5 Easy Decorating Ideas for Litha

By Patti Wigington

Need some quick and affordable decorating ideas for Litha, the summer solstice? Here are some tips on how to bring the season into your home without breaking your bank account!

Celebrate the sun at midsummer!. Image by Peter Cade/Image Bank/Getty Images

• Suns and Solar Symbols

The Litha sabbat falls on the longest day of the year – that means you have more hours of daylight on the summer solstice than on any other day, and that’s definitely worth celebrating! Solar symbols like suns and circles, gods eyes, Brighid’s crosses and sunwheels are all perfect representatives of this season – hang them on your walls and doors, or add them to your Litha altar. More »

• Fresh Blossoms and Blooms

By the time midsummer rolls around, our flower gardens are in full bloom. This is a time to gather up those blossoms and enjoy their beauty – collect an assortment of brightly colored flowers and bring them indoors to keep you company. Consider, especially, flowers in bright sunny colors like yellows and reds and oranges. Sunflowers, tulips, roses, tiger lilies, and black-eyed Susans are all associated with the sun at the height of its power.

Bring the bounty of your garden inside to celebrate the midsummer harvest. Image © Patti Wigington; Licensed to About.com

• The Bounty of the Garden

In addition to fresh flowers, we’ve also got fresh produce rapidly filling our gardens. The sun brings warmth to the earth, which in turn brings new life to our plants. Harvest your midsummer fruits and vegetables, and leave them in bowls and baskets around the house. Some goodies, like onions and herbs, can be hung up to dry, which will allow you to enjoy the scents as well as the flavor.

Fire and Light

Carrying on the solar theme, Litha is a celebration of fire – after all, that’s what the sun is, right? Use big candles all around your home, in yellows and golds and other sunny colors. You can also string festively colored lights along your walls and windows, to bring that brightness indoors. For your outdoor decor, use a tabletop brazier or even Tiki torches to celebrate with flames and fire. More »

Litha is a time of opposites, between light and dark.Image by Alan Thornton/Image Bank/Getty Images

• Opposites

At Litha, the summer solstice, it’s the last day of the sun’s full power. For the next six months, darkness will begin to take over, growing stronger until Yule, the longest night of the year. At that point, the process will reverse once more and the light return. Decorate your home with symbols of opposites – fire and water, earth and air, darkness and light, yin and yang.

Creating Magickal Amulets C 2012

Creating Magickal Amulets

by Rev. Paul V. Beyerl

Rev. Paul V. Beyerl has published several books, including The Master Book of Herbalism, and heads The Hermit’s Grove and The Rowan Tree Church, located in Bellevue. This article is an excerpt from A Compendium of Herbal Magick, a work in progress covering the documented historical uses of herbs in folklore, ritual and religions.

The making of an amulet could easily take up the space of a small book, but I will attempt to distill a seven-hour workshop into a few paragraphs.

The words “amulet” and “talisman” are frequently used as if interchangeable. Many years ago, in order to distinguish between them, we adopted the following definitions: An amulet is a container that may be filled with herbs, stones or other things to promote magick. A talisman may be a disk, pendant or solid item, upon which may be depicted sigils or images. These definitions are used in this context only within The Hermit’s Grove and The Rowan Tree Church. It is not suggested that other uses of these words are either wrong or inappropriate.

An amulet is a tool created to help bring about changes within your life. It is a small container that, when completed, has energy or power and is quite magickal. We believe that amulets may be among the oldest forms of herbal magick, when the village wise one, sensing that a plant or stone had power within it, placed it in a pocket or container to carry about.

A “traditional” amulet (traditional outside my community) is one that has a purpose. All aspects of its design and creation are oriented toward the attainment of that goal. The amulet is assembled and constructed within the context of ritual, made very carefully and considered every bit as powerful and sacred as any of your ritual tools. An amulet is given a specific blessing or consecration toward that purpose, just as a novice may be initiated and ever after be considered a priest or priestess.

One of the mysteries of an amulet is that it is a microcosm of yourself, of the person for whom it is made, or of the situation that is the focus of the goal. It is like a small energy cell or battery, containing physical ingredients and focused energies providing a steady flow of energy. An amulet can be designed so that it will continually provide access to the infinite power of the universe throughout its existence. To understand a traditional amulet, give thought to the concept of the cauldron of Cerridwen, that infinite womb of creativity that is the core of the universe. From another perspective, an amulet is somewhat like a black hole, drawing energy from throughout the universe but holding it within, focused, directed solely toward the image that encompasses all aspects of your goal.

Our custom is to begin with a circle cut of leather. It should be at least six or eight inches in diameter. This flat circle is symbolic of a pentacle, that flat, round ritual tool that represents earth, or manifestation within the physical world.

To the practitioner, leather represents a gift of the creatures of the earth, representing elements of sacrifice, touching the mysteries of life and death, and is the material we can find that most closely corresponds to your physical body, which is the temple of your soul. The use of leather should never be taken lightly but is a very sacred and profound choice.

Around the perimeter of the leather circle, a series of holes should be pierced using either a leather punch or, as we have often done, a simple paper punch. A cord (chosen so that the length, color and type of thread enhance your magickal desires) is then threaded through the holes, creating a small drawstring bag.

Choose your herbs carefully. Any herb, including those too dangerous to ingest, can be included. You may also select small gemstones, add a personal piece of jewelry or lock of hair and even scribe sigils, images or words that will focus your will to bring your magick into manifestation. We recommend assembling your ingredients over a period of time. When my leather is complete, I set up a small altar. I lay the leather upon my copper pentacle or upon my altar stone and upon it I set a hand-carved, round wooden container with a flat lid. On days I consider important, I add one herb, replace the lid and set a votive candle upon the top. Sometimes I might cast a formal circle, and at other times I go about my activities, the light from the candle a constant reminder that there is magick brewing and an amulet in the works.

The final day should be one with natural power, whether a Full Moon or a birthday. Your amulet will be more powerful if all aspects of the work have power. Within an intricate ritual both formal and playful, the leather is cleansed and all ingredients placed within it. All movement and sound within the ritual is designed to draw upon the natural forces and connect the amulet with their power. And then, with ritual poetry and song, the leather circle is drawn closed and special candles are used to drip wax upon the opening so it is sealed.

Once an amulet is sealed, it should never again be opened. It is not medicine pouch. When your goal has been accomplished or the patterns of time have reached completion, the amulet must be returned to the universe. My preference is to bury it as a gift to the Mother, but there have been times when one has been placed into a flaming cauldron until reduced to ash, the ash then strewn upon sacred soil. Amulets are a wonderful way to develop your magickal skill, but they should be made rarely. The more lightly you treat this magickal use of herbs, the less likely they are to assist you with their magick. I have an amulet hanging in my truck. We have a household amulet, and I can’t imagine magickal life without a few of these sources of change.

The Dark Side Of The Air Witch c 2012

The Dark Side Of The Air Witch

Do not threaten an Air Witch or what she holds dear, as she is fiercely protective. When she feels threatened, she goes into overdrive and absolutely will not rest until the threat is destroyed completely. She rarely practices defensive magick, preferring instead to allow those who dare to attack face their karmic backlash instead, as she is always willing to accept hers. She can be manipulative in this manner and may not even realize it.

Usually well versed in destructive magick, the Air Witch takes all acts of magick deadly seriously. She insists that a simple blessing carries the same power behind it as a two-hour ritual. When angered, the emotion simply has to run its course, and that course can be decidedly ugly. Just as air feeds fire, the Air Witch feeds her own inner fire when she is angry. She stews and will not move beyond her anger until she is ready. Once she is, it is much easier for her to simply remove the influence from her life entirely. She will cut people out of her life without a second thought.

Let’s Talk Witch – Using Sacred Texts c 2013

Let’s Talk Witch – Using Sacred Texts

The Koran, the Bible and other books are perceived as having inherent magickal power because they are sacred texts. Sacred texts are not restricted to monotheistic faiths.

The works of Homer and Virgil, the Indian Vedas, and the Chinese I-Chingor Book of Changes are allconsidered sacred texts. The crucial question, in terms of successful spellcasting is “are any of those texts sacred foryou?” Sacred texts by definition, are so inherently charged with baraka and heka that, like a saint from beyond the grave, anyone may access that power. However, magick is both in the transmitter and the receiver, it is a reciprocal process. The most powerful sacred texts for you are those that you perceive as sacred. If your sacred texts are Broadway show tunes or doo-wop songs, then incorporate them into your spells in the same manner that you would any other sacred text.

Methods for the magickal use of psalms and sacred texts include:

*Whispering texts over a cup of water, which is then given to someone to drink(although the spell-caster may also desire to drink it, depending on the purpose of the spell.)

*Writing texts down on paper, then dissolved in liquid and drunk(by the spell-caster or the person of the spell: this derives from ancient Egyptian methods.)

*Wearing them as amulets, for empowerment and to transmit constant, considered magick energy.

*Tracing them on an apple with a pin; depending on the nature of the spell the apple is then eaten by the spell-caster of feed to the person the spell is intended for.

Let’s Talk Witch – Our Mind Set c 2014

Let’s Talk Witch – Our Mind Set

Our most important first tool when performing magick is our mind. You have to ask yourself a few questions before you start casting. Will this spell harm no one? Do I need this? Am I in the right state of mind to cast a spell?

These are just a few very important questions we need to ask ourselves. If you are sick, your magick may not be as strong as when you are healthy, so in those times you should be focused on self healing above everything else. There are so many steps you can cover here….but first…lets see where your mind is at and then we’ll continue from there. Don’t worry–there aren’t any difficult incantations to remember, no hard to pronounce power words. Simply logical and informative magickal applications to a better life. So take a deep breath, let it out slowly and clear your mind. Find your center, it’s easy to do. Just let go of all the hassles and stresses you have from the day–steer your mind away from all those fast paced thoughts of today’s society. And simplify. Go deep within yourself, and find who you really are. It really quite simple to find out who you really are deep down. Go back to basics. All those thoughts….get rid of them!

Think about the following…..

How often do you find yourself traveling through this world for others? How often do you find yourself compromising your beliefs, emotions and feelings for those around you? So as not to feel “uncomfortable” or in “pain” we see ourselves as if in a motion picture, acting out our lives in a drama that ends in need, want desire—for something different. For something that could have been. For something that should have been. Why do we walk down these roads? Why do we travel to these places at all? Is our vision skewed so dramatically by what others believe is right for us, that we feel the need to be someone other than ourselves? Carpe diem! Seize the day. Seize your life, take it for everything it is worth, hold onto that which makes you happy–that which brings you joy and contentment. Know that life’s lessons lead us into places that are sometimes dark and foreboding….you, somehow–when learned–these places turn to light. Know that happiness comes from within you, and not through others circumstances or fortune. Know that true happiness can be found in others…not when the time is right but when it is real. Trust your heart, trust in your soul—and life will catch up with you.

Live. Be free, and fly and shout as loudly as you want. Take hold of your dreams. Never let anyone try to influence your mind or your will. Be true to yourself and your will be able to live your dreams and find happiness beyond belief. Dare to dream, keep your mind clear at all times and use it wisely. For it is the most important tool you have in magick.

Excerpts from: Spellbound’s Book of Spells A Collection of Simple Spells Volume 1 by Kelli James Klymenko

THE MYSTERY OF FLOWERS AND PLANTS (Part 5 J- M)c. 2015

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.

Jasmine – (sensuality – grace – elegance – attachment – modesty)

Jasmine is known for its potent fragrance and jasmine is used in some of the world’s oldest and most beautiful scents. Widely cultivated for its flowers and immensely popular as a climbimbing, fragrant cover in a garden. No one can miss the potent scent of jasmine flowers wafting through the home. In southeast and southern Asia, women adorn their hair with jasmine. Many people enjoy jasmine tea, and it is frequently used by those involved in healing, some use it as a preventative medicine. Derived from the Persian yasmin, meaning “jasmine flower”.

Lady’s Mantle

The symbolism associated with The Lady’s Mantle, is as a cloak for the Blessed Virgin, and it was grown in the Mary Gardens. Dew is associated with magic, and the dew that collects on the lady’s mantle, is named alchemilla (“little magical one”). People stuffed their pillows with it to ensure a good night’s sleep, the dew was used as a beauty lotion.

Lilac – (pride – youth – innocence – beauty)

The colour lilac comes from the beautiful pale purple colour of the lilac flower and its. Lilacs are also white, pale yellow, pink or burgundy and are known for their strong, heady perfume like scent. Lilac became a popular in England, because of its femininity, it is the state flower of New Hampshire and lilacs grow on trees or shrubs.

Lily – (chastity – fleur-de-lis – faith – wisdom – Holy Trinity – chivalry – royalty – fertility)

In both pagan and Christian traditions, lilies are symbolise fertility. Depending on the type of lily there are many meanings. (Calla lily) beauty, (China lily) mother, (orange lily) hatred, (tiger lily) wealth- pride, (white lily) purity, virginity, sweetness, virginity majesty, it’s heavenly to be with you. (Yellow lily) gaiety, gratitude, I’m light as a feather, happiness. In Greek marriage ceremonies the bride wears a crown of lilies. In religious terms the lily symbolises the annunciation of the birth of Jesus by the angel Gabriel. In both Christian and pagan traditions, lilies symbolize fertility.

Lotus – (forgotten past – estranged love) meaning Hebrew lowt (“covering, veil”)

The lotus is known as the “sacred water lily” in Buddhism and Hinduism. Lotus roots are widely used in Asian cuisine and the lotus is the national flower of India, and the blue or Indian lotus, is known as the bean of India. The English name is derived from the flower name, from Latin lotus and from Greek lotus, and the Egyptian “white lotus.”

Lupine – (imagination) meaning “lupinus” (“of wolves”)

The name derived from the belief of ancient peoples, that lupines robbed the soil of nutrients, in reality lupines add nitrogen to the soil. The lupine blossoms exude a delicious fragrance of honey, and the Karner blue butterfly’s caterpillar, gets it’s nourishment from lupines, its only food source.

Magnolia – (love – nature – nobility – perseverance)

The Magnolia’s abundance in Mississippi is reflected in its state nickname, the “Magnolia State”, it is also the state flower of Louisiana. The abundance of Magnolia Trees growing along Buffalo Bayou, in Houston, Texas, led to the nickname “The Magnolia City.”

Marigold – (passion -creativity) known as (Mary’s Gold ), referred to as (“golden gifts”) and (“Herb of the Sun”)

Marigolds were given as religious offerings to the Virgin, usually by the poor who could not afford to give actual gold, and they were used in Mary Gardens. The English name derives from the flower name, Mary, meaning “the Mother Ray,” and the word “gold” (Marigold). Marigolds have been used as love charms, in rituals and worn as talismans. Marigold flowers added to pillows encourage prophetic or psychic dreams. They are also a favourite with brides, who have them woven into wedding garlands.

Marjoram – (happiness – joy) also called (sweet majoram)

Marjoram is cultivated for its fragrant leaves, either green or dry it is used in cooking. It does not like the cold and is an under shrub, with citrus flavours and sweet pine. As marjoram begins to flower, it is then the tops are cut and dried in the shade. Healers often used marjoram in their concoctions.

Morning Glory – (affection)

Morning glory flowers are funnel-shaped and open in the morning, this is the time of day they are pollinated by bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, birds and insects. New flowers bloom each day as the life span of the flower is only one morning, in the afternoon the morning glory dies.

by magic FROM: http://witcheslore.com/bookofshadows/herbology/the-mystery-of-flowers-and-plants/3649/

THE MYSTERY OF FLOWERS AND PLANTS (Part 4 H – I) c.2015

Hawthorn – (hope) and (May)

The hawthorn is a pagan symbol for life, in Devon it is considered unlucky as the fairies might cast a spell on you if you sit under a hawthorn. The hawthorn is believed to be haunted by fairies and is sometimes called ‘Fairy Thorn.’ Farmers believed hawthorn was lucky and would hang it outside the cowsheds so the cows would give plenty of milk. The hawthorn flowers in May.

Mandrake (the Magician)

The mandrake or mandragora, is one of the most important hallucinogens in Western Europe and the Near East, in over two millennia. It is a flowering plant that can give life or cause death, depending on its use. The mandrake has many uses and has been a favourite of apothecaries, witches considered it indispensable and used it for spells and healing. Apothecaries and witches used mandrake when they wished to make a particularly strong potion. In order for Odysseus to withstand the magic of Circe, Hermes gave the mandrake to him. Herbalist shops in the early twentieth century situated in the less affluent areas of London sold mandrake. Many women who owned mandrakes fed and clothed them, these women were accused of being witches and burnt at the stake by the Inquisition. The mandrake was dressed in expensive cloth, bathed several times a year, given food to eat, water to drink, and considered human.

The mandrake is considered part plant, part human and imbued with magical powers. The mandrake exudes a strong, unusual but pleasant scent. It is a perennial with a strange appearance, it has broad leaves with white, yellow or purple flower, the fruit is similar to a plum. The root is black, forked and a foot long, with the semblence of human male form with a penis, a subsidiary root which sticks out.

When a mandrake is being pulled out it shrieks like a person, and a black dog is used to pull it out, as the mandrake shrieks the dog dies. The mandrake has pharmacological effects as a pain killer, erotica, a sleep inducer, during the transition between consciousness and sleep it causes hallucinations.

A technique used in Turkey was to extract the mandrake root and cut it to manipulate its shape, then to apply pressure bandages and replant it in the ground. When next extracted after more growth, no one could tell it was crafted by hands other than nature. Six mandrakes of this nature were created and exhibited by Von Luschan, in 1891. He declared that a clever artist could create figures that looked genuine, and no one would know they were not nature’s gift. These treasures were so rare it was a life threatening undertaking to obtain one, they were valuable talismans and were extremely expensive.

Hibiscus – (delicate beauty)

Hibiscus is a large genus containing over 200 species, butterflies and bees are attracted to it. Hibiscus tea is a soothing tea enjoyed by many, it is also considered a healing tonic.

Holly Symbolism

Holly flower symbolism the flower symbolism associated with the holly is defense, domestic happiness and forecast. The Romans decorated their hallways with holly garlands for their mid-winter celebration, Saturnalia. Medieval monks called the holly the Holy Tree and believed holly would keep away evil spirits and protects their homes from lightening. The pointed leaves represented the crown of thorns worn by Jesus, and the red berries symbolized drops of his blood.

Honeysuckle – (love – loving bonds)

The wood of the honeysuckle contains nepetalactone, which is the active ingredient found in catnip. Some species of honeysuckle have bell-shaped flowers, honeysuckle is a twining flower grown in China, North America and Europe.

Huckleberry – (faith – simple pleasures)

Due to the size of the tiny huckleberries, they were used to refer to something small, often as a term of endearment. The phrase “a huckleberry over my persimmon,” meaning “a bit beyond my abilities”. “I’ll be your huckleberry,” meaning (“I am the person for the job”).

Hyacinth – (games – rashness – playfulness – joy – sports – rebirth) derived from the Latin form of Greek (hyakinthos.)

The hyacinth flower is used in the Haftseen table setting, in honour of the Persian New Year celebrations. Hyacinths are named after Hyacinth, a figure in Greek mythology, a youth who was loved, and accidentally killed by Apollo. The hyacinth flower sprouted from his blood, and hyacinths are often associated with rebirth.

Impatiens – (motherly love)

Impatiens planted in the medieval Mary gardens, gardens devoted to the Virgin Mary, were called “Our Lady’s earings.” Impatiens flowers come in many forms, some orchid shaped, others with flat flowers. They are thought of as a sacred flower.

Iris – (wisdom – faith – friendship – to cherish – valor – hope – love’s promise)

Iris is the name of a mythological rainbow goddess, the Greek meaning is (“rainbow”). The Iris is the emblem of France and Florence. Iris is used by the English as a feminine name, it is used by a male or female, by those of Jewish heritage. Irises were used in Mary Gardens, and the blade-shaped foliage symbolises the sorrows which ‘pierced her heart.’

Ivy – (weddings – Christmas – fidelity – friendship – affection)

Ivy is a strong climbing vine, used by many for garden walls and for garden decoration, ivy climbing the walls of a home, conjures visions or romance and country cottages. Ivy adds a particular charm, a smoothly cemented wall is impenetrable to the climbing roots of ivy and ivy can protect the walls from the weather.

by magic FROM: http://witcheslore.com/bookofshadows/herbology/the-mystery-of-flowers-and-plants/3649/

THE MYSTERY OF FLOWERS AND PLANTS (Part 3 E-G) c.2015

Edelweiss – (courage – noble purity – daring)

Edelweiss is a European mountain flower a member of the sunflower family, it’s flowers are felted and woolly with white hairs, the characteristic bloom consists of five to six small yellow flower heads surrounded by leaflets. The name edelweiss is German, edel (noble) and weiss (white).

Fern – (shelter – discretion – secret bond of love – confidence – fascination – magic – reverie)

Ferns do not have seeds or flowers, but reproduce by spores. There are about 12,000 varieties worldwide, and fern is derived from Old English fear, meaning “fern,” a type of leafy plant. Flower and plant names were popular in the 19th century and the name was first used then.

Forget me not (never forget me)

Forget-me-not flower symbolism the flower symbolism associated with the forget-me-not is true love and memories. In 15th century Germany, it was supposed that the wearers of the flower would not be forgotten by their lovers. In a medieval legend, a knight and his lady were walking along the side of a river. He picked a posy of flowers, but because of the weight of his armour he fell into the river. As he was drowning he threw the posy to his loved one and shouted “Forget-me-not”. It is also told in pious legend that the Christ child was sitting on Mary’s lap one day and said that he wished that future generations could see them. He touched her eyes and then waved his hand over the ground and blue forget-me-nots appeared. Forget me nots acquired the name when a knight leapt into the river Danube to get a pretty blue flower for his lady, it was floating on the water and she was sad it may be swept away by the water. Tragically the current dragged the knight down, he threw his lady the flower before he drowned, crying, “Forget me not.” The lady wore the flowers in her hair ever after to always remember him. It is said that forget me nots planted on the grave of someone you love, will never die as long as you live. Blue and pink flowers are found on the same stem, blue for boys and pink for girls. Forget me nots are given as a symbol of remembrance.

Foxglove – (youth – stateliness)

Foxglove is symbolic of both healing and harm, foxglove flowers have both positive and negative symbolic meanings. The scientific name is digitalis, a reference to the presence of extremely powerful chemicals used to treat heart conditions when correctly administered. However if taken in large amounts it is deadly.

Fuchsia – (love)

Fuchsia flowers are a delicate teardrop shape and grow in profusion throughout summer and autumn, tropical species grow all year round. Hummingbirds are attracted to the glorious red sepals and beautiful purple petals.

Gardenia – (secret love – refinement – beauty – purity) meaning (“garden flower”)

Gardenia plants have a strong sweet scent, the flower can be very large in some species. Gardenias are native to Asia, Australasia, Oceana and Africa, they also grow in Hawaii.

Geranium – (friendship-folly-stupidity-meeting)

The temperate regions of the world and tropical mountains are where the geranium will be found. The genus name is derived from the Greek word geranos, meaning “crane”. The appearance of the geraniums seed-heads are the same shape as the bill of a crane.

Gladiolus – (strength – astounding beauty – preparedness – love at first sight)

The stem base (corms) of the gladiolus were made into a poultice for thorns and splinters and used for it’s healing properties. The name gladiolus comes from the sword or “gladius” shape leaves. The gladiolus symbolised the Roman gladiators.

Globe Amaranth – (unfading love)

The globe amaranth is an annual plant that grows up to 24 inches in height, it is a genus of plants in the Amaranthaceae family. The true species of globe amaranth has magenta flowers, then there are garden varieties with purple, white, red, lilac and pink.

by magic FROM: http://witcheslore.com/bookofshadows/herbology/the-mystery-of-flowers-and-plants/3649/

THE MYSTERY OF FLOWERS AND PLANTS [Part 1 A-B] c.2015

by magic / 0 Comments / 15431 View / February 22, 2011

Aster (daintiness) (love, from the Greek word for “star”)

Apothecaries, witches and healers, believed Asters to have healing properties. Asters were laid on the graves of French soldiers to symbolise peace.

Azalea (temperance – passion – womanhood – fragility)

Azaleas grow as shrubs and small trees with large an abundant flower display. The English name derived from the Greek word azaleos, meaning “dry.”

Baby’s Breath (innocence)

Baby’s breath symbolises purity of heart, the breath of the Holy Spirit and tenderness. Baby’s breath is a dense cluster of delicate flowers, a favourite of brides symbolising peace, love and unity.

Bachelor Button (celibacy – single – blessedness – delicacy)

Bachelor button symbolises hope in love, and is also known as the cornflower, basket flower and boutonniere flower. Young men wore a bachelor button flower signifying their love for a young woman, the flower faded quickly if the love was unrequited. This beautiful blue cornflower is Poland’s national flower. Bachelor buttons have been prized historically for their pigment.

Bamboo (balance – flexibility – immortality – youth)

Bamboo is a symbol for long life and is the most popular plant in China, it is considered a gentleman with perfect virtues and has the balance of Yin and the Yang. When a storm comes the bamboo bends with the wind. When the storm ceases, it resumes its upright position. It has the ability to overcome adversity and stand firmly

Bauhinia – (harmony)

The bauhinia has orchid-like flowers that are purple-red and surrounded by thick, heart shaped leaves, the flowers bloom from November to March. The Bauhinia flower features on the flag of Hong Kong.

Begonia – (beware – fanciful nature)

Begonias grow in subtropical and tropical moist climates, in South and Central America, Africa and southern Asia. Begonias have showy flowers of white, pink, scarlet, yellow, and attractively marked leaves.

Bird of Paradise – (faithfulness – freedom – perspective)

The bird of paradise flower is named because of a resemblance to the actual bird of paradise. In South Africa it is commonly known as a “crane” flower.

Bluebell – (constancy – humility – gratitude) sometimes (“wild hyacinths”)

Bluebells are considered, not only beautiful but magical, they are closely linked to the realm of fairies and are sometimes referred to as “fairy thimbles.” In order to call fairies to a convention the bluebells would be rung, and children who picked them sometimes disappeared. Because of her connection with war and death, the bluebell keeps her head bowed, as bowmen in the Middle Ages glued feathers onto arrows using bluebell sap. Bluebells are known as Deadmen’s Bells.

Buttercup – (neatness – humility – childishness)

The buttercup is sometimes called “Coyote’s Eyes,” from the American legend of the coyote tossing his eyes up in air and catching them again, when an eagle swooped down and snatched the eyes. Not able to see, the coyotemade eyes from the buttercup. Buttercups are part of a large genus of 400 species.

Meaning of Some Types of Flowers c. 2015

Flowers have always been a big feature at weddings, too. As an example, look to the royal flower bouquet in the wedding of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, to Kate Middleton (now Catherine, Ducchess of Cambridge). Her flowers had very special meaning.

The groom, too, wears a flower that appears in the bridal bouquet in his button-hole. This stems from the Medieval tradition of wearing his Lady’s colors, as a declaration of his love.

One fun idea is to have a garden gathering and have each person bring a flower that has meaning to them. Or, paint tiles on a kitchen island with a flower that represents each of your loved ones.

There is a language, little known,
Lovers claim it as their own.
Its symbols smile upon the land,
Wrought by nature’s wondrous hand;
And in their silent beauty speak,
Of life and joy, to those who seek
For Love Divine and sunny hours
In the language of the flowers.
–The Language of Flowers, London, 1875

Please tell us which flowers have meaning to you! If we are missing one of your favorites, please tell us which one and its meaning.

Wish to grow a flower that has meaning to you or a loved one? Click on the linked plant names for free planting and growing guides.

Symbolic Meanings of Herbs, Flowers and Trees
Aloe	Healing, protection, affection
Angelica	Inspiration
Arborvitae	Unchanging friendship
Bachelor’s button	Single blessedness
Basil	Good wishes
Bay	Glory
Black-eyed Susan	Justice
Carnation	Alas for my poor heart
Chamomile	Patience
Chives	Usefulness
Chrysanthemum	Cheerfulness
Clover, white	Think of me
Coriander	Hidden worth
Crocus, spring	Youthful gladness
Cumin	Fidelity
Daffodil	Regard
Daisy	Innocence, hope
Dill	Powerful against evil
Edelweiss	Courage, devotion
Fennel	Flattery
Fern	Sincerity
Forget-me-not	Forget-me-not
Geranium, oak-leaved	True friendship
Goldenrod	Encouragement
Heliotrope	Eternal love
Holly	Hope
Hollyhock	Ambition
Honeysuckle	Bonds of love
Horehound	Health
Hyacinth	Constancy of love, fertility
Hyssop	Sacrifice, cleanliness
Iris	A message
Ivy	Friendship, continuity
Jasmine, white	Sweet love
Lady’s-mantle	Comforting
Lavender	Devotion, virtue
Lemon balm	Sympathy
Lilac	Joy of youth
Lily-of-the-valley	Sweetness
Marjoram	Joy and happiness
Mint	Virtue
Morning glory	Affection
Myrtle	The emblem of marriage, true love
Nasturtium	Patriotism
Oak	Strength
Oregano	Substance
Pansy	Thoughts
Parsley	Festivity
Pine	Humility
Poppy, red	Consolation
Rose, red	Love, desire
Rosemary	Remembrance
Rue	Grace, clear vision
Sage	Wisdom, immortality
Salvia, blue	I think of you
Salvia, red	Forever mine
Savory	Spice, interest
Sorrel	Affection
Southernwood	Constancy, jest
Sweet pea	Pleasures
Sweet William	Gallantry
Sweet woodruff	Humility
Tansy	Hostile thoughts
Tarragon	Lasting interest
Thyme	Courage, strength
Tulip, red	Declaration of love
Valerian	Readiness
Violet	Loyalty, devotion, faithfulness
Willow	Sadness
Yarrow	Everlasting love
Zinnia	Thoughts of absent friends

Credit: KafeKafe

Let’s Talk Witch -Raising Power c. 2013 by Lady Abyss

Let’s Talk Witch -Raising Power

Anyone can cast a powerful spell. If you think you’re not powerful enough or not magickal enough, or if you’re still a little skeptical about Witchcraft, don’t worry about it.

You will still be able to perform very effective magick, if you can follow some very simple rules. These rules are very important principles that will underlie in all magickal spells you ever perform.

Magick, using tools and words and spells, just enhances this natural ability that your mind has to attract.

Magick lets you powerfully attract what you want, and it works because of the Law of Attraction.

The key is to make sure that everything you do is in line with your goals. All your thoughts, all your actions, and everything you do should be in agreement with what you are trying to attract.

You must think positive and imagine the reality you wish to achieve with your spell.

Your spells will not work unless you put your entire being into achieving your goal.

Magic without the proper intention is just a bunch of rhyming words.

When you do magic, you want it work for you.

Always make sure that you avoid anything that contradicts or goes against the purpose of your spell.

Make negative statement will cancel out any positive energy created by your spell. The means that the spell won’t work.

When you cast a spell, you need to be confident that it will succeed. In fact, the more confident you are, the more successful you spell is likely to be.

Let’s Talk Witch – Altars and Circles, Oh My! c. 2013 by Lady Abyss

Let’s Talk Witch – Altars and Circles, Oh My!

When practicing Witchcraft the two most common elements that we all have in common are the magick circle and the altar.

Let’s talk about how to set up your own magick circle and altar.

The circle is a powerful Witch’s tool. It’s the space where your magick happens. It is a sacred space that only you can create for yourself.

The magick circle has been used by witches and other magicians of various cultures: American Indians, Babylonians, and many others have used the magick circle.

The magick circle protects the witch from the forces that he or she is raising. It’s also used to shut out any energy or forces from outside which will interfere with the ritual.

The circle also contains your own personal power while you are working magick, holding and channeling it or your purposes.

Essentially the circle creates the atmosphere for all the magick you will do. It is a sphere of energy that forms the boundaries of your magickal space.

You will need some kind of way of marking the boundaries of your circle.

You can use a long piece of cord, or if you are outdoors, draw a circle of chalk, or use other objects to mark the outside of your circle.

Traditionally, a magick circle is nine feet in diameter. If you have space constraints, make it as big or as small as you are able to.

As you set up your circle, try to feel its energy moving around you. Focus on creating your perfect magickal space, the place where you can access your true power.

Once you have your circle, it’s time to decide what will go inside it.

The altar is the space where your tools will go. It can be made of anything, but wood is the best choice. Your altar doesn’t have to be fancy.

It can be a cardboard box covered with cloth, two cinder blocks with a board on top, a small coffee table or even a large, flat rock.

Traditionally, the altar is set in the center of the circle, facing North.

But what items will go on your altar, and where should you place them?

On the left side of the altar you place items such as your crystal, your cauldron(if it will fit), and a silver or white candle.

Your broom also goes on the left side, next to the altar.

On the right side is the place for your magick wand and your incense.

You can be as creative as you wish with your altar. Make it personal, and choose items which are both powerful and meaningful to you.

In the middle you can place some flowers if you like, plus all the ingredients you will need for your spell. Don’t forget matches for the candles, and a place to put the used matches.

Make sure you have all your spell ingredients ready before you begin, so that you do not have to leave the circle once you have started your ritual.

The altar is where you will do your spell casting. That’s why it’s in the center of the circle—it’s the focal point of your ritual.

Again, how you choose to do this is up to you. There’s no one right way to set up an altar.

All that matters is that you choose items that are magickally powerful and that you feel a connection with.

The magick will do the rest.

Herbal Magickal Correspondences c 2013

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.

Herbal Magickal Correspondences

The power behind herb magic is formless, shapeless, eternal. It doesn’t care whether you call on it in the name of a Witch Goddess or the Virgin Mary – or tap it within no religious framework at all. It is always there, present in abundance no matter where we are or where we travel in the universe.
Though the power is formless, some materials contain higher concentrations of power than others; these include plants, gems, and metals. Each substance also contain different types of power, or vibrational rates. The vibrations of a piece of pine wood, for example, are far different from those of a perfect, faceted diamond.
This vibratory rate is determined by several factors: chemical make-up, form, density, and so on. The powers resident in herbs are determined by the plant’s habitat, scent, color, form, etc. Similar substances usually possess similar vibrations.
Herb magic, then, is the use of herbs to cause needed changes. These plants contain energies – each as distinct as human faces. For maximum effect, the herbs chosen for a spell should possess vibrations that match your need. Cedar is fine for attracting money, but wouldn’t be of help in a fertility spell.
How does herbal magic work? First, there must be a need. A desire often masquerades as a need, but in magic a “desire” is not enough; there must exist an all-encompassing need.
The nature of the need determines which plants are used. Attracting love, for example, is a common magical need and several dozen plants do the job. (A comprehensive list of plants and their corresponding magical needs is coming up…)
Next, a spell or ritual may need to be devised; much herb magic doesn’t need a complete spell, but some of it does. This spell may be as simple as tying up the herbs in a piece of cloth, or placing them around the base of a candle, lighting the wick, and visualizing your need.
If you wish, your spell can be complex, involving boiling water in a cauldron over a mesquite-wood fire at the edge of the desert while waiting for the Moon to rise, before throwing roots and leaves into the pot.
Third, the herbs can be enchanted to ensure that their vibrations are attuned to the need. To do this, you can simply hold the plant material in your hands and visualize aligning the vibrations of the plant(s) with your magical need.
For example: “I gather you, rosemary, herb of the sun, to increase my mental powers and concentration.”
Fourth, the spell is worked, if you choose to perform this step.
Fifth, once the spell has been worked, or the herbs enchanted and the need visualized, it should be forgotten. This allows it to “cook” and bring your need into manifestation.
When baking a cake, if you look into the oven every few minutes the cake will be spoiled. In magic, as in cooking, keep the oven door shut!
And there you have it. This is how herb magic is worked. Does it sound basic? It is. These are the first steps. As with any art, the student may take herb magic further, exploring new territories. For instance, you may wish to incorporate planetary and days-of-the-week correspondences into your herbal magic workings as well.

Agrimony	Protection, banishes negative energy, sleep(air)
Allspice	Prosperity, courage, energy, strength (fire)
Almond	Money, wisdom (air)
Angelica	Protection, exorcism, health, meditation, divination (fire)
Anise	Protection, psychic awareness, repels evil spirits (air)
Basil	Mend quarrels, sympathy, happiness (fire)
Benzoin resin	Prosperity, astral projection, purification (air)
Betony	Protects against nightmares and despair (fire)
Borage	Psychic abilities, financial gain
Broom	Used to bless weddings (air)
Carnation	Feminine energy, healing, strength (water)
Cedar	Home purification, good fortune, luck (fire)
Chamomile	Love, meditation, peace (water)
Cinnamon	Energy, creativity, financial matters (fire)
Clove	Banishing, love (fire)
Copal resin	Purification, cleansing (fire)
Damiana	Love, lust (fire)
Dill	Money, luck, protection (fire)
Fennel	Protection, healing (fire)
Frankincense resin	Exorcism, purification, spirituality (fire)
Galangal	Psychic abilities, luck, money (fire)
Gardenia	Love, peace, healing (water)
Ginger	Success, courage, strength (fire)
Hazel	Divination, psychic abilities, dreams (air)
Holly	Protection, luck (fire)
Honeysuckle	Healing, love, creativity (earth)
Horehound	Protection, exorcism, mental clarity (air)
Hyssop	Purification, repel negativity (fire)
Jasmine	Dreams, sexuality (water)
Lavender	Love, sleep, dreams, meditation, protection (air)
Lemongrass	Psychic abilities (air)
Lilac	Protection, divination (water)
Marigold	Legal matters, dreams, divination (fire)
Meadowsweet	Love, peace (air)
Mint	Healing, prosperity, creativity (air)
Mistletoe	Protection, fertility, exorcism (fire)
Mugwort	Psychic abilities, divination, protection (earth)
Myrrh resin	Purification, healing, spirituality (water)
Orris Root	Love (water)
Patchouli	Money, lust, fertility (earth)
Pine	Prosperity, fertility, healing (air)
Rose	Love, healing, friendship (water)
Rosemary	Cleansing, purification, exorcism (fire)
Rue	Banishing, protection (fire)
Sage	Purification, repels negativity, wisdom (air)
Sandalwood	Spirituality, exorcism, healing (water)
Thyme	Sleep, protection, courage (water)
Valerian	Love, sleep, protection (water)
Vanilla	Lust, love, courage (water)
Vervain	Love, prosperity, sleep, healing, creativity (earth)
Wormwood	Scrying, divination, exorcism (fire)
Yarrow	Love, psychic abilitities, banishing (water)

The Proper Timing for Magick c. 2017

Author: Taliesin McKnight

Timing is one of the most important things to consider when doing magick. Astrology can be likened to a great cosmic clock. It reflects the cycles and rhythms of nature. The proper alignment of the stars, the sun, the moon, and the planets should all be taken into consideration. Does this sound complex? I assure you it is not as complicated as it may sound. In fact, this may reduced to two things: the days of the week and the cycles of the moon.

The seven planets rule the seven days of the week. The names even derive from the planets in many different languages. In English these come from the names of the Norse planetary deities. Sunday is the day of the Sun; Monday is the day of the moon; Tuesday is the day of Tue (Mars) ; Wednesday is the day of Wodan (Mercury) ; Thursday is the day of Thor (Jupiter) ; Friday is the day of Freya (Venus) ; and Saturday is the day of Saturn. Therefore, for maximum astrological benefit, a love spell should be done on Friday, the day of Venus (planet ruling love) . In the same way, magick involving education may be done on Wednesday, which is ruled by Mercury. The planetary correspondences are as follows:

The Sun rules Sunday and is good for Success, luck, spirituality, knowledge, and healing. The moon rules on Mondays. This is a good time to do spells for intuition, dreams, astral travel, and communication with spirits. Mars rules on Tuesdays. It is a good time for effective magick involving battle, conflicts, protection, strength, overcoming adversity, and binding.

Mercury is the planet presiding over Wednesdays. This is a time for rituals for education, knowledge, divination, communication, and healing. Thursday is the day of Jupiter, and governs success, prosperity, luck, and leadership. Venus dominated on Fridays and can bring love, romance, heal relationships, and grant new friends. Saturday is governed by the baleful influence of Saturn. This planet grants protection, destruction, binding, curses, purification, and overcoming weakness.

In addition to the seven days of the week, the seven planets also rule the hours in the day. There are several different methods to calculating the planetary hours. One of these involves following the hours from sunrise to sunrise; another divides the hours between sunrise and sunset and divides them into 12 sections and the same is done for the period between sunsets. To avoid all the math and difficulty, a very simple and effective system omits this and simply uses the 24 hours from midnight to midnight. This has worked wonderfully for me and I see no reason to list the other methods. If you would like to examine other methods for calculating planetary hours, that information is readily available online or in other books on magick. For simplicity, just know that the planet for the day also rules the hour at 6 am, 1 pm, and 8 pm.

Now, to illustrate this, let us take an example. If you wanted to do a love spell, it would be a good idea to do this on Friday (the day of Venus) at 8 pm (the hour of Venus) . This acts as a magickal doorway in which the proper astrological conditions are right. In this way the magus moves with the cycles and the rhythms of nature. If one were to bind (or restrict) someone from causing harm to others, Saturday at 6 am would be a good time. The days and hours should be at least partially memorized. The easiest way to do this is to simply memorize which planets rule each day and to simply remember that the planet for that day also rules at 6 am, 1 pm, and 8 pm. In this way, it will not be necessary to look this up every time one wishes to do a spell!

The phases of the moon also have an important impact on the effectiveness of magick. The waxing (growing) phase and the full moon are good from creative magick and bringing things into your life; the waning (decreasing) phase and the new moon are used for destructive spells and getting rid of things in your life. This is the most stressed point in ritual timing in the Wiccan tradition.

The concept of moving with the phases of the moon is very ancient and is found in many different cultures. This can be seen as a more important element in timing than anything else. It is much better to go with the phases of the moon on the wrong day than to do it on the right day of the week and the wrong lunar phase. This aspect of magickal timing should not be over-looked. The full and new moons are peaks of the creative and destructive cycles. The mid-way points (the half moons during increase and decrease) are also times of great magickal power.

The last aspect of ritual timing is the moon sign. The moon passes through the 12 signs of the zodiac, remaining in each sign only for a few days. This is not as important a consideration as the other 2 timing concerns. Nonetheless, this can lend power to rituals and spells. When the moon is in an Earth sign (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn) are good for financial concerns; when the sign is in an Air sign (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) are ideal for education and spells consistent with the characteristics of the element of Air. When the sign is in a Water sign (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) it is a great time for spells that are connected to the Element of water and to emotions, artistry, and relationships; While the moon is in a Fire sign (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius) it is a good time to do rituals of a fiery nature.

The individual characteristics of the sign (rather than just the element) should also be considered. This is not a very important aspect to magickal timing, so don’t stress too much over it. As I said before, though, utilizing this can only help and never hinder!

There are other lesser aspects to astrological timing. These would include the weather and the current Sun sign. The reason Sun signs are rarely considered is not so much that it is a weak influence, but rather that it is not practical to wait months just to do a spell, when it will probably no longer even be needed or be too late. This could also be a great aid if followed.

Weather is an issue as well. Storms are usually great for magick because it is a time of great elemental power. Furthermore, if one is doing a ritual involving the Sun, this should be done during the day and when it is sunny. One would assume this would go without saying. On the contrary, however, many people fail to recognize this simple concept. After all, it is only common sense. Thus, weather and the Sun sign can lend a lot of extra power to spells, if you would only harness that power with the use of correct ritual timing.

Now that this has all been laid down and explained, let us take another example to make sure these concepts are well understood. Let us say that someone is looking for a new job and decides to do some magick to help the job search. The moon should be waxing (this is for bringing things into your life) and the spell may be done on a Thursday (the day of Jupiter) at 1 pm (the hour of Jupiter) on a cloudy day because Jupiter is a sky god. The moon should also be in the sign of Capricorn. This would be an extremely good time for such a spell. The conditions are perfect.

Does timing have to be followed? Of course not! In the preceding example, the job is probably needed immediately. It would be foolish to wait for the right conditions during such an emergency. Do spells whenever they are needed. However, WHEN IT IS CONVENIENT, the astrological conditions should be considered. If a spell can wait for the perfect conditions, then great. If they spell can wait a few days for the right day ruled by the proper planet, that is good too. But if the spell can’t wait that long, then do it now. The spell can be repeated when the stars, sun, and moon are aligned right if needed. The spell will still work. The point is lending extra power to your spells. That’s it.

Following the cycles and rhythms of nature is also another way of aligning oneself with the universe. In the ancient Mystery Traditions, from which magick derives, Man was seen as a reflection of the cosmos. One is moving in accordance with the universe. We are moving with the tides of nature. Can magick be done against these cycles and still be effective? Sure. But it is like swimming against a current. Why not “ride with the tide”? It may even carry you a ways if you would only let go and let the currents of the Great Mother take you. Thus, in magick we try to follow the ways of Nature. Magick is merely using Her ways.

Remember, that which separates the initiate from the vulgar is simply that the occultist is aware of the laws of the universe and uses them to his or her advantage while others do not use this power that lies in their hands.

What is a Witch’s Familiar?

While many Witches have cats as familiars many of us have other furry or winged beings. A familiar is not an animal that goes out to do a Witch’s bidding, or to spy on their enemies or steal energy from others. A Witch’s familiar is their companion, a being that can help calm them as well as add power to some spells and/or rituals. They are not mean and attack people as they are so often portrayed as doing in films, TV shows, books, etc. You may be asking yourself “How do I know if a pet is my familiar or not?” or even “How do I find my familiar?” The best answers I have for these are if you feel a special bond with your pet, I’m not talking about a normal I love my pet kind of thing but

You may be asking yourself “How do I know if a pet is my familiar or not?” or even “How do I find my familiar?” The best answers I have for these are if you feel a special bond with your pet, I’m not talking about a normal I love my pet kind of thing, but it is hard to put into words, but I will try, it is a calming effect whenever you are upset and your pet comes to you or it makes you feel complete as a living being. You more than likely have one of your familiars for this lifetime. Now if you don’t have it or any pet and are looking for one my suggestion is first figure out if you are more drawn to dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters or…well I think you get where I’m going here. After that visit shelters, reliable pet shops, rescue places or even read the

Now if you don’t have it or any pet and are looking for one my suggestion is first figure out if you are more drawn to dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters or…well I think you get where I’m going here. After that visit shelters, reliable pet shops, rescue places or even read the classifieds in the newspaper and then go to see the animal(this is how I found my Cleo). Make sure you meet any animal that catches your eye. Do not make a snap decision but visit with the animal and see if it pick you as its human, pick it up cuddle with it or if it is to big for you to pick up and you can get down on its level. Believe me when I say you will know the animal is your familiar as soon as you make close physical contact with it. You will have a feeling a connection to that animal immediately.

Now we all know our lifespan is a lot longer then our companions/familiars is. Not to worry just as we live many lifetimes so do our familiars. So far for me in this lifetime my familiar has come to me as a cat, Tuffy, when I was 10 years old, he lived to be 17, then I got (my children…hahaha) a half cocker spaniel-half shelty mix, Boots, in my 30’s who lived for 14 1/2 years and now as my beautiful Cleo. The reason for me going so long in between Tuffy and Boots was I was in a rocky place on my life path barely able to take care of myself some days much less a pet plus I had fallen away from my Spiritual self and I hadn’t met the right companion for me during that time. Then between Boots and Cleo there was about a year and half while I was deciding what kind of pet I wanted. One day a friend of my husbands came over and brought his 4-month-old Min Pin, I had never really seen the breed before even though I had been working with canines for over 40 years and fell in love with the breed. So the search began and about 5 months later my hubby came home with an ad he had pulled out of our local newspaper for a breeder selling Min Pins very cheap. We called, made an appointment to see the litter, went to the breeders home and there were 3 girls and 1 boy. I was looking for a male only because up until this time my familiars had been male but the Universe had different plans for me this time. I put my hand into the enclosure the puppies were in and Cleo came up to chew on my engagement ring, lick my hand and try to climb over the fence, mind you, she was only 5 inches tall and weighed in at 2 pounds. I took my hand away from her trying to pet her siblings, she would have none of that as she pushed them away from my hand. So after putting my hand in and out a few times to see if she would keep coming over, which she did. When my hubby put his hand in there the same thing happened, she pushed everyone else out of the way to get to his hand. I asked to hold her and there was instant bond with her and I. While her and my hubby are friendly there is no doubt that she is my companion and familiar.

Added note 2015– In 2014 I got a rescue Chihuahua, named Starbabie. She is now three years old and is another familiar of mine. I do not know why I have two of them in my life right now, but I am grateful for it. Towards the beginning of this year I was alone in our home for almost week with just my girls, I live next door to a state-run group home for boys some of who just got out of jail for violent crimes. Even though my girls are small I was not worried because Cleo kept watch on the outside of the house (through the picture windows in the living room and my den) and Star never left my side

Flower Magic: The Secret Language Of The Flowers c. 2015

There are many things that were known only about a hundred years ago that have become lost, and the secret language of the flowers is one of them. In days gone by it was held an important part of women’s education to know home remedies, about the qualities of plants and this had a large metaphysical component.

Just knowing that there is a secret language of flowers changes many things; and of course has many applications in practical as well as esoteric magic and energy magic.

Right up to Victorian times, the meaning of flowers was common knowledge amongst people and was used to transmit messages and information.

In this painting which looks so harmless to a modern Westerner and merely decorative, there is story told in flowers about the person who painted it, and the person for whom they painted it. That’s a second layer of information, invisible to those who are not in the know; because of this it is called the secret language of flowers.

If you look for it, you will find flowers everywhere – they appear seemingly harmlessly and randomly in portraits, in the background of stained glass windows in a church; they are carved in stone in palaces and temples; and often you will see a depiction of saints and important historical figures who are holding a flower, or are pointing to one.

On a visit to an old graveyard, you can tell the plants that were chosen to be on a person’s grave, using the secret language of flowers – and the vast majority of people walk right by and have no idea that all of that is going on.

Importantly, flowers were used to express emotions, especially in romantic relationships. Gentlemen would bring posies to the ladies; and the ladies would wear very specific flowers on their hats, or choose or make fabrics that would bear particular flower motives.

Any fabric pre-dating the Second World War has this language of flowers, this additional meaning and information, interwoven into its very structure; this is practical magic where intention is added to a natural existence and used intelligently in order to bring about a change in reality.

For example, if you put on a cushion a design that says in the language of flowers, “If you put your head on this cushion to rest, you will have sweet dreams of love, independence, freedom and joy,” that’s a pure piece of human magic or witchcraft at work. For people who actively practice the art of bringing intention into daily life and shaping their own destiny that way, the language of flowers, that secret layer of intention, energy and information, provides a dictionary of symbols that can be practically evoked in spells and rituals, in magic potions by adding the physical components of that particular flower to the spell.

If you learn the secret language of the flowers, you have a magical alphabet to make your own spells; this is how most of magic works, you don’t learn a bunch of spells and ingredients by heart, but instead, you learn what the ingredients do and so you can mix and match for every occasion.

For example, one of the only surviving flower language symbols is that of the red rose for romantic love. People might nowadays have absolutely no idea what a bluebell was meant to mean only a hundred years ago, or even what a Valerian flower looks like, never mind where you could find one or what its flower language message is, but it is still known that a red rose means love.

Knowing that, you can add the petals of a red rose to any love potion that has a physical/sexual strand to it; and also to any other type of potion where a physical/sexual strand would add a bit of va va voom to the spell in question.

As always, knowing even a little bit about magic opens your eyes, ears and your other senses to the simple fact that there is more to life than the dour ones would have us believe.

Wondering what was said about this lady in the portrait here by the flowers makes meeting with this image in a whole new way. Modern science will have us believe that our ancestors were all a bunch of idiots who believed in superstitious nonsense and that there is no such thing as the invisible worlds of energy and information.

I’m afraid they are the fools; and it’s a shame because the world becomes a much more interesting place when you pay attention and find out about such things as the secret language of the flowers, and how this has been used throughout the ages of mankind to tell us things most people now will never understand.

And if you make the secret language of the flowers your own, you can do many interesting, inspiring and wonderful things with that – even if it’s just choosing a wallpaper that has the right flowers for your purposes on it, and smiling every day when you see it again.

Below is a very short version of the secret language of flowers; for a much more comprehensive flower language dictionary from A-Z with a search function and a reverse list so you can decide the quality/meaning you need and then look up the right flower or plant, go here:

See the complete “Secret Language Of The Flowers” here.

Wishing you much joy with The Secret Language Of The Flowers,

SFX

Spring 2011

Flower Language: The Secret Language Of Flowers

See the complete “Secret Language Of The Flowers” here.

Amaranthus	Immortal
Amaryllis	Beautiful, but timid
Aster, double	Variety
Aster, single	Afterthought
Arbutus	Thee only do I love
Acacia	Friendship
Apple Blossom	Preference
Asphodel	Remembered after death
Arbor Vitæ (Tree of Life)	Unchanging friendship
Alyssum	Worth beyond beauty
Anemone	Your love changes
Azalea	Pleasant recollections
Argeratum	Worth beyond beauty
Balsam	Impatience
Blue Bell	Constancy
Balm	Pleasantry
Bay	I change but in death
Bachelor’s Button	Hope
Begonia	Deformed
Buttercup	Memories of childhood
Brier, Sweet	Envy
Calla	Feminine Modesty
Carnation	Pride
Clematis	Mental Excellence
Cypress	Disappointment, Despair
Crocus	Happiness
Columbine	I cannot give thee up
Cresses	Always cheerful
Canterbury Bell	Constancy
Cereus, Night-blooming	Transient beauty
Candytuft	Indifference
Chrysanthemum	Heart left desolate
Clover, White	I promise
Clover, Four-leaved	Be mine
Crown Imperial	Authority
Camellia	Spotless purity
Cissus	Changeable
Centaurea	Your looks deceive me
Cineraria	Singleness of heart
Daisy, Field	I will think of it
Dahlia	Dignity
Daffodil	Unrequited love
Dandelion	Coquetry
Everlasting	Always remembered
Everlasting Pea	Wilt thou go with me
Ebony	Blackness
Fuchsia	Humble love
Foxglove	Insincerity
Fern	Sincerity
Fennel	Strength
Forget-me-not	For ever remembered
Fraxinella	Fire
Geranium, Ivy	Fond of dancing
Geranium, Oak	A melancholy mind
Geranium, Rose	I prefer you
Geranium, Scarlet	Stillness
Gladiolus	Ready armed
Golden Rod	Encouragement
Gillyflower	Promptness
Hyacinth	Benevolence
Honeysuckle	Devoted love
House Leek	Domestic economy
Heliotrope	I adore you
Hibiscus	Delicate beauty
Hollyhock	Ambition
Hydrangea	Vain glory
Ice Plant	Your looks freeze me
Ivy	Friendship
Iris	A message for thee
Jonquil	Affection returned
Larkspur	Fickleness
Lantana	Rigor
Laurel	Words may deceive
Lavender	Mistrust
Lemon Blossom	Discretion
Lady Slipper	Capricious beauty
Lily of the Valley	Return of happiness
Lily	Passion
May Flower	Welcome
Marigold	Sacred affection
Marigold and Cypress	Despair
Mandrake	Rarity
Mignonette	Your qualities surpass your charms
Morning Glory	Coquetry, Affectation
Myrtle	Love in absence
Mistletoe	Insurmountable
Narcissus	Egotism
Nasturtium	Patriotism
Oxalis	Reverie
Orange Blossom	Purity
Olive	Peace
Oleander	Beware
Primrose	Modest worth
Pink, White	Pure love
Pink, Red	Devoted love
Phlox	Our hearts are united
Periwinkle	Sweet memories
Pæony	Ostentation
Pansy	You occupy my thoughts
Poppy	Oblivion
Rhododendron	Agitation
Rose, Bud White	Maiden love
Rose, Leaf	I never trouble
Rose Moss	Superior merit
Rose, Red	I love you
Rose, Yellow	Infidelity
Rosemary	Remembrance
Sensitive Plant	Modesty
Snowdrop	Consolation
Sumach	Pride and poverty
Sweet William	Gallantry
Sunflower	Lofty thought
Tuberose	Purity of mind
Thyme	Activity
Tulip	Declaration of love
Verbena	Sensibility
Violet, Blue	Faithfulness
Wall Flower	Fidelity in misfortune
Wisteria	Close friendship
Yucca	Your looks pierce me
Yew	Sadness
Zinnia	I mourn your absence

See the complete

“Secret Language Of The Flowers”

Key Features Needed To Make A Ritual Work c. 2014

WOTC Extra – Key Features Needed To Make A Ritual Work

Wiccan rituals fit together a variety of tried-and-true magickal methods to form a congruous whole, rather like a spiritual jigsaw puzzle. Dancing around a ritual fire, singing, chanting, meditating, communicating with deities, casting spells, crafting charms, making wishes, pouring libations, asperging the participants or the sacred space — every part of a ritual has purpose and meaning in relation to the whole.

In Wiccan rituals, great care is taken to make sure there are no meaningless words or actions. A ritual without meaning becomes a liturgy to which the participants have no connection, and therefore cannot effect magick.

Not every ritual you create or attend will contain all of the following elements. However, any of these features applied in meaningful combinations will help generate similarly meaningful results.

Location

Where a ritual transpires has a tremendous effect on the participants and the resulting magick. Many witches enjoy enacting rituals outdoors. This allows participants to connect with nature and to recognize their place in the universe. If you’re a solitary witch, you have more options than a group of thirty people might. If you live in a heavily populated city, you may not have as many sites to choose from as rural witches do.

Accept your limitations and plan with the goals of the ritual in mind. Make sure that your space, whether indoors or outside, can comfortably hold all the people participating in the ritual and allow for the process to take place. If you’re going to do a spiral dance, you need a lot of room. Sitting and meditating, by comparison, requires far less space.

Ambiance

The right environment for your ritual is essential. Ideally, the place where you perform ritual should be a sacred space dedicated to this purpose. You don’t want anything to distract, interrupt, or otherwise take you away from the ritual at an important juncture — it should go without saying that ritual space is a cell-phone-free zone. Set the right mood by using appropriate decorations, aromatics, altar configuration, and so on. All of these components should reflect the ritual’s purpose.

Seasonal rituals usually include decorative and symbolic touches that reflect the cycle being commemorated. Fresh blossoms might grace an Ostara ritual; evergreen boughs compliment a Yule celebration. Well-chosen music, incense, and thematic items can make a big difference in the ambiance of a ritual. These touches affect your senses, which in turn influence both the conscious and subconscious mind.

Personal Preparation

Everyone in attendance should be in the right frame of mind, for their combined thoughts and emotions generate the ritual’s energy. When you participate in a ritual, you set aside daily concerns and mundane thoughts to focus on the goal of the ritual.

Before beginning a ceremony, many witches take ritual baths to cleanse themselves in body and mind. Salt is usually added to the bathwater (symbolizing purification) and sometimes essential oils. Ideally, you should bathe in a stream, lake, or the ocean; however, most ritual baths take place in an ordinary indoor tub.

Witches gather in circles to demonstrate visually and spatially each participant’s equal responsibility and relevance in the ritual. Everyone who chooses to participate should feel wholly comfortable with the ritual and its components. They should understand the ritual’s significance, its goals, and the steps involved, and be ready to contribute mentally and physically to the ritual’s purpose.

For the good of all, anyone who cannot fulfill these conditions is better off not participating. One person’s lower energies or distractions become a weak link in the circle of the power of creation and the direction of magickal energy.

Tools and Components

Do you need a complete altar setup? Do you want to wear costumes? What about a special altar cloth? A ritual might require any of the following tools:

Asperger

Athame

Broom

Candles

Cauldron

Chalice

Circumference-marking material (such as chalk)

Crystals or stones

Drum or other musical instruments

Essential oils

Feather or fan

Foods or beverages

Incense

Incense burner

Masks (or other props)

Objects representing the four elements

Offerings

Pentagram

Plants or flowers

Salt

Smudge wand

Statuary

Sword

Wand

Everything that will be used in the ritual should be cleansed in advance. In addition, each ritual object should be charged for its task in the ritual. (Refer to the cleansing and charging methods described in Chapter 13.) Bring all the items you’ll need for the ritual into the area where you’ll be working before you cast a circle.

Progression

A ritual follows a logical progression, like a play. The ritual’s progression creates the pattern — the actions and words that become tradition.

Each ritual should have a defined beginning, such as creating sacred space. The beginning of a ritual sets the tone for everything to follow. In particular, it transports the participants to that place between the worlds and unifies their hearts and spirits, directing them toward the ritual’s goal. A typical beginning in a group setting might include breathing in unison, holding hands, and calling the Watchtowers. Practitioners of solitary rituals might take a moment for prayer or meditation, followed by invoking the circle.

After the ritual space reaches this juncture, what happens varies dramatically, depending on the ritual and its goals. As mentioned previously, this middle portion might involve weaving spells, dancing, singing, drumming, meditations, visualization, divination, enactments, and so on. Whatever takes place should be congruent with the beginning of the ritual.

As is the case with spellcraft, the more sensual aspects you include, the more energy a ritual is likely to raise. As participants work their way through the ritual, everything perceived through their senses helps them maintain focus and direct energy. When the members of the circle are raising energy, drumming might get faster or chanting might grow louder, for example. Each cue communicates the goals of the ritual to the individual’s awareness and to the Divine, and therefore nourishes the magick.

“I think the highest purpose of ritual or magickal work is to seek our gods, to commune with the cosmic ‘mirror’ and the spirits of nature in order to learn more of the divinity within ourselves and reach evermore toward personal growth in its highest expression.”

— Maria Kay Simms, A Time for Magick

Human beings like closure; solid endings also bring the participants’ attention back to mundane matters. A ritual without a defined ending is like omitting the last chapter in a book; it leaves both the participants and the energy hanging. It’s also important to thank and release the Watchtowers who have been present during the ritual. Furthermore, participants need this time to gear down a bit (or ground out, as witches say). End the ritual by deconstructing the circle, saying a closing prayer, or stating a parting wish. Some circles end with a chant:

The circle is open, but unbroken May the peace of the Goddess be forever in your heart. Merry meet and merry part And merry meet again.

Author:
Sky Alexander

netplaces>>>>>Wicca and Witchcraft

Elemental Energies in Magick – Spirit

Some of the Elemental Energies in Magick for Spirit

The element of Spirit is the 5th unseen element. It is the combination of all the energies of the four elements and it is very hard to work with because there is nothing to focus on. In fact the only real way to connect to this 5th element is to look inside yourself and connect with that part of you that is unique and different from other people. The part of you that is noble, confident, honorable and strong. This is the part of you that is Spirit. Unfortunately for most people, connecting to this part of themselves is made a lot more difficult than it has to be because of fear and insecurity. What if they don’t have enough of these good qualities to ever connect to something that no one can see, touch, smell or hear? The answer lies in your own personal mythology. Take for instance any story you have ever heard that moved you and inspired you. It can be a fairy tale you heard when you were a child or a story you heard yesterday. You don’t have to believe the story was true to use the energy it raises inside of you. You need only focus on the way it makes you feel and then translate it to other situations in your everyday life. In fact these stories represent psychological archetypes that we all share which is why story-telling is common in our culture. We all have a craving for Spirit. Our mythology is the code of the unconscious mind, and it paves the way to connecting to Spirit. So when you want to invoke the element of Spirit, summon the feelings of triumph or joy that stem from your personal mythologies. The energy exists on its own for you to use and direct even after you have forgotten about the story. Once you have summoned the energy, directing it is another matter. Spirit energy is often represented by the color white or ultra-violet (invisible) light. You should imagine whatever color helps you define the Spirit energy you feel. This can be white, clear, ultra-violet, etc. It’s really up to you because this is your personal energy source. Like all the other elements, Spirit energy is a part of nature, however, this is the point where YOU become another aspect of nature just as Fire, Water, Air and Earth are parts of nature. Spirit represents the superconscious mental processes (as opposed to the conscious mental processes of Air and the unconscious mental processes of Water). For this reason magick in all forms will be successful when performed under the supervision and assistance of Spirit, ruled by the spirit of the center of the Four Winds, Metatron.

Deosil and Withershins

When casting, dancing or chanting in a circle for ritual purposes. Wiccans refer to the direction described as either “deosil” or “Withershins.” When “deosil” (comes from the Irish Gaelic meaning, “turn to the right) is specified, this means clockwise, the direction in which the Sun apparently moves in the Northern Hemisphere, and in which circles are usually cast for positive magick. “Withershins” (or widdershins”) whose roots are embedded in the German words wider (“against”) and Sinn (‘sense’), means counterclockwise, and this is the banishing direction used for negative magick.

Sunny Days

Maximize the power of a spell cast during Leo’s reign by practicing it on a Sunday, the weekday whose dedication to the Lion’s planetary ruler remains enshrined in many modern European languages, including English.

Life As The Witch – Recognizing Our Goddess, HEKATE (Hecate)

Hekate: A Modern Implications

These days, Hekate is often still seen as the Goddess of Witchcraft and Dark Magick, a Dark Crone, because of her connection to the line between life and death. Her chthonic roots are attributed to her aspects as a Death Goddess, but in truth she is not solely death aspected. Her nature is one of transformation, and though change can be terrifying and damaging, it can also be beatific. To think of Her only as a chthonic, Underworld Goddess is to ignore part of her nature.

These days we too often see things in terms of diametric, opposites (light/dark, masculine, feminine, God/Goddess, as if the vast universe is written in binary, nothing more than ones and zeros. While these dichotomies play a role in the nature of the universe, they are also simplified depictions. Deity cannot be contained in the use of dichotomy, because deity transcends those terms.

Hekate is neither light nor dark; she is the very scale of graduation, present at the exact point at which one type of gray becomes another, between every gradient and at either end of the spectrum. Each change is her territory, and there are billions of transformations every day.

Hekate’s connection to magic is another aspect of her nature. Through magic we take what is only potential and pull it into reality, imprinting the mundane world with what could be. And this is one of the biggest changes of all, the transformation for which Hekate has always been particularly revered. Magick is transformation, and it’s from this that Hekate’s association with it is.

In invoking Heckate we can learn to accept changes in our lives, both positive and negative, and we can also create change in our own worlds. She aids the completion and manifestation of spells and when called for divinatory purposes she can help to reveal the truth more readily. She can part the Veil, to allow clearer vision or communion with the dead. Hekate is a protector of children, especially when they walk hard paths, but also in the journey into adulthood.

Hekate guards the crossroads, both those that line our physical reality and those that mark our passage through life, through our spirituality, and through the journey that is existence.

Reference:

Excerpt from:”The Transformative Nature of Hekate”

by Marion Sipe

Llewellyn’s 2012 Magical Living Companion

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• Suns and Solar Symbols

• Fresh Blossoms and Blooms

• The Bounty of the Garden

• Opposites

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WOTC Extra – Key Features Needed To Make A Ritual Work

Location

Ambiance

Personal Preparation

Tools and Components

Progression

Some of the Elemental Energies in Magick for Spirit

Sunny Days

Hekate: A Modern Implications