Fabulous Folklore: Lyddington Bede House

One of the amazing places near me is Lyddington Bede House. I’ve been wanting to share this place with you all for a while as it has an amazing energy surrounding it.

It is set in the incredibly beautiful ironstone village of Lyddington, and was originally the wing of a palace belonging to the Bishops of Lincoln. By 1600 it had passed to Sir Thomas Cecil, son of Queen Elizabeth’s chief minister, who converted it into an almshouse.

This almshouse - also known as a bedehouse, poorhouse or hospital - was created for 12 poor ‘bedesmen’ over 30 years old, and two bedeswomen over 45 years old, “all free of lunacy, leprosy or the pox”. It served as an almshouse until 1930.

Almshouses were established from the 10th century in Britain as extensions of the church system, and were later adapted by local authorities. They were designed to provide residence for poor, old or distressed people, such as elderly widows who could no longer pay rent.

Bede is the Anglo-Saxon word for prayer, and the bedesmen and bedeswomen were obliged to pray for the founder of the almshouse. The oldest almshouse in existence is the Hospital of St. Cross in Winchester (1132), and the first recorded almshouse was established in York, by King Athelstan.

Do you have a place near you that gives you the chills (good or bad)? 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Jacob's Well 
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Friday 13th

Fabulous Folklore: Fairy Rings

Fairy rings, are also known as elf circles, fairy circles, pixie rings or elf rings. They are detected by a ring of dark grass like the one in the picture; with mushrooms appearing in late summer to autumn. They grow up to 10m (33ft) in diameter, growing bigger as they get older, and some have grown as big as 365m (1200ft). They are best seen late summer to early autumn.

They are often found in forests, and there are two types of ring. Those found in forests are called ‘tethered’. They live symbiotically with trees, and those found in meadows or other places are called ‘free’ because they’re not connected with other organisms.

For thousands of years people of many cultures have regarded fairy rings with curiosity, awe, and fear; as a result they are the subject of folklore worldwide.

They have been the dwellings of witches, fairies, and elves. Many believe fairy rings are too dangerous to enter. I certainly won’t enter one! In English and Celtic folklore, fairy rings were caused by fairies or elves dancing in a circle.

Norman belief held that the beautiful appearance of fairies would be alluring to people, and if humans joined in the dance they would be punished by the fairies, and made to dance in the ring, unable to stop, until they passed out from exhaustion (or went mad). It is said that if you step inside a fairy ring you will become invisible, trapped there forever. People in Somerset called them “galley-traps” as late as the 20th century. They believed that when a man who had committed a crime passed through a fairy ring, he was doomed to hang within the year. Other folk tales warn of disease, bad luck, or an early death.

Austrian folklore implies that the rings have been burned in to the ground by the fiery tails of dragons. Dutch tradition states that the devil is to blame for creating a fairy ring; it’s somewhere to keep his milk churn. In German folklore fairy rings were once known as witches’ rings, and it was believed that they would dance there on Walpurgis Night.

Some cultures believe they are portals, sign of a fairy village underground, and good luck.

NEXT: Fabulous Folklore: Elves

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Cornish Piskies

Fabulous Folklore: Midland Hawthorn

We’ve just been for a walk in a beautiful ancient woodland full of flowers and I spotted this hawthorn.

It’s a type of hawthorn called a Midland hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata), also known as Woodland hawthorn, which is a bit different to the Common hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna). Its leaves are more shallow lobed, and it has creamy-white to sometimes pinky-red flowers as opposed to the white flowers of the common hawthorn.

Midland hawthorns were actually more prevalent than the common hawthorn in the Middle Ages, but they are much harder to find now. They are native to western and central Europe, and they are most common in central - I’m guessing where the name comes from - and southern England, most notably in Leicestershire and Rutland. They grow in ancient woodland and love clay soil.

In the past the Midland hawthorn was incorrectly known as Crataegus oxyacantha, and in 1753 this name was used to cover several species of hawthorn. In 1775 the Midland and Common species were separated out, and in 1946 it was finally shown that a different plant was actually Crataegus oxyacantha. Because of the confusion, this name is still used occasionally for the Midland hawthorn.

Hawthorn has highly scented blossom, but when the flowers are cut they are said to have reminded medieval people of the Great Plague, such is their foul smell - but I have not tested this theory! Hawthorn was never taken inside the home, it was believed that illness and death would occur soon after.

In my family we don’t consider the summer having started until the hawthorn flowers; which has been really late (in our area) this year. Summer is finally here!

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Primroses

Sacred Symbols: Thor’s Hammer

It’s Protection & Defence Month over at @witch.with.me and this week’s prompt is home protection.

Displayed here is our Thor’s Hammer, created for us and given to us by a good friend. It was created with protection in mind, and it hangs in the entrance hall of our home. The famous weapon belonging to Thor was not only a symbol of destructive power, but also one of protection against the forces of evil and violence.

The reason we were given a hammer, and not a different protective symbol, is for several reasons. The friend who created it for us hails from Orkney, once a seat of great power in the Norse empire, and it reflects our time spent there, our residence in the Danelaw, plus our own Scandinavian heritage. It also nods to the fact that we have spent some time in the past as Viking reenactors.

Orkney remained part of a Scandinavian kingdom until 1468 when the islands were pawned to the Scottish Crown by Christian I of Denmark as a dowry for his daughter’s  marriage to James III of Scotland. If you ever get a chance to visit Orkney it has some amazing places - the Brough of Birsay, the Broch of Gurness, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and St Magnus Cathedral; the medieval cathedral at the heart of the Earldom of Orkney.

Until we get back to those shores, our hammer will keep us safe!

NEXT - Sacred Symbols: Runes
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Norse Magick
NEXT - Witchy Quotes: Gudrun of Mirmirsbrunnur - Prayer For Receiving Stewardship of Land

Simple Magick: Magickal Attitudes & Personal Protection

Personal Protection is the prompt for the first week of the Protection & Defence Month over at @witch.with.me

We could discuss the many protective elements of witchcraft; such as crystals, spells, charms and candle colours, but I thought I would talk about something much more mundane, which I believe has a magickal power all of its own: attitude.

I believe that keeping your “vibe high” is a great protective shield against the negativity of others. Whilst it won’t protect you entirely from those who are truly intent on doing harm, I do believe it creates a useful and powerful buffer.

What do I mean by keeping your “vibe high” exactly?

For me this encompasses a lot of things. I believe in enjoying life, and being the best person you can be. I believe in accepting and loving yourself, warts and all, and trying to do better when you can. 

I believe in being grateful, humble and cheerful, and acting with honesty and integrity. I believe in being kind to others, and in championing others, especially those with shared passions and interests ~ there is room for everyone!

I believe in being careful with words ~ it’s called “spelling” for a reason! ~ and standing by promises. I don’t believe in spreading malicious gossip, and I believe in being prepared to say sorry if feelings have been hurt. I believe it’s ok to have boundaries, and it’s ok to distance yourself from people if necessary, and to say “no”.

When you know yourself, others come to know you. When you are comfortable in your own skin, and commit to a life of respect and joy, other people’s negativity is diminished, and simply unable to enter your soul, or that of others. When you are happy and build others up, they are happy too!

What you put out into the world comes back to you, and, if it is good, what you put out into the world protects you.

NEXT - Simple Magick: The Pendulum
NEXT - Sacred Symbols: Elhaz of The Elder Futhark
NEXT - Simple Magick: Using Black, Pink & White Salt in Witchcraft 

Bear Medicine: 5 Bear-Related Correspondences

What do bears mean to you? My Nan had two carved, wooden bears in her home. I was always fascinated by them as a kid, and for me they symbolise:

Family

Leadership

Protection

Strength

Introspection

Intuition

To many cultures the Bear Spirit is the Great Healer; as bears are known to seek out plants ~ in particular Ligusticum porteri, an antibiotic plant known as “bear root” ~ for their own healing; demonstrating the bear’s deep inner knowing and wisdom. With healing comes balance and harmony, so in that sense, bears represent balance and harmony, too. Bears are active day and night, again representing that balance, and connecting bears to both solar and lunar energy.

Bears represent renewal; they leave their dens after sleeping for the winter, refreshed and invigorated after a long rest. For many, this represents awakening the strong force of the unconscious, and the commencement of a journey after a pause.

Bears are fierce protectors that care deeply for their families. They represent maternal love, maternal instinct, and nurturing. Think of the phrase “Mama Bear” and the way mother bears gently look after their cubs, whilst simultaneously being a fierce predator when the need arises.

Whilst I am no Shaman, I have a deep affinity with animals and so it makes sense for me to call on their energy and spirit when I need help. 

Call on Bear when you need strength to stand up to injustice. 

Call on Bear when you need your intuition to lead the way. 

Call on Bear when dealing with matters of family and security. 

Call on Bear when you need some inner courage, or protection.

Chamomile Magick: 9 Protective Correspondences

Chamomile is a fascinating little plant and it has been used for a multitude of ailments by many cultures for centuries. Used in the mummification process, its use has been documented as far back as the ancient Egyptians.

There's Roman chamomile as well as German chamomile. They're from two different plant families, but are used in the same manner, and their essential oils are popular in aromatherapy. Roman chamomile essential oil is often used for sleep issues, for stress, and to calm and soothe the nerves.

Chamomile is masculine in its energy, and is associated with the Sun, and Sun-related gods such as Helios, Apollo and Ra.

Magickal Correspondences for Chamomile: 

Purification

Protection 

Banishing 

Meditation 

Money magick 

Warding off negative energies 

Warding against psychic attack 

Spells relating to sleep 

In incense blends for relaxation

Scott Cunningham says:

"Chamomile is used to attract money and a hand wash of the infusion is sometimes used by gamblers to ensure winnings. It is used in sleep and meditation incenses, and the infusion is also added to the bath to attract love."

How do you use chamomile? What magickal correspondences do you attribute to it?

These little pouches are available in my Witch Starter Kits and Herb Kits, perfect for topping up existing supplies and for new witches at the start of their journey. 

NEXT - Plant Allies: Elderflower
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Bittersweet
NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Lughnasadh

Tarot Books: Sunday Witchstack

It’s Divination Month over at @witch.with.me #witchwithme and this week’s topic is Divination Books. Yesterday I tagged this for @witch.with.books because, Sunday Witchstack! #witchwithbooks

These three books are my current go-tos for Tarot; they are:

Everyday Tarot by Brigit Esselmont @biddytarot

The Only Tarot Book You’ll Ever Need by Skye Alexander

Tarot Made Easy by Nancy Garen

Tonight you’ll find me sitting in my little corner, my “Divination Station”, catching up on these.

Can you recommend a good book on divination, and one on the Tarot? I’d like to invest in some more. 

NEXT - Tarot: Take A Look At My Favourite Deck
NEXT - Review: Queering The Tarot by Cassandra Snow
NEXT - Tarot Method: Chase The Ace 

Tarot: Take A Look At My Favourite Deck

It’s Week Three of Divination Month over at Witch With Me and today’s Mini Challenge prompt is “My Favourite Tarot/Oracle Deck”.

My favourite deck of all time is The DruidCraft Tarot by Philip and Stephanie Carr-Gomm. I’ve collected lots of decks over the years but this is my absolute favourite, and the only deck I really love to read with after the Rider Waite Smith. It is described as conveying “the teachings of Druidry and Wicca through the images painted by Will Worthington”. The cards are natural, colourful and relatable. They’re quite large, but I like that about them. The artist painted them using tempera – a method favoured by the Renaissance artists, using ground minerals and egg yolk.

This deck was originally released in 2004, some 17 years ago! Which makes me feel rather old!

What’s your favourite deck? Is it the first deck you made friends with? Do you have a preferred deck for reading? Is it different to your favourite deck? Tell me all about your Tarot preferences. 

NEXT - Tarot: The Divination Station
NEXT - Simple Magick: Storing Tarot Decks
NEXT - Simple Magick: 30 Low-Energy Magickal Activities

Fabulous Folklore: Spring Blossom

One of the best things about this time of year is the blossom!

Blossom is the flowers of stone fruit trees (genus Prunus), and similar; such as the Apple (Malus). At this time of year they are bursting with flowers, and the loud hum of busy bees collecting pollen.

Apple trees have been grown in U.K. for over a thousand years, and they tend to flower later in the Spring; the last week of April through to May. This blossom is from a cherry, and it has been in flower for a week or so now. Cherries can bloom as early as March if it has been warm - which it hasn’t! There are two native species of cherry in the British Isles; bird cherry and wild cherry. I don’t know enough about cherries to know which type this is, but it is from one of my favourite trees on the cemetery, and I look forward to seeing it every Spring.

I found out yesterday that there are loads of cherries in London! April is Sakura (cherry blossom) Month, and you can see them at Kew Gardens, Kyoto Garden, Greenwich Park, St Paul’s Cathedral and Regent’s Park.

In Japan, cherry blossoms symbolize clouds due to their nature of blooming en masse. Their delicate beauty and grace, and their short lived existence - they last about two weeks - are a metaphor for the ephemeral nature of life, and to many they represent destiny and karma. They represent Spring, and the cycle of life, death and renewal/rebirth. They tie closely into Buddhist themes of mindfulness, mortality, and living in the present.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: All Hail The Blackberry!

Tarot: The Divination Station

It’s Week Three of Divination Month over at @witch.with.me and yesterday was the first day of a Mini Challenge. Yesterday’s prompt was “My Divination Space/Altar” so I’m sharing the little corner of my home where I like to read my cards, and where I do some of my best thinking.

I jokingly call it The Divination Station, and it is actually in one of the coldest parts of the house. I have to light lots of candles for a little bit of heat, and put a blanket on my lap, but that adds to the ambience and the experience. I love this spot because it’s next to a window, so I can look out across the cemetery, and as it’s in a corner it feels protective and safe, leaving me free to wander into my work.

Do you have a special spot for divination? 

NEXT - Tarot Method: Chase The Ace
NEXT - Tarot Method: Storing Tarot In Drawstring Bags 
NEXT - Simple Magick: How To Use A Crystal Ball

Simple Magick: The Pendulum

It’s Week Two of @witch.with.me ‘s Divination Month and I thought I’d show you guys my pendulum, which I’ve had for about twenty years. If you look closely it’s set in metal which has rusted in that time, which I really wish I could replace ~ any ideas?

I chose a piece of Rose Quartz for my pendulum. It’s such a caring, calming and nurturing stone that I felt it would serve me well; only giving me answers that were necessary and true. I don’t use it on its own very much; I tend to use it in conjunction with my tarot cards when something is unclear and I need clarity.

We have a sort of mutual respect; I only use it when really necessary, and in return it never lets me down. To some, it might be strange having a relationship with an object, but this pendulum of mine is very much an old friend! I think I have been lucky in not having a huge amount of disposable income over my adult life; which means I have only ever really had one of something, and so a deep connection with my tools has developed.

I’ve heard that the general consensus within the spiritual community is that using a wooden pendulum on a thread is the preferred option for receiving the greatest clarity because crystals and metals tend to absorb energies which could cloud or influence information. What do you think?

Do you have a pendulum? How often do you use it? What is it made of?

NEXT - Simple Magick: 10 Easy Witchy Self-Care Activities
NEXT - Tarot Books: Sunday Witchstack
NEXT - Tarot Method: Wren's Year Ahead Spread

Fabulous Folklore: The Magickal Hydrangea

One of the things I love most about spring is that some hydrangeas start to flower, and they will continue to do so right through to the autumn. Ruled by the Moon and Neptune for the whole plant, and Jupiter for the root, the feminine hydrangea ~ or hortensia ~  has many magickal uses.

Hydrangea has great hex-breaking properties. It can strewn around the home, used in spells, carried, and burned. Use it for redirecting curses and psychic attacks, and for protecting against them.

Hydrangea can also be used for spells related to understanding, shielding, devotion, friendship, boundary setting, and as a devotional offering to gods and goddesses. Plant it either side of your front door to help maintain boundaries in your home and life. It is associated with Water, so it can help with matters related to psychic awareness and intuition.

Hydrangeas are one of my favourites, they remind me of the beautiful garden we had at the house we grew up in.

Do you use hydrangea in your practice? Do you grow them?

NEXT - Hydrangea Magick: Correspondences

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Spring Blossom

Witchy Quotes: Anthon St. Maarten

“Dare to dream! If you did not have the capability to make your wildest wishes come true, your mind would not have the capacity to conjure such ideas in the first place. There is no limitation on what you can potentially achieve, except for the limitation you choose to impose on your own imagination. What you believe to be possible will always come to pass - to the extent that you deem it possible. It really is as simple as that.”

~ Anthon St. Maarten 

NEXT - Witchy Quotes: Arin Murphy-Hiscock - The Green Witch
NEXT - Simple Magick: Magickal Beliefs & Attitudes
NEXT - Word Magick: The Season of The Witch

Witchcraft Books: Witch Stack Sunday

A little post from yesterday that I was too tired to share... 

Witch Stack Sunday! #witchwithbooks

I’m having a #selfcaresunday with my #sundaywitchstack:

The Healing Power of Witchcraft by @megrosenbriar

The Spirit of Reiki - Lübeck, Petter, Rand

Spells for Peace of Mind by Cerridwen Greenleaf

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews by Scott Cunningham

I’m going to make some bath salts ahead of my bath tonight, the recipe I’m using is from the Scott Cunningham book:

Flowery Love Bath:

3 parts Epsom salts

2 parts baking soda 

1 part table salt 

3 parts Palmarosa essential oil

2 parts Lavender essential oil 

1 part Rose essential oil 

Optional: pink food colouring

What does your Sunday look like?

NEXT - Witchcraft Books: Herbal Sunday Witchstack 
NEXT - Review: The Healing Power of Witchcraft by Meg Rosenbriar 

Sacred Symbols: Runes

Jumping on the @witch.with.me train for Week two of their Divination Month, and we’re talking runes!

Runes are letters that were used to write Germanic languages before the adoption of the Latin alphabet.

The three best known runic alphabets are the Anglo-Saxon Futhorc, the Elder Futhark and the Younger Futhark, a reduced form of the Elder Futhark.

The word “rune” comes from the Germanic root run- meaning “secret” or “whisper” and can also be found in Baltic languages, meaning “speech”.

In Norse mythology the runes are seen as having a divine origin; the poem Hávamál explains that they came from Odin, as a result of self-sacrifice:

“I know that I hung on a windy tree nine long nights, wounded with a spear, dedicated to Odin, myself to myself, on that tree of which no man knows from where its roots run.”

I absolutely adore the runes, but my relationship with them is in its infancy. Our resident expert is @marget.inglis_witchcraft - check out her page for lots of information on them.

Do you use runes in your craft?

NEXT - Sacred Symbols: The Witch's Foot
NEXT - Winter Is Still Here
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Storm Callers 

Simple Magick: 10 Easy Witchy Self-Care Activities

It’s been a busy few weeks with the kids, I’ve been working towards getting a shop and Patreon launched, I’m enrolled on a magick course, and I’ve had a virus. Unsurprisingly, my M.E. and other chronic illnesses are now flaring, and I’ve hit a wall. I feel seriously unwell, which means I feel decidedly unmagickal.

It got me thinking about the small, low-energy things we can do when we feel this way. Small, simple things to bring that witchy feeling back, without burning ourselves out further. Whilst they may seem obvious when listed, they often get forgotten. Employing them can help us feel better.

Easy Witchy Self-Care Activities:

Burning Incense 

This always perks me up! My favourite scent burning ~ Patchouli Forest ~ makes me feel magickal again.

Lighting Candles 

A soft, warm glow rather than bright lights soothes frazzled nerves, and creates a magickal atmosphere; conducive to rest and recuperation.

Books

Whether it be folklore tales, a magical fictional story, or even just a quick flick through a favourite witchy book to look at the pictures; a book is sure to lift the spirits.

Bathing 

A ritual bath, or even just a bath or shower with some special smellies, is bound to make you feel much better.

Witchy Clothes 

Even if it’s just to sit on the sofa, wearing something that makes you feel empowered or special in some way can give you a low-energy boost for the rest of the day.

Witchy Films 

My go-to is The Wicker Man ~ the original version of course ~ and is the perfect low-energy activity.

Making a Cup of Tea

I’m not a tea (or a coffee!) drinker, but I imagine a nice witchy brew is a good low-energy activity.

Meditation

I often fall asleep during meditation due to chronic fatigue, but it means I’ve had a rest nonetheless. If you can stay awake during meditation all the better, but if not don’t worry.

Witchy Shopping

Whether you purchase or not, some witchy browsing is a fun, low-energy activity that gets the witchy juices flowing again.

Journaling or adding to a Grimoire 

Adding to your Grimoire is a great use of your time and requires very little energy.

What have I missed from this list? What’s your go-to?

NEXT - Simple Magick: How To Use A Crystal Ball
NEXT - Natural Remedies: Lavender Salve
NEXT - Witchcraft Books: Herbal Sunday Witchstack 

Spell: Cloutie Spell for Justice

A cloutie, or clootie, is a strip of rag or cloth. You may have heard the saying “Ne’er cast a cloot til mey’s oot” which means don’t shed any clothes before May is over (and the Hawthorn has blossomed!) and summer has arrived.

Clouties are usually found at Cloughtie Wells; which are sacred wells and springs, usually with a tree beside them. The pieces of cloth are usually dipped in the holy water and then tied to the tree, as part of a healing rite, with prayers offered to the spirit or goddess of the well.

Cloutie Spell to Obtain Justice

This spell by Ann-Marie Gallagher is designed to be an Imbolc spell to be carried out as part of your Imbolc celebrations, but you could carry it out any time you are in need. It’s not a spell for revenge, but to redress balance when an injustice has occurred.

You will need:

A charcoal disc in a fireproof dish

Matches or lighter 

A teaspoon of Myrrh

One white candle 

One purple candle 

Thirteen strips of white cotton cloth 

A dead branch, propped up

A tree where your spell will remain undisturbed for as long as possible

Instructions:

Light the charcoal disc and sprinkle on the Myrrh.

Light the white candle saying “Brigid is here.”

Light the purple candle saying “And justice will come.”

Speaking your anger, fear or despair at the injustice you wish redressed to each strip of cloth, seal them by passing them separately through the incense smoke.

Hand them loosely on the dead branch and placing your hands on the topmost twig say:

“Brigid, pity this branch

For it is as dead as my enemy’s cause.”

Go out to the tree, and as you tie each cloutie loosely to its lower branches, say:

“May the earth hear me in the roots of this tree,

May the air carry my cry,

May the sun take up my plea,

And the moon decry it,

For with Brigid on my side,

My cause is carried.” 

NEXT - Spell: Personal Spell for a Difficult Situation
NEXT - Imbolc: 40 Correspondences
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Ashwell Sacred Spring

Tarot Method: Chase The Ace

I’m sharing a Tarot method called ‘Chase the Ace’. You can use this with any of the four Tarot suits to represent something in your life. This method of divination shows you where blockages or issues lie, and to how to move forwards.

For example, use the Ace of Pentacles to represent money matters, in particular cash flow. The card below the Ace is what is stopping the cash flowing in, and the card above the Ace is how to get it moving again.

You could use the Ace of Swords to represent what is causing conflict in life. The card below the Ace is what’s causing the issue, the card above the Ace is how to move forwards.

Here are the four Tarot suits and some ideas of what they could represent:

SWORDS - action, movement, mental matters, spiritual matters, communication, issues, conflict, clarity, struggle.

PENTACLES - money matters, the material or external world, career or work concerns, health, physical matters, manifestation, proof, prosperity.

WANDS - ideas, growth, ambition, expansion, passion.

CUPS - emotions, family matters, creativity, love, connections, intuition, healing, desires, experience, Spirit.

You could go a step further and use each suit as a Season; using the card below the Ace to represent things to watch out for, and the card above the Ace as positive things that will happen within that period. 

NEXT - Tarot Method: Wren's Year Ahead Spread
NEXT - Review: Moonology Diary (2021) by Yasmin Boland
NEXT - Simple Magick: Casting A Circle

Fabulous Folklore: The Wicker Man

Usually around this time of year we’re gearing up for our annual trip down to Hampshire (my birthplace) for the Beltane celebration at Buster Ancient Farm, where a Wicker Man is burned to celebrate the first stirrings of summer. Each year they have a different Wicker Man; the one shown here was to reflect the one in the 1973 film The Wicker Man, and I had a great time climbing up the ladder and getting in it!

Wicker Men are giant effigies supposedly used by the Druids to perform a human sacrifice, to pay homage to the gods in some way.

In Book VI of his Commentary on the Gallic War, Gaius Julius Caesar writes of the sacrificial rituals of the Gauls. The main evidence for this practice is just one sentence:

"The nation of all the Gauls is extremely devoted to superstitious rites; and on that account they who are troubled with unusually severe diseases and they who are engaged in battles and dangers, either sacrifice men as victims, or vow that they will sacrifice them, and employ the Druids as the performers of those sacrifices; because they think that unless the life of a man be offered for the life of a man, the mind of the immortal gods cannot be rendered propitious, and they have sacrifices of that kind ordained for national purposes. Others have figures of vast size, the limbs of which formed of osiers they fill with living men, which being set on fire, the men perish enveloped in the flames.”

Modern archaeological research has yielded evidence that human sacrifice was practised among the Iron Age tribes of Europe, but scholars are not sure whether to believe Caesar’s claims, as these deaths predate the Roman era.

Historians are not sure if Caesar was reporting an established tradition, what he’d heard from others (for example Posidonius of Rhodes), or if he was simply telling a story he had embellished, for self-promotion or as propaganda.

They also can’t be certain if these practices, if they did exist, were used for human sacrifice in Iron Age Britain, as there’s no evidence for it, despite the popular myth.

Have you ever been to a pagan celebration or an event with a Wicker Man?

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Pumpkins
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Hag Stones

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Phallus Worship

Witchcraft Books - Herbal Sunday Witchstack

My Witchstack Sunday for @witch.with.books #witchwithbooks - just some of my favourite herbal books:

Magical Aromatherapy by Scott Cunningham 

Culpeper’s Complete Herbal 

The Hedgerow Handbook by Adele Nozedar

The Green Witch by Arun Murphy-Hiscock

Magical Herbalism by Scott Cunningham 

Herbal Remedies by Anne McIntyre 

Cunningham’s Encyclopaedia of Magical Herbs 

The Likely Herbarium by Kate @likelytale.witch

What are your favourite herbal books? Do you have any of the ones in this stack?

NEXT - Witchcraft Books: Mixed Witchstack Sunday
NEXT - Review: The Magic of Marie Laveau by Denise Alvarado

Review: Aromafume Incense Brick Burner

I’m really grateful to the guys at Aromafume for sending me this incense brick burner and Nag Champa incense - thank you.

I’ve never tried an incense brick burner before as I usually burn hand-blended incense I’ve made myself, or joss sticks. I have to say I was really delighted with it, and so was my husband, and we’ll continue using it.

The incense brick goes on top, and a tealight goes inside the burner. The burner itself is only small, but to be honest, it doesn’t really need to be any bigger. This makes it really convenient for putting it just about anywhere. This one has a gorgeous Tree of Life punched out of the metal, which lights up when the candle is lit, and the whole thing sits on a lovely wooden base.

The idea of this burner is smokeless incense, which is really ingenious! This would be absolutely perfect for meditation, yoga, therapy sessions or classes, when you’d like to scent the room with incense, but don’t want to breathe in smoke, or don’t want to worry about smoke bothering others. I wish I’d had this burner when I had my holistic therapy clinic.

The instructions say that each incense brick lasts for 1 hour, but they actually burn for much longer, more like two to three hours if you turn them over. There is no ash to clean up or dispose of, the brick goes neatly in the bin, which is fantastic, and the aroma lingers for ages, which I’m really impressed with.

I went on to Aromafume’s website and they’re a Fair Trade-focused company which does not test on animals, does not involve animal testing in any of their processes, and they’re committed to not harming the environment with their products or manufacturing processes.

We have used one box of bricks already and will need to purchase some more soon.

We really loved this, thank you Aromafume!

NEXT - Review: Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs

Fabulous Folklore: Door Knockers

This fabulous door knocker is found on the door of The Covenstead Witchcraft B&B in Glastonbury, where we stayed last September. Isn’t he delightful?

Apparently door knockers are found in England more than any other place. The door knocker at Durham Cathedral, dating from the 11th century, is very special. As far back as 740, the Bishop of Lindisfarne offered sanctuary to any criminal who could reach the White Church (later Durham Cathedral) and strike the knocker.

Heavy door knockers have been a way for people to announce their presence from around the 16th century, but they have also had another use; they are seen as guardians to the home. The lion’s head design has been very popular, it is a symbol of Great Britain, and it symbolises strength, pride, nobility, valour and protection. It is also said that lions are a symbol of the Sun. Lion’s head knockers were popular in America until Eagles overtook them.

Gargoyles and other scary faces have also been used, such as the one shown, to scare away those who would bring trouble to a door. Palm-shaped knockers are also popular, it is thought that they originate from the Hand of Fatima, a palm-shaped amulet used to protected the bearer from the evil eye.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Knockers of Cornwall

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Lincoln Imp

Witchy Quotes: Arin Murphy-Hiscock - The Green Witch

“The modern green witch in the urban setting can sometimes feel lost. Visit your city parks or public gardens to find a place that feels comfortable and calm to you, a place where you can achieve reconnection and rebalancing.”

Taken from The Green Witch by Arin Murphy-Hiscock 

NEXT - Witchy Quotes: Scott Cunningham - Earth, Air, Fire, Water
NEXT - Review: Wild Once by Vivianne Crowley
NEXT - Simple Magick: 25 Ideas for Creating a Forest Altar

Review: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs

I’m sharing another Scott Cunningham book which I think is crucial for any witchy bookshelf: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs.

This is a classic, and for good reason! Cunningham provides detailed magickal information for many plants and herbs, including ritual use and magickal use, alongside an illustration of each plant.

There is lots of helpful information on spells and procedures surrounding herbs, for example enchanting herbs; and at the back of the book there are correspondence lists for plant gender, elemental rulers, folk names, planetary rulers, and the magickal properties of oils.

This is such a helpful and comprehensive book.

NEXT - Review: Magical Aromatherapy by Scott Cunningham 

Simple Magick: How To Use a Crystal Ball

A modern crystal ball is known as an orbuculum, and is made from glass or crystal. Early crystal gazers - or specularii - used a polished sphere of beryl, well known varieties including Emerald and Aquamarine.

Crystal gazing was commonly practised by the people of Yucatan, the Persians, the Egyptians, the Chinese, and the Incas, to name but a few.

The mythical Merlin supposedly carried a beryl sphere to provide King Arthur with readings whenever he needed them.

Crystal gazing, crystal seeing, crystallism, crystallomancy, gastromancy, and spheromancy are all terms to describe the method of ‘seeing’ by gazing at a crystal, which is a form of Scrying.

How To Use a Crystal Ball:

Place about 10 inches away. A dimly lit, candle lit room works well.

Before attempting to scry, take some time to centre yourself and to connect in with the task ahead. You can ask for protection from your ancestors or spirit guides. Now is also a good time to set the intention that you will only be shown the truth by the ball.

When you feel ready, gaze into the ball. You can touch it as you fix your gaze; whatever works or “feels” best to you.

Make sure to record what you experienced. This could be pictures or images seen in the ball, or it could be mental visions, thoughts and feelings.

Do you have a crystal ball? Are you good at it? I have to admit to being totally rubbish! What is your preferred method of scrying (or other form of divination)?

NEXT - Simple Magick: 25 Ideas For Creating a Forest Altar
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Crystal Balls
NEXT - Rose Quartz Magick: 8 Ways To Use The Stone of Unconditional Love 

Review: Magical Aromatherapy by Scott Cunningham

I’m sharing Magical Aromatherapy by Scott Cunningham, which has a foreword by Robert Tisserand.

This is a fantastic book which merges Aromatherapy with magickal practice. It has lots of useful lists at the back, for example affinities of essential oils with crystals, aromas of the elements, and many more magickal correspondences.

As a qualified Clinical Aromatherapist and Witch I was overjoyed to find this. Robert Tisserand is the founder of the Tisserand Institute, the leading organisation of research and education in the art and practice of Aromatherapy. To find a book by one of my favourite magickal authors and endorsed by one of the world’s leading experts is very special indeed.

I wholeheartedly support the use of essential oils for their many wonderful benefits, but essential oils can also be dangerous if not used properly, especially when used therapeutically.

Using Essential Oils Safely:

If anointing candles please dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before use. Dilution should always be 2% or less.

Never use oils neat on the skin. Lavender and Tea Tree oil are exceptions, but can still cause skin irritation.

Never ingest essential oils unless being directed to do so by a qualified aromatherapist, herbalist or naturopath. Oils that are safe used topically can be toxic, or even deadly, when ingested.

With the exception of Lavender oil, avoid essential oil use in pregnancy (unless being directed by a Clinical Aromatherapist).

Never use essential oils with children or babies (unless being directed by a Clinical Aromatherapist).

If diffusing essential oils do so away from pets. Whilst many oils are safe, many are toxic or deadly to domestic animals.

Never give out essential oil advice unless you are a qualified Clinical Aromatherapist, and always seek professional advice if looking to use essential oils therapeutically. Essential oils have the ability to lower/higher blood pressure, trigger epilepsy, asthma, and depressive episodes; and they can be fetotoxic or phototoxic.

NEXT - Review: Do I Have To Wear Black? by Mortellus 

Simple Magick: 25 Ideas for Creating a Forest Altar

Yesterday’s prompt for the @witch.with.me hashtag challenge was “Forests & Trees” and it got me thinking about the witchy things you can forage from the forest floor for use in spells and on altars:

Acorns 

Oak Galls 

Pinecones

Conkers 

Feathers

Ferns 

Rowan berries 

Leaves 

Twigs

Nuts 

Antlers

Bones 

Fur

Moss 

Stones

Remember to always follow the Countryside Code - respect others, protect the natural environment, and enjoy the outdoors.

To create a Forest Altar add to your foraged items:

Potted plants 

Shades of green and brown 

Deity statues, for example Herne the Hunter, Elen of the Ways 

Altar cloth with forest/trees/leaves/mushroom print 

Forest sounds - birds singing, wind blowing, rainforest, thunderstorms and rain

Green, brown and cream candles 

Table top fountain

Wooden candle holders and incense holders 

Green and brown crystals for example tiger’s eye and moss agate 

Musky incense such as sandalwood or patchouli

Have I forgotten anything? If so let me know in the comments! And if you found this post helpful don’t forget to Save it in the folder for later.

NEXT - Simple Magick: Using Black, Pink & White Salt in Witchcraft
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Evergreens of Yule 

March Affirmation: I Am Grounded

March.

I really feel like I’m waking up now, along with the Earth. Today I chose an affirmation which I’m going to use each day for the month ahead, and which I’m sharing for today’s Green Witchcraft prompt “Earth Element” over on @witch.with.me

“I AM GROUNDED. My spirit is grounded deep in the earth. I am calm, strong, centred, and peaceful. I am able to let go of fear and trust that I am eternally safe. I am worthy of all things beautiful.”

~ Carly Marie

What do you do to feel grounded? What have you got planned for the month of March?

Rosemary Magick: 17 Uses & Correspondences

Today’s prompt for the @witch.with.me hashtag challenge is “Essential Herbs” and first to mind is Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis).

Rosemary is a herb of cognition and mental power. Inhaling rosemary oil helps prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical important for cognition, concentration, and memory. In counteracting forgetfulness, boosting the memory, and helping concentration, it aids mental clarity.

Used as a funerary herb placed at the gravesite it reminds that the departed will never be forgotten, and used in bouquets or headdresses for weddings it reminds betrothed lovers that there is a timeless bond between them. We were given the gift of rosemary at our handfasting, bound with red ribbon.

Medicinally, rosemary stimulates the circulation, reduces stress, calms the nervous system and lifts the spirit, especially at a time of grief. Historically it has been used to cleanse the air in sick rooms, and in healing rituals.

Magickal Correspondences for Rosemary: 

Love 

Loyalty 

Protection 

Healing 

Purification

Youth 

Memory and mental powers 

Exorcism 

Sleep

Gender: Masculine

Planet: The Sun

Element: Fire

Sacred to: Venus, Aphrodite, Hebe, The Virgin Mary

Using Rosemary: 

Grow it by the front door for protection 

Place under pillow to help remember dreams 

Stuff into healing poppets 

Wear it when studying to improve memory 

Add it to incense blends for home cleansing 

Use in ritual baths

Make herbal water for cleansing scared spaces 

Use in spells related to memory or retaining youth

Note: Rosemary should not be used medicinally by pregnant women. Consult a qualified Herbalist/Clinical Aromatherapist when using herbs/essential oils medicinally, and never use essential oils neat on the skin.

What’s your favourite herb? Which herbs do you consider essential? Which herbs do you grow at home?