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

Update: Stone Circle Clothing Drop

TWO MORE SLEEPS TO GO!!

I'm super excited about Stone Circle’s latest clothing drop coming this Saturday 29/01 at 1000hrs! There’s a fabulous coat, Bell Bottoms, dresses and tops.

I am a HUGE personal fan of their clothing ~ see me wearing one of their dresses in the last picture ~ their clothes are truly made by Goddesses for Goddesses.

They also have a wonderful FB group “Stone Circle - The Sisterhood” which started off as a place to talk about alternative and boho clothing, but has morphed into a true sisterhood, one of the loveliest and safest communities online.

To learn more about this fabulous clothing company, or to get your hands on one of these gorgeous pieces, go to: https://mystonecircle.com

Fabulous Folklore: King Doniert’s Stone

Trigger warning: drowning

This is King Doniert’s Stone located in St. Cleer, Cornwall, and dates to the late 9th Century. It’s actually the granite base of what would have been a Celtic cross. The Stone is believed to have been a memorial to Doniert, the last (known) recorded king of Cornwall.

On the side is a Latin inscription “Doniert rogavit pro anima” which means “Doniert has begged prayers for his soul.”

It is believed that King Doniert is actually King Dungarth, the King of Dumnonia. Dumnonia was the kingdom named after the Dumnonii, a British Celtic tribe living in the south west at the time of the Roman invasion.

King Doniert is believed to have drowned around AD 875 in the River Fowey, at nearby Golitha Falls. Some suggest that this wasn’t an accident, and that this was punishment for King Doniert collaborating with the Vikings against the Saxons.

There is another stone next to Doniert’s Stone known as The Other Half Stone, which I will share later.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Merlin's Cave

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Ring Stone at Avebury

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Hurlers on Bodmin Moor

Fabulous Folklore: Phallus Worship

This sculpture of a toadstool shaped in the form of genitalia is an exhibit at the Museum of Witchcraft & Magic; which used to be displayed in the window in Cecil Williamson’s day.

I can’t remember what the purpose of this exact artefact was, but phallic worship has been present around the world since the beginning of time. Phallic symbols have been found by archaeological expeditions all over the world.

One of the oldest phallic representations is the Hohle phallus, a 28,000 year old siltstone piece which was discovered in the Hohle Fels cave in Germany. As well as being used as a representation for genitalia, this artefact is also believed to have been used for knapping flints - a very practical dual purpose!

The phallus represents fertility, procreation and potential. Worship of the reproductive powers of nature is common in many cultures, and is often symbolised by this organ. In some cultures it was a protective symbol, and helped to avert the evil eye. In Bhutan, for example, wooden phalluses, with white ribbons emerging from the tip, deter evil spirits when hung from the doorways of houses.

Phalluses play a big part (excusing the pun!) in classical antiquity. They appear a lot in ancient Greek, Roman and Indian mythology; usually in relation to fertility.

Do you use a phallic symbol in your practice? Have you seen any good examples of phallic worship on your travels? 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Storm Callers

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Sheela-na-Gig

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Wicker Man

Fabulous Folklore: Cornish Piskies

This picture is a photograph of part of a painting at the Museum of Witchcraft & Magic in Boscastle, Cornwall. It was probably painted in the 1960s, and features a group of Cornish piskies.

It gives us a visual glimpse into the nature of Piskies. They are small, merry, unexpected, mischievous, playful, ageless, mythical creatures - often associated with death. They are found on moorland areas of Devon and Cornwall, and around ancient sites such stone circles, barrows and dolmen. They are considered “in between” - neither cursed nor blessed.

Their name changes depending on region. In Cornwall they’re known as piskay, pigsy, piskey, or piskie. In Devon they are known as pixies, pixy, or piscy.

The nature of these creatures also varies from county to county. In some places they are mischievous, in some places they are friendly and benign, and in others they are more devious and cunning. They are known to lead travellers astray on the moors, getting them lost, which is known as being pixy-led.

Pixie mythology is localised to Britain, in particular to Devon and Cornwall. They have been likened to the elves of Germany and Scandinavia, including the Tomte, which I wrote about earlier, but they are distinguished from them. They are different to fairies/elves, and in some British folklore pixies have battled the fairy folk. 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Cornish Piskies

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Elves

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Fairy Rings 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Merlin's Cave

Fabulous Folklore: Fair is Foul, and Foul is Fair

“Fair is foul, and foul is fair.”

This literary device shows up in the opening scene of Macbeth, and it reminds the viewer that sometimes not all is what it seems. What can seem trustworthy, might not be; and what seems bad, might actually be good. The three witches are symbolic of “foul” but give “fair” advice - they foretell the treachery of Macbeth, who will commit treason by killing the King. Macbeth slides from being a good man to evil; fair becomes foul. 

The phrase serves to remind us that we should always look much deeper than what we can see on the surface. It applies to people, situations, events. How often have we got caught up in the emotion of a situation, our own biases, the things we want to believe or the things that people have told us, completely failing to take a measured, reasoned and objective approach, and consequently failing to attain a deeper understanding of a situation? 

Appearances are often deceptive, and as witches we have to practise discernment. When is it right to employ magick? How will we replace the energy used for a spell or working? When is a sign a sign? At what stage should we step into a situation to help? Is a person trustworthy? Are we seeing a situation for what it really is? 

Remember, especially in your practice,  that “fair is foul, and foul is fair” and always look for deeper understanding - not all may be as it seems.

Image photographed at the Museum of Witchcraft & Magick, Boscastle, Cornwall.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Yorkshire Witchcraft

Review: Goddess Provisions Box (January 2022)

“Your cycles are sacred”

I think this has to be my favourite Goddess Provisions box so far. I received this earlier on in the month. Called the “Sacred Cycles” box, this beauty was only on sale until 17th January, so Goddess Provisions will be taking orders for their new box now, but I wanted to share the gorgeousness so you can see what to expect from their boxes. 

This box was decked out in delicate shades of red, orange and pink. It was filled with everything you need to observe, honour and celebrate your sacred cycles. 

Inside this gorgeous box:

• Sacred Cycles Candle Set 
• Sacred Cycles Crystal Set - obsidian, clear quartz, carnelian, rose quartz 
• Sacred Cycles Oracle Deck @sacredcyclesoracle
• New Moon Tea - Root Support Tea by @newmoonteaco
• Wild Rose Herbs New Moon Balm @wildroseherbs
• Reverse Karma Dragon’s Blood Incense @reverseyourkarma 
• Leaflet (the front is a framable postcard) with discount codes, information, ritual resources, Moon Wisdom Club, and more.

Go to @goddessprovisions for more information on their subscription boxes and gift boutique. Find them also at: www.goddessprovisions.com. Each box is always packed FULL of goodies - they’re really good value for money.

NEXT - Review: Goddess Provisions Box (December 2021) 

Word Magick: Invocation to Pan

Invocation to Pan ~ by Helen Bantock

Pan, god of the unfettered wild!

Come from thy secret dwelling,

Where mighty mountains sleep, and, undefiled,

The waters sweet are welling,

O, fearless, swift! O fierce and free!

God of the forests! God of liberty!

Pan, sing we a paean! Pan, we call on thee!

Pan, god of the unfettered mind,

Of faith and will unshaken,

Come, piping loud and wild upon the wind

Till sluggard worlds awaken.

Healer divine! Heart of the free!

Spirit of music! Soul of ecstasy!

Priest of delight! Thou laughter gay- all hail!

Twy-horned, goat-footed, lord of revelry!

The sweet singer, the light dancer, the wild piper - clear and shrill!

The keen hunter, the swift pursuer, the lord of fear - and deathless will!

Pan, to thee we raise our voices, Pan, great Pan, all hail!

Image taken at The Museum of Witchcraft & Magic, Boscastle, Cornwall.

NEXT - Word Magick: The Season of The Witch 

Media Appearance: Wheel of the Year article - Breathe Magazine (Issue 44)

Gorgeous article on the Wheel of the Year in the latest copy of Breathe Magazine (issue 44).

Beautifully written by Jade Beecroft (@journojadeb), it was an honour to be asked about the Wheel of the Year, and to be directly quoted.

This gentle publication is well worth checking out - it focuses on wellbeing, mindfulness and creativity. Basically, a life well-lived.

Have you read Breathe magazine? What are you currently reading?

Pagan Holidays: The Winter Solstice

Our Northern European ancestors believed their mystic Wheel stopped turning briefly at the time of the Winter Solstice.

Indeed, at the time the shortest day happens there is a pause; there is a “standstill” for a few days before the days start to grow in length again, usually around the 25th December.

This year, the difference in the length of day between 18th December and 25th December was approximately 56 seconds. 

The solstices occur twice a year, and mark the moment when one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt away from the Sun.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice heralds the shortest day and the longest night, and in the Southern Hemisphere, our pagan brothers and sisters will be celebrating the warmth of Midsummer.

As the solstices are astronomical events they change in date, although many witches and pagans choose to celebrate on the 21st regardless.

This year, in my location in the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice fell on the 21st December, at 15:58hrs.

In many parts of the world the Winter Solstice is seen as the middle of winter, but for many people it is just the start. Certainly in the U.K. we still have the colder months of January and February to navigate. In Meteorology, winter starts about three weeks before the Solstice.

Energetically speaking, the balance of power has been tipped at the Winter Solstice. The days will be getting longer and brighter as we emerge from the darkness. This is a huge moment of celebration for many, and many pagans choose to mark the rebirth of the Sun by observing the sunrise.

For many people, pagan or otherwise, it is a relief to know that the dark days and depths of winter are behind, and lighter days will follow. (Light and dark are not euphemisms for good and bad here, by the way.) With the returning sunlight comes increased energy, and renewed feelings of joy and hope. 

NEXT - The Return of the Sun 
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Tomte
NEXT - Imbolc Blessings!

Fabulous Folklore: The Evergreens of Yule

Evergreens symbolise eternal life, and for hundreds of years we have practised the art of bringing the outside, inside; hanging them in our windows and doorways.

But what are the Evergreens of Yule, the sacred plants of the Winter Solstice? Please note that some of these plants are very poisonous.

Holly 

A protective plant due to its spiky, barbed nature; holly is seen to guard against evil spirits, and is used to bring good luck to the home at Yule. Water infused with holly was once sprinkled on newborn infants for luck and protection (“holly water”), such is its magickal and protective qualities. Holly is sacred to Holle, a figure also known as Old Mother Frost, and represents everlasting light and life force energy. It is seen as a good luck charm for men.

Ivy 

A symbol of immortality, ivy is magickally paired to holly, as seen in the festive song “The Holly and the Ivy”. It is seen as a good luck charm for women, and with its spiral pattern of growth, ivy symbolises the concept of eternity. It is often fashioned into wreaths and garlands. Magickal correspondences for ivy include healing and protection.

Mistletoe 

Another decorative (albeit poisonous) herb for the home, magickal correspondences for mistletoe often include protection, love, fertility and health. Because it grows betweeen earth and sky, it is useful for all sorts of liminal workings, and is considered to hold deep magick. Hung from a doorway it is a useful tool for gathering kisses! It has long believed to be protective against fires, which is helpful during the winter season.

Pine 

Making their way into our homes as Christmas Trees, the branches of pines bring comfort and joy. Cones from pines have historically been gathered to be used as charms to increase fertility. Pine needles can be used in incense for purification and protection, and other common magickal associations related to pine include healing, fertility and abundance.

Yew 

A tree of regeneration and rebirth, the yew is associated with eternal life. It is also deeply connected to raising the dead, the ancestors and their spiritual realms (perhaps due to its extremely toxic nature). 

NEXT - Pagan Holidays: The Winter Solstice
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Wren's Day (26th December)
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Yule Tree 

Review: Goddess Provisions Box (December 2021)

“I celebrate all my blessings”

Take a look at this gorgeous Winter Solstice Box by Goddess Provisions that I received earlier on in the month. It had everything you’d need for the festive season included in it.

Inside this gorgeous box was:

• Fuzzy Dreams Socks 
• Icy Glow Candle by @litrituals
• Celestial Magic Ritual Lighter Case by @seedofcreation
• Coconut Cream Dark Chocolate Bar by @endorfinfoods
• Clear Quartz Ring by @hiouchijewels
• Blue Chalcedony Crystal
• Leaflet (the front is a framable postcard) with discount codes, information, ritual resources, Moon Wisdom Club, and more.

Go to @goddessprovisions for more information on their beautiful subscription boxes and gift boutique. Find them also at: www.goddessprovisions.com

NEXT - Review: Craig Addison Photography 

Fabulous Folklore: The Yule Tree

Evergreen plants and trees have always had a special meaning for people in winter. They represent eternal life. Ancient peoples hung evergreen boughs over their doors and windows, and many folk believed they would keep away the things that people most often worried about - things like ghosts, evil spirits, witches and illness.

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

In Britain, the tradition of decorating churches and homes with evergreens at Christmas was long established, but the custom of decorating an entire small tree came much later. As a child Queen Victoria had been familiar with the Christmas tree tradition; and Prince Albert, the cousin she married, was German. In 1846, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert were sketched in the Illustrated London News with their children, standing around a Christmas tree. This had a huge impact on the way Christmas was celebrated in Britain: being very popular royals what was done at court immediately became fashionable, and wealthy British middle-class families immediately followed suit. By the 1890s the fashion had spread overseas to the United States, and large trees were en vogue. 

For me, the tree represents a few things. A symbol of the season, it also reminds me that the days will start to get a minute longer a few days after Solstice, around the 25th/26th - hence “the son (Sun) is born”. It is also a symbol of unity - many different belief systems from all across the world hold a festival of light at this time of year.

Growing up, the tree always went up after my mum’s birthday, which is the 14th December. Once the tree was up, the festive season had begun. 

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

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Yule Evergreens

Fabulous Folklore: Wren’s Day (26th December)

Image taken from a photograph by @mrperil 

Trigger warning: historical animal cruelty.

Wren’s Day, also known as St. Stephen’s Day, is an Irish celebration which falls on the 26th December, and is celebrated in a number of countries across Europe.

Like the hunting of foxes on Boxing Day, which also lands on the 26th December, Wren’s Day is concerned with the hunting of a wren, which is placed on the top of a pole.

The captured wren was fixed to the pole/staff of a type of mummer called a “Wren Boy” and this pole was decorated with coloured ribbons and garlands. The mummers dressed in straw suits and colourful motley clothing, and would celebrate the wren by marching through the streets; through pubs and hospitals, while singing and dancing and playing musical instruments.

Money would be collected by the Wren Boys and donated to a charitable cause, or used to host a Wren Ball in January; a party for the town’s folk.

Thankfully, this is now a fake wren, usually a wooden one, and the Wren Boys are now generally made up of boys and girls.

This tradition was revived in the 1990s in Middleton, Suffolk by the Old Glory Molly dancers. On Boxing Day evening they carry a wooden wren on a garlanded staff in a torchlit procession from the town hall to the Bell Inn; where they dance and sing wren related songs, and listen to stories about the Wren becoming King of the Birds.

What do you do on Boxing Day? Do you have any special family traditions?

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Winter Solstice Celebrations

Greeting the Sun After the Longest Night

I hope you all had a beautiful Solstice! 

The morning after the Winter Solstice we went to Stonehenge to welcome the return of the Sun.

This ancient monument is located on Salisbury Plain, and historians are not entirely sure what its intended purpose was. It is aligned with the Sun and may have been used for working out the farming calendar. Other considerations are that it was a healing centre, or dedicated to the world of our ancestors.

Whatever its intended use, it was incredible to walk in the footsteps of our Neolithic ancestors today, and it was good to be back, as I’ve not celebrated Winter Solstice at Stonehenge for ten years.

It was extremely cold, we are still defrosting!

What did you do to celebrate the Solstice? 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Yule Evergreens 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Battle of the Holly & Oak Kings 

NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Imbolc

Fabulous Folklore: Winter Solstice Celebrations

The Winter Solstice - which I shall talk about more tomorrow - is a great pivotal moment. It is the line between the two great cycles of the year; the darker half and the lighter. It can be used as a moment for great reflection; an opportunity to review what you would like to achieve moving forwards, as the energy gathers and grows.

Key themes for the solstice are feasting, merry making and community, in whatever form you wish those to take. Spending time with others lifts the mood, and helps pass time during the darker, colder months, a time that many people struggle with. A festive meal, or time spent with friends, is the perfect way to celebrate the shortest day and the longest night, taking a moment together to express gratitude for the Earth, her cycles, and the passing of time.

Observing sunrise after the longest night is a common activity. There is nothing nicer than bracing the cold of the dawn to watch the Sun - raising your hopes and dreams for the future, and tracking them with the movement of the Sun. Alternatively, enjoy snuggling in the warmth of a warm bed, luxuriating in the moment, and enjoying that as your celebration. This is as much a time for rest, as it is anything else.

Decorating the house with evergreens, and the Yule tree with decorations, is another lovely way to observe this midwinter point if you haven’t done so already. The contrasting green and red of winter plants and berries are a reminder that no matter bleak things get there is life. A walk in the cold to gather them blows the cobwebs away.

Use this time for spell work relating to preparation for growth, development and abundance. As the light increases so will the potential for putting that energy into something valuable. This is a good time to help divine what you want.

If you want to mark the occasion with gifts, give one small, if possible handmade or meaningful gift to each member of your household. Gifts that have emotion attached to them, or are useful and practical that will help in the year ahead are best. A move away from consumerism and towards the themes of giving and sustainability are best.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Battle of the Holly & Oak Kings

NEXT - Pagan Holidays: Yule - Midwinter 

NEXT - Media Appearance: Witchology Magazine - Sun Biscuits for Yule

Fabulous Folklore: Nine Ladies Stone Circle

This is the Nine Ladies Stone Circle, situated on the magical Stanton Moor, and despite the name, there are actually ten stones, the tenth having been found in 1977, now laying flat.

The Nine Ladies is part of a tradition of stone circle building that took place during the Late Neolithic and Early Bronze Age period, between 3300 and 900 BCE, with the construction of Nine Ladies falling into the Early Bronze Age.

The precise purpose of the Nine Ladies is unknown, but it is believed that the circle was used for ceremonies and rituals regarding life and death, and this site is certainly held dear by modern pagans, with many gathering at the stones on the Solstice. Experts are also unsure if the single monolith laying 40m southwest of the circle, the King Stone, is connected to the Nine Ladies, or whether their proximity to each other is purely incidental. There is no evidence to suggest that they are connected in any way.

According to legend, a fiddler - now the King Stone - played music for nine dancing ladies on Midsummer’s Night, with everyone being turned to stone as punishment for sinning on the Sabbath. Some stories say he was actually a flautist.

Other stories speak of an unidentified man dressed in black standing outside the stone circle after dark, watching nine witches dancing to the sounds of the Devil playing the fiddle, who were later turned to stone. Apparently, the man in black is actually the Devil himself watching his own handiwork.

Other legends say that when the Moon is full the stones themselves move around in a ritual dance.

There is a tendency in British folklore to name stones as women; there is the similarly named Nine Maidens stone circle near Penzance, and the Nine Maidens stone row on Bodmin.

Have you ever visited the Nine Ladies? I found the energy there beautiful and serene - what do you think? Is this on your list of places to visit?

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Stanton Tower 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Stonehenge

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Hurlers on Bodmin Moor

Fabulous Folklore: The Lincoln Imp

I live in an area bordering Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, and Leicestershire, where there is rich and varied folklore. One of the characters I love the most is the Lincoln Imp, as seen on this caddy spoon. (For those who don’t know what caddy spoons are, they were used to measure tea at a time when tea was very expensive.) I have told his story before, but it is so much fun I thought I’d share it again in a little more detail.

According to 14th-century legend, the Devil was in a mischievous mood, and let out all his demons to play; with a group of imps sent to Earth to do his bidding.

After causing havoc in Northern England, stopping at Chesterfield to twist the spire of St. Mary and All Saints Church, the imps moved on to Lincoln Cathedral, where they planned to create as much trouble as possible. The imps set about their chaos, breaking the lights, smashing up the place, knocking over candles, destroying stained glass windows, and tripping up the Dean.

An angel appeared to the group, and confronted them. A number of imps managed to escape the angel, leaving two imps remaining. The first threw rocks and insults at the angel, the second cowered under broken furniture. The angel boomed at the first imp “Wicked Imp, be turned to stone!” immortalising his terrified form into cold, hard stone, as seen on the wall of Lincoln Cathedral.

Whilst this was happening, the other, slightly less naughty, imp managed to escape. According to one legend, the imp made it to the coastal town of Grimsby, where he continued the destructive behaviour at St. James’ Church, now known as Grimsby Minster. The angel appeared and gave the imp a good hiding, before turning him to stone. The Grimsby imp can be seen in St. James’ Church, holding on to his sore bottom.

The Lincoln Imp can be seen all around the town of Lincoln. He’s present on door knockers, on items and souvenirs in gift shops, and in the name of the local football team, The Red Imps, who sport the Lincoln Imp image as their logo. It is said that on still days it is windy around the cathedral, which is the second imp circling the building looking for his friend.

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Black Annis

NEXT - Simple Magick: Traditional Witchcraft, Folklore & The Lincoln Imp

NEXT - Simple Magick: Our House Guardians

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Sheela-na-Gig

Rose Magick: Correspondences

Magickal Correspondences for Rose - as taken from Scott Cunningham’s Magical Herbalism: 
Gender: Cold
Planet: Venus
Element: Water
Associated Deities: Venus, Hulda, Demeter, Isis, Eros, Cupid, Adonis
Part used: Flowers
Basic powers: Love, Fertility, Clairvoyance
Specific uses: Wash your hands with rose water before mixing up love mixtures (rose water may be purchased commercially in gourmet food shops and herb stores). Bear the buds if you would find a love. Drink of tisane of rose petals to produce clairvoyant drams. Burn the petals in the bedroom prior to sleep and have a completely refreshing, wondrous night. The petals are often added to healing incenses and sachets. Scatter fresh rose petals in the bed chamber on your honeymoon. To really prove you love another, send him or her red roses, the flowers of love.

Remember that it is always best to develop your own relationship with plants, and develop your own magickal associations. Your magickal correspondences for rose may be different to mine, and to Scott Cunningham’s.

Roses were first cultivated in Persia. They appear throughout the ancient world, many myths and legends built around them. It is said by some that roses had no thorns in the beginning, and that they developed over time due to the wickedness of mankind; and due to the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the garden of Eden.

In Ancient Greece they were associated with Aphrodite. Aphrodite bled on a rose while trying to heal Adonis, who was mortally injured hunting boar, and as such red roses came to represent love, passion and desire.

This particular variety of rose is called “Queen of Sweden” so I’m dedicating this post to my very own Queen of Sweden; @thenordicwolfie 

NEXT - Mistletoe Magick: Herbal Lore
NEXT - Rose Quartz Magick: 8 Ways to Use the Stone of Unconditional Love
NEXT - Flower Magick: Using Flowers in Cooking

Simple Magick: The Threefold Law

The Threefold Law, is probably one of the most misunderstood things in Witchcraft.

It is often described as an act of Karma, but that’s not how it works.

Attributed to Gerald Gardner, the idea is whatever energy you send out to others, will be returned three times as strong. Not in a Karmic way, but as a response. In this way it is a code of conduct amongst witches:

“Though hast obeyed the Law, but mark well, when thou receivest good, so equally art bound to return good threefold.”

So when you receive blessings from someone, you should return them three times. The same goes for the opposite.

This does not mean that whatever energy you send out into the universe will somehow come back to you, three times as strong. (That is the Boomerang Effect, and “threefold” in this instance is more metaphorical than precise.)

Of course, this is a tenet only held by some; not every witch or Wiccan follows The Threefold Law.

NEXT - Simple Magick: Sex Magick
NEXT - Word Magick: Deserving Versus Entitled
NEXT - Simple Magick: Spell-Working Ethics
NEXT - Sacred Symbols: The Witch's Foot 

Fabulous Folklore: The Edith Weston Poltergeist

Several miles from here is a village called Edith Weston. It has a population of about 1100 people, and is named after Edith of Wessex, Queen of Edward the Confessor.

In December 1896, huge flocks of people gathered from afar to witness the haunting of a house; then inhabited by a Mr and Mrs Gray. Extremely loud and repetitive knocking was heard at the doors and windows, and this continued for a full week before Christmas. Hundreds of people witnessed these knocks, including Mr Braithwaite of Edith Weston Hall, who owned the property.

At it’s loudest, the entire village could hear the knocking. Police, clergy and a whole host of other official people came to solve the mysterious problem, but upon investigation, the noise would shift from room to room.

Rumours and theories were spread by the worried villagers. A fifteen year old serving girl was blamed for the mysterious thumping; but when that continued in her absence, it was then blamed on the Devil, who had been invited into the house by her.

Mrs Gray became sick with the stress and worry; and Mr Braithwaite considered demolishing the property. Thankfully the noises stopped at Christmas, but no logical explanation was ever found. An investigator from London blamed the girl. Allegedly, she called “Here I am, come on you” when entering the kitchen; the noises continuing in there long after she left.

So much time has passed that it’s not clear which building housed the Edith Weston Poltergeist, but stories are still told about it to this day. 

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Witches of Belvoir
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Pumpkins

Building Community: Kindness & Compassion

Following on from a thoughtful post by Meg Rosenbriar (@megrosenbriar ), I’m adding my thoughts on the unkind sentiment that’s being passed around the witch community. It is being said that those who’ve fallen for scammers do not deserve to call themselves “witches”, as they lack discernment and the ability to think critically.

Please can we put a stop to this hurtful narrative? We’re better than that!

Those who are seeking answers may be at a crossroads; they may be feeling vulnerable and looking for answers. Aside from being financially duped, the last thing they need is our judgement, and to be passed off as being “too stupid” to be a witch.

My page has been copied by scammers in the past, so I do understand the sheer frustration of the witches trying to protect their pages, businesses and reputations, but can we also spare some sympathy for the people who have been duped by the scammers - after all, they thought they were supporting us with their purchases.

Please can we shift our anger towards the scammers who think nothing of ripping off vulnerable folk and page creators, not least during a pandemic.

We can tackle the problem together. If you see a page being scammed please report the scammer to Instagram, and let the page creator know; keeping an eye out for other/fresh accounts being made in their name, and letting them know each time (the page creator is often blocked by the scammer).

Another way you can help is by keeping an eye on @scammeralertpage which helps the Tarot and Healing community report scammers.

Thank you, and thank you Meg for bringing our attention to this. 

NEXT - Building Community: What Witches Look Like
NEXT - Word Magick: Reading Witchology Magazine & Pondering Community
NEXT - Simple Magick: 45 Colour Correspondences For Crystals

Mistletoe Magick: Herbal Lore

Mistletoe is an evergreen plant synonymous with midwinter. It has distinctive forked leaves and produces white berries in the winter, which are popular with birds. Alternate names for it are Golden Bough, Holy Wood and Birdlime. It is an interesting plant because it does not follow the same sequence as other plants - you can find immature leaves, mature leaves, green berries, mature berries and flowers on it concurrently, which adds to its mystique.

It is considered sacred because it grows between earth and sky, touching neither, and a symbol of vivacity, as it bears fruit at the darkest time. At this time of year, my friend Terry the Arch Druid of Avebury would collect mistletoe on the sixth day after the New Moon, which would be cut with a golden sickle, and caught in a white cloth. To let it fall to the ground is to rob it of its magic. It is said that during the time of the Celts, all warfare was ceased during the time of cutting, making the Winter Solstice a time of peace.

It is also said that mistletoe is one of the Druid’s three sacred plants, but that they can never agree on which three, which is funny because Terry always said that the collective noun for a group of druids was called an “argument”. Mistletoe and vervain always seem to be named as two; with the third contender hotly debated.

There is an abundance of folklore surrounding mistletoe. Most people know about  kissing under the mistletoe; for each kiss a berry is removed, and the smooching stops once they’re all gone.

Because it is considered a liminal plant it is considered to have deep magick, its magickal associations primarily connected to protection and fertility.

Please note that mistletoe berries are extremely poisonous. 

NEXT - Cyclamen Magick: Herbal Lore
NEXT - Pagan Holidays: The Winter Solstice
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Tomte

Fabulous Folklore: Horse Brasses

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

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

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

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

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

Modern horse brasses are being produced now. Alongside my collection of antique horse brasses I have also brasses for Stonehenge and Avebury stone circle.

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

NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Witches of Belvoir

Cemetery Stuff: Extracts from Regulations

Under the carriage arch of my house is a huge engraved tablet called “Extracts from Regulations” which lays out some of the rules of our cemetery.

I don’t know how many of these tablets there are in the U.K. as no searches are turning up any results. It’s amazing to see the table in one piece, considering it would have been erected in 1860 when the cemetery lodge and office ~ now our home ~ was built.

I thought I would share an extract of the Extracts with you, as many of you have been asking for more cemetery stuff:

“Every person who shall wilfully destroy or injure any building wall or fence belonging to the cemetery, or destroy or injure any tree or plant therein, or who shall daub or disfigure any wall thereof, or put up any bill therein, or on any wall thereof, or wilfully destroy, injure or deface any monument, tablet, inscription or gravestone in the cemetery, or do any other wilful damage therein, shall forfeit to the said Burial Board for every such offence a sum not exceeding five pounds.

“And every person who shall play at any game or sport, or discharge firearms, save of a military funeral in the cemetery, or who shall wilfully and unlawfully disturb any persons assembled in the cemetery for the purpose of burying any body therein, who shall be guilty of riotous, violent or indecent behaviour, or who shall commit any nuisance within the cemetery, shall forfeit to the said Burial Board for every such offence a sum not exceeding five pounds.”

NEXT - Cemetery Stuff: Anniversaries On The Cemetery
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: Doniert Stone - The King's Cross

Simple Magick: Sex Magick

In “Spells & How They Work” by Janet & Stewart Farrar it is written:

“Sex magic should be used only by a couple to whom sex is a normal part of their loving relationship - in other words, by husband and wife or established lovers - and always in private. It should be used within a Magic Circle, even if it has ‘only’ been cast mentally around the bed.”

Whilst I don’t agree that Sex Magic has to happen between a man and a woman for it to be successful (I believe polarity can be found in other ways, and I don’t wish to get into the debate of gender here), I think there is definitely something in the statements that the couple should be established, and in private.

Orgasm is the point at which the built up energy from visualisation is released, and whilst this energy can be harnessed and used for magical aim with any type of partner (casual or otherwise), I’ve been thinking about the depth of established relationships, and how they relate to this sort of magickal act.

When I think of my husband and the very many years we’ve spent together, I think of the deep knowing and understanding we have of each other. This is an extremely powerful thing. Without looking at him, I can tell immediately how he might feel about something just seen or heard, and we can pass information to each other with just a glance. I can tell when he’s not far away from home, and he can tell I’m upset before I am. Throw in all the trials and tribulations the years throw at you, and the commitment to each other. Then there is the physical relationship built up over many years. That’s an extremely potent energy to apply to working towards a common goal. 

I’m not saying that established relationships ARE better for Sex Magick, but there’s no denying they’re certainly very powerful. As for carrying out the act in private, it’s a bit like any other type of spellwork. In keeping it hidden, it does not become diluted by other people’s energy, will or intent, and is more likely to be successful.

NEXT - Simple Magick: 30 Low-Energy Magickal Activities
NEXT - Simple Magick: Using Eggshells
NEXT - Fabulous Folklore: The Leicestershire Chambermaid