Craft: How to Be a Modern Witch - Gabriela Herstik 2018

What Witches Believe

Being a witch is about freedom. Freedom to be who you are, to grow as you wish, to worship in the way that you desire. There isn’t a single book or law you have to believe in that officiates your initiation into the world of witch. But there are certain cosmic rules or laws that we acknowledge, which allow us to grow as magick makers and bewitching weavers.

We don’t imagine God as being a giant man in the clouds. God — or the force I prefer to call the Universe — is also known as the Goddess, the Source, Creation and many other names; it is our essence.

She may wear many faces, or none at all. This force is bigger than we are; why would we put human qualities and characteristics on something that’s not human? It is part of us, and we are part of it. It’s from where we came and to where we shall return; it’s the purest form of our soul and more. The language of the Universe is the feeling of being in love, of seeing the stars on a dark night, or of smelling fresh roses, and much more.

working with your karma

We all know Karma. She’s the one friend who never leaves us alone. Who comes over sometimes at the perfect time (like when she randomly lends you that dress you were gonna ask about) and then also manages to find you at the most inconvenient times (like when she needed your help when her dog fell sick and you were on your way to a date). And while we love holding grudges against her, she always manages to teach us something important, so we can’t get too mad.

Karma’s not a bitch. She’s that bitch. If you struggle against her and what she’s teaching you, it’s only going to get harder. But if you recognise her for what she is — a magnified mirror reflecting back your own stuff — then the rest of the lessons get easier.

Much like Newton’s third law of motion states that for every action there is also an equal and opposite reaction, Karma says the same thing. Except in our case, this means that the energy you put out in the Universe at a spiritual, emotional, mental or physical level will come back to you in some way. Positive inspires more positive, and negative inspires more negative.

Karma is just, though we may not always see it. Karma can take generations to heal or generations to wound. We have personal karma: how we act and live in this life, generational karma, the karma of our families, and cultural karma: the karma of a region or society. These all interplay in different ways in our lives, and carry over from our past lives too.

life after life

Each witch will have her own beliefs about death, the afterlife and heaven, which is known as the Summerland in some neo-pagan traditions and Nirvana in some Eastern traditions. This is a notion that will probably evolve along with your practice of the craft, with there being no single ’right’ answer to the question of life after death anyway. Personally, I believe in reincarnation or the idea that the soul is reborn life after life. Karma is reincarnation over time; we are born as many times as we need to be, till our souls become as pure and close to our true essence — and the Universe’s essence — as possible. A belief in reincarnation is common among witches; however it’s not universal, and not believing in reincarnation doesn’t make you wrong.

your cosmic team

Time doesn’t exist beyond this world. Our loved ones who have died can stay and assist us through our lives in the form of spirit guides, much like the idea of guardian angels. Spirit guides can be your ancestors from this life, or they can be guides from past lives. They can even be figures that you admire and look up to, who inspire you and have taught you in some way.

There are also ascended masters. They’re like a spirit-guide upgrade; they’ve fully broken free from the cycle of karma and death and rebirth, so they really know what’s up. They’re there for us in times of intense spiritual and emotional turmoil. While our spirit guides may help us in day-to-day life, the ascended masters help us in things that involve the bigger picture of our lives, which are often spiritual in nature.

Working alongside your spirit guides and masters are your angels. While the idea of angels may have Judeo-Christian connotations, angels are actually non-denominational beings who work to bring peace and love to us — the creatures of the Universe. They, like our other spirit guides and masters, are simply a call away.

Angels, spirit guides and ascended masters are like a team of cosmic cheerleaders and teachers who are here for you whenever you feel disconnected, alone, anxious or unsafe. Talk to them! I talk to my guides in the bathroom at work, in my car and when I’m walking down the street. They are with you for a reason, and even though it may take a second to learn their language, you can! Ask for signs, and invite their help in. Make art for them, decorate an altar and don’t forget to talk to them.

MEDITATING TO MEET YOUR COSMIC TEAM

If you want to meet your cosmic team, you can meditate with them and invite them to make their presence known. You can use crystals like amethyst, angel aura quartz, clear quartz, labradorite or celestite to assist you in accessing your guides.

Cleanse your space with sweetgrass or mugwort, and then find a comfortable seat. You can hold a crystal in your non-dominant hand, or place it near you.

Start to ground your energy, focusing on your breathing as you imagine a door at the crown of your head opening.

Invite your cosmic team to make their presence known. Call on your spirit guides, angels, animal guides and benevolent beings, inviting them to show their presence.

Continue to focus on your breath, noticing if any messages, feelings, colours, smells or voices come up. When you’re finished with the meditation, thank your team, imagine the door at the crown of your head shutting and ground your energy.

INVITING IN THE ELEMENTS

The Elements (or Elementals) are our connection to Nature and the Earth, as well as part of our emotional makeup. By inviting in Earth, Air, Fire and Water for magickal work, we are forming a relationship with these archetypes and energies, as well as the natural world. Water represents our emotional body, Fire represents our passion, Earth represents what supports us and keeps us safe and Air represents our creativity, dreams and desires.

You’ll need: herbs such as palo santo, copal, sage or mugwort; something to light them with; and a chalice or bowl of water.

Ground yourself (see the exercises here) and connect to the Earth. As you begin this invocation, connect to the energy of each Element. Start by calling on Earth while imagining that you’re lying in a field atop the grass. When you connect to Air, feel the wind kissing your cheek. As you call on Fire, imagine feeling warmed by a fireplace or bonfire. When you call on Water, visualise swimming in a pool of healing water.

Next, take the herb in your hand and say:

’Element of Earth, I call upon you and invite you into this space. May I always feel your support and protection.’

Light the herb and blow out the flame (if there is any) and move the herb so the smoke fills the space and say:

’Element of Air, I call upon you and invite you into this space. May I always feel your presence guiding me and supporting my flight.’

Light the herb again so there’s a flame (if possible), and as you do say:

’Element of Fire, I call upon you and invite you into this space. May I always see your light and feel your passion.’

Take the chalice of water and say:

’Element of Water, I call upon you and invite you into this space. May I always feel my intuition and your calming waters.’

You can either dip your herbs in the water, or sprinkle water from the chalice onto your herbs.

Take a second to sit with these Elements, receiving their energy and their blessing.

Proceed to your magickal work, meditation or divination.

When you’re done with your spell or ritual, and feel called to dismiss the Elements, you’ll take similar steps as before, but starting with Water and then dismissing Fire, Air and finally Earth.

Dip your fingers into the water and press it on the space between your eyes and say:

’Element of Water, I thank you for your blessing and energy, and I dismiss you from this ritual.’

Light your herb from before and say:

’Element of Fire, I thank you for your blessing and energy, and I dismiss you from this ritual.’

Wave your herb through the air so smoke fills your space and say:

’Element of Air, I thank you for your blessing and energy, and I dismiss you from this ritual.’

Put out the herbs and say:

’Element of Earth, I thank you for your blessing and energy, and I dismiss you from this ritual.’

Ground your energy by pressing your forehead into the Earth or by sitting in a cross-legged position. Imagine all the excess energy in your body and the room moving back into the core of the Earth, to be recycled and transmuted into love and healing. Thank the Elements and write down any feelings that may have come up.

how to cast a circle

You can’t be a fully-fledged witch without learning the basics of casting and closing a circle! Think of the circle as being a sphere that surrounds you and your work completely. It keeps the energy you’ve raised inside it and any negative energy out.

There are different methods for casting a circle, but the most important thing is to find one that resonates with you. Here are a few ways to figure out your own circle casting style:

casting the circle

The circle should encompass whatever space you need to perform your spell or ritual, including your altar or whatever surface you’re working on. For a solitary practitioner, this area should measure around six feet in diameter.

Before you cast a circle, make sure that you won’t be interrupted and that you have everything you need. Take a second to ground yourself (see here) and burn incense or herbs to help cleanse your space. Imagine you’re surrounded by white light that comes from the heavens and descends upon you.

” When you’re ready, walk in a clockwise direction (also known as deosil) around the space you want to encompass, starting by facing North.

” Use your finger as a wand, a real wand or an athame (a ritual knife), and imagine a blueish white light extending from your fingertip or the object to form a protective hedge around you wherever you point.

” Walk the circle once or three times, while imagining the blueish white light extending into a sphere above your head and below your feet.

” You can also physically mark the exterior of your circle with shells, crystals or salt. Salt is one of the smallest natural crystals, and absorbs excess energy.

” When you’ve circled and returned to the front, you can say something like the following:

’I cast this circle in perfect love and perfect trust as a meeting place between worlds. May this boundary protect and hold my energy.’

” Once you have cast your circle, you should do your very best not to leave it while you are working, because the energy will dissipate if you do. However, if it’s necessary to leave the circle, you can cut an energetic door into the circle, and pass through this so as to not disturb the surrounding energy.

” To cut a doorway, you can use your finger, wand or an athame, to mimic ’cutting’ a doorway into the circle, rising up from the ground, above your head, to the side and then down again. Step through the door, and try to do what you need to do quickly. You can re-enter the circle through the same doorway, re-cutting it if you wish. If you have to be gone for more than ten minutes, it might be best to recast the whole circle.

closing the circle

Close the circle the same way you cast it, after your ritual or spell is complete. Except this time you will walk in an anticlockwise direction (or widdershins) to close it, instead of clockwise.

” Using whatever tool you used before, imagine the energy you cast coming back to you, through your body, through your feet back into Mother Earth. Walk once anticlockwise around the circle before stopping at the front of where your circle was, and say:

’The circle is open, may it never be broken.’

” Ground your energy by pressing your forehead and palms to the floor, imagining any excess energy returning to the Earth.

As your magick starts to grow in strength, you may find a better way to cast your circle. Perhaps you will do yours seated or during meditation, imagining a giant bubble filling up with golden white light that surrounds you. Perhaps you make up your own prayer or song to sing as you’re casting your circle, using a candle at each corner to mark the boundary.

Traditionally, to open the circle you walk clockwise, or deosil, and to close it you walk anticlockwise, or widdershins. It’s up to you to find the method that makes you feel the most protected, safe and supported.

the universe and witch’s laws

All that we see and experience is but one aspect of the Universe. The Universe is divided into levels, each composed of energy in a different way. And while we live in a level ruled by our senses, this is only one plane of reality. If our Universe were an onion, then our level would represent a single layer. As we move higher and higher through the layers of the onion, they become less dense — just like the Universe moves away from the physical, towards the energetic.

I will be talking about the astral realm in more detail later in this book. This is the realm parallel to our own, where the faeries and other Nature spirits, like sylphs, nymphs and unicorns, exist. It is where we find ourselves when we have a lucid dream. It’s where our ancestors come from to talk to us.

First, we must remember the laws of the universe that allow us to work our magick. Understanding these spiritual and energetic laws will help us learn how to work with the universe to allow our magick to unfold as effortlessly as possible.

As above, so below. As within, so without. There are laws every witch should learn about.

symbols of the witch

Each witch shall have her proper symbols that help her tell who she is. These are some of the most common magickal items and symbols associated with the craft. You can incorporate the symbols into your grimoire or buy the items for your altar and your practice. Find what speaks to you and work with it.

PENTACLE

One of the most prominent symbols in witchcraft is the pentacle. A pentacle is a pentagram, a five-pointed star, enclosed within a circle. Each point in the pentagram represents an Element: Earth, Air, Fire and Water, with Spirit at the top. Spirit, aka the Universe, is on top because that’s the thread tying the other Elements together. The circle enclosing the pentacle represents this thread, this universal consciousness that runs through the Earth around us and inside us, connecting it all together.

THE TRIPLE MOON

The Triple Moon is symbolised by a waxing and waning Moon on either side of a full Moon. This symbol is said to represent three aspects of the Goddess: maiden, mother and crone, which are archetypes undefined by time or necessity (like actually being a mother, or being young or old). This symbol is associated with feminine mysteries, Goddess worship, psychic protection and the Divine Feminine.

THE CAULDRON

Inspired by Celtic legend, the cauldron symbolises the Goddess and the womb from which all life comes. This is one of the most ancient symbols of a witch, representing her inherent connection to the Divine Feminine while also representing her power for physical and energetic manifestation. At the cauldron, the witch is able to create life-affirming foods, stews and potions; she’s been able to divine the future, burn sacred herbs and create and cast spells.

THE CHALICE

The chalice, or cup, is another symbol associated with the Divine Feminine, with the flow of emotions and the womb. The chalice can be kept on the altar or stored away wrapped in a black cloth. The chalice is used to represent the Divine Feminine, to leave offerings to the Goddess, and is also used for libations. Find one you like. Let it fill your emotional and spiritual womb. May it remind you of your ability to create and recharge emotionally.

THE BROOM

The broom is to the masculine what the chalice is to the feminine. It is a symbol full of power and intention. Ancient witches were said to put hallucinatory herbs on their brooms and then masturbate with them, which gave them the feeling of flying. Brooms were used to cast circles and in spellwork when witches had to keep their practice private, because brooms, or besoms, were such normal everyday tools. You can use a cinnamon broom to cleanse your space, ’sweeping’ the air out of the front door. You can also hang one above your door or fireplace.

THE ATHAME

The athame, or ritual knife, is a dagger that might be anything from a few inches to ten or twelve inches long, with a black handle. Amongst other things, the athame is used in magick to cast (and cut) circles, bless water and draw pentagrams to protect, invoke or banish.

THE WAND

The wand is connected to the element of air in the tarot; it represents inspired action and a connection to intuition and our Higher Self. The wand can be used to cast a circle or to direct energy.

creating an altar

A major suggestion for any new witch is to create an altar. Not only will this intentional act help to make your space more sacred, it will give you a place in which to focus and grow — not to mention work — your magick. We’ll be looking again at altars here as a form of sacred space, but it’s never too early to start thinking about creating one of your own.

You’ll need: a space where you can house your altar, like a dresser or table; and any objects that correspond to whatever you’re trying to honour or manifest (these can include crystals, flowers, photographs, books, candles, talismans and more — see the Tables of Correspondences for more ideas).

STEP 1: CLEANSE THE ALTAR

As an altar is a sacred space where energy is consciously worked with, it should be cleansed regularly to keep unwanted and negative vibes out. Before you begin, make sure there’s nothing on the space you want to consecrate as part of your altar.

Press your feet into the Earth, take a few deep breaths and connect to the Universe. What is it that your altar is helping you with? Do you want a space to connect you with your life and/or higher purpose? Or do you just want a safe space in which to explore new ideas? Keep that intent in mind as you cleanse the surface of your altar with sage or palo santo. You can also wipe down the surface with Florida water (a citrus-based cologne known for its cleansing properties and smell), rose water or crystal-infused water (quartz and amethyst elixirs would be perfect).

STEP 2: INVITE IN YOUR HIGHER SELF

Once you’ve physically cleansed your altar, it’s time to ask the Universe and your Higher Self for their compassion and blessing. You can also address any beings, deities, angels, masters or saints you work with for their blessing.

STEP 3: DECORATE THAT BABY UP!

Now comes the fun. Time to decorate! You can place candles, crystals, magickal items, talismans and photos on your altar. The colours that correspond to chakras in the chart also correspond to colour magick and candle magick. You could, for example, create an all-white altar, with white candles, quartz, moonstone and white roses on it for peace. Maybe you want to dedicate an altar to a loved one who’s passed away. You can have an altar that serves no greater purpose than just being a working space that looks beautiful. Decorate it in any way you see fit, and, if you wish, search Pinterest, Tumblr and Instagram for inspiration. If it’s to be a working altar (where you’ll be working spells), remember to leave space for a grimoire and some candles.

If you don’t know where to start, pick out one object as a focal point. This could be an old ornate candle, a crystal, a book, a picture of your grandma, an offering like fruit or flowers, a talisman or something else. Add candles, dried flowers, leaves, plants or whatever else you desire.

You can also use your altar as a way to honour your ancestors and guides. Leave them fruit, milk, honey, liquor and sweets as an offering. Write them a poem, and then read it to them every morning. They are listening.

STEP 4: GROUND AND REPEAT

You can cleanse your altar again, once all the objects are on it, or simply ground your energy and enjoy the fruits of your labour! Make an effort to stop by your altar daily. Here are a few ways to do that. You could, for example:

” Light a candle each morning and thank/pray to your guides and ancestors.

” Pull a tarot card each morning and add it on to your altar.

” Charge your clothing for the next day by laying it on your altar and placing crystals on top of the pieces. Charge your keys or wallet by placing green and black stones around them for creativity, abundance and protection.

holidays of the witch

The witch lives by the cycle not only of the Moon but also of the Sun. We acknowledge the Cosmos as these heavenly bodies are reborn, growing and dying each year.

Each month, witches celebrate the full Moon through gatherings known as full Moon esbats, although esbats can be held at other times depending on when a coven chooses to meet up.

Witches celebrate sabbats to mark the passing of the seasons. These include the Equinoxes and the Winter and Summer Solstices, as well as the days falling halfway between these, which are known as cross-quarter days. The sabbats are the high and holy days for the witch, when the atmosphere is charged like electricity for magick, manifestation and reflection. The eight sabbats form what’s known as the Wheel of the Year.

We celebrate the sabbats as a way to connect with the Earth and her changing seasons. We celebrate as our ancestors did thousands of years ago — to connect us to that ancient power that comes from living by the cycles of the Sun and Moon.

Each holiday is celebrated with a corresponding altar and ritual. Read through each holiday below a couple of times so you grow familiar with all of them. All of the suggestions can be adapted; get creative if you wish to celebrate with your loved ones or friends. The rituals should feel good to you.

The Wheel of the Year is different depending on which hemisphere you live in. The diagram shows the Wheel of the Year for the Northern hemisphere, when summer falls in June and winter in December.

THE MYTH OF THE CHANGING SEASONS**

For witches, the myth of the God and the Goddess represents and mimics the Earth’s changing seasons, dying in winter and reborn each spring. There are various manifestations that represent the forces at work. Some choose to honour these archetypes as deities. They include:

The Oak King: God of forest and Earth, the Oak King rules the waxing year and defeats the Holly King at the Winter Solstice. He rules from December (Yule) until June (Midsummer).

The Holly King: A woody version of Santa Claus, the Holly King is the god of the waning year, who defeats the Oak King at Midsummer. He rules from June (Midsummer) to December (Yule).

The Great Mother or Goddess: At Yule the Goddess gives birth to the Sun God. At Midsummer, she meets her son/consort and they embrace so completely that their love mimics death.

The Sun God: According to the myth that threads through the seasons of the year, the Sun God becomes the lover of the Goddess, thereby fertilising the Earth and bringing it back to life in summer. At the Autumn Equinox he becomes known as the Lord of the Shadows, in preparation for the darkness of winter.

yule: the winter solstice

20 TO 23 DECEMBER

Winter is coming, but really. Yule represents the transition into the season, marking the longest night of the year and the beginning of the waxing year, when the Sun’s light starts to increase. The Winter Solstice has been celebrated in some form or other across the world for thousands of years. Stonehenge circle is oriented to frame the Winter Solstice sunset.

The Winter Solstice is a time for us to talk to our shadows. For us to lie in the darkness and talk to anything we’ve left behind. It’s a day when we can honour the hurts we home in our souls and transmute them to lessons and medicine for the coming year. It’s an invitation to turn shadows into light.

How to decorate your altar: pine cones; herbs like mistletoe, holly, evergreen, ash bark, thistle; white and silver candles; heirlooms or talismans that connect you to your ancestors; a yule log; the Death tarot card.

Non-ritual ways to celebrate: spend time near a fire; read your tarot; make mulled wine; play outside; buy yourself or loved ones gifts.

Suggested ritual: a fire ritual to let go of what’s no longer serving you

You’ll need: a fireplace, cauldron or fireproof bowl; paper and a pen; herbs like rosemary, rue or cinnamon, palo santo or sage; a lighter.

” Find somewhere safe to light an open flame (like fireplace or fire pit, or a cauldron or fire-safe bowl).

” Take a ritual bath with salt, rosemary and rue to help ground you and keep you protected.

” Get out of the bath, taking your time to dry off and ground yourself, before getting dressed and asking your angels and guides for assistance and compassion.

” Cast your circle (see ’How to Cast a Circle’).

” Write down on a piece of paper whatever it is that you want to let go of in the next six months (like a toxic relationship, bad living situation or negative habit, etc.).

” Rip up the paper and place the pieces in the bowl, asking your cosmic team for guidance and messages.

” Light the paper and gaze at the flame, knowing that as this paper burns away, it’s releasing your attachment to any old unhelpful patterns of behaviour.

” Sprinkle over protection herbs like rosemary, rue and cinnamon.

” Imagine the energy accumulating from the burning papers as a cone of power, extending from the base of your circle and tapering up over your head. (This is when you’re releasing your magick and energy into the Universe where they can do their work.)

” Sense this energy leaving you until you feel settled. Then close the circle.

” Ground and centre yourself.

” Toss the cooled ashes to the wind as an offering to the Universe.

imbolc: candlemas

1 FEBRUARY

Imbolc is the first cross-quarter day of the year, a day that falls halfway between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox. Imbolc celebrates the approaching return of spring. Just like the groundhog wakes up and looks for its shadow on this day, Imbolc marks the Earth waking up after the slumber of winter. It celebrates the promise of new life and beginnings. Traditionally Imbolc was a day to celebrate the Celtic goddess Brigid, and ask for her protection of the home, crops and livestock.

Imbolc is a time to start making our way up from the shadowy depths of our souls that we explored during Yule. Imbolc is the day when we are allowed to thaw our pains with medicine from the Sun, and grow what we want to as we approach the Spring Equinox and the start of a new cycle.

How to decorate your altar: seeds and plants; cinnamon, daffodil, rosemary or lavender; a spoonful of soil; a Brigid cross or doll; red, white or green candles; poetry, writing and art; white or red flowers; a cauldron filled with dirt to represent the Earth. Tarot cards such as the Three of Wands or the Star.

Non-ritual ways to celebrate: spend time outside; talk to the Sun; journal; write a list of goals and projects to nurture; spend time with a baby; meditate; buy new plants; take a ritual bath or stargaze.

Suggested ritual: a candle magick ritual for inspiration and abundance

You’ll need: a white taper candle (a chime candle works perfectly for this); white, yellow or pink flowers; rosemary or lavender oil; a chime or bell (optional); and a piece of paper and a pen.

” Cleanse your space with palo santo or sage (see here).

” Ring any bells or chimes.

” Ground and centre yourself.

” Cast your circle and call in the Elements.

” Imagine white light surrounding you as you hold your candle.

” You may call upon Brigid/ your guides or masters/ whichever deity you wish for inspiration and meditate on this feeling.

” Cleanse your pen and candle with sacred smoke.

” On your piece of paper, write down any artistic and creative endeavours that you want to manifest. Fit this into a single short sentence that you can carve into your candle.

” Carve the words into your candle using a pen, toothpick or needle, from the base of the candle up.

” Take your oil and anoint your candle by rubbing from the top to the middle, then the bottom to the middle.

” Set your candle in a holder, placing flowers around it (carefully so they don’t burn).

” Light your candle (as you take note of what the flame looks like).

” Then say:

’On this sacred Brigid’s day, may this candle light the way. May it shine on my creativity that flows abundantly as the sea.’

” Dance, sing or chant to raise the energy.

” At the peak of this activity, imagine the energy accumulating from the base of your circle, tapering up over your head in a cone of power. Then imagine white light shooting from the crown of your head into the Cosmos.

” Let the candle burn if you can, but use a candle snuffer or fan the flame out if you can’t let it burn down safely. Never leave a candle burning unattended, use candle holders and keep your candles away from anything flammable. You can also let your candles burn safely in a sink if needed.

” Close the circle.

” Ground your energy.

” You can dispose of the candle wax by burying it or disposing of it carefully at a crossroads or intersection. This way the energy will scatter and ’get lost’ so it can do its work.

” If necessary, relight the candle and repeat the visualisation the next day, letting the candle burn down completely. This shouldn’t take more than three days after the initial ritual.

ostara: the spring equinox

20 TO 23 MARCH

Ostara, or the Spring Equinox, marks the first official day of spring, when night and day are of equal length. The return of spring is celebrated all over the world — from the Christian Easter to Jewish Passover to the Iranian New Year, known as Nowruz. For witches, the Spring Equinox is known as Ostara, named after the Germanic lunar goddess, an embodiment of the great Goddess who gave birth to the Sun God at the Winter Solstice. As an Equinox, Ostara is a time of balance and equilibrium.

The Spring Equinox is a reminder that it’s time to celebrate and plant seeds, both metaphorically and physically, for what we want to bring to bloom in the upcoming season. It’s also a time when we honour all the things we’ve achieved since the Winter Solstice. It’s time to bloom, breathe, create, procreate and reap the sweetness of what we’ve manifested, as we’re brought even closer to the light.

How to decorate your altar: any flowers (especially warm colours); black and white candles; seeds, citrus, fruits, pomegranates, honey; citrine, clear quartz, aventurine; or an offering of milk or honey for the faeries. Tarot cards such as the High Priestess and Nine of Cups may also adorn your altar.

Non-ritual ways to celebrate: plant flowers or garden; take a walk in the Sun and talk to the trees; spring clean your home and donate old clothing to charity. Collect flowers and press them in a vintage frame; enjoy a picnic in a field; swim or lie outside naked with the Sun kissing your skin.

Suggested ritual: a plant meditation for growth and spiritual connection

You’ll need: a pot plant like a violet or ivy — something to which you feel connected and which can live in your sacred space.

” Cleanse your space with palo santo, sage or cedar.

” Ground and centre yourself.

” Cast your circle.

” Hold your plant in your hand, thinking of how she connects you to the Universe. May you tend to her as you tend to your inner world. May she remind you that there’s always balance in the chaos.

” If you’re repotting your own plant, this is the time to do so.

” Next, take a seat and place your plant in front of you. Imagine the energy of this plant sitting at your heart, her roots extending down through your legs into the Earth. Her vines and leaves are growing out through your arms and through the top of your head, connecting back to the Earth.

” What does the energy of your plant feel like? What does she remind you of? Do you feel a connection to a faery? Record any thoughts, feelings or visions in your grimoire.

” Close the circle.

” Ground your energy.

” Connect with this energy whenever you tend to the plant. Tell your plant sweet and loving things. Ask it for guidance. Build a relationship with the spirit of the plant and listen to it!

beltane: may day

30 APRIL TO 1 MAY

May Day, which takes place on May Day eve and 1 May, is the second cross-quarter day of the year, falling between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. The May Pole is probably the most famous image of this holiday of fire and fertility, which marks the approach of summer and all the sensuality that the returning Sun brings with it. Beltane represents sacred sexuality, and the eternal cycle of sacrifice and rebirth needed for the continuation of life. At Beltane, the ancient Celts honoured Bel, the god of light and fire who represents the deity that impregnates the Great Mother. The Celts would celebrate by lighting bel-fires, or bonfires, to mark the return of light to the world, a practice that is continued today.

May Day is a day to reassess how and why we light our flame. What turns your heart on? How about your body and soul? What is it that you’d like to continue manifesting this season? This is a day for passion, growth and love of any and all kinds.

How to decorate your altar: flowers of all kinds; flower crowns and colourful ribbons; sprigs of rosemary, motherwort and marigold; the Lovers tarot card.

Non-ritual ways to celebrate: spend time outside; having a bonfire; making (and wearing) a flower crown; leaving offerings of milk, honey or fruit for the faeries; making love; divination; picking flowers or fruit.

Suggested ritual: a rose-quartz self-love ritual

You’ll need: a piece of selenite (one that’s not too rough on your skin); a smooth piece of rose quartz; a mirror and rose oil or massage oil.

” Cleanse your space with palo santo or sage.

” Put a vase of roses or flowers on your altar, and slip into something that makes you feel sexy and empowered.

” Ground and centre yourself.

” Cast a circle.

” Find a comfortable seat with your mirror.

” Cleanse your aura with the selenite, starting at the crown of your head and then moving the crystal around your neck, arms, palms, heart, torso, legs and soles of the feet.

” Place your mirror in front of you, putting some oil on your legs.

” Use your rose quartz to start massaging the bottom of your feet, moving up each leg.

” Imagine a shining golden light from the crystal infusing your flesh.

” Give yourself compliments, saying what you like about each part of your body. (There’s always something, even if it’s just ’I love how my legs carry me through my day without pain’ or ’I’m so thankful for this heart that stays open’!)

” Move up your legs, adding oil as needed, to your pelvic bones and torso, up your arms, throat and over the third eye (a spiritual gateway located in the forehead, just above and between the eyebrows), towards the crown of your head. End back down at your heart. You should feel like you’re in a warm cocoon of golden light.

” When you feel a slight vibration or warmth, or simply feel ready, say:

’I bless this temple with quartz of rose, I bless this open heart as an open door.’

” Imagine your heart as the most beautiful door you’ve ever seen, opening to the Universe to receive all the love and offerings she has in store for you.

” Then say:

’May this love be ever-present; may I savour this connection.’

” Take this time to focus on all the things that make you happy and that you love about yourself.

” As your energy rises, imagine a cone of power extending from the base of your circle to the top of your head into the Universe in a stream of golden light.

” Release your intention into the Cosmos, knowing that an abundance of love is waiting for you.

” Close the circle and ground your energy.

” Record your experience in your grimoire.

litha: the summer solstice or midsummer

20 TO 23 JUNE

Lap it up, baby! It’s summer! Time to let go of the winter blues and step into your most beautiful, expansive self. Midsummer is the longest day of the year and the shortest night. It’s also the beginning of the waning season. Today is the energetic climax of the year, when the Sun is at his peak. It’s time to celebrate all the love we’ve given, all the ass we’ve kicked, all the work we’ve put in and all we’ve accomplished in the past six months.

Midsummer is when the Cosmos is holding and supporting us, when we’re allowed to release anything we’ve been keeping in. What creative venture is waiting to burst forth? What can you continue to nurture into the next season?

How to decorate your altar: roses and other summer flowers; red, gold or orange candles; a chalice or cauldron filled with water; bundles of red and white heather; oak and holly leaves; and the Sun tarot card.

Non-ritual ways to celebrate: make a bonfire; swim in the ocean or a pool; take a walk in the park; and leave an offering for the faeries. You can drink wine in a field with lovers or friends; buy yourself some flowers; wear sunny, golden colours; make love and enjoy the energetic peak of the year.

Suggested ritual: a rose petal spell and offering for sweet manifestations

You’ll need: a rose for each person taking part; a cauldron or bowl; oil with properties that relate to what you’re manifesting (if you choose); herbs such as lavender, St John’s wort, sage, mint (which are all linked to this time of year); crystals like carnelian, clear quartz, citrine, tiger’s eye and garnet; a pen (gold or silver ink would be best, but black will still work).

” Find a space where you can remain undisturbed.

” Ground yourself.

” Cast a circle.

” Settle yourself down in the centre of your circle with your roses and crystals.

” Then say:

’On this Summer Solstice day, these roses listen and hear my prayers. May they manifest with ease and grace, all while working in my highest favour.’

” State an intention as you pick a petal from the rose. You can use the same intention on multiple petals, picking them individually or as a bunch, dropping each of them into the cauldron or bowl.

” If you are performing this ritual with others, take turns, with each of you holding the space as the other declares his or her intention.

” If you wish, write what you want to manifest on the petals.

” Continue until your roses hold no more petals.

” Now make an offering of your herbs and oils, adding these to the cauldron or bowl. The flowers are beings who hear you: know that they are listening, and feel what it will be like when you manifest your intentions.

” Imagine the energy accumulating from the ritual you’ve just completed, then rising in the form of a cone of power, extending from the base of your circle and tapering up over your head. This is when you’re releasing your magick and energy into the Universe so it can do its work.

” Feel this energy leaving you until you feel settled.

” Close the circle.

” Ground your power.

” Take the rose petals somewhere outside. If there is a natural body of water near you, this would be ideal. Cast the petals to the wind or water, thanking them for their work and returning them to the Earth as an offering. You can also make oil from the roses, or sew them into a pink sachet with rosemary and tuck it into your pillow.

lughnasadh or lammas day

1 AUGUST

Lughnasadh, named after the Celtic Sun god Lugh, is a cross-quarter day and the first of the three harvest holidays, marking the beginning of the harvest season. The day is celebrated with feasting, games and song. It’s when we welcome in the impending darkness on an energetic level. Our spirits begin to shift and prepare for autumn: something wicked this way comes!

What needs more nourishment? How about less? Lammas allows us to see how our goals from Midsummer are holding up, and it offers us the opportunity to prepare ourselves for the coming season; physically, emotionally and spiritually.

How to decorate your altar: grains; poppies; bilberries; wheat and other seasonal pickings; candles in autumn colours like gold, brown and burgundy; dark red and orange stones like citrine, carnelian, tiger’s eye and amber; the Sun tarot card.

Non-ritual ways to celebrate: bake fresh bread; pick crops or make a list of that which you intend to harvest, both spiritually and mentally, keeping this list where you can see it; spend time nurturing yourself or your loved ones; write in your journal; read the tarot; and take time to give thanks for the bounty ahead.

Suggested ritual: a spell to recalibrate and nurture new beginnings

You’ll need: a pen and paper; your grimoire; a fireproof bowl or cauldron; citrus oils or Florida water; sage, palo santo or cedar; and a plant if you have one.

” Cleanse your space with the sacred smoke of sage, palo santo or cedar.

” Ground and centre yourself, connecting to the energy of the Earth.

” Cast your circle.

” Fold your paper in half, thinking about the next two months and the start of autumn.

” On the right side of the paper, write down what nourishes you.

” On the left, write down what no longer nourishes you.

” Be as specific as you can be, taking inventory of what feeds your energy and what depletes it.

” Rip the two sections apart.

” Take a look at what’s depleting you energetically. In your grimoire, write down five ways you can shift these things so they feed you, or five new ways to find nourishment.

” Tear up the half of the paper listing what’s depleting you and burn it.

” You can anoint the list of what’s nourishing you by rubbing the oil or Florida water on it in the form of an invoking pentagram (starting from the top down to the bottom left, up to the right, to the left, down to the bottom right and then up to the top).

” When you feel ready, fold this half of the paper up. You can either leave it under your plant or on your altar until the next full Moon, or bury it somewhere outside once this ritual is complete.

” Close your eyes and feel what it would be like to be supported, nourished and cared for in all your ventures.

” Raise energy by chanting, dancing, singing or masturbating.

” At the climax, imagine a cone of power extending from the boundaries of your circle up through the crown of your head into the Universe: this is your declaration of nourishment and health. Know it’s promised.

” Close your circle.

” Ground your energy.

On the next full Moon, take stock and check in to see how fulfilled and nourished you feel, and how you can let go of whatever’s keeping you from feeling supported.

mabon: autumn equinox

20 TO 23 SEPTEMBER

Everyone knows what it feels like when autumn arrives. The air hangs heavier, the veil feels murkier, there’s something that shifts. This officially begins on Mabon, the first day of autumn — when night and day are of equal length. Autumn is a time of balance, a theme played out by the Sun, which enters the sign of Libra, the scales. Mabon is when the harvest is completed and we look forward at the impending winter as a time of death, rebirth and transformation. It’s a day of being grateful and giving thanks.

The Autumn Equinox is a time to see the abundance set before us so we can enter the darkness and await the transformation that’s promised there. The Autumn Equinox is when we allow ourselves to begin to transform into our fullest selves. This is like the witch’s Thanksgiving Day, when we say thank you to the Universe for all of her abundance.

How to decorate your altar: squash and gourds; leaves; acorns, seeds, nuts and pine cones; feathers; anything that makes you feel rich and grounded. An ear of corn was said to be at the centre of the Eleusinian mysteries, and this may be an addition to your altar if it calls to you. The Ten of Pentacles card may find its way onto your altar as well.

Non-ritual ways to celebrate: make some apple cider; spend a bit of time in a graveyard; watch a scary movie and eat your favourite comfort food; spend time collecting beautiful leaves and arrange them in a vintage frame; take a walk in the park, thanking the trees and flowers for their gifts; make a list of everything you’re grateful for — and thank the Universe for it.

Suggested ritual: an apple and element ritual for guidance and protection

This ritual is to prepare for the coming winter, to remind us that we are supported even in the darkest time of year.

You’ll need: a knife, an apple (or a pomegranate or citrus fruit if you’re allergic to apples) and a white tea light candle.

” Cleanse your space with sage and a cinnamon broom if you have one.

” Ground yourself.

” Cast your circle.

” Call in the energy of gratitude and meditate on the idea of abundance. Feel this white light spread throughout your chest and your being.

” Cut the apple in half, width wise. When it’s cut, you’ll see the seeds resemble the shape of a star.

” Carve out a hole on one side big enough for your white tea light.

” Place the candle in the apple and say:

’Even at the winter hour, I shall always find my power. May I always see my path, and know abundance as a fact.’

” Light the candle, asking any guardian angels and deities to bless the light as you move toward winter. This white candle represents the internal guidance and light that you always have in you.

” Take the other half of the apple.

” Eat one bite and say:

’Element of Earth, may I always feel your protection.’

” Eat another bite and say:

’Element of Air, may I always feel your guidance.’

” Eat another bite and say:

’Element of Fire, may I always feel your passion.’

” Eat another bite and say:

’Element of Water, may I always feel your support.’

” Eat one more bite, or the rest of the piece, and say:

’Element of Spirit, may I feel the cosmic thread connecting me to you.

May I see your light whenever I need it. So mote it be.’

” Visualise a white light surrounding you. Sit with this.

” Release this energy as a cone of power, extending from the base of your circle and tapering up over your head. This is when you’re releasing your magick and energy into the Universe so it can do its work.

” Feel this energy leaving you until you feel settled.

” Close the circle and ground yourself.

” Once the tea light has finished burning, bury or throw the apple away at a crossroads.

samhain: the witch’s new year

31 OCTOBER

IT’S THE NEW YEAR! AND IT’S HALLOWEEN! If there’s one day you can really let your inner freaky witch out, it’s on Samhain. Also known as the witch’s New Year, Samhain celebrates all we’ve accomplished and allows us to do so alongside those who have made it happen: our ancestors. The veil that separates us from them is like a curtain, and we’re able to peek behind it much more easily now than at any other time of year.

Honouring our ancestors, our roots, our families and ourselves is an overarching theme of Samhain, when we’re encouraged to engage with the Other Side. Halloween feels different to the other sabbats — and that’s because it is! May we use the witch’s New Year to recharge and reset ourselves.

How to decorate your altar: roses and brightly coloured flowers; skulls; seasonal decorations like squash, gourds, acorns and seeds; candles in autumn colours such as black, deep red and orange; heirlooms and talismans that connect you to your ancestors; any offerings to icons and loved ones on the Other Side; Death and the Moon tarot cards are also appropriate.

Non-ritual ways to celebrate: go trick-or-treating; have a midnight picnic in a cemetery; write a letter to your deceased loved ones and then burn it. Leave an offering of mulled wine for your ancestors; talk to the Moon and enjoy the night.

Suggested ritual: an ancestral blessing spell for a sweet New Year

You’ll need: a pomegranate (if you’re allergic, use an apple instead); a pen and your grimoire; pictures of any deceased relatives or loved ones, icons or guides etc. on your altar; an athame or wand; a bowl and a black tea candle.

” Cleanse, cleanse and cleanse your space. This is the most important and energetically charged time of the year and you want to make sure your space feels safe and inviting.

” Ground and centre yourself, asking to connect with the wisdom and spirit of your ancestors.

” Cast a circle, and as you finish inviting in the Elements, invite your ancestors to join you as well.

” Say:

’As we gather on this day, we’re reminded of how thin the veil hangs. Ancestors and guides, I ask for your compassion, for your love and your direction. Join me now at this Samhain celebration, as we reflect on this past year and give thanks for its manifestations.’

” Dividing in half a page in your grimoire, write a list of ’thorns’ and ’roses’ for the year, taking note of all the good and the bad, and seeing how they balance out.

” Once completed, move to your altar.

” Recite each ’rose’ to your ancestors, eating a pomegranate seed for each one (or taking a bite of apple). Imagine each pomegranate seed manifesting more of every good thing.

” When you’re done with listing your ’roses’, use your athame or wand to draw the sign of the invoking pentagram above the altar and say:

’This next year, may I see only roses in front of me.’

” Follow the same steps for your ’thorns’, except instead of eating a pomegranate seed for each one, place the seeds in the bowl as an offering to your ancestors.

” Draw the banishing pentagram above your altar and say:

’May I see these thorns as opportunities. May my ancestors show me the way to light, love and wisdom even on the darkest days.’

” Light your black candle, take five deep breaths and gaze into the light.

” Soften your focus and notice any feelings or images you see in the flame. Is anyone coming to mind? Do you sense any messages from loved ones? If you can, let the candle burn all the way down.

” Thank your ancestors, offering them the pomegranate seeds.

” Once you feel ready, you can dismiss your ancestors, allowing them to return to the spirit realm while saying something like:

’Ancestors, I feel your spirits and I thank you for hearing and honouring my call. May I always remember your wisdom and presence. I know you’re always with me. I thank you for coming to this ritual and dismiss you. Blessed be.’

” Close the circle.

” Ground and centre yourself, recording anything you have observed or experienced in your grimoire.

” If some of the candle is leftover, let it burn down safely over the next three days. After three days, you can leave your pomegranate seeds outside as an offering to the natural world.