Happy New Year 2021

I don’t even know where to start when it comes to 2020. Aside from the main issue that has hung over us, affecting all our lives in a myriad of ways, this was a great period of self-development and transformation for me. I achieved a lot this year.

Last night I took some time out to celebrate, and to offer my gratitude and thanks. I’m grateful for getting through this year unscathed, and for the many blessings and people in my life. My coven sisters, my husband, my friends, my family, and my Facebook and Instagram families.

Thank you all for being here. Thank you for every interaction, each comment of support, each like, each share, each follow. Thank you for all your inspiring posts and teachings. Thank you for being there for each other, and supporting one another. Love and kindness is the only way.

I’m wishing you all a very happy, healthy and abundant 2021.

Fabulous Folklore: Yule Evergreens

Bringing evergreens into the home at Midwinter goes back to a time when people were more connected to the cycles of nature, way before the arrival of Christmas. Evergreens represented everlasting life in the darkest part of the year, and therefore brought the hope of returning light. Each European country, and each British county, had their own specific customs related to evergreens, but many involved hanging them around windows and over doorways.

Holly was hung over entrances to peoples’ homes, and was used to make wreaths. It brought good luck and protection, and was still beautiful in the middle of winter, giving the poor a means of decorating their homes at a time of celebration. The Druids revered holly and believed its evergreen nature was sacred; it kept the earth beautiful at a time when other trees shed their leaves.

Evergreen conifers (pine, fir, cedar, juniper, or spruce) became the Yule Tree, which evolved into the Christmas Tree. The Christmas Tree custom flourished in Germany and over time it spread to other European regions, eventually reaching North America. Traditionally the brightly colored decorations and lights symbolised stellar objects, spirits, religious figures, and religious events.

The ancient Greeks, Druids, Celts, and Norse revered mistletoe as sacred, and it was used for protection, blessing, and medicine. The 23rd December is known as The Nameless Day, and is represented by Mistletoe. This day falls outside the lunar calendar and represents the unshaped potential of all things. This is the extra day in a “year and a day” represented by so many folk tales.

This gorgeous display of evergreens is over a doorway in nearby Stamford, Lincolnshire.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Robin Redbreast

Fabulous Folklore: Robin Redbreast

There are many animals associated with this time of year, but most notably the Robin, who is often pictured perched upon a Yule Log.

Whilst many see the Robin as a symbol of good luck, fortune, and abundance, there is some dark folklore surrounding them, and they are closely associated with death.

Many believe a visit from a Robin is actually a visit from a relative in spirit. They’re seen as messengers for the spirit world, and there are many stories about their comforting presence following the death of a loved one. After my Grandmother died a Robin appeared every time my Mum entered her house. Some say that if a Robin pecks the windows or enters a house it signifies the coming death of a loved one. It is no surprise, then, that it is seen as bad luck to kill or injure one.

The old English ballad “Babes in the Wood” tells of the Wren and the Robin working together to cover the unburied bodies of two children who were abandoned and died:

And when they were dead 

The robins so red

     Brought strawberry leaves

And over them spread;

And all the day long,

The green branches among,

     They'd prettily whistle

And this was their song-

“Poor babes in the wood!

Sweet babes in the wood!

     Oh the sad fate of 

The babes in the wood!”

Christian stories suggest that the Robin was originally brown, his chest stained red by the blood of Jesus who was dying on the cross.

The Victorians were a fan of these little birds, and they would appear on Christmas cards, delivering letters like tiny postmen. The Royal Mail’s colour is red as it is linked to royalty, and thus the Victorians nicknamed their posties “Robins”.

We met this little chap last week who is fed by hand, so very friendly.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Wren's Day

The Return of the Sun

Earlier on in the week @autumncroneapothecary and I were talking about most witches having a strong relationship with the Moon (as it should be), but us feeling much closer to the Sun and solar energy.

As a Cancer I put this down to being born in the summer, I just feel so connected to it. There’s also no avoiding the fact that with several conditions related to my muscles and joints I’m relieved when the days get longer and warmer and my bones don’t hurt and click quite so much!

As we approach the Winter Solstice here in the Northern Hemisphere, I have been thinking about all the good things that happened in the warmer half of this year, and I’m really looking forward to what’s to come. A particular highlight this year was driving through a quirky little village near us and spotting this telephone box with tomatoes planted inside.

I’m looking forward to picnics and our annual Beltane celebration, time in the park with the kids, dinner in my parents’ garden, foraging, spending some time near water (typical Cancerian!) and warmth on my face.

What about you? What Sun sign are you? Does it relate to whether you prefer summer or winter? Do you think 2021 is going to be a good year for you?  What are you looking forward to most in 2021? 

NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Imbolc 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Winter Solstice Celebrations 

NEXT - Greeting the Sun After the Longest Night

Fabulous Folklore: The Battle of the Holly & Oak Kings

The rebirth of the Sun is such a huge cause for celebration that many witches mark the occasion by bringing the outside in; to signify the solar turning of the tides, and the return and commencement of the growing season. This is usually in the form of evergreens; plants that retain their green leaves throughout the year. Bay, holly, ivy, mistletoe, photinia, and cedar are all examples of evergreens, and many of them are symbolic in some way.

The holly is one such symbolic plant.

Stemming from Celtic mythology, but common in many folklore traditions, the Oak King and the Holly King - personifications of the winter and summer - are two brothers that rule over the land, sharing their rule. They are, in effect, two parts of the same thing; the waxing and waning of the yearly cycle of Earth.

The Holly King reigns from midsummer to midwinter - a waning period of increasing darkness - and represents darkness, destruction, and decay.

At Yule, the Oak King, Lord of the Summer, representing expansion, light, and growth, is reborn, ready to take the throne for the period of increasing light.

At the solstices the brothers collide; light and dark battling to decide who will win the Crown of the Year, and reign over the coming months.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Oak Galls

Media Appearance: Witchology Magazine - Sun Biscuits for Yule

Witchology Magazine - New Issue!

Perfect for a little bit of Solstice Magick, find the recipe for my warming Sun Biscuits in the latest issue of Witchology Magazine, print copies now available.

The “Transformation” edition, celebrating new beginnings, is packed full of spells, interviews, rituals, recipes and other festive ramblings for the period Yule to Imbolc.

Digital copies coming soon!

Head over to @witchologymag on Instagram to stay up to date with all the latest news and updates, and go to www.witchologmagazine.com to order your copy.

Pagan Holidays: Yule - Midwinter

Yule comes from the Norwegian word Jul, meaning “wheel”, and our ancestors believed that this mystic wheel actually stopped turning briefly at this point. Indeed, from the point of the Winter Solstice there is a moment of standstill for a few days before the days start to increase in length and light again. The Christian Church adopted this time to celebrate the birth of the Son (Sun) of God, but this time has always been celebrated by ancient people, long before the Christian story.

The solstice occurs twice a year, when one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt away from the Sun, and as such, the Winter Solstice heralds the shortest day, and the longest night. As the solstice is an astronomical event, the date changes from year to year, although many pagans and witches celebrate on the 21st December regardless. In many temperate regions of the world, the Winter Solstice is seen as the middle of winter, but today, many see it as the start. In Meteorology, winter is seen as starting about three weeks before the solstice.

Energetically speaking, the balance of power has been tipped at the solstice, and we emerge from the darkness; the days getting longer, brighter, and warmer. This is a huge moment of celebration for many pagans and witches, and many choose to mark the rebirth of the Sun by observing the Winter Solstice sunrise. Whilst it is usually very cold, it is much easier to catch the sunrise at Winter Solstice than at Summer Solstice, because the Sun rises relatively late. For many people, pagan or otherwise, it is a relief to know that the dark days and depths of winter are behind them, and that lighter days will follow. Light and dark are not euphemisms for good and bad here; but there is no doubt that the returning light brings increased energy, and renewed feelings of joy and hope. 

NEXT - The Return of the Sun 

NEXT - Happy Winter Solstice 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Robin Redbreast

Fabulous Folklore: The Yule Tree

The festivities have started on the Cemetery; the Spirit of Yuletide has been invited into our space. The tree is up!

Evergreen plants and trees have always had a special meaning for people in winter; they represent eternal life. Ancient peoples hung evergreen boughs over their doors and windows, and many folk believed they would also keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness.

Gradually, sacred tree imagery was absorbed by the Christian church, and Germany is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition that we know now; in the 16th century devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes.

In Britain, the tradition of decorating churches and homes with evergreens at Christmas was long established, but the custom of decorating an entire small tree was unknown until roughly two centuries ago. Queen Victoria had been familiar with the Christmas tree tradition as a child; and after her marriage to her German cousin Prince Albert, the custom became even more widespread. In 1846 they were sketched in the Illustrated London News standing with their children around a Christmas tree. Being very popular royals what was done at court immediately became fashionable; and wealthy British middle-class families immediately followed suit, with this fashion spreading overseas to the United States.

Personally, for me, the tree is not only a reminder of the season and the fact that the Sun will soon return at the Solstice; but it is a symbol of unity - many different belief systems hold a festival of light at this time of year.

Do you have a Yule or Christmas tree? What colour are your decorations? Are your decorations up yet? Do you have any special family traditions?

Review: The Spells Bible by Ann-Marie Gallagher

I’ve been sorting through some books this week and stumbled across this book from many moons ago. I always feel like books are old friends so it’s lovely to be reacquainted with this one!

It’s jam-packed full of information and unusual spells, and the opening chapters on spell work and working with magick are fabulous.

I especially like the Garland Spell to Keep Love Evergreen, which creates an anniversary gift for a couple who have been together for some time, and uses the ancient meanings and magickal associations of ivy, yew, and holly - perfect for this time of year.

This is such a lovely book that I highly recommend, even if it’s just for inspiration for creating your own spells.

Witch With Books Yule Tag Challenge: Grimoires & Spellbooks

NEXT - Review: Of Blood & Bones by Kate Freuler 

Fabulous Folklore: Mince Pies

A favourite food of Father Christmas, mince pies are a sweet pie of English origin.

First served in the Middle Ages, and appearing in English cookbooks A Forme of Cury (1390) and The English Huswife (1615), mince pies were bigger, oblong shaped, and the “mincemeat” was actually meat; mutton, pork, beef, rabbit or game.

Having been around for so many years, the humble mince pie has gone by many different names; Christmas pyes, crib cakes, mutton pies, wayfarer’s pies, and shrid pies.

English tradition states that when making mice pies the mincemeat should always be stirred clockwise for fear of provoking 12 months’ bad luck, and every member of the family should stir, making a wish.

The first mince pie of the season should also be wished upon, and mince pies should always be eaten in silence; the taster risks heaping several curses upon himself if he doesn’t comply.

It is said that a mince pie should be eaten every day for the Twelve Days of Christmas; from Christmas Eve until the 5th January for good health and happiness. Anyone who refuses one of their twelve pies will suffer a year of misfortune.

Do you like mince pies? Do you have them in your country? Do you follow the 12 pie rule?

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Yule Tree

Simple Magick: 11 Tips for Beginner Witches

My tips for a new witch would be:

Follow your intuition.

Remember that your path is your own. No matter how learned or experienced someone might be they can’t possibly know what’s best for you.

Read everything and anything you can get your hands on. Second hand bookshops are your friend! 

Take notes. Keep a Grimoire and/or Book of Shadows.

Remember there is no right or wrong way.

Be patient and persevere.

Know that you won’t have all the answers straight a away; the joy is discovering them.

Do the practical work - the only way to truly learn.

Follow the subjects that interest you; your path will unfold.

Know that you don’t have to know everything from the top of your head, you may be like me and have memory/cognition issues and that’s ok - this is what a Grimoire/Book of Shadows is for!

Be humble.

NEXT - Simple Magick: Commitment To Learning 

Simple Magick: Commitment to Learning

One of the things I love most about Witchcraft is that it’s a path of personal development and self-discovery, and within that is a commitment to learning.

And it IS a commitment. I have been treading this path for 26 years and I am still learning new things every day. Which is an absolute joy. Some days I feel confident in what I do, other days I feel wary of posting because I’ll have a confidence attack, and feel that there are bigger and better voices equipped to discuss whatever topic it is I’m broaching, but I remind myself this is MY journey.

To those that are new to the craft and feel overwhelmed, you have been given a gift.

The gift is the joy of learning. The gift is something that’s as much about the journey as it is the destination. The gift is something that has endless topics to delve into and discover. The gift is finding out the answers, and about yourself, as you travel along. The gift is attaining experience that you can truly claim as your own. The gift is Witchcraft.

Things to remember on your Witchcraft journey:

Don’t rush, you’ll get to where you want to be in the end. You won’t have a lot of the answers at the beginning, but you will find them as you go along.

Don’t compare; comparison is the thief of all joy.

Connect with others in real life. There are plenty of moots and groups that meet up, you can find them through organisations like the Pagan Federation.

Be committed. It’s the only way.

Don’t be afraid to mistakes. It’s the only way to learn, so dive right in.

Take a break if you’re getting tired or bored.

Ask for help. People won’t mind if you have tried looking for the answer first.

Be prepared that your witchcraft journey will be different to others.

Enjoy the journey. It’s a long one. Thank goodness.

NEXT - Simple Magick: 8 Tips For Honing Your Intuition

Review: Of Blood & Bones by Kate Freuler

This book by the wonderful Kate Freuler (@freuler_witch) explores shadow magick and the dark moon current. I thoroughly enjoyed this one as it filled so many gaps in my own personal knowledge and craft.

About the Author

Kate Freuler lives in Ontario, Canada. She has owned and operated the witchcraft shop White Moon Witchcraft (whitemoonwitchcraft.com) since 2010. When she’s not writing or crafting items for clients, she is busy being creative with art or reading a huge stack of books.

About Of Blood & Bones: Working with Shadow Magick & The Dark Moon This book explores shadow magick and working with dark moon energy, and whilst I am no member of the “Love and Light Brigade,” shadow magick is not my forte, either, so I was keen to see what this book would reveal to me. I knew I was in for a fantastic ride when I saw the foreword was written by Mat Auryn, and after a wonderful brief on what to expect from the book, I was even keener to get started.

Freuler’s Introduction “It’s Not All Love and Light” is the perfect beginning; it puts the reader at ease, and I immediately felt better about myself and the personal shadows I cast. The Introduction gets the reader thinking about the ethical quandaries that many of us face, for example, how we should treat people who do bad things, and encourages the reader to think about the outcomes of magick, and how solutions can be subjective. We also get to read about curses and blessings, controversy in the witchcraft community, and how to use the book; all super helpful topics, and expertly and intuitively placed. 

“Feelings of anger, revulsion, and dislike are natural. They exist within us for survival. They force us to fight for our territory and our safety and to protect what is ours. War gods and goddesses are not evil or bad; they represent a very real part of our human experience.” - Of Blood & Bones: Working with Shadow Magick & The Dark Moon

The body of the book is broken down into four parts, the first introducing us to shadow work and the dark moon current. The author offers simple and clear explanations of topics related to the Dark Moon and its role in the lunar cycle and magick, and I found it answered the question many of us have asked; should the Dark Moon be used for work, or for rest?

Part two is the book’s namesake, covering blood and bones, and providing comprehensive information on bodily fluids, animals and their parts, and skulls and bones. This part is an absolute gem as it includes a wealth of information on safety, and how to gather and clean bones, which is invaluable to those of us who have always wanted to work with them, but haven’t had the foggiest idea where to start.

Part three is The Forbidden Craft and really gets to the heart of shadow magick. It covers the squeamish topics that are generally avoided. Objects and curios related to the recipes and rituals contained throughout the book are discussed here, and it covers how, and when, to perform a curse. Part Four looks at death, working with the dead, and rebirth, and is written in such a comforting, pragmatic, and beautiful way; providing the reader with simple, useful, and practical exercises, including a funeral rite. 

The Book’s Strengths Without doubt, one of the best things about this book is the author’s direct approach to an abundance of controversial topics. Not sentimental at all, Freuler provides information and personal experience, whilst allowing the reader to arrive at their own judgment on whether something is right for them. She provides a great foundation on which to build a dark practice, and encourages the reader to do their own work and research, which is exactly how one’s experience of the path of witchcraft should be, dark or otherwise. 

As the book progresses, you are slowly eased into the ‘icky’ stuff, and for those who wish to avoid using animal parts in their spells and workings, there are vegetable substitute suggestions. Freuler intuitively answered my questions as they appeared, and I felt like I had a comforting hand holding mine as I approached, and traversed, these subjects. These are just a few examples of the sensitive, methodical, and considered way the book has been written.

There is an abundance of helpful and practical information from magickal correspondences to spells, rituals, recipes, and charms, all clearly and concisely laid out. In my opinion, none of the workings contain weird or unheard of items, making this book truly meaningful and accessible to all.

What You Can Learn... From the start, the author describes how this book is not meant to change minds or sway opinion, but rather to educate and inform on subjects that are often silenced due to the taboo nature of them, even from within the witchcraft community, which makes for a refreshing perspective, and certainly filled gaps in my own personal knowledge.

There is so much to learn from this book; from junk oracles, to cursing, to using live animals in spells (without harming or disturbing them, of course), to focusing on the many subjects on which it may be difficult to obtain information, or the things you might be curious about but were previously afraid to try.

In many ways, due to the huge amount of information contained in this masterpiece, this book serves as a shadow magick Grimoire, and Freuler acts as High Priestess; guiding you, and showing you the way with honesty and encouragement, but leaving you, quite rightly, to do the work. Her honest and direct approach personally appealed to my straightforward nature, and there is no time – or need – to dissect these subjects further, or get overly emotional about them; the information is simply provided for you to do with as you wish.

I feel like I have become more connected to my craft by having the blanks filled in, and I don’t hold back in saying that for many this book is likely to be a game (Craft) changer, something that became apparent only a few pages in.

I absolutely loved this book, and got totally lost in it. It was like a trip to a bazaar or an antiques shop - so many treasures to sift and sort through, some unusual surprises, unpredictable, and thoroughly enjoyable. NEXT - Review: The Healing Power of Witchcraft by Meg Rosenbriar

Simple Magick: 8 Tips for Honing your Intuition

My intuition never lets me down, and has kept me safe over the years. I believe that we all have intuition. Here are my tips for honing it.

Be Open

The first step to honing your intuition is making the intention that you are going to use it.

Pay Attention

Once you are open to the idea of listening to your intuition, it’s time to pay attention to it. Listen to your body, and notice any “strange” feelings that you experience with people or situations. Intuition is like muscle; the more you pay attention to it, the stronger and more toned it becomes.

Be Aware

I watch the world around me, and I often notice patterns in people’s behaviour. I pay attention to my environment. This is all information for the brain, and I believe that subconsciously we often picking up on tiny clues as a result of these observations. Pay attention to your world, it makes all the difference.

Do your Shadow Work

By accepting and loving ourselves we are able to use our energy and minds for other tasks, and consequently we are much more susceptible to receiving higher messages.

Take up Divination 

Learn a divination method, such as tarot. It helps trigger the intuitive part of your brain. When you are using divination listen to the thoughts and feelings coming into your head. Are any of them urgent in nature? What does it feel like if you ignore them? What does it feel like if you pay attention?

Connect with your Higher Self via Meditation 

Meditation is a great tool for tapping in to your inner voice, it calms the brain, allowing it to function better.

Pay Attention to your Dreams

They give us clues on how we are thinking and feeling, and sometimes they carry messages and warnings. Pay attention to them.

Don’t Stress

I liken good intuition to being in a “flow state”. Don’t stress or try to force it, that will only hinder the process. 

NEXT - Simple Magick: Genius Loci 

Simple Magick: Genius Loci

When we think of spirits what do we think of? The spirits of people, and perhaps animals, will most likely spring to mind, especially if you’re not a witch. But what about spirits of the land? The Genius Loci?

It was the Romans who brought the idea of genius loci into our minds and hearts, the idea that each place has a guardian spirit; an essence, almost tangible, that can be felt and understood.

Each home has a genius loci. I referred to ours earlier in my post about Copernicus, one of our House Guardians, but of course each place has one, too.

The depth of the connection to the genius loci of the land I live upon came something as a surprise to me this summer. I have only been here two years this month and yet the land wights - the unique spirits that reside in each plant, rock, stone, tree, animal, crystal and mineral - spoke to me by imparting some herbal and local knowledge to me, which upon later research turned out to be true. I can only describe this experience as a sudden and intense “knowing”, like someone had whispered this information in my ear, or the resurrection of information that had somehow been buried deep within me, many years ago, waiting for the right key to unlock it. That day I had definitely immersed myself in the energy and essence of the land, I felt connected to it even before these magical moments.

You can work with genius loci, as it’s a guardian spirit, however you must come to know it first. That means exploring and forming a connection with your local area, be it local or urban. Creating an altar in dedication to the genius loci is a great way to honour it. You can call upon the genius loci in your magical workings, and you can call upon the energy and feeling that the genius loci of a place gives you if you are away from that place.

I am still exploring this subject and look forward to learning more. Do you work with genius loci?

NEXT - Simple Magick: Our House Guardians 

Review: The Healing Power of Witchcraft by Meg Rosenbriar

I had the absolute pleasure and joy of reading and reviewing Meg Rosenbriar’s wonderful new book, The Healing Power of witchcraft: A New Witch’s Guide to Spells and Rituals to Renew Yourself and Your World.

This book is aimed at newer witches, but there are enough beautiful healing spells (100+) to appeal to everyone.

This is definitely a book I wish I’d had 26 years ago when I started out on this path, and I’m so proud of Meg for creating such a masterpiece whilst being super busy supporting other witches via Witch With Me.

To read the review on Witch With Me head over to the Witch With Me blog (www.witchwithme.com) 

About the Author Meg Rosenbriar is a practicing hedgewitch with a focus on healing energy work, herbalism, tarot, yoga, numerology, and embracing an intentional, witchy lifestyle. She has been a student of spirituality her whole life with a degree in Religious Studies from Merrimack College and a Master of Arts from Yale University School of Divinity. She is the cofounder of Witch With Me, a community platform by witches for witches dedicated to discovering, honouring, preserving, and sharing authentic witchcraft. Meg resides with her husband and two sons on the Connecticut shoreline. 

About The Healing Power of Witchcraft: A New Witch’s Guide to Spells and Rituals to Renew Yourself and Your World
As a member of the author’s Witch With Me community, I was excited to review this book, and honoured to be able to step into her magickal world. As the title suggests, this book explores the healing power of witchcraft and how it can be used to improve and enhance the lives of yourself and the people around you. In the introduction, Rosenbriar explains that although she has religious and esoteric qualifications, the true path to magick and manifestation begins at the altar; immediately encouraging the reader, and putting them at ease, and making one truly believe that the healing power of witchcraft is within us all. Rosenbriar explains what to expect from the book, which was more like a list of all the things I loved about it. 

Part One is packed full of comprehensive information; and as such, it provides a useful framework for the new practitioner setting out on her or his path. It includes helpful explanations, magical correspondences, and practical suggestions for sourcing and obtaining the things a new witch needs. It covers states of mind, setting powerful intentions, and gives helpful definitions. It demystifies subjects such as clearing up after a spell. In fact, it has everything a witch, new or old, needs to hone and hold their intentions; lots of information being packed into a relatively small space, which is both useful and impressive. 

After such a considered and thoughtful start, Part One equips the new witch with all the tools, skills, and information they need to enjoy the rest of the book, which is purely spellwork. Parts two, three and four take the reader through a myriad of uplifting spells and rituals to heal the body, mind, spirit, communities, groups, and consequently, the World. 

The Book’s Strengths The author immediately sets the stage for healing work with the notion, from the start, that the witch knows exactly what she or he is doing, and that all witches have the ability to heal. Despite things being explained in a concise and factual way, I felt as if the author was sitting beside me on a warm and comfy sofa, gently explaining and encouraging me as I read, and this was one of the things I loved most about this book. The supportive tone combined with the huge amount of information provided, is a great tool for new witches starting out on a healing witchcraft journey. Those that are curious but anxious will be comforted, and those who feel that their path is too newly trodden to make a difference will be reassured. 

Wisely taking into consideration the busy pace of life, and how easy it is to get bogged down when you first find witchcraft, the author provides information for only ten herbs, spices, crystals and essential oils; compiling them into manageable, bite-sized chunks. She also, rather honestly, explains that there are only really seven items a witch needs, but still provides information on a range of other tools. As a new witch it is easy to be intimidated, but the author makes the first steps into the world of witchcraft simple and pleasurable. Through her words and actions, the author educates and excites, but never overwhelms. 

“If we are to feel deeply, connect broadly, and restore wholly, then a joyful approach to living, despite the odds, is a truly magickal thing indeed.” 

- The Healing Power of Witchcraft: A New Witch’s Guide to Spells and Rituals to Renew Yourself and Your World.

There is something for everyone in this book; direction and guidance for newer practitioners, and a vast array of spells which will appeal to more seasoned witches. The workings provided are created from simple items, making this book truly accessible to all. There is so much information and such a diverse variety of spells that after reading this book anyone has the tools to create their own spells, and this book with its beautiful incantations proves that magick doesn’t have to be long, laborious, or complicated. 

What You Can Learn... If you are interested in magick for health and wellbeing, or just curious about witchcraft, this is the perfect place to start. It’s directional, but not confusing, heavy, or intimidating. It allays fears, and enthuses. It gives you all the tools to craft an individual practice for yourself, and I wish I’d had this book 26 years ago when I started out on my own path. 

Aimed at helping you grow personally, and as a witch, this joyful book has one main message: all witches can heal. Empowering, gentle, beautiful, insightful, calming, and considered, this is a great book for young people, especially, with spells focusing on healing body positivity and good mental health. It’s apparent in the author’s work that she has a huge passion for healing, she’s keen for you and I to join her in creating a ripple effect of healing that will benefit the World. Let’s go. 

The Healing Power of Witchcraft: A New Witch’s Guide to Spells and Rituals to Renew Yourself and your World may be purchased here. NEXT - Review: The Magic of Marie Laveau by Denise Alvarado

Simple Magick: Our House Guardians

This is Copernicus. He is one of the six stone heads that are mounted on the exterior of our home, who I refer to as our House Guardians. (You can see the others on my “Welcome to our Cemetery Lodge - Part Two” Reel).

Copernicus is named after Nicolaus Copernicus, the Renaissance-era mathematician, astronomer and Catholic clergyman, who formulated the idea that the Sun was at the centre of the universe, rather than Earth (a Greek astronomer had actually come up with the same idea some eighteen centuries earlier).

He has been here since the house was built in 1860, “outliving” any of the humans that have stayed here, looking down on us as we enter and depart the building.

I feel the House Guardians - but especially Copernicus, who resides at the back of the house - watch over our home and keep us safe. Whenever we leave the house I petition Copernicus to look after our home, and when we return I thank him. I believe he helps me connect with the genius loci of our home.

We always intended to name the other Guardians, but so far they haven’t come forward with names. Although I don’t feel spirit in those as strongly, they definitely work alongside Copernicus to help keep us safe.

Do you have an animist view? Does the spirit of something other than an animal or human keep you safe? If so what is it? And do you think that modern homes are less protected by spirits than older ones? I’d love to hear your views.

NEXT - Simple Magick: Liminal Spaces 

Mushroom Magick: 8 Correspondences & Warnings

Disclaimer: this article is about the symbolic nature of mushrooms in spells and rituals. You must never ingest (eat) mushrooms unless you are sure of the type. If you are unsure about collecting or picking mushrooms please enlist the help of an expert.

Mushrooms come in all shapes, sizes and colours, and as such some are conducive to magickal practice.

Magickal Correspondences for Mushrooms:

Chanterelle

Abundance, happiness, house warming, fertility, joy.

Death Cap - POISONOUS

According to folklore, a Death Cap picked under the New Moon has its roots in the Underworld. Associated with binding, curses, hexing, but also abundance and joy.

Fly Agaric - POISONOUS

Associated with astral travel, divination, forest matters, the Fae, hexes, protection, psychic ability.

Liberty Cap -POISONOUS

A magical amplifier, Liberty Caps are associated with creativity, and are metaphorical for the night, stars.

Oyster Mushroom

Aphrodisiac, emotional healing, forgiveness, lust and love.

Saffron Milk Cap

Change, cleansing, growth, healing, honesty, justice, strength.

Shiitake Mushroom

Earth, fertility, good health, grounding, healing, strength, virility, youthfulness.

True Morel

According to folklore the Fae and other elementals make homes in the Morel’s small holes. Used for breaking curses, Fey magick, glamour magick, necromancy, protection, and spirit work.

Do you use mushrooms in your Craft?

Spell: Orange Charm for Courage

One of the easiest ways to work with the energies of the Earth is by using herbs. I love this spell from Lammas: Celebrating the Fruits of the First Harvest by Anna Franklin and Paul Mason.

Orange Charm for Courage Spell

Ingredients:

6 inch square of orange cloth

Red thread or ribbon

Dried thyme, basil, and a few black peppercorns

Sweet orange essential oil

Method: 

Lay out the cloth, sprinkle the herbs on it and say;

“The strength of the bull, the daring of the boar,

Grant me courage, now and more,

Grant me bravery in my life each day,

To follow my path and have my say.”

Tie the sachet up, and keep it near you. Place beneath your pillow when you sleep.

Every full moon replace the herbs and oil. When the sachet has served its purpose untie the knot and dispose of responsibly.

NEXT - Spell: Graveminding Ritual
NEXT - Word Magick: Courage - What Does It Mean?
NEXT - Simple Magick: Protecting the Integrity of Your Spells on Social Media

Simple Magick: Liminal Spaces

This week’s @witch.with.me prompt over on Instagram is “Working with the Cosmos”. Cosmos is originally a Greek word, meaning both "order" and "world”. The ancient Greeks thought that the world was perfectly harmonious and in impeccable order. This got me thinking, and I arrived at liminal spaces.

To be in a liminal space you have not yet left somewhere, and you have not yet arrived somewhere else. It’s a space between an ending and a beginning, a world between worlds, a transition between two phases.

Examples of Liminal Spaces:

Cemetery gates

Cliff edges

Stairwells

Doorways

Graveyards

Crossroads

Wells

Valleys

Abandoned buildings

Shorelines

The veil is considered thin in these places; they’re a boundary between this world and the other world, and as such their energy can increase the power of spells and rituals. They are great places for spirit work, meditation, astral travel and divination.

NEXT - Simple Magick: Horse Brasses

Pagan Holidays: 65 Samhain Magickal Correspondences

Below is a list of Samhain correspondences for decorating your home and altar, celebration, and spellwork.

Colours:

Orange, black, brown, gold, purple, silver, white.

Crystals:

Amber, jet, black tourmaline, black obsidian, bloodstone, carnelian, hematite, smoky quartz, onyx.

Decorations:

Acorns, apples, autumn leaves, pomegranates, autumn fruits, black candles, brooms/besoms, cauldrons, crow or raven feathers, photographs of loved ones, pumpkins, squashes, gourds, nuts, skulls.

Incense:

Dragon’s Blood, Patchouli, Rosemary, Sage, Sandalwood, Sweetgrass.

Herbs, Flowers, Plants & Trees:

Apples, allspice, cypress, cosmos, deadly nightshade, fern, hazel, heather, mandrake, marigold, mint, mugwort, pumpkin, rosemary, rowan, sage, wormwood.

Gods:

Anubis, Hel, Osiris.

Goddesses:

Demeter, Hekate, Morrigan.

Animals:

Bats, cats, dogs, spiders.

Do you decorate your house for Samhain? What about the other 7 pagan festivals? Tell me about your holiday plans! 

NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Yule - Midwinter 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Haunted Houses 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Pumpkins

Fabulous Folklore: The Black Annis

Time for a spooky story...

Within the local Dane Hills, known properly as the “dunes”, there used to be a cave, long since filled in, called Black Annis’ Bower, and it was believed to be inhabited by a savage, bedraggled, and scary woman, with great pointy teeth and long, sharp nails.

The Black Annis devoured those that got near, and when the local children went to play in the hills they were assured that if they weren’t careful, this creature - Black Anna - would snatch them.

She had dug the cave out herself with her long claws, and she crouched among the branches of an old pollard oak, which grew over the mouth of her cave. To be caught by Black Anna would mean being scratched to death, sucked dry of blood, and having your skin hung up to dry; later to be worn around the Black Annis’ waist.

“Tis said the soul of mortal man recoiled,

To view Black Annis' eye, so fierce and wild,

Vast talons, foul with human flesh, there grew,

In place of hands, and features livid blue,

Glared in her visage, whilst her obscene waist,

Warm skins of human victims close embraced.

Not without terror they the cave survey,

Where hung the monstrous trophies of her sway,

'Tis said that in the rock large rooms were found,

Scooped with her claws beneath the flinty ground.”

Whilst Prof. Ronald Hutton suggests that the Black Annis is based on a real person - Agnes Scott - could it be that ancient human activity has been merged into this scary story, and that the cannibalism of Black Anna should not be completely doubted? In the 1980s researchers exploring Cheddar Gorge in Somerset found something inside Gough’s Cave: irrefutable evidence of cannibalism in Ancient Britain. The remains of a three-year-old, two adolescents, and at least two adults that appear to have been eaten by humans some 15,000 years ago.

Anyway, a relic of these stories still remains in the minds of the people of Leicestershire and Rutland in the monstrous cat form of Cat Anna; a witch who lived in the cellars of Leicester Castle, who still runs from the castle to the Dane Hills along an underground passage to look for children to consume.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Werewolves, Werewolfery & The Werewolf Witch Trials

Spell: Graveminding Ritual

A graveminding ritual is one that anyone can undertake, regardless of spirituality or religion. It is purely about connecting in with, and venerating, the dead, and holding space for them.

Graves are often left unattended and unvisited for long periods of time, so caught up are we in the busy hamster-wheel of life, so Samhain is the perfect time to carry out this special visit.

For this ceremony you will need:

Gardening and cleaning equipment; a water bottle spray, gentle soap, and a cloth

Flowers/floral tributes

Candle

Cakes, cookies, or biscuits

On your way to the cemetery bring your beloved dead in to your mind, and think about the time you shared together, or the role they played within your life. Recall memories you have of them, and picture them in your mind’s eye if at all possible.

When you arrive at the grave spend time cleaning it and clearing away any dead grass or foliage. When you are ready, leave your tributes, saying a few words if you wish. If there are others with you allow them to do the same.

Light the candle, and imagine that your connection with them is represented by the flickering flame. Appreciate that their memory will always burn in you.

Stay here for some time in quiet meditation and contemplation. Partake in food and drink and if there are others with you you may wish to share stories, poems, readings, or songs. Say these words:

As the veils of Samhain fall, 

Sense this light, hear my call,

Blessed dead in earthly tomb, 

Your memory in me abloom.

You may wish to spend the whole day undertaking this pilgrimage, and if the grave of your loved one is far away, or it takes a lot of cleaning and clearing up, then it is entirely possible it may do so.

Leave the candle burning if you can, if the cemetery authorities allow it.

Graveminding ritual taken from The Journey into Spirit by Kristoffer Hughes. 

NEXT - Spell: Protective Evening Beauty Ritual
NEXT - Cemetery Stuff: Extracts From Regulations
NEXT - Cemetery Stuff: Memento Mori

Simple Magick: Horse Brasses

Horse brasses - correctly known as “pressed brass harness decorations” - became popular in the 1850s.

They are brass plaques used for identifying and decorating harness gear; especially for cart, parade, and Shire horses.

It is unknown if horse brasses had a deliberate magical intent originally, as no English tradition of metal charms on horses exists previously, however it is likely that horse brasses replaced charms of other materials, as horses were seen as particularly liable to the attention and effects of malign forces, and anything eye-catching and shiny can protect against witchcraft and the evil eye.

Many English brasses depict lucky and fortuitous symbols such as the sun, crescent moon, star, horseshoe, sun cross, and wheel; and dogs, lions, and serpents are common, too.

Horse brasses are commonly used as apotropaic charms to protect homes. Apotropaic charms offer a shield of protection whilst repelling negative energies, magic, and forces. Horse brasses have been found up Welsh chimneys, and were used to protect carts on the streets of early 20th century London. They have been used as protective pendants on necklaces, and as altar decorations.

This horse brass features the upside-down horseshoe, which is my county’s symbol, along with the acorn. It other English counties it is considered bad luck to be hung this way, but in Rutland it is very lucky, and is found on houses and above doorways. The people of Rutland believe that the Devil can’t make a home in the horseshoe this way up.

Do you use apotropaic charms? Do you have horse brasses in your home?

NEXT - Simple Magick: 9 Types of Divination With Water
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: White Horses 

Media Appearance: Join Me at Gather The Witches

The last time I introduced myself was back in March for @witch.with.me’s “That Witch” week, so as there are lots of new followers (welcome!) I thought it was time I said hello.

I’m a holistic therapist, pagan model, writer, and fire spinner from the South of England, living on a cemetery. I’m a traditional witch, but I’m interested in all aspects of witchcraft. But forget labels, I’m really just Wren.

Next weekend I’ll be appearing at Gather the Witches, where we’ll be celebrating Samhain. There’s free Main Stage entertainment, and an All Access Pass will give you further access to witchy performers and presenters. It’s going to be awesome and I’d love you to join us! Go to www.witchwithme.com for more information and tickets.

Now you know all about me, I’d love to know where you’re from, and a random fact about yourself! Then go to the comments to find witchy friends around the world.

Review: The Magic of Marie Laveau by Denise Alvarado

For some, their first introduction to Marie Laveau was via American Horror Story: Coven - her vamped-up character played by the wonderful Angela Bassett. But there was a lot more to this incredible woman than her on-screen portrayal showed. She was extremely committed to the people of her community; she helped the sick and the poor, she visited people in prison, and she attended court cases to help others, amongst many other acts of charitable kindness.

The Magic of Marie Laveau: Embracing the Spiritual Legacy of the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans is an amazing book by Denise Alvarado, and only a few pages in I was ready to pack my bag for New Orleans, to go pay my respects to this amazing woman.

Head over to the Witch With Me Blog (www.witchwithme.com) to read my @witch.with.books review if you want to read it there and check out other brilliant reviews; this is definitely one you don’t want to miss.

About the Author Denise Alvarado (1960) was born and raised in the rich Creole culture of New Orleans, Louisiana. She has studied indigenous healing traditions from a personal and academic perspective for over four decades. She is the author of numerous books about Southern folk traditions, including The Conjurer’s Guide to St. Expedite, The Voodoo Hoodoo Spellbook, The Voodoo Doll Spellbook, Voodoo Dolls in Magick and Ritual, and more. Her provocative artwork has been featured on several television shows including National Geographic’s Taboo, The Originals, and Blue Bloods. She is a rootworker in the Louisiana folk magic tradition, a spiritual artist, and a teacher of Southern Conjure at Crossroads University. Visit her at www.creolemoon.com.

About The Magic of Marie Laveau: Embracing the Spiritual Legacy of the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans
As a cultural anthropologist and Louisiana folk-magic rootworker, Alvarado is more than qualified to take us on Marie Laveau’s journey, and jumps straight into her history with a vivid introduction. She immediately delves into Laveau’s prowess and personality, and even throws in a ghost story for good measure. She assures us that if Laveau were here today, she would be at the forefront of the #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter movements, and from what I read about this amazing woman in just the introduction alone, I can only nod my head in agreement. Only a few pages in, I was gripped and totally fascinated; ready to book my flight to New Orleans to pay my respects at Marie Laveau’s gravesite.

“Stories abound about her magickal prowess, freeing men from the gallows and healing the sick from the brink of death.” -The Magic of Marie Laveau: Embracing the Spiritual Legacy of the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans

This book examines in great detail the history of the time; slavery, the cultural climate, and the social environment that Laveau was born in to. We learn about her magical, spiritual, and religious background, and Alvarado covers Laveau’s familial history and makes some beautiful and just observations in regards to the tragic intergenerational trauma that Laveau and her family must have suffered as a result of the slave trade. Despite the many unconfirmed allegations that littered the press about Laveau during her day, Alvarado debunks several myths; including her place of birth and age at death, helping the reader to get to the heart of who Marie Laveau really was. We hear about Marie’s spiritual court and the deities and spirits within this, and the syncretism in New Orleans Voudou as a result of the Louisiana Black Code. As if that weren’t enough, we learn about modern-day Laveau devotees, and the practical aspects of this craft; such as how to set up a devotional altar, how to petition Marie Laveau, and how to walk the path. Later, in the third part of the book, we are treated to categories of Conjure in the Laveau Voudou Tradition, and given spells, rituals, prayers, and gris gris.

The Book’s Strengths The most illuminating thing about this book is the huge amount of history and knowledge that has been packed in clearly and concisely; it is absolutely brimming with facts and magickal information. It is clear that the research for this book must have been a huge undertaking for Alvarado; but without knowing the history and social background of the time, one cannot even begin to understand what a magnificent character Laveau was, or appreciate the world she walked in.

Alvarado’s amazing descriptions of her character, and the quotes woven throughout, add a rich vividness to the story; and we come to know Marie intimately as if we have travelled back in time, and are walking beside her. We can’t help but form a picture of her in our minds, and all this is achieved whilst maintaining an easy read - a feat that only the most talented of wordsmiths can achieve.

Alvarado handles many difficult subjects beautifully and sensitively, whilst educating the reader. Despite the unfairness of Laveau being demonised by an unforgiving press as a wild and crazy woman, whilst simultaneously being acknowledged for her piousness and held as a saint for her charitable work, we don’t feel sorry for Laveau. Alvarado ensures that her tenacity and determination are clear for all to see. 

What You Can Learn... Insights into Laveau’s character include her industrious and hardworking nature; and even though she was often passed off as a con-woman rather than cunning, we learn that she had a large, warm, and intensely generous heart, who would always go the extra mile for others. She lived by the Catholic principle of living life compassionately in service to her community, and after reading this book it is clear that one does not have to be Catholic, a Voudou initiate, or even a devotee of Marie Laveau, to honour her, and find immense respect for her.  

Through the words in this book, Laveau teaches us that daily practice is imperative to building your magickal practice, and that compassion for your human counterparts is the way forward. Whilst there are many books written on her life and legend, very few books except this one focus on her magical and spiritual legacy; which the author concludes lies in her name, and in the ‘unique magicospiritual tradition’ that defines Louisiana today. Alvarado has worked tirelessly to separate fact from fiction; and consequently she does indeed present Marie Laveau to the world as she should be seen: a Queen.

The Magic of Marie Laveau: Embracing the Spiritual Legacy of the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans may be purchased here. NEXT - Review: Witchology Magazine - Mabon 2022 Issue