Elements Archives - Otherworldly Oracle

Elementals: What Is An Elemental? And the Guardians of the Watchtowers

kitty fields — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:27:11 +0000

Before modern witchcraft, Wicca and ceremonial magic sort of ruled the occult community. And casting a circle before ritual and invoking the elementals was a popular practice among practitioners. But what is an elemental? And are the elementals the same as the guardians of the watchtowers? First, What is an Elemental? First we answer the question, what is an elemental? You’ve heard of the four elements, right? Earth, air, fire and water are the four core elements according to Western magical tradition. An elemental is the spirit of an element. Just as humans have bodies AND a soul, so do elementals. The element itself (air, for example) is the physical manifestation of the elemental, while the sylph is the spirit of air. As above, so below. There are four elementals to correspond with the four elements: Gnomes are earth elementals, Undines are water elementals, Sylphs are air elementals and Salamanders are fire elementals. Where Did the Belief in Elementals Originate? The first wink of elemental belief originates in the Medieval Ages with alchemy. Paracelsus being one of the first alchemists to study and use the four main elements in his practice. If you ask a Wiccan today, you’ll hear it’s a Wiccan belief but truly we see elementals being invoked in nineteenth century ceremonial magick. Namely the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. This was a Masonic-inspired secret society, if you will, of occultists who studied and practiced high magick, metaphysics, and the paranormal. The Golden Dawn’s belief in elementals trickled down to more modern religions like Wicca and Aleister Crowley’s Thelema. Yet the belief everything in nature has consciousness and the belief in fairies predates occult societies such as these by thousands of years. Who Are the Guardians of the Watchtowers? Before we go any further, let’s define what the watchtowers are and how the elements and elementals may be connected. In ceremonial magick, practitioners cast a circle for protection and energy, and call on the “corners” or the four cardinal directions along with their respective elements. Typically, it goes like this: East = air, South = fire, West = water and North = earth. The corners or four cardinal directions are also known as the Watchtowers. (I literally envision a tower at each of the four directions when I call the corners.) If you’ve ever watched the 90s movie The Craft, you might remember when the girls cast a circle and call the corners. “Hail to the Guardians of the Watchtowers of the East, Powers of Air and Invention, Hear Us!” Were they calling the elementals in or are the guardians of the watchtowers something completely different? My research suggests that depending on the tradition and even the individual, the Guardians of the Watchtowers can be one of many things. They could be the elementals, “kingdoms of elementals”, the basic four elements, OR in some cases, archangels. Here we focus specifically on the Elementals as Guardians of the Watchtowers. Gnomes: Earth Elemental Guardians of the Watchtower of the North Gnomes are the spirits of the earth element, also called earth elementals. They are guardians of the North and of the earth. The word Gnome comes from the Greek gnoma meaning knowledge. The King of the gnome kingdom, named Ghob, is sometimes invoked as a Guardian of the Watchtower of the North. Separate from being a Wiccan or ceremonial elemental, gnome folklore is found in many countries. These small faery beings live deep in ancient forests within intricate root systems. They are guardians of the ancient forests and all wildlife there. Gnomes are believed to bless one’s garden and home, hence why we have gnome lawn ornaments in modern times. Gnome elementals appear as small, wizened men and women with green and blue outfits and red caps. The men have beards. They are sometimes capricious and always protective of their natural homes. In the Order of the Golden Dawn, gnomes were considered “essential spiritual beings” invoked to praise God in a ritual called Benedicite Omnia Opera. Sylphs: Air Elementals, Guardians of the Watchtower of the East Sylphs are the spirits of the air element, also called air elementals. The word sylph derives from the Greek silphe meaning butterfly. Sylphs are guardians of the East and of Air. The King of the Air kingdom’s name is Paralda and is invoked as a Guardian of the Watchtower of the East. Sylphs aren’t as steeped in folklore as gnomes, yet their presence is existential. I’ve known multiple practitioners who, after calling the corners and releasing them, have seen sylphs stick around. They seem to have a playful nature, more so than the other elementals. Sylphs appear as “tiny, winged creatures” who look “vaguely human”, according to Edain McCoy. Yet modern eyewitness accounts describe them as speedy, white wisps of air. Salamanders: Fire Elementals, Guardians of the Watchtower of the South Salamanders are the spirits of the fire element, also known as Fire Elementals. They are the guardians of the South and Fire. The word salamander‘s origin isn’t quite as clear but could relate to salambe which means fireplace. Salamanders originate in the Middle East, in the dry, hot desert where the fire element is ubiquitous. They’re also said to originate in China. The King of Salamanders’ name is Djinn, which links him to the Middle Eastern belief in the Djinn spirits or Djinni (where we get the Jeannie in the lamp concept). While these beings share a name with the salamander animal, they aren’t quite the same. But, in the same flame, the salamander elemental sometimes resembles a lizard. When seen, salamanders dance, slither, and flit from flame to flame in the fire. If you’ve taken a picture of a bonfire or candle flame and noticed faces or small, darting dragons, you’ve seen the salamander elementals. Undines: Water Elementals, Guardians of the Watchtower of the West Undines are the spirits of the water element, also called Water Elementals. They guard the West and Water. The word undine comes from the word unda […]

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3 Ocean Spells and SIMPLE Beach Magic Rituals and Charms

kitty fields — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 18:05:12 +0000

Whether you live near the beach or spend your vacation on the beach, there’s magic to be done, witches! The water calls to us to use our intuition, embrace our emotions, and increase our psychic abilities. Here we provide you with 3 powerful ocean spells and ways to do SIMPLE beach magic rituals! 3 Powerful Ocean Spells The ocean is like the heart – wild and unruly sometimes, sometimes contained and introspective. It all depends on the day and weather. We have so much to learn from Mother Ocean. She lends us her intuition, dreams, psychic abilities, secrets, and spiritual transformation. There are so many ways to use the ocean in your magic; moreover, here are three of our favorite ocean spells: 1. 7 Waves Cleansing Ocean Spell We all know how important cleansing spells truly are. They rid us of negative energy that may tear us down spiritually or physically. For this ocean spell, all you need is yourself, the sunrise and the ocean. Wake up before the sun comes up. Go to the ocean and when the sun rises, wade into the water until your deep enough to dunk under. As the sun rises, allow seven ocean waves to crash over you, cleansing you of all negativity and sorrow. 2. Sand Castle Intentions Ocean Spell This ocean spell is effective for nearly any magical intention. All you need is yourself, a shovel or two, and the sand on the beach. While at the beach, make a sand castle. While you build the castle, visualize your intention: drawing love to you, a new job, a peaceful home, prosperity, etc. The castle you’re building is your intention…your goal. Build it close enough to the water that when the tide comes in, it will take the sand castle to sea. When the ocean takes the castle, it’s also taking your intentions to manifest. 3. Footsteps in the Sand Ocean Goddess Dedication Spell This ocean spell is specifically for those who want to dedicate themselves to the goddess of the ocean. Leave your footprints in the sand where the ocean will sweep them away. With each step, say or think, “Mother Ocean, I dedicate myself to thee. I walk in your footsteps. I invoke your power and glory. So mote it be.” SIMPLE Beach Magic Rituals, Charms, and More In addition to the simple ocean spells provided above, there’s SO much more magic the ocean has to offer. Here are a few ideas to get you going: 1. Beachcombing for Magic Supplies One of my favorite things to do at the beach is to gather magical supplies. Seashells are an obvious, yet powerful choice for many reasons: they draw love, fertility, abundance and more. Sand from the beach can be used in candle spells, put in spell bags and bottles, and used to draw ritual circles for ocean workings. Driftwood makes beautiful wands and other witchy tools. Sea glass is gorgeous in a bowl on the altar or around the house. I’ve even seen people make jewelry and mosaics using sea glass. Don’t pass up a shark’s tooth, feathers, or crab shells either! 2. Set-up/Tear-Down Beach Magic Altars Witches leave their house and want to know how to take their altars with them on vacation. It’s easy…make a natural set-up/tear-down altar! On the beach, use things like seashells, driftwood, feathers, twigs and more to build a small, natural altar. Bring a few tools in your beach bag (such as a tarot deck) to use at your beach magic altar. You’ll find the energies at the beach are strong, and the spirits are willing to speak. When you’re done, you can tear down the altar or leave it! 3. Undine and Mermaid Invocation If you’re a true sea witch, you’ve probably been drawn to mermaids and water elementals since childhood. While you’re at the beach, why not invoke their energy with this beach magic ritual? How to invoke an undine or mermaid: bring an offering with you to the beach. Something liquid and natural is best to keep our ocean clean! Honey, rose water, an herbal infusion, or wine is perfect as an offering. As you pour the offering into the ocean, chant/repeat the following, “mermaid of the deep, accept my offering, awaken from your sleep, grant me your sight and psychic abilities. By the power of the ocean and three times three. So mote it be.” DIY Beach Magic Charms Some of my favorite tools have come from the beach. Select a piece of driftwood as a wand, add seashells, lace, and pearls to it along with carved symbols to make it your own. If you look close enough, you can also find seashells with holes in them. These are awesome to string onto necklaces, dreamcatchers, witch’s ladders, and much more! Coral with holes straight through and stones with holes are called hag stones. These are used to see into the spirit realm during ritual and bring the bearer good luck! More WATER Magick: How to Be a Sea Witch A Sea Witch’s Familiars The Water Element: Properties, Uses and More

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How to Use Your Zodiac Element to Enhance Your Magick

kitty fields — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 18:11:21 +0000

I didn’t realize how powerful it would be to tap into my zodiac element…until I used it. Everyone has a zodiac sign (actually 3 but we’ll get into that later) and one of the four elements is linked to that sign. This means that YOU are linked to that element, so why not use this knowledge to your magical advantage? Why not incorporate that specific element’s energy into your spells, rituals and daily practices? Your Sun Sign and Main Element Your sun sign is your “main” zodiac sign. It’s the one everyone refers to in horoscopes, online, etc. In which house the sun was positioned during your birth. It’s also sometimes called your star sign. It also represents your personality and traits that stay the same through your life. Each zodiac sign has one of the 4 main elements associated with it. For instance, my sun sign is Sagittarius and the element associated is fire. Here’s a rundown so you can find yours: Zodiac Sign & Associated Element Capricorn: Earth Aquarius: Air Pisces: Water Aries: Fire Taurus: Earth Gemini: Air Cancer: Water Leo: Fire Virgo: Earth Libra: Air Scorpio: Water Sagittarius: Fire Your Moon & Rising Signs In addition to your sun sign, you also have a moon and rising sign. Your moon sign explains how you express and experience your emotions. Your rising sign is the person you show the world (not necessarily who you truly are deep inside, keep in mind). I recommend using your sun and moon signs’ elements in your magick over your rising sign. You can google how to find your moon and rising signs, if you’re curious. How to Incorporate Zodiac Elements Into Your Magick Think about how your zodiac elements can be used in your magick. If you’re a Pisces sun sign and Capricorn moon sign, think of how you can use more water and earth in your magick. How about taking a ritual bath and adding herbs? That’s using both water and earth. In addition to focusing on elemental magick in your spells, select herbs, tools, and stones that are linked to your element. Here’s some more ideas on how to use your zodiac element to enhance your magick: Fire Element (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) Fire element signs are typically fiery in nature. They are passionate, driven, and sometimes quick to anger. If you are a fire sign but feel you don’t exemplify these characteristics, it could be a number of things influencing you. Your moon and rising sign play a part, but it could also be that you’re holding yourself back. You may be hiding the true you. In this case, I recommend embracing your zodiac fire element by immersing yourself in FIRE. Not just in your magick but i daily life. A few ways to harness that fire element energy in your magical practice includes: casting candle spells, making bonfires, sunbathing, making sun water, charging your tools with sunlight, focusing on herbs associated with fire like pepper and cinnamon, using stones and crystals linked to fire like obsidian and citrine. One particular form of magick the fire element signs are particularly adept at is purification and banishing rituals. You might find banishing unwanted spirits comes naturally to you, as well as cleansing spaces of negative energy. As far as your daily life, jump into the fire (metaphorically speaking) and focus on your solar plexus chakra. Perform solar plexus meditations. And also wear fire colors like orange, yellow, red and blue. Eat foods associated with fire like spicy foods, peppers, and cook over an open fire. Infuse your water with fiery herbs and spices. Air Element (Aquarius, Gemini, Libra): Air element people are frequently inspired by the muse. They are artistic and great at communication. Sometimes they can be finicky and have a hard time committing. If you’d like to harness the energy of the air element and all of its best qualities, here’s a few ways magically and in your daily life. Making magick with your air element sign might include wind spells, aeromancy (cloud scrying), cloud bursting, bubbles, smoke scrying, cleansing with smoke, incense crafting and burning it, feather magick and divination, and casting spells through your artwork, music, spoken word and writing. On a daily basis, connect with air through outdoor activities like hiking in the mountains, flying kites and learning about birds and other winged creatures. Wear the colors of air: yellow, white and blue (any pastel color, really). Eat foods associated with air which are any light or subtle tasting veggies, fruits and legumes. And focus on balancing your higher chakra points like your crown. Water Element (Pisces, Cancer, Scorpio) Water element signs tune into their emotions and others’ easily. They dream frequently and are drawn to the ocean or river. Many are empaths and old souls. By tapping into watery energy, we balance our emotional bodies with our physical. We get the energy flowing through our bodies, just like the ocean’s waters flow. A few water element magical methods include taking ritual baths, cleansing our spaces with holy water, brewing teas, engaging in ocean and sea witchery, crafting moon waters, working with mermaids and water spirits, floating your spells downstream (biodegradable/environment-friendly), focusing on dreaming, intuition and developing psychic abilities, using seashells and coral in your craft. W Incorporate the water element in your daily life by wearing water colors: any shade of blue, seafoam green, white. And eat water-heavy foods like lettuce, grapes, watermelon, watercress, and drink MORE water! Focus on your heart chakra. Earth Element (Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo) Ahhhh, earth element signs. One of my favorite elements and types of magical people! I am a fire, double earth sign, after all. Earthy people are grounded in reality, tuned into Mother Earth including its plants and animals, and live in the moment. They are present in their physical bodies. Some forms of earth element magick are crystal magick and healing, tree and plant magick, medicinal herbalism, magical gardening, collecting and using dirt and sand in your […]

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Storm Magick Practices + Magical Protection for Hurricane Victims

kitty fields — Sat, 31 Aug 2019 17:45:24 +0000

As a little girl, I was frightened of big thunderstorms. As an adult, I’m energized, sometimes relaxed, and in awe of them. No matter the type of storm or its severity, storm magick is a powerful force of the craft that any witch can learn to use. Here are 8 ways to incorporate storm magick into your practice AND how to evoke protective angels and guardians to protect from catastrophic storms like hurricanes and tornadoes. What is Storm Witchcraft? Are There Storm Witches? For as long as there’s been witches, we’ve been blamed for storms. Particularly storms at sea and thunderstorms that cause damage. Heck, witches have been blamed for basically anything that goes wrong in society: illness, famine, drought, soured milk, death, poverty, and cold winters. Pretty much every kind of destructive weather has been a result of “witches” in centuries past. But maybe there’s some logic behind the idea. I see it this way – witches are in-tune with all things in nature. Some have an affinity to the moon, sun, or stars. Some witches prefer to work with forest or mountain energy. Still others are drawn to thunderstorms. I call these storm witches (including myself). If you find storms energizing, thrilling and awe-inspiring, you might be a storm witch. When hurricanes and tornadoes fascinate you and you wonder why you didn’t become a storm chaser or meteorologist, you might be a storm witch. If you were born in a thunderstorm, and you’re magical, you’re likely a storm witch. 1. Storm Magick: Thunder Water One of the easiest forms of storm magick is to collect storm water. We also call it thunder water or lightning water, depending on the witch. It’s as easy as setting a bowl or vessel outside to collect storm water from a thunderstorm. But you’re not just collecting water, you’re collecting the potent energy in the atmosphere, as well. The thunder, lightning, and pressure all charge the water with extra energy. Once the storm is over, bottle and keep your storm water for anointing tools, doorways, and altars. OR add herbs and magical ingredients to it and pour into a bath. 2. Charging Tools with Storm Magick You know how we set our crystals and tools out to charge in the moonlight? Lightning is a magical charging source, too. Think of it as a strong, sometimes dangerous battery. The easiest and safest way to harness the lightning’s energy is to set your tools and crystals in a window facing a storm. Particularly if you have a window that’s facing lightning strikes in the distance, set your tools and crystals in that window. They will soak up the lightning vibrations. 3. Ritual During Storm Does your ritual or spell need a strong burst of energy? Casting spells or performing rituals during a thunderstorm or snowstorm adds an extra kick. Rituals during thunderstorm super-charge and shake up the energy. But performing one during a snowstorm will quickly cool off or freeze your intention. Why would we want to freeze our intentions? Some examples might be to bind a person or situation that’s bothering you, OR you can use snow’s soothing, calming energy to bring peace to a situation/intention. 4. Storm Magick With Thunder Gods Who better to call on during a thunderstorm than thunder gods and spirits? Their energy is most present when a storm is rumbling in the distance and directly over you. Fierce, fiery, and strong, calling on thunder gods like Thor, Zeus, Perun, Indra, Oya, Berchta and Shango illuminate and push us to our magical limits. The Wild Hunt is also linked to thunderstorms, the realm of the gods and the realm of spirits. Working with these deities and spirits during thunderstorms will empower your magick. 5. Cloud Scrying When a thunderstorm is about to hit, I enjoy going upstairs in my bedroom and opening the blinds all the way. Then reading the thunder cloud patterns – the way the clouds swirl and move, the color and shades and how they change, and any cloud-to-cloud lightning strikes. Simply clearing your mind and meditating on the clouds rolling in and by is an enchanting experience…an easy and beautiful storm magick practice. 6. Thunder and Lightning Divination Just as you’re looking at the clouds to divine messages and connect with deities, counting lightning strikes and thunder rumbles is also another method of divination for stormy witches. This can be done in different ways including counting how long a thunder rumble lasts, counting the time between a lightning flash and thunder rumble, or counting the number of lightning strikes. Moreover, you can also record the direction in which the lightning strikes (N, S, E, W). Then determine your messages based off numerology and the numeric occult symbolism. 7. Knot Magic and Broom Shakin’ In Medieval Times, witches were accused of causing storms and some were even tried for it. A well-known example of this is the case of John Fian and his witch coven, who were accused of sending a storm to sea that sank the ship of James VI and Queen Anne on their way to Scotland from Denmark. There were also magicians called the Tempestarii who were individuals with the ability to conjure up storms and/or send storms away. There are different ways to brew up a storm, including knot magic (also used by sailors) and broom magic. Consider learning how to tie and untie knots as spell-work. Tying knots binds the wind, and untying those knots releases it. Same with storms. And, if you’d like to cause a rainstorm, hold a wet broom over your head and shake it, according to folk tradition. 8. Working With Herbs for Storms Certain types of herbs, plants, and trees have traditionally been used to ward off storms and lightning strikes. And others raise winds and summon rains. Learn which storm herbs to use in your practice and incorporate them into your witchcraft. Here’s a few: Magical Protection & Prayers for Hurricane Victims, Tornadoes, Monsoons, Etc. Like […]

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Earth Element: Earth Magical Properties & Earth Magic for New Witches

kitty fields — Thu, 27 Jun 2019 22:44:21 +0000

The earth element is powerful in so many ways. In Wicca and other western magical traditions, it is one of the 5 major elements from which all life is sustained. The earth is inherently our mother. From a blade of grass to a mighty mountain, witches use the earth element in their magick and spiritual practice for many different purposes. Learn all about the earth element, earth magical properties, simple earth spells and more here. Earth Magical Properties Depending on the tradition and even the individual, earth magical properties will vary. When the earth element means growth and grounding to one person, it may mean death and psychic abilities to another. These are meant to be guidelines; adjust as needed. Direction: NorthSubstance: Tree, soil, plant, fungus, cave, mountain, ground, forest, grove, canyon, field, farm, garden, park, mine, basement, hole, crater, nursery, kitchenZodiac Signs: Capricorn, Taurus, VirgoPlanets: EarthEarth Magical Properties: growth, femininity, prosperity, birth, fertility, stability, grounding, employment, finances, death, motherhood, sustenanceEarth Animals: deer, cow, dog, worm, gopher, mole, rat, horse, squirrel, ant, pig, goat, wolf, coyoteColors: Green, brown, blackMagical Tools: salt, pentacle, stones/crystalsMagical Creatures with earth magical properties: gnomes, dwarves, garden fae, trolls, giants, dryads Deities associated with the earth element: Gaia, Maia, Demeter, Modron, The Morrigan, Dea Matres, Pacha Mama, Cybele, Ceres, Sif, Jord, Mother Earth/Nature, Cernunnos, Green Man, Oak and Holly KingsPlants with Earth Magical Properties: oak, patchouli, vetivert, moss, lichen, nuts, roots, potatoes, tumeric, ginger, cedar, hawthorn, elder Simple Earth Magic and Spells If you are an earth zodiac sign, your most powerful magick will facilitate the earth element to make change. Earth magic doesn’t have to be complicated, unless you want it to be. Here are some easy ways to cast earth magic and harness the energy of the earth element: growing and maintaining a magical garden making herbal infusions and brews burying spells i.e. witch’s bottles and jars using different kinds of dirt and sand in your spells kitchen witchcraft: cooking, baking, herbalism, crafting mountain witchcraft: working with the energies of the mountain herbal offerings to the gods and ancestors making spell bags with herbs and crystals growing a plant intended to manifest magical intentions using salt to cleanse your sacred space divination with ogham staves, rune stones and crystals healing with crystals and stones and herbs working with gnomes, garden fairies, etc. aligning and balancing your root and heart chakras working with the magick of trees hiking and camping carving and woodworking crafting magical wreaths wearing and using earth element colors in your magick The Unique Magick of the Earth Element The earth element works in conjunction with all other elements to sustain life on this planet. In fact, it IS the planet. Think about how earth works with the others: earth feeds fire, requires water for growth, produces air (trees/plants) in conjunction with water. But can also suffocate fire and air and impede water. We live on the earth, our feet and homes planted in the soil, and grow our food in the earth. Without earth, we would not survive. Earth is nurturing, grounding, loving, growing, replenishing, moving, sowing, and reaping. Earth Element Exercises As a witch, you will commune and connect with all 5 elements over the span of your lifetime. Sometimes you’ll love one element over the others. But you should explore all elements in the same regard. With the earth element, study the earth magical properties. Write them down in your grimoire or Book of Shadows. Learn about plants and trees. Work with herbs and crystals. Take time to dive into grounding techniques. Understand the very essence of earth. You can eat things that relate to earth (nearly everything). Wear the colors of earth. Take a trip to a cave system or forest. Read More from the 4 Element Series: Fire Element: Magical Properties and Spells Air Element: Magical Properties and Spells Water Element: Magical Properties and Spells

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Water Element: Water Magical Properties & Spells for New Witches

kitty fields — Thu, 27 Jun 2019 16:20:07 +0000

The water element is powerful in so many ways. In Wicca and other western magical traditions, it is one of the 5 major elements from which all life is sustained. From an ocean wave to a dew drop, witches use the water element in their magick and spiritual practice for many different purposes. Learn all about the water element, water magical properties, simple water magic spells and more here. Water Magical Properties Depending on the tradition and even the individual, water’s magical properties will vary. When the water element means dreams and emotions to one person, it may mean destruction and purification to another. These are meant to be guidelines; adjust as needed. Direction: WestSubstance: Rain, tsunami, ocean waves, dew drops, rivers, creeks, ponds, lakes, waterfalls.Zodiac Signs: Pisces, Cancer, ScorpioPlanets: Moon, VenusWater Magical Properties: purification, emotions, intuition, dreams, love, rebirth/renewal, understanding, harmony, friendship, connection to the dead/ancestors/spirit realmWater Animals: seagulls, seabirds, sea turtles, fish, sharks, whales, dolphins, crabs, starfish, seahorses, otters, seals, walrus, penguins, octopus, squid, barracuda, frogsColors: blue, teal/green, silver, whiteMagical Tools: chalice, cauldron, bowl, scrying mirrorMagical Creatures with water magical properties: selkie, Chinese dragon, undine, mermaid, kelpie, siren, sea serpent Deities associated with Water: Manannan Mac Lir, Lyr, Cliodhna, Sequana, Danu, Yemaya, Poseidon, Triton, Aphrodite, Oshun, Hapi, Osiris, Dodola, Nantosuelta, Sirona, Boann, Sinann, Freyr, Njord, Medusa, Oceanus, Neptune, Ganga, SaraswatiPlants with Water Magical Properties: lettuce, blue lotus, water lily, bella donna, burdock, spearmint, periwinkle, watermelon, lobelia, aloe vera, fern, seaweed, algae Ideas for Water Magic Spells If you are a water zodiac sign, your most powerful magick will facilitate the water element to make change. Water magic spells don’t have to be complicated, unless you want them to be. Here are some easy ways to cast water magic spells and harness the energy of the water element: The Unique Magick of the Water Element The water element works in conjunction with all other elements to sustain life on this planet. Think about how water works with the others: water extinguishes fire or is evaporated by fire, water feeds the earth, water is made with and moved by air. We require water to live and our bodies are made up of at least sixty percent water. The planet is mostly made up of water. Water is our great mother, the creator, and yet in an instant becomes the great destroyer. But remember, where there’s destruction then after comes creation. Water Element Exercises for the Beginner Witch As a witch, you will commune and connect with all 5 elements over the span of your lifetime. Sometimes you’ll love one element over the others. But you should explore all elements in the same regard. With the water element, study the water magical properties. Write them down in your grimoire or Book of Shadows. Learn about chalices and cauldrons. Collect and charge water by storm, moon, sun, etc. Take time to connect with water by ritual bathing. Understand the very essence of water. You can eat things that relate to water. Wear the colors of water. Study the animals and plants associated with water. My Shadow Element: Water It’s hard for me to admit, but I’ve had a shadow element nearly all my life – water. Even though I enjoyed swimming as a kid, I never liked the idea of getting into deep, open water like the ocean. For years I’ve had dreams of drowning or waves crashing over my head. I also realized when I’m in the shower, I can never let the water run over my face. It makes me feel like I’m suffocating. I’ve truly only come to terms with my shadow element in the past few years and have really tried to understand why water is my shadow element. Lately I’ve been trying to forge a connection with my shadow element and explore all the ways in which my fears of water could actually be healing when recognized and rectified. I know water is healing, purifying, and carries properties of intuition, dreams, and emotions. And yet, I can’t quite get over my fear of drowning. In our podcast episode on the Four Elements, Allorah and Kitty go into depth about shadow elements. Listen here: My SCARY Shadow Element Story in Turks & Caicos Recently, I visited Turks & Caicos in the Caribbean Islands. My husband and I went there for an anniversary trip. One day we were lying on the beach and people carrying snorkeling masks walked by. We decided to be spontaneous and go snorkeling too. As I’ve mentioned, water is my shadow element and I’m trying to push past my fears so I decided to go snorkeling with my husband. I am a good swimmer, anyway. Fast forward past the snorkeling experience, and I had a BLAST! I loved being able to see the brightly colored fish and coral reefs up close. So then we decided to give scuba diving a try. We studied, took a few tests, and dived in the pool for preliminary training. Immediately upon going under in the pool with the regulator in my mouth, I panicked. I felt like I couldn’t breathe and had to come to the surface immediately. TBH, I’ve never had a panic attack in my life so this feeling of doom and not being able to breathe was new to me. My instructor and husband walked me through it and I tried going under with the equipment on again (keep in mind you have equipment on your back, feet, chest, waist, and face, as well as in your mouth). I did well in the pool so I figured I’d be able to handle the ocean too. When Your Fins Eff Up… So the boat takes us out to the reef that surrounds the Turks and Caicos Islands. We strap on our BCDs, oxygen tanks, weights, put our fins on our feet and masks and snorkels on our faces. We take a giant stride into the ocean and off the back of the boat. Unfortunately, my fins didn’t fit my feet like they should have and […]

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Fire Element: Fire Magical Properties & Fire Magic Spells for New Witches

kitty fields — Wed, 26 Jun 2019 21:06:00 +0000

There are five elements according to Wicca and western magical traditions: spirit, fire, earth, air and water. We’ve covered the air element, and now we’ll cover the fire element as well as fire’s magical properties and fire magic spells for beginner witches. Ready to light your magick on FIRE? Fire Magical Properties Fire isn’t just without. It comes from within. It’s as much a part of this world as it is a part of ourselves. From a candle’s flame to a bonfire, witches use the fire element in their magical craft for many different reasons. Depending on the tradition and even the individual, fire magical properties will vary. When the fire element means passion and success to one person, it may mean emotions and cleansing to another. These are meant to be guidelines; adjust as needed. Direction: SouthSubstance: Candle flame, Bonfire, Wildfire, Heat, Sunlight, Hearth, Spark, Fuse, Electricity, Fever, Oven, Fireworks, Chemical Reactions (some)Body: Loins, Immune and Metabolic SystemZodiac Signs: Aries, Leo, SagittariusPlanets: MarsFire Magical Properties: passion, anger, transformation, cleansing, destruction, protection, energy, force, renewal, rebirth, banishment, purification, sex, warding, truth, hopeFire Animals: snakes, lizards, bees, crickets, scorpions, fox, lion, tiger, ram, fire ant, fireflyColors: Red, Orange, Yellow, Gold, BlueMagical Tools: candles, athame, sword, dagger, stove and oven, incenseMagical Creatures with fire magical properties: dragons, phoenix, salamanders, djinnPlants with Fire Magical Properties: rosemary, rue, basil, thistle, peppers, cactus, coffee beans Fire Magic Spells The fire magical properties are fueled by air. So, essentially, air can be used to fan or increase fire. Water may be heated by fire OR in larger quantities can put out the fire. Fire cooks or burns up earth or can be extinguished by earth. People who are fire signs tend to be very passionate, driven people. They are sometimes easy to enrage, and love working with the fire element in their magick. If you are a fire sign, fire magic spells and charms will be your most potent form of witchcraft. Here are some easy ways to cast fire magic spells and harness the energy of the fire element: Candle spells Sun-bathing / re-charging by sunlight Burning papers with wishes/intentions in bonfires Burning old belongings to release old habits and negativity Hearth magick: cooking, brewing, baking, etc. Fire scrying: divination in candle flames and bonfires Smoke scrying: divination with smoke Burning Incense and Smoke-cleansing Storm magick, particularly harnessing the energy of lightning Solar magick: sun teas and elixirs, sabbat celebrations, etc. Alchemy with metals Crafting sun catchers with magical intentions Sex magick Burning candles as offerings to gods, ancestors, spirit guides Blacksmithing and forging Working with crystals linked to the fire element Following your passion in life The Unique Magick of the Fire Element Fire is creative and destructive. It warded off wild animals, intruders, and illness for our ancestors. It also kept them warm and provided a means of cooking. But it could also destroy entire villages and forests, destroying life as we know it. Fire dries/evaporates water, is fueled/extinguished by air, and is fueled/extinguished by earth. The interaction with fire all depends on the amount of each element used. Without heat and fire, our ancestors wouldn’t have survived and neither would we. In Greek mythology, fire was gifted to humans by a god. Let the fire element cleanse you of your past and prepare a path for the future. Fire Element Exercises for the Beginner Witch To connect with the fire element, beginner witches should eat, sleep, breathe and live fire. Simply lighting candles on a daily basis starts the process. Study fire and its interactions with the other elements. Wear colors that correspond to fire. Think about what human characteristics YOU associate with fire. Do you feel it inside when you’re angry? Motivated? Lustful? Learn how to scry with fire. Understand the scientific properties of fire. Study the animals, landscape and plants connected to the fire element. Cast fire magic spells until you feel you’ve forged a connection. Read More of the 4 Elements Series: Air Element: Air Magical Properties, Spells and More Water Element: Water Magical Properties, Spells and More Earth Element: Earth Magical Properties, Spells and More

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Air Element: Air Magical Properties & Air Spells for the Beginner Witch

kitty fields — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 22:02:08 +0000

The air element is powerful in so many ways. In Wicca and other western magical traditions, it is one of the 5 major elements from which all life is sustained. From a gust of wind to a gentle exhale, witches use the air element in their magick and spiritual practice for many different purposes. Learn all about the air element, air magical properties, simple air spells and more here. Air Magical Properties Depending on the tradition and even the individual, air magical properties will vary. When the air element means communication or activation to one person, it may mean emotions and abundance to another. These are meant to be guidelines; adjust as needed. Direction: EastSubstance: Wind, Mist, Fog, Clouds, Spirit, Ether, Breeze, Hurricane, Tornado, Spoken Word, Whisper, Breath, MusicPrana: breathing, breath of life (Hindu)Qi: air, energy flow, breath (Chinese)Zodiac Signs: Gemini, Libra, AquariusPlanets: Jupiter and MercuryAir Magical Properties: communication (spoken and written), travel, whimsy, writing, activation, movement, business contracts/agreements, mental strength and memory, purification, music and healing.Air Animals: birds, bees, butterflies, dragonflies, bats, flying insects, flying squirrels, any flying animalColors: White, yellow, silverMagical Tools: feathers, bells, incense, wand, leaves, wind chimes, wings, fans, musical instruments, besom, bubblesMagical Creatures with air magical properties: winged fairies like pixies, phoenix, dragons, pegasus, sylphsPlants with Air Magical Properties: air plants (like spanish moss), mimosa, alder, aspen, birch, dandelion, lavender, fennel, lungwort Simple Air Spells and Magick If you are an air zodiac sign, your most powerful magick will facilitate the air element to make change. Air spells don’t have to be complicated, unless you want them to be. Here are some easy ways to cast air spells and harness the energy of the air element: make a wish while blowing bubbles OR divine a message using bubbles burn incense as offering to the gods and to manifest your intentions write your air spell on a piece of paper, take it to the top of a cliff, let it blow away in the wind keep a magical grimoire or book of shadows make a wish and blow out the birthday candles smoke-cleanse your home with burning herbs to rid it of negativity blow a dandelion seed-head and make a wish balloon magick (although not recommended for the environment nowadays) storm magick: harnessing the energy of a storm to manifest your air spell cloud scrying: divination using the patterns in clouds to tell the future cloud bursting: moving air with the power of your mind whispering air spells into the wind working with air element fairies and spirits volunteering your time or resources to a local bird rescue (the energy you offer to these creatures may help manifest your intentions) automatic writing writing and reciting poetry learning and playing an instrument (particularly woodwind, flutes or stringed) singing your intentions chanting your intentions daily words of affirmation feather magick: divination or spells The Unique Magick of the Air Element The air element works in conjunction with all other elements to sustain life on this planet. Think about how air works with the others: air fuels fire, moves earth, makes clouds with water. You may notice how some of the air element’s magical properties and associations cross over with the elements. That’s because they all work together flawlessly in the circle of life. As for air, we inhale and exhale air, it cools us off, but it can also be destructive and blow down houses. Without air, we would not survive. Air is whirling, twirling, twisting, freeing. Whipping, swirling, caressing, calling, kissing, misting, clouding, flying. Speak it into existence, whisper it into the wind. Air Element Exercises for the Beginner Witch As a witch or magical practitioners, you will commune and connect with all 5 elements over the span of your lifetime. Sometimes you’ll love one element over the others. But you should explore all elements in the same regard. With the air element, study the air magical properties. Write them down in your grimoire or Book of Shadows. Learn about incense and smudging. Work with a bell and wind chimes. Take time to dive into breathing techniques. Understand the very essence of air. You can eat things that relate to air. Wear the colors of air. Study the animals and plants associated with air. Listen to our podcast on the Four Elements: Read More in the 4 Elements Series: Fire Element: Magical Properties and Spells Water Element: Magical Properties and Spells Earth Element: Magical Properties and Spells

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9 Magical Waters: How to Make & Use Moon Water, Sun Water, and More

kitty fields — Sun, 05 May 2019 19:10:22 +0000

Water is cleansing, quenching, and enchanting. It carries the vibrations of the ocean and the moon. There are many different kinds of magical waters you can make and use in your craft. Here’s how to make moon water, sun water, rose water and many more! We also give you tips on how to use magical waters and cast water magic spells. The Water Element and Its Properties Before we talk about specific magically-infused waters, let’s talk about the power of the water element. Our planet is covered in 71% water. Our bodies are made up of at least 60% of water. So this should come as no surprise that water is crucial to our survival. Physically, we need it to function. But so do animals, plants, trees, and the earth overall. In addition to its physical qualities, the water element holds special magical properties. Water represents our emotional side, our dreams, our intuition. When used in magick and ritual, water is a purifier and brings many qualities to the table. It’s creative and destructive, depending on the day and quantity. Learn how to harness the energy of the water element and make some of these magical waters. 1. Magical Moon Water Moon water is water that’s been charged by the moon. This water has been infused with the energy of the moon itself. This magical water is especially useful to witches for spells, rituals, sabbats, cleansing, and more. Timing of Moon Water (Blue Moon Water, Blood Moon Water, Etc.) Depending on which moon phase the moon water is made will give it certain magical powers. For example, if you make full moon water, magical properties include love, protection, and abundance. You can also choose a special full moon to make your moon water (i.e. blue moon water, blood moon water, lunar eclipses, etc.) And keep in mind the astrological sign the moon is in while making moon water. For example, a waxing moon in Taurus will carry different properties than moon water made under a waning moon in Pisces, etc. How to make moon water: What You’ll Need: Instructions: Moon water has many magical uses. Use it to cleanse and bless your magical tools and altar. Anoint your third eye with moon water to invite psychic visions and dreams. Add a splash to your magical baths. Wash your hair with moon water to aid in growth. Pour it back into a silver bowl and scry. Add a cup to the laundry! Use in various water magic spells to represent the moon, ocean, emotions, intuition, dreams, the lunar goddess, etc. Technically, you don’t even have to make moon water. Any water collected from a natural source that’s just been touched by full moonlight is moon water! 2. Sun Water Sun water is water that’s been charged by the sun. It’s the same concept as moon water. Make sun water by leaving water in a bowl, jar or bottle to charge in the sunlight for one full day. Bring it in at sunset or before the moonlight touches it. Uses for sun water include: charging tools and altars for sun gods, giving any spell or ritual a boost of energy, to help “grow” an intention, or to cleanse a space or object. Add to the bath for energy and vitality. Its also very helpful in healing rituals and to boost self confidence. 3. Storm Water Storm water is water that’s been collected during a thunderstorm. This magical water has been charged with all the powerful energy of the storm from which it came. The lightning, thunder, wind, and barometric pressure have all added their energy to storm water. Collect in a pitcher or jar. Then label and use to super-charge your water magic spells. You can also charge a pitcher or jar of water with storm energy by leaving it in a windowsill during a lightning storm. Some witches gather hurricane or even tornado water, which is rain that comes along with these two powerful storms. Be aware of how powerful these magical waters can be. They truly amplify any intention. 4. Snow Water Snow water is water that was collected in snow form that has melted. Many witches collect a bit of snow from the first snow of the season, then store it in a jar to use throughout the year. It has all the magical properties of the element of water, with some unique ones. Snow water properties include: purification, peace, serenity, pause, reflection, healing, and beauty. Bathe in it to cleanse negative vibrations and bring peace to an anxious soul. Snow water is a magical water that also holds transformation properties (i.e. water has been transformed into a solid form, then back again). 5. Rose Water: Magical Love Water A magical water that’s been infused with the essence of roses is called rose water. Rose water is popular in many magickal traditions including hoodoo and has been used as medicinal headache relief in years past. There are different ways to make rose water, but the more traditional involves infusing the rose essence into water via heat. Click here to learn how to make rose water. Magical Uses for Rose Water Roses are ruled by Venus and are beloved to many gods and goddesses of love. Therefore, use rose water in magic spells for love. Pour into the bathtub to attract love into your life. Infuse rose water into perfumes, hair sprays, soaps, and more! Some people use it in their baking and teas. Rose water is also useful in psychic and protection spells. How does the rose offer protection? Think of its thorns. 6. Florida Water Florida water is a magical water that’s not an actual water, but a combination of essential oils mixed with a solvent. It originates in Florida and was inspired by the fabled Fountain of Youth which was supposedly located somewhere in the state. It’s been used as a perfume and cleanser for centuries, but magical people have caught onto its cleansing power. Bathe in […]

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How to Be a Sea Witch in 13 WATERY Ways

kitty fields — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 21:08:34 +0000

Have you been called to the realm of the sea witch? Maybe you’ve always been drawn to the sea. The ocean waves lull you to sleep. The sand feels like magic between your toes. Salty air smells like perfume from a past life. The ocean speaks to you in a language only you understand. The sea is our mother – nurturing and healing but she can also be angry and fearsome. Maybe you’re wondering how to tap in to and harness the power of the sea in all her glory. Time to learn how to be a sea witch. First, What is a Sea Witch? We should define this special path before getting into how to be a sea witch. A sea witch, also called a water or ocean witch, is someone who makes magic by the seashore and uses the powers of the ocean to fuel their witchcraft. The sea witch is able to center his or her energy by the ocean, as well as use the ocean’s powers to heal, protect, cleanse, draw abundance, and more. No, you don’t have to live by the sea in order to be a sea witch. Many people are drawn to the ocean and only get to visit it for holidays and vacations. But that doesn’t mean they don’t take a bit of the ocean home in their hearts. Some sea witches love the sea but also just love working with the water element in general. This could mean you favor a local body of water like a lake, river, creek, pond, well or waterfall. However you decide to practice sea witchery is up to you. How to Be a Sea Witch & Practice Water Witchery 1. Intimacy with the Sea If you’ve chosen to be a sea witch, visit the sea on a regular basis. If you don’t live near the sea, then perhaps you live near a bay, lake, river, stream, or other body of water. Identify your local bodies of water and visit them as much as possible. Get to know the water intimately by swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and walking along the shoreline. Each ocean, seashore, and body of water has its own personality. Its own spirits. Its own magic. Make a separate page in your grimoire for each local body of water. Note their characteristics, history, eco-system, etc. Get to know the wildlife in and around this body of water including the aquatic animals, mammals, birds and insects. A sea witch knows the sea and its inhabitants so well he/she will be able to identify each by sight and sound. 2. Sea Offerings To create a relationship with your local bodies of water, give offerings. These should be biodegradable and eco-friendly. Creating a symbol of gratitude on the beach using seashells, flower petals, seaweed and other items that are naturally present is one easy way to leave offerings for the spirits of the sea. You can do the same lakeside with branches and pebbles. The time and effort it takes to gather the items and craft a symbol as an offering will not be frowned upon by your local body of water or the spirits there. Another sea offering could be a cup of local honey or mead poured directly into the water. Offerings are the first step in developing a working relationship with the water as a sea witch. 3. Beachcombing for Tools A sea witch uses items from the seashore in his or her magic. Have you ever been beachcombing? Walk down the shoreline and let Mother Nature gift you with magical tools and spell ingredients including seashells, coral, driftwood, feathers, seaweed, crab shells, shark’s teeth, hag-stones, bones, seed pods, grasses, sand, etc. You can do the same at a lake or river. Collect the items presented to you and be sure to thank the ocean/water for its gifts. Place these magical items on your altar to honor the sea or use in spells and rituals. Large shells become bowls and cups. Seagull feathers become smudge fans. Driftwood becomes a sea witch’s wand. A magic circle can be drawn using sand. When gathered from the beach, seashells have various magical properties, including: love, fertility, healing, emotions, intuition, and dreams. Look up the seashell online and identify the kind, which makes it that much more powerful! For example, the shell of an oyster draws love into one’s life. After all, oysters are known as powerful aphrodisiacs. Or maybe you found a perfect spiral shell – spirals are the symbol of eternal life and therefore this seashell is connected to past life work. 4. Cleansing Rituals Something you’ve probably already done but is the one of the most magical experiences is bathing in the ocean water. The water has a purifying, cleansing effect that can’t be replicated with a bath or shower at home. Ocean water contains salt, which is another powerful purifier. It cleanses your aura and removes any negative energetic residue. Cleansing oneself in the ocean is a common practice of a sea witch and should be utilized as much as possible. Immerse yourself in the sea and watch your desires manifest. 5. Sea Gods and Elementals Part of the reason I told you to give offerings to the sea is to forge a relationship with the spirit of the sea itself. BUT when you give offerings, also consider the sea spirits and gods present. The Celts, Norse, African, and Native American peoples all believed in sea gods and spirits. Choose a local sea god or goddess to work magic with OR let one of the sea gods choose you. Water and sea gods and goddesses from all over the world include: Yemaya, Manannan Mac Lir, Poseidon, Boann, Danu, Dragon Kings of the 4 Seas, Anuket, Sobek, Tefnut, Mami Wata, Triton, Bangputys, Tangaroa, the Cailleach, Aegir, Nehalennia, Coventina, Cliodhna, Neptune, Morskoi, and Oshun. These are just a few! Don’t forget the sea spirits and water spirits like water nymphs, nix, kelpies, undines, merrows, selkies and merfolk. […]

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