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Domus Lunae Libri

@the--wilting--wallflower

Genderqueer, 22 Cancer, Knowledge Seeker, Arkansan. To burn the Witch is to admit that Magic exists.

2022 Witch's Calendar

For all my witches out there, here's a handy list of the 2022 dates for the major holidays, full and new moons, and special events. I've listed my sources at the bottom. Dates and times for all events are calculated for Eastern Standard Time, USA, Northern Hemisphere. Adjust for your location as needed. Enjoy!

WOTY Holidays and Solstices

  • February 1-2 - Imbolc
  • March 20 - Spring Equinox / Ostara
  • May 1 - Beltane
  • June 21 - Summer Solstice / Midsummer
  • August 1 - Lughnasadh
  • September 22 - Autumn Equinox / Mabon
  • October 31 - Samhain
  • December 21 - Winter Solstice / Yule

Full Moons

  • January 17 - Wolf Moon ♋️
  • February 16 - Snow Moon ♌️
  • March 18 - Worm Moon ♍️
  • April 16 - Pink Moon ♎️
  • May 16 - Flower Moon ♏️
  • June 14 - Strawberry Moon ♐️
  • July 13 - Thunder Moon (aka Buck Moon) ♑️
  • August 11 - Sturgeon Moon ♒️
  • September 10 - Harvest Moon ♓️
  • October 9 - Hunter's Moon (aka Blood Moon) ♈️
  • November 8 - Frost Moon ♉️
  • December 7 - Cold Moon ♊️

Fun Fact: The title of Harvest Moon is given to either the September or October full moon, whichever falls closest to the autumn equinox. In 2022, that month will be September.

New Moons

  • January 2 ♑️
  • February 1 ♒️
  • March 2 ♓️
  • April 1 ♈️
  • April 30 ♉️
  • May 30 ♊️
  • June 29 ♋️
  • July 28 ♌️
  • August 27 ♍️
  • September 25 ♎️
  • October 25 ♏️
  • November 23 ♐️
  • December 23 ♑️

Special Events

  • April 30 - Black Moon & Partial Solar Eclipse (10:42pm EST)
  • May 16 - Total Lunar Eclipe (12:11am EST, coinciding with zenith)
  • June 14 - Supermoon
  • July 13 - Supermoon
  • October 25 - Partial Solar Eclipe (11:01am EST)
  • November 8 - Total Lunar Eclipse (5:59am EST, coinciding with zenith)

SOURCES:

If you're enjoying my content, please feel free to drop a little something in the tip jar or check out my published works on Amazon or in the Willow Wings Witch Shop. 😊

Mama Bree's Magical Powders

Finally, all my powder recipes in one place! Go nuts, witchlings.

For those of you who may not be able to find herbs locally, here are some online suppliers who consistently have affordable and high-quality products.

  • Ruth Roy’s Wellcat Herbs - A highly reputable seller with quality herbs, teas, incense, and botanicals. Also runs a booth every year at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire. (*HIGHLY RECOMMEND*)
  • Starwest Botanicals - Bulk herbs, spices, oils, and teas. Good amount of organic and Fair Trade products, as well as supplies for holistic medicine and tea-making.
  • Mountain Rose Herbs - Bulk herbs, spices, and sundries. Also carries organic products and essential oils, and has link to schools that offer courses in herbalism and herbology.
  • The Magickal Cat - Online shop with just about everything you could want for your craft, from herbs to books to cauldrons, and everything in between. Reliable shipping and excellent customer service.
  • Bulk Apothecary - Bulk herbs, spices, and oils, in addition to materials for the home production of soap, candles, wine, and beer.

For more online resources and information on herb magic and spells, check out my website here.

The website is now defunct, but you can find all of my other recipes in  Pestlework: A Book of Magical Powders & Oils. Available on Amazon or in the Willow Wings Witch Shop. 😊

BLACK SALT (also known as WITCH’S SALT) is used primarily for protection, banishing, and repelling.

Those uses aren’t exclusive—it has also been known to feature in baneful magics, and can be used in uncrossing rituals.

WAYS TO UTILISE BLACK SALT

  1. To protect your property from negative spirits, people with ill-intent, unwanted visitors, and negative energy: sprinkle black salt around the perimeter of your property.
  2. To both banish any residual icky energy that a person may have left in your home, and prevent them from returning: sprinkle black salt on the front step and sweep it away. If you’re feeling more traditional (and brave!) you can throw black salt at the back of someone that is leaving your home also.
  3. To prevent nightmares: use in a sachet and keep beneath your pillow.
  4. To repel negativity, unwanted visitors, and rumours/gossip: sprinkle generously across windowsills and doorways.
  5. To cleanse your home and keep nasties from entering: add black salt to a floor wash and go ham on your floor. Focus especially on high traffic areas.
  6. To undo a curse, hex, or other form of malignant magic that has been cast upon you: use in an uncrossing oil or powder. Learn more about uncrossing [here].
  7. To alleviate any negative thoughts and feelings that you are carrying: add a pinch of black salt to your bath, or to an oil with a similar purpose that you anoint yourself with.

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Witchcraft 101: Uncrossing

“Uncrossing is the removal of a type of curse or ‘cross’ that has been laid upon an individual that makes a certain area of their lives difficult because of negative energy that is attached to them, causing them to see and experience only difficulties in that area. Uncrossing removes this negativity, allowing the person to move forward.” —Silvio Guerrinha.

Simply put: uncrossing is the act of undoing any baneful magic(s) that have been cast upon oneself. 

Before you attempt an uncrossing, you must first determine whether your run of bad luck or the spate of negative occurrences has a mundane or magical origin. You can do this in a number of ways, but the general consensus is to look for the sudden onset of issues such as: nightmares, sleeping trouble, loss of energy (physical, emotional, mental, spiritual), bad luck, financial and relationship trouble.  *Of course it is possible that all of these have routes in non-magical things, but these are said to be signs of a curse, hex, or jinx of some kind. 

If you work with entities or deities, you may ask them for clarification or confirmation on this issue. 

The term uncrossing is used widely, but a lot of the magics you see will have their origins in Hoodoo and Voodoo, so be cautious (Hoodoo is not a closed cultural practise, but a restrictive one. Voodoo/Vodou is not closed, but it is restrictive and requires a legitimate initiated teacher).

• TYPES OF UNCROSSING MAGICS

Uncrossing magics come in myraid formspractically every form of magic can be utilised in an uncrossing. Common examples are:

  1. Floor/house/body washes.
  2. Anointing oils.
  3. Powders.
  4. Sachets.
  5. Charms/Enchantments.
  6. Talismans.

Examples of Uncrossing Magics

• COMMON INGREDIENTS IN UNCROSSING MAGICS

You will notice that there are a few recurring ingredients in uncrossing magics. This is because of their notable strength and power in undoing baneful magic by repelling negativity, purification, cleansing, and protection.
  1. Lemon.
  2. Lime.
  3. Orange.
  4. Eucalyptus.
  5. Chamomile.
  6. Salt.
  7. Mint.
  8. Rosemary.
  9. Sage.
  10. Basil.
  11. Patchouli.
  12. Sandalwood.
  13. Verbena.
  14. Rue.
  15. Garlic.
  16. Vetiver.
  17. Broken chain.
  18. Ribbon.
  19. String.
  20. Black Tourmaline.
  21. Clear Quartz.
  22. Lemongrass.
  23. St. John’s Wort.
  24. Dragon’s Blood [resin]. 

Correspondences of: Carrier & Essential Oils

This is a long post, the correspondences are under the cut.

Carrier Oils: Carrier oils, known also as base oils, are used to dilute essential oils before they are applied topically. They serve as the base for oil blends. 

Essential Oils: Essential oils are concentrated liquids that contain the volatile (”the tendency of a substance to vaporize") aromatic compounds of plants. They are obtained via distillation and the oil alone should never be applied to the skin directly as some a reactive to heat, and light, and some will give you chemical burns. You are likely to have a reaction to essential oils.

Carrier Oils:

  1. ALMOND OIL, SWEET (Prunus Dulcis) Ruled by Mercury and the Element of Air. Sweet Almond Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with prosperity, money and wisdom.
  2. APRICOT KERNEL OIL (Prunus Armeniaca) Ruled by Venus and the Element of Water. This makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with love or emotions.
  3. AVOCADO OIL (Persea Americana) Ruled by Venus and the Element of Water. This makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with love, lust or beauty.
  4. CASTOR OIL (Ricinus communis) Ruled by Mars and the Element of Fire. Castor oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with protection and absorbing negativity.
  5. COCONUT OIL (Cocos Nucifera) Ruled by the Moon and the Element of Water. Fractionated Coconut Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with purification and protection.
  6. GRAPESEED OIL (Vinis Vinifera) Ruled by the Moon and the Element of Water. Grapeseed Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with fertility money and strengthening mental abilities.
  7. HEMP SEED OIL (Cannabis Sativa) Ruled by the Moon and Saturn and the Element of Water. Hemp Seed Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with healing, love, psychic ability and meditation.
  8. JOJOBA OIL (Simmondsia Chinensis) Ruled by the Moon and the element of Water. Jojoba Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with healing and love.
  9. OLIVE OIL (Olea Europaea) Ruled by the Sun and the Element of Fire. Olive Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with healing, peace, fertility and protection. In many traditions Olive Oil is an all purpose oil.
  10. SUNFLOWER OIL (Helianthus Annus) Ruled by the Sun and the Element of Fire. Sunflower Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with protection, fertility, health and wisdom.

Essential Oils:

  1. AMYRIS (Amyris balsamifera) Anointing, astral projection, attraction, blessing, consecration, exorcism, healing, love, meditation, protection, purification, sacral chakra, spirituality.
  2. ANGELICA ROOT (Angelica archangelica) Exorcism, protection, healing, visions.
  3. BASIL (Ocimum basilicum) Business success, conscious mind (stimulates), happiness, lust, money, peace, prosperity, protection.
  4. BAY LAUREL (Laurus nobilis) Banishing, exorcism, luck, psychic ability.
  5. BENZOIN (Styrax benzoin) Purification, prosperity, attracts customers.
  6. BERGAMONT (Citrus bergamia) Business success, happiness, money, peace, physical energy, prosperity, protection, sleep.
  7. BIRCH SWEET (Betula lenta) Protection, purification, exorcism.
  8. BLACK PEPPER (Piper nigrum) Courage, physical energy, and protection.
  9. BLUE TANSY (Tanacetum annuum) Water, Venus, immortality, youth, longevity.
  10. CAJEPUT (Melaleuca cajeputi) Purification, protection, dispel negative thoughts and energies, break habits.
  11. CAMPHOR (Cinnamomum camphora) Celibacy, crown chakra, physical energy, psychic energy, purification.
  12. CARDAMOM (Elettaria cardamomum) Love, lust.
  13. CARROT SEED (Daucus carota) Grounding, fertility.
  14. CATNIP (Nepeta cataria) Cat magic, love, beauty, happiness.
  15. CEDARWOOD (Cedrus atlantica) Blessing, health (maintain), heart chakra, meditation, money, protection, psychic energy, purification, self-control, spirituality, unhexing.
  16. CHAMOMILE (Matricaria recutita & Anthemis nobilis) Meditation, peace, sleep.
  17. CHILLI SEED (Capsicum annum) Protection, exorcism, fidelity, hex-breaking, love.
  18. CINNAMON (Cinnamomum burmanii /cassia /zeylancium) Astral projection, base chakra, business success, health (maintain), luck, lust, magical energy, meditation, money, physical energy, prosperity, protection, psychic awareness, purification, spirituality.
  19. CITRONELLA (Cymbopogon nardus / winterianus) Exorcism (exterior use), health (maintain), purification, unhexing.
  20. CLARY SAGE (Salvia sclarea) Vivid dreams.
  21. CLOVE BUD (Eugenia or syzgium aromaticum) Balances chakras, business success, courage, divination, exorcism, healing, heart chakra, love, money, prosperity, protection, psychic awareness.
  22. COFFEE BEAN (Coffea arabica) Grounding, Earth magic, Mars, ritual stimulant.
  23. CYPRESS (Cupressus sempervirens) Longevity, healing, comfort, protection.
  24. ELEMI (Canarium luzonicum) Mental and psychic ability, spiritual balance, solar plexus chakra.
  25. EUCALYPTUS (Eucalyptus globulus) Healing, health (maintain), protection, psychic energy, purification.
  26. FIR NEEDLE (Abies sibirica) Mind clearing, memory, communication, purification before ritual, , protection, hex removal.
  27. FRANKINCENSE (Boswellia serrata / carterii) Blessing, consecration, courage, exorcism, meditation, protection, purification, solar plexus chakra, spirituality.
  28. GERANIUN (Pelargonium graveolens /x asperum) Happiness, protection.
  29. GINGER ROOT (Zingiber officinale) Attraction, business success, courage, love, lust, magical energy, money, peace, physical energy, prosperity, purification, sex.
  30. GRAPEFRUIT (Citrus paradisi) Purification.
  31. HELICHRYSUM (Helichrysum italicum) Creativity, intuition, invoke spirits, scrying, channeling, awareness, calm, patience.
  32. HO WOOD (Cinnamomum camphora) Cleaning, banishing, subdue sexual desire, celibacy, chastity, psychic power, dream work.
  33. HYSSOP (Hyssopus officinalis) Purification, protection.
  34. JUNIPER BERRY (Juniperus communis) Protection, anti-theft, love, exorcism, health.
  35. LAVENDER (Lavandula stoechas/angustifolia/latifolia /hybrida) Balances chakras, business success, celibacy, conscious mind (stimulates), happiness, health (maintain), love, peace, protection, purification, sleep, third-eye chakra.
  36. LEMON (Citrus limonum / limon) Balances chakras, health (maintain), love, physical energy, purification.
  37. LEMONGRASS (Cymbopogon citratus /flexuosus /schoenanthus) Psychic awareness, psychic energy, purification, spirituality.
  38. LIME (Citrus aurantifolia) Physical energy, protection, purification.
  39. LITSEA (Litsea cubeba) Energy, rejuvenation, letting go.
  40. MARJORAM (Origanum majorana) Celibacy, happiness, peace, sleep.
  41. MUGWORT (Artemesia vulgaris) Moon, divination, lucid dreaming, prophetic dreams, protection.
  42. MYRRH (Commiphora myrrha) Astral projection, attraction, balances chakras, blessing, consecration, crown chakra, exorcism, healing, meditation, protection, psychic energy, spirituality, unhexing.
  43. MYRTLE (Myrtus communis) Love, good luck, fertility, and Venus, feminine and water aspects.
  44. NIAOULI (Melaleuca quinquenervia) Purification, healing, protection, clearing negative energies, aura cleansing.
  45. NUTMEG (Myristica fragrans) Luck, magical energy, meditation, money, physical energy, psychic awareness.
  46. OPOPANAX (Commiphora guidotti) Death/resurrection, divination, Pluto, Scorpio, change.
  47. OREGANO (Origanum vulgare) Happiness, tranquility.
  48. PALMAROSA (Cymbopogon martini) Healing, love.
  49. PALO SANTO (Bursera graveolens)
  50. Luck, cleansing, air element.
  51. PATCHOULI (Pogostemon cablin) Attraction, banishes negativity, growth, love, luck, mastery, money, peace, physical energy, prosperity, sex.
  52. PEPPERMINT (Mentha arvensis / piperita) Conscious mind (stimulates), exorcism, health (maintain), protection, purification.
  53. PETITGRAIN (Citrus aurantium) Conscious mind (stimulates), protection.
  54. PINE (Pinus sylvestris) Exorcism, grounding, healing, health (maintain), magical energy, money, physical energy, protection, purification.
  55. ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus officinalis) Conscious mind (stimulates), exorcism, health (maintain), heart chakra, longevity, love, protective, remembrance, third-eye chakra, vitality.
  56. ROSEWOOD (Aniba rosaeodora) Mars, Moon, Venus, spirit element, fire element, intuitive health, beauty, divination, scrying, healing rituals, maturity, wisdom, femininity.
  57. SAGE, DALMATION (Salvia officinalis) Conscious mind (stimulates), exorcism, money, purification, wisdom.
  58. SAGE, WHITE (Salvia apiana) Cleansing spaces and magical objects, banish negative energy.
  59. SANDALWOOD (Santalum album) Anointing, astral projection, attraction, blessing, consecration, exorcism, healing, love, meditation, protection, purification, sacral chakra, spirituality.
  60. SPEARMINT (Mentha spicata) Comfort, healing, sleep (for protection).
  61. SPIKENARD “JATAMANSI” (Nardostachys jatamansi) Good luck, fidelity, and health.
  62. STAR ANISE (Illicium verum) Psychic power, luck.
  63. SWEET ORANGE (Citrus sinensis) Balances chakras, divination, happiness, joy, love, luck, magical energy, money, physical energy, psychic energy, purification, sacral chakra.
  64. TANGERINE (Citrus reticulata) Magical energy, purification.
  65. TEA TREE (Melaleuca alternifolia) Purification.
  66. THYME (Thymus vulgaris) Conscious mind (stimulates), courage, health (maintain), purification.
  67. TURMERIC (Curcuma longa) Purification, protection.
  68. VALERIAN ROOT (Valeriana officinalis) Love, sleep, purification, protection.
  69. VANILLA (Vanilla planifolia) Love, lust, mental power.
  70. VETIVER (Vetiveria zizanoides) Divination, exorcism, love, money, peace, protection, unhexing.
  71. WINTERGREEN (Gaultheria procumbens) Protection, healing, hex-breaking.
  72. YLANG YLANG (Cananga odorata) Love, lust, peace, sex, throat chakra.

[Sources: [X] [X]

Photo Credit: [X]

Rowan Méadhbh’s Banishing Oil

Whether you want to be rid of spirits, energies, or people, Rowan Méadhbh’s Banishing Oil is a good, all-round solution. It can be used in rites and rituals, dabbed on surfaces, used to anoint toois, or be added to a wash or spray (please be safe if you do this).

*DISCLAIMER: if you have pets in your household, do not use this oil in places or ways that may put them at risk, e.g., do not use in a spray, floor wash, or on anything they may be able to reach.

INGREDIENTS:

The amounts listed below will yield 30ml of oil at a dilution of 3% - please read [this post] on safety when blending oils for more information on safe dilution percentages. 

  • Amber dropper jar. 
  • Castor oil - 30ml.
  • Black pepper (essential oil) - 6 drops.
  • Mugwort (essential oil) - 6 drops.
  • Sage (essential oil) - 6 drops.
  • A pinch of dried Sage.
  • A pinch of Chilli or Cayenne pepper.
  • Obsidian chips.

MAKING YOUR OIL BLEND:

  1. Using a small funnel, put 30ml of Castor oil into your amber dropper jar. 
  2. Add your essential oils one by one, ensuring that you put the lid of the jar and shake vigorously to mix the oils. 
  3. You can then add your dried Sage and Obsidian chips. 
  4. Make sure that you focus on the intent of this oil as you craft it. Imbue it with banishing energy and make sure your intent for this mixture is known. 

If you like my content and would like to support my blog, you can do so here: PayPal | Ko-fi.

© Rowan Maédhbh Keaney | The Mori Witch. All rights reserved.  

Anonymous asked:

Do you know any spells that use jars? As I've got loads of spair jars. Cheers

Oh, so so many my dear. I’ve made this list for you and it’s by no means the ultimate compilation of jar spells, but there’s a nice selection here that I hope provides you with some inspiration or something.

Love & Self Love:

  1. Self Love Jar.
  2. Self Love Charm.
  3. Aphrodite Healing Self Love Jar.
  4. Lavender Self Love Jar.
  5. Torque’s Self-Love Motivation Jar.
  6. Love Attraction Jar.
  7. Self-Love Jar.
  8. To Strengthen a Romantic Relationship.
  9. Self-Care Spell Jar.
  10. Cuddle Jar!

Happiness & Mood Improvement:

  1. Happiness Spell Jar.

Healing & Broken Hearts:

  1. Sew Closed Your Heart Jar Spell.

Friendship:

  1. Friendship Spell Jar.

Luck & Good Fortune: 

  1. Luck Spell Jar.
  2. Luck and Fortune Spell Jar.

Sleep & Dreams:

  1. Restful and Peaceful Sleep Spell Jar.
  2. Free Me From My Nightmares.
  3. Remember Your Dreams.
  4. Nightmare Jar.
  5. Pleasant Dreams Jar/Bottle.

Glamours:

  1. Aphrodite Glamour Water.
  2. Queen Grimhilde’s Glamour Jar for Intimidating Looks.

Anxiety & Depression & Mental Health:

  1. Anxiety Salt Spell.
  2. Anti-Anxiety Jar Spell.

Gender & Self-Empowerment Magick:

  1. The Empress Reclaim.
  2. Self-Empowerment Jar.
  3. Heat of the Flame Jar Spell.

Communication:

  1. Communication Spell Jar.
  2. Sweet Talkin’.

Study/School/Careers:

  1. Focus and Study Spell Jar.
  2. “My Passion is my Income” Spell Jar.
  3. Workplace Witchcraft - Memory and Awareness Jar.
  4. Knowledge Spell Jar.
  5. There and Back Again Jar.
  6. New Job Spell Jar.

Home and Surroundings:

  1. Home Sweet Home Jar.
  2. Happy Atmosphere Bag/Jar.
  3. Simple Space Calming Spell Jar.
  4. To Keep the Home Safe and Cozy!

Safety & Travel:

  1. Safe From Harm Spell Jar.
  2. Personal Safe Travels Jar.
  3. Safe Travels Mini Spell Jar.

Banishing & Binding:

  1. GFTO Banishment Jar.
  2. “You cannot touch her” Curse/Binding Jar.

Prosperity:

  1. Sugar and Spice Prosperity Jar.
  2. Money Jar.

Protection:

  1. Aggressive Protection Jar.
  2. Wither and Rot Protection Bottle.
  3. Empath Protection Jar.
  4. Mini Protection Jar/Vial.
  5. Dragon Protection Jar.
  6. Tough as a Nail, Sharp as a Thorn Protection Jar.
  7. Mama Cat’s “Evil Eye” Protection Jar.
  8. Witchy Woman’s Protection Jar.

Productivity/Motivation/Energy:

  1. To Enhance Productive Energies.
  2. “Everyday” Spell Bottle.
  3. Will-o’s Jar Spell for Removing Energy Blocks.
  4. Motivation Jar.

Purification:

  1. Purification Jar.

Creativity:

  1. Creativity Spell Jar.
  2. Paint Water Creativity Jar.

Malevolent Magick:

  1. “You’ve fucked with the wrong witch” Spell Jar.
  2. “Broken and rotting” Curse Jar.
  3. Blood Rain Curse Jar.
  4. “From this pain I will rise” Curse Jar.
  5. “Over the falls” Curse Jar.
  6. The Tower - Tarot Curse Jar.
  7. “Shut up, you twat” Curse Jar.
  8. Gentle Curse Jar.

Elemental Magick:

  1. “Capture the Wind” Jar.

Planetary & Celestial Magick:

  1. Moon Magic Jar.
  2. Full Moon Reflection Jar.
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Mori’s Black Salt

This is my personal go-to recipe for Black Salt. It makes a small/medium sized batch, which is fine for personal use. I find it to be very effective and use it sparingly whenever I do need it, because a pinch is often enough.

INGREDIENTS:

  • Sea Salt (150g)
  • Lemon juice.
  • Activated Charcoal.*
  • A sigil on a piece of paper (I would recommend a general protection sigil, or one that repels negative energy).
  • Black pepper.
  • Myrrh incense ashes (if you make your own incense intended to cleanse, protect, purify or banish, use that).

TOOLS:

  • Pestle and mortar.
  • Funnel.
  • Jar.
  • Pipette (optional but useful).

METHOD:

Preparation: Safely burn your sigil and keep the ashes aside. Wait for them to cool. 
  1. Put your salt into a pestle and mortar first, followed by the other dry ingredients. 
  2. Use the mortar to grind it down into a finer version of the original mixture (which will have been quite chunky thanks to the sea salt).
  3. Add two or 3 drops of lemon juice, and mix your salt well. It will make the salt a little bit clumpy at first, but after enough mixing it will be fine. 
  4. Let the salt sit for a little while before transferring it into a jar. 
  5. Use a funnel to pour the salt into a jar that has an airtight lid. You need it to be airtight to preserve your salts and stop moisture from getting in.
  6. Store them in a dark, cool, dry place. 
*Please take care when handling activated charcoal. It can be very messy and clings to everything. It can also stain.

Spirit Work: Precautions

Spirit Work is not just working with ghosts, but includes that. Many different cultures believe all forms of life possess spirits including animals and plants. Some common examples of spirits are deities, ghosts, the fae, angels, demons, nymphs, and dragons, although there are countless more.

I’m not here to judge or say don’t do Spirit work, I also practice various forms of it. I simply made this post to bring to light some potentially essential aspects to practicing spirit work for any individual that desires it. As always, take what resonates, leave what doesn’t. Happy casting!

Spirit Work Precautions:

General Code II:

A spirit does not have to approach you for you to attempt to contact it. However, you can also always reject or end a partnership if you want it to stop, and so can they. Most spirits will understand and be respectful to you if you are back and honest and honorable.

General Code II:

Spirits can tell when you attempt to deceive them, or are being dishonorable towards them. Some spirits can become vengeful if you are absolutely and continuously rude toward them, or warn other spirits of your behavior.

General Code III:

For simplification, practitioners will often use possessive terms when referring to spirits. However, it is an unspoken collective understanding that we do not own them in anyway regardless of the spirit they are or how they present. Spirits are not pets, and you do not collect them. If anything, during a partnership they possess you.

General Code VI:

Be respectful to the spirits, inducing but not limited to dead, the death gods, and the graveyard guardians  Get permission from the groundskeepers and guardians and give an offering (i.e: cleaning trash or leaving coins) if you intend to take from a burial site.

Protection:

I believe you should always ward yourself and space, including the locking or sealing of mirrors. Another significantly helpful action is research and understand binding, banishing, and warding, and unbinding.

Common Spirit work Spells:

I high recommend you research and come to understand how to close and end spells, especially conjuring, invocations, or commutative forms of Divination, even before the anticipated closing.

Forming Bonds:

Establishing a connection with any spirit either through divination, veneration, offerings, prayers, and research should always be practiced before attempting to summon or work with a spirit.

Other Links:

Spirit Work: Classifications Spirit Work: Precautions Spirit Work: Communication Spirit Work: General Offerings

Clean House Powder

Intent: To cleanse a dwelling of negativity, “heaviness,” stale energy, bad atmosphere, etc. Ingredients:

  • Lemon Peel
  • Solomon’s Seal Root
  • Cayenne Pepper
  •  Arrow Root
  • Blue Vervain
  • White Oak
  • Sage (any color)
  • Salt (both black & white)

Materials:

  • Mortar & Pestle (or spice grinder)
  • Funnel
  • Mesh Strainer
  • Collection Dish
  • Container

Note: Powdered versions of most herbs are available online. I recommend Wellcat Herbs and Starwest Botanicals for the best quality products. Also, if you can get your hands on a good spice grinder, you can make your own powder from dried herb products. Grind each ingredient separately to produce fine powder. Sieve the material through the mesh strainer into the collection dish; this removes the larger unground pieces and gives you cleaner powdered herb. (Pro-Tip: Putting a funnel under the mesh strainer reduces lost material and makes collection much easier.) Combine the component powders in the collection dish, mix well, and bottle immediately. For volume, go heavier on the less expensive or more easily available materials like Lemon Peel, Cayenne, and Salt. Otherwise, combine in more or less even amounts. Sprinkle a pinch in the corner of each room to dispel heaviness and clear the air, so to speak. Useful for spring cleaning and touch-up jobs throughout the year. Add to floor washes, incenses, or charms for general cleansing and purification of the home.

Witchcraft 101: Psychic Phenomena

What is Psychic Phenomena?

The internet describes it as: “phenomena that appear to contradict physical laws and suggest the possibility of causation by mental processes.” or “phenomena lying outside the sphere of physical science or knowledge.”

So, in layman’s terms, psychic phenomena are abilities and/or practises that do not comply with known laws of physics and deal with the metaphysical.

*Metaphysics is “a branch of philosophy that deals with the first principles of things, including abstract concepts such as being, knowing, identity, time, and space.”

✧ Automatic Writing:

Automatic Writing - also know as “psychography” - is, quite simply, the ability to write without conscious thought. This means that the writings done during an episode or session of Automatic Writing come from a spiritual source. Oftentimes, the writings will not make a lot of sense - Automatic Writing is a form of divination and thus, the writing must be be interpreted by the practitioner if the meaning is not immediately clear. // [How to Practise Automatic Writing]

✧ Clairaudience:

Clairaudience (clear hearing) is the ability to hear things that are not of this plane. For example, you may be able to hear the voices of spirits and entities that do not exist within the physical human world, or hear the voices of those who have passed. It is said that one can grow and develop this psychic ability over time with practise.

✧ Claircognizance:

Claircognizance (clear knowing) is best described as the ability to know something intrinsically. This means that you have knowledge of something, someone or a subject that you were not taught and cannot provide a background to. This is often referred to as a higher form of intuition and if you are claircognizant, you know that what you know is true beyond doubt.

✧ Clairgustance:

This psychic phenomena, is probably one of the stranger ones. Literally meaning “clear taste”, clairgustance is the ability to taste something without putting it in your mouth. This form of extra-sensory perception (ESP) is uncommon and those who possess this ability say that they can taste the essence of something from an astral or spiritual plane.

✧ Clairolfaction:

This is a form of ESP that enables the person with this talent to receive information by means of - for lack of a better description - psychic smelling. Yes, you did read that correctly. Much like the aforementioned Clairgustance, Clairolfaction is the ability to smell something - or as practitioners may say the essence of something - without a physical source for the stench to emanate from.

Clairolfaction is also known as “Clairscent”.

✧ Clairsentience:

Clairsentience (meaning “clear feeling”), is the ability to acquire knowledge by touch. The gifted individual may gain knowledge of emotion, memory, location and more by touching a person or an object that belongs/belonged to a person. Sometimes, a Clairsentient person may feel the presence of spirits too.

✧ Clairvoyance:

Clairvoyance (meaning “clear seeing”) is the ability to receive information about future events, or spiritual knowledge visually.

✧ Divination:

Divination is the umbrella term used for methods of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown by spiritual means, such as using pendulums, dowsing, reading tarot cards, palmistry, and more.

✧ Energy Medicine:

Energy medicine, also known as spiritual healing, is a branch of alternative medicine based on the belief that healers can channel healing energy into a patient/client and effect positive results by doing so.

Reiki is a well known form of this.

✧ Mediumship & Channelling:

There are different types of mediumship and channelling (such as Ouija), but the best way to cover all the types with one small explanation, is to say that mediumship is the practise of communing with the deceased.

✧ Precognition & Premonition:

Precognition and premonition simply means that the person with this gift is able to have foreknowledge of an event/events. A common form of gaining this knowledge, is through clairvoyance and prophetic vision.

✧ Psychometry:

Psychometry is the ability to gain knowledge of a person - whether that is their location, personal knowledge, or otherwise - through contact with an inanimate object that is associated with them. Commonly the objects used in psychometry will belong to the person you are trying to gain knowledge about, and may be items of clothing or jewellery.

✧ Retrocognition:

This is also known as “postcognition” and is the opposite of precognition. This ability is described as being able to gain knowledge of an event that has already passed that cannot be learned through regular means and must be learned through extra-sensory perception.

✧ Second Sight:

Often, this term is used interchangeably with “clairvoyance” as it means that the person with this gift is able to predict and perceive future events before they occur through visual means. These visions are often symbolic in nature.

Second Sight has also been described as the ability to see something that cannot usually be seen, such as otherwordly entities.

✧ Scrying:

A form of divination, Scrying is the practise of foretelling the future or gaining foresight using a reflective surface, such as a mirror, crystal ball or water. // Scrying [Witchcraft 101]

✧ Telepathy:

Telepathy is the ability to communicate with another person through extra-sensory means - by this, we mean that the communication is done by means outside the known senses (touch, taste, smell, sight, hearing).

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Witchcraft 101: The Basics of Wards & Warding

I tried looking for some informative posts about wards and warding, and there are a few out there, but I thought I’d compile what I’ve learned into one post, and thus this long-winded work came to be.

What are wards? Well - to put it simply - wards are a means of protection against negativity, negative energies and any form of ill-will that seeks to harm yourself, your loved ones or your home. They are a form of ‘psychokinetic shield’ if you want to use the fancy terminology, - a thing to deflect nasties. Wards can be cast on objects and items, in the home or a space that you want to protect, such as a workplace or communal space, or they can be cast in certain rooms. Some wards can be cast around the whole perimeter of an area - grounds included.
Under what circumstances should I/when should I create wards? Well, my ghoul, the short answer is this: whenever you feel is best. I find that whenever your home has been busy, or a high-traffic area, you may want to take down old wards and cast new ones, or perhaps after you’ve had a mad deep clean in your home. That works best for me, anyway!

WHERE DO I START?

The first thing you need to do is cleanse. Cleansing is used in witchcraft all the time; we cleanse our tools and spaces often to make sure no residual energies or nastiness is in, on or around our stuff. It’s the same with wards and warding. When warding, you’re essentially creating a shield using energy and this is often done by visualising and forming a sort of… bubble. Cleansing any tools you plan on using and cleansing the space you intend on protecting (if this is your aim, of course) will wash away any left over energies or anything that you don’t want with the bounds of your ward(s).

You can cleanse using any of your preferred methods, such as smoke cleansing using incense, or by washing your area/tools/items in a charged water.

NOW WHAT?

You’re cleansed, and you’re ready. Okay, cool beans. Let’s get down to business (to defeat, the Huns!). You need to decided on just how you want to cast your wards as there are various ways and means of doing so. You don’t have to stick to just one - you’re more than welcome to dabble and to experiment, or use combinations of methods as long as it’s safe and suits your wants and needs.

SIGILS & SYMBOLS:

  1. So, you like sigils, do ya’? Me too! Sigils are a great way of establishing wards in and around the home. You can either choose a sigil that befits your intent, or craft your own - either is fine, and using incense smoke, oil blends or simply your finger and a little bit of visualization and a lot of focus on your intent, draw your sigils on the doors and windows of your home (primary access points), and on door frames and windowsills. If you’re creating wards for a property as a whole, you can engrave or draw sigils onto gates and fence posts too.

INCENSE:

  1. Ah, good old incense. Now, bear in mind that sometimes using incense smoke may not be possible or appropriate, or perhaps you don’t do well with smoke - totally understandable, lots of people don’t. If this is the case, you can cast wards using water and oil blends instead! This can be done by putting the blend into a spray bottle and then by ‘spritzing’ your object or area.
  2. When you’re creating an oil blend or an incense, try your best to make sure that your protection herbs (rosemary, bay, cinnamon, salt, etc,.), are authentic because the magick is in your herbs!
A Quick Step-by-Step Guide to Incense Warding: Smoke or spray/spritz your item, if it is an item that you are warding. If it’s a room/building or space, you need to pick a place to start. If you are not drawn to any area in particular, then starting by your altar (if you are that way inclined!) or at a doorway, would be best. *If you’re warding more than one floor, begin at the very top and work your way down.
Next, begin smoking/spritzing the room. You do this by moving clockwise around the room (to the right). As you do so, visualise the smoke or spray enveloping everything it touches; forming an impenetrable layer on all around you - a shield, if you will. If you have problems with visualisation, then simply focus on your intent: protection, protection, protection. If you’re setting up specific wards, e.g., ones to stop bad spirits or fae, focus on that.
As you work, follow the layout of the space you are warding. Work from room to room. If you aim to set up a ward that protects an entire property, you may want to establish a perimeter. You do this by walking full circle, including the ground and gardens, if applicable.

ENERGY WARDS:

  1. Then, my friend, the bubble/wall wards will work for you.
  2. Some people are naturally very good at working with energy and so this form of warding may work best for you, if you are one of those people. Using visualisation, take your object (if, again, that’s what you’re doing, if not and you’re warding a space, apply the following steps to the space you are working in), and channel your energy into it. Do this by envisioning, as best you can, a cord or light or a tendril of some form, coming from yourself and into the object. During this time, focus solely and intently on your intent. Put as much power as you can muster into this.
  3. If you are a proficient energy worker, you may be able to build a dome/wall/shield of energy that is capable of warding larger areas.
To add a little oomph, to your wards, you may want to chant or add some vocal spell-work into the mix. If you do want to do this, you’ll need to find an applicable chant or create one of your own and then, as you walk through your space, you will need to repeat it over and over, keeping your intent in mind. As you cover you home, or space, you’ll need to speak it in each room you wish to protect!
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Witches Sabbats: Mabon

MABON (pronounced “MAY-bun”, “MAH-bun”), falls on the Autumnal/Vernal Equinox which occurs between the 21st and 23rd of September in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the date of the second harvest, and the day on which daytime and nighttime is divided equally.

MABON: ORIGINS

There is very little evidence that Mabon was celebrated by ancient Celtic cultures, despite it’s Celtic (Welsh) name. From what we know, the name Mabon was coined in 1970 by Aidan Kelly, as part of the Wheel of the Year.

We do know, however, that ancient cultures celebrated the autumnal equinox which is exactly when Mabon falls. 

“Come Little Leaves”

By: George Cooper

“Come, little leaves, ” said the wind one day, 

“Come o'er the meadows with me and play; 

Put on your dresses of red and gold, 

For summer is gone and the days grow cold.”

Soon as the leaves heard the wind’s loud call, 

Down they came fluttering, one and all; 

Over the brown fields they danced and flew, 

Singing the glad little songs they knew. 

“Cricket, good-by, we’ve been friends so long, 

Little brook, sing us your farewell song; 

Say you are sorry to see us go; 

Ah, you will miss us, right well we know. 

“Dear little lambs in your fleecy fold, 

Mother will keep you from harm and cold; 

Fondly we watched you in vale and glade, 

Say, will you dream of our loving shade? “ 

Dancing and whirling, the little leaves went, 

Winter had called them, and they were content; 

Soon, fast asleep in their earthy beds, 

The snow laid a coverlid over their heads.

Correspondences of: Carrier & Essential Oils

This is a long post, the correspondences are under the cut.

Carrier Oils: Carrier oils, known also as base oils, are used to dilute essential oils before they are applied topically. They serve as the base for oil blends. 

Essential Oils: Essential oils are concentrated liquids that contain the volatile (”the tendency of a substance to vaporize") aromatic compounds of plants. They are obtained via distillation and the oil alone should never be applied to the skin directly as some a reactive to heat, and light, and some will give you chemical burns. You are likely to have a reaction to essential oils.

Carrier Oils:

  1. ALMOND OIL, SWEET (Prunus Dulcis) Ruled by Mercury and the Element of Air. Sweet Almond Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with prosperity, money and wisdom.
  2. APRICOT KERNEL OIL (Prunus Armeniaca) Ruled by Venus and the Element of Water. This makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with love or emotions.
  3. AVOCADO OIL (Persea Americana) Ruled by Venus and the Element of Water. This makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with love, lust or beauty.
  4. CASTOR OIL (Ricinus communis) Ruled by Mars and the Element of Fire. Castor oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with protection and absorbing negativity.
  5. COCONUT OIL (Cocos Nucifera) Ruled by the Moon and the Element of Water. Fractionated Coconut Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with purification and protection.
  6. GRAPESEED OIL (Vinis Vinifera) Ruled by the Moon and the Element of Water. Grapeseed Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with fertility money and strengthening mental abilities.
  7. HEMP SEED OIL (Cannabis Sativa) Ruled by the Moon and Saturn and the Element of Water. Hemp Seed Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with healing, love, psychic ability and meditation.
  8. JOJOBA OIL (Simmondsia Chinensis) Ruled by the Moon and the element of Water. Jojoba Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with healing and love.
  9. OLIVE OIL (Olea Europaea) Ruled by the Sun and the Element of Fire. Olive Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with healing, peace, fertility and protection. In many traditions Olive Oil is an all purpose oil.
  10. SUNFLOWER OIL (Helianthus Annus) Ruled by the Sun and the Element of Fire. Sunflower Oil makes a great carrier oil for blends that deal with protection, fertility, health and wisdom.

Essential Oils:

  1. AMYRIS (Amyris balsamifera) Anointing, astral projection, attraction, blessing, consecration, exorcism, healing, love, meditation, protection, purification, sacral chakra, spirituality.
  2. ANGELICA ROOT (Angelica archangelica) Exorcism, protection, healing, visions.
  3. BASIL (Ocimum basilicum) Business success, conscious mind (stimulates), happiness, lust, money, peace, prosperity, protection.
  4. BAY LAUREL (Laurus nobilis) Banishing, exorcism, luck, psychic ability.
  5. BENZOIN (Styrax benzoin) Purification, prosperity, attracts customers.
  6. BERGAMONT (Citrus bergamia) Business success, happiness, money, peace, physical energy, prosperity, protection, sleep.
  7. BIRCH SWEET (Betula lenta) Protection, purification, exorcism.
  8. BLACK PEPPER (Piper nigrum) Courage, physical energy, and protection.
  9. BLUE TANSY (Tanacetum annuum) Water, Venus, immortality, youth, longevity.
  10. CAJEPUT (Melaleuca cajeputi) Purification, protection, dispel negative thoughts and energies, break habits.
  11. CAMPHOR (Cinnamomum camphora) Celibacy, crown chakra, physical energy, psychic energy, purification.
  12. CARDAMOM (Elettaria cardamomum) Love, lust.
  13. CARROT SEED (Daucus carota) Grounding, fertility.
  14. CATNIP (Nepeta cataria) Cat magic, love, beauty, happiness.
  15. CEDARWOOD (Cedrus atlantica) Blessing, health (maintain), heart chakra, meditation, money, protection, psychic energy, purification, self-control, spirituality, unhexing.
  16. CHAMOMILE (Matricaria recutita & Anthemis nobilis) Meditation, peace, sleep.
  17. CHILLI SEED (Capsicum annum) Protection, exorcism, fidelity, hex-breaking, love.
  18. CINNAMON (Cinnamomum burmanii /cassia /zeylancium) Astral projection, base chakra, business success, health (maintain), luck, lust, magical energy, meditation, money, physical energy, prosperity, protection, psychic awareness, purification, spirituality.
  19. CITRONELLA (Cymbopogon nardus / winterianus) Exorcism (exterior use), health (maintain), purification, unhexing.
  20. CLARY SAGE (Salvia sclarea) Vivid dreams.
  21. CLOVE BUD (Eugenia or syzgium aromaticum) Balances chakras, business success, courage, divination, exorcism, healing, heart chakra, love, money, prosperity, protection, psychic awareness.
  22. COFFEE BEAN (Coffea arabica) Grounding, Earth magic, Mars, ritual stimulant.
  23. CYPRESS (Cupressus sempervirens) Longevity, healing, comfort, protection.
  24. ELEMI (Canarium luzonicum) Mental and psychic ability, spiritual balance, solar plexus chakra.
  25. EUCALYPTUS (Eucalyptus globulus) Healing, health (maintain), protection, psychic energy, purification.
  26. FIR NEEDLE (Abies sibirica) Mind clearing, memory, communication, purification before ritual, , protection, hex removal.
  27. FRANKINCENSE (Boswellia serrata / carterii) Blessing, consecration, courage, exorcism, meditation, protection, purification, solar plexus chakra, spirituality.
  28. GERANIUN (Pelargonium graveolens /x asperum) Happiness, protection.
  29. GINGER ROOT (Zingiber officinale) Attraction, business success, courage, love, lust, magical energy, money, peace, physical energy, prosperity, purification, sex.
  30. GRAPEFRUIT (Citrus paradisi) Purification.
  31. HELICHRYSUM (Helichrysum italicum) Creativity, intuition, invoke spirits, scrying, channeling, awareness, calm, patience.
  32. HO WOOD (Cinnamomum camphora) Cleaning, banishing, subdue sexual desire, celibacy, chastity, psychic power, dream work.
  33. HYSSOP (Hyssopus officinalis) Purification, protection.
  34. JUNIPER BERRY (Juniperus communis) Protection, anti-theft, love, exorcism, health.
  35. LAVENDER (Lavandula stoechas/angustifolia/latifolia /hybrida) Balances chakras, business success, celibacy, conscious mind (stimulates), happiness, health (maintain), love, peace, protection, purification, sleep, third-eye chakra.
  36. LEMON (Citrus limonum / limon) Balances chakras, health (maintain), love, physical energy, purification.
  37. LEMONGRASS (Cymbopogon citratus /flexuosus /schoenanthus) Psychic awareness, psychic energy, purification, spirituality.
  38. LIME (Citrus aurantifolia) Physical energy, protection, purification.
  39. LITSEA (Litsea cubeba) Energy, rejuvenation, letting go.
  40. MARJORAM (Origanum majorana) Celibacy, happiness, peace, sleep.
  41. MUGWORT (Artemesia vulgaris) Moon, divination, lucid dreaming, prophetic dreams, protection.
  42. MYRRH (Commiphora myrrha) Astral projection, attraction, balances chakras, blessing, consecration, crown chakra, exorcism, healing, meditation, protection, psychic energy, spirituality, unhexing.
  43. MYRTLE (Myrtus communis) Love, good luck, fertility, and Venus, feminine and water aspects.
  44. NIAOULI (Melaleuca quinquenervia) Purification, healing, protection, clearing negative energies, aura cleansing.
  45. NUTMEG (Myristica fragrans) Luck, magical energy, meditation, money, physical energy, psychic awareness.
  46. OPOPANAX (Commiphora guidotti) Death/resurrection, divination, Pluto, Scorpio, change.
  47. OREGANO (Origanum vulgare) Happiness, tranquility.
  48. PALMAROSA (Cymbopogon martini) Healing, love.
  49. PALO SANTO (Bursera graveolens)
  50. Luck, cleansing, air element.
  51. PATCHOULI (Pogostemon cablin) Attraction, banishes negativity, growth, love, luck, mastery, money, peace, physical energy, prosperity, sex.
  52. PEPPERMINT (Mentha arvensis / piperita) Conscious mind (stimulates), exorcism, health (maintain), protection, purification.
  53. PETITGRAIN (Citrus aurantium) Conscious mind (stimulates), protection.
  54. PINE (Pinus sylvestris) Exorcism, grounding, healing, health (maintain), magical energy, money, physical energy, protection, purification.
  55. ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus officinalis) Conscious mind (stimulates), exorcism, health (maintain), heart chakra, longevity, love, protective, remembrance, third-eye chakra, vitality.
  56. ROSEWOOD (Aniba rosaeodora) Mars, Moon, Venus, spirit element, fire element, intuitive health, beauty, divination, scrying, healing rituals, maturity, wisdom, femininity.
  57. SAGE, DALMATION (Salvia officinalis) Conscious mind (stimulates), exorcism, money, purification, wisdom.
  58. SAGE, WHITE (Salvia apiana) Cleansing spaces and magical objects, banish negative energy.
  59. SANDALWOOD (Santalum album) Anointing, astral projection, attraction, blessing, consecration, exorcism, healing, love, meditation, protection, purification, sacral chakra, spirituality.
  60. SPEARMINT (Mentha spicata) Comfort, healing, sleep (for protection).
  61. SPIKENARD “JATAMANSI” (Nardostachys jatamansi) Good luck, fidelity, and health.
  62. STAR ANISE (Illicium verum) Psychic power, luck.
  63. SWEET ORANGE (Citrus sinensis) Balances chakras, divination, happiness, joy, love, luck, magical energy, money, physical energy, psychic energy, purification, sacral chakra.
  64. TANGERINE (Citrus reticulata) Magical energy, purification.
  65. TEA TREE (Melaleuca alternifolia) Purification.
  66. THYME (Thymus vulgaris) Conscious mind (stimulates), courage, health (maintain), purification.
  67. TURMERIC (Curcuma longa) Purification, protection.
  68. VALERIAN ROOT (Valeriana officinalis) Love, sleep, purification, protection.
  69. VANILLA (Vanilla planifolia) Love, lust, mental power.
  70. VETIVER (Vetiveria zizanoides) Divination, exorcism, love, money, peace, protection, unhexing.
  71. WINTERGREEN (Gaultheria procumbens) Protection, healing, hex-breaking.
  72. YLANG YLANG (Cananga odorata) Love, lust, peace, sex, throat chakra.

[Sources: [X] [X]

Photo Credit: [X]

Bealtaine (Beltane)

*"Bealtaine" is the Irish spelling and is pronounced as "byal-tin-ah". "Beltane" is the Anglicised and is pronounced phonetically.

When is Bealtaine? 30th of April to the 1st of May. What is Bealtaine? It is a Celtic fire and fertility festival that is also known as “May Day”, “Samradh”, and “May Eve”. It marks the coming of Summer.

Traditionally, jumping over a balefire during this festival is said to ensure protection over the forthcoming year - this may be where the “naked-pagans-jumping-bonfires” stereotype comes from.

Bealtaine is opposite Samhain in the Wheel of the Year, and just as they are opposed in position, they are opposed in celebration. Samhain is a festival that in many ways, celebrates death, whereas Beltane is a celebration of life.

BEALTAINE CORRESPONDENCES

There are many traditional activities associated with Bealtaine, such as bonfires, Maypoles and feasts, but if we’re going to be realistic, many of us can’t weave flowers into our hair and raise a Maypole in our village square.

Here’s some correspondences and associations that we can realistically work with:

COLOURS:

  • Green.
  • Pink.
  • Yellow.
  • Red.
  • Brown.
  • Light Blue.
  • Lavender.

• FOOD:

Seasonal spring vegetables, such as cabbage, asparagus, radishes, onions, and potatoes (UK).

Sweets, such as chocolate, pastries and honey.

Spiced foods, such as ginger and peppers, incorporate the fire element of the festival into celebrations.

Aphrodisiacs, such as oysters, asparagus, nutmeg, and vanilla, incorporate the sensuality and fertility aspect of the festival.

Maybowl (a.k.a., May Wine), is a beverage that is typically made specifically for Beltane. Alcoholic versions of this beverage usually use honey mead or a sweet wine for a base, and non-alcoholic versions may use ginger ale. [Wine & Champagne based Maybowl Recipe]

• INCENSE:

Scents associated with Beltane are usually wild, earthy, and are often considered to be sensual.

  • Vanilla.
  • Cinnamon.
  • Patchouli.
  • Rose.
  • Lilac.
  • Oakmoss.
  • Sandalwood.

• FLORA:

Traditional flowers include: Hawthron, Rose, Sweet Woodruff, and Pansy. Others may include: Bluebell, Marigold, Primrose, and Daisy.

• OTHER TOOLS:

Other tools may include candles, an athame (ritual knife), a brazier or cauldron.

• DEITIES & ENTITIES:

  • Bast.
  • Artemis.
  • Diana.
  • Flora.
  • Faunus.
  • Pan.
  • Bacchus.
  • Hera.
  • Óengus.
  • Cernunnos.
  • Herne.
  • Rhiannon.
  • Eros.
  • Aos Sidhe.

• OTHER ACTIVITIES:

Flower Crowns: Flower crowns are a discreet, pretty and very fitting way of celebrating Beltane. If you make your own, use flowers that symbolise the festival if you can. If you are using artificial flowers, focus on the colour correspondences instead. Red is a biggie as it can represent the fire and/or fertility element.

May Baskets: Traditionally, May Baskets were given to women from men (every woman in a household would get one), and they would be filled with sweets and flowers.

Bonfires: **Only if you have a safe outside space.** Bonfires are a simple way to honour this sabbat. They represent fire (you know, because they are fire), they cleanse and they bring protection. They also bring people together, and it is common to accompany the bonfire with a feast of seasonal foods.

Recharging Post-Divination

Whatever form of divination you choose to practise, you will likely find that you feel tired once it’s over. This is normal and not something you need to worry about, but the fact it’s normal doesn’t mean that it is particularly nice! Aftercare is important.

Here are some easy ways to help yourself feel more relaxed and rested and even invigorated post-divination!

  • REHYDRATE! This might seem like more of a general life tip, but if you feel drained, you need to make sure you’re hydrated. Dehydration causes exhaustion, clouded thought, bad moods and, in more severe cases, can make you very sick. DRINK YA’ WATER, WITCH.
  • NAP TIME! There’s no magical goodness in this, other than the magic that is sleep. If you need to sleep, then do it. Sleep is the body’s way of getting true rest, and during sleep the body recharges, recovers, and heals.
  • HAVE A BATH OR SHOWER! Baths and showers are known to be relaxing, but for me I find that showers are more invigorating, whereas baths are relaxing and chill me out more. It’s likely different for different people. The heat of baths/showers will warm you and release any tension you’re holding. You can draw energy from the heat and cleanse yourself (physically and spiritually!) in the water.
  • GET COMFORTABLE AND LISTEN TO MUSIC THAT LIFTS YOUR MOOD! Music does have some magical uses and connotations—such as the vibrations raising the energy of a space—but the main use of it here, is just to lift your spirits and make you happy. Sometimes, divination can be tough and music often has a way of helping us to unwind and feel better.
  • HOT BEVERAGES! Not everyone likes hot beverages, so this isn’t for everyone (if you are one of those people, don’t worry)! I often find that tea blends are best when it comes to post-divination stuff. Tea in itself is known to make people feel relaxed and more chilled out—I think hot drinks have that affect because they make us feel more comfortable and cosy. However! Tea is amazing because you can make your own blend and tailor it to whatever you need. Want to relax? Chamomile and Lavender! Want to feel more energised? Peppermint! Green! Ginger!
  • MEDITATE/GROUND! Not everyone meditates, but for those who do, this can be a nice way to release any tension, ground yourself [click here for more information on grounding] after divining. Meditation and grounding can be particularly useful after intense sessions.
  • EAT SOME GOOD FOOD! Get yourself some good, filling food! I find that my go-to post-divination food is usually something that is both fresh and filling, like a carb/veg/salad mix. It really is that simple! If your energy has been sapped by divining, you’re going to need to refuel.
  • DO SOMETHING THAT YOU ENJOY, THAT YOU CAN DO WITHOUT FEELING DRAINED! Some people may binge watch their favourite TV show. Some people may read a book. Some people may knit. Some people may go for a walk. Whatever activity you can enjoy without feeling as though it drains you and tires you out, do it. It’ll make you happy, feel energised, and shake everything off that needs to be YEETed away.
  • INCENSE AND OIL DIFFUSERS! Want to relax? Burn/diffuse some Lavender. Want to raise your energy? Burn/diffuse some citrus!
  • OPEN A WINDOW! Fresh air can be one of the most refreshing and calming things in the world. Crack open a window. It’ll help. I promise.

The common theme here, is do things that make you happy and keep you well. Rest when you need to, eat and drink, and do what makes you feel happy.

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Rowan Maédhbh’s List of Tips and Advice for New Witches

Rowan Maédhbh’s List of Tips and Advice For New Witches!

✧ GENERAL TIPS:

  • Read.
  • Before you even think about practising magic, you need to study. It sounds tedious, I know, but witchcraft is not a trivial undertaking. You also need to learn to read critically, and with a pinch of salt! Why? Because, although almost all authors do have some valuable and useful content in their work, some perpetuate problematic ideals, such as racism, sexism, stealing from closed cultures, and the use of Wicca and witchcraft interchangeably.
  • Start a grimoire/Book of Shadows/Journal.
  • You’ll need a safe place to keep all of the information you’ve gathered safe, and a grimoire (as I call mine), is essentially a notebook for that exact purpose. It doesn’t have to be fancy (though you’re welcome to make it as ostentatious as you like), - it can be a bullet journal if that’s easy for you. Within your grimoire, you should keep all gathered information, spells, failures, successes, records of work you’ve done, etc,. Anything that pertains to your craft.
  • Don’t put pressure on yourself to pick a path.
  • You might see a lot of witches who class themselves as one thing or another, e.g., storm witches, kitchen witches, elemental witches, spirit/divination witches; green witches; cosmic witches, and so on. That is cool and their prerogative, but you will also see witches known as eclectic - like me! Eclectic Witches, are simply witches who choose to practise many different types of magic and forge their own path, instead of following only one, or following a pre-established path.
  • Basically, there is no need at all, whatsoever, to label yourself. With many of us, our paths found us in time.
  • Research paths, secular witchcraft and religious witchcraft.
  • Witchcraft alone, is a practise. However, some paths are indeed religious, such as Wicca. Make sure you know the difference before you begin actively practising and before you decide on your path, if you do choose to do so.
  • Carry a little notebook on your person.
  • You can’t always carry your grimoire with you, so I personally like to carry a tiny little notebook with me, for those moments when inspiration takes me, or if something captures my imagination or attention. You can add it to your grimoire/BoS later.

Oh, and one more thing: don’t ever stop learning and reading and recording. Witchcraft is a path of continuous learning.

✧ THINGS TO RESEARCH:

  • Crystals/gemstones/minerals
  • Herb and crystal correspondences, e.g., such as colour and planetary.
  • Sabbats and esbats, if you want to observe them.
  • The basic tools of witchcraft.
  • Altars (if you’re so inclined).
  • Lunar phases.
  • Divination, e.g., tarot, runes, pendulums.
  • Witchcraft and deities (if you’re so inclined).
  • Traditional witchcraft practises.
  • SAFETY! What is safe to use/burn/touch/ingest. There are lots of poisonous and potentially fatal plants and ingredients out there.
  • Easy/budget magic/witchcraft.
  • The history of witchcraft, including lore, myths and tales.
  • The importance and use of the elements in magic.
  • Research cultures. Find out what is and is not available for you to adopt and practise. Make sure that your practise does not steal from closed cultures.

✧ EASY PRACTISES FOR NEW WITCHES:

  • Grounding - grounding is the act of centering your energy and focusing it within yourself. You can ground yourself by being out in nature and using visualising techniques that tie your energies firmly into the ground (very traditional method), or by finding a quiet place that you are content in and meditating.
  • Meditation.
  • Visualisation/visualising.
  • Sigil crafting/creation.
  • Charging jewellery/crystals/objects/sigils.
  • Using glamours in makeup/cosmetics/everyday wear.
  • Incorporating intent via ingredients into cooking.
  • Incantations and chants to bring about luck, good fortune, etc.
  • Cleansing your space with incense.