how I relate to myself, how I express my desires, and how I channel my energy into every aspect of my life.

The Journey Continues

The BGT Erotic Starship is more than just a framework; it’s an ongoing journey. Every day, I learn something new about how my astrological placements influence my choices, relationships, and purpose. The apprenticeship with Black Girl Tantra gave me the tools to navigate this starship, but the real adventure is in how I choose to use those tools moving forward.

As I continue to explore, I invite you to chart your own course. Whether through astrology, tantra, or another path, we all have the power to uncover our deepest desires and align them with our spiritual purpose. The Erotic Starship is just one way to do it—my way—and I’m forever grateful for the insight it has provided me.

I feel a playlist coming on…Stay tuned!