The magic of this foundation lies in its velvety matte formula. This foundation is different from others because of its unique texture and finish. The velvety matte formula gives your skin a smooth and flawless look without looking cakey or heavy. What sets this foundation apart is its ability to provide full coverage while still being lightweight and breathable. It easily blends into the skin, giving you a natural-looking finish that lasts all day. Whether you have oily or dry skin, this foundation works wonders for all skin types.
Hazel trees are believed to have magical properties and to protect against evil spirits. They were a symbol of fertility in medieval times. Stirring jam with a hazel twig is thought to stop those mischievous fairies from stealing it!
Traditionally, shields were made from aspen wood as it was thought to protect against evil, so its symbolism was important at the mystical time of midsummer. You can also celebrate the occasion yourself by lighting a small candle and taking a moment to reflect and give thanks for all that s occurred in the first half of the year.
Whether you have oily or dry skin, this foundation works wonders for all skin types. The velvety matte formula also helps to control shine and oiliness throughout the day, keeping your skin looking fresh and matte without the need for constant touch-ups. This is especially beneficial for those with oily skin who often struggle with their makeup sliding off or breaking apart throughout the day.
How to celebrate the ssummer solstice pagan
On 21st June this year, the sun will rise at around 4.30 in the morning to welcome the longest day and herald the summer solstice. Many people in the northern hemisphere will be marking this oldest of festivals with traditional midsummer celebrations, and a lot of the ancient traditions and modern festivities focus on reconnecting with nature and trees.
Ancient midsummer traditions
Midsummer has been observed for thousands of years, with celebrations rooted in both pagan and religious tradition. At a time when food and nature are in abundance, festivities often focus on fertility and the life-giving powers of the sun.
The people of pagan Europe would light bonfires and dance all night on Midsummer’s Eve, accompanied by rituals led by druids. Customs included bonfire-jumping, with the highest jump believed to predict the height of the year’s crop.
In ancient China, the summer solstice was an important festival when workers were given the day off to celebrate. Ceremonies honoured the earth and the feminine force known as yin. Similarly, the ancient Romans’ celebrations focused on Vesta, goddess of the hearth, home, and family.
Midsummer remains an important festival in many countries. Many people stay up on Midsummer’s Eve to welcome the sun as it rises. Modern druids still famously gather at Stonehenge. Other people light bonfires and celebrate with outdoor feasts, singing and dancing.
Mysticism and magic
Midsummer celebrations are interwoven with mysticism and magic. It is a time when both are believed to be at the height of their powers. Tradition states that ghosts can cross from the afterlife to this world and, as in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, it is thought that the fairy world is close by, bringing mischief and chaos to us mortals. Flower crowns are traditionally worn to ward off the more malevolent spirits.
Trees and traditional beliefs
Many midsummer traditions focus on reconnecting with nature. So, it is no surprise that trees and tree worship feature heavily in both ancient and modern festivities.
The oak tree is at the centre of midsummer celebrations. The Celtic word for oak, duir, means doorway, and oak, as the King of the Forest, is seen as a doorway to both the mystical realms and the new, darker cycle of the year that is about to begin. Mistletoe, long believed to have healing and fertility powers, is thought to harness the soul of the tree and be at its strongest when it grows on oaks at midsummer.
The beech tree, brightening the forest with its fresh lime green leaves, is seen as the Queen of the Forest and consort to the oak king. To the druids, it symbolised ancient wisdom and it was the sacred wood of the summer solstice. In folklore, it is believed that if you write a wish on a beech twig, then bury it, your wish will come true as the twig decays.
Hazel trees are believed to have magical properties and to protect against evil spirits. They were a symbol of fertility in medieval times. Stirring jam with a hazel twig is thought to stop those mischievous fairies from stealing it!
The shimmering, trembling leaves of the beautiful aspen were believed to carry messages from this world to the afterlife. Wearing a crown of aspen leaves allowed the wearer to travel to the Underworld and back. Traditionally, shields were made from aspen wood as it was thought to protect against evil, so its symbolism was important at the mystical time of midsummer.
A time to celebrate trees
Whatever your beliefs, there is no better time to celebrate trees in all their glory with an uplifting walk in the woods. The mud is drying up, we are (mostly) liberated from our wellies and, as the sun casts dappled light through new green leaves on long summer days, it is easy to feel real wonder at the natural world. And, this year, if you would like to celebrate midsummer by dancing around one of our oak trees, you will be very welcome!
The summer solstice also marks a shift in the year. After the solstice, the sun's power starts to decrease, the days gradually shortening as we head towards the darker half of the year. Such is the humbling ebb and flow of nature.
Another great feature of this foundation is its buildable coverage. You can easily layer it to achieve the level of coverage you desire without it looking cakey or unnatural. This makes it a versatile option for both everyday wear and special occasions. Not only does this foundation provide excellent coverage and a flawless finish, but it also takes care of your skin. It is packed with skincare benefits, such as antioxidants and hydrating ingredients, that nourish and improve the overall health of your skin. In conclusion, the magic of this foundation lies in its velvety matte formula. It provides full coverage while still being lightweight and breathable. The velvety matte finish keeps your skin looking smooth and flawless all day, without the need for constant touch-ups. This foundation is a game-changer for all skin types, as it controls shine and oiliness while providing nourishing skincare benefits..
Reviews for "The Art of Exceptional Makeup: The Velvety Matte Formula in this Foundation"
1. Jane Doe - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with this foundation. The velvety matte formula did not work well with my dry skin, leaving it looking even more parched and flaky. It also accentuated my fine lines and made them more prominent. I was hoping for a flawless finish, but instead, it looked cakey and unnatural on my skin. Overall, I found the formula to be too drying and not suitable for those with dry or mature skin types.
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3. Sarah Johnson - 3 stars - While I didn't dislike this foundation entirely, I wasn't overly impressed either. The velvety matte formula did provide a decent amount of coverage, but it felt quite heavy on my skin, especially when I built it up for more coverage. Additionally, the shade range was limited and I struggled to find a good match for my skin tone. I also noticed that it emphasized my pores, making them more visible even after using a pore-filling primer. Overall, it was an okay foundation, but I've definitely tried better options in the market.