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[ladyiristheenchantress]

✨️🫙✨️Spells✨️🫙✨️

[ladyiristheenchantress]

👏🏻

i think it should be mentioned that its perfectly normal to feel disappointed when it comes to deity worship or work. sometimes things just don't go your way or how you wanted it to. sometimes gods don't respond or they don't assist you in your issues. sometimes they disappear for a little while. you shouldn't feel guilt over natural feelings in regards to your desired results and you shouldn't feel ashamed. it may just be a sign to redirect that energy or reconsider what you are pursuing. deities are not pawns to be commanded whenever you'd like but they also don't disregard you for the sake of doing so. some deities won't hold your hand and it isn't because of a lack of warmth. it's to show you your own power and strength to be able to do things on your own. remember: your spiritual journey is a tool not a crutch.

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Working with Air

Welcome to the third part of my elemental series! Today we will explore some aspects of working with air like offerings, devotional activities, common lessons, aspects, and more! With all that said lets get started!

To preface: I am a devotee to water itself, I am a west witch practioner which means I work within the domain of water, the past, divination, and psyche! I also am a general elemental practioner and have experience working with all of the elements and their aspects!

What is working with air like?

While looking at verified gnosis and cultural nuance some things remain familiar, things like air being both stagnant and rushing, life giving, and more! It is a major backbone (Much like all the elements are for each other) in the way that all organisms that preform aerobic respiration (Air breathing) need oxygen, air, and a form of atmosphere including water based animals. Air does not have a concept of gender (same with all the elements), however you can always ask as a bonding opportunity or follow a cultural addition that may apply pronouns to an element.

In general, air is primordial, but it is considered one of the youngest of the elements mainly because magma, water, and a form of earth had existed before O2, and an actual atmosphere. With that in mind, the air ended up facilitating a lot of growth here on earth, and from there air has many aspects! Air has tempest, dead air, atmosphere, wind, and breath! There are plenty of types of air spirits like syliphs, Sylphons, Spirulites, and more.

Some people work with wind, air anomaly's like tornados and wind storms, and breathwork. Wind and breath teaches more gentle and peaceful lessons about how to take a step back and take a moment for yourself. Someone who works with tempest might receive more lessons relating to coming into your own power and growing a backbone. Each aspect will have different lessons and personality traits, but each of them still follow the same lessons of balance between motion and pause, and even speaking.

In your relationship you may be called to breath work, using feathers, and more that we will be discussing a bit later, however air is will see us like any other animal, and is more apprehensive to engage in a conversation so practioners may have to call out to it first. UPG: Air is really rushing and sometimes can be overwhelming, and we have had many wonderful conversations relating to hard work, taking things as they come, and not falling into unhealthy stagnation. Air has not been very direct and tends to come as needed into my space and isnt an omnipresent force! In general I have needed to call on it first for information or advice, it is also quite stoic and serious when needed but also upbeat and kind when needed.

Finally, air does have some birth connotations, but they are directly indicative of the relationships it has with other elements. Air cannot do its job in a vacuum like space until some level of atmosphere is established. However 'air' can mean different things to different people, and in a way taking a first breath is life!

What are common offerings?

People tend to keep an altar to air near doorways, windows, and living rooms because of the rush of energy as people walk through doors, the energy of change from windows, and more! historically a lot of air honoring comes from within like being outdoors, having windows open, and doing breath work in a special place because of the motion you can feel from the air.

In air practices there are heavy emphasis on working and action! this comes from most of air needing to be moved to be felt, as often times we dont notice when we are breathing or walking through the precious gas. Moving air like with breath, feathers, and fans can be really helpful.

Some common practices include meditation and breath work, energy motion, dance, song, using feathers, fans, and incense scrying are all really common aspects of work! Another aspect is action, doing divination with clouds, the sky, and smoke is helpful, and then another thing is storm chasing, tracking the weather, and observing the atmosphere can also be really good forms of connection.

What are some correspondences?

Crystals - Amethyst, Angel Aura Quartz, Angelite, Celestite, Clear Quartz, Danburite, Flourite, Green Adventurine, Howlite, Kyanite, Labradorite, Rainbow obsidian

Herbs - Poplar, cottonwood, moss, Aspen, Marjoram, Cilantro, Lavender, Rosemary, Lemongrass, Anise, Oregano, Peppermint, Fennel, Asparagus, Celery, Cattail, Hazel, Almond, Bay, Borage, Frankincense

Colors - green, yellow, white

Energy Centers - heart and sacral

Zodiacs - Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius

Tools - Feathers, fans, incense, and books

Scents - fresh, clean, lively

Resources

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Working with Fire

Welcome to the Second part of my elemental series! Today we will explore some aspects of working with fire like offerings, devotional activities, common lessons, aspects, and more! With all that said lets get started!

To preface: I am a devotee to water itself, I am a west witch practioner which means I work within the domain of water, the past, divination, and psyche! I also am a general elemental practioner and have experience working with all of the elements and their aspects!

What is working with fire like?

The verified gnosis will vary from culture to culture but some things remain consistent! Fire has aspects of destruction, control, warmth, light, and more! Whether its torches being used in studies to learn, the sun being honored as a ball of fire, or the destruction of a warring city being burnt down, fire is both volatile and chaotic but it also is controlled and helpful. Fire doesn't have a gender (Neither do any of the elements) so venerating the divine energy itself is a complicated and beautiful concept.

In general, Fire is considered primordial in its raging and free form, however it has modern connotations because of how it has interacted with mankind! Its more peaceful and loving traits stem directly from people. Some of the aspects include bonfire, forest fires, magma, lava, and torch! All of which have been venerated to some degree

Some of the lessons you learn will depend on how you interact with fire itself. Even in forest fires and after destruction there is this idea of rebirth and coming back together from the helpful ashes. The phoenix is a wonderful example of this, a bright bird rising from the ashes! Fire touches on anger issues, and in a torch form, control. Fire teaches us how to control and regulate our actions to create a really helpful and roaring spirit much like what we can learn from a bonfire!

Some things to note is fires personality is not set in stone, it can be loving and nurturing, manipulative and warring, and every emotion in between. The elements are not omnipotent nor omnipresent because they physically exist, so you may have better luck lighting a fire or keeping a dagger on the altar to represent the flame! Don't be surprised if you are called to fire if you have problems with anger, manipulation, or really deep rooted shadow traits. In a working relationship you may be called to cook with fire, enjoy bonfires, do spells using candles and knives, taking note of controlled bunings, and being pushed into new things. Note that to the elements we are animals like any bear, bird, or lion! Fire tends to be more direct than other elements.

UPG: In my experience, fire is really sporadic, I was doing a spell and all of a sudden my bedroom floor was on fire because the energy took control. Fire is very direct and my clairs have a really easy time hearing it talk to me in day to day life. Fire has a couple flaws when it comes to anger and manipulation often being considered a trickster spirit that messes with practioners to prove a point!

Another thing to note is fire does not have a direct birth connotation, instead a rebirth connotation! Fire itself cannot create life until after it has died via ash. Because of this rebirth connotation it can be really helpful when it comes to earthly transcendence or working with your witches eye!

What are common offerings?

Most people place an altar to fire in a bedroom, kitchen, or the hearth of the home! bedrooms can be warm and intimate spaces, kitchens often delve into heat and sometimes fire, but the hearth historically contained the fire in the home because it helped keep people warm! Fire can enjoy hand picked items however it especially likes a space to just be! Think candles, plenty of warmth, etc!

There is not a heavy emphasis on action, but rather feeding fire itself within spell works and offerings! Things like sacrificing herbs into flame, cooking and letting some of the food char if it falls out of the pan, and even setting up bonfires and gatherings outside!

Make sure that you are focusing on all aspects of fire safety!!! You need a fire safe altar (ceramic bottoms, fire repellant cloth, etc) and you dont do something like leaving a flame on, and unattendant, and more! For information of fire safety check out the resources below Fire safety 101 (smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, etc) Candle safety 101 Spiritual Fire safety 101

Some common practices include hosting bonfires, cleaning up and visiting controlled burn sites, lighting pinecones and using cool ash as a growth material, lighting candles and fire scrying in the dark, using tarot cards relating to fire, and even

Correspondence:

These are just some of many!

Crystals - Red Jasper, Carnelian, Fire Agate, Sunstone, Citrine, Red Opal, Orange Calcite, Amber, Aragonite, Lava Stone, Mahogany Obsidian, Mookite, Pyrite.

Herbs - Rosemary, Palm, Sunflower, Cinnamon, Chili, Pepper, Cloves, Ginger, Wormwood, Asfoetida, Marigold, Amaranth, Snapdragon, Dragon's Blood, Calendula, Sagebrush, Stinging Nettle, Holly, Cedar, Mace.

Colors - Red, Orange, Blue, Yellow, Gold

Energy Centers - Sacral, Root

Zodiacs - Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius

Tools - Daggers, Swords, candles, fire starters, tarot cards

Scents - Woody, Smokey, Spicy, Musky

Resources

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Working with Water

Welcome to the first part of my elemental series! Today we will explore some aspects of working with water like offerings, devotional activities, common lessons, aspects, and more! With all that said lets get started!

To preface: I am a devotee to water itself, I am a west witch practioner which means I work within the domain of water, the past, divination, and psyche! I also am a general elemental practioner and have experience working with all of the elements and their aspects!

What is working with water like?

The verified gnosis depends on what pantheon or historical significance we are looking at, however some things are constant! Water is fluid, represents motion and an unbridled force, but people can work with aspects of water! Water doesnt have a gender (neither do any of the elements) so asking during a working relationship is a great way to bond! Some people use she, he, they, and anything inbetween mainly because there are a lot of dynamics world wide!

In general, Water is primordial, being one of the first elements on the planet to house life as the primordial soup. In general her energy carries this! It has many aspects, from ocean, abyss, stream, river, and more, and spirits/traditions change depending on where you are looking! It mainly has to do with formations on the earth and how water presents to you!

Some people who work with more general bodies like streams, rivers, and lakes have a more relaxed time, learning more about how to go with the flow, tackle divination, and working with aspects of transcendence as many bodies of waters were considered to be portals. When it comes to larger and deeper bodies of water like ocean, abyss, and the primordial soup you will learn lessons more about the human condition, shadow work, and taking on the past.

Some things to note, waters personality is not set in stone, however elements are not omnipotent or omnipresent because they physically exist, its best to call on the energies of the elements before attempting to interact, and this also means they wont be around you all the time. Also, do not be suprised if an element isnt kind to you from the start. In a lot of cultures, elements dislike what we are doing to our planet and in general water may mention the plastic problem and pollution and encourage you to clean up our lands! Its important to remember that to the elements we are simply animals like any other bear, bird, or deer! Remember that you can learn a lot from a distance, so dont be offended if water would rather have you observe nature rather than directly give you answers via divination. UPG: In my experience water tends to be a portal, it is stoic, never saying 'i love you' or 'im proud' simply because it doesnt follow the human system of love. It is billions of years old and interestingly enough, water does rule over the psyche and past and is extremely emotionally intelligent, but has a preference in showing someone how to love themselves rather than giving out the term itself. It humanizes the element too much. Another aspect is even as a devotee it isnt heavy ritual work, a lot of it is introspection and action based!

A good thing to note is water does have a primordial “womb” aspect because of the Primordial soup! Most of the elements will have a birth aspect. On the contrary Water also has a death aspect within Abyss (the darker element) as it relates to death and the shadows. Working with these entities follows a similar feel to working with water itself, however the primordial soup teaches more about the human condition and what it means to evolve, while abyss teaches how to accept our darker flaws and translate them into good.

What are common offerings?

Most people place altars to water in wet rooms, bathrooms, and showers! Or at least near entrances and thresholds! Water tends to enjoy hand picked items, items from your adventures, and things you find interesting in your research. It tends to really enjoy having a set space.

There is heavy emphasis on action, and usually there are types of offerings! Net Positive, Net Negative, and Neutral! Positive offerings are anything that benefits the water ways which include beach clean ups, enjoying the water with reef safe sun screen, and creating a floating fish feeder! Neutral offerings refer to offerings that neither help nor harm water ways mainly is taking things home and charging them in moon light or on an altar then bringing them back, introducing native florals or herbs to a water way, or creating a biodegradable floating offering. Practicing at home in your shower or with drinking water usually is neutral or even positive. Net Negative are any offerings that negatively impact waterways like introducing salt from an offering, floating non-native florals and herbs, adding crystals to the environment.

Its important that you are aware of the offerings you introduce into your area, research is the key, and if you cant and still want to honor water look into how to conserve water in your own home like creating moon water from potable water, creating potions and other things in a respectful manner, and practicing safely

Some common practices include visiting local water spots, clean ups, potion crafting, collecting waters like moon or rain, meditating during water moments like during rain, cleaning up your bathroom or mudroom, enjoying shower and bathing magic, using steam, and so much more!

What are some correspondences?

Crystals - aquamarine, Ethically sourced coral, turquoise, sapphire, sodalite, lapis lazuli, blue topaz, moonstone, Brass

Herbs - seaweed, seamoss, jasmine, aloe, lily, mugwort, cucumber, rose, catnip, belladonna, willow, lotus, nettle

Colors - Blue, white, navy

Energy Centers - Throat, Crown, Witches Eye

Zodiacs - Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

Tools - Chalices, Bells, dowsing rods, Tarot Cards

Scents - Sweet, Oceanic, citrus, Salty

Resources:

https://www.tumblr.com/a-seas-song/151886812943/sea-magic-references?source=share

https://www.tumblr.com/a-seas-song/151843326843/recreationalwitchcraft-witchcrafts-for-the-sea

https://www.moodymoons.com/2020/07/01/sea-witch-harnessing-the-power-of-the-ocean-2/

https://tropical-sea-witch.tumblr.com/post/641611893093613568/charm-bags-sea-witch-style

https://a-seas-song.tumblr.com/post/171029487233/animals-in-sea-witchcraft

https://a-seas-song.tumblr.com/post/171024318373/songs-in-sea-witchcraft

https://www.tumblr.com/a-seas-song/151886878168/tips-for-landlocked-sea-witches?source=share

https://www.tumblr.com/a-seas-song/151886793018/wretched-waters-working-with-the-tides-tides

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/waterwitch/

http://www.waterwitchcraft.com/about

https://www.flyingthehedge.com/2020/02/water-folklore-correspondences.html

https://www.flyingthehedge.com/2020/04/tools-of-water.html

https://healing-sun-witch.tumblr.com/post/183508828289/sea-witch-cleansing-use-sea-salt-and-salt-water

https://www.moodymoons.com/2018/03/06/sea-witch-jar-spell/

https://northernlightswicca.com/2020/08/31/methods-of-divination-water-gazing/

https://www.lenntech.com/water-mythology.htm

[ladyiristheenchantress]

The Darker Elements

This is a post about my personal recognition and use of the “darker” elements. These elements are based around the four basic elements, only with more aggressive and destructive qualities. 

⛤ Rot, the Darker Aspect of Earth ⛤

Earth energy is normally associated with life, fertility and growth. More often than not, we focus on the growth aspect. Spring is normally what we think of with Earth energy; the growing of flower, the blooming of trees, the Earth waking up from her long winter slumber.

The Darker aspect of the Earth is Rot, or Decay or Fermentation. This is a vital cycle in the Earth’s life and is usually observed in Autumn when the trees shed their leaves and we can smell the wet, decaying smell of them. However, Rot is more. Without the act of rotting, nothing new can grow in the dead thing’s place. When trees fall and rot, when an animal dies and the flies swarm, this is the power of Rot. It is not pretty, and it is not a beautiful thing. It is a necessary thing. 

Associations: The stench of rotting flesh (animal or plant), mold, flies and maggots, blood and bloating.

⛤ Tempest, the Darker Aspect of Air ⛤

Air energy is usually associated with intellectual thinking, creativity, wit and freedom. Air is seen as wild and untamable, constantly flowing and moving in a never ending dance. Air is light and fresh and uplifting.

The Darker aspect is the Tempest, the Gale, the Typhoon. This is the true meaning of untamable. Air becomes wind, filled with a violent strength, able to heave earth and fall trees. The unseen force becomes a physical power, a destructive force of nature. There is no safety or freedom in the Tempest. She is a brutal, terrifying force that can bring the world to it’s knees if she is wrathful enough.

Associations: The sharp sting of rain that only a windstorm can bring, the howl of the wind, the alarming creaking you hear as houses and trees strain to stay upright under the assault.

⛤ Lava, the Darker Aspect of Fire ⛤

Fire energy is usually seen as the “dark” element. Fire itself is already destructive. It burns and destroys, leaving only ash. However, Fire can also offer light and heat and warmth. Fire can be a soothing element as well as a dangerous one.

The Darker aspect of this is Lava or Magma. This is Fire in all it’s destructive power. There is no simple warmth from Lava. To come even close to it would mean to melt your skin. It is the deepest, most hidden part of our world, it’s core. The Earth herself cannot withstand the heat. Rock and stone melt into a thick, semi-liquid.

Associations: Searing, blistering, the earth itself bursting into flame, rock melting and sluggishly moving like water bringing with it all the destruction of fire.

⛤ Abyss, the Darker Aspect of Water ⛤

Water energy is seen as constantly flowing, adaptable. It rules the emotional realms and is associated with intuition and all manner of psychic abilities. Water is a necessary force, it makes up most of our bodies and we need it to survive. It serves a variety of different purposes in our lives.

The Darker aspect of Water is Abyss. Deep down in our oceans, there comes a point where the light is not strong enough to penetrate the water. In this, we find the Abyss energy. Here the water is dark and cold, with no light. It is a realm of the unknown. There are creatures in these dark waters, some very terrifying, but with no light, you cannot see them. The most terrifying creature could be an arms length away and you would know no different. This is the closest to death we can come while still living.

Association: The unknown, the loss of the senses, embracing the fear, cold silence, the cold embrace of death.

⛤ Using the Darker Elements ⛤

The Darker Elements are focused on all the destruction that is caused by the primary element. The Darker Elements are used in spells where you want to harness the brutal destructive force of the primary element.Just as with the principle of the Fire element, the destructive forces of the Darker Elements can be used for both positive and negative outcomes.

Destruction can mean many things. It can mean the destruction of one thing in order to transform it into another, similar to the Phoenix. The Phoenix burns, but it also reborn from the ashes. Destruction can also mean aggression. You can use these destructive powers in aggressive protection or banishing spells. Destruction can also be used simply to lay waste in a curse.

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Morals and Ethics

Hello Friends!! to preface: This post is not here to police anyone on what is the 'correct' way to practice. My aim on this post is to be culturally and magically informed, so this isnt going to be a take down of any belief or path line. Instead this post is offered up as a way to not only build your own moral frame work, but get you thinking about where you stand magically and enhance how you practice! Our moral frameworks are all unique, something that would be a faux pas in your practice might be something thats culturally common in others, so lets throw on our thinking caps and get started!

What is building an ethical and moral framework?

Building an ethical background in witchcraft involves establishing a set of principles, values, and guidelines that guide your magical and spiritual practices! In essence It helps ensure that your actions align with your moral compass (Wherever it may lie). This background can help you make informed decisions, cultivate energy, and maintain a respectful and balanced relationship with both you and your magic.

Some religions and paths have their own moral and ethical framework, for example lyma is this idea of "something to be washed away" and is a big deal when practicing within Hellenic Spaces! It would be immoral to approach an altar without washing your hands if they were dirty, but on the flip side some cultures actively encourage dirty hands like people who worship earth within their gardens. Depending on your path you might have a specific framework.

Another aspect is moral frameworks change and that is ok!! Its important we aren't stagnate and its ok to change your mind and feel like you want to change things up. That is totally reasonable and people do it all the time like with politics, religious affiliations, jobs, and more! Ethical and Moral compasses can change just like we do.

How to build an ethical framework

Self-Reflection: Start by exploring your own values, beliefs, and moral code. Reflect on what is important to you, what you stand for, and how these values relate to your magical practices. Also now would be the time to decolonize your beliefs and explore your biases. Its ok to acknowledge your bias, as long as you are working through it. If you dont know what decolonizing your beliefs is I left a helpful video above, just click 'decolonize your beliefs'

Research and Study: Deep dive into different ethical systems and philosophies. Familiarize yourself with various witchcraft traditions, such as New age spirituality, Pagan magical systems, and country/area specific + their associated ethical guidelines. Read books and articles about ethics in witchcraft whether you agree or disagree. During this time you are simply collecting as many perspectives as possible and comparing them to how you feel, don't feel pressured to follow something if you don't feel it applies to you.

Connect with a Mentor or Community: If possible, seek guidance from an experienced witch or spiritual space who can share their ethical insights and offer advice on building your own ethical framework. The best part is, different spaces will produce their own ethical codes of conduct. For example some spaces don't allow love spell discussion for example, which is an ethical guideline.

Create Your Own Code: Based on your self-reflection, research, and guidance, create your own personal code of ethics. This code should reflect your values and guide your magical practices. It might include principles like harm none, respect nature, work for the greater good, or take no shit. Wherever you feel you sit, walk with it. Whatever comes natural to you explore it. Write down what you believe as a symbol, but do so in pencil so you can change it as needed!

Regularly Reevaluate: As you gain experience and your understanding of ethics evolves, revisit and update your ethical code. It's important to grow as your spiritual journey progresses like I mentioned above. You are not a static person, allow yourself to experience your moral compass and how to bends. Allow yourself to be fluid and honest. Not everyone is 'love and light' or 'fuck authority' your allowed to be who you need to be!

Different Types of Ethics in Witchcraft:

Note: This is not every type of ethics, but rather a couple examples of the ethics you may see in your research and which group it belongs too. This area is not meant to endorse or critique an ethical guideline but instead showcase the many that do exist.

The Wiccan Rede: "An it harm none, do what ye will." This is a central ethical guideline in Wicca, emphasizing the avoidance of harm to others as a core principle. Another one is The Threefold Law, this law suggests that the energy you send out, whether positive or negative, will return to you threefold (three times what you sent out). This encourages practitioners to be mindful of their actions.

Green Witch Ethics: Green witches emphasize their connection to nature and the importance of nurturing and protecting the environment. Their ethical background often centers around conservation, sustainability, and working with the Earth's energies respectfully.

Personal Responsibility: Some witches adhere to a more individualistic code of ethics, focusing on personal responsibility and accountability for their actions.

Balancing Left hand and Right hand: For some, ethical considerations involve finding a balance between Right and Left hand magic, and acknowledging the potential consequences of working with both, one, or neither. The right and left hand path are types of magical systems that involve different attitudes towards magic, the right hand emphasizing healing and selflessness, and the left hand emphasizing individuality and shadow aspects.

Respect for Spirits and Deities: Many witches emphasize the importance of showing respect and gratitude to the spirits, deities, and entities they work with, recognizing their agency and autonomy.

Are there any absolutes that I should be aware of?

Absolutes are ethical things that you do need to make sure you are integrating! These are really important things to note when you are learning, because if you do choose to disregard these you could contribute to some really bad concepts that intrinsically cause harm to real people

Respect - Cultural awareness, avoiding appropriation, and looking out for other people can be important. Its important that you fully evaluate a moral system before indulging in it. For example: In the love spell discussion and lot of cultural practioners voices are left out of the discussion, same with baneful discussions. Its important to listen to many groups of people and take stances that dont turn peoples cultures into a monolith, demonize them, or silence them.

Hate groups and cults - Its important that you check where a belief comes from and see if it matches with any hate groups or cult rhetoric. These groups create really flashy and easy to digest claims to try and push an agenda kind of like a salesmen. Their whole job is to try and push you into their group so they can get money, power, fame, and in some cases carry out atrocities. This corresponds with that decolonization conversation from earlier, because it can help keep you and other witchy friends safe!

Nuance - Its important to keep nuance in the conversation. Don't take extremely black and white stances if you aren't knowledgeable on the subject. I think even advanced practioners need to remember to keep nuance in their opinions and keep an open mind when presented with new information or moral ideals. Keep an open dialogue when you are having conversations, and remember to keep asking yourself why you believe the things you do.

Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to building an ethical background in witchcraft. Your ethical code should be a reflection of your personal beliefs and values. It's essential to be true to yourself and to strive for a harmonious practice that aligns with your own spiritual journey! Enjoy the ride :)

[ladyiristheenchantress]

How to set personal intentions

Hello friends! I get asked time and time again "what does this herb do?" or "What can I use this crystal for?" Im here to share that there is an easier way than collecting books, dozens of websites, and trying to memorize what everything is and why!

Where do correspondences come from?

Correspondences come from cultural adaptations of a specific tools usefulness! Another aspect is most of these stem from their medicinal uses as well. For example: The idea that calendula is for spiritual healing stems from the idea that many cultures use it for physical healing and it was used as a common cure-all With all that said, no 2 cultures will have the same intentions for the same tool. A crystal of protection in one culture may be a crystals of travel in another. This can get confusing and leads us to a modern day issue of watering down a tools usefulness and intentions. I see so many books that just say "Basil - Money, Luck, Banishing." But dont list why something is that way, where did it come from. I reposted a previous post about the importance of asking why something is, and I think it still holds up to this day. It not only gets your brain flowing, but it helps deepen your craft.

How do I find correspondences then?

First, if you want to take a more general and historic root, look into the history of a tool! If its a herb look at the general medicinal properties and why it can do what it does (Example: Basil is antimicrobial, and therefore healing, in a lot of cultures because of Eugenol, it is able to defend against protozoa and fungus). When it comes to crystals look into where its native too, where it grows, then do a cultural deep dive to explore the original connotations of a crystal. Now: You don't have to follow only this, this is just simply establishing a why.

After you have done all this, or even if you are still researching when you get a tool simply ask it what its for. You may find that your collection of mint is actually for safe travels, and your obsidian cant protect you from entities! This may contradict online sources but that's ok!!! your tools are unique to your space, revel in that! You have an arsenal at your disposal, enjoy that!

How do I ask?

First, grab the tool in between the palm of your hand, sit with it, and then ask "What can you assist me with" or if your about to start a spell "Are you the right tool for this job?" then let the tool speak to you via intuition. You will feel a sharp yes, no, or start to get a sense of what it does. If you are just starting to work on your intuition that's ok too, not only is this exercise great for strengthen that, it can be versatile. Adapt your questions into yes or no answers because our bodies have an easier time starting with that when producing energy.

With all that said I hope you all enjoyed! Keep asking questions and stay curious!

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Smoke Divination 101

Hello friends! This post is all about smoke divination!! There are a lot of forms of smoke divination ranging from scrying to reading the shapes in smoke! Today im going to go through a couple and provide links to information about smoke in general! First of all, What is smoke? I recognize this question seems like a no-brainer but bare with me! Smoke is the production of gasses and airborn particulate like ash from an incomplete combustion! Smoke historically has heavy associations with cleansing because of its ability to cover smells which were believed to carry disease!

Smoke divination came about mainly to see the health of a home when cultures began reading it in various different ways and explore other traditions! For example: In ancient egypt its said that if you wear kohl under your eyes and light specific incense you might be able to see the gods helping you beyond the smoke! With all that said there are 3 major forms of divination via smoke and we will go through all 3 of them here!

Libanomancy

Libanomancy is observing how smoke moves around onto someone or something, and watching its motions with a chart/guide in mind! This method is specific because you are not reading shapes and symbols instead you are following the motions and flow of the smoke itself. With all that said this method actually stems from Babylonia! Below here is the original cuneiform chart with translation (source listed below)

(Source here)

Keep in mind, incense was sprinkled on charcoal tablets during this time to take that into consideration as you read!

If when you sprinkle the incense its flame burns with lot of smoke, your army will defeat an enemy.        

 If when you sprinkle the incense it stops short, and afterwards its flame burns with a lot of smoke, an enemy will defeat your army.

If when you sprinkle the incense smoke goes to its right and not to its left, you will prevail over your adversaries.      

If when you sprinkle the incense smoke goes to its left and not to its right, your adversary will prevail over you. 

If when you sprinkle the incense smoke goes to the east and does not go towards the crotch of the diviner: downfall for your adversary. 

If when you sprinkle the incense smoke goes towards the crotch of the diviner and does not go to the east, your adversary will prevail over you.  

If when you sprinkle the incense smoke goes equally in all directions: equal weapons.

If when you sprinkle the incense smoke clusters: success: the man will enjoy profit wherever he goes.      

 If the top of the incense smoke is fragmented, there will be financial loss and loss of cattle in the man’s estate.    

 A) If the top of the incense smoke is cleft (split in two): madness. B) If the top of the incense smoke is cut off, the man will experience hard times.

If the top of the incense smoke looks like the brick basket of Šamaš, there will be di’u disease in the man’s household. 

If the top of the incense smoke gathers like a date palm and is thin/down at its base, hardship will seize the man. 

If the incense smoke after a while is constricted, hard times will befall the man. 

If the incense smoke after a while pushes through and gets out, the man will pull through hard times.

 If the incense smoke pushes through to the east and gets out, the man will pull through hard times. 

Now this might be the original, but you can adapt all of these into modern connotations! Plus you can add your own definitions like if it creates a circle, 2 smoke trails, and more! Use this chart to your own abilities

Capnomancy

This is divination via smoke shapes! As the smoke creates a shape you can read it and write it down! Because smoke is versatile and likes to move around then shapes are very clear! You would read where the shape is coming from in the smoke plume, how it looks, and why

First set up the space, make sure you have fire safe bowls, dishes, etc and begin to formulate your question

next ask the question, either directly to the smoke or keep it in your mind

after you have a few things you need to focus on

How is the smoke moving

what herbs did you use

patterns, shapes, curls

any shapes that resembles objects or people

As this goes on, write them down, you can focus on interpretation later but make sure to transcribe all of this. After you are finished you can check things out

Some basic rules of thumb include

If the smoke goes straight up thats a definitive yes because of lack of resistance

Animal or humanoid shapes can be read like symbols from dream work or tarot, take note of all shapes and look up their symbolistic counterparts

if the smoke moves slowly up or splits its a hard no

if the smoke stays low to the ground you need to re-evaluate your path

cracking and hissing sounds indicate an important message coming next

smoke can carry memories in the scent, let your intuition pick up on it

times can be important, keep note of the time as you transcribe messages

Smoke Scrying

Smoke scrying is the process of seeing past the smoke, unfocusing your eye's, and using it kind of like a crystal ball! You are not reading anything about the smoke but instead using it as a fixation point and seeing images within the smoke.

First, set up a dimly lit space with a very very low light source like a candle near it or moon light. After light your incense and think about your question. After get comfortable in a chair or bed and face the smoke, do not sit close by, you will accidentally suffocate. After really sit and focus, sit back and count from 50, truly keep focusing on your smoke. When your relaxed start trying to unfocus your eye's and let them drift down the smoke. Its fine wherever they land, just sit with it. After you should start to see shapes, colors, and other messages appear in the smoke! some people report seeing the faces of their spirit team, new colors and shapes, and so much more. Smoke scrying is a unique art and it can take a little bit of getting used to but thats basically the gist of this!

Sources listed here and here

I hope you all enjoyed this post!! I will see you all in the next one :)

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Elemental Work Crash Course

Hello friends! As a west witch I find myself in a lot of elemental spaces, but as an elemental pagan I feel like we get little to no representation without wicca being present so this post is for all my friends who may be looking into elemental work and want to know what to expect! This is an introductory post so if anyone is interested in further information let me know in the comments!

Earth

Common Lessons tend to include grounding, understanding your place within it all like your social circles, life itself, or even the ecosystem. People also tend to find out how to see beauty even when they feel there is none, home and hearth magic, generational magic, and harnessing your own power. Its important to recognize earth is extremely giving, often giving things without expecting anything in return. Remember to give back to the earth when you can in your practice, it isn't fair to take things without giving back. Eventually earth takes all things back from the living, so remember that earth is as powerful as she is kind Darker Aspect/Element: Rot How to honor and find these teachings:

Going out in nature

Taking care of plants

Herbal work

Community service

Exploring

Grounding and meditation outdoors

Connecting to earth itself

Evaluating what it means to be human

Common forms of divination

Osteomancy (Burning Bones)

Abacomancy (Dirt)

Dendromancy (Tree reading)

Falling petals or leaves

Air

Common lessons from air tend to be quick and ever present, air speaks rather quickly to people and messages change! Its best to keep a log of signs and messages you receive because it tends to be a pebble trail on your journey. Air teaches how to keep calm in tense situations, creating your own path on the journey of life, going with the wind and learning to not value materialistic lifestyles, plus learning how to be more gentle with yourself and others!

Darker Aspect: Tempest How to honor and find these teachings:

Breath work

Spontaneity and leaving your comfort zone

Living to the fullest (however that might look for you!)

Dance or Hand motions

Meditations

Keeping sword or athame imagery as a talisman

Storm tracking

Common forms of divination:

Smoke Scrying

Wind Watching

Electromancy (By Lightning)

Austromancy (By Clouds)

Fire

Common lessons in fire encourage you to listen closely and not rely so much on searching for messages. In most mythos fire speaks once per session, when its burnt out usually the message is over. Fire teaches us how to be confident in our work, ambition, and performance. Fire likes to throw a lot at you and teach you adaptability, and most importantly how to be the best you can be. You can learn a lot from just a little flame.

Darker Aspect: Magma

How to Honor these teachings:

Practicing Confidence

Glamour Magic

Using your backbone/saying no more

Making friends in odd places

Hosting bonfires/tending to a hearth fire

Using candle magic

Common forms of divination:

Fire Scrying

Candle/Wax reading

Flame Shape reading

Casting knives

Water

Common lessons range depending on what you are looking for! Water can teach you how to be calm and collected, but also encourages you to be fluid! so if you need to unleash the flood you know when its appropriate to do so. You also learn how to go with the flow, how to be persistent, and how to be a fierce enigma. Water is also very humbling at times, so you will learn a lot about yourself.

Darker Aspect: Abyss

How to honor these teachings:

Emotion based meditations

Shadow work

Being in tune with yourself

Swimming

Boating

Fishing

Beach cleanups

Exploring your waterways

Common types of divination:

Water scrying

Waves

Rainfall

Storm tracking

Mist/Dew

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Beyond the cards: Iris's Readings

Hello friends! I am Lady Iris, I have been a reader for almost 10 years when it comes to scrying and casting things! I've been reading cartomancy for 5-6 years now! I have methods ranging from bibliomancy, candle scrying, auric readings, and more! Currently, I have hit a bit of a rough spot financially because of increasing health problems, family issues, and more. I currently work 3 jobs but I may have to take on a fourth SO I would rather it be something I love!!

With that said: I specialize in spiritual readings which can include Spirit and Deity Dossier, and shadow readings. I also am really good at real-world readings like spelling ideas, real-world guidance, relationship and love forecasts, and forecast readings! I also am willing to do the down-and-dirty readings however It's by consultation, I reserve the right to deny any reading I don't feel I would make a good match in, however, I can refer you to someone who will!

For paid readings, I am always open and ready to fit you into my books! I have Paypal, Zelle, and can accept gift cards as well if needed! Pricing is done via consultation because all spreads are handmade by me, but it avg about ~$2 USD a card and you get a paragraph per card as it relates to the question which averages between 6-8 sentences!

Divination Methods I offer

Tarot

Oracle

Lenormand

Runes

Playing Cards

Uno

Bibliomancy - Divination by Books

Ouija/Spirit Board

Palmistry

Physiognomy - Body/Face readings

Iridology - Iris Readings

Scrying (smoke, fire, water, and crystal)

Pendulum

Dream Interpretations

Automatic Writing/Channeling

Auric Readings

Astral Scans

Energy Center Readings

Tasseography - Tea Leaf readings

Botanomancy - Divination by Plants

Wax Readings

Internal Omen Casting

Cleromancy - Casting Lots/Crystal Casting

Abacomancy - Casting dust or soot

Shufflemancy - Divination through music

Xylomancy - Divination by wood

Astragalomancy - Divination by Dice

Dominos

Ornithomancy - Divination by Birds

And many many more!

For more information:

Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST/EDT) Divination specialties: Cartomancy of all types (Tarot, oracle, Lemerand, etc), Scrying and trance work, Numerology, Astral Scans, Nature based readings (Ornithomancy, Abacomancy, etc), Internal Omen Casting, Runes, list goes on so feel free to ask for a specific divination! I have most likely used it within 6 months Types of readings you prefer: Simple or complex, spiritual or non spiritual, its all good to me! Just see me for a consultation! Types of readings you won't do: Closed practices (I will send a list if needed of guidelines I follow), most of my guidelines will have to come from a consultation and I reserve the right to deny service under any grounds! So come ask me first, and we can make a plan, even if I wouldn't be a good fit as a reader! Experience level: I don't exactly like putting a label on it because some methods I've done for 15 years, some for only 1, In any case I do account this into the pricings of all my divination methods to insure you are getting a good deal! When are you open for readings?: For paid readings I will always be open, sometimes I will have flash sales, or open up my free offers when trying something new! Feel free to reach out whenever and I can see what I can do! :D Contacts: If you want to shoot me a Message on tumblr I can set up more ways to contact me! I have a discord handle that we can move too, or I can set up spaces to communicate! For my privacy I wont share any of my other social media's unless asked!

[ladyiristheenchantress]

You can write down as many correspondences as you want, memorize entire lists from someone else's blog or book or whatever, but none of it will matter if you do not understand those correspondences. It's so critically important to ask "Why?"

Why is spirit purple? Why is love red? Why is chamomile calm? Why is quartz "all purpose"? Why does cinnamon speed up a spell?

Why, why, why?

What do you actually believe? And why?

[ladyiristheenchantress]

What Is Celestial Work?

Hello friends! I wanted to give a special spotlight to a practice that was introduced to me about 5 years ago! I know plenty of Celestial Practioners but no posts online about it other than in Discord spaces and some aminos. As a preface: I am not talking about celestial deities which are gods that rule over celestial energy, I am talking about an entirely separate practice/type of divine energy work What Is Celestial Work? Celestial work is when you work directly with planetary energies and celestial bodies themselves rather than a deity counterpart. So in our case, you can work with or worship the celestial body of Saturn, each planet will have its own energies, personalities, and preferred way of communication! With that said, how divination, altars, and worship works is actually very different compared to traditional deity work because of the nature of the planets themselves. Celestial work is also technically a form of primordial work because it has to do with the formation of our solar system and even how our neolithic ancestors looked to the stars and planets for guidance (even if that guidance was for hunt purposes) How is this different than regular deity work? With a lot of aspects of deity work you have so many methods of communication, resources for altars and worship, and set values and beliefs from a previously or currently organized religion but with celestial work there are only a few known constants 1. Most planets that are farther away speak slowly and take a long time to communicate because of distance. Planets are not omnipresent but they are semi-omnipotent because they are constantly watching over earth just at a different timescale. There are some optimal times to communicate when a planet is in line with earth, and often times messages come days after reaching out in the form of dreams or sudden waves of feelings.

2. Physical altars will range, and most offerings need to reflect a few things! Because planets don’t have their own set of everything you have to use a few points of reference; You can use astrology, color magic, their own personality as they interact with you, Roman counterparts (aka why they are named that way), science, and astrology! There isn't going to be set guides (yet, I would love to help create some) so you may have to get creative

3. Planets are semi-capable to reach out to work! Planets can “reach out” however it corresponds more with astrology and how they effect our lives, charts, etc, reaching out for work doesn’t really happen in a traditional sense: instead we are constantly connected to all the planets so how we perceive them and how they effect us will depend on our unique relationship to them. Instead they allow a unique dynamic that follows how celestial work was originally done, however some nuance applies! This is because some modern-day UPG can cause different perspectives and how people perceive celestial work, so note not everyone’s experience is the same this just seems to be the most common interpretation. The aspect of “reaching out” is different! Some people argue that planets can reach out 100%, some people argue that they can’t at all, this is the middle path and really depends on how you perceive energy and your own experiences! In my opinion, it may be easier to reach out yourself because it’s hard for a planet to individually pick anyone out of 8 billion humans and almost 20 billion organisms, it just is my perspective and yours can differ!

How can I get started? So you find celestial work awesome! you want to mingle with the rings of Saturn and clown around with the moons of Jupiter :) Lets get started then

Pick an energy that calls to you, what do you feel you need to learn? note that the further out you go the longer it might take to communicate and connect to said planet.

Pick a method of divination, dreams, energy and intuition, scrying, and sign discernment tend to be the best route for getting started because often times tarot or cartomancy have trouble connecting to said energy. You could use decks that were created with those energies in mind to help connect better!

Learn about safety and vetting, communication can be complex especially if you are waiting a few days for a response, have basic wards of protection up and overall keep yourself safe!

Set up an altar space, this can look however you want it to! It can be physical, digital, etc! You dont need an altar but I know a lot of people enjoy having a set space to collect memories or honor the planets

Alrighty yall! I hope this was helpful! if you do get any questions feel free to drop them below in the comments or shoot me an ama :3

Resources to start https://www.astrolada.com/articles/astrology-techniques/planetary-influences-and-symbols.html https://rsarchive.org/Lectures/SpInPl_index.html https://www.entitymag.com/how-the-planets-influence-you/

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Iris's Uno Divination

You have 0-9 cards, they can be read reversed and the special cards act like the major arcana. Before anything how to draw is simple, instead of dealing your hand like a regular uno deck you are going to want too shuffle it (flip some of the deck around if you want reversals) and pull more like a tarot or card deck. Blue - Cups/emotions, relationships Red - Swords/your thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs. Thinking, communication. Yellow - Pentacles/physical or external world. Green - Wands/primal energy, Creativity, action. Now remember the numbers go with your color! ^^ Keywords after the; are the reversal meanings. Reversals are when the large number on top is reversed. 0 - New starts/beginnings ; bad choices come your way, naive ideas 1 - Balance ; delays/waiting, disharmony 2 - Connections ; disconnection, and fighting 3 - Stability ; feeling stuck or lost 4 - Disturbance ; hope 5 - Harmony ; lack of harmony or a split 6 - Mystery ; you either aren’t accepting the truth or you’re aloof 7 - Movement ; stagnation or a pause 8 - Growth ; wrong direction, or lack of growth where it’s needed 9 - Completion ; not done in journey yet, almost there Skips (any color) - A stop in whatever color it is (you can also use the skips as a pull and your previous card gets the opposite meaning) Reverse - Stop and think hard about the situation within the color pulled Draw 2 - Draw 2 more cards, but this is the root of your problem (yellow draw 2 = you have some physical stuff you have to work through) Wild Card - Major thing coming within a suit, draw another (good or bad) Draw 4 - You’re in deep doo doo in the next card you pull Example Reading Question: Where am I going next on my path? Yellow +2 - There is something physically present in your life you have to work through relating to... Yellow 5 - ...One of your relationships is physically disharmonious... Green 2 reversed (rx) - ...because of a large amount of fighting When you clear this, you are going to go to: Green 7 - End up taking a big chance and move on from this relationship. Blue reverse - Reflect deeply on the impact that will have on your life, and the freedom that awaits you emotionally.

Reading Uno can be fun! just know that a lot of cards will have to connect with each other and its important to leave space open for extra cards to present themselves! This method isn't super suitable for spreads because of this element, however it's great for general questions!

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Iris's guide to researching magic

Hello friends! I have been inspired by a witchy discussion and wanted to showcase something significant so This week let’s explore: how to research and study magic! First of all, congrats on continuing on your spiritual and witchy journey! You may have a lot of questions so let me show you how to get started

This first part is on how to formulate your question. If your using traditional means like google, bing, or a library database the first thing you need to do is understand how to formulate your question to get tailored results! Some things may require a language diffrence so using words like “metaphysical” “intentions” or “magical” in your search is going to be awesome! Another factor is keeping it short and sweet So, let’s say you want to know what Quartz does, if you put that phrase into Google your going to get information on LCD screens. Instead, try “Metaphysical properties of Quartz” When you're searching for concepts try looking up historical first! This can help you get used to the language they use to get tailored results An example is: you wouldn’t search “pagan religion” because you’ll get too many resources being thrown at you at once, instead try “how many pagan religions are there?” And you’ll get specialized terms and religions to look at.

The next part is general safety and making sure you are getting accurate Information from a trusted source! Using the CRAAP test can help you evaluate information based on currency, reliability, Authority, Audience, and Purpose! This can help you decipher the intentions of an article or book, like are they trying to sell a product? Push an agenda? This also can help you verify an author! Before reading do a quick search on the author to verify they are not an extremist.

Now, here is the final and one of the most difficult parts. You are going to find good and relevant information however they may conflict. There will never be a universal truth but there may be a culturally accepted truth, as you read don’t disregard conflicting opinions weigh what they are saying against each other and double-check that information! You can find where something is rooted in by checking if it’s historical, influential, or personal! Another rule of thumb to keep in mind is stay away from appropriation. Check out this great culture and religion guide for more information and especially be aware of harmful and cult-like rhetoric that is non-inclusive. Finally, something I need to mention is even if a source appropriate you have the potential to still learn from it, it just depends on how. There are degrees as to what you can and cannot use! An example is: Green Witchcraft by Paige Vanderbeck. She appropriated the system of chakras when she is actually using the system of energy centers! (For more information on the appropriation of chakras click here) You can still use all the info about the herbs but you may have the change some language or add some context in your mind. It’s a shame but almost 99% of books and resources written before 2017 appropriate to some level, being aware of how to catch it and what info you can use vs info you have to totally disregard is important. Example of changing language: The word —> what the author usually means Smudging —> cleansing Chakras —> energy centers Chi —> life force Karma —> cosmic Justice Somethings you just can’t mentally replace because the author is fully appropriating, like listing dream catchers, using awful terms like slurs or outdated language, or actively discouraging people to decolonize their practice these resources are the ones you should put down and let others know to be aware of Some lovely research ideas: Witchy and spiritual research Ideas Resources: Tips and tricks for new witches - The Mori Witch Beginners Guide to Spirituality - Kate Truong What should beginners be researching? - @serpentandthreads Being careful on witchblr and what constitutes being a beginner - cinnsmoondtone How can I practice without appropriation?

I hope you all enjoyed!! if you have any questions feel free to ask!

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Cookie Clicker Spell

Hello witches and bakers and gamers alike! Welcome back! Today is a simple spell using cookie clicker! If you think about it, cookie clicker is a skill-based game to try and get you the most profits and legacy! I know we probably all could use a bit more cash and abundance in our lives so lets take a look. In the game cookies are your currency, not only is that money, its food, its magic, its life! We can take this game and use it as a tool Iris's cookie clicker spell

Intentions are: Abundance and fast money-drawing abilities It lasts a couple hours after the last cookie is clicked The best times to do this spell is before a shift at work, after a shift from work, In the morning, or on a waxing crescent moon

Ingredients:

Cookie Clicker

An auto clicker or a lot of time to click

The Steps:

Set up the device you play cookie clicker on

Protect or start a ritual however you choose to, protect, open a circle, call forward your spirit team, whatever you want to do

Before you play bless your device, create a chant or visualize it being charged up magically to help your goal

open your game up and click the cookie 3 times then stop and put your non-dominate hands palm over the cookie

Speak to it, or visualze that every time the cookie is clicked abundance raises in your life, money flows effortlessly to you, and you are the epitome of the spoils of life

start playing the game, as you buy things and make more money you gain more profits in your own life

when you are ready to stop for the day, put your dominate hands palm over the cookie and say "The spoils of my game will continue to come to me, in all of its forms, I release the spell and allow its energy to continue in my daily life"

Disband your protections, lift the circle, etc but show a little love to your device

I hope you all enjoyed it!

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Solstice Blessings!

As the winter/summer solstice is in full swing I wish all of my friends in the northern and southern hemisphere a wonderful and peaceful holiday season, and enjoying any holiday! Whether your celebrating Yule, Geola, Saturnalia, Christmas, hanukkah, Kwanza, Dongzhi, Yalda Night, Litha (Southern Hemisphere) and many many more I wish all of you a very blessed season! For more information about the solstice and world wide traditions feel free to check out the links below: Winter Solstice and celebrations

Global Traditions

Common Ways to celebrate Southern Hemisphere: Summer Solstice and Celebrations

Southern Hemisphere traditions

Common ways to celebrate the summer solstice

Just a quick blessing for all my friends :3