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When Deity Answers Your Call

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February’s New Moon brought our first Healing Ritual of the year. I had a few relative new-comers present so I began running through the ritual. While reviewing the Goddesses we were calling one of the women present asked a couple of very astute questions. “How do we know when deity answers our call? How do we know when Goddess has arrived?” Good questions my friend, good questions.

Our time for the ritual was limited, (it was set to start at a specific time so those in cyberspace could “tune in”) so I made my answer brief. Yet, I continued to ponder these questions. The more I did, the more I realized that my previous answer wasn’t complete. Many practitioners have these same questions, so how was I going to answer them in a way that made sense to them? Also, can I really answer for them? In order to give the most informed answer we all need to know the basics. I’ll begin with explaining what a call to deity is and why we do it. Next, I will discuss what is experienced when deity answers your call.

Calling to Deity

A call to Deity is an invitation. Your call is a request for your chosen God or Goddess to be a part of your working, whether it is a ritual or spell. We call to them to lend us their support, their energy, and knowledge. Sometimes, we request them to be there as witness for rites of passage. Notice the terminology here – Call. We do not demand, we do not summon, we call.

Our calls can be simple. A few words or phrases asking them for their presence in our circles. Calls to deity can be elaborate – think of the times Goddess has been called by reading the entire “Charge of the Goddess.*” No matter the form of your call, it must be heartfelt, sincere, reverent (mostly, but that’s for another blog). If you go at this half-assed, deity hears you and will place your request on “hold” or not honor the request at all.

The same may be said of calling a Deity that you are not familiar with. If you haven’t taken the time to learn about who you are calling, to sit and commune with them, why would they take the time to answer you? Some of the most uncomfortable rituals I have attended were facilitated by those who neglected to understand this fundamental rule of respect.

Please don’t forget to learn the Gods proper names and how to say them (to the best of your ability). If you call in a Sumerian God you’d better pronounce his name properly if you expect him to answer. Google translator has been a huge help to me in this respect. While it may not translate Sumerian, it can help you with Greek, Irish and Latin. If their name has several possible pronunciations (like Hekate), use the one that resonates with you.

Knowing When Deity Answers

You’ve begun your work, perhaps created sacred space and called your corners. Confidently, you stride to towards your altar, raise your hands towards the heavens (or down towards earth for the Chthonic) and call unto deity. The words you speak are joyful, yet reverent. Completing your call you wait for their response. What, wait? For what?

This is where it gets tricky. Why? Because we are all different. We all process sensory and emotional stimuli in different ways. Each of us experiences Deity and their presence from our own levels of understanding and perception. Knowing when deity answers your call is extremely personal. What I feel when Hekate is present may be may the complete opposite of what you are feeling. You may hear a “pop” when deity arrives whereas the person standing next to you gets goose bumps. When I work with Sekhmet I know she is present because I smell lotus blossoms but Brighid’s presence brings a not so subtle heat. These are my experiences and I don’t expect you to have the same.

Remember that all of these feelings are completely valid because they are yours. When deity answers your call, you will know, just know. Whether you see, hear, smell or feel, you will know when deity answers your call. I can’t be any clearer than that.

When Deity Doesn’t Answer

But what if deity doesn’t answer? What then? Deity can’t always be at our beck and call and sometimes they just don’t wish to answer. If this happens, especially if it occurs during a public ritual, acknowledge the fact they are not present. Be honest and don’t try to fake it (I’ve seen this happen). You can say to yourself -or the room full of people standing there, waiting – that although Deity has not answered, is not present, the rite can still move forward with the energy of all present and the Universe. Just because Deity didn’t show up when we first called, doesn’t discount them from popping in later on in the ritual. Trust me, it’s happened.

Even if deity never joins your circle, your working can still be a success. After all it is your work, not theirs. You alone make or break your rituals and spells. We call in Deity for assistance, for the additional energies they bring to us, to commune with and have them protect our rites. Their presence is not mandatory for success. I know witches that do not work with deities at all and they do some fairly spectacular work. Yes, I wish to have my deities acknowledge and be present with me as I work, but I understand when they do not join me. They are deities and perhaps they know that they are not needed at that particular time. Who am I to question the Gods? – Okay I do question but again, another time, another post.

As with all Witchcraft, what we do, think and feel is very personal. Knowing when deity answers your call is no different. Next time you step into circle, whether it is your own or at a public ritual, breathe, relax and allow the connection to happen. It is only when we experience things for ourselves, and not as we are “supposed” to , that we allow the magick to truly happen.

Blessed Be!

*Charge of the Goddess by Doreen Valiente

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Favomancy: Divining with Beans

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Lately, I have been on a quest to unearth some of the older forms of Witchcraft. After more than 20 years of being a Witch, of working with covens, groups and as a solitary, I still understand that I have but scratched the surface of my Craft. There is so much more to discover, more than one can learn in a single lifetime. During this quest I’ve been studying different and unusual forms of Divination. This has brought me to Favomancy: divining with beans.

What is Favomancy?

Favomancy, the art of divining with beans, is a type of cleromancy that involves throwing beans on the ground and interpreting the patterns in which the beans fall. The term comes from the Latin faba for “bean”.

There are various forms of Favomancy present across the world’s cultures. This form of divination was once practiced by the Seers in Russia, most specifically among the Ubykh peoples. Though the exact methods they used remain a mystery it is thought that they used a set of 41 white beans. These beans were shaken, then thrown onto a cloth or flat surface. Seers would then interpret the patterns of the thrown beans to find the answers to the seekers question. Today, in Bosnia-Herzegovina, a similar method is used, similar enough that they most likely had similar origins.

Today I’ve chosen to share with you a much simpler method than its ancient counterpart. It’s economical – using only simple, everyday items – and it takes just a bit of practice and time to begin using it as a reliable method of divination.

Using Beans for Favomancy

For our Favomancy set you will need:

  • Three large light-colored dry beans – I’ve used dried Lima beans in the example
  • Black paint and a paintbrush or:
  • Black permanent marker (Sharpie)

Using the permanent marker or paint, color one side of your beans black. Cover it completely so that little or no white is showing. Try and get the edges blackened as well.

Paint or color your beans black on one side.

Once the paint or ink has dried completely the beans are technically ready to use. However, I recommend carrying the beans with you for at least three days or placing them under your pillow for a similar amount of time. By doing this you are allowing your energy to come into contact with the beans. This energetic contact will in turn bring greater accuracy to your readings.

Similar to pendulum work, readings are done for questions that require a “yes” or “no” answer. Once a question has been asked, the beans are thrown onto a cloth placed on a flat surface and then the answer is given depending how they fall. The answer is interpreted in the following fashion:

One (1) bean with black side up : Yes

“Yes” answer

Two (2) beans with black side up: No

“No” Answer

Three (3) beans with black side up: Maybe

“Maybe”

That’s all there is to it! Simple, effective, and fun! The accuracy of this method is on par with pendulum readings but I find it a refreshing change of pace. I hope you enjoy trying Favomancy: divining with beans and perhaps you too will add it to your list of “go to” divination techniques.

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Dill- Herb of the Month

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Dill is a semi-hardy annual with erect, freely branching annual herb with finely dissected, lacy, blue-green foliage. Dill is best known for its use in the making of pickles but can be used both as a culinary and medicinal herb. Magickly, Dill – our herb of the month, is a powerful and potent plant ally.

Dill – Our Herb of Month

Plant: Dill

Latin Name: Anethum graveolens

Family:  Apeacia (a member of the parsley family)

Folk/Secret Names: Dilly, Dill Weed, Garden Dill, Meeting House Seed, Hairs of a Hamadryas Baboon, Semen of Hermes

Gender: Masculine

Elements: Fire

Planet: Mercury

Astrological Signs: Gemini

Deities: Anubis, Hermes, Janus, Khensu, Mercury

Magickal Uses of Dill

Parts Used: Leaves, flowers, and seeds

  • Attracting Money – Place dill seeds and leaves in a spell bag then place in your wallet or purse to attract money.
  • Attracting Romance – Add dill seed to a sachet and hang it on your showerhead or place in a bath to make you irresistible to your lover.
  • Breaking Jinxes (leaves)
  • Dispelling bad dreams – create a sachet and place under your bed or pillow.
  • Emotional and Mental Balance
  • Good Fortune in Court (seeds)
  • Good Fortune in love affairs (seeds)
  • Love
  • Luck
  • Lust
  • Protection -Hang dill in doorways to promote protection. Place a sprig of dill in a child’s crib for safety and peaceful sleep.

Substitutions: You can substitute Fennel in your spell work if you are out of Dill as it has similar correspondences.

Growing Dill

Dill, our herb of the month, does not transplant well, so sowing the seeds is recommended. Plant 12 to 15 inches apart in a weed-free, semi-rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soil in a sheltered sunny position. It takes well to pots and containers, just be sure that they drain well.

Plants may grow to 2 or 3 feet in height. Pinch off the flowers if you wish to increase the leaf production.

As soon as the plant has four to five leaves, you can start harvesting. Pinch off the leaves or cut them off with scissors.

Leaves can be used fresh or dried. Dry your harvested leaves by either hanging them upside down in bunches or spread on a mesh screen or muslin. Place in a warm – not hot – area out of the direct sunlight.  You may also dry in a dehydrator.

When growing for the seed try growing more than one plant, one or two for the leaves and one or two for the seed. Do not plant Dill next to Fennel as the plants will cross-pollinate. Keep them away from Carrot as well as the carrots will not grow well with Dill around.

Dill seeds in the late summer or early autumn. Flower can take up to 25 days for the seeds to germinate. The seeds should be collected when they are light brown and fully formed. Place a paper bag over the seed heads and cut, leaving a bit of the stem sticking out of the bag.  Tie the stems together and hang to dry for a 10 to 15 days. You will know that they are ready when you shake the bag and you hear the seeds fall.

Warning:  Mature dill seeds are toxic to birds! Harvest all seeds before they drop.

Culinary Uses of Dill

Dill Seeds

Add Dill – our Herb of the Month – to potatoes for a tangy treat.

Create a Dill infused vinegar for use on salads by adding Dill to white wine vinegar and infuse for 2 weeks.

Add some dill to scrambled eggs, omelets and frittatas for some zest.

A pinch of dill creamed into butter with some added garlic makes a great spread for toast, bread and biscuits.

Let’s not forget the pickles! Dill – our Herb of the Month- is essential in making a crisp and crunchy dill pickle.  Check out this great dill pickle recipe here

Medicinal Uses of Dill

The information provided below is for educational purposes only and is not to be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. More information on these disclaimers can be found here.

  • Antimicrobial
  • Bacteriostatic
  • Carminative
  • Digestive aid
  • Flatulence reducer
  • Helps to soothe colic in infants
  • Sleep Aid
  • Soothes a gassy stomach
  • Stimulant
  • Stress reliever
  • Dill helps relieve flatulence and a gassy stomach when taken as a tea or by chewing the seeds.
  • Use Dill to assist in relieving infant colic.
  • German health authorities have approved dill as a treatment for intestinal complaints related to bacteria.
  • Chew on the seeds of the Dill plant to dispel bad breath (Halitosis)
  • Taken as “dillwater” it aids in promoting the secretion of milk and, when taken regularly by nursing mothers, is said to help avoid colic in their babies.

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Seeing Our Own Shadows

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For many in the Pagan community, Imbolc is upon us. Imbolc is the spoke of the Wheel of the Year when we acknowledge the return of the light. In many parts of the world the earth has begun to stir. Tiny shoots are breaking through the soil and reaching towards the strengthening sun, casting tiny shadows upon the earth. We too, are stretching, awakening, beginning to look forward to the longer days and shorter nights. This is the time of new beginnings and of giving birth to new ideas. With the light returning our minds stir and stretch, sloughing off the hibernation mode of deep winter. It is during this time of growing illumination when we may find ourselves seeing our own shadows.

A seedling makes its way towards the light.

While the world shakes off its slumber, we work to clear away the sleep from our psyches. The mind fogs of winter start to clear and we find ourselves looking forward to planting the seeds of new ideas and goals. Yet we find that there are shadows lurking in the liminal. We catch glimpses of the dark, unwanted parts of ourselves we wish to ignore and hide. Deep inside the spaces between the burgeoning light and winter’s darkness the shadows await our acknowledgement. Until we do we cannot move forward, cannot grow as enlightened beings. But what are the shadows? Where do they come from and what can we do about them?

Seeing our Shadows for what they are.

The shadows are our roots of pain, anger, guilt, resentment, and doubt, the things we least like about ourselves. They are the things we don’t wish see so we ignore them. hide them. We relegate them to the shadows where they lurk, popping out at the most inopportune moments. But they don’t stay down for long, manifesting themselves as fear, paranoia, mistrust and hate. What we must do is see our shadows as the roots of who we are and what we shall become, not as some hideous beast to lock away. When we take the time to step inside ourselves and flick on the light we allow ourselves to see our shadows for what they are, our allies. Then, and only then, can we begin to grow again.

How do we go about seeing our shadows? What does it take to make them our friend and ally? Time, meditation, introspection and quite often, a good therapist or counselor. Your shadows have been there a long time. They are not going to reveal themselves in a day, or two, or even a year. As witches and magickal practitioners we know that facing our shadows is a life-long process. As one shadow fades into the light another may take its place. Only with diligence, commitment and the help of others will the shadows give us their names. Once identified we can summon them, grab hold and embrace them, allowing for reintegration and healing. Tamed, a shadow changes from nemesis to ally, becoming our assistant in planting the seeds of renewal.

Facing our Shadows

All of us have to make the conscious choice to meet our shadows head on, to face our fears. It is not easy seeing our own shadows. It can be very uncomfortable and often downright nasty. But unlike Punxsutawney Phil on Groundhog Day, seeing our shadows will not prognosticate six more weeks of a winter in our souls. Quite the contrary, facing our shadows allows the light in and spring to return. By uncovering the roots of our struggles, cleaning away the old soil and tending to them, we have made viable what once lay dormant. When we allow the light to show us our worse, we can put a name to it and see it as an ally, a friend. Now, we can begin to plant those roots where they belong, in the light of our being.

Our shadows, no longer a threat, become tamed, a helpmate. That which was shadow ceases to exist as such. Transmuted, integrated, they now become a vital part of who we are, working with us instead of fighting against us. As the Sun continues to grow in strength so shall you, warmed by the knowledge that you have survived another winter of the soul. Your shadows dispelled, you can now move forward, sowing the seeds of possibilities along your way (read more about possibilities here).

During this season of renewal, beginnings, and the waxing light, make a choice to find yourself, face those bits and pieces of yourself that need tending to. Take a deep breath, reach inside yourself, flick on the switch and search for those shadows. At times the work will be difficult, sweaty and gritty, but the benefits are worth the fight. When your spring does arrive, all that you’ve sown, planted and nurtured will dispel the shadows, allowing room for change and possibilities to blossom.

Blessed Be!

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Making and Using Black Salt for Spell Work

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A Triune Moon Magickal Moment

Need a “go to” for protection, cleansing negative energies and banishing? Then black salt should be added to your magickal cupboard. When made and used properly, this mineral becomes a powerful ally for your spells, potions and powders. Making and using black salt isn’t difficult, but it can be a bit time consuming. To begin, let’s discuss its various uses as the purpose of the salt can determine the ingredients that go into its preparation.

Safety Note: Do not confuse the black salt we are making here with
black lava salt or kala namak salts used in fine cuisine. This salt should never ingested. It is for ritual purposes only.

Uses of Black Salt

Also known as Witch’s Salt, Drive Away Salt, Sal Negro and Indio Salt, black salt has a long history of use in the magickal community. While salt has always been seen as protective, when the color black is added it takes on some very different energies. Anything colored black, when used in magick and ritual, traditionally corresponds to:

  • Protection
  • Absorbing or removing negativity
  • Banishing
  • Releasing
  • Reversing
  • Hexing
  • Cursing

The change from white to black, transmutes the salt’s energies, allowing those energies to move from the realm of light into the shadows, into the dark. When we add additional herbs to the darkened mineral we change its powers even further.

Ingredients for Black Salt
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Basic Recipe for Black Salt

Black salt can be created in two ways – with the list of ingredients below or with food coloring. While many people feel the salt blackened with food coloring is just as potent, I believe the extra time and effort it takes to mix in the corresponding ingredients adds a power that you just can’t recreate with food coloring. However, use what works best you.

To create a basic black salt you will need the following:

  • 2 parts sea salt – course or fine
  • 1 part scrapings from a cast iron cauldron, pot or skillet
  • 2 parts fine ash from your fire pit or hearth fire (Using ash from a ritual fire works great as long as the ritual corresponds with the use of the salt.)
  • Optional – Black Pepper (replace one part ash with the pepper)

I prefer to use coarse sea salt as it is easily strewn in a circle or across walkways or steps. If I want to use it in powders I grind it up a bit with my mortar and pestle.

Iron scrapings are traditional in most recipes but don’t worry if you do not have any cast iron. Just replace the scrapings with additional ash. If you do use scrapings from your cauldron, wipe out the cauldron first to clear out any residue from previous spell work. You wouldn’t want to mix ash or oil from a healing ritual with a black salt for banishing.

The ash can be gathered out of the family fire pit, fireplace or from your cauldron. A ritual fire or a fire burned exclusively to create your salt will add even more power to the working.

Below are some of the many herbs and woods you may want to add to your fire, increasing the potency of the ash. The list is arranged by the energies you may wish to incorporate:

Magickal Properties

  • Protection:  Oak, Ash, Birch, Rosemary, Garlic, Graveyard dirt
  • Cleansing negative energies:  Cedar, White Sage, Basil, Eucalyptus
  • Banishing: Alder, Black Pepper, Rue, Cayenne pepper
  • To Rid yourself of enemies:  Red Pepper, rose thorns

Be cautious! Some of these herbs may give off caustic smoke. Do not purposefully breathe in the fumes.

Gather up your ash once it has cooled completely. I’ve used both the fine ash and small charcoal bits in my salts.

Scrape the bottom of your cauldron and add to the salt and ash in the jar.

Place all of the ingredients in a large glass jar. Shake until the salt has turned completely black. Let it sit for at least three days then remove any large pieces of charcoal. Your salt is now ready to use.

Using your Black Salt

There are several traditional uses for black salt. However, don’t feel limited by these methods. Use your salt in any way that works for you.

Getting an enemy to leave: Mix red pepper with black salt and toss it where an enemy walks so that he or she will leave. Alternately you can sprinkle some in your enemies shoes.

Protections: Use black salt, either alone or created with ash from protective herbs, and sprinkle it around your home or ritual circle. This creates a protective barrier that allows no harm to enter.

Absorbing and removing unwanted and negative energies: In any area that has unwanted or negative energies place a bowl of, or create a ring with, your black salt. Allow the salt to sit for at least 9 to 24 hour while It pulls in all of the energies. Using gloves so you don’t come into contact with the salt, clean up all of the salt. Dispose of it off your property if possible or wrap it securely in black paper and place in your garbage can.

Binding and Hexing: Add black salt to poppets and spell bags.

The time and effort you take in making and using black salt will pay off in more powerful and focused spell work. So get busy and mix up a batch for your magickal cupboard today.

Blessed Be!

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Staying Productive Amidst the Chaos

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Chaos is not something that most of us appreciate. Being a Virgo I relish my peace and quiet. I thrive on schedules, lists, routine, and more lists. But every once in a while the Universe chucks a curve ball at me and I have to figure out how I will be staying productive amidst the chaos.

As I am sitting in my office, tapping away at the keyboard, there is chaos all around me. Roofers have descended upon my little house and are currently ripping the crap out of the old roof. Shingles are flying and crashing, dust and debris is everywhere. And the noise! Between the crashes and bangs, the dog whining and the clanging of the metal ladders, I’m already spent and they’ve not been here two hours. My anxiety is through the now non-existent roof. So how am I staying productive amidst the chaos? Sheer will my friends, sheer will.

Just a taste of the chaos and debris surrounding my house today.

I’m staying productive amidst the chaos by flexing my will. Our will is what pushes us, reminds us of our purpose, our goals. The will is our stick-to-it-ivness, our tenacity and our drive. By flexing my will, making it work for and not against me, I am writing this article instead of binge watching Netflix with the volume at full blast. Even though I may be continually distracted by the debris falling past my window, I keep typing. Is it easy? Hell no. But it is happening because of my Will.

Flexing your Will to Stay Productive

How can you flex your will to stay, or increase your productivity even amidst a chaotic day? Always keep your end game, your goal, in the forefront of your thoughts. Perhaps your goal for the day is to paint the bedroom. You’ve got your tools in hand, the furniture has been moved and the tarps are down. Then bam! The cat throws up on the recliner, you forgot to turn off the coffee maker and now burnt coffee smell permeates the air. The school nurse calls and asks you to pick up your child because he threw up in the classroom (I sense a theme here). Down goes the paintbrush and out you go (after turning off that dang coffee maker).

This could be the end of your grand plan to paint. But remember, we are flexing our will here. We are staying productive amidst the chaos. Our game plan may have changed but we can get back on track. So, pick up your child and set them up on the couch with some saltines and ginger ale and a bucket, just in case. Clean up the cat barf off the recliner and put some vinegar in the crusty, burnt coffee pot. Then march right back in and pick up where you left off. Flex that will!

Sometimes the Chaos Wins

Okay, I will admit it. The above scenario would make most people throw in the towel. Re-scheduling and flexing our will takes practice and, quite frankly, it doesn’t always work. Sometimes the chaos wins, but that’s all right. The key in these instances is not to beat yourself up because things didn’t get done. Allow yourself to regroup, then reschedule. Maybe you are only able to complete a portion of what you had planned. If things are crumbling and chaotic around you but you were able to tape off the trim in preparation of painting, then you were staying productive amidst the chaos. Yes, it wasn’t everything you’d envisioned, but it was something. Give yourself a pat on the back for getting anything done amidst a barf-a-palooza.

Above all, just keep trying, keep your focus, and remember that this too shall pass. Tomorrow is another day and another chance to flex our wills. Staying productive amidst the chaos isn’t easy and sometimes it’s downright impossible. If chaos wins today, we can kick its butt tomorrow.

What’s this? Blessed quiet, for the moment. The chaos has diminished, a welcome breather for which I am most grateful. When lunch break is over, the chaos will again commence. But I will keep focused, flex my will, and keep staying productive amidst the chaos. After all, I need to keep my little Virgo soul happy and check something off my list. Today, chaos does not win!

Blessed Be!

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Capturing the Moon – Lunar Knot Magick

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A Triune Moon Magickal Moment

Lunar knot magick, like traditional knot, or cord magick is a simple, yet extremely effective magickal practice. It requires little in the ways of tools, just a simple piece of rope, string or cord, usually made of natural materials. In this article I will show how to gather and capture the moon’s energies using lunar knot magick.

You may already be familiar with knot/cord magick. If so, you will notice that what we are going to be doing here today is a bit different than what you may have been shown before. Usually the knots are created to hold the magick until a spell has manifested. We are instead using a technique whereby the power of the moon is pulled into and held by each knot placed in your cord. As the particular lunar phase energies are required, you release a knot to let loose the energies stored within.

This application had been used by sailors and sea faring peoples for generations. In times past the captains of the ships nay have gone to the local cunning woman or witch to have them create a knotted cord for to carry with them on their voyage. Each knot represents winds pulled in and captured within. This cord would remain on ship, waiting until such a time as the winds calmed, rendering the sailing ship immobile. It would then be produced and a knot would be released, allowing the wind to escape. They would continue releasing the knots until the winds would gain fill their sails.

Creating Knot Magick

Creating knot magick requires just a few tools.

To create your lunar knot magick you will only require two items:

  • Cord – a length long enough to hold your knots. I am using silver cording in the picture but you can use, cotton, hemp, silk or other natural fiber cording.
  • Scissors

Cut your cord to a length appropriate for the number of knots you will be placing in your cord. Simple knots will take less cord than say an elaborate nautical knot. In the example shown I used a 27 inch cord to hold nine simple knots.

Take your cord out with you on the night of the full, dark, or new moon – depending on the energy attributes you wish to collect. You may cast circle of you’d like but it isn’t necessary for this endeavor.

Place your cord on a flat surface such as a table, bench or altar. If you are working with a full moon, try to place the cord in such a way that the light of the moon touches it. This adds an extra but of “oomph” to the working but even if it is cloudy the energy is still there.

Raise your hands towards the moon (in whatever phase it may be) and “gather” the energies. See the light (or darkness) of the moon filling your hands. When they begin to tingle and feel full, place your hands over the cord, filling it with the powers of the moon.

Tying the Knot

Nine knots to capture the glory of the moon!

When I am doing lunar knot magick I like to make knots in multiples of 9. Nine has always resonated with me as the number of the moon and all lunar workings. You may have a different number in mind. As with all magick, use what resonates with you.

Taking your cord infused with lunar energy in hand, make your first knot. Tie the knots firmly, but not so tight that you will be unable to take them out later. As you make the knot, picture the energy being held tightly inside it. You may repeat a phrase or chant as you tie your knots. I have used the following with great success:

“Energies of the moon I hereby bind. Into this simple cord of mine. To stay until they are of need. To be released with focused speed.”

Repeat until you have made all of your knots. When completed, hold the now knotted cord up to the moon and say:

“This cord which I have fashioned this night, filled with magick, filled with might. May it ever serve me well until such time to break the spell.”

Place your cord in a small box or bag and place where it will not be disturbed until its energies required. Place a label on the inside or outside of the box or bag noting what type of lunar energies it holds. If you use different color cords for each type of knot magick, you may not need to so but I recommend it in order to save yourself the frustration of trying to recall what you created your cord for.

Releasing the Lunar Magick

A New Moon/Healing Altar
Look for our next New Moon Healing Ritual date and time at:
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When you are in need of additional lunar energies or when you have a spell that requires a specific moon phase that you are not currently in, grab your lunar knot magick cord. While performing your spell hold your cord over the working. As you untie the knot or knots, (use as many knots as you feel is required for the working), say:

“I release the energies of the full (dark, new) moon into my working. May the powers of this lunar phase mix and mingle with my energies to create the outcome I desire.”

When the cord has been spent, dispose of it by burning, burying or cutting into small pieces then throwing it away. I do not recommend re-using the cord.

As you gaze out at the Full Moon this night, give Lunar Knot Magick a try. I hope that you will find it a special and powerful magickal ally.

Blessed Be!

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Time for a Reality Check

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Dreamers. People who dream, imagine and create help fill our world with wonder and invention. Our society would become stagnant, decay and crumble if it were not for those that dream big and then pursue those dreams. But sometimes even our dreams stall. They become an anchor weighing us down, an anchor we cling to regardless of the threat of drowning. When you feel as if your dream is taking its last dying breath, its time for a reality check.

Okay, I see that look and the not so subtle eye roll. A reality check? Really? But its a vision, a dream, something wanted, wished for, worked for. Dreams aren’t supposed to be based in reality, are they? Trust me, I do hear you and no, I am not here to discourage you from pursuing your dreams. Just the opposite, in fact. This article is here to give you encouragement to follow your dreams but also to assist you in making your vision a reality.

Together, we’ll take a hard look at identifying what you are trying to accomplish. We’ll discover what your vision actually is and how to nurture it. We will also take a hard look at what tools and experience you may need to make it happen. Included in this article are tips on how to get your dream back on track if it is stalled or even broken. By taking the time for a reality check you will be better able to keep moving your vision forward.

Reality Check #1 – Putting a Name to Your Dream

I feel that the number one thing that makes our dreams fail is that we don’t actually know what it is. We may say: “I want to write.”, “I dream of traveling more.”, “I want to start my own business.” Yet, we never actually define what the thing is. We don’t put a name on our dream.

For years I wanted to make Witchcraft my life, my work. I thought about, dreamed about it, but I never really put a name to it. At the same time, I wanted nothing more than to write and make a living with my writing. After years of my dreams stalling and never being realized, I finally put the pieces together. I put a name on my dream, Author.

This may sound overly simplified, but it changed everything. I had direction, a purpose. Both of my original visions now melded into one. I would make Writing about Witchcraft my life’s work. So how do you put a name on your dream?

  • Identify your dream. – Write it down. Start with the simplest version, perhaps “I want to be an artist.”
  • Define your statement. – Using the example above, define why you want to be a artist. Jot down all the reasons for why you feel you wish create art. Don’t think it through, just write it down.
  • Read out loud the reasons you just jotted down. Does anything on that list make you feel happy? Do you keep going back to a specific word or phrase over and over again? Perhaps the word “ceramics” keeps drawing your eyes back to it or an inflection in your voice is different as you say it.
  • Take that word or phrase and write it big and bold on a separate piece of paper. Place the paper someplace you won’t see it. Then leave it there.
  • In three or four days, take it out again. Speak the phrase or word out loud again. If it still resonates – you’ve placed a name on your dream.

Reality Check #2 -Nurturing and Feeding your Dream

Now that you have taken the time for a reality check and have defined and named your dream you can start (or restart) the process of nurturing and feeding it. This can be the most difficult part of keeping your dream afloat. Why? Generally it’s because when we dream we often forget that dreams take work. They may take specific knowledge and hands-on experience to bring them to fruition. We may think that we have all the skills we need to make our ideas a success, but even if we start with all the right knowledge, times change. You may have to refresh your knowledge base and skill sets from time to time to keep up with the latest trends. Below are a few ways you can nurture and feed your dreams.

  • Take a class – Sounds like a no-brainer but you’d be surprised at the resistance I find to that suggestion. Learn a new technique or revitalize an old one. If your dream is to be a tax consultant, take specific classes on the areas you are unfamiliar with.
  • Find a seminar in the area on your subject – Seminars are usually a one to two day commitment, can include a wealth of information and are usually fairly budget friendly.
  • Subscribe to a journal or magazine about your chosen dream – There seems to be a magazine, newsletter or journal for nearly every type of profession, calling, or job. Subscribing and reading these can keep you up to date on new trends, styles, tools and information.
  • Work on your dream – Every. Single. Day. If you aren’t nurturing it, it will fail. Even if its something small, like picking colors for a new glaze for your pots, do it.
  • Have a visual reminder of your dream – Place it some where you will see it often. A simple 3 x 5 card with a word written on it stuck to your bathroom mirror makes a great daily reminder.

Reality Check #3 – Resuscitating our Dreams

Let’s face it, even if we think we are doing everything can to make our dreams a success they can go under. We are then filled with disappointment, frustration and even grief. You may even feel a sense of relief when it fails if keeping the dream alive has become a burden instead of a joy. So how can we go about resuscitating our dream? What tools can we use to resurrect it from the rubble of mismanagement, indecision or indifference? While I can’t give you all the answers I can share some insights and tips that have helped over the years.

Don’t let your dreams be anchored down.

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Is it indecision that is crippling your dream? If you can’t decide how to move forward you will never accomplish what you want. Being the consummate Virgo, I have lists for everything. Is it just because of my Virgo analities? Nope. It’s because they work. A list forces me to decide what I need, what tools and knowledge I require to move forward. A pros and cons list can aid you in deciding a new course of action for your dream – weighing the good and bad of what you wish to do. If you are still feeling indecisive after your list making, share them with a friend or friends. Perhaps a fresh perspective will aid you in making a decision.

If mismanagement is pulling your dream under then you may need to pick apart your current way of doing things and come up with a new, more innovative style. Let’s face it, if you’ve been writing a book for years but have never sent it off to a publisher, you are mismanaging (and self-sabotaging) your dream. If your dream involves creating art but you’ve never taken the time to research galleries or art shows to display it, you are mismanaging your dream. Resuscitate it by making the leap and calling that gallery to see of they’ll add you to the next showing. Get a literary agent and have them review and send solicitation to publishers to get that book out there.

Reality Check #4 – Identifying When a Dream has Gone

We’ve talked about ways to feed, nurture and if necessary, resuscitate our dreams. However sometimes we just can’t bring our dreams back, no matter how hard we try. We all change and grow. What once was a perfect vision, a dream to end all dreams, may look different a year from now and that’s okay. Our dreams, once so bright, shiny and exciting, no longer resonate, no longer serve us. How do we know when it is time to let it go? How do we identify when a dream is gone. We look for signs of neglect and decay.

If you’ve been neglecting your dream, ask yourself why? What has changed? Does it no longer feed my soul? Is it a lack of self-confidence that makes me put my dream aside instead of pursuing it? Did I jump into it without thinking it through? Does it still have meaning, importance in my life? Be honest with yourself. Don’t try to sugar coat it. If the thought of continuing to pursue this dreams makes having a root canal seem like a Sunday picnic, it’s time to let it go.

It’s okay. Continuing to try and rescue a dream that is already face down in the water is a waste of our time, effort and a drain on our physical and emotional health. Give it a funeral, a fabulous eulogy and send-off, grieve over it and then move on. Acknowledge the journey this dream took you on, relish the knowledge and insights it brought you, then release it.

No matter what your dream is, always be sure to check in on it regularly. Make time for a reality check weekly or monthly to keep yourself and your vision on track. By learning the signs of when to nurture and feed your dream you’ll be able to keep your vision afloat on your ocean of success. May all your wonderful dreams and visions become a reality!

Blessed Be!

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Creating and Using Poppets

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A Triune Moon Magickal Moment

Creating and using poppets is an amazing way to add to your magickal repertoire. Poppets are an old, time-tested form of sympathetic magick. Sympathetic magick works on the principle that like affects like. When you create a poppet you are making a visual representation of a person. This representation then becomes a focus device. You are able to “see” and interact with the individual you are working for by using their image, the poppet, you’ve created.

Poppets can be as simple or elaborate as you like. The basic rule is that it should be easily recognizable as who you are working for, with or against. If it is a person it should have two arms, two legs, a head and body. The exception to this rule would be a working for a differently-abled person. I use a gingerbread man cookie cutter to give me a basic shape. I am not very artistic so this works well for me. Feel free to create your own pattern or draw free-hand if you like.

Next, add features, hair, clothes, anything that would identify the poppet as the individual it is to be. Try using yarn, markers, paint, embroidery and other embellishments to achieve the look you desire. Don’t worry if you are not an artist, if you can visualize who it is, then even the crudest poppet will work.

Below are simple instructions on creating and using poppets. I’ve also included a simple chant to charge your poppet for its intended purpose.

A few simple materials are all that is required in making poppets.

Creating your Poppet

Before creating your poppet you should have a firm idea of why you are creating it. Are you doing healing work for someone? Are you trying to banish someone out of your life and social circle? Perhaps it is something for yourself that you are working. Keep whatever the intended goal is for the poppet in your mind as you go about creating and using your poppets

There are only a few simple materials required for creating your poppet. Most can be found quite inexpensively at your local craft store. Below is a list of items to complete the “shell” of the poppet.

  • Cotton material – I used white but you may use any color that suits your purpose or the individual you are working for. It needs to be large enough for the cookie cutter, cut double.
  • Thread
  • Needle
  • Gingerbread man cookie cutter – large
  • Scissors
  • Pen or pencil to trace around the cookie cutter.

Place the cookie cutter on the material. Be sure that the material is doubled. Trace around the cookie cutter, then cut along the pen/pencil line. Sew the poppet close to the edge with small stiches, leaving a large enough opening for stuffing your poppet. Alternately you could use a sewing machine, but I like to place magick and intention in each stitch. Once you have stitched the poppet you will need to fill it.

Filling and Personalizing Your Poppet

You will want to fill your poppet with not only something to give it shape but to add to the magick you are creating. Herbs, stones, and crystals that correspond to your working are beneficial. Adding something personal from the individual will bring an even bigger boost to your work. Hair, fingernail clippings, a scrap of material from something they’ve worn are all items that are easily added to your poppet.

Use herbs that will aid you in bringing the desired results.

Below are items I used for the poppet pictured. This was a personal healing poppet so I am using herbs for healing the stomach and sinus issues. Please, use items that best fit your intent. Note: I also used hair from my head to add some of “me” to the poppet.

  • Fiberfill – this is used for all poppets. It can be made of cotton or synthetic materials.
  • Chamomile
  • Ginger
  • Feverfew
  • Mullein
  • White Willow bark
  • Marshmallow root
  • Slippery Elm Bark

I did not include any stones or crystals in this poppet because I did not feel called to do so. Use your intuition and magickal senses to choose each item so that it will aid in achieving your final goal.

Fill up the legs and arms of the poppet. You may need to use the end of a long-handled spoon or some other long, thin device to push the fiberfill into the corners. Place a small amount of fiberfill in the body then add in your herbs, stone, etc. Finish filling the poppet then sew up the opening.

Now you can personalize your poppet. Add on facial features, hair, clothing, etc.. You may even want to place a picture of the person where the face is. Use your intuition to create a connection between you and the individual.

Poppet Ready to Charge

Charging your Poppet

While you were creating your poppet you were keeping your intentions in the forefront of your mind. Now, it is time to reinforce that intention and charge your poppet.

Place your poppet on your altar or a table. Holding your hands over the poppet visualize its intended purpose. While keeping that purpose in your mind, “see” the poppet as the individual that it represents. Focusing on both the person and the intention say the following (or something similar that has meaning to you):

“The poppet I see before me is a part of (insert name of individual) and as such all that I do with the poppet I do for (name). I send (insert what you are working for here) into this poppet which is (name). May (name) be (healed, banished, etc).” Continue to send your desires into the poppet until you feel that the work is completed. 

End the charge with “As I will it, so shall it be.” or something else to signal that you have completed your work. Place the poppet in a safe place.

Releasing the Poppet Energies

You will want to keep the poppet until such time as you feel the magick has manifested. After that you will need to release the individual’s energy from the poppet and dismantle it. Below is a simple “de-programming” verse you can use.

“I separate the energy of (name if individual) from this poppet. What was once connected is now separated.” Repeat this until you feel that the energies have been disconnected. Then remove all the stitching, take out the stuffing and otherwise dismantle the poppet. Dispose of all the parts by burning, burying or throwing away. Caution: Do not dispose of the poppet without first disconnecting the individual from the poppet. This may cause undo harm to the individual.

Poppets are a simple, creative, and highly effective way to work powerful magicks. No matter how cute they may seem, they should always be treated with the respect you would give to any magickal working. May you find working magick with poppets as rewarding as I have.

Blessed Be!

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Leave Ego out of Healing

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When we first find our calling as healers,we are often awestruck, amazed that we can do this wonderful life altering thing. As we begin stretching our muscles, reaching out with our gifts, we may sometimes hit a wall. That which was as simple as breathing suddenly becomes more difficult. Why? Because we’ve introduced Ego into our work. We must remind ourselves to leave ego out of healing.

I recall the first time I consciously helped heal someone. It was during my high school days – I won’t bother with the dates, lets just say it was long ago. We were preparing for testing in gymnastics and one of the other students had fallen off the balance beam and twisted her ankle. Without thinking, I went to her, took her ankle in my hand and willed that her ankle be healed. My hands grew warm and tingly and then I just knew that it had worked. She would be okay. The look of awe and surprise on her face is one I will never forget. Nor will I forget the side-eyed glances and whispers that I received after that. It was obvious that I was now even stranger and unusual than I was before – if that were possible. I now knew that I was different, I was a healer.

Ego in Healing Work

When we talk of ego in healing work what exactly do we mean? Take the statement I made in the last paragraph “I was a healer.” This is ego. The “I” statement, the “me”. Yes, I could heal. But like many who have newly recognized their gifts have yet to learn, we, as individuals, are not the the healers. We are the conduits to energy that helps the wounded individual to heal themselves. This is not a solitary function, but a gift that draws in energy, hope, and healing from a universal source. A more accurate statement is that I had learned how to heal. I hadn’t yet learned to leave the ego out of healing.

Many of us have known we could heal from a very young age. Healing came naturally, like breathing. Others may have turned to Reiki or some other form of energy work as an adult. Those born with the gift are often the ones most prone to allowing ego into their healing work. Why? Because they often learned about their gifts alone, without a teacher or any type of guidance. They feel that they alone are responsible for the healing. This often breeds self-importance and allows ego to run rampant.

I have found that those who lean on ego, allowing the “I” into healing work are often the most ineffective healers. By allowing the delusion that you are doing this work alone, that there is nothing or no one that assists in your efforts, you are sabotaging your gift. Yes, you may be able to heal, but does it last? Does the person you are working on and for feel that they are a part of their healing process? If not, check in with yourself and leave the ego out of healing.

Healing Hands
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Keeping the Ego at Bay

How do the leave the ego out of healing? How can we keep our egos at bay? By understanding where the gifts, the power to heal comes from, from a Universal energy source (God or Goddess, Divinity, The One). Those that may have been taught by a family member, Reiki master or other instructor are more likely to learn where their gifts flow from than those that may have learned on their own. In knowing that they are in fact conduits for the healing energies, not the originators of that energy allows the individual to learn how to put ego aside and concentrate on facilitating a healing instead of just “healing”. By making the patient/client a partner in the healing process you leave ego out of the healing session.

Does ego always stay away? Nope. We as healers need to constantly do a self-check and reassess where we are coming from before we heal. Are we making the client a partner or are we doing this all ourselves? Have we listened closely to our clients to what they feel is wrong without jumping first to conclusions? Can we allow the energies to flow unimpeded by where we are being prompted to send them instead of where we think they need to be? Am I in the correct frame of mind to begin the task of healing or do I need to take some meditation time to connect with my source? Asking ourselves these questions allows us to leave ego out of healing and facilitates a more effective healing session and leave ego out of healing.

Moving Forward

Now that we understand how we allow ego into our healings and how to leave ego out of healing, where do we go from here? We use our gifts, everyday. We can be of service in so many different ways. Don’t feel limited by just the client/facilitator paradigm, healers can do so much more. Try doing a monthly distance healing session for friends and family far away (with their consent, of course). Use your gifts at a local animal shelter or refuge – animals of all types love a good healing session. Volunteer at a local homeless shelter and offer free sessions for those in need. If you have a green thumb (or wish you did) offer healing and energy to the plants in your local park or even your own backyard. When we are of service to our community and world, our egos rarely come out to play.

As we move forward let us leave ego out of healing. Use your amazing gifts to aid others in healing themselves. Make a difference in this world by being of service to all life forms, sending healing love, and light wherever it is needed. May you truly become the light you were always meant to be.

Blessed Be!