Tag: Magic

W is for Wand

W

Wand

The wand is a tool that is long associated with magic and Witchcraft. It is primarily used in rituals and spells to channel and direct energy. It can be used much in the way an athame (ritual knife) is used. However, a wand may be safer in houses where there are small children, and can be brought and waved anywhere without fear that local authorities will confiscate it or arrest you. While you can spend a great deal of money at your local occult shop on a delicate crystal wand etched with obscure, unknown symbols, it is not necessary. In fact, some Witches would say it is not recommended. There is a strong belief that creating your altar tools  yourself imbues them with your own personal energies, making them more powerful  for your use than any store-bought item.

Wands have been made of many materials. I have seen some amazing wands crafted of various metals, crystals, and even of bone. But this article will focus on wood, by far the most common material for wand crafting, past and present. This is partly for practical reasons, as wood is sturdy, inexpensive, widely available, easy to work  with and beautiful. But there are magical reasons for using wood as well. Wood is an excellent conductor of energy, and, coming from nature, holds power all on its own.

Different trees are associated with different magical uses. When choosing the type of wood for your wand, you may wish to take into consideration the following correspondences between magical intent and type of wood:

ALL PURPOSE: oak, hazel, rowan.

BANISHING: birch, elder, juniper.

DIVINATION: cherry, fig, orange, pomegranate, willow.

FERTILITY: hawthorn, olive.

HEALING: apple, blackberry, cedar, eucalyptus, sandalwood, willow.

LOVE: apple, cherry, elm, willow.

PROSPERITY: blackberry, maple, pine.

PROTECTION: poplar, ash, elder, elm.

If you feel you will be using your wand for more than one type of spell or ritual, try using an all-purpose wood, or choosing a wood that falls into more than one category. Many Witches have several wands, each used for a different purpose, crafted from different kinds of wood. If there is a particular tree you feel a connection with, such as one that you spent much of your childhood sitting in, consider using a branch from that tree. The special bond you have forged with the tree will only lend to the wood’s power for any use.

There are several different beliefs floating around on the right way to obtain wood for a wand. Some people believe that a wand is only good if it is cut from a live tree rather than taken from “dead wood.” The thought is that the energy from a living tree will add to the wand’s power. If you are going to do this, it is best to ask the tree’s permission (a simple meditation under the tree should instill you with a strong feeling of the tree’s willingness). Leave an offering at the base of the tree, such as a coin or crystal. Another practical consideration you should make is to find out when the best time of year is to prune the particular tree you are cutting from so you will not damage the tree.

Some argue that once you take wood, it is physically dead anyway, so there is no need to impose upon a living tree for its wood. These people feel that the wood retains the tree’s power whether taken directly from the tree, or from the ground. In fact, it might even be considered better energy to take from the ground because the wood will lack any trauma that cutting may inflict. If this way of thinking makes more sense to you, obtain a wand by looking for a fallen branch. You can also, through meditation, ask a specific tree or group of trees to drop a branch for you to use, and then keep checking back in the area for the tree’s gift to you. Be sure to leave an offering in return.

Another way to obtain wood for a wand is to simply go to a hardware or craft store and purchase a dowel. The wood still comes from a tree and retains its energies, and is ready for you to begin working with it. While some purists may shun this idea, others of a more practical mind set see nothing wrong with it.

Since there is no rule or consensus on the best way to obtain the wood for your wand, you will need to trust your own instincts. However you obtain your wood, you will want to take a few things into consideration. First, make sure the wood you are using is healthy, and not rotted, soggy, or soft in any areas. Also ensure that it is not infested with insects. Second, you will want to find wood that is relatively straight. Make sure the wood section you are choosing feels good in your grip, well balanced, and that the length is satisfactory. A wand that is too long can be awkward and may cause you to knock things over as you are waving it around. A good length is from the crook of your elbow to the tip of your middle finger. Another option is to cut it to measure 13 inches; the number 13 is sacred to the Goddess as it represents the 13 lunar cycles in the year.

Once you have chosen your wood and cut it down to size, you are ready to begin your handy work. If the wood was from nature you should strip it of its bark and any leaves or twigs coming from it. You may wish to get some sand paper  to smooth the wood. If it is very rough, start with a heavy grade sandpaper until you have all of the nubs and edges smooth, then go over it with a fine grade.

How you decorate your wand will be entirely up to you. Some people choose to leave the wand completely in its natural state. Or, you can leave it partially natural, but add a few embellishments. One option is simply carving magical symbols or runes into the wand. Another option is to do the same using a wood-burning tool. You can also use leather or silk cords to tie feathers to a wand, wrap animal skins around the handle, or affix it with small gems and crystals using a hot glue gun. Another addition you can make to your wand is wrapping it with copper wiring, easily obtained at a hardware store. Copper is a highly conductive metal that will give the wand that extra “zap.”

If leaving your wand in a natural state, or partially natural state, you should oil it from time to time. This practice will keep the wood from getting too dry or brittle, and protect it from humidity. The best oil to use is mineral oil. You can give it a kick and empower the mineral oil with a few drops of essential oils before rubbing it onto the wand with a soft cloth or paper towel. When it comes to how often you should oil your wand, a good rule of thumb to follow is: once a day for a week, once a week for a month, once a month for a year, and once or twice a year after that.

Another option for decorating a wand is to paint it with craft paints. If you are handy with paint you can create a beautifully decorative, colorful wand. However, if painting the wand, don’t rub the mineral oil on it. The paint itself will seal the wood, and the rubbing could damage your handiwork.

While it is not necessary, it is common for people to add a special tip to a wand. This can be something such as a pinecone, acorn, or, more commonly, a crystal. Whatever you choose, you might want to take into  what purposes the wand will be for. If you are creating a wand out of pine to use specifically for empowering prosperity charms, you may want to choose a pinecone. If your wand is made of willow and will be used to draw loving energies into your life, you may want to consider a dried rose or rose quartz crystal. I find that for all-purpose wands the best tip is a clear, terminated quartz crystal. These easy to obtain stones can be used for any intent, and are like energy amplifiers. They are both projective (project energy) and receptive (receive energy), and the terminated (pointed) tip really helps to focus the energy.

To affix any item to your wand tip, you have several options. The first is to simply use masking tape, though most people are not satisfied with the appearance, or of using such an unnatural material. Another option (my personal favorite) is to wrap a piece of fabric or animal skin smeared with some glue so that it is half on the item and half on the wand. I have not had good results using glue alone without the skin or fabric, as it doesn’t hold well and repeated  leave you with a clumped-up tip full of glue. The final option is to use the copper wiring and simply wrap and loop it around the tip and then around the wand until it holds.

One thing to keep in mind at all times when you are crafting your wand is the positive magic and rituals for which it will be used. As you work on in, feel the energies of the wood mingling with your own power that you are pouring into it, and it will serve you well for years to come. You will find that your hand-crafted wand is more personal and more powerful for your own use than anything money could buy.

Witchcraft 101: The Rhythmic Practice Phase (part 3)

Witchcraft 101: The Rhythmic Practice Phase (part 3)
Author: Wren

Since its inception, the Witches’ Voice, has been barraged with email asking the simple question… “How do I become a Witch”? Although, it has never been the mission of the Witches’ Voice to actually teach Witchcraft we find ourselves constantly shocked at the aweful responses the Teenage Witch or new seeker receives from many that “claim” themselves “elders” of the craft. For this we apologize. We will never preach or claim to “have the answer”.There are indeed many paths and many ways, it is our goal to give you the tools to  and what to look out for.

Part #3…

The Rhythmic Practice Phase

How are you doing so far?

The first two lessons should have taken you about six months of study and practice to complete(if you worked at it diligently). You should now also be fairly comfortable doing the basic ritual from the previous lesson. Remember that you actually have to DO the ritual – not just read it, dream about it or visualize it. Get up on your feet, get your tools together, light those candles AND DO IT!

“Effort requires that you either answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’.”

Teachers can always tell if someone who comes to them has done the work. The first time that a student will do a ritual or take part in one with others will clearly show his/her experience or lack of it.

If you have done the work, this does not mean that you will not be nervous your “first time out.” You will! But you will also be amazed at how quickly this nervousness will pass as the ritual progresses. Your spirit and inner child. (Him/her, again?) WILL remember all those practice sessions and soon you’ll be enjoying the whole thing immensely!

Along the way, DO Remember these four little things:

Life is always changing. Nothing stays the same.

To Know you have To Do. Experience requires action.

The quality of each experience – as you draw it forth and do it and live it – becomes the substance of your wisdom.

Yes, there will be a test on this. There is ALWAYS a test on this!

O.K., what’s next?

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters,
compared to what lies within us.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Rhythms of Nature, Rhythms of Life:

The Neo – Pagan Paths that we are discussing – including Wicca and Witchcraft – are called “Earth – based” religions. The rituals and practices follow the seasonal changes of the Earth. Some Paths use the eight holidays of the Wiccan Wheel of Life; some adhere to the more traditional Four Fire Festivals calendar. Some groups have come up with their own cycles according to their belief systems. What calendar will you use?

When you have decided which Holiday calendar that you want to incorporate into your life – lesson, read all that you can about it. Take one Holiday at a time. Look for resources, descriptions and Myths about each Holiday. Think upon each one as both a special event and as a “marker” for the year.

During the Rhythmic Stage, you will explore the year through the cycles of Nature. And yes, this phase DOES last an entire year. There is no other way. You may begin to reach out a bit more during this time – exploring new contacts, taking some classes, attending public events – but the personal exploration of the Rhythmic Cycle of The Holidays should be your primary focus.

Why? It is in this cycle that you will learn much more about yourself and your place in the Universe. Everything that is exists as vibrational energy. Some things have a higher frequency, some a lower one. You will learn to “feel” the vibrational changes around you as the seasons come and go.( An essential skill to have in Magick! )

Do you get a little “spring fever” around April or May? Look at the earth. She is excited about this time of year, too! Buds are swelling on the trees and flower plants are poking their first leaves out of the ground as if to ask, “Is it safe to come out yet”?

Do you feel particularly invigorated in the Fall crisp air? Watch the squirrels run around and dig into the ground to hide their nuts. Hear the bees as they bob from plant to plant racing down the coming frost. “Hurry, hurry, hurry,” seems to rustle the drying leaves from the trees. (I’m sure you get the idea.)

There Are Patterns

“I learn by going where I have to go.” – Theodore Roethke.

Most Pagans have a  or transmigration of the soul. All things in Nature are born (germination), grow, mature, reproduce, and then decline and die. The cycle begins again. This is why reincarnation makes sense to most Pagans. By observing the Rhythmic Cycle, we reflect on this process and we may come to think that it just “seems right”. Not too surprising really. It’s “natural,” isn’t it?

You have a place in this cycle. You probably were not brought up to think in this way. Most aspiring Neo – Pagans weren’t. This year of study will show you not only where you fit into the cycle of Nature, but how your active involvement in these cycles can change your life. When you come to understand and work with the natural rhythms in the world around you, you will understand what it means to be Pagan.

Here are some reasons why “rhythmic learning” – and possibly reincarnation – works:

Effective experiential learning will affect the learner’s cognitive structures (action theories), attitudes and values, perceptions and behavioral patterns.

People will believe more in knowledge they have discovered themselves than in knowledge presented by others.

Learning is more effective when it is an active rather than a passive process.

Acceptance of new action theories, attitudes, and behavioral patterns cannot be brought about by a piecemeal approach.

It takes more than information to change action theories, attitudes, and behavioral patterns.

It takes more than firsthand experience to generate valid knowledge. Besides experience, there needs to be a theoretical system that the experiencer tests out and a personal reflection on the meaning of the experience.

(The above principles come from the work of Kurt Lewin, one of the important founding fathers of social psychology who influenced the development of the Group Dynamics movement in the early 1940’s.)

I’d add a seventh point – Make It Fun!

Hunt down seasonal objects for your altar. Think about colors for cloths and robes. Make a headpiece for each Holiday. Pick a mythic story and follow it throughout the year. Act it out! Dress the part! Dance! Sing! Write a poem! Cook up a recipe! Adopt a “totem” animal for each season. Make a special storage box for each Holiday’s special decorations. (Every Holiday will feel like Yule as you open your Holiday boxes next year. Add more goodies!)

“A man of faithful thought may feel in light, among the beasts and fields,
the turning of the wheel.” – Wendell Berry

WHY Are You Doing All This?

Transformation!

Transformation begins from within. Many people turn to a religion – or to magic! – in an attempt to change the things that they perceive to stand in the way of their ‘true happiness.” Many a love spell has been cast more to ease one person’s own inner loneliness than as a real desire for an equal relationship with the object of their current “affections.”

Inner transformational work is difficult, messy and anything but instantaneous. This explains the current nervous searching out of “just the right spell” by many a new seeker to the Craft. Hoping to somehow by – pass the true work involved in developing a magickal way of life, they hope for something in the order of a Hollywood special effect. “Just say the magic words…” and your insecurity problems, heartaches and financial worries are over! Uh – uh…it just doesn’t work like that. Sorry, Mr. Spielberg….

As you work through the year of The Wheel, you will learn a lot about yourself.

Such as:

Respect – Both for the interconnection of all Life and for yourself.

Thought – How you can change your life by changing your thoughts.

Examination – Looking within yourself for answers and solutions.

Release – Letting go of old habits and emotions that no longer work.

Synthesis – How an individual can also be part of a whole.

Creativity – Trusting your intuition to help you make viable choices.

Action – Learning how to act rather than re – act.

Love – Being able to give and receive healthy love.

Strength – Inner courage to overcome circumstances without harm.

Transformation! – The realization that only you can change what is not working in your life. Only you can make your life what you want it to be. And only you – through difficult, messy and lengthy work – can make your magickal Life one of Love, Light and Power!

 

“ The outstanding error of learners, in whom it is excusable, and of many teachers,
who teach without wisdom is that they associate Occultism with practices
rather than with PRACTICE. I teach the LIFE of concentration and meditation…”
– P.G. Bowen

Witchcraft 101: The Beginning Practice Phase (part 2)

Witchcraft 101: The Beginning Practice Phase (part 2)
Author: Wren

Since its inception, the Witches’ Voice, has been barraged with email asking the simple question… “How do I become a Witch”? Although, it has never been the mission of the Witches’ Voice to actually teach Witchcraft we find ourselves constantly shocked at the aweful responses the Teenage Witch or new seeker receives from many that “claim” themselves “elders” of the craft. For this we apologize. We will never preach or claim to “have the answer”.There are indeed many paths and many ways, it is our goal to give you the tools to  and what to look out for.

Part 2…

The Beginning Practice Phase…

Greetings and Welcome Back to Witchcraft 101! Before you begin this next section, perhaps it will be helpful to do a little summation. If you have been working through the “Interest Phase” and the “Exploratory Phase”, you will probably now be familiar with the following concepts and have some rudimentary knowledge in…

The basic history of Witchcraft and its cultural origins.

Some of the different Traditions and Ways that Witchcraft is practiced today.

The basic ethical guidelines, such as the Rede or Law of Three.

A basic overview of karma and reincarnation (or transmigration).

An understanding on how Magick works.

Deity Names and Aspects.

The Elements and correspondences.

Basic Tools of the Craft and their use in ritual work.

Some divination, visualization and meditation techniques.

Folklore and Mythology.

Great! This is the foundation from which your continuing studies will build and grow. Along the Way, you will stop often to ponder about new materials and visions. Remember to go slowly and to reflect much on what these concepts personally may mean to you. Again, it is very important to allow these new ideas to become integrated into your spirit. This is the only way that they can become “real’ to you. They become a part of who you are and how you think and feel. One of the ways to help this process along is through “practice.”

THE BEGINNING PRACTICE PHASE:

Chances are pretty good that you have already “dabbled’ a bit with some of the techniques of ritual work. Even if you have only begun this in your mind, you are beginning to feel the stirrings of a desire to actually DO the workings that up until this point you have only been reading or hearing about. Where do you “begin”? Do you dig through your books and find a ritual that appeals to you? Do you have a specific need in your life right now? What have you put into your Journal or Book of Shadows that you have underlined as important or particularly relevant? What do YOU feel?

You will notice a lot of emphasis on “feelings” throughout these articles. What do “feelings” have to do with all of this? Well, Carl Jung said it much better than I ever could:

“Feeling informs you through its feeling-tones of the values of things. Feeling tells you for instance whether a thing is acceptable or agreeable or not. It tells you what a thing is WORTH to you….It is, like thinking, a rational function.”

BEGIN AT THE BEGINNING:

Look for SYMBOLISM-The subconscious mind works through pictures and symbols. This is why the “inner” work that you do is the starting point of all Magick. Look over your magickal tools and objects. Choose one or two at random. Touch them. Hold them in your hands. Close your eyes. What are they “saying” to your inner self? What images do they bring up and what memories do they unlock?

You are using your IMAGINATION-You are not “making things up” when you are using your imagination. At least not in the sense that most of us have been lead to believe. If you have ever been reprimanded for “day dreaming” in class or at the dinner table, you may have to re-learn and “give yourself permission” to unlock this powerful tool again. Allow yourself some “flights of fancy” time each day.

Imagination is the ability to use your mind creatively. The word “creative” is linked with “creation”. In a very real sense you are creating what you imagine. Just as a sculptor has an image of a work in his or her mind and then seeks to unlock the image from the physical materials at hand, so you create magick from the images that surface as a result of your meditations and desires. Have you used your imagination today?

Now put the symbolism and the imagination together. What symbols came into your mind and what did your imagination do with these images? Ask a question and see if the images change around or become more clear. Don’t be surprised where you may end up. Your subconscious mind is a very rich and fertile place. It is the ‘playground’ of your spirit where anything is possible. And if you “wake up” with a start and realize that you have just spent 20 minutes in reverie, you are really getting the hang of it!

The next exercise will be your first step from the mental/spiritual into the physical/spiritual realm. This is where you begin to actually DO THE WORK. You will start slowly and build on each previous step. Do not rush this process. This is very important. Let me explain a bit.

Do you remember as a child a favorite story that you never grew tired of hearing? You knew the entire book by heart. Part of its “magic” for you WAS knowing the entire story by heart. And remember how you would correct the reader of the story if they tried to skip a part or changed the words? The story for you was a ritual. The retelling of it the same way over and over was important to you. Because there were no surprises or changes, you could relax and really get “into” the entire tale in your…gasp!…imagination. (Don’t tell Grandma, but she was actually your first “Witchy” teacher!)

The gestures, tools and workings of your beginning ritual practice should be exactly the same each time that you do them during your Beginning Practice Phase. This repetition trains your subconscious mind to remember what is coming next. The subconscious is like the child who wants to hear that story the same way over and over. The “ritual”-repeated over and over- provides a safe and comforting setting for both your imagination and the symbolic elements to expand and grow. You’ll have plenty of time to “get fancy” later on.

The Practice Phase Do’s and Don’ts…

DO The BASIC RITUAL OUTLINE something like this:

Cleansing the Area.

Preparing the Altar.(nothing too elaborate, just a few of your favorite tools). Lighting the candles.

Casting the circle.

Welcoming the elements.

Welcoming the Deities.

Stating the Purpose of the ritual.

Magickal workings or devotions.

Raising the Energy. Releasing the Energy.

Grounding.

Thanking the Deities.

Thanking the elements.

Closing(or sometimes called opening) the circle.

Eating snacks!

There are many simpler or more elaborate ways to do a ritual. Many Traditions have their own formats as well. But if you know how to do this basic ritual, you will pretty much be comfortable in any open Circle that you may attend.

DO BEGIN! Start at the beginning of the above list. Make notes on each step in your journal as you begin to plan your ritual. How will you cleanse your working area? Salt and water? Besom (broom)? Incense? What will you place on your altar? (Making a list first insures that you will not forget something….”Matches, anyone?”, is the most classical “oops”!).

DO… Take time to sit quietly and center yourself before you begin. Be honest about your feelings. Are you excited…scared….nervous? That is normal. This is important stuff and not to be entered into lightly. O.K.? Now you can begin, but…

DO… Tell the Old Ones that you are “practicing’. Although They already know this (and They are ready to help you), it will be reassuring to YOU to state this in case you end up feeling that you may have “done something wrong”. You haven’t. You are “practicing” and practice involves a certain amount of trial and error. No one ‘upstairs’ is laughing at you.

DO… Perform each step slowly and carefully. Let the symbols speak to your inner self. Take time between each step to feel how the ritual has affected you and changed your surroundings. As you ground, listen for answers…listen for advice…listen to yourself…listen to the phone ringing because you forgot to take it off the hook….

DO… Listen. We ask for things and then we often do not take the time to listen for the answers. Write everything down. Doodle impressions in the margins. These symbols may be important later.

DO… this same basic ritual over and over and over again. Rather than becoming boring, you will probably find that it becomes MORE meaningful each time that you do it. And your inner child’s subconscious mind will be loving it! (Thanks, Grandma!)

DO…  to repeat the first Phases again. We are all constantly learning and going “back to basics” is always a good idea.

DON’T… worry about what you will say. Say what is in your heart. Use simple language-remember that “child” thing?-and DO remember to take deep breaths in between sentences. You want to ‘alter your consciousness”, not lose it!

DON’T… take any oaths or make lifelong dedications to the Old Ones. You have not made that decision yet. You are still trying to discover if Witchcraft is the right Path for you. This is one of the most important decisions that you will ever make in your life. Give it the respect and consideration that it deserves.

DON’T… be afraid. All those Hollywood movies may have made you a tad nervous about beginning actual ritual practice. Nothing like that will happen to you. You have done each step slowly and with much forethought. It is only when someone tries to go into places for which they are unprepared that the situation can get unpleasant. That is why teachers emphasize the NEED to go slowly. You HAVE taken the time to prepare yourself and done all the steps in order, haven’t you?

DON’T… do the ritual either too often or too little. Formulate a regular schedule-say once a week- and stick to that for a while. If you really desire to do something on a daily basis, a simple candle lighting ritual in the morning or evening will do just fine. Begin to think about Moon phases, Holidays and other times to do ritual Work. Witchcraft is based on the “rhythms’ of Nature and that will be the next step…

 

What Is Rune Meditation?

What Is Rune Meditation?

by: Donald Tyson
Before the runes can be effective for works of magic or divination , they must be understood on the intuitive level and made to come alive in the unconscious. This will occur over time  simply by using them, but the process can be encouraged through regular meditation upon the individual rune symbols. Meditation gives the runes reality in  the astral world, where magical forces and actions manifest themselves most clearly to the awareness.
When you carve a rune materially for a magical purpose, you must also be able to cut it into the astral with your will so that it glows and shimmers on the  material where you made the physical rune. When you draw a rune in the air with your right index finger or  magic wand, you must be able to see it sustaining itself with the eye of your imagination. This does not mean that you pretend to yourself that the rune  exists on the astral level, or picture it there in the way you would imagine the face of your cat. Magical visualization is more intense and real than  regular images in the imagination. The magical image persists and can be so real that it appears material.
Meditation on the runes serves the dual purpose of expanding an understanding of their meanings, both conscious and unconscious (this is needed in  divination) and allowing the clear formation of the runes on the astral level (this is necessary in ritual magic).
There are many ways to actively meditate upon the runes. One is to contemplate the forms of the runes visually. Rune cards are an excellent way of keeping  images of the runes before the sight during meditation, where they impress themselves through the eye upon the mind, when the mind reaches a receptive state.  Here I will describe a second technique that I find effective in bringing the meanings and forms of the runes alive.
In preparation you must be familiar with the shapes of the runes, their names and short meanings, their order, the place of each rune in its aett, and its  pair rune. This can be done by playing with a set of rune wands, or ideally with the rune cards, which are excellent for this purpose. Once you have a  general knowledge of the futhark, you are ready to begin considering the runes individually.
To be most effective, meditations should be done in a series at regular times, one per day. It is possible to do two meditations a day if they are separated  in timeófor example, one at noon and one at midnight. If this is done, a pair of runes should be considered each day. However, until you have had some  experience in meditating upon the individual runes, you should not attempt to consider two or more runes in combination at the same time.
Wear loose clothing and take off your shoes, belt, watch, jewelry, and anything that irritates the skin or restricts the circulation. Even if your watch and  earrings do not irritate you during your daily routine, they may be a distraction during meditation. When the mind is stilled and focused, small sounds will  seem like thunder and the slightest itch will become a torment as your mind, like a restless child, seeks any escape from the task you have imposed upon it.
Do not meditate where there is noise or bustle, or where you are likely to be disturbed. Do not meditate until at least two hours after eating a meal. Do not  meditate just before sleep when you are very tired, and do not meditate when you are physically ill, or when your mind is filled with worry, anger, or  frustration.
Find a tranquil place and sit comfortably with your back relaxed but straight. It does not really matter how you sit. I usually sit Japanese style upon my  heels, but some people find this posture hard on the knees. The important thing is that you forget about how you are sitting and concentrate on the  meditation. Face a blank wall or featureless surface. If there is no flat unbroken surface, turn out the lights and the darkness will serve. If you are  outside, face a wall, a distant forested hill, the ocean horizon, or lie on your back and look at the sky – but it is better not to lie down during  meditation. The important thing is that you not be distracted by something in your field of view. Distractions are not necessarily fatal to meditations, but  they disrupt them and delay your progress. There are bound to be distractions in any case – you want to minimize them.
Take half a dozen slow, deep breaths to clear your lungs and relax your body. When you are ready, extend your right index finger and draw the rune you have  chosen for your meditation in the air at a comfortable armís length, making it a size that will fit easily into the center of your field of vision – about 18  inches tall is a good height.
Now try to actually see the rune in the air where you have drawn it. Hold the form of the rune in your imagination, and mentally retrace over and over the  rune you have drawn whenever its strokes become indistinct or slip from your mind. It is not necessary to use your finger to retrace the rune. Pretend you  have a blackboard in your imagination, and an imaginary piece of chalk that you use to continually redefine the rune as it fades.
Runes should always be drawn, both in the world and in the mind, with strokes that move downward and to the right. A little practice will make this second  nature.
During the meditation do not actively try to consider a predetermined list of associations with the runes. These will rise in their own time and order into  the stillness of your consciousness. Hold your attention upon the shape of the rune and your task of keeping it visually before your inner sight. You must  not be thinking of your grocery list while you are doing this. It is inevitable that your mind will wander to other things, but when it does, gently and  firmly guide it back to the purpose of the meditationóan active contemplation of the rune you have drawn in the air. When an idea about the rune itself, its  nature, or its relationship with other runes comes into your mind, consider it, but do not try to force these ideas. Let them rise by themselves.
This meditation should be stopped before it begins to become physically tiring. There is no point in forcing the work. A period of 15 minutes to half an hour  will be about right for most people. Take care that you remain relaxed, your breathing regular, and your eyes focused normally without strain. Strain of any  kind is counterproductive. Only sustained attention is required, and you will find that this is effort enough.
Success is not marked by how many new ideas you have about the rune, not even by how clearly you are able to visualize its form in space, but rather by how  sustained and effortless your awareness of the rune has been during the period set aside for the exercise.
It is a good idea to do these meditations in the same place and at the same time of day. Several meditations, even half a dozen, should be done on each rune,  but these can be mixed up with other runes. You do not have to meditate upon the same rune for six days running – unless you want to, of course. It can be  useful to consider the runes in groups, doing them in pairs, or in families, or even doing the complete futhark on 24 consecutive days, then repeating it  several times. If the sequence of the meditations becomes tedious, mix it up. Boredom should be minimized, because your mind will seize on any excuse to stop  these exercises.
You will soon discover that your mind is without disciplineónot that its discipline is low, but that it does not have any discipline at all. If you try to  force it too hard, it will turn around and bite you. You will accomplish nothing. Firmness, patience, persistence, and an understanding of how your mind  functions are needed to achieve the best results. Be wary of little tricks. You may suddenly find that your bowels are tumbling every time you sit down to  meditate, that your ears itch, that people are constantly interrupting you, that you feel very tired and sleepy, or that the entire exercise seems pointless  and stupid. These are all ways your mind will use in trying to squirm out of doing the work you have set for it.

The Witches Spell for January 13th – Petition Spell To Banish Faults

Witchy Comments


Petition Spell To Banish Faults

Use this spell to eliminate weaknesses from your life.

Timing:  Moon’s third quarter; Moon’s fourth quarter; Saturday, hour of Saturn; Sunset; Midnight: Autumn; Winter; of your personal power time.

Supplies Needed:

2 pieces vegetable parchment (one small, one large)
1 pen
Cauldron or heatproof dish
White candle
Matches

The Spell:

1.  Empower the supplies for success.

2.  On the larger piece of vegetable parchment, write down five faults that you would like to banish from your life. Choose one from this list and write it on the smaller piece of parchment.

3.  Light the candle.

4.  Fold the small paper up and touch the corner of the paper to the candle’s flame until it ignites. Drop the paper in the cauldron or heatproof dish.

5.  Watch the paper redden, whiten then blacken, and visualize your fault losing substance and vanishing from your life. With intent and awareness, cross that fault off the list on the larger piece of parchment.

6.  When the ashes of the paper have cooled, bury them outdoors off your property.

7.  Choose the next appropriate time to banish another fault from your list an proceed as above. Repeat weekly or over the next series of Moon cycles until your list is done. After the final repetition of the spell, burn the larger list as well.

Life As The Witch – Spell-Writing Basics

Witchy Comments=


Spell-Writing Basics

Don’t worry if you are not the world’s greatest writer. Spells don’t have to be long and complicated in order to work, and the Gods don’t care if you can spell correctly! The most common complaint I get is from people who can’t get their spells to rhyme. But that’s okay—-they don’t have to.

Rhyming is nice for some spells. Traditionally, rhyming is used to give the spells a little more power through the rhythms of the words and to make them easier to memorize. But it certainly isn’t necessary. I’ll give you an example of a prosperity spell done both ways, just make it clear.

Prosperity Spell 1 – Rhyming

God and Goddess hear my plea

Rain prosperity down on me

Bring in monies large and small

To pay my bills one and all

Money earned and gifts for free

As I Will, So Mote It Be.

(Originally published in Circle, Coven & Grove: A Year of Magickal Practice, Llewellyn, 2007.)

Prosperity Spell 2 – Not Rhyming

Money I need and money I want

So let it come to me

In positive ways, at perfect times

As I need it, as I want it

As I Will It, So It Is.

As you can see, both spells ask for the same thing–they just do it in a slightly different way. The second spell is simpler; it doesn’t rhyme, it is shorter, and it doesn’t get as specific–but there’s no reason it couldn’t work. You could write a spell like that even if writing isn’t your thing.

So the first thing to know about writing spells is that it is fine to do so in whatever style or manner you are comfortable with.

Excerpts from:

“Writing and Casting Spells for the Best Results”
By Deborah Blake
Llewellyn’s 2013 Magical Almanac for Everyday Living

The Witches Magickal Spell for Jan. 2 – Poppet Healing Spell

Witchy Comments~Magickal Graphics~

Poppet Healing Spell

You need:

A yellow candle

Marigold/calendula,

Lavender and rosemary.

Clear quartz gemstone

Photo/person who you are using this spell on

Cast the Spell on a Sunday. Stuff the doll with the herbs and add the gem about where the heart would be in the doll. Sew up the doll and do the name ritual of the doll. Light the candle, and see the person healthy, and happy in your mind. Say six times:

“Lavender, marigold and rosemary
The body, soul and mind are free.
Stone of quartz, take this pain away.
Whole and healed and free today.
With harm to none
My will is done.”

Bury the doll in the ground before sunset the same day.

The Witches Spell for December 27th: A Peace Ritual

Witchy Comments

PEACE RITUAL

 

Design this ritual to suit your needs.
Choose candle colors that represent the things you seek peace for
(e.g., maybe green and brown for peace on earth).

“From out of the dark and into the light
A circular mark, a candle burns bright.
I look towards the sky…my song do I sing.
Spirits soar high and gifts do I bring.
I offer my all! My mind, I then clear
Hearken my call! I feel you are near!
Candle burns higher; my spirits set free!
Hotter than fire, this magic will be!
Let magic come ’round, from under the ground,
To form with my sound and then, to be bound!
Around me I feel the magic so real,
Before you I kneel.. the spell I now seal!
Let all hatred CEASE! And let there be PEACE!
These words that I say, with magic AWAY!
This spell that I send is now at an end.
Let the magic I’ve laid, go forth and not fade!
SO MOTE IT BE!”

Life As The Witch – Water Magick for Winter

Witchy Comments=~Magickal Graphics~

Water Magick for Winter

 

A new cycle of time begins. The cold deepens and want is transformed into its solid states–snow and ice. Winter has been  a period of wonder and questioning since first woman and man walked our planet. And why not? To our early ancestors, the appearance of snow and ice must have been magickal. In cold climates, snow and ice still create a feeling of magick and mystery. Water magick for winter should deal with transformation, getting rid of negativity, and healing. If you live in warm climates, substitute crushed ice for snow to perform the following rituals.

To transform a difficult situation into a positive on, write the problem on a piece of paper and place it in a bowl. On top place some fresh clean snow and  a drop of honey. Let the snow melt. Pour the melted snow down the drain and discard the paper.

To rid yourself of any habit or problem, try this. Write the problem on a piece of paper and rub the paper with cool ashes or soot. Crumple the paper, go outside, and make a snowball with the paper in the center. Place the snowball on the ground. If possible, trace a circle around the snowball using an icicle, crush the snowball with your foot, and then walk away.

Winter water magick doesn’t mean you only need to use snow or ice. This is also a good time to take a healing bath. Run a warm bath and use your favorite bubble bath. As the water is running, pour in a quarter cup of orange flower water. Orange flower water is a fragrant water made by distilling water through orange flower petals.

You may purchase bottles of it at Middle Eastern food stores, or at a health food stores. The scent of your bath should be heavenly, and the orange fragrance should give you a sense of well-being. Immerse yourself in this healing bath. Feel all tension and stress leaving your body.

Our urge to enjoy the wonders and magick of water is as ancient as the human race. Water is always the same, but forever changing. The water you see today in a river will be different tomorrow, because water is always flowing, always moving. And, water magick is our to enjoy at anytime of the year.

Excerpt from:

“Four Seasons of Water Magic”
By James Kambos
Llewellyn’s 2012 Magical Almanac

The Witches Spell for December 26th: For Guests That Have Over-stayed Their Welcome

Witchy Comments~Magickal Graphics~

The Witches Spell for December 26th

For Guests That Have Over-stayed Their Welcome

If you want company to leave, or you have a guest that has over stayed their welcome in your home do this:

Take a broom (a magickal broom is the best to you, if you don’t want to look too suspicious use a kitchen broom) and sweep from the back of the house, to the front. You don’t have to actually sweep, however, you must think of your unwelcome guest to find their way out the door….

When you reach the front door, open it – reflect for a moment on your wish – and make a final sweep out the door, saying:

“You were welcome once, your stay has ended – may you find your way peacefully, no harm intended!”

Leave the broom in the corner of the door, with the bristles facing up – they will leave in no time!

Runic Spell For Nearly Anything

RUNIC SPELL FOR NEARLY ANYTHING
Needed:
–A flat stone at least 4′ wide with a pentacle marked upon it
–A small bowl of some natural material (stone, metal, clay, etc)
–24 small, smooth stones marked with the 24 runes
–Paper A pen Working knowledge of runes
Write your intentions upon the paper in runes.
Cast a magic circle, then read what you have written aloud four times, first facing east, then south, then west, then north. Fold the paper and place it in the bowl, place the
bowl upon the flat rock, directly in the center of the pentacle.
Place the small stones in a circle around the flat rock, saying the name of each
rune aloud as you set it down.
Leave this arrangement in place until the spell has been fulfilled.

Life As The Witch – Using Imagery In Your Magick

Witchy Comments~Magickal Graphics~

Life As The Witch

The Use of Imagery In Your Magick

The success of any work you may do depends on images created by the mind.

This is where the imagination enters into the formula. Anything that serves to intensify the emotions will contribute to success of your spell working. Any drawing, statue, photo, scent, article of clothing, sound, or situation that helps to merge you with your desire will greatly add to your success. Imagery is a constant reminder of what you wish to attract or accomplish. It acts as a homing device in its role as a representation of the object, person or situation for which the spell is intended. Imagery can be shaped and directed all according to the will of the Practitioner without detracting from focusing the mind on the spell’s intent. This becomes the pattern or formula that leads to realization of desire. Surround yourself with images you desire and you will resonate the vibrations that will attract the thing you desire.

Listen and Open Up Spell

Listen and Open Up Spell

A Spell to help someone listen and open up to you.

If ever there is a time that you need someone else to hear what you are saying, try this simple spell. Position yourself so that you are sitting lower than the person you wish to speak with. Visualize a wall between the two of you, a wall that is made of collapsible material. Imagine a sharp object, such as a sword, in your hand and something such as a shield in his/her hand. “Put” your sword down and watch the wall crumble away. In you mind, ask the person to set aside their shield as well. Ask the person to speak what is on their mind. Allow them to talk as long as they need to while you only listen. Their defenses will slowly melt and they will become more open to hearing what you have to say.

You come to see the Witch for a Spell, Yes? A Spell You Seek, A Spell You Shall Have!

Nature Comments & Graphics

SPELL TO BRING LOVE

Note: This spell is not intended to be used on someone.
It is a general spell to be sent out to the universe, so you can find your mate.

Preparations

Create an oil consisting of 1/8 cup unscented oil (safflower or sunflower), mixed with enough rose geranium and lavender to create a pleasant scent. Blend these in a clear glass jar.
Empower the oil to the cause of finding love. Rub well onto a Pink candle.

Ritual

To empower the oil, focus on the jar, and think of the feelings of love. Contentment,
commitment, joy, etc. Allow this love energy to flow into the oil.

At a quiet moment, when you know you will be around long enough for the candle to
burn fully, say the following prayer, and light the candle.

Oh Lady who loves us,
Oh Lord who loves us well,
Please bring my true love to me,
the one of whom my dreams do tell.
Bright Lady of the Heavens,
Strong Lord of the Earth,
Please aid me in finding this love.
Let this harm none, let none be coerced.

~Magickal Graphics~

Ah, so you come looking for a spell, huh? Follow Me Quietly Now, There Be Witches At Work!

Book & Candle Comments

A Spell To Open The Doors of Communication

 

Have a special someone you wish to contact, an old friend that you’ve had a falling out with, communicate with anyone. You will be amazed at how many way you will be able to use this spell.

 

Light a blue candle. Write a personal, positive, and meaningful letter to someone your desire to contact. Burn the letter in the candle flame (carefully). As it burns, visualize the person’s face and the goal or message you want to send. Toss some thyme, yarrow or cinnamon on the burned letter. Concentrate on what manner you hope to receive their response. Pick up the remains and scatter the ashes and herbs.

~Magickal Graphics~

Ah, It Is A Glorious Morning On This Thursday! Blessings To All, Dear Friends!


Yes, yes, yes, I am in a fabulous mood this morning. Guess why? I actually got to sleep in a bed last night, lol! The simple things we take for granted until we are forced to sleep on top of a desk. Well not all of us would be that silly now would we? The first night we tried sleeping on the floor, good grief, I didn’t think we would ever get to sleep. Every time we would get laid down, one of the babies would dart out. Then when we went to chase that one, the others would run like wild critters, lol! We were up all night. The next night, we got the bright idea to go in the office. At least there if they got loose there wasn’t that much room for them to run around. Then when we put the sleeping bags on the desk, we thought what if one falls off. So we ended up practically duck taping the top of the sleeping bags shut. Someone needed a camera during all of this! But once they all got in the bags and got warm, they went to sleep. Rested assured they weren’t going anywhere, we could then go to sleep. All in all it was adventure, I wouldn’t soon forget. I did learn one thing, the coyotes and wild dogs that use to come and terrorize the refuge. They sort of don’t do that anymore. When they get too close the cougar lets out one of her huge growls and off they run. Perhaps I need to tape record that and just play it continuously all night long, lol!

Since I didn’t smell like a skunk today, they actually let me stay in the office. So I quickly checked the email. By the way, Bobbi and Peter, I will email you later on today, my dear friends. Then I have read some of the comments in the back also. One subject that keeps coming up is Practitioner that charge for their services. One lady in the comments, I felt totally sorry for her. I don’t remember the particulars of her problem but she needed a witch. She found this one so called “Witch” and told her the situation. Well that “Witch” had the perfect spell for her. This “Witch” would cast this spell for her for just $700.00. I believe I remember the lady’s problem, she was having money problems. Now if you are having money problems, how on this Earth are you going to come up with $700.00. The lady said she got upset because of the cost. She did a search for witchcraft groups, I guess. She found us. She searched through our spells and lo’ and behold there was the same spell that the “Witch” was trying to sell her for $700.00. She said that our spell was easily understandable and more in-depth than the costly one. So the lady decided to cast the spell for herself.

The above story is becoming all to familiar especially with the economy in the shape it’s in. There has been along standing debate in The Craft community in regards to Practitioners selling their skills. Some say it is perfectly fine, others like myself say no it isn’t. I know with this next statement, I might make some of you mad but it is what I have always said. To my students and anyone seeking my advice, I say, “If you run into a Practitioner that wants to charge you for her/his services, RUN!” Stay away from them. I am a Practitioner of the Ancients and this is the way I believe. We have to go back to the beginning and see what is said about our talents. Our talents are given to us to use for the benefit of mankind. The Ordains (you can do a search for them here, they are listed) even states, “You are to never charge for your services. If you can help, it is your duty to help.” I don’t know what to think about people that charge for the Goddess’ given talents. Are they not familiar with the Ways of Our Ancestors? Have they not read our Laws and The Ordains? Are they Witches at all? Perhaps they have just run across sites like this and say a way to make a quick buck?

I know there are individuals that are in desperate shape. They are looking for help in any form they can get it. But Magick is not a quick fix for anything. You can read the spells here, you can use the spells here. But there is much more to Magick than just doing spells. I should add before I go any further, spells don’t always work even for us seasoned Practitioners. Magick is a Religion like no other. You have to come to know the Goddess, Her Beauty and Her Love. You have to learn what our Religion is truly about. Witchcraft has been stereotyped for so many years. We have a black mark on our name. But we are gradually changing that. We want people to come to our Religion, commit to it and become fine Practitioners. You see you have the magick within yourself. Learn to harness it and control it. Magick is driven by your intent. Your intent is your passion about your problem, situation or whatever is bothering you. Stop to think about it. You tell me about your problem. I agree to do a spell for you. Do you think I will have as much passion about your problem as you would? NO! You are the one that has that red-hot, passion about your problem. You put that passion (intent) into your spell, all of it. You see most people don’t know that. There is a lot most people don’t know about our Religion, Witchcraft.

In closing, if you are in need of assistance and hunting for a Practitioner. Don’t waste your time, please. Instead come and learn about Witchcraft. When you are through you will not only be able to solve this problem, but all that follow. To be called a Witch is a honor and a blessing. Our gifts and talents are given to us from our Great Lady. We are not to use them for personal gain. We are to take our talents and use them to benefit mankind. Learn the truth about Witchcraft, learn our beliefs and ways of living. When it is all said and done you will be so glad you did.

May the Goddess Bless Each of Her Children,,

Love,

Lady A

More Winter Comments