I find it so important to love your home and care for it the way it ought to be. Almost as much as you love yourself, really. It’s your home, after all. A lot of the time, we get so caught up with fast paced living that we forget to maintain our environment, and often times, we end up feeling the negative energies that stick to the walls of our home. One could honestly compare that to when we don’t do self-care.
Who would want to live in that environment? Or visit it?
So one may ask themselves, what sort of magick should you be conjuring in your home during the waning moon (last quarter)?
We focus on banishing, cleansing, and protection.
We burn incense, we dust, we vacuum. This is a time to focus on spells especially for breaking bad habits.
Below are a few and simple ways to conjure this sort of magick into the home.
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Combine equal parts in a mortar and pestle. Grind to a fine powder. Burn over charcoal and use a cleansing tool to smudge across the halls and rooms of your home.
OR
You can place the powder in a black drawstring bag, and either place or pour across front/back doors, windows, bedrooms, or at the center of your home.
*Note* – If you cannot find Sulfur, you may substitute with Tobacco.
This Hot House Powder is perfect for cleansing and protecting your home. This is especially good if your home has recently been visited by unwanted guests. That goes for evil spirits as well. Or, your home is being swept by a sickness. Any kind of negativity. As well as, if you feel like black magick is being casted your way.
This spell will give you a good reason to dust around the home, especially when your bad habits are often done at home. Collect the dust you swept and save in a bowl. Combine an equal amount and/or grind the needed herbs together. Mix this powder with the collected dust.
You will need to get the amount of candles to the same amount of bad habits you want to break. Ex: you have 3 bad habits, so you will need 3 candles.
Carve into each candle ONE word that represents the bad habit. Ex: DRUGS. GAMBLING. PROCRASTINATION.
Now, you will need a flat surface. With the powder, you will use it to draw out this symbol below:
Now place the candles along the corners of the sigil. If you are only using one candle, place in the center.
Focus your intentions on each candle when you light it. Allow the candles to burn down, along with your bad habits. See them burn away.
Once the candles are burned down, you may collect the powder and bury it outside from your home.
You will need a 1/2 cup of both the Baking Soda and Borax. Mix together. Then you will add 20-25 drops of Sandalwood Essential Oil. Mix thoroughly. Pour this mixture into the glass container. Then, sprinkle this powder over your carpets. Leave for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum.
I LOVE this Red House Carpet Powder. I use it EVERY time I vacuum. It leaves my carpets smelling so good, and the vibrations practically glow. It cleanses the area, and leaves it with a barrier of protection.
Well, I hope these spells are welcomed and bring forth good blessings.
All items that I share are items that I have personally bought for my craft. I guarantee positive sources and experiences with these Amazon stores.
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Now, in honor of the New Moon, I wanted to share a few of the best New Moon Floorwashes that I personally enjoy making for when I am washing the floors or even counters of my home. They are SO easy to create in your very own kitchen, all that is needed is the simple-to-get ingredients.
Because of the recent happenings with COVID, I know that going out to the market has become a wort of worry. So lately, for me, I have been making my orders through Amazon, and I’ve found to find the same great quality of ingredients I would if I were to go to my local garden! It seriously has become so helpful, with better prices. AND, if purchasing the dried herbs isn’t enough, you can always consider buying the seeds! That’s one fine way to start your magical garden and not worry about running out of your supply!
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To make this blend, you will need about a CUP of each, to make a good hefty amount to store for later use. Believe me, it’s a great jar to have on hand!
Instructions:
FOR POWDER: Grind down a cup of each ingredient until it is in a fine powder. – (I once used a mortal and pestle, but when I started making larger batches of this recipe, it really began to tire out the hand! Now, I’ve caught up to the 21st century and use this Mueller Austria Hypergrinder! It has been a goddess-send! It’ll become your best friend too!)
Combine each of the now fine powders, and blend well. Keep stored in an airtight container/jar when not in use.
Boil water, and add the powder blend little by little, stirring clockwise with your favorite magical tool. Concentrate on the power of purification, see the herbs becoming one with the water.
When it has fully dissolved, begin with full intention, your cleaning.
FOR HERB BLEND: If you decide to not wish to powder the herbs, you may combine them in their whole form. Blend well, and store them in an airtight container/jar.
Before adding the herb blend to your boiled water, I advise that you scoop a batch into a muslin bag. These help keep the herbs from scattering across your water and making your cleaning, well, messier!
Allow it to steep for about 10 – 15 minutes. Then give it a good stir clockwise, with full intention, and get to cleaning!
This batch is great for New Moon magick, for when you just feel like everyone’s aura needs fixing! You know, that icky sticky feeling? Or that, gooey hung down dreaded feeling? For that! This is like a pick-me-up for the aura! Cleanses away that nasty goo, and replaces the area (and yourself) with that feel-good energy.
You’ll need about a cup of each of the ingredients again. And decide whether you wish to powder it, or keep them whole and blended. Follow the instructions from the first recipe to replicate.
This New Home Wash recipe is the one I always recommend to friends when they move into a new home. I insist that everyone do a thorough cleaning before moving their belongings in, especially when it is in an apartment building! You can never know what sort of energy lingers from previous tenants, so this is a great go-to to get your home move-in ready. Generally, its ideal to clean when near or on the New Moon, but we can’t ALL make our moves alongside the phases of the Moon. So, the great thing about this recipe is that it is universal. It can be used whenever.
I HIGHLY advise, however, that it be preblended under the New Moon night. That way, you can bring the New Moon vibes into your home. Phase or not!
I ALSO recommend the ingredients be fresh herbs. Not so easy, I know, but if possible, try your best. If not, then have fun with the dried herbs, or go the oil route!
Instructions:
UNDER THE NEW MOON NIGHT: Collect about 1/4 cup of each of the fresh herbs, stripped from their stems, and placed in a clear bowl. Keep the herbs outside in the night air to absorb the New Moon’s vibes. Or, if you are the ceremonial type, bless the herbs on your New Moon altar.
To use: Crush the fresh herbs a bit in your hands to liberate some of their natural oils, place in a muslin bag, then pour in water just off the boil and let steep for about 10 minutes. Stir counterclockwise, and get to cleaning.
IF DRIED HERBS USED: Follow the previous instructions from the other recipes.
IF OILS ARE USED: You will use 15 essential oil drops of each of the listed ingredients. Add this to a bucket of boiled water with a 1/4 cup of white vinegar. Stir very well, counterclockwise, and proceed with cleaning. *Keep in mind, if you decide to go the OIL route, it is recommended to pre blend the recipe under the New Moon night.*
Probably one of the most classic floor wash recipes is this simple one. Cascarilla powder has been long used for purification purposes. This recipe I recommend to be used as a powder. Be sure your white eggshells are dried properly, and you are using pure sea salt. Grind together into a fine powder and use with boiled water and 1/4 cup of white vinegar.
ESSENTIAL OILS
You are more than welcome to go the essential oil route. For me, it is much easier and fun to blend the oils and add to my washing water. To blend them, you can freely mix match the amount you wish according to your senses, but often I keep them at about 15 – 20 drops each.
Here is a list of oils and where you may find them.
As mentioned earlier, starting your own magical garden may be some thing that you’ll find more pleasant. Certainly, having an endless supply of your ingredients is often some thing every witch seeks. Always make sure your seeds are heirloom NON GMO seeds.
Here is a list of seeds and where you may find them.
Below is an interview with an extraordinary woman, whose wisdom goes beyond many I’ve ever spoken to. For personal reasons, she chooses to remain private, but permits her craft to be told and shared.
I learned a new term today from this Crone whom I just met. Her aura was pure and green. Her character is patient and wise. She has seen 60 moons. Harnessed her craft for the last 49 suns.
She termed herself a Witch Wife. When I asked her what that was, she gifted me with her knowledge.
Much like a midwife and a hedgewitch, a Witch Wife teaches the ways of the craft to the young, until they reach mature adulthood. They stay together until the student ends their raising, decides to become a Witch Wife themselves, or get traditionally married.
I asked, “why until they get married?”
She said because at that point the pupil’s power is no longer their own. It is merged with their partner’s, and therefore, new traditions are created. The apprentice will carry on their own solitary craft, and may wish to pass it on to their children. They can also decide to have a Witch Wife tutor them.
I asked, “is a Witch Wife often unmarried?”
She answered yes, a Witch Wife is a woman who is free of vows to another. They are solitary practitioners, save for the teachers that raised them. When they first decide to become a Witch Wife, a ritual is done that weds the new wife to her craft. A small private ritual is held with other Witch Wives pesent. This event is often planned on the eve of a new season.
After the new Witch Wife takes a period to establish herself, a novice is chosen and passed on to her to have tutored. This youth is called a Witch Child. This pupil becomes her child of the craft to pass on the wisdom.
I asked, “how is a Witch Child chosen? Can you raise more than one?”
She answered yes, she has raised two. Some take up to three. The Witch Child is often an offspring from a pupil who had either chosen to marry, or had given birth to a babe(s). The Witch Child needs to show interest in the craft before they are chosen. Then is asked if they would like to be taught by a Witch Wife. There are some rare cases where a Witch Child is chosen from a friend of the Witch Wife’s.
I asked, “can a Witch Wife ever get married if she wishes to?”
She answered yes, but this is considered infidelity towards the Witch Wife’s craft. She will know that she will never fully belong to her partner, as well as to her craft. She will be in a state of eclipse. Only when she is widowed, will she be free of her vows to her partner. If she births children, it is still tradition that they may be tutored by another Witch Wife, if the child wishes it.
I then asked, “can a married Witch Wife still tutor other pupils?”
She answered no, because at that point she is eclipsed. A Witch Wife must be faithful to her craft in order to lead a Witch Child through the bright and shadowed aspects of their craft. A married Witch Wife has one eye shut. That is the eye that is focused on her marital bed, and the concerns of her partner. A Witch Wife must have both eyes focused on her craft, and on the success of her Witch Child.
I then asked, “are married Witch Wives looked down upon in your group?”
She answered no, of course not. They are family. They were all Witch Children that were raised by Witch Wives. They are still invited to attend events, outings, and some rituals. They are all a very close knit group. Their children are accepted and often taught in the ways as well.
I asked, “what happens if a Witch Child decides not to be a Witch Wife, or doesn’t want to continues their studies?”
She answered, a Witch Child is free to end their studies at any point during their growth. If they stop their studies midway, they will no longer be called a Witch Child. If a Witch Child decides to not become a Witch Wife at the end of their studies, she will be called a Witch Soul, and carry on a solitary practice. She won’t participate in the same Witch Wife rituals.
I asked, “how often is a Witch Child tutored?”
She answered, it depends. For some it can be once or twice a week. For others, it can be more. It depends on location, schedule, and the child’s enthusiasm. It is much like an afterschool program, because for some Witch Children, they come straight from school until their parent(s) pick them up after work. During school breaks, fun study outings such as campings are planned.
I asked, “are Witch Children/Wives always female?”
She answered, Witch Wives are always female. Not to discriminate today’s gender roles and beliefs, but because that has been the way of their tradition. There have been two Witch Children that were boys. Only one had completed his studies, however, and continued on to practice as a solitary Witch Soul.
I asked, “does a Witch Child have to begin their studies when they are a child, or can they be older?”
She answered, it is generally recommended that they begin young. Before the thirteenth birthday. There is a rare chance an older child may be taught, but the Witch Child has to study for a longer period of time.
I then asked, “until when is a Witch Child’s studies complete?”
She answered, when they complete each phase of their lessons. It is not just craft knowledge they are learning, it is also the process of growth that they are surpassing. Children undergo a serious change of mind and heart when they reach puberty. For some, it is often a struggle to get through the raging thoughts and emotions. Witch Wives especially stand by their Witch Child when these years are developing. Teach them the ways of growing past it. When all lessons have been exceeded, is when a Witch Child has completed their raising.
I asked, “is a Witch Wife’s craft similar to any other witchcraft practice? Is it a religion?”
She answered that it is not a religion. There is no one Deity or the worship of Gods. There is only nature, the magick it harbors, and the techniques to tap into that power. Their practice focuses on healing, ancestral magick, conjuring, and sharpening the intuition. Witch Wives are wed to the infinite power that sources all things, and thus are linked to that magick. Their practice involves herbal knowledge, charms, potions, spells, gardening, livestock, and divination.
I asked, “how long has this tradition been around?”
She answered, since the early 40s. A very small group of three women followed Irish/Scottish/Germanic folk magick traditions, formed the practice. They were unwed, but wholeheartedly believed in their craft. One had two daughters, and each were given to one Witch Wife to raise in the craft. One Witch Child became a Witch Wife, the other became a Witch Soul. That Witch Soul had children that were passed over to the other Witch Wives to raise. And it has been that way since the beginning. There have been five generations, so far.
I asked, “is there a hierarchy order to this tradition?”
She answered, yes in a way. Wisdom is more so in the Witch Wives. That, and Witch Wives are wed to the craft. Therefore, their power is linked to it, and are the only ones able to pass on the gifts to the Witch Children. A Witch Wife practices all forms of their magick.
Witch Souls are the Witch Children that complete their raising, but, they do not become Witch Wives. Therefore, the power is their own to use. They are a sole practitioner. A Witch Soul mostly practices healing and divination.
Witch Children are the young that are raised by a Witch Wife. During their training, they are taught all the forms of their practice. During this time, Witch Children share their power with the Witch Wife to understand the craft.
It is seen as a family system, then a hierarchy one.
I asked, “what kind of spells and rituals do you do? How are they formed?“
She answered that she didn’t wish to go into detail about how their spells and rituals are created, or all of the spellwork that they do. But, that generally they are focused towards healing, fertility, prosperity, and protection, just to name a few.
I asked, “do you think your practice will grow bigger? Gain notice? Do you want it to?”
She answered she doesn’t believe it will grow bigger, or that it will gain notice. Some traditions are better to keep small. Their practice is a craft that takes time. Not all who practice would agree with it, or would believe in it. That is all right, because magick is a shared practice that is invoked in many methods. In many beliefs. New and old.
She didn’t really express if whether she wanted it to gain notice or grow bigger. She simply included, that she was just happy to share her story with someone of a open heart, and hopes others will see it as such.
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This was the most inspiring conversation and I am so thankful to share this amazing family’s craft tradition. I humbly thank you for entrusting me with this wisdom. Thank you, thank you.
As many herbal witches may know, our special recipes, whether passed down, or handcrafted, can require certain types of herbs. Many of these herbs are common kitchen ingredients, but there are some that do need special plants for the occasion.
However, there is always the issue that we may just never encounter such an herb, because of location, price, time of year. So, what do we do in such a situation? We substitute!
Below you will find a two part list of common herbs that have other herbs to use if you don’t have the necessary ingredient.
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Here is where you may find these herb ingredients. Follow their links for guidance:
Just in case you’re uncertain, the first herb is the main ingredient. If you do not have it, follow the “>” symbol to the next herb. That is the herb to substitute with.
“M/” means to mix with.
“W/” means with.
Soon, I will write the list for rare herb substitutes. Be on the look out!
Great Blessings and Knowledge!
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So, a new series came to mind while I started my Spring Cleaning. Every proper Witch always uses their magick while tending to their home. If you aren’t, then I highly recommend doing so. It is the perfect way of incorporating and practicing your craft every day. And who wouldn’t want their home sparkling with good vibes and surrounded in protection?
Therefore, I decided to list my own methods. Now, keep in mind, that every Witch has their own practices. This list is merely my own, and what has worked for my house. Either gather some ideas, or blend these practices with your own.
Now, the list is pretty explanatory. But I’ll go over them in detail if one wishes to understand how I came up with these.
New Moons are a time for starting a new cycle again. A complete cleanse from the previous energy, and to create a different sort of goals to take shape. A witch could see this as an opportune time to purify themselves, their ritual tools, altar, and homes. Hence, a good reason why I like to sweep and mop during this week of the New Moon. I love brewing together my own floorwashes and powders to use for this time. More on those recipes later.
Once the Moon begins to wax, energies are growing. Like a seed, goals begin as such. And by the time the Moon is within its first quarter, the energies are sparking. Therefore, this is a great time to burn any kind of drawing incense or simmering pots. In this case, drawing mixes that attracts fortune, luck, health, love, blessings, etc. Normally, I do these sort of drawing magicks for maintaining the positive flow in my home. To keep everyone healthy. Positive luck. Peace and creativity. Etc.
Now, it is no surprise when I write how any hearth/home magick can be done during the Full Moon. Because that is just so. The week leading up to the Full Moon is enhanced with energy. Any magick, whether it is fertility, protection, wealth, banishing, anything, is perfect for this time. So have at it!
Much like the New Moon, energies during the Last Quarter are low, but they are still humming. This is the time to put that power to rest and banish any unwanted energies that may have accumulated during the month. I like to vacuum and dust during this time. Dust bunnies and other nasty dirty particles are what is left of the old negative energies. They harbor and hold onto these remnants, so it’s important to be rid of these to prepare for the New Moon. Breaking Bad Habit spells are perfect during this chore.
I hope you enjoy the list. And keep on the look out, there will be more to the series on the way.
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As promised, I posted not to long ago a recipe that I experimented with. It was the first night of the Spring season, and I felt inspired for something refreshing, and relaxing.
My husband has had a good stash of cannabis in the pile, and I thought it was a good time to medicinally use some of it. That, and I had a good amount of lemons that needed to go.
What are the magickal properties to this wonderful recipe, you might be wondering? Well, my full intention was a good positive purifying recipe, from the lemons. For the cannabis, I used it to bring a deep calming spiritual balance. And of course, the sugar to sweeten and bless.
So, at about one in the morning, I went at it! (I knoooooow, late night owl over here lol).
Here are the ingredients:
1 1/2 cup Sugar
6 cups Water
1 1/2 cup lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
1 tbsp Cannabis (or how ever much you prefer. 1 tbsp is pretty mellow per one cup.)
Instructions:
In a saucepan, combine sugar, cannabis, and 1 1/2 cup of water. Cook over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. 4-5 minutes. Then turn down the heat and let it simmer for 22 minutes.
In the meantime, begin juicing your lemons until you are at 1 1/2 cup of liquid. I like to use a cheesecloth to strain out the pulp. If you’re a pulp person, then never mind this step.
Now, remove the cannabis syrup from the heat, strain, and pour into your pitcher. Stir in lemon juice. Let the syrup cool. Then, add the rest of the water and stir until well combined.
Store in the refrigerator, and enjoy over ice.
*Note* So, for a 1 tbsp of cannabis per one pitcher, I found it to be very relaxing and soothing. It took 3 cups for me to actually feel any other effects, and really, that only helped me sleep deeper. So, if your one that prefers a mellow blend, then this recipe should do. For one that wishes for a stronger effect, add 1 or more tbsp to your sugar water mix.
*Note Note* If you are on a certain diabetic or keto restricted diet, then you can do what I actually did for this recipe. Substitute the cane sugar for your own sugar substitute. In this case, I used monk’s fruit sugar. Same measurement. Yum!
Step 1.
Step 2.
Step.3
I hope you enjoy this blend responsibly, and legally! Have fun!
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We all celebrate the coming of the winter season in one form or another. Through different cultures, in many religions, traditions are upheld to bring cheer and joy into our hearts and homes. I find this definitely true in my household. We celebrate the season through natural traditions. I consider it as mixing both magick and paganism, as well as a sprinkle of my own way of honoring the coming winter.
Below, I will share a detailed list of the 12 activities that I do in my home. Hopefully this will help inspire anyone to create their own traditions, the way their hearts see fit.
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Day One
«First Day Towards the Winter Solstice»
Candle Light Ritual
Begins with turning off all lights in the home. Lighting one candle, walk through the house, beginning at the front door. Chant:
Within the dark, the candle shall light the way. For though winter is cold, it shall not reign. Within the dark, our hope shall not die. For soon the Sun will rise in the sky. Within the dark, there is no despair. For our shining souls will renew and repair. So sing songs into the Winter night, For soon the winds shall bring Spring light.
This is a beautiful ceremony, that blesses the long cold dark nights to come. You will notice a significant difference within the home once it’s been cast. Filled with warmth and hope. Either do this alone or with the family. It’s a nice way to do something together, and you can let the little ones hum lovely harmonies in the background. Or carry their own candles. Have fun with this!
Day Two
Holiday Decorations
As in all traditions, especially in America, neighborhoods everywhere are decorating their homes with merry lights and jingling wreaths. Solstice trees are being put up, covered in bright and glittering ornaments. Burning logs and long boughs of pine or holly are being placed over hearths. And for this household, that is exactly what is occurring as well.
Not only is it a tradition for most families, the glowing lights of winter symbolize hope that lives on in the darkest of nights. It is a manifestation of miracles, of positive magick, and of strength that lives within us even when the cold spirit of winter tries to steep into our bones.
So take the time, and decorate your home with holiday lights and decor. It’s fun to do alone, with holiday music blaring, and a glass of wine. Or get the friends or family together to make memorable moments, with hot chocolate and sugar cookies!
Day Three
Make A Wish Ornament
Exactly how it sounds, this is a powerful time to work wishing spells. How so? As the holidays are getting closer, people everywhere are growing excited to reunite with family, to give and receive gifts, or to begin a new year. Energy is rising, and the air is being charged for magick. That is why this is a perfect time to create wishing ornaments.
This enjoyable DIY craft is easy to do, and about anyone can do this. You can find any of the supplies at a Hobby Lobby, Walmart, Target, even the 99 store. You’ll need:
Choose your wish carefully, and write it down on the strip of paper. Decide on the proper glitter color that coordinates with your wish. Green for luck/money. Red for love/passion. Blue for health/peace. Yellow for creativity/success. Purple for power/spiritual assistance. Silver for earthly affairs. Gold for new beginnings. White for personal affairs. Mix of colors for a miracle.
Match your string color with your glitter color or mix match, depending on the wish. Roll up the strip of paper with your wish on it, tie it with string, then slide it into the ornament. Sprinkle however much of glitter over it, then place the top back on.
Hang this on your tree, or wherever you’ll like. There are some that hang it outdoors, over their hearth, or in nature. I like to keep mine. Every year, when I redecorate, I like to look upon my old wishes and see how they had came to be. It’s a great memento, and leaves me feeling thankful.
So wish wisely, and may your dreams come to be.
Day Four
Make a 12 Herb Sachet
This is a brilliant gift to give to friends or family. Having one for yourself is especially potent as well. Consider this recipe a magickal potpourri. A gift that promotes health, love, and protection. You’ll need:
Tie in a green or red cloth. Decorate it with symbols or jewels. Have fun with it. And give it to friends or family. You can substitute any of the ingredients with oils as well.
Day Five
Make a Yule Log
A popular pagan tradition is the Yule log. In essence, it is bringing in the spirit of nature, honoring them into your home to protect and nurture your own. I’ve seen many beautifully decorated Yule logs. They have been painted, glittered, wood carved, wood burned, wreathed, placed candles upon. There are so many different ways. Get creative in your own way of honoring the spirit of nature.
By the time of Yule, you either have the option to burn the whole log in ritual, or to light the candles.
Day Six
Create a Winter Spiral
This may be a different sort of tradition for most, but I found in the past few years, that this has become an enlightening experience at every new season for me. Otherwise known as a meditation labyrinth, these are walked upon to center one’s spirit and used to meditate on our paths of self realization.
There are some new age centers, universal spiritual churches that do have these meditation labyrinths, but if you don’t have any near by then I highly recommend building one yourself. Doesn’t have to be permanent, but it is a great path to have when you are in need for some deep meditation.
The path is simple. The rest of the journey is up to you. At the entrance, take a pause to breathe deeply for a few moments to clear your mind. Begin the first step, with not a question on where your going, but with whom you will find at the end? Then simply walk the spiral with a clear mind, and see what comes. If a thought or emotion emerges, mull over that and find its center meaning as you reach the center yourself. Take your time, nothing may come right away, and that is alright. The spiral is a place of peace and balance.
Walk back from the center in tranquility, all the while breathing deeply. When you are done, go in peace.
Day Seven
Honor The Spirits
Everyone deserves a good merry cheer for the holidays, and that includes the spirits of the dear departed as well. The cold dark nights often leave us feeling nostalgic and alone. Remembering those that have left us. This is why I decided to dedicate a special day just for our loved ones. I begin by setting up a special altar for them. Pictures, personal items, winter flowers, candles, incense, letters written for them, can all be placed on this altar.
The rest is up to you. Either a special ritual, or prayer is how you feel is right, then by all means. No matter what, they will hear you.
Day Eight
Warm Tea and Tarot
Every new season I like to do a fresh tarot reading to prepare and grow ever wiser of what is to come for the new season. What better way than to pair this together with a delicious warm cup of tea. Inspired by the winter season, I blended together a tea recipe that helps balance and induce mental and psychic powers. Grants wisdom and courage to face the unknown.
Together, with a deck of tarot cards makes for the best pairing. Be brave and lay out your tarot spread. And see what the future, or the present, may reveal.
Day Nine
Random Acts of Kindness
The title for this day alone explains it all. Though the winter season shouldn’t be the only excuse to be kind to strangers, it is a season for giving and to spread cheer. Whether to do acts of kindness in secret, or known, the moment we should all be looking for is the smile that brightens the day for a stranger. The fun part is thinking of way to surprise someone, because that’s really what it’s all about.
Help the need. Donate. Volunteer for charity. Pay for someone’s tab. Be kind is the saying. Speak it. Mean it. Do it. Be the example.
Day Ten
Bake Magickal Recipes
The days are ticking down, and now is the time to start prepping for the festivities. Everyone will be expecting those sweet delectable desserts. The sort that fills the belly with warmth and happiness. In every soft pastry there is a magick from people all over the world. As most have heard the saying, we put love in the foods we cook. The same goes for baking during the holidays. Although for some, they know all about the magickal meaning in the ingredients they mix together.
Whether it be cookies, pies, breads, or puddings, look up the magickal properties that each ingredient holds. You never know that you may be baking a pie for love. Or cookies for luck. Or a fruit salad for health. Know what you baking, so you can spread the magick into the lives you love.
Day Eleven
Give Gifts and Feast
Now is the eve of the Winter Solstice, and often times friends and family gather to enjoy a meal and give gifts! Then again, its up to everyone to decide when they would like to do this. Some choose to do this on Solstice day. So all could enjoy the symbolic fires of the yule log at sunset, and the rebirth of the Sun. So whichever you choose, this is still a wonderful time to gather together and be merry with one another.
Just as you would for Christmas, Hanukkah, etc, a beautiful feast is made for all to eat. Games are played. Carols are sung. New hope is wished upon. And gifts are exchanged. The thought alone brings me joy, and I look forward to this day with friends and family.
In fact, I would love to share a new type of carol song that has been modified for pagans. Growing up, I always enjoyed the tune for Silent Night. But when this new song A Pagan Silent Night was created, my heart fell in love. Now I always sing this song for the Solstice. May you and your family enjoy it as well.
Day Twelve
Burn The Yule Log and Celebrate
The day has come! All must celebrate. The new season is awakened, and the Sun shall be reborn when the new sunrise touches the sky! On this day, my husband and I like to begin with a beautiful breakfast, where then I can dedicate it to the sleeping Goddess, and to the new birth of the Sun. I gather together incense and candles. The blend I use is:
Grind together and burn over charcoal, light the candles and say together.
“We give honor and thanks to the sun for it’s sustenance, warmth, and light”
*Novae diluculo saluto* (say together)
And as our blessed mother earth is rebirth in the spring
So time is rebirth in the morning.
*Novae diluculo saluto*
*Blessed be the Goddess*
Enjoy the blessed morning meal.
Now once the day passes, and we are met with the longest night of the year, it is time to burn the yule log. Some simply light candles on the log, which is convenient for those that cannot enjoy a bonfire. But for those that can burn outdoors, it is quite an event. Tradition calls for waiting just before the sun rises. But often that isn’t the case for some that cannot stay up that long. So burn at your own time.
It is tradition in my home to usher in the new winter season. Therefore, I will share my personal ritual right below.
Ushering in the Winter
To prepare the Yule Log in the pit, set it up like you would for ritual. Stones, jewels, foods, offerings. Then chant:
The Goddess sleeps and is tucked away in the warmth of Earth.
She dreams and smiles of hope for the living.
Her heart is comforted by the rebirth of the Sun. Her spirit lives within the dormant seeds.
Today, She slumbers for Winter. Warmed by the fires of Yule.
Igniting the Flame
Flames of Winter warm Her bed. Snowfall be Her tears of joy. Mother Goddess, rest and claim the season! Let us be as one and embrace the spirit of peace.
Our mother is the Winter.
*We live because She lives*
Our mother is the Goddess.
*She lives freely within us*
Diana, Brigid, Hecate
*We celebrate Her*
We celebrate the tranquility of Mother Earth. She nourishes us with her bountiful love.
*Blessed be the Goddess*
Ashes of Log
We are now at the center of darkness. May the flame of the Sun illuminate from our hearts.
Collect the ashes and keep near, or use for power spells. Or save the ashes for the Summer Solstice.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this full detailed account of the traditions of my home. Are they similar to your own? Feel free to comment and share your story! Would love to hear it.
Sweet Winter Blessings!
Have a happy and festive Solstice!
Blessed Be
*Pictures sourced from Pinterest*
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Samhain is here again! A new year taking us forward. What does that mean for us witches? Time to pull out the spells and offerings!Getting the home ready with protection charms and decorations! Purifying our lives with cleansing vibrations! Creating glamour spells to spook the trick or treaters. And brewing delicious magickal concoctions of food and drinks! (That last part being my favorite) Speaking of which, let me share this year’s Samhain tea recipe that I’ve blended.
P.S.
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Brew this in a pot of tea for several minutes. After steeping, stir the cinnamon stick several times, and add some delicious maple infused milk to the drink, till it’s good and creamy. Enjoy tonight as the trick or treaters come by! And believe in life and its fruitfulness.
Gently warm the cup of milk in a small saucepan. Once it begins to steam, add the tablespoons of Maple syrup. Be sure not to boil it! Simmer it momentarily, as you stir in the syrup till it blends. Take it off the heat and pour it into a small creamer container. Enjoy with your tea!Oh, how I look forward to this magickal blend later tonight. This tea is meant to engulf us with its courageous influence, as it brings love and joy to our hearts. Life and all its luxuriance. Its meant to sooth us, mend us, and open new paths.
SPELLS!
Now, let’s talk spells! Tonight the Moon is in its last quarter. That means it’s the perfect time to ward off negative energies. Protect the home. Release the past. And divination time!Let’s see, we shall begin with tradition. Samhain is thinning the veil; the worlds between the living and the dead are face to face. They come to us with prayers, messages, or curses. And it is for this reason that we either welcome them, or ward them.Here is a simple ghost blessing spell.
Ghost Blessing
Place offerings of milk and barley outside under the stars to ease the ghosts hunger and to prevent their mischief. The maple infused milk is perfect for honoring the ancestors. Apples can also be buried at crossroads as offerings for the Goddess, or spirits.
Ghost Home Barrier
Place three peeled cloves of garlic in a bowl, together with one handful of pure sea salt, and one handful of fresh rosemary leaves. Grind and mesh ingredients together. Sprinkle them to create a boundary line over which ghosts will not cross. If you so happen to wish to choose this night of all nights to reveal to a ghost its current state of death, well, here is a spell for that.
Grouchy Ghost Spell
Burn three parts wormwood to one part vervain when summoning the ghost who is suffering from a state of depression when they died. Or when they haven’t realized they are dead. Speak softly and gentle. Offer honey to sweeten the news, or offer a plate of food for comfort. Speak as you understand, and try to offer advice and help them see the promise of the other side. It won’t be easy, but you would have to be open with them in order for them to believe you. Trust, it is rewarding when they do.
LAST THOUGHTS
Well may your Samhain be blessed, and the spirits at rest. May the trick or treaters be kind. And the food as good as wine. Have fun! Be merry!
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As we step into a new month and steeping sweetly a new season, Autumn covers the veil with mystery and magick. Hence, during this time, we prepare our senses for new wonder and messages from the beyond. This is especially true for the psychics, mediums, fortune tellers, witches, craftwielders, etc. Most could say that the month of October inspires great energy, and tingles the senses. Taking into account the energy that is produced by the Draconids Meteor shower on October 8th, the great Blood Moon on October 24th, and the ever legendary Samhain night, on October 31st.
For such an inspiring month, let’s get started on stimulating our psychic senses and be prepared for what messages or signs our spirit guardians send to us. I give to you a tea recipe that I enjoy drinking on the first day of October. May it empower your own psychic powers, and center your third eye.
*fair warning. Be sure to be ready to open your psychic sensitivity after drinking this tea.
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Brew tea with boiled water, and let steep for 6 – 12 minutes. Add honey. Or milk. Or both. As you stir the tea clockwise, focus your gaze to the very bottom of the cup, to where it is darkest. Dive your focus to that center, as the liquid spins. Clear all thoughts. Then chant to yourself:
My eyes are open, the mind is clear.
I see the truth, with no fear.
My senses are open, the channel is clear.
I will receive, what no one else will hear.
Then sip the tea. Take your time. Enjoy it, relax into it. As though you are going into a trance meditation. Indeed, feel around with your senses. Touch your third eye, both physically and mentally. Note to yourself if you feel any sensitivity, pulsing vibration, or weightlessness. If you do feel any of these signs, then you are on the right track, and get ready.
You may repeat this brew once a week throughout the month. However, keep in mind to not proceed if you begin to feel too sensitive. Also, please be considerate, and do not drink this tea if you are pregnant or nursing, or not in top physical health. Thank you.
Well, enjoy! And have fun with your new found psychic awareness. Help others with your gift, but above all, grow yourself and be proud for who you are.
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