Suitable for The Night of Hekate on November 16, this meditation evokes the threshold of light and dark, symbolized through Hekate's torches and the cave-womb of the divine feminine. Through an exploration of the three selves, attune to the power of the dark mysteries, for shadow healing and empowerment.

It's been eight years exactly since I first wrote about November 16, and the entire month, being a time for sacred darkness. As Christen reminded me, I declared back then that the "holy darkness is nigh." Perhaps a bit too-Scorpio, but that's my nature. Here's an excerpt from that original article:

"November 16 is a night for deep spiritual work, of offering Hekate Borborophorba our internal refuse so we may work toward healing our shadow and beginning the process of rebirth. Hekate welcomes her chosen home, but the profane will be banished. Seek her out of sincerity, or risk her fierceness. This ritual will open you to the spirits of the Underworld. Participants have received messages from departed loved ones, animal allies, and Hekate's companions. Persephone, in particular, often meets those who perform this rite.

In the same way we leave offerings at a crossroads for Deipnon, during this ritual, we need leave our spiritual junk, the miasma, in Her underworld, and we don’t look back. We offer her the toxic parts of ourselves that we are ready to let go of, in order to make space for our rebirth, space to take up her keys and move forward as sovereign, fire-walking, truth-weaving witches."

What I wrote about in that article, and the ritual I included, has since evolved into The Animarum Catharsis in Hekate's Keys on the Scorpio New Moon each year. I also included a DIY version of that ritual in my book, Entering Hekate's Cave. 

While we are not accepting new students in The Gate of Release, the course within the Hekate's Keys program where the Animarum Catharsis is the concluding ceremony, enrollment is open for the next gate, The Gate of Retrieval. The first month is dedicated to Hekate's sacred darkness, through her epithet of Skotia. Christen and I just recorded a new class on Hekate's Darkness that's available in The Gate of Retrieval Playlist now.

I recorded this podcast episode back in 2019, exploring Hekate's Holy Darkness. You can listen to it, and the meditation I shared above, wherever podcasts are found, and on the Keeping Her Keys website. 

Key themes:

• Standing at the threshold between light and darkness
• Following Hecate's torches into the sacred darkness
• Releasing what no longer serves before crossing the threshold
• Connecting with Chthonia (of the earth) through root visualization
• Opening to the season of the moon's dominion during the darkest time of year
• Letting go of perfectionism and preconceived notions

This classic meditation, the earliest in what's become hundreds, works to attune our seven energy centers, aka chakras, with the celestial forces of the original seven planets. Goes with my first book, True Magic: Unleashing Your Inner Witch.

Also works well when connecting with Hekate Ourania, Queen of The Heavens.

Just in time for the Taurus Full Moon on Nov. 5, 2025.

The Orphic Hymn to Hekate

Lovely Hekate of the roads and of the crossroads I invoke.
In heaven, on earth,
then in the sea, saffron-cloaked,
tomb spirit reveling in the souls of the dead,
daughter of Perses,
haunting deserted places,
delighting in deer,
nocturnal, dog-loving,
monstrous queen,
devouring wild beasts,
ungirt and repulsive.
Herder of bulls,
queen and mistress of the whole world,
leader, nymph,
mountain-roaming nurturer of youths,
maiden, I beseech you to come
to these holy rites,
ever with joyous heart,
ever favoring the oxherd.

(Athanassakis translation)

The Tauropolos meditation positioned at us the center of Hekate’s Crossroads, the convergence of the three worlds and selves, as we connected with her governance over the realms to bring a deep attunement within ourselves. Tauropolos connects Hekate to the crescent moon through bull’s horns, symbolizing majesty, power, and fertility. Beginning with The Orphic Hymn to Hekate as our invocation, which highlights her dominion over the underworld, middle world, and celestial realms, while also emphasizing her role as “The Herder of Bulls,” the meditation grounds us in her abiding power. Follow up the meditation with practices that honor the body and embrace sensual pleasure, aligning with the nurturing essence of Taurus moon energy.

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This conversation delves into the symbolism of Hekate's twin torches, representing the duality of creation and destruction. We begin by lighting candles with a new sigil for Lampadios, exploring the significance of fire in both personal experiences and recent wildfires. Hekate's various fire-related epithets highlight her role in spiritual illumination and guidance, particularly in shadow work. Our conversation reflects on her historical context in mythology, her connection to thresholds and journeys, and the integration of the sacred with the mundane, culminating in a celebration of Hekate as the eternal torchbearer.

Learn more about Via Hekate.

Experience profound connection to Hekate and Persephone in this meditative journey. Unlock your inner mysteries as we descend into HER realness, for inner exploration, healing, and transformation. We begin this journey by activating our energetic roots, summoning what sustains and releasing what burdens. Persephone's message of balance, mercy, and grace, comes through, reminding us that we are not meant to be perfect, but whole . Conclude with a return to awareness, integrating the insights gained from this enriching experience.

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Explore the essence of Gemini, a sign embodying duality, communication, and adaptability through this attuning meditation.

Governed by Mercury, Gemini emphasizes the importance of sharing ideas and embracing diverse perspectives. The attunement process fosters grounding and mental agility, while promoting emotional balance and acceptance of internal dualities.

Discover how Gemini season encourages growth and connection, and reflect on the influence of spiritual guides and Hekate's insights. Embrace the journey towards unification and wholeness as you integrate Gemini energy into your life through an attuning meditation.

The discussion emphasizes the duality of Gemini, the importance of communication, and the role of personal development through witchcraft.

Key takeaways:

• Gemini embodies strong ideas and adaptability.
• Hecate's teachings guide personal development and witchcraft.
• The lunar cycle plays a crucial role in spiritual practices.
• Gemini's duality fosters a deeper understanding of self.
• Communication is key in both personal and spiritual growth.
• Nature's interconnectedness enhances our spiritual experiences.
• Hecate's aspects provide insight into our journeys.
• Personal development leads to empowerment and sovereignty.
• Embracing Gemini energy can help overcome fears and perfectionism.
• The practice of witchcraft is about spiritual wholeness and alignment.

Chapters

00:00Understanding Gemini: The Dual Nature

05:54Grounding and Connecting with Gemini Energy

09:02The Interpersonal Nature of Gemini

11:53Embracing Duality and Wholeness

14:55Attuning to Gemini's Mysteries1

15:39 Introduction to Hekatean Witchcraft

18:39Exploring the Keys of Hekate

21:31The Transformative Power of Covina GO TO THE SUBSTACK.

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We sat down for a real conversation about spellcrafting, from the importance of a refined intention to the magick found only in creativity. Abiding at the crossroads of intuition and systematic knowledge of plants, colors, and energies, and bringing into the circle spirited objects is central to how we do witchcraft. Personal significance and resourcefulness in using everyday items are two of the keys that are so important in our approach. Insights on overcoming perfectionism and trusting intuition in crafting spells are shared, culminating in a recognition of witchcraft's transformative power and our connection to the natural world.

Thanks to our fabulous Covina Torch Bearers for joining me and Christen for this excellent discussion.

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In a special double episode of the podcast, Dr. Cyndi discusses the significance of the Libra Full Moon (April 12-13, 2025), with a meditative attunement to the essence of this harmony-seeking sign. Areas of focus for rituals during the Libra Full Moon include commitment and seeking balance.

In the spirit of the navigation of dualities so evoked by Libra, the second part of the episode explores the fascinating world of magickal poppets, effigies that are enchanted with energies aligning them to a purpose. Historically, poppets were associated with baneful magic, such as using them to control the actions of another person. In our discussion, we focus on how to craft and work with poppets for healing and releasing the past. Very on theme with Libra since this sign is the psychologist of the zodiac.

Join the Keeping Her Keys Substack to watch the video version of this episode.

Register now for the FREE online Beltane Retreat May 2-4, 2025.

Learn more about Dr. Cyndi's approach to poppets in her books, Entering Hekate's Garden and the forthcoming Entering Hekate's Cauldron available from Red Wheel Weiser.

It's the end of another wonderfully witchy year in Covina. With gratitude, and to celebrate, you can join The Keeping Her Keys Read Along for free until April 30. LEARN MORE.

In this episode of the Keeping Her Keys podcast, Dr. Cyndi Brannen guides listeners through a transformative ritual dedicated to the divine feminine, specifically focusing on the energies of Hekate during the Aries New Moon eclipse. The conversation explores themes of rebirth, cleansing, and connection to the deeper world, culminating in a meditative journey into Hekate's cave, where participants are invited to embrace their true selves and offer their sincerity to the goddess.

Go deeper into this meditation with Entering Hekate's Cave: The Journey Through Darkness To Wholeness.

Become a student in The Hekate's Keys Program for the live ritual experience and curriculum.

Highlights:

• The Aries New Moon symbolizes new beginnings and rebirth.
• Rituals can serve as powerful tools for personal transformation.
• Hekate is a guide in the journey of self-discovery and healing.
• Cleansing rituals help release what no longer serves us.
• The cauldron represents the potential for rebirth and renewal.
• Connecting with the divine feminine can enhance spiritual practices.
• Offerings to Hekate should come from a place of sincerity.
• The journey into the deeper world is a personal and collective experience.
• Astrological events can influence our spiritual practices and rituals.
• Integration of the ritual experience is essential for personal growth.

• Embracing the Divine Feminine: A Ritual Journey
• Rebirth and Renewal: The Power of Hekate

Keywords: divine feminine, Hekate, Aries new moon, eclipse, rebirth, ritual, meditation, cleansing, spiritual journey, astrology, goddess worship.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Aries New Moon Rebirth Meditation

02:55 The Significance of Rebirth and Transformation

05:55 Astrological Insights and the Power of Eclipses

08:05 Preparing for the Meditation Experience

09:28 Rebirth Meditation

44:44 Outro

Explore the powerful interconnections between the goddesses Hekate, Demeter, and Persephone and their impact on personal lives in this insightful discussion. Highlighting themes of healing, family dynamics, and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, our panel of guides share how they work through, on, and in, us. The discussion delves into personal growth, trauma, and the importance of recognizing and breaking free from archetypal patterns, encouraging deeper self-reflection and exploration of these indomitable goddesses.

Keywords: Hecate, Hekate, Demeter, Persephone, divine feminine, motherhood, healing, goddess, interrelationships, personal growth, spirituality

Takeaways

• The divine feminine is a guiding force in our lives.
• Hecate represents the higher self and perspective.
• Demeter embodies the nurturing aspect of motherhood.
• Persephone symbolizes transformation and adaptation.
• Understanding our mother wounds is crucial for healing.
• The interplay between these goddesses reflects our personal journeys.
• Forgiveness is not always necessary, but understanding is.
• The goddesses can help us navigate our relationships.
• Personal growth often involves confronting our shadows.
• Embracing the divine feminine can lead to empowerment.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring the Divine Feminine: Hecate, Demeter, and Persephone

13:06 Personal Healing Through Archetypes

18:09 Navigating Mother Wounds and Relationships

27:57 Integrating the Goddess Within Us

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