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[nicandra-blog1]

BEKKATHYST SUMMER 2017 GIVEAWAY

~This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Tumblr.~

Please read thoroughly before entering!

Hello lovely Tumblr folk! It’s that time again- I have a giveaway for you all. Summer is quickly approaching, and I know a lot of you are getting ready to relax and vacation! So in celebration, I’m giving you the chance to win this large collection of items.

All these items came from my shop (minus the sage!).

What you get:

(Handmade by me) Clear quartz and copper necklace

(Handmade by me) “Full moon” rainbow moonstone hairpins

$25 credit that can be applied to anything in my shop.

amethyst cluster with calcite

selenite wand

tourmalinated quartz wand

black & blue kyanite crystals

polished petrified wood slice

four polychrome jasper hearts

an amethyst stalactite slice

baby amethyst sphere

rose quartz sphere 

large rose quartz chunk

labradorite sphere

fluorite obelisk

labradorite point

golden calcite point

ocean jasper marble

Dominican amber cabochon

rutilated quartz point

amethyst pyramid

spirit quartz crystal

a black sparkly candle (because why not?!)

a sustainably harvested California white sage piece, picked by me (sadly if you are outside the US I cannot send this to you)

This has a retail value of $260 in addition to the $25 shop credit!

Rules:

You must be 16 or older. (If under 18 you MUST have parent’s permission)

You don’t have to live in the US

You must be following me, so you can get updates if anything about the giveaway changes.

Please check out my shop and if you’re interested, you can sign up for my email newsletter here. (Totally not necessary or required, it’s just an option!)

DO NOT tag this post as giveaway. That will risk the notes getting messed up, and this will be ruined for everyone. Please don’t argue about this- for some reason people have said really nasty and mean things to me over this.

Reblog this post to enter. Likes count, too. No giveaway or spam blogs. If you reblog on a side blog, let me know in the tags what the name of your blog is that you’re following me with.

Please don’t spam people with reblogs- you can reblog however many times you’d like, but please be courteous.

Each entry will be assigned a number and the winner will be chosen by a random number generator.

The giveaway ends Wednesday, July 26th at 6 pm Pacific time.

The winner will be messaged and must respond with their full name and address within 24 hours, or a new winner will be chosen.

Please respect me and my rules, and have fun!

[nicandra-blog1]

Planters are in the shop! I went ahead and put this forest planter up along with the patina one I posted earlier. Only one of each are available at emilysculpts.com

[nicandra-blog1]

HEDGE WITCHERY RESOURCES

Blogs and Websites

Hedgewytchery

Witch of Forest Grove

Walking the Hedge

HedgeFolk Tales

This Crooked Crown

Articles and Books

Hedgecrossing Ritual

On Flying Ointments

Walking Between Worlds: A Guide for Crossing in and out of Body

Crossing the Borderlines: Guising, Masking, and Ritual Animal Disguises in the European Traditionby Nigel Pennick

Cunning-Folk and Familiar Spirits: Shamanistic Visionary Traditions in Early Modern British Witchcraft and Magicby Emma Wilby

Hedge Rider: Witches of the Underworldby Eric De Vries

Hallucinogens and Shamanism by Michael Harner

How Do Witches Fly? A practical approach to nocturnal flights by Alexander Kuklin

Nine Worlds of Seid Magic: Ecstasy and Neo-Shamanism in Northern European Paganism by Jenny Blain

Persephone’s Quest: Entheogens and the Origins of Religionby R. Gordon Wasson

R.J. Stewart Books

Real Middle Earth: Exploring the Magic and Mystery of the Dark Agesby Brian Bates

Shamans/Neo-Shamans: Ecstasies, Alternative Archaeologies and Contemporary Pagans by Robert J. Wallis

Witches’ Ointments

“Drugs, Witches, and the Flight to the Sabbat” by Jeremy Harte

“Hedgecraft” by Draig Tiernan

“If Witches No Longer Fly: Today’s Pagans and Solanaceous Plants” by Chas S. Clifton (PDF)

“Seidr Magic” by Ed Richardson

Seidr & Norse Shamanism

“Return of the Völva: Recovering the Practice of Seidh”

[nicandra-blog1]

Love how her color changes with lighting 🙏🏻🌵💕

[nicandra-blog1]

Curious about auras? This article will hopefully explain the specifics of this peculiar phenomenon.

What’s an aura, anyways?

The term aura refers to an individual’s subtle energetic emanations. Auras aren’t visible to everyone, but plenty of people see them. They appear as a sphere of light or color around the body. 

The color, size, brightness, and other features of the aura depend on the nature of the person it belongs to. These things can vary based on mood. They can also relate to metabolic factors, magical activity, and many other things.

Many New Age writers say that the aura is energy in the scientific sense. This is a common misconception. No physicist has ever measured anything resembling auras as they’re commonly understood.

A few days ago, someone told me that they believed the aura was a human’s magnetic field. This isn’t true. The magnetic field of a human doesn’t act like an aura. It doesn’t change based on emotions or other things like that.

Others say it is something electrical, or related to quantum mechanics. The truth of the matter is that science can’t (yet) measure the aura in any way. Many are skeptical about its existence for this reason.

Still, many, many people have seen auras throughout history. To me, it’s a real phenomenon. Science may not understand it yet, but, for me, it’s real!

The energy that extends beyond our physical bodies is called the aura. The word “aura” is derived from Latin aere, meaning “air” or “gentle breeze.” The American Heritage Dictionary defines the aura as “an invisible breath, emanation, or radiation.” In metaphysics, the aura is seen as the human energy field, that portion of the subtle body that radiates out beyond the limits of the physical body.

Belanger, Michelle  A.. The Psychic Energy Codex: Awakening Your Subtle Senses (p. 117). Red Wheel Weiser. Kindle Edition.

Some gifted people see auras without trying. Also, many children see auras in early childhood. Often, this ability, if not cultivated, disappears as they grow up. Many magicians and witches develop the ability to see auras.

This involves a great deal of practice and effort. It’s worthwhile, but everyone is different. Not everyone will have the same aptitude to see auras. Some people can see only a little bit of the aura, like a vague mist. Others see brighter colors and light.

Everyone’s aura is different, too! Most witches and psychics believe this extends only few feet from the body. Size can and does vary, though. Some people may have an aura of only several inches. 

Others might have a very large aura. Size, color, brightness, and other features change throughout a person’s life. If you see a person’s aura at one point, expect it to change within hours, if not minutes. This reflects how dynamic people can be.

Auras in History

People have observed and recorded auras throughout time. It appears in many pieces of religious and spiritual artwork. Historically, auras are usually shown emanating from the body of holy men and women.

Christian artists often depict them surrounding saints. They appear in other cultures, as well. Medieval authors referred to the light surround a person’s head as the “aureole”. They called light around the body the “nimbus.“ These authors called the whole aura the “glory.”

In Scrying for Beginners, Donald Tyson writes about the auras shape in artwork. While many modern seers refer to the aura as a sphere, the ancients saw it differently. They believed that saints emanated two spheres that overlapped.

The glory is sometimes depicted in religious art as the vesica or vesica piscis, a lens-shaped figure formed by the overlap of two equal circles that pass through each other at their centers. Christ, the Virgin Mary, and other saints are often painted within this pointed oval, which is also called a mandorla (from the Italian word for “almond”).

Donald Tyson. Scrying For Beginners (For Beginners (Llewellyn’s)) (p. 200). Llewellyn - A. Kindle Edition.

During the occult revival of the late 19th and early 20th century, many people wrote about the aura. Theosophists and other occultists developed complex systems for understanding it. 

Madame Blavatsky and Walter Kilner believed there were distinct layers to the aura. They named them and sought to understand them.

As science merged with occultism, seers began to look for ways to measure the aura. There have been plenty of attempts. None were particularly fruitful.

Of note is “Kirlian Photography.” Symon and Valentina Kirlian developed this practice in 1940s Russia. It involves sending an electrical current through the individual.

A photographic plate records the resulting discharge. Later scientists argued that the image was more mundane. They believed the interaction of this electric field and ambient moisture caused it.

Today, most people seem to agree with that sentiment. Kirlian images recorded don’t behave in a manner consistent with how seers perceive the aura. For example, Kirlian images rarely change based on state of mind.

Despite many attempts, science still doesn’t understand the aura! For that reason, most people relegate it to the realm of metaphysics and occultism. I don’t have a problem with that.

I am supportive of science, but acknowledge that not everything is currently known. As a witch, I do believe in magick, for example. Magick itself isn’t understood or measurable by science. The aura isn’t, but I still find the concept useful.

Seeing the Aura

Over time, it has been evident that people can develop aura sight. I myself saw auras occasionally as a child. I did not have further experiences with this until I began studying magick, though. I don’t consider myself to have natural aura vision.

Still, I see auras in certain circumstances these days. It’s something I practiced and developed. While not everyone can develop this ability, most people can! The level of detail you see will vary, but why not try?

Now, I’ll give you my own method for inducing aura vision. It may or may not work for you. I have read that many other people found these techniques helpful, though.

It is best to begin by looking for your own aura. Some people do begin by working with a partner, though. For me, aura vision comes best when I’m a bit sleepy. I don’t have the focus for it when I’m completely exhausted, but a little sleepiness works well.

I’ve found that auras are easiest to see in a dim environment without bright artificial lights. Natural light in the early morning or evening works best for me. While some folks say candlelight works, I find that the flickering distracts me.

Some herbs and incense can help with aura sight. Herbal blends designed for psychic enhancement have worked well for me in the past. 

My favorite herb for inducing aura vision is mugwort. It is good for other magical purposes, as well. Do some research and be careful if you decide to try it, of course. Not everyone reacts well to herbs.

Begin by focusing your vision on the edges of the body. This is regardless of whether you’re working by yourself or with someone else. 

With other people, I like to fix my vision above the top of the head. When looking for my own aura, I extend my hand flat and at an angle. Then, I gaze above my palm.

This is tricky, though. It takes a lot of practice. It works best for me if I look at the space  close to the body, and try to ignore the body itself. It’s difficult, though. We’re used to looking directly at objects, not the area around them.

I would suggest not wearing very bright clothing when attempting this. That can be distracting. It’s also good to do this against a blank, uncolored surface, like a white wall.

The aura will usually appear first as a light shimmering in the air. This may have a wispy mist-like appearance. It usually begins with a grayish color. Once you can see this, focus on it, and not the object.

When you can see the aura very close to the body, begin to glance around that area. After a time, you will be able to see a larger, more diffuse part.

Aura Colors

While many people can see auras, not everyone can see aura colors. This is especially true for beginners. For those that don’t see colors, the aura appears as that shifting, shimmering mist.

If color does appear in the aura, focus on the color. It may seem to grow brighter and brighter. Most seers agree that the colors correspond to the nature of the person at that specific time. 

Some books will list “color meanings” for the aura. My view is a bit different. Aura colors do have meaning, but, to me, a given color’s meaning depends on the seer.

If you associate yellow with happiness, seeing a yellow aura would show that the subject is happy. We don’t all process color the same way! We tend to absorb cultural associations for certain colors. Still, everyone has a different view. Keep this in mind when reading the aura!

Conclusion

I hope this article provides a good beginning for potential aura seers! Developing aura vision is fun and exciting. You can learn about a person (and how to connect with them!) by examining their aura.

It can also be helpful for witches and magicians. It’s a good first step to seeing all kinds of subtle forces. If you can see them, it’s easier to connect with them! Anyways, I hope you’re all having a great day. May your magick be glorious!

[nicandra-blog1]

Discover Your Spirit Guide Spread

Mkay this spread has only been used with a Rider-Waite style (i.e. The Major/Minor Arcana, 78 cards…blah blah blah) but I’m sure it would easy be easy to tweak for Oracle Cards or other kinds of divination decks.

You start by splitting the deck into three sections. The Major Arcana in one pile, the Court Cards (King, Queen, Knight and Page of each suit) in one pile, and everything else into a pile.

Keep the piles separate and shuffle them as you like.

Cards one and two tell you about your spirit guide. What they are like and what not.

1.       (Draw from the Major Arcana Pile)This is your spirit guide’s signifier. It can tell you a little about your guide and all give you a reference for further divination work.

2.       (Draw from the Court Cards Pile) This offers you a look into what your spirit guides personality is like.

For the last three cards you draw from the remaining pile.  These three cards are messages from your spirit guide.

3.       Lesson or message 1

4.       Lesson or message 2

5.       Lesson or message 3

You can also use this spread as an all-around communication spread.  Lay out cards 1 & 2 that you already know from using the spread before and then just use spaces 3-5 to communicate.

Anyway, hope you guys like it!

[nicandra-blog1]

Basic ideas for kitchen witchery

These are not recipes, but ideas - what meal could serve what purpose. They are simple, so you either should have your own recipes for them, or find them on the internet easy enough. 

Happy cooking!

BANISHING

chili (cayenne pepper, black pepper, chili - generally spicy things)

lemon-infused water (lemon is a repellant, and water is uncrossable for some entities)

sugarfree coffee with cinnamon (coffee and cinnamon are both banishing ingredients)

curry (cayenne pepper, black pepper, chili - generally spicy things)

PROTECTION

caprese salad (basil, tomatoes)

margarita pizza (basil, tomatoes)

apple pie (apples)

corn-on-a-cob (corn)

mint tea (mint)

herb soup (rosemary, basil, mint, thyme, bay leaf…)

HEALING

apple pie (apples)

golden milk (milk and turmeric)

elderflower tea (elderflower)

mint tea (mint)

onion syrup (onion and honey)

chamomile tea (chamomile)

lemon-infused water (lemon)

ginger tea (ginger)

nettle soup (nettle)

pumpkin soup (pumpkin)

pumpkin cookies or bread (pumpkin)

curry (turmeric, garlic, onion)

LUCK

cinnamon rolls (cinnamon)

orange juice (orange)

chamomile tea (chamomile)

corn-on-a-cob (corn)

pineapple juice (pineapple)

poppyseed buns or bread (poppy)

HAPPINESS

orange juice (orange)

honeyed tea (honey)

mint tea (mint)

lemon-infused water (lemon)

vanilla-flavoured ice cream (vanilla)

sunflower seed buns or bread (sunflower)

sugar cookies (sugar)

PEACE

lemon balm tea (lemon balm)

lavender-infused water (lavender)

cucumber-infused water (cucumber)

vanilla-flavoured ice cream (vanilla)

PROSPERITY

milk with honey (milk and honey)

apple pie (apple)

pumpkin soup (pumpkin)

pumpkin cookies or bread (pumpkin)

chocolate chip cookies (chocolate) 

sandwich - any (bread)

fried rice (rice)

curry (rice)

fries (potatoes)

[nicandra-blog1]

Witchy Crafts

I’ve been scouring pinterest lately for witchy crafts, and here are some I’ve found, along with what I would use them for!

Wall Hanging - Okay so I made a really cool wall hanging for someone a while ago, and with their permission, I enchanted it to bring motivation, happiness, and warmth to their space. I feel like you could do the same with any wall hanging. I added braids, chestnut halves, and even color coordinating yarn to make mine. 

Star Light Garland - Great for Cosmic Witches! Or for those of you who need a little light around your altar, around your bed for soft light, etc. 

Flower Candle Holders (Plaster Dipped Flowers) - Yes, you can buy these already made, but aren’t the ones linked so awesome? I think it makes perfectly preserved flowers to keep all year, and the flame of the candle might help draw their energy out!

Concrete Dragon Egg Candle Votives - While we’re on the topic of candle holders, why not take a look at these amazing ‘dragon egg’ ones? If you work with dragon spirits, or really any animal/creature spirit with eggs, it will look amazing on your altar!

Watercolour Painted Pillow - For all of you who use magic to work your way into your dreams, or are looking for a fun way to calm yourself before bed, try this! You can even paint it with moon water!

Dream/Wish Jar - All you have to do is write down your dreams/wishes on the paper of your choice, and throw them in a jar. I suggest making matching sigils for each one, and burning them at the full moon. I made one, and it looks so cute in my room! Super great for hidden witches!

Moon Rocks - I know, I know, not exactly a moon rock, but if you make these with moon water in place of regular water, and charge them under the full moon, they could stand in for the moon on cloudy nights, charge your crystals, etc. 

DIY Essential Oil Diffuser Necklaces - Obviously, this is a really inconspicuous way to use essential oils! You could wear one for protection when you’re feeling unsafe, attract love on the days you want too, and even give them away as gifts to other witches!

DIY Detoxifying Activated Charcoal Soap - Okay, but how much witchery could you do with these? So much!! After you are finished cursing, or perhaps on the night of a full moon, you could scrub up with this and get all kinds of cleansed!

Ombre Mermaid Soap - All the yes. Sea witches could use this in Mermaid beauty bath spells, or give it up as an offering! They’re so pretty, and with a little enchantment, could be magical!

Jellyfish in a Bottle - Do you interact with spirits of the sea? Maybe Jellyfish? Then go ahead and capture their beauty with this awesome DIY, and use the bottle as a spirit vessel for your jellyfish guests!

Mini Natural Brushes (Brooms) - These are great for on the go witchery, or for painting out your spells. You can keep dried ‘brushes’ in mini altar kits to use as a besom, or use them as brushes for making sigils, etc. 

Lay-Flat Storage Mat - Divination Supplies, witchy spell kits, enchanted jewelry- the opportunities are endless! Use black to keep the energy locked inside, and paint or draw sigils on it for an added boost!

DIY Hand Cast - Make your own palmistry guide using this neat craft. You can cast your hand and paint on it however you’d like!

Pressed Flower Candles - Preserve the beautiful energy of almost any flower by creating a candle with it! Burn the candle when you need the herb or flowers energy for your spell, and Make as many as you can while the flowers are blooming!

Wind Chimes - Perfect for alerting you of potential intruders, Wind chimes placed inside can add a natural, as well as witchy, flair to your space. If you hear it, but there is no wind, you’ll know someone has come to visit!

DIY Candles - Add your energy as you make these candles for a boost in your spells. There’s even a ‘Sprinkes’ candle you can enchant to grant wishes, and you can light this every year on your birthday. 

Bird’s Nests - Yes, you can make a nest of your own! Using special herbs, you can make a home fit for a spirit, or use it as a shrine to the Air element. 

Wooden Spoons (Personalized) - With a wood burner and some concentration, you too can make a Kitchen Wand! Enchant soups and pastas with special energy with your very own wooden Spoon Wand!

Gazing Ball - So, this isn’t exactly a crystal ball, but it will work just like a scrying mirror. Simply follow the directions, and, if you wish, exclude the additions to the sphere. Then, you’re good to go!

DIY Succulent Planters - Green witches, I got a DIY for you, too! Make these succulent planters, and put them near a window, especially if your altar is near by. They’ll provide protection and hardiness to your home and its defense systems!

Crystal Candle Votives - These crystals are 100% made by you. You can give them special intentions and colour them accordingly. Have fun making your own set of crystals!

Paper Leaf Garland - A little bit of nature for your altar! I know it isn’t real, but for those of you who can’t grow a plant near your altar, it will work beautifully!

Wish Bracelets -  I loved mine when I had it! They’re super fun to wear, and will be a discreet witchy project for you to try. Just make a wish, and wait for it to fall off!

Rustic Twig Ornaments - Use these as wards throughout your home, and enchant them to bring you whatever you need. 

Button Bicycles - To help your spell get going, throw in a button bicycle! Use it inside poppets, sachets, etc. 

Packaging Tape Image Transfers - These can help you label your herbs, crystals, and spell jars! Have fun coming up with cute designs and whimsical fonts!

Paper Envelopes - For those of you who send letters, write them, or use envelopes in your spells, you can create them using paper with this method!

[nicandra-blog1]

A Crash Course in Warding

Let’s just start a series of crash courses in witchcraft, since sometimes we need to learn things the quick and dirty way. Today, let’s talk about wards.

What are wards? Wards are protective energy barriers. They keep things out. You can place them around your home, certain rooms, even on certain objects. With practice and clear intentions, you can focus the wards to block out everything or only certain things. We’ll get to that in a bit.

Why should I ward my space and my things? Wards can keep out all sorts of things you don’t want in your home. They can block out negative entities, wayward spirits, mischievous entities, demons, and (if you’re really good at what you’re doing) even gods. Some people ward their divination tools so they know there are no spirits tampering with the results.

So what do I need to do first? Cleanse. This is very important. Wards are kind of like walls, or perhaps more accurately, bubbles. If you don’t clean the space first, you might trap things inside your ward bubble. You do not want that. There are lots of methods of cleansing, from burning sage to spritzing oil-infused water. Find a method you’re comfortable with and cleanse everything you’re going to be warding.

I’ve cleansed my home/item. Now what? Now we ward. I’m going to give you a couple methods. Let’s start with my favorite, incense warding.

Incense warding can also be done with spritzes of water/essential oil blends or herb-infused water if you can’t have smoke in your space. Whichever you’re using, you want to have a blend of protective herbs. Bay leaves, cinnamon, ginger, mustard seed, and salt are some great options that you can find in the grocery store, no fancy witch shop necessary. If you’re using incense, make sure you’re using natural incense and not super cheap stuff that’s artificially scented. The magic is in the herbs, and you won’t get that from fake scents.

How to Incense/Spritz Ward an Item

Smoke or spray item.

Visualize the smoke or spray clinging to the item and wrapping around it like a tight blanket, protecting it from anything that would cause harm (or interference, etc.).

How to Incense/Spritz Ward Your Space

Pick a place to start. I always start at my altar, but it’s up to you. If you’re doing multiple floors, start either at the top or bottom floor.

Moving continuously to your right, smoke or spray along the walls and door frames. As you go, imagine a barrier being formed around the walls, ceiling, and floor, pushing outwards to fill the room. Visualize the smoke or spray forming the barrier to keep out anything that will do you harm. [If you have a hard time with visualization, you can simply focus on the intent of the smoke or spray keeping things out.]

Keep moving right, following the layout of your home, making sure you get all the closet spaces. You basically want to outline the entire area you’re protecting, whether it’s you’re room or your whole house.

For multiple floors, repeat on each level.

For big layouts where there are rooms in the middle, go around those rooms as well.

I like to reinforce the wards over outside doors, windows, and mirrors. These are all passages of sorts, and when I reach them, I use the incense to draw a pentagram in the air over them. This is entirely up to you.

You’re done when you’ve reached the point where you began.

So why do we go to the right? Is that important? Kind of. Going to the right is like going clockwise. It’s about making things and progression, where going to the left or counter-clockwise is about deconstruction or reversal. [I read this idea in a witchy book a long time ago and will try to find a source when I can. If you honestly don’t feel it makes a difference, do whatever you’re comfortable with.]

Can I place wards that keep out certain things but not others? Sure. When you’re going around your space/warding your item, your intent is what’s important. I like to ward out entities that mean harm - it’s nice and general and doesn’t keep the fae out. Some people might want certain spirits and not others. Have your intentions clear in your mind as you place your wards.

That’s neat and all, but what are some other ways to ward? Let’s list a few.

Symbol/Sigil Wards

Choose (or make) a symbol or sigil that has protective properties. I’ve done this with Pluto’s astrological symbol because I worship him and it’s my way of being like, “Hey, Pluto. Please protect me, kthanxbai.” Pentagrams are nice and basic witchy/pagan symbols if you like them.

Draw the symbol over doors and windows. You do not literally have to draw it. It can be in water, incense smoke, or just your finger against the surface if you want.

As you’re drawing, make sure you have your intentions in mind - that nothing harmful can pass through this door, that the windows remain closed against entities, etc.

Energy Bubbles (if you have control over your energy)

Pick an item - any item.

Get your warding intentions in mind.

Channel lots of energy into the item. Visualize it emanating from the item in a bubble to fill your space.

If you’ve got mad skillz, you can form the bubble to the walls and be super exact with where its barriers are.

Vocal Wards

If you like spoken (or thought) spells, come up with a small chant to protect your space.

You can repeat this chant as you focus on your item being protected or as you walk around your home, protecting every room.

This is really great to incorporate into basically any other form of warding and gives your magic an extra bit of oomph.

I’ve heard wards can “fade” over time. True or false? Wards are just energy. Like all energies, they can disperse and weaken over time, or if something particularly nasty puts effort into destroying them. Redo your wards every so often (I do mine every few months, but it’s up to you), and especially before spiritual interactions. I also like to do mine after I’ve had lots of company, to kind of clear out family’s lingering energies and reinforce what I don’t want in my house.

In general, the intent of your wards is the most important part. Know what you want to keep out. This concludes our crash course on warding. Now go forth and protect some stuff!

[nicandra-blog1]

Magickal Plants to Keep Around the House

Taken from my personal experience.

- Chamomile: Attracts the energy of Sun and Happiness

- Succulents/Cacti: Physical Protection

- Rosemary: Attracts Healing, Cleanses Energy

- Dill: Attracts Wealth

- Vines: For companionship (The personality shows through the leaves and stalks!)

- Holly: Physical Protection

- Air Plants: Attract Fae

- Basil: Magickal Protection, Attracts Wealth

- Peppermint: Spacial Energetic Cleansing (subtle; best used with crystals or a white candle nearby)

- Bromeliad: Attracts Love

- Fern: Attracts Nature Spirits, Calms energy

- Thyme: Attracts Wealth and Good Fortune

Feel free to add!

[nicandra-blog1]

do you know how to use playing cards as tarot cards

Cartomancy

[Cartomancy Basics: Meaning, Spreads, and More] *

[Cartomancy: A Comprehensive Guide to a Deck of Cards] *

[Cartomancy Card Meanings] *

[Create Your Own Playing Card Oracle Deck]

[Divination: Cartomancy]

[Divination Using Playing Cards] *

[Divination with Playing Cards]

[How to Design and Create Your Own Cartomancy Deck/System]

[The New World Witchery Guide to Cartomancy] *

[Playing Card Meanings] *

[Playing Cards Divination]

[Tips for a Beginner in Cartomancy] *

* = external sources

[nicandra-blog1]

A Witch's Guide to the Moon

  The moon. Every witch keeps it in conscience. Nearly every religion seems to have something to say about it. In science, history, religion, even in architecture, the moon has come to show its importance and status. Babylonian astronomers in the 5th century BC recorded a lunar cycle, and back in 4th century BC, Chinese Astronomer Shi Shen created a guide regarding the prediction of lunar eclipses. Civilizations like the Han Dynasty thought the moon to be a driving force, while many Native American tribes associated it with female divinity. So, with all this in mind, how can we use and understand the positioning of the moon to better our witchcraft today?

  First, we have to understand a lunation. A lunation is a roughly 30 day cycle, from new moon to new moon. The word moon actually comes from the word month. Ancestors used and understood the moon phases to tell time. Each phase lasts a few days to the naked eye, though the moon is really only in each phase for a brief second. It appears the moon stays in a certain phase due to the time buffer in which we on earth see the light. The New Moon represents the start of a new cycle.

 So, exactly what does each cycle mean, and how does it correspond with the craft?

 New Moon - The new moon is a time of new beginnings. The Sun and Moon are aligned, leaving the moon dark and invisible to our eyes on earth. It will also rise and set around the same time as the sun. It is a time to start new projects, jobs, friendships, and to seek new intentions. Starting a diet, trying to kick an old habit, or redecorating will all be made easier by the energy given by the New Moon. Wishing upon a New Moon is also a good way to bring in some luck.

Waxing Crescent -  Also known as the ‘young moon,’ the crescent begins the move towards a full moon. A small, sliver shaped section of the moon is illuminated. Plans or goals that were made during the New Moon can be solidified and worked towards, and often clarified.

First Quarter -  The first quarter moon is a small pause from the motivation and working to balance oneself out and discover possible mistakes and holes in plans and ideas we had made. Now is a time to focus and fine tune little things in your life. Meditation and introspective journeys are at hand.

Waxing Gibbous - Also known as the three quarter moon, the waxing gibbous is ¼ away from becoming the anticipated full moon. Spells for success and goal reaching work best, especially in relation to the project you’ve been working on. Think about positive spaces and constructive magic–bringing in money, romance, etc. If your project so far has failed, the Gibbous will help recharge it.

FULL MOON - The full moon. Esbat. Regarded highly as the best and most effective time to cast spells, lore and tales have surrounded the mysterious full moon for centuries. It is a time of heightened psychic awareness, in which everything comes together, including family, friends, plans, and ideas. In Wicca, the full moon is the mother’s moon, and in folklore, the full moon represents divine female power. Divining is especially powerful during a full moon. It is a perfect time to make Moon Water and to perform any exciting or lengthy spells you’ve been working on.

Waning Gibbous - As the waning begins, so does the shedding of old or toxic things in your life. Removing bad habits, curing illnesses, quitting bad jobs, ending addiction, or even breaking off relationships can be planned or started. This is also the time of the goddess Demeter.

Last Quarter - Continue banishing work here, especially focused on your emotions and negativity. Remember things you want to improve and save them for the upcoming new moon, but for now, simply make room for them.

Waning Crescent - The final waning phase before the start of a new cycle, now is a time to confront head on what is causing chaos in your life. A little hexing here and then, if such practice coheres with your beliefs, might just work out during this moon phase.

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Lunar Deities: Phoebe, Artemis, Selene, Hecate, Chang'e, Sin, Mani, Tsukuyomi, Ibis, Chonsu, Thoth, Set, Chia, Wadd, Elatha, Luna, Nepthys,

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The Moon Tarot

 The moon tarot invokes the unconscious, introspect, and discovery. The face of the moon is half seen, symbolizing pregnancy and the mystery of the soul. The rays of light represent creation and power, and are a vital symbol of life. The animals, perhaps a wolf or dog, sit opposite of a river, mouths lifting to howl at the moon. This can represent the cutting of ties with someone close, and is especially poignant in the idea of hiding or forgetting ones ancestry. A crustacean sits in blue water at height of a pond, symbolizing hidden emotions and sensitivity. The water flowing towards the moon along with the crustacean and dogs rising towards it can be seen as a unity of self. The water at the bottom, where the crustacean sits, is drawn in by the moon, evoking female cycles, as well as passage from life to death and vice versa.

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This will most likely be updated and added to, but for now, here this is! I hope this can help somebody out.

[nicandra-blog1]

A Masterpost for Space Witches (1.1)

Basic Tutorials

How to Make Galaxy Print (video)

DIYs: Clothing & Accessories

DIY Constellation Cardigan

DIY Constellation Scarf

DIY Galaxy Blouse

DIY Galaxy Cuff Bracelet

DIY Galaxy Dress

DIY Galaxy Jeans

DIY Galaxy Leggings

DIY Galaxy Pendants (video)

DIY Galaxy Shoes

DIY Moon Phase Tights

DIY Nail Polish Galaxy Necklace

DIY Starry Skies Hairpin

DIYs: Decor & Art

A Galactic Watercolor Technique

DIY 5 Minute Spray Paint Space Art

DIY Constellation Clay Bowls

DIY Constellation Lamp

DIY Constellation Table Runner

DIY Galaxy Wine Glasses

DIY Glow in the Dark Galaxy Jar

DIY Lighted Constellation Jar

DIY Lighted Constellation Wall Art

DIY Lighted Star Garland

DIY Moon Clock

DIY Moon Craft Mobile

DIY Moon Phase Wall Art

DIYs: Other

DIY Galaxy Envelopes

DIY Melt & Pour Galaxy Soap (video)

DIY Moon & Stars Magnets

DIY Recycled Solar System

Makeup

Galaxy Nails Tutorial

Glitter Lips Tutorial

Recipes

Edible Glowing Gelatin Stars

Galactic Candy Apples

Galaxy Bark

Galaxy Jello in a Jar

Outer Space Cupcakes

Pan-Galactic Gargle Blaster Cocktail

Planet Cake Tutorial

Sonic Screwdriver Cocktails

Fun / Sensory

DIY Bottled Nebula

DIY Galactic Sensory Bottle

DIY Galaxy Playdough

DIY Galaxy Slime

DIY Magnetic Slime

DIY Moon Dough Recipe

DIY Moon Sand Recipe

DIY Night Sky Playdough

DIY Outer Space Playdough

Erupting Moon Dust Recipe

Erupting Moonrocks Tutorial

Safe Glowing Bath Tutorial

Online Fun & Games

Online Nebula Maker

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Apps & Digital Tools

10 Free Stargazing Apps

Interactive Galactic Explorer

Online ISS Tracker

Starry Night Online Star Chart

Stellarium: A Free Open-Source Planetarium

Digital Supplies: Audio & Video

“All Alone in the Night” Video; Time-lapses of the Earth from the ISS.

“Planet Earth Seen From Space” Video; Time-lapses of the Earth from the ISS.

Saturn Rings Ambient Noise Generator

The Sounds of Neptune as Captured by Voyager (from fleurlungs​)

The Sounds of Space from Space Audio

Spaceship Ambient Noise Generator

UniverseTV’s Youtube Channel

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Magick and Divination

How to Make Full Moon Water (by thesigilwitch)

Moon Water (by auroraswitchcrafthomepage)

Moon Banishing, Binding, and Conjuring (by windvexer​)

Star Reading Tutorial (by jay-omnipotent​)

Star Scrying (by shipping-the-gods)

Witchy Full Moon Stuff [Masterpost] (by natural-magics)

Some Space Witchery References

10 Stunning Minerals for Space Witches (by tarigrove​)

2015 Moon Dates (by rikkalorelei)

All About Retrogrades (by coolastrology​)

Basic Understanding of Planet-in-House Placements (by @lunarcappy)

Correspondences for the Seven Planets (by abwatt​)

EarthSky’s Eclipse Calender

Meteor Shower Calender

Moon Magick References (by the-darkest-of-lights​)

Suncraft References (by thecuriousviolet​)

Spells:

A Billion Suns Wish Spell (by witchlinghour​)

A Lunar Fertility Spell (by aspelladay​)

A Two-for-One Moon Wish Jar (by lunar-moonbow​

Full Moon Jewelry Protection Spell (by natural-magics)

Full Moon Wish Spell (by draiocht-arsa​)

Luxa’s Lunar Self-Love Spell (by alcryst)

Moon Infused Protection Water (by natural-magics)

Simple Full Moon Ritual for Letting Go (by witchesamongus​)

[nicandra-blog1]

Poisonous Herbs

I’ve seen quite a few post going around about potentially toxic or harmful herbs so I just wanted to make a list for me and other witches to use.

**I am not an expert so please before you use any herb/plant do your own research please!

Arnica; poisonous in large amounts which can cause serve gastroenteritis, fever, nausea, dizziness, abnormal pulse rate, diarrhea, skin reactions, and internal bleeding of the digestive tract.

Azalea; poisonous and causes nausea, vomiting, depression, difficulties breathing, coma, and it is rarely lethal.

Balm of Gilead; can cause skin irritation, serve stomach upset, and pregnant/breastfeeding woman should avoid.

Belladonna; very deadly poisonous causes blurred vision, staggering, loss of balance, dry mouth and throat, headache, rash, constipation, confusion, hallucination, and convulsions. Careful when handling because it can be adsorbed through skin.

Bleeding Heart; may be poisonous in large amounts which cause convulsion and other nervous symptoms.

Blue Flag; nausea, vomiting, irritation of the mouth, throat, digestive tract, skin, headaches, watery eyes.

Bryony; all parts of are poisonous and can cause death, lethal if consumed.

Buttercup; irritant juices may severely damage the digestive system.

Calamus; toxic in large dosages and causes hallucinations, nausea, and vomiting.

Calabar Bean; extremely toxic which can cause excessive sweating and saliva, reduced pupil size, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, blood pressure changes, confusion, seizures, coma, muscle weakness, paralysis, serve breathing problems, and death.

Camphor; serve allergic reaction which include rashes, hives, itching, difficulties breathing, tightness in chest, swelling of the mouth, eyes, face, lips, or tongue.

Castor Oil Plant; poisonous and causes burning sensation in mouth and throat, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea. In the next several days dehydration, drop in blood pressure, and decrease in urine. Unless treated death can be within 3-5 days.

Celandine; nausea, dizziness, fatigue, fever, and liver damage.

Christmas Rose; causes burning of the mouth, eyes, throat, oral ulceration, gastroenteritis, and vomiting blood.

Cowbane; poisonous and can attack the central nervous system which can induce seizures.

Daffodil; can cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and can be but usually not fatal.

Daphne; poisonous, causes burns to the mouth and the digestive tract then followed by a coma. Can be fatal.

Dog’s Mercury; poisoning will appear in the next few hours which includes vomiting, pain, gastric and kidney inflammation, sometimes inflammation of the jaw and cheeks, and drowsiness.

Elderberry; poisonous and causes nausea and digestive upset.

Elephant Ear; all parts are poisonous and causes irritation of the mouth and tongue, can be fatal.

Ergot; can be fatal and can also cause nausea, vomiting, muscle pain or weakness, numbness, itching, vision problems, convulsion, confusion, spams, and unconsciousness.

Gelsemium; extremely poisonous even in small amounts very toxic and can cause headaches, vision problems, difficulties swallowing, dizziness, muscle problems, seizures, breathing problems, and slowing of the heart.

Golden Chain; serve poisoning which causes excitement, staggering, convulsions, and coma. This can be lethal.

Foxglove; large amounts can cause irregular heartbeat, digest upset, mental confusion, and can be fatal.

Hellebore; likely unsafe if ingested or applied to skin which can cause irritation of the mouth and throat lining and also slow down the heartbeat. Large dosages cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulties swallowing, nerve problems, blindness, convulsions, paralysis, difficulties breathing and death.

Hemlock; stomach pains, vomiting, and progressive paralysis of the central nervous system.

Henbane; cause dilated pupils, hallucinations, increased heart rate, convulsions, vomiting, hypertension, and ataxia.

Holly; berries can be deadly and the leaves can cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach and intestinal problems.

Honeysuckle; can cause allergic reactions which include rashes.

Horse balm; gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, dizziness, and painful urination.

Hyacinth; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and can be fatal.

Ilex; serve allergic reactions which include rash, hives, itching, difficulties breathing, redness, burning, swelling of the mouth, eyes, face, lips, or tongue.

Iris; serve digest upset.

Ivy; poisonous, causes stomach pains, labored breathing, and possible coma.

Jewelweed; dangerous when consumed in large amounts.

Jerusalem Cherry; nausea and vomiting and occasionally fatal especially to children

Jimsonweed; do not inhale or consume, can cause many toxic effects like dry mouth, extreme thirst, vision problem, nausea, vomiting, constipation, fast heart rate, hallucinations, high temperatures, seizures, confusion, loss of conciseness, breathing problems, and death.

Laburnum; intense sleepiness, vomiting, excitement, staggering, convulsive movements, frothing at the mouth, unequally dilated pupils, coma and death.

Larkspur; digestive upset, nervous excitement, depression, and can be fatal.

Laurel; poisoning produces anorexia, profuse salivation, depression, uncoordination, vomiting, watering of the eyes, difficulties breathing, weakness, cardiac distress, convulsion, coma, and eventually death.

Lily of the Valley; irregular heartbeat and pulse accompanied by digest upset and mental confusion.

Lobelia; potentially toxic which can cause vomiting, it also can interfere with medication.

Jack-In-The-Pulpit; produces allergic reactions and causes skin, mouth, throat irritation, swelling, burning, difficulties breathing, and stomach upset.

Kava Kava; can cause liver problems, nausea, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, drowsiness, numbness around mouth, hallucinations, kidney effects, shortness of breath, and disorientation.

Mandrake; poisonous which can cause blurred vision, dryness of the mouth, difficulties urinating, headaches, vomiting, rapid heart rate, and hallucinations.

Mayapple; diarrhea and serve digestive upset.

Mistletoe; poisonous and causes gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, weak/slow pulse, seizures, and it is rarely lethal to humans.

Morning Glory; toxic and causes diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset, disorientation, ataxia, anorexia, and hallucinations.

Mugwort; use in a well ventilated area and with the right dosage, too much can be lethal.

Nightshade; fatal and intense digestive disturbance and nervous symptoms.

Oak; poisonous in large amounts and gradually affects the kidneys.

Oleander; extremely poisonous can cause heart effects, serve digest upset and even death.

Pennyroyal; can cause serve liver and kidney damage and also stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, burning of the throat, fever, confusion, restlessness, dizziness, high blood pressure, can produce miscarriages, and brain damage.

Periwinkle; contains poisonous chemicals and should no be ingested can cause nausea, vomiting, hearing loss, hair loss, dizziness, bleeding, nerve problems, seizures, liver damage, low blood sugar, and even death.

Pleurisy Root; can cause serve heart problems, nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes.

Poinsettia; skin rashes, serve eye irritation, and irritation or burns to the mouth, throat, stomach, and intestinal lining.

Pokeweed; all parts are poisonous and when handling use gloves because some chemicals can pass through skin and affect the blood  and it also causes nausea, vomiting, cramping, stomach pain, diarrhea, low blood pressure, difficulty controlling urine, and thirst.

Rhubarb; fatal and large amounts can cause convulsions, coma, and a rapid death.

Snakeroot; can be fatal, cause nausea and vomiting.

Spurge; unsafe and has chemicals that cause cancer, other effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, burning of the mouth, dilated pupils, dizziness, painful bowel movements, near unconsciousness, irregular heartbeat, rashes, reddening, itching, burning, and blisters.

St John’s Wort; can be poisonous and cause fatigue, dizziness, confusion, dry mouth, and can effect medications.

Skullcap; pregnant women should not use it can cause a miscarriage

Thorn Apple; abnormal thirst, distorted sight, delirium, incoherence and can be fatal.

Uva Ursi; can cause skin discoloration, headaches, tinnitus, dizziness, muscle twitching, tremors, convulsion, seizures, nausea, vomiting, irritation to the skin and eyes.

Wahoo; poisonous and potentially deadly, symptoms include serve upset stomach, bloody diarrhea, fever, shortness of breath, unconsciousness, spams and coma.

Wisteria; mild to serve digestive upset, many children have been poisoned by this plant.

Wolfsbane; also know as Aconite, disables nerves, lowers blood pressure, and can stop the heart. Avoid skin contact.

Wormwood; can cause diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, insomnia, restlessness, vertigo, and seizures.

Yellow Jasmine; poisonous and cause nausea and vomiting.

Yew; fatal, death is usually sudden without any warning symptoms.

(Source) (Source) (Source) (Source)

[nicandra-blog1]

Hidden Self Spread by intuitive-witch

**I created this spread as part of @thespiritedtarotchallenge and, for the purposes of the contest, I follow from my main blog @mainly-intuitive.

This week’s prompt is moonshine. I would have loved to have made a little moonshine cocktail while I worked on this spread, but, tragically, I do not like moonshine. I say tragically because I’m from the deep South and it’s practically a way of life here. Whenever I think about this alcohol, the first thing that comes to mind is the clandestine production in sheds and basements of moonshine during prohibition. So, I decided to create a spread about the secret and hidden parts of ourselves. You can use this spread to get a better understanding and acceptance of your hidden self. 

1. Your Dark Side - These are your qualities that you may perceive as bad or undesirable. You may even feel ashamed of these parts of yourself, so you attempt to hide them from others. The first step to self-improvement and self-acceptance is to acknowledge the parts that you may want to work on.

2. Your Hidden Dreams - This card shows the seemingly far-fetched fantasies you may have. It could be that dream job, dream relationship, dream whatever that you may be embarrassed to tell others about or think you’ll never be able to achieve. I do want to add that while this is a fairly common reaction, you shouldn’t have to feel silly for your dreams and desires :)

3. Your Deepest Secrets - This represents the experiences, memories, actions, feelings, etc that you don’t tell anyone, or very few people, about. This card can also explore why you feel the need to keep those things secret.

4. Your Greatest Fears - What things make your skin crawl? What outcome or event do you dread more than anything? This card may help you understand the things you fear, and why you fear them.

Now that you’ve put a name to all of these parts of yourself, what you do with the information is up to you. Is it time to make a change, take a chance, and/or let someone in? It’s all up to you. I hope you enjoy this spread, kind reader! 

[nicandra-blog1]

Kromlau bridge, Germany, during all four seasons.

[nicandra-blog1]

Palmistry 101

When reading palms, whether your own or someone else’s, these are the main things to consider:

Which hand is dominant? For right-handed people, the left hand gives information about inherited characteristics and potential, while the right hand reveals the development, character, and life events. The opposite is true for left-handed folks!

Quality of lines and their points of intersection. How strong or fine are the lines? Are they straight and long, broken and twisted, etc.? 

The directions of lines, which mounts they occur on or near, and their influences.

Shape of the hand, fingers, nails, and mounts.

General demeanor of the person and the hand. 

MAJOR LINES

Each line has its own meaning and depicts a certain course of action in a person’s life. Lines come in all shapes and sizes. Not everyone has all six of these lines, although the first three are always present (the fate line is usually present as well). 

Heart line: emotions, insecurities, marriages, dependence and independence, the nature of your relationships.

Head line: intellect, reasoning powers, prospective career paths, potentials for success.

Life line: pattern and quality of life, physical vitality, stability or imbalance, will power and logic, not necessarily the indicator for length of your life.

Fate/Saturn line: strengths of character, career, friendships, life’s daily problems, and general ability to succeed.

Mercury/Health line: health matters, business and adventure, the spirit of discovery.

Apollo/Sun line: utilization of creative energies and potentials for success through development of talents.

MOUNTS

The mounts are fleshy cushions underneath each of the fingers. These mounts carry the same name as the finger they are under. Below are the different character and personality traits associated with each finger/mount.

Mercury: Pinky. buoyancy, shrewdness, wit, spirit.

Apollo/Sun: Ring finger. compassion, love of beauty, artistic abilities, potential for success.

Saturn/Fate: Middle finger. seriousness, cautiousness, gloom, superstition.

Jupiter: Index finger. leadership, honor, ambition, spirituality/religiousness.

Lower Mars: Below pinky. moral courage, self-control.

Upper Mars: Below thumb. resistance, coolness of spirit, calmness, courage.

Venus: Thumb. benevolence, affection, humility, passion.

Moon: sentimentaliity, imagination, self-centeredness 

CONFIGURATIONS

These are just a few of the figurative markings that are commonly seen on the hand. They add meaning to the lines or mounts they are near.

Branches: emphasize strengths.

Breaks in lines: emphasize weaknesses.

Chains: signify obscure goals, inclinations to deviate.

Crosses: signify upheavals, violence, struggles, and blunders.

Islands: indicate delays, injuries, and problems.

Stars: emphasize luckiness.

*** I will be posting more about palmistry soon, including more detailed variations of the lines and mounts! In the meantime, feel free to ask me about your palms… sending me a picture would be AMAZING :~)