Did you see, or have
You heard the awakening
Of our insect kin?

Hello Friends of Flying Needle!

Happy Awakening of Insects!

– third vernal solar node –

Hope this finds you well during these challenging times!

Seasonal Musings & Reflections

March came in somewhere between lion and lamb-like, though now has settled on the lambward end of the gradient. The pileated woodpecker who visits my yard has been bringing its rhythmic cadence to accent my mornings. Daffodils have finally arrived. This is the latest I have seen Spring’s heralds bloom in recent memory. It will be interesting to observe their timing in 2027. Bradford pear, forsythia, hydrangea, and tulip magnolia are in full flower. The only insects I’ve seen so far are bumblebees.

Are there others awakening where you are?

With the settling in of Spring’s beauty and bounty, some of us also receive the generally unwelcome boon of seasonal allergies. Huzzah! If you, like me, are amongst the questionably blessed, it’s time to bust out your neti pot, stay hydrated, and if necessary, consider more robust measures. If you need support on that front, don’t hesitate to reach out.

The world seems to be on fire, which given that we’re in Fire Horse, can’t come as too much of a surprise. I have been contemplating the enormity (literally) of the horse’s heart. Here are some of the aspects I’ve been considering:

An adult horse’s heart averages between 8 – 10 lbs.
It pumps 7 – 10 gallons of blood per minute at rest.
During exercise, equine athletes cardiac output can reach over 65 gallons per minute.

And remember — The heart is Fire within the 5 phases.

It feels to me, that as the world burns, Fire Horse is inviting us into our most expansive and strongest heart. I am taking that invitation as encouragement to cultivate greater compassion and deeper kindness, as well as to make sure to tend to cardiovascular health through activity, and consistent breathing practice.

How will you, if you choose to, accept Fire Horse’s invitation?

May your Spring days be filled with beauty, mystery, and friendship! 

May you and your kin feel both rooted and free!

May we walk in gratitude with our Ancestors!

May all being and becoming receive nourishment!

Remembering our
Connection to the breath
Of the Universe

Nourishes both
Us and all our relations.
Feel the Earth and breathe.

It is my sincere hope that you have found something of use in these words.

If you know folks who you feel would enjoy this newsletter, please forward it their way! Thank you!

Wishing you and all your relations wellbeing and good medicine!

With gratitude,

Taran