Wednesday 29 February 2012

The magic of Sea Shells

Living near the sea I am lucky enough to be able to collect sea shells easily, I love walking along the beach and always come back with pockets full of shells and hag stones.

So how about the magical properties of the humble sea shell?

Obviously sea shells are associated with water, I often use a shell to represent West when I am in ritual, I also use them in water element witches bottles.

The Moon controls the tides of the ocean so shells are also associated with the Moon, I have a large round flat mother of pearl shell on my main altar to represent the Moon.

Being associated with water and the Moon I think the shell works perfectly in spells for emotions too.

Shells also have an association with Aphrodite, so can also be used for love spells.  Use a shell as a love drawing  talisman.

In the past shells were also used in some parts of the world as currency so they also have the association of money and prosperity.  Use in money drawing medicine bags or pop a small shell in your purse.

Think about what a shell is, it is a protective covering for the creature inside making shells also good for protection.  Use them in your witches bottles, or strung on a necklace for this purpose.

Shells can also be used in divination, use in a set with pebbles, crystals and bones to cast a reading (think Tia Dalma on Pirates of the Caribbean LOL!!).  Africa has a history of cowrie shell divination.

Particular shells also have their own individual meanings:

Abalone - general use and containment of empowered herbs and stones
Clam shells - purification and love
Conche shell - love
Cone shell - protection
Cowrie shell - prosperity, money - if you look at a cowrie shell is also looks very 'feminine' ;-)
Whelks - dramatic positive change
Limpets - courage, confidence, strength
Scallops - travel, movement

If you are collecting your own sea shells please make sure that the creature is not still inside it, if you do pick up one with a living creature toss it back into the water.

If you are purchasing your sea shells in a shop or from the internet please make sure they are from sustainable and viable sources.

Tansy
x

Monday 27 February 2012

The Druid's Primer

I received a copy of Luke Eastwood's book The Druid's Primer from those lovely people at Moon Books last week.

The back cover of the book says that "The Druid's Primer is a comprehensive guide to genuine druidic knowledge and practice based on ancient texts and surviving Celtic lore and customs".

And I have to say that is pretty much spot on, this is indeed  a comprehensive guide to druidry.

The chapters covered are:

History of druidry
What is a druid?
Gods & Goddesses
Myth & Legend
Elemental Forces
Cosmology
Inspiration - this chapter also includes some lovely visualisation exercises
Immrama 
Animism and animal worship
Cycles of the sun, moon and earth - this chapter covers the sabbats too
Tools of the trade
Divination
Ogham
Medicine & healing
Justice & wisdom

Having been on a similar path myself for many years now a lot of the information wasn't new, but it was all interesting.  I especially enjoyed the chapter on Immrama.

Lovely to see all the cycles of the sun, moon and earth covered, rather than just the moon.

It reads well and is laid out in an easy to follow format, lots of interesting historic facts added to Luke's own understanding of druidry.

Comprehensive it certainly is and a must read for anyone interested in the path of druidry and even for those already on that path I would think as well.  For someone on the druidic journey it will end up being very well thumbed and one of those books that will always be referred back to for reference.

Tansy
x

Friday 24 February 2012

Moon Books

I recently found (via facebook) a brilliant book publishing company that specialises in pagan books, their name is Moon Books.  I could try to tell you what they do in my own words, but as they put it so perfectly on their own website this is what they say:



What is Paganism? a religion, a spirituality, an alternative belief system, nature worship? You can find support for all these definitions (and many more) in dictionaries, encyclopedias, and text books of religion, but subscribe to any one and the truth will evade you. Above all Paganism is a creative pursuit, an encounter with reality, an exploration of meaning and an expression of the soul. Druids, Heathens, Wiccans and others, all contribute their insights and literary riches to the Pagan tradition. Moon Books invites you to begin or to deepen your own encounter, right here, right now.  We're a traditional publisher, in that we do all the usual things - print books, sell them, pay royalties, but we’re unusual in many respects. We have a different kind of vision to most of what the author/publisher relationship should be, and where publishing is heading.


Their website goes on to say that they "focus obsessively on" - low overheads, networking, author involvement, international sales and marketing.


They have some fabulous titles in their range of books, go take a look at their online catalogue on their website moon-books.net  every pagan area seems to be covered!  Titles such as The Druids Primer, The Daughters of Danu, Avebury Cosmos, Shaman in Disguise and the one that I will be adding to my wish list - Traditional Witchcraft for the Seashore - these are only some of the titles, there are many more!


They should also be of interest to those of you out there that have a book you want published too, they have a page on their website to contact them for that too.


They also have a facebook page facebook.com/MoonBooks pop on over there and 'like' their page to be kept up to date on new releases and the occasional giveaway!


Tansy
x

Wednesday 22 February 2012

Crystal Meditations

One of the exercises I like to do with crystals, especially when I receive a new one is to do a crystal meditation.  It helps me to connect with the particular crystal's energy and really understand it's properties.  This exercise works particularly well with quartz points or crystal clusters.

How?

Make yourself comfortable, you can sit quietly or have gentle music or drumming on in the background, whatever suits you.

Hold the crystal in your hands in front of you.

Focus on your breathing.

When you feel ready gaze at and into the crystal, turn it over in your hands, really look at it and all it's details.  Take your time with this step, examining it very carefully.

Then visualise yourself growing smaller or the crystal growing larger, whichever suits you, so that you can imagine yourself climbing onto and over the crystal itself.

Explore the crystal now, climbing up any points it has, if it has inclusions or cracks visualise them as a doorway, a portal into the inside of the crystal.  Put out your hands and feel the 'walls' of the crystal.

Notice how you feel exploring the crystal, is it cold, is it warm - what energies do you pick up from it?

Once you have finished your explorations climb out and return to normal size, focus once more on your breathing and slowly come back to your conscious.

Make a note of what feelings and energies you found within that crystal to refer back to.

Tansy
x

Sunday 19 February 2012

Of Witches and Warlocks

I recently downloaded (for free) onto my Kindle a book called 'The Trouble with Spells' by Lacey Weatherford.


Within the first few pages I was hooked.


Beautifully written and filled with witches, warlocks, magic and a heap load of passion too ;-)


There are five books in the series:


1. The Trouble With Spells
2. The Demon Kiss
3. Blood of the White Witch
4. The Dark Rising
5. Possession of Souls 



The story centres around a teenage girl, Portia who on becoming 16 discovers she is a hereditary witch, she is joined by Vance, a warlock who turns out to be her soul mate.  They embark on a journey together discovering her magical powers, and setting out to defeat his demon father.


I have only read the first book so far, but had to download the next one to my Kindle straight away the read was so compelling.


This book makes you laugh, cry and hold your breath in anticipation of what will happen next.


A love story intertwined with magic - perfect!


Lacey has a website laceyweatherfordbooks.com


The books are all available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords and Create Space in Kindle, Nook, Kobo, PDF and 'real' book format.




Tansy
x

Friday 17 February 2012

Dance to your own beat...

Drumming

Drums are incredibly useful within ritual, meditation or just to make you feel good.

In a ritual the beat of a drum can help to focus everyone to raise energy, the drum beat starting out slowly and gradually increasing to raise the energy within the circle.

Listening to a steady drum beat during meditation can help you focus on your own heartbeat, a slow steady beat can help create calm, and help to take us off onto pathworking or journeying.

Drumming can help focus your energy when working on chakras.

I had the pleasure of being part of a ritual within the White Springs in Glastonbury a couple of years ago, whilst inside several people started to drum, the energy it created was totally amazing!

Drumming can aid with physical healing, promotes well being and can release pent up emotions.

Studies have revealed that healing effect of drumming helps to deal with stress, fatigue, anxiety, hypertension, asthma, chronic pain, arthritis, mental illness, migraines, cancer, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, paralysis, emotional disorders and physical disabilities.

Drumming helps with relaxation, lowers blood pressure and reduces stress it has also been shown to boost the immune system.

Research has shown that the physical transmission of the drumming energy to the brain synchronises the two cerebral hemispheres. When both sides are in harmony it allows your intuition to flow and creates conscious awareness.

A rhythmic drumming beat can also induce an altered state to allow you to trance, journey or pathwork.

You don’t even have to own a drum, although the bodhran is a beautiful thing! There are plenty of drumming CD’s available and even You Tube has some drum tracks. You could also make your own drum beat just by beating your hand on a plastic tub!

Go on…dance to your own beat!

Tansy
x

Thursday 16 February 2012

The Magic of Valerian Root


Valerian, Latin name Valeriana officinalis, is native to Europe and parts of Asia, but has been introduced to North America. It is a tall perennial (2 - 4 ft), that flowers in the summer with sweet-scented clusters of pink or white flowers. Other names for this herb are Vandal Root, All-heal, Setwall, Amantilla and Setewale. It grows amongst marshy ground, or along the banks of ditches and rivers. Though farther north, a shorter variety can also be found on heathland and dry, grassy hillsides.

Medicinally the root of this herb has proven use since Classical times, described by Hippocrates and Galen, by the later to be used for insomnia. It is commonly used as a sedative and tranquilizer, to treat anxiety, for mild pain relief or as a muscle relaxant. It was used in England during the air-raids of World War II to counteract the acute stress of these occasions. It can also be used as a stimulant, lowering blood-pressure, stimulating the appetite, and in raising low self-esteem.

There are several methods of taking valerian root - the dried root can be used in a tea or tincture, though not using boiling water as this may destroy the more volatile oils. Or its dried material and extracts can be incorporated into a capsule or tablet. Valerian has a strong odour, which not all find pleasant, so in these cases the latter option of capsule or tablet may be preferable.

Valerian has also been used to treat gastro-intestinal conditions, epilepsy and ADHD. Although in these cases, as with most others, there is little clinical proof as to its effectiveness. There are no proven harmful side-effects, but likewise, there is no proof that prolonged or excessive use is not harmful, though it may cause headaches and dizziness. Accidental use during pregnancy or whilst breast-feeding is probably safe, but as there has been no research into the effects it may have on the foetus, it is probably best avoided during these times.

Culpepper writes in the seventeenth century, 'The root boiled with liquorice, raisons and aniseed is good for those troubled with cough. Also, it is of special value against the plague, the decoction thereof being drunk and the root smelled. The green herb being bruised and applied to the head taketh away pain and pricking thereof.'

The essential oil of valerian is unusual in that it appears to act as a cat-attractor, with similar properties and effects as catnip. It also attracts rats, and has been used as bait in traps, and it is rumoured that the success of the Pied Piper of Hamlyn is attributed to his carrying of valerian about his person. In the Middle Ages, valerian was used in to perfume clothes, placing a root amongst folded clothes. The Saxons used it in salads, and in the North of England, no soup or broth was complete without it.

Sprinkle valerian at the front door to deter unwanted visitors, or hang the leaves around the home to promote harmony amongst loved ones. Combine valerian with other herbs and crystals in sachets or amulets to use for protection, or in a dream-pillow to ward off nightmares. Use in cleansing and consecration, or drink as a tea to purify oneself. In hoodoo, it can be used as a substitute for graveyard dirt. Soak the dried stalks of the valerian plant in tallow or oil, then use as a magical torch.

Magical Correspondences

Gender: Feminine
Planets: Venus, Mercury
Element: Water
Zodiac: Aquarius
Magical Properties: Protection, Calm, Sleep, Love, Purification, Harmony.

Sources
ods.od.nih.gov
botanical.com
pagan-magic.co.uk
themagickmoon.com
scribd.com
Wikipedia

Picture
paganwiccan.about.com

Blessed be

Blaidd

Faeriecraft

One of my favourite working with the Fae books is Faeriecraft by Alicen and Neil Geddes-Ward.

"Faeriecraft is the creative melding of the Faerie faith and natural witchcraft". This is the statement on the back of the book and it is spot on.

Beautifully written and including some wonderful illustrations this book takes you on a journey to meet and work with the Fae.

Chapters included:

Who are the Faeries?
Finding your own way to Faerie land
How to begin working with the Faeries
The Faerie Queens and how to work with them
The Faerie Kings and how to work with them
Reaching into Faerie land with meditation
Who is the Faerie temptress and where is she taking us?
The tools and attire of Faeriecraft
Celebrations for groups and solitaries working with Faerie magic
How to create a Faeriecraft wedding, baby naming and other rites of passage

Pretty much covers it all!

There are some quite beautiful meditations and journeys included in the book along with how to create a garden or a wild altar, ways to contact the Faerie royalty, ideas for celebrations and everything you need to know about working with the Fae.

I have read the book from cover to cover and also dip in and out quite regularly to pathwork with the Undines or journey to meet the Snow Queen amongst others!

A must have for those that love the Fae.

Alicen Geddes-Ward has a website alicen-geddes.co.uk
Neil Geddes-Ward also has a website neilgeddesward.com

Tansy
x

Wednesday 15 February 2012

The Hedgewitch Approach to Making Runes


The runes come from the Norse traditions, they are symbols that can be etched into a material, for empowerment of an object, or for use as a divinatory tool. They are also easy to make ourselves, unlike the Tarot or Oracle decks, but possibly one of the harder tools to use when reading, as all we have in front of us are a whole heap of symbols.

Since I began using the runes, I tried to turn the symbols into little pictures. Learn what the runes mean, then look at the rune, feel the rune, what does it remind you of? What images and emotions does it evoke? What would the keywords belonging to the rune have meant to our ancestors all those centuries ago? Now you begin to build up your own picture, your own interpretation of the runes, your own bond.

There are some lovely sets of runes out there - etched into crystals - but they are expensive. The hedgewitch tends to go for the cheap and cheerful, but no less effective options. A rune set doesn't have to be expensive to be powerful, with practice and attunement, you can get some really good results from a plastic set that weren't really even intended for the "serious practitioner" (he he he, how little they knew ;) ). It's another example of not having to throw money away on expensive "witch endorsed" tools - hedgewitches, kitchen witches, we use what we can find and spend the money on something nice for the family instead.

Making runes couldn't be simpler, and there are all sorts of things you can use to make them out of. Traditionally they are made from wood, and you will see all sorts of opinions about "live wood" or "dead wood" out there on the Internet. Personally, I have no problem with using pre-cut wooden disks from a craft store or DIY outlet, or from cutting up a curtain pole, or something similar. We use our inventiveness, and in that we are already creating a bond to our runes.

I've seen it said that only a branch from a fruit bearing tree can be used, that it must be before the tree has fruited, as afterwards the branch is dead. I find this rather restrictive, and I don't like anything that cuts down my options for improvisation.

However, I've also seen Master Runemakers use just the fallen branches they find on forest walks. I like this option the best. The number of times I will go for a walk and be called to pick up a certain stick or rock. If you go out into the woods with the express purpose of finding a suitable fallen branch with which to cut rune disks, then you are bound to find just the one. Probably lying in the middle of the path seemingly shouting "Take Me!!!"

The runes can be carved into the wooden disks, or burned with a wood burning tool, they can be drawn or even painted (though these will definitely need varnishing). Again I've seen conflicting opinions about these methods too. Go with your gut instinct, as it will be giving you all the direction you need.

You can use anything as a rune. I have a set that were made from beach pebbles (they are in the photo above). Try to find ones that are of a similar size, and it's a personal choice as to whether their colours have to match or not. Then simply draw or paint the runes onto each stone, but make sure that you varnish them afterwards to protect the runes.

Another alternative is to make rune cards. These will be similar to Tarot cards, but it is entirely up to you as to how you present them. You can choose to keep them fairly blank, just have the individual rune on each one. Or you can decorate them with colours, pictures and symbols of what each rune means. In this way, you are creating something extremely personal, but which has more of a visual trigger to help you read their meaning.

Cleansing and consecrating methods are entirely personal. Do what you would do for any of your other magical tools. My personal favourite is to carry my runes (or whatever) around with me for a while, to touch, to play, feel them and to USE them. This way they become imbued with my own energies - or it strengthens the bond that we have already begun in their creation.

Blessed be

Blaidd

Tuesday 14 February 2012

Review: The Wyrm Conspiracy - Rich Middleton


"A gripping new fantasy thriller for teenagers. When Emily and Sam accidentally witness a failed attempt to capture a mythical monster - a wyrm - they are plunged into a nightmare of conspiracy and betrayal that could lead to the end of everything they know. Can they solve the clues hidden in relics of the past and stop the terrifying Old King Coel from returning to wreak his revenge? Can they even escape from the legions of possessed Wardens chasing them? And is Emily's dad really in league with the enemy?"

I downloaded this book for Kindle costing 77p, and it had me turning off the computer so that I could read it. People who know me will know how difficult it is to dislodge me from my computer games. In a word, this book is brilliant.

I was gripped from the beginning. Written for younger readers it's easy to follow, the imagery vivid, but it is full of twists and turns and is entirely captivating. At the end of each chapter I was compelled to read on to find out what happens, very few of the chapters ending without a bit of a cliff-hanger.

The plot is fairly simple, and the protagonists follow predictable patterns in their thoughts, but it's still an extremely enjoyable read. We care about the characters, and even the fact that they are children, doesn't require a suspension of belief - it's because they are children that they can progress in their adventure in the way they do, and it is key to the whole tale.

It's a rip-roaring, non-stop adventure, and the reader is carried from one crisis to the next, and I would love to see this in film.

It's set in what seems to be a modern day alternative universe, or a technologically advanced fantasy world. The story set in Wormwell, a town similar to Venice, with canals instead of streets, and all transportation is by watercraft, the reason for which becomes apparent as the book comes to a conclusion - as all things are explained and loose ends tied up nicely.

The last lines of the book even give scope for the sequel, Worm Gold, yet to be released, but one which I will be waiting eagerly for.

Much love

Blaidd

Monday 13 February 2012

Magic on the Breath

I have just finished reading Tylluan Penry's book 'Magic on the Breath'.

It was an interesting read, possibly aimed at those newer to the craft but also a useful read for those more experienced, with some really good exercises in.

The book is based on Tylluan's years of experience and her belief that power comes from our own breath.  I hadn't actually realised it but on reading her book I do use my breath a lot when I am working magic so it made perfect sense!

Tylluan has an open and honest way of talking about the craft which was very refreshing to read.

She covers a whole host of topics all based on casting spells, good sections on glamour magic, talismans & amulets, working with the moon, knot magic, the magic around us, lots of practical uses for magic on the breath and an excellent chapter on thought forms.

A very interesting read, lots of exercises to work with and a totally honest and refreshing view of working magic.

You can purchase this book and others in her collection from thewolfenhowlepress

Or Magic on the Breath can be purchased for Kindle download for the silly price currently of £1.53  amazon.co.uk/Magic-On-The-Breath-ebook  or if you are in the USA amazon.com/Magic-On-The-Breath-ebook

Tylluan also has a blog tylluanpenry.blog.co.uk

Tansy
x

Saturday 11 February 2012

Goddess Guidance Oracle Cards


Goddess Guidance Oracle Cards by Doreen Virtue.


I was gifted this set of cards some time ago.


This is a set of 44 cards by Doreen Virtue, each card focusing on a different Goddess from a wide range of pantheons - Celtic, Mayan, Egyptian, Greek, Tibetan, Buddhist and a whole host of others.


The cards themselves are beautiful, the back of each one is a bright yellow with a crown in the centre and the edges of the cards are shiny gold. The artwork is beautiful, each card showing a picture of the Goddess below the name, then a keyword, then a phrase relating to the card.


You can do readings with the cards as you can with most Oracle sets or just draw a card a day. Each card gives you a message to help you improve your life, your situation and your spiritual path. 


The accompanying book has messages from each Goddes, along with various meanings for each card and then a little bit about each Goddess.


A friend also suggested to me that the cards are also good for use on altars as a focus for that Goddess, I think they would also be useful when calling upon a Goddess in ritual or to do a working, you could use the card as a focus.


If you aren't set on working with a particular pantheon then this is a lovely set of cards.


The card I drew today was Abundantia - Prosperity.


"The universe is pouring its abundance out to you. Be open to receiving"


Message from Abundantia:


Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are very powerful, and I am here to support your growing power. It's right for you to receive this help, as we function as a team. I've heard your prayers, worries and affirmations. I'm pouring my cornucopia of prosperity upon you now, so expect unforeseen windfalls and gifts. Notice the new ideas, feelings and visions within you. This guidance gives you clear direction about actions to take in conjunction with my assistance. Together, we're unstoppable!


Various meanings of this card:


Be open to receiving.
A new windfall of money is coming to you
You have nothing to worry about
Your new venture will be financially successful
Visualise and affirm abundance
Abundance comes to you in many ways, including extra time, support and ideas


About Abundantia: (pronounced Ah-bun-DON-she-uh)


Abundantia is a beautiful Roman and Norse goddess of prosperity, success and abundance who is said to bring good fortune and financial windfalls to all who call upon her. She carries a cornucopia of golden coins, which trail behind her wherever she goes. One sign that she's with you is that you'll find lots of spare change in unlikely locations. And rest assured that Abundantia brings more than pocket money to those who call upon her. She bestows all kinds of prosperity, including increased amounts of time, ideas and other forms of support.


I think I like her!


Tansy
x

Friday 10 February 2012

Cleansing

I have been asked on several occasions how to cleanse crystals or magical tools, so here are a few ideas:

Hold under running water (a stream or a tap)

Lay item outside (in a safe place) in the moonlight

Lay item outside (in a safe place) in the sunlight

Either of the above two can also be done by placing the item on a windowsill

Sprinkling with salt

If it feels like it needs a really good cleanse then cover completely in salt and leave for a few hours

Smudge with incense

Smudge with burning sage or sweetgrass

Sprinkle with a cleansing herb like sage and leave for a few hours

Visualise the item being cleansed by a bright, white light

Ring a bell over the item, using the vibrations to cleanse it

Sprinkle with blessed water

Sprinkle with salt water

Bury the item in soil (but remember where you buried it!)

Please be careful, make sure the particular crystal or magical tool is not porous and that it won't be damaged by water or salt.

All of the above can be worked into a ritual if you choose to, or you could say a few blessing words over the item as you are cleansing it.

Really the choice is yours, go with what feels right for you.

Tansy
x

Tuesday 7 February 2012

Tales of Aradia The Last Witch

I recently downloaded onto my Kindle (for free) Tales of Aradia The Last Witch by L.A. Jones.

Initially I thought "oh it's another Twilight based story, vampires and werewolves".  And although it does have vampires and werewolves and a few similarities to Twilight - well it has to really as vampires and werewolves behaviour is the same whatever book they are in right?  It also has a witch and members of the Fae.

I have only read the first book in the series, but having finished that one I have also downloaded books 2-4 as well because I need to know what happens!

Set in Salem it tells the story of Aradia the last of her kind - a witch.  She doesn't realise at first but she is living amongst the 'hidden' races - those of vampires, werewolves, shape shifters and the Fae.  Her presence there causes a stir and the story unfolds with her helping to solve a murder.

The story is easy to read and although fantasy from the point of view that Aradia has 'super powers' it does work on the basics of real witchcraft.

A very captivating read with interesting characters, I am looking forward to reading the next part of the series!

And the fact that the first book is free to download and the other three are less than 80p each I think it's an absolute bargain for an excellent read.

From Amazon Tales-Aradia-Last-Witch
The facebook fan page facebook.com/pages/Tales-of-Aradia-The-Last-Witch-fan-page

Tansy
x

Monday 6 February 2012

Fennel

Fennel


One of my favourite spices/herbs.




Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mercury
Element: Fire
Deities: Prometheus, Dionyss
Powers: Protection, healing, purification


Fennel is a perennial herb with fine feathery foliage, midsummer flowers and small curved seeds that have an aniseed flavour, the root bulb is also used as an aniseed flavoured vegetable (raw or cooked - it is delicious in salads).


Grow around your home for protection.  Hang fennel in your windows and over doors to ward of evil spirits, the seeds can be carried for the same purpose.  Use in purification sachets and incense as well as for healing.  Carry with you also to help influence people to trust your word.


Fennel tea is good for the digestion and to aid with bronchitis or a cough.  It is also good for menstruation problems, constipation and a tea made with the leaves boiled with barley help to increase breast milk. Add root extract and it is also good for detoxing.   It is also said to be good for repairing liver damage due to alcohol.  Also drink fennel tea to aid your memory.


The seeds and root help to clean out the liver, spleen, blood and gall bladder.   Chew the seeds to stave off hunger pangs.  Mix fennel oil with honey to ease a cough, drink as a tea and/or use as a gargle. Use fennel oil externally to ease rheumatism. 


Roman soliders chewed the seeds before battle to instil courage and confidence.


Fennel seeds can be thrown at newly weds instead of rice to encourage fertility.


Tansy
x

Friday 3 February 2012

Simple Imbolc Candle Ritual

A simple Imbolc candle ritual for you:

Place a candle of your choice (white, pale green, pale yellow or pale pink makes me think Imbolc, but go with what colour you feel is right for you).

I used some pretty sea pebbles to surround the base, but place it in a candle holder that you like.

Gather together some herbs, think about what intent you have, I used:

Bay for protection, psychic powers and strength
Lemon balm for love and success in my new ventures
Thyme for health, psychic powers, love and courage

Sit yourself in a comfortable spot and place the candle in front of you.

Take a few deep breathes to clear your mind then light the candle.

As it burns watch the flame, really focus on the flame and let your mind stay open to images that might present themselves.

Then sprinkle some of each herb onto the candle over the flame, stating the intent of each one as you do so.

Then I called upon Brighid, as Imbolc is her Sabbat it seemed right to me, but go with what feels right for you.

I requested her presence and then sat for some time, still watching the candle flame and listened to her wise words.

I sat until the candle flame had gone out, I used a small beeswax candle which burns fairly quickly.  Once I was ready I thanked Brighid for her presence and returned the candle stub and the un burnt herbs to the soil.

Whilst I was out in the garden I also poured some milk and honey onto the soil for the Fae.

Tansy
x

Thursday 2 February 2012

Craft of the Wild Witch

One of my favourite books in my collection is Craft of the Wild Witch by Poppy Palin.

Beautifully written book about 'green spirituality and natural enchantment'.

Poppy is an author, a seer, sacred tattooist and artist all of her wonderful pathways can be found on her website poppypalin.org

On the back of the Craft of the Wild Witch book it says "a poetic guidebook to the green spirited path" and that is exactly what it is.

This book shows you how to embrace nature, how to be a free spirited and wild witch.

It covers rituals, chants, seasonal prayers, tree meditations, spellweaving, other life memories, trance work, the world of the Fae, pathworking, herbs and sacred intent.

I want to list the chapter titles for you because I think those in themselves capture the feel of the book:

The magical life
Strong roots, lengthening branches
Wild landscapes of the Soul
Off the beaten track
Wild enchantments, green wilful wishes
Into the wild green beyond

If those titles don't entice you into the book I don't know what will!!

Tansy
x