Preparation for Spell Working – The Ritual Bath
Several processes become automatic when preparing for spell work. If you choose to wear special clothing, then this has to be prepared before you actually start your personal preparations. We give below some suggestions for personal robes which can be laid out with some ceremony before you begin.
Important magical workings require you to take a ritual bath which cleanses, purifies and clarifies your energy so that you are able to get the best results possible. Many practitioners prefer to take a ritual bath before performing any magical workings. For what you may consider ‘lesser’ magic you do not need to bathe, but may prefer to cleanse yourself by running your hands over your body before you embark on any working.
Ritual Bathing
Ritual bathing arose in times gone by from a perceived need to be in as ‘virgin’ – that is, unsullied – a state as possible. This is what gave rise to working skyclad, i.e. without clothes, so that there were no encumbrances between the practitioner and his or her gods or deities.
Ritual Bath
As you mix in your salts, bless the water and charge it with your intent – be that a particular magical working, a relaxing evening or a successful meeting. The candles used in this ritual can be in the colours of the Elements or those most appropriate to your purpose, for example – pink (tranquility), blue (wisdom), green (self-awareness) and red (passion). For spiritual matters, use purple.
You will need
• • HOMEMADE BATH SALTS
• • VOTIVE CANDLES ACCORDING TO YOUR NEED
• • LARGE WHITE CANDLE
• • ESSENTIAL OIL TO REMOVE NEGATIVITY (e.g. rosemary)
• • LARGE GLASS OF MINERAL WATER OR JUICE
Method
Anoint the large white candle with the essential oil and ask for positivity, health and happiness as you do so. Do the same with the votive candles according to your need. You may, if you wish, inscribe a symbol to represent your purpose on each candle.
Run your bath and mix in the bath salts.
Light the candles, first the white one followed by the votives. Place the latter safely around the bath. The white candle should be placed wherever you feel is safest. You have now created a sacred space for yourself.
Lie back and enjoy your bath and at some point drink your water or juice visualizing your whole system being cleansed inside as well as out. Before you get out of the bath, thank the water deities for this opportunity to prepare thoroughly for the new energies available to you. If you are to perform a magical working, then keep your mind focused on that intent.
On this occasion, for safety’s sake, when you have finished your bath, snuff out the candles.
Witches Of The Craft® 