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

Media Appearance: Cate Loves Podcast - Witchcraft & Holistic Health

I‘m absolutely thrilled to appear on the Cate Loves Podcast, which is all about holistic health and lifestyle, and explores practical tips and ideas for you to try.

In the latest episode, Cate asks me about witchcraft and my holistic health practices.

Cate is a yoga teacher, Ayurvedic practitioner, and zero waste educator who offers one-to-one holistic health sessions. She is also an excellent cook, and you can find many wonderful ideas for an attainable - and tasty! - healthy lifestyle over on her page. @cate.loves.holistic.health

Cate is a good friend of mine from back home, which is evident in us having a good old chinwag! If you have an interest in holistic health be sure to check out the Cate Loves Podcast, available from wherever you get your podcasts, and show Cate some love over on her page.

Thanks ever so much for featuring me Cate!

Moon Magick: New Moon Baths

The New Moon is associated with new beginnings, reflection, introspection, gaining clarity, and starting projects.

It’s a great opportunity to cleanse and ready yourself for these new opportunities, and for the next part of the lunar cycle.

Water and salt are both cleansing, and if you have a bath tub in your home then you have, in effect, got an extremely large cauldron(!), so bath magick is perfect for the New Moon.

Himalayan salt is perfect for bath rituals, but if you don’t have any, any bath salts will do. Aim for a 1% salt solution.

Prepare your bathroom, and whilst the bath is running think about the things you’d like to call into your life in the coming weeks and month. Write a list, then spend some time visualising them happening. Make the intention that before these things can happen any negativity or blocks must be washed away.

Get into the bath and make a mental note of how you feel. Feel the heat, the silkiness of the salt in the water against your skin, the flicker of candles, the aromas you may smell. When you are ready, imagine past traumas, bad habits, unhelpful or negative thought patterns, and any hurt you may have experienced which may be holding you back wishing off you, and disappearing down the plughole. When you do pull the plug, again, imagine those unhelpful things washing away, and leaving you ready to face the month ahead with a clear mind and enthusiasm.

Have a blessed New Moon everyone.

NEXT - Moon Magick: 7 Words For The New Moon in Virgo
NEXT - Review: Moonology Diary (2021) by Yasmin Boland 

Simple Magick: 9 Types of Divination with Water

There are many types of water divination, and some have been around for hundreds of years.

Lecanomancy is a form of divination using a dish, and usually involves water. Some practitioners add oil to the water and divine messages from the oily patterns and bubbles; others use the water ripples and movement to glean information. Another example of Lecanomancy is the indigenous people from the Catawba Indian Nation placing a bowl of water by a deceased person’s head. On the third day, the whereabouts of the deceased person would become apparent according to the ripples of water.

Hydromancy is a similar method of water divination to Lecanomancy whereby pebbles are dropped into a pool, and the resulting ripples, colour, ebb and flow, are read.

American folklorist Charles Godfrey Leland describes the practice of Scyphomancy in his 1891 book Gypsy Sorcery and Fortune Telling:

“...it may be observed that gypsies in Eastern Europe, as in India, often tell fortunes or answer questions by taking a goblet or glass, tapping it, and pretending to hear a voice in the ring which speaks to them. This method of divination is one of the few which may have occurred sporadically, or independently in different places, as there is so much in a ringing, vibrating sound which resembles a voice. The custom is very ancient and almost universal...”

Different Types of Water Divination:

Bletonomancy - method of divination using water current.

Ceromancy - method of divination by dropping wax into water.

Cyclicomancy - method of divination by swirling water in a cup.

Hydromancy - method of divination using pebbles dropped into a pool.

Lecanomacy - method of divination using a bowl and usually water.

Pegomancy - method of divination using fountains.

Phyllorhodomancy - method of divination using roses and usually water.

Plumbomancy - method of divination observing molten lead poured into water.

Scyphomancy - method of divination using a cop or goblet and water.

Do you use water divination in your craft?

NEXT - Simple Magick: Meet The Ancestors
NEXT - Simple Magick: Using Water & Rainwater 

Sacred Symbols: The Om

Today I thought I’d talk about a symbol that is not witchy, but has always held deep meaning and significance to me.

The Om, or Aum. 🕉

It is considered to be the first sound, and is a spiritual symbol in eastern religions and spirituality. The meaning and connotations of the Om vary within and across traditions; broadly speaking it is a syllable that is chanted within Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

It has been associated with concepts of "cosmic sound" or "affirmation to something divine".

Other descriptions include "the sacred sound, the Yes!, the Vedas, the Udgitha (song of the universe), the infinite, the all encompassing, the whole world, the truth, the ultimate reality, the finest essence, the cause of the Universe, the essence of life, the Brahman (reality, entirety of the universe, truth, divine, supreme spirit, cosmic principles, knowledge), the Atman (soul, self within), and the vehicle of deepest knowledge, and Self-knowledge".

In super basic terms, Om is all encompassing, the essence of ultimate reality, and unifies everything in the universe. It is imperishable, and that it is all states of time, past, present, future, as well as transcending time itself.

The Om sound is a short ‘seed' mantra, and is considered a tool for meditation, empowering one to know the divine within. The vibrations that Om creates are believed to energize the chakras, especially the third eye and crown chakras, which help us connect with our Divine selves.

The Om symbol represents the sound in a visual form.

Do you have a symbol, word, prayer, device, mantra, or some other vehicle for spirituality that is not connected to witchcraft, but still holds deep significance for you?

NEXT: Sacred Symbols: Elhaz of The Elder Futhark
NEXT - Simple Magick: The Threefold Law 
NEXT - Simple Magick: Baphomet Explained 

Simple Magick: Meet the Ancestors

I met my husband seven years ago today. As we head into the darker months I felt compelled to reach out to my ancestors:

Dorothy Kate

Beatrice Winifred

Ethel May

Clarence Alfred

Derek Lyle

Kenneth Stanley

I asked for their love, support, and guidance, and to watch over and protect the union that is my marriage. You can see my hand-fasting cords in front of the picture of my maternal grandparents.

They feel very close to me right now. My thoughts this evening have strayed from them, to the fact that even though I have a wonderful family I always felt like the odd one out. It reminded me of a beautiful passage about ancestors by Bert Hellinger:

“The So-called ‘Black Sheep’ of the family are, in fact, seekers of liberation roads for the family tree. Those members of the tree who do not adapt to the rules or traditions of the family system, those who were constantly seeking to revolutionize beliefs, going in contrast to roads marked by family traditions, those criticized, tried and even rejected, those, by General, they are called to release the tree of repetitive stories that frustrate entire generations.

The ‘Black Sheep’, those who do not adapt, those who scream rebel, repair, detoxify and create a new and blooming branch… countless unfulfilled desires, unfulfilled dreams, frustrated talents of our ancestors manifest themselves in their rebellion looking to take place .

The family tree, by inertia, will want to continue to maintain the castrating and toxic course of its trunk, which makes its task difficult and conflicting… that no one makes you doubt, take care of your ‘rarity’ as the most precious flower of Your Tree.

You are the dream of all your ancestors”

Our ancestors are close, the veil is thinning. Rejoice.

NEXT - Simple Magick: 9 Pink Correspondences For Relationship Magick
NEXT - Samhain: 4 Types of Ancestor

Magickal Places: The Goddess Temple - Glastonbury

Here is this year’s Autumn Equinox altar at the Glastonbury Goddess Temple.

The Glastonbury Goddess Temple is a community organisation dedicated to worship of the indigenous British Goddess in all Her forms. It is believed to be the first formally recognised public indigenous British Goddess Temple in Europe for 1500 years (or more).

The Temple was originally pop-up in structure, but has been permanently housed in the High Street since Imbolc 2002, formally being recognised as a place of worship the following year.

As you can see it has been decorated in beautiful Mabon colours. It was the first time in all the years I’ve been visiting that it was empty, so Mr Cemetery and I had a beautiful and private moment of reflection, introspection, and contemplation together.

I always find the run up to Samhain a very deep and thoughtful time; my thoughts always stray to those who have passed over. 

NEXT - Autumn Equinox Blessings
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Sheela-na-Gig
NEXT - Recipe: Wren's Autumn Apple Cake

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