#metaphysical

The Magic Above

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It is scientific fact that our bodies contain the same elements found in the stars. The carbon, nitrogen and oxygen atoms in our bodies, as well as atoms of all other heavy elements, were created in previous generations of stars over 4.5 billion years ago. Humans, animals, as well as most of the matter on Earth contain these elements. We are literally made of stardust. This is another example of how all things are divinely inter-connected in the universal web of life. That which is above is a reflection of that which is below. Since we have this connection to the celestial bodies, we can draw on their influence and powers to aid in our witchcraft. Witches have learned how to tap into the energies of the planets, stars, the Sun and the Moon. Each have their own unique qualities. Much of this knowledge has been passed down thru the centuries, and witches are still using it today.

The planets in our solar system all contain their own unique energies that can be called upon in rituals and magical workings. Each planet, including the Sun and Moon, has a magical link to various plants, colors, metals, symbols, tarot cards and stones. The planets in our solar system: The Moon, Mercury, Venus, Sun, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Earth, Neptune, Uranus and Pluto* are used widely in witchcraft. Those who work with planetary forces discover that they are more than just ‘energies’, they are spiritual entities that have assisted witches for centuries.

*Pluto is still considered by many witches to be a planet, even though Pluto lost it’s “official” planet status in 2006. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) downgraded the status of Pluto to that of a “dwarf planet” because it did not meet the three criteria the IAU uses to define a full-sized planet. Essentially Pluto meets all the criteria except one- it “has not cleared its neighboring region of other objects.” Be that as it may, some practitioners still use the energies of Pluto with great success.

Let’s first examine each of the planets in our solar system and their magical qualities, and then we will move on to other celestial phenomenon. The correspondences listed below are by no means complete.

MOON: The Moon is considered a feminine energy, linked to the powers of divination, intuition, psychic ability and the Third Eye Chakra. Crystals and stones that draw upon Moon energy are Moonstone, Clear Quartz and Lapis Lazuli. Herbs and flowers linked to the Moon are Jasmine, Lily and Moonflower. The metal Silver and the colors White and Silver are associated with the Moon as is the day of Monday. In the Tarot, use The Moon, The Star or The High Priestess cards. The Moon is very important to witches, as each phase of the Moon has it’s own energies that can be used for various purposes. We will discuss this a bit later.

MERCURY: Mercury is linked to all forms of communication, self-expression and travel. Crystals and stones for Mercury are Citrine, Goldstone and Yellow Jasper. Plants linked to Mercury are Lemongrass, Peppermint and Clover. The color Orange and the day of Wednesday is linked to Mercury, and the Throat Chakra. From the Tarot, use The Chariot card. Mercury is also the metal for the planet, however, real Mercury is toxic and deadly, so many witches use only the Mercury symbol or less-toxic substitutes.

VENUS: Venus is associated with love, romance, relationships, friendships, family and other emotional attachments. It is also associated with Women’s Mysteries and Feminine Magic. Crystals and stones that draw upon Venus energy are Rose Quartz and Amethyst. Plants linked to Venus are Rose, Lavender and Elder. It’s day for magic is Friday and The Lovers card from the Tarot can be used. Venus colors are shades of Red, Pink and Blue. The metal of Venus is Copper, and it‘s Chakra is the Heart.

SUN: The Sun is associated with ambition, success, enlightenment and achieving one’s goals. It is linked to the Crown Chakra, and various shades of Gold and Yellow. The metal of the Sun is Gold and it‘s day for magic is Sunday. Crystals and stones for the Sun are Goldstone, Citrine and Golden Topaz. Plants linked to the Sun are Sunflower, Marigold and St. John’s Wort. Use The Sun card from the Tarot in your Sun rituals.

MARS: The energies of Mars are fiery and masculine, primal and aggressive. Mars is linked to assertiveness, force, masculinity, Men’s Mysteries, lust, passion, strength and power. It is very protective and militant. Plants linked to Mars are Red Clover, Cinnamon and Damiana. The color of Mars is Red and it’s day for magic is Tuesday. Crystals and stones linked to Mars are Red Jasper, Ruby and Amber. Mars is ruled by the Sacral Chakra. From the Tarot, use The High Priest or the King of Swords.

JUPITER: The energies of Jupiter are associated with prosperity, money, career, growth and expansion. It’s day for magic is Thursday, and it’s colors are Green and Purple. Plants for Jupiter are Cinquefoil, Bayberry and Sage. Crystals for Jupiter are Green Aventurine, Emerald or Tree Agate. From the Tarot, use the Wheel of Fortune card. Call on Jupiter energies when looking for a new job or any kind of advancement in your career or creative projects.

SATURN: The energies of Saturn are linked to boundaries, limitations, restrictions, obstacles, protection magic, banishing and binding. It’s day is Saturday and it’s color is Black. Crystals for Saturn are Black Obsidian, Black Onyx and Jet. Plants of Saturn are Mandrake, Belladonna and Henbane. (These are highly poisonous, so use caution! For a less toxic substitute, use Snapdragon or Slippery Elm). From the Tarot, use The World or The Tower cards.

EARTH: The energies of Earth represent grounding, stability, health, manifestation, and life on the physical plane. It is linked to the Root Chakra, and color shades of green and brown. All crystals and plants can represent Earth. Tree bark can also be used. In the Tarot use the King of Wands or Queen of Wands.

NEPTUNE: Neptune is associated with the element of Water, intuition, sensitivity, empathy, compassion, adaptability and imagination. It’s color is Grey. Plants associated with Neptune are Melon, Cucumber, Pumpkin, Water Lily and Lotus Flower. Neptune crystals are Clear Quartz, Smoky Quartz and Pearl. Ocean sand, seashells and sea foam can also be used. In the Tarot, use the King of Cups.

URANUS: The energies of the planet Uranus are associated with individuality, non-traditionalism, revolution, invention and eccentricity. Plants linked to Uranus are those with sharp, irregular leaves, rare herbs and plants that shock or excite the nervous system, or plants that are purple or electric blue in color. Uranus colors are bright, neon or abstract designs. Rough, unpolished stones and crystals can be used to call upon Uranus planetary energies. In the Tarot, use The Fool or the Page of Wands.

PLUTO: The energies of Pluto are linked to rebirth, transformation, destiny and the subconscious. Herbs and flowers of Pluto are the passionflower, acacia, hollow larkspur, coneflower and the male fern. Colors for Pluto are White and Black. Crystals and stones are Snowflake Obsidian, White Howlite, Hypersthene and Black Tourmaline. In the Tarot use The Hanged Man or Death cards.

It should be noted that many witches use only the seven classical planets: Moon, Mercury, Venus, Sun, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn, as these were the only planets known in ancient times. Neptune, Uranus and Pluto were discovered later, and their magical correspondences are fairly new. Now that we know what each of the planets represent, and the energies they contain, how do we use them?

One way is through meditation and visualization. Each of the planets have a symbol (see the chart below). If you are doing magic to bring prosperity in your life, you can enter a meditative state, close your eyes and visualize the symbol for Jupiter with an intention for prosperity. Or, you may choose to draw the symbol on a piece of parchment paper and place it on your altar under a green candle. It is important to use as many correspondences of the same planet that you can. Carve the Jupiter symbol on the side of the candle, place Jupiter crystals and plants around the candle. Write your intention for prosperity on a piece of paper and light it with the candle, and drop it into a cauldron to burn.

There are many ways to work with the planets, including planetary sigils and kameas, (these are special symbols you create to manifest specific intentions). You can blend your own planetary oils, and there are even planetary hours of the day. It is also helpful to remember that each day of the week is associated with a specific planet. For example, Thursday is associated with Jupiter, the planet that rules matters related to job, career, finances, accomplishment and luck. Thursday is a great day to do magic for prosperity or job promotions. Wednesday is associated with the planet Mercury, which rules matters related to communication and travel. If you are giving a lecture or planning a trip, Wednesday is a good day to do magic so that things run smoothly.

It is important to understand that it is not necessary to wait for a specific day. While certain days are energetically better for some types of witchcraft, you can still do magic on any day of the week and call on the powers present for that day. Using the prosperity magic example, if you need to do money magic and you can’t wait until Thursday, cast your spell on a Tuesday and call on the determination and strength of Mars. Once you become familiar with the planetary influences, you will not have to go searching through books and grimoires to find what you need.

The Moon

For thousands of years, we have been mystified by the Moon. Songs and stories have been written about the Moon, and it has made it’s way into myths and legends that stretch back through the ancient past. To some, it is merely a rock in the sky. To others, it is divine and full of magical energy. It certainly produces energy, as it’s gravitational pull affects the tides of the ocean. Even we ourselves are affected by the Moon‘s phases, as our bodies are made of 80% water. In magical teachings, the Moon is regarded as feminine, while the Sun is masculine. Your lunar sign (the astrological position of the Moon at your time of birth) reveals information about your shadow self, the things you keep hidden from others, your inner life, insecurities, secrets, etc. It is a well-known fact that Witches conduct their lives by the Moon. Each phase of the Moon carries it’s own unique energies that be called upon for various purposes. Let’s examine each one.

New Moon/Dark Moon: Magic during a New Moon, sometimes called the Dark Moon, is typically for introspective work, the shadow self, personal issues and private matters, banishing and bindings, inner growth. It is also a time to examine your “dark” nature, finding ways to integrate it into your life in a healthy and balanced way. What are the things that hold you back from achieving your goals? Are there things in your personality or lifestyle that you have suppressed because of the opinions of others? The New Moon is a time to allow your dark side to come forth and be examined, releasing what is harmful while retaining those things that express your true self in a positive way. The second New Moon occurring in the same month is called a Black Moon, during which the Dark Moon’s powers are amplified.

Waxing Crescent to Full Moon: The waxing crescent occurs as the New Moon is no longer dark and begins to increase it’s light. This is a time for new beginnings, new projects, new endeavors. Starting a job, writing a book, brainstorming for ideas, or planning future events are all things that are aided by the energy of a waxing crescent moon. As the Moon increases to Full, energy begins to build up. Use magic during these phases to bring anything you need into your life. Physical health, job success or promotion, self-confidence, romance or anything that would be beneficial to your well-being.　

Full Moon: The Full Moon is the most powerful phase of the Moon for magic that involves some kind of outward manifestation. In fact, it is a good idea to time your manifestation spells as close to the Full Moon as possible. It is also a great time to gather plants for your spells and potions, cleanse and charge your crystals, divination tools and other ritual items. This is a perfect time to do rituals that honor your deities and spirit guides. The Full Moon is a time of completion, the end of one cycle and the beginning of a new one. The second Full Moon occurring in the same month is called a Blue Moon.

Waning Crescent to New Moon: During these phases, the Moon’s energy aids us in removing things from our lives that are not for our highest good. It is a time to remove obstacles or anything that is blocking us from achieving our goals. It is also a time to examine our fears and insecurities, and find ways to overcome them. As the Moon begins to grow dark, we can also use this time to magically bind and banish those who seek to do us harm. It is a time of cloaking ourselves so that we are protected as we look within.

The Moon is Waxing (increasing) from New Moon to Full Moon.

It is Waning (decreasing) from Full Moon to New Moon.

What about Eclipses?

Eclipses represent balance, change and transformation. A Lunar Eclipse is a time of increased awareness and growth on an inner, spiritual level. During a Lunar Eclipse, the Moon is always in the opposite astrological sign that the Sun is in. Both signs and their inherent energies are brought into the picture.

A Solar Eclipse indicates a powerful potential for change on an outward, visible level. During a Solar Eclipse, the Sun and Moon are always together in the same astrological sign, and occupying the same house. The energy of the Solar Eclipse is concentrated with all of the action being focused into one area. Solar Eclipses only take place during the New Moon. Lunar Eclipses always occur during the Full Moon. While a New and Full Moon occur once (sometimes twice) a month, they are not always eclipses, because the orbit of the Moon does not always lie on the same path as Earth. The astrological sign during which the eclipse occurs is of great importance, because it indicates what kind of energies will be active during the eclipse period.

The moon, the planets, and even the stars can lend their energies for our magic and spellwork. We are made of the same substances found in the celestial bodies. The witch of the Old Ways recognizes this, and works with their energies whenever possible.

Natural Healing Ability

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Everyone has within them some form of natural healing ability. Some have known of their healing abilities since their younger years, while others later discovered their own healing abilities quite by accident. “Natural” in this context refers to unconventional gifts of healing that one did not learn in a class or from a book. A few examples include:

  • intuitively guided chanting and singing
  • the touch of a specific hand or both hands
  • symbols drawn in the air or on the body
  • the playing of musical instruments such as a flute, harp or guitar for the purpose of healing

There are no certifications or degrees for these kinds of healing abilities. On many occasions, these gifts have been inherited and passed down through the family line. Once they have been discovered, it takes time to develop and hone them. Members of the Order are encouraged to seek out their own inherent healing abilities, and practice on friends and family until they are comfortable sharing their gifts with the wider community. There may be occasions, as we look back through the past, that there were surprising interactions with others that resulted in their healing or relief from discomfort. It was during these times that one’s healing abilities began to surface.

Traditional healing modalities that require certification, such as reiki and aromatherapy, are quite effective and encouraged for any healing practitioner. However, these are not required for us to act as channels of healing for others. Our first task is to discover what natural healing abilities may lie within us, bring them out and develop them to be used in service to our communities. Many people have healing abilities that are quite odd and unusual, but they still work nonetheless. The more we learn about magic and the flow of energy, especially in regards to healing, we learn that it is not always necessary to stay within rigid parameters, and that truly anything can be possible.

More Than a Dream

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I’ve had them since I was a child, these dreams that were more than just dreams. They were never like regular dreams, when the brain is just filtering out the sights and sounds of daily waking life. These dreams are different.

They feel like more than just dreams. They feel like actual events taking place on some other plane of existence. When I have dreams of this nature, they have a beginning, a middle, and an end, after which I abruptly wake up. I am usually given a task, sometimes with other people, and the story completely plays out until the end when the task is completed and I wake up. These are not just dreams. I wake up feeling as though I have been somewhere, and with a strong sense of accomplishment. I don’t have them frequently, maybe once every three months or longer. But I’ve always had them since I was young. I still remember most of them. One of them involved two children and an approaching storm. It showed me what would happen if I challenged the storm (rescue the children), and what would happen if I did not (destruction). The dream played twice with different results at the end. And then I woke up.

More recently, I had another of these unusual dreams. I was in a house with two other people. We were on an upper floor, and there was a coffin in the room. There was an old man in the coffin, presumably dead, and we had been tasked to awaken him. The other two people with me, a guy and girl, both seemed rather accustomed to this sort of thing, but looked to me for guidance. I don’t remember how we awakened him, (I vaguely remember someone mentioning a spell), but soon he was sitting up, eyes open. We helped him out of the coffin and into a chair. He was rather shaken by the fact that he was dead. He was more talkative and calm when we held his hand. Our touch seemed to give life to him. When we let go of his hand, his eyes would close and he would slump in his chair. There was a pen and notepad nearby, on which I wrote down everything he said. As I held his hand, he wept a few times and thanked us for what we were doing. He told me about his sister, Anna, who “loved lavender so”. He told me about his daughter, who prepared the flowers for his funeral. He told me about his son who makes “beautiful wood furniture”. There was a long wooden staff in his coffin, which had been laid next to him. He spoke only of his family and very little about himself, except that he had died suddenly, before he had time to realize what was happening. We knew it was important to keep holding his hand until he was finished. He looked at the three of us and said, “I have been awakened by Love”. He was referring to us. We all had strong feelings of compassion for the old man and he could sense it. He then looked up and made an appeal to the divine, “Give me strength. Give me courage. Give me life”. He then slumped in his chair. He had shared with us his love for his family and made peace with himself. We gently placed him back in his coffin.

After this, a few ‘maybe related’ things happened. I had a motorcycle, which for some reason was also on the second floor of the house with us. It was having some issues and I had planned to take it to a mechanic. I have never owned or driven a motorcycle and never wanted one. I never think about motorcycles, ever, so this was an odd part of the dream. Related somehow, perhaps. The two people with me were people I’ve never met in my waking life. It was clear, however, that they were not put off by waking up the dead. It seemed like a common occurrence for them. The male friend was about to leave when I asked him to help me bring the motorcycle down the stairs. He agreed, and then we were outside. He suggested that I walk the bike to the garage (there was one nearby) instead of having it towed, as that would save money. I agreed to this, my two friends went on their way, and I woke up.

I’m not sure what sort of dream this could be called. It wasn’t shamanic, at least not what people say shamanic dreams are supposed to be like. It wasn’t a prophetic dream, as it didn’t seem to be about the future or involve any kind of divination. We were just there to help an old man accept his physical death, and we accomplished that.

I’m sure there are others who have dreams of this nature, though I would highly doubt those who say they have them every night. Mine are very infrequent, with several months between them. And, they are always as real and vivid as this laptop I’m typing on.

Re-Awakening The Witch

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The practice of witchcraft has undergone many changes throughout the years. Some of these changes have been good and some of them not so good. Some changes are being touted as “modern ideas”, while older practices are regarded as “outdated” or “no longer relevant”. The ways of the Witch have become sanitized and diluted to make them more acceptable to the masses. Witches are not feared as they once were. The witch is more than just someone who wears pretty crystals and lights scented candles, while chanting healing words under a full moon, with New Age music playing in the background. There is a place for this, but we must not become too attached to a romanticized image. A witch can make someone’s life easier. A witch can also make someone’s life very unpleasant, and sometimes it is necessary. We are not docile and harmless. For the witch, Light and Dark are two sides of the same coin. In the old days, you wanted to be on the witch’s good side. To provoke a witch could be quite dangerous. For a very long time, witches were respected and feared in equal measure. Then along came the Wiccan Rede. The disclaimer “Do what you will and harm none” made it socially acceptable to be a witch, as in “I’m a witch but it’s okay because I follow the Rede”. This generated the false notion that “good” witches follow the Rede and “bad” ones do not. Before Gerald Gardner and Doreen Valiente, there was no Wiccan Rede, no Threefold Law. Witches were simply witches, living by their own ethical codes and moral standards. They were sovereign, each living according to their own rules. This is the way of the Old Ways Witch. It is not because of the Rede that the innocent are not harmed. The reason the innocent are not harmed is because they are innocent. The other side of this coin is that those who provoke a witch can no longer claim innocence. Back us into a corner and we come out fighting. If someone has a knife to your throat, throwing “love and light” at them isn’t going to save you. You will do what is necessary to protect yourself. There are times when banishings, bindings and curses are absolutely called for, such as when dealing with a stalker or someone seeking to harm your family. There are also times when they are definately NOT called for, such as when an insecure High Priestess chooses to banish from the community anyone who disagrees with her. I do not completely agree with the idea of doing something to make their lives better so they leave you alone. It’s a bit like that ridiculous Bible verse that says “bless those who persecute you”. Sure. Bless them so they can persecute others. Sorry, NO. The witch must remain someone who is both respected and feared.

The Witch and Sovereignty

As a witch, it is your right be sovereign. You develop your own practices, rituals and spells, using methods that work best for you. The way you practice witchcraft is not subject to anyone’s approval or permission. There are far too many people on social media trying to police how others practice. It is childish and ridiculous. I have seen both extremes. There are those who say you’re not “authorized” to engage in certain magical practices unless you belong to a particular culture or tradition. There are casual, lazy types who spout such nonsense as “you don’t need anything, you have all you need within you” and “the only important thing is intention”. They make witchcraft seem so simple, so easy, as if you could cast spells while you’re eating a cheeseburger or watching a movie and you don’t even have to get up from the couch. Witchcraft is not as simplified as people try to make it seem.

The Witch and The Night

The most powerful witches make a connection with the energies of the night. When the moon rises, and many begin preparing for sleep, this is when the abilities of the witch are strongest. It is during the night-time hours, particularly between 3am-5am, when astral interference is at it’s lowest ebb. The chaotic energies generated by social interactions, cellphones, traffic and other anxieties of the day have ceased, if only for a short time. During this time the spells cast by a witch can flow unhindered through the ether. The powers of psychic suggestion and magical intention reach their destinations with less impedance. The night has a special kinship with the word occult, which simply means hidden. In the same way that the night hides and obscures, occult wisdom is hidden from those without the awareness to comprehend it. Witches are the hidden ones. They do not fear the night, for they wear it as a cloak. Witches have long been associated with the night, as they themselves are creatures of the night.

The night is a conscious force with it’s own tangible energy. The darkness of Night is the realm of potentiality, the nothingness from which all things emerge. All things are birthed out of darkness, from the plants that rise from beneath the earth to the child that emerges from the darkness of the womb. To tap into this force, simply wait until the midnight hour has passed and turn off all lights. The only light should come from natural sources, such as moonlight or candlelight. Open a window, close your eyes and take several deep breaths until you reach a meditative state. Isolate that sound of night-time stillness. This can be difficult to do if you live in a metropolitan area, with constant sirens, car horns and people shouting in the street. If this is the case, treat it as an exercise in concentration and focus. If you live in a rural or wooded area, it will be much easier. Tap into the indefinable energy of the night.

When we look up into the night sky and gaze upon the moon goddess in all of her fullness, we can feel a sense of nurturing and maternal love. Old witchcraft lore tells us that the moon has a strong link with the spirits of the dead. Communication with the spirit world can take place with much less restriction during the late night hours. Those who interact with spirit guides and the departed dead find that their communications are much clearer and easier to interpret during the dark of the night. Divination tools such as the tarot and the crystal ball seem to be particularly enhanced in the night-time hours.

The Witch and the Liminal

Many modern witches seem to have forgotten that we are meant to “walk between the worlds” of the seen and the unseen, the living and the dead, the magical and the mundane. A witch of the Old Ways communes with many spirits, not only of the departed dead, but also the spirits of plants, stones, trees, bodies of water, animals and planetary forces. Like the Long Man of Wilmington, we stand in the doorway that separates this world and the Otherworld.

Long Man of Wilmington, East Sussex, England

The Witch and Blood, Bone and Shadow

A truly powerful witch does not shy away from the use of blood (usually their own) in rituals and spells. Our blood contains the essence of our ancestors. Blackthorn Witches place three drops of their own blood into their wands. This infuses the wand with their life force and forges a stronger bond. Blood is a powerful addition to spells. There is nothing evil or malevolent about using blood in witchcraft. It produces quick results and connects us to those who came before us. Many witches also frequently use bones, particularly animal bones and skulls. This helps us connect with animal guides and partake of their wisdom. Many will also use artificial human skulls as a tool to contact the dead, as bones contain ancestral DNA. Working with ‘shadow’ in witchcraft not only refers to the Shadow Self, those things we keep hidden from others, but also to the retrieval of hidden wisdom. The late Raven Grimassi has written some very informative works on this topic. Blood, Bone and Shadow are also linked to three colors of traditional witchcraft: Red, White and Black. You may have seen traditional witches wearing cords made from these colors. Red is linked to Blood, White to Bone and Black to Shadow.

Re-Awakening The Witch

These concepts and ideas are not often seen in the lives of many so-called “modern” witches, those who view witchcraft as a hobby or something fun to do on the weekend. Witchcraft is not all love and light, incense and candles. Those who choose to call themselves “witch” must also embrace the necessary darkness that it holds. It is equally important that others see us not only as someone who can help them, but also someone who is not to be provoked without consequence. The time has come to re-awaken the witch and return to the Old Ways.

The Magic of Moonstone

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Moonstone is a natural stone, formed from the mineral feldspar. The inter-growth of different types of feldspar during gem formation are the source of the moonstone’s shimmer, also known as adularescence. The finest moonstones are found mainly in Sri Lanka and Southern India. Moonstone is linked, of course, to the Moon and to the element of Water. It is used to call upon lunar deities, particularly the Moon Goddess of Old Ways Witchcraft. It is useful with all forms of divination. The powers of the Moonstone help to enhance psychic and intuitive abilities, astral projection, lucid dreaming and shamanic journey practices. It can be in blue, white, peach, pink, rainbow or tan colors. Moonstone helps to stabilize emotional states, and helps to release stress and tension. It helps to lessen mood swings and prevent over-reacting to situations and pressures. Magical practitioners believe it’s powers increase as the moon is Waxing to Full. Moonstone is favored by cats, children and those who are traveling. It is believed to help the growth of plants, and increase the flow of beneficial energies during magical ritual. Moonstone has long been known for its calming, soothing qualities on the emotional body. Its energy is balancing and healing, assisting in the mastery of emotions by bringing them under the control of Higher Will, rather than expressing or repressing them. It also helps identify emotional patterns that are stored in the subconscious, and serves as a guardian to contain explosive passions, and to stimulate confidence and composure. It has a mystical quality that helps witches tap into the subconscious and access the hidden realms. I happen to prefer the peach-colored variety, and hold one in each hand while meditating. I will sometimes place a flat moonstone on my forehead while lying down after a stressful day at work. It’s energies are very calming and soothing.

Benefits of a Structured Practice

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I have encountered many pagans who have a practice that seems rather chaotic and random, with no rhyme or reason, and approach it with a sort of casual “whatever I feel like today” attitude. There is no discipline or consistency to their practice. Many become “Eclectic” witches, because they don’t want to be limited to one particular system or pantheon. This buffet-style paganism seems to work for some, but leaves others feeling their energies scattered and ungrounded.

My practice has remained largely unchanged for the last ten years, but it is still just as vibrant and alive as ever, because it is based on connection and relationship. While it is very structured, it still allows room for growth. I will share my practice with you, and give suggestions on how to develop your own. In the meantime, consider the following:

  • What deity figures, gods and goddesses do you feel the strongest connection with?
  • Which crystals and stones do you use most often?
  • What flowers, herbs and plants, if any, are the most important to your personal practice?
  • Consider your magical skills. Perhaps you’re a tarot reader or a Reiki practitioner. Would you like to develop these skills further?

Below is a brief outline of my yearly practice. You will see that even though it has organization and structure, there is room for growth and versatility. I have strong connections to the Celtic current and it’s magical systems, so this is what I work with exclusively. You may choose to work with others of your choice. I present this only as an example, so that you can use it as a template for your own personal practice.

January

  • Deity: Cu Chulainn
  • Plant: Valerian
  • Stone: Citrine
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Full Moon and New Moon
  • Reading and Study
  • Meditation

February

  • Deity: Brigid
  • Plant: Hyssop
  • Stone: Rose Quartz
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Imbolc, Full Moon/New Moon
  • Make Brigid’s Cross for altar
  • Reading and Study (Tending Brigid’s Flame by Lunaea Weatherstone)
  • Meditation

March

  • Deities: Cerridwen and Taliesin
  • Plant: Blackthorn
  • Stone: Green Aventurine
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Spring Equinox, Full Moon/New Moon
  • Crafting and Consecrating a New Wand
  • Reading and Study (Mabinogion, Cerridwen by Kristoffer Hughes)
  • Meditation

April

  • Deities: Dian Cehct and Airmid
  • Plant: Mandrake
  • Stone: Moonstone
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Full Moon/New Moon
  • Reading and Study
  • Meditation

May

  • Deity: Cernunnos/Herne/Green Man
  • Plant: Sage
  • Stone: Clear Quartz
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Beltane, Full Moon/New Moon
  • Make a new batch of Personal Oil
  • Reading and Study (Three Cauldrons of Poesy)
  • Meditation

June

  • Deity: Manaanan Mac Lir
  • Plant: Lavender
  • Stone: Amethyst
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Summer Solstice, Full Moon/New Moon
  • Visit to Peace Valley Lavender Farm
  • Make a new Crane Bag
  • Astral Projection/Psychic Travel Exercise
  • Reading and Study
  • Meditation

July

  • Deity: Rhiannon
  • Plant: Marigold
  • Stone: Lapis Lazuli
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Full Moon/New Moon
  • Reading and Study (The Song of Amergin)
  • Meditation

August

  • Deity: Lugh
  • Plant: Yarrow
  • Stone: Tree Agate
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Lughnasadh, Full Moon/New Moon
  • Re-dedicate skills and abilities to Cerridwen and Community
  • Craft new Protection Amulets and Talismans
  • Dragon Magic
  • Reading and Study
  • Meditation

September

  • Deity: Mabon
  • Plant: Cinquefoil
  • Stone: Selenite
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Autumn Equinox, Full Moon/New Moon
  • Reading and Study (Mabon story from The Mabinogion)
  • Meditation

October

  • Deity: Morrigan
  • Plant: Wormwood
  • Stone: Black Obsidian
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Samhain, Full Moon/New Moon
  • Craft a new Ancestor Bottle
  • Craft a new batch of Ancestor Incense
  • Reading and Study (Celtic Lore and Spellcraft of the Dark Goddess, by Stephanie Woodfield)
  • Meditation

November

  • Deity: Dagda
  • Plant: Mugwort
  • Stone: Hematite
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Full Moon/New Moon
  • Reading and Study
  • Meditations

December

  • Deity: Cailleach
  • Plant: Mistletoe
  • Stone: Snowflake Obsidian
  • Weekly Divinations
  • Rituals: Winter Solstice, Full Moon/New Moon
  • Craft a new Silver Branch
  • Reading and Study
  • Meditations

This is not an exhaustive list of everything I do each month, there are other more specific things I could have added, but I did not want to make it too confusing. As you can see, there is room to be flexible on various things, such as study material or forms of divination. I typically use tarot, oracles, pendulum and crystal ball. I practice various forms of meditation, including chant and creative visualization. There are certain things I do at specific times of the year, such as wand making in the spring and protection talismans in the summer. Add practices that are meaningful to you in your own yearly devotionals.

By working with the same deities, plants and stones on a consistent basis, you develop a stronger connection to them. You can use this same format to choose which of these you will focus on each month. Many people have one specific deity they are closest to, and for me that is Cerridwen. I acknowledge her in all of my rituals and her statue is on my altar year round, but there are other deities I draw near to each month as well. It is my hope that sharing my yearly practice will help others develop their own. You will find that a structured practice such as this will be more meaningful than one that is scattered and disorganized. After all, you will be working with the deities, plants and stones that you have the strongest connection to, and learning more about them each month. Discipline and consistency are key elements to developing strong relationships with our magical allies.

Your Personal Oil Blend

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Essential oils have been used for thousands of years in healing, magic, religion and spirituality. Healing practitioners use them in Aromatherapy, Massage, Reiki and even Meditation. Witches use a variety of oils, crafted for specific purposes from healing to protection. There are many available on the market, and you can find oils already prepared in just about any Witchcraft store. You can find pre-made Healing Oil blends that are made from plants associated with Healing. There are oil blends made from plants and flowers associated with various deities, planets, sabbats and endless other magical purposes. The focus of this article is the Personal Oil Blend, the oil that represents who you are on a magical level. Tip: The most powerful oil blends for you are those you make yourself. This is because you have directed your own energy into them during the process. From the very beginning when you choose the bottle, herbs, oils and other ingredients, actually handling them in your own hands, to the oil heating & blending process, to the end when you have everything in the bottle and charged with intention, this infuses who you are and your magical energy into the oil and the bottle itself. This is not to suggest that an oil made by someone else won’t work. Pre-made, mass-marketed oils and oils made by other Witches can and do work, but making it yourself makes it even more powerful. It is not as difficult as may seem, but it is not something to rush through.

The first thing to know when crafting a personal oil is the difference between essential oil and fragrance oil. They are not the same. Fragrance oils do not contain plant material, and are not to be used on the skin. These are the oils that make your home smell good, they can be used in a diffuser or placed in one of those rings for the light bulb. Some people use fragrance oil to dress their magical candles, but I do not recommend this. Fragrance oils are just scented chemicals. I do not recommend using them for any magical purpose whatsoever.

They are less expensive than essential oils and some of them do smell good, but no matter what the label says, fragrance oils do not contain the real thing. Pure essential oils, on the other hand, have actual plant material in them. The oil has been extracted from plants, flowers and herbs using a variety of complicated processes, which is one reason why they are more expensive. Most are safe to be used on the skin, but it is a good idea to mix them with a base oil, such as Almond or Jojoba Oil to minimize skin irritation. Cinnamon Oil, for instance, is quite irritant and must be mixed with a base oil for use on the skin. I like to use 2/3 base oil to 1/3 essential oils for large bottles and 1/2 to 1/2 for small bottles. When choosing oils that you will put on your skin, make sure the bottle says Essential Oil or Pure Essential Oil. Some are more expensive than others, depending on the rarity of the plant, herb or flower. Lotus Blossom. Rose Absolute and Jasmine Absolute essential oils are all highly expensive.

A Personal Oil is a special blend of oils, chosen by you, blended by you, and intended only for you. Your personal oil blend should reflect your magical self, who you are on a magical level. When you have all the ingredients together in the bottle and you take in the aroma, you just know “this is me… this is who I am“. Your personal oil will help you immediately “tap in” to your inner power and bring you into a magical mindset. You can use it in meditation, for protection and healing, for consecrating your magical and divination tools, or any other purpose you feel guided to use it for. It is best to store your personal oil in a dark-colored glass bottle. This helps prevent light from entering the bottle and affecting the oil. They come in various sizes and shapes, usually in brown or blue. I prefer the one ounce bottles, as they last longer and are more practical.

Some witches decorate their bottles with ornaments or clay, and this is perfectly fine to do, but I prefer to keep my personal oil bottle un-adorned. My first bottle had polymer clay around it, but over time it began to show wear, and the clay was cracking and peeling away from the bottle. I eventually threw it out, although some prefer the old and worn look.

The dark amber glass bottles are recommended, as they help to keep out sunlight which can affect the potency of the oil. There are also dark green and blue bottles. Use only glass bottles, not plastic. Once you’ve chosen your bottle, how do you decide what oils to blend? Take your time exploring several different oils: how they smell, what they’re used for magically, and how they make you feel. You can blend as many or as few oils as you want, but I personally recommend no less than three. The number three has many magical associations and is a powerful number.

When choosing your oils, there are a few questions to consider:

  • Does the smell of the oil put you in a magical state of mind?
  • Does the oil, it’s smell and magical uses, make a connection to your inner magical self?
  • How does it smell when combined with the other oils you’ve chosen?

I recommend starting off with a test bottle, so you can mix different oils together, not only to see how they smell, but also how your inner magical self responds to them. Remember, your personal oil represents who you are magically, and whenever you smell it you will be reminded of this. The measurement you use for each oil is up to you. For my own personal oil, I like to use equal amounts. It makes things simpler, but that’s just me. Your oil can be as complicated as you like, with various oils in different measurements of each. Once you have chosen your oils, use a funnel or an eye dropper to get the oil into the bottle. Seal it tight and then turn the bottle over and over in your hands until the oils are well blended.

Many different flowers, plants and herbs have had essential oils extracted from them. Below are a few, with their magical uses:

Cedar Oil: Cedar is associated with the Sun and with Fire. It is used for healing, protection and money magic.

Lavender Oil: Lavender is associated with the planet Mercury and the element of Air. It is used in love spells and relationship issues, as well as healing and relaxation.

Geranium Oil: Geranium is associated with the planet Venus and the element of Water. It is used for protection, healing and fertility spells.

Patchouli Oil: Patchouli is associated with the planet Saturn and the element of Earth. It is used in prosperity magic and money spells, as well as magic to increase lust and passion.

To learn the properties of other oils, I recommend The Complete Book of Incense, Oils and Brews, by Scott Cunningham.

There are other things you can add to your oil blend, such as dried herbs, roots or bark, and a few crystal chips (these are tiny miniature crystals that come in small bottles). If you add these, make sure these also represent your magical self and are not chosen randomly.

Once your oil bottle is complete, the next step is to charge it with magical intention. It already has some of your power within it, as this occurred during the previous process. But now, you want to charge them all together at once. This “seals” everything together.

To do this, follow the instructions below:

  • Hold the bottle in your hands, close your eyes and take a few long, deep breaths to bring yourself into a meditative state.
  • Visualize a stream of light coming down from the universe, entering into every cell of your body.
  • Visualize this light coming out of your hands and into the bottle. Picture the light filling the bottle and surrounding it completely with a bright, glowing aura.
  • Allow the aura of the bottle and your own personal aura to connect.
  • Say the following three times: “I charge this oil to represent me and my magical self for the highest good”.
  • Once you feel intuitively that enough universal light has penetrated the bottle and it’s contents, release the light back up through your body and out in the universe.
  • Slowly bring yourself back to full awareness.

You can use your oil blend to anoint your candles, tarot decks and other divination tools, your Book of Shadows, and even yourself. Remember to label your bottle! When not in use, store it in a dry, dark place, away from direct sunlight. I have a little cabinet that I keep all my oils in.

One final word: After you have completed your oil bottle, tell no one what is in it. Keep the contents a secret. The creation of your personal oil is somewhat of a spell in itself, and just like regular spellwork, telling everyone what you’ve made and what you put in it can lessen it’s power. Your personal oil bottle and the contents therein are to remain a mystery to everyone but you.

The Art of Spellcasting

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Spellcasting is an art and a science, as there are many factors that must be considered. The phase of the moon, magical correspondences, planetary influences, raising energy and even the time of day can all play a part in your spell. Although it may seem so, there is nothing supernatural about spellcasting. As witches, we work with the natural forces of the earth and the universe. Once our spell is cast successfully, it is a matter of time until circumstances line up and our goal begins to manifest.

We must first ask, what is a spell? Spellcasting is but one form of magic. It is a method of communicating our desires to the universe, so that the universe can respond and manifest our desires into physical reality. There is an old magical saying, “As above, so below”. This means that in order for something to manifest in the visible realm, it must first be present in the invisible realm. Your spell is what places it there. Another magical concept is “Like attracts like”. Using energies and objects that have a connection to your goal will help it to manifest faster.

There are six keys to effective spellcasting. The first one is Altered Consciousness. If you want your spell to work, you must first learn how to alter your consciousness. This can be achieved through controlled-breathing exercises, meditation, visualization, chanting or drumming. Incense smoke, candles and relaxing music can also help. Once we alter our brain waves to the Alpha state, we have reached the magickal mindset, the state of ritual consciousness. In Alpha we become more sensitive to the unseen realms, and we are more open to receive psychic information. Healing abilities are enhanced and we are better able to communicate with our dieties and spirit guides. Alpha has been called by some the “daydream” state, when we are relaxed yet still aware of our surroundings.

The next key for effective spellcasting is to have a Clear Intention. Know exactly what you want. If you are indecisive or unsure about what you want, it is unlikely to manifest. Your focus should be on exactly what you want, and not on what you need in order to have it. For example, if you have a bill that needs to be paid, focus on the bill getting paid and not on the money you need to pay it. You don’t want to limit how the universe manifests your goal. You might get a check in the mail from an unexpected source, or you might be contacted by the bill collector informing you there was a mistake and you don’t owe anything after all. Remember to focus on the outcome and not on how it manifests.

The third key for effective spellcasting is to have a Strong Will. It must be something you truly, earnestly desire and you are determined to see it happen. A determined mindset is key. The more emotionally involved you are, and the more of that energy you put into the spell, the more likely it will manifest.

The fourth key is to Raise Energy. You may choose to repeat a chant multiple times, first softly then increasing in volume, then returning to a soft tone. Some choose to write an incantation on a piece of parchment paper, and then burn the paper while reciting the incantation. Others may dance around in a circle, beat a drum or sing. You may raise energy any way you choose. Be creative. Use your intuition to determine when enough energy has been raised and when it is time to release it.

The fifth key to effective spellcasting is the Expectation of Results. Know that it is going to happen. If you begin to have doubts, or start thinking to yourself “It didn’t work”, then you have short-circuited your spell and it certainly will not happen. I have, however, known some folks who were skeptical of the magical process, and their spell manifested anyway. It is important to try your best and maintain a positive expectation of results. Visualize it as already happened and place yourself in the picture.

The sixth and final key of effective spellcasting is to Let It Go. Don’t obsess over it and do not talk about it. Keep it to yourself until it manifests. This is rather important. It is one thing to have a positive expectation, but if you are constantly thinking about it, then you are calling that energy back to you instead of letting it do it’s work. Cast your spell, maintain a positive attitude, and let it go.

Now we will examine the days of the week and the magic associated with each one. These are some of the traditional magical associations, but if you feel something different will work for you, then by all means use it. A wonderful thing about magic is that it can be individualized. Symbols, colors and scents can mean different things to different people. However, these correspondences have power because they have been used for centuries. It would not be wise to disregard them completely.

MONDAY

Name: Day of the Moon

Celestial Influence: The Moon

Colors: White, Silver, Purple

Crystals and Stones: Moonstone, Clear Quartz, Smoky Quartz, Selenite, Amethyst, Pearl

Herbs and Plants: Moonflower, Lavender, Sage, Jasmine, Mugwort

Magical Workings: Goddess Worship, Divination, Spirit Communication, Meditation, Introspection

TUESDAY

Name: Day of Tyr (pronounced “teer”). Tyr is a Norse god of law and war.

Celestial Influence: Mars

Colors: Red, Black

Crystals and Stones: Red Jasper, Bloodstone, Garnet, Ruby, Carnelian

Herbs and Plants: Red Clover, Damiana, Cinnamon, Basil

Magical Workings: Resolving Conflict, Assertiveness, Courage, Force, Male Sexuality

WEDNESDAY

Name: Day of Woden. Woden, or Odin, is a Norse god, the mythological inventor of the runes.

Celestial Influence: Mercury

Colors: Yellow, Orange

Crystals and Stones: Citrine,Tiger’s Eye, Calcite, Yellow Jasper, Amber

Herbs and Plants: Mint, Daffodill, Calendula, Pumpkin, Saffron, Marigold

Magical Workings: Memory Retention, Safe Travel, Learning, Ritual Writing, Communication

THURSDAY

Name: Day of Thor. Thor is a Norse god of thunder.

Celestial Influence: Jupiter

Colors: Green, Brown

Crystals and Stones: Tree Agate, Aventurine, Emerald, Jade, Malachite

Herbs and Plants: Oak Moss, Patchouli, Eucalyptus, Cinquefoil, Bay Leaves

Magical Workings: Career, Finances, Advancement, Growth

FRIDAY

Name: Day of Freya (pronounced “Fray-uh”). Freya is a Norse goddess of love and beauty.

Celestial Influence: Venus

Colors: Red, Pink, Blue

Crystals and Stones: Rose Quartz, Lapis Lazuli, Blue Lace Agate, Rhodocrosite

Herbs and Plants: Rose, Lavender, Lilac, Yarrow, Thyme

Magical Workings: Romance, Friendship, Family, Fertility, Self-Esteem, Female Sexuality

SATURDAY

Name: Day of Saturn

Celestial Influence: Saturn

Color: Black

Crystals and Stones: Black Obsidian, Black Tourmaline, Black Onyx, Jet

Herbs and Plants: Henbane, Hellebore, Belladonna, Blackthorn, Mandrake, Hemlock, Foxglove, Datura, Snapdragon, Mistletoe, Wormwood. Most of the herbs and plants associated with Saturday are poisonous and must be handled with extreme care.

Magical Workings: Protection, Banishing, Binding, Removing Obstacles

SUNDAY

Name: Day of the Sun

Celestial Influence: The Sun

Colors: Gold, Yellow, Orange

Crystals and Stones: Sunstone, Citrine, Yellow Calcite

Herbs and Plants: Sunflower, Heliotrope, Fennel, Goldenseal, Dandelion, St. John’s Wort

Magical Workings: Success, Achieving Goals, God Worship, Ambition, Illumination, Revelation

You now have learned some of the basics of spellcasting, but there is so much more. As you grow in your practice of witchcraft, you will discover what works best for you. Listen to your intuition, and let your deities and guides assist you in casting your spells with power and stronger focus.