One Storm Away from Clarity

In a world that often glorifies constant productivity, spiritual perfection, and emotional resilience, there’s a dangerous undercurrent of judgment—judgment of people for simply feeling. This judgment discourages transparency and vulnerability, especially for those seen as "knowing better." As a Virgo and spiritual being, I wrestle with this. The weight of being perceived as a guide or healer can make it difficult to admit when I’m in my own emotional drought. It’s as though people expect that spirituality or wisdom insulates us from grief, anxiety, or depression. But the truth is, no matter how much we know or how much we’ve achieved, we are still human.

Seasons of feeling—grief, fear, anxiety, or uncertainty—are essential. They teach us what truly nourishes us and give meaning to our joys when we finally emerge. As you all may or may not know. I am a part of the Beaucoup Hoodoo ATR Bookclub, and this month's book was Spirits Come From Water by Ehime Ora. This period I am going through relates to this book, and I relate to this time of the ebb and flow. As Ehime beautifully expresses in Spirits Come from Water:

" Release the need to compartmentalize or simplify the various emotions that are budding within you. Give yourself permission to explore each feeling and notice their presence without judgment. The waters will not be smooth forever. You will know fear when they become rough, but you will also know courage when you stay afloat."

Going through rough waters and feeling that fear is not a failure but a testament to our courage. It reminds us that these moments of drought and darkness are just as natural and necessary as seasons of abundance.

For those of us in spiritual fields—mediums, psychics, medicine people, clairvoyants—constantly staying in a state of fear can be particularly dangerous. Fear, while natural and human, opens us up to energies that may not align with our highest good. As intuitive beings, we're constantly receiving energy from different sources, and when we’re in fear, it can cloud our judgment and ability to discern what is ours versus what we're picking up from the environment around us.

Fear can distort our connection with spirit, making it harder to trust our inner guidance. It’s okay to feel fear, and it's important to process it, but staying in that space can leave us vulnerable to unwanted influences or misinterpretations. When we’re stuck in fear, we become less grounded, and our spiritual abilities may not flow as clearly or powerfully as they should.

The key is not to remain in fear but to let it pass. Just as emotions like grief or anger come and go, fear is a transient state. It’s about acknowledging the fear, allowing ourselves to process it, and then actively bringing ourselves back into alignment.

For those of us who work in the spiritual realm, it’s crucial to know how to return to our center when we find ourselves in the "mud." It’s okay to be there; it’s part of being human. What matters is how we choose to rise from it, clear ourselves, and reconnect with our higher selves. This is how we bring our energy back and restore our connection to spirit. Fear is part of the human experience, but it doesn't define or control us unless we let it.

We must move beyond the idea that spirituality means transcending human emotion. Spirituality is about embracing it. It’s about navigating the highs and the lows with grace—and sometimes without it, because even fumbling through is part of the process. Spirits Come from Water reminds us:

"The caterpillar can only form its chrysalis when it stays still. The butterfly is only born after the slow moments. Feeling stuck or stagnant is actually the precursor for incredible change. Whenever we feel the most disconnected, unsure, and confused is actually the most potent time, where you are cradled in divine help. The universe never abandons her children; she will simply wait for the right time to intervene."

How can we learn resilience if we never allow ourselves—or others—to feel the weight of life? How can we know the beauty of peace if we’ve never sat in the silence of pain?

This is why it’s vital to stop judging others and ourselves for their seasons. Feeling is not failure. And while prolonged stagnation may call for intervention, short periods of difficulty are natural, even sacred.

"Not all suffering is meant to destroy you; some is meant to root you deeper into the truth of who you are."

Community is a lifeline in times of emotional turbulence, offering us spaces to share, heal, and feel seen. But it’s essential to choose wisely; not everyone belongs in the sacred circle of your vulnerability. Discernment protects your peace, ensuring those you lean on truly honor and hold space for you. Seasons of struggle are inevitable, but they don’t define us unless we linger in them too long. If the heaviness persists, lean into practices that ground you : cleansing baths to wash away emotional residue, meditating to find stillness within, and movement like yoga or Pilates to rediscover your breath and balance. Reading relatable stories is an act of grace—it reminds us we’re not alone in our experiences and that others, too, have navigated these storms. Together, through community and mindful practices, we rise and find our way back to the light.

Important Note: Sometimes, when we show up for ourselves and engage in self-care rituals, the results don't come instantly. Think of it like taking vitamins or working out—these things take time to become habits and to truly take effect. It's important to stop expecting quick results and allow these practices to work at their own pace. Personally, I’ve experienced quick relief from baths, and at other times, the benefits aren’t immediately felt. However, I know that even when relief doesn't come right away, these rituals are still creating a protective shield around my aura and cleansing away emotional residue. Trust the process and give it time.

Let this be a reminder to approach one another with kindness and grace. Instead of rushing to fix or criticize, offer compassion, affirmation, or simply silence. We are all just one situation away from losing everything and, equally, one situation away from gaining it all. The waters of life are ever-changing, and every season has its purpose.

Let people feel. Let yourself feel. It’s through these moments that we grow, heal, and discover what truly nourishes our souls.

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10 Affirmations for Navigating Emotional Seasons

"I am allowed to feel everything I need to feel."

"This moment is not forever; it is part of my growth."

"I honor my emotions as sacred messengers."

"Even in my lows, I am worthy of love, care, and understanding."

"I give myself permission to rest and recalibrate."

"It’s okay to not have it all figured out; I trust the process of life."

"I release the fear of judgment and embrace my humanity."

"I am not defined by this season; I am evolving through it."

"The rough waters I feel now will shape my resilience tomorrow."

"I am deserving of kindness, from others and from myself."

Journal Prompts for Emotional Processing

• What emotions am I currently feeling, and where do I notice them in my body?

• When have I judged myself for feeling deeply? How can I show myself compassion instead?

• What lessons might this season of life be teaching me about myself?

• Who or what can I lean on for support during this time?

• What do I need most right now—rest, connection, movement, or something else?

• How can I honor my humanity while still holding space for my spiritual growth?

• Who inspires me to keep going when life feels heavy, and why?

• What affirmation or phrase feels most grounding to me in this moment?

Protect Your Energy in the Age of Awakening

Spiritual Hygiene in 2025: A New Era of Self-Care and Protection

As we officially usher in the Age of Aquarius, a profound shift is occurring around the globe. The systems that once governed our lives—from political institutions to celebrity culture—are being dismantled. Violence, social unrest, and global governmental transformations have become more visible, reflecting a world in flux. At the same time, an undercurrent of awakening is taking place. The "boogey and spookey" energies that have long been dormant are rising, but so too is our capacity for protection, spiritual fortification, and collective devotion to self-care practices. In this pivotal time, spiritual hygiene is not merely a practice but a necessity for navigating the challenges and opportunities of this new era.

The Sacred Discipline of Spiritual Hygiene

Spiritual hygiene refers to the intentional practices that cleanse and protect our energy while fostering a connection to our higher selves. Just as we prioritize physical hygiene to maintain our health, spiritual hygiene ensures our energetic well-being. Without it, we risk becoming overwhelmed by the heavy, disruptive energies that abound in our daily lives. These practices are an act of self-love and alignment, allowing us to stay grounded, clear, and connected to our purpose.

When stepping into leadership or spiritual ascension, the stakes are higher. As my mentor once shared, stepping into purpose invites resistance. Energies that thrive on disruption, envy, or fixation may seek to destabilize us, often permeating through those closest to us if they are not equally committed to their growth. This makes discernment—a cornerstone of spiritual hygiene—essential. Aligning with environments and relationships that support our evolution is an act of self-awareness and devotion to our higher calling.

Why Spiritual Hygiene Matters More Than Ever

The energy of 2025 demands heightened vigilance. As old paradigms crumble, we collectively begin a period of rebirth. This transformation is liberating and destabilizing, requiring us to protect our energy fields carefully. Whether it’s cutting ties with toxic relationships, grounding ourselves through physical practices, or establishing rituals to navigate energetic shifts, maintaining spiritual hygiene ensures we can face these challenges with clarity and strength.

Neglecting spiritual hygiene can lead to emotional imbalance, physical exhaustion, or a sense of disconnection from our inner power. However, staying committed to practices like meditation, spiritual baths, or time in nature can replenish and fortify us. These rituals serve as a buffer against the chaotic energies of our time, allowing us to embody the light and clarity needed to thrive.

Practices for Spiritual Hygiene in the Age of Aquarius

• Release Energy Drains: Reassess your connections and environments. If certain relationships or spaces feel depleting, limit your exposure or introduce boundaries with kindness and intention. Think about what your energy is going to online as well. What does your social media algorithm look like? How much time are you spending on apps? The things we participate in can also lead us to leaky energy. Replace social apps with a really good book whenever you feel the urge to scroll- READ. Scroll through a good book.

  • Be mindful that we are each on our own journey. No one is wrong here, so approach this without ego. Think of it like being 15 years old in the 8th grade. You’ve mastered the lessons and the environment feels comfortable because you’ve outgrown it. Staying there doesn’t serve your growth, and it’s okay to move forward. At the same time, some people may need more time. There’s no right or wrong—only what aligns with your path.

  
  

• Embodied Grounding: Engage in activities that connect your body and mind, such as mindful walking, stretching, or breath-focused exercises. These practices anchor your energy in the present.

  • So, I've recently discovered Pilates. Random side note- I grew up with a Pilates machine in my house. However, I never really stuck around to watch my mom do the exercises, so I wasn't familiar with the actual flow. Anyway, in October 2024, I bought my first pair of socks as a symbol of committing to the activity. It has been LIFE CHANGING. Yes! It is VERY challenging, but that's the point. Pilates builds muscle, AND it teaches the act of focusing on the breath. Pilates is 40% muscle and 60% breathwork. Give it a go!

    
    

• Daily Energy Resets: Start and end your day with intentional rituals, like using incense, lighting a candle, or reciting affirmations, to cleanse and align your energy.

  • The most perfect time of the day to get started, if you can, is right before sunrise when the neighborhood is quiet before everyone wakes. There's a lot of energy that isn't being used. So, the early bird gets the worm!

• Nature Immersion: Reconnect with the natural world. Walk barefoot on the earth, sit under a tree, or listen to flowing water to recalibrate your energy and gain clarity.

  • It's that simple: sometimes touch a tree. Explore a spot that you can visit frequently and make it yours! BE respectful and treat that location like you would your home. Nothing beats recalibrating in wild nature.

• Energy-Clearing Baths: Combine water with salts, essential oils, or herbs to create a ritual of energetic purification. Visualize negativity dissolving and being replaced by light and strength.

  • Here's a recipe I find myself going to often, depending on the need:

    • Baño Blanco :

      • Goats Milk (listen, I've had this conversation with a woman at a market who was vegan, and she was UPSET that one of my soaps was made out of Goat Milk. There's symbolism as to WHY this is chosen in particular and/or Cows Milk. If you prefer not to bathe in animal milk; coconut milk will be just fine.)

      • White Flowers

      • Efun/Casarilla

      • Epsom Salt/ Sea Salt

      • Hyssop + Rosemary (herbs + essential oils)

REMEMBER ! You can also purchase my many prepared baths here at Samantha Jo's Balm Yard. Some of my client's favorites are the 13 Herb Bitter Bath + Soul Cleanse Bath.

• Intuitive Tools: Experiment with protective and cleansing tools like sound bowls, protective stones, affirmation cards, divination tools, or aromatic herbs. Find what resonates with you to amplify your energetic practices.

  • DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE POWERFUL TOOL OF MUSIC AND DANCE! Be intentional with the music you play day to day. I was inspired to dance in the mirror when I bought a beautiful vintage floor mirror for my living room, and it made me want to stop and admire myself. Then, I realized I was participating in mirror work—dancing and feeling the rhythms of the African drums I played as I awakened my body. I felt POWERFUL. I invite you to try it out!

HERE'S MY MOON PLAYLIST THAT I LOVE TO LISTEN TO

The Collective Shift: Individual and Community Care

As we navigate this transformative era, spiritual hygiene is not just an individual practice but a collective one. Dismantling old systems invites us to build new frameworks rooted in love, integrity, and alignment. By prioritizing our energetic health, we contribute to our communities' collective healing and evolution.

This is a time of awakening—for both light and shadow. While the challenges are significant, so are the opportunities for growth and transformation. Let us meet this new day with devotion to our practices, cultivating protection and clarity as we step boldly into the Age of Aquarius. Together, we can rise to the occasion.

Celebrating the New Year in Aries Season: Welcome to my Ted Talk

As a healer and medicine woman, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the natural rhythms of the world. And I blame capitalism for taking us out of our natural elements, disrupting our bodies. I'll never forgive them for, I kid- I joke; but no really. Over time, I’ve come to realize that the standard calendar year—starting in January and ending in December—doesn’t align with how my body and spirit naturally flow. For me, transitioning to a year that begins with Aries season in the spring and ends with Pisces season in late winter feels more aligned, both physically and spiritually. Here’s why.

The wisdom of winter: Rest, Reflect, Recharge

Winter in Chicago is the coldest and darkest time of the year, a season of hibernation not just for animals but for us too. Nothing grows in the winter; the earth rests and gathers energy for the spring. So why do we pressure ourselves to start fresh in January, right in the heart of winter? It’s okay to not feel motivated when your body naturally wants to slow down. This season is ideal for planning, dreaming, and staying warm—a time to nurture the seeds of new ideas that will eventually bloom in the spring.

Each year around this time, everyone seems to be posting their resolutions and setting high expectations for January 1st. I’m here to remind you: YOU DON’T NEED TO PARTICIPATE! Listen to your body, beloved. What works for others may not work for you. If beginning your year in January feels right for you, that’s wonderful. But this post isn’t for those folks—it’s for those who need inspiration to embrace a year that begins on March 21st.

Pisces Season: A sacred ending

Pisces season, the final sign of the zodiac, carries the energy of endings and spiritual reflection. It’s a time to release what no longer serves us, to look back on the year, and honor its lessons. Pisces invites us to surrender and trust in the cycles of life, much like the final stretch of winter prepares us for the rebirth of spring. It’s a season of emotional depth and intuition—a perfect close to the energetic year.

As a Pisces moon, this season holds a special place in my heart. Each water season carries a cleansing energy, a season of cups. Pisces, as the ending of the zodiac calendar, makes sense in its call to release heavy emotions and wash away what we’ve held onto in our bodies for the past 12 months. It allows us to start anew, with the fire of Aries season reigniting our souls.

This cyclical rhythm—starting with the fiery drive of Aries and culminating in Pisces' emotional release—feels deeply aligned with the body’s natural processes. We burn with passion, shed what didn’t serve us, and make room for growth. Repeat. This cycle resonates deeply, building that inner fire to persevere through another year.

Aries Season: The true beginning

In contrast, Aries season bursts forth like the first crocus pushing through the snow. Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of action and new beginnings. It aligns with the spring equinox, when day and night are equal, marking a time of balance and renewal. Everything about this season screams vitality and fresh starts. The earth wakes up, flowers bloom, and life begins again. This is when I feel the spark to set intentions, take action, and truly embody the energy of a new year. Season of the wands.

So what's the real tea?

As I researched this topic to deepen my understanding, I found myself searching for the "white man" who played a role in this massive shift. I wanted to blame a non-person of color, perhaps because white men are often held responsible for many of today's issues. And as it turns out, I was right. The shift from the new year beginning in March to January is rooted in historical, political, and cultural changes tied to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar. Originally, the Roman calendar began in March, coinciding with the spring equinox, a time of renewal and growth. It consisted of 10 months, with March (Martius) as the first. January (Januarius) and February (Februarius) were added around 713 BCE by King Numa Pompilius. Julius Caesar later reformed the calendar to align more closely with the solar year, introducing January 1st as the start of the new year in 45 BCE to honor Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and transitions. This change also aligned administrative and civic duties with the new calendar. In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII further reformed the calendar to correct inaccuracies in the Julian system, officially marking January 1 as New Year’s Day. Over time, this standard was adopted by other nations for practical reasons in global trade, communication, and governance. "Ha! See there!"

I had to search deeply because I refuse to believe that my African ancestors weren’t in tune with their own time before Europeans disrupted our natural rhythms. And in my search, I learned a lot and wanted to share this knowledge with others, especially those who may not know.

Africa, as the cradle of humanity and home to some of the earliest civilizations, had its own systems of timekeeping long before the Roman calendar. These calendars were deeply tied to nature's rhythms, agricultural cycles, and spiritual beliefs. The Roman calendar became dominant later, primarily due to the expansion of the Roman Empire, which imposed its systems on the territories it conquered.

One of the oldest known calendars, the Egyptian calendar, was developed around 3000 BCE. It was solar-based, with 12 months of 30 days each, plus five additional days at the end of the year, reflecting the annual flooding of the Nile—essential for agriculture. This calendar influenced later systems, including the Julian and Gregorian calendars.

The Ethiopian calendar, still in use today, is based on the ancient Coptic calendar. It consists of 13 months—12 months of 30 days each and one month of 5 or 6 days. It remains about seven to eight years behind the Gregorian calendar, reflecting a different reckoning of the birth of Christ.

The Igbo people of Nigeria used a lunar calendar with four market days, structuring social and economic life. The Akan people of Ghana developed a calendar system based on a 42-day cycle. These calendars were highly localized, tailored to the needs of their societies, and reflected Africa's deep understanding of astronomy and nature.

The expansion of the Roman Empire spread its calendar throughout Europe, parts of the Middle East, and North Africa, leading to its widespread adoption. It's almost like rewriting time, doesn't it sound familiar?

Africa’s traditional systems of timekeeping were often disrupted or replaced during European colonization, with European powers imposing the Gregorian calendar as part of their control over administration, religion, and culture.

The dominance of the Roman calendar overshadowed Africa’s sophisticated timekeeping systems, much like how African contributions to science and civilization have often been minimized or ignored.

The adoption of the Roman calendar was more about power dynamics than inherent superiority. The Roman Empire, followed by European colonial powers, established global dominance that shaped cultural norms, including timekeeping.

Revisiting African calendars is about reclaiming cultural identity and acknowledging the ingenuity of Africa's ancient civilizations. While the Gregorian calendar serves practical purposes for global synchronization, incorporating African timekeeping systems into cultural or spiritual practices can foster a deeper connection to heritage and natural cycles.

Why should we revert to the original calendar?

I've noticed more than ever how disconnected we are from our spiritual selves, regardless of our practices. Many people are completely out of practice. As a result, more individuals are feeling out of touch with themselves and those around them. Since the pandemic, mental health issues have surged, with more people seeking therapy and an increase in the prescription of psychotropic drugs. I feel for my people. Having personally been prescribed Zoloft and taking it for just short period of time, I understand the impact it can have on one's soul and brain. I’m not shaming those who need a little help, but I do want to highlight an elephant in the room: too often, we’re altering ourselves and our natural rhythms to fit into a "new" world that wasn’t designed for survival. It was created to be codependent. Now, more than ever, there’s a call to reconnect with ourselves on a deeper, more intimate level and to be honest with ourselves. Nature can be a powerful medicine for that, but if we’re out of alignment with nature and its natural calendar, it often feels like we’re playing catch-up when, in reality, we just need to slow down.

As a Virgo, I love a list, so I decided to share some benefits for those of us wanting to return to celebrating the ancient calendar.

Advocating for a New Year commencing in March presents several compelling arguments:

1. Alignment with Natural Cycles: March heralds the onset of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolizing renewal and growth. Aligning the New Year with this season resonates with natural rhythms, fostering a sense of rejuvenation.

2. Enhanced Motivation and Productivity: The increased daylight and warmer temperatures of spring can boost energy levels and motivation, potentially leading to more effective goal-setting and achievement.

3. Historical and Cultural Resonance: Many ancient cultures celebrated the New Year in spring, reflecting agricultural cycles and the rebirth of nature. Reverting to a March New Year could honor these traditions and provide a deeper cultural connection.

4. Psychological Well-being: Starting the year during a period associated with growth and renewal may positively impact mental health, offering a more optimistic and invigorating beginning compared to the cold, dark days of January.

   
   

Ultimately, the shift to a January 1st New Year was driven by the need for uniformity and accuracy in timekeeping. However, exploring the benefits of a March New Year reveals meaningful connections to natural cycles and cultural traditions, offering an opportunity for reflection on how we mark the passage of time.

Honoring the New Year Through Rituals

To fully align with the natural cycle, I’ve created some ritual ideas to honor the end of the year, no matter which season you choose to celebrate—all of these apply:

Nu Year Baths

At the end of the year, I prepare a cleansing spiritual bath using herbs like pine, hyssop, and rue, along with Florida Water, sea salt, and frankincense. I soak to release old energies and cleanse my aura. This bath is a sacred goodbye to the year's lessons and a way to make space for what’s to come.

House Rituals

Using those same ingredients, I clean and bless my home, inviting fresh energy for the New Year. This might include smudging with sage or palo santo, lighting candles, and placing fresh flowers or greenery around the house. It’s a way to reflect the rebirth happening outside in nature. If all you have access to is Pine-Sol, then baby, get to working those floors! Personally, I love the smell of Pine-Sol and like to add a dash of it to my prepared waters.

Home cooked meals

Ever seen your Granny whipping up black-eyed peas, greens, and cornbread around the New Year? I’m telling you, we all practice Hoodoo—even if folks don’t want to admit it. The tradition of eating black-eyed peas, greens, and cornbread on New Year’s Day is deeply rooted in Southern U.S. culture, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.

This culinary tradition reflects the resilience and resourcefulness of African American communities in the South. By consuming these symbolic foods, families honor their heritage and express hopes for prosperity in the year ahead.

Black-Eyed Peas: Originating from West Africa, black-eyed peas were brought to the Americas by enslaved Africans. In the Southern United States, eating black-eyed peas on New Year's Day is thought to bring prosperity in the new year. The peas, since they swell when cooked, symbolize prosperity.

Greens: Typically collard, turnip, or mustard greens, these vegetables are believed to represent money, specifically paper currency, due to their green color. Consuming them is thought to attract financial success in the coming year.

Cornbread: With its golden hue, cornbread symbolizes gold. Serving it alongside black-eyed peas and greens is believed to complete the trio of prosperity, wealth, and financial stability.

Embracing This Shift

Aligning my year with Aries and Pisces has been a transformative experience. It’s taught me to honor my body’s natural rhythms and embrace the wisdom of the seasons. Winter is no longer a time for forced resolutions, but a season of rest and preparation. Spring becomes a celebration of life and possibility.

If you're feeling out of sync with the January-December cycle, I invite you to try this shift. Let yourself hibernate in winter, reflect during Pisces season, and blossom with Aries. Aligning with nature's rhythms may bring the balance and renewal you've been craving.