witchcraftandmayhem

[witchcraftandmayhem]

from the diary of virginia woolf

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1. The Mabinogion A New Translation By Sioned Davies - Available on Amazon, Google play books, and Audible

2. Welsh Witchcraft By Mhara Starling -

Available on Amazon, Google play books

3. From the Cauldron Born by Kristoffer Hughes - Available on Amazon

4. Early Irish Myths & Sagas Translated and Introduced by Jeffrey Gantz - Available on Amazon

5. Irish Witchcraft By Lora O'brien - Available on Amazon

6. Witches, Pagans, and Cultural Appropriation By Anchor and Star - Available on Amazon

I will admit to never having read the irish books in particular. However, I did do some research on the people behind them, and I think while they may not be perfect like the other books on this list, they still probably hold a lot of valuable information.

I myself have mostly studied welsh witchcraft, paganism, and welsh mythology, but I plan on doing my best to learn more about other forms of paganism and witchcraft so I may help others find good and authentic resources. That being said the last book I suggested while speaking on Cultural Apropriation is still flawed and I encourage you to use careful judgment and to do research before you use any practice or apply things to your craft or practice. Please do research on what all of these books say, especially the ones made by and for the pagan and witchcraft communities.

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#1 When Foraging for ingredients, always make sure you know what you're foraging. It's easy to accidentally pick the wrong plant and oftentimes, that leads to poisoning. You also must make sure the ingredients you are gathering haven't been sprayed by chemicals!

#2 If you are burning things or using candles, incense, simmer pots over a fire, etc, always take time to learn or revisit fire safety! Make sure we aren't reusing candle jars with new wax, leaving candles unattended, or forgetting to completely put out a fire pit. Please be safe!

#3 Consider your doctor's medical advice. I know that there are a lot of people in the witchcraft community who use holistic medicine, and that's ok! But, that doesn't mean we shouldn't take modern medicine seriously, especially when it comes to serious illnesses.

#4 Crystals are collected and used by many witches for a large variety of things. however, under some conditions, crystals can become toxic and dangerous. For example: if you inhale the dust from carving into crystal or polishing it, it could be toxic and or damaging to your lungs. Crystals like actinolite can be especially dangerous, so be safe!

It's so important that while we are doing our spells, rituals, preparation of, and gathering of ingredients for us to do it all safely and for us to revisit safety rules and instructions. please keep in mind that these tips are not complete safety training and shouldn't be treated as such, and as I always try to encourage, please go do your own research as well.

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Seeing some small plants and flowers starting to emerge as spring comes has me thinking on the fourth branch of the Mabinogion, particularly the story of Blodeuwedd. For me personally, her tale of being made from Oak and meadow sweet for one man she did not choose only to be turned into an owl for finding real love is somewhat relatable.

I regard her as a Goddess who is strongly associated with spring, and I feel there is a lot in her story we can find applies to our world today, especially when it comes to women and even many trans men or nonbinary people.

If you are interested in learning about welsh fairies and God's, I strongly suggest reading the Mabinogion as it has a lot of mythology and stories about them and unfortunately there is a lot of misunderstanding about them in the pagan and witchcraft communities. It's best to find sources outside of those communities and to look at folk tales and mythology from Wales to better understand, and as I always try to encourage do your own research and don't just take my word for it!

[witchcraftandmayhem]

Love all of these tips and points! I definitely recommend these for any beginner witch!

How to Be a Witch or Pagan Without Falling for Conspiracy Theories and New Age Cult Stuff

Witchcraft and paganism offer beautiful, empowering ways to connect with the world, the divine, and yourself. But let’s be real: the spiritual community can sometimes feel like navigating a metaphysical minefield. From “lizard people control the world” conspiracies to the pervasive influence of New Age cults, finding your way as a witch or pagan can feel daunting. So, how can you embrace this path while keeping your wits about you? Let’s dive into it—no tinfoil hats required.

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1. Know Thyself and Do Thy Research

One of the most powerful tools for any witch or pagan is knowledge. Before diving headfirst into spiritual practices or belief systems, ask yourself:

What am I looking for in my path?

What resonates with me spiritually and ethically?

How can I learn more from credible sources?

Avoid treating every book, blog, or TikTok video as gospel truth. Instead, prioritize research from reputable authors and scholars. Look for historical, cultural, and anthropological contexts behind practices and beliefs. For example, if you’re exploring Norse paganism, read the Poetic Edda, but also check out scholarly works like Hilda Ellis Davidson’s writings.

💡 Pro Tip: If something sounds too fantastical or claims to have “secret knowledge,” approach it critically. “Ancient Lemurians built the pyramids” is not archaeology—it’s a conspiracy theory.

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2. Critical Thinking: Your New Familiar

While spirituality embraces the unseen and mysterious, it doesn’t mean suspending all logic. Here’s how to keep critical thinking in your witchy toolkit:

Fact-Check Everything: Whether it’s a viral claim about moon water curing all ailments or a new trend like “quantum jumping,” take a moment to verify its origins.

Ask Questions: Who benefits from spreading this belief? Are there ulterior motives, such as selling courses, books, or products?

Beware the “Cult of Personality”: Be wary of influencers or leaders who discourage dissent or demand unquestioning loyalty. Spirituality thrives on diversity of thought.

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3. Beware of Spiritual Bypassing

Some New Age ideas encourage bypassing real-world issues in favor of “high vibes only.” While positivity is great, ignoring trauma, systemic problems, or mental health struggles in the name of spirituality is toxic. True witchcraft and paganism embrace balance, acknowledging both the light and the shadow.

✋ Red Flag: Anyone who tells you to “just manifest” your way out of hardship or suggests that you’re attracting negativity because of bad energy. Life is more complex than that.

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4. Stay Grounded in History, Not Appropriation

A common pitfall in modern paganism and witchcraft is cultural appropriation masquerading as spirituality. Using sacred practices or symbols from cultures you’re not part of without understanding their context can be harmful.

If you’re drawn to a practice, research its origins and ensure you’re honoring it respectfully.

Consider focusing on traditions tied to your own ancestry or exploring paths open to everyone, like modern witchcraft.

🌿 Example: Smudging is a specific Indigenous practice. Instead of co-opting it, explore alternative smoke-cleansing methods with herbs like rosemary or lavender.

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5. Cult Warning Signs: Spot Them Early

Not all cults look like Hollywood’s hooded figures chanting in candlelit basements. In spirituality, cult-like behavior often hides under the guise of community.

Red Flags Include:

An authoritarian leader or group demanding absolute loyalty.

Isolation from family, friends, or outside perspectives.

Fear-based control tactics, like threatening spiritual punishment for leaving.

Heavy financial exploitation (e.g., expensive courses or “required” donations).

💡 Remember: True spiritual communities empower you to think for yourself, not rely on a single leader or system.

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6. Separate Science from Spirituality

You can be a witch or pagan and still respect science. Magic doesn’t have to contradict reality—it works alongside it. For example:

Herbs like chamomile and valerian have scientifically proven calming properties, but that doesn’t mean they’re a cure-all.

Astrology can provide insight into your personality, but it’s not a substitute for therapy or medical advice.

🌙 Balance: Use spirituality as a tool for meaning and connection, not as a replacement for critical thinking or evidence-based practices.

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7. Build Your Own Practice

You don’t need to follow every trend or adopt someone else’s path. Witchcraft and paganism are deeply personal journeys. Create a practice that aligns with your values and beliefs, free from the noise of conspiracy theories or cult-like pressures.

Ideas for Starting Out:

Learn about local folklore or the natural cycles in your area.

Experiment with simple rituals, like lighting a candle with intention or journaling under the moon.

Create an altar with objects that resonate with you—crystals, photos, or even trinkets that make you smile.

🌟 Most Importantly: Trust your intuition. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to say “no, thanks.”

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8. Community: Seek Connection, Not Control

Connecting with other witches and pagans can be enriching—but choose your circles wisely. Look for communities that:

Encourage discussion and critical thought.

Respect individual paths and practices.

Avoid fear-mongering or elitism.

👀 Where to Look: Online forums, book clubs, or open public rituals are great starting points. Just remember to maintain healthy boundaries.

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9. Grounding Techniques to Avoid Falling for the “Woo Woo”

When exploring spirituality, it’s easy to get carried away. Grounding yourself regularly can help you stay centered:

Meditate or practice mindful breathing.

Spend time in nature, whether it’s a park or your backyard.

Write down your beliefs and revisit them regularly. Are they still serving you?

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10. Be Open-Minded, Not Gullible

It’s okay to explore the mystical and unknown, but there’s a difference between curiosity and naivety. Stay open to new ideas, but don’t abandon discernment. Your path should feel empowering, not overwhelming or manipulative.

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Final Thoughts

Witchcraft and paganism are all about connecting with nature, yourself, and the divine in ways that feel meaningful and authentic. By staying grounded, informed, and true to yourself, you can embrace this path without falling prey to conspiracy theories or cult-like traps.

Remember: You’re the captain of your own broomstick. Fly wisely.

[witchcraftandmayhem]

i feel strongly about this

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Hot take: i'm kind tired of seeing discourse every 5 minutes in the pagan and witchcraft communities. Its missuse of medical terminology, it's fear mongering and scams popping left and right, the priest/priestess discourse a couple of days ago,people not knowing how to actually look for sources and using Tumblr/pinterest as a main source.

Sigh, that's why my practice is mainly a solitare one.

^live footage of me when these things come up in my dash

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Hello, Anon witch here. I was reading your "What I Wish I Knew Sooner" post about witchcraft and the misinformation. How can I tell if an author has put misinformation into their book and what are the signs so I can tell later?

It can be very difficult to know sometimes! I personally will look into who the author is as well as look into what they are saying. For example, if the author is claiming something is an ancient practice, I would then go and do some research on the history of the practice to make sure it is infact ancient as they claim. While practices in our craft don't have to be ancient, it is a big red flag if an author is lying about the age of the practice they are teaching.

Another red flag is if the author is spreading misinformation about where the practice comes from. Always second, guess what mentors or books say and look it up online from sources outside of witch craft sources. Look to history websites with actual historians, cultural history, and the people from those cultures to get more information.

Thank you so much for asking.

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You don't have to look a certain way to be a witch or pagan.

Witchcraft isn't an aesthetic, nor does it require one.

Paganism isn't an aesthetic, nor does it require one.

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These are just some photos I've taken over the years. I love finding bugs and learning about them, and I love being in the outdoors! One of the things I do in my practice is learn about and worship nature. I love being able to find a peaceful spot outside and often feel like I have a lot more spiritual experiences when out appreciating the wildlife and plants.

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What non-pagans think offerings are: bloody sacrifices in return for eternal glory.

What my offerings actually are: I found this cool rock that I thought Cernunnos might like.

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As always, SAFETY FIRST! Make sure you know what plants you are foraging and that they haven't been sprayed by harmful chemicals.

Witchcraft Supplies That Can Be Found In Nature 🌳

•Sticks

You can find sticks on the ground in a lot of places. Great for making a wand.

•Dead Bugs

These are great for spells and many of them you can preserve in hand sanitizer.

•Leaves

Leaves can be used for spells

•Rocks

Instead of buying crystals, I like to find pretty rocks while outside.

• Purple Dead Nettle

Has many uses, including tea and a variety of spells.

•Dandelions

Edible and has lots of magic potential for spells and so much more.

There are so many things you can find outside! You can use a lot of plants, rocks, acorns, pine cones, and so much more. It's a way to save money and to connect with the outdoors. This part of my practice is one of my favorite parts. It might not be for everyone, but it definitely helps my craft feel more authentic and personal.

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LED Candles Work Too!

LED candles are just fine to use in your craft. Witchcraft and magic should be accessible to everyone. If you can't use candles or don't feel like using real candles is your thing. There is nothing wrong with using LED ones. There will be witches who tell you that you can't use them, but they are unfairly forcing their own beliefs onto others.

🕯✨️💡✨️🕯✨️💡✨️🕯✨️💡✨️🕯✨️💡✨️🕯

No one should be bullied out of witchcraft for using LED candles! Sometimes, the online witch community can be very petty and even dogmatic, especially on tiktok. As I always say, witchcraft is for everyone, and no one can tell you that you can't be a witch.

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Ways I Use Tea For My Craft

For Magic

While it can't cure it, herbal tea can do wonders for a sore throat or even congestion. There are many benefits of drinking tea. I will make myself tea and then stir it while I pour my intent into it or recite a chant. Tea is great for a simple spell.

For The Herbs

Sometimes, herbal tea is cheaper than buying some herb ingredients, or it's just easier to get your hands on.I often buy mint tea and cut open the bags to use the mint in spells.

I hope my posts help learning witches. If you have a question, don't be afraid to ask! I might not always know the answer, but I will do my best to answer it or help you find the information you need.

I don't believe in gate keeping witch craft or in appropriating other cultures. While I'm not perfect at it I do my best to avoid those things.

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I love seeing witchcraft like this! LED candle and everything. Witchcraft is for everyone and there are too many witches who try to gatekeep it. Hope I find more witches who are like this because it brings more variety and helps the community.

Here's a small spell I did at my parents house:

Is it incredibly aesthetic and complicated? No!!

I did it at my desk - you can see my keyboard in the back - with an LED candle and things I had on hand.

The amethyst was gifted to me, the hagstone found at a beach, the Holly leaf plucked during a walk and the bee corpse found by the side of the road. The moon water was stored in a recycled glass jar, the sea glass shards were gifted and the teeth were found in a forest.

Spells do not need to be complicated or aesthetic to work.

You do not need to spend money to do effective spellwork.

Witchcraft is not about overconsumerism. You do not have to follow set rules or pre-written spells posted to tiktok.

Find your own practice. Make your own way.

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This is a way for people new to my page to find things easier! I make a lot of witchcraft posts for baby witches but also like to repost a variety of unrelated things. So if you're here for some witchcraft 101 try out these links below!

These are in order top to bottom. You don't have to but I Suggest you start from the top if you are new to witchcraft.

Things I wish I learned

Mistreatment of Romani culture

Cultural appropriation

Not a post I made but it's very important

Fire safety

Witchcraft Safety tips

Witchcraft on a budget

Supplies That Can Be Found in Nature

LED Candles Work!

What it means to be a witch

You can be a witch and..

Not everything is ancient

What is magic?

Impactful Magic

Baneful magic

What's a wand?

How to create spells

A spell for the new year

Dandelions are magical

Ways I use Lavender

Ways I Use Tea

Making an altar/ritual space

An altar with no deity

Different ways to use divination

Smoke Cleansing Alternatives

Make your craft your own

The truth about crystals

Greed and capitalism in witchcraft

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Ways I use lavender in my craft

Protection

Lavender is a natural deterrent for many bugs considered pests. So because of that, I associate it with protection. I use it in my doorways and use lavender oil on myself as well. This serves dual protection against pests and unwanted spirits, energy, etc.

Stress Relief

The smell of lavender can be stress relieving for some people, including myself. While it can't completely remove stress, it definitely can help. Stirring intention into some lavender tea, add a chant, and you have a spell for stress relief and maybe even sleep.

My goal is to help learning or new witches. I believe witchcraft is for everyone and won't gatekeep a person just because they don't have money. I have a desire to do the best I can with avoiding spreading misinformation as well as cultural apropriation. If you learned something from this post, I hope you check out my other posts to learn more!