In this series of articles, we tell our favorite, intriguing tales of American witches in the hopes that it will inspire and light a spark in the imagination. Some will be called witches, some shamans, and others midwives, grannies, and healers, but all are an integral part of American history ...
The Christmas tree has long been the pillar of Christmas décor, but what about the other Christmas plants? Holly, Ivy and Mistletoe have also been a part of the Winter holidays, just as long as the Christmas tree. The poinsettia is also considered a magical Christmas plant in North America. But ...
Six months ago, I set off on a journey into the mysterious world of old Florida folk traditions, herbalism and spiritual practices. The time spent researching, asking questions, and doing footwork was well spent and the results? Fascinating and enriching. In this edition of Old Florida Folk ...
Witch bottles have been used for centuries by witches and those who wanted to ward off witches. Traditionally, they were used to protect the individual against dark magic and evil spirits. Today they are used for protection, love, healing and much more. Learn the history, uses, and how to make ...
When we think of Thanksgiving the image that pops up is of pilgrims and Native Americans sitting at a table, feasting on turkey and pumpkin. But is this really Thanksgiving’s origins? Weren’t there other harvest and fall festivals before Thanksgiving? Let’s take a look at ...
Deck the Halls With Bedknobs and Broomsticks! Before jolly ol’ Saint Nick, there were other mythical beings associated with Christmas. Some were nice, and some were naughty. Christmas today is celebrated all over the world, and many of the oldest customs have been forgotten or evolved to ...
There’s something special about owls. I can’t speak for everyone, but they’ve always been one of my favorite animals. Owls have been around for millions of years. Prehistoric cave paintings of owls prove they are one of the oldest birds in existence. With age comes wisdom, ...
One day it hit me. I’d read books on Southern Conjure, New Orleans Voodoo, and Appalachian folk magic, but I’d never read anything on Florida folk magic. In my naivete, I thought it would be a quick internet search. But when Google gave me no results, I realized I had to dig deeper. This ...
The second in an exciting duology by a modern Filipino witch, Kristine Ibanez, covers detailed accounts of the types of Filipino witches, healers, and indigenous shamans. Please go back and read the first in the duology, if you haven’t yet. The Most Prominent Types of Filipino ...
This is the first in an exciting duology by a modern Filipino witch, Kristine Ibanez. In the second part in the duology, Kristine details the past and present types of witches and healers in the Philippines. How Do We Define Witchcraft? Well first off, what do Filipinos consider as witches in ...