The Path of the Witch: Rituals & Practices for Discovering Which Witch You Are 9781589239838, 9781589239845, 1589239830

Table of contents :
Cover
Contents
Introduction
Chapter 1: Shared Magick for All Paths
Chapter 2: The Path of the Green Witch
Chapter 3: The Path of the Kitchen Witch
Chapter 4: The Path of the Wiccan Witch
Chapter 5: The Path of the Cosmic Witch
Chapter 6: The Path of the Elemental Witch
Chapter 7: The Path of the Sea Witch
Chapter 8: The Path of the Eclectic Witch
Chapter 9: Other Paths and Some Advice
Bibliography
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Index
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
Y
Z

Citation preview

The Path of the Witch Lidia Pradas

© 2021 Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc. Text © 2021 Lidia Pradas Sala First Published in 2021 by Fair Winds Press, an imprint of The Quarto Group, 100 Cummings Center, Suite 265-D, Beverly, MA 01915, USA. T (978) 282-9590 F (978) 283-2742 QuartoKnows.com All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission of the copyright owners. All images in this book have been reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the artists concerned, and no responsibility is accepted by producer, publisher, or printer for any infringement of copyright or otherwise, arising from the contents of this publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that credits accurately comply with information supplied. We apologize for any inaccuracies that may have occurred and will resolve inaccurate or missing information in a subsequent reprinting of the book. Fair Winds Press titles are also available at discount for retail, wholesale, promotional, and bulk purchase. For details, contact the Special Sales Manager by email at [email protected] or by mail at The Quarto Group, Attn: Special Sales Manager, 100 Cummings Center, Suite 265-D, Beverly, MA 01915, USA. 25 24 23 22 21

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ISBN: 978-1-58923-983-8 Digital edition published in 2021 eISBN: 978-1-58923-984-5 Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Names: Pradas, Lidia, author. Title: Path of the witch / Lidia Pradas. Description: Beverly, MA, USA : Fair Winds Press, an imprint of The Quarto Group, 2021. Includes index. Summary: "The Path of the Witch is a magickal beginner's guide to the different paths, practices, and styles of witchcraft. Readers learn the most popular witchcraft paths, including Green Witchcraft, Hedge Witchcraft, and others, in a way that is easy to comprehend and compare. The Path of the Witch is an informative, accurate resource that the newly initiated and experienced witch alike can use to discern what witchcraft path and practices best match their spirituality, talents, and lifestyle"— Provided by publisher. Identifiers: LCCN 2020040671 (print) | LCCN 2020040672 (ebook) | ISBN 9781589239838 | ISBN 9781589239845 (eISBN) Subjects: LCSH: Witchcraft. | Magic. Classification: LCC BF1566 .P694 2021 (print) | LCC BF1566 (ebook) | DDC 133.4/3--dc23 LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2020040671 LC ebook record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2020040672 Page Layout and Design: Claire MacMaster, barefoot art graphic design Cover Design: Tanya R Jacobson Illustration: Nata Vedana Printed in China This book was designed to be as complete as possible given its limited space. Its main objective is to inform and entertain; however, it does not replace professional services. Consult a professional when needed. Some countries may have regulations that interfere with what is said in this book; please comply with them. The author and publisher are not responsible for any loss or damage caused, directly or indirectly, by the contents of this book.

Dedication

To you, the reader. I wrote this book always keeping in mind the best way to make it useful and entertaining for you. I hope it allows you to discover new ways to live the craft and helps you to better understand your own path. Thank you for supporting my dream of sharing knowledge and inviting more people to learn about witchcraft.

Contents Introduction

7

Chapter 1:

Shared Magick for All Paths

9

Chapter 2:

The Path of the Green Witch

21

Chapter 3:

The Path of the Kitchen Witch

45

Chapter 4:

The Path of the Wiccan Witch

63

Chapter 5:

The Path of the Cosmic Witch

81

Chapter 6:

The Path of the Elemental Witch

109

Chapter 7:

The Path of the Sea Witch

129

Chapter 8:

The Path of the Eclectic Witch

149

Chapter 9:

Other Paths and Some Advice Bibliography Acknowledgments About the Author Index

169 170 170 171

161

ntroduct

y path in witchcraft started y mother taught me some o erything, and how ew up, I discov oad and captivating topi y have created differen

I’ve always been passion n my rimoire and m Wiccan Tips, I focus on th

ticular branch. It is a tool

e different paths bef The book begins with a

en pop e ou t ou i

oach that allows you to ant rituals for that path.

Introduction My path in witchcraft started when I was a child. My mother taught me some of the basics about our energy and the energy all around us—how they affected everything, and how they could be influenced. As I grew up, I discovered that witchcraft is a broad and captivating topic. People throughout history have created different branches and traditions, depending on their location, interests, and personal experiences. I’ve always been passionate about learning and teaching the craft. In my previous book The Complete Grimoire and my online presence as Wiccan Tips, I focus on the shared points of witchcraft. This book was born out of a desire to help guide witches who feel a strong calling to a particular branch. It is a tool for any witch who is questioning their path and for anyone who wants to explore different paths before choosing one. The book begins with a brief explanation of the basics of witchcraft. Then, I share essential information about seven popular types of witchcraft. All of the chapters are organized in a similar way to make it easy for you to compare each path and decide what draws you in. In each you will find the basics of the path, followed by a practical approach that allows you to try some of the most relevant rituals for that path. I close each chapter with a guided meditation to help you connect with the energy of that path.

The chapters about each path are independent, but many paths share common points and you will find notes in each that refer to other paths in this book. The final chapter details other paths you may choose to explore and gives some advice as you continue your journey. Read the first chapter and familiarize yourself with the terms I use. If you already feel drawn to a path, then jump to the chapter that interests you. If you want to familiarize yourself with all of the paths before you experiment with what calls to you, read the book from start to finish. To find your path, focus your craft on an aspect of it that attracts you the most. There aren’t paths that are better or stronger than others—there are simply different ways to live witchcraft. The best path you can choose is the one that resonates with you.

7

1

Shared Magick for All Paths

T

here are many witchcraft paths in the world and many differences between witches, depending on the beliefs they follow. But they all share something

in common: magick. Magick creates subtle changes in the energy around us to obtain a desired result. This is an ancient practice that goes back to the first pagan beliefs. Witchcraft is a practice, and witches aren’t tied to any religion, ethics, or belief system. It’s also important to know that witchcraft and paganism aren’t the same, but they are often related and many witches adopt pagan and neopagan beliefs systems. Although each path specializes in a specific type of witchcraft, most traditions share some basic concepts and beliefs. This chapter introduces these to you and they will appear throughout the book as we explore different paths.

9

The universe is the matr elin kness. We are surr

wn energy. If you a , explore the chapter a

In human history, peop erse, a er in their commun itches treasure this connec egard it as the source of e and the source of living e of the Earth onmentally ate our relation erything that is in it. I other Earth, look to the

After centuries of study es reached the sa verything is made from a h

The Universe, Mother Earth, and the Five Elements

From the first animistic beliefs at the beginning of humankind, people have established spiritual relationships with the energy of everything that forms the universe, from the biggest and the farthest stars to the smallest and the closest stone. Many cultures created their own religions to explain this energy and the natural occurrences on our planet. In this search for a universal truth, many found deities and other entities from different realms. If you are interested in a neopagan approach to witchcraft, begin with the chapter about Wiccan witchcraft on page 63.

10

The Path of the Witch

ticular prope o ot all cultures agreed on th

est:

The universe is the matrix where our small planet is suspended, traveling across the immeasurable darkness. We are surrounded by celestial bodies, bigger and smaller than our Earth, each with its own energy. If you are interested in this energy, explore the chapter about cosmic witchcraft on page 81. In human history, people have asked about their place in the universe, and many have found the answer in their communion with Nature. Witches treasure this connection with Nature and regard it as the source of everything that is alive and the source of living energy. Because of this, taking care of the Earth is a priority for most witches. An environmentally conscious craft is vital to cultivate our relationship with the Earth and everything that is in it. If you are interested in Mother Earth, look to the chapters about green witchcraft on page 21, kitchen witchcraft on page 45, and sea witchcraft on page 129. After centuries of studying Mother Earth, many cultures reached the same conclusion. Everything is made from a handful of simpler components, and they called them elements. Each element has particular properties and characteristics, playing an essential role in creating matter. Not all cultures agreed on the number and nature of these elements. Eastern witchcraft uses a system of four basic elements and a fifth one that links the rest:

Earth The element closer to the mundane realm. It is always in touch with reality and it rules fertility, patience, and stability. It is usually related to the North. Water The element of the occult, the deep corners of our conscious and unconscious, and psychic powers. It is usually fluid and calm, but it’s strongly linked to feelings, so it can have emotional outbursts. It’s usually related to the West. Fire The element of passion, youth, and activity. It represents strength and risk. It can be warm and benevolent, but it can also get out of control and become destructive. It’s usually linked to the South. Air The element related to the intangible. It is the one from the mundane realm that is closer to the spirit realm. It rules thoughts, dreams, language, and movement. It’s usually linked to the East. Spirit or the Fifth Element This element is what joins the rest of the elements together to create reality. The connection links everything and everyone. Often it is represented as an invisible spiderweb of energy that connects everything together, while also being a part of it at the same time. As you will see, these elements play an important role in many paths. If you are especially drawn to them, explore the chapter about elemental witchcraft on page 109.

Shared Magick for All Paths

11

wing Your Energy

ws through o e live detached fr es, particularly in We cessively on doing th

k for us instead k together. A healthy body and min w. Learning to feel our energy is the first step i oblems, such as energy blo e to your energy to b Meditation is a strong t our energy, and there are m

and open mon

Your Own Energy and Intention

Many traditions around the globe believe in a natural energy present in living beings. This has been studied deeply, particularly in Eastern cultures, which developed complex energetic maps of our bodies. These maps guide us in techniques that use energy to our advantage and fix the energetic imbalances that create physical illness. Depending on the culture, this energy is called by different names, such as chi or prana. In this book, we will refer to this vital energy as inner energy. At conception, our parents transmit a spark of energy to us and it develops as we grow. We use part of that energy in our daily activities, but we also replenish and create it. Illness, aging, tiredness . . . these all consume energy. Our connection with Mother Earth and the Universe helps us replenish our energy, and eating helps our body create it. Practicing witchcraft is one way to use this energy for our best interests—these are known as our intentions. In witchcraft, the intention is the main goal of any action, and establishing your intention is a crucial step in any spell. To direct energy toward your intention you must first become familiar with your energy and determine your true goal. If you state one intention and focus your energy on it, but your intention does not reflect your real motives, then your spell may not work.

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The Path of the Witch

our attention on one thing, ent mindful ou

, and ener

Another great tool to he our energy are the energy m e created about our bodie

Knowing Your Energy

Working with Your Energy

Inner energy flows through our body, but all too often we live detached from this aspect of ourselves, particularly in Western cultures. We focus excessively on doing things with our body instead of feeling with our body. We command our bodies to work for us instead of tuning in to them to work together. A healthy body and mind require a healthy energy flow. Learning to feel and understand your energy is the first step in detecting possible problems, such as energy blockages. You must be attentive to your energy to be able to work with it. Meditation is a strong tool for understanding your energy, and there are many meditation techniques. The two main types are focused attention meditation and open monitoring meditation. In focused attention meditation, you center all your attention on one thing, such as breathing, a mantra, or different mindfulness exercises. In open monitoring meditation, you empty your mind of all thoughts. Both techniques have different effects on our mind, body, and energy, so my advice is to experiment with both. Another great tool to help you understand your energy are the energy maps that some cultures have created about our bodies. Some of the most popular ones among witches are Indian chakras and Chinese meridians. These maps show the flow and effects of energy in our body.

When you understand and feel your energy, it’s time to put it into practice! We are all connected through energetic links. Witchcraft aims to create subtle changes in those links to help us achieve our intentions or goals. Two of the most basic ways to do this are visualization and the law of attraction. Visualization helps us control the energy outside of our bodies by creating mental images of what we want to create in the mundane world. The law of attraction is the belief that we attract what we put into the universe: If you put your intention and positive energy into the universe, you will attract it. For me, visualization and the law of attraction are just the first steps in achieving goals. Sometimes they may be enough on their own, but most of the time you need to do something else in the spiritual and mundane world. Casting a spell is a stronger way to put your intention into the universe. By using tools with determinate correspondences, and by channeling and projecting their energy, witches create stronger modifications in the energy network that unites everything.

Shared Magick for All Paths

13

Altars, Representations, and Tools

An altar is a workspace for many activities that involve magick. It is a sacred space, but it is also a practical space. It is meant to be used, not simply be a static display. Most items on your altar will have a use. We can divide them into representations and tools: Representations These are statuettes of deities, photos of ancestors, and other symbols that represent different entities and spirits. They are used to help us connect with them, ask them for guidance, and request help in our craft. Representations are usually accompanied by bowls for offerings. We also often include other items related to what they represent to enhance the energy and presence of the representations on our altar. Some representations have a fixed place on most altars depending on their correspondences. For example, each element is related to a cardinal point (see “The Universe, Mother Earth, and the Five Elements” on page 10). Tools These sacred items help us cast our spells. The tools on your altar may include: ̪ Athame. Ritual knife used to channel your energy. ̪ Boline. Ritual knife used to cut, gather herbs, and carve candles.

̪ Book of Shadows (BOS) or Grimoire. A sacred book with spells and rituals and all the information needed to cast them. A BOS also includes a journaling aspect where you keep track of your progress, thoughts, and sensations. For more details, see “How to Create a Book of Shadows” on page 154. ̪ Candles. One of the most popular and versatile tools. Their color, scent, and shape are all significant, and they can be used for many rituals. They can be incorporated in altars to represent the element Fire. ̪ Cauldron. A cauldron has many uses, mainly depending on its size and material. It is used to cook, burn herbs, and create potions. It is also an essential tool for kitchen witches. To learn more, see page 53.

̪ Chalice. This represen femininity, and fertili be used in rituals whe members of the coven

̪ Crystals. These minera particular energies tha craft. For more inform with Green Witchcra

̪ Herbs. These plants h and medicinal proper the craft. For more de about green witchcraf kitchen witchcraft on

14

The Path of the Witch

(BOS) or Grimoire. with spells and rituals and on needed to cast them. udes a journaling aspect track of your progress, ensations. For more details, eate a Book of Shadows”

the most popular and Their color, scent, and shape t, and they can be used for They can be incorporated in nt the element Fire.

ldron has many uses, ng on its size and material. k, burn herbs, and create o an essential tool for To learn more,

̪ Chalice. This represents the element Water, femininity, and fertility. A chalice can also be used in rituals where it is passed to all the members of the coven to symbolize unity. ̪ Crystals. These minerals and stones carry particular energies that are useful for the craft. For more information, see “Working with Green Witchcraft: Stones” on page 29. ̪ Herbs. These plants have particular energies and medicinal properties that are used in the craft. For more details, see the chapters about green witchcraft on page 21 and kitchen witchcraft on page 45.

̪ Jars. Glass jars with a lid or a cork are great to store ingredients for the craft, and they are also useful for casting jar spells. ̪ Wand. Usually made of wood or crystals, a wand is used to help witches channel their energy in their magickal workings. Many witches do not to have access to all of these tools. Don’t worry. Your source of magick is yourself, and no tool is a must-have. And remember that tools need not be store-bought— you can make your own! In fact, the bond you create with a tool is stronger when you make it than when you buy it.

Shared Magick for All Paths

15

Cleansing techniques re . Choose the method our practice and that won’t e cleansing:

Crystals Some crystals h em om other items or plac

Fire Placing fire-resista onger cleans e that fire can damage o eproof.

Salt Salt is one of the m

e energies mak otection. Sa

Smoke Smoke cleansing

. Always research herb elease toxic fumes

Common Techniques

Witchcraft, particularly Western witchcraft, shares beliefs, tools, and determinate rituals. This section describes some of the basic ones that are mentioned later in the book.

Cleansing Cleansing is used to dispel and remove energies from items, spaces, and even living beings. Positive and negative energies are part of our life. We experience positive and negative events, positive and negative emotions—and they all have taken us to where we are now. The problem arises when negative energies inevitably get attached to something. Think about this negative energy like dirt in clothes. It doesn’t matter what you do, clothes get dirty. If you obsess about not getting stains on them, you won’t be able to enjoy everything that happens around you. And when they are dirty, you need to wash them because you can’t keep using them like that.

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The Path of the Witch

Cleansing techniques reestablish a neutral energy. Choose the method that resonates with your practice and that won’t damage what you are cleansing:

Soil Burying objects in the soil helps eliminate negative energies as they are absorbed by the Earth to be recirculated and replaced with more neutral ones.

Crystals Some crystals have the property of absorbing, filtering, and removing unwanted energies from other items or places.

Sound Sound is useful for cleansing spaces. It expands in the air, reaching every corner. Common techniques are bells, singing bowls, and even clapping.

Fire Placing fire-resistant items under flames is one of the stronger cleansing methods. Be aware that fire can damage objects, even if they seem fireproof. Salt Salt is one of the most appreciated cleansing techniques among witches. Its capacity to absorb negative energies makes it very versatile and also useful for protection. Salt can be dissolved in water to combine both cleansing powers. Smoke Smoke cleansing is common across many traditions, using suitable herbs that grow locally. Always research herbs before burning them; some can release toxic fumes.

Sunlight/Moonlight Natural light can charge items with its energy and purify them. Sunlight or moonlight may be more appropriate for certain items depending on their correspondences. Remember that direct sunlight can make colors fade. Water Sprinkling water, submerging objects, and mixing water with salt are just some of the cleansing uses of water. It is very versatile and powerful. It is said to work better when it comes from a natural source.

Shared Magick for All Paths

17

Blessing and Charging Blessing and charging are common practices in witchcraft. But what do they mean exactly? Both are techniques that imbue certain energies. For both, you begin by cleansing to create a neutral initial energy. Blessing ensures your connection with the energy of the universe. It protects you and makes you powerful. When we bless a tool, we are consecrating it for magickal workings. When we bless a person, we are using our energy to ensure that the universe is in their favor. Blessings can be as simple as using your voice to bestow a blessing upon an object or a person, or they can be part of more elaborate spells and rituals. Charging imbues something with energy to make it useful for our craft and intentions. You can charge something with positive energy. For example, we use an external source of energy such as natural light, crystals, or fire to charge an object. You can also charge something with a particular intention to achieve a goal: To do this, we usually project our own inner energy to charge it.

Items are not the only thing we can charge. You can be low on inner energy and need to recharge (for more details, see “Your Own Energy and Intention” on page 12). Many witches recharge themselves by walking barefoot, enjoying the sunlight or the moonlight, having an herbal bath (see page 35), or meditating with crystals. Look to the guided meditations at the end of each chapter in this book to learn ways to recharge as you explore your path and practice your craft.

reparing Your Tools

ur altars and tools can be m undane objects be ou’ve dedicated them to ma our craft. To prepare your tool, cl

our magickal w

ou can use your tool now, b efer bonding with their to o create a bond, study your y it with you. This will h our tools in an easier and st

vination

ivination uses different tec e your subconscious an our questions. Some witche

Carromancy Observing

ed into a bowl filled wit

Cartomancy Using a de ot deck, an oracle deck, ds.

18

The Path of the Witch

only thing we can charge. er energy and need to ails, see “Your Own Energy 12). Many witches walking barefoot, enjoying onlight, having an herbal meditating with crystals. ditations at the end of each learn ways to recharge as and practice your craft.

Preparing Your Tools for Magick Our altars and tools can be made from everyday objects. Mundane objects become sacred once you’ve dedicated them to magickal workings and use them only for your craft. To prepare your tool, cleanse it to eliminate any unwanted energies that may affect the outcome of your magickal workings. After you’ve done this, bless it and consecrate it to your craft. You can use your tool now, but many witches prefer bonding with their tools before using them. To create a bond, study your tool’s shape or simply carry it with you. This will help you connect with your tools in an easier and stronger way.

Divination Divination uses different techniques and tools to explore your subconscious and find answers to your questions. Some witches also use divination to connect with spirits, deities, or other entities to ask them for advice. These are the most common divination techniques:

Palmistry Interpreting the shapes and lines of the palm of your hand to learn about your personality and life. Pendulum Using the movements of a pointy crystal or metal piece to find answers to your questions. Pendulums can be used alone or with other tools, such as pendulum charts or maps, to interpret the answers. Runes Small pieces of wood, stone, or metal with engraved symbols that carry particular meanings. Although they were originally based on the ancient Norse writing systems, nowadays there are other symbol sets that are used for divination, such as the witches’ runes. Scrying Gazing into a surface and interpreting the shapes you see. This can be done with flames, crystals, water, or a mirror.

Carromancy Observing and interpreting the shapes that melted wax creates, usually when poured into a bowl filled with water. Cartomancy Using a deck of cards, usually a tarot deck, an oracle deck, or simply a deck of playing cards.

Shared Magick for All Paths

19

2

The Path of the Green Witch

W

hen we think about a green witch, the image that usually comes to mind is a wise woman living on her own in a remote forest. But green witches are

everywhere and it is their connection to Nature that draws them to this path. Green witches are naturalists, environmentalists, and natural healers. All witches work with the energy of Mother Earth, but the relationship green witches have with her is special. This branch of the craft embraces all aspects of Nature, including herbs, other plants, crystals and stones, animals, and humans. Being a green witch centers on the knowledge that everything is interconnected: The source of your power lies in Mother Nature and your own body. You draw your strength from the Earth, so harming any part of the Earth is detrimental to Nature and weakens your power. Green witches do focus on the outdoors, but houses and gardens are a big part of the craft. The home is a place where green witches can find calm and ground themselves, and many rituals and spells take place at home. Because of this, it is important that the home of a green witch is tidy, free of negative energies, and balanced.

21

Attuning with Mother Earth

Green witches work with everything that Mother Earth offers us. They use herbs, crystals, fungi, animals—each has an important role in creating what we call Nature. Because of this, green witches need to know and understand the environment around them. My advice is to get a couple of good books about the plants, animals, and minerals in your zone to deepen your knowledge of the ecosystems around you. This branch of witchcraft is also strongly linked to the present. Each season, each type of weather, and each action is made to be lived in the moment and then changed. Green witchcraft flows with Nature.

Grounding Exercise Grounding is a great exercise for green witches because it allows you to live in the moment and get to know your environment. First, find a quiet place where you live. Choose a category of natural things (e.g., stones, plants, birds, or insects). Try to identify ten of them and get to know the differences between each one of them. Take your time. There is no hurry. Once you are ready, close your eyes and try to remember all of them.

The Seasons Plants and animals undergo deep changes related to the time of year. These are different all around the globe, as the seasons and the weather change depending on your location. For a green witch, it is important to tune in to these changes and follow the same cycle as Mother Nature.

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The Path of the Witch

Recognizing the rhythms of Nature, and the seasonal energy attached to it, is one of the best ways to deepen your connection with Mother Earth. In many places, these changes take the shape of the four seasons. The exception is places near the terrestrial equator, between the tropic of Cancer and the tropic of Capricorn. The four seasons are a cycle of light and darkness. It’s important to understand these concepts as opposites, but also as complementary. Light is not inherently good, and darkness is not inherently bad. They need each other to complete the cycle, and together they allow life to go on. Spring begins with the spring equinox, a day of perfect balance where day and night last the same amount of time. From this day on, light will take on darkness and daylight will last longer. It’s the season of new beginnings, a moment of personal growth. Summer begins with the summer solstice, the triumph of light over darkness and the longest day of the year. This solstice also marks the decline of light, and nights will become longer. It is the season of abundance, the time to gather the fruits of our work.

Autumn begins with the fect balance. Light om that day on darkne one. As leaves turn brown eflection. Winter begins with the

ear. This is the season of cle ts to last longer, we get re owing period again. It is a ets and disputes and to fi

hythms of Nature, and the d to it, is one of the best onnection with Mother these changes take the ns. The exception is places ator, between the tropic of of Capricorn. re a cycle of light and darkunderstand these concepts s complementary. Light is nd darkness is not inher her to complete the cycle, w life to go on. h the spring equinox, a day e day and night last the From this day on, light nd daylight will last longer. eginnings, a moment of

th the summer solstice, the arkness and the longest day e also marks the decline l become longer. It is the he time to gather the fruits

Autumn begins with the autumnal equinox, a day of perfect balance. Light and darkness are even, but from that day on darkness will reclaim the throne. As leaves turn brown and orange, we enter a time of reflection. Winter begins with the triumph of darkness, the winter solstice, and the longest night of the year. This is the season of cleansing. As the daytime starts to last longer, we get ready to start the growing period again. It is a time to leave behind regrets and disputes and to find emotional healing.

Wicca, one of the most important neopagan religions, celebrates the seasons through the Wheel of the Year: eight festivals, or sabbats, dedicated to the changes in Nature through the year. (For more details, see page 69.) Sabbats are very popular festivals and many green witches have incorporated them into their craft. However, keep in mind that green witchcraft is not linked to any religion, and you can feel free to find other ways to celebrate the seasons.

The Path of the Green Witch

23

The Witch Garden A garden is the perfect way to incorporate the energy of Mother Nature into your home. Plants provide us with elements for our craft. They also absorb and transform negative energy. Because of this, it’s important to be kind to your plants and give them proper care. Find out the best conditions for each plant and learn about invasive species. For green witches, using environmentally friendly practices is essential. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different designs and species. Gardens—and gardeners—evolve with time. Designing your garden is a key step for every green witch: It will be a sacred place to commune with Mother Earth. It will also be a source of ingredients for your craft and energy for your spirit. When you are ready to create your garden, take time to consider the following points: Space It’s important to design your garden carefully. Begin by determining the space you have available. If your garden will be outside, pay attention to how much sunlight, shade, wind, and rain it will receive. If your garden is indoors, make sure your plants will get enough light and be easy to care for. Budget Find out what kinds of plants and garden features you can afford. Your garden doesn’t have to be expensive, and you can often save money by investing your time and patience. Starting plants from seed will cost less and allow you to create a strong bond with the plant. Plants Consider the plants that you want to grow. Research the plants that interest you: Find out whether they grow well in your zone, whether they are invasive species, and the type of care they need.

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The Path of the Witch

Use Think about how you will use your garden. Depending on your approach to green witchcraft, you may want to include some special features. Grow fruits and vegetables for yourself and include some medicinal herbs in your garden, or grow flowers that attract butterflies and bees. Add a space for meditation, a water feature, or even an outside altar. Design a garden that you want to be in and that speaks to your needs. Develop and nurture a bond with your plants as you care for them. Spend time in your garden and become familiar with its energy through every season. And remember, if your seedlings don’t thrive or a plant in your garden dies despite your best efforts, it’s okay to begin again. Learn from your garden as it grows.

amples of Witch Garde den is a space de wers that bloom at n

ening primrose. Spirals are very spiritual vemen

eate a raised spiral w

how you will use your your approach to green ant to include some special nd vegetables for yourself cinal herbs in your gar ract butterflies and bees. tion, a water feature, or

hat you want to be in and ds. Develop and nurture a as you care for them. Spend d become familiar with y season. And remember, hrive or a plant in your r best efforts, it’s okay to m your garden as it grows.

Examples of Witch Gardens A moon garden is a space dedicated to the moon with flowers that bloom at night, particularly white and fragrant ones such as morning glory, nightbooming jasmine, night-blooming cereus, and evening primrose. Spirals are very spiritual symbols; they represent the perpetual movement of energy. Use this special symbol and plant many herbs in a small place: create a raised spiral with different soil and water conditions for each plant.

The pentacle is another symbol of great spirituality and it brings the five elements into your garden. Grow plants that symbolize each element at each point of the star. For example, plant hot spices for Fire, fragrant flowers for Air, tubers and edible roots for Earth, and succulent plants for Water. Pentacles are great places for meditating, grounding, and recharging. Some green witches like to practice kitchen witchcraft, too. Because of this, their gardens are designed to maximize the production of vegetables, fruits, herbs, spices, and other types of food. For more details, see “The Path of the Kitchen Witch” on page 45.

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Houseplants Not all green witches can (or want) to have a garden—and that’s okay! Houseplants are a popular option among green witches. There are a wide variety of plants you can easily grow in your home. Plus, plants help clean the air in our homes. A study from NASA listed the best plants for this and what type of contaminants they removed. It was later published as How to Grow Fresh Air by Dr. B. C. Wolverton. Examples include snake plant, spider plant, and golden pothos.

As with outdoor plants, it’s important to consider the needs of each species. Find out how much sun, water, soil, and fertilizer the plant needs to be healthy. This will help you find the best spot for it in your home. Once you find a couple of places that meet the needs of the plant, focus on the energy of the space and how the energy of the plant will fit there. Take your time until you find the perfect place for it.

orking with Green

itches have incorporated w e have establi

bserve what is around you Learn about different pl our area to be carefu ou begin to feel comfortabl an ingredi

Green witches use dried , and we work with na n this se es edients in green Always pay attention to edients have been source om unethica

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The Path of the Witch

ants, it’s important to ch species. Find out how nd fertiliz help you find the best spot nce you find a couple of eds of the plant, focus on and how the energy of the your time until you find

Working with Green Witchcraft

Witches have incorporated what Nature offers us into our craft, and over the centuries we have established the uses and correspondences of different elements based on their energy and properties. However, experimentation is always the best way to learn. Spend time immersed in Nature and plants. Observe what is around you. Learn about different plants and how to identify them. Be aware of the ones in your area to be careful with (e.g., poison ivy and stinging nettles). As you begin to feel comfortable in Nature and know the plants around you, don’t be afraid to touch an ingredient or pick it up in your hands and feel its energy. Green witches use dried or fresh plant matter, and we work with natural (or sometimes man-made) stones. In this section, you will find the magickal uses and correspondences of the most popular ingredients in green rituals and spells. Always pay attention to how these items and ingredients have been sourced. For example, crystals may come from unethical mines with a major impact on people and the environment. We also

want to be sure our plants are grown in a way that is respectful of Mother Earth. Organic plants may be too expensive for some witches, but you can save money by growing your own. In witchcraft, it’s important to note that magickal uses and properties differ from medicinal uses and properties. Although green witches work with both, you should always consult a health professional for any medicinal use.

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Trees Trees connect us to the elements of Air and Earth. Their roots spread deeply into the soil while their branches reach upwards to the sky. Their wood is utilized in many different ways in the craft, from wands used to channel energy to the brooms used to sweep and cleanse energy. Most trees are also commonly accepted as offering protective energy.

Tree

Correspondences

Ash (Fraxinus spp.)

Prophetic dreams, protection, balance, good luck

Birch (Betula spp.)

Protection, purification, exorcism, renewal

Cedar (Cedrus spp.)

Incorruptibility, prosperity, courage, longevity

Olive (Olea europaea)

Healing, protection, good luck, fertility

Pine (Pinus spp.)

Mind clarity, cleansing, purification

Rowan (Sorbus spp.)

Creativity, transformation, portal between worlds, protection

Willow (Salix alba)

Tranquility, healing, inspiration, grief

Herbs and Spices In witchcraft we use the term herbs to encompass all non-tree plants—and even include some spices. Our focus is the magickal uses of the herbs and spices, not the botanical classification differentiating between herbs, shrubs, and other types of plants.

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Herb and Spice

Correspondences

Anise (Pimpinella anisum)

Youth, purification, protection, health

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Home protection, lucid dreaming, happiness, reconciliation

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Enhanced magick, courage, energy, fire

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Spirit realm, love, binding spells, prosperity

Mint (Mentha spp.)

Communication, courage, spirit realm, persuasion

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Cleansing, blessing, purifying

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Health, courage, faeries, spirit realm

The Path of the Witch

wers

lowers are expressions of th w plants to gi

Flower

Calendula (Calendula officina

Chamomile (Matricaria cham

Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) Lavender (Lavandula spp.) Poppy (Papaver rhoeas) Rose (Rosa spp.) Sunflower (Helianthus spp.)

tones

tones and crystals are often e plants live comes from e a big part of Mothe

Crystal Amethyst Citrine Clear quartz Moonstone Moss agate Rose quartz Tiger’s eye

d luck

vity

worlds, protection

ess, reconciliation

y

rsuasion

Flowers Flowers are expressions of the energy of the plants. They are reproductive organs and allow plants to give fruit. Although they are a part of the plant, their colors, shapes, and scents give them different correspondences.

Flower

Correspondences

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Healing, beauty, love, protection

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

The sun, healing, protection, good luck

Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)

Beauty, spirituality, prosperity, love

Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Psychic abilities, tranquility, spirituality, love

Poppy (Papaver rhoeas)

Sleep, love, visions, divination

Rose (Rosa spp.)

Beauty, love, harmony, spirituality

Sunflower (Helianthus spp.)

The sun, happiness, energy, abundance

Stones Stones and crystals are often the forgotten items of green witchcraft. The soil where plants live comes from stones after years of transformation processes. They are a big part of Mother Earth and their energy is strong.

Crystal

Correspondences

Amethyst

Psychic powers, spirituality, sleep, purifying

Citrine

The Sun, positivity, money, good luck

Clear quartz

Harmony, all-purpose, enhance and channel energy, creativity

Moonstone

The Moon, nurturing, love, hope

Moss agate

Prosperity, success, healing, creativity

Rose quartz

Love, compassion, harmony, calm

Tiger’s eye

Courage, patience, focus, business

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You can find natural and man-made crystals and stones. Their composition and crystalline structure are the same; the only differences are the formation process and that natural crystals may have some impurities. There is debate in the witchcraft community about whether they are equally valid for the craft. Some witches argue that natural crystals and gemstones have undergone a natural formation process in Mother Earth, which has imbued them with a special energy that artificial crystals can never achieve. Other witches argue that artificial crystals interrelate with energies in the same way as natural crystals because their

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composition is the same and that they are a good alternative to crystals that may have come from unethical mines.

Essential Oils Essential oils are extracts obtained from different herbs, flowers, trees, and fruits. They have the same magickal correspondences as the original plant. If the medicinal properties of the plant are due to the chemicals present in their natural oils, they will also be present in the essential oil in extremely concentrated amounts.

Essential Oil

Correspondences

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)

Enhancing energy, money, success

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum ssp.)

Love, lust, fire, courage

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)

Healing, cleansing, protection, purification

Frankincense (Boswellia sacra)

Calm, peace, awareness, spirit realm

Lemon (Citrus limon)

Friendship, energy, joy, psychic abilities

Orange (Citrus sinensis)

Happiness, prosperity, love, joy

Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Strength, mental clarity, purification, healing

The Path of the Witch

Keep in mind that there een essential oils and fra e extracted from the pl tificial. Because of this, ess e, but they are also s y the energ recautions

• Most essential oils ne carrier oil before use.

• Always do a patch tes

• Not all essential oils a women, kids, and pet applied topically or in doctor or a veterinari tial oils.

e and that they are a good hat may have come from

ts obtained from different d fruits. They hav ces as the original plant. If es of the plant are due to n their natural oils, they he essential oil in extr

Keep in mind that there is a difference between essential oils and fragrance oils. Essential oils are extracted from the plants; fragrance oils are artificial. Because of this, essential oils are more expensive, but they are also stronger and they are the ones that carry the energy of the plant. Precautions • Most essential oils need to be diluted in a carrier oil before use. • Always do a patch test before use. • Not all essential oils are safe for pregnant women, kids, and pets, particularly if applied topically or ingested. Ask your doctor or a veterinarian before using essential oils.

• Use caution with essential oils: Most should only be used externally. For safety, always be sure to consult a professional with an advanced certification before using them internally. • Some essential oils may interfere with some bodily functions (e.g., changes in blood pressure, nausea, burning) or with some medications. Always read the contraindications and warnings on the drug labels. Research the essential oil carefully, and when in doubt ask your doctor.

n

ng

The Path of the Green Witch

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Herbal Crafts

Using the elements of green magick, we can create a wide variety of crafts with both magickal and practical applications.

How to Gather and Store Herbs The first step is to choose the herbs you will use. Research them thoroughly because many have active compounds that have different effects on your body. It’s also essential to learn to identify and use the nature around you. My advice is to get a good and reliable book about the herbs in your zone and take local classes. Green witches honor and respect Mother Earth. To harvest herbs so you don’t hurt the plant, you have to know which part of the plant you want to pick and the best method for doing so. Research the kind of plants you can harvest where you live, and don’t harm endangered species. Don’t collect the entire plant, and don’t harvest all the plants from one area. Collect herbs from separate locations and leave some plants to grow and thrive for years to come. If you aren’t planning to use fresh herbs right away, dry them to preserve them. Always wash the herbs first to get rid of dirt. Air-Dry Method Hang them by the stem in a dark, dry place with good air circulation. They usually take 2 to 3 weeks to dry completely, depending on the weather.

Oven Method Remove the leaves or flowers from the stem or chop everything (depending on the herb and what you plan to do with it). Spread them on a baking sheet and place it in the oven at 100˚F (38˚C) for about 11⁄2 hours. Check it frequently, as some parts may dry more quickly than others. Microwave Method Remove the leaves or flowers from the stem or chop everything (depending on the herb and what you plan to do with it). Spread the leaves on a paper towel and place them in the microwave for 1 minute on medium power. Check your herbs and remove the leaves that are already dry. Repeat this step using intervals of 30 to 40 seconds. Bigger leaves take more time to dry, and smaller leaves can burn if you don’t remove them in time.

erbal Preparations

efore creating any herbal p tant to carefully review ome plants can tain way, but no

, or they can create Always check your item reen witchcraft uses many e gone bad our herbal preparatio

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The Path of the Witch

move the leaves or flowers everything (depending on plan to do with it). Spread and place it in the oven out 11⁄2 hours. Check it ts may dry more quickly

od Remove the leaves m or chop everything b and what you plan to do ves on a paper towel and owave for 1 minute on your herbs and remove the dry. Repeat this step using conds. Bigger leaves take smaller leaves can burn if in time.

Herbal Preparations Before creating any herbal preparations, it’s important to carefully review articles and books about them. Some plants can be beneficial when used in a certain way, but not in another. For example, some herbs can be used externally but not internally, or they can create toxic fumes if burned. Always check your items before using them. Green witchcraft uses many perishable products and some may have gone bad. Once you’ve made your herbal preparation, label it with its use and date.

An herbal preparation can be as simple as slightly extracting the properties of the herbs. Other, stronger preparations need special techniques, and an herbalism course is a great way to learn how to safely and effectively use herbs in your craft.

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Uses for Herbs The following are the most common uses for herbs in green witchcraft, and they are an excellent place for you to begin on this path. As you explore these methods, I highly recommend that you look to Arin Murphy-Hiscock’s books on green witchcraft to further develop your craft. Infusion This is probably the weakest extraction of the plant’s properties, but it’s also the easiest—and often it is more than enough for our needs. To make an infusion, pour boiling water over the herbs, let steep for 5 to 10 minutes, and then remove the herbs. An herbal tea is an infusion intended for drinking. See page 38 for an example of an infusion. Decoction This process is similar to infusion, but you allow the plant matter to simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes. This creates a more concentrated liquid. For a decoction made as part of a bath ritual, see page 40. For a cold syrup, see page 39. Enfleurage This method extracts beneficial oils from plants using fats or other oils. The process is simple: Place the part of your plant that you want to use in a jar and cover it with the fat or oil. Cover the jar and store it in a cold, dark place. Allow the oil to extract the properties of the plant for 4 to 6 weeks, then strain out the plant matter. The resulting liquid is called infused oil. You can find a recipe for how to make this on page 36.

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Maceration This process is similar to enfleurage, but instead of oils or fats we use alcohol to extract the properties of the plants. The resulting liquid is called tincture, but it can also be called liniment if it is alcohol-based and only intended for external use. Distillation This process separates the oils from the water and other plant material. Distillation can be a dangerous process and it should be done by a professional. Salve and Balm These are topical ointments made with essential oils, infused oils, and beeswax. The main difference between them is the beeswax: Balms have more, which makes them thicker than salves. Because of this, balms are better for protection and salves are absorbed more quickly. In the infused oil recipe on page 36 you will also find instructions for how to turn it into a salve. Soap Soaps are especially useful for banishing, cleansing, and beauty rituals. You can make your own soap from scratch by using oil and lye and then adding all the ingredients you want to incorporate into your soap. You can also melt fragrancefree, plain soap, add the ingredients you want to incorporate, and then pour it into a mold.

Incense Incense is made Herbs with differen e used to establ Resins, such as A e it tha ch–like smell; if you rem . A stickin

edients together so you c

coal

ealing with Green

reen witchcraft and traditio ost green witches were also

The power of plants sho e active xic or interact with som ou aren’t a cer cent sure of what the

Green witchcraft uses th th to balance energies by operties of plan e are easy herbal eat many minor illnesses, s y skin, a Keep in mind that there ” there are simply un

process is similar to enfleuor fats we use alcohol to f the plants. The resulting , but it can also be called -based and only intended

process separates the oils er plant material. Distillas process and it should be

These are topical ointments

tw h makes them thicker this, balms are better for re absorbed more quickly. I n page 36 y turn it into a salve.

ituals. You can make your by using oil and lye and redients you want to incorY e ingredients you want to pour it into a mold.

Incense Incense is made of three main elements: Herbs with different correspondences and smells are used to establish the intention of the incense. Resins, such as Arabic gum, frankincense, or myrrh, give it that sweet, ancientchurch–like smell; if you remove the resin, the smell will be bitter. A sticking ingredient, such as Arabic gum or marshmallow root, holds the ingredients together so you can create cones and sticks to make it easier to burn. If you prefer loose incense, use a charcoal disk to burn it. In witchcraft, incense blends are burned to help raise energy for a determinate purpose.

Spell Sachet A sachet is a bag where you place items related to your ritual or intention. They are usually sealed with a knot and you can carry them around or place them where their energy is needed. Herbal Bath Infusing your bathwater with the energy of different herbs creates the perfect way to soak in their beneficial properties. You can also add crystals, moon water, and many other things to them. You can find an example of an herbal bath on page 40.

Healing with Green Witchcraft

Green witchcraft and traditional medicine have been linked over the centuries. Most green witches were also healers, and people came to them searching for help with their illnesses. As Arin Murphy-Hiscock writes, “Green witches are natural healers who seek to soothe the world around them.” The power of plants should not be taken lightly. Most of the ones used in traditional witchcraft have active compounds that are beneficial if used correctly but can be toxic or interact with some medications. Always ask your doctor before using herbs for healing if you aren’t a certified herbalist, and never eat or use plants if you aren’t 100 percent sure of what they are. Green witchcraft uses the power of Mother Earth to balance energies by drawing on the medicinal properties of plants to restore your health. There are easy herbal remedies that can treat many minor illnesses, such as a sore throat, upset stomach, or dry skin, among others. Keep in mind that there are not “negative energies,” there are simply unbalanced energies.

Because of this, it’s important to remember these energies when we create natural remedies. All the items we use should be cleansed and we need to charge the preparation with our healing intention (see “Blessing and Charging” on page 18). You can find all the magickal correspondences of the ingredients used in these preparations in the section “Working with Green Witchcraft” on page 27.

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Healing Calendula-Infused Oil This infused oil is perfect to treat small skin problems, such as dry skin, a rash, or scar tissue. The properties of the flowers are extracted using the enfleurage method. Calendula is very beneficial for the skin: It soothes eczema, helps heal minor wounds, reduces scar tissue, and hydrates the skin. Olive oil’s high vitamin E content makes it hydrating for the skin and helps repair it. Chamomile essential oil soothes the skin and adds a nice fragrance, and tea tree has strong disinfectant properties. Makes about 1 ¾ ounces (50 ml)

̭ 2 jars with lids

̭ ½ cup (10 g) dried calendula petals

̭ 3 to 4 tablespoons (45 to 60 ml) olive oil ̭ 8 drops chamomile essential oil ̭ 5 drops tea tree essential oil

Place the dried petals in a jar and cover them with the olive oil. Close it with a tight-fitting lid and let it sit for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool, dark place. If the petals expand and the oil stops covering them, you can add a bit more oil. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth, squeezing out as much of the oil as possible. Add the chamomile oil and the tea tree oil. Mix well. Store the infused oil in a new covered jar in a cold, dark place. Apply the oil using circular motions until your skin has absorbed it. You can transform this infused oil into a salve by adding a 1⁄2 ounce (15 g) of melted beeswax to each 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) of infused oil and allowing it to set. Note: If you have oily, acne-prone skin, avoid using this on your face; it may clog your pores.

contraindications:

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid calendula,

as it is an emmenagogue (it stimulates menstruation) and affects the hormone cycle.

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The Path of the Witch

Meditation Incense These incense cones create a perfect atmosphere for meditation, allowing you to focus and relax at the same time. Lavender promotes calm and is also related to cleansing and psychic powers; it will help you establish a stable connection with your higher self. Frankincense is a strong purifier, removing all external energies that may affect your meditation, and blessing the space. Water and marshmallow root powder bind the mixture together, and vegetable oil prevents it from sticking to your fingers when shaping it. Makes 1 or 2 cones

̭ 1 teaspoon marshmallow root powder ̭ 1 teaspoon frankincense powder

̭ 1 teaspoon lavender bud powder ̭ 1 tablespoon (15 ml) water ̭ Vegetable oil (if needed)

Mix the marshmallow root, frankincense, lavender, and water together in a small bowl. Shape it in the form of cones. If it is too sticky, use a bit of vegetable oil to smooth it out. Allow the cones to dry fully before burning them. To light them, place them in a fireproof container. Always keep incense away from flammable objects, kids, and pets.

The Path of the Green Witch

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Sleep Well Sachet We choose blue as the color for this sachet because it is deeply related to calm and tranquility. It is a good influence on our sleep, helping us fall asleep quickly and have good dreams. Lavender and chamomile are widely appreciated in green witchcraft because they are versatile plants with several uses in witchcraft and herbal medicine. Plus, they are easy to grow and care for—the perfect choice for beginners. Makes 1 sachet

̭ 1 tablespoon (1 g) dried lavender buds

̭ 1 tablespoon (1 g) dried chamomile flowers ̭ Rose quartz

̭ Small blue sachet Add the lavender, chamomile flowers, and rose quartz to the sachet. Close it securely. Charge it with your intention, and place it under your pillow to get better quality sleep.

Digestive Tea Potion This herb blend is perfect to brew as a tea potion to soothe upset stomach, nausea, and gas. Anise fights against bloating, aerophagia (belching), and flatulence. Licorice root is used to soothe gastrointestinal problems caused by inflammation. Chamomile flowers have anti-inflammatory properties, and they help soothe nausea. Yield varies

̭ 1 part anise

̭ 1 part licorice

̭ 1 part chamomile flowers Mix the herbs in a small jar and store them in a cold, dry place, and consume the tea within 12 months. To brew the tea, pour 1 cup (235 ml) of hot water for each 1 teaspoon of herbal blend and steep for 5 to 7 minutes, then strain. contraindications:

Licorice root should not be consumed in excess; it can cause

high blood pressure problems. Pregnant women should avoid licorice root. Chamomile is a flower and has pollen, so it should be avoided by people with strong pollen allergies.

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The Path of the Witch

Cold Syrup This syrup is perfect for those inconvenient winter colds. It helps soothe symptoms such as coughing, and it supports our natural immune system. Rose hips are the fruits of the rose plant (particularly dog rose Rosa canina). Packed with tons of vitamin C, rose hips are a great ally for our immune system. Ginger is anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. Thyme is an expectorant, antispasmodic, and antiseptic; it helps relieve coughs. Honey soothes the throat, helping to alleviate the itchiness caused by coughing. It also helps repair the damaged tissue. Makes about 2 ¾ cups

̭ ½ cup (48 g) rose hips

̭ ¹/³ cup (32 g) grated fresh ginger ̭ 1 cup (68 g) dried thyme ̭ 1 ½ cups (355 ml) water ̭ 2 cups (680 g) honey

̭ 1 cup (235 ml) brandy or vodka (optional, for preserving) Combine the rose hips, ginger, and thyme in a small pot and add the water. Let it simmer over medium-low heat for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the water has reduced by half. Strain the liquid and mix it with the honey. Store the syrup in the fridge and use it within a month. If you drink alcohol, you can add the brandy and it will act as a preservative, allowing you to store it for up to 3 months. contraindications:

Don’t use this syrup with young children because it may

be too concentrated for them. Instead, try an infusion of the same ingredients.

The Path of the Green Witch

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Muscle Pain Herbal Bath This herbal bath combines the properties of plants and Epsom salt to soothe sore muscles. Chamomile flowers are anti-inflammatory and perfect for achy muscles. Mint is energizing and will help you feel renewed, and the magnesium in Epsom salt helps soothe muscle pain. Makes 1 bath

̭ ½ cup (16 g) dried chamomile flowers ̭ ½ cup (13 g) dried mint ̭ 2 cups (470 ml) water

̭ 1 cup (224 g) Epsom salt Combine the chamomile and mint in a small pot and add the water. Let it simmer over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, then strain it. While you do this, fill your bathtub with warm water. Add the decoction to the bathwater along with the Epsom salt. Get in the tub and enjoy your bath for 20 to 30 minutes.

Three Ways to Make an Herbal Bath 1. Make a decoction of the herbs you want to use in your bath, strain out the plant matter, and add the decoction to the bathwater. 2. Add all the ingredients to the bathwater and allow them to release their beneficial properties for 5 to 7 minutes before stepping in with them. Use a bathtub strainer to avoid damaging your pipes. 3. Create a big bath sachet with all the ingredients of your herbal bath and put it in your bathwater for 5 to 7 minutes before getting inside the bathtub with it.

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The Path of the Witch

Guided Meditation: Under the Tree of the Seasons

When was the last time you lay under a tree . . . and just did that? No worries, no distractions, just you and Nature for a moment. When we observe trees from this perspective, they seem different from the way we see them in our daily lives when we are walking. Leaves and branches create a mesmerizing play of light and shadow, and the energy of Nature surrounds us. In this exercise, we combine meditation with visualization to connect with the primordial energy of Mother Earth. This is the energy that combines the five elements, the energy that moves the seasons.

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Choose a tree that transmits good energy to you. Walk toward it and stop when you are near. Observe it and its branches. Are there many of them? Are they intertwined? How tall do they grow? Observe its trunk. Is it rough or smooth? Is it straight or bent? Observe it as a whole, taking in all its parts together as they form a unique living being. Place your hands on its trunk, introduce yourself, and greet it. Slowly, feeling how the tree embraces you under its branches, lay down on the ground, face up, with your head pointing to its trunk. Feel the soil under your body: The palms of your hands are in contact with it, your arms and legs are relaxed. It’s a beautiful day and you feel comfortable. Focus on your breathing: It is calm and natural. Look at the tree from below. Observe its branches again: They are thicker where they meet the trunk and they get thinner as they reach their end points. They seem able to touch the bright blue sky. There are many green leaves on the branches. As the leaves move in the wind, they dance with the element Air—an element we share with the tree as we breathe. Again, feel your calm and natural breathing.

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The Path of the Witch

You are feeling the energy of the tree and it gives you peace of mind. Under its branches you feel protected, and you know that, as summer fades away, those leaves will turn yellow, ochre, and brown. The tree transforms itself, adopting a new appearance, equally beautiful. Now the element Air helps them release themselves from the branches and they fall slowly to the ground. The dry leaves cover the ground around you. The winter approaches and the bare branches allow the soft sunbeams to reach you. The sun, deeply related to the element Fire, gives us life. Laying down under your tree, you can feel its warmth. With your calm and natural breathing, you can feel the life in your tree coming back. The leaf buds are appearing, and soon the tree will be covered in flowers. You can smell the beautiful flowers and hear the buzzing of the insects around them. Soon, these flowers will turn into fruits and birds will sing in the branches of your tree. Lying on the ground you have followed the cycle of the seasons, feeling the energy that the tree has agreed to share with you, its memories. Now your mind takes you to the soil under you. Follow the trunk of the tree to the place where it meets the ground and continue going down.

The soil makes the roots

ow. The roots get mixed w ough it they absorb ater is the origin of the sa ee through its roots, trunk wers.

energy of the tree and it d. Under its branches you know that, as summer will turn yellow, ochre, ee transforms itself, ance, equally beautiful. Air helps them release anches and they fall slowly leaves cover the ground r approaches and the bare sunbeams to reach you. to the element Fire, gives nder your tree, you can feel

nd natural breathing, you tree coming back. The , and soon the tree will be can smell the beautiful uzzing of the insects ar ers will turn into fr anches of your tree. nd you have followed the ling the energy that the tr h you, its memories. Now the soil under you. Follo the place where it meets ue going down.

The soil makes the roots of your tree grow the same way that the air makes the branches grow. The roots get mixed with the element Earth and through it they absorb the element Water. Water is the origin of the sap that flows inside the tree through its roots, trunk, branches, leaves, and flowers.

The energy of the tree surrounds you; feel it— that’s the Fifth Element. Assimilate the energy that the tree offers you, the serenity and peace that the tree gifts you. When you are ready, stand up slowly, taking your time. Regain consciousness of your own body, mind, and spirit. Place your hands on the trunk of your tree, thank it, and bid it farewell.

Choosing the Path of the Green Witch

Walking the green path means walking hand in hand with Mother Earth. Green witches strongly connect with her, as she lends them her power and connects with them at a higher, spiritual level. When she suffers, they suffer too. Because of this, green witches are usually people with a strong calling for the outdoors, with knowledge and curiosity about everything that is part of the natural world. It is common for them to be environmental activists. If this resonates with you, green witchcraft may be the path for you!

The Path of the Green Witch

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3

The Path of the Kitchen Witch

K

itchen witches live their craft through the art of cooking, incorporating the energy and symbolism of each food into their recipes and charging them with

their intention. Food is a way to feed and care for our body, and it is how our body replenishes its inner energy. By choosing the right ingredients, we can state intentions and fix imbalances. Kitchen witches see food as a way to heal the body and nourish the spirit. They make the kitchen a sacred space and use it to strengthen their connection with Mother Earth and the seasons. Because of this, kitchen witches are usually well versed in seasonal foods, and it’s common for them to grow some of their own ingredients. They are also often attentive to the medicinal and magickal properties and the nutrients of each food. Kitchen witchcraft is strongly related to green witchcraft and these paths frequently overlap; some even consider kitchen witchcraft a specialized type of green witchcraft. However, I think that its significance and its distinct way of living the craft are enough to consider it a path in its own right.

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Food and Witchcraft

Polycultures Growing d

For centuries food has been strongly related to spirituality. Food offerings, animal sacrifices, and consecrating harvests were common practices aimed to win the favor of the gods. Storing food for the winter was essential for ancient people to survive shortages during the cold months, and because of this, food had a central place in spirituality. Through food we charge our body energetically. We absorb the energy of Mother Earth and incorporate it into our own energy. Many witches of all types incorporate their beliefs in their relationship with food. Many believe that growing your own food or choosing food that has been ethically grown is the best way to ensure that the energy is optimal. Another part of the witch community believes that animals should be excluded from their diet as their death caused suffering. Other witches believe in honoring the lives of animals and incorporating their energy through eating them. This is a personal decision and it can be driven by external factors (such as income). Find the path that works best for you and your personal situation.

The Power within Food Food is essential for human life. It is one of the main ways we have to recharge our energy. Food provides us with the spiritual energy we need to nourish our inner energy. But don’t forget the mundane purpose of food is also important. It provides us with all the nutrients and calories that our body needs to work properly. For kitchen witches, it is equally important to use food for their craft and take care of the body through a good diet. To learn more about the benefits and effects of food, take a course on nutrition or cooking and study what our body needs from food. You can also incorporate other ways to strengthen your body into your daily routine, such as exercising or avoiding harmful substances. With these habits, you will create a robust connection between your mind, your body, and your energy.

All food comes from Mother Earth. It is a present she gives us, and it’s our responsibility to take care of her. Many kitchen witches incorporate eco-friendly habits into all aspects of their life, and they tune in with the seasons by using in-season products. It is also common for kitchen witches to grow their own food and herbs. And you don’t need to have a big garden to do it. With planning, time, and a few good pots or planters, you can grow many things during the year. Some ideas to make the most of the space you have are: Continuous Harvesting Plant vegetables that you can “cut and come again.” For example, if you want to make a salad, you don’t need to take the whole plant. Just take some leaves from your lettuce plant and allow it to keep growing.

vest. Grow aromatic plan om pests, or grow le oot plants (like carrots ’t compete Another alternative that enting a small ga ts. Check your local a

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ollowing a good diet has a p When our diet is bala

e get sick less often e can help our body fight or example, reducing

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Food

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Kcal

g

g

g

g

Mineral X

g

Vitamin X

g

Sodium

Fiber

Kcal

Carbohydrates

Per 31⁄2 oz. (100 g)

Protein

Example of a Nutrient Tracker

Fat

vesting Plant v again.” For example, if ad, you don’t need to take ke some leaves from your it to keep growing.

Following a good diet has a positive effect on our health. When our diet is balanced and our body has all its needs met—both nutritional and energetic—we get sick less often and live more fully. We can help our body fight many illnesses through food. For example, reducing your salt intake helps

lower high blood pressure. Treat your diet not as an alternative to medicine, but as a supplement. When we study food in greater depth, we learn the nutritional value of the food and what it contributes to our body. You can create your own collection of nutrient tables by choosing a standard serving size (3 1⁄2 ounces, or 100 g, for example) and breaking down the components of each food for that measurement. Track the foods you eat, learn about the daily recommended intake of these nutrients, and ask a professional about your personal needs. Keep in mind that knowing your food and its nutrients is a part of kitchen witchcraft—but don’t obsess about it. A balanced diet is usually more than enough to cover our daily needs of most nutrients. It is okay to indulge yourself occasionally and eat food just because you like it.

Water

easons by using in-season mon for kitchen witches and herbs. And you don’t en to do it. W ots or planters, you can ng the year. ke the most of the space y

Healing with Kitchen Witchcraft

Energy

m Mother Earth. It is a d it’s our responsibility to

Polycultures Growing different and compatible plants in the same space will multiply your harvest. Grow aromatic plants to protect other plants from pests, or grow leaf plants (like lettuce) with root plants (like carrots) close together because they won’t compete for space. Another alternative that some cities are offering is renting a small garden space on the city outskirts. Check your local area to find out more about neighborhood and community gardens.

% of % of % of daily daily daily necessities necessities necessities

Food

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Energetic Imbalances A balanced diet has been used for centuries as a treatment for illnesses and energetic imbalances. Nutrient deficiencies and excess are linked to several illnesses, and the key is to maintain the optimum concentration of nutrients in our body. For example, a vitamin A deficiency can cause night blindness and other vision problems. An excess can cause damage to our skin and bones along with other negative effects. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each food is linked to a specific effect on our body and energy. Taoist diets classify foods by their energetic nature—yin or yang: Yin foods are refreshing, moisturizing, and calming. Yang foods are warm, drying, and energizing. Balancing these foods helps us stabilize our body, mind, and spirit. For example, if you are feeling tired all day, this indicates extreme yin energy. You can help balance it by eating more energizing yang food. Keep in mind that the outdoors also affects our energy, and you can adjust your diet according to the climate where you live. For example, if it’s dry and hot outside— extreme yang weather—you will feel better eating refreshing yin foods.

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These health practices are incorporated in many cultures, often without us even realizing or noticing it. Modern medicine recognizes that our bodies have different needs during the different seasons: in winter, the body needs to burn more calories to maintain its temperature. In the Mediterranean diet, it is common to eat fresh fruits and vegetables (yin food) during summer (yang weather), and then enjoy stews (yang food) during winter (yin weather). As we study food in greater depth, we realize that yin and yang energies aren’t the only energies present. In witchcraft, each food is linked to an intent, making them appropriate for particular rituals and spells. Through kitchen witchcraft, we can influence our inner energy and can use food to correct energetic imbalances. Kitchen witches respect food as a sacred tool. In their craft, food helps them connect with the energy necessary for a spell. By eating the food, the spell is cast and its energy is incorporated into their own.

Yin Energy Fresh fruit and vegetables Soy products Algae Rice Legumes, sprouts Yogurt Crabmeat Milk Water Soy sauce Salt Parsley

ou can find many charts of

ices are incorporated in ithout us even realizing or edicine recognizes that our eeds during the different body needs to burn more temperature. In the Medimmon to eat fresh fruits d) during summer (yang oy ste

n greater depth, we realize gies aren’t the only energies each food is linked to an ppropriate for particular ugh kitchen witchcraft, we energy and can use food balances. Kitchen witches tool. In their craft, food th the energy necessary for od, the spell is cast and its into their own.

Yin Energy

Yang Energy

Fresh fruit and vegetables

Cooked or dried fruit and vegetables

Soy products

Potatoes

Algae

Cooked and fatty fish

Rice

Butter

Legumes, sprouts

Legumes

Yogurt

Cheese

Crabmeat

Most meats (chicken, pork, lamb, and beef )

Milk

Nuts

Water

Alcoholic beverages

Soy sauce

Cinnamon

Salt

Ginger

Parsley

Black pepper

*This is a collection of the most common foods associated with yin and yang energy. You can find many charts of this kind, and they vary in the foods they include.

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Food Symbolism

Food

As we get deeper into the craft, we see that the symbolism of food is important in many rituals. Their colors, smells, and shapes create a sacred connection with the intention of rituals and spells.

Food

Element

fruits

Correspondences

vegetables

Apple

5 elem

Banana

Water

Cherry

Fire

Fig

Fire

Beet

Earth

Heals broken hearts, used in love magick

Grapes

Water

Cabbage

Water

Good luck and love

Lemon

Water

Carrot

Earth

Love and lust

Orange

Fire

Cauliflower

Water

Protection, used in moon magick

Peach

Water

Celery

Fire

Boosts psychic abilities

Pear

Water

Cucumber

Water

Fertility

Pineapple

Fire

Lettuce

Earth

Prosperity and wealth

Strawberry

Water

Onion

Fire

Absorbs negative energies, used in moon magick

spices

Pea

Earth

Attracts money and fortune

Black pepper

Fire

Potato

Earth

Healing

Cayenne

Earth

Pumpkin

Earth

Protection spells, used at the autumnal equinox

Cinnamon

Fire

Spinach

Water

Beauty rituals and money spells

Cloves

Air

Sweet Potato

Earth

Harmony, has a grounding energy

Cumin

Fire

Tomato

Water

Protection and prosperity

Garlic

Fire

Zucchini

Water

Prosperity and lust

Mustard seed

Fire

Paprika

Fire

Salt

Earth

Sugar

Earth

Turmeric

Fire

Vanilla

Air

Vinegar

Fire

(continued on next page)

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Elem

The Path of the Witch

Food

Element

Correspondences

Apple

5 elements

Healing, used in beauty rituals

Banana

Water

Sexual desire and prosperity

Cherry

Fire

Attracts love, used in beauty rituals

Fig

Fire

Attracts prosperity and good luck to your family

Grapes

Water

Represents abundance and enhances psychic powers

Lemon

Water

Breaks spells (juice) and attracts a new friendship (skin)

Orange

Fire

Prosperity and protection, represents the sun

Peach

Water

Protection (especially the pit), beauty, and health

Pear

Water

Prosperity, lust, and love

Pineapple

Fire

Attracts wealth and good luck

Strawberry

Water

Used in love, lust, and beauty spells

Black pepper

Fire

Protection and to dispel curses

Cayenne

Earth

Strength spells and to overcome a separation

Cinnamon

Fire

Love and lust, healing, and home protection

Cloves

Air

Strong protection against all evils

Cumin

Fire

Removes unwanted energies, used in love and protection spells

Garlic

Fire

Courage and good health

Mustard seed

Fire

Strength, courage, growth, and prosperity

Paprika

Fire

Boosts the effect of spells and rituals and breaking hexes

Salt

Earth

Cleanses and absorbs unwanted energies

Sugar

Earth

Attracts favorable outcomes, positive attention, love, and lust

Turmeric

Fire

Banishes negative energies and breaks hexes

Vanilla

Air

Good mood, love, lust, and beauty

Vinegar

Fire

Protection and to break spells

fruits

k

spices

n magick

equinox

(

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Magickal Cooking

chen Witchcraft To

Once we’ve learned about the properties and symbolism of food, it’s time to incorporate them into our craft. In kitchen witchcraft, cooking is more than preparing food; it is a ritual where food is charged with an intention. The kitchen is transformed into a magickal and sacred workspace, and our tools are consecrated. Even when kitchen witches aren’t cooking with an intention in mind, they create a balanced diet by taking into account the energy and nutrients of the food to maintain a healthy body.

The Kitchen: A Magick Workspace Since ancient times, kitchens have been considered the heart of a home. It was where the main fire was located, warming the house. It was so important that the ancient Greeks consecrated it to Hestia, the goddess of domesticity. The accidental extinction of the hearth fire was considered a great failure. For a kitchen witch, the kitchen is the heart of the house and it is a sacred place. To work with your craft, your kitchen should be a space where mundane and spiritual actions coexist. Here are ways to transform your kitchen into a magickal space: Decorate It It’s important that you feel comfortable in your kitchen. Your workplace should be somewhere where you want to be. • Choose colors and a style that match your personality. • Keep plants in your kitchen to connect with Mother Earth. Grow edible plants to incorporate in your recipes.

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• Keep a small burner for incense or use essential oils to purify the area and create the right mood for each recipe. • Hang charms or magickal symbols. Tidy It Declutter your kitchen to allow energies to move freely when you are working there. This also makes it easier to clean it, both physically and energetically. You want a space that allows you to work freely and boosts your creativity. Create an Altar If you work with deities, create a small altar for domesticity, kitchen, and family gods and goddesses in your kitchen. Include a representation of the deity, candles, and offerings. You can work with them or ask them for guidance as you practice your craft. Consecrate It Remember that the kitchen will be your sacred place: Treat it with care and thought. Take the time to cleanse the space with your method of choice (see page 16) and bless it as you would an altar.

nce you’ve made your kitch our witchcraft c e that tools con

eryday any kit

poons are often said to be t

ou stir clockwise, yo ou include a particular ener

When you stir e banishing—this incorpor our food, but it eliminates ou when you eat it. nife

es are used in alm

e them extra meaning.

Kitchen Witchcraft Tools

rner for incense or use purify the area and create for each recipe. magickal symbols.

to allow energies to move rking ther h physically and energetthat allows you to work creativity.

s, create a small altar n, and family gods and en. Include a repr nd offerings. You can work for guidance as y

Once you’ve made your kitchen a sacred space, it’s time to get your witchcraft cooking tools. Many witches believe that tools consecrated for magick should not be used for mundane purposes. In kitchen witchcraft, this means you should have a set of utensils for everyday use and a set for magickal cooking. Many kitchen witches keep these special tools for rituals: Spoon Spoons are often said to be the wands of kitchen witchcraft: They channel our energy into the food. When you stir clockwise, you charge the food— you include a particular energy in what you are doing and that energy will be taken in when the food is eaten. When you stir counterclockwise, you are banishing—this incorporates the intention into your food, but it eliminates a type of energy from you when you eat it.

Cauldron The real purpose of a cauldron has always been cooking. You can use more modern versions, such as pots and saucepans. In a cauldron all the energies or the ingredients are mixed and combined to create a nourishing recipe. I don’t share the belief that you need separate tools when cooking with an intention. I see kitchen witchcraft as one of the paths that is more strongly connected to the mundane world. Everyday cooking is a sacred activity in itself, even if the recipe isn’t imbued with an intention. Every time a kitchen witch cooks, they do it in a mindful way: They are conscious of the energy and properties of each ingredient. They are thankful to Mother Earth for her fruits.

Knife Ritual knives are used in almost every branch of witchcraft to channel energy, and that’s their use in kitchen witchcraft too, apart from cutting. Try slicing food into magickal shapes and symbols to give them extra meaning.

chen will be your sacred and thought. T h your method of choice it as you would an altar.

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Focus on Your State of ou can med

er activity helps you raise y e your intention.

Cook! When you add e o our food with it , give thanks to Mother ou with the ingredients. Yo emind yourself of the in

Eat! Eat and enjoy your our own.

Magickal Recipes

You can incorporate many recipes into your craft. Most will follow the same basic structure: Cleanse Your Kitchen and Tools Before using any tool, make sure that it is physically and spiritually clean (see page 16). It’s important to get rid of any unwanted energies that can affect the outcome of your recipe. Set Your Intention This is one of the most important steps in any ritual or spell. It’s important that you have it clear and that you keep it in your mind throughout the cooking process. Choose a Recipe and Ingredients Make sure that your choice aligns with your intention (see page 50 for the magickal correspondences associated with foods, herbs, and spices). Assign a role to each ingredient that you will use. Use ingredients that are in season and are respectful of Mother Earth to help you connect with her energy.

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Focus on Your State of Mind To achieve the right mind-set, you can meditate before cooking to bring a sense of calm, play music or sing . . . whatever activity helps you raise your energy and visualize your intention. Cook! When you add each ingredient, say its role in the spell out loud. Focus on your intention and charge your food with it. Once the food is ready, give thanks to Mother Earth for providing you with the ingredients. You can bless your food and remind yourself of the intention that you’ve imbued in it. Eat! Eat and enjoy your food, incorporating its energy into your own.

Connecting with Our Ancestors with Sourdough Bread Baking bread is a popular activity among witches, and particularly for kitchen witches. It is an easy, effective way to connect with our ancestors and the energy of the Earth. Bread is also a popular offering for deities and the dead. In this recipe, we connect with our roots by baking bread from scratch. Sourdough bread takes more time to make than baking bread with store-bought yeast and it may take some practice to master. Remember: This allows you to connect in a stronger way with the process and your craft. Patience is fundamental to the path of the kitchen witch, and your efforts over time will deepen your understanding of both the food and its energy. Sourdough starter is based on wild yeast that can be found everywhere: It’s in the air, on our hands, in flour. There are different types of yeast that can live in sourdough starter, and they are what gives sourdough bread its particular flavor. Sourdough is not always sour. The flavor can have different nuances depending on the predominant yeast of the starter.

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Sourdough Starter Making starter is an easy process, but it takes several days to complete. I prefer whole-grain flour because I like the flavor, but you can substitute all-purpose flour. In witchcraft, flour is related to the energy of the Earth. It is used for protection and prosperity, and as a great offering. Water is another ingredient that deeply connects us with the energy of Mother Nature. Water is life and with it we incorporate a purifying energy into our bread. Makes 8 ounces (227 g)

̭ Large glass jar with a lid ̭ ½ cup (64 g) flour

̭ ½ cup (120 ml) water Day 1. In a glass jar, add 2 tablespoons (16 g) of flour and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of water. Stir well. Cover the jar without closing it. Leave it at room temperature (70˚ to 75˚F, or 20˚ to 25˚C). Day 2. Little bubbles may appear, and that’s a good sign! The yeast is active and feeding on the flour. If you don’t see them yet, don’t panic. They may not appear until day 3. It’s time to feed the starter: Add another 2 tablespoons (16 g) of flour and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of water, and stir well. Cover the jar without closing it. Leave it at room temperature. Day 3. Now you should see more bubbles and it may smell sour. Both are signs of the yeast activity. Feed it 2 tablespoons (16 g) of flour and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of water; stir well. Cover the jar without closing it. Leave it at room temperature. Day 4. The starter should have more bubbles and have increased in volume. It should look thicker than the first day and have a stronger sour smell. Feed it the remaining 2 tablespoons (16 g) of flour and the remaining 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of water; stir well. Cover the jar without closing it. Leave it at room temperature. Day 5. The starter is ready to use! It should have doubled in size and be bubbling and thick. If yours doesn’t look like this, feed it and give it a couple more days. To keep your starter alive, feed it regularly. You can place it in your fridge to slow down its growth. Just take it out 2 days prior to baking bread and keep it at room temperature.

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Sourdough Bread Now that we have our starter, it’s time to bake! Flour incorporates the energy of the Earth and makes a great offering. Water brings the energy of life, and salt purifies and cleanses food. Makes 1 loaf

̭ 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour ̭ 5 ¹/³ ounces (150 g) starter ̭ ½ cup (120 ml) water

̭ 1 tablespoon (18 g) salt ̭ Oil, for the bowl

In a bowl, add the flour, starter, water, and salt. Mix well. The dough should be thick enough to knead it. Add a little more flour or water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if the dough is too wet or too dry. Once everything is well mixed, place it on a flat surface and knead it for 10 to 15 minutes. Lightly oil a bowl and place the dough inside. Cover it with a damp cloth and leave it at room temperature for 3 hours. Then knead it again for about 10 minutes and place it back in the oiled bowl, covered with a damp cloth for 2 hours. It should be about double its initial size (maybe a bit less). Preheat the oven to 290˚F (143˚C, or gas mark 1). Turn on the steam option of the oven or, if yours doesn’t have it, place a baking dish with water inside the oven. Shape your loaf and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.

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Edible Flowers Salad to Celebrate Spring Is there anything more representative of spring than flowers? This salad of tender greens and edible flowers is a perfect way to tune in to the season’s energy. Edible flowers are a symbol of renewal and new projects. Plus, you will be surprised by how many flavors they have, from sweet to sour or even slightly spicy. Lemon juice purifies negative energies. During spring, bees produce honey, and its color makes it perfect for celebrating the return of longer, sunnier days. Salt is used to purify and cleanse food, and olive oil is perfect for blessing food and representing the energy of the sun. Serves 2

̭ 3 cups (165 g) baby salad greens

̭ 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice ̭ 1 teaspoon honey ̭ Pinch of salt

̭ 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil

̭ 1 cup (45 to 80 g) edible flowers Add the baby salad greens to a large bowl. In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, honey, salt, and olive oil to create the dressing. Add the dressing to the greens, toss to coat, and top with the edible flowers.

• Edible Flowers

There are many varieties of edible flowers, with a wide range of flavors to choose from. These are some of the most common edible flowers: Begonia: Citrus-sour Carnation: Neutral Jasmine: Mild floral Lavender: Herbal and earthy Mint: Strong minty Nasturtium: Slightly pepper-like Rose: Delicate floral Sage: Mild taste. Try the pineapple variety!

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Spiced-Wine Poached Pears Sharing food is one of the oldest ways to strengthen bonds. This recipe protects the relationship you have with a cherished loved one. Pears are used to attract all types of love. Red wine is used to strengthen bonds. Sugar’s sweetness is used to better all types of relationships. Cinnamon is strongly related to love and relationships. The protective energy of cloves safeguards the relationship, and orange zest attracts positivity. Serves 2

̭ 2 cups (470 ml) red wine ̭ 1 cup (200 g) sugar ̭ 2 cinnamon sticks ̭ 4 cloves

̭ 1 piece orange zest ̭ 2 large ripe pears

Combine the wine, sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange zest in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Peel the pears. Add them whole to the saucepan and cover it. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the pears are soft and red. Remove the pears from the liquid, increase the heat to medium-high, and allow the wine to boil and reduce until it is thicker. Allow the liquid to cool to room temperature, then pour it over the pears and serve.

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When it is dry, take it in Which co e they the same shade thro ow do they mix with each Now think about its sha ound or is it wider in so es and explore the apple w ough? Ho ith your eyes still closed, b our nose and focus on its sm , pleasant? Open your eyes and obs ind an area that seems appe unch or was it softer?

Guided Meditation: Apples

Apples hold a significant symbolic meaning in many cultures, and in witchcraft it is no different. We use apples to incorporate the five elements into our craft: When we slice one transversally, we find that its core and seeds create a five-pointed star that resembles the pentacle. For this meditation, we will use a real apple as a tool to connect with our inner self and ground ourselves in the moment. Choose an apple that best matches your energy: You may be able to sense this by how an apple looks or smells to you or simply by holding it in your hand and feeling its energy. Run the apple under tap water and clean it carefully, getting familiar with it. Take a cloth or a paper towel and dry it. Rub it slowly but thoroughly; you want to enhance its natural colors. Pay attention to how its skin turns from matte to shiny.

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When it is dry, take it in your hands and examine its colors: Which colors can you identify? Are they the same shade throughout the apple? How do they mix with each other? Now think about its shape and composition: Is it round or is it wider in some parts? Close your eyes and explore the apple with your fingers. Is it smooth or lightly rough? How much does it weigh? With your eyes still closed, bring the apple near your nose and focus on its smell. Is it sweet, fresh, sour, pleasant? Open your eyes and observe the apple again. Find an area that seems appetizing and bite it. Pay attention to the sound that your bite makes. Was it a crunch or was it softer?

Now focus on your mouth. Close your eyes and think about all the flavors you are experiencing. How does the apple taste? Is it sour or sweet? Do these flavors match the smell you experienced before? Don’t stop there: Feel the different textures of the apple, and the difference between the skin and the pulp. Once you’ve swallowed the first bite, focus on your apple again, watching it as if it is the first time you are seeing it. Choose another piece to bite and experience all the flavors and textures again. When you’ve finished your apple, give it thanks for feeding your body and sharing its energy with you, allowing you to share a pleasant moment with it.

Choosing the Path of the Kitchen Witch

Cooking is the activity at the heart of the kitchen witch’s craft. The other main pillars of this path are Nature and home. Kitchen witches strongly connect with Mother Earth, and it’s common for them to grow their own food. The kitchen is their main magick workplace, and many rituals are tied to everyday life. To determine whether kitchen witchcraft is your path, ask yourself how much energy you feel through cooking, gardening, and household activities. If this resonates with you, kitchen witchcraft may be the path for you!

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4

The Path of the Wiccan Witch

W

icca is a neopagan religion that incorporates different ancient European traditions into one faith. It was developed in the twentieth century in

England by Gerald Gardner through different investigations and interviews with witches from that time. It was introduced to the public in 1954 with his book Witchcraft Today. His neopagan religion mixed pagan traditions with witchcraft and theological beliefs. It created its own two deities based on ancient pagan deities: The Triple Goddess and the Horned God. A lot has changed and the beliefs have evolved, and today there are many branches of Wicca. Wicca encourages the individualism of each practitioner, with the firm belief that each path is different. Even if we share the same faith, none of us live it the same way.

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Basics Beliefs Present in Most Wiccan Branches Love and care for Mother Earth The ethic of avoiding harming others Celebrating the seasons though the Wheel of the Year Celebrating the moon cycles with the esbats Equality of all members Believing in Summerland and reincarnation Immanence of the deities Using the sacred circle

iccan Ethics

ules, th oundings:

Take Care of Mother E he is our home. And w esponsibility to take car Wiccans have ado

In addition to these beliefs, Wiccans take care of their mind, body, and spirit equally. They are always learning new things and open to different points of view.

Wiccan Ethics and Traditions

Wicca has evolved and adapted since its early days, incorporating the values of acceptance, equality, and nonaggression. Its traditions draw from pagan rituals and festivals, which try to keep the essence of the original practitioners while changing slightly over time.

Morality In the Wiccan morality, two main rules are essential. These guide all the decisions and activities engaged in by Wiccans. They are: The Wiccan Rede “An’ ye harm none, do what ye will.” This means you may act as you want as long as it doesn’t affect negatively (harm) other people. Harm is not strictly defined and is open to individual interpretation. For example, love spells with a target or binding spells are usually considered “harmful” because they affect free will. But is casting a binding spell to stop a bully from hurting you against the Wiccan rede? Or is it just self-defense? The limits aren’t clear. My advice is to prioritize your well-being when facing a threat, as I consider it self-defense, but always explore other options first.

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The Rule of Three This rule says that everything that you do, good or bad, will come back to you multiplied by three. This rule applies to mundane activities and also affects our magickal workings. The energy we put in our spells is what will come back to us. Both of these rules could be summed up in the sentence: Treat others as you would like them to treat you.

Support Equality Every eated with the same love an Wiccans, novices and hig

, sexua

Take Care of Your Bod our energy is generated and ourself and adopting a heal d path. Taking g tant part of Wicc

e This rule says that everyd or bad, will come back hree. This rule applies to also affects our magickal we put in our spells is what

Wiccan Ethics In addition to these rules, the following Wiccan ethics guide their interactions with others and their surroundings: Take Care of Mother Earth She gives us life. She is our home. And we cannot own her. It’s our responsibility to take care of her. Because of this, many Wiccans have adopted an environmentally friendly lifestyle and support environmental campaigns. Support Equality Everybody should be treated with the same love and respect, Wiccans and non-Wiccans, novices and high priests. And there should be no discrimination based on any other condition (e.g., gender, sexuality, skin color, etc.).

Value Education A Wiccan is always learning and open to new points of view. Reading books, listening to experts, educating yourself, and learning new things are essential in the Wiccan religion. Support Freedom of Choice Everybody may walk the Wiccan path, and everyone is free to abandon it. It is important that children can grow up in a Wiccan household participating in the festivals and some rituals, but they have to choose whether they want to be Wiccan or not when they reach an age when they can fully understand their choice and make it independently. They should also learn about other paths before deciding, so that it is an informed decision.

Take Care of Your Body Your body is where your energy is generated and stored. Accepting yourself and adopting a healthy lifestyle can be a long and hard path. Taking good care of yourself is an important part of Wicca.

s could be summed up in ers as you would like them

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65

The Triple Goddess is al e the t he can be worshi Wiccans prefer

he represents the female pa , being the part orned God. The Triple Goddess is d cles. She is ee heads or a crown with esenting different life sta

Waxing Moon: The Ma oung and innoc outh, beauty, and new begi

Full Moon: The Mothe epresents grow turing, protective a

Waning Moon: The Cr

The Horned God and the Triple Goddess The Wiccan views on deities are one of the main sources of debate in the community, and they are one reason for the split of the community into different branches. The most common way to view Wiccan spirituality is through the Horned God and the Triple Goddess. These deities represent the polarity of cosmic forces and are complementary. The relationship between the Horned God and the Triple Goddess is strongly related to the seasons and it is told using the festivals of the Wheel of the Year.

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The Horned God is based on many ancient horned deities: Some Wiccans worship them as a whole and others choose one of the ancient ones (such as Cernunnos or Pan). He is usually depicted surrounded by Nature and with two horns or antlers that represent the duality in everything, light and darkness, hot and cold. Sometimes he is also represented as having a beast head, which is a symbol of the union of the divine and the animal. He is the partner and son of the Triple Goddess, representing the male part in their duality. He is strongly linked to Nature, sexuality, fertility, and hunting.

he is related to transfo ough the scary times of ch

is based on many ancient Wiccans worship them as a se one of the ancient ones Pan). H and with two horns or he duality in everything, and cold. Sometimes he is ng a beast head, which is a the divine and the animal. on of the Triple Goddess, part in their duality. He ature, sexuality, fertility,

The Triple Goddess is also based on several pagan deities that share the triple aspect in common. She can be worshiped as a whole, though some Wiccans prefer to choose one of the ancient triple deities (such as Diana or Hecate). She represents the female part in the Wiccan divine duality, being the partner and mother of the Horned God. The Triple Goddess is deeply related to the moon and life cycles. She is often depicted with three heads or a crown with three moon phases representing different life stages: Waxing Moon: The Maiden She is represented as a young and innocent woman. She is youth, beauty, and new beginnings. Full Moon: The Mother She is an adult woman who represents growth, fertility, sexuality, and a nurturing, protective attitude. Waning Moon: The Crone She is showed as an elder woman, full of wisdom and knowledge. She is related to transformation, guiding us through the scary times of change.

Although, these are the two main deities of the Wiccan faith, most Wiccans incorporate other deities from different pagan traditions into their pantheon. Over time, this view of the divine has been reconsidered by different Wiccan branches. Two of the main points of contention are the representation of the duality of female-male as complementary opposites and the disregard of other genders. Not all Wiccan branches share these beliefs. For example, Dianic Wicca focuses worship on the Triple Goddess, seeing her as whole without the need of the Horned God. It can also incorporate other goddesses, and it is heavily influenced by feminism, focusing on celebrating womanhood. An increasing number of Wiccans are questioning the role of deities in their beliefs, seeing them more as symbols or energy than as living entities. This has sparked a lot of debate in the Wiccan community, as some see deities as one pillar of this religion and others think that they can be reinterpreted.

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Sabbat Yule Imbolc Ostara Beltane Litha Lughnasadh Mabon Samhain

he Wheel of the Yea

Wiccan Wheel of the Ye als called sabbats. Each ent European pagan fes e in tune with the su ature througho eligion, and these festi y many witches into their c The sabbats are divided

tant. The main differen eater sabbats celebrate the als on fixed dates. The lesse xes and solstices; date vement of the Earth. e different da e and the southern

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Sabbat

Event

Northern Hemisphere

Southern Hemisphere

Yule

Winter solstice

December 20–23

June 20–23

Imbolc

Midwinter day of high energy

February 1

August 1

Ostara

Spring equinox

March 20–23

September 20–23

Beltane

Mid-spring day of high energy

May 1

October 31

Litha

Summer solstice

June 20–23

December 20–23

Lughnasadh

Midsummer day of high energy

August 1

February 1

Mabon

Autumnal equinox

September 20–23

March 20–23

Samhain

Mid-autumn day of high energy

October 31

May 1

The Wheel of the Year The Wiccan Wheel of the Year consists of eight festivals called sabbats. Each one is based on a different European pagan festivity. Their celebrations are in tune with the sun cycle and follow the changes in Nature throughout the year. Wicca is an open religion, and these festivals are incorporated by many witches into their craft. The sabbats are divided into four greater sabbats and four lesser sabbats. These names may be misleading because the sabbats are all equally important. The main difference is their origin: The greater sabbats celebrate the four Celtic fire festivals on fixed dates. The lesser sabbats celebrate the equinoxes and solstices; dates may vary because of the movement of the Earth. To match the seasons, the sabbats have different dates in the northern hemisphere and the southern hemisphere.

It’s important to note that each festival is older than Wicca, and by no means are they exclusive to this religion. In this section, we talk about how the Wiccan god and goddess interrelate during the Wheel of the Year. However, these festivals are more ancient than Wicca and the deities and events associated with them in other traditions do vary. The dates that appear in the table are the ones used by Wiccan traditions.

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Yule Yule celebrates the winter solstice, the longest day of the year, the triumph of Darkness. However, after it, the days become longer and the nights shorter. Because of this, it is considered the return or the rebirth of the sun. It reminds us that, even after the coldest winter days, Nature will wake up again and the Earth will offer us her fruits. In Wiccan spirituality, this sabbat marks when the goddess—now the Great Mother—has just given birth to the god who embodies the sun. Imbolc Imbolc is the celebration of midwinter. These are the coldest days of the year, but we can appreciate that the days are getting longer. It is considered a day with high energy, particularly suitable for divination. Imbolc is strongly related to milk because the sheep and goats start to lactate around this date and it was an important source of food to survive the rest of the winter. Nowadays many Wiccans celebrate it with plant milk. During this time, the Wiccan god is now a growing child, represented by the early sprouts of plants and flowers, and the goddess is recovering from childbirth.

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Ostara With the spring equinox, Wiccans celebrate Ostara. This sabbat focuses on the awakening of Nature after her winter sleep. It is a new beginning with a strong symbolism of renewal and fertility. During this period, the god is quickly growing and transforming into a young adult. The goddess also undergoes a transformation and recovers her youth, becoming the maiden. Beltane Beltane, also written as Lá Bealtaine (Irish) or Là Bealltainn (Scottish Gaelic), is the festival of fertility: Animals are having babies. There are flowers everywhere, and the Earth is producing fruits. During the spring we can appreciate Nature in all its splendor. It is the peak of the spring, and Wiccans celebrate it by going outside and by expressing love. This is a popular date for pagan weddings. In Wiccan spirituality, the god and the goddess are now the same age, fall passionately in love, and get married.

itha

est when we een planting an ks the begin ature will slowly fall in ythologically, this is egnant w n some traditions, this stara to match the e birth in Yule. The god e wer is at its peak, reign

ughna vest. The wea th gifts us her fruits, e becoming shorte

vest. This ens t once again in Yule. He vested d ed for the winter. The go egnant, and she is seen as h

ox, Wiccans celebrate uses on the awakening of sleep. It is a ne m of renewal and fertility. god is quickly growing ay ormation and recovers her maiden.

Lá Bealtaine (Irish) or Gaelic), is the festival of aving babies. There are d the Earth is producing ng we can appreciate Natur the peak of the spring, it by going outside and by a popular date for pagan pirituality, the god and the me age, fall passionately in

Litha The summer solstice is the longest day of the year, the complete triumph of the Light and Nature. It is a moment of rest when we enjoy Nature, and a hiatus between planting and harvesting. The solstice also marks the beginning of longer nights and Nature will slowly fall into her death sleep again. Mythologically, this is the time when the goddess becomes pregnant with the child of the god. In some traditions, this is said to happen during Ostara to match the nine-month period to give birth in Yule. The god embodies Nature and his power is at its peak, reigning over the darkness. Lughnasadh Also called Lammas, Lughnasadh marks the beginning of the harvest. The weather is still warm and the Earth gifts us her fruits, but we start to notice the days are becoming shorter. During this time, the god willingly sacrifices himself with the beginning of the harvest. This ensures that the cycle will start once again in Yule. He is usually compared to the wheat that is harvested during Lughnasadh and stored for the winter. The goddess is now visibly pregnant, and she is seen as her mother aspect.

Mabon The second harvest of the year falls on the autumnal equinox. As with Ostara, Mabon celebrates the perfect balance. However, this time it’s the triumph of darkness, as nights start to be longer than days. The god is now completely one with Nature and, in some traditions, he becomes the ruler of the underworld. The goddess is now mourning his loss, and she becomes the wise and experienced crone. Samhain The last harvest of the year is also considered the witches’ New Year. It marks the end and the beginning of the Wheel of the Year. While the wheel starts to spin once again, we remember the ones who are no longer with us and celebrate the cycle of life. During their last phase, the goddess has transformed into the crone. She is wise as she carries all the lessons from the year and she knows that when her child is born it will mark the return of the sun and the restart of her cycle as the maiden.

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Waxing Crescent Set u efully plan how to achieve

First Quarter It’s the fir oject; start working with e

Waxing Gibbous It’s th our effort into a

Full Moon The full mo d bloom: Achieve y our craft. Enjoy the fr

Waning Gibbous This ou hav

Last Quarter Let go wh ou and is preventing you fr

Waning Crescent Be in ou’ve done right an cle.

New Moon After comp est and restore ourselves.

The Esbats If the sabbats are the festivals of the Sun cycle, the esbats are the Wiccan celebrations of the moon cycle. Like many other Wiccan activities, they are observed by other neopagan traditions and they are based on ancient pagan activities. Esbats are most commonly celebrated for full moons, but covens and solitary witches may choose other phases of the moon.

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As we saw in the “The Horned God and the Triple Goddess” (page 66), the goddess is the personification of the moon. She changes as our moon does, going through different phases and each one of them teaches us a lesson.

Deciding which moon p w to do so is up to the cov ot everybody feels the ener . For example, whil es many people, it’s not u om headaches dur ou can find more informati

The Horned God and the 66), the goddess is the moon. She changes as our ugh different phases and es us a lesson.

Waxing Crescent Set up your new goals and carefully plan how to achieve them. First Quarter It’s the first boost of a new project; start working with enthusiasm. Waxing Gibbous It’s the moment to prioritize and put all your effort into achieving the goals you can accomplish. Full Moon The full moon is commonly linked to the word bloom: Achieve your goals. Connect with your craft. Enjoy the fruits of your hard work. Waning Gibbous This is the perfect moment to think about what you have achieved, count your blessings, and practice gratitude. Last Quarter Let go what no longer serves you and is preventing you from moving forward. Waning Crescent Be introspective and reflect on what you’ve done right and wrong during this moon cycle. New Moon After completing a cycle, it’s time to rest and restore ourselves. Deciding which moon phases to celebrate and how to do so is up to the coven or practitioner. Not everybody feels the energy of the moon the same way. For example, while the full moon energizes many people, it’s not uncommon for others to suffer from headaches during this moon phase. You can find more information about the energy of the phases of the moon on page 96.

Summerland Most Wiccan branches accept the concept of a spirit that can be reincarnated and that lives several lives. Life is a cycle that starts over and over again. This implies believing that the Rule of Three can transcend past lives and affect our present and future lives. Wicca also incorporates the concept of Summerland. Summerland is a spiritual place where the spirits of those who have passed away wait to be reincarnated and start their new lives. It is not considered a good or bad place; it is just a different dimension or realm where souls cohabit as shapeless energy with the gods. There are two main points of view about the rebirth process: the circle and the spiral. The circle implies that when our soul is reincarnated, we come back to the beginning point, restarting the same process of life, death, and rebirth. The spiral represents our spirit or our energy returning to the mundane world, restarting a different path. We are transformed much in the same way that something burned doesn’t disappear but instead becomes smoke or ashes, with different roles in Nature.

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Popular Wiccan Rituals

Wicca has its own customs and traditions, and Wiccan beliefs and practices change and adapt to match the values and needs of our society. Because of this, these rituals that may vary slightly from one branch to another or from one group to another.

Rites of Passage Wicca celebrates several rites of passage. Ritual celebrations of important moments in our lives mark the beginning of a new phase. The ones you celebrate, their names, and how they are celebrated depend on the Wiccan tradition you follow. Most of these rites are celebrated in a Wiccan group or in a coven, but they can be adapted for solitary practitioners. Baby Naming Baby naming or Wiccaning is a ceremony where the baby is presented to the coven and the group affirms their commitment to taking care of the child. It is celebrated within the first year after the baby is born. During this rite, the baby is presented to the god and the goddess and usually is given a sacred name. The roles of godfather and godmother are also assigned. It’s important to note that this rite celebrates and blesses a new life; it does not commit the child to the Wiccan path. They can freely make that decision when they are old enough to fully understand it.

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Coming of Age This rite marks the entrance into adolescence. It is usually celebrated after the first menstruation or the appearance of secondary sex characteristics. Wiccans see these changes as natural to human life and nothing to be ashamed of. Although the children already know these changes will happen, this ritual is a beautiful moment to explain these changes in more depth and embrace them as part of life. Many people also use this rite to teach notions about safe sex. Wiccans celebrate all types of sexualities and choices to live your sexuality. As the Wiccan rede says, “An’ ye harm none, do what ye will.” Initiation The initiation rite is where a person freely adopts the Wiccan path. The coven or the Wiccan group welcomes the initiate and starts teaching them the sacred customs. While initiation is a word usually reserved for Wiccan groups and covens, solitary Wiccans can celebrate a self-dedication ritual. During a self-dedication ritual, solitary practitioners vow to follow the Wiccan path. This is a promise between them and their deities. Some also choose a sacred name.

andfasting andfasting is the pagan equ olunt elationshi y the group as they o ome pagans and ous; others aren’t. This is a eely accep andparting

ting is the equivalen ed ritual that rep oken and that e t gives closu elationship.

rance into adolescence. It er the first menstruation condary sex characteristics. ges as natural to human ashamed of. Although the these changes will happen, moment to explain these and embrace them as part so use this rite to teach Wiccans celebrate all types es to live your sexuality. s, “An’ ye harm none,

here a person freely adopts oven or the Wiccan group nd starts teaching them the initiation is a word usually oups and covens, solitary a self-dedication ritual. n ritual, solitary practihe Wiccan path. This is a and their deities. Some me.

Handfasting Handfasting is the pagan equivalent of marriage. This rite of passage is voluntary and it shows your commitment to a relationship. The love is celebrated by the group as they offer their blessings to the couple. Some pagans and Wiccans are polyamorous; others aren’t. This is a preference that should be discussed and freely accepted by the couple. Handparting If handfasting is the pagan equivalent to marriage, handparting is the equivalent to divorce. It is an equally sacred ritual that represents that the relationship is broken and that each person will begin a separate path. It gives closure and formalizes the end of the relationship.

Eldering Elder people are highly valued in Wicca for their knowledge and experience. This rite of passage is usually celebrated at the start of menopause or around that age for those who don’t menstruate. This rite celebrates the changes that age causes in our body and that are inherent to human life. It’s common to refer to women who have celebrated this rite as crones, a reference to the last stage of the Triple Goddess. Death While the death of a loved one is always sad, it is accepted as part of the cycle of life. The Wiccan rite of death is a moment to remember the good moments we shared and say our last good-bye. Many Wiccans also keep an ancestors altar where those who have passed away are honored and asked for guidance if needed. The Path of the Wiccan Witch

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Casting a Circle

Many ancient cultures have used circles as sacred symbols. They were considered protective symbols that represented the cycle of life, the seasons, rebirth, time, and change, and they likely had other meanings and uses that have been lost over time. Often, we find these circles constructed in special places where they align with the sun during the solstices or mark the position of the stars on specific dates. For example, a dolmen is a prehistoric monument made of upright stones that support a horizontal stone slab. These are found all over the world. Most of our dolmens in Spain are oriented in a way that makes the sun illuminate the entire chamber during the solstice. The Antequera Dolmen site is a breathtaking example of this. Casting a circle is an important ritual in most Wiccan sacred activities. It creates an energetic barrier between the inside and the outside, allowing you to concentrate on your work without external influences. There are different ways to cast a circle, and this is one of the most common:

2. Delimit the Space Mark your circle in the ground. The traditional way is using salt, but you can also use crystals, stones, sand, or crushed eggshells. Some people just delimit it with their mind using visualization. Remember that salt harms plants and some animals, so avoid using it outdoors.

1. Choose the Place Decide where you want to cast a circle. It can be indoors or outdoors, but preferably in a place where you won’t be disturbed and you can focus on your craft. (Some Wiccans prefer cleansing the space now instead of during step 3.)

3. Cleanse the Space Use smoke, sound, blessed water, or other techniques to dispel any unwanted energies that can interfere with your ritual or spell.

4. Invite the Four Elem eities Place a representatio espondent cardina cle cle.

5. Raise Your Energy a se your own energy and th ature, or your de cle. Some W .

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ace Mark your circle in onal way is using salt, but s, stones, sand, or crushed just delimit it with their n. Remember that salt animals, so avoid using

ace Use smoke, sound, techniques to dispel any can interfere with your

4. Invite the Four Elements and Your Deities Place a representation of each element on their correspondent cardinal point (see page 11) and invite them to the circle. If you work with any deities, this is the moment to invite them to the circle.

Once the circle is cast, you can start your magickal workings in that sacred space. When you’ve finished, remember to thank the elements and your deities before dismissing them and then dispelling the energy you used to create the barrier.

5. Raise Your Energy and Cast the Circle Use your own energy and the energy of the elements, Nature, or your deities to create the barrier of the circle. Some Wiccans like to use a wand or an athame to help them channel their energy.

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Guided Meditation: The Horned God and the Triple Goddess

When we roam the wilderness aimlessly, we can perceive its essence. Bushes and trees sink their roots in the soil and we feel them as our own. Leaves grow as an expression of the energy of the forest. Tree branches are intertwined and they project their protective energy, like a guardian watching over us. The light of the sun is filtered through them, reaching small patches of the ground, allowing colorful flowers to grow and bring joy to our spirit. Immersed in the energy of the forest, the place to which we belong, we can feel the great energy of the Horned God. All the animals and plants welcome us to their home. We are members of the same natural community. Every living being emits its energy and it blends with the rest, and we can experience the communion between them all. Everything makes us participants of the unifying and comforting energy of the Horned God. His energy surrounds us and strengthens our spirit. A pleasant feeling in the night invites us to raise our eyes to the sky where we find the moon. She is more discreet than the sun, but equally powerful. Her light pours over all the globe, cleansing and charging it with her energy. That’s how the Triple Goddess manifests herself, with her mysterious and nurturing energy that comforts and calms us. The new moon brings us new beginnings. The moon, in her maiden phase, is full of energy and enthusiasm. This grows stronger as the moon

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waxes, until she reaches the full moon, blooming in all her splendor as the mother. As nights go by, the waning moon turns into the crone, who blesses us with her ancient knowledge of the occult. She invites us to reflect on our actions while she supports and reassures our mind and soul. Slowly the Triple Goddess hides behind the new moon for a well-deserved rest, only to reappear as the maiden. The wonder of renewal and rebirth is revealed before our eyes, filling our soul with hope and excitement.

The Horned God and th , joining th e a manifest eate the universe es. They slide into this pla , and myst

s the full moon, blooming he mother. As nights go by, s into the cr owledge of the occult. on our actions while she our mind and soul. Goddess hides behind the eserved rest, only to reape wonder of renewal and re our eyes, filling our soul ent.

The Horned God and the Triple Goddess dance in harmony, joining their complementary energies. They are a manifestation of all the energies that create the universe and give sense to our lives. They slide into this plane of existence, filling it with life, beauty, and mysteries. Their energy touches our soul as their duality gives sense to life and death.

We can feel them in every sunbeam that warms our spirit and every moonbeam that comforts us. We can feel this in our soul where they teach us the inseparable unity of the universe. It’s that communion with the rest of the elements in existence that gives meaning to our lives.

Choosing the Path of the Wiccan Witch

If you are looking for an organized neopagan religion that combines witchcraft with its beliefs, the Wiccan path is likely to resonate with you! The basic pillars that Wiccans agree on include the ethics system, the celebration of the sabbats and the esbats, the reverence of Mother Nature, and the belief in Summerland. Remember, this religion has many branches you can explore to see which one fits best with your beliefs. If this resonates with you, Wiccan witchcraft may be the path for you!

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5

The Path of the Cosmic Witch

C

osmic witches strongly connect with the celestial energy of the cosmos. They feel and use the energy that emanates from planets, stars, and other

celestial bodies for their magickal workings. Cosmic witches use astrology and astronomy to understand and predict the movements and behaviors of the cosmos and to understand the energy that the universe projects. Timing is very important for cosmic witches. As celestial bodies are in perpetual movement, it is necessary to wait for the right time to make sure that they are positioned in a way that is favorable for their purposes and intentions. This doesn’t mean that all their magick is passive. On the contrary, they actively tap into and channel the energy of celestial bodies.

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Celestial Energy

Astronomy is the science that explains the movements and interrelations of celestial bodies in the physical realm. Astrology is interlocked with astronomy and uses it as its base: It is a wisdom source and a sacred way to connect with the realm of cosmic energies. It is used to explain and predict events and understand human nature. Many civilizations developed their own astrological systems, and in this book we explore the modern Western branch. The way that the celestial energy is incorporated into the craft can be summed up with the sentence “As above, so below.” It is derived from a fragment of the Emerald Tablet, a text from the Hermetica, ancient Egyptian–Greek wisdom texts usually attributed to the author Hermes Trismegistus. For cosmic witches, what happens in the heavens (the macrocosm) affects what happens on the Earth (the microcosm), and vice versa. The two realms are connected through energetic bonds and mirror each other. Astrology is not a deterministic discipline. Instead, celestial events mark aspects of our lives and, in turn, witches can use energy to generate changes in our realm.

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• Emerald Tablet

This ancient text summarizes how

irth Charts

ve the

. The charts are a twoom w becau th. They are very compre

A birth chart or natal ch our birth. It gives u

celestial energy can be harnessed for magickal workings: “That which is Below corresponds to that which is Above, and that which is Above corresponds to that which is Below, to accomplish the miracle of the One Thing.”

Many online sites will c t for free, but their inter o ou, can do. To interpret a birth cha ee main co

th chart is a wheel with tw e the planets and th t are the zodiac The twelve divisions are ” and they are the tw om our (the Earth’s) po t of the birth chart t

Birth Charts

Cosmic witches observe the position of the celestial bodies at a determinate date and time, and they use astrological charts to interpret the positions and energy. The charts are a two-dimensional static representation of the sky in a determinate moment from an Earth-centric viewpoint: Astrological charts keep this point of view because they represent how the cosmos affects the Earth. They are very comprehensive interpretations of the placement of stars and planets in the sky and how their energies interrelate. A birth chart or natal chart is the astrological chart for the moment and place of your birth. It gives us information about many aspects of our life, helping us understand ourselves better, connect with the cosmos, and find our place. Many online sites will calculate your birth chart for free, but their interpretation is always less personal than one that a professional astrologer, or you, can do. To interpret a birth chart, it is important to understand its three main components: houses, zodiac signs, and planets (celestial bodies). The birth chart is a wheel with twelve divisions. In the center are the planets and their relationships. In the outer part are the zodiac signs. The twelve divisions are static. They are called “houses” and they are the twelve divisions of the sky from our (the Earth’s) point of view. It is the only part of the birth chart that doesn’t change.

If you look at the sky from a geocentric point of view, it seems like the stars are the ones traveling around the Earth. We divide those stars into twelve divisions with the same length as the houses and we call them “zodiac signs.” The zodiac signs rotate around the houses the same way that the stars seem to rotate around the Earth. The planets have a different type of movement because they rotate around the sun, and that affects our perspective from the Earth. Because of this, they are depicted as independent points in the middle of the birth chart, moving through the twelve houses according to their position at the moment of birth. This means that a planet will be in a particular house and at the same time in a particular zodiac sign.

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House

Ruling Area

First house (also rising sign or Ascendant)

First impressions, the self and how we present ourselves to others

Second house

Material world, money, wealth

Third house

Communication, local travel, siblings, school

Fourth house

Home, family, origins, ancestors

Fifth house

Romance, children, creativity, self-expression

Sixth house

Health, fitness, routines, daily work

Seventh house

Relationships, partnerships, business, marriage

Eighth house

Intimacy, mystery, joint finances, death

Ninth house

Travel, adventures, wisdom, higher education, beliefs

Tenth house

Professional career, reputation, parents, authority

Eleventh house

Friends, teamwork, desires, main objectives

Twelfth house

Spirituality, subconscious, afterlife, altruism

Houses The houses are the twelve static divisions of the sky from a geocentric viewpoint. Planets and zodiac signs move through them as the Earth rotates. Because their position doesn’t change, they are also the twelve divisions of the birth chart. Each house represents an area of your life and, depending on the planet that is in them at the moment of your birth, your attitude toward them will change. If one house is empty, it doesn’t mean that that aspect isn’t present in your life, it just means that your attention isn’t focused on it.

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The houses are also divided into four quadrants or angles, with four lines named cusps. There are different house systems, but one of the most common representations shows the left side of the birth chart as where the sun rises, known as the Ascendant, and is the cusp of the first house. The numbering of the houses starts from there in counterclockwise order. The right side is named the Descendant and it is placed at the cusp of the seventh house, representing the place of the sunset, meaning that the upper half of the chart is the sky over the horizon, and the lower half is the sky under the horizon.

At the upper part of the Midheaven, aligned esents the highest point , the cusp of the tenth t there is the Imum Coeli, t is the opposite of th ks the cusp of the fourth You will see that the eas ou look at an as

ent ourselves to others

ool

on

iage

on, beliefs

thority

s

m

o divided into four quadur lines named cusps. Ther ems, but one of the most ns shows the left side of e the sun rises, known as he cusp of the first house. houses starts from there in . amed the Descendant and it the seventh house, represunset, meaning that the is the sky over the horizon, e sky under the horizon.

At the upper part of the birth chart you will find the Midheaven, aligned with the north. It represents the highest point of celestial objects in the sky, the cusp of the tenth house. At the lower part there is the Imum Coeli, aligned with the south. It is the opposite of the Midheaven and marks the cusp of the fourth house. You will see that the east and the west are swapped if you look at an astrological chart as you

would a map. This is because it follows the same structure as planispheres, sky maps, which are made to be interpreted by placing them over your head and looking at the sky. Each angle corresponds to an area of our life. If a celestial body is placed close to an angle in the natal chart, it means that the energy of that celestial body will influence the life area ruled by that angle.

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Angle

Chart Notation

Life Area

Ascendant

ASC

Self, childhood

Descendant

DSC

Relationships

Midheaven

MC

Public life, father

Imum Coeli

IM

Personal life, mother

Zodiac signs are the oldest and most known astrology concept. The zodiac divides the night sky into twelve 30-degree sections, and each of them is ruled by one constellation. As the Earth moves along its orbit, the constellations that we can see change. They are always moving through the same section of the sky; we call this the “ecliptic.”

Zodiac Sign

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

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Constellation

The Ram

The Bull

The Twins

The Path of the Witch

Zodiac Sign

Cons

Cancer

The Cra

Leo

The Lio

The celestial bodies travel through the zodiac signs. The sign of each planet for a birth chart depends on where they were placed at the moment of birth.

Ecliptic Longitude

Characteristics Virgo

The Ma

0˚ to 30˚

Aries are vital, extroverted, and spontaneous. Your planets and houses in Aries are areas of your life where you like to take initiative and compete. You prefer working alone, and although you are confident in yourselves, you can be naïve in politics and feel confused when things don’t go as planned.

Libra

The Sca

30˚ to 60˚

Taurus are calm, balanced, and don’t like changes. Your planets and houses in Taurus are areas of your life where you are patient, persistent, reasonable, and sensual. You have talent to earn money, but be careful not to become too materialistic or stubborn.

Scorpio

The Sco

60˚ to 90˚

Geminis are social and extroverted; they have a sharp mind and they can be bored easily. Your planets and houses in Gemini are areas of your life that need constant mental stimuli and where you must adapt to many situations, using your logic and communication skills. Don’t stay on the surface; explore deeper feelings.

rea

ood

Zodiac Sign

Constellation

Ecliptic Longitude

Characteristics

90˚ to 120˚

Cancers are sensible and receptive, always following their instincts. Your planets and houses in Cancer are areas of your life where you search for belonging in a group, being nurturing and protective. Cancers are guided by emotions, but sometimes cancers shouldn’t let emotions take control and instead act rationally.

120˚ to 150˚

Leos are intelligent, creative, and charismatic. Your planets and your houses in Leo are areas of your life where you are courageous, vital, and proud. You attract attention as you are a natural leader, but be careful not to be egocentric.

150˚ to 180˚

Virgos are crafty, practical, humble, and always ready to help. Your planet and houses in Virgo will be areas of your life where you pay attention to the details, are methodical, and obtain good results. Don’t become obsessed with small details; this will create stress.

180˚ to 210˚

Libras are social, creative, diplomatic, and stylish. Your planets and houses in Libra are areas of your life where you search for balance and harmony. You favor teamwork because you prefer to give in rather than get in a big argument. Remember to voice your opinion even if it means creating a conflict.

210˚ to 240˚

Scorpios are complex, private, and passionate, with a strong will. Your planets and houses in Scorpio are areas of your life that you feel passionate about but that you typically manage with calm. Scorpios can experience cyclical changes that will challenge your self-control. You will need to learn to forgive and that not everything is under your control.

ps

father

e, mother

Cancer

The Crab

s travel through the zodiac planet for a birth chart wer

Leo

The Lion

acteristics

ital, extroverted, and us. Your planets and houses e areas of your life where you e initiative and compete. You king alone, and although you ent in yourselves, you can be

Virgo

The Maiden

n’t go as planned.

e calm, balanced, and don’t es. Your planets and houses are areas of your life where tient, persistent, reasonable, al. You have talent to earn ut be careful not to become ialistic or stubborn.

re social and extroverted; a sharp mind and they can be ly. Your planets and houses are areas of your life that tant mental stimuli and wher adapt to many situations, r logic and communication n’t stay on the surface; explore lings.

Libra

Scorpio

The Scales

The Scorpion

(continued on next page)

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(continued from previous page)

Zodiac Sign

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Constellation

The Archer

The Goat

The Water-bearer

The Fish

Ecliptic Longitude

Characteristics

240˚ to 270˚

Sagittarians are optimistic, generous, and adventurous. Your planets and houses in Sagittarius are areas of your life where you are confident and carefree. Adventure is calling you because you want to find the answers to metaphysical questions. Be careful not to take your anger out on innocent people.

270˚ to 300˚

Capricorns are hard workers, introverted, and practical. Your planets and houses in Capricorn are areas of your life that you will develop slowly but surely, acting with structure and pragmatism and winning the approval of people. Remember not to be too serious and calculating.

300˚ to 330˚

Aquarians are social but independent, nonconformist, and rational. Your planets and houses in Aquarius are areas of your life where you act like a rebel, but also search for social justice. In your personal relationships, remember that everybody needs their personal space.

330˚ to 360˚

Pisces are strongly connected with their emotions and psychic abilities. Your planets and houses in Pisces are areas of your life where you follow your instinct and imagination beyond the usual limits. Don’t let negative feelings take over your life.

Zodiac signs can also be classified in modalities, depending on the time of the year when they are more visible, corresponding with a particular energy.

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Zodiac Sign

Mo

Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn

Cardi

Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius

Fixed

Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces

Muta

When interpreting your e overrep epresented (no plan ws that you are comforta nderrepresentation shows t

ology, we refer to the c planets.” Eac

w yo our life. As planet

acteristics

ns are optimistic, generous, turous. Your planets and Sagittarius are areas of where you are confident ee. Adventure is calling se you want to find the o metaphysical questions. Be t to take your anger out on people.

s are hard workers, d, and practical. Your planets s in Capricorn are areas of hat you will develop slowly acting with structure and m and winning the approval Remember not to be too d calculating.

Zodiac Sign

Modality

Time of the Year

Correspondences

Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn

Cardinal

Beginning of the seasons

Initiative, new projects, action

Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius

Fixed

Middle point of the seasons

Stability, firmness, willpower

Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces

Mutable

End of the seasons

Adaptability, change, resourcefulness

When interpreting your birth chart, look for polarities, elements, or modalities that are overrepresented (two or more planets are in them) or underrepresented (no planets are in them). Overrepresentation usually shows that you are comfortable with that aspect of your personality. Underrepresentation shows that you have problems expressing that aspect.

are social but independent, rmist, and rational. Your d houses in Aquarius are ar e where you act like a rebel, earch for social justice. In y elationships, remember that needs their personal space.

strongly connected with their and psychic abilities. Your d houses in Pisces are areas of where you follow your instinct nation beyond the usual n’t let negative feelings take life.

Planets In astrology, we refer to the celestial bodies of the solar system as “planets.” Each planet corresponds with a personal characteristic, and its position in the sky determines how you will develop that aspect of your life. As planets have different orbital

velocity, their time transit between signs and houses is different. The energies of the planets are also interrelated. In a birth chart, each planet is represented with a symbol or glyph; most of them derive from alchemy.

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90

Planet

Rules

Transit Time between Signs

Glyph

Sun

Rules your main essence and basic personality. Also known as your “zodiac sign.”

1 month approximately

A circle with a dot in the center

Moon

Rules your feelings, moods, and intuition. Shows how you are below the surface. Related to your home and family.

2 to 3 days

A crescent moon

Mercury

Influences your communication, how you express your ideas to others, your intellect, and your way of learning.

3 to 4 weeks

A “horned” circle with a cross underneath

Venus

Rules over your romantic relationships. Shows how you love and understand attraction, beauty, and pleasure.

4 to 5 weeks

A circle with a cross underneath

Mars

The planet of action, competition, and even aggression. Reveals your inner drive, motivation, passions, and stamina.

6 to 7 weeks

A circle with an arrow in the upper right

Jupiter

Shows your luck and what helps you grow. It is the seeker of knowledge and purpose, including religion, philosophy, and education.

12 to 13 months

A 4 with a curved side

Saturn

The planet of restrictions. Reveals your limitations and boundaries, and your responsibilities and discipline. Shows your major obstacles and how to overcome them.

2 to 3 years

An h with a cross in the top arm

Uranus

Shows you your talents and how you manage sudden bursts of creativity and changes.

7 years

A curved H with a line crossing the middle and a circle underneath

Neptune

Governs your imagination, inspiration, and psychic abilities. Indicates how you approach your dreams, aspirations, and fantasies.

10 to 12 years

A trident with a line crossing the “handle”

Pluto

Signifies power, transformation, death, and rebirth. Shows how you manage the big changes in your lives.

12 to 15 years

A bident with a circle in the middle and a line crossing the “handle.” Pluto can also be represented with a P and an L combined.

The Path of the Witch

xample of a Birth

Glyph

Example of a Birth Chart

A circle with a dot in the center

A crescent moon

A “horned” circle with a cross underneath

canc

L

ta

u

eo

10 9

8 7

1 3

4

S

5

o

ua r

iu

Sc

S

a io

aq

rp

A trident with a line crossing the “handle”

6 2

Libr

A curved H with a line crossing the middle and a circle underneath

S

piSce

V i rG

11 12

A 4 with a curved side

An h with a cross in the top arm

ru

arieS

A circle with an arrow in the upper right

ni

o

A circle with a cross underneath

Gemi

er

S aG i t

ta r i u

S

capr

i co

rn

A bident with a circle in the middle and a line crossing the “handle.” Pluto can also be represented with a P and an L combined.

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91

Working with Your Birth Chart Studying and understanding your birth chart will help you understand your abilities and yourself better. It is a tool that helps you know yourself and this can have a positive effect in all aspects of your life, including your craft and how you use your power. For cosmic witches, it is a way to incorporate the idea of “as above, so below” into their daily lives. All the aspects of our birth chart affect our lives, but there are three that have more significance: our sun sign, our moon sign, and our rising sign (or Ascendant). These correspond to the position of the sun and the moon on the day of our birth and the zodiac sign that was at the sky zone that corresponds with the Ascendant. It’s important to get the time of your birth right because the rising sign changes approximately every two hours.

These three cover some of the most important aspects of our personality. The sun tells us about our sense of identity. The moon shows us our emotions, instinct, and inner world. The Ascendant reveals our external image and relationships. Our birth chart gives us information about our personal traits and about how the daily positions of the planets affect us. It is also important to remember that a birth chart shows how the celestial energies affect us and interact with us, but they aren’t determinant of our destiny and personal traits. In the end, our circumstances and how we consciously decide to react to them shape our destiny.

nterpreting the Sky

ology and astronomy we e a deep knowledge o

ollux are Gemin em t is a

w harmony and As you deepen your kno our cra y your birth chart. Keep a j ological

ological Events

irth charts aren’t the only u ts. You can calculate the w the circumstances und w it will develop. How ks on beginn

e in perpetual m

th also changes. The s ed the celestial bodi ver the energy of eve th. Both work together, i

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some of the most impor ity. The sun tells us about The moon shows us our inner world. The Ascenal image and relationships. ves us information about about how the daily posiect us. It is also important th chart shows how the us and interact with us, nant of our destiny and end, our cir cide to r

Interpreting the Sky

Astrology and astronomy went hand in hand for many centuries, and astrologers still have a deep knowledge of astronomy. The stars influence us with their energy, and they also teach us lessons. For example, consider the story of the star Castor. Castor and Pollux are Gemini twins in mythology and they are also the names of the brightest stars of the Gemini constellation. However, Castor has a secret: It is not one star but six. It is a multiple star system with two main stars and four smaller ones that dance together and seem to be only one to the naked eye. Castor teaches us how harmony and joining forces can make us shine brighter. As you deepen your knowledge of astrology and the relationship between the celestial energy and your craft, you will realize that planetary effects are nuanced by your birth chart. Keep a journal to write down your personal sensations and the outcomes of astrological forecasts.

Astrological Events Birth charts aren’t the only use for astrological charts. You can calculate them for any event to know the circumstances under which it was “born” and how it will develop. However, the energies that the cosmos marks on beginnings aren’t the only celestial aspects that affect our daily lives. All celestial bodies are in perpetual movement, and that means that the energy they project and that reaches the Earth also changes. The sun and the moon are considered the celestial bodies with the strongest effects over the energy of every living thing on Earth. Both work together, influencing the Earth with their opposite and complementary energies.

The Sun and the Astrological Year The sun is called the “Greater Light” by astrologists and it embodies a masculine or yang energy, which is considered positive—invigorating, revitalizing, uplifting, strengthening, beneficial, and helpful for self-growth and prosperity. It is one of our main sources of celestial energy, and it helps us recharge. It is present in our everyday lives. Our sun sign marks our outer self, the way people perceive us. So, if you want to work on your public image, this is the right celestial body to focus on. Because of this, it is common that at first sight we get along better with people with sun signs compatible with ours. Remember, given the complexity of birth charts, there are many other things to consider when studying compatibilities. Our sun sign doesn’t rule every aspect of our life.

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The sun transits all the zodiac signs. It takes approximately 30 days for the sun to go through each sign, completing a full cycle in a year. When the sun is in one sign, it is commonly called its “season” and it projects the energy of that sign in our daily lives.

The astrological year starts at the spring equinox of the northern hemisphere with the Aries season and ends with the Pisces season, the end of the winter.

Zodiac Sign Season

Approximate Dates

Effects

Aries

March 21–April 19

The first zodiac season brings new beginnings and new opportunities. This season energizes and encourages you to be independent and take risks.

Taurus

April 20–May 20

Taurus season is steady and stable, perfect to keep you working on the projects you started during Aries season. It’s the season of prosperity and good health.

May 21–June 20

Gemini season is a time for communication, knowledge, and learning. Your mind will be buzzing with ideas and creativity. It is a good time to socialize, practice chants, and communicate with other realms.

June 21–July 22

Cancer season calls you to take care of your loved ones and your home. Nurture your relationships and take care of your finances for a prosperous future. Listen to your heart and your ancestors.

Gemini

Cancer

July 23–August 22

Leo season is the perfect moment to do things that take courage and require a good first impression. This sign is a strong leader and its energy can help you guide others. It is also the season of love and lust.

Virgo

August 23–September 22

Virgo’s season encourages you to take care of your mind and body. Strategize your next steps carefully to be more efficient and plan ahead to be prepared if scarcity occurs. Pay attention to the details.

Libra

September 23–October 22

During Libra season, we search for balance and harmony in all areas of our life. Use your intellect and logic when deciding to improve relationships.

October 23–November 21

Scorpio’s season encourages you to search for the raw truth. Look beneath the surface to deepen your understanding of psychic powers and spirituality. Tune in with your intuition.

Leo

Scorpio

(continued on next page)

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The Path of the Witch

Zodiac Sign Season

Ap Da

Sagittarius

Nov

Capricorn

Dec

Aquarius

Janu

Pisces

Febr

Tuning your craft with ough the signs will allow

erse. As you deepen you ology, you will realize tha e interrelated and evious si oon Phases

reater Lig ” Its energy is y u e ru

ar starts at the spring n hemispher he P

new beginnings and new ergizes and encourages you sks.

Zodiac Sign Season

Approximate Dates

Effects

Sagittarius

November 22–December 21

Sagittarius season tells us to leave our comfort zone. It is the moment to learn new things and expand our horizons. Travel, study, and embark on a spiritual journey.

Capricorn

December 22–January 19

Capricorn season is a time to be practical and use the resources available to bring prosperity to your life. It is a good moment for magick regarding your job and career.

January 20–February 18

Aquarius season brings new ideas and a need for freedom, without fear of taking risks. Use its energy to cast rituals of change, to discuss new projects, and to seek independence. Reflect on your bad habits and break your self-limiting attitudes.

February 19–March 20

The last season of the astrological year calls us to tune in with our emotions and intuition. It’s a moment for introspection and psychic powers. Express your creativity and free your imagination.

Aquarius

able, perfect to keep you tarted during Aries season. nd good health.

ommunication, knowledge, be buzzing with ideas and socialize, practice chants, realms.

ke care of your loved ones and tionships and take care of s future. Listen to your heart

ment to do things that take rst impression. This sign is a an help you guide others. d lust.

to take care of your mind t steps carefully to be more prepared if scarcity occurs.

h for balance and harmony ur intellect and logic when hips.

Pisces

Tuning your craft with the cycle of the sun through the signs will allow you to boost your energy and gain a deeper connection with the universe. As you deepen your knowledge in astrology, you will realize that the energies of all the signs are interrelated and each is a reaction to the energy of the previous sign. Moon Phases If the sun is the “Greater Light,” the moon is the “Lesser Light.” Its energy is yin—calm, spiritual, and linked to the occult. Our intuition, emotions, and unconscious mind are ruled by this celestial

body. Because of this, the moon is very popular among witches and it has a very significant place on many paths. It is usually related to feminine energy, because its cycle matches the menstrual cycle. It is also strongly related to the element Water because of its influence in the tides. (For more information, see “The Tides and the Moon” on page 132.) In cosmic witchcraft, each moon phase is linked to a particular energy that is favorable for certain spells and rituals. Although there are eight main phases of the moon (see “The Esbats” on page 72), they can be simplified to four.

ou to search for the raw tr eepen your understanding ality. Tune in with your (

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95

Moon Phase

Magickal Workings

New Moon

New beginnings: fertility rituals, prosperity spells for finding a new job, good luck spells for a new house, manifestation spells for a new project.

Waxing Moon

Constructive and positive magick: growth and prosperity, spells for better health, economic situation, vitality, and blessings in general.

Full Moon

Blooming and culmination: charging your tools, divination, intuition, and boosting any spell. The energy of the moon is believed to be the strongest in this phase.

Waning Moon

Cleanse: release negative energies, detoxify, and get rid of the behaviors you dislike. After the energy boost of the full moon, it’s time to let go of what no longer serves us.

Considering the position of the moon during its phases is also important because the energy of the zodiac signs affects its energy. In addition to the moon phases, supermoons, micro moons, blue moons, and black (or dark) moons all nuance the effects of the energy of the moon. We can experience these and incorporate them into our craft. A supermoon occurs when a full moon (or a new moon) coincides with the point of the moon orbit where it is closest to the Earth, the perigee. This makes the moon appear bigger because it is closer and its energy arrives at the Earth with more strength and clarity. Supermoons have been related to greater tides (see “The Tides and the Moon” on page 132), and astrologists also connect them with earthquakes and other natural disasters. A micro moon occurs when a full moon (or a new moon) coincides with the point of the moon orbit where it is farthest from the Earth, the apogee. Because of this, the moon appears smaller and its energy is a bit weaker than other full (or new) moons.

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“Blue moon” is the name given to the second full moon in a month. Because the moon takes 28 days to complete a circle, and most months have 30 or 31 days, there can be thirteen full moons in a year instead of twelve. Blue moons are said to have the energy of a full moon but enhanced. They are auspicious for spells with difficult goals. Finally, “black moon” is the name given to the second new moon in a month. They are less popular than blue moons, but they are also powerful. They are great for working with the shadow parts of yourself, exploring your subconscious, and cleansing.

ses unar and solar eclipses are m ance in cosmic witchcra

der of the celestial bodies. If the alignment is sun – th will block the ligh

w of the Earth. The mo eflected by t . Because of thi ed Moons.

ding a new job, a new project.

, spells for better ral.

on, intuition, and be the strongest in

the behaviors you to let go of what no

e name given to the second B le, and most months have n be thir Blue moons are said to hav on but enhanced. They are th difficult goals. on” is the name given on in a month. They are moons, but they are also at for working with the lf, exploring your subcon-

Eclipses Lunar and solar eclipses are moments of particular relevance in cosmic witchcraft. They occur when the moon, the sun, and the Earth are perfectly aligned, and which one occurs depends on the order of the celestial bodies. If the alignment is sun – Earth – moon, then the Earth will block the light of the sun. This causes a lunar eclipse: The moon won’t be able to reflect the light of the sun, being obscured by the shadow of the Earth. The moon still can reflect a bit of the light reflected by the Earth, creating a reddish color. Because of this, these are commonly called Red Moons.

If the alignment is sun – moon – Earth, then the moon will block the light of the sun and the sun will project its shadow over the Earth. This causes a solar eclipse. Because the shadow of the moon is smaller and shorter, solar eclipses are visible to a smaller portion of the Earth. When looking at a solar eclipse, it is always necessary to wear protective eyewear. Eclipses are said to support the energy of the contrary celestial body: This means that a lunar eclipse enhances the sun energy during the night and a solar eclipse enhances the moon energy during the day. They are also great occasions to cast rituals to reveal what is occult. Due to the nature of the alignments and the shadows, eclipses aren’t seen equally from every point of the globe, but their energy can still be felt.

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Planet Movement The transits of the planets also affect us even if they aren’t transiting through one of the planets of our birth chart. Their effects are more generic because they affect the whole globe. To cast a particular spell, cosmic witches use the energy of the planet that corresponds with their intention. Planets always move at the same speed and in the same orbit. However, because astrology interprets its movement from the point of view of the Earth, the direction of this movement appears to change.

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A planet’s movement is divided into two directions: direct and retrograde. Direct planets move as expected, forward in the sky. When a planet is in retrograde, it seems to move backward in its orbit. This is caused by a speed difference between the Earth and other planets. As our planet “passes” the celestial body, the planet goes backward in our sky. When a planet goes into retrograde, all the aspects that its energy rules are disrupted. Thus, timing is very important to the cosmic witch.

Planet

Magic

Mercury

Talisman better you commun new busin

Venus

Accepting Love, self spells. It i cooperati also great

Mars

Its energy strength, it can tur violence. confidenc

Jupiter

Jupiter is and philo many spe and longthat helps

Saturn

This plan actions, g to karma. and restri incorpora to establis

ent is divided into two dir rade. Direct planets mov e sky. When a planet is in move backwar d difference between the s. As our planet “passes et goes backward in our sky o retr disrupted. Thus, timing is osmic witch.

Planet

Magickal Workings

Retrograde

Mercury

Talismans for safe travel, spells to better your speech or to better your communication with somebody. Starting a new business or finding a new job.

Travel delays and cancellations, miscommunication, and technology problems. This can be a beneficial time to reconnect with old friends, find lost objects, and explore your inner self.

Venus

Accepting and harmonizing your feelings. Love, self-love, sensuality, and beauty spells. It is great to promote partnership, cooperation, and compassion. Its energy is also great for all types of arts.

Buried feelings will come to light; tensions and problems may arise in relationships. You can use this time to gain perspective, heal, strengthen your relationship, or find closure. Artists may face a creative block. It’s the season of prosperity and good health.

Mars

Its energy is used for assertiveness, strength, vitality, sex, and courage, but it can turn into aggressiveness or even violence. It’s great to boost your selfconfidence and face your fears.

Your plans will move slower than usual and some things will escape your control. You may feel tired and drained, but also more easily irritated and frustrated. Watching your words can be a challenge.

Jupiter

Jupiter is strongly related to spirituality and philosophy. Its energy is used for many spells related to higher education and long-distance travel. It is the planet that helps us grow in every aspect.

This is a period of intense introspective processes, where you may question your beliefs and morals. You can see it as an opportunity to grow personally.

Saturn

This planet brings us the result of our actions, good or bad. It is often related to karma. It is associated with limits and restrictions, so its energy can be incorporated into binding spells or spells to establish boundaries.

When Saturn goes in retrograde, its effects are enhanced. The results of your actions will come back with more intensity, bringing frustration and even fear. You can use this time to review your life and make improvements. (continued on next page)

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(continued from previous page)

Planet

Magickal Workings

Retrograde

Uranus

Uranus’s strong energy is linked to actions and changes, particularly inventions and the future. It can be incorporated into rituals for strong changes and personal growth. It breaks the limits that Saturn establishes, promoting a new order.

Uranus spends almost half of the year in retrograde, but its effects are pretty unpredictable. During this period, it can produce unexpected changes that strongly affect our lives.

Neptune

Tap into the energy of Neptune when you need to work with the hidden areas of your mind. It can be an immense help with dream work, divination, and illusions, as well as working on your behavior. It works really well with the element Water.

Neptune retrograde brings our insecurities to light. Your understanding of situations can shift between deception and the raw truth. It is common to feel unsure about your decisions. You can use this time to search for a deeper meaning in your life.

Pluto rules death and rebirth. It’s the planet of transformation, regeneration, the occult, power struggles, and the clandestine. Because it rules rebirth, it is also linked to sex, reproduction, and birth.

Pluto retrograde brings transformation and makes you face your deepest fears. External circumstances will deeply affect your life, and to achieve your goals you must accept this and let go of things.

Pluto

Comets and Shooting Stars We commonly say that a shooting star can be used to wish for something—and this is cosmic witchcraft. Shooting stars are known in astronomy as meteors, small fragments of cosmic bodies, smaller than a grain of sand, that became incandescent when they enter the atmosphere. They can be single meteors or meteor showers, when the Earth goes through debris left by a comet and the debris enters the atmosphere simultaneously.

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Meteor showers can be predicted by knowing when the orbit of our planet and the orbit of a comet will converge. Some of the most popular ones are the Perseids, around August 12 and associated with the comet Swift-Tuttle, and Leonids, around November 18, associated with the comet Tempel-Tuttle and creating a spectacular meteor storm every thirty-three years.

Shooting stars are stron . Shooting stars allo erse and they bles

our life, particularly a posit eferred way for entities to During meteor showers uring these nigh engthen their bond w erse’s energy and the ph e entering our world. It is our deities or ancestors.

de

most half of the year its effects are pretty uring this period, it can ed changes that strongly

de brings our insecurities to tanding of situations can eption and the raw truth. It is nsure about your decisions. ime to search for a deeper ife.

brings transformation and ur deepest fears. External l deeply affect y you must accept this and let

n be predicted by kno planet and the orbit of a ome of the most popular ound August 12 and assoSwift-Tuttle, and Leonids, associated with the comet ting a spectacular meteor e years.

Shooting stars are strong, ephemeral peaks of energy. Shooting stars allow us to send our will to the universe and they bless it with their light. They usually announce that a change will occur in your life, particularly a positive one, and they are a preferred way for entities to send signals. During meteor showers, this energy is amplified. During these nights, cosmic witches can strengthen their bond with the universe: The universe’s energy and the physical fragments of it are entering our world. It is a perfect moment for manifestation and good luck spells and to contact your deities or ancestors.

Deities and Constellations The constellations of the zodiac signs aren’t the only ones we can find in the night sky. Many civilizations looked at the stars and found shapes that resembled their deities and mythological beings. If you work within a particular tradition, be sure to investigate their constellations (instead of the standard Western names). Working with a deity when its constellation is in the sky can help you strengthen your bond and rituals. A good way to start interpreting the constellations is getting yourself a planisphere. This is a simple tool that will show you which constellations are present in the sky at any given date and time (even during the day). As with astrological charts, east and west are swapped so they match the real ones when you place it over your head to compare shapes. Keep in mind that visible constellations in the northern hemisphere differ from the ones visible in the southern hemisphere.

The Path of the Cosmic Witch 101

Lunar Nodes

If we take the Earth’s ecliptic as reference, we notice that the orbit of the moon is slightly inclined. Because of this, the moon’s orbit intersects the Earth’s ecliptic twice, once ascending, entering the northern celestial hemisphere, and once descending, entering the southern celestial hemisphere. We call these points lunar nodes. The placement of the lunar nodes moves gradually around the Earth, and consequently they transit the zodiac signs and houses. It takes the nodes 18.6 years to complete a revolution around the Earth, and we call this a draconic year. A draconic month is the time that takes the moon to return to the same point in its orbit, just over 27 days. In astronomical charts, the lunar nodes don’t denote the placement of any celestial bodies but the nodal points of the moon mathematically calculated for a determinate date. They are always in opposite positions of the chart. The ascending node, or north node, in our birth chart represents the lessons that we need to learn, what is underdeveloped in our character. The descending node, or south node, in our birth chart represents our baggage, the aspects or character that are overdeveloped.

For those that believe in reincarnation, the south node shows what we bring from past lives, while the north node represents what we need to learn in our present life. Because of this, the south node is our comfort zone, what we know and already have mastered, while the north node is the unknown and also our purpose. Nodes are also closely linked to lunar and solar eclipses, as they occur when the sun, the nodes, and the Earth are aligned and the moon is near one of the nodes.

jor Asteroids

eting c e incorporated the m

All of them are named a etations. After ological charts.

The Big Four are usually chetypes of moth allas), wife (Juno), and sist ological interpretat om these archetypes to inc essions t oles. The study of asteroids a ology is relative etation

Ceres This asteroid is na e, the eq emeter. When her y Pluto (Had erything in the eturned ea k half of the year—no

ear—Nature blo elated to familiar and nur tility. It shows ed for and is also related t ops.

Pallas Athena Usually j oid is named after the G alent of the Roman

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eve in reincarnation, the we bring from past lives, epresents what we need to . Because of this, the south ne, what we know and while the north node is the purpose. sely linked to lunar and ccur when the sun, the re aligned and the moon is

Major Asteroids

The moon, the sun, and the planets aren’t the only celestial bodies that astrology takes into account when interpreting celestial energies. Since the nineteenth century, some astrologers have incorporated the major asteroids in the interpretation of the charts. The most common additions to traditional charts are the Big Four: Ceres, Pallas, Juno, and Vesta. All of them are named after female deities, bringing feminine energy into the astrological interpretations. After them, Venus and the moon were the only feminine energies in astrological charts. The Big Four are usually used to represent the feminine archetypes of mother (Ceres), daughter (Pallas), wife (Juno), and sister (Vesta). However, lately astrological interpretations are diverging from these archetypes to incorporate asteroids in other feminine expressions that aren’t limited to traditional roles. The study of asteroids and their energy and effects in astrology is relatively new. These are the most common interpretations for their energy. Ceres This asteroid is named after the roman goddess of agriculture, the equivalent of the Greek goddess Demeter. When her daughter, Persephone, was abducted by Pluto (Hades), Ceres became so upset that everything in the earth stopped growing until her daughter returned to her. While Persephone spends half of the year with Hades—during the dark half of the year—nothing grows on Earth. While she is with her mother—during the light half of the year—Nature blooms. Ceres’s energy is related to familiar and nurturing love, motherhood, and fertility. It shows how you want to be cared for and is also related to growing plants and crops. Pallas Athena Usually just called Pallas, this asteroid is named after the Greek goddess Athena, the equivalent of the Roman goddess Minerva.

Athena adopted the name Pallas to honor a friend named Pallas who she accidentally killed in a friendly sparring match. The energy of this asteroid is usually related to independence and potential. It shows the accomplishments that can be achieved if everyone has the same opportunities, and is related to wisdom, talents, power, and overall self-sufficiency. Juno This asteroid is named after the Roman queen of the gods—the equivalent of the Greek goddess Hera—goddess of marriage and wife of Jupiter (or the Greek Zeus). She has a complex personality: committed and protective but also jealous and aggressive. The energy of the asteroid is related to what we look for in a partner but is also related to boundary and jealousy issues. Vesta This asteroid is named after the Roman virgin goddess of the home, the hearth, and the family, the equivalent of the Greek goddess Hestia. She was one of the most important deities in the Roman and Greek pantheon. She received the first offering of every sacrifice, and her sacred fire was not allowed to go out. The energy of this asteroid is related to the control of your own body, singleness, and sexuality but also domesticity and empowerment.

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Timing

ary hours

As mentioned numerous times in this chapter, timing is very important for cosmic witches. It allows them to tap into the energy of each celestial body. In astrology, everything is cyclical, but the periodicity of each cycle depends on the event that we observe. In this section, I’ll talk about two cycles that have a relatively short periodicity: the days of the week and planetary hours.

Days of the Week and Celestial Energy Each day of the week is associated with one Roman deity that corresponds with one of the celestial bodies of the solar system visible to the naked eye. Performing rituals and spells on the day of the week that corresponds with the energy of your intention will allow you to boost the energy that you put into it.

lanetary hours divide day a

om sunrise to sun

, the l

ter during ue for the night hour y hours are equal only du To calculate the length o ersa for

Day of the Week Sunday

Deity (Greek/Roman) Apollo/Sol

Planet

Correspondences

Sun

Improving yourself, attracting good luck, starting a new business, attracting wealth, improving health, happiness

ombining Celestia

eep in mind that you don’t

Monday

Selene/Luna

Moon

Divination and work related to psychic abilities, enhancing intuition, dream magick, working with your emotions, fertility issues, increasing your wisdom

Tuesday

Ares/Mars

Mars

Boosting courage and vitality, magick to win competitions and to overcome obstacles, male sexuality, increasing strength, anger issues

Wednesday

Hermes/Mercury

Mercury

Improving communication skills, negotiating deals, learning, memorizing, studying, providing protection during travels

odiac signs our ritual without h

Thursday

Zeus/Jupiter

Jupiter

Good luck, prosperity, new business opportunities, protection during long travels, spiritual growth, studying other realms

Friday

Aphrodite/Venus

Venus

All types of love and self-love spells, relationship (romantic, familiar, or friendship) rituals, beauty, glamours, seduction, sex, boosting creativity

Additionally, it is advisa onger relationship our spell. If it is in retrograd ect again

Saturn

Banishing and cleansing energies, binding, setting boundaries, working on your discipline and willpower

Saturday

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Cronus/Saturn

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The most important par ou to enhance it. Expe our craft the mos Many witches consider

elationships betw

ndences

lf, attracting good luck, siness, attracting wealth, , happiness

ork related to psy on, dream magick, working ns, fertility issues, increasing

and vitality, magick to win to overcome obstacles, male ng strength, anger issues

unication skills, negotiating emorizing, studying, ion during travels

erity, new business otection during long travels, studying other realms

nd self-love spells, r ar, or friendship) rituals, seduction, sex, boosting

ansing energies, binding, s, working on your discipline

Planetary hours Planetary hours divide day and night into twelve sections of the same length. The “day” part covers the time from sunrise to sunset, and night from sunset to sunrise. As the exact time of these events changes during the day, the length of planetary hours also changes; day hours are longer during summer and shorter during winter and the opposite is true for the night hours. Day and night planetary hours are equal only during the equinoxes. To calculate the length of the planetary hours, calculate the number of minutes between sunrise and sunset (or vice versa for night) and divide this

into twelve equal parts. Once you have the twelve hours, you can assign to them the planet that rules them. Starting by the planet that rules that day (check previous table), follow this sequence: Sun, Venus, Mercury, Moon, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars. The correspondences for rituals suitable for each planetary hour are the same as the ones specified in the table for the days of the week. This can seem a bit confusing at first, but it gets easier to calculate with practice. However, nowadays websites and apps can make the calculation for you.

Combining Celestial Energies

Keep in mind that you don’t need to wait for the perfect alignment of the celestial energies to cast a spell; considering planets such as Pluto can take up to fifteen years to change sign, it is not something doable at human scale. The most important part in your magick is your intention—celestial energies can help you to enhance it. Experience will allow you to spot the astrological aspects that influence your craft the most. Many witches consider the moon one of the strongest influences in their powers, due to its links with the occult. The moon also has a relatively short period of time transiting all the zodiac signs (twenty-eight days), allowing you to have enough time to plan your ritual without having to wait years for it. Additionally, it is advisable to check the planet with a stronger relationship to the intention of your spell. If it is in retrograde, you may want to wait until it goes direct again. Once you are more experienced in cosmic witchcraft, you can also check the relationships between that planet and other celestial bodies.

If you know your birth chart, you can compare it with the position of the celestial bodies during the date that you’ve chosen for your ritual or spell. That will give you more personalized information about how cosmic energy will affect you during that day.

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Guided Meditation: Connecting with the Celestial Energy

Sometimes we feel small when we see the immense beauty of the night sky. We are a small point in the solar system, in the Milky Way, in an infinite universe. We are a part of the cosmos and the cosmos is a part of us. And we aren’t as far apart as it may seem. The millions of stars, planets, comets . . . they are made of the same basic elements as us, mixed in different and wonderful ways. We all come from the origin of the cosmos, the big bang, the creator explosion. We are the same and simultaneously we are completely different. The light of the stars that reaches our bodies has traveled the dark space for years to offer us a vision of ourselves because we are made of the same original dust. We are an integral part of the universe, and together we move in a perfect choreography. Surrounded by the energy of the cosmos, we are part of a whole. In the middle of the silence, the welcoming darkness is almost maternal. Enjoying the sensation of weightlessness that the cosmos offers us, we can communicate with all its elements through our common energy. We are traveling companions of the comets. We feel them getting closer only to move away in their infinite journey, leaving a trail of their energy mixed with thousands of ice crystals. The stars shine through time, projecting their energy and light into the infinity of the darkness.

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Let the planets invite you to follow the compass of their harmonious orbit, in a synchronized dance that allows every particle of our bodies to integrate the energies emanated by all the celestial bodies. Experience all of the sensations as you communicate with the cosmos. Feel your spirit grow and expand. Being a part of something bigger than ourselves brings us tranquility and fullness, and we can find complete happiness.

ite you to follow the onious orbit, in a synchroevery par s emanated by all the

he sensations as you cosmos. Feel your spirit g a par s tranquility and fullness, ete happiness.

Choosing the Path of the Cosmic Witch

Do you always catch yourself mesmerized by the moon and the stars? The celestial energy may be calling you. Cosmic witches are avid learners about astrology and astronomy. They can feel the subtle changes in the energy of the universe with the movement of celestial bodies. If this resonates with you, cosmic witchcraft may be the path for you!

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6

The Path of the Elemental Witch

M

ost witches include the five elements in one way or another in their craft. The elements are the basic building blocks of everything in the universe:

Everything comes from them and their interrelationships. Elemental witches focus on the elements—by combining them or using them individually—to “build” desirable energy for their magickal workings. Elemental witches feel a strong connection with Mother Nature. Through her, they can connect with the elemental energies. With knowledge and practice, these witches can identify the optimal elements needed for a particular situation and can mix the energy of the elements to create balance and achieve their goals. Some elemental witches focus on working with a particular element they feel more drawn to; they may still consider themselves elemental witches or prefer to label their craft with that element.

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The Five Elements

ter

Occidental witchcraft believes five different elements are the basic units that form everything in the material world. This concept has its roots in the ancient Greek civilization. In the beginning, these elements were Air, Fire, Water, and Earth. Later, a fifth element—Ether or Quintessence—was included. This is now known as Spirit, and it is what unites the other four. Many other civilizations and religions developed similar concepts. The Celts believed in three basic elements (Fire, Earth, and Water), commonly represented with the triquetra, and the Chinese tradition focused more on energies than substances, dividing them into five types (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water). In occidental witchcraft, each of the five elements has a unique and irreplaceable role in existence. The first four element (Air, Fire, Water, and Earth) belong to the physical realm, while the fifth one, Spirit, belongs to the spirit realm.

Air

Fire

Air is the lightest of the elements. We can feel it, but we can’t see it. We can’t identify it with a determinate shape or confine it; it is completely free. Because of this, it is related to the spirit realm and intangible concepts, such as thoughts, knowledge, and memory. At times, Air is a cold or harsh element, as it focuses on rationality more than feelings. But rationality and emotions are two sides of the same coin, and they are necessary to achieve balance. Air represents our consciousness, what we do deliberately. This element is useful in spells relating to communication, law, knowledge, and language.

Fire is a symbol of life and protection, but it can easily turn into destruction. It is more physical than air, but it’s still closely linked to the spirit realm. You can see it, you can feel it, but it doesn’t have a determinate weight or shape. If we think about it, when we “control” a fire, what we are controlling is its fuel (element Earth), not the flame. Fire is the element of transformation and change. If you observe a flame, it is always moving and changing shape, transforming material into heat and light. Fire represents our passions and strengths. It is the internal force that keeps us moving. Elemental witches call upon fire for intentions tied to courage, love, energy, and inspiration.

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ater is the second densest e

ongly re

This element can be see . Its energy i ce and d

om steam, to liquid w aluable element for i

werfu To learn more, se

th is the densest of the el ws us to stay present and es us stability. It is usually e, energy that waits pa

es centuries. However, emely disruptive when it thquakes. This element is used to

osperity spells. It is tility, stability, and fam th is .

and protection, but it can tion. It is more physical osely linked to the spirit ou can feel it, but it nate weight or shape. If n we “control” a fire, what fuel (element Earth),

of transformation and a flame, it is always mo ansforming material into resents our passions and nal force that keeps us ches call upon fire for inten ove, energy

Water

Spirit

Water is the second densest element. It can be touched and it can be held, but it doesn’t have a shape and it will slip away if it isn’t contained. Like the tides, water is strongly related to the moon, and it is linked to intuition and the occult. This element can be seen as “moody” because of its mutability. Its energy is loving and nurturing, but it can also be fierce and destructive. It is fluid and it adapts to each situation, even changing its state from steam, to liquid water, to ice. Water is a highly valuable element for intuition, psychic abilities, emotions, healing, and dreams. Sea witches use this element as a powerful and essential part of their craft. To learn more, see page 129.

As its name implies, this element belongs completely to the spirit realm. The fifth element is the relationship between the four elements. It is the energy that keeps them together and that allows them to create reality. It is easier to perceive its effects than its presence. Spirit creates the patterns of the cosmos, but at the same time it is a part of them. It is pure energy and unlimited potential. It is commonly represented as a spiderweb that unites everything, and it keeps the balance necessary to build the material world. Spirit is associated with astral traveling, connecting with your higher self, shadow work, and working with entities, deities, and ancestors.

Earth Earth is the densest of the elements, the one that allows us to stay present and grounded because it gives us stability. It is usually seen as a calm, even passive, energy that waits patiently. It doesn’t allow external elements to disturb it, just as a mountain endures centuries. However, it can also be firm and extremely disruptive when it reaches its limit, as in earthquakes. This element is used to work with the most physical and material aspect of our realm, particularly in prosperity spells. It is also strongly linked to fertility, stability, and family, and to protective magick because the Earth is seen as the provider of food and shelter.

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The Relationship between the Elements

Although Spirit is what keeps all the elements together to build reality, the elements also interact to create the complexity of our reality. For example, although Earth represents fertility, it wouldn’t be able to create life without Water. Their relationships also create opposites: Fire is the opposite of Water, and Earth is the opposite of Air. This is particularly important when addressing energetic imbalances that cause a situation to go wrong (see “Working with the Elements” on page 119). The combination of the five elements is usually represented with a pentacle, a five-pointed star inside a circle. Each point of the star symbolizes an element, and the circle symbolizes the infinite relationship between them that creates everything. The element Spirit is placed at the top of the pentagram because it rules over the rest.

Element

Direc

Air

East

Fire

South

Water

West

Earth

North

Spirit

Center

al Personalitie

Western astro

ater) to each zodiac sign. Y wn as your zo our dominant element. Ho ology, your sun sign is no espond

esonate with you. To le

Element Correspondences Each element exists as an individual force. It has its own properties and correspondences, and it is used for different magickal and spiritual workings. Although we can experience the elements in their pure essence, such as Fire in a flame or Air in the wind, sometimes it’s difficult to incorporate their energy into our craft. Because of this, symbolism is very important in elemental witchcraft.

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Each element is identified with a sign, and they are usually represented by items that have a strong energy from one of the elements. Spirit can seem even more difficult to incorporate into our craft and our altar. Remember, the nature of the fifth element is that it is in everything. It is the sacred force that unites the material elements.

entified with a sign, and nted by items that have ne of the elements. ore difficult to incord our altar. Remember, lement is that it is in red force that unites the

Element

Direction

Color

Symbol

Representations

Air

East

Yellow

Upward triangle crossed by a line

Feathers, incense, bells

Fire

South

Red

Upward triangle

Candles, spicy food, matches

Water

West

Blue

Downward triangle

Water bowl, chalice, seashells

Earth

North

Green/brown

Downward triangle crossed by a line

Soil, plants, bones

Spirit

Center

Purple

Circle/wheel

Crystal quartz, circle, spiderweb

Elemental Personalities Eastern witchcraft unites the theory of the elements with Western astrology, assigning one of the four basic elements (Air, Earth, Fire, and Water) to each zodiac sign. Your sun sign (what’s commonly known as your zodiac sign) determines your dominant element. However, according to astrology, your sun sign is not your only aspect and the elements that correspond to your other signs (such as the moon, rising, or dominant sign) will also resonate with you. To learn more about astrological signs, see the section on cosmic witchcraft, page 81.

Air: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius Air is the element of the mind and thoughts. Because of this, people with Air personalities are rational and objective. They prefer to listen to everyone involved in a situation before making a decision or taking sides, and it’s rare that they get carried away by their feelings. Because of this cold, rational approach to most challenges, they may be seen as detached from personal relationships and material goods. However, this is not completely true. Air people feel in the same way others do; they just like to have perspective before making decisions. An Air mind is characterized by its agility and intellect. They understand things quickly, and they communicate their ideas without difficulty. They also have a very active imagination and a strong vocation for philosophy and spirituality. Because of this, sometimes they daydream too much. They are very active people with many interests; often they have several hobbies, their creativity is always buzzing, and they can get bored easily.

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Fire: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius People with Fire personalities are full of vitality and strength. They love intense activities that give them that rush of adrenaline. They need to avoid being overconfident and making risky decisions. They are passionate about what they do—sometimes too passionate. When somebody with a Fire personality feels wronged, they can be quick-tempered and express themselves in pretty destructive and abrupt ways. A balanced Fire person is a great leader. They naturally attract attention and they are good motivational speakers. They have no problem expressing their feelings and making other people understand their point of view. However, sometimes they may seem egocentric, as they like to be constantly acknowledged. Fire people are also great partners and companions because they understand how others feel. They are friendly, open, and compassionate, and they have a strong team spirit.

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Water: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces People with Water personalities are guided by their emotions and their intuition. Because of this, they prefer nonverbal communication. They are great at reading people and situations, but sometimes they lack skills to verbalize their feelings. They are fluid and adaptable, but they can have strong emotional responses, both good and bad. Water people strongly connect with their intuition and psychic abilities. It is common for them to have a clair sense or to be gifted in divination. However, as with any other ability, they still need to practice to improve it. Sometimes it’s difficult for them to maintain psychic and psychological boundaries, which can be overwhelming for people with personalities of other elements. Water people have—and express—strong feelings, and they expect other people to do the same. When somebody with a Water personality establishes a bond with somebody else, it is deep and meaningful. They can be disappointed when people don’t get as involved in relationships and projects as they do. They use all forms of creativity as a way to express their feelings. They are usually good at music, poetry, drawing, and other types of art.

aurus, Virgo, and eople with an Earth person ealism. They ar ’t like big changes, p e down ounded in the present. The alue common sense over da d work is owever, this lack ceived by other elements es.

Zodiac Sign Gemini, Libra, Aquarius Aries, Leo, Sagittarius Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

pio, and Pisces onalities are guided b uition. B munication. They are gr

heir feelings. They ar y can have str nd bad.

ies. It is common for them to be gifted in divination. ther ability, they still need it. Sometimes it’s difficult sychic and psychological be over her elements. —and express—strong ct other people to do the with a Water personality somebody else, it is deep can be disappointed when olved in relationships and ey use all forms of cr r feelings. They are usually drawing, and other types

Earth: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn People with an Earth personality appreciate stability and realism. They are cautious by nature and don’t like big changes, particularly sudden, risky changes. They are down-to-earth people and grounded in the present. Their practical minds value common sense over daydreaming, and they think that hard work is the key to achieving anything. However, this lack of fantasy can be perceived by other elements as pessimism or an absence of big objectives.

In relationships, Earth people value long-term relationships. They may not be the most intense partners, friends, or family, but they are always there when you need them. They guide their relationships by the saying “actions, not words.” They prefer activities that can be experienced through the senses more than spiritual experiences. Because of this, some of them may have difficulty connecting with their spiritual side, preferring an empiric approach.

Zodiac Sign

Element

Polarities

Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

Air: communication, thoughts, rationality

Positive: extrovert

Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

Fire: enthusiasm, passion, courage, strength

Positive: extrovert

Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

Water: emotions, sensitivity, intuition, adaptability

Negative: introvert

Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

Earth: stability, reality, material world, practicality

Negative: introvert

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echnique ying on your back, place on

. With one deep a eathe in for 4 seconds. Fill our lower chest, and la ound your collarbone. Ho xhale slowly for 8 our collarbone, then throug our lower abdom epeat this fo

ire: Sensing Warmth

ur world revolves around a ire, literally. The E

vival of life. When we stu e ire is behind all mo ’s heat warms the elemen ence between temperat ents. When the he th, it g ire is action, po

Perceiving the Elements

To be able to work with the elements, you have to learn to feel them and connect with their energies. This way, you can use them when you need to.

Air: Conscious Breathing We can feel the energy of the element Air simply by going outside on a windy day. But to truly connect with its energy, we need to deepen our interaction with it. One of the easiest techniques to embrace the element Air is through conscious breathing. This technique connects the physical expression of the element with its relationship to our mind and thoughts.

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ot Stones

elated to t e some negative cons e muscles. Luckily

The 4-7-8 Technique Lying on your back, place one hand on your abdomen and the other on your chest. Empty your lungs of air. With one deep and slow inhalation, breathe in for 4 seconds. Fill your lower abdomen, then your lower chest, and lastly your upper chest around your collarbone. Hold your breath for 7 seconds. Exhale slowly for 8 seconds: first from your collarbone, then through your lower chest, and finally your lower abdomen. Feel how your body deflates. Repeat this four times.

Fire: Sensing Warmth Our world revolves around an expression of the element Fire, literally. The Earth orbits around the sun, and its heat and light are essential for the survival of life. When we study the phenomena that occur on our planet, we realize that the element Fire is behind all movement. When the sun’s heat warms the elements Air and Water, the difference between temperatures creates wind and ocean currents. When the heat inside our planet heats the element Earth, it generates the continental drift. Fire is action, power, and passion. Hot Stones Intense activity is related to the element Fire, but it can have some negative consequences on our body, such as sore muscles. Luckily, we can address them with the same element. This ritual involves water and stones, but its main focus is the heat that is transmitted to our bodies.

Choose round and flat stones, approximately the size of your hand. Heat them in a water bath. Be careful: We want them warm, not scalding hot. Lie down in a comfortable position. Place the stones over your shoulders, backbone, and on sore muscles. Enjoy the heat and feel your body absorb it. Remove the stones before they are completely cold.

Water: Reflections An adult is made up of between 50 and 60 percent water. Connecting with this element means entering the most obscure corners of our emotions and spirituality. Water is the door to occult realms and zones of our mind. At the same time, it is the link that connects us with all other people in the world. We are connected in the cycle of life just as a drop of rainwater travels thousands of rivers, and it is consumed by living creatures and returned to Nature, only to finally reach the ocean, evaporate, and turn itself into rainwater. Water is the eternal carrier of secrets. The same water you are drinking was once part of a tree when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. It was snow when humans just learned to write, and it will be here long after we are gone.

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The Secrets in the Water Find a quiet place where you can bathe. Enter the water slowly, allowing your body to feel and adapt to the temperature and sensation. Start floating, allowing the water to carry most of your weight. Allow it to cover your ears and muffle the sounds around you. Then just let it carry your emotions the same way it carries your weight. Allow your feelings to reach the surface of your mind, maybe slowly like small drops or maybe in gushes. The healing energy of the water surrounds you, accepting and soothing your emotions, showing you the path to connect with your inner self.

Earth: Remaining Present When we walk barefoot, we can easily connect with the energy of the element Earth because our feet are one of the main entry points of energy. We can also feel its energy through the rest of our body—by placing our hands on a tree to sense its life, for example. Grounding exercises allow us to stay present and connect deeply with the Earth’s energy. Grounding Technique Place your feet firmly on the ground and breathe slowly. Then complete these sentences: “My name is ___. I am ___ years old. At this moment, I am at ____. The time of the day is ____. From where I am, I can see ____, I can hear ____, I can smell ____. I am grounded and connected with the present. I can feel the energy of the Earth and I’m safe in her embrace.”

The Elements in the City As with green witchcraft and some other types of witchcraft, it may be more difficult for elemental witches living in the city to feel that ancient connection: We can’t have big bonfires. It’s difficult to grow many plants. It’s not common to find a peaceful place near a river, and the air is more polluted. But, don’t let this discourage you! The energy of the elements is still there because everything is made of them. You just need to modernize and adapt your craft to where you live. For example, maybe you don’t have a natural body of water where you live, but you can go out on a rainy day and feel the water drops on your skin, or close your eyes in a pool, feeling how the water embraces your body.

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orking with the E

nce you’ve learned how to k with them. Elemental e you

ent kinds o Some elemental witches y the most rep ou choose to prac ely up to you and your

k with the elements an

Present

ot, we can easily connect element Ear n entry points of energy. ergy through the rest of our hands on a tree to ple. Grounding exercises t and connect deeply with

ue mly on the ground and omplete these sentences: ___ years old. At this . The time of the day is m, I can see ____, I can ____. I am grounded and

in her embrace.”

he City

ft and some other types of more difficult for elemental y to feel that ancient ave big bonfires. It’s plants. It’s not common near a river, and the air is n’t let this discourage you! ents is still there because hem. You just need to our craft to where you live. u don’t have a natural body , but you can go out on a water drops on your skin, pool, feeling how the water

Working with the Elements

Once you’ve learned how to feel and connect with the elements, it’s time to work with them. Elemental witchcraft is about understanding and combining their energies to achieve your goals. As we saw in “The Five Elements” on page 110, each element has a different type of energy. Because of this, some are more suitable for different kinds of spells and rituals than others. Some elemental witches focus their practice on one element, and often this is influenced by the most represented element in their birth chart (see page 113). Whether you choose to practice in a holistic way or to specialize your craft is entirely up to you and your personal experience with the elements. If you are considering this path, hedge witch Anjou Kiernan offers good guidance on how to work with the elements and keep them balanced in your life (even if your craft is focused on one).

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Element

Magick

Air

Intelligence, thoughts, overcoming blockages, new beginnings, travel, memory, learning

Fire

Passion, action, sex, confidence, desire, strength, inspiration, courage

Water

Emotion, intuition, psychic abilities, empathy, emotional health, birth, mystery, moon magick, dreams

Earth

Stability, reality, material world, fertility, physical health, protection, wealth, home

Spirit

Transformation, pure energy, growth

Energetic imbalances manifest themselves as different problems: Air Imbalance Causes you to lose touch with reality. People who suffer from this imbalance are always lost in their thoughts with their head in the clouds. Use Earth energy to restore balance through grounding and mindfulness exercises. You can also find balance through hobbies, such as rock climbing, gardening, or caring for animals— anything that will help you focus on and engage with the physical world. Fire Imbalance Causes feelings of rage, anger, and aggression. Fire focuses on action and neglects the emotional needs. Seeking out strong emotions can become dangerous. Use Water energy to regain calm and balance emotions. Try meditation, swimming, journaling about your emotions, or doing exercises to tune in with your intuition. Water Imbalance Causes you to feel like you are drowning in your own emotions. People who suffer from this imbalance are perceived as moody and they are introverted and passive, sometimes failing to express their feelings. Use Fire energy to help you fan your inner flame through exercise, adventures, or spicy food.

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Earth Imbalance Causes realism to turn into pessimism. People with this affliction don’t allow themselves to dream and are stubborn. Use Air energy and reawaken your creative mind by reading fantasy, making crafts, or having philosophical discussions. In this section, you will find rituals strongly related to each element. These will help you start working with their energy. Working with Nature is a great way to help you understand the balance between all the elements. As you observe and experiment with them all working together, you will learn to feel and recognize when a situation would benefit from a specific type of energy or from several of them.

nings, travel, memory,

ion, courage

l health, birth, mystery,

protection, wealth, home

Causes realism to turn with this affliction don’t am and are stubborn. Use en your creative mind by g crafts, or having philo-

u will find rituals strongly . These will help you start rgy. Working with Nature ou understand the balance ts. As you observe and all working together, you cognize when a situation pecific type of energy or

Air Ritual: Smoke Cleansing Cleansing is the name we use for all the techniques that dispel and remove negative energies. Many cleansing techniques are related to the element Air, such as sound cleansing and smoke cleansing.

Smoke cleansing is a popular technique because it draws from the three other elements. To perform an Air ritual, you need Water and Earth to make the plants grow and Fire transforms them into smoke. Once they are transformed, they become one of the strongest representations of the Air element. Many witchcraft traditions use smoke cleansing, and each one of them uses cleansing herbs that grow locally. The two main methods are loose-leaf incense and herb bundles. Loose-leaf incense are herb blends of dry leaves, flowers, and other parts of plants that are burned on a charcoal disk or other heat source (see page 35 for how to make incense). Herb bundles are bouquets of herbs tied tightly together while they are still fresh and then allowed to dry. Herb bundles can be lit on one end and don’t need another heat source. When choosing the herbs that you want to burn, check the magickal properties of each one of them (see the section “Working with Green Witchcraft Herbs and Spices” on page 28). There are many cleansing herbs you can use. Experiment with their energy, smell, and effects until you find the perfect mix for your elemental craft.

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Fire Ritual: Candle Magick All types of witchcraft use candles in rituals. They are a great way to charge items, send our intentions, and help us get in the right overall mind-set. Candle magick is a type of spell in which candles assume the main role. There are different variations, but they focus on using the power of the element Fire to cast our spell and set our intention.

The first step is choosing the right candle for your spell. The size of the candle will determine how long it will take to burn completely. This is important because some spells require that the candle burn down completely. On many candles you can find a label that gives the approximate burn time. The color, smell, and even shape of the candle are also important. These characteristics have determinate correspondences that will help you boost your intention. For example, the color green is related to fertility and the smell vanilla is related to love. When in doubt, use a scentless white candle, as white is the all-purpose color. Once you’ve chosen your candle, it is time to charge it with your intention. Some people do this by simply meditating, focusing, or projecting their intention. You can reinforce it by carving your intention with words or symbols into the candle and blessing it with an oil blend of a carrier oil, essential oils, and herbs that match your intention. When your candle is ready, place it in a fireproof holder and burn it! Some spells require that the candle burn down completely, and others don’t. I don’t recommend reusing candles that have been used for a specific spell, but you can reuse the ones that are for meditation or relaxation.

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Water Ritual: Water Scrying Water is the door to our psychic powers and inner self. When we incorporate its energy into our divination rituals, we access the realm of the occult. Scrying comes from the word descry, meaning to see or to announce. When we use the divination technique of scrying, we gaze into the shapes of our subconscious with our Third Eye to find the answers that our soul is looking for.

To practice scrying, you only need a bowl with water and a crystal. It’s preferable that the bowl is a dark color to allow you to concentrate better on the shapes in the water. The crystal is used to enhance those shapes. Usually we use a clear quartz or a crystal related to psychic abilities, such as amethyst. Place the crystal inside your bowl and stare into the water. Let your mind roam free until you’ve achieved a trance-like state of mind. Some people use music or meditation to help them reach this state, but it can take time and practice. With your intention in mind, shapes will dance before your eyes. Allow them to move, change, and disappear, making mental note of what you see. Scrying is commonly considered a door to our mind and subconscious. This means that even if some shapes have assigned meanings that work for most people, only you can interpret what you are seeing. For example, a ring can have a positive meaning for somebody who wants to propose but a negative meaning for somebody that has just broken their engagement.

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Earth Ritual: Crystal Grids Crystals are a common way to incorporate the element Earth into your craft because they are, well, chunks of Earth. The world of crystals and stones is fascinating. The same elements create different colors and shapes depending on the conditions they are exposed to. And each element reacts differently to other elements, creating different colors and shapes. They can grow, divide, and disappear, but they do so on a time scale that is too long for humans to see in its entirety. It’s almost as if the crystals were alive.

Just as the components of the crystals react, their energy can also be combined. We use crystal grids and the power of geometry to connect the crystals and their energy. A crystal grid usually has a base drawing with lines that connect the crystals. The key is to position the crystals in a way that they create a symmetrical design that resonates with you and your goal. The minimum number of crystals to create a grid is usually four, placing the biggest or most relevant crystal in the middle. You can place a small piece of paper with your intention under the middle crystal. Once you’ve arranged your crystals, it’s time to charge the crystal grid, using your energy to activate the crystals. You can use a clear quartz or selenite wand to channel your energy. Once you’ve mastered creating smaller crystal grids, you can work with bigger ones. For example, for protection, some witches like to create a big crystal grid in the room where their altar is placed.

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Spirit Ritual: Lucid Dreaming When we enter a lucid dream, our body is asleep but our conscious is still active. Lucid dreams are one of the few situations where our conscious and subconscious can communicate without barriers. Because of this, it is a great tool to help you grow spiritually, gaining insight into your craft.

There are several techniques to achieve lucid dreams, and it is easier for some people than for others. The two main techniques are Wake Induced Lucid Dreaming (WILD) and Dream Induced Lucid Dreaming (DILD). For both of them, keep a dream journal to note your experiences. WILD Technique Find a quiet and dark place and lie on your back with your eyes closed. Focus on the darkness and your breathing, and allow your mind to flow freely. When you feel that you are falling asleep (seeing shapes, colors, images, sounds . . . ), you are entering the hypnagogic state. Engage with those sensations and think, “I’m conscious.” Slowly you will be able to stabilize the lucid dream. It’s time to explore your subconscious. DILD Technique This technique has you regaining consciousness when you are already fully asleep. To achieve this, you need to condition your mind to say the affirmation “I’m conscious” (or other words that work for you). Repeat it several times during the day. Write it down and leave the notes in places you use regularly. Once this sentence is integrated into your subconscious, it will pop up in your dreams and once it does, your conscious mind will wake up. It’s important to note that when practicing lucid dreaming, particularly with the WILD technique if you haven’t mastered it yet, you can experience sleep paralysis. Sleep paralysis is a state in which you are asleep, but you are aware of your surroundings and feel completely paralyzed while commonly experiencing frightening visions. To get out of this state, remain calm, ignore the visions, and focus on moving a concrete part of your body with all your willpower to wake up.

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Now take a moment to est. Blood e a small sample of the elem . Water is always changi

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ts warmth keeps u cle of the seasons wer and inspiration, li t is the root of

Guided Meditation: The Five Elements in Our Body

Everything in the immensity of the universe is made of the same basic five units that we call the five elements. They are combined, mixed, and merged in infinite ways to create the breathtaking variety of our realm. Air, Fire, Water, and Earth have a physical presence that we can perceive with our senses, but their spiritual energy is always present too, unified by the fifth element, Spirit. We humans are also made of these basic units as members of the universe. Touch your arm and feel the bones, the muscles, and the skin that are part of it. They are made of the same elements as the biggest mountains and valleys; they have combined in amazing ways, from the smallest seed to the biggest animal, and been blessed by the fertility of the element Earth. You can connect with it walking barefoot, touching with your body the soil that give us life, solid and stable. Its energy allows us to stay present and gives us the strength to keep walking.

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With a conscious and d w the element Air inside ving our c w of ou

Now take a moment to feel your heart, always pumping without rest. Blood, saliva, tears . . . they are a small sample of the element Water in our body. Water is always changing in an eternal cycle in our planet. The water that forms part of our body today was once part of an ocean and it will be part of a cloud in the future. This element unifies all living beings, traveling and healing their bodies before going back to Nature. Its energy permeates our dreams and intuition; it purifies us and guides our emotions. Feeling your body, your blood, you’ve realized that it is warm. The vitality of the element Fire fuels our activity just as it feeds the plants through sunlight. Its warmth keeps us alive, blessing us with the cycle of the seasons. Its energy gives us willpower and inspiration, like a bonfire burning inside of us. It is the root of our passions, what makes our soul feel warm and alive. With a conscious and deep inhalation, we allow the element Air inside of our bodies. It fills our lungs, moving our chest and stimulating the natural energy flow of our body. As the most

ethereal of the physical elements, it can’t be retained for too long in your body and you need to release it with an exhalation. It behaves the same way in the natural world, always traveling, carrying sounds, smells, and seeds on its journey. Its energy also carries our ethereal words and thoughts. The fifth element has always been there, merging all the other elements to make reality possible. The same way that atoms are mostly empty space but they create solid matter, the element Spirit is there, vital and invisible, as an ethereal web that keeps everything united. Through our higher self we can feel our own energy and the energy around us, creating and being a part of everything simultaneously. When we reflect on the five elements, we can see their presence in varying degrees in everything that surrounds us. But it is only when we explore the path of witchcraft and spirituality that we can also feel them, their most basic energy, creating us and linking our mundane realm to the spiritual realm.

Choosing the Path of the Elemental Witch

Elemental witches work with the basic entities of energy in the universe. By knowing and connecting with them, they can raise and combine the energy they need for their rituals. Elemental witches like to go to the root of their magick, and many feel more drawn to a certain element—but they know how to keep the balance between them all. If this resonates with you, elemental witchcraft may be the path for you!

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7

The Path of the Sea Witch

S

ea witchcraft is a very specific but very popular path. Sometimes it is considered a part of water witchcraft or elemental witchcraft. However, its history and popularity

have allowed it to create its own customs and traditions, so it can be considered a distinct path. Sea witchcraft is also much more than just water magick. The beach is a place where you can easily find the five elements: Water in the sea, Earth in the sand, Air in the wind, Fire in the sun, and Spirit in what likens everything together. It’s also important to know that not all sea witches live near the ocean, and some can only visit the shore occasionally. What makes a sea witch is their connection with the energy of the sea, not their physical proximity. As Sandra Kynes, a pagan author, describes it, “The real beauty of Sea Magic is that you do not need to be near the ocean . . . water is the element related to the inner self. The energy of magic emanates from the depths of our being.”

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Sea Witchcraft and the Oceans

Sea witches source their powers in the largest portion of the Earth, the seas and oceans that occupy 70 percent of our planet. And not only that, but many of the places on Earth we inhabit now were once ancient oceans. We still can find those traces in the sediments of the soil and fossilized marine creatures. The ocean has always captivated humanity. Many cultures established their towns near the shore, because it was a reliable source of food and a way to connect with other cultures across the world. The ocean was a mysterious and powerful part of Nature that hid treasures, creatures, dangers, and many secrets. The ocean is considered the origin of life as we know it. And even nowadays it continues to provide us with essential things for our survival. It is one of our main sources of food. It is a key piece in the water cycle and climate, and it is the main source of oxygen. The ocean is the most ancient font of health and spirituality.

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The Element Water

Although all the elements are present in sea witchcraft, Water still has a predominant position. This element is usually depicted as a Mother, an entity we all come from, that blesses the land with fertility but can also be strict. One of the most singular qualities of the element Water is its ability to change and adapt to external conditions. Unlike Fire, Air, or Earth, Water can change its state between solid, liquid, and gas. We can find examples of them all in the ocean in the form of icebergs, liquid water, and clouds. Annwyn Avalon, a water witchcraft priestess, uses the Celtic triskele to represent these three states. Each water state is used with different purposes in witchcraft: Ice Freezing is used for binding spells, to stop something from happening. Defrosting is used for unbinding spells, to get something moving. Melted ice or snow can be used for divination (scrying). Steam Steam is used to write on different surfaces on which you don’t want the writing to be seen. One of the most popular versions of this is writing sigils or other symbols in the mirror of your bathroom after a shower. Liquid This is the most used state of this element. We use it for drinking, bathing, sprinkling . . . and there are multiple ways to incorporate it into our craft.

Water forms part of the same cycle, but its energy is nuanced with different properties depending on the source: • Rivers Always running, water from rivers is great for letting go. Rivers are also seen by many cultures as gateways to the afterlife. River water can be incorporated into rituals featuring your ancestors or other spirits. • Lakes Their usually calm waters make them resemble large mirrors. Their water is used to connect with the most mysterious aspects of the element Water. It is used for divination and working with the inner self. • Rain Just as the rain cleans the air, taking with it all the dust and particles, rainwater cleanses negative energy. • Sea For sea witches, this is the all-purpose water. It is the main source of their power. It is healing, calming, and can be used as an offering. As it already contains salt, it is commonly used for cleansing and to bless items.

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The Tides and the Moon Humankind has always been fascinated by the relationship between the ocean and the moon. Both are sources of strong and mysterious energies that are interrelated. But their relationship transcends to the physical realm, creating the tides. The tides are a raising or lowering of the sea levels caused by the gravitational forces of the sun and the moon. These celestial bodies “pull” the water from the surface of the Earth, causing the water levels to rise at some points of the planet, and consequently, as the water is displaced, it lowers at other points. Because of the rotation and orbit of the Earth and the moon, the zone of the Earth where this pull is exercised changes, creating a 24-hour-and-50-minute cycle of high and low tides. The extra 50 minutes are caused by the influence of the moon over that of the sun. This means that the tides don’t fall on the same hour every day. The number of tides experienced in a cycle depends on the latitude. On most shores there are four tides in a day (two low and two high). In the tropics, tides are almost nonexistent due to the centripetal force of the Earth.

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This daily cycle of the tides can be divided into four phases, revealing and covering the intertidal zone of the beach: • High tide: the water is at its highest level • Ebb tide: the water lowers its level over several hours • Low tide: the water reaches its lowest level • Flood tide: the water raises its level over several hours The effects of the tides can also be observed in other water bodies, although they are minor in comparison to their effects on the ocean. The larger the water body, the better we are able to observe the tides. Many plants and animals have tuned their life cycle with the tides. There are complex ecosystems that inhabit the intertidal zone and that depend on sea level changes, but it doesn’t stop there. Many terrestrial vertebrates show biorhythms and behaviors that match the tidal cycles and moon phases (human menstruation, for example). This is probably linked to a common ancestor that lived in the ocean. We are connected to the ocean through our oldest roots. Sea witches also take advantage of these biorhythms of the Earth to synchronize their rituals with the energy of the moon and the ocean. To learn more, see the section “Moon Phases” on page 133.

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ater lowers its level over

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Tide

Moon Phase

Rituals

High tide

Full moon

Prosperity, love, divination, manifestation, boosting a spell, strength

Ebb tide

Waning moon

Banishing, releasing, letting go, resolving a problem, cleansing

Low tide

New moon

Meditation, introspection, self-discovery, working with your shadow self

Flood tide

Waxing moon

Growth, new beginnings, new ideas

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The time of the tides changes. Because they are important for navigation, you can easily consult your local tides in shipping forecasts and tide tables online. The water levels of the high tide and the low tide, and the extension of the intertidal zone, are different throughout the month. This is because the cycle of the tides is also related to the moon phases. During full moons and new moons, the sun and the moon are perfectly aligned, meaning that their gravity is “pulling” in the same direction. Because of this, the difference between high and low tides (the tidal range) is greater. These tides are named spring tides and occur twice a month (one for the full moon and one for the new moon).

During the first and last quarters, the sun, the Earth, and the moon form a 90-degree angle. The “pull” of the sun and the moon are perpendicular, lowering their force and causing a lower tidal range. These tides are called neap tides and occur twice a month (one for the first quarter and one for the last quarter). The moon and the element Water are deeply linked to intuition and psychic powers (cosmic witchcraft and elemental witchcraft). Sea witches connect strongly with both of these energies, creating a synergy in their craft that makes it particularly favorable to connect with their own psychic powers. Practices such as divination, listening to intuition, and clair senses work are common parts of sea witchcraft.

section “Moon Phases” on

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Sea Spirits Water, and particularly seas and oceans, have always fascinated humans, evoking mysterious creatures and stimulating our imagination. With time, many civilizations developed myths, deities, and other creatures related to bodies of water. Some well-known sea deities include Poseidon, the Greek god (known as Neptune in Roman mythology). He was believed to bring calm waters, but if he got angry, he caused earthquakes, tsunamis, and shipwrecks. In Nordic mythology, Njord was god of the sea, sailors, and seacoasts. He was said to help sailors catch plenty of fish and return home safely. You can also incorporate other mythological sea creatures into your craft. For example, sea serpents are present in many cultures. Mermaids and tritons are half-human, half-fish, and are

depicted as both very dangerous and very helpful. Kelpie are water horses that sometimes lured people into riding them and then drowned them, and lamias are faeries that could create waterspouts. For more details about sea deities and beings, Sandra Kynes’s book Sea Magic is a good place to begin. Working with these deities is a popular way to connect with the energy of the sea. To work with them, first you need to find which deities or creatures you feel drawn to; your spiritual relationship with them will be the basis for a prosperous relationship. Begin by researching the myths and folklore of your ancestors and where you live. After you’ve heard their calling, as with any deity or mystical creature, the next step is always learning about them and how to properly create a connection to work together.

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angerous and very helpful. that sometimes lured m and then drowned them, hat could create waters about sea deities and book Sea Magic is a good

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Working with the Sea

The sea offers us so many resources for our craft, and many sea witches use them to bring the energy of the sea into their homes, crafting witchcraft tools with them. Sea altars often use elements found at the beach: a shell with water placed at the west for the element Water; a sand dollar, a starfish, or driftwood placed at the north for the element Earth; an iridescent or white shell placed at the East for the element Air; and an incense burner or candle made with a seashell (see page 138) placed at the south for the element Fire. Here are some other important things to keep in mind when you are collecting for sea crafts: • Always be mindful when removing something from the beach. When we gather any natural item from outdoors, it’s important to make sure that picking it doesn’t harm Mother Earth, particularly when it comes to an endangered species. • Leave anything that’s alive at the beach. This includes plants, sand dollars, starfish, coral, and crabs. Sometimes you may find one of these beings washed up at the shore and alive, so you can kindly take it back to the water.

Although it is usually better to find them yourself, buying or trading materials is also an option. If you buy them, make sure that they’ve been sourced ethically. For example, many souvenir shops fish, dry, and sell starfish, seahorses, coral, and shark teeth. Some cultures see it as extremely disrespectful to pick up elements from the beach, and some places have strict rules about picking things at the beach to protect sensitive ecosystems. Check the local customs and laws before doing so.

• Some living beings have a purpose when they are dead. Live and dead dune grasses prevent erosion, and empty shells are new homes for hermit crabs. If you live in a place with a hermit crab population, don’t pick up the shells they use as homes.

The Path of the Sea Witch 135

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Seashells When we think about incorporating the energy of the sea into our altar, we usually think first of seashells. Seashells are strong symbols of protection, abundance, and fertility. They can also be turned into many tools. The most popular use for seashells is holding water, but they can hold many other things, such as salt, incense, and, as we will see in this section, a candle. Seashells are made from calcium carbonate and their main purpose is to protect the animal

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that inhabits them. This means they are very resistant for their size, and they can be used as burners. Always place them on a heat-resistant surface (they will get hot!). It’s also best to choose a thick shell. Seashells are also a great way to connect with the sea for sea witches who live away from the shore. Some say that you can hear the ocean in a seashell. In reality, this is caused by surrounding noise that is amplified and sounds like waves at the beach, which is a beautiful reminder that the energy of the sea is around us at every moment.

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As with many other items in witchcraft, seashells have correspondences depending on their type, colors, shapes, and patterns. Learning to identify them will allow you to deepen your craft. Some common seashells you can use are: Abalone Their iridescent interiors remind us of the waves. They are used for prosperity, healing, and cleansing. It is common to see them as bowls to burn herbs/incense. Ark Clam These thick and radial ribbed seashells are used for protection spells. Their shape and ribs, as with scallops, make them perfect for representing celestial lights. The thickness of the shell withstands the heat better than other shells, so they are used as small burners. (Always make sure that they won’t roll.) Auger The pointed shape of augers makes them perfect for channeling and projecting energy through their spiral. They are commonly incorporated into wands. Cowrie These shells are a popular tool for divination across many cultures, and each has developed a particular way to use them. Usually, the “belly” part of the shell is removed so they don’t roll. The shells are tossed while focusing on a specific question and sometimes while calling on deities or entities for their help. The number of shells that fall with the “mouth” side up will determine your interpretation.

Nautilus Nautilus shells have more than 400 million years of history and are often associated with the golden ratio (an irrational number that appears when we study some natural patterns; it is considered to be an aesthetically pleasing design). These shells are used to connect with our ancestors and find balance. Their spiral and ancient origin evoke the cycle of life and reincarnation. In some places, they are endangered; please only use them if you already have one of their shells. Sand Dollar Although they aren’t technically seashells, sand dollars are used in a similar way in sea witchcraft. Their five-pointed design is commonly linked to the five elements. Sand dollars are used in prosperity, balance, and knowledge spells. Scallop These seashells have been incorporated into many belief systems. In sea witchcraft, they are used for fertility, harmony, and journeys. Their round shape and radial ribs also make them a symbol for celestial lights and their beams. Starfish As with sand dollars, starfish aren’t seashells. They are sea urchins. Their five limbs remind us of the pentacle and the five elements. They are incorporated into spells aimed at feelings and adaptation.

y moment.

The Path of the Sea Witch 137

ore Sea Treasures

eashells aren’t the only smal

Seashell Candles The first step is choosing the seashell you want to use. You can choose one based on the intention you want to pour into that candle (see “Seashells” on page 136). Always choose one with a thick shell that is more concave than flat, so it resists the heat better and can hold more wax.

After you’ve chosen your shell, you will need a wick. You can use the one from a tea light candle. They are usually the perfect length and they come with a metal base so they stay upright. Plus, you can use the wax of the tea light for your seashell candle. Place the wick at the deepest part of your seashell. If your wick doesn’t have a base, you can hold it upright using a clothespin supported on either side by a couple of books. Now it’s time to melt the wax. Use wax flakes (or grate the tea light) so they melt better. It’s best if you use wax that’s natural, biodegradable, and comes from an eco-friendly source. Create a double boiler with a large pot and a smaller pot. Put the wax inside the smaller pot and place it inside the bigger pot. Pour water into the bigger pot— about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) is usually enough for 1⁄2 pound (225 g) of wax. Place the double boiler over medium-low heat. Add the wax, stirring occasionally. Different types of wax have different melting points. Once melted, you can add colors or essential oils that match your intention (see “Working with Green Witchcraft” on page 27). Carefully pour the melted wax into your seashell. Allow it to cool and harden before using it.

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n fact, finding thi our craft can a be magickal ounding process where esent and appreciate th

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Ammonites These are f eatures. Because of this, it eas that we e perfect for h

More Sea Treasures Seashells aren’t the only small treasures you can find at the beach and incorporate into your altar and craft. In fact, finding things at the beach for your craft can a be magickal experience in itself. It is a grounding process where you need to focus on the present and appreciate the small details on the beach while the sea mist surrounds you. Some items you can find are: Algae There are many different types of algae and many of them have their own correspondences. They are good for grounding, prosperity, protection, fertility, and summoning the elements. You can also find edible algae at shops. It is nutritious and a creative way to incorporate sea witchcraft into your daily life. Ammonites These are fossils of ancient sea creatures. Because of this, it is common to find them inland in areas that were once covered by the ocean. They are perfect for helping us connect with the past and our ancestors.

Coral There are many species of coral and they have different correspondences. They are generally linked to protection and inner strength. Many corals are endangered due to human actions. At the individual level, as a sea witch you can help protect them using sunscreen without toxic ingredients. Crab Shells If you find an empty crab shell you can use it for protection and retreat. The claws can be used in binding spells. Driftwood In its travels through the ocean water, driftwood has softened and is charged with the ocean’s energy. Driftwood is great for making your own sea witch wand (see page 141). Feathers Sea birds shed feathers just like any other bird. You can easily find them at the beach and use them to incorporate the element Air into your sea craft. They are related to creativity, intelligence, and thought.

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Pebbles Pebbles and stones found at the beach are great for protection. If you find enough of them of similar size and shape you can even create your own set of runes. If you are lucky enough, you may find a hag stone, a stone with a natural hole through it. They are used as talismans for fertility and protection, and some say that if you look through their hole you can see the faeries/ spirits that live where you found it.

Shark Teeth They are sharp and fierce, and difficult to find at many beaches. Shark teeth are great for protection and courage.

Sand Sand is incorporated into many sea witchcraft spells (see page 142). It is good for letting go of what no longer serves you and for banishing. It also can be used to cast protective circles.

When walking at the beach, we can (and, sadly usually do) find other less pleasant items: cigarette butts, plastics, and many other types of trash harmful for the environment. Picking up these items and correctly disposing of them is a great help for the ecosystems and a beautiful way to give back to Mother Ocean for everything that she offers us.

Sea Glass When pieces of glass spend enough time in the ocean, it shapes, smooths, and polishes them. Sea glass can be used for many purposes; adapt its uses to its shape and color. A popular use is creating meditation beads or jewelry with it. Sea Water You can bottle some sea water and take it home. As it is naturally mixed with sea salt, it is a powerful tool for cleansing. Just remember that once it dries it may leave a residue, depending on its salt concentration, and it may not be suitable for cleansing sensitive tools.

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Trash Treasures Sea water can transform some types of human pollution into beautiful items. Sea glass is one example of this, but there are many others, such as brick pieces or Leland blue stones (slag from a melting process from the nineteenth century).

are sharp and fierce, and y beaches. Shark teeth are d courage.

on into beautiful items. S this, but there are many eces or Leland blue stones ocess from the nineteenth

he beach, we can (and, ther less pleasant items: and many other types of nvironment. Picking up ly disposing of them is a stems and a beautiful way Ocean for everything that

Driftwood Wands Wands are tools used to channel your energy in different rituals. Driftwood is already charged with the energy of the sea, which makes it easier for sea witches to connect with it. Plus, it is usually soft and polished, so it has a comfortable grip.

First choose the driftwood you want to use for your wand. Choose a branch that is about 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) long and with a diameter that feels comfortable in your hand. You can apply some wood oil to help protect the wood. You can use it as it is, but many witches prefer decorating their wands with crystals and other items. Some of the most popular crystals for wands are crystal quartz and selenite because they help channel and amplify energy. As a sea witch, you can also decorate it with seashells, rope that you find at the beach, or sea glass. Decorating the wand is not purely aesthetic. The correspondences of the items that you use will help enhance the energy of the wand. You can create wands with different purposes. For example, you can use different types of seashells to create a wand for your protective rituals.

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However, there are beac e accumulated

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Sand Spells Sand is a very handy element in sea witchcraft. It is composed of tiny fragments of stones, minerals, and shells that have been shaped by the water of the sea for centuries, carrying its energy. One of the most abundant stones is quartz, which is said to channel and enhance energy. For more details see the “Stones” section on page 29.

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All the tiny sand grains come from around the world, traveling great distances from the original stone. Usually, when you look closely at a handful of sea sand you will realize how many types of grains there are, mixing their energies and stories from ancient times.

eate a divination g e (usua our

’ runes, cowries) and e and how

rains come from ar istances from the original

lize how many types of g their energies and stories

However, there are beaches where certain conditions have accumulated special sand of just one type, such as black sand beaches. These sands have particular properties linked to their origin and color. There are many ways to incorporate sand into your craft: Temporal Symbols Drawing a symbol or writing words in sand and allowing the water to wash them away or the wind to blow them away is a common technique for banishing spells when your intention is to let it go. It is also popular for manifestation spells where you put your intention into sending that energy to the universe. These spells are also a reminder that nothing is permanent: Life means change.

Pendulum Charts These charts tap into the ancient knowledge that the sand has accumulated. Draw a circle and divide it into equal mirrored sections that follow the movement of the pendulum. Protection Sand’s energy is strongly protective. Because of this, it is a common ingredient in spell jars for protection (along with seashells). It is also commonly used to create protective circles, particularly outdoors where salt can harm plants and animals.

Grids Dampen your sand lightly so it holds shapes better. Use it to create a crystal grid. This geometrical pattern connects different crystals to merge their energy and manifest a particular intention (see the section “Earth Ritual: Crystal Grids” on page 124). Sand with a high quartz content is ideal for this, as it channels the energy better. You can also create a divination grid. Create a grid with shapes of the same size (usually squares) and assign each space to aspects of your life. Use a divination tool that needs to be tossed (e.g., Norse runes, witches’ runes, cowries) and interpret your reading depending on where and how they fall.

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Candle and Sand Intention Seal Another way to incorporate sand is in a candle spell. These spells are useful for manifesting long-term goals. The sand, and its amplifying power, will be stuck together by the wax of the candle, charged with your intention. Use an herbal blend and objects that match your intention to strengthen the energy in this spell. Makes 1 seal

̭ 3 tablespoons (45 to 60 g) sand

̭ 1 tablespoon (1 to 3 g) herbal blend (optional)

̭ Small items such as seashells, crystals, or charms (optional) ̭ 1 candle in a color that matches your intention or white

Fill a bowl with sand and mix it with the herbs or other ingredients that match your intention. Bless your candle and carve it with your intention. Place the candle in the middle of the sand, light the candle, and allow it to burn completely. Keep the melted wax mixed with the sand until you’ve achieved your goal.

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Two Ways to Make a Sea Bath For sea witches who don’t live near the beach, baths are a great way to connect with the energy of the sea.

Sea Salt Bath Create a sea-like environment in your bathroom by decorating it with seashells. Fill your tub with lukewarm water and add sea salt to it. Salt is a great way to cleanse your energy. Sea salt baths are also beneficial for your health because they stimulate circulation and can ease muscle cramps—you will feel rejuvenated. You can also add seaweed suitable for baths such as kelp, or combine it with a green witchcraft herbal bath (see page 40). Sea Stone Bath Fill a bucket or basin with round and flat pebbles like the ones you would find at a beach—about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) in diameter. Add lukewarm water with sea salt. Place the bucket somewhere where you can sit comfortably (and a place that won’t be damaged if you splash a bit). Sit down and put your feet inside. Massage your feet with the stones, rubbing them gently as if you were walking lightly on a rocky beach. This is a great way to connect with the sea and helps improve circulation and ease tired feet. Spells and rituals aren’t the only ways to incorporate sand into your spirituality. An interesting activity that merges sand and water is the karesansui, often called Zen gardens. This kind of dry garden represents sea landscapes with sand, gravel, stones, bushes, and other features. The sand or gravel is raked to represent the movement of the water. These gardens are strong meditation tools.

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Under the surface of the ven if our kn e have an eterna w

ed mysteries, so does our chic abilities a

The water is always mov

eating the white foam in a

The energy of the waves face of the sea. As they ap ows stronger until t wing us to se wer. Finally, all their ver the sand, creati etrea wing wave in a never-en

Guided Meditation: The Tides and the Sea

Feel your mind relax with the blue colors of the sky merging with the sea. Allow your feelings and emotions to flow. The vast expanse of water spreads in front of your eyes. Looking at the horizon, it is impossible to see the other shore, and your heart knows how vast the ocean is. Its water reaches all continents and bathes them with its energy, present on all corners of our blue planet. All the energy of the sea reaches you with a gentle and pleasant breeze, revitalizing your spirit. It evokes an ancient feeling, as the ocean is the mother of the life on our planet. Her cycles, synced with the moon, are also synced with our own. The moon plays with the ocean, exercising its power over its waves, creating the tides. The water stretches, trying to reach the goddess of the night sky only to come back to the Earth over and over again. In every tide and wave, the moon transmits her energy to us. She attracts us with her beauty and power, in the same way that she attracts the ocean, because we are made of water.

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Under the surface of the ocean exists a wide, occult world. Even if our knowledge of its depths is limited, we have an eternal connection to the oceans and our energy knows the mysterious beings that inhabit them. As the ocean hides unexplored mysteries, so does our spirit. The unconscious and psychic abilities are our connections with the depths of the ocean. The water is always moving, and what once was at the deepest point of the ocean is now creating the white foam in a wave at the shore. Their continuous rhythm is almost hypnotic, trance inducing. The energy of the waves starts small, on the surface of the sea. As they approach the shore, their energy grows stronger until they rise up in front of the sand, allowing us to see them at the peak of their power. Finally, all their energy is liberated as they fall over the sand, creating soft, white foam. And all of this only to retreat to leave space for the following wave in a never-ending cycle.

The water of the sea is in a perpetual cycle, changing again and again. It takes the essence of the sea everywhere with the rain, fertilizing the Earth, forming part of living beings, only to come back through the rivers, as a child comes back to their mother. The energy of the waves fills us and floods us with its eternal and regenerative power. Waves change, water changes, but the ocean is eternal. We can always come back to its energy. Every day, every night, since the creation of our planet, waves reach the Earth from the depths of the ocean, inviting the Earth to play with them, only to return to the ocean and be mixed again with the water of other waves, other places, nurturing the living creatures inside it. Our life is the same—every moment is ephemeral, different from the rest but still part of a whole, creating our existence. Our energy flows, transforms, grows, and combines with the rest of the energies—all of them being a part of the universe.

Choosing the Path of the Sea Witch

Sea witches have a strong relationship with the element Water, but particularly with the sea and the ocean. It doesn’t matter where they are, the shore calls them. It’s common for them to call it Mother Ocean because it is the source of their power. They are deeply in touch with their psychic powers, holding mysteries just as the unexplored ocean does. Sea witches may also be activists, advocating for the well-being of the ocean and all types of sea creatures. If this resonates with you, sea witchcraft may be the path for you!

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8

The Path of the Eclectic Witch

A

lthough eclectic witchcraft has been present throughout history, it has become increasingly popular with the rise of solitary witchcraft. Eclectic witchcraft allows

us to create our own path with the belief system and customs that best fit us and our personal situation. Eclectic is sometimes used to define a path that doesn’t fit in any other description. Due to eclectic witchcraft’s increasing popularity, you can find many books about it. Many explore the personal beliefs of the author, which can be helpful for your research in finding your own path. Maybe one of them resonates completely with you, but for the most part they aren’t guides to the whole eclectic path. This chapter is a bit shorter than the previous ones because there aren’t any common beliefs or practices for all eclectic witches. What you will find in this chapter are questions to ask yourself as guidance to create your own craft.

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Eclectic Beliefs and Ethics

As with witchcraft in general, eclectic witchcraft isn’t linked to any particular belief system. Some paths incorporate ethics and other beliefs in their craft. For example, Wiccan witches follow the Wiccan rede, and green witches and sea witches advocate taking care of Mother Nature. Eclectic witchcraft offers absolute freedom when talking about morals, beliefs, and ethics. You should think through when it is acceptable for you to use witchcraft to your advantage, but the limits of your actions are up to you. All actions can have unexpected or unintended consequences on our lives or the lives of others. For example, if you cast a spell to get a job, you might be affecting the lives of other people. Maybe somebody won’t be able to feed their family without that job, or maybe they won’t be able to pay the rent. This happens with magickal actions and with mundane actions. If you get a job because you are the most qualified person for the job, the second most qualified person will not have that opportunity and they may need it desperately too. My advice is that your use of witchcraft should follow the same values you have in your mundane activities. For example, if you wouldn’t harm a person with mundane actions because you think that it isn’t the right thing to do, you shouldn’t hurt them with witchcraft either. Your actions and the repercussions of your witchcraft are your responsibility, just as you are responsible for your mundane actions.

I also encourage you to include taking care of Mother Nature through your craft to the degree that you can—or at least not harming her. Independent of our beliefs and practices, she is our home and provides us with everything that we need to live. She deserves our care.

wing Yourself to C

o create your own path, yo ou want from it and how to

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es questions to find o e values. As you do this, r ourself with self-love. Don’t e emotions; they are o ourself and to better

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ou to include taking care ugh your craft to the degr st not harming her. iefs and practices, she is us with everything that serves our care.

Knowing Yourself to Create Your Path To create your own path, you need to know what you want from it and how to react to situations that may arise. This may seem easy or obvious, but it is not. Self-discovery is a never-ending journey that takes discipline and courage. It means facing what you like about yourself and also what you dislike. Journaling and meditation allow us to connect with our inner self in a deeper way. We can ask ourselves questions to find our life purpose and core values. As you do this, remember to treat yourself with self-love. Don’t be discouraged by negative emotions; they are opportunities to learn about yourself and to better yourself.

Self-discovery is an ongoing process. Allow yourself to experiment without judgment. If you are always looking for the reason behind everything, you will get tired quickly and you will miss important aspects of everyday experiences. Try new things! If you repeat the same patterns again and again you can predict their outcome. To discover new facets of yourself you need to step out of your comfort zone.

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Creating Your Own Path

Intuitive Witchcraft

Eclectic witchcraft is a good solution when none of the “established” paths match your beliefs. However, when faced with the difficult task of creating a new tradition, many witches feel overwhelmed. There are important questions that you have to ask yourself to create the basis for your craft.

You are the source of your power: This is a principle that most witchcraft paths share. You can ask Mother Earth and the Universe for their help. You can work with the energy of the elements. But your own power resides in you. While your craft and path are yours to define, keep in mind that witches have developed different techniques that allow you to use that power in more effective ways. Because of this, eclectic witches can benefit from learning about how other witches live their craft. This way, they can discover what aspects call to them the most and focus their efforts on deepening their knowledge about them. Once you find topics or items you want to incorporate into your craft, these are the usual steps to follow:

• What do you want to achieve with your craft? • What are your ethics and morals? • What’s your position regarding deities and other entities? • What tools do you want to use? • What will your relationship with Mother Earth be? • What will your relationship with the universe and celestial energy be? • What views do you have on the cycle of life, reincarnation, and the afterlife? • Do you want to practice alone or do you aim to be involved in witchcraft groups? • Are there any rituals in particular that will be incorporated into your craft? Remember, the craft evolves with us. It is normal to discover that what worked for you at one point in your life no longer serves you now. Change with your craft, as it changes with you.

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Learn The first step is always to learn more. When you want to explore something new, you need to know at least the basics of it first. Writing down the information is a great way to keep it organized and will help you remember it. Try Once you are familiar with the new topic, it’s time to try it! Experiment and see whether it matches your craft. Give yourself some time so you can try it thoroughly. Keep a journal about your experiences and sensations to help you decide whether this new belief or practice meets your needs.

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our power: This is a prinaft paths share. Y Universe for their help. Y gy of the elements. But y ou. nd path are y hes have developed differ ou to use that power in cause of this, eclectic m learning about ho This way, they can discov

eir knowledge about them. ics or items you want to raft, these are the usual

p is always to learn more. lore something new, you he basics of it first. Writing is a great way to keep it you remember it.

Reflect After you’ve researched and tried a new topic, take time to pause and reflect on how it has affected your craft. Was it positive or negative? Did it take too much energy, or was it easy? How did it feel? At this point review your notes and journal entries. Decide The moment of truth. You need to decide whether it works for your craft or not. If it does, blend it in with the rest of your craft. If it doesn’t work, don’t feel bad or frustrated. As you add practices to your craft, keep taking notes and adding to your journal; it will help you know when something is working and when it no longer serves you. This is all part of finding your own path. Whether you incorporate new things into your craft or decide that they are not for you, it is never wasted time. It helps you extend your knowledge as you develop the guidelines of your craft.

Mixing Traditions and Respecting Cultures Creating your own path takes a lot of research. Knowing other paths and the relationship that other witches have with their craft will allow you to incorporate the practices that fit your beliefs. When learning about other paths, you will find practices you like and you will also likely disagree with others. Remember that there isn’t a path that’s better than all the others, and all of them should be respected. Eclectic witches tend to “mix and match” beliefs from different traditions. This isn’t bad, as it is a way to find a path that adapts to them, but some cultures have closed practices and have asked outsider witches not to incorporate them into their craft. Throughout history, witchcraft has been disrespected and persecuted, used as an excuse to oppress people. It’s important that the witch community learns from this and stays united. Respect is the key for the support of multiple paths and traditions.

familiar with the ne iment and see whether it ve yourself some time so hly. Keep a journal about ensations to help you w belief or practice meets

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How to Create a Book of Shadows

A Book of Shadows (BOS) is a witchcraft tool in which you register important information about your craft, such as spells, correspondences, and techniques. The main difference between a grimoire and a BOS is that a BOS also incorporates a journal to record your personal experiences. A BOS includes your impressions of your craft: How did a spell go? How does a particular moon phase affect you? How did a tarot reading relate to your day? It is an important tool for all witches, but it takes on a special relevance for eclectic witchcraft, as you create your own tradition. It is the perfect way to keep track of your path. The journal section also allows you to keep track of what works for you and what doesn’t, allowing you to better shape your craft Although you can find a premade BOS or grimoire, my advice is to use them as sources of information for your own BOS and not as your one and only book. A BOS needs to be personal and unique to you.

Once you are more comfortable with your path and your craft, you can think about creating your own grimoire. One of its main advantages is that you can access the information in a more direct way because it isn’t mixed with other comments and thoughts. In my book The Complete Grimoire, I include all the basic pillars of my craft as well as practices I use to engage that knowledge.

ook

ve pages e

antages of this is that the wever, it is difficult for som el

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e comfortable with your u can think about creating ne of its main advantages he information in a more n’t mixed with other ts. In my book the basic pillars of my craft e to engage that kno

Choosing a Book The first step is choosing the best form for your BOS. Although notebooks are the most popular option, ring binders also work well and allow you to substitute or move pages easily. Some witches keep their BOS on a computer. One of the main advantages of this is that they are easy to edit; however, it is difficult for some witches to connect with them on the same level as written notes.

Whichever format you choose for you BOS, you should feel a strong connection with it. This bond will help you progress better and faster in your craft. As with any other tools you use in your craft, your BOS is sacred and should be consecrated and treated with respect. It is very common to include a blessing on the first page. It can be a short spell, a protective symbol, or a sigil. You can find many examples in books and on the internet, but my advice is to create your own so it is personal.

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Example of Book of Shadows Blessing I, as a humble but powerful witch, ask the five elements to be the guardians of this sacred book. I call upon the complementary energies of the Sky and the Earth to bless it and all its contents. May this Book of Shadows be filled with knowledge that helps me grow. May it be safe from prying eyes and malicious hands. So mote it be.

Fill It with Knowledge Once you’ve decided the format of your BOS, it’s time to look for information relevant for your craft. Here are a few suggestions of things to include in your BOS: • History of witchcraft and local folklore • Your morals and ethics • Meditation techniques • The five elements (see “The Path of the Elemental Witch” on page 109) • The moon phases and their energy (see “Moon Phases” on page 95) • The seasons and their energy (see “The Wheel of the Year” on page 69) • Colors and their correspondences • Herbs, flowers, trees: how to grow them and their uses (see “Working with Green Witchcraft” on pages 28 and 29)

• Crystals: their composition and uses (see “Working with Green Witchcraft: Stones” on page 29) • Food correspondences (see “Food and Witchcraft” on page 46) • Tarot card meanings and spreads • Different spells and how they worked for you • Your views on divinity and how to worship deities • Resources: reviews of useful witchcraft books, webpages, social media, and shops These are only suggestions. Confronting the blank page can seem overwhelming and having starting points and prompts help overcome that block. Only include these sections in your BOS if they will be useful to your craft or you like studying them. And keep in mind that researching things you don’t plan on including in your BOS can be equally interesting; it will broaden your horizons and help you understand other paths better. Don’t forget about the journal aspect of your BOS. Registering your feelings, emotions, reactions, and personal experiences with your craft is equally important. It allows you to understand your path better and adapt it to your personal needs. Past experiences often help us learn and grow, and they guide us in future situations.

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omposition and uses with Green Witchcraft: 29)

dences (see “Food and page 46)

nings and spreads

and how they worked

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gestions. Confronting the verwhelming and having mpts help overcome that ese sections in your BOS your craft or you like ep in mind that resear n including in your eresting; it will broaden you understand other

the journal aspect of your feelings, emotions, reaceriences with your craft is lows you to understand dapt it to your personal often help us learn and s in future situations.

Using a Book of Shadows Using a BOS doesn’t end once you’ve filled its pages with information and experiences. As with a recipe book, you can and should consult it each time you’re uncertain about some correspondences, a spell, interpreting a card . . . anything that you’ve included in it. Don’t be afraid to review and update topics that you already think you’ve mastered. You will be surprised by what you can rediscover. Things may also have a different slant in your present situation than the one they had in the past. Reviewing the journal pages allows you to reflect on how you’ve changed since you wrote each entry.

It is common for a BOS and grimoire to be passed down through generations if there are other witches in your family, as in hereditary witchcraft (see “Other Paths” on page 161).

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You can see your past fr e are good and bad imag t you. They are just mem esents its e taken you to where you our life ends, let it owth it broug All the memories have b

ou only observe them, with ood or bad, they do en’t any good or bad emoti w the e our inner world. They are t

Guided Meditation: Reconnecting with Your Inner Self

Choose a place where you won’t be disturbed. Lay down facing upward or sit down in a comfortable position. Focus on your breathing. Keep it conscious and peaceful. Let your thoughts drift away with every exhalation—first your worries, then any stray thoughts— until the only thing that remains is the pure essence of yourself. Find a quiet place in your head, where there are no emotions, no memories, only your true self. This is your safe space, a welcoming and peaceful part of your mind where you can always return. When you are there, you feel calm and connected with the energy around you. From this position, you can see yourself, all the good and all the bad. It doesn’t feel overwhelming, and your attitude is courageous and accepting. There have been many changes in yourself, physically and emotionally, from the day you were born. Be flexible and accepting of those changes—they shape your existence.

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You can see your past from your safe place. There are good and bad images, but nothing can hurt you. They are just memories. Accept each one of them as it presents itself to you. All of them have taken you to where you are now. When a stage of your life ends, let it go, and be thankful for the spiritual growth it brought you. All the memories have brought you many emotions and feelings, but from your safe place you only observe them, without interacting with them. Good or bad, they don’t reach you. There aren’t any good or bad emotions; all of them are information about how the exterior world affects your inner world. They are the way that your soul has to communicate with you. Accept them, embrace them.

Your thoughts, your memories, and your emotions have been taken away with your rhythmic, peaceful, conscious breathing. All that is left is yourself, your pure energy. You can feel all the links that connect you with all the living beings, with the Earth, and with the cosmos. Everything is interconnected and you are aware of every change, every movement. This is your connection with your higher self. Slowly regain consciousness of the physical world that surrounds you. All your senses come back, slowly but surely. Leave your safe place, and reconnect with reality. You can always come back, anywhere, any time.

Choosing the Path of the Eclectic Witch

The eclectic path is usually chosen by witches who have too many interests to choose just one type of witchcraft. Their enquiring mind wants to learn about many things, and they don’t want to close any door by labeling themselves with a determinate path. They often are witches who like parts of the established paths, but they disagree with others, and so they prefer to find their own way and create traditions that match their vision of the craft. If this resonates with you, eclectic witchcraft may be the path for you!

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9

Other Paths and Some Advice

T

he paths in this book are some of the most popular ones among witches all around the world, but they aren’t the only ones available. As we deepen

our knowledge of the craft, many other paths appear, based on different traditions and beliefs. There is no path that is better than the others. The best path for you is the one that adapts to your needs. At the end of this chapter you will find tips regarding how to choose a path and a label for your craft that can be applied to any witchcraft. I also want to use this last chapter to encourage you to keep researching other paths and trying new things. Learning opens the mind and the spirit. It is important to be respectful when doing this: Witchcraft has been persecuted and used as an excuse to oppress for centuries. We have to stay together and support each other.

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Hereditary Witchcraft

Hereditary witchcraft is passed through generations in a family. It isn’t linked to any beliefs or practices, and its customs change from one family to the next. They are usually closed practices that don’t share their traditions with people from outside the family. Ancestors usually have a significant place in this path and are commonly asked for guidance. Hereditary witches typically have an altar for their ancestors, and they use and cherish the tools that their ancestors used and created. Although it is true that many hereditary witchcraft traditions have been lost over time, as people became more interested in paganism and witchcraft in the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s, nowadays there are a growing number of hereditary witches.

oven Witchcraft a

ven is a group of witche

, so it is important to Solitary witchcraft may ’t prev en joining open covens

There are pros and cons y witchcraft. One

Coven Witchcra pros The members of the coven will help you learn and better your craft. The members of the coven can help you boost your spells by lending you their energy.

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Coven Witchcraft and Solitary Witchcraft

A coven is a group of witches who voluntarily share their path following a set of rules and practicing the craft together. The rules and customs vary from one coven to another, so it is important to ask about them before joining one. Solitary witchcraft may have a bit of a misleading name. While most practices are done alone, that doesn’t prevent solitary witches from meeting other solitary witches or even joining open covens for determinate events they want to celebrate with more witches, such as seasonal festivals or moon phases. There are pros and cons for coven witchcraft and solitary witchcraft. One is not better than the other; it is a matter of choosing what best fits your path and situation.

Sometimes, due to different personal situations, witches who would like to belong to a coven are forced to walk the solitary path. Technology comes in handy in this situation; there are many communities and covens online that welcome new members.

Coven Witchcraft

Solitary Witchcraft

pros

cons

pros

cons

The members of the coven will help you learn and better your craft.

There is less freedom because everybody needs to follow the rules of the coven.

You are free to study and do whatever your intuition dictates.

It can be more difficult to find guidance when you feel lost.

The members of the coven can help you boost your spells by lending you their energy.

You may not get along with all the members of the coven.

You decide whether you want to meet other witches for certain occasions or not.

Sometimes you may feel lonely.

Other Paths and Some Advice 163

Red Flags in Witchcraft Groups The word cult has negative attributions in our language because of the tragedies that evil people perpetrated in the name of some kind of “sacred superior objective.” Covens are completely different from this concept. They are voluntary associations with the purpose of following the same rules of the craft and practicing together, always helping their members grow and protecting them from any harm. Although most covens and pagan groups have good intentions, you may encounter someone who may try to take advantage of you. In this world there are evil people and you may run into them in any environment. Because of this it is important to know and recognize red flags when thinking about joining a coven or other group: Presence of a Strong Leader They take control over everything that is done in the coven and even in your personal life. They claim to have superior powers and knowledge. They tend to be charming, but also narcissistic and abusive if they are contradicted.

Demanding Unreasonable Financial Contributions There is nothing wrong with gathering money to buy supplies for a celebration or to pay association taxes (if your country has them). The problem is when this becomes a way to exploit members, making them donate a large part of their savings and income. This is a way to make people become dependent on the group. Forcing You to Do Things That You Don’t Want to Do If you see that you are losing your ability to say “no,” it is a big red flag. Manipulation Techniques To keep the group under control, you may see any of the following: banning words, sleep deprivation, probing questions aren’t permitted, group pressure, demonizing the outside world, control of every personal activity (eat, sleep, work, sex, etc.). Sexual Exploitation Sadly, this is a common red flag. They may threaten you with kicking you out of the group, revealing your secrets, or keeping all your money if you don’t comply with their demands. Grooming (and even pedophilia!) is a common technique, as well as promising “magickal powers” in exchange for sexual favors. It is important to be careful as you find your path, but don’t be discouraged. Identifying these flags and avoiding these groups will help you find a coven that helps you in your personal growth and that may become your second family. There is more good than evil out there!

edge Witchcraft

edge witchcraft is sometim e differen k as a bridge be wledge to con el to enter into t

kings, and ancestors have Hedge witchcraft is usu hedge witch refers to th ere consulted for medical a

ticular

164

The Path of the Witch

asonable Financial s nothing wrong with gathpplies for a celebration or (if your countr

m donate a large par This is a way to make people the group.

o Things That You Don’t that you are losing your a big red flag.

chniques To keep the gr y see any of the following: eprivation, probing quesgroup pressur rol of ever tc.).

on Sadly, this is a common aten you with kicking you ling your secr don’t comply with their nd even pedophilia!) is a well as promising “ r sexual favors.

be careful as you find your ouraged. Identifying these e groups will help you find in your personal growth your second family. There out there!

Hedge Witchcraft

Hedge witchcraft is sometimes confused with green witchcraft, but although they share similarities, they are differentiated paths. Their spirituality is strongly Earth-based, but they also work as a bridge between the spirit realm and the mundane realm. They use their plant knowledge to connect with spirits and other entities, developing abilities such as astral travel to enter into the spirit realm. It is common that they incorporate these spirits, demons, and other types of energies from the spirit realm into their magickal workings, and ancestors have a major role in their craft. Hedge witchcraft is usually seen more as a solitary path than a coven tradition. The name hedge witch refers to the wise women who lived alone outside the villages and who were consulted for medical and spiritual problems. It is very common for hedge witches to incorporate their craft into daily tasks around the house. It is also common for them to incorporate some type of self-sufficiency habits into their life, as those ancient wise women would do, particularly growing the herbs that they use in their craft.

Other Paths and Some Advice 165

Faery Witchcraft

Faery witches work closely with the fae, also called fae folk or fey. These terms refer to different entities and spirits that live in the Invisible World, the Fae Realm, such as faeries, sprites, and goblins. They are usually depicted as tiny beings with humanlike forms. Some say that they have magickal powers and that they intervene in the human world, as they can cross from their realm to ours. These witches use the help of the fae to cast their spells and perform rituals. It’s important to know the lore surrounding these beings, as each one of them has its own preferences, customs, and even warnings. Nature is a central part in faery witchcraft because it is the strongest link between the Fae Realm and our realm. Communion with Nature is the main way to tap into the energy of the fae. Because of this, it’s common for faery witches to leave offerings outdoors for the spirits of Nature to earn their favor.

Some faery witches say they have seen these beings, while others only feel their energy. Some say that to see them, you need to earn their trust and then open your Third Eye, connecting your subconscious with your imagination to enter into the spiritual world. There are techniques that can help with this, such as astral traveling. Hag stones, a type of stone with a natural occurring hole, are also a tool that some use in faery witchcraft. Some say that if you look through the hole where the stone was found, you may see the fae that live there.

ecular Witches

ollowing the secular path m ’t imply w any religion, but ecular witches can be as spi Remember, witchcraft i ound us. It ’t mean t ’s

w them to empower them

ips for All Types o

e questioning their pa

our Path

our cra yable. It is part of ying different paths allows . All knowledge is valu

When you hear about a ou and our personality and beliefs, ou are a beginner a ou try or

ears. If you learn about a pa e it a try!

166

The Path of the Witch

s say they have seen these ly feel their energy. Some ou need to earn their trust ird Eye, connecting your r imagination to enter into ere are techniques that can astral traveling. H natural occurring hole, are se in faery witchcraft. ok through the hole where ou may see the fae that

Secular Witches

Following the secular path means that your craft and your spiritual beliefs are separate. This doesn’t imply that all secular witches are atheists or agnostics; they can follow any religion, but they don’t mix it with their witchcraft practices. Secular witches can be as spiritual or nonspiritual as their path dictates. Remember, witchcraft is a practice that helps us connect with our power and the energy around us. It is completely possible to practice the craft without deities, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t worship them. They are just separate aspects of the secular witch’s life. There aren’t any other rules that mark the secular path. These witches focus on working with the items, practices, and energies that allow them to empower themselves.

Tips for All Types of Witches

When talking about types of witchcraft, some tips are helpful for all witches who are questioning their path.

Choosing Your Path Choosing a path for your craft can sound intimidating. In reality, it is absolutely enjoyable. It is part of your journey of self-discovery. Exploring and trying different paths allows you to know yourself better and to know the craft better. All knowledge is valuable, even if you don’t use it in your daily life. When you hear about a type of witchcraft that instantly fascinates you and that you feel matches your personality and beliefs, try it! It doesn’t matter whether you are a beginner and it is the first type of witchcraft that you try or whether you have been practicing another type of witchcraft for years. If you learn about a path that appeals to you, give it a try!

After trying it, reflect and make a judgment. Did you love it? That’s awesome! You’ve found a new path that you can follow or incorporate into your path. It was only okay? Awesome as well! You have learned things that you can use in your path. Did you hate it? Also awesome. You’ve grown as a witch and found new boundaries for your craft.

Other Paths and Some Advice 167

ibliography

eta, SIlvia, Mª Isabel Calvo,

, Sky. Magickal Astrology

valon, Annwyn. Water Witchcraf

asile, Lisa Marie. The Magical W Winds Press, 2020.

uckland, Raymond. Buckland’s C

Wicca Elemen Independent Publishin

antak. Wisdom Chi Kung

ranklin, Anna. The Hearth Witch Worldwide, Ldt, 2017

allagher, Ann-Marie. The Wicca

iscock, Arin-Murphy. The Green More. Avon: Adams M

The Ultimate Wi

About Labels

Changing Your Path

Sometimes we pressure ourselves to fit in and accept labels, but humans are more complex than that. Witchcraft labels are just a way to organize the craft so people who focus on one type of magickal workings can find information and likeminded witches more easily. If you’ve found a path that fulfills your needs, that’s excellent! But if you aren’t comfortable with any label, that’s okay, too! Witchcraft paths are flexible, and they can overlap and combine. For example, a green witch can incorporate astrology bits from cosmic witchcraft into their craft and still be a green witch, or you can be a secular kitchen witch. The most important part is that your craft, what you do, feels right to you, because you are the source of your magickal power.

As life goes on, our personal circumstances change. We change and grow. Because of this, it is completely normal to discover that a path that once was perfect for us no longer serves us. There is nothing wrong with changing your path for a new one that fits your situation better. There is no one path that is better than the others. The path you leave behind was good for you in the past, and there is simply a different one that is better suited to the present. Find your path, learn as you go, and enjoy it.

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ynes, Sandra. Sea Magick. Conn

iernowska, Marysia. The Witch’s Making. Beverly: Fair W

ock, Judy Ann. The Modern Wit Holidays. Avon: Adam

hadow, Crystal. Astrology: The U Astrology For The Soul.

aylor, Carole. Astrology: Using th

olverton, Dr. B. C. How to Gro

ang, Dr. Jwing-Ming. The Root o Center, 1997.

akroff, Laura Tempest. Weave th

ath

sonal circumstances d grow. Because of this, it o discover that a path that no longer serves us. There changing your path for a situation better. There is no than the others. The path ood for you in the past, fferent one that is better ind your path, learn as you

Bibliography

Akerreta, SIlvia, Mª Isabel Calvo, y Rita Yolanda Cavero. Sabiduría Popular y Plantas Curativas. Madrid: Ediciones i, 2013. Alexander, Sky. Magickal Astrology. Use the Power of the Planets to Create an Enchanted Life . Newburyport: Weiser Books, 2019. Avalon, Annwyn. Water Witchcraft: Magic and Lore from the Celtic Tradition. Newburyport: Weiser Books, 2019. Basile, Lisa Marie. The Magical Writing Grimoire: Use the Word as Your Wand for Magic, Manifestation & Ritual. Beverly: Fair Winds Press, 2020. Buckland, Raymond. Buckland’s Complete Book of Witchcraft. St. Paul: Llewellyn Publications, 1986. Chamberlain, Lisa. Wicca Elemental Magic: A Guide to the Elements, Witchcraft, and Magic Spells. Scotts Valley: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform, 2014. Chia, Mantak. Wisdom Chi Kung: Practices for Enlivening the Brain with Chi Energy. Rochester: Destiny Books, 2008. Franklin, Anna. The Hearth Witch’s Compendium: Magical and Natural Living for Every Day. Woodbury: Llewellyn Worldwide, Ldt, 2017. Gallagher, Ann-Marie. The Wicca Bible. The Definitive Guide To Magic And The Craft. London: Godsfield Press Ltd, 2005. Hiscock, Arin-Murphy. The Green Witch. Your COmplete Guide to the Natural Magick of Herbs, Flowers, Essential Oils, and More. Avon: Adams Media, 2017. Kiernan, Anjou. The Ultimate Witchcraft. A Modern-Day Guide to Making Magick. Beverly: Fair Winds Press, 2020. Kynes, Sandra. Sea Magick. Connecting with the Ocean’s Energy. Woodbury: Llewellyn Publications, 2019. Miernowska, Marysia. The Witch’s Herbal Apothecary: Rituals & Recipes for a Year of Earth Magick and Sacred Medicine Making. Beverly: Fair Winds Press, 2020. Nock, Judy Ann. The Modern Witchcraft Guide to the Wheel of the Year. From Samhain to Yule, your Guide to the Wiccan Holidays. Avon: Adams Media, 2017. Shadow, Crystal. Astrology: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners Going Beyond Zodiac Signs and Horoscope. Find Yourself Through Astrology For The Soul. Ideal For Those Who Want Get Closer to Kundalini Rising. Brentford: Rdl Publishing Ltd, 2020. Taylor, Carole. Astrology: Using the Wisdom of the Stars in Your Everyday Life. London: DK Publishing, 2018. Wolverton, Dr. B. C. How to Grow Fresh Air. 50 Plants that Purify your Home or Office. Middlesex: Penguin Books, 1996. Yang, Dr. Jwing-Ming. The Root of Chinese Qigong. Secrets for Health, Longevity & Elightenment. Boston: YMAA Publication Center, 1997. Zakroff, Laura Tempest. Weave the Liminal: Living Modern Traditional Witchcraft. Woodbury: Llewellyn Publications, 2019.

Other Paths and Some Advice 169

Acknowledgments I want to thank everybody who has been involved in this project and helped to make it a reality. Particularly, I want to thank Jill for believing in me in the first place, Nata for being an awesome artist and for making a reality of the illustrations that I had in mind, Jenna for helping me express my ideas, and Lydia for guiding me in the process of taking my books out there. Without them, and many other people from Fair Winds, this wouldn't have been possible. I also want to specially thank my family, friends, and the beautiful Wiccan Tips community. Their support gives me strength.

About the Author Lidia Pradas is the wiccan witch behind the Instagram sensation Wiccan Tips and the author of The Complete Grimoire. She comes from a family of witches and teaches and writes about witchcraft and paganism to beginner witches. 

dex

elemental witchcraft and, 11 120–121, 126–127 kitchen witchcraft and, 51 shared magick and, 11

tance of, 162, 1 Pimpinella anisum), 28, 3 olmen, 76 phrodite, 104 pollo, 104 apples meditation, 60–61 symbolism of, 51 quarius, 88, 89, 95, 113, 115 es, 104 k clamshells, 137 ee (Fraxinus spp.), 28 oids, major, 103 ology, 82, 93 onomy, 82, 93 thena, 103 x, 23, 69, 71

y naming ritual (Wiccaning

espondences of, 51 Ocimum basilicum), 28 aths, Sea, 145 espondences of, 50

eltane, 69, 70 Citrus bergamia) esse ch (Betula spp.), 28 th charts, 83, 89, 91, 92, 93

hadows (BOS), 14, 154 eathing techniques, 116–117

170

The Path of the Witch

Index

abalone shells, 137 Air element elemental witchcraft and, 110, 112–113, 116–117, 120–121, 126–127 kitchen witchcraft and, 51 shared magick and, 11 algae, 139 altars, 14, 52, 75, 135, 162 amethyst, 29 ammonites, 139 ancestors, importance of, 162, 165 anise (Pimpinella anisum), 28, 38 Antequera Dolmen, 76 Aphrodite, 104 Apollo, 104 apples apples meditation, 60–61 symbolism of, 51 Aquarius, 88, 89, 95, 113, 115 Ares, 104 Aries, 86, 88, 89, 94, 114–115 ark clamshells, 137 Ascendant, 84, 86, 92 ash tree (Fraxinus spp.), 28 asteroids, major, 103 astrology, 82, 93 astronomy, 82, 93 athames, 14 Athena, 103 auger shells, 137 autumnal equinox, 23, 69, 71 baby naming ritual (Wiccaning), 74 balms, herbal, 34 bananas, correspondences of, 51 basil (Ocimum basilicum), 28 Baths, Sea, 145 beets, correspondences of, 50 begonias, 58 Beltane, 69, 70 bergamot (Citrus bergamia) essential oil, 30 birch (Betula spp.), 28 birth charts, 83, 89, 91, 92, 93 black moon, 96 blessings, 18, 156 blue moon, 96 bolines, 14 Book of Shadows (BOS), 14, 154–157 breathing techniques, 116–117

cabbage, correspondences of, 50 calendula (Calendula officinalis), 29, 36 Cancer, 87, 89, 94, 114–115 candles Candle and Sand Intention Seal, 144 candle magick, 122 as tools, 14 Capricorn, 88, 95, 115 carnations, 58 carrier oils, 31 carromancy, 19 carrots, correspondences of, 50 cartomancy, 19 casting a circle, 76–77 Castor, 93 cauldrons, 14, 53 cauliflower, correspondences of, 50 cayenne, correspondences of, 51 cedar (Cedrus spp.), 28 celery, correspondences of, 50 celestial energy, 82, 92–93, 104–105, 106 Ceres asteroid, 103 chalices, 15 chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) correspondences of, 29 in Digestive Tea Potion, 38 in Healing Calendula-Infused Oil, 36 in Muscle Pain Herbal Bath, 40 in Sleep Well Sachet, 38 charging and blessing, 18 cherries, correspondences of, 51 chi. See inner energy cinnamon correspondences of, 51

171

essential oil (Cinnamomum spp.), 30 in Spiced-Wine Poached Pears, 59 circles casting, 76–77 protective, 143 citrine, 29 city living variations, 47, 118 clair senses, 114, 133 cleansing circles, 76 kitchen and tools, 54 smoke, 17, 121 types of, 16–17 clear quartz, 29 cloves, correspondences of, 51 Cold Syrup, 39 comets, 100 coming of age ritual, Wiccan, 74 constellations, 101 cooking, magickal, 52–53 coral, in sea witchcraft, 135, 139 correspondences crystals, 29 days of the week, 104 element, 112–113 essential oils, 30 flowers, 29 food, 50–51 fruits, 51 herbs, 28 seashells/sea treasures, 137, 139 spices, 28, 51 stones, 29 trees, 28 vegetables, 50 zodiac signs, 89 cosmic witchcraft about, 81 birth charts, 83–92 birth charts and, 83 celestial energy and, 82 combining celestial energies, 105 guided meditation for, 106–107 interpreting the sky, 93–101 lunar nodes, 102 major asteroids, 103 timing and, 104–105 covens, 72, 74, 164 coven witchcraft, 163 cowrie shells, 137 crabs and crab shells, 135, 139 Cronus, 104

172

The Path of the Witch

crystal grids, 124, 143 crystals and stones, 15, 17, 29–30, 141 cucumbers, correspondences of, 50 cumin, correspondences of, 51 cusps, 84 days of the week, 104 death ritual, Wiccan, 75 decoctions, herbal, 34 deities in cosmic witchcraft, 101, 103–104 in kitchen witchcraft, 52 in sea witchcraft, 134 in Wiccan witchcraft, 66–67, 77 Demeter, 103 Descendant, 84, 86 Digestive Tea Potion, 38 distillations, herbal, 34 divination, 19, 114, 133 divorce ritual, Wiccan, 75 dolmens, 76 Dream Induced Lucid Dreaming (DILD), 125 driftwood, 139 Driftwood Wands (craft), 141 Earth element in elemental witchcraft, 111–113, 115, 118, 120, 124, 126 in kitchen witchcraft, 50–51 shared magick and, 11 eclectic witchcraft about, 149 beliefs and ethics of, 150–153 creating a Book of Shadows, 154–157 guided meditation for, 158–159 eclipses, 97 Edible Flowers Salad, 58 eldering ritual, Wiccan, 75 elemental witchcraft five elements and, 109–111 guided meditation for, 126–127 perceiving the elements, 116–118 relationship between the elements, 112–115 working with the elements, 119–125 elements, five, 11, 50–51, 109, 116–117, 126–127. See also elemental witchcraft Emerald Tablet, 82 energy imbalances, 48–49 inner, 12–13, 18 enfleurages, herbal, 34 Epsom salt, 40

Eucalyptus spp.), 30 y witchcraft, 166

espondences of, 51 e cleansing, 17 ire element in elemental witchcraft, 110 117, 120, 122, 126–127 in kitchen witchcraft, 50–51 shared magick and, 11 wers correspondences of, 29 edible, 58 in green witchcraft, 25 power of, 46–47 spirituality and, 46 symbolism, 50–51 Boswellia sacra) essential oil, 30 in Meditation Incense, 37 uit, correspondences of, 51

dens, 24–26, 46–47 ardner, Gerald, 63 espondences of, 51 emini, 86, 89, 94, 113, 115 Zingiber officinale) in Cold Syrup, 39 correspondences of, 28 espondences of, 51 een witchcraft about, 21 grounding exercise for, 22 guided meditation for, 41–4 healing with, 35–40 herbal crafts, 32–35 seasons and, 22–23 witch gardens and, 24–26 working with, 27–31 es, 14, 154 ounding exercises, 22, 118 ades, 103

ting ri ealing Calendula-Infused Oil, era, 103

7, 29–30, 141 ces of, 50 of, 51

101, 103–104 52

66–67, 77

5

eaming (DILD), 125 141

t, 111–113, 115, 118, 120,

50–51 1

50–153 adows, 154–157 , 158–159

5

9–111 , 126–127 ts, 116–118 he elements, 112–115 ments, 119–125 109, 116–117, 126–127. hcraft

esbats, 64, 72–73 essential oils, 30–31 eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.), 30 faery witchcraft, 166 feathers, 139 figs, correspondences of, 51 fire cleansing, 17 Fire element in elemental witchcraft, 110, 112–113, 114–115, 117, 120, 122, 126–127 in kitchen witchcraft, 50–51 shared magick and, 11 flowers correspondences of, 29 edible, 58 in green witchcraft, 25 food power of, 46–47 spirituality and, 46 symbolism, 50–51 frankincense (Boswellia sacra) essential oil, 30 in Meditation Incense, 37 fruit, correspondences of, 51 gardens, 24–26, 46–47 Gardner, Gerald, 63 garlic, correspondences of, 51 Gemini, 86, 89, 94, 113, 115 ginger (Zingiber officinale) in Cold Syrup, 39 correspondences of, 28 grapes, correspondences of, 51 green witchcraft about, 21 grounding exercise for, 22 guided meditation for, 41–43 healing with, 35–40 herbal crafts, 32–35 seasons and, 22–23 witch gardens and, 24–26 working with, 27–31 grimoires, 14, 154 grounding exercises, 22, 118 Hades, 103 hag stones, 140, 166 handfasting and handparting rituals, Wiccan, 75 Healing Calendula-Infused Oil, 36 hedge witchcraft, 165 Hera, 103

herbs drying, 32 gathering and storing, 32 green witchcraft and, 28 herbal preparations, 33 Muscle Pain Herbal Bath, 40 as a tool, 15 uses for, 34–35 hereditary witchcraft, 162 Hermes, 104 Hermetica (Trismegistus), 82 Hestia, 52, 103 Horned God, 66–67, 78–79 hot stones exercise, 117 hours, planetary, 105 houseplants, 26 houses, in birth charts, 83–84 How to Grow Fresh Air (Wolverton), 26 Imbolc, 69, 70 Imum Coeli, 85–86 incense, 35 infusions, herbal, 34 initiation ritual, Wiccan, 74 inner energy, 12–13, 18 intentions, 12, 54 jars, as tools, 15 jasmine (Jasminum officinale), 29, 58 journaling, 151, 152–153, 154, 156 Juno asteroid, 103 Jupiter, 90, 99, 104–105 Jupiter (god), 103, 104 karesansui (Zen gardens), 145 kelpie, 134 Kiernan, Anjou, 119 kitchen witchcraft about, 45 food and, 46–51 guided meditation for, 60–61 magickal cooking, 52–53 magickal recipes, 54–59 knives, 14, 53 Kynes, Sandra, 129, 134 labels, 168 lakes, 131 lamias, 134 Lammas. See Lughnasadh lavender (Lavandula spp.) correspondences of, 29

Index 173

edible, 58 in Meditation Incense, 37 in Sleep Well Sachet, 38 law of attraction, 13 lemons correspondences of, 51 essential oil (Citrus limon), 30 Leo, 87, 89, 94, 114–115 Leonids, 100 lettuce, correspondences of, 50 Libra, 87, 89, 94, 113, 115 licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) correspondences of, 28 in Digestive Tea Potion, 38 Litha, 69, 71 Lughnasadh, 69, 71 Luna, 104 lunar nodes, 102 Mabon, 69, 71 macerations, herbal, 34 marriage ritual, Wiccan, 75 Mars, 90, 99, 104–105 Mars (god), 104 meditation about, 13, 18, 151 Meditation Incense, 37 meditations, guided cosmic witchcraft, 106–107 eclectic witchcraft, 158–159 elemental witchcraft, 126–127 green witchcraft, 41–43 kitchen witchcraft, 60–61 sea witchcraft, 146–147 Wiccan witchcraft, 78–79 Mercury, 90, 99, 104–105 Mercury (god), 104 meteors/meteor showers, 100–101 micro moon, 96 Midheaven, 85–86 milk and Imbolc, 70 Minerva, 103 mint (Mentha spp.) correspondences of, 28 edible, 58 in Muscle Pain Herbal Bath, 40 moon black, 96 blue, 96 celebrations of, 72–73 in cosmic witchcraft, 92, 104–105 micro, 96

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moon garden, 25 phases, 67, 73, 78–79, 95–96, 133 rules, 90 super, 96 moonstone, 29 morality, Wiccan, 64 moss agate, 29 Mother Earth green witchcraft and, 21–22, 24, 29, 35 kitchen witchcraft and, 46, 54–55 sea witchcraft and, 135 shared magick and, 11 Wiccan witchcraft and, 64, 65 Mother Nature, 22, 24, 109, 150. See also Nature Murphy-Hiscock, Arin, 34, 35 Muscle Pain Herbal Bath, 40 mustard seeds, correspondences of, 51 nasturtium, 58 natal charts. See birth charts Nature in elemental witchcraft, 109, 121 in fairy witchcraft, 166 in green witchcraft, 21–22, 27 shared magick and, 11 in Wiccan witchcraft, 66, 69, 70–71 nautilus shells, 137 Neptune, 90, 100 Neptune (god), 134 New Year, witches,’ 71 Njord, 134 nutrient deficiencies, 48 nutrient trackers, 47 occidental witchcraft, 110 oceans and seas, 130, 131, 146–147. See also sea witchcraft olive (Olea europaea), 28 onions, correspondences of, 50 open monitoring meditation, 13 oranges correspondences of, 51 essential oil (Citrus sinensis), 30 Ostara, 69, 70 Pallas Athena asteroid, 103 palmistry, 19 paprika, correspondences of, 51 peaches, correspondences of, 51 pears correspondences of, 51 in Spiced-Wine Poached Pears, 59

espondences of, 50 for divination, 19 pendulum charts, 143

, correspondences of, 51 erseids, 100 ersephone, 103 Pinus spp.), 28 espondences of, isces, 88, 89, 95, 114–115

es, 85, 101 een witchcraft, 24– luto, 90, 100, 105 luto (god), 103 ollux, 93 Papaver rhoeas), 29 oseidon, 134 espondences of, 5 See inner energy otective circles, 143 espondences of, tz, 29, 38, 141

about magickal, 54–55 Cold Syrup, 39 Digestive Tea Potion, 38 Edible Flowers Salad, 58 Healing Calendula-Infused Meditation Incense, 37 Sleep Well Sachet, 38 Sourdough Starter and Brea Spiced-Wine Poached Pears, iccan, 64 oups, 1 esentations, altar, 14

Wiccan, 74–75

ers, 131 Rosa spp.), 29, 58 Rosa canina), 39 y (Rosmarinus officinalis tz, 29, 38 wan (Sorbus spp.), 28

, 95–96, 133

21–22, 24, 29, 35 d, 46, 54–55 5 1 d, 64, 65 09, 150. See also Nature 4, 35 40 dences of, 51

rts

t, 109, 121 6 1–22, 27 1 66, 69, 70–71

0 , 146–147. See also

of, 50 ion, 13

1 ensis), 30

3

of, 51 of, 51

1 ed Pears, 59

peas, correspondences of, 50 pebbles and stones, 140 pendulums for divination, 19 pendulum charts, 143 pentacles, 25, 60, 112, 137 pepper, correspondences of, 51 Perseids, 100 Persephone, 103 pine (Pinus spp.), 28 pineapples, correspondences of, 51 Pisces, 88, 89, 95, 114–115 planets, 83, 89–90, 98–100, 104–105 planispheres, 85, 101 plants, in green witchcraft, 24–26, 28–29 Pluto, 90, 100, 105 Pluto (god), 103 Pollux, 93 poppy (Papaver rhoeas), 29 Poseidon, 134 potatoes, correspondences of, 50 prana. See inner energy protective circles, 143 pumpkins, correspondences of, 50 quartz, 29, 38, 141 rain, 131 recipes about magickal, 54–55 Cold Syrup, 39 Digestive Tea Potion, 38 Edible Flowers Salad, 58 Healing Calendula-Infused Oil, 36 Meditation Incense, 37 Sleep Well Sachet, 38 Sourdough Starter and Bread, 56–57 Spiced-Wine Poached Pears, 59 rede, Wiccan, 64 red flags in witchcraft groups, 164 reincarnation, 73, 102 representations, altar, 14 resins, 35 respect for all types of witchcraft, 153, 161 rites of passage, Wiccan, 74–75 rituals, elemental, 121–125 rivers, 131 rose (Rosa spp.), 29, 58 rose hips (Rosa canina), 39 rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), 28 rose quartz, 29, 38 rowan (Sorbus spp.), 28

Rule of Three, 64 runes, 19 sabbats, 23, 69–71 sage, 58 Sagittarius, 88, 89, 95, 114–115 salt for cleansing, 17 correspondences of, 51 salves, herbal, 34 Samhain, 69, 71 sand in Candle and Sand Intention Seal, 144 in sea witchcraft, 140 spells, 142–143 sand dollars, 135, 137 Saturn, 90, 99, 104–105 Saturn (god), 104 scallops, 137 Scorpio, 87, 89, 94, 114–115 scrying, 19, 123 Sea Baths, 145 sea glass, 140 Sea Magic (Kynes), 134 Seashell Candles (craft), 138 seashells, 135–137 seasons, 22–23, 48, 69, 89 sea spirits, 134 sea water, 140 sea witchcraft about, 129 guided meditation for, 146–147 oceans and, 130 Water element and, 131–134 working with the sea, 135–145 secular witchcraft, 167 Selene, 104 selenite, 141 self-discovery, 151–153, 167 shark teeth, 135, 140 shooting stars, 100–101 Sleep Well Sachet, 38 smoke cleansing, 17, 121 soaps, herbal, 34 soil for cleansing, 17 Sol, 104 solitary witchcraft, 163, 165 sound cleansing, 17 Sourdough Starter and Bread, 55–57 spell sachet, herbal, 35 Spiced-Wine Poached Pears, 59

Index 175

spices correspondences of, 51 green witchcraft and, 28 spinach, correspondences of, 50 spiral garden, 25 Spirit (or Fifth) element in elemental witchcraft, 111–113, 120, 125, 126–127 in kitchen witchcraft, 51 shared magick and, 11 spoons, as kitchen witchcraft tool, 53 spring equinox, 22, 69, 70 starfish, 135, 137 stones or crystals, 15, 17, 29–30, 141 strawberries, correspondences of, 51 sugar, correspondences of, 51 Summerland, 73 summer solstice, 22, 69, 71 sun, 90, 93, 104–105 sunflower (Helianthus spp.), 29 sunlight/moonlight, 17 sun signs, 92–95, 113. See also zodiac signs supermoon, 96 sweet potatoes, correspondences of, 50 Swift-Tuttle comet, 100 symbols circles as, 76 food as, 50–51, 60 seashells as, 136 spirals and pentacles as, 25 temporal, 143 Taurus, 86, 89, 94, 115 tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia), 30, 36 techniques, common witchcraft blessing and charging, 18 cleansing, 16–17 divination, 19 preparing tools, 19 Tempel-Tuttle comet, 100 The Complete Grimoire (Pradas), 154 Third Eye, 166 thyme (Thymus vulgaris), 28 tides, 132–133, 146–147 tiger’s eye, 29 timing in cosmic witchcraft, 104–105 tomatoes, correspondences of, 50 tools in kitchen witchcraft, 53 preparing, 19 shared magick and, 14–15 Traditional Chinese Medicine, 48 trash treasures, 140

176

The Path of the Witch

trees, correspondences of, 28 Triple Goddess, 66–67, 78–79 Trismegistus, Hermes, 82 turmeric, correspondences of, 51 universe, 10–11 Uranus, 90, 100 vanilla, correspondences of, 51 vegetables, correspondences of, 50 Venus, 90, 99, 104–105 Venus (god), 104 Vesta asteroid, 103 vinegar, correspondences of, 51 Virgo, 87, 89, 94, 115 visualization, 13 Wake Induced Lucid Dreaming (WILD), 125 wands, 15 water cleansing, 17 Water element in cosmic witchcraft, 95 in elemental witchcraft, 111–115, 117–118, 120, 123, 126–127 in kitchen witchcraft, 50–51 and sea witchcraft, 131 shared magick and, 11, 15 water scrying, 123 week, days of the, 104 Wheel of the Year, 23, 66, 69 Wiccaning (baby naming ritual), 74 Wiccan rede, 64 Wiccan witchcraft about, 63 casting a circle, 76–77 ethics and traditions, 23, 64–73 guided meditation for, 78–79 popular rituals, 74–75 willow (Salix alba), 28 winter solstice, 23, 69, 70 Witchcraft Today (Gardner), 63 witch gardens, 24–26 Wolverton, B. C., 26 workspaces, magick kitchen, 52 yin and yang, 48–49, 95 Yule, 69, 70 Zen gardens, 145 Zeus, 103, 104 zodiac signs, 83, 86–89, 92–95, 113–115 zucchini, correspondences of, 50