#sensory witchcraft

[silverity]

i'm gonna make my painful contribution to The Discourse and say i do not see the harm in women reclaiming female centric spirituality.

i am not a religious person nor do i want to become one but spirituality is also about culture, community and celebration. i would much rather women celebrate nature, the female form, and "divine femininity" than patriarchal phallocentric religions. that "divine femininity" is used pejoratively has always tickled me considering we live in a world hooked on divine masculinity. the old matricentric religions are really the only form of female culture devoid of male-centric worship we can grasp at, since men have dominated our belief systems for thousands of years. and women learning about the old religions is the best way to unravel the myth of the male creator, and realise it is really women who are the closest thing to a "god" on Earth.

there's also an element here, which i think is deeply capitalist, patriarchal, and a little racist, of people considering the connection to & celebration of nature as somehow primitive. i think that the lifestyles most of us live now, with none of us knowing anything about the land around us is actually very infantile and regressive for humanity as a whole. the ways of life we consider "primitive" (primitive communism, matrilineal societies) are really what we need to find ways to return to post-capitalism. they were in tune to nature, sustainable, and much more communal & equal. how can nature be primitive or ascientific when science *is* in nature, and the practices of these old societies were early scientific discoveries & practices. as a Black person, my community is often trying to reclaim our lost practices. it makes sense to me that women would try to do so too.

[crimzon0king]

[theautismzone]

⏳️🔮tᥲmᥲᥣᥲ🔮⏳️

x x x x x x x x x

[systimming]

Vee board with magic stims!

- Mod Primarina + Mod Luz.

((Sources of gifs: x, x, x, | x, x, x, | x, x, x ))

[gorkaya-trava]

when you're practicing witchcraft but can't stand strong smells because of your sensory problems ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ

[nicol--bolas]

maybe don't call people who have sensitivities to sage smoke toxic people with negative energy @ every witch everywhere

[t0adst0ol]

i love you candles i love you salt lamps i love you string lights i love you lava lamps i love you lanterns i love you ambient lighting

[shittycgihamster]

Heya!

I'm looking for a heavy pendulum that is sturdy enough that I can swing it around a decent bit. Any recommendations?

[baffokitty]

Blessed soundproof headphones = Witchy Autism Veiling™️

[thehazeldruid]

Sensory Deprivation Meditation

Delving into the darkness of self

So yesterday I did a sensory deprivation meditation and asked myself a great many personal questions. “It is only by delving into the darkness that we can emerge in the light, reborn, reshaped, and remade.”

I began with closing all the blinds in my apartment, and when it was not dark enough, prepared a blindfold for myself. I chose a time when no one would be contacting me and additionally set my phone on do not disturb.

I found a smooth round stone to use as a monotonous sensory input, or an anchor (basically a tool to simply keep myself from falling asleep) made myself comfortable laying on the living room floor, put some earplugs into, and blindfolded myself.

As I lay there, breathing slowly with the rock on my chest, I let the darkness around me (and I mean TOTAL emptiness of sensation, save the stone) envelope me.

There I thought, but did not try and grasp any of those thoughts. I simply let them flow freely. Same with my emotions. I let them flow with the memories and allowed myself to follow them, but not rein them in.

Some of the questions I asked myself whilst in this seldom touched place of inner darkness were

What is my relationship to this darkness?

Did I run from or avoid it?

Was I open to working with it?

Do I accept the inner flowing of its seasons? (from light to dark and dark to light)

Did I fight it off or let it shape me?

What suffering did it hold?

What did it contain that I have not owned about myself? (positive or negative)

I then asked myself to understand all of those things, one at a time. To come to terms with what the darkness is in myself, how it ebbs and flows, how it moves and has shaped me. How it continues to shape me.

It took an hour and a half before I felt the darkness as ready to release me. Slowly, I came up from my meditative state, (the same method I use to go in and out of any meditative state, a vivid visualization of my trip to my inner sacred temple). Once I was completely aware once more, I grounded myself with a cup of hot tea and some toast.

Definitely a meditation I’ll be doing again. I learned a lot about myself, and get the feeling I could learn much more. Letting the darkness shape me, as the light does more often, was a wonderful and mind opening experience. :) I suggest anyone with the time, try this.

/|\

M.G.

The Hazel Druid

[tobeimean]

Composite Exposure

HISTORY & TIME

[casualwitch]

just charmed my chapstick :)

[tadpoles-and-daydreams]

Btw devotional acts can and do sometimes look ridiculous. This is partially me gushing because I'm really proud of myself for today, I took the ENTIRE day so far to just do self care that I don't normally have the time/energy for as a devotional act to Aphrodite. This was a big deal!!

It also looked ridiculous though bc washing my face is a sensory issue, I hate water on only one part of my body and getting water in or near my eyes is terrible. So of course I ended up blindly grasping for a towel, eyes squeezed shut, muttering to Aphrodite about how she better feel loved and appreciated.

Sometimes witchcraft looks dumb and I enjoy it.

[journalofanoldsoul]

Spooky Night Movie Club (Moon Edition)

⚙️ Moon in Aries - "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" (1974): This movie is a high-octane, action-packed horror classic that perfectly complements the impulsive and adventurous spirit of individuals with Moon in Aries. With its fast-paced narrative and intense scenes, it mirrors the high-energy and daring nature of Aries Moon individuals who thrive on excitement and adrenaline.

🪄 Moon in Taurus - "Practical Magic" (1998): "Practical Magic" is a delightful and enchanting film that delves into themes of love, family, and the mystical. It's an ideal choice for those with Moon in Taurus, as it revolves around strong family bonds, a touch of romance, and a cozy, aesthetically pleasing backdrop. The movie weaves together elements of romance, witchcraft, and sisterhood, creating a visually appealing and heartwarming experience for Taurus Moon individuals who cherish comfort and emotional connection.

💀 Moon in Gemini - "Scream" (1996): The clever and communicative nature of "Scream" resonates with the inquisitive and chatty qualities of Moon in Gemini individuals. This iconic slasher film keeps the audience engaged with its witty dialogues and intricate plot, making it a fitting choice for those with a Gemini Moon who appreciate intellectual stimulation and quick-witted storytelling.

🏚️ Moon in Cancer - "The Conjuring" (2013): "The Conjuring" is a classic horror movie that explores the theme of protecting one's home and family, aligning with the nurturing and protective instincts of Moon in Cancer individuals. Based on the real-life paranormal investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren, the film delivers spine-chilling and emotionally engaging experiences. It dives into the dynamics of family bonds and the profound lengths people go to shield their loved ones from supernatural threats, making it a compelling choice for those with a Cancer Moon who deeply value family connections and security.

🪓 Moon in Leo - "The Shining" (1980): "The Shining" is a visually stunning and emotionally intense horror masterpiece, which harmonizes with the dramatic and attention-seeking traits of Moon in Leo individuals. Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the film combines breathtaking visuals with a gripping narrative, creating a sensory experience that resonates with the theatrical and expressive nature of Leo Moon. It delves into themes of isolation, madness, and the eerie, making it a captivating choice for those who relish grand, emotionally charged storytelling.

👻 Moon in Virgo - "The Sixth Sense" (1999): "The Sixth Sense" is a film that meticulously delves into details and intricacies, mirroring the analytical and critical nature of Moon in Virgo individuals. Directed by M. Night Shyamalan, this psychological thriller centers around a troubled child who sees and communicates with the dead. Its focus on observation and unraveling mysteries aligns with the Moon in Virgo's penchant for scrutinizing and paying attention to the finer points of life.

🕯️ Moon in Libra - "Crimson Peak" (2015): As previously recommended, "Crimson Peak" is an exquisitely visual gothic romance horror film that appeals to the romantic sensibilities of Moon in Libra individuals. Directed by Guillermo del Toro, it combines romantic and haunting elements in a visually captivating narrative. The movie explores love, deception, and the eerie, making it a poignant choice for those with a Libra Moon who appreciate themes of beauty, love, and relationships.

😈 Moon in Scorpio - "Black Swan" (2010): "Black Swan" is an intense psychological thriller that aligns with the depth and intensity of Moon in Scorpio individuals. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, it explores themes of obsession and personal transformation through the story of a ballerina's descent into madness. The film's dark and enigmatic atmosphere and its focus on emotional depth make it a compelling choice for Scorpio Moon individuals who seek profound and psychologically complex narratives.

🍂 Moon in Sagittarius - "The Cabin in the Woods" (2012): "The Cabin in the Woods" is a thrilling and adventurous horror-comedy that resonates with the adventurous and exploratory nature of Moon in Sagittarius individuals. Directed by Joss Whedon, the film offers a unique twist on the conventional cabin-in-the-woods horror genre, adding elements of humor and surprise. It provides an entertaining and adventurous experience for those with a Sagittarius Moon who love a blend of thrills and comedy in their horror movies.

🔪 Moon in Capricorn - "Psycho" (1960): As previously recommended, "Psycho" is a classic psychological thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock. It explores psychological depth and themes of control and power, which reflect the practical and disciplined nature of Moon in Capricorn individuals.

👹 Moon in Aquarius - "Donnie Darko" (2001): As previously recommended, "Donnie Darko" is a surreal and thought-provoking film that aligns with the unconventional and intellectually oriented qualities of Moon in Aquarius individuals. Directed by Richard Kelly, it delves into themes of time travel, alternate realities, and the human psyche.

💧 Moon in Pisces - "The Shape of Water" (2017): "The Shape of Water," directed by Guillermo del Toro, is a visually stunning and emotionally engaging fantasy film that appeals to the imaginative and empathetic nature of Moon in Pisces individuals. The movie offers a unique love story with elements of mystery and the supernatural, making it a captivating choice for those with a Pisces Moon who appreciate themes of romance, fantasy, and emotional connection.

I hope you've enjoyed this selection.

Stay tune for more astro posts.

xoxo J.

[musingmelsuinesmelancholy]

June ask game:

1) As a witch, somebody caught between two worlds- not fully belonging to either one, what anchors you to the physical world?

2) Is there something you found particularly shocking or surprising once you took up magic?

3) Tell me about an insect native to your region, especially if you work with them.

4) Do you attempt to localize your practice? If so, especially if you’re living on colonized land, has that proven difficult?

5) I’m not sure how others feel but it seems like the online occult community has been very quiet for a while. How do you think we can get it more active again? Or, do you feel the fallow periods are inevitable, good even?

6)How do you think your younger self would react to seeing where/who you are now?

7) Is practicing, or wanting to practice witchcraft selfish? Is it necessarily wrong for it to be a selfish pursuit?

8) From what I’ve seen some gaulpols believe in what they’ve termed “the gifting cycle”. I give, that you may give, that I may give again. (Other gaulpols pls correct me if I’m mistaken) does a similar concept exist in your practice?

9) Do you find sensory engagement or deprivation more helpful in your magic?

10) Is breath or voice of particular importance?

11) Are paradoxes or opposing opposites important to you? I.e. Fire and Water.

[2024-grimoire-challenge]

August Week 3: Using Your Senses

This week we’re going to be talking about our senses and how they can help us relate to our craft, our practice, magic, and well, life in general. Sometimes we take for granted the simple magic that is our senses. It is these senses that help us connect to the world around us, literally, while also spiritually, emotionally and even magically connecting us to it. We’re going to focus on our regular senses this week and delve into those extra sensory topics next week. For now, let’s focus on taste, touch, sight, sound, and hearing.

Monday - Touch

Introspection/ Research - Think about your sense of touch. What does it have to do with your craft, literally and metaphorically? When you touch the tools you use, the ingredients you use, the space you work in, what does that sense tell you about those things and about your craft in general? How does touch help you connect to your practice?

Practical/ Journal - in order to do the above prompt, pick a few items in your witchy collection and just… touch them. If you have a ritual blade, touch the metal (carefully) and write in your journal what the sense of touch tells you about it. Same with a crystal, a plant, a candle and so on. Make a list of the items and describe their physical feeling in your journal and what it tells you about that item in both a practical sense and magical sense.

Research/ New Page - herbal research - pick an herb from your list and look into everything about it! History and myth, associations and culinary uses, magical uses and mundane! How does it grow? Where does it grow? Everything!

Tuesday - Taste

*Disclaimer* I don’t recommend and will not recommend tasting anything that you don’t know the chemical makeup of. Do not ingest plants or crystals or anything without knowing how it will affect you and if you are allergic.

Introspection/ Research - With the above disclaimer in mind, think about how taste can aid you in your magical practice. If you brew tea or do kitchen witchery especially, what is it about the flavors that influence those aspects of your craft? Do you preferences in taste influence the herbs and spices and ingredients you use when brewing or cooking for magical or ritual purposes? Does the flavor itself have associations for you? How else can taste help to determine what you do and use in your craft?

Practical/ Journal - Make a cup of herbal tea, or bake bread or make a meal that has magical connections or connotations. Why did you choose the ingredients you chose? Again, how does the taste of it influence your magic and craft? How does it serve you magically?

Wednesday - Sight

Introspection/ Research - Think about how your practice looks. To you. Recently with the upsurge of popularity of witchcraft in online spaces, there is a debate of the validity of what our craft looks like in private versus what we publicly share. That’s not to say that what everyone shows publicly isn’t true to their practice, but sometimes it isn’t. Is your craft as clean and neat as what you share (if you share pictures or videos)? What sights are important to you in your craft? Does it have to be a certain look? Do your tools and materials have to have a certain aesthetic? Or is it more about the practicality of things?

Practical/ Journal - if you have an altar or workspace, take a long look at it and describe what it looks like. How important is the style to you? What things look most important? Is there anything central to it? Is it a hodgepodge? What things draw your eye most? What things compete for the attention of your sight? If you can, and have the means, go out and find something for your workspace that catches your eye.

Research/ New Page - gem research - pick a crystal from your list, or whatever else you may be researching and learn as much as you can about it! Chemical makeup, where it’s found, what it’s used for? History and myths, everything!

Thursday - Sound

Introspection/ Research - close your eyes and listen. It’s perhaps the hardest and the easiest thing to do. But truly hearing, allowing yourself to hear the world around you, can take time. What sounds do you associate with your craft and practice? What sounds make magic real for you? Do you listen to certain music? Is it a certain animal sound? A sound from nature? Maybe just a specific note or instrument like a bell. How can you utilize sound for your practice? Listening to music during your spells and rituals, connecting with the power of the wind through its sound in the leaves. What and how does sound perform magic?

Practical/ Journal - if you have a bell or flute or other instrument at your altar or workspace, find out what note(s) it plays! Is that not specifically something you chose or did you choose the instrument itself? Do you hum or sing for your practice? Figure out what sounds help you feel magical and journal about them. What emotions do they stir, what thoughts?

Friday - Smell

Introspection/ Research - Think about the candles and incense and herbs you use and what they smell like. Are there certain smells that make you feel magical or think of your craft? How does smell influence your craft? When you perform magic, spells or rituals, generally things smell good, yeah? What connotations would bad smells have in your practice and craft? Think hard about ways that smell is influenced by your craft and how smell influences your craft!

Practical/ Journal - if you’re able, take some herbs whose smells your like, figure out their associations, and dress a candle with them! Why did you choose those scents? Were they sharp? Sweet? Savory? Sour? And what about the candle, what scent did it have, if any?

This week had a strange few prompts, but connecting even the basics of life to our craft can help us better understand it, as well as ourselves. The basics and fundamentals are important to remember and review. Use all of your senses to connect to your craft.

-Mod Hazel