#witchcraft basics

[trials-of-a-spirit-worker]

Spirit Work Basics

You voted, I listened. I meant it. So buckle up as we go through the basics of Spirit Work.

I've touched on this on other posts but I'll make a massive post here. This is not going to explain everything and will still be pretty broad. Cause I do not have the time, the knowledge, nor patience to try and explain EVERYTHING.

But I do hope it helps.

Look under the tags advice, spirit communication, spirit work for more detail.

So hello, I'm Sol. I've been working with spirits since I realized I was speaking with them. I had the gift since I was a young child, first spirit I saw being my grandfather on my father's side shortly after he passed away. He was a pastor, supposedly, I was doing the best I could to repeat his favorite verses despite me being a small little shit. I don't remember the verses, I do remember speaking to him a lot however.

Which is where we'll begin, how to speak to spirits.

Maybe she's born with it? Maybe it's insanity~♪

Well, how do we begin with speaking with spirits? There's a number of ways, actually. Some do have the natural ability, like myself but that shouldn't discourage people who are newly trying and don't have that natural affinity for it. Spirits can and will talk to anyone if you open yourself up. Just takes a bit of work. But Sol, you may ask, how do I do that?

If you've been on witchblr for a bit you know what I'm about to say next: Yup.

Meditate.

Now listen, meditation is a way to open yourself up to the spirits around you or just at least signal "hey, I'm open to talk to." It gives you a good sense of your own energy and the energy around you. Meditation doesn't have one look either. A lot of people can't just sit still and kept their legs crossed or be on their knees with their eyes closed (I see you ADHD/ADD people). Hell, my lazy ass will meditate lying down.

Literally the definition of Meditation: to engage in mental exercise (such as concentration on one's breathing or repetition of a mantra) for the purpose of reaching a heightened level of spiritual awareness. transitive verb. : to focus one's thoughts on : reflect on or ponder over. (merriam webster)

It's pretty broad, right? Hell, you can even work out and meditate. I do it all the time. Cause I focus on my breathing and the feeling of energy through my body. Basically you can get creative with it.

While you're meditating, make sure you're feeling your own energy. This can come in a number of ways; waves, your heartbeat, a feeling of something cloaking you etc. While you have that feeling down, envision an opening, whether its a door, or just acknowledging you're reaching out to the other side. Whether or not you get an answer back, you are putting yourself out there and that's half the battle done. Just be sure to know how to close yourself and ward your body. Spirit work and opening yourself like that is no joke and I'd like you to be safe.

To do that, just envision whatever you had opened closed or recede back or whatever you used that worked for you.

Signs to Look for

Some of the more common tells of a spirit hearing and trying to communicate are of the following:

Small echos/voices in the back of your head

Random thoughts that may not be your own

Knocks or things shuffling

Strange dreams

Small phantom touches

Feelings of being watched

And Many More!

"But Sol," some of you might say, "that's really fucking vague and could just be explained away."

Yeah...welcome to spirit work. You thought this shit was easy?!

You have to work on your discernment. It is a skill needed for this type of work.

Seems counterproductive, but it's not! See, if every bump and noise was reported as ghosts or spirits, well...we'd be even less believed than we already are. When doing spirit work, or ghost hunting, you are stuck with the burden of proof and it's a huge burden to have. This is why people ask for repeats of actions, to speak again in recorders and other things. We're asking for repetition, because science is prevalent, especially in spiritualism and occultism. We have to be our own skeptics so when we have something that can't be explained away, we truly have something to celebrate.

Tools on the Job

No one said you had to do this all on vibes. No shame in using tools. I'll more than likely take the time to make specific posts about each tool in the future cause this post is already really long but I'll give you a nice rundown of basic tools.

By the way anyone who tries to shame you for using tools or says "only trainee or baby witches use this or that" are tools themselves (not the good or useful kind) and should not be given the time of day. Tools are fine. Use them for help if you need it because that's what the fuck a tool is for.

Now these aren't all the tools you can use but I'll give you some well known ones. I've seen witches get real creative and it's honestly super cool watching them use strange things that you'd never think about as a witchcraft tool. But that's what makes it so fun.

Tarot cards

Tarot is something I often use. 78 cards all with different meanings. There's many many ways to interpret them and multiple themes that many of them have.

My best advice for these are to just look up the overall meanings both upright and reversed just to have a general consensus of each card. Play around with them a lot, and interpret them the way you would as if you were making a story with them. You can also use them for spirit communication.

Calling forth a spirit allowing them to touch the deck (just leave it for a moment and allow them to influence the deck as it were before doing the spread). Holds a lot of power in your hands but is a little slow.

Pendulum

A pendulum is usually a crystal tied to a string or a chain that can be swung over a board of either yes or no or maybe for its options. Sometimes there is a mock ouija for the pendulum to spell out things as well.

Cool thing about a pendulum is it can be anything that swings if you wish. Some people I've seen take off their necklace and use it as a pendulum just fine. Just have a singular point and you can get to work anywhere with it. Please make sure to ward yourself from invading or malevolent spirits when you do this though.

Lots of pendulum or spirit boards exist and have different templates as well.

This is more of a call and response type of device to use. Especially when you feel a spirit present Still has a fair bit of control in your hands.

Ouija board

The infamous kids game works around the same way a pendulum does, except there is a planchette that slides over the board. This is a call and response based tool much like a pendulum. However, it is a little easier for the ghost to manipulate and control. Which is where all the stupid stories of ghosts completely taking over and fucking up shit takes place. Also, half of the biggest problems are just humans being humans which means victims of groupthink. So... stupidity. Someone freaked so you all freak...the energy gets bad and shit happens. Do your best to remain calm and just work through it.

Also no. ZOZO XOX 2O2O etc does not want your ass. Many spirits claim that shit to get a rise out of you anyway. Guys...no, I swear it does not happen. This is main character energy that none of us have...or want! Even if a demonic entity came in to fuck with you, there are plenty of other ways to do it. Be fucking for real.

Please remain kind and courteous to who you contact. Do not let your paranoia about this tool make you do stupid things. Always say goodbye when you are finished. Try and stay as calm as you can.

Never. Ever leave the planchette on the board unattended. Lest you get an unwanted guest or one that'll overstay their welcome.

Crystal Ball

Crystal Balls are a good way to detect energies. This is normally used in a private setting cause it desires a lot of concentration. Now, I'm admittedly not that knowledgeable in this because I don't use my crystal ball often.

Also, your crystal ball doesn't have to be clear. Mine is obsidian and I love her.

When having your question, focus on it and concentrate. Make sure it is open ended. I mean you can have yes or no, but it's gonna be a bitch to decipher a yes or no answer.

Close your eyes and let the answers come to you in the forms of images and colors and such, examine all you can as just let your intuition work.

Sounds simple but its a rather interesting art form to work on. Symbols and such can confuse you and it's heavy on your interpretation. I'm sure there's books and stuff out there for a general view of this symbol you see might mean this or that but...largely, this is a true test of how you read your intuition.

I'd do it more, if I wasn't closeted and lived with nosy closed-minded people.

C'est la vie.

One important thing though...don't leave your ball uncovered. Especially if it's clear. That's how you end up with burned shit. Those bitches are like mega magnifying glasses. And it happens faster than you think. Science is scary.

Mirror/Water Scrying

Mirror and water scrying is kind of the same as a crystal ball except it's a quicker and often less expensive way to work on your divination.

Some people have a specific mirror that they black out and scry that way. Others have a scrying bowl made for divination alone. It's just as good. You can use any bowl or mirror however. Just be sure to cleanse the area before you start and after you're done.

Some thank the water used for divination before putting it down the sink or in the earth. But that's more of an individual's choice/belief/faith than anything else.

Lots of occultism and spiritualism has a thing with mirrors being portals, openings, etc to the otherside and can bring some unwanted visitors.

And as someone who now sleeps with their mirror facing the wall now, I will say I believe a lot of what people say on that.

I want a goodnights sleep damnit.

Just be sure to cleanse your tools after use. Better safe than sorry.

ETC.

There's a lot of creative ways people can use these tools and magic. So don't think of magic as a recipe for how to be a witch or do witchcraft. That's half the fun of witchcraft.

Discovery.

Finding ways to do things, to hear, to see, to communicate. Yes there are certain tools that work better than others but, we as individual people also work in different ways.

There's a psychic out there who reads asparagus like bones. There's someone who will scry with a puddle on the ground they found. People have their own methods and ways to work their magic and we should learn from them. So if you have some non normal tactic or even something unsual, embrace it to the fullest.

I divine with music. If you ask me it's Apollo's influence. My spirits communicate with music.

When I meet people and get a good vibe on them a song comes to mind, and even if I forget your face, your voice, who you are, that song will remind me what I think of you. Songs pop up in my head when people associated with it are close.

I'm not going to say I'm the only one in the world who does this, cause that would be some bs. But its my tactic and its natural.

Do what is natural for you and not what other witches say you should do.

Even me, I beg you not to try and emulate or follow my advice down to a T if it doesn't work for you. Don't force it to work.

I am just one person, one voice spouting some advice. Take what you can from it, take what helps and work your own path. And then in turn do the same. I'm a path offering person not a director. But that's...just...me...

"But Sol, how do I speak to spirits?"

Talk.

Yeah, that simple. Talk.

This can be in a lot of forms. Some write and burn letters to ancestors, or past family members. Set up a placement for talking to them. Admittedly, a lot of spirit work and communication is experimental. We just warn you over some things because they've happened enough for us as a collective to go ah, a pattern.

I have urns at home so it's pretty easy to say hello in that case.

I am NOT telling you to go into a graveyard and just go wussap. No. Some spirits don't want your tomfuckery. Also if they're feeling really chatty all at once you might get overwhelmed and you will not have a good time. Read the dead room.

Open yourself up. WARD YOURSELF FIRST! PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF THE GODS. But yeah open yourself up. Learn how to open your pathways and close them first. That comes with meditating. Yes, this is why damn near all of us nag the shit out of y'all about meditating.

Just talk and listen. It won't happen immediately. It takes time and a careful ear. Remember signs to look for. You might spot them before you hear them. Small instances of shadows out the corner of your eye. A touch from nowhere, a shiver down your spine. Other things going off or being moved, etc. Slowly, someone or something will receive your message and try to respond in kind.

When you get these small responses, just keep calm and say hello or acknowledge what they've done.

"Oh, someone's here"

"Hello there"

"Are you still here?"

It'll be awkward (try to remember where you are, don't be a weirdo in public), but overtime you'll get better at it.

Conclusion!

Like any skill, spirit communication takes practice.

There are a vast plethora of ways to communicate with tools that I haven't mentioned as well, like automatic writing which is a pretty good beginner way to jump in.

Just have a pen/pencil on paper, write what comes to mind. Its a good way to practice hearing and catching signs as well.

And something I will never stop saying is you don't have to take this journey alone! Especially if you don't want to. Find someone experienced to start this journey with. Someone who calms you, who can support you. Support and asking for help is good. Last thing any of us want is for you to get hurt or scared out of doing this if this is something you really want to do. So call us, talk to us. Confide in more experienced people.

So many times on this site and other places, we are begging to form this beautiful network so we can help one another, give advice, hang out etc.

We are right here, just reach out for us. You'll get a hand back in kind.

[manifestmoons]

Magical Herbal Properties by Manifestmoons - Part 1

You’re setting up for spellwork, the energy is building, and then—ugh. You go blank. What herb do you need? Do you grab Bay Leaf for protection or Basil for abundance? Now you’re digging through notes, scrolling through your phone, completely breaking the flow.

Been there. So I made something to fix that. Print it, keep it, use it. Spend less time searching and more time casting.

[divine-crows]

✨️10 Things I always Include in My New Grimoire/Book Of Shadows✨️

I'm getting to the end of my second grimoire (prior to this I'd have random stuff in school notebooks that I unfortunately don't have anymore) so I thought it'd be fitting to talk about the stuff I benefited from copying over into my second Grimoire along with what I will most likely put into my third Grimoire.

Please Note: for my journey a Grimoire is the most fitting way for me to describe my preferred method of transcribing what I learn. As a result I will be referring to a Grimoire the whole time but this knowledge can be generally applied to other witchy books meant to hold knowledge.

To help with dictinctions:

Anything with an asterisk* indicates I regretted not including it before

Anything without is stuff I've included and benefitted from having on hand

1. The Elements and Their Correspondences

What I Include in this entry:

- A page dedicated to each element

- Tarot Card, Astrological sign, Color, Crystal, and Herb correspondes (condensed down to crystals and herbs I'm guaranteed to use)

- a vague list with ideas on what this element embodies vibe wise (for example: Earth can represent success, stability or fertility)

- A page dedicated to ideas on how I can work with each element

- how to invoke and banish an element with a pentacle

Why I Find this Entry Useful:

It makes for a very useful reference point when doing spellwork. I can easily see if I can use elemental symbolism and how I can incorporate it.

It also can be nice to reference if I'm celebrating a holiday that embodies the energy of a specific element. I can reference the page for ideas on herbs to use while cooking, colors I can incorporate, etc.

2. Moon Phases, Time, and Seasonal Correspondences

What I include in this Entry:

- a drawing of each moon phase along with about three adjectives to describe the phase

- lists of associations for each time of day

- a chart of the cardinal directions and which season and element corresponds with each one

Why I find this Entry Useful:

It might sound weird that I have all of this stuff condensed down into one entry but hear me out: it's so much nicer to plan rituals and spellwork when all you have to do is look through two pages??? Especially if your first grimoire has all of these entries in more detail (which I heavily reccomend so all of the knowledge is still recorded somewhere), it's nice to know you can easily access the basics without reading every little detail, and then you can always go back to your old grimoire when you need to access more information on the topic.

3. Cartomancy/Tarot

What I Include in this Entry:

- very brief definition of Major Arcana, Minor Arcana, and Court Cards

- elemental correspondences of minor arcana plus what they symbolize

- what each court card symbolizes

- a numerology "cheat sheet"

Why I Find this Entry Useful:

This is one of those things that will not be helpful for everyone but since I practice tarot frequently it's perfect for me. Even if you're not a big tarot person I at least reccomend you pick something you do a lot and create a condensed version for you to review when you need it!

4. The Witches Compass/Opening and Closing Circles

What I Include in this Entry:

- a brief explanation on why you'd use one

- a step by step guide on how you would open and close one

Why I Find this Entry Useful:

Even though I don't always utilize the Witches' Compass or a standard magic circle, I like to have a condensed form written in case I need to perform a ritual but don't have the space to lug around multiple books.

5. Alters, Shrines, and Temples

What I Include in This Entry:

- Definitions of each word

- a list of examples of types of alters

- a general run-down on what typically goes on an altar

- ideas on how to decorate an altar

Why I Find this Entry Useful:

I actually don't have an altar space currently, but I do find it useful to have inspiration on hand in case I need it. I also just find it useful to have the distinctions on hand in case I'm cross referencing my research.

6. Warding and Defensive Magic*

What I Include in this Entry:

- a list of types of wards with minor guidance on how to use them if I don't use them often

- ways I can use defensive magic if things go wrong

-When to ward/When not to ward a space

- a page dedicated to the Witches Ladder, how to make one, and I typically include one of my own spells with it.

- a page dedicated to a basic house protection spell

Why I Find this Entry Useful:

This is one of the topics I didn't copy over into my current Grimoire but really regret not doing. Since I like to dabble in Astral travel and a huge part of my practice is working with the in between this knowledge is nice to have on hand.

I'm personally of the school of thought that you don't need to ward everything at all times, however if you're like me and you do a warding spell every once in a while and then you forget how to do it... yeah might be nice to just always have it freshly recorded so you're not rifling through all of your stuff.

7. Magical Excersizes from Books, Media, Etc.

What I Include In This Entry:

- the source I got the excersize from

- what the goal of the excersize is

- a step-by-step rundown

Why I Find this Entry Useful:

It's especially nice when you're dealing with burnout or a mental block. It's also oddly refreshing to occasionally do one.

Now, I wouldn't reccomend having every magical exercise you've ever done in your new Grimoire, but I usually pick three or four that I really like and write them down.

8. About Me Page*

What I Include In This Entry:

- Deities I mainly Venerate

- What magical "paths" or ways of life I tend to follow

- How I feel about my practice (Do I need to improve in some areas? Do I feel lost? Etc.)

- Things I want to explore more or do more

Why I Find this Entry Useful:

This is another entry I seriously regret not including more. With my first Grimoire (that I didn't lose) it served as a good spot to check in order to see my growth, look for anything I hadn't learned yet but wanted to learn, and it served as a nice sentimental peice to look back on.

Some may not benefit from having an entry like this, but others may find they'll benefit from it like I do!

9. A Basic Guide on Fae Species (or other entities depending on your practice)

What I Include in this Entry:

- I usually pick about 8-10 Fae to make an entry on and I try to keep it in a broad, diverse range.

- A picture depicting each thing

- Name of species

- Anecdotes on their temperament, how you can avoid pissing them off, etc.

Why I Find this Entry Useful:

As a Celtic Pagan it feels right for me to have an entry that includes the Fae even though I avoid interacting with them when possible. I've also generally had a sort of fixation on the Fae and their way of life since I was young so it's a little something that speaks to my heart and my passions as well.

If you want to look at this more practically, having a guide of common entities can be good in case you encounter one that way you have a sort of code of conduct written down.

10. List of Herbs I Commonly Use and their Correspondences

What I Include in this Entry:

- Household herbs I can easily find in the pantry

- items I can easily forage and use from outside

Why I Find this Entry Useful:

My first ever list of herbs was basically every Herb under the sun and how I could use it. Did I use any of those herbs? Heck no! Now I keep a small, condensed list of stuff I actually use and have easy access to and if I use anything I'm not used to that's when I reference my giant list.

Not all of these topics may personally speak to you, but I hope that at least some of them could help you decide what you'd like to include in your own books!

[aesethewitch]

When Witching Goes Wrong: Basics

Not all spells that go wrong are “backfires.” A backfire occurs when a spell’s result is antithetical to the result you wanted to cause — it causes a negative outcome, often coming back onto you as the caster, but sometimes creating the opposite effect as was desired on the target. For example, casting a money attraction spell and losing a wallet full of cash as a result would be considered a backfire. A spell that fizzles, does nothing, or produces an unexpected (but not negative) side-effect wouldn’t be a backfire (in my opinion, that is).

Most spells that go wrong aren’t backfires. In general, you’re likelier to have a spell that acts unexpectedly or that simply fizzles than one that blows up in your face somehow. You shouldn’t be anxious about a backfire. But, as someone with lots of experience in the realm of worrying about worst-case scenarios, I understand the impulse.

The solution is to understand what can go wrong, how to prevent it, and what to do in the event of an actual worst-case scenario. My goal with this post (and with this WWGW series) is to help you feel less anxious about spells going wrong and more prepared to deal with whatever comes your way.

So, let’s start from the beginning.

Outcome Projection

Risk assessment, mitigation, and management. Fellow corporate drones (former or current) will know exactly what I’m talking about here. The idea is to predict possible ways that things can go wrong and either prevent them entirely or put strategies in place to deal with them ahead of time. It’s damage control before the damage occurs.

Now, the key here is to not go overboard. Fellow chronic worriers will know the horrible allure of going down every possible path of anxiety, only to find ourselves paralyzed entirely by the fear that something will go wrong. Remember that most spells do not backfire. In most cases, the worst thing (and most common negative outcome, in my experience) that can happen is that nothing happens. The next most common is unexpected side effects, but those are usually easily dealt with.

The goal is to ensure the success of the spell. For example, when you’re looking for a new place to live, you don’t want to just look for the number of bedrooms and the finishes in the kitchen. You want to account for the appliances, the heating/cooling systems, the quality of the flooring, signs of water damage, signs of mold… all sorts of things.

A similar concept applies to accounting for backfires/failures in spellwork. You want to close loopholes and think about the outcomes you specifically don’t want — and then incorporate ways to prevent those things from happening.

The Ways Spells Can Go Wrong

The spell fully backfires. By “fully backfires,” I mean that it completely fails and creates the exact opposite outcome to what you were going for. Using a love spell as an example, this could include the target leaving your life, forming negative opinions of you, or becomes interested in someone else (particularly if you were trying to pull attention from that someone else onto yourself).

The spell is bounced back to you. This is more unusual than you think! I often see the warning about spells being redirected back at the caster in arguments against hexing and cursing others. I’ve had exactly one spell reversed back at me, and it was because the target was 1. A witch, and 2. Expecting it.

The spell’s primary result is unexpected. Not necessarily bad, just not what you meant to do. For example, casting a spell to get a promotion at work and discovering that your close friend is getting a promotion instead.

The spell has unexpected side effects. Like casting a spell for good luck on yourself and having everyone around you experience good luck, too. Or casting a spell that successfully improves your workplace’s vibe, only to find out that the mean coworker nobody likes finally got fired, and that’s why everyone is more relaxed and cheerful. Or, more negatively, you do get that promotion you cast for, but now you’re saddled with more work than you can handle, because your bosses think you’re highly capable of it all!

The spell does absolutely nothing. Perhaps one of the more common ways a spell can go wrong, this is exactly what it says on the tin. You put the energy in, you did all the steps, but the spell just… doesn’t go anywhere. In other words, it fizzles and simply doesn’t work at all.

As with most topics in witchcraft, there’s an infinite amount of nuance to apply here. There are more ways spells can go wrong, and not all of these things would necessarily be considered “going wrong.”

It may be worth deducing why the spell went wrong. Was it the materials? The petition or incantation? A lack of energy, or maybe an overabundance? Spirit influence? Protections surrounding the target? Knowing what exactly went wrong can help you prevent the same issues in the future, but it can also help you to better fix the spell in the moment.

Preventatives

The particulars are going to depend heavily on your personal practice, the type of spell you’re doing, and how detailed you want to get. These suggestions are based on things I personally take into account when I’m trying to close loopholes and prevent unwanted outcomes.

Be specific in your wording. Especially if your spell has any kind of spoken or written component, be as specific as you can. “Draw money to me” is a general sentiment that could absolutely work, but what money is it bringing in? A bonus at work? A dollar on the street? A gift from grandma? Inheritance? It could be anything at that point. “Draw good, repeat customers to my small business to help me reach my profit goal of $10,000 before the end of the year” is specific, focused, and measurable. There isn’t much room for surprise side effects.

Choose ingredients carefully. Work with ingredients whose purposes you know. In my spell recipes, I list every ingredient’s correspondence, because in my practice, those things matter. Ensure that the “active ingredients” in your spell align with your goal properly. Rogue elements create rogue effects!

Include failsafe measures. As in, create ways you can cancel the spell at any point. This can have the side effect of making your spells easier to undo, particularly if your target is also a witch who understands how you construct your spells. If doing this, it’s best to create a method that is obscured and unique to you.

Add ingredients or instructions specifically to avoid particular side effects or outcomes. Find a component or two that can protect your working from unwanted effects, backfires, and interference. Include instructions for the spell for things it shouldn’t do. For example, trying to create issues for one particular person at work shouldn’t harm their innocent teammates.

Undo It

The first step to consider is undoing the spell. Not all paradigms allow for this, so it may not be possible for you. For me, it depends on the particular spell and how much change it’s created. The bigger the impact, the less likely a simple undo will work.

Still, it’s worth a try. Undoing a spell might take a few forms, depending on how you originally cast it:

Take the spell apart. Disassemble the spell into its components and cleanse them of the spell’s energy.

Destroy the vessel and components. Burning, tearing, burying, flushing, throwing away, and so forth. Be careful to not bury things that could harm the earth, animals, or people — including glass, salt, and plastics. Compost and recycle when you can.

Dismiss spirits working within the spell. End the contract around the spell’s working and request that the spirits stop powering it. You could also request their assistance in undoing the spell. You may have to make offerings either way, depending on the terms of your agreement.

Perform the spell in reverse. This includes speaking incantations backwards, performing all actions backwards, taking components apart, re-cleansing, and putting things away where you originally got them from.

Draw the spell’s energy/effects out of the target’s body and/or the affected area. Using energy work, absorb the spell’s energy into a vessel. Capture it and either allow it to dissipate or bottle it up to keep it in check. I don’t recommend absorbing the energy into yourself, as that may draw the spell’s unwanted effects to you (or make them worse).

I typically employ a combination of strategies to undo a spell, if it’s possible in the first place. If it’s a simple spell, performing it in reverse is the easiest method. I’ll then cleanse, destroy, and dispose of the materials.

But when it isn’t possible to simply undo the spell…

Cast Another Spell

…The answer might be to cast another one. In my mind, there are several ways to do this.

The first is to cast a spell to negate the original’s effects completely. I would approach this method the same way as any other spell. Focus on the effects you’re looking to negate, and cast accordingly. A banishing spell would work well for this to shoo away the spell’s energy, but a cleansing spell to clear the target would also work. Or, you can get more specific. For example, if a spell has generated a string of unlucky events, you could cast a spell for good luck in order to nullify the bad luck of the first spell. The goal would be to cancel out the original spell’s effects in some way.

The second way is to cast a spell to adjust the original’s outcome. There are a lot of ways to do this. You could directly modify the original spell by adding or removing ingredients that might’ve caused the negative outcome, redo written or spoken incantations/petitions, or cast a “companion spell” to redirect the original’s energy to a more favorable end. For example, in a money spell that’s giving everyone else good fortune, you could place a magnet with your personal information on it atop the spell vessel to draw money to you rather than the people around you. The idea here is not to end the original spell, but to realign it to your particular needs.

Another way is to cast a spell specifically to control side effects. Sometimes, a spell can’t be undone, and you can’t easily modify the main outcomes (particularly true if the negative events caused by the spell happen quickly or outside your control). Or maybe the bulk of the spell worked properly, but there’s one or two minor negative side effects you don’t want to continue. The method for this would be similar to adjusting the original spell’s outcome, but on a smaller scale and in a less direct fashion. For example, your job spell got you that promotion, hooray! But now you’re stressed out by training someone to take your place, and you’re learning your new position. You can cast a spell to reduce stress or prevent people from piling additional work on you while you adjust, controlling the side effects of the promotion.

A way I use for high-stakes spells is to cast wards or other protections before casting the main spell to prevent backfire or unwanted effects ahead of time. I often do this for spells surrounding situations that are delicate or that need extra care. In my case, it’s a general, long-term ward against bad luck on a wider scale, and it catches negative spell side effects as part of its job. You can set up temporary wards if you prefer, or make them for very specific purposes. Whatever works for you.

Cast the same spell again. This isn’t my usual go-to, unless I’m trying a new spell method or ingredient I’m unfamiliar with. I’ll usually recommend trying the same spell again when the first casting does absolutely nothing, since multiple castings can make a spell stronger and more effective. However, if a spell backfires or otherwise causes undesirable effects, I wouldn’t really recommend it, as the negative effects can compound, too, if it misfires again.

Ask for Help

If the problems caused by your spell are too big for you to handle on your own, it’s okay to reach out for help! Whether you’re looking for suggestions and advice or hands-on assistance, knowing when and how to ask for help is a critical skill.

Ask the witchcraft community (or your witchy friends) questions. Join a Discord, forum, Tumblr community, or other witchy space. Make a post to explain your situation and request suggestions, advice, and ideas to deal with the situation at large. Not all suggestions will be entirely helpful, but you’ll at least get some new perspectives to shed light on your situation. If people you know directly (in real life or online) practice witchcraft, see what they think.

Chat with spirits. Especially if you already work with spirits or if spirits helped you to cast/power the original spell, this can be a solid way to come up with a solution that will work. Use your preferred method of communication to discuss the situation. If possible, see if they’ll help you either undo or mitigate the spell’s unwanted results.

Ask non-witchy friends for advice. Their advice will probably be mundane, but sometimes, those are the best solutions. Outside perspectives are useful to recontextualize problems and come up with solutions you wouldn’t have otherwise considered.

Find books, videos, tutorials, blog posts, and other resources on the subject. When all else fails, or when you’re a little shy about asking for help directly, there are still resources out there to help you solve your dilemmas. Just remember to vet your sources before naively following instructions given to you.

Deal with Consequences Mundanely

Sometimes, there’s just nothing for it. Whether you don’t have time and energy or you’ve already tried more magic and had it fail, there are times when you have to turn to the mundane. Depending on the severity of the situation you’re in, solutions will vary in their successfulness. And honestly, that’s just how it is sometimes. Sometimes, things don’t wrap up nicely and easily and neatly.

With that said, here are a handful of mundane responses and solutions I’ve turned to after spells went wrong (and couldn’t be otherwise fixed):

Come clean and apologize. Particularly applicable when you’re doing a spell on or for another person, sometimes, there’s just nothing else to do but admit you fucked up. If the person impacted by the spell’s effects, directly or indirectly, isn’t a magical practitioner themselves, you could simply apologize for meddling in the situation. On the other hand, if you’ve harmed or offended a spirit with your spellwork, you might make an offering to apologize for the trouble you’ve caused.

Come up with mundane strategies for damage control. Depending on how severe the spell’s negative effects are, the level of effort for this is going to obviously vary. It could be anything from redoing your household budget to breaking out the toolbox for repairs to building an actual fence to making dinner. Your solution is going to depend on your problem. Think strategically.

Seek out new, improved coping mechanisms. Whether you’re looking to resolve feelings that are caused by the spell’s backfire or ones that made you cast in the first place, sometimes, a bit of self-care is the best solution. Consider why you cast the spell in the first place — lack of control, poor self-worth, low confidence? Or was it just because you felt it could help you with a little boost to the work you were already doing? It’s worth thinking about. What mundane safety nets do you have in place?

Let it go. Perhaps the most difficult option: Just letting the bad result be. Moving on from it. Taking the lumps and the lesson, and walking away. Giving up is a skill. It’s not a moral failing to let things go. If fighting will only make things worse, or if you’re tired of trying to fix it, it’s okay to just… let it be a failure.

Conclusions

Again, this is far from comprehensive. The suggestions here are basic ideas to help inspire you to form your own opinions and solutions. It’s smart to consider these things in advance! As my mother always says, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

I have plans to expand the idea of “When Witching Goes Wrong” into a wider series of posts, each focusing on a very specific problem, spell type, or solution (like a post just about ways to undo a spell, for example). Those are likely to include true stories about things I’ve personally fucked up… which are always the best witchy stories, in my opinion. Lol.

If you're interested in more WWGW entries, check out the masterpost.

Anyhow! If you got something out of this post or my other work, consider tossing a couple dollars in my tip jar. Support goes toward bills and keeping our household fed and healthy, so it’s very much appreciated. Supporters got to see this post a full week early!

If there’s a particular subject you want to see covered, feel free to send me an ask or leave a comment on this post (or any of the posts in the series!). As long as it’s something I actually have experience with, I’m happy to cover just about anything.

[grey-sorcery]

[Title]: The Elements: Water

Related Reading

The Elements: Fire Blood Magic Herbology Correspondences Visualization: Effective Implementation Duality in Witchcraft Researching Witchcraft Spirit Work: First Steps Divination: First Steps

🌊 Introduction 🌊

Water, one of the most versatile and commonplace elements, holds varying degrees of significance across various spiritual, mystical, and esoteric practices. Often associated with purification, reflection, and the subconscious, water's symbolic and practical applications are manifold. By understanding water's multifaceted nature, practitioners can harness its power more effectively, enriching their spiritual and magical practices. Most correspondences in this article are informed by non-colonial practices (Wicca, ‘Ceremonial Magick’, etc.) unless otherwise stated. I may also include some of my personal correspondences.

⛈️ Correspondences ☔️

Direction:

Water is typically associated with the west, symbolizing the end of the day and the sun’s descent. This direction represents introspection, reflection, and the subconscious. The west embodies the emotional and intuitive aspects of life, encouraging deep contemplation and the exploration of inner wisdom. I, personally, associate water with the North. 

Season:

The season linked to water is typically winter or spring. Winter symbolizes a period of rest, reflection, and inner growth. This time encourages stillness and introspection, mirroring the quiet, dormant phase in nature's cycle where life slows down and renews itself. While spring is associated with fertility, renewal, and abundance. This time encourages a desire for new experiences and adventures and feelings of hope and optimism.

Time of day:

The time of day associated with water is twilight, the period between sunset and night. This liminal time embodies mystery and the blending of day and night, mirroring the fluid and transitional nature of water. Twilight invites introspection, relaxation, and the exploration of dreams and intuition.

Astrological sign:

Water corresponds to the astrological signs of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. These signs are known for their emotional depth, sensitivity, and intuition. Cancer nurtures and protects, Scorpio transforms and heals, and Pisces dreams and connects to the spiritual, all embodying the fluid and adaptive qualities of water.

Planets:

The planets associated with water are the Moon and Neptune. The Moon governs emotions, intuition, and cycles, reflecting water’s nurturing and reflective nature. Neptune symbolizes dreams, illusions, and the subconscious, emphasizing water’s connection to the unseen and the mystical aspects of existence.

Tarot:

In the Tarot, water is linked to the suit of Cups. This suit deals with emotions, relationships, and intuition. Cups cards explore the depth of human feelings, creativity, and the subconscious, resonating with water’s ability to flow, adapt, and reflect the inner world of emotions and dreams. This is based on the Rider Waite style of deck, which stems from colonial practices (Golden Dawn).

Elementals:

The elemental spirits of water are undines, also known as water nymphs or mermaids. These beings are said to inhabit and preside over bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. Undines represent the fluid, emotional, and transformative nature of water, embodying its nurturing and purifying qualities.

Colors:

The colors associated with water are blue and silver. Blue represents calmness, depth, and tranquility, reflecting water’s soothing and introspective qualities. Silver symbolizes the reflective and mystical aspects of water, akin to the moonlight dancing on the surface of a lake, highlighting water’s connection to the subconscious and intuition.

Crystals:

Crystals linked to water include aquamarine, moonstone, and amethyst. Aquamarine embodies clarity and calming energy, akin to the serene ocean. Moonstone enhances intuition and emotional balance, reflecting the lunar connection. Amethyst promotes spiritual awareness and inner peace, resonating with water’s introspective and purifying nature.

Herbs:

Herbs associated with water include chamomile, aloe vera, and lemon balm. Chamomile soothes and calms, mirroring water’s nurturing aspect. Aloe vera heals and hydrates, reflecting water’s restorative qualities. Lemon balm uplifts and comforts, embodying water’s ability to cleanse and rejuvenate the spirit and emotions. While not necessarily an herb, I often associate water with copal resin, as its smoke is not only cleansing but also transitionary. 

Trees:

Willow, birch, and elder are trees linked to water. The willow, with its affinity for moist environments, symbolizes intuition and emotional resilience. Birch represents renewal and purification, reflecting water’s cleansing nature. Elder is associated with protection and healing, resonating with water’s nurturing and transformative properties.

Animals:

Water-associated animals include crabs, fish, frogs, and swans. Crabs are associated with the moon and tides, symbolizing cycles, protection, and emotions. Fish are directly linked to water and are symbols of fluidity, adaptability, and the flow of emotions. Frogs represent transformation and renewal, akin to water’s purifying qualities. Swans embody grace and beauty, mirroring water’s serene and reflective nature.

Deities:

Deities linked to water include Poseidon, Yemaya, and Tlaloc. Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, embodies the power and depth of the ocean. Yemaya, the Yoruba goddess, represents nurturing and protection. Tlaloc, the Aztec rain god, embodies water’s life-giving and sustaining qualities.

Mythical creatures:

Mythical creatures associated with water include mermaids, kelpies, and nixies. Mermaids embody the mysterious and seductive qualities of water. Kelpies, water spirits from Scottish folklore, symbolize transformation and the untamed nature of water. Nixies, Germanic water sprites, reflect the enchanting and elusive aspects of water.

Metals:

Silver and mercury are metals linked to water. Silver represents the reflective and mystical qualities of water, akin to moonlight on water’s surface. Mercury, with its liquid form, symbolizes adaptability and fluidity, reflecting water’s ability to change states and flow effortlessly through different environments.

Symbols:

Symbols associated with water include the crescent moon, waves, and the chalice. The crescent moon reflects water’s connection to the lunar cycles and emotions. Waves symbolize water’s dynamic and ever-changing nature. The chalice represents the receptive and nurturing qualities of water, embodying emotional and spiritual nourishment.

Body parts:

Body parts linked to water include the kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs. The kidneys and bladder regulate fluid balance and purification in the body, reflecting water’s cleansing nature. The reproductive organs symbolize creation and nurturing, mirroring water’s life-giving and sustaining properties.

Senses:

The sense associated with water is taste. Taste connects to the element of water through the experience of savoring and appreciating flavors. This sense reflects water’s ability to blend and enhance, bringing out the essence of what it touches, much like the way water interacts with and transforms other elements. This association also stems from the idea of tasting sweet waters (fresh water), or the quenching of thirst.

Emotions:

Emotions linked to water include empathy, intuition, and sorrow. Water’s fluid nature symbolizes the flow and depth of human feelings, encouraging emotional expression and connection. This element fosters understanding and sensitivity, promoting healing and the nurturing of relationships through emotional attunement and care. Water, especially deep bodies like oceans, lakes, and rivers, is frequently associated with deep sorrows.

Personality traits:

Personality traits associated with water include sensitivity, adaptability, and intuition. Individuals influenced by water are often empathetic and attuned to their emotions and the feelings of others. They possess a deep sense of intuition and adaptability, able to navigate life’s changes with grace and emotional intelligence.

Musical notes and instruments:

The musical notes and instruments linked to water include the note D and instruments like the harp, piano, and flute. The note D resonates with water’s calming and soothing qualities. The harp and piano evoke flowing melodies, while the flute’s airy tones reflect water’s fluid and gentle nature. (Based on western scales)

Incense and essential oils:

Incense and essential oils associated with water include sandalwood, jasmine, and eucalyptus. Sandalwood promotes relaxation and grounding, mirroring water’s calming effect. Jasmine enhances intuition and emotional balance, reflecting water’s nurturing qualities. Eucalyptus purifies and refreshes, embodying water’s cleansing and revitalizing nature. Sandalwood: Avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation. Jasmine: Use sparingly during pregnancy; can be a strong allergen. Eucalyptus: Not for children under 10; avoid ingesting; can cause respiratory issues if overused.

Tarot spreads:

The "Celtic Cross" tarot spread is often associated with water due to its comprehensive exploration of emotional and subconscious themes. This spread delves deeply into the querent's current situation, challenges, subconscious influences, and potential outcomes, reflecting the fluid and intuitive nature of water. This is based on the Rider Waite style of deck, which stems from colonial practices (Golden Dawn).

Runes:

Runes associated with water include Laguz and Perthro. Laguz represents the flow of water, intuition, and the subconscious, emphasizing fluidity and adaptability. Perthro symbolizes mystery, chance, and hidden knowledge, reflecting water’s connection to the unknown and the depths of the human psyche.

Ceremonies:

Ceremonies linked to water include purification rites, blessing rituals, and emotional healing practices. These ceremonies often involve the use of water to cleanse and renew, symbolizing emotional release and spiritual rebirth. They encourage introspection, forgiveness, and the restoration of emotional balance and harmony. Specifically, full moon ceremonies are most connected with elemental water, though these tend to be ceremonies reserved for women and effeminate practitioners traditionally.

🌦️🌤️☀️

It is crucial to acknowledge that while correspondences for water have been widely explored and established, there exist individual variations in these associations. The significance and personal resonance of specific correspondences may vary from person to person, influenced by cultural backgrounds, personal experiences, and spiritual beliefs. It is essential to embrace and honor these variations, allowing individuals to connect with the correspondences that align most authentically with their own spiritual practices and intentions. It is perfectly acceptable to create your own correspondences. There is no need to rigidly conform to preexisting ones unless working within a specific cultural context.

🫧 Common Practices 🌕

💧 Baptism

History and Background:

Baptism is a sacrament in Christianity, symbolizing purification and initiation into the faith. Its origins can be traced back to Jewish ritual washing and purification practices, such as the mikvah, which involved immersion in water to achieve spiritual cleanliness. John the Baptist, a prominent figure in the New Testament, is credited with popularizing baptism as a means of repentance and preparation for the coming of the Messiah. Jesus himself was baptized by John, setting a precedent for his followers.

Practice:

In baptism, water serves as the primary element of purification and transformation. The ritual can be performed in several ways: full immersion, where the person is completely submerged in water; affusion, where water is poured over the head; or aspersion, where water is sprinkled on the individual. The specific method often depends on the denomination and local customs.

During the ceremony, the officiant typically recites a blessing and the Trinitarian formula, "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." The act of baptism signifies the washing away of sin, spiritual rebirth, and the individual's entry into the Christian community. In many traditions, it is also seen as a covenant with God and a commitment to live according to Christian teachings.

💧 Lustration

History and Background:

Lustration, derived from the Latin word "lustratio," meaning purification, was a significant ritual in ancient Greek and Roman religious practices. It aimed to cleanse individuals, communities, or objects of any impurities, especially before engaging in important religious or civic activities. Lustration ceremonies were often performed before sacrifices, military campaigns, or significant state functions to ensure divine favor and protection.

Practice:

The lustration ritual typically involved washing with water, but could also include the sprinkling of water mixed with other purifying substances such as salt, herbs, or ashes. In some instances, entire communities participated in the ritual, where they were sprinkled with water by priests or religious officials.

Water in lustration symbolizes physical and spiritual cleanliness, renewal, and the removal of any negative influences. The practice underscores the belief in the transformative power of water to sanctify and protect, ensuring that those who underwent lustration were pure and fit to participate in sacred or significant activities.

💧 Ablution

History and Background:

Ablution, from the Latin "ablutio" meaning "a washing away," is a ritual purification found in various religious traditions, with a prominent role in Islam. In Islam, ablution is divided into two types: wudu, a minor purification required before prayers, and ghusl, a major purification for more significant states of impurity.

Practice:

Wudu involves washing the hands, mouth, nostrils, face, arms, head, and feet with water in a specific order. It is performed before the five daily prayers to ensure that the worshiper is in a state of physical and spiritual purity. The steps are methodical and include intentions and supplications, emphasizing mindfulness and the sacredness of the act.

Ghusl is a full-body ritual washing required in cases of major impurities, such as after sexual activity, menstruation, or childbirth. It involves washing the entire body thoroughly with water, symbolizing a complete purification and renewal.

In both wudu and ghusl, water is central to the process, representing purification, cleanliness, and the removal of impurities. These practices highlight the importance of water in maintaining spiritual hygiene and readiness for worship.

💧 Yemaya Festival*

History and Background:

The Yemaya Festival is celebrated in various Afro-Caribbean religions, such as Santeria*, Candomblé*, and Yoruba traditional religion*. Yemaya, also known as Yemoja, is the Orisha of the sea, motherhood, and fertility. She is revered as the mother of all Orishas and is often depicted as a nurturing and protective figure, embodying the life-giving and sustaining qualities of water.

Practice:

The Yemaya Festival typically involves ceremonies and rituals performed by the sea or other bodies of water. Devotees offer gifts such as fruits, flowers, jewelry, and food to Yemaya, often placing these offerings in the water as a gesture of respect and gratitude. Rituals may include singing, dancing, drumming, and chanting to honor Yemaya and seek her blessings.

Water is integral to the festival, symbolizing Yemaya's domain and her connection to life, fertility, and protection. Participants often wade into the water to release their offerings and prayers, seeking Yemaya’s guidance, healing, and support. The festival is a communal celebration, emphasizing unity, reverence for nature, and the nurturing aspects of the divine feminine.

💧 Scrying

History and Background:

Scrying is an ancient divination practice that involves gazing into a reflective surface to receive visions or insights. It has been used across various cultures, including Mexica, ancient Egypt, Greece, and among the Celtic Druids. The practice is based on the belief that reflective surfaces can act as portals to the subconscious mind or to spiritual entities, allowing the practitioner to access hidden knowledge or guidance.

Practice:

Water scrying, or hydromancy, involves using a bowl or other container filled with water as the reflective surface. The practitioner often works in a dimly lit or candle-lit environment to enhance the reflective properties of the water. They may also add a few drops of oil or use colored water to aid in the visualization process.

The practitioner focuses on the water’s surface, entering a meditative state to quiet the mind and open themselves to receiving images, symbols, or messages. Water's fluid and reflective nature makes it an ideal medium for scrying, as it can help reveal the flow of subconscious thoughts and emotions, providing clarity and insight into various aspects of life.

💧 Moon Water

History and Background:

Moon water is a concept rooted in various European pagan and witchcraft traditions (Mostly ceremonial magic and folk magic of northwest Europe). It involves collecting and charging water with the energy of the moon, particularly during the full moon when its power is believed to be at its peak. This practice is based on the idea that the moon’s energy can enhance the water’s properties, making it a potent tool for various magical and spiritual purposes.

Practice:

To create moon water, practitioners place a container of water, usually in glass or ceramic, outside or on a windowsill where it can be exposed to moonlight overnight. Some may add crystals, herbs, or salt to the water to amplify its energy. The practitioner often performs a ritual or speaks an intention while setting the water out, aligning their purpose with the moon’s energy.

Once charged, moon water can be used in various ways, such as in cleansing baths, anointing objects, watering plants, or as an ingredient in spells and rituals. The water is believed to carry the moon’s attributes, such as intuition, emotional balance, and feminine energy, making it a versatile and powerful tool for personal and spiritual growth.

🚰 Common Magical Uses 🚿

Most, if not all, of these practices are based on colonial practices such as Christianity, Wicca,  and ‘Ceremonial Magick’. 

💧 Purification and Cleansing

Cleansing Baths:

Water can be infused with herbs, salts, and essential oils to create a cleansing bath. Practitioners immerse themselves in this water to wash away negative energies, stress, and spiritual impurities. The bath can be accompanied by meditation, visualization, and affirmations to enhance the cleansing effect.

Sprinkling and Spraying:

Water can be blessed or charged and then sprinkled or sprayed around a space, object, or person to purify and protect. This method is often used to cleanse ritual tools, altar spaces, or homes.

Washing Rituals:

Water is used to wash hands, feet, or the face in preparation for spell work or rituals. This act signifies the removal of mundane concerns and impurities, creating a state of spiritual readiness.

💧 Charging and Empowering

Moon Water:

Water left out under the light of the full moon absorbs lunar energy and can be used in various spells and rituals. Moon water can be drunk, sprinkled around the home, added to baths, or used to anoint objects to imbue them with the moon's intuitive and emotional balancing properties.

Sun Water:

Similarly, water charged under the sun’s rays is infused with solar energy, representing vitality, strength, and clarity. Sun water can be used to empower spells, enhance personal energy, and promote positivity and confidence.

💧 Healing and Emotional Work

Healing Baths:

Water can be combined with specific herbs and crystals known for their healing properties. Practitioners soak in these baths to promote physical healing, emotional balance, and spiritual rejuvenation. Visualization of healing energy permeating the body and aura is often part of this practice.

Tear Magic:

In some traditions, tears are collected during moments of intense emotion and used in spells to capture and harness the energy of those emotions. Tears can be added to water used in rituals, symbolizing the release and transformation of emotional energy.

💧 Protection and Banishing

Saltwater Protection:

Water mixed with salt (often sea salt) is a common protective and purifying agent. Saltwater can be used to cleanse spaces, create protective barriers, or be sprinkled around the perimeter of a home to ward off negative energies and entities.

Banishing Rituals:

In banishing spells, water is used to symbolically wash away unwanted influences or entities. This can involve pouring water over an object representing the issue or person to be banished or using water to douse symbols or sigils of the unwanted energy.

💧 Connection to Spirits and Deities

Offering Water:

Water is often offered to spirits, ancestors, or deities in rituals and ceremonies. It can be placed on altars in bowls or cups, symbolizing purity and a connection to the divine or .

Ritual Libations:

Pouring water onto the ground as a libation is a way to honor and connect with earth spirits, deities, or ancestors. This practice is found in many cultures and is used to show respect and ask for blessings or assistance.

💧 Elemental Magic

Representing the Element of Water:

In rituals involving the four classical elements (earth, air, fire, water), a bowl of water is often placed on the altar to represent the water element. This helps to balance the energies within the ritual space and invoke the qualities of water, such as intuition, emotion, and healing.

💧 Spell Components and Ingredients

Water-Based Inks and Dyes:

Water can be used to create inks and dyes for writing spells, drawing sigils, or creating magical art. These inks can be infused with herbs, oils, and other ingredients to enhance their magical properties.

Potion Making:

Water serves as the base for many potions in spell work. Herbs, crystals, and other magical ingredients are steeped or brewed in water to create potions for various purposes, such as love, protection, healing, or prosperity.

💧 Weather Magic

Rain Spells:

Water is central to weather magic, particularly spells for invoking rain. Practitioners may use water rituals, dances, or chants to appeal to rain deities or spirits, asking for precipitation to nourish the land and support agricultural efforts.

💧 Symbolic Representation

Symbolic Actions:

In spells that require symbolic actions, water can be used to represent emotions, transitions, or transformations. For example, a spell to release emotional pain might involve writing the pain on a piece of paper and dissolving it in water, symbolizing the washing away of the hurt.

🌧️ Common Misconceptions 🌧️

Water, as a fundamental element in witchcraft, carries a wealth of symbolism and practical uses. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding its use in magical practices. Here are some of the most common ones:

⚡️ Misconception 1:

Water Has Uniform Magical Properties

Reality:

Not all water is the same in magical practices. The source and condition of the water can influence its properties and effectiveness in spell work. For example, rainwater, river water, ocean water, and spring water each carry distinct energies and should be chosen according to the specific needs of a spell. Since water is a common solvent, anything put into solution with water will affect the whole’s energetic properties and therefore its most effective applications.

⚡️ Misconception 2:

Water Spells Are Only for Emotional and Intuitive Magic

Reality:

While water is closely associated with emotions and intuition, its magical applications extend beyond these realms. Water can be used for a variety of purposes, including protection, healing, fertility, and abundance. For example, water can be used in protection spells by creating barriers, in healing spells by creating soothing potions or baths, and in fertility rituals by invoking its life-giving properties.

⚡️ Misconception 3:

Moon Water Is a Cure-All

Reality:

Moon water, while powerful, is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The effectiveness of moon water depends on the lunar phase and the practitioner's intention. Full moon water is excellent for general empowerment and completion, while new moon water is better suited for new beginnings and setting intentions. Additionally, specific astrological aspects of the moon can influence the water's properties, such as a moon in Scorpio for transformation or a moon in Pisces for spiritual insight.

⚡️ Misconception 4:

Water Alone Is Enough for Cleansing

Reality:

While water is a powerful cleansing agent, it often works best in conjunction with other elements or tools. Adding salt, herbs, or essential oils can enhance its purifying properties. Combining water with other practices like visualization, chanting, or the use of sacred symbols can amplify the cleansing effect, making the ritual more comprehensive and effective.

🌊 Properties of Water 🌊

To gain a comprehensive understanding of water in the context of witchcraft, it is essential to explore its properties across various categories. These categories include energetic properties, physical properties, philosophical properties, and chemical properties.

✨ Energetic Properties ⛈️

From an energetic standpoint, water has seven inherent properties:

Inductive: Pulls outside energy into itself

Direct Current: Sends a quanta of energy from point to point directly

Holds Charge: Retains some degree of the intact energy it reacts with, without utilizing it all to form energetic compounds

Repulsive: Repels (Dependent) energies within a variable set distance away from itself

Negenthropic: Always returns to its Natural Energetic State without influence

Sinusoidal: Contains and releases natural and consistent energy fluctuations

Refractive: Splits reactionary energies into 2+ quanta of the reactionary energy's subcomponents

From an energetic standpoint, water exhibits seven distinct properties that underscore its unique role in energy work. Firstly, inductive properties enable water to attract and assimilate external energies, making it a conduit for absorbing and integrating ambient influences. As a direct current conductor, water channels energy from one point to another efficiently, facilitating a smooth flow of quanta through its structure. Additionally, water's ability to hold charge means it retains some of the energies it interacts with, preserving them in a partially unaltered form rather than fully converting them into new energetic compounds. Water also demonstrates a repulsive quality, where it can push away or repulse energies that fall outside a variable proximity, thus managing its energetic environment by creating a buffer zone. The negenthropic nature of water ensures it continuously seeks and returns to its inherent natural state, regardless of external influences or disruptions. Its sinusoidal property reflects a rhythm of consistent energy fluctuations, as water naturally oscillates between states of absorption and release, maintaining a dynamic equilibrium. Lastly, water's refractive ability allows it to split and disperse incoming energies into multiple quanta, breaking them down into subcomponents and facilitating a more complex interaction with its surroundings. These properties collectively highlight water's versatile role in energy dynamics, making it a powerful tool in various energetic and spiritual practices.

🧊 Physical Properties

State and Phase Transitions:

States: Water exists in three states: solid (ice), liquid (water), and gas (water vapor).

Melting Point: 0°C (32°F) at standard atmospheric pressure.

Boiling Point: 100°C (212°F) at standard atmospheric pressure.

Sublimation Point: Under certain conditions, ice can directly transition to vapor without becoming liquid.

Density:

Liquid Water: Approximately 1 g/cm³ at 4°C, where it is densest.

Ice: Approximately 0.917 g/cm³, less dense than liquid water, causing ice to float.

Water Vapor: Much less dense than liquid water or ice.

Viscosity:

Water has low viscosity, allowing it to flow easily. The viscosity decreases as temperature increases.

Surface Tension:

Water has a high surface tension due to hydrogen bonding, making it cohesive and allowing it to form droplets.

Specific Heat Capacity:

Water has a high specific heat capacity (4.186 J/g°C), meaning it can absorb and store a large amount of heat energy with only a slight increase in temperature. This property helps moderate Earth's climate and maintain stable temperatures in organisms.

Heat of Vaporization:

Water has a high heat of vaporization (40.65 kJ/mol at 100°C), requiring significant energy to convert from liquid to gas, which plays a role in cooling mechanisms like sweating and transpiration in plants.

Thermal Conductivity:

Water has moderate thermal conductivity, enabling efficient heat transfer in biological systems and environments.

Electrical Conductivity:

Pure water has low electrical conductivity, but it increases with the presence of dissolved ions (electrolytes).

🧽 Chemical Properties

Molecular Structure:

Water is a polar molecule with a bent shape, having an angle of approximately 104.5° between the hydrogen atoms and the oxygen atom. The oxygen atom has a partial negative charge, while the hydrogen atoms have partial positive charges, leading to hydrogen bonding.

Hydrogen Bonding:

Water molecules form hydrogen bonds with each other, leading to its high cohesion, adhesion, and surface tension. These bonds also contribute to water's high boiling and melting points relative to other small molecules.

Solvent Properties:

Water is often called the "universal solvent" because it can dissolve many substances. Its polarity allows it to interact with and dissolve ionic compounds (salts) and polar molecules (sugars, alcohols).

pH and Ionization:

Pure water has a neutral pH of 7 at 25°C, resulting from the auto-ionization process where water molecules dissociate into hydrogen ions (H⁺) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻):

The concentration of H⁺ and OH⁻ ions in pure water is 0.0000001 mol/L each.

Reactivity:

Water participates in various chemical reactions, including hydrolysis, where it breaks down compounds, and hydration, where it adds to substances.

It can act as both an acid and a base (amphoteric), making it versatile in chemical reactions:

Redox Properties:

Water is involved in redox reactions, serving as a medium for electron transfer. In biological systems, water is crucial in processes like photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

❄️ Unique Anomalies

Density Anomaly:

Unlike most substances, water's solid form (ice) is less dense than its liquid form due to the structure of hydrogen bonds, which create a lattice that holds water molecules farther apart in ice than in liquid water.

Maximum Density at 4°C:

Water reaches its maximum density at 4°C, which is critical for aquatic life. This property causes lakes and ponds to stratify, with denser water sinking and less dense water (either warmer or ice) remaining on top, insulating the aquatic life during winter.

High Surface Tension and Capillarity:

Water’s high surface tension allows for capillary action, essential for the movement of water in plants (from roots to leaves) and soil moisture dynamics.

🧿 Metaphysical Properties

Water has long been a symbol of philosophical and metaphysical concepts across various traditions. Its properties and characteristics often embody deeper truths about existence, consciousness, and the natural world. Here are some key philosophical and metaphysical properties of water:

Fluidity and Adaptability

Water’s ability to flow and adapt to any container highlights the concept of fluidity and adaptability. Philosophically, this represents the idea of embracing change and being flexible in the face of life's transformations. Water’s adaptability signifies a deep understanding of the need to be open and responsive to the dynamic nature of existence.

Cyclical Nature

Water follows a natural cycle—evaporation, condensation, precipitation—which symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and existence. This cyclical pattern reflects the interconnectedness of all things and the continuous process of renewal and transformation. Philosophically, it illustrates the concept of eternal return and the perpetuity of life’s rhythms.

Purification and Cleansing

Water is widely regarded as a purifying force. Metaphysically, it represents the cleansing of the self, both physically and spiritually. This property embodies the idea of purification as a necessary process for spiritual growth, personal renewal, and the release of negative or stagnant energies.

Reflective and Intuitive Qualities

The reflective surface of water symbolizes self-reflection and introspection. Philosophically, it represents the ability to see beyond the surface and gain deeper insight into oneself and the nature of reality. Water’s reflective nature also ties into intuition, as it reflects the deeper, often unseen, aspects of consciousness.

Emotional Depth

Water is often associated with the depths of emotion and the subconscious mind. Metaphysically, this association signifies the profound and often hidden layers of human experience. Water’s capacity to hold and move through emotional states underscores the importance of exploring and understanding the depth of one’s feelings.

Connection and Interconnection

Water connects all forms of life, from the smallest microorganisms to the largest ecosystems. This universal connection reflects the interconnectedness of all beings and phenomena. Philosophically, it underscores the concept that all entities are part of a larger whole, sharing a common source and mutual influence.

Transience and Impermanence

Water’s ever-changing state—liquid, solid, and gas—illustrates the principle of impermanence. This property philosophically embodies the idea that all things are in a constant state of flux, and permanence is an illusion. Water’s ability to change forms highlights the transient nature of reality and existence.

Sacredness and Life-Giving Force

In many traditions, water is considered sacred and a vital source of life. This reverence reflects its fundamental role in sustaining life and its symbolic connection to spiritual nourishment and vitality. Philosophically, water’s sacredness represents the divine essence present in the natural world and the importance of honoring and respecting life’s fundamental resources.

Symbol of Unity

Water’s ability to merge seamlessly with other bodies of water represents unity and oneness. Philosophically, this property signifies the dissolution of boundaries and the merging of individual identities into a collective whole. It embodies the concept of unity within diversity and the idea that all things are ultimately interconnected.

Ethereal and Transcendent Qualities

Water’s ability to evaporate and become vapor suggests a transcendent quality, moving beyond the material and physical state. This ethereal aspect symbolizes the potential for spiritual ascension and the movement towards higher states of consciousness. It reflects the idea of transcending physical limitations and reaching a higher, more spiritual plane.

⚗️ Classical Alchemical Properties

In Classical Alchemy, water is viewed not just as a physical substance but as a key element with profound symbolic and practical significance. Alchemical traditions, which combine elements of philosophy, spirituality, and early natural science, attribute various properties to water based on its role in the processes of transformation and purification. Here are some of the classical alchemical properties of water:

Solvent and Dissolver

Water is often referred to as the "universal solvent" in alchemy. This property highlights water's ability to dissolve and break down other substances, making it essential for the extraction and purification of ingredients. In alchemical practices, water's solvent nature is crucial for processes such as dissolution, which is a key step in the preparation of alchemical mixtures and the extraction of essences from minerals and plants.

Purification and Cleansing

Water is symbolic of purification in alchemical traditions. It is used to cleanse both physical materials and the alchemist's own mind and spirit. In alchemical operations, water is employed to wash away impurities and prepare substances for further transformation. This aligns with the broader metaphysical view of water as a purifying force, essential for achieving purity and perfection in the alchemical work.

Cooling and Condensing

In alchemical processes, water is associated with cooling and condensing. It is used to regulate temperature and facilitate the condensation of vapors into liquid form. This property is integral to processes such as distillation and the condensation of alchemical substances, where maintaining the right temperature is crucial for the successful transformation of materials.

Fluidity and Movement

Water’s inherent fluidity and capacity to flow represent the principle of movement and change in alchemy. This property reflects the dynamic nature of transformation, where water is seen as a medium through which substances move and change states. The fluidity of water symbolizes the constant flux and adaptability required in the alchemical work.

Binding and Combining

Water’s ability to bind and combine different substances is another important alchemical property. It is used to mix and integrate various elements, facilitating their combination into new compounds. This property underscores water's role in creating harmonious mixtures and achieving synthesis in alchemical processes.

Cyclic and Recursive Nature

Water’s natural cycle—evaporation, condensation, precipitation—mirrors the cyclical nature of alchemical transformations. This property represents the recurring cycles of dissolution and reconstitution that are central to the alchemical work. The cyclical nature of water highlights the repetitive process of refining and perfecting substances through successive stages.

Catalytic Role

Water acts as a catalyst in many alchemical reactions. It can facilitate chemical changes and enhance the effects of other substances, making it a crucial component in achieving desired transformations. The catalytic role of water underscores its importance in accelerating and directing alchemical processes.

Temperature Regulation

In alchemy, water is used to regulate temperature during various operations. It helps maintain the appropriate conditions for reactions, such as cooling heated substances or moderating the temperature of distillations. This property is vital for controlling the environment in which alchemical processes occur.

Embodying the Principle of Mercurial Fluidity

Water represents the mercurial (or quicksilver) aspect of alchemy, embodying the principle of fluidity and the ability to change form. This property aligns with the concept of mercury as a fluid, transformative substance in alchemical traditions, reflecting the dynamic and mutable nature of water in both physical and symbolic contexts.

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Cosmicaquamarie

To learn more about me or view my Masterpost, click here.

This post was reviewed and edited for easier reading by ChatGPT.

[sullenstardust]

The Creation Of My First Altar ✨🧿

After I was gifted a tarot deck and my first read through of “A Grimoire of Shadows” by Ed Fitch, I decided it was time to create my first altar as a way to connect my energy to these cards and strengthen my divination skills.

I do not yet have the materials needed to create a similar altar as the one illustrated in the book so I decided to use the elements as my base of energy for this space to protect my cards.

What’s on My Elemental Altar?

Earth 🌍 (North)

• crystals

• silver, other precious metals, jewels, and pearls

• Salt and various herbs from my collection

• wooden intense holder with a carved pentacle

Water 🌊 (East)

• jug o’ H2O

• seashells from a beach trip

• small mirror from my late great grandmothers travel powder compact

• sea glass

• glass figure of a sea turtle

• evil eye silver bracelet given by a childhood friend

Fire 🔥 (South)

• various candles

• incense ash and wood from the sticks

• grandmothers wedding band

• bullet from my late great grandfather

• a gold evil eye necklace

• Dean’s Amulet from Supernatural (because why not?)

Air 🌬️ (West)

• feather statue

• lavender and chamomile herbs

• butterfly objects

• a bell

• metal incense bowl

And then surrounding everything I have amethyst led lights and my tarot deck is in the middle.

This altar is inside of my my bedside tables so as to not be disturbed by nosy landlord or maintenance men.

🔮

Just for reference the book describes an altar as needing:

- Images of the Goddess and God, the two deities of Witchcraft.

( Note: many choose to use a set of bull’s horns or antlers to represent the Horned God)

- metal incense brazier

- the aspergillis

( Note: aspergillis can very easily be DIYed )

- Salt and Water Containers

- Silk Material

- an Athame, or sacred, black-handled knife

- a sword

( Note: those who know me would not question if I just had an old sword displayed in my room, I realize which makes this transition to paganism a bit amusing )

- a willow wand

- a silver cup/ goblet

- a pentacle, made of either wood or metal

This will take time, income and lots of studying before I’m at that point so until then I have created my Elemental Altar.

What do you think?

Any changes I should make to strengthen my elemental altar further?

🧿 Blessed Be! Love, Kat

[esoteric-chaos]

What is Grounding and Centering? How-Tos and Methods

Centering is about balancing and stabilizing the body and mind's energy along with narrowing your focus.

Grounding is bonding and exchanging energy with different elements, however to many practitioners traditionally that element is typically earth. As somebody however who worked/works with a multi-faceted deity for many years, many things can be multi-faceted a lot like grounding.

For example within DBT therapy grounding is bringing yourself into the here and now by honing in on the five senses. Connecting both yourself and your immediate surroundings within the present. For examples box breathing and pain relief exercises medically.

Grounding for me personally is stabilizing one's energy, by reclaiming it from the universe or by drawing from the elements around me. As someone with chronic fatigue I need to borrow energy for spellwork so I become less fatigued after and Earth is a great neutral resource and element.

Grounding and meditation typically go hand in hand here.

While personally Centering is about balancing the body, the mind and narrowing my focus within my intentions for the act of entering into a certain brainwave state so I can enter spellwork or manifestation.

In another post, we will discuss brainwave states and altered states of consciousness and what they can do for your spellwork from a chaos magic perspective.

Now let's get into some centering and grounding methods.

Centering

Method 1 - Energetic Center Visualization:

Closing your eyes, visualize this glowing light. It can be any colour in your core. Now, your core can be anywhere along your body, from your heart center to your sacral, stomach, and third eye. Wherever feels the most right to you.

Visualize it growing brighter and becoming the center of your being. Gently pushing and pulling your energy.

As you breathe in, feel this light expand and fill your entire body. Filling you with peace and a sense of wholeness.

Method 2 - Breathwork with the elements:

You can do whatever feels more natural within your breathwork, like adding the element of spirit, for example.

Go to an area where you won't be disturbed for a while.

Getting in a comfortable position, usually sitting, is recommended because you could fall asleep. However, lying down is fine if you have a back injury like I do or sitting is uncomfortable.

Inhale through your nose for a long, steady breath to the count of four while keeping track of each number of elements Earth, Air, Fire, Water.

Hold that breath while repeating over Earth, Air, Fire, and Water.

Exhale through your mouth, long and steady to the beat of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water.

Hold your lungs empty on the count of four Earth, Air, Fire, Water.

Repeat however long you feel necessary after it instills feelings of calm and relaxation.

Method 3 - Moving the body

Another method is movement. Movement helps us center ourselves. Exercise, stretching, dancing, hiking, etc. Not only is it spiritually healthy, it is physically healthy. It brings us back into balance when we get our bodies moving. 

If you struggle with disabilities, stretching to the best of your ability can be enough. If you are in a wheelchair, for example, you can do upper body stretches like desk stretching and artist stretches if you are able to move your upper body. However, if you are not able to do this as easily, that’s alright. You can use other methods, and you will not be left out. 

Grounding

Method 1 - Earth Grounding

Some visualization is needed for this method, however, I personally have trouble with seeing with visualization so I find myself directing myself with inner thoughts to go along with it.

Go to an area where you won't be disturbed for a while.

Getting in a comfortable position usually sitting is recommended because you could fall asleep. However, if you have a back injury like I do or sitting just is not comfortable, laying down is fine.

Let yourself fall into a natural breathing pattern. In and out, calm as possible. You can incorporate regular box breathing here if needed.

You are going to want to visualize a cord coming from the center of your being. For some people, this is from the base of their tailbone, bellybutton or heart. This cord travelling down deep into the earth, either spreading out like roots or wrapping around the earth's core.

Now what I like to do is shed down this cord any sort of gross gunk-like energy to return to the earth to be recycled. Especially energy that's not mine.

I visualize/tell this energy to move down the cords and spread back into the earth to be recycled. If I am recycling my own energy I let that energy sit for a minute with the earth, invite it back up after it is renewed back into the core of my being. You never want to personally lose your own energy as it can leave you fatigued.

This is your option to also borrow some energy if needed. Always remember to thank the earth for its generosity. You can also leave an offering for it later if you choose.

Now once you have finished remember to retract that cord and you are done.

There are so many different ways you can ground. You can ground using terrestrial energy by expanding your roots to underground caves with crystals, pockets of air, water, and lava, all for elemental work. You can even go upwards into solar energies, connecting with the cosmos. The possibilities are endless.

Blessings!

Need to find all of my posts in one place? Check out the Masterpost

Updated 3/12/24

[sorcerci]

Basics of Witchcraft

Sources

How to find reliable sources and knowledge! Some tips and tricks !

1. When researching online use terms like “magick” and “witchcraft” or “the craft” not just “magic”

2. Always cross reference, factual information will be shared multiple times by different people

3. Check authors, are they actually witches? How long have they been practicing? Are they apart of your religion/belief group?

4. Trust your intuition and be realistic just because someone is saying a spell works in 5 minutes doesn’t mean it will

5. When buying books read into the authors about me, where dotheir beliefs stem from? What practice are they apart of? etc.

6. Be mindful of where your information is being sourced, Wikipedia? Wiccapedia? Reddit? .com sites? .edu sites? Take everything with a grain of salt

[grellblackheart]

Divination and spell jars/bottles are my specialty. Knowledge and intention are key things.

[twowitchesgrimoire]

Wstęp do Magii cz. 1 - krótko o historii i podstawach🌙

Osoby, które dopiero poznają świat magii, zapewne zastanawiają się, czym właściwie magia jest? Prawdopodobnie każdy z nas spotkał się z czarami w grach, książkach, filmach i bajkach. Nie powinno jednak nikogo zdziwić, jeśli powiemy, że strzelanie kulami ognia z rąk lub brokatowe zaklęcia, które sprawiają, że rośliny rosną, to nie są czary, o których mówimy.

Starożytne korzenie 🏺

Magia to rzemiosło znane ludziom od niepamiętnych czasów. Pierwszych zapisków na jej temat możemy szukać już w starożytności. Wtedy czary przyjmowały najprostszą formę, ponieważ nie zajmowali się nimi tylko kapłani, czy wykwalifikowane osoby, ale także lud. Magia to nie tylko wielkie ceremonie w ofierze bogom, błagając o dobre plony, ale też codzienna praktyka, gdzie religia, zaklęcia i codzienność przeplatały się ze sobą. Taka prosta forma czarostwa utrzymywała się przez wieki w kręgach ludowych i jest ona nazywana… jak możesz się domyślić - ludową. To najprostsze czary, które wykonywało się np. przy codziennych czynnościach. Takim sposobem możemy znaleźć wiele przykładów prostych odwróceń uroków, gdzie dosłownie chodziło o odwrócenie np. glinianego naczynia. Z tego powodu do dziś mamy wiele przesądów. Tutaj przykładem może być wiązanie czerwonej wstążki nad wózkiem dziecięcym, by ochronić je przed urokiem.

Alchemia i grymuary🔮

Wraz z rozwojem społeczeństwa, magia przyjmowała bardziej skomplikowane postaci wśród uczonych i osób z wyższych klas społecznych. Wtedy też możemy mówić chociażby o alchemikach, np. Michał Sędziwój (polski alchemik, filozof i pionier chemii, o nim więcej w kolejnym poście) którzy dążyli do stworzenia kamienia filozoficznego. Według alchemików od późnej starożytności – miał być substancją, za pomocą której metale nieszlachetne (na przykład rtęć, ołów) można by przekształcić w wyniku procesu transmutacji metali (łac. transmutatio metallorum) w metale szlachetne: złoto lub srebro Od średniowiecza do XVIII wieku włącznie powstawały grymuary, których celem było spisanie ówczesnej wiedzy okultystycznej. 

Wzrost zainteresowania wiedzą tajemną 📜

Od XIX wieku wiedza tajemna zaczęła znacznie bardziej interesować ludzi. Dziś możemy podziwiać zeszyty wiedzy tajemnej nawet w muzeach, jak np manuskrypt Wojnicza. Nikt go jeszcze nie rozszyfrował i nie wiadomo jakim językiem został napisany. To właśnie w drugiej połowie tamtego stulecia, utworzyło się ugrupowanie znane jako Hermetyczny Zakon Złotego Brzasku. Ów zakon istniał do początków XX wieku, po czym rozpadł się na mniejsze grupy. To właśnie Złotemu Brzaskowi zawdzięczamy popularyzację i wpływ na rozwój współczesnego okultyzmu. W poprzednim wieku rozwinął się również inny duży ruch magiczny, który zapewne wielu z Was kojarzy. Mówimy oczywiście o Wicca, które również wpłynęło na współczesne czarostwo. Właściwie pewnie większość z Was mogła pierwotnie kojarzyć witchcraft z Wicca, ponieważ to właśnie o nich jako pierwszych znajduje się najwięcej informacji podczas szukania wiedzy magicznej. Wicca rządzi się swoimi zupełnie osobnymi prawami, o których powiemy więcej w osobnym poście. 

W dzisiejszych czasach praktyka magiczna obejmuje wiele różnych ścieżek, w których z łatwością można się pogubić. Mamy Tradycyjnych Czarowników, Hermetystów, Wiccan, Chaotów i wielu wielu innych, jednak kwestię ścieżek magicznych również pozostawimy na osobny post.

A “okultyzm” to nie satanizm? 🕯️

Wymieniłyśmy takie terminy jak chociażby “okultyzm” czy “wiedza tajemna”. Pojęcia te, dzięki wpływom chrześcijańskim, kojarzą się raczej z kultem Szatana i satanistycznymi rytuałami. Prawda jest taka, że te terminy stosuje się właśnie jako jedne z wielu określeń na magię i czarostwo.

Od czego zacząć? 🌱

No dobra, porozmawialiśmy trochę o historii, ale od czego właściwie zacząć swoją przygodę z magią? Sprawa może wydawać się trudniejsza, niż w rzeczywistości. Oto lista rzeczy, od których warto zacząć swoją przygodę z czarostwem:

🔰 ochrona + oczyszczanie - najlepiej proste, codzienne sposoby, zanim skomplikowane rytuały

🕊️ ścieżki magiczne, co można łączyć, co jest praktyką zamkniętą

🌌 rodzaje magii

📜 mitologia

🔮 dywinacja

✍️ własny notatnik na magiczną wiedzę

Zapytacie pewnie, skąd się uczyć? Opcji jest wiele, z reguły polecane są książki, jako źródło rzetelnej wiedzy. Znajdą się też osoby, które będą twierdzić, że najlepiej jest wykupić sobie kurs u maga i uczyć się od mentora, albo utrzymują, że nie możesz uprawiać czarostwa nie mając w rodzinie wiedźmy. Prawda jest taka, że wszędzie możecie trafić na błędne informacje i odróżnienie rzetelnej wiedzy od głupot leży tak naprawdę w Waszych rękach. W dodatku, skoro już wiemy, że magia była uprawiana powszechnie we wcześniejszych wiekach, to dlaczego My mielibyśmy jej nie uprawiać? Z pewnością każdy ma w swoich korzeniach wiedźmę. Czytajcie książki, oglądajcie filmiki na YouTubie, przeglądajcie strony internetowe czy nawet Tik Toka. Porównujcie zebrane materiały, róbcie notatki (w późniejszych postach również stworzymy bazę źródeł).

Podsumowanie 🌠

Nauka magii to długotrwały proces, który wymaga cierpliwości i uwagi. Jeśli chcecie zająć się tym na poważnie, musicie być gotowi na niekończącą się naukę i poszukiwanie wiedzy. Prawdą jest, że uczymy się całe życie. Czarostwo to nieskończenie długa kopalnia pełna rozgałęzień, niespodzianek oraz pułapek. 

Czekamy na Wasze pytania i komentarze.

Do zobaczenia w następnych postach,

Lu & Meritre

[seasonofthesatyr]

In preparation for my magic diagrams pages in my book of shadows, yesterday I studied

✨️🩻The Anatomy of a Spell🩻✨️

So here's what I wrote!

🧿 Protection

No matter the type of work, protection is always needed for a witch manipulating energies. Protection is essential to avoid vulnerability during practice, specially on long or exhausting castings. When cursing, it's mandatory.

💭 Intention

It's the aspect that begins to program the spell, it's ritual and corresponces used in it. Should be clear and direct, in order to avoid chaos and energetic unpredictability.

📚 Planning

Who, what, where, when and how much. Shapes the spell even more towards the set intention.

✨️ Energy

Comes directly from the practitioner, their accessories (amulets, jewelery, tattoos, etc), their tools (cauldron, candles, crystals, dagger, herbs, etc) and actions practiced during the ritual (chants, prayers, dances and verbalization.

💫 Performance

The strength of your chanting, the volume of your words, the feelings experienced during the work, the connection with your tools, it all translates into the strength of your spell. Do what you can, obviously, but don't do it half assed.

✋️ Clear ending

The spell should finish in a clear way, verbally or not. It's essential for the practitioner not to "leave the door opened" when completing the work. The explicit ending aids the energies used in the spell to move towards their intended direction, defined in the planning phase.

🧹 Cleansing

Physical and energetic cleasing should always be done after any practice. Disposal of the physical components is important, as certain spells require specific disposal, while others don't. Energy cleansing should always be done after work, so it doesn't interfere with the next one you do.

✨️🏺✨️

So this is it! Hope you guys like it and feel free to leave feedback! 🌾🌾🌾

[moonlight1237]

Tarot court cards

Page

Represents typically a younger person/spirit.

Messagers this card is bring a message of sorts at times, students; learning new things and starting journeys and exploringthe world around them, learning about themselves and studying the art of the Suit they represent.

Knights

Planning and taking actions to move forwards and complete goals, young adult people/spirits, they are the *action* a call for excitement and movement, seeking out knowledge and power pushing their Suit and goals forwards.

Queens

Masters of their Suit they guide and teach the way, mature female presenting people/spirits, nurturing and caring of those around them and those they guide (of course depending on the Suit and position this can change), creativity and expressing power.

Kings

Protectors of their Suit they set the grounds and express passions of what they do, they make boundaries and create structure and maintain authority and order among chaos, they are mature men presenting people/spirits who hold wisdom of their Suit.

These are general overlooks of the Courts of each Suit

[manifestmoons]

Welcome to manifestmoons :)

I'm sharing some basic symbols and meanings associated with the practice of witchcraft. There are 12 of them. One step at a time, baby witches!

More info on manifestmoons

[thatmossywitch]

In case anyone else has been needing to do it, I finally got the motivation to clean my entire altar, starting with the shelves, even dusting.

Feels daunting ngl. It always looks so chaotic - especially in the beginning but it's gonna feel so much better when I'm done, I know it. 😭

At least one of my sweet familiars is hanging out with me during. 🥹🐈‍⬛✨️

[aesethewitch]

When Witching Goes Wrong: Basics (Early Access)

Not all spells that go wrong are “backfires.” A backfire occurs when a spell’s result is antithetical to the result you wanted to cause — it causes a negative outcome, often coming back onto you as the caster, but sometimes creating the opposite effect as was desired on the target. For example, casting a money attraction spell and losing a wallet full of cash as a result would be considered a backfire. A spell that fizzles, does nothing, or produces an unexpected (but not negative) side-effect wouldn’t be a backfire (in my opinion, that is).

Most spells that go wrong aren’t backfires. In general, you’re likelier to have a spell that acts unexpectedly or that simply fizzles than one that blows up in your face somehow. You shouldn’t be anxious about a backfire. But, as someone with lots of experience in the realm of worrying about worst-case scenarios, I understand the impulse.

The solution is to understand what can go wrong, how to prevent it, and what to do in the event of an actual worst-case scenario. My goal with this post (and with this WWGW series) is to help you feel less anxious about spells going wrong and more prepared to deal with whatever comes your way.

So, let’s start from the beginning.

The first WWGW post is live over on Ko-Fi, currently in early access for supporters of all sorts (shop purchases, commissions, tips, AND members)!

[lancsgreenwitch]

How to Create a Stunning Ostara Altar: Step-by-Step Guide

Ostara, the spring equinox, is a sacred time of balance, fertility, and renewal. As day and night stand equal, it’s the perfect opportunity to honour nature’s rebirth and align your energy with the season’s magic. Creating an Ostara altar is a powerful way to celebrate this sabbat and infuse your space with the themes of light, hope, and abundance. This guide will walk you through designing an…