Category: Articles

(One Person’s View Point) The Real Secret of Spell Casting

THE REAL SECRET OF SPELL CASTING

The power that makes a spell work is not to be found in some new recipe book. The real power that makes a spell work dwells within you, and surrounds you. The real secret of successful spellcasting, as with all magic, is your connection to divinity, within and without. Your thoughts, willpower, feelings, and physical exertions are actually all expressions or forms of this divine energy — just as
air, water, fire, and earth are all forms of divine energy. When you understand the true nature of the energy you work with, you can make real magic.

9 Steps to Casting Your Spell

1. cast a circle and connect with the divinity within
2. call upon the divinity from without
3. state the goal of your spell
4. visualize your goal
5. raise energy by chanting, dancing, or drumming
6. direct your energy to the spell’s goal
7. release the energy of your spell, ground any excess energy
8. offer libation and thanks and close your circle
9. act in accord and give back in thanks

Casting a spell? Don’t forget to:
– decide on your goal
– find guidance for your spell from an oracle or divation tool
– prepare your space by cleansing with salt water or herbs such as sage
– read Witchcraft Without Rules

5 Facts for Successful Spellcasting:

Passion fuels a successful spell; doubt can kill it.
Spells can be performed almost anywhere — though I don’t recommend attempting it while in the midst of rush-hour traffic! You do need to work without being disturbed when you cast a spell. So find a quiet and private place, preferably outdoors.
Once you’ve cast a spell, don’t talk about it — or even think about it — for 24 hours!
An old axiom says that spells should rhyme. A rhymed spell has rhythm and joyfulness in it, it’s easy to remember and repeat, and the repetition itself creates an altered, magical consciousness.
A spell is only used to control yourself, never another or Nature and remember, you should not do spellwork on someone else’s behalf without their permission.

Author unknown
Contributed by Brightstar

(One Person’s View Point) Everything You Need to Know About Hag Stones

Hag Stones Source: whitewitchgrimoire.com

Hag Stones are just any type of stone that has a naturally occuring hole through it, but are considered sacred objects.

It is believed that magick cannot work on moving or running water, and it’s holes are created by the energy of the element of water as it runs acrosss stones and “traps” smaller ones into crevices.

These smaller stones act as drill bits and the longer they stay under running water, the deeper the hole gets until it goes all the way through. The earth power of the stones combined with water and wind make them so magical.

The best place to find them is on a dry river bed or any place that running water has receeded. The flat river bed presents itself as the water level lowers and you can find many of them.

The Lore

In some folk magic practices, these stones are believed to ward off or break hexes, sickness and nightmares. I think most of that came from an old tale that tells that cureses and bad luck are caused by spectral hags.

It is said that when you look through the stone itself, you can see other realms. Some traditions state that you can see the Fae, other dimensions and even nature spirits.

You can hold it up and look at the full moon through them and speak your desires or what you want to get rid of.

These stones have been used as amulets, talismans, in spell work and in ritual to both present the 3 elements and to protect. Since magick doesn’t work in running water, you can use to get rid of hexes and curses, especially when you trap something inside of that hole and take it back down to the river to wash it away and let the water carry it all away from you.

Worn as protection, these were also used as a “toll” to counteract workings against you and paid the witch’s price.

Hanging on a black ribbon or thread over the doorway or window, it is said to “trap” negative energies and can also be used for dreamwork when hung over the bed.

You can hang them in your work area, across windows and door ways, wear them or use them to enhance that “witches” eye by working with the energy of the stones.

These powerful stones are said to help open up your witch or third eye.

The Work

Tie a hag stone to a protection candle.

Tie a stone and hang above your working altar to keep negative energies away.

Use as your “eye” to fire or water scry.

Carry it with you.

Hang one in your car to protect you while on the road.

Hang one over your bed to trap nightmares.

Hang one over your front door to take any bad energy that walks into your house.

Place around water, fire or candle magick with other protective herbs to enforce your circle.

Hide one in your front flower bed.

(One Person’s View Point) 25 Ways to use Crystals to Enrich your Life

Disclaimer: No crystal, or gem or stone should be used for medicinal purposes in place of what your health care professional has prescribed for you 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 a crystal or gem or stone for any reason.

(One Person’s VIew Point) 7 Must Have Crystals for Beginners

Disclaimer: No crystal, or gem or stone should be used for medicinal purposes in place of what your health care professional has prescribed for you 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 a crystal or gem or stone for any reason.

(One Person’s View Point) The Healing Power of Crystals

Disclaimer: No crystal, or gem or stone should be used for medicinal purposes in place of what your health care professional has prescribed for you 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 a crystal or gem or stone for any reason.

(One Person’s View) Wiccan Stones and Crystals: A Complete Guide

Disclaimer: No crystal, or gem or stone should be used for medicinal purposes in place of what your health care professional has prescribed for you 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 a crystal or gem or stone for any reason.

For beginners, continue reading on to learn about what crystals are, how to find them, how to use them, and more. Also, see our companion guide Crystal Magick for Beginners

For experienced crystal witches, use the Table of Contents to find the List of Correspondences for Wiccan stones and crystals.

What is a crystal?

So, what is a crystal exactly? Crystal is a generic term for a variety of geologic formations. Geodes, metals, gems, minerals, and more. They represent the most basic components of our physical lives and are a direct connection to the powerful and infinite Earth.

Sometimes they represent extraterrestrial components in the case of meteorites. They may even derive from natural processes occurring on the Earth, not directly form the Earth itself, as in the case of amber. The word crystals is an umbrella term to refer to all of these things.

Crystals can be translucent or opaque. They come in every colour imaginable. They can be all shapes and sizes. They can be a solid colour or patterned. They can be smooth or rough.

Each crystal is unique in its chemical make-up, density, and appearance. In addition to its chemical and physical attributes, each crystal has an energetic component. As Einstein discovered, matter and energy are interchangeable. Crystals are very sensitive to energy, conducting it and emitting it. We choose to work with one crystal over another based on its energy characteristics, the correspondences of which is described a bit further below.

What do Wiccans use crystals for? (and other traditions of witchcraft)

Wiccan stones and crystals are powerful tools which witches use to enhance their craft. As Wicca is a pagan religion which is heavily Earth-based, crystals are a natural incorporation since they come directly from the Earth. They are a direct connection with nature and they harness the perpetual power of the Earth.

Stones are alive and choose to work with us. They will not be powerful unless you recognize that they are your partner– not just tools which you alone control. 

Crystals serve as a container of magickal energies. Energies like thought and intention can be picked up by the crystals and then sent out to the world. They can be used either as a primary tool for your magickal work, or you can use their natural energies to supplement other work you might be doing.

The color of crystals is very important as well. Color is just energy too, just as we require light to see it. Each color has a different correspondence depending on its vibration and resonance. One color can be used to aid in healing work, but another color will be better suited to a love spell.

Since crystals are stores of energy, you should cleanse them thoroughly upon first use and periodically after that. You’ll also want to charge them before using them in any spells. Cleansing and charging are described towards the end of this article.

Here are some example uses of Wiccan stones and crystals in a witch’s practice.

Marking the circle.

Healing. Some crystals have specific healing properties, for instance to heal a particular system or part of the body. However most crystals (and even most stones like those you would find on a riverbed) can also be used for healing.

Jewelry like pendants, earrings, bracelets, and other magickal pieces. The stones can be charged for a specific purpose (protection, healing, etc) then worn to let the energies with which you charged it to surround you. Crystals can be charged and work in your daily activities or for a specific purpose like dealing with a negative person, a job interview, or giving a presentation.

Good luck charms and talismans.

Protection such as wearing crystal amulets.

Scrying which is peering into a crystal’s surface for visions. This works best with crystals that have smooth, reflective surfaces like hematite.

Meditation with the crystal.

Divination work.

Honoring deities.

Decorating magickal tools like wands, chalices, pentacles, etc.

Spellwork and manifesting change.

Astral projection.

Dream work, dream analysis, improving sleep, ending bad dreams, and lucid dreaming.

Changing the energy flow in the home.

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

Where can I find crystals?

What do I need to get started?

How Do I Cleanse My Crystals?

How Do I Charge My Crystals?

How Should Crystals Be Stored?

List of Correspondences of Wiccan Stones and Crystals

 

I’m Taking Today Off

I apologize for not posting more about Imbloc today. I woke up with a temperature over over 102F and feel miserable. 

Here is a link that will take to what has been posted about Imbolc on WOTC in the past. WOTC Imbloc Information

 

(One Person’s View) How to Choose the Right Crystals for Imbolc

Disclaimer: No crystal, or gem or stone should be used for medicinal purposes in place of what your health care professional has prescribed for you 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 a crystal or gem or stone for any reason.

How to Choose the Right Crystals for Imbolc

Imbolc is a time of renewal, hope, and fiery transformation, making it the perfect season to incorporate crystals into your practice. Choosing the right crystals for Imbolc can enhance your connection to the energy of this sabbat and supercharge your rituals. Whether you’re setting up an altar, performing fire magic, or manifesting new beginnings, selecting the perfect crystals ensures you align with the season’s energy.

Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the best crystals for Imbolc and use them effectively in your practice.

Table Of Contents

The Energy of Imbolc and Its Connection to Crystals

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Crystals

Best Crystals for Imbolc

How to Choose Crystals in Practice

Creative Ways to Use Your Imbolc Crystals

Final Tips for Choosing and Using Imbolc Crystals

Click on the hyperlinks to read the rest of this article Source: eclecticwitchcraft.com

Imbolc Plants and Herbs c 2017

Disclaimer: No flower or plant or herb should be used for medicinal purposes 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 and/or any staff member of WitchesofTheCraft.com and/or Lady Carla Beltane are not responsible for any type of negative reaction when using this flower or plant for any reason.

Save

Stones of Imbolc c. 2019

Brigid, Celtic Goddess of Imbolc c. 2016

 

Brigid, Celtic Goddess of Imbolc

Brigit is the central Irish Goddess. She is known as Brigantia in England and Bride in Scotland. She rules metal work and smithy, fire, poetry, midwifery and martial arts–but is primarily known as a major Mother Goddess. Brigit is a face of the Triple Goddess, and able to see all–often represented by an ever watchful eye. The three heart-shaped leaves of the shamrock recall the magical Celtic number of three, as well as the number of Brigit’s faces. From nine to Nineteen priestesses once tended an undying fire in her name at Kildare. Brigid is so central to Ireland that the newly converted people would not give her up, so her name metamorphosed into St. Bridgid, who in Irish Christian myth acts as tender and supportive friend of Mary and as the midwife at Christ’s birth. Barbara G. Walker writes that to the Irish people, however, she continued to be a Queen of Heaven and the mother of all the deities of the new religion. As the Saint, she also matched wits with St. Patrick, who is as mythical as she. At times they seem to be consorts, at others, adversaries. It cannot have helped their relationship that Patrick is known for ridding Ireland of snakes, and since Bridgid the saint descended from a pagan goddess and priestess persona, whose sacred healing totem is the snake. So when St. Patrick says he is ridding the isle of snakes, what he means is he is ridding it of pagans. Nevertheless, Patricius and Bridgid were often considered the primal Mother and Father, and were supposedly buried together at Derry Down.

More Articles on USA Witchcraft Laws

Here are some more articles having to do with laws about practicing witchcraft. I hope you enjoy and learn something from them. Two of these are from websites that give information about all kinds of laws.

When Did Witchcraft Become Legal in the United States?

American Witchcraft Laws Are there laws against witchcraft in America?

Is the Practice of Witchcraft Illegal in the US?

(One Person’s View Point) Exploring The Legal Landscape Of Modern Witchcraft

Source: halt.org

In the modern world, understanding the legal boundaries around once taboo subjects like witchcraft is not only intriguing but necessary. This exploration aims to shed light on the rights, protections, and potential legal pitfalls that concern practitioners of witchcraft today. So buckle up for a bewitching journey through history, law books, and international borders!

Witchcraft Symbols, Terms and Definitions – Watchtowers or Quarters

From moonlitpriestess.com

Quarters

Another name for the four cardinal directions–north, east, south, & west. (See also: Watchtowers, the) Generally linked to the Elements in many Wiccan and Pagan traditions today.

The Watchtowers

Another name for the four elements in some traditions; earth, air, fire, water. Sometimes used in reference to the spirits of the four directions–north, east, south, west–regardless of Elemental association. May also be in reference to the Archangels Raphael, Michael, Gabriel, and Uriel in similar fashion. As the Watchtowers, the spirits serve as protection within a magickal working.

Witchcraft Symbols, Word Terms and Definitions – Ceremonial Magic

Ceremonial Magick

From moonlitpriestess.com

Typically less religious and more philosophical and intellectual in nature; often focused on Western Mystery traditions; characterized by emphasis on prescribed sets of rituals, formulaic words, tools, symbols, etc. May be referred to as “high magick” which was a classist term used to differentiate the ceremonial magick of the elite classes from the folk magick of peasants.

(One Person’s View Point) Understanding Witchcraft Symbols: A Comprehensive Guide

Witchcraft, a craft as ancient as history itself, carries a profound legacy steeped in symbolism.

These symbols, intricately woven into the very fabric of witchcraft, are gateways to profound spiritual and philosophical insights.

Table of Contents

The Universe of Witchcraft Symbols

The Pantheon of Witchcraft Symbols

Using Witchcraft Symbols in Rituals and Spells

Decoding the Mystery of Witchcraft Symbols

Source: witchyspiritualstuff.com

(One Person’s View Point) Magick Zodiac Color Correspondences

MAGICK ZODIAC COLOR CORRESPONDENCE

Aquarius January 20-February 18 – blue
Pisces February 19-march 20 – white
Aries march 21-April 19 – white
Taurus April 20-may 20 – red
Gemini may 21-June 21 – red
cancer June 22-July 22 – green
Leo July 23-august 22 – green
Virgo august 23-September 22 – gold
Libra September 23-October 22 – black
Scorpio October 23-November 21 – brown
Sagittarius November 22-December 21 – gold
Capricorn December 22-January 19 – red

A Different Style for Writing a Short, Simple Spell

Let’s try something interesting and useful as a new way to write a short spell.

I have been watching a YouTube family channel designed with the idea for families have fun and maybe try some things they do. Caution they may get loud at times but I have gotten at least a chuckle on the over 30 videos I have watched so far.

Good Mythical Morning

The hosts Rhett and Link do some strange things. But one thing they do sometimes is talk in a Japanese from of poetry known as Haiku. Which can be explained easily with this

A traditional Japanese haiku is a three-line poem with seventeen syllables, written in a 5/7/5 syllable count. Often focusing on images from nature, haiku emphasizes simplicity, intensity, and directness of expression.

An explanation of Haiku by Poets.org

As I read about Haiku I realized while it may take some getting use to writing nd reading it, it could be a different way to write a short, simple for something easy. For example (this is my first try in trying to do this so if it sounds strange it gives me room to improve and to find knowledge)

“I want Mother Earth,

To be clean and renewed So

 Tell me pick up trash.” 

Ok, I guess most people would not really a spell in the sense that we are use to writing them in. But to finish it I would write it on a small 1 inch by 3 inch piece of paper then the roughly burn the piece of paper. Once the ash is COMPLETELY COLD I would grinded it into a fine dust to mix into a small amount of lotion, about 1 tablespoon (if you lotion tends to go a long way when you use it regularly a just the amount you would use for this so you can rub in the lotion completely or than rub a tip of your index finger amount throughly into my crown chakra to remind me to pick up the trash and on my 3rd eye area so I would not over look the trash. Than rub the rest into my hands to remember to grab the trash. I would do this just before bedtime and let the lotion with the spell paper dust in it soak into my skin to set the spell. If you can wear a long weight pair of pure cotton gloves which will help the lotion moisture your hands more.

Here is my first attempt using a Japanese Haiku Poem to do a Spell. I will let you know how it goes.

I am really looking forward to reading your Haiku spell and how you are going to put it into action.

(One Person’s View Point) Writing your own spells and rituals c.2017

 Writing your own spells and rituals

 

Know the Basics
Know what magick is. Know different ways to raise, direct and ground energy. Know how to cast a magick circle. Know how to open a circle. Know the basic outline of a spell.

Know the Intent or Purpose
What is it you are trying to do? Heal an illness? Increase your concentration? Bring love into your life? Sell a house? Celebrate a Sabbat? Before you begin any magickal working, you should have a firm grasp on what outcome you are seeking.

Know the Best Time to Work the Spell
Do you know what type of magick should be worked during the waning moon and what type during the waxing moon? What type of magick is best worked on the full moon? The new moon? What ays of the week are best for what types of magick? Learn how the moon phases and days of the week affect magickal workings so you will know when to work your spell.

Know Correspondences
Learn which colors will bring what results. Learn a little about herbalism; which herbs can be used for what magickal purposes. Learn about image magick and how it works. Learn about elemental magick; which elements can be used for what types of magick.
 

 Basic Working Spell Outline

 Ritual Preparation
 Choose a time. Decide the intent. Choose an aspect of the Divine, if  you wish. Decide how to raise energy (ie: dance, chanting, drumming,  etc.) Choose how to cast and close the circle.

 Cleanse yourself and your magickal space.
 You can do this with a ritual bath for yourself, or through meditation  to still and focus your mind. You can cleanse your space with your  magickal broom or with incense or burning herbs.

 Cast the Circle

 Invocation of the Divine

 Statement of purpose
 This is simply to tell the Divine why you have called Him/Her to the  circle; what you are trying to accomplish.

 Magickal Working
 Raise energy, through chanting or drumming or however you have  chosen to do so. Direct or channel this energy by using candles,  herbs, stones or whatever other correspondences you found to fit  your specific need. Ground your energy when you have completed  the working.

 Cakes and Wine
 Eat a small piece of bread or cookie and drink a little wine, milk or  juice to help restore your energy.

 Thanking the Divine

 Closing the Circle

 

Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Monday

(YOU CAN COPY AND PASTE ANY CORRESPONDENCES POSTED TO A DOCUMENT TO PRINT AND/OR SAVE ON YOUR COMPUTER FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY)

The Witches Correspondences for Monday

Day: Monday ( Moon-day)

Planet: Moon

Colors: Silver and White and Grey

Crystals: Moonstone, Pearl, Aquamarine, Silver, Selenite

Aroma: Jasmine, Lemon, Sandalwood, Moon Oil, African violet, Honeysuckle, Myrtle, Willow, and Wormwood

Herb: Moonwart

The sacred day of the Moon, personified by such goddesses as Selene, Luna, Diana, and Artemis. The Moon is ruler of flow affecting the changeable aspects of people. If a full moon falls on a Monday, its powers are at theirmmost potent. Magical aspects: peace, sleep, healing, compassion, friendships, psychic awareness, purification, and fertility

Monday is ruled by the moon – an ancient symbol of mystery and peace. Monday is a special day for mothers as the cycle of the moon has long been associated with the female menstrual cycle. Those wishing to conceive a baby would be wise to try on a Monday as the magic of motherhood is strong and pregnancy is in the air.

This is the proper day of the week to perform spells and rituals involving agriculture, animals, female fertility, messages, reconciliation’s, theft, voyages, dreams, emotions, clairvoyance, home, family, medicine, cooking, personality, merchandising, psychic work, Faerie magic, and Goddess rituals.