Most months are named after ancient Roman gods and goddesses. However, February is named after an ancient Roman festival called februa, which means purification. This makes February be all about cleansing.

Cleansing can mean many things, depending on who you are, what you like and your lifestyle. Cleansing for you can be about removing physical or metaphysical obstacles. For example, cleansing your space or removing habits that stop you from being spiritually aligned.

Spiritual alignment can feel to some as feeling confident that you are on the right path. There are various signs that can confirm if you are spiritually aligned. However, you do not have to do this alone. You can cleanse your space, ground yourself and on top of that ask for guidance from a spirit animal.

Spirit animals are spiritual messengers that take on the aspects of an animal to teach you something. For example, if you are not feeling depleted you can ask the ferocious and calculative panther to guide you into transmuting that feeling into more positive energy.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to let go of what no longer serves you in the month of February. With the assistance of spirit animals, you can cleanse away the blockages that stop you from tapping into your inner self.

1. Panther

The panther spirit animal is about death, rebirth, and the unknown. Similar to how the month of February is all about cleansing and transmuting negativity into positivity. The animal spiritual guide pushes you to be more self-aware in times of change, to create long-lasting change in your life.

The panther also symbolizes grace and beauty. Due to Valentine’s Day being this month, for some people, there isn’t a relationship to celebrate and this does negatively affect some people.

However, the panther can be amazing energy source to tap into this month. This is because it encourages you to enjoy spending time alone and to find your inner beauty. Even if you are in a romantic relationship the panther’s energy can help ground you.

Panthers are very quick and strong and they quickly go after what they want. The panther spirit animal can help you be in tune with your instincts, and to be unapologetically yourself.

The Pisces season starting in the month of February also makes this a great time to tap into your inner self and explore your emotions. Pisces rules over the unconscious and hidden emotions, similar to the panther. Tap into this energy this month and explore your inner self.

The panther is a powerful guide and it can help move you towards your strength and power, by removing whatever destabilizes you.

2. Crocodile

Change can be uncomfortable. However, in the cleansing month of February, you can ask for guidance from the crocodile spirit animal. The crocodile is all about self-improvement and calculating the ways you can elevate your lifestyle. But to elevate you need to release what no longer serves you.

If you are feeling unsure about something, the crocodile can help you with this. Ask for guidance from the crocodile in the month of February, and it will help you find the confidence to embrace life. It will also help you in times when you need to take calculative risks.

The crocodile celebrates balance. The balance between going with the flow and being ready for anything. If you feel like your life is unbalanced at the moment, the crocodile helps you to let go of what is destabilizing you.

3. Stingray

The stingray is all about sensitivity. This is the spirit animal that you ask for guidance from when you are going through heartbreak, a spiritual awakening, or are feeling extra sensitive.

The stingray camouflages with their environment, and their movements are done by moving their ‘wings’. This oceanic spiritual guide awakens the observer quality within you, to aid you in future choices.

The stingray can also fill you with hope. Its symbolism of maneuverability and fluidity means that you can move from an undesirable situation to a desirable one.

For example, the stingray can help you release what no longer serves you, and make decisions without outside opinions swaying you.

Sometimes we think we need to change according to other peoples’ timings and opinions. However, the stingray can help you awaken your patience and observational qualities. This is so that you listen to your inner voice, and make decisions based on you.

In the northern hemisphere, February is the coldest winter month. During this time, a few of us tend to recluse ourselves and are sensitive to our own feelings due to isolation and the inability to socialize outside. Thus, making the stingray one of the best spiritual animal guides to connect to in the month of February.

4. Caterpillar

The caterpillar is symbolic of metamorphosis due to its eventual transformation into a caterpillar. However, the caterpillar can also symbolize slow movement or the feeling of being stuck.

Since February is all about purification, the caterpillar is a spirit animal that you connect to when you feel stuck on what to let go of. This insect spiritual guide encourages you to pace yourself, and to contemplate what matters to you physically, emotionally, and mentally.

If you are currently heartbroken about a relationship, the caterpillar can guide you through this. It pushes you to let go of the past hurt, even if it is not relationship related. It does this by shining a light on the qualities you hide from the world so that you can showcase this as you transform into a butterfly.

Conclusion

February is all about pacing yourself. It is a great month to cleanse your space, to let go of the past, and to face your own sensitive aspects. Explore who you are, and learn more about the world by connecting with spirit animals.

The panther will give you the power to transmute negative energy, the crocodile will help you be balanced and the stingray will encourage you to be strong in your own convictions. And if you are feeling stuck on what to let go of, let the caterpillar shine a light on what needs to be removed, so that you can break out from your cocoon.

Spirit Animal Guides

All Spirit Animal Guides

By Zodiac Sign

Aries / Taurus / Gemini / Cancer / Leo / Virgo / Libra / Scorpio / Sagittarius / Capricorn / Aquarius / Pisces

By Month

January / February / March / April / May / June / July / August / September / October / November / December

The post A Quick Guide to February Spirit Animals appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

1. Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) ♒ – The Water Bearer
2. Pisces (February 19 – March 20) ♓ – The Fish
3. The Aquarius-Pisces Cusp (February 15 – 21) ♒ x ♓ – The Cusp of Sensitivity

February Star Signs

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these zodiac signs and cusp of February.

1. Aquarius Star Sign (January 20 – February 18) ♒ – The Water Bearer

The first February zodiac sign is Aquarius. If you’re born between January 21 and February 18, Aquarius is your guardian zodiac sign. Aquarius is also known as the sign of the Water Bearer because it is represented by the Water Bearer (sometimes called the Water Carrier). Aquarius is the eleventh of the twelve astrological signs in the zodiac. Its zodiac neighbors are Capricorn and Pisces.

Since the most part of February happens under the watchful eye of Aquarius, Aquarius is considered the Major February Sign. To explain further, Aquarius reigns from February 1 to February 18 (18 days), which is more than half the month.

Here’re some quick facts about Aquarius.

Element: Air
Mode: Fixed
Strengths: Aquarius is generally progressive, original, independent, and humanitarian
Weaknesses: Not so emotionally expressive, temperamental, uncompromising, and aloof
Famous people: Cristiano Ronaldo and Oprah Winfrey.
Romantic compatibility: The sign is an air sign and as such is more compatible with Gemini, Libra, Aries, and Sagittarius.

Aquarius Facts

Pioneer x Trendsetter x Leader

Aquarius are usually trailblazers of their fields because they are naturally inquisitive and rebellious. They are never satisfied with the status quo or traditional methods of undertaking tasks. They mostly create their paths and are not afraid to walk alone.

Because Aquarians don’t care to follow anyone, others often choose to follow them because of their courage and self-confidence. Unlike Leo who yearns for leadership positions, Aquarius often doesn’t set out to be a leader but becomes one anyway.

Fixed Sign

Being a fixed sign, commitment is not a problem for the people of Aquarius. They stay positive and committed to their paths as far as it brings positive impact to the community. Remember that they are big on collectives rather than individuals.

Originality

Aquarius is by nature self-adulating which means they rarely need outside praises and motivation to keep them going. This is a commendable trait. However, in extreme cases, Aquarius can forget that they need to care about other people’s feelings at all.

Note that this doesn’t contradict their humanitarian nature. They’ll still do things that they think are for the greater good of the community and society, however, they may not notice your feelings.

Non-conformist

They are not the type to conform. Sometimes it is safe to call them rebellious. Your Aquarius friend is your partner on days when you need validation for eccentric and unconventional ideas.

They are quick to see the beauty, possibility, and relevance of new and fresh ideas. But this does not mean that they embrace every idea. They are quite objective about their opinions and thoughts. Don’t be surprised if bad ideas get shot down by them.

Friendship

For being a non-conformist sign that values individuality, it seems conflicting to say that they make wonderful friends. However, the reality is they are. Aquarius is among the best and easiest signs to develop a long-lasting friendship with. As friends, they are honest and supportive.

Aquarians encourage people to express their true, authentic selves. They hardly judge and are open-minded. By nature, they are more drawn to people who dare to be different. The only time you might doubt the friendship is when their jagged edges show. This is a side effect of their often brutal honesty.

Aquarius Articles

• Aquarius Birth Flowers
• Aquarius Gift Guide

2. Pisces Star Sign (February 19 – March 20) ♓ – The Fish

The other February star sign is Pisces or the sign of the Fish. If you’re born between February 19- March 20, then you’re a Pisces (also known as a Piscean). Since it’s reign is shorter than Aquarius, the other February sign, Pisces is considered the Minor February Sign.

In terms of zodiac order, Pisces is the last of the astrological signs—the rear guard if you will. Aquarius comes before Pisces. After Pisces the sequence restarts again with Aries.

Here are some quick facts about Pisces.

Element: Water
Mode: Mutable
Strengths: Pisces are generally compassionate, artistic, intuitive, gentle, wise, and musical.
Weaknesses: Fearful, overly trusting, melancholic, idealistic, and impractical, can be a victim or a martyr.
Famous People: Steve Jobs, Albert Einstein, Rihanna.
Romantic Compatibility: Any water or earth sign. Most compatible with Taurus and Scorpio.

Facts about Pisces

Calm and conservative

Pisces loves people and activities. At the same time, they are also chronic lovers of their personal space. They derive satisfaction from a wide variety of activities like sleeping, listening to music, dating, swimming, meditation, and other activities of spiritual themes.

Although at the core of their being, nothing is more satisfying than their quiet space, you will often find them among different people. They are usually the subject of love and admiration because they are selfless and always willing to help others.

People-oriented

Pisces is an absolute people person. They have great empathetic skills and possess heightened emotional intelligence. Tolerant and compassionate, they are mostly guilty of putting others before themselves. This is one of Pisces’s weaknesses. Due to their introverted personality, their contribution and kindness are sometimes left unnoticed by others. As time goes by, the relationship could degrade into a toxic relationship in which Pisces doesn’t get anything in return.

Intuition

Pisces is highly intuitive. Some astrologers suggest that Pisces’s intuition may stem from their introverted personality and empathetic skill. In any case, Pisces individuals are typically able to put their intuition to good use.

Mutable Sign

Pisces is the mutable water sign. Mutable signs such as Sagittarius, Pisces, Gemini, and Virgo known for their ability to change and adapt.

Loyal

Once Pisceans develop a trust-based relationship with a person or anything, their loyalty has been bought over. They will stay committed until they grow bored.

Goals and fulfillment

If a Pisces is to pick one of the items on the list: money, inner peace, fame, family, great job, power. They most likely would pick inner peace over the others. For Pisces, their goal is not material possessions or a great career, but achieving inner peace.

Pisces Articles

• Pisces Birth Flowers
• Pisces Gift Guide

3. The Aquarius-Pisces Cusp (February 15 – 21) ♒ x ♓ – Cusp of Sensitivity

The transitional period between Aquarius and Pisces is known as the Aquarius-Pisces cusp or the Cusp of Sensitivity. It is the only zodiac cusp in February. As such, it is sometimes referred to as the February cusp.

The idea is that the line that separates the two signs is blurred at the border and individuals born during this transitional period (known as cuspers) may exhibit the traits from both signs.

The cuspers combine the humanitarian abilities of Aquarius and the empathetic tendencies of Pisces. Depending on how much they’re getting from each sign, they can be more emotionally intelligent than both signs.

Facts about the Aquarius-Pisces Cusps

Cusp: Cusp of Sensitivity
Strength: Compassion, creativity, empathy, and intuition.
Weaknesses: Depression, isolation, unfocused, and insecurity.
Romantic Compatibility: Your best compatibility options are Earth and Water signs.

Dichotomy

Aquarius and Pisces are two opposing signs. Aquarius is extroverted, but Pisces is introverted. Aquarius is communitarian whereas Pisces is more individualistic in nature. This often means the Aquarius-Pisces cuspers may sometimes experience inner conflicts because of their conflicting ideologies.

Intuitive

Some of the cuspers are very intuitive, especially when they combine Pisces’s empathy skill and Aquarius’s people skill. This intuition can be applied in many different areas, but it works exceptionally well in areas related to people. For example, divination, sociology, psychology, management, organization design, etc.

Original

Aquarius is known for being one of the most unique star signs of the zodiac. The Aquarius-Pisces cuspers’ talent to be unique sometimes exceed even that of Aquarius. The reason is they also possess certain Pisces traits which really makes them highly expressive and original.

The cuspers do not see a point in toning down on themselves. Just like Aquarians, they are not afraid to take lone walks.

Sensitive

True to the name the Cusp of Sensitivity, the cuspers are constantly in tune with their environment. The term sensitive requires more elaboration. It doesn’t mean that they get sad or get mad easily – although that can definitely happen — more on that later.

Anyway, sensitivity here refers to their uncanny ability to be clairvoyant and observant. In plainer words, these cuspers can read people like an open book. Going back to getting mad or getting sad easily, this sometimes happens because they can read people’s hidden agendas and secrets so well, they’re often exposed to the raw, ugly truth.

Ambiverts

Stuck between Aquarius’s extroversion and Capricorn’s introversion, the Aquarius-Pisces cuspers are often ambiverts. They are pulled along different lines. Pisceans are generally quiet and gentle, avoiding confrontations while an Aquarian is naturally rebellious, bold, and opinionated.

Conclusion

There are two zodiac signs in February: Aquarius and Pisces. Aquarius rules over most of February. Pisces takes over February after more than half of the month has passed. There’s also the Aquarius-Pisces cusp in February which is the period when Aquarius passes the torch to Pisces.

Zodiac Signs by Month

January / February / March / April / May / June / July / August / September / October / November / December

Articles about February

February Articles / Birth Flowers / Birthstones / Zodiac Signs

The post 2 February Zodiac Signs: Aquarius & Capricorn (and a Cusp) appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

Poem Source: Natal Stones: Sentiments and Superstitions Associated with Precious Stones 

February is the second month of the year and the most beautiful month for the lovestruck lovers. It may be popularly known today as the ‘Love Month’ but this was not always the case. The name of the month came from the Latin word ‘februare’ meaning ‘purification.’

Back in ancient Roman times, February was most known for the Festival of Purification. It was the month when the Romans would ritually wash to purify both their bodies and soul. The birthstones for this month are known as excellent purification gems. Let’s get to know the birthstones of February so that we can decide which birthstone would make a perfect gift for ourselves or our loved ones.

1. Amethyst

Above: amethyst gemstone. Credit: Amila Tennakoon – the Gems of Sri Lanka photo album.

Both the modern and traditional birthstone of February is amethyst. Amethyst is a variety of quartz with a glass-like luster. Purple is the common color of amethyst but it can also come in more saturated shades such as violet and dark purple. The name came from the ancient Greek word ‘amethystos‘ which means ‘not intoxicated.’ It was believed that the stone can offer protection against intoxication. To benefit from its power, the ancient Greeks would either wear the stone as a piece of jewelry or carve it in their drinking cups. In the past, amethysts were considered to be more valuable than diamonds. The value of what once was a precious stone crashed abruptly as massive deposits were mined in Brazil in the 1800s. Despite that, today amethyst is still one of the most sought-after gemstones that everyone can afford to own and enjoy.

Those who were born in February are fortunate to have this mystifying and royal gemstone as their guardian birthstone. It is believed that the amethyst has the power to equip its wearer with mental and emotional strength. As mentioned earlier, it is also known for its power as a purifying gem.

The gem’s purifying power is similar to the viola–a birth flower for February.

The energy of the amethyst spiritually aligns with February folks. By wearing an amethyst, February folks will be able to draw energy from the spiritual alignment. The amethyst can also help its wearer become more connected with the universe. It will make a great lifetime companion because it has the energy to keep your mind at peace and the power to keep you away from wicked thoughts.

2. Hyacinth

Above: Hyacinth. Credit: Amila Tennakoon – Album: Gems of Sri Lanka

Another great February gemstone is the hyacinth. It is a red, orange, or yellow variety of zircon with an unbreakable mirror-like luster. The mineral was named after the flower of the same name. However, the connection between the two remains vague. One thing is for sure though, the beauty of the hyacinth gem is undeniable. It is even comparable to rough diamonds. Unfortunately, this gem had become a medium for fraudsters who alter the stone through heat treatment and sell it as a diamond.

Hyacinth (Flower)

Those who were born in February are more likely to find prosperity by wearing the hyacinth. This mirror-like mineral is also a gem for all people from all walks of life because it is inexpensive and known to purify and ward off nightmares for those who wear it.

If you are a keen traveler, you will benefit from this gem because it can change its luster depending on the weather and surroundings. It becomes dull if the weather turns unfavorable and gleams if the weather is pleasant. The hyacinth gem is a good February birthday gift or as a parting gift to a friend who will embark on a journey.

3. Jade

Jade and diamond necklace pendant

Jade is the mystical February gemstone. It is an opaque gem with a waxy and vitreous luster. The name was derived from the Latin word ‘ilia‘ which means ‘kidney area’ for it was used to treat loins and kidney illnesses. There are two kinds of jade namely, jadeite and nephrite. Both minerals are chemically unrelated but have identical physical properties and look extremely similar in appearance. Jadeite is the rarer kind that comes in many different vibrant colors. The nephrite is mostly green or white while jadeite can come in green, white, lavender, red, orange, yellow, and black. Jade is a precious stone that can soothe both the eyes and the skin. It is pleasing to look at and even more delightful to touch.

Virtue, wisdom, and prosperity are the energies that embody this gemstone.

People born in February will have an improved quality of life when they wear this gem. Jade is perhaps the most important gemstone in Chinese culture. These gemstones are sometimes more valuable than diamonds. Many subjects of greatness and beauty is compared to a jade stone. To the Taoists, the “Jade Emperor” is believed to the greatest and most divine ruler of heaven. Jades are amazing gems that can guard you even in your sleep. It protects you against nightmares and allows you to dream pleasant dreams.

Birthstones by Month

January Birthstones | February Birthstones | March Birthstones | April Birthstones | May Birthstones | June Birthstones | July Birthstones | August Birthstones | September Birthstones | October Birthstones|  November Birthstones | December Birthstones

Birthstones by Zodiac Sign

Aries Stones | Taurus Stones | Gemini Stones | Cancer Stones | Leo Stones | Virgo Stones | Libra Stones | Scorpio Stones | Sagittarius Stones | Capricorn Stones | Aquarius Stones | Pisces Stones

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What are the birth flowers for the month of February? What are their meanings and symbolism? Get your answers from this article.

February is the shortest month of the year but never short of surprises. The month brings forth the season of giving flowers and often marks the beginning of a new year in the lunar calendar. People born in this month are associated with flowers that symbolize hope, faithfulness, and humility.

Discover the birth flowers of those born in February and their symbolism can help you send meaningful gifts to your loved ones. Nothing beats receiving a bouquet of your birth flower on your birthday. For those who were not born in February, these symbolic flowers will still be a great way to celebrate the month. Flowers can reduce stress and can even boost your mood. Let’s get to know the February flowers so that we can prepare to adorn our homes with these blooms.

1. Violet / Viola

Violet is the primary birth flower for those born in February. Viola odorata is the scientific name of this blue-purple, small, sweet-scented, and bell-shaped flower. Aside from blue-purple, they also come in cream or yellow colors. In ancient Greece, the violet represents love and fertility. This flower served as a symbol of Aphrodite and was used as an ingredient for love potions. In herbal medicine, it is believed that Violets contain healing powers and is used to treat respiratory illnesses, skin disorders, and insomnia.

The month of February was named after the Roman God of Purification. It makes Violet the perfect flower for February because it symbolizes faithfulness, purity, and goodness. Blue Violets symbolize faithfulness, and receiving it means that the giver offers you his or her loyalty. White violets represent purity and innocence. And yellow violets are a symbol of goodness. It is believed that dreaming of a violet flower is a sign of good fortune. Having violet flowers around can increase focus and mindfulness. There is more than what meets the eye when it comes to this eye-catching flower.

2. Iris

The iris is another birth flower for February. Iris germanica is the scientific name of this bulbous or thick rhizomes and many-colored flower. Iris is derived from a Greek word that means ‘rainbow.’ In Greek mythology, Iris is the embodiment and goddess of the rainbow. Irises are popular garden plants not only for their beauty but also because of their rugged, reliable, and easy to grow characteristics. This beauty comes in a wide variety and a plethora of colors–covering almost every color of the rainbow and that’s how the flower got its name.

The iris is a symbol of nobility and is commonly depicted in legends and myths. It symbolizes faith, hope, wisdom, and courage. In Japanese culture, it is believed that the iris can purify evil energies. Kimonos are commonly designed with irises to serve as protection for the wearer.

3. Primrose

Another birth flower that symbolizes February is the primrose. Primula vulgaris is the scientific name of this edible and delicate flower. Yellow is the common color of primroses, but it can also come in varied colors such as white, red, pink, and purple. Despite its name and color varieties, the primrose is not related to roses. The flower got its name from the Latin word ‘primus’ that means ‘first.’ True to its name, Primroses are among the first to bloom in the early spring. In ancient Greece, the flower is referred to as the flower of the twelve gods and has been used to treat a wide variety of ailments, including gout, loss of speech, vertigo, and paralysis. It is also used as an ingredient in making soups, salads, and even wines. In Norse mythology, the primrose is the sacred flower of Freya used in honoring the goddess in rituals. The ancient Celts also believed that this flower holds the keys to Heaven.

Primroses represent youth and young love. It is usually related to first love. And to walk down the primrose path means to live a life full of pleasure and luxury. Giving someone a bouquet of primroses is a way of saying that you can not live without them. This flower also symbolizes purity and honesty. Primrose, though a small flower, also symbolizes protection and safety. Gifting a primrose means that you care about the person’s well-being.

Birth Flowers by Zodiac Sign

Aries Flowers | Taurus Flowers | Gemini Flowers | Cancer Flowers | Leo Flowers | Virgo Flowers | Libra Flowers | Scorpio Flowers | Sagittarius Flowers | Capricorn Flowers | Aquarius Flowers | Pisces Flowers

Birth Flowers by Month

January Flowers | February Flowers | March Flowers | April Flowers | May Flowers | June Flowers | July Flowers | August Flowers | September Flowers | October Flowers | November Flowers | December Flowers

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