Review: The Wheel by Jennifer Lane

 

About the Author Jennifer Lane is an author and nature writer. She has written for Vogue, The Week, Dazed, the BBC, Wildlife Trusts and the RSPB. She discovered Wicca when she was 12 years old and became fascinated by the Craft, and since then has woven together her passion for wildlife with a Pagan lifestyle.  Learn more at Jennifer Lane Instagram   

About The Wheel by Jennifer Lane The Wheel is the story of a modern Witch and her quest to reconnect to both herself, and the spiritual world. It is a story about getting back to nature, and finding a place within a magickal community. It is the story of a crisis of mind, body and spirit; and the resulting path a Witch takes to move away from the effects of toxic work environments. 

The author looks at daily grind and repetition, and how the resulting broken spiritual connection will have consequences to health and well-being. She examines how to bring back a sense of equilibrium, relating this to the seasons and the natural world around her, a theme which will run throughout the course of the book as she attempts to reconnect.  

The book begins with an opening at Samhain, which is visually stunning. Lane creates vivid pictures in the mind’s eye that leave the reader feeling as if they are there beside her every step of the way. The book starts at Yule and moves through the year to finish once more at Samhain. 

The author shares her personal experiences and celebrations. As a seasoned nature writer she explains clearly what is happening in the natural worl;, helping us to connect more deeply to hers, and to our own. Most generously, the author allows us to witness the Yule ritual that kick-starts her journey back to connection, and unavoidably, the reader finds themselves reflecting on their own life, ambitions, achievements, and their magickal practice, which is precisely the point of the book. 

“We can all use the Wheel of the Year to tap into the Earth’s cycles - to feel her swell and grow into summer then let the cloak of winter fall over her body once more. But the Wheel represents more than the shifting seasons - it is our ever-changing lives where we feel joy, excitement and sometimes a deep wintry sadness; it is our map to finding our place within the world.” - The Wheel

The reader travels through each festival, with Lane sharing her deepest and most intimate insights and feelings. We accompany her on her hikes and birdwatching trips, we go on family holidays, we take part in her rituals and observances. We encounter her shamanic journeys, and the joyful times she finds connection and magick. We also stand by her at her saddest and heaviest moments. We feel the disconnect and sorrow that starts her on the road back to connection; wishing we could help in some way, whilst simultaneously promising to ourselves that we will make changes and do better. 

Alongside all of this, we explore the world of Witchcraft. From deities of the Celtic pantheon, to the Pendle witches, Cottingley Fairies, maypole dancing, power animals and shamanism; we reflect on the environment, social prescribing, and the state of our own lives. The author highlights our relationship with the Moon; the impact on us as human beings, the tides, Her energy, and more. She discusses being Pagan and what that means, and we listen as the author reminds us that Paganism is a wholly positive path; there to enrich our lives, and to help us look ahead. 

The Book’s Strengths The way the author weaves her mundane and magickal experiences while discussing Witchcraft topics and the natural world, usually through the medium of birds, is a masterpiece. Her words are poetic, conjuring up strong pictures in the mind, and deep emotions in the heart. In this way, it is an intimate and immersive experience; beautifully tender and soothing. 

The amusing recollections at the beginning of the book where the author describes those little things that often happen during a ritual - making it feel slightly less than magickal - are highly relatable, and instantly put the reader at ease. Many a witch will recognise the thoughts and situations the author finds herself in, and it is this honesty that makes the book so enjoyable. Her reflections and views will have many readers nodding in agreement. 

A special thanks must go to the author for speaking so candidly about her physical and mental health; subjects that many of us shy away from. Throughout the book we track her progress and witness the changes she makes, both magickal and ordinary, to create a better life for herself. It leaves the reader feeling empowered, emboldened and ready to do the same; extremely valuable in today’s world. 

As well as being a book about personal experience, there is a plethora of history and information contained in its pages. The descriptions of rituals and magickal practice will be hugely beneficial to beginner witches. The book has an intersectional approach; there is something here for everyone. It is a book for those who are struggling with their physical or mental health, for those who wish to read about the experiences of one modern witch, for the nature-loving witches, and for new Witches finding their feet. 

What You Can Learn... Homely and comforting, this is the perfect book to curl up with on a wet winter’s day; you will feel connected to nature just by reading Lane’s lovely words. You will think about the privileged lives we lead today, compared to the terrifying times of the Pendle Witches, and you’ll learn how small, simple acts can help us reconnect to our magickal path. 

You’ll find this book littered with information that will both entertain you and make you examine your own place in the world. It’ll make you reflect on the ways you can make your life happier, healthier, and a little witchier. You’ll be inclined to get uncomfortable and explore the difficulties you face, to pick up healthy habits, and to enquire about the mental health of the people you care for. 

You’ll be educated on the natural world and folklore, history and herb lore. You’ll learn about birds and deer and all the special things that make life magickal. You’ll yearn for natural experiences and to deepen your magickal practice, but most of all, you’ll be inspired to write. NEXT - Review: A Spell In The Wild: A Year (& Six Centuries) Of Magic by Alice Tarbuck

American Beautyberry Magick: 8 Alluring Correspondences

I spotted this amazing plant in the World Peace Garden in Glastonbury, where the Chalice Well is situated. I couldn’t believe the colour of the berries, they’re so vibrant and striking!

It is an American Beautyberry, Callicarpa americana; a deciduous shrub that bears bright purple fruit throughout the autumn and winter. It has a wide array of medicinal uses and some culinary uses, too.

It was used by indigenous Americans in various methods of application for fevers, rheumatism, malaria, dysentery, digestive issues and colic. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is used to slow down or stop bleeding internally, particularly in the stomach and lungs. These are just a few of its medicinal uses, and beautyberry is being studied for its efficacy in treating cancer and memory loss.

Beautyberry Magickal Correspondences

Alluring
Attraction
Banishing
Beauty

Enchantment
Glamour
Luring
Temptation

I found the following magickal correspondences for beautyberry online:

Element: Water
Zodiac Signs: Scorpio
Planet: Venus

Magic: An infusion can be used topically in glamours, beauty, and luring spells.

As beautyberry is used for repelling insects you could use it in magick to repel something or someone. It is helpful to the digestive system so you could also use this to help “stomach” something that is difficult to accept. It goes from being quite tasteless raw to full of flavour when cooked, so perhaps you could use it to enhance something.

Of course, magickal associations are those which you find when you form a relationship with a plant or herb; so there are no correct or incorrect answers here.

May There be Peace

May there be peace in the East;

May there be peace in the South;

May there be peace in the West;

May there be peace in the North;

May there be peace throughout the WHOLE WORLD;

So mote it be.

Awen /|\

Fabulous Folklore: Primroses

The name primrose comes from the Latin “prima rosa” meaning “first rose”, indicating that spring is generally the time for these beautiful plants to flower, although they sometimes open as early as December in mild areas of the U.K.

They’re found across the whole of Britain and Ireland. They are found in woodlands and by hedgerows and thrive in damp shade. 

There are lots of primrose recipes, but it’s illegal to pick or remove them as they’re currently protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Folklore surrounding primroses is mainly associated with faeries, and with life cut short.

Hanging primrose flowers outside your house is an invitation to faeries to come in, and touching a rock with a posy of primroses is a key; supposedly opening the doorway to the faerie realms. To receive a blessing from the faeries, primroses should be placed upon the doorstep, and at Beltane primroses and yellow gorse were often lain across the threshold to celebrate the spring and the encroaching summer. That said, as much energy has been spent trying to protect against faeries over the years as attracting them. In the National Folklore Collection in University College, Dublin, there can be found a piece of verse relating to Beltane and faeries:

“Guard the house with a string of primroses on the first three days of May. The fairies are said not to be able to pass over or under this string.”

In Victorian times it was common to plant primroses on the graves of children. There are definitely primroses dotted about on this cemetery, but I’m not sure if they correspond.

There are other customs related to death and primroses, meaning they provoke a similar feeling to blossom for me: they are representative of the ephemeral nature of life.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Lesser Celandine

Identifying Witches in the 1600s

In the 1600s, identifying witches was seen as vital work. Europe was considered to be under satanic threat, and so various “witchfinders” were employed to root out the individuals who threatened the souls of every day people.

Witchfinders would operate in two ways; either in an official capacity, or in an unofficial capacity, with neighbours and community members stepping up to expose the evil they feared.

Whilst there were lots of tests to help identify a witch (coming in another post), there were certain factors that would make it more likely that someone would be accused of being a witch:

• Widowed 
• Very old
• Living with a cat or other pet 
• Being new to a community 
• Not attending church, or going rarely 
• In a property dispute 
• Having an “odd” appearance, or physical/facial deformities 
• Going out after dark
• Having immoral, promiscuous or questionable behaviour 
• Being outspoken or talking too much 
• Talking to oneself
• Being strong willed or quarrelsome 
• History of uttering curses against others

When a person was accused of Witchcraft, witnesses were called, an examination of the accused was carried out, and sometimes a confession would be gleaned - sometimes via torture. Whilst women were the “weaker sex” and therefore more prone to being manipulated by the Devil, lots of men were accused at this time. In some countries, men were in a slight majority, and most accusers of witches in England were actually women.

It’s important to note that even at this time of intense fear not all accusations were believed, and many cases fell through. Most judges and jury men were sceptical about the existence of magic, and people were often suspicious of people claiming to be victims of Witchcraft.

Review: A Spell in the Wild: A Year (and six centuries) of Magic by Alice Tarbuck

 

About the Author Dr. Alice Tarbuck is an academic, writer and literature professional based in Edinburgh. A 2019 Scottish Book Trust New Writers Awardee for Poetry, her debut A Spell in the Wild: a Year (and six centuries) of Magic was published in 2020.  Learn more at www.alicetarbuck.net Instagram   

About A Spell in the Wild: A Year (and six centuries) of Magic by Alice Tarbuck Explained simply, A Spell in the Wild is the first-hand experience of a contemporary, urban Witch passing through the year, month by month. But this is not a simple book; Tarbuck has created a seasonal, and yet encyclopedic, guide to witchcraft in the 21st Century, based on the journey she takes in one year.  

A Spell in the Wild begins with an alluring tale in the Introduction, and from the first line it is apparent that not only will you accompany Tarbuck on her journey, but you will be privy to her most personal insights. The author examines who we are as Witches, considers what magic is, and where it can be found. She gets real about the world we live in, relaying her experiences from the view of a British Witch. She is all about finding the magic and letting it in, and encouraging others to do the same, regardless of the shape of our lives, and the environment surrounding them. .  

Before launching into the year, the author pens a note on spells and magical conduct. She talks wisely about the benefits and pitfalls of performing others’ spells, and it is here that we learn that each spell or activity given at the end of each chapter is designed to be adapted. It is also here, amongst the beautiful and wordy descriptions that invoke crystal-clear pictures in our heads, that we realise the author is an experienced practitioner who really knows her stuff. This part of the book has a sense of “coming home”; it helps the reader recognise and understand herself more deeply, and what better way to start a book?  

“Witches are pragmatists. We are interested in effect, not in the minute and careful construction of rituals, however brilliant and fun that might be. We make magic as best as we can, with what we have, acknowledging that everything in the world from the most beautiful thing to the least, exists in relation to us.” - A Spell in the Wild

We jump into the author’s year, starting with September. The subject is foraging, and the reader is bound to recognise herself in Tarbuck’s descriptions of bottled magical items, and jam created with berries collected on an autumn day. In this chapter, we learn all about foraging; doing it in the city and the country, the risks, the joys, and who is driving its popularity. We hear about the apple harvest, wood ear fungus, and the ghosts of the buildings that overshadow the author’s own foraging trips. We learn about the fantastical associations of broom to witches’ flying broomsticks, and we are offered great and responsible practical foraging advice, which we pick out, like blackberries, from the author’s personal stories. Tarbuck analyses our relationship with plants and our interconnectedness with everything in the natural world. She explores some of the things available in September; guiding and educating us in a way that feels like we’re in the company of a favourite aunt. 

This is the way of the next eleven chapters; before we end up back in September again. We learn about Samhain and talking to the dead, fairies, objects with power, demonologies, smelling the weather, sex magic, and so many more wonderful topics that are relevant to the author’s journey, but cleverly map out all there is to know about Witchcraft. We are encouraged to learn about the origins of the festivals that we celebrate; and some of the traditions associated with them. We learn about the blurred line between fairies and Witches, about unseasonable weather days and how they relate to folklore, and how weather knowledge has found its way into some of our most popular, classical reads. The simple activities offered at the end of each chapter give us an opportunity to make an impact on the world, be it for us as individuals, or for the greater good.

The Book’s Strengths A Spell in the Wild is a richly woven tapestry, where the author delves not only into the wild spaces of the natural world, but also into the wild spaces of our hearts and minds; often asking (and answering) the questions we have always wondered about ourselves, witchcraft, and magic. Deeply personal; every word, every sentence, every page is placed perfectly. It makes the reader want to write; to pour out their own heart and soul onto paper. The delightful, easy-to read, no-nonsense way that Tarbuck weaves her words, and the comprehensive content, makes for a compelling read. 

One of the book’s biggest strengths is the sheer amount of history and information that is included over 380+ pages. The author takes an academic and scholarly - but not stuffy - approach, and blends it with an intimate window into her world, expertly fusing the mundane and magic into one. There is no romanticism - yes, we’d like Witchcraft (and our lives) to look a certain way, but we learn that it’s better to accept how things really are, and adapt our magic to suit. 

The author has an entirely intersectional approach. There is something here for the foraging Witches, the activist Witches, and the fairy Witches, but there is also enough history, science, pop culture and anthropology for there to be something for everyone, magical or otherwise. The spells and activities are inclusive, adaptable and non-prescriptive; not everyone has access to a bath, not every Witch is highly organised throughout the year, and not everyone has the money for expensive Witchcraft supplies. 

What You Can Learn... This book is an absolute triumph. It is so much more than one person’s trip throughout the year. It is simultaneously a history lesson, a science lesson, a therapy session, and a diary. It is an honest account of a modern witch’s life, cleverly connecting the reader to the folklore and land that surrounds them. It is a treasury of information; multifaceted, enjoyable, and accessible. 

This book helps the reader to understand the natural world better, making comparisons to our everyday lives to guide us. We are continuously reminded how very special this planet is, and the precariousness of its position. Not in a way that lectures or chides, but in a way that actually makes you want to listen. It makes the reader want to be more conscious and present in their life; certainly in their magic. 

It is sensory enjoyment without the sensory experience. Through Tarbuck’s words the reader can taste, see, sense, smell her experiences. Gentle, warm, welcoming, and reassuring, it’s an incredibly comforting book, where, with every word, we are transported to a place where we recognise ourselves, and feel vindicated in our humanity, and in our Witchhood.  

Gliding beautifully between each subject, it is littered with helpful information and deep insights about our place in the world; and how we can relate this to building our magical practice. This book will make you laugh, it will definitely make you think; and it will tell you that although the world might be changing and running at 100mph, the magic is still there.  NEXT - Review: The Witch-Crafting Handbook by Helena Garcia

Blackthorn Magick: 11 Helpful Correspondences

The blackthorn is flowering. It usually blooms before the leaves appear around March or April time; making it easily distinguishable from the hawthorn, whose similar flowers appear after its leaves.

Blackthorn is a hermaphrodite, meaning both male and female reproductive parts are found in one flower - the term (according to my tree surgeon husband) is “monoecious.”

Blackthorn is known for its sloe berries and has traditionally been used for making walking sticks, riding sticks, shillelaghs (sail éille), tool handles, and burnt as firewood. Magickally, it has been used for wands, rods, staffs and stangs. Its thorns are often used in baneful and protective magick.

It is said that “an eldern stake and a blackthorn ether, will make a hedge to last for ever” and it is certainly true that blackthorn makes up a lot of hedgerows across the UK.

Another country saying about the blackthorn is “when the sloe tree is white as a sheet, sow your barley whether it be dry or wet.”

Magickal Correspondences for Blackthorn:
Dispelling negativity
Hope during devastation
Exorcisms
Purification
Warding
Protection
Inflicting strife
Release from Fae magick
The Crone
The Morrighan
The Cailleach

Other names for blackthorn are: wishing thorn, Faery tree, sloe, pear hawthorn. 

NEXT - Hellebore Magick: Herbal Lore
NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Yule - Midwinter
NEXT - Winter Magick: Using the Winter Season to Create Change

Review: The Witch-Crafting Handbook by Helena Garcia

About the Author Helena Garcia is a Spanish-British author, actress, crafter, designer and baker. She portrays Lilith (when disguised as Nadja) in the TV Series What We Do in the Shadows (2016), and wowed viewers around the world with her spooky creations on The Great British Bake Off (The Great British Baking Show in the US/Canada). Her first book Introduction to Witchery was published in 2007, followed by The Wicked Baker: Cakes and Treats to Die For (2020), and The Witch-Crafting Handbook (2021).  Learn more at www.witchesbyhelenagarcia.com   

The Witch-Crafting Handbook by Helena Garcia Dedicated to the grandmother that did so much to inspire her, The Witch-Crafting Handbook is essential for Witches who love to cook and get crafty.  

The world - and the judges - adored Garcia’s kooky and spooky creations on the tenth series of The Great British Bake Off; especially her Fairy Garden (not furry garden!) Cake. Garcia has channeled this amazing creativity into The Witch-Crafting Handbook; a colourful and beautiful book with over 70 creative projects to inspire you to get your witch on. Garcia calls upon ancient knowledge, folklore and superstition to create a foundation for her recipes, lotions, potions and projects.

In the Introduction, we hear about Garcia’s childhood, and the visits to her beloved grandmother in northern Spain, shaping the way she sees the world. She traces her joys and passions back to these experiences, and gives us a personal insight into the relationship with the grandmother that she so clearly adores. Hugely evocative, these private glimpses into Garcia’s childhood leaves the reader wishing they had grown up with the same inspiring magic infused into their everyday lives. 

“I invite and encourage you to look deeper into tradition; more often than not, simple practices of everyday life will have their roots in some sort of fear of witches or the devil. It’s absurd and fascinating in equal measure, yet ancient practices are not to be dismissed, as there’s wisdom to be rediscovered.” - The Witch-Crafting Handbook

In The Witch-crafting Handbook we are invited to consider old wives tales and remedies, and Garcia outlines the science and thinking behind these, providing a modern version for witches to relieve their coughs, get rid of pesky stains, and make candles last longer. We are reminded that there is a lot to be learned from ancient knowledge, and she inspires the reader to combine this knowledge and simple ingredients to craft fun and beautiful things for the modern house and home. 

We make our way through five chapters of incredible witchy projects; The Witch’s Wardrobe, Home Accessories, The Witch’s Apothecary, The Witch’s Cauldron, and The Tipsy Witch. Information on folklore, history and anthropology are included in the description for each project, and the author makes room for adaptation and variation. Beautiful photographs accompany nearly every project, and many of them can be adapted for children, or done with children. The Cat Pom-Pom bracelet and Ghost of Christmas Past Cookies are a must! All the items are modelled beautifully by Garcia, and there are colourful illustrations throughout.

The Book’s Strengths The Witch-crafting Handbook screams fun and creativity. Why make breadsticks when you can make bone breadsticks? Why make a cake when you can create a Green Man cake? Why make cocktails when you can create spooky, witchy cocktails? The photographs are delightful and illustrate the project in hand, but they also serve as a reminder to be a bit more creative when cooking everyday items such as sausage rolls, biscuits, pies and soup.

Ideal for both Samhain and Halloween, it’s a year-round book in reality. Whilst the author advocates for full-time spooky, and the aim of the book is to bring year-round magic into our lives, many of the recipes are either season-less (eg. Flying Sausage Pie), or have been designed specifically with other festivals in mind, for example the Christmas Bauble Chocolate Spiders. 

The projects range from easy to intermediate, but all are created with simple kitchen and craft supplies and materials. There are quick and easy projects, and those that will take slightly more time, making this an approachable and inclusive book with something for everyone. The Witch’s Apothecary has a plethora of beautiful skin care and beauty recipes, and there’s enough to host a witchy dinner party from start to finish; taking you from creepy starters to fancy evening cocktails. 

What You Can Learn... Throughout the book the author maintains the idea that if you can cook, then you can craft, and after reading this joyful book, the reader is duty-bound to believe. The simple ingredients and materials needed for each project back up this claim; there is nothing scary or unapproachable here, which makes for a world of possibility. 

There is a mishmash of captivating and interesting facts throughout the book, which give weight to the recipes and activities included. They illustrate the point that modern day superstitions and behaviours are firmly rooted in the beliefs and knowledge of the past, and that it is a wonderful thing to include these in our creations. We learn why we put little crosses into our cabbages and sprouts before cooking, and we learn the reason for throwing salt over our left shoulder. These stories weave intricately through the recipes and activities like a golden thread, tying it all together into a wonderful, witchy tapestry. 

The vibe of this book is hard to describe but falls somewhere between The Wizard of Oz, Bewitched, and The Great British Bake Off. The recipes and activities are colourful and enticing, and will bring pizzazz to your home, your meals, your dinner parties and the way you pamper yourself. The ideas are imaginative, and at the same time non-prescriptive; there’s no reason why you couldn’t change the Shrunken Heads Gingerbread into Demonic Gingerbread Men. This book aims to inspire, and that’s exactly what it does. NEXT - Review: Goddess Provisions Box (January 2022) NEXT - Intention: I Call Back My Power

Bee Magick: 11 Hardworking Correspondences

Bees appear frequently in folklore. Bee charms were traditionally hung in the best room of a house to attract health, happiness and good fortune. If a bee flew into the home then a stranger would soon call; and bees resting on the roof were seen as a good omen.

Bees may have been seen as psychopomps or messengers of the dead as they have appeared in Mycenaean tomb decorations, with some tombs shaped like beehives. Perhaps the human soul transmuted into bee form after death.

“Telling the bees” is a British custom. Bees were kept abreast of important family matters. Births, deaths, marriages, journeys, absences and especially deaths, were reported to the bees, often before other family members.

Usually the “goodwife” of the household would be tasked with “telling the bees”. She would knock gently on the give to get their intention, and solemnly tell them the news. In neighbouring Nottinghamshire, the wife of the dead was heard singing quietly in front of the hive—“The master's dead, but don't you go; Your mistress will be a good mistress to you.” It was feared that failure to update the bees of such news would bring catastrophe. Failure to put the bees in mourning could end in all sorts of trouble; the bees might fail to produce enough honey, leave the hive, or even die.

In my county, whenever there was a death the top of the hive was wrapped with a piece of black fabric or crepe by the beekeeper, otherwise it was feared that the bees would not thrive. Whenever there was a wedding the hives were decorated, and pieces of cake were left out so that the bees could share in the festivities.

Bee Correspondences:
Fertility
Joy
Feminine power
Teamwork
Growth
Competent leadership
Hard work
Obedience
Industriousness
Prophecy
The sweetness of life

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Major Oak 
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Foxgloves 

Blessed Ostara!

Blessed Ostara, everyone!

May this moment hold you in perfect balance as you prepare to step out of the shadow, and into the light. As we move slowly towards Beltane may the lighter, brighter days bring you passion, energy and enthusiasm.

May the chains hindering your growth be broken. May you welcome the warmth and hope of the season with open arms, and may your desires blossom into abundant reality.

May the Earth nourish you. May love be rekindled and renewed.

A Happy Autumn Equinox to those in the Southern Hemisphere!

Wishing you a lovely day, everyone! What are you doing to celebrate? 

NEXT - Ritual: Ostara Spring Ritual 

NEXT - Imbolc Blessings 

NEXT - Flower Magick: 52 Floral Magickal Correspondences 

NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Beltane

Fabulous Folklore: Duloe Stone Circle

This stone circle was constructed in c2000 BC and is unique for its small diameter combined with large stones. The diameter is actually less than 12 metres; making Duloe the smallest stone circle in Cornwall.

The eight quartzite stones containing ankorite are formed in an oval, and are from nearby Herodsfoot, which is about 2 miles away. The neighbouring farm, Stonetown, was named in 1329 after the circle, but the circle was not “officially” discovered until 1801.

Nestled behind a couple of houses on a small patch of green, this little place is truly magical. I did some filming at this place - I’ll show you later!

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Mother Ludlam's Cave & The Cauldron

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Hurlers on Bodmin Moor

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Celtic Cross 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Wishing Trees

Fabulous Folklore: Wishing Trees

Wishing Trees are found all over Great Britain and have a history that goes back hundreds of years. The idea is you hammer in a coin into the tree and this offering will help cure illness and disease.

Unfortunately it has become a bit of a trend and is damaging woodlands all across the country. People visiting woodlands for the day are hammering coins to make wishes and leave their mark.

This tree is in the woods beside Golitha Falls in Cornwall. Coins weren’t just left in this stump, but also across an entire trunk that had fallen. I know some people will think it doesn’t matter because it’s “just” a stump, but chemicals from the coins leak into the environment, and sadly people are hammering coins into trees that are still very much alive. It’s time we stopped this practice!

“𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐲, 𝐟𝐞𝐰 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞. 𝐈𝐧 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐈 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐞𝐬.” ~ 𝐉.𝐑.𝐑. 𝐓𝐨𝐥𝐤𝐢𝐞𝐧

If you’d like to leave an “offering” donate to woodland charities instead, our beautiful trees need all the help they can get.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Phallus Worship

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Yule Evergreens

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Yule Tree

Winter is Still Here

Hey everyone, 

Just a little reminder that we’re still in the depths of winter. It’s ok to need to go at a slower pace. This is a time of regeneration, recuperation and rest. As you take the time to look after yourself with sleep, good food, and all the lovely things that comfort you; your body and soul responds with growth. 

As we travel the Wheel, and get nearer to spring, we will pick up more energy. The Sun will soon melt away, not only the literal ice of the winter; but also our troubles. For it’s easier to tackle things when we have the energy. Work on personal protection, and leave everything else free to evolve in its own sweet way. The spring is a new beginning for everyone, and as we approach it, it will be easier to make the changes we need to.

Have faith in yourself, and your abilities, you’ll feel much better soon! 

Runes:

ᛒ - Berkana 

ᛁ - Isa 

ᛖ - Ehwaz

ᛉ - Elhaz

ᚱ - Raidho

Word Magick: As Above, So Below

“As Above, So Below”

I could leave this phrase here to go with this beautiful picture I took last Sunday, but like @love_is_the_law__ has said in the past, it deserves explaining.

This phrase is deeply tied to Hermeticism, which might be something you want to research.

There are actually a few interpretations of this phrase.

An example is that whatever you do on Earth will be reflected elsewhere ~ for example on the astral plane. Another example is that whatever happens above (think astrology) will impact us down on Earth.

Basically, there is an interconnectedness of things: that what is “above” reflects what is “below”, and vice versa.

The differences in belief system relate to what is considered “above” and what is considered “below”, which is something you’ll have to decide for yourself.

NEXT - Word Magick: Invocation To Pan 

Simple Magick: How to Utilise a Special Connection with the Land

Further to my post “How to Connect to the Land or a Special Place” here are my suggestions for using the connection you have built with the land or a special place:

Spells and Workings 

You can use the land (provided its suitable) as an actual place in which to carry out your magick. But you can also use this connection from afar. You can recall the feelings you get, and create a mental picture of this place in your mind’s eye. For example, if you are creating a spell for safety, and you feel safe there, you can conjure those feelings and images for your working.

Meditation 

You can visit a special place on your meditative journeys. Maybe you feel relaxed in this special place, and so you meditate on it to enter a deep state of peace. Maybe your special place is at a distance, and this is one way to regularly visit, and to connect in.

Grounding Yourself 

Visiting your special place is a great way to ground yourself. Take your shoes and socks off and walk the Earth. You can also call upon the feeling of safety and security you feel at this special place to ground you, when you’re feeling stressed or scared.

Invoking the Elements When Casting a Circle 

You can use experiences of your special place(s) when casting a Circle. Recall how the wind feels stood atop a hillfort, “see” the image of water at a nearby lake, feel the warmth of a hot and sunny place. All are experiences you can use in your magick.

Using Items Found at Your Special Place 

You can forage items such as fallen leaves, acorns, berries, herbs etc. to use in your magick. This further establishes the connection you have. Don’t forget to ask permission, and to give thanks.

NEXT - Simple Magick: Spellcasting Ethics
NEXT - Simple Magick: The Witch's Stang
NEXT - Snowdrop Magick: 8 Correspondences For Strength & Hope

Professor Alice Roberts - A Chance Meeting!

I’ve been meaning to share this picture since last September!

It was my lovely friend’s birthday, and the night before our dear friend Terry’s funeral (the Archdruid of Avebury, and Keeper of the Stones). We we went to my local hillfort for a walk and bumped into Professor Alice Roberts @prof_alice_roberts

For those that don’t know, or don’t live in the U.K., Professor Roberts is a biological anthropologist and TV presenter. She had just finished filming Digging for Britain at the hillfort when we arrived there.

Professor Roberts has done loads of fantastic programmes including King Arthur’s Britain: The Truth Unearthed, looking at archaeological discoveries giving insight on the political situation in Britain in the Early Middle Ages; and Stonehenge: The Lost Circle Revealed, which looks at the bluestones of Stonehenge and Waun Mawn.

We were definitely not expecting this chance meeting. What started out as a birthday celebration, and a quick walk in the middle of nowhere to clear our heads before a big emotional day, turned into this marvellous encounter.

Thank you Professor Roberts for talking to us and agreeing to a photograph!

International Women’s Day (8th March 2022)

Family commitments meant that International Women’s Day all but passed me by yesterday; but I want to continue spreading the love that I saw so many of you and @thenordicwolfie (who I love so much) doing.

@gretathunberg reminded us yesterday that this day is less of a celebration, and more an opportunity to raise awareness for women’s issues and protest against the oppression that STILL happens on the basis of gender ~ BUT ~ there are many of you I’d like to celebrate!

There are SO many women who inspire me, and make this world a much better place. (Thank you.)

I started to tag you all but EVERY woman I know deserves a mention. I’m also not sure if Instagram allows such huge tagging ~ and I would surely run out of page.

Sending so much love to you all.

Help for Ukraine

I struggle to say something eloquent at the best of times, but at the moment it’s particularly difficult. My heart is breaking for so many people across the world right now; and in particular for those in Ukraine.

If you’d like to help please go over to @globalgiving and read more about the Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund which will help communities who are caught in the current escalating conflict and humanitarian crisis.

The British Red Cross have also set up an emergency appeal @britishredcross 

Fabulous Folklore: My Personal Story About Talking Trees

I thought I’d share a story I told back in 2020. It’s a very personal story about a tree.

It’s not the tree whose shadow is featured in the picture, but a beautiful Oak I met on a sacred site many moons ago. I say “met” because this is where it gets interesting. 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, and that by omitting certain details detracts from its credibility; but I must recall the story in the way that feels right.

I was visiting a hill fort at a particularly difficult time in my life, but I was making the most of the beautiful 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 it; this majestic being.

I cuddled the tree with my arms, and said hello. In my mind I told the tree how beautiful it was, and I was relaying some one-sided chatter before asking the tree what I should about my current situation. I never expected an answer. It was at once the voice in my mind, but also the voice of something ~ someone ~ else, too.

I decided my imagination was playing tricks on me, but I 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, which the tree told me. Please do not ask me to repeat the name, because I have promised to keep it a secret.

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 never forget, but one I no longer find extraordinary - several plants have revealed information about themselves since.

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

Has anything unexpected like that ever happened to you? Tell me your witchy stories.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Fairy Rings

Hellebore Magick: Herbal Lore

So happy to see these beauties back - lovely hellebores. While everything is still frozen and the trees are bare, it’s exciting to see these wonderful flowers blooming.

Hellebore is poisonous, gloves must be worn when handling it.

In Greek mythology hellebore was used to save one of the kings of Argos’ daughters who suffered from a mental illness that caused them to run naked through the city, wailing at the top of their voices. This hysteria was supposedly induced by Dionysus. The quick thinking of Melampus of Pylos saved the day - he administered a potion made from hellebore which saved the daughters. 

Hellebore is associated with the element of water, and Mars and Saturn. It is used for protection and in exorcisms, and in healing rites where mental health is concerned.

I think baneful plants and flowers are often the most beautiful. What’s your favourite spring flower? 

NEXT - Winter Aconite Magick: Herbal Lore
NEXT - Winter Magick: Using the Winter Season to Create Change

Winter Aconite Magick: Herbal Lore

Winter Aconite - Eranthis hyemalis

These gorgeous little buds are Winter Aconite. They open out to a beautiful flower which looks like a large buttercup (they belong to the buttercup family). They’re not to be confused with lesser celandine, which will flower between March and May, and have a pointy, star-shaped flower. Hyemalis means “wintering flowering.”

When we think of aconites we tend to think of monkshood (highly toxic), also known as wolf’s bane, which is from the same family (Ranunculaceae), which is associated with death, hallucinations and flying ointments, magickally, but I find this sweet little yellow flower much lighter in energy.

As a spring ephemeral plant they remind me of the fleeting beauty of life; and their appearance in the coldest part of the year reminds me that even after tough times, hope should be held in your heart, for abundance will return once more.

‼️ Please note that all parts of this plant are poisonous; cardiac glycosides will stimulate the heart, and even cause cardiac arrest in large quantities. 

NEXT - Wild Garlic Magick: 7 Bear-Related Correspondences
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Ashwell Sacred Spring

Simple Magick: Spellcasting Ethics

The ethics of spellworking are there to help us create fair, considered and effective spells. They are a set of principles that can help us avoid harming ourselves and others.

Good ethics for magick/spellcasting can be summed up as follows:

1. Never work to harm anyone, including the self. 

2. Never manipulate anyone against their will or natural development. 

3. Never assume you know all the facts about a situation or person.

4. Never work for your own gain at someone else’s expense.

5. Word spells carefully and precisely, so that rules 1-4 may be observed.

The Wiccan ethical motto “An it harm none, do what thou wilt” does not mean “anything goes,” it means a Witch should have a legitimate aim clearly in mind, and work to achieve it.

Ethical spellworking is not centred around power, or self-gain for selfish reasons. It is a positive action focused on fruitfulness, problem solving and progression. It is not angry, arrogant or destructive; instead it is designed to flow in a state of balance and harmony to bring about positive results.

NEXT - Simple Magick: The Spell Process
NEXT - Simple Magick: Magickal Beliefs & Attitudes
NEXT - Cyclamen Magick: Herbal Lore
NEXT - Review: The Book of Candle Magic by Madame Pamita 

Wild Garlic Magick: 7 Bear-Related Correspondences

Wild garlic ~ Allium ursinum

This perennial plant usually grows in large swathes of carpet in damp woodlands, fenlands, and by rivers. You can easily detect wild garlic - often before you see it! - by the smell in the air. It is a wild relative of chives, and is also known as Ramsons, Wood Garlic, Broad Leaved Garlic, and my favourite - Bear Garlic - as described by its binomial name. It has broad, flat leaves, and white star-shaped flowers with six segments.

The English naturalist William Turner in 1548 knew the plant as Ramsey, with the town in Cambridgeshire (just down the road from my mum! ) sharing its name, along with Ramsbottom in Lancashire (where my sister used to live!) meaning “Ramson valley”.

Its leaves have grown up through the ground now, and it will be in full flower in April and May. It is used to make pesto, pancakes, soups, stews, rissoles, and anything else you would use garlic for. Its leaves are delicious in sandwiches, and you can eat the flowers, which are stronger than the leaves.

The word ‘ramsons’ was a metaphor for bitterness in Irish folklore, but this plant was valued there, where bulbs were planted in the thatch of cottages to deter faeries. Churches were once decorated with wild garlic on the feast day of St. Alphege (19th April), which must have scented the church as it has such a strong smell.

It was once believed that wild garlic scared away venomous creatures such as snakes, and that it could be used medicinally to treat snake bites. Chewing the plant before a race was said to ensure victory, and a similar belief was held for battle.

Considered a great healer by the Celts, it is often used in healing spells, and of course has the protective qualities of any garlic. It is often associated with the magical correspondences of bear medicine due to its name.

Magickal Correspondences for Wild Garlic:
Strength
Wisdom
Healing
Action
Power
Spiritual connection
Familial bonds 

NEXT - Snowdrop Magick: 8 Correspondences for Strength & Hope 

NEXT - Recipe: Wild Garlic Pesto
NEXT - Winter Aconite: Herbal Lore
NEXT - Rhododendron Magick: 13 Beautiful Correspondences

Fabulous Folklore: The Celtic Cross

The Celtic cross is known as a symbol of Irish heritage. It is a form of cross that emerged in Ireland, France and Great Britain in the Early Middle Ages. It’s not clear exactly where the first crosses originated, but the wave of cross building in Ireland came to an end in about 1200 AD. Most of the examples in Britain were destroyed during the Protestant Reformation. They gained popularity in the 19th Century, the name “Celtic cross” coming from that time.

These crosses are usually intricately carved, often with Bible stories and knot work, and a variety feature inscriptions in ogham. Some historians have suggested that the shape of these crosses may have mirrored trees, which the Celts revered, and that the symbol of Christianity was linked with the Sun Cross to appeal to early Pagans. Some assert that placing the cross on top of the circle represents Christ’s supremacy over the Pagan sun.

No one really knows why these huge stones were erected, by they’re typically located by important monasteries, and are popular for funerary monuments. This cross is situated in Duloe village, Cornwall.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: King Doniert's Stone

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Sheela-na-Gig

Fabulous Folklore: Merlin’s Cave

This is Merlin’s Cave on the beach below Merlin’s Castle in Tintagel, Cornwall. This incredible cave is 100m long and you can walk all the way through it. It was formed by sea erosion as it fills with water at high tide.

Legend has it that this cave was once home to Merlin.

Merlin was a fictional character in the Celtic Arthurian mythology stories. He was a wiseman and wizard. He was birthed by a normal woman, having been sired by an incubus, which is where he was said to get his mystical powers and abilities. Later, using magic, he engineered the birth of King Arthur. He served as King Arthur’s advisor, until becoming infatuated with, and later killed by, the Lady of the Lake.

Whilst the cave is impressive in its own right, and was made famous in the Arthurian legends, the cave became even more notorious following the publication of Tennyson’s poems. His “Idylls of the King” (1859-1885) was a series of poems telling the stories of King Arthur, and told of Arthur being washed ashore as an infant; only to be found by Merlin:

“They found a naked child upon the sands

Of dark Tintagil by the Cornish sea; 

And that was Arthur; and they fostered him 

Till he by miracle was approven King.”

Have you been to this cave? Or perhaps another that took your breath away?

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Celtic Cross

Fabulous Folklore: The Crooked House

This is The Crooked House in Lavenham, Suffolk. It dates back to 1395, and it is believed that it is the inspiration behind the old folk poem:

“There was a crooked man, and he walked a crooked mile,

He found a crooked sixpence against a crooked stile;

He bought a crooked cat, which caught a crooked mouse,

And they all liv’d together in a little crooked house.”

The Crooked House has been used as a gallery and by an arts, history and antiques outfit. It is also used for filming and events.

I don’t live in Suffolk any more, but I really miss visiting Lavenham. It is considered to be Britain’s best preserved medieval village, and was East Anglia’s most famous wool town. As such, tiny Lavenham was once Britain’s 14th richest town, and among the twenty most wealthy settlements in the medieval period. Lavenham has a rich cultural heritage, and is known worldwide as a film location for Harry Potter.

There are other beautiful buildings to see here - the Guildhall, Molet House (which has a five pointed star in the doorway), and the Old Grammar School. De Vere House, another incredible building, was the home of Elizabeth Scrope, Countess of Oxford. She was the second wife of John de Vere, 13th earl of Oxford, and was tried and then held under house arrest for Witchcraft in 1473.

Would you live in this house? What’s your favourite place to visit?

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Place Names 

Simple Magick: The Spell Process

I thought I would share the process by which I go about my spellwork.

Discernment 

Firstly, I consider whether a spell is really needed. A lot of the time it’s not, and some other mundane action is required instead. In some cases, I have waited as long as eight years to decide to take action. At other times, swift action has been taken. It’s at this stage we also consider what happens if we DON’T take action, and what the outcomes of a spell could be. We also need to consider how we’re going to replace the energy we have used, an important lesson in keeping the balance in Witchcraft, as taught to me by @marget.inglis_witchcraft.

Planning 

Once I have decided a spell is needed, the planning begins in my head, on the astral plane. I have already ironed out any issues, so now I start formulating a positive plan: you could argue the spell has already begun. Once I have a rough idea, I write it out on paper. Yes, I could simply formulate the plan in my head, but the act of writing it down is part of the ritual for me. It also helps me with my poor memory - I have no problem reading out the words I have written previously during my spell, provided that I take time to really feel them when I say them. 

Preparation

When the time comes I gather my supplies (if I’m using any), and set up the room. I clean and prepare myself. I have already chosen a time to perform the spell in my planning; this might be during a particular moon phase, but it’s always at a time when I know I’m not going to be disturbed.

The Act of Magick 

At this point a huge amount of energy has gone into preparing for this moment, all part of the process of manifestation. I will not go ahead with my spell if at any stage it doesn’t feel right. When I do commit, I give it everything. I enter a frame of mind that transcends that of every day living - I am a magickal being, with a magickal ability, and I will achieve my goal. 

Afterwards

It is time to tidy away, and to forget. It has been released into the universe, and will unfurl in its own sweet way. By writing my spell on paper before the spell, I can fully lend myself to “letting go” an important step in spell work.

NEXT - Simple Magick: The Threefold Law
NEXT - Simple Magick: Find Your Magick
NEXT - Moon Magick: Full Moon Intentions 

Snowdrop Magick: 8 Correspondences for Strength & Hope

The Snowdrops are out!

Galanthus, or snowdrop, have two linear leaves and a delicate, drooping bell flower. They are affectionately known as “Candlemas Bells” and “the Fair Maid of February” due to their appearance around Imbolc.

“The snowdrop, in purest white arraie,

First rears her hedde on Candlemas daie.

Whilst the crocus hastens to the shrine,

Of primrose lone on St. Valentine.”

~ excerpt from a 19th Century floral calendar.

Most species of snowdrop flower in the winter, usually before the spring equinox. They symbolise hope and life - they are a welcome sight after the darkness of winter. They are the first flower I look forward to seeing each year, and one of our first flowers to bloom - surely a sign that spring is on its way!

There’s mixed folklore surrounding snowdrops.

On Imbolc morning you can carry a bunch of snowdrops from room to room to cleanse it, a popular cleansing ritual; but Victorian superstition states that you should not bring the house for fear of ill-fortune, perhaps even a death in the family within the year. Either way, I think it’s nicer for all to leave them where they belong.

Magickal Correspondences for Snowdrops:

Triumph over adversity
Strength
Tenacity
Hope
Consolation
Eternal Life
Purity
Cleansing 

NEXT - Rose Magick: Correspondences
NEXT - Imbolc Magick: 40 Correspondences
NEXT - Bear Medicine: 5 Bear-Related Correspondences

Imbolc Blessings!

We start to see the odd blue sky now. The murky grey skies of December and January will soon be behind us.

Yesterday was Imbolc. The Sun has now moved into Aquarius, and this is the cross quarter sabbat marking the midway point between Yule (Winter Solstice) and Ostara (Spring Equinox). It is a festival celebrating the blessings of hearth and home, a festival welcoming the light that was promised to us at the Winter Solstice.

We celebrate the awakening of the Earth, and the potential this awakening has for manifestation. We move away from the slumber of winter, where we focus on rest and regeneration, and look instead to energetic activity and productivity.

Imbolc is a day for weather divination. If the weather is “bad”, it is considered that a “good” summer is on its way. The Cailleach, the divine hag, gathers her firewood for the rest of the year on Imbolc. If she wishes winter to last longer, she will ensure the day is bright and sunny, so that she can gather more wood. If the weather is foul the Cailleach is still sleeping, and winter is nearly over.

Hope you had a blessed Imbolc everyone!

What did you do to celebrate? Do you celebrate Imbolc, or do you hibernate for a bit longer and concentrate on spring celebrations at Ostara?

NEXT - Imbolc Magick: 40 Correspondences 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Ashwell Sacred Spring 

NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Beltane 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Leicestershire Chambermaid