witchy-syd - Tumblr blog

[witchy-syd]

For those of you who don’t know, I own two discord servers! The first of which is a Hades and Persephone Work/Worship server (the link to which can be found in my pinned post), and the other is a server called the Emerald Isle! I would greatly appreciate if those of you in the witchcraft and shifting communities would check out the server linked below, as I have put a lot of time and effort into cultivating a welcoming community!!

𓆩◇𓆪꧁ 𓆩◇𓆪 ꧂ 𓆩◇𓆪

°. •♡ Welcome to The Emerald Isle! ˚ʚ♡ɞ˚

We are a welcoming community of witches and shifters here to help you grow on your spiritual journey! Some things we feature:

⋆˙⟡♡ An active and engaging mod team

⋆˙⟡♡ Plenty of fun channels and challenges

⋆˙⟡♡ A welcoming community for both witches and shifters, at any point in their journey

⋆˙⟡♡ A zero tolerance policy for discrimination of any kind to keep our members safe

⋆˙⟡♡ A verification process so you can feel safe knowing everyone in the server has been vetted by our experienced moderation team

⋆˙⟡♡ Various classes centered around both witchcraft and shifting

⋆˙⟡♡ And so much more!

We hope to see you with us soon!

𓆩◇𓆪꧁ 𓆩◇𓆪 ꧂ 𓆩◇𓆪

[witchy-syd]

Nonverbal Witchcraft

For my witches who cannot speak, struggle to speak, or choose to remain quiet.

This post is a compilation of ideas and personal methods from fellow nonverbal witches. Not everything may fit for you, but hopefully it will give you a starting point!

Spells:

Write the words and focus your energy on bringing them into being. You could burn the piece of paper to finish off the spell. One contributor also mentions burying the paper. 

Our thoughts are powerful. Focus, and say the words in your mind.

You can also mouth the words without speaking them, if that helps you.

Whispering is also great if that works for you!

Find power in silence, use it as its own tool.

Use instruments to create certain rhythms for different spells, instead of chanting. 

If sound is helpful, play music that you feel relates/connects you to the spell.

Cast circles and finalize spells by snapping.

Sigils are concentrated intention–use that to your advantage. They can absolutely be a base for spellwork. 

Use a power source; the elements (candles, soil, the air around you, a bowl of water, etc.), crystals, burning herbs, etc.

To feel energy without using words to confirm: use tools that have stronger energy that you can physically feel.  

Make spell candles, jars or sachets. 

Use sign language! I’m of the opinion that everyone should at least learn the basics, and there are plenty of free resources out there!

Specific spells:

Casting a circle: “You can cast a circle by walking in a circle and visualizing your footsteps imprinting on the earth below, creating a barrier of light (color chosen to correspond to intention at the time), walk the circle 3 times and see the barrier in your mind forming a perfect sphere around your work space, becoming brighter and stronger each step you take.”*

To banish: write the things you wish to banish on a piece of paper, light them on fire with a black candle and place in a burn bowl. 

To release and invite: use two pieces of paper. On one, write down everything you’d like to release from your life. On the other, write down everything you’d like to invite into your life. Burn the release paper and dispose of the ashes, keep the invite paper. (Optional: I like to do this on the new moon, and have a black candle above the release paper and a white candle above the invite paper).

Protective charm: (click here)

To raise you out of a dark place: (click here)

Spell of destruction: (click here)

Energy work:

Use a cajon, bells, singing bowl, steel tongue drum/moondrum, or other instruments to raise energy!

“I have a specific snapping rhythm that is ‘magic time’. When I snap the rhythm once or three times it’s go time and I fall into the zone.”*

“For energy work and to raise energy I dance and as my heartbeat gets louder in my ears I mentally chant with it, focusing on a short phrase, intention, or incantation with the energy I physically raised and the meditative repetition of my mind.”*

Use a power source; the elements, crystals, burning herbs, etc.

Most energy work involves movement, rather than words (click here for energy work with restricted movement).

Other ideas:

Worship: write letters, devote your actions, decorate an altar. Prayers don’t need to be spoken! Or write your prayers and place them on an altar, burn them, or keep them. (Bedridden worship)

Divination doesn’t require spoken word, especially once you have a bond with your tools. You can always use writing, sigils, or your thoughts to channel your intent/question. (Bedridden divination)

Charge crystals with your intent and wear them/carry them in a pouch. 

Kitchen witchcraft, garden magic, tea magic, etc. etc. 

Utilize the correspondences of the items in your life. 

You may also like:

Bedridden witch series

Bedridden witch: Discreet edition

Limited hand mobility + witchcraft

Spoonie witch masterpost

Sigils: (pain + symptoms) (mental illness + energy) (healing + misc.) 

Chronically ill witchcraft: For your symptoms

Mentally ill witchcraft: For your symptoms

With suggestions and contributions from: 

@mynameisvernal, @melinoealtar, @steffithesciencewitch​, @the-corset-witch​*, @healing-sun-witch​ and anonymous. Thank you!

**Do not repost or share on other platforms - reblogging is okay!**

[witchy-syd]

Italian folk magic - Increase wealth spell

Italian folk magic encompasses a variety of traditional practices and beliefs, including spells aimed at increasing wealth and abundance. I am sharing these generational family spells in hopes to spread knowledge & help to educate beginner folk magic witches / practitioners.

Here's a simple Italian folk magic spell that focuses on attracting financial prosperity:

Materials needed:

- A small green candle

- Olive oil

- A pinch of basil

- A piece of paper

- A pen or pencil

- A small dish or bowl

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your workspace. Find a quiet area where you can perform the spell without distractions.

2. Take the green candle and anoint it with olive oil. As you do so, visualize money and abundance flowing towards you. Feel the sense of financial security and freedom.

3. Sprinkle a pinch of basil onto the anointed candle, symbolizing growth and prosperity.

4. Place the candle in a holder and light it, focusing your attention on the flame. Imagine it radiating energy and attracting wealth into your life.

5. Take the piece of paper and write down your financial goals and aspirations. Be specific and clear about what you want to achieve. Visualize yourself already enjoying the abundance and prosperity you desire.

6. Fold the paper and place it in the dish or bowl in front of the candle.

7. As the candle burns, say the following incantation or create your own words:

"By the candle's vibrant glow,

I call upon abundance to flow.

Wealth and riches come to me,

As I will, so mote it be."

8. Sit quietly for a few moments, focusing on your intention and the energy you've raised. Feel gratitude for the financial blessings that are on their way to you.

9. Allow the candle to burn completely or extinguish it if you need to leave the area. If you decide to extinguish it, relight the candle when you return until it burns out completely.

10. Keep the folded paper in a safe place, such as a wallet or a drawer, to reinforce your intention and remind yourself of your financial goals.

Remember, while spells can be a meaningful way to focus your intention and energy, they should be seen as tools for empowerment and manifestation. It's important to also take practical actions and make responsible financial decisions to support your goal of increasing wealth.

[witchy-syd]

Online Grimoire

not claiming any of these posts just an organizational thing for myself! all credits given to the original posters

cleansing

apartment cleansing ritual

pine cleansing wash

doorstep cleansing

home cleansing brew

very deep home cleansing

protection

wall of thorns property protection

protection amulet

home protection steam spell

room bay leaf protection

rowan cross

samhain

yule

imbolc

ostara

beltane

lavender loaf

litha

ideas for litha

blessings

candle spell

litha bath

5 card tarot spread

the baking sun 5 card spread

summer rays spread

sun oil

Litha orange honey cake

honey cupcakes

herbal cookies

lemon lavender cookies

buttermilk bread

lavender thyme chicken

a couple litha drinks

herbal fruit tea

recipes with vegan alternatives

breakfast idea!

lemon syrup

lughsanda

mabon

spirit work

spirit work masterpost

tarot

healing tarot trick

dates in the major arcana

reading with just some of the deck

minor arcana tarot timing

court cards tarot timing

fools journey and major arcana meanings

very good tarot tips

tarot numerology

yes or no major arcana

yes or no wands

yes or no swords

yes or no pentacles

yes or no cups

spreads

new love

misc

magick for different days of the week

mentally ill witchcraft

low energy charming

sachets

sachet for school

anxiety sachet

motivation sachet

princess sleep sachet

drinks

mental reboost

easy energy

energy drink spell

strength coffee

lemon cayenne energy potion

herbs

herb interactions with medications

spells

rain incantation

storm energy

solar charged

energy incantation

energy candle spell

memory/finding lost things spell

peaceful environment spell

face wash spell

stay with me friendship spell

bath/shower

energy bath

energy scrub

full moon milk bath

[witchy-syd]

Crystals 101 - Masterpost

This is the masterpost to the information in my grimoire on crystal care, charging & cleansing crystals, the shapes & cuts of crystals, and crystal grids, along with information about some good beginner crystals*. The table of contents (& thus links** to the various posts) is as follows:

1. Crystal Care 2. Cleansing      a. Elements      b. Smoke cleansing      c. Salt      d. Sunlight & moonlight      e. Other crystals 3. Charging      a. Sun & moonlight      b. Visualization      c. Smoke      d. Sound      e. Other crystals 4. Shapes & Cuts 5. Crystal Grids 6. Crystals      a. Clear Quartz      b. Selenite      c. Amethyst      d. Rose Quartz      e. Citrine      f. Tiger’s Eye

* I say beginner crystals; however, I’m also of the belief that if a crystal calls to you, you should get it, regardless of your skill level or how long you’ve been practicing. But maybe I’m just a crystal hoarder.

** While you can see the sections of each unit, there are no links to them, as that requires HTML, and I’m not typing these posts in HTML. #sorrynotsorry

[witchy-syd]

Beginner Witchcraft Resources Masterpost

General Information Sites:

- Awake The Witch Within

- Witchcraft 101

- World of Wicca

- Spells For Beginners

- Wings For The Spirit

- Spells and Witchcraft (WARNING this site has autoplay music)

Specialized Witchcraft Sites:

- Explore The Types of Witchcraft

- Sea Witchcraft at Book of Tides

- Water Witchcraft at Witches of The Craft

- Faery Witchcraft at Patheos

- Satanic Witchcraft at Spiritual Satanist

- Herbal Witchcraft at The Smart Witch

- Witch’s Herbal Reference

- Kitchen Witchery at Llewellyn Worldwide

- Traditional Witchcraft

- Hedge Witchcraft

[witchy-syd]

Masterpost of Masterposts

I love when the witchy people of tumblr share their knowledge by creating incredibly useful masterposts of information. I made this “masterpost of masterposts” to act as a running directory of such resources. If you see any errors (such as credit or misinformation) please contact me and I will make any necessary changes.

Witchcraft 101 / Paganism 101 / Basics

The PunkGreenWitch’s Beginner Witchcraft masterpost

Windvexer’s Baby Witch masterpost

Windvexer’s Making Friends With Magic masterpost

Mysticism-n-magic’s witchy links masterpost

Thiscrookedcrown’s resources masterpost

Thepaganstudygroup’s author masterpost

Snwitch’s pagan 101 masterpost

Snwitch’s becoming a witch masterpost

Witchtip’s beginner witchcraft resources masterpost

Magicusersresource’s path directory masterpost

Witchbxbe’s witchy masterpost (a mix of useful posts)

Types of Witchcraft

Rainydaywitchcraft’s Types of Witches masterpost

Popculturewitch’s pop culture witchcraft masterpost

Miss mango’s secular witchcraft masterpost

Holidays / Rituals

Geekinglikeaboss’ blessed Yule masterpost

Naturalmagics’ Samhein General Guide masterpost

Natural-magic’s Yule general guide

Natural-magic’s Imbolc general guide masterpost

Natural-magic’s Ostara general guide masterpost

Natural-magic’s Beltane general guide masterpost

Natural-magic’s Litha general guide masterpost

Natural-magic’s Lamas general guide masterpost

Natural-magic’s Mabon general guide masterpost

Natural-magic’s Samhain general guide masterpost

Correspondences

Moonalmonds candle color and meaning masterpost

Thewitchesjournal herb masterpost

Witchtip’s stones and crystals masterpost

Thecatandthewitch’s magical correspondences of food masterpost

Satinsouled’s incenses by use (correspondences) masterpost

Artsy-witch’s magical waters masterpost

Tarigrove’s correspondences for luck spells masterpost

sirel-vemiel’s essential oil magickal correspondences masterpost

Spells / Charms / Crafting

Atypical pagan spell’s masterpost

Witchtip’s herbal amulet masterpost

Witchtip’s budget witchcraft supplies masterpost

Foresthoney’s magic knot masterpost

Magicusersresource’s prosperity & money spells masterpost

Recreationalwitchcraft’s bath magic, where to begin masterpost

Kitchen/Hearth Witchery

spell-of-the-month’s herbs and spices associated with money magic masterpost

Moonstonebeginning’s domestic witch tips, charms, and omens masterpost

foresthoney’s herbal remedy stress masterpost

herbalriots herbs for your medicine cabinet masterpost

Idontusemycauldren’s magical herbal teas masterpost

Protection

Windvexer’s shielding masterpost

Thesigilwitch’s protection and shielding masterpost

Energy work / Elemental work

Snwitch’s energy work masterpost

Windvexer’s shielding masterpost 

Divination / Scrying / Communication 

Arcanemysterie’s tarot masterpost

Theouijagirl’s Ouija FAQ masterpost

the-daily-diviner’s diviation masterpost

Satinsouled’s divination symbols masterpost

Sigils

Thesigilwitch’s FAQ masterpost (includes a lot of resource links)

Thesigilworkshop’s list of (sigil) resources masterpost

carpeumbra’s sigil masterpost (lots of gifs!)

Deities / Mythology / Fae 

Vilarp’s mythology and deity resources masterpost

Gardenofthequeen’s resource list of all things faerie masterpost

Naturalmagic’s deities masterpost (a running list)

Astrology / Space witchery 

Astrologymarina’s Astrology blogpost masterpost

Pastelastrology’s astrology blogs masterpost

secretsofthezodiac’s astrology masterpost

astrocelestial’s planets in astrology and what they represent masterpost

Reading lists / authors / books

Wiccanwolfe’s Witch / Pagan free ebook and pdf masterpost

natural-magic’s books and resources masterpost

Misc

Duskenpath’s poison research masterpost

Duskenpath’s otherkin masterpost

Asksecularwitch’s paradigm masterpost

Unmaskingthedivine’s shadow work masterpost 

Stsathyre’s pagan posts of 2015 masterpost (a mix of pagan related posts)

Recreationalwitchcraft’s limited witchcraft masterpost

Hereditarywitch’s magic for anxiety/depression masterpost

rainydaywitchcraft’s sea witch’s guide to seashells masterpost

**Disclaimer: this is a collection of links that I thought would be helpful. I did not create any of the above content within the links. If you are confused or have concerns about any of the material please contact the original creator.

If you know of a link that would fit on this list please feel free to share. :3

[witchy-syd]

Lucky Day Powder

Intent: To cause good luck and high probability of success to follow one for a single day. Ingredients:

Orange Peel

Cinnamon

Fenugreek

Ginger

Irish Moss

Lemon Peel

Materials:

Mortar & Pestle (or spice grinder)

Funnel

Mesh Strainer

Collection Dish

Container

Note: Powdered versions of most herbs are available online. I recommend Wellcat Herbs and Starwest Botanicals for the best quality products. Also, if you can get your hands on a good spice grinder, you can make your own powder from dried herb products. Grind each ingredient separately to produce fine powder. Sieve the material through the mesh strainer into the collection dish; this removes the larger unground pieces and gives you cleaner powdered herb. (Pro-Tip: Putting a funnel under the mesh strainer reduces lost material and makes collection much easier.) Combine the component powders in the collection dish, mix well, and bottle immediately. For volume, go heavier on the less expensive or more easily available materials like Cinnamon, Ginger, and powdered fruit peels. Otherwise, use more or less even amounts. Put a pinch in your shoes before going out on any day that you need a boost of good fortune, or chance to sway in your favor. Also useful for spellwork related to finding or keeping employment and obtaining wealth. Add to incenses and charms designed to bring luck. Combine in a jar with sesame seeds for long-term household use.

[witchy-syd]

Do you know any spells that use jars? As I've got loads of spair jars. Cheers

Oh, so so many my dear. I’ve made this list for you and it’s by no means the ultimate compilation of jar spells, but there’s a nice selection here that I hope provides you with some inspiration or something.

Love & Self Love:

Self Love Jar.

Self Love Charm.

Aphrodite Healing Self Love Jar.

Lavender Self Love Jar.

Torque’s Self-Love Motivation Jar.

Love Attraction Jar.

Self-Love Jar.

To Strengthen a Romantic Relationship.

Self-Care Spell Jar.

Cuddle Jar!

Happiness & Mood Improvement:

Happiness Spell Jar.

Healing & Broken Hearts:

Sew Closed Your Heart Jar Spell.

Friendship:

Friendship Spell Jar.

Luck & Good Fortune: 

Luck Spell Jar.

Luck and Fortune Spell Jar.

Sleep & Dreams:

Restful and Peaceful Sleep Spell Jar.

Free Me From My Nightmares.

Remember Your Dreams.

Nightmare Jar.

Pleasant Dreams Jar/Bottle.

Glamours:

Aphrodite Glamour Water.

Queen Grimhilde’s Glamour Jar for Intimidating Looks.

Anxiety & Depression & Mental Health:

Anxiety Salt Spell.

Anti-Anxiety Jar Spell.

Gender & Self-Empowerment Magick:

The Empress Reclaim.

Self-Empowerment Jar.

Heat of the Flame Jar Spell.

Communication:

Communication Spell Jar.

Sweet Talkin’.

Study/School/Careers:

Focus and Study Spell Jar.

“My Passion is my Income” Spell Jar.

Workplace Witchcraft - Memory and Awareness Jar.

Knowledge Spell Jar.

There and Back Again Jar.

New Job Spell Jar.

Home and Surroundings:

Home Sweet Home Jar.

Happy Atmosphere Bag/Jar.

Simple Space Calming Spell Jar.

To Keep the Home Safe and Cozy!

Safety & Travel:

Safe From Harm Spell Jar.

Personal Safe Travels Jar.

Safe Travels Mini Spell Jar.

Banishing & Binding:

GFTO Banishment Jar.

“You cannot touch her” Curse/Binding Jar.

Prosperity:

Sugar and Spice Prosperity Jar.

Money Jar.

Protection:

Aggressive Protection Jar.

Wither and Rot Protection Bottle.

Empath Protection Jar.

Mini Protection Jar/Vial.

Dragon Protection Jar.

Tough as a Nail, Sharp as a Thorn Protection Jar.

Mama Cat’s “Evil Eye” Protection Jar.

Witchy Woman’s Protection Jar.

Productivity/Motivation/Energy:

To Enhance Productive Energies.

“Everyday” Spell Bottle.

Will-o’s Jar Spell for Removing Energy Blocks.

Motivation Jar.

Purification:

Purification Jar.

Creativity:

Creativity Spell Jar.

Paint Water Creativity Jar.

Malevolent Magick:

“You’ve fucked with the wrong witch” Spell Jar.

“Broken and rotting” Curse Jar.

Blood Rain Curse Jar.

“From this pain I will rise” Curse Jar.

“Over the falls” Curse Jar.

The Tower - Tarot Curse Jar.

“Shut up, you twat” Curse Jar.

Gentle Curse Jar.

Elemental Magick:

“Capture the Wind” Jar.

Planetary & Celestial Magick:

Moon Magic Jar.

Full Moon Reflection Jar.

[witchy-syd]

How to do Shadow Work

"What is shadow work and why does everyone keep talking about it and how do I start?!?!"

The witchcraft community talks about shadow work a lot, so I get baby witches with this question all. the. time. So lets dive in!

First things first: What exactly is shadow work?

To know what shadow work is, you have to know what the shadow self is. "Shadow" was coined by psychologist Carl Jung to describe "the unknown, dark side of the personality." Essentially, shadow work aims to connect, understand, heal, and integrate one's shadow self into their conscious personality.

“The shadow goes by many familiar names: the disowned self, the lower self, the dark twin or brother in bible and myth, the double, repressed self, alter ego, id. When we come face-to-face with our darker side, we use metaphors to describe these shadow encounters: meeting our demons, wrestling with the devil, descent to the underworld, dark night of the soul, midlife crisis.” (Connie Zweig, Meeting the Shadow)

Okay, so why does the witch community endorse shadow work so much?

There's a lot of reasons shadow work can be beneficial. Carl Jung's theory was the more we hide our shadow self, the more we project it onto others. So that jealousy, hatred, irritability you feel around someone else? It might be because you're hiding that trait in yourself. So not knowing your shadow self spreads negativity to others and invites negativity in yourself. Furthermore, one of the biggest goals in witchcraft is self-healing and understanding yourself, so shadow work is an integral part of the practice.

“A man who has not passed through the inferno of his passions has never overcome them. As far as we can discern, the sole purpose of human existence is to kindle a light in the darkness of mere being. Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.” (Carl Jung)

Well how do I do it??

Great question! The best way to get started is journaling. Grab your grimoire, journal, notebook, or open up your notes app and follow along to some prompts. The best thing about journaling is, its totally personal to you. You don't HAVE to write a well worded essay when responding to these prompts. Poetry, rambling, music, art, are all totally acceptable responses. Hell, you don't even have to put anything down at all if you don't want to. The point is to reflect and meditate on these questions and discover something about yourself. It is totally up to you!

**Sometimes, shadow work can open up trauma and traumatic memories (trust me, it gets rough sometimes), so please be careful and take it easy until you're confident you're in a place you won't be re-traumatized. Shadow work is a great practice for healing and wellness, but it shouldn't replace a therapist!**

Here are some prompts I felt really connected to:

What was one time you felt wronged as a child? How did you react? Has this affected you in adulthood?

What emotion(s) do you try to avoid? What are you afraid of?

Have you ever treated a person in a way you regret? Why'd you do it?

How did your parents break your heart? Do you still carry that hurt with you today?

Write a letter to your younger self.

What, in your opinion, is the worst thing a person can do to another? Have you ever done this or had this done to you? How does that make you feel?

Is there anything about yourself you're embarrassed about? Did anyone make you feel this way? Why do you feel this way?

When is the last time you forgave yourself? Do you hold any resentment towards yourself now?

How do you handle negative emotions such as anger or sadness? Is this the best way you could handle these?

Is there anyone you haven't forgiven? Why? Put yourself in their shoes; does that make you feel any different?

Some links I recommend to further your research!

https://mindowl.org/shadow-self/

[witchy-syd]

I’ve been in this server for a few days and I love the vibes there! Highly recommend <3

calling all witches!

are you a witch, looking for other witches/spiritualists to connect with? do you want to learn and share your knowledge with others? do you want a safe space to talk about your practice, discuss tips, and have constructive conversations about the different paths in witchcraft?

join the Purple Bagel Tarot (18+) Discord server!

Here, you'll find:

Dedicated channels for witchcraft, divination, spirituality, and more!

Fun horoscope, tarot, music, and rune bots

Friendly staff

Welcoming environment for all practices

Zero-tolerance for discrimination, bullying, and cultural appropriation

A fun, safe, knowledgeable learning for anyone who's interested in witchcraft and/or spirituality

Hope to see you there! Blessed be ✨

[witchy-syd]

Once more, I had wanted to make a small, and to the point spread. This is meant to help give guidance on the next steps from where you currently are in your life, or spiritual path. The end point is meant to show you where you can end up if you follow the advice from the cards.

You may save this image but please do not repost!

[ID: An image of a tarot spread going in an upwards staircase direction on an aurora borealis space background . The title of the spread is “The Path Forward”. There are 4 boxes that follow the ascending stair format. A light blue-green text on the bottom corresponds to the boxes:

1. Your Current Position

2. & 3. The Way Forward

4. The End Point

ID end]

[witchy-syd]

How to do Shadow Work

"What is shadow work and why does everyone keep talking about it and how do I start?!?!"

The witchcraft community talks about shadow work a lot, so I get baby witches with this question all. the. time. So lets dive in!

First things first: What exactly is shadow work?

To know what shadow work is, you have to know what the shadow self is. "Shadow" was coined by psychologist Carl Jung to describe "the unknown, dark side of the personality." Essentially, shadow work aims to connect, understand, heal, and integrate one's shadow self into their conscious personality.

“The shadow goes by many familiar names: the disowned self, the lower self, the dark twin or brother in bible and myth, the double, repressed self, alter ego, id. When we come face-to-face with our darker side, we use metaphors to describe these shadow encounters: meeting our demons, wrestling with the devil, descent to the underworld, dark night of the soul, midlife crisis.” (Connie Zweig, Meeting the Shadow)

Okay, so why does the witch community endorse shadow work so much?

There's a lot of reasons shadow work can be beneficial. Carl Jung's theory was the more we hide our shadow self, the more we project it onto others. So that jealousy, hatred, irritability you feel around someone else? It might be because you're hiding that trait in yourself. So not knowing your shadow self spreads negativity to others and invites negativity in yourself. Furthermore, one of the biggest goals in witchcraft is self-healing and understanding yourself, so shadow work is an integral part of the practice.

“A man who has not passed through the inferno of his passions has never overcome them. As far as we can discern, the sole purpose of human existence is to kindle a light in the darkness of mere being. Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.” (Carl Jung)

Well how do I do it??

Great question! The best way to get started is journaling. Grab your grimoire, journal, notebook, or open up your notes app and follow along to some prompts. The best thing about journaling is, its totally personal to you. You don't HAVE to write a well worded essay when responding to these prompts. Poetry, rambling, music, art, are all totally acceptable responses. Hell, you don't even have to put anything down at all if you don't want to. The point is to reflect and meditate on these questions and discover something about yourself. It is totally up to you!

**Sometimes, shadow work can open up trauma and traumatic memories (trust me, it gets rough sometimes), so please be careful and take it easy until you're confident you're in a place you won't be re-traumatized. Shadow work is a great practice for healing and wellness, but it shouldn't replace a therapist!**

Here are some prompts I felt really connected to:

What was one time you felt wronged as a child? How did you react? Has this affected you in adulthood?

What emotion(s) do you try to avoid? What are you afraid of?

Have you ever treated a person in a way you regret? Why'd you do it?

How did your parents break your heart? Do you still carry that hurt with you today?

Write a letter to your younger self.

What, in your opinion, is the worst thing a person can do to another? Have you ever done this or had this done to you? How does that make you feel?

Is there anything about yourself you're embarrassed about? Did anyone make you feel this way? Why do you feel this way?

When is the last time you forgave yourself? Do you hold any resentment towards yourself now?

How do you handle negative emotions such as anger or sadness? Is this the best way you could handle these?

Is there anyone you haven't forgiven? Why? Put yourself in their shoes; does that make you feel any different?

Some links I recommend to further your research!

https://mindowl.org/shadow-self/

[witchy-syd]

✧ :-Energy in Witchcraft-: ✧

We’ve all heard the term “energy” thrown around in witchcraft. “focus your energy on this,” “do this to protect your energy,” “match your energy to your desires,” etc. But what does “energy” mean?

Now when we say “energy” in terms of magick or spirituality, we’re not talking about science or electricity, or how tired we feel. Throw those preconceived notions out before you get confused.

In essence, energy is the life in all things that cannot be measured.

Everything has energy. You, me, the elements, the planets, the whole universe. You can become aware of this energy and control it if you practice. Here are some exercises to help you become aware of and control your energy!

Practice 1: Feeling your energy

Raise your hands in front of your chest and hold your palms facing towards each other. Don’t touch your hands together. Take a few deep breaths and relax. Can you feel the energy in between your hands? It make feel like heat, coolness, or tingling.

Practice 2: Grounding: Attracting the Earth’s Energy

Stand barefoot on the ground. It’s best to do this outside, but if you can only do it inside that’s just fine. Focus on your feet touching the ground. Feel the energy of the earth moving up your feet all the way up to your head. After this, start at your head and move your energy down through your feet into the Earth. Feel the exchanging of energy for a bit.

Practice 3: Growing roots

Feel your energy moving into the Earth like roots from a tree. Stretch your roots as far into the Earth as you can. Then, feel the energy moving up those roots and into your feet. Feel it move through your legs, through your arms, up to your head. Extend that energy out of the top of your head like tree branches reaching into the sky.

Practice 4: Filling your energy with the Sun or Moon

Stand out where the sun or moonlight can touch your skin. Imagine the beams of light like energy and channel it through the top of your head all through your body. After it has circulated through your body, push it into the earth through your feet.

Energy is essential to all things spiritual and magickal. Learning how to work with it is essential to anyone’s practice.

[witchy-syd]

Being a Witch with Pyrophobia

When I was really young, there was a mishap and I got burned really bad. Understandably since then, I’ve had a phobia of fire. It’s been hard for me since getting into witchcraft seeing all these candles and burning things and I can’t partake in that because of my fear. So, these are some alternatives I use instead of fire!!

Deity/Entity candles: This one actually came from a nonwitchy friend when I vented about my phobia. She said “can you use like those fake tealight candles?” And I was like hmm let’s see. I went out and got some of these cheap plastic candles, set crystals and offerings around them for my entity, and turned it on. It started flickering like crazy. I thought it was because it was cheap so I tested out the other candles, and lo and behold no flickering. It may not work as well as a candle, but my deities and entities understand why I can’t give them a real candle, and still use the fake candles.

Burning with intention: I get really disappointed when I see letting go spells, manifestation methods, etc. that involve burning paper. I found this one spell in a book (I don’t remember which one), that said to tear apart the paper as small as you could, and blow it into the wind. Ever since then, this is how I do letting go rituals, and I think it works just as well.

Incense: This one is not only for those with pyrophobia, but also for those with animals that incense can harm. Incense is only ONE cleansing method of many! You can use energy cleansing, crystals, sound, water, and so many more. I personally use waxing moon water charges with black crystals and mixed with protective herbs in a spray bottle and spray that around an area I want to cleanse and protect!

I haven’t come up with a universal alternative for candle spells yet, but for a cord cutting spell, I simple wrap the cord around two pillars and use scissors to symbolically cut the cord with intention.

I hope this helps witches with pyrophobia like me or even witches who can’t work with fire for other reasons. Blessed be!

[witchy-syd]

10 Magic Herbs You Can Find at the Grocery Store

When you’re first getting started with witchcraft or another magical practice, it can be easy to get caught up in all of the material stuff involved. Witchy hashtags on social media are filled with pictures of huge sparkly crystals, gorgeous handmade ritual tools, and beautifully elaborate altars. Many spells in books or online call for a long list of herbs, some of which are expensive or hard to come by. For baby witches, it’s easy to feel like you can never be a “real” witch unless you have money for these expensive tools and toys.

This is not true. As we’ve talked about in previous chapters of this series, you don’t need any tools or material components to cast a spell — however, harnessing the energy of plants, crystals, and imagery can be a helpful way to add energy to your work. This doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot of money. In fact, many of the most powerful and useful magical tools can be found on the spice aisle in your local supermarket, or even at the dollar store.

For example:

Salt. Salt is a witch’s best friend. It can be used for cleansing, banishing, protection, grounding, or to neutralize energy. Surrounding something with a circle of salt will protect it [Note: do NOT make salt circles outside, as salt will kill plant life!], and washing something with salt water will cleanse its energy. I often include salt in any spell that I feel needs an extra layer of protection.

Sugar. Just as salt banishes unwanted energy, sugar attracts the things you want into your life. Sugar can be used for any and all attraction spells, whether you’re looking to attract love, money, success, or something else. It can also be used to “sweeten” a situation, or make it more favorable.

Cinnamon. There’s pretty much no positive spell that doesn’t benefit from cinnamon. Cinnamon has associations with healing, love, success, and material wealth, but is also strongly associated with protection. I love burning cinnamon as incense — it fills the whole room with warm, cozy energy.

Cayenne. Cayenne is often used for banishing or binding spells, but a lesser known use is for getting things moving. Cayenne is a very fiery plant, so any spell dealing with passion, motivation, or drive can benefit from its inclusion. Cayenne can be used to “light a fire” under someone to motivate them to action. However, cayenne is a more harsh energy, so I often pair it with lavender or another soothing herb.

Coffee. I most often use coffee for grounding or to anchor things to the physical world. For example, I might include it in a prosperity spell to make sure the results manifest in my everyday life. Coffee is also energizing and brings mental clarity, and can enhance psychic abilities. Brewed coffee is also used in some traditions as an offering for spirits.

Bay leaves (Bay Laurel). Bay leaves are one of the most popular spell components because of their association with granting wishes. You’ve probably heard of the practice of writing a wish on a bay leaf and burning it to manifest your desire. I often include bay leaves in manifestation magic for this reason. Bay leaves can also be used for purification, cleansing, and exorcism.

Ginger. Ginger adds power to any spell it is included in. Ginger tea or gingery food can also give you a personal energy boost. I add ginger to any spell that needs some extra “oomph.” It is also associated with success.

Basil. Basil is very commonly used in money spells. Carrying a basil leaf on your person is believed to attract wealth. It also has associations with protection.

Peppermint. Peppermint is another herb that can add power to virtually any spell. It can bring healing and purification, can remove obstacles and free up stuck energy, and can enhance psychic abilities. Peppermint is a common ingredient in dream pillows. You can find peppermint tea at virtually any grocery store, and many stores also carry the essential oil.

Lavender. Lavender is my favorite herb for bringing peace to a situation. It’s very good for healing magic and for soothing difficult emotions. Lavender is also associated with love, and I especially like to use it in spells for self love. Most stores carry lavender essential oil, and you can also find herbal teas that include it as an ingredient.

With the above herbs at your side, you’ll have everything you need to cast virtually any type of spell. Honestly, even if you just have salt, sugar, and maybe some white candles, you can create powerful spells for dozens of different intentions, from protection to self love to getting a job. Remember, what matters isn’t so much what you have — it’s your intention.

These are also edible, so they can be incorporated into magical recipes for different intentions. In fact, most of the ingredients you cook with every day have magical associations and can do double duty as powerful additions to your spells. For more information about the magical uses of common household herbs and spices, I highly recommend the book A Green Witch’s Cupboard by Deborah J. Martin, which is where most of the info for this post came from.

Other useful magical items that you can pick up at the grocery store include:

Olive oil. Olive oil can be used as an all-purpose anointing oil for candles, ritual tools, or your body. It can also be used to dilute essential oil, or as a base for custom magical oils.

Tealight candles. These small candles are perfect for candle spells. White tealights can be used for any intention.

House plants. Many common houseplants have magical associations. For example, aloe brings protection and healing. You can also grow some witchy herbs, like peppermint or rosemary, indoors.

Epsom salt. Epsom salt is a great base for bath spells. You can add essential oils and herbs to make custom bath salts — just be sure to research oils and herbs ahead of time, as some can cause skin irritation. [Note: Epsom salt is not actually salt, and cannot be substituted for salt in spells.]

Notebooks. Writing things down is an important part of witchcraft. Keeping a record of your spells, divination, and magical experiences makes it easier to keep track of everything.

Again, I want to stress that you don’t need a specific set of tools to be a witch. In fact, you can do highly effective magic without ever working with herbs at all. But if you want to gather some items to add power to your spells or help you feel more witchy (after all, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to set the mood!), you can get everything you need for a few bucks at the local supermarket or dollar store. Remember, our ancestors worked magic with what they had — not with expensive crystal collections or exotic herbs.

[witchy-syd]

Three Knot Spells - Protection Magick

The Base Chant

By binding of thread, I seal myself off from all evil eye, evil thoughts, evil words and evil deeds.

The first spell - done on shoe laces (tried and tested)

One knot is tied on each of the shoe laces with the above declaration, thereafter it is sealed with the same.

The second spell - done on a red/black/white thread to be worn on the left side of the body.

Four knots are tied onto a single thread with the above declaration. The last is knotted with the above declaration around the left wrist or ankle.

The Third Spell

A black thread is taken and is baptized in the name of the person who is to be bound. This can be done as so:

By above and below, I do baptize you in the name N.N, that all that is done unto you is done unto N.N.

Then the knots are tied again - this time with the adaptation:

By binding of threads - I bind you (N.N) from sending evil eye, from thinking evil thoughts, from speaking evil words and enacting evil deeds.

The knotted thread is either kept, if you wish to undo it later, buried in the dirt or placed near the person who is to be spelled. It can be buried on their property, in their path, or placed somewhere in their vicinity to enact its will on them. It can be left for a day where it is then taken and buried.