Samhain: Gather the Witches - Online Event

Covid might be a thing but Samhain is not cancelled! Join me and a host of other witchy presenters at this fabulous online event curated and hosted by Witch With Me - www.witchwithme.com

I shall be inviting you into my cemetery home and cooking up a Samhain storm! Join me at Gather the Witches to find out more!

The price of the ticket not only gives you access to all the presentations during the event and forever afterwards, but you’ll also have access to live Q&A sessions with the presenters throughout the weekend, plus access to a live tarot parlour.

This event is being held in support of The Temple of Witchcraft (@temple_of_witchcraft), so by joining us for a weekend of Samhain celebrations you’ll not only be having a great time, but you’ll also be doing your bit for the witchcraft community.

Go to the Witch With Me website for tickets.

See you at Samhain, Witches!

Samhain: 4 Types of Ancestor

As we head into the darker half of the year and the veil between world of Matter and world of Spirit thins, I am being drawn to spend time thinking about, communicating with, and honouring my ancestors.

This is a time where I feel them more strongly; there is a very clear pull from them, and to them. Veneration of one’s ancestors is an ancient practice that is found in cultures all over Earth. By remembering and honouring our ancestors we not only keep their memories and stories alive, but we reestablish the connection of who we are to our own selves.

We often think of ancestors as being those we are related to by birth, but there are several types of ancestor.

Familial Ancestors

These are the ancestors we are related to, share DNA with, or are members of our family due to marriage or choice. They may be recent relatives or individuals from generations back. They may be step family or adoptive family.

Spiritual Ancestors

These are the witches, shamans, and magicians that walked before us. They are past members of our covens, they are gurus, or teachers. They have spiritual significance to your path or tradition in some way. As a Reiki Practitioner I include Mikao Usui, a man who taught Reiki to over 2000 people, as one of my Spiritual Ancestors.

Land-based Ancestors

These are the people who lived in our houses, villages, towns, cities and even countries. The energy of their beliefs, festivals, habits, deeds, trials, and tribulations are imprinted on the land forever.

Animal Ancestors

I’m including animal spirits in my list because we should not forget the animals that walk upon the earth beside us, be them indigenous animals, pets or familiars.

Who do you count amongst your Ancestors? 

NEXT - Samhain: A Celebration Supper 

NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Yule - Midwinter 

NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Imbolc

Magickal Places: The Chalice Well - Glastonbury

The Chalice Well (also known as the Red Spring) is situated at the bottom of Glastonbury Tor.

It is said to have been in use for the last 2000 years, and as a result it is one of the most ancient, revered, and well-known holy wells in Britain.

It is fed by a deep aquifer in the lower levels of the Pennard Sands, and even during a drought it issues at least 25,000 gallons of water a day!

The waters that flow from the Red Spring are said to have healing properties, and so many people come here to bathe or to drink the sacred waters. It is said that faeries from under the Tor spend time in the Well, giving the waters their magical powers.

The waters leave a red iron deposit, meaning many myths and legends have been attributed to this special place. Some say that this spring emerged from the spot where the chalice (Holy Grail) that Jesus drank from at the Last Supper was placed; and some people believe that the Holy Grail is actually buried here.

For others the water is representative of the very essence of life, and see the Well as a symbol of femininity. Consequently, it has become a destination for those paying homage to feminine deities.

Whatever one’s beliefs, it is a very important place to spiritual people of many paths from all over the world, and well worth a visit.

Simple Magick: 9 Pink Correspondences for Relationship Magick

A little bit of relationship magic to bolster us as we head into the darker months.

Pink is the colour of love, it carries a gentler energy than the passion of red, and it is perfect for relationship nurturing, healing, and trust.

Magickal Correspondences for Pink:

Self-love

Friendships

Forgiveness

Relaxation

Compassion 

Sensitivity

Honour

Devotion

Tenderness

Pink candles are associated with the emotional and spiritual aspects of Venus, the goddess of love. They can be used for all family matters and the healing of wounded emotions.

NEXT - Simple Magick: Using Snow in Magick

Recipe: Faery Berry Jam

Tread quietly,

O people, hush!

For don’t you see,

A spotted thrush,

One thrush or two,

Or even three,

In every laden elder-tree?

They pull and lug,

They flap and push,

They peck and tug,

To strip the bush;

They forsaken

Snail and slug;

Unseen I watch them, safe and snug!

The Elderberry Fairy by Cicely Mary Barker

As there are so many connections between faeries, and elderberries and blackberries; I call this my Faery Berry Jam.

FAERY BERRY JAM

Ingredients:

800kg Blackberries

200g Elderberries

1kg Jam Sugar (added pectin)

2 Lemons, juiced

Butter, small nob (optional)

Method:

1. Put a saucer in the freezer.

2. Combine the sugar, lemon juice, and berries.

3. Heat on a low heat, stirring, until the sugar has dissolved.

4. Turn the heat up and cook on a rolling boil for ten minutes, being sure to stir, so that no fruit burns or sticks to the pan. Skim off any scum.

5. Put a small blob of the mixture on the saucer, and leave aside for a minute. 

6. Push the mixture with your finger - if it wrinkles the mixture is ready.

7. If it doesn’t wrinkle, cook for another 5 minutes and then try again. Keep trying until it’s ready.

8. When the mixture is ready, stir in the butter to dissolve any scum. (I personally don’t bother).

9. Pour into sterilised jars, top with a waxed disc, and add the lid. Do this when hot.

10. Store in a cool, dark place. 

NEXT - Recipe: Elderberry Vinegar
NEXT - Autumn Equinox Blessings!
NEXT - Magickal Places: The Goddess Temple - Glastonbury

Fabulous Folklore: All Hail the Blackberry!

One of the best things about the arrival of autumn is blackberries! I’m always overtaken with an urge to create from the hedgerows at this time of year, it must be survival instinct to prepare for winter.

The Bramble (Muin) rules over the 10th lunar month in the Celtic Ogham - 2nd-29th September. (Some sources replace Muin with Vine.)

I love Blackberry, she is very direct, and firm in her demand for respect. And it’s not just her brambles! I got stung by intertwining nettles when picking these.

Bramble is used in healing, money, and divination magic - use leaf, thorn, and twig in mojo bags and charms. Bramble is also very good for prosperity magic in relation to wellbeing - for food, shelter, and creative endeavours related to financial success.

There is an abundance of Bramble stories and lore. Some say that as Blackberries ripen, their colour represents aspects of the Triple Goddess: first green (Maiden), then red (Mother), and then black (Crone).

Some say Brambles offer protection against vampires. Planted near the home the vampire will be distracted, obsessively counting the berries and forgetting what he is about!

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Blackberry

NEXT - Recipe; Faery Berry Jam

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Yew

Fabulous Folklore: Blackberry

Blackberry ~ Rubus fruticosus

Also known as Bramble, Bumble-Kite, Bly, Brambleberry, Scaldhead, Dewberry. It’s not a berry as such - it’s an aggregate fruit made up of tiny "drupelets."

There is an abundance of Bramble folklore. British stories say that Michaelmas (29th September) is the last day that Blackberries can be picked. This is the day that St Michael cast the Devil from Heaven. He fell out of the sky, landed in a Blackberry bush, and cursed the berries. He scorched them with his fire (it’s notable that leaf miner appears on the leaves around this time), and urinated and spat on them, making them unpalatable (it’s true that Blackberries aren’t that nice after this date). Consequently, Blackberries are known as the “Devil’s Fruit” by some people in the U.K.

Manx folklore states that the first berries of the season should be left for the Faery Folk. If you ignore this advice then any berries you eat thereafter will be full of grubs!

It was once believed that Bramble had healing powers; sick people passed through the loop of a branch were believed to be cured of rheumatism, whooping cough, rockets and hernias.

Blackberries make the perfect ritual food, and are often left as offerings to nature spirits and Faery Folk. They are said to offer protection from earthbound spirits. 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Fairy Rings  

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Bittersweet

Recipe: Elderberry Vinegar

Autumn Equinox blessings to you all! As we enter this liminal space of balance, may you gather abundance in preparation for the darkness ahead, and may the seeds you plant now bring you cheer next year.

Equinox blessings to our brothers and sisters in the Southern Hemisphere, also; have a blessed Ostara!

I’ll be celebrating today by bottling the Elderberry Vinegar that I started last month...

ELDERBERRY VINEGAR

Ingredients: 

200g Elderberries

500ml Red Wine Vinegar

50g Sugar (optional)

Method:

1. Wash the berries.

2. Remove from the stalks into a pan using a fork. Mash slightly. Add the Red Wine Vinegar.

3. Bring to the boil, turn the heat down a little, simmering on a high heat for 10 minutes.

4. Decant into a sterilised jar and leave to cool before closing the lid.

5. Store in a cool dark place for 1 month.

Method - One Month Later:

1. Strain. Use the berries in stews, soups, salads, or discard.

2. Decant the vinegar into a sterilised bottle

- or -

add back to the pan with the sugar, heat until the sugar has dissolved, and bottle.

What are you doing to celebrate the Equinox?! Do you have any special traditions for this time of year?

Wishing you an abundance of love and good wishes! 

NEXT - Recipe: Beltane Carrot Cake
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Fairy Rings
NEXT - Pagan Holidays: 65 Samhain Magickal Correspondences

Review: Witchology Magazine - Mabon 2020 Issue

As we’re talking Witchy Resources over at @witch.with.me this week, I’m giving a shout out to Witchology Magazine https://witchologymagazine.com/ (@witchologymag)

Witchology is a “digital magazine for the modern witch”, and features a host of witchy writers, including myself.

The September issue is available to buy and centres on Mabon. There is an abundance of fabulous articles including a wonderful Gratitude in Shadow Work Ritual by @hillcountrybruja, A Mabon Tale by @thewildmoongarden and a piece on The Magick of Animals by @chrisallaun.

Recipes, journalling, tarot, astrology, and so much more, feature in this beautifully inspiring edition, making it the best Mabon ever!

The Lughnasadh issue was beautiful, and I’m beyond excited for Samhain. 

NEXT - Autumn Equinox Blessings
NEXT - Review: Witchology Magazine - Spring 2022 Issue
NEXT - Recipe: Wren's Autumn Apple Cake

NEXT - Review: Garden of Chthonia Soaps by Lizzie 

Witchcraft Books: Witchy Resources

It’s #witchbookwednesday (@witch.with.books) and Week 3 “Witchy Resources” of #witchwithSeptember (@witch.with.me) so today I’m sharing one of my favourite resources - BOOKS!

First up is Magical Aromatherapy by Scott Cunningham with a foreword by Robert Tisserand. Basically a dream come true for a Clinical Aromatherapist Witch! This is a fab book charting the magickal properties of aromatic plants and herbs.

An ABC of Witchcraft Past & Present by Doreen Valiente is a book I’ve had for many years, but I love it so much I like to thumb through it whenever I can.

Jams & Preserves by Eve Parker is the perfect autumn friend when the hedgerows are bursting with gifts.

Agar to Zenry by Ron Freethy is a little gem I found hidden in the back of a magickal supplies shop in Glastonbury. It’s a beautiful book of plant uses, names, and folklore. My unusual maiden name features in the title, so this book always makes me smile.

I love all of these books because you can just dip in and out as necessary. What are you currently reading?

NEXT: Witchcraft Books: Beautiful Books
NEXT: Review: Do I Have To Wear Black? by Mortellus

Moon Magick: 7 Words for The New Moon in Virgo

I’ve been feeling a bit frazzled and under the weather recently, and the approaching energy of yesterday’s New Moon in Virgo definitely brought with it a need to rest physically, mentally, and spiritually.

New Moon is a time to reset and reconnect; and I definitely needed to some time to reconnect with myself. The New Moon is also a brilliant time to declutter, tidy, and organise.

So yesterday I did a little self-care spell and took a much needed pause. Today feels like a huge weight has been lifted from my shoulders, and so I spent this morning sorting out some unwanted clothes for the charity shop, and writing some lists. The path ahead is now clear again!

REST

RESET

RELEASE

REPLENISH

RECHARGE

REFLECT

RECONNECT

What have you done to rest, reset, release, replenish, recharge, reflect, or reconnect this New Moon? 

NEXT - Moon Magick: Full Super Moon in Scorpio
NEXT - Review: Channel Your Goddess Energy by Kirsten Riddle

Natural Remedies: Women’s Blend Diffusion

Use this women's essential oil blend in your aromatherapy diffuser. 

Witchy Quotes: Scott Cunningham - Earth, Air, Fire, Water

Black: banishing negativity, absorbing negativity. Black is the absence of colour. In magic, it’s also representative of outer space. Despite what you may have heard, black candles are burned for positive purposes, such as casting out baneful energies or to absorb illnesses and nasty habits.

~ Scott Cunningham, Earth, Air, Fire, Water 

NEXT - Witchy Quotes: Mary Oliver - Wild Geese
NEXT - Building Community: The Witch Aesthetic Debate
NEXT - Simple Magick: 45 Colour Correspondences for Crystals

Review: Garden of Chthonia Soaps by Lizzie

Two of my favourite resources on Instagram are the pages run by the lovely Lizzie.

A huge amount of interesting, in-depth, and inspiring information can be found on Lizzie’s Folk Herbalism page ~ @the_wortcunning_wyfe ~ alongside lots of beautiful close ups of the herbs and plants she is talking about. I have learned so much, and her page is an absolute joy!

Over on Lizzie’s other account ~ @gardenofchthonia ~ you can find website details for her amazing lotions and potions. https://www.gardenofchthonia.com/

I have been a customer of Lizzie’s for a while now. In a bid to reduce our plastic waste we switched over to soap bars for washing our hands and showering some years ago, and after trying sooooo many soaps in that time, I can honestly say that Lizzie’s are the best.

I thoroughly recommend that you check out both pages, which are a wealth of information, and take a peek at Lizzie’s website, too.

NEXT - Review: Gaya Candles 

Simple Magick: Folklore, Traditional Witchcraft & The Lincoln Imp

As a traditional witch, folklore plays a major part of my tradition. We look at stories of folklore as a means of learning more about our ancestors, their lives, their beliefs, and the magic they used. Whilst this folklore may not represent complete (or historical) truth, it helps build a foundation for our practices, and brings meaning to our lives. These stories are a part of our heritage; and are woven into our modern methods, practices, and celebrations.

I live in an area that borders Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, and Leicestershire, so my research into local folklore is extended to within these areas. One of the characters I love is the Lincoln Imp, as seen on this caddy spoon. (For those who don’t know what caddy spoons are, they were used to measure tea at a time when tea was very expensive).

According to 14th-century legend, two imps were sent by Satan to do his bidding on Earth. After causing havoc in Northern England, the imps went to Lincoln Cathedral, whereby they smashed up the place, and tripped up the bishop. One of the imps threw rocks at an angel, the other cowered under the broken furniture. The angel turned the first imp to stone, immortalised forever in the Cathedral. Whilst this was happening, the other imp managed to escape. According to one legend, this imp made it to Grimsby, whereby it continued this raucous behaviour at St. James’ Church. The angel reappeared, gave the imp a good hiding, and turned it to stone. You can see the imp holding on to its sore bottom at this church, and is known as the Grimsby Imp.

I love these stories. I will be sharing more with you later.

NEXT - Simple Magick: 12 Tips For New Witches 

Simple Magick: 12 Tips For New Witches

Further to my post a couple of days ago about finding the right path or tradition, I share my advice for those who are new to witchcraft.

Advice for New Witches: 

Follow your heart and intuition. Remember this is YOUR path you are exploring and creating.

Read, study, research, experiment, explore. Then do it all over again. And again. And again.

Remember to engage in practical work, experimentation, and exploration.

Keep notes.

Don’t be rigid. It’s ok to explore interests that don’t fall within any tradition you follow, or feel drawn to.

Don’t be rigid. Study other paths and traditions, changing tradition if necessary. You will find your way.

Don’t allow anyone to gate-keep your path. Remember that no-one else - no matter how experienced or knowledgeable they might be - can possibly know what’s best for you.

Have a good attitude.

Get out in nature, often.

Accept that learning takes time.

Understand that the learning never stops.

Be dedicated.

What do you think? Have I missed anything? What’s your advice for new witches?

NEXT - Simple Magick: Finding Your Witchcraft Path 

Simple Magick: Finding Your Witchcraft Path

Last week I spoke about the moment I was called to witchcraft. What came next? How did I find the right path or tradition?

After that pivotal moment, witchcraft became a way of life for me. When I turned 18 I joined two organisations; the Children of Artemis and the Pagan Federation, which meant I could interact with likeminded people. I joined a local moot, became part of a magickal group which met at my cottage once a month, and joined another group of witches that did handfastings and charity work. I became a reference model for pagan artists, and travelled the country, celebrating the sabbats at sacred sites with my friends, most of which are pagan or spiritual in some way. I’ve had a wealth of pagan or witchy experiences, but it is only in recent years (I’m now 27 years on from that initial calling) that I realised where I was travelling to, and found my true path.

I will cover my tradition in more detail later, but I wanted to tell new witches something on the basis of the story I’ve just told: it takes time.

It takes time to learn and develop, and to find out who you really are. It takes time to become experienced, and to find the things you are good at. The beauty of it is, this path always feels like new! Because there is always something new to learn. So grab it with both hands, and enjoy it.

NEXT - Simple Magick: The Witch's Stang

Review: Gaya Candles

I was really lucky to be gifted some candles to try from @gaya.candles. They are a company based in Glasgow who create “hand made candles infused with specific herbs, flowers, scents, and spices, selected for their magical properties for wealth, love, and health.” Look how beautiful they are!

Gaya explained to me that she burns the green Patchouli & Bergamot “Prosperity” candle in dedication to the Goddess Abundia; this candle has been created to bring financial wealth into the home or business. I have to say that this has THE MOST beautiful fragrance, and I’m super impressed that the scent continues to linger, unlike other scented candles I have tried. As an Aromatherapist, I can truly appreciate the craftswoman ship and expertise that has gone into creating this, and I’ll definitely be buying another once this one has burned.

Next up is the Rose Gold “Nirvana” Soy Tin Candle, which is a premium soy wax candle housed in a beautiful metal tin. It carries the gentle scent of Sandalwood, Rose, & Geranium.

The beautiful and simple labels on these candles really appeals to me, and the tissue paper wrapped and wax sealed wrappings of the pillar candles was such a beautiful touch.

The largest candle, a “Goddess Morrigan Candle” is so beautiful. As a colour lover this really impressed me - it is a dreamy metallic and glittery gold which fades and blends down into a dark berry red. Gaya also offers a Goddess Hecate candle and a Goddess Isis candle. I have placed this candle in my Goddess-themed bathroom, where I hope the feel-good energies I’m getting from it will be impressed upon my daughters, two of which are about to enter those awkward teenage years.

These are seriously beautiful candles and I would encourage you to check out Gaya’s page and website. You can tell that her creations have been created from the heart; each piece has been so lovingly thought out. Even just handling these candles and looking at the website has filled me with inspiration, which has given me a push to get my own shop (not candles!) sorted and finished.

If you’re a candle lover (who isn’t a candle lover?!) take a look at this beautiful range.

NEXT - Review: Queering The Tarot by Cassandra Snow 

Word Magick: Defining The Words Witch & Witchcraft

Continuing on the subject of “Am I a witch?” I thought I would attempt to define what ‘witch’ and ‘witchcraft’ are. They can be quite difficult terms to define with any real precision, so my apologies if your particular tradition or practise doesn’t quite fit with my descriptions.

What is a Witch?

A person who practises witchcraft or folk magic using herbs, crystals, candles, and other materials, to manifest goals and bring about change.

What is Witchcraft?

This is a very broad term which is difficult to define! It often involves an affinity with nature, and the practise of magic, usually within a Pagan tradition (eg. Wicca), though not always. Freedom, self-expression, and personal development are key themes. The sacred feminine is often revered in some way.

What Do Witches Believe In?

There are as many different answers to this as there are witches! Wicca centres around nature as seen in a Goddess and God, other witches (like myself) are more concerned with land-based practises and ancestor veneration, and some just focus on the practical aspect of their craft. We believe in magic, personal responsibility, and freedom of spiritual choice.

What is Magick?

The use of will and personal power with cosmic laws to bring about change. The projection of natural energies to provide needed effects.

What Do Witches Do?

Amongst other things, we observe and celebrate the seasons, lunar cycles, and solar events (solstices and equinoxes). We practise magic, we usually heal in some way, and we continuously learn and develop ourselves.

NEXT - Word Magick: Courage - What Does It Mean?
NEXT - Review: The Witch-Crafting Handbook by Helena Garcia 

Rhodonite Magick: A Calming Stone

Officially named Rhodonite in 1819 by Christoph Friedrich Jasche, the name comes from rhodon, which is Greek for "rose."

The sister stone of Rhodochrosite, it is also known as Peach Blossom Jade, Pink Marble, and Vermilion Jade.

An excellent stone of the heart chakra, Rhodonite lays bare emotional scars for healing, and brings one back to centre in stressful times.

A powerful healing stone for relationships, Rhodonite soothes heartache, and helps release your fears; it encourages clear communication and nurtures the inner self.

Meditate with Rhodonite to go deep within and clear old patterns, ask Rhodonite to guide you by surrounding issues and problems in unconditional love to help heal them, and help you move forwards. Ask Rhodonite for guidance when things don’t feel quite as they seem.

Hold Rhodonite to ease anxiety and to increase self-esteem. Wear after a break up to soothe the heart, and to love yourself.

Deck: The Crystal Deck

Personal Magick: My Story on Finding Witchcraft

Am I a Witch?

Back in June we had a bit of fun creating a list of common signs or characteristics that many witches seem to have:

• Curious • Intuitive • Creative • Empathic • Feeling different • Nature lover • Energy worker • Old Soul (but young at heart) • Love for the Moon • Interest in plants/natural remedies • Devoted to a magical life •

This, and @witch.with.me’s topic “Am I a Witch?” got me thinking about the actual moment I was called to witchcraft.

I was 12 or 13, poking around in my parents’ loft, and found a box of interesting looking books that were meant for sale. The book that really caught my eye was Cult & Occult, a guide to occult practices.

I rescued it from its Car-boot fate, and immersed myself in dowsing, secrets of the Zodiac, psychical research, astrology, numerology, geomancy - but it was the section on witchcraft that really caught my eye.

What further piqued my interest was a school trip shortly after to Avebury Stone Circle and West Kennet Long Barrow; whereby I was gripped by a strong and beautiful energy that whipped this otherwise well-behaved school girl into a whirling dervish of excitement. Between these two experiences I realised there was a whole other world out there full of magic, mystery, and tradition.

Whilst I can’t remember the exact moment I called myself a Witch, I am lucky to remember the defining moment I stumbled across witchcraft, and my parents let me keep the book, which I still treasure 27 yeas later. No other item has had such an impact on my life.

Do you embody many of the traits I’ve listed? Do you remember the moment you discovered your path?

NEXT - Personal Magick: Talking To The Trees
NEXT - Magickal Traditions: My Witchy Path
NEXT - YouTube Viewing: My Witchcraft Journey 

Review: Queering the Tarot by Cassandra Snow

This absolutely beautiful book, which will not only deepen your tarot practice, but more importantly, will make tarot readings much more accessible for your LGBTQIAP+ friends and clients.

About the Author
Cassandra Snow is a professional tarot card reader and teaches classes on Queering the Tarot and Tarot for Beginners, and coaches new and intermediate readers. She runs Gadfly Theatre Productions, a queer and feminist theatre company. She lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Visit her at www.cassandra-snow.com.

About Queering the Tarot
I’ll be totally honest. Even as a keen tarot reader and falling under the LGBTQIAP+ banner, I felt both excited and intimidated by this book, and met it with some trepidation. That is, until I picked it up and discovered that I had nothing to fear - an encounter I shall liken to many peoples’ experience of getting to know those of us in the LGBTQIAP+ community.
Queering the Tarot tackles the unique challenges that people in the LGBTQIAP+ community face, and cleverly finds a home for those issues within each of the cards, so that guidance and deeper meanings may be found by LGBTQIAP+ seekers. For example, The Fool card looks at denial of the self and coming ‘out of the closet,’ and Justice demonstrates that, sadly, Justice may not be on the querent’s side at all, as is often the case for marginalised people.
Queering the Tarot is much like the guidebook you receive with a tarot deck, and after a brilliant foreword by Beth Maiden, followed by an introduction to what ‘queering’ the tarot actually means, Snow jumps straight into it. An in-depth, logical, considered, and thoughtful meaning is sensitively offered for each tarot card. Snow not only lays out explanations for those with elements of fluidity in their gender or sexual identity, for transgender querents, for those firm in their identity, and for those struggling to come out; she also explains when a card does not need to be ‘queered,’ and provides insight for ‘non-queer’ seekers. Each card description touches on the traditional Rider Waite Smith meaning, which I found to be extremely clever. Arguably, you could pick up this book as a complete beginner and learn not only the deeper, ‘queered’ versions of the cards, but the basic foundation of tarot, too.

The Book’s ‘Strong Suit’...
The most illuminating section in the book, which I absolutely adored, was the chapter on the Court Cards, which are inherently problematic for LGBTQIAP+ and feminist perspectives, and are generally quite difficult to learn. Snow encourages us to drop our binary way of thinking and approach the Courts as energies, as genderless personalities, and to feel our way through them. This approach is a particular strength of this book, and I believe this method encourages a better connection with the Court Cards, an area of the Tarot with which many people struggle. 
In fact, this book has many strengths. Snow has managed to tackle two complex and evocative subjects – the Tarot and the differing perspectives of, and plethora of challenges faced by, the LGBTQIAP+ community - and blend them beautifully, much like the alchemical blending of the androgynous character in the Temperance card. She pragmatically explains that Tarot is a highly personal thing, and should not be held as a ‘monolith,’ reassuring us that there are common enough points for us all to explore. She manages to ‘queer’ the cards whilst sensitively challenging binary thinking and heteronormativity in relation to the Tarot, and the wider world, without bashing anyone. After all, Snow recognises that Tarot is a tool for growth, healing, and empowerment, and should be inclusive, not exclusive.

What You Can Learn...
Snow takes us on a new Tarot journey, contributing yet another layer of depth and dimension and adding a freshness to it. You might anticipate this book to be tough going, but it isn’t. It was thought-provoking, educational, highly engaging, and a joy from start to finish. As someone with a fairly short attention span, I loved that I could start anywhere after the introduction. If you have an interest in Tarot and want to further your practice, or you’d like to make readings for your LGBTQIAP+ clients more accessible, I highly recommend this book. It’s a must-have for every Tarot reader’s bookshelf.

Head over to the Witch With Me blog (www.witchwithme.com) to read my review of Cassandra Snow’s Queering the Tarot and the other fabulous reviews on a selection of Witchcraft books.

NEXT - Review: Traditional Jams & Preserves by Eve Parker 

Personal Magick: Talking to the Trees

Today’s prompt over at @witch.with.me is Tree Magick, and I’m going to bare my soul again by telling you a very personal story about a tree.

Now, it’s not the tree in the picture - which is a sequoiadendron giganteum, or “Wellingtonia” which stands proudly in our cemetery - but a beautiful Oak tree I met at a sacred site, many moons ago.

I say “met” - and this is where it gets interesting - because the tree spoke to me.

Before I go any further, I’d like to point out that I know this story will sound far-fetched to some (though probably not you guys), and that omitting certain details detracts from its credibility; but I must recall it in the way that feels right.

I was visiting a hill fort at a particularly difficult time in my life, but as is normal for me, I was enjoying my trip and making the most of the day I had been gifted. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, and despite things being tricky, I was otherwise enjoying life.

My then-partner wandered off to look at something, and I made my way over to the most beautiful of Oaks; I wanted to stand beneath it, touch its bark, and ‘connect in’ with this majestic being.

I held the tree, and in my mind asked the tree what I should about my current situation.

I never expected an answer...

It was at once the voice in my mind, but the voice of something - someone - else, too.

I decided my imagination was playing tricks on me, but was aware that there was no way I could think and talk inside my mind at the same time.

I did what I think anyone else would do, and I asked their name. Please do not ask me the name, because I have promised to keep it a secret.

When I got home I was shocked to discover that I cannot find anything under that name on Google.

We conversed a little longer, but not wanting to be greedy or “push my luck” I thanked the tree for its insight, and ended the conversation. I stayed a little longer under the tree, happy but stunned, before moving on. An experience I will ever forget.

Has anything unexpected like that ever happened to you?

NEXT - Personal Magick: My Kitchen Apothecary
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Wishing Trees
NEXT - Simple Magick: 25 Ideas For Creating A Forest Altar

Simple Magick: The Witch’s Stang

You don’t need many - or any - tools for working successful magic, and there are very few tools I am attached to, but I love my stang.

Throughout the ages, characters of a magickal, spiritual, or religious nature have often been depicted with a staff of some kind. As well as being a magickal tool, and a weapon for self-defence; it acts practically as a support.

The stang can be made of any type of wood, and they can be large or small. The traditional witch projects their power out their body through the stang. As well as being taken out on lovely walks to absorb the energy of the land, they are primarily used for casting spells, as a conduit for calling up spirits and deities, for laying a compass - the traditional witch’s ritual circle - and as a bridge between worlds.

This stang is from our local woods, and as such it helps me connect to the magic of our Earth through the local landscape. Despite being an open person I am also quite private, so I debated on whether to share such a personal item or not! 

NEXT - Simple Magick: Magickal Beliefs & Attitudes 

Simple Magick: Magickal Beliefs & Attitudes

Following on from another post, I want to discuss the attitudes and beliefs I believe crucial for spell casting and ritual.

Integrity:

I believe having integrity is very important as a magickal person. If we do not keep our word and follow through in our ordinary lives, how are we to believe in our words and actions during workings; and follow them through to spellcasting success, in our magickal lives? I believe that if we behave poorly, and without honour, we risk straying into dangerous territory with our magick.

Language:

Our words are magick, which is why it’s called ‘spelling.’ If our words mean nothing - that is, we don’t do the things we promise, or we are careless with them - then how can we successfully apply words and language to our spellcasting, especially in the form of incantations and chants? If there is no truth in the words we speak, and they have a low vibration energetically, then how can we expect to use those words to do our bidding and manifest energetically in our spellwork? Words have their own vibration; pick them, and use them, carefully.

Belief: 

Following on from the Magician’s rule ‘to will’. As well as our intention and determination to create, there has to be absolute belief in ourselves. When I set my mind to something, whether it be magickal or mundane, I have absolute belief in myself, and my ability. There is no space for anything else. If I do fail at something I simply acknowledge the reason why, and believe that next time I will succeed.

Love & Acceptance:

It is important to love ourselves. We are as we are meant to be. We have to embrace the darker half and the lighter half, if indeed we are to be whole. If we understand there’s magick, and we can create it, then we must be magickal, too! Which is surely worthy of love? We are each our own priest or priestess; and to hold ourselves in a divine and sacred way when we are expressing ourselves magickally - ie spellcasting - means we need to love ourselves. Hold your head high, and work your magic.

Runes

Clockwise from Top:

Wunjo - joy, happiness, wellbeing, success

Jera - harvest, reward, natural cycles, fruition, fertility, growth

Mannaz - the self, intelligence, support, humanity

Elhaz - (on its side) divination, health and healing, foster spiritual awareness,  clarity

Middle:

Nauthiz - need, necessity, have patience

NEXT - Simple Magick: The Mind

Simple Magick: The Mind

It’s Tools Week over at @witch.with.me and so I thought I’d talk about the most important tool of all: the mind.

Whilst tools can be super helpful for setting mindset in certain types of magick, or for ritual purpose, and certainly a necessity within certain traditions; a disciplined witch can create magick with her mind alone.

Whilst pondering over tools, the mind, and magickal practise, the “Magician’s rule” sprang to mind: “to know, to will, to dare, to keep silent.”

To know: knowing exactly what we want, and getting clear on magickal intention, so that unwanted effects may be avoided. We must also know our true selves before we can know our true paths, and we must understand that a spiritual journey of learning is never-ending.

To will: the understanding that we must apply the full force of our being to our magickal intentions, without fear or doubt, to bring about the changes we seek. Our “will” is the mental, spiritual, physical and emotional energy that we direct at our goals, to the exclusion of all other thoughts. It is our determination for a cause, and our dedication to it.

To dare: putting our thoughts and intentions into actual action - getting organised, and making it happen. Preparing mentally for the outcome, as well as preparing physically to undertake the work. Daring to manifest what we desire.

To keep silent: there are several parts to “to keep silent” but in terms of working magick and using the mind as a tool, this refers to not diluting the energy of your magickal workings by discussing them. I like to keep focus by keeping shtum.

I think it is important for magickal practitioners to have certain attitudes, beliefs, and ways of thinking to benefit them in their magickal practise, but that is a post for another day.

What is your favourite magickal tool? 

NEXT - Simple Magick: Altar Dressing 

Fabulous Folklore: Bittersweet

Bittersweet ~ Solanum dulcamara

This nightshade - also known as woody nightshade, scarlet berry, felonwood, poisonflower, blue bindweed, snakeberry, and many other names! - is one of the less toxic plants in the nightshade group, although it’s berries are still poisonous.

It’s a perennial woodland herb that grows on other plants for support, and its name ‘Solanum’ comes from the same Latin root word as ‘solace’.

Traditionally gathered at Samhain when its berries are bright red, it is used to honour the dead, and in rituals involving the spirit realm or death.

It aids power to spells done on the Dark Moon, is good for banishing, and is a useful aid in working with the Law of Attraction. 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Wolfsbane

Simple Magick: Altar Dressing

I love the idea of lots of mini altars around the home; small spaces for reflection, meditation, worship, and contemplation.

Beautiful and thoughtful places, which you can dress for different seasons, themes, emotions, elements, colours, deities, intentions, or rituals.

The altar is one of the places we can get truly creative with; as well as a place for veneration and dedication they should be a source of inspiration.

I love the fact that, like people, no two altars are ever the same.

I’m looking forward to dressing my altar tonight ahead of my Full Moon ritual and petitions. May you have a beautiful and blessed Barley Moon.

NEXT - Simple Magick: The Wisdom of Land Wights

Pagan Holidays: Lughnasadh

A blessed Lughnasadh everyone!

The first of three harvests, this time of year feels somewhat paradoxical; the Sun is at its zenith, but waning. The crops have reached their peak, but will soon be cut. The bounty of our land is at full swing, but soon it will be winter. This is a time of great abundance, but also loss.

It’s a time to give thanks; a time to reap what you have sown, literally and metaphorically, and to celebrate and share what you have achieved.

I baked my own recipe ~ Wren’s Lughnasadh Bread ~ to celebrate this special sabbat. Whilst I kneaded it, I reflected on what I have achieved this year, and what seeds I would like to sow for next year. I kneaded in my intentions.

This recipe will be available in the Lughnasadh (August) issue of Witchology Magazine @witchologymag - so be sure to check it out. 

NEXT - Journaling: Harvest Reflections for Lughnasadh 

NEXT - Turning the Wheel - Samhain is Coming

Word Magick: Courage - What Does it Mean?

Today’s topic is “courage”, which is defined as “the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain etc. without fear; bravery.”

But what else is courage? I spent some time thinking about this in relation to my life and craft.

I decided that, for me, courage is:

Being your authentic self.

Acting in accordance with your beliefs, especially in the face of criticism.

Being honest with yourself, and others.

Stepping out of your comfort zone; trying new things without fear of failure.

Commitment to the development of oneself; undertaking Shadow Work.

Dedication to your path.

Having integrity.

Knowing and accepting there aren’t enough lifetimes to learn all is there is to know, and being ok with that.

Loving, honouring, and respecting yourself, the way we do others.

What do you think courage is?

Magickal Correspondences for Courage

Herbs: 

Borage, Rosemary, yarrow

Crystals:
Carnelian, bloodstone, aquamarine

Colours:
Red, dark red

Flowers:
Edelweiss, protea, thyme

Deities:
Athena (Greek), Bellona (Roman), Inanna (Sumerian)

Animals:

Buffalo, lion, wolf.

NEXT - Word Magick: As Above So Below
NEXT - Simple Magick: 45 Colour Correspondences For Crystals