Category: Articles

Winter Solstice Rituals for Witches: Honor the Darkness and Embrace the Light – Article by Guest Author – Patti Negri, the “Good Witch”

As the frost settles and the days grow shorter, the veil between worlds starts to thin, inviting witches to honor the celestial dance of the Winter Solstice. This sacred juncture marks the longest night, inviting us to embrace the darkness and await the return of the sun’s warmth.

In witchcraft, the Winter Solstice holds profound significance. It’s a time of reflection, transformation and potent magic. During this period, rituals and traditions intertwine with the rhythms of nature, guiding practitioners to create sacred spaces adorned with symbols that resonate with the season’s energy.

Witches may also use candle magic to illuminate the shadows, offering a beacon of hope in the night. Additionally, they may use herbal enchantments to weave their potent spells with seasonal botanicals.

In this article, we’ll explore the depths of Winter Solstice practices. From crafting altars imbued with ancient symbolism to embracing the transition from darkness to light through intention-setting rituals, we’ll delve into the timeless traditions that honor the solstice, bridging the realms of the mystical and the mundane.

The Significance of the Winter Solstice in Witchcraft

The Winter Solstice holds pivotal significance in witchcraft, marking the year’s longest night and the rebirth of the sun. It symbolizes the eternal dance between light and darkness, mirroring life’s cyclical nature.

If you’re a practicing crystal witch, this celestial event is a time of introspection, honoring the unseen and embracing the shadows within. It’s a moment to honor your ancestors, reflect on the past year’s lessons, and set intentions for the coming cycle.

By aligning with nature’s rhythms, you can harness this potent energy, weaving spells that invite transformation and renewal. The solstice embodies the essence of transition, and it can guide you toward cosmic alignment and personal growth.

Creating a Sacred Space

Crafting a sacred space for the Winter Solstice means arranging altars adorned with potent symbols resonant with the season’s essence. You can use elements like evergreens to signify resilience, and crystals like quartz and obsidian to channel transformative energies.

Candles can help evoke warmth amid darkness, representing the returning sun’s light. Seasonal items like pinecones, mistletoe or holly can also infuse rituals with nature’s vitality. This is where placement and arrangement are important; you have to align the elements with cardinal directions or personal intention.

These altars will become portals where you commune with cosmic energies, facilitating connection and manifestation. Each symbol chosen has a deeper meaning, creating a sanctuary where your intentions will converge with elemental forces during this sacred celestial juncture.

Candle Magic for Illumination

Candle magic during the Winter Solstice serves as a beacon, illuminating the darkness of the longest night. Lit candles symbolize hope, inviting the returning sun’s warmth and guiding lost spirits towards renewal.

Moreover, colors like gold and silver embody the sun’s vitality, while blues and purples evoke tranquility and introspection. As flames flicker, you can infuse your intentions into the wax, manifesting your desires and dispelling negativity.

This ritual involves consecration, visualization and focused intent, harnessing the elemental power of fire. Through this ancient practice, you’ll embrace the transformative potential within the solstice’s shadows, kindling your inner light.

Herbal Enchantments

As a witch, the Winter Solstice is the ideal time to harness the enchanting power of seasonal botanicals in spellwork and rituals. For instance, sacred herbs like cinnamon, juniper and mistletoe infuse ceremonies with their potent energies, invoking protection, renewal and abundance.

By crafting herbal sachets, teas or incense blends, you can honor nature’s dormant yet vibrant essence, inviting its transformative forces. Each botanical holds unique properties—pine for purification, chamomile for inner peace—aligning intentions with nature’s wisdom.

Through these herbal enchantments, you can embrace the solstice’s essence. This will help you commune with the earth’s dormant energies to facilitate personal and cosmic metamorphosis.

Reflection and Intention

During the Winter Solstice, reflection and intention is a sacred ritual that facilitates the transition from darkness to light. As a practitioner, you can engage in introspective ceremonies, honoring lessons learned amid the year’s shadows.

Through meditation and journaling, you can reflect on personal growth and release that which no longer serves you. You can meticulously craft intentions, infusing them with newfound wisdom and aspirations for the returning light.

These rituals may involve symbolic actions like burning written reflections or lighting candles to signify newfound clarity. This marks a pivotal moment, guiding you from the depths of introspection into the dawning promise of renewal and illumination as the sun’s rebirth draws near.

To Wrap Up

By engaging in these profound rituals during the mystical Winter Solstice, you can honor the dance between darkness and light. This is the time to weave spells, kindle inner flames, and commune with nature’s wisdom.

The solstice reminds us of life’s cyclical nature—of endings that birth beginnings. As you step forward, carrying the solstice’s transformative energy within, may your intentions continue to blossom.

May you navigate the year ahead with the resilience of evergreens, the clarity of candlelight, and the wisdom gleaned from this sacred journey from darkness to light. May you continue to be connected to the celestial rhythms of our world.

Esbats and Sabbats – The Holy Days of Witchcraft c.2013

Esbats and Sabbats – The Holy Days of Witchcraft

By

Every religion has its own days of power, reverence and  celebration. Wicca is no different in this regard. The holidays that Wiccans  celebrate are referred to as Sabbats, or the Eight High Holy days. They occur  approximately every six weeks, and denote the changing of the seasons. The sun,  as a representation of the God, is revered during a sabbat, and the ceremony for  a particular holiday is often performed at high noon. The other type of holy day  that is more familiar to most people is the Esbat. The Esbat is a monthly  occurrence that generally coincides with the moon being full. It is the night  when witches gather to perform ritual and magickal workings for the coming  month.

This article will detail all of these holy days and  hopefully shed a little light on what witches do throughout the year to honor  their Deities.

The Esbat
As stated  above, the Esbat is a ceremony that coincides with the cycles of the moon.  Generally, the day that it is done occurs when the moon is full, though this is  not necessary. The full moon is significant because witches firmly believe that  the power of magickal workings wax and wane with the phases of the moon. When  the moon is waxing, or becoming fuller, it is good to perform rites that are  drawing things to you or increasing positive influences in general. When the  moon is waning, or diminishing, it is good for banishing influences that are no  longer wanted, or getting rid of negativity. Yet when the moon is full, the  magickal workings are at their peak, and it is good for nearly any rite that a  witch may wish to perform. The new moon, or dark moon, occurs when the moon is  not visible at all. During this time, the rites that are performed are either  for extreme protection rites or negative magicks.

On whatever day the esbat is performed, it is done in the  evening or at night. The reason behind this is that these rites are meant to be  working with the Goddess, who represented by the moon.

The actual process of performing the esbat can be summed  up very concisely. The witch or coven will gather at a designated ritual space.  There, they will cast a circle, and perform rites that will raise their magickal  and psychic power, and then direct that power at their desired goal. Since there  are so many variables as to what a witch or group of witches may wish to direct  their energy, it is difficult to offer up an example of what these rites may  entail.

However, one of the things that is a common theme among  esbats is that it is a time for connecting and communing with Deity. This is  often done by the reciting of The Wiccan Rede and The Charge of the Goddess  while in circle. Afterwards, time may be spent in either meditation or  performing acts of divination with tarot cards, runes or other means. This is  followed by a communion of cakes and wine, where the gathered witches will  celebrate their coming together and catch up on the previous month and make  plans for the coming one. Then the ritual circle is opened, the leftover cakes  and wine are offered up to Nature, and the witches will go their separate  ways.

The Eight High Holy Days
There are eight major holidays that Wiccans celebrate:
– Samhain (pronounce saw-vin or sow-en)  – Yule – Candlemas – Ostara – Beltane – Midsummer –  Lammas – and Mabon

Each of the Holy Days represents a different turning of  the seasons, and a different phase of life. The common representation of these  phases is the God, though many practitioners incorporate an aspect of the  Goddess in some fashion as well. They are primarily Sun festivals, and, unlike  esbats, the rituals are often performed when the sun is at its highest in the  sky.

Sabbats are usually large gatherings where entire families  will come together and celebrate with food and drink in addition to the  religious rites.

Samhain
Samhain is  probably the most recognizable of all of the Wiccan Sabbats. It falls on October  31st and signifies the ending of one cycle of the year. While many view it as  the beginning of the next yearly cycle, that does not actually occur until Yule  in December.

The main symbolism behind this holiday is death and  honoring loved ones that have passed on. It is commonly thought that on this  night, the veil between the worlds is at its thinnest, and witches take  advantage of this opportunity to communicate with their family and friends who  have passed on.

Samhain is also the last harvest festival of the year, and  the last opportunity for the coven and their families to come together to share  their resources before digging in for the winter. The period of time between  Samhain and Yule is spent contemplating plans for the coming year and  remembering the year that has passed.

Yule
Yule is  generally thought to coincide with the Christian holiday of Christmas. This is  not precisely so. Yule actually falls on the day of the winter solstice, which  generally falls on or around December 21st.

The significance of this holiday is that of rebirth. This  is the day where the days begin to grow longer, and the sun is making a  comeback. The general representation of this is of Holly King, a Dark God,  passing and being replaced by the Oak King, or Sun God. Though the sabbat that  signifies the beginning of the year may vary from tradition to tradition, this  is the one that is most popular in signifying the beginning of the year.

All of the sabbats represent a phase of life, and Yule  falls into the fertility category. This is a time of conception, where the  beginnings of life begin to stir. When covens and families come together on this  holiday, plans begin to be made for the coming year, as well as preparations for  the coming spring.

Candlemas
Candlemas  is also known by the name of Imbolc. It is well and truly the first fertility  festival of springtime. The specific date that this day falls on varies from  tradition to tradition, but it can be anywhere from January 31st to February  2nd. At this time, we are beginning to see the very first signs of spring, and  the renewal of life.

The festivities for Candlemas all center on clearing out  the old and making way for the new. The Maiden aspect of the Goddess is honored  at this time, as are any Gods and Goddesses that relate to love and fertility.  This holiday is considered an especially auspicious time for a new marriage or  relationship.

One of the traditional symbols of Candlemas is the plough.  They are often decorated and incorporated into the festivities. Another  tradition for the holiday is to create a besom, a simple broom constructed of  twigs or straw, and use it to ritually cleanse the home. It is then placed near  the front, symbolizing sweeping out the old and welcoming the new.

Ostara
Also called  Eostar, this High Holy Day falls on the spring equinox, on or near March 21st.  This is the second of the three fertility festivals. Springtime is coming on  full force at this time, and planting for the year’s crops is well underway. New  spring growth can be seen everywhere, and the Gods are petitioned for luck with  the crops and the home.

Two of the traditional symbols for this holiday are the  egg and the rabbit. The egg is an emblem of new life and new growth, and it is  incorporated into many ritual workings and festivities at this time. The rabbit,  known for its prolific mating habits, is also a symbol of growth and abundance.  Both also symbolize change. The Christian faith has fully adopted both of these  symbols into their celebrations that occur at near the same time.

Beltane
Also know as  May Day, this Holy Day falls on May first. It is the last of the fertility  festivals for the year, and with it comes unabashed sexuality for many  traditions. The May Pole is one symbol of this holiday that is found throughout  many traditions. It is a tall pole set in the ground, symbolizing the Sun God  uniting with Earth. It is decorated with long ribbons and fresh flowers, and, of  course, maidens traditionally dance around the pole.

One of the traditional May Day activities for this holiday  is to secretly leave baskets of flowers and goodies at the doors of your  neighbors.

Generally, this is a holiday that celebrates and revels in  the return of the sun.

Midsummer
This Holy  Day celebrates the God, represented by the sun in all of his glory. It is  celebrated on the summer solstice, when the longest day of the year takes place.  Midsummer is neither a fertility festival nor a harvest festival. In this way,  it is similar to Yule. On this day, rites often center on protection for the  home and family for the coming year, rites of divination, and celebrating the  abundance of The Oak King in his prime of life.

For those who work with faerie energy in their rites,  Midsummer is an ideal time to commune with them. It is a common tradition for  witches to go out in the twilight and look for faerie folk in stands of oak, ash  and thorn trees.

Lammas
Another name  for this holiday is Lughnassadh. It occurs on August 1st, and it is the first of  the three harvest sabbats celebrated by witches. Attention turns now to harvest  the crops and gardens, and preparations begin for the coming winter. The days  are beginning to grow shorter, and the Sun God begins to lose his strength as  the days grow shorter.

As this is the time of year when we first begin to reap  the bounties of harvest, it is often a holiday accompanied with feasting and  celebration. Decorations and dollies are often made from dried ears of corn, and  used in rites and to decorate the home.

Mabon
Mabon is the  primary harvest festival, counterpoint to Ostara, and it occurs on the Autumnal  Equinox. On this day, witches pay homage to retreating daylight, and prepare for  the coming winter. This holiday symbolizes the God in old age and readying for  his impending death and rebirth.

Though this holiday is a little more somber than the rest  of them, it is also one where Wiccans are sure to give thanks for what they have  received throughout the past year. It is a popular time of year for witches and  pagans to give back to their communities, and generally share their bountiful  harvests.

With so many holidays to celebrate, Wiccans always have  something to look forward to in their faith. As the seasons come and go, witches  around the world celebrate the wheel of the year. Though traditions and names  may be a little different from place to place, they are all basically the same  at heart.  Thanks for reading, and, as  always: Blessed Be!!

16 Common Witchcraft Spell Casting Essentials (One Person’s View)

A list of 16 Common Witchcraft Spell Casting Essentials That Every Witch Should Have

These common witchcraft spell casting essentials are not listed in any particular order. They are listed in the order in which they came to me for the purpose of writing this article.

These are not the only common witchcraft spell casting essentials, however, they are some of the ones that I feel are the main ones.

THE most important witchcraft spell casting essential is intent. Without intent, you have nothing but words and actions, and not really a spell cast at all.

In no particular order, a list of Common Witchcraft Spell Casting Essentials

1. Salt

Used for cleansing and banishing. It is also used for protection during cleansing and banishing spells. Salt is a natural antiseptic. Salt is commonly used for circles for standing or sitting in while casting. It also ensures a clean spell.

2. Broom

Brooms are highly symbolic. Brooms symbolize the sweeping away of anything unwanted. They are used physically, as well as symbolically. You would use a broom to physically sweep away in a cleansing spell, banishing spell, also in some protection spells (ones that would rid unwanted energy from your home to keep it out).

3. Candles

Candles are used for focus and mood. Candles should be readily available in as many colors as you can get a hold of. Different colored candles hold symbolism for a variety of spells. Colors are chosen based on the nature of the spell and what feels right. White can be substituted for any color in the absence of the chosen color.

For example, some people like to use the color Red for love spells, or the colors Green or Gold for money spells, or Blue for healing spells, etc.

You can choose what colors feel right for you for any spell of your choosing. You do not have to go with the commonly used color associations if you feel another color will work better for you in a certain spell or ritual.

4. Crystals and Stones

You should have a variety of stones and crystals for different purposes. Crystals and stones contain a charge for various things so you will want to choose wisely based on your spell. In the absence of the proper crystal, Quartz can be charged with the necessary properties. I find Quartz to be quite powerful and quite generic because of its nature.

Important: You do not want to use crystals or stones of any kind (even wedding rings or other jewelry) when doing banishing spells. When you are working to banish (especially with entities), crystals and stones can absorb the energy of the entity, keeping the entity attached to that stone forever.

Be selective in what spells you use crystals and stones in.

5. Incense

Incense comes in a wide variety of scents /odors. You will always want to choose what suits the spell best and what feels right for you at the time of casting.

Incense can be used to trigger certain emotions or invoke a mindset. Different smells for different purposes.

I prefer vanilla for most spells, as it is very soothing and calming, and helps to set the mood for casting.

6. Anointing Oils and Essential Oils

Oils are used for various purposes. Some are for scent and feeling, and others are for cleansing or blessing. The different oils are chosen based on items they are needed for and for the spell they are being used in.

7. Silence

Silence is optimal for casting any spell. You need to be able to focus on your spell without distraction. If you have children, especially young ones, you need to choose your timing wisely.

8. Isolation

Unless you are with a coven, isolation is a preferable. (If you are with a coven, then the coven should be isolated.) Being alone goes hand-in-hand with silence.

9. Book of Shadows (Spell Book)

A book with your spells written inside it. It is important to always write down your spells that you cast in the event that you want to perform a certain spell again. This is something that you will always have and should keep protected. A notebook can be used, but you should transfer your spells into something more permanent. Spells, although written down in this book can be altered at any time.

10. Intent

THE most important thing you need when casting any spell. Witchcraft is based on intent. Make sure that your intentions are known before you even begin casting your spell. Know what you want to achieve and focus on it.

11. Focus

Focus works alongside intent. You want to focus on your intentions and on what it is that you are doing throughout the spell to make those intentions be your outcome.

12. Confidence

You must have confidence in order for your spells to take effect. The more confident you are, the stronger your casting will be. Know in your heart and in your mind that what you are doing within the spell has worked, is working, and will work. Believe it and so shall it be.

13. Altar

A place where you have all of your essentials gathered together to perform your rituals and castings. Usually a table or desk dedicated to your collection of Witchcraft items. This is also where you would perform offerings to the Gods or Goddesses that you are calling upon to help you. For lack of a table or desk, you can use the top of a dresser or a shelving unit, a shelf, or even a window sill.

14. Herbs and Flowers

You will want to have various herbs and flowers on hand at all times for various spells. Herbs and flowers can be used fresh or dried. If burning the herbs or flowers, you will of course want to use dried. Fragrance from fresh herbs and flowers may be needed depending on the spell to be cast and the ritual to be performed. Also, if being used for symbolism, you would choose fresh or dried accordingly. (eg. dried to symbolize old, and fresh to symbolize new)

15. Cauldron

A fireproof container for burning various objects, incense, images, herbs, etc. When a spell calls for it, you will need to burn certain things, so a cauldron will make the perfect venue for this. A cauldron is not used only for burning; it is also used for mixing. In your cauldron, you can mix any of your “ingredients” that you need to bring together for your spell or ritual. You may want to heat some mixtures in your cauldron, so this is another reason it should be fireproof. It should also be food-safe if you are mixing potions.

16. Instinct

Go with your instinct no matter what kind of spell you are casting or ritual you are performing. Use your instincts when choosing every element and every word to a spell or ritual. Only you know what is right for your spell or ritual, no one can tell you what should be used and what shouldn’t. Go with your instinct every time, even if you have a spell previously written. If that spell feels like it should be changed, then change it. Instincts will get you very far with witchcraft.

This is not a complete list of everything that you will ever need or that you will ever use in your spells and… Click here to read the rest of this article Source: wakeup.unhypnotize.com

The Complete Online Guide to Angel Numbers (One Person’s View)

Introducing: The Complete Online Guide to Angel Numbers

Below you will find everything you need to know about angel numbers, what they are, what they mean, and how to start tuning into the guidance your angels are sending you through them.

Simply click the chapter titles listed below to jump to that chapter in the guide.

Alternatively, you can simply keep scrolling down to read all of the information on angel numbers in order, right now.

Chapter 1: What Are Angel Numbers?

Chapter 2: How Do Angel Numbers Work?

Chapter 3: Why Do Angels Use Numbers? Why Not Just Speak to Us Directly?

Chapter 4: The Sacred Science of Numerology

Chapter 5: How to Easily Interpret Angel Numbers

Chapter 6: The Secret To Learning The Deeper Meaning of Angel Numbers

Chapter 7: The Pure Magic of Triple Number Sequences

Chapter 8: Surprise Finding: The Angel Message When You See Your Birthdate!

Chapter 9: What It Means When You Stop Seeing Angel Numbers…

BONUS Chapters:

Tuning Into The Deeper Meaning of Angel Numbers~ Video!

A Little Insight That Will Help Strengthen Your Connection With Angels…

A Visual Guide to Angel Numbers and Interpreting Them!

Click on the hyperlinks to read the rest of this article Source: ask-angels.com

Journey To Witchcraft c.2016

Author: The Wild Sorceress

Hello from an Australian Eclectic Witch. I have to admit, I’m a bit of a procrastinator. I’ve been thinking about writing an essay for some time but as all procrastinators will tell you, it’s always the thinking, never the doing.

I have always been interested in witchcraft. I think the awareness and the interest started when I was 13, (inspired from seeing The Craft. Yes, I know what you’re thinking and you’re probably right. But we all find our path in different ways).

I went to see the movie with three friends and at the end of the movie, like all teenage girls who are not considered ‘popular’ we thought “Wow this is for us”. Double, Double, Toil and Trouble the teenage way. And like all teenagers, my three friends lost interest fairly soon after.

The interest always stuck with me in various ways over the next few years but being in high school one has enough stress and doesn’t always find the time to delve into the spiritual.

So as the story goes, years later I was cleaning out my room and came across a book my parents had bought for me when I was 13 called The Nice Girl’s Book of Naughty Spells. (Yes you read correctly, my parents bought it for me).

I also came across articles I had ripped out of magazines and a booklet I had sent off for from the Church Of Wicca in Perth, WA. It grabbed me, and then it lost me. I began working and again, it took a back seat. I think at that stage in my life, it wasn’t time for me to walk the path. (Procrastination again).

I was about 22 when the interest became more of a spiritual need, a path I felt I needed to walk. I bought books to read. My first 2 were Witch A Personal Journey and A Magickal Year by Fiona Horne, followed soon by Book Of Shadows by Phyllis Currot and then finally Wicca by Scott Cunningham. It really hit me: this is what I wanted, and I felt it was right for me.

Luckily I didn’t have any religious conflicts. For all intents and purposes my mother was a single mother and she felt, not being religious herself, that she did not want to baptize her children (I have an older brother). She felt that we should feel free to pick our own path when we were old enough to understand what religion was. Suffice to say, Christianity was not for me.

I’ve always been an independent free thinker and the rules and rigmarole of organized religion was not for me.

The way I got here was interesting. As a general rule when I was younger, nature and its elements were actually very boring to me. I knew there were trees and flowers and things of that nature but it didn’t really impact me in any fashion. I used to hate helping my mother garden. Also, every time I tried to grow something it would die. The natural world, seemingly, was not my friend.

As I began to study witchcraft the natural held more interest and I felt better and more alive when I would go outside. We have this massive Oak tree in our yard and it is magnificent and really old. Now when I stand with it and look at it or touch the leaves, I feel an affinity I never thought I would. I feel a spiritual recognition, a connection with its beauty and its sense of history. I grow herbs under it and they flourish nourished by its shade. Being a fire sign, Oak is also one of my Celtic trees.

I feel my personal power growing. I have always had a strong sense of intuition and occasionally have psychic flashes that more often than not just leave me with a head spinning sense of déjà vu.

I am now able to grow herbs. I’m currently growing about 8 different kinds from seed and they are going really strong now. To me, this is a sign that the Goddess is helping me walk this path.

The one thing that originally boggled my mind was the amount of ‘things’ needed in witchcraft. There are athames and wands, chalices, censers, candles, herbs etc and I thought that my new path — although giving me great spiritual fulfillment — was going to drain my finances. But I have found that these items have come to me when I have needed them, not before. I think that instead of rushing out and buying everything all at once that if you wait, the Goddess will deliver. If not, I have 2 great recommendations for you.

EBay is a great place to get different ritual items. I got my first lot of herbs, most of my books, runes and two lovely wooden pentagram boxes from EBay.

Another is an Australian website called Uncle Festers. They have a club called the Cauldron Club and each month for 13 months they send you a package, slowly building up all your ritual supplies. Since being with them I haven’t really bought anything. I wait; it comes. I love it; it’s like my birthday every month.

My mother and stepfather have always been incredibly supportive of my choice (as has my brother and friends). I never had to worry about their disapproval. It breaks my heart when I read articles on here about new witches who fear rejection and anger from their parents if they share with them the news of walking the path of the Goddess. It’s sad that people are not flexible minded enough to realize that what may be good for them religion-wise is not always good for someone else.

My advice is to stay strong and be true to who you are because ultimately in this world, the only person who you have to please is yourself.

Wow, do I go on. So this is the story of a 24-year-old Eclectic Witch from Australia who wanted to write an article for Witchvox.

Blessed Be

Seven Rules of Life

Coming in January 2025 WOTC Open Chat Everyone is Welcome to Join us

Merry meet WOTC Family! This is the link to Skype for the WOTC Open Chat meeting room.

WOTC Open Chat Meeting Room

To join me and others for an open witchy or whatever chat you will need to make a Skype account including a name you would like to go by in the chat. Then look for my name Lady Beltane. My avatar is wearing an orange witch outfit holding a cup of tea and reading a book. We will be doing audio-only calls for anonymity for everyone who wants to attend.

Our first get-together will be Sunday, January 19th, starting about 1:00 PM CT in Chicago, Illinois (use this for the time listed when looking for your local time).

Use can use this link to find out what time we are starting locally:

Find your local time

We are using Skype because it is free and I cannot afford to pay for a private chat room somewhere else every month. I have been using Skype for a few years for my coven gatherings and other things. Any questions please put them in the comment section as you might not be the only one with the same or similar question about our open chat or if you prefer email me at ladybeltane@witchcraftsofthecraft.com.

 

For Your Viewing Pleasure – Appalachia Mountain Roots Plants and Herbs

Disclaimer: No herb should be used for medicinal purpose until you have checked with your health care professional to ask if it is safe for you to use it for any reason. The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. WitchesofTheCraft.com, any staff member of WitchesofTheCraft.com and/or Lady Carla Beltane are not responsible for any type of negative reaction when using this herb for any reason.

This is an interesting series by Donnie Law about the Appalachian Mountain people in the eastern USA. Included in this area is where Lady Abyss was from in Kentucky, USA. So, I always think of her when I am watching one of these videos.

Appalachia Mountain Roots Plants and Herbs

Appalachia – From Wikipedia

This article is about the region in the United States. For other uses, see Appalachia (disambiguation).

Appalachia (/ˌæpəˈlætʃə, –leɪtʃə, –leɪʃə/) is a cultural region in the Eastern United States that stretches from the Southern Tier of New York State to northern Alabama and Georgia.[1] While the Appalachian Mountains stretch from Belle Isle in Canada to Cheaha Mountain in Alabama, Appalachia typically refers only to the cultural region of the central and southern portions of the range, from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia southwest to the Great Smoky Mountains. As of the 2010 United States Census, the region was home to approximately 25 million people.[2]

Since its recognition as a distinctive region in the late 19th century, Appalachia has been a source of enduring myths and distortions regarding the isolation, temperament, and behavior of its inhabitants. Early 20th century writers often engaged in yellow journalism focused on sensationalistic aspects of the region’s culture, such as moonshining and clan feuding, and often portrayed the region’s inhabitants as uneducated and prone to impulsive acts of violence. Sociological studies in the 1960s and 1970s helped to re-examine and dispel these stereotypes.[3]

While endowed with abundant natural resources, Appalachia has long struggled economically and been associated with poverty. In the early 20th century, large-scale logging and coal mining firms brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but by the 1960s the region had failed to capitalize on any long-term benefits[4] from these two industries. Beginning in the 1930s, the federal government sought to alleviate poverty in the Appalachian region with a series of New Deal initiatives, such as the construction of dams to provide cheap electricity and the implementation of better farming practices. On March 9, 1965, the Appalachian Regional Commission[5] was created to further alleviate poverty in the region, mainly by diversifying the region’s economy and helping to provide better health care and educational opportunities to the region’s inhabitants. By 1990, Appalachia had largely joined the economic mainstream but still lagged behind the rest of the nation in most economic indicators.[3]

Witches’ Runes (One Person’s View)

Introduction

In the complex realm of divination methods and mystical symbolism, Witches’ Runes stand as a captivating and simple tool. Unlike the more widely recognised Elder Futhark Runes and ancient Irish Ogham alphabet, which have ancient historical roots, the Witches’ Runes are a more recent creation, born from the modern witchcraft and neo-pagan movements.

This blog post delves into the intriguing history of the Witches’ Runes, exploring their origins, development, symbols and meanings; and how they can be used in contemporary witchcraft and divination practices. Whilst some people refer to these symbols as ‘Witch’s Runes’ we prefer the plural witches to denote that they are a tool shared by many spiritual people, rather than being owned by one specific Pagan path.

The Origins of Witches’ Runes

Witches’ Runes in their current form as a divination tool emerged in the late 20th century, influenced by the revival of interest in paganism and occult practices. Unlike the traditional Norse runes, which date back to the early centuries of the Common Era, the Witches’ Runes were created to specifically cater to the needs and beliefs of modern witches and pagans.

The exact origins of the Witches’ Runes are somewhat shrouded in mystery, as there is no single definitive source or creator. However, as a collection of symbols to be used together, they are believed to have been influenced by various elements of European folklore, witchcraft traditions, and modern esoteric practices. Key figures in the neo-pagan and Wiccan movements, such as Gerald Gardner and Doreen Valiente, played a significant role in the resurgence of interest in such mystical tools, paving the way for the creation of the Witches’ Runes.

Susan Sheppard, in her 1998 book ‘Witch’s Runes How to make and use your own magickal stones’ suggests that the symbols that underpin the Witches’ Runes can be traced not only throughout Europe, but also across the globe, and similar motifs can be found on petroglyphs / stone carvings. She talks about the Indian travelling people, and their cultures, who used the symbols in their talismans and are likely the people who brought the symbols into Europe during the Middle Ages.

How many runes are in a Witches’ Runes set?

How to use Witches’ Runes in divination and witch symbols in magickal practice

Using Witches’ Runes for Divination

Incorporating Witches’ Runes into magickal rituals

Click here to read the rest of this article Source: reliquarycurios.com

Johannes Junius – 17th Century Witchcraft in Germany

Johannes Junius
A Witch’s Letter to His Daughter

In the early 17th century, the state of Bamburg, Germany, experienced one of the most devastating Witch crazes of the Burning Times. From 1623 to 1633, Bamburg was ruled by Prince-Bishop Gottfried Johann Georg II Fuchs von Dornheim — a man called “the Witch Bishop” because of the hundreds of Witches he killed. Von Dornheim did not hesitate to attack even the wealthiest citizens of Bamburg and grew rich on the goods that he confiscated from the condemned. During his reign, no one was safe.

Johannes Junius was the mayor of the city of Bamburg at this time. At the height of the panics, Junius was accused of Witchcraft. His trial was a straight-forward affair. According to the records of the court, Junius was tortured but felt no pain. While in prison, he spontaneously confessed to Witchcraft and named several accomplices. He was convicted and burned at the stake a short time later.

But in Junius’ case we have a unique opportunity to see the other side of the story. Before he died, he smuggled a letter to his daughter Veronica, warning her to flee the city before she, too, was accused. This document, preserved in Bamburg’s archives, offers a chillingly different account of the trial.

Junius describes the agonies of his “painless” torture, torments that left his hands crippled for weeks. His “spontaneous” confession was made in fear of further torture. As mayor, Junius knew the torturer. The man warned him of the torments yet to come and begged him to make up a false confession that could at least spare him further agony. He did, and to his horror discovered that the court refused to accept his confession unless he named other Witches who attended the sabbat.

Junius refused to implicate anyone else, and he was tortured again. This time he broke, and when the court gave him a list of suspected Witches, Junius meekly agreed that all of them had attended a sabbat with him. Later, back in prison, Junius met the other Witches who had implicated him. He forgave them, and prayed that the people he’d condemned could find it in their hearts to forgive him as well.

The following excerpts come from Johannes Junius’ letter to his daughter: Click here to read the rest of this article Source: summerlands.com

For more information about this gentleman you can use this link

What being a Pagan Witch means to Me?

When I began practicing witchcraft is was just to do spells to try and change things in my life it wasn’t a spiritual walk. As time went on and I studied with first a coven and then as a solitary my views changed. I saw it as a way to help others not just myself. Slowly over the years I came more and more to the spiritual aspect of it until the spiritual overtook the magickal part. The spiritual part started awakening abilities that I was born with.

I have been a spirit talker since about the age of three years old and guide by my mom who also was born with this ability. It was very scary this first time I saw and talked with the spirit of my paternal grandfather who had crossed many, many years before I was even thought of. My mom came in and told my grandpa he should have come to her again first and she would have introduced us before he came directly to me.

HERBALISM AND FOLK REMEDIES: A BEGINNERS LOOK INTO TRADITIONAL HEALING

Disclaimer: No herb should be used for medicinal purpose until you have checked with your health care professional to ask if it is safe for you to use it for any reason. The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. WitchesofTheCraft.com, any staff member of WitchesofTheCraft.com and/or Lady Carla Beltane are not responsible for any type of negative reaction when using this herb for any reason.

In an era dominated by advanced pharmaceuticals and medical technologies, the humble origins and principles of herbalism and folk remedies often seem overshadowed. Yet, there is a growing interest in these traditional methods of healing – a thirst for returning back to the wild and seeping in all the knowledge of natural medicines and foods we can find in the world around us. This interest is not just a nostalgic return to the practices of our ancestors, but a rational and evidence-based reconsideration of what effective medicine can look like in a modern context.

The reliance on synthetic drugs, heralded for their targeted action and potency, has somewhat obscured the value found in the natural compounds that have been the bedrock of medicinal practices for millennia. Despite this pharmaceutical shift, many folk remedies have remained in our homes – from lemon and ginger teas for sore throats and colds, to baking soda paste on nettle stings to stop the itchiness, what the world naturally gives us works – and so we come back to it.

There are benefits in herbal medicines, even if it is not quite understood which components are doing the helping, as this study suggests. These findings give credibility to traditional remedies and expand our knowledge on healing with accessible and effective resources that align with the principles of sustainability. It is always good to keep in mind that traditional medicine is in direct competition with the business of big pharma, so it’s no surprise there is a lack of official research being poured into the subject.
This exploration of natural remedies has identified active ingredients in common foods and herbs that support the treatment of various conditions— such as garlic’s antimicrobial properties, the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric, and the treatment of depression using St Johns Wort (though, for clarification, this particular study claims to have “inconclusive” results, despite finding St Johns Wort more effective than the standard treatments).
Nonetheless, these findings validate traditional medicine, as well as illuminate a path forward where health care can be more sustainable, grounded, and in tune with the natural world. Integrating folk remedies into contemporary healthcare practices is not about rejecting modern medicine’s achievements but about broadening our approach to healing.

HOW PLANTS CONNECT US TO MAGICK…

Click here to read the rest of this article Source: wildweremain.com

Keeping Track of Your Spells c.2015

 

KEEPING TRACK OF YOUR SPELLS

 

Whenever you do a spell, record all the details in your book of shadows. That way, you can perform the spell again at a later date, adjust it, or adapt it to other circumstances. Following is a list of the basic information you should include about any spell or ritual you perform:

Name and type of spell. Write this at the top of the page.

and time you did the spell. If it’s an original spell, you may also wish to add the date and time you composed it.

Who else was present, if anyone.

Moon phase. Add the moon sign if you know it, as well as other pertinent astrological information.

Weather. This is more important than you might think, as weather can affect your feelings as well as the place where you choose to perform your spell.

Location. Did you do the spell in the living room, backyard, etc.?

Your health. Your energy level and overall health can impact your spells. If you are female, also note where you are in your menstrual cycle.

Purpose of the spell. This may be obvious from the name of the spell, but a heading such as “Simple Cauldron Spell” might require a little more information about why you did the spell.

A complete list of the tools and ingredients used. This is vital for future reference and if you choose to repeat the spell.

Deities invoked, if any.

The entire text of the spell or ritual. You can write this down before the ritual, and just work from your text, if necessary.

How long it took to complete the spell.

The immediate reaction you felt to the ritual.

Short-term results. What did you notice over the first few days or weeks following the ritual?

Long-term results. What sort of changes have you observed over the following months or years?

You may choose to add other information you consider relevant, interesting, etc. Add drawings, poems, or other jottings if you like. Of course, you can always come back later and put in notations about things you thought of afterwards, dreams, discussions you may have had with fellow witches, and so on. It’s your book to work with however seems best for you.

Source: The Modern Guide to Witchcraft: Your Complete Guide to Witches, Covens, and Spells by Skye Alexander

Spells and Formulas Record Sheet c. 2015

You can print this out or save it on your computer. Even after practicing for over 45 years I find this page from Lady Abyss very helpful.

Spells and Formulas Record Sheet

 

TYPE OF SPELL OR FORMULA: This should state very clearly what the type of spell is e.g. blessing, binding etc. When developing formulas for lotions and potions, for instance, you need to be clear as to the exact purpose.

 

DATE AND TIME MADE: This gives a cross-reference should you wish to use the correct planetary hours or magical days.

 

REFERENCE: you should develop your own system of reference; this might be, for instance, according to the time of year or alphabetically. Do also remember to keep safely somewhere a record of how you have developed your reference system so that others may benefit from your experience.

 

ASTROLOGICAL PHASE: if you have an interest in astrology you will probably want to record where the planets are when you prepare the spell or formula. A decent ephemeris (list of planetary positions) can be of great help here though there are also many sources of information on the internet.

 

SPECIFIC PURPOSE: you should always state the specific purpose of the spell or formula very clearly. This is partly because it helps to focus your own mind, but also because it leaves no one in any doubt as to your intentions. Should you have more than one main purpose, you should also record these.

 

LIST OF INGREDIENTS AND/OR SUPPLIES NEEDED: Having all your ingredients to hand ensures that you are working with maximum efficiency and not misusing or needing to adjust the energy by leaving the sacred space. Also, when you repeat a working you will need to replicate what you did the first time; even one small change in ingredients can make a tremendous difference to the outcome.

 

SPECIFIC LOCATION REQUIRED: You may well need to perform some spells within a certain area or setting. Also you may discover that your own energy responds to some locations better than others.

 

DATE, TIME AND ASTROLOGICAL PHASE WHEN USED: In all probability you will not want all your spells to take effect at the time you cast them. suppose you have applied for a job and wish your spell to work at the time of interview. You would need to carefully calculate the date, time and astrological phase of the interview as well as the time you are actually casting your spell and incorporate both sets of information into your working.

 

RESULTS: Record carefully all aspects of results you feel are associated with your working. This record should include how successful you consider the spell to be and how it might be improved. There will be some unexpected results, some which appear not to give a tangible result and others which come into play some time after they were expected.

 

DEITIES INVOKED DURING PREPARATION AND/OR USE: Often a particular god can be helpful in bringing about a needed result for a spell. You will chose the most appropriate for your purpose and can always petition a different one at another time.

 

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARATIONS AND/OR USE: Often when spell-working, movements and words are intuitive and instinctive; the more you are able to remember what you did the more likely you are to achieve similar results. Also, should you require them for someone to work on your behalf or to undertake someone else’s magical training, you will have an exact record.

 

ADDITIONAL NOTES: Here you should record for each occasion anything that seems strange, bizarre or noteworthy so that you know what to expect next time.

 

In each of the spells we give a list of ingredients and special articles which may be required to achieve a result for that particular spell. Because each individual brings their own energy into the process, you may find that you intuitively want to change something, whether that is an ingredient, a container or the words used. This is absolutely fine, and means that your spell has a very personal ‘feel’ to it.

I Need Your Help to Figure Out Why Readership is Going Down

Please tell me what I am doing wrong. Since August 2023 views have gone down by more than half. I have done surveys earlier this year to ask you what you want to see on the website as regular posts and have tried to keep the number of emails flooding your inbox down. After trying to do what you want with WOTC my readership has gone way down which means the small amount of money I can make has gone from being paid monthly to every three months. The ads viewed have to add up to $100.00 USD in order for me to make this amount of pocket money.

I am really wondering if you all would like me to give the website to someone else or just let it go completely. I’d keep paying the $40.00 USD yearly to keep the domain name. I feel I am leaving the founder of WOTC, Lady Abyss, down with these number dwindling every month.

Please help me figure out how I am failing you. Should I go back to about 15 to 20 posts every day to bring you more information on a daily basis? Are there regular posts I stopped to keep the number of emails you get that you would like to see me bring back?

You my dear Sisters, Brothers, and Friends are the only ones that can help guide me by telling what you want from WOTC. This is your website more than it is mine I’m just the person behind the scenes bring you what you want. Please be honest even if you think you may sound brutal in the comments or write to me at ladybeltane@witchesofthecraft.com to tell me what I am doing wrong and what you want to see on here.

Thank you for taking your precious time to make a comment and/or write to me. I really do want and appreciate your input.

Types of Dreams

(SIDE NOTE: We can read many different theories for what dreams may mean. So, take away from each post on dreams interpretation and symbols what is relevant to you.)

Types of Dreams Source: dreamdictionary.org

Dreaming can be more than a simple state of the brain. We can experience waking dreams, daydreams, even dreams that appear to be shared or prophetic. Some people are lucid dreamers a special skill that not everyone can master. Some people experience specific recurring dreams, while certain sicknesses can bring on night terrors. Sometimes we can even experience false awakenings, where we think we have woken up, but are still dreaming. Here we will explore some of these phenomena.

Daydreams

Daydreaming was once thought to be a lazy pursuit,  I am  sure most of you have been reprimanded for daydreaming at one point or another. It is, however, a metabolically intense mental process, and can be very rewarding. In recent years, scientists have demonstrated that daydreaming is a fundamental feature of the human mind – so fundamental, in fact, that it’s often referred to as our “default” mode of thought.

Daydreaming is a crucial tool for creative thought, and allows the brain to make new associations and connections. It can spawn new ideas or methods; the daydreaming mind is free to engage in abstract thought and imaginative ramblings, and as a result, we’re able to imagine things that don’t actually exist.

Nightmares and Night Terrors

Chances are everyone here has experienced a nightmare. A horrible dream, complete with emotional turmoil, which causes the dreamer to wake and stay awake, nightmares are fairly common occurrences. The main purpose of a nightmare is to wake the conscious mind — usually to change sleeping position.

They can also be caused by stress or over-exhaustion. Surprisingly, children under the age of five do not experience nightmares at the same rate as older children, while children over five seem to have nightmares at a rate of once per week.  Night Terrors, however, are not as common.

A typical night terror episode usually occurs in the first hour of sleep. The subject sits up in bed and screams and appears awake but is confused, disoriented, and unresponsive to stimuli. Although the person seems to be awake, they do not seem to be aware of any surrounding presence and usually do not talk. The person may thrash around in bed and does not respond to comforting by others. A person’s heart rate can escalate during the terror, along with sweating and harsh breathing.

Researchers have found that nightmares can serve as a benefit to the human mind. The intense feeling of dread and uncertainty might be preparing the dreamer for a tragic event or a stressful situation. The nightmare may occur for you to either come to terms with a traumatic past and emotionally heal.

Lucid Dreams

Some people, referred to as Oneironauts or Lucid Dreamers, are able to control the setting and plot of their dreams. A lucid dream can begin in one of three ways. A dream-initiated lucid dream (DILD) starts as a normal dream, and the dreamer eventually concludes that he or she is dreaming, while a wake-initiated lucid dream (WILD) occurs when the dreamer goes from a normal waking state directly into a dream state with no apparent lapse in consciousness.

A mnemonic-initiated lucid dream (MILD) can happen when the dreamer intentionally affirms to himself or herself that he or she will become lucid during the upcoming sleep. Reaching lucidity can sometimes occur due to dream-signs or spontaneously upon remembrance. These dreams can be fantastical, where anything is possible, and can often be very real — complete with touch, smell, and taste sensations.

Recurring Dreams

Recurring dreams are quite common and are often triggered by a certain life situation or a problem that keeps coming back again and again. These dreams may recur daily, once a week, or once a month. Whatever the frequency, there is little variation in the dream content itself. Such dreams may be highlighting a personal weakness, fear, or your inability to cope with something in your life – past or present.

Common recurring dreams themes often revolve around either being chased, water, tests, falling and teeth dreams. Recurring dreams usually start during a time of uncertainty or reflecting a stressful event in ones life.

False Awakenings

Have you ever thought you have woken up and gone about your daily morning routine: getting up, brushing your teeth, eating breakfast and going to work, only to wake up “again” and realize that what just happened is just a dream. That sensation is referred to as a false awakening. Some people can experience four or five false awakenings before they truly wake. This phenomena was the basis for the film Groundhog Day.

The 13 Principles of Wiccan Belief

The 13 Principles of Wiccan Belief Source: wiccangathering.com

In the 1970s in the United States, a coalition of Wiccan groups banded together and set to put and end to misconceptions about Wicca. For too long, they thought, Wicca had been subject to uninformed stereotypes, stigma, and lack of proper recognition. So, what are the thirteen principles exactly?

The Thirteen Principles of Wiccan Belief were a summation to clear up misconceptions about Wicca and they outlined concepts such as: non-harm, disassociation from the devil, acknowledging the power of nature and the spiritual world, and living in harmony with the universe.

They also covered some societal issues like environmental responsibility and equality of the sexes. The federation wanted to communicate what Wicca was, and also what it was not.

The Principles are monumental because Wiccans and neo-Pagans are loosely organised and often can never agree. However the 13 principles of Wiccan belief forged an agreement among these diverse groups. The legacy of this historic agreement still lasts today.

For more general information about Wiccan beliefs, check out our beginner’s guide to Wiccan beliefs.

Origination of the 13 Principles of Wiccan Belief

In the 1970s, there were many misconceptions about Wicca and other pagan religions in the eyes of the general public. For instance, often Wicca and Witchcraft were misunderstood to be the same as Satanism or were misconstrued with the Christian Devil. There was much fear of pagan practices, and many untrue myths and stigma floating around.

A group of American Wiccans wanted to go on the offensive and correct the misinformation. Wicca is naturally a decentralized religionOpens in a new tab. as there is no official religious document, no central leader, and no governing authority. Wiccans are subject only to the divine.

There are infinite varieties which fall under the umbrella of pagan religion, and each practitioner has their own personal belief. They sought to create a document to clearly outline a general set of principles which all Wiccans adhere to.

However they thought it was possible to create a summary that all traditions could agree to and unite under. It was the goal of these principles to clarify what Wicca really was (and wasn’t).

Timeline

The period surrounding the 13 principles spans from 1973 until 1974. It started when Carl Llewellyn Weschcke created and chaired the “Council of American WitchesOpens in a new tab.”. (It’s sometimes called “The American Council of Witches”.)

The council was composed of about 73 members from various Wiccan, Pagan, and Witchcraft paths. The council convened in fall 1973 in Minneapolis.

You may know Carl Llewellyn Weschcke from his publishing company, Llewellyn Worldwide Ltd., which publishes pagan, Wiccan, and occult books. Weschcke published a newsletter called “Touchstone,” which formed the basis of a comprehensive document on the wide variety of Wiccan beliefs.

In April 1974, the council met again in Minneapolis. At this meeting they adopted Weschcke’s document. This document became the 13 Principles of Wiccan Belief that we know today.

Legacy of the Principles

Although the Council only lived for a short time (it disbanded later on in 1974), its legacy lives on. One of the largest impacts of the Principles is its inclusive definition of the overall guidelines of Witchcraft traditions. It embraces the full range of pagan and Wiccan beliefs. As a testament to this, the Principles are still embraced today.

Another notable legacy is to get governmental recognition of Wicca. The Principles were added to the US Army’s Handbook for Chaplains which is a huge achievement.

The the 13 Principles of Wiccan Belief were groundbreaking in another way. They described everyone regardless of “sexual preference.” This was an incredible feat at the time.

The Text of the Thirteen Principles of Wiccan Belief

These were taken from the text of the Council of American Witches Principles of Wiccan Beliefs.

Adopted By The Council Of American Witches Spring Witch meet of 1974, Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Council of American Witches finds it necessary to define modern Witchcraft in terms of the American experience and needs. In 1974 the Council of American Witches was formed with 73 Witches of varying traditions. They attempted to form a statement of common principles and definitions shared by Witches in order to dispel misinformation.

These principles have been incorporated into one or more editions of the U.S. Army handbook for chaplains. Although most Witches embrace the Wiccan Rede, many embrace some or all of the 13 Principles of Wiccan belief.

We are not bound by traditions from other times and other cultures and owe no allegiance to any person or power greater than the Divinity manifest through our own being. As American Witches, we welcome and respect all life-affirming teachings and traditions, and seek to learn from all and to share our learning within our Council. Here follows the introduction that accompanied the principles, this explains them better than we can, and the 13 principles themselves.

The 13 Principles of the Wiccan Belief:

Introduction: In seeking to be inclusive, we do not wish to open ourselves to the destruction of our group by those on self-serving power trips, or to philosophies and practices contradictory to those principles. In seeking to exclude those whose ways are contradictory to ours, we do not want to deny participation with us to any who are sincerely interested in our knowledge and beliefs, regardless of race, colour, sex, age, national or cultural origins or sexual preference.

We practice rites to attune ourselves with the natural rhythm of life forces marked by the phases of the Moon and the seasonal Quarters and Cross Quarters.

We recognise that our intelligence gives us a unique responsibility towards our environment.  We seek to live in harmony with nature in ecological balance offering fulfilment to life and consciousness within an evolutionary concept.

We acknowledge a depth of power far greater than that is apparent to the average person. Because it is far greater than ordinary it is sometimes called “supernatural”, but we see it as lying within that which is naturally potential to all.

We conceive of the Creative Power in the universe as manifesting through polarity – as masculine and feminine – and that this same Creative Power lies in all people and functions through the interaction of the masculine and the feminine.  We value neither above the other knowing each to be supportive of the other. We value sex as pleasure as the symbol and embodiment of life, and as one of the sources of energy used in magical practice and religious worship.

We recognise both outer and inner, or psychological, worlds — sometimes known as the Spiritual World, the Collective Unconscious, Inner Planes, etc. — and we see in the interaction of these two dimensions the basis for paranormal phenomena and magickal exercises. We neglect neither dimension for the other, seeing both as necessary for our fulfilment.

We do not recognise any authoritarian hierarchy, but do honour those who teach, respect those who share their greater knowledge and wisdom, and acknowledge those who have courageously given of themselves in leadership.

We see religion, magick and wisdom in living as being united in the way one views the world and lives within it – a world view and philosophy of life which we identify as Witchcraft – the Wiccan Way.

Calling oneself a “Witch” does not make a Witch – but neither does heredity itself, nor the collecting of titles, degrees, and initiations.  A Witch seeks to control the forces within her/himself that make life possible in order to live wisely and without harm to others and in harmony with nature.

We believe in the affirmation and fulfilment of life in a continuation of evolution and development of consciousness giving meaning to the Universe we know and our personal role within it.

Our only animosity towards Christianity, or towards any other religion or philosophy of life, is to the extent that its institutions have claimed to be “the only way,” and have sought to deny freedom to others and to suppress other ways of religious practice and belief.

As American Witches, we are not threatened by debates on the history of the Craft, the origins of various terms, the origins of various aspects of different traditions. We are concerned with our present and our future.

We do not accept the concept of absolute evil, nor do we worship any entity known as “Satan” or “the Devil”, as defined by Christian tradition. We do not seek power through the suffering of others, nor do we accept that personal benefit can be derived only by denial to another.

We believe that we should seek within Nature that which is contributory to our health and well-being.

Herb and Essential Oils Magickal Uses

Disclaimer: No herb should be used for medicinal purpose until you have checked with your health care professional to ask if it is safe for you to use it for any reason. The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. WitchesofTheCraft.com, any staff member of WitchesofTheCraft.com and/or Lady Carla Beltane are not responsible for any type of negative reaction when using this herb for any reason.

Working with herbs in magick can have a powerful effect. They can enhance the magick, enhance the energies and enhance the direction. Understanding what herbs to work with and which to avoid is key in making sure your magick does not go awry in the Universe.

Plants can lend healing to a spell, can renew life in the energy you are summoning and can have powerful and beneficial effects to those it touches on its journey through the cosmos and back.

Goddess Herbs include:

Aloe, Apple, Catnip, Comfrey, Daisy, Elder, Eucalyptus, Fern, Henbane, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Lemon Balm, Lemon Verbena, Lilac, Mugwort, Myrrh, Nutmeg, Periwinkle, Poppy, Rose, Thyme, Valerian, Vervain, Violet, and Willow. (Not a full list)

God Herbs include:

Angelica, Anise, Ash, Basil, Bay Leaves, Caraway, Chamomile, Cinnamon, Clover, Clove, Cypress, Dragons Blood, Eyebright, Fennel, Frankincense, Ginger, Ginseng, Hawthorne, Hazel, Mandrake, Mint, Oak, Parsley, Patchouli, Pine, Rosemary, Witch Hazel, and Wormwood. (Not a full list)

Some Magickal workings and spells can be enhanced, as I said before, with the use of herbs. We use herbs such as Jasmine to represent Prosperity and we use herbs like Pine to help with healing and cleansing as well as attunement to nature. Understanding the herb and the uses is essential.

When working a spell for Protection or Purification, Anise is the herb to use. Anise has a Masculine quality, the planets that align with this herb are Juptier or the Moon and the Element its associated with is Air. There are also healing qualities to this particular herb. If used in a bath, it serves as a cleansing. Having a satchet of Anise seeds next to your bed will also help to keep nightmares at bay.

If you have a familiar that is feline, then Catnip is the herb for you. Catnip has a Female quality, the planet that aligns with this herb is Venus, and its element is Water. Using catnip to perform Cat Magick, to either choose your familiar, or to get closer to them will help to enhance and boost that magick. This herb is also associated with joy and friendship and of course, love.

Mugwort is a very powerful herb. It is used for clairvoyance, enhancing psychic dreams and astral projection. Mugwort has a Feminine quality, the planet is Venus and the element is Air. But be very careful with working with this herb. If you are looking for a Soul Journey, ensure you have a partner that remains grounded to pull you back from the Astral Plane. Taking the leaves and rubbing them directly on your Crystal Ball will help to enchance or strengthen your divinatory work.

Rosemary is another powerful herb. They say (and no, I don’t know who “they” are) if you plant Rosemary by your Garden Gate, you will always have healthy plants. Rosemary has a Masculine quality and the planet that is aligned with this powerful herb is the Sun itself. The element, of course, is Fire! Rosemary also has healing qualities. Improving memory, helping sleep, enhancing power and helping to heal and protect.

High John the Conqueror Root is another herb that has a Masculine quality. Its planet is Saturn and the element, Earth. This herb, if used in Magick, can help to enhance the strength and power. Used as an annointing oil for candles and charms to enhance the strength of the power being directed into them.

Remember, when using herbs, you have to understand what the herb can do, as well as understand the direction/element that the herb attunes to. You would insult the magick if you used Rosemary and asked the element of Water to enhance the power, as this is Fire herb. Understanding comes with research and practice. For a more expanisive list, please reach out to Lady Beltane or to Lady Rhiannon.

Blessed Be Brothers & Sisters!

Happy spellcasting!

Brief Look At Different Traditions In Witchcraft – Eclectic Wicca

 

Eclectic Wicca

Look in any personals column in a Craft-oriented newsletter or journal and you will see this catch-all phrase. Basically, it indicates that the individual does not follow any particular Tradition, denomination, sect, or magickal practice. They learn and study from many magickal systems and apply to themselves what appears to work best. I happen to be an Eclectic Wiccan.

Sea Witchcraft c. 2016