Intentions Archives - Otherworldly Oracle

Protection Runes: 10 POWERFUL Symbols to Fend Off Enemies

kitty fields — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 19:43:28 +0000

Symbols carry much power. We use them to communicate with others, to warn, direct, and convey emotion. Among many other things. In the magical world, symbols are that much more powerful because they are also believed to induce change in the spiritual. And, in my opinion, runes are the best to use for almost any purpose. Here we provide you with 10 potent protection runes that will ward off negative energy, enemies, and illness. First, What Are Runes? The word rune means “a mark or letter with magical significance”, according to the Oxford Dictionary. While I agree with this very simple definition, I would tell you the runes are much more than that. I don’t think they can truly be defined or even fully understood by any one person or practitioner. Odin had to give up his own eye in order to receive the knowledge of the runes, for gods’ sake. For this article, we are specifically referring to the Elder futhark system of runes. An “alphabet” of sorts or collection of symbols that have been in use since at least 150AD and stem from the Germanic peoples of Europe. While each rune represents a letter or phonetic sound, it’s also said to represent physical, mental, and spiritual concepts and actions. Many pagans and witches today feel drawn to the Elder futhark runes and use them in their personal lives for protection, love, vitality, and to connect with the old gods. Why Do We Need Protection In a Spiritual Sense? This world is so focused on the physical…all the things we can see, taste, touch, feel, smell. But we frequently forget there’s another world all around us. The spirit world. And just as people and the environment in the physical world can affect us, spirits and the spiritual world can also affect us. Whether you believe in spirits or not, there is energy. Everything is made up of energy, as are we. Therefore, we are affected by the energetic vibrations that we come into contact with on a daily basis. These people, energies and/or spirits can bring good things or bad things. They can bring health or illness, joy or sadness, safety or danger. Just as you protect yourself when you are out in public or protect your home from physical dangers, you should also consider protecting yourself from spiritual dangers. Protection runes are a great way of shielding yourself, family, and home from outside influence and malevolent forces. Be they physical or spiritual. The elder futhark runes have been used for centuries to ward off enemies, illness, and misfortune. You can use them in this way too. 1. ALGIZ, A Widely-used Protection Rune If you google protection runes, typically the first that will pop up is Algiz. Most people think of this rune when we hear protection rune. Well, it’s for a good reason. Most scholars and modern Norse pagans associate algiz with protection because the symbol itself is in the shape of elk antlers. Elk use their antlers to protect themselves from enemies, be they from their own species or predators of another kind. In addition, Algiz connects us to the divine, as we see its points or antlers reaching up to the sky…to the home of the gods. According to Tyriel on Runesecrets.com, the Algiz rune is intricately “connected to the Valkyries (otherworldly psychopompic warriors) and because it connects us to the gods, it also grants us higher instincts”. And obviously the sharper our instincts the better we sense danger coming. 2. TIWAZ: Tyr’s Protection Rune Tyr is the Norse God of justice and is also known as a spirit warrior. He sacrificed his arm in order to protect the other gods from the ferocious wolf Fenrir. Tiwaz is Tyr’s rune and therefore is employed in times when protection is necessary. It’s particularly helpful in protecting one’s family and loved ones from harm. If it’s justice you need, then justice you will get with Tiwaz. Sometimes justice is required in order to protect ourselves from outside threats. And if you are in need of clarity in a cloudy or confusing situation, this rune works wonders. 3. THURISAZ: Thor’s Rune Some folks shy away from using this rune and assign negative meaning to it because it is often seen as a “thorn”. I don’t see thorns as being bad necessarily, as I’ve used them in protection magick over the years with palpable results. Therefore, thurisaz is a potent protection rune when viewed as a thorn protecting those who mean to harm us and come to close. In addition, Thurisaz is Thor’s rune and represents his hammer. And just as Thor uses his hammer in battle, we too can use this protection rune in our personal battles. Whether that’s with an enemy, illness, or some other danger that threatens our wellbeing. If you work with the god of thunder, this is an even more powerful rune. 4. ANSUZ: Odin’s Rune of Protection I can’t tell you how many times I’ve utilized this protection rune in my own practice. It doesn’t just bring protection, it brings lessons, healing and comfort. Interestingly, most sources don’t tell you it can be used for protection. But because I work closely with Odin in my practice, and I use this rune to invoke him, I’ve found it is indeed effective in shielding and warding practices. It’s also considered the voice of the Allfather. So if you’re in danger, this rune will allow Odin to speak to you and warn you directly. Remember, the gods want us to be able to defend ourselves too. 5. Ehwaz: The Horse Rune for Protection and Speedy Escape Ehwaz is a symbol that resembles a capital M, but it actually represents two horses’ heads touching noses. Or the full body of a horse, depending on how you look at it. Either way, it is the Horse rune, and is imbued with protective qualities because of its link to one of man’s trusted companions. According to Cassandra Eason in “A […]

The post Protection Runes: 10 POWERFUL Symbols to Fend Off Enemies appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.

Egg Cleanse: How To Do An Egg Cleansing & Read the Meaning

kitty fields — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 22:02:44 +0000

In recent years, a practice called an egg cleansing ritual has gained popularity in the online witchcraft community. One might think this is a new, modern practice but in reality, the egg cleanse dates back centuries. And its origins are spread out across cultures. Eggs are a powerful tool in any witch’s or magical practitioner’s repertoire. Here we teach you why eggs are a potent ingredient in removing negative energy. PLUS how to do an egg cleansing ritual and how to read the egg afterward. First, Why Are Egg Cleansings A Thing? I am one that believes certain practices of our ancestors are passed down over generations, and certain practices are just ingrained in our DNA and spiritual memory. Either way, we have our ancestors to thank for these powerful rituals. One such ritual is called the egg cleanse. We all know how important it is to cleanse yourself and your space regularly. But why is an egg used as a purifying tool? Egg Magick & Oomancy First, we have to look at the magick of the egg itself. Typically when we say “eggs”, we are mostly referring to a chicken’s egg. But there are eggs from other animals that can also be used in magick and cleansing rituals. However, we recommend sticking to the chicken variety. And here’s why – the chicken in and of itself has a gods-given ability to keep evil at bay. Many cultures and traditions believe chickens “scratch” away evil spirits and/or scare any that are near. So, yes! It is good luck and a great natural warding device to have chickens in your yard or on your property. Eggs = Protection That being said, eggs by default are also protective. But think of their actual physical make-up: the egg yolk and whites are contained in a hard, protective shell. Egg magick is both protective and can be used to increase fertility. Eggs actually have a long history of being used in folk magic from various traditions including: African diasporic, Mesoamerican, Romani, German Folk Magic (Pow Wow), and were even used by the ancient Greeks, Romans and Celtic Druids. Oomancy…Ohhhh Eggs Oomancy is a form of ancient divination in which the individual “reads” eggs as messages from the gods. There were various ways of doing this including cracking an egg into water and reading the pattern of the whites and yolk. Some people read the lines, cracks, and color of eggshells. I know today we have mass-produced chicken eggs that are all mostly of pure white color. But back in the day, and on free ranging farms, eggs took on different colors, shapes and some were even speckled. Speaking of eggshells, when you’re done reading them, you can use them as flying vehicles. Witches in Medieval Times were said to fly around in empty eggshells, as were fairies. Most people discarded their eggshells quickly so as not to encourage mischievous magic-makers from taking them. How to Do An Egg Cleansing Ritual What You’ll Need: How to do an egg cleansing on yourself or another person: PLEASE NOTE: if the evil eye or malefic magick is suspected, don’t crack the egg right away to read it but place it under yours (or the person’s) bed for at least 24 hours. Then continue with the steps below (cracking in water and reading). Kitty Fields, Otherworldly Oracle Reading Egg Cleanse Meanings Once you’ve rubbed the egg all over your body, the next step in the egg cleanse process is to read the egg yolk, whites, and the patterns therein. Like so: 8. Crack your egg over a clear glass, half-filled with water.9. Let the yolk and whites settle, then gaze through the glass from the side.10. You’ll begin to see shapes, patterns, strings, colors, and more. Here’s how to interpret different meanings behind your egg cleanse. When reading an egg cleanse, the yolk is representative of you and the whites symbolize others. Kitty Fields, Otherworldly Oracle Patterns, Symbols, and Colors in Your Egg Cleanse Cup You’ve Read Your Egg Cleanse Meaning, Now What? Maybe you’ve read the meaning of your egg cleanse and received certain results. What do you do with this information? First of all, if your egg showed mostly clear or somewhat cloudy, this is a good thing. It means you’ve cleansed yourself well enough already. But if you feel out of sorts still, cleanse yourself again by some other method (bathing ritual, smoke-cleansing ritual, etc.) If you noticed you have attachments or cords, it’s truly up to you to figure out who these people or spirits are, and whether you want to cut those cords or not. Remember, not all energetic cords are harmful. Learn to cut the cords here. If there’s blood or a bad smell… When there’s blood in the egg, extreme cloudiness, or a foul odor, this means someone is working magic against you or that you have an evil spirit nearby. What do you do in this case? There’s a few things you need to do: cleanse your space and yourself, lay wards around your property, call in your guides to protect you, and start wearing a protective amulet. In addition, some folks might consider a reversal spell (return to sender), as well as crafting and burying a witch bottle on the property. Cobwebs and Double Yolks… In addition, if you find you have cobwebs in the egg or an eye, you have folks who are envious of you. Taking extra precautions to shield yourself from jealousy and the evil eye is necessary at this point. Wearing an evil eye amulet like the nazar or a hag stone is a powerful way to keep envious vibes at bay. As far as double yolks after an egg cleanse, this is typically interpreted in different ways depending on the person’s situation. If pregnant or trying to conceive, a double yolk could mean twins for the expecting mom. But if pregnancy is out of the question, a double yolk could mean one’s soul was […]

The post Egg Cleanse: How To Do An Egg Cleansing & Read the Meaning appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.

Freezer Spells: How to Cast POWERFUL Binding Spells

kitty fields — Sun, 07 Aug 2022 20:23:14 +0000

Freezer spells have become all the magical rage in recent years. They are an extremely effective form of magick, working quickly and succinctly. In addition, freezer spells are great for multiple intentions including bindings, to “pause” or put a situation on hold, to bring peace or even to stop a person in their tracks. Here we will dive into the history of freezer spells and why it’s okay for you to cast one when done mindfully. Plus we provide you with two freezer spells to try including a lemon freezer spell and a freezer binding spell. Let’s get our chill on. First, What is a Freezer Spell? The Basics A freezer spell is exactly how it sounds – a spell that utilizes the freezer in your home and its freezing capabilities. In recent years, they’ve become popular among the witchcraft community. So much so that you’ll even hear people say that doing a freezer spell is a “closed” tradition. We don’t believe that it is, if you truly make it your own and use your ingredients and words mindfully. History of the Freezer (And Why It’s Important Magically) For those who say only a specific magical tradition can use freezer spells in their magick, this is what I say to them. Should I also stop using my stove or oven in my spell work? How about candles, are they a certain magic tradition too? The point here is there are some freezer spells that utilize techniques from the Hoodoo folk magic tradition including sour and sweetening jars. If you want to stay away from appropriating, simply leave those ingredients and methods out of your personal freezer magick. From Ice Boxes to Modern Freezers There’s no doubt in my mind our ancestors who made magick, cast spells, and gave out remedies used what they hand on-hand. That includes any of the appliances or features of their home at their disposal. When I say our ancestors, I mean ALL of our ancestors. There were and are magical folk from every culture who have been casting powerful spells for centuries. But if they didn’t have a freezer, what did they have? According to Swirl Freeze, the fact that ancient humans learned how to freeze food for preservation is just as important to humanity as the use of fire to cook it. For people who lived in colder climates, they first learned to preserve food by placing it directly on the ice. Gradually, there came icehouses, which were small buildings where ice was placed and food placed within to freeze it. Then ice boxes in How Do Freezer Spells Work? Freezer spells work in a few ways. Let’s break down the magical mechanics, shall we? First, the freezer essentially does one job – freezes things. And freezing = preservation. But when we think of various intentions for spells, this is when the freezer’s MAGICAL abilities vary. For example, let’s say you’re working at a job that has become dangerous. A co-worker has made it a hostile environment, and you are even sometimes fearful for your life. You’ve gone to the boss but nothing has been done. So you decide to do a freezer binding spell on this coworker. It will work, but you have to consider the length of time you plan to keep the spell going AND how long you plan to keep the binding spell in the freezer. Next, let’s just say you are at a point in life where something is moving too fast for your liking. And is causing you significant stress, anxiety, or pain. Is there a way to slow the process down or even stop it in its tracks? Yes…freezer spells are perfect to do this magical job, as well. And when you’re ready to allow the natural time to flow again, you remove the spell from the freezer and let it “defrost”. Think of it like this – whatever you want to freeze in place or PRESERVE, a freezer spell will be powerful. There are MANY Intentions for Freezer Spells Most of my research on freezer spells prior to writing this article yielded the same intention – to bind a person or situation. This is probably the most popular intention for a freezer spell but definitely not the only way a freezer can be utilized in one’s magical practice. There are a number of intentions, and more specifically when we use the freezer in place of ice spells another world is opened to us: Freezer spells are great to preserve love And friendship To preserve a job opportunity or salary To stop time from moving too fast Preserve one’s health Bind a dangerous person or situation from causing harm When using ice in our spells, promotes stillness Self Control Focus and concentration Learning how to adapt to abrupt change Cooling a “hot” situation off (the refrigerator is actually better for this depending on the severity of the circumstances) Extreme purification In god/goddess dedication rituals (particularly of a Northern pantheon from colder climates) The “Magical Morals” of Casting Freezer Binding Spells I guess at this point, it’s time for me to step in and talk about magical morals when it comes to casting freezer binding spells. You’ll hear a lot of people tell you when you mess with free will, you’re messing with something you shouldn’t. To leave these things to the Universe or gods to work out. But here’s the problem with that – sometimes the universe/gods expect US to protect ourselves. And if we’ve done everything we can in the physical but still feel threatened, we have the magical to help us through. So I say, if you feel that binding spells of any kind are against your morals, don’t do them. But if you feel the need to protect yourself or others, I won’t tell you what’s right or wrong. Ingredients and FUN SPELL Methods I’m sure you’ve figured out the main 2 ingredients in freezer spells: water and the freezer itself. But don’t discount […]

The post Freezer Spells: How to Cast POWERFUL Binding Spells appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.

Protection Sigil: How to Make Your Own Symbols for Shielding & Warding

kitty fields — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 22:48:44 +0000

Safety is the 2nd base on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs pyramid model. Only second to physiological needs like water, clothing and food. Therefore, safety is key to our survival as human beings. It’s also crucial for us to feel whole as individuals – feeling protected allows us to focus on other needs like love and self esteem. So how can magick support one of our basic human requirements like protection? In many ways, and especially when we put our energetic intentions into it. Here we show you how to design your own protection sigil for spiritual shielding, warding and banishing purposes. First, Why Do We Need Spiritual Protection? Just as we need a home in which to live and be shielded from the elements, we also need spiritual protection in a world with chaotic energies lurking behind every corner. This is especially true for people who engage in spiritual and magical practices like shamans, healers, witches, empaths, psychics, mediums, and magical practitioners of all kinds. We tend to pick up energies from all around us easily including other people’s energy as well as energy from animals, events, weather patterns, seasons and moon phases. We feel spirits around us. This means we may unknowingly absorb these energies – both good and bad. Setting up spiritual shields is just one part of the protection process, but one that is often forgotten. How A Sigil Protects You So how does it work, exactly? Do you just draw or paint a protection sigil and boom, you’re protected? There’s a little more behind the magical mechanics of symbols. First, the intention must be there. Then the creation process which literally pulls the energy from the ether (be it through gods, ancestors, guides or the Universe). Finally, the activation and use of that sigil in alignment with your intentions. The entire creation process draws energy into the sigil…the thought, movement, and use is what fuels the symbol into action. These symbols can be used to ward off negative energies, evil spirits, hexes, the evil eye, illness, and bad luck. Next, What is a Protection Sigil, exactly? Put simply, a protection sigil is a symbol that you create with the intention to protect yourself, others, or a specific space. Sigils have been used for centuries to represent specific deities, invoke spirits, and delineate sacred space. In modern times, chaos magic makes frequent use of sigil creation which has trickled into the witchcraft community at large. But creating one’s own personal power symbols is no new tactic. Consider bindrunes, for example. Runes that are combined with other runes into one symbol based on the practitioner’s needs or desires. As mentioned before, we use protection sigils to ward, banish, bind, and shield (all different forms of protection magick). How to Make Protection Sigils While you can use protective sigils you’ve found online or in a book, it’s always most potent to create your own. There’s different ways to do this. One way is to take common pagan symbols and turn them into a protection sigil for yourself. For example, drawing a cross with the rune Algiz and encircling the symbol. Each symbol within this sigil carries its own unique vibrations. Another way is to make bindrunes, which we’ll go into in detail in the next section. And the third way, which is based on chaos magic, is to combine letters of a word that defines your intention to create the sigil. Which is what we demonstrate below: What You’ll Need: Pencil Eraser Paper Optional: paint and paintbrush, oils, markers, etc. How to Draw Your Protection Sigil Gather your supplies Get into a relaxed, open state (via music, drumming, incense, candlelight, etc.) and call in your guides/gods/angels/ancestors (whomever you work with in magickal space) At the top of your paper, write (in pencil) the letters P R O T E C T I O N Visualize, sing, chant (whatever method you prefer) your intentions for this sigil. If I can’t visualize, I enjoy chanting or singing my intentions out loud. Continue to visualize/sing/chant throughout the entire process. Next, cross out all of the vowels (a, e, i, o, u), so that you’re left with P R T C T N Following, I also prefer to cross out any repetitive letters. In this case, we’ll cross out the second T so we are left with P R T C N Lastly, combine the letters P R T C N into one symbol. Sometimes the sigil will flow immediately, while other times it might take you a few sketches to get it right. Don’t be discouraged if you have to erase anything or start over, etc. Let the energy flow and the sigil will follow. (see our example below). Note: I don’t recommend erasing your letters at the top of the page. These serve as your initiation of the ritual. You may erase your sigil sketches, if you’d like. Once your sigil is created, meditate on it for a little while (look at it, soften your gaze, let it speak to you, be open to any messages) Then thank the energies present and, at this point, you may solidify the sigil with paint, oil, marker, etc. (this is optional but I feel it adds to the energy and pushes your intentions into the ether further). How to Make Protective Bindrunes I’ve known quite a few people to go online and pull bindrunes off the screen for use in life and magick. I don’t recommend this. The reason being – runes are an extremely personal journey. They’re not just a form of divination, ancient alphabet, or symbols you find online. Runes are a form of communication with the divine. They’re a map to our wyrd (fate) and to the other realms. They’re not to be taken lightly. Each rune speaks to the individual similar to a friend speaking to a friend. What a rune means to me might mean something else entirely to you. Therefore, crafting your own personal bindrunes is best. And […]

The post Protection Sigil: How to Make Your Own Symbols for Shielding & Warding appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.

Crystals for LOVE: 20 Stones to Attract Your Soul Mate

kitty fields — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 12:26:45 +0000

We may not have the keys to the universe. But if we did, it would be made up of one thing – love. Love is the language all of our hearts understand and speak. We all want to give love and receive it. But sometimes we need help finding the right kind of love. That healthy, fiery yet comforting love. The kind we find in a soul mate or kindred spirit. Whether you’re looking for your soul mate or a best friend, we believe crystals can help. Here’s our favorite 20+ crystals for love. First, Why Use Crystals for Love? They say a diamond is a girl’s best friend. And then we give our future significant others rings to seal our commitment. But did you ever stop and think where this tradition originated? Why do we use gemstones to show our love to one another? Gemstones, and crystals, hold specific energies within them. Energies imbued upon them during the creation process – be it deep in a mine, at the bottom of a lake, or from ancient volcanic eruption. Crystals and gemstones are gifts to us from Mother Earth herself. But besides giving gemstone jewelry to your potential lover, how do we use crystals to draw love into our lives? Crystals work like an amulet – the essence sends out signals in the ether and draws a certain energy towards it. And if you wear or carry the crystal on you, this means you’ll draw that energy towards you too. Crystals and stones can be used as a magnetic beacon for love. 20+ Crystals for Love: Attract a Soul Mate, Kindred Friend Or Boost Self Love There are many stones and crystals used to attract love and friendship. And sometimes a crystal that has no association with love might be the right crystal for you to draw love into your life. Mother Earth works in amazing ways and she knows what we need better than we do. And she will provide it. But if you’d like some suggestions, here’s our favorite high-vibing, lovey crystals: 1. Jade Our favorite crystal for love is jade. Jade is a light green stone and has been an incredibly popular one in parts of Asia for centuries. It also has a sacred place in ancient indigenous Mesoamerican societies. Jade is green and therefore links directly to the heart chakra – the energy center of our bodies that gives and receives love. 2. Rose Quartz Rose quartz is crystal that is typically recommended for love of ANY kind. It’s also linked to your heart chakra, and it’s soothing pink color brings feelings of warmth and comfort. This crystal is great for self love, friendship, and romantic love. We love wearing rose quartz to calm our nerves and boost self confidence, especially when paired with self care rituals like herbal baths, Reiki sessions, meditation, etc. Honestly, I have rose quartz in random places in my house to keep the loving vibes going. 3. Bloodstone Bloodstone might not be the first crystal for love you’d think of. But I believe in its power to get the love flowing in both directions (to and from you). In order to love others fully, we have to learn to love ourselves too. Many of us struggle with this – self love and care. And therefore we may struggle in fully giving love to others in healthy, productive ways. Bloodstone works to improve circulation in the body, AND circulation of love from our auras to others’. The green color links it to the heart, as well as the red flecks. 4. Moss Agate: An Earthy, Grounding Crystal for Love One of the first stones I ever had was a moss agate. Being that green is my favorite color, it just made sense at the time to get this green stone. Interestingly, moss agate is called the gardener’s stone because it aids growth in the garden. I believe in addition to helping growth in the garden on the physical plane, it also aids in helping love grow in the spiritual. Plus the fact that is brings in that loving, Mother Earth energy. 5. Red Jasper for Past Life Love & Healing Red jasper is a great crystal for love – specifically physically romantic love in that it promotes sexual compatibility. It’s also frequently used when learning and practicing tantric sex. Its dark red color connects it to the base and sacral chakras – both energy centers of pleasure and creation. In addition, red jasper is beneficial in healing past life trauma, particularly when it comes to unrequited love. 6. Amazonite If you’re struggling with communication in any relationship, amazonite aids in allowing people to see both sides of the story. It’s a mind opener! In situations where things are left unsaid, this crystal for love gets communication flowing in all directions. It’s pretty teal-green color links it to the heart chakra and links the heart to the throat. 7. Sugilite for Love This beautiful stone for love is beneficial for couples who are going through a tough time. If you’re struggling to keep your relationship going or need guidance in your marriage, sugilite’s energy helps considerably. It’s even better if you and your partner can wear it, particularly during marital counseling or conversations of a difficult nature. It’s a balancing stone. And it’s really pretty. 8. Carnelian A semi-precious dark orange stone, and a beautiful crystal for love, carnelian works wonders for one’s confidence. If you’re needing a boost of self confidence before a big date, wear or carry a piece of carnelian on you. In addition, if you leave carnelian out in the sun, it turns darker orange as the iron inside oxidizes. This is a beautiful symbol of how love can deepen over time. Carnelian is linked to the sacral chakra, and therefore supports reproductive health and fertility. 9. Turquoise Turquoise is a crystal for love in that it protects and shields your love with your significant other. It’s been used […]

The post Crystals for LOVE: 20 Stones to Attract Your Soul Mate appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.

Shadow Work Prompts: 75+ Journaling Cues For Your Healing Journey

kitty fields — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 19:08:48 +0000

Shadow work isn’t just important, it’s a crucial component of the healing journey. So many of us suppress our shadow selves and therefore struggle in many aspects of our lives. Keep in mind, even when you do embrace shadow work, it’s not a cure-all. But it will help guide you on your path of integration and wholeness. Here we explore the basics of shadow work: what is it and why is it so important, and we provide you with 75+ shadow work prompts for your inner healing journal. First, What is Shadow Work? We talk about shadow work a lot here at the Otherworldly Oracle. But if you don’t know what it is, we’ll define it. Put simply, shadow work is the journey we take to understand, heal, and integrate our “shadow” selves. What is the shadow self? This is the part of ourselves that we ignore, repress, or flat our reject. Typically these are things in our past that have caused us to create bad habits, toxic relationships, negative thinking patterns, low self esteem, etc. All of the worst parts of ourselves (or so we believe them to be the worst) that we shove down deep and try our hardest not to show anyone. The problem is – these shadows often manifest in powerful ways. So even if you think you can run from your shadow self, you can’t hide forever. Carl Jung The concept of shadow work was developed by Carl Jung. He believed the shadow side, also called the id or shadow archetype, could cause us to project onto others. There are negative and even positive aspects to the shadow self. Many of these shadows that we hide are rooted in childhood experiences, of which can often be of a traumatic nature. But shadows don’t just develop in childhood, they can develop later on in life. OR may be the result of primal human instincts. Whatever the cause of the shadow self, Jung taught that it was important to identify and assimilate the shadow self in order to heal the whole person. Why is Shadow Work So Important? Shadow work reveals our shadow selves – the things we’ve suppressed about ourselves for years, possibly our entire lives, that can cause significant problems in our daily lives. Your shadows might prevent you from having healthy, long-lasting relationships including romantic relationships, friendships and connections with family members. Some hold us back from reaching our full potential in our careers. Unintegrated shadows can even manifest in physical illness as well as mental. Our physical and mental bodies affect one another, and therefore both should be cared for. If we ignore our mental health, our physical health may eventually suffer. And vice versa. Keeping a Journal Keep a journal to document your healing journey with shadow work. Be aware, if you have true psychological and emotional trauma, seeking professional help is best and recommended. We can’t heal ourselves all on our own, all of the time. We often need the help and expertise of others. That being said, keeping a journal and answering a shadow work prompt like those provided, will aid you down your path of inner healing. Journaling doesn’t just chronicle your thoughts and experiences, it gives you a place where you can reflect on the past and the present. Go back and review your past entries. You’ll notice patterns emerging and you might even have a real epiphany. DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICEThe information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. 75 Shadow Work Prompts For Your Healing Journey We’ve said it many times, and we’ll see it again – journaling is a great way to understand yourself better and to help yourself heal. If you haven’t started a healing journal, now’s the time. A simple notebook, composition book, or a fancy journal all do the trick. How your journal looks is up to you. The important thing is to write in it regularly, every day if you can. Focus on answering some or all of these shadow work prompts in your journal. You don’t have to rush this process. Take your time and do one shadow work prompt per day. Or one per week, even. What is your understanding of shadow work? How would you define it? 2. Are you consciously aware of any of your own personal shadows? 3. What is your number one pet peeve? 4. Describe your romantic relationship. Describe your romantic relationships in the past. 5. Do you have a lot of friends or a few close ones? 6. Do you prefer to be alone or around other people? 7. What was your childhood like? 8. Are you close to your mom? What’s your relationship like with her? 9. Are you close to your dad? What’s your relationship like with him? 10. What is your best childhood memory? 11. What is your worst childhood memory? 12. Do you have any recurring dreams? 13. Do you have any recurring nightmares? 14. What’s your greatest fear? 15. What’s your favorite thing to do 16. What’s your least favorite thing to do? 17. Do you enjoy being in public places? Why or why not? 18. If you have to pick one of the four elements (earth, air, fire or water) as your favorite, which one would you pick? Why? 19. What’s your least favorite element and why? 20. What are your friendships like? What would you improve or change about them? 21. When you look in the mirror, what […]

The post Shadow Work Prompts: 75+ Journaling Cues For Your Healing Journey appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.

Witches Bells: Their History, Lore and How to Use Them

kitty fields — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 13:35:00 +0000

Want more cowbell? Not me. I want more witches bells! These pretty little decorations are much more than simple décor for a witch’s home. They are powerful protective wards. In this article, we define witches bells, discover their centuries-old origins, PLUS learn how to use them in your home to ward off negative energy and spirits. What Are Witches Bells? Put simply, witches bells are a handheld-size set of magical bells hung from a doorknob or a nail in their home. Witches mostly use these bells to ward off negativity in a home, but they are also pretty to look at and listen to! This magical ringing device has ages-old origins, and I can’t help but notice the correlation to the modern doorbell and musical instruments. Where did these jingly little charms come from? And why do witches use them today? Witches Bells Origins: Church Bells, Cow bells, and More Bells have been used for centuries for spiritual and mundane reasons. First, let’s look at the physical aspects of the bell and its uses through time. Bells are typically made of metal and consist of a hollowed out vessel with a dangling piece inside called a clapper or uvula. The clapper hits the walls inside and produces a ringing sound upon movement. The word bell literally translates to mean “to roar” or “to make a loud noise” (think bellow). The first bell was invented in the 3rd millennium BC in Neolithic China, as archaeological evidence suggests (Wikipedia). By Medieval Times, bells were a prominent tool used by churches, farms, and business owners. According to Judika Iles in the Encyclopedia of Witchcraft, “bells derive from ancient sacred images of human genitalia. The bell’s body represents the vulva, while the clapper represents the penis. Sometimes the bell’s body represents the womb while the clapper represents a child within.” Bell Uses Over the Centuries So why did our ancestors use bells? Bells were a means of sounding an alarm, so to speak, to gain attention to a situation. For example, soldiers at city gates might ring a large bell to let everyone know there were invaders on the horizon. Farmers hung bells from the necks of their cattle and dogs to alert them to their animals’ whereabouts. Attaching a bell to the door of a business allows its owner to know someone has entered the shop. And what about churches? Churches have used large bells for centuries to announce the commencement of service OR in celebration of special holy-days like Christmas, Easter, etc. They have also been used as musical instruments over the centuries. From the church also comes the custom of wedding bells – when a couple is married, the church rings its bells to scare away evil spirits and welcome prosperity to the newlyweds. Iron and Loud Sounds After 1000 AD, people made bells from iron. And, according to European lore, iron scares off or, at the very least, agitates faeries. So much so that folks kept iron horseshoes above the doorway to ward off the fae and evil spirits and employed iron bells as protection in various ways. In addition, church bells scared off trickster spirits. And traditionally loud sounds, like those from bells or chimes, scare off ghosts and demonic entities. Is it the iron the bells are traditionally made of that has a cleansing, protective effect OR is it the purifying sound waves sent through the air that wards off the evil? Truly, I believe it is both of these things. Quotes About Bells How to Make Witch’s Bells (Or Where to Purchase Them) Truly you can make your own witch’s bells using any items you’d like. But here’s a few necessary items you’ll need: How to put your bells together and add MAGICK: Listen, we can’t all be artistic and crafty. So if you don’t want to make your own set of witches bells, you can always have Melissa with Stamp It Out Loud make them for you. And I couldn’t be happier! I use them as a magical “lock” or warding device on my witchy cabinet. The mirrors act as portals and so I needed some kind of ward to keep spirits at bay. Mel’s bells have been powerful and protective for this need. And I couldn’t have added the special touch that she did. How to Use Witches Bells (Many Different Ways) Bells in general have magical properties of protection, purification, joy, alarm and celebration. Use your set of bells in whatever way resonates with you; however, there are a few ways I recommend trying. Keep in mind, you can use your set of witch’s bells for any ritual that requires a bell in general. Want to learn how to practice witchcraft YOUR way? Read our NO NONSENSE Guide to the Craft here: Listen to Our Podcast on Witch’s Tools in Which BELLS Are Discussed:

The post Witches Bells: Their History, Lore and How to Use Them appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.

Modern Family Zodiac Signs: A Zodiac Guide To Family Dynamics

kitty fields — Sun, 17 Oct 2021 14:07:31 +0000

With the COVID-19 pandemic restructuring the world, family dynamics have also fallen prey to several unprecedented changes. The indirect effects of the virus have resulted in a majority of families in the United States living their lives governed by a set of strong physical and emotional boundaries. With divorce rates sailing in unpredictable trends, it only makes sense that many turn to the stars. Seeking answers from Astrology after the plunge into the age of uncertainty may be what you are looking for, in terms of navigating your family dynamics. Read on to discover how the stars and modern family zodiac signs affect family dynamics! How Stars Influence Family Dynamics You may find yourself constantly nit-picked by your overbearing father or missing the company of your aloof sister. Have you ever wondered how Astrology plays a role in the behaviors of your family members? An astrological factor that contributes to family dynamics is the 4 Elements that each member of your family belongs to. What are the traits of Modern Family Zodiac Signs by Element? Let’s find out! Earth – Capricorn, Virgo, And Taurus These are the members of your family who are modest, down-to-earth, and pragmatic. Need a solution to manage your finances better? An Earth sign would be the best person to go to! The stability of routines and security they provide make them reliable family members! Capricorn – You will be able to recognize the Capricorn in your family by their incredible planning and attention to detail. If you have a father or mother who works well with other people and has no problems managing the work-from-home life, chances are you have a Capricorn on your hands! You might experience outbursts and temper tantrums when things get too overwhelming for a Capricorn, but know that they will calm down given space and time. Virgo – This is the most patient Zodiac of the Earth element. This is the sister who you can count on to help their little sibling with Math homework, or teach them something new. If there is one thing that a Virgo requires, it is a deep understanding of their values and who they are as a person. Misunderstandings amongst family members can cause a Virgo to lash out against their better judgement. Taurus – The nurturing member of your family, who is often the glue keeping you all together. Taurus is an Earth sign that is excellent with children and can establish the right routines for the entire household to follow. A Taurus’ routine is an integral part of their living, so any disruptions to the same might result in irritability. If you find them getting anxious, consider giving them a crystal that can help them gain significant relief. Water – Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio Water takes different forms – ranging from the vast expanses and force of an ocean to the gentle trickling of a stream. This element’s modern family zodiac signs are highly intuitive and emotional, who rely on their instincts to take them through life. Don’t try telling a lie to a Water sign, they are quick to realize something is amiss! Cancer – This is the introverted member of your family that will require patience and time. Given both, you can gently peel back the layers of these individuals and witness how incredibly sensitive and nurturing they are. Owing to their sensitive nature, they might be quick to take offense if caught in a conflict between other family members. Remember to watch your tongue when conversing with a Cancer, they might get hurt but will do their best to not show it. Pisces – Another sensitive and charming sign, Pisces individuals are often empaths. If you find yourself down in the dumps, you will not have to communicate the same to the Pisces in your family. They will sense your emotions almost immediately and will comfort you in their caring way. If you ever find a Pisces in a bad mood, give them time to come to terms with their emotions. Ask the Pisces in the family about the meaning of Angel Number 911, they will guide you on the divine energies of this number. Scorpio – This is the member of the family that you know you should never get into an argument with. Ruled by Mars, the Planet of Masculinity, and the God of War, many will find themselves intimated in the presence of an irate Scorpio. These are not individuals who will forget any wrongdoings done to them and have no problem exacting revenge. Be careful when dealing with a Scorpio. Fire – Leo, Aries, Sagittarius Dynamic, passionate, confident, and exuberant, those belonging to the element of Fire are known to be the life of the party. Extroverts who do not have any problems mingling with different kinds of crowds are the individuals who get along with every member of the family! Leo – This is the member of your family who takes pride in their achievements and capabilities. They have excellent self-control and can work well under pressure. But their pride might get in the way and insult or offend other people in the house. The result of this can be conflicts and drama, the cause being Leo’s pride. Try taking things with a pinch of salt when conversing with a Leo, to diffuse tension if you sense the same brewing. Aries – Another sign that you do not want to anger, Aries is the member of your family who gets irate over the smallest of things. This is the sign that is most prone to mood swings and violent outbursts of emotions. Some of these raging emotions may even manifest as temper tantrums in younger members of the element. You can work to calm them down by giving them a time-out and space to cool down and process their emotions. Sagittarius – Sagittarius is among the most positive of the Fire element, but is known for the insensitivity towards the feelings of others. Do you have a […]

The post Modern Family Zodiac Signs: A Zodiac Guide To Family Dynamics appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.

Energetic Cord Cutting: Identify Cords by Color and a Cord Cutting Ritual

kitty fields — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 18:15:00 +0000

The spiritual community doesn’t put enough emphasis on energetic cords and cord cutting rituals. Which is sad, because Spirit says it’s so important for shadow work, healing, and our paths in life. If you have too many energetic cords attached to you, you might feel weighed down. Pulled in many different directions. If you don’t have any energetic cords, you might feel lonely and unfulfilled. In this article, we take an in-depth look at energetic cords: their colors, textures, how to identify them, and how to do an energetic cord cutting ritual. As well as how often. What Is An Energetic Cord? An energetic cord is exactly how it sounds: a spiritual “rope” that attaches your aura or lifeforce to another person’s aura or lifeforce. These energetic cords develop for many reasons. You’re born with some of these cords and attach others throughout your life. Some energetic cords are healthy for you and the person on the other end, while others are the exact opposite. Why do energetic cords even exist? Because we are all connected through Source energy and typically you only develop cords with other souls of whom are a part of your soul group OR with whom you share a karmic contract. Energetic cords form between two beings: between lovers, family members, friends, co-workers and colleagues, pet-owners and their pets, teachers and students, etc. They can also form between enemies and rivals. Anytime there’s an emotional connection (be it negative or positive), the possibility of forming an energetic cord between those beings is there. Types of Energetic Cords by Color and Texture Before writing this, I did a little research online regarding energetic cord color and appearance. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot of info out there. Other sources liken the cord color to chakra color, but there’s much more to it than that. And the colors of your energetic cords will vary depending on what that color’s symbolism means to YOU. Here’s some of the colors and textures shown to me by Spirit. Cord Colors & Textures That Are Mostly Negative Bright Red, Full of Blood: this means there’s a passionate relationship between you and the person on the other end of this energetic cord. This could be sexual or otherwise. Be aware that the blood in this cord should flow both ways if it is indeed a give-and-take, healthy relationship. If you notice the blood is flowing one way – this is an UNHEALTHY, one-sided and potentially vampiric relationship. Sever this cord! Dull, Dark-red to black, crusted and dry: an old, clinging energetic cord that was once a passionate relationship of some kind. You may notice a slow, sludge-like liquid inside flowing one way. Cut this unhealthy, dying cord. These types of old cords can cause health issues! Gray, dull in appearance: an older, dull and lifeless cord that needs to be severed. Cord Colors & Textures That Are Mostly Positive Light to Royal Blue, Swirling and Watery: a beautiful, light to bright blue cord that looks like or feels like water flowing both ways inidicates a deep, healthy relationship. An emotional bond that feeds each person life-giving spiritual water. There can also be an unconscious link between you and the other person. And if you notice it originating from your naval, this is a big sign that the other soul is your twin flame. Yellow and appears like fluorescent light or sunlight: a mental connection between people of like mind. Yellow is linked to the solar plexus, as well as communication and knowledge. You may share a yellow energetic cord with a co-worker, teammate, close friend, or colleague. Again, make sure the energy is flowing both ways and not blocked anywhere. Orange and bright: a creative relationship between two souls. This can also be a colleague, co-worker, or creative partner of any kind More Positive Colors & Textures: Pink, shimmering, sparkling and/or flowing: a relationship between friends often with a feminine energy (but not always) but can also indicate an intimate or romantic relationship White and brilliant: divine light that connects a person to another soul, guide, ancestor, etc. Also seen between a pet and pet owner with a particularly strong bond Green, flowing, bright to forest green: this energetic cord indicates a strong heart-to-heart bond between close family members, soul mates, or souls that were born of the same soul group. Mothers will frequently have green cords to their children, life partners as well. This cord may connect between heart chakras Purple, bright and flowing or sparkling: a metaphysical or magical relationship between two souls. A teacher-student relationship, specifically when it comes to the magical arts like Reiki master and student, witch and mentee, mage and apprentice. How to Know When An Energetic Cord Cutting Ritual is Needed There are times when an energetic cord between you and another being must be cut. How do you know when a cord cutting ritual is needed? Examine your energetic cords through meditation and/or dreamwork. Notice their color, texture, shape, and flow. Also notice what part of your aura or body these cords originate from or connect to. Can you follow those cords to their opposite end to see who or what is on the other side? Here are some general reasons for cutting energetic cords: Black, gray and dark cords: this indicates a negative attachment between you and the other being Large knots or blockages: depending on the other being and the situation, this cord may need to be cut OR the relationship between the two beings UN-blocked so that energy flows both ways Cords connecting you to a negative relationship from the past (or a relationship from the past in which you feel needs to be released) Crusted, deteriorating, or dying cords: these are old connections that must be severed. These can cause health problems, physical and mental. Vampiric cords: red, blood cords that show blood or energy flowing one way – from YOU to the vampire on the other side and MUST be severed […]

The post Energetic Cord Cutting: Identify Cords by Color and a Cord Cutting Ritual appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.

Herbs for Protection: 20 of Our Favorites to Keep Negative Energy Away

kitty fields — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 01:20:42 +0000

Whether you’re dealing with a creeping ex, an intrusive ghost, or just plain want to block negative energy, spiritual protection is a must-do. On Otherworldly Oracle, we preach often about having a personal protection magick routine. Cleansing, invocation, sealing and warding are all essential steps to protecting your home and yourself. Salt, powders, oils, symbols and herbs are all helpful in securing your safe, sacred space. So, in this article, we focus on our favorite 20 herbs for protection. And hope that you can use them in your practice too! Herbs for Protection There are literally hundreds of herbs for protection on the market, growing in gardens, and growing in the wild. Walk out your front door and I guarantee there’s at least one tree or plant with protective properties growing near your home. Walk down the spice aisle at your grocery store and you’ll find a plethora of helpful herbs right at your fingertips. Here’s just a few of our favorites: 1. Rosemary: My FAVORITE Herb for Protection! Rosemary, Salvia rosmarinus, is one of my personal all-time favorite herbs for protection. As the Aunts in Practical Magic say, “keep rosemary by your garden gate.” There’s a reason for this – it protects your garden from pests and your home from spiritual intrusion. Rosemary is purifying and when burned in the home acts to banish negative energy and unwanted spirits. Add rosemary to the bath to cleanse your aura. According to Scott Cunningham, “place rosemary beneath the pillow to ensure a good sleep and drive away nightmares.” 2. Thorns While not necessarily one particular herb, thorns from any plant or tree are great for protection spells and charms. The thorn itself physically protects its plant from harm. Therefore when thorns are used in magick, they have the same effect. Add thorns to witch bottles, spell jars, bags and amulets. Harvest your thorns from rose bushes, bougainvilleas, cacti, honey locust trees, citrus and hawthorn trees. 3. Oak The oak tree is strong and is regarded as protective by many cultures. The Druids are named for the Oak and believed it to be sacred. Use oak tree bark, leaves, and acorns in your protection magick. Three oak leaves added to the bath will cleanse away negative attachments and bring wisdom. Place three acorns in a small bag and tie to your front door to protect the home. This herb for protection also wards off illness and bad luck. 4. Rose Witches love roses, as do muggles. They are beautiful, seemingly fragile flowers that produce a lovely aroma. But, surprisingly, the rose is also a potent herb for protection. Think of the thorns that grace the stems on either side, protecting the bush itself from pests and the elements. The rose will do the same for you and your magick. Add rose thorns, hips, or petals to your workings of all kinds. Drink rose hips and buds in a tea for protection of self. Add rose thorns to bags, bottles, amulets, etc. 5. Black Pepper: An Unexpected Herb for Protection Black pepper is often overlooked as an herb for protection. Heck, it’s overlooked as a magical herb in general. But here’s the thing – black pepper is just as potent as red pepper with keeping spirits and negative energy at bay. It’s connected to the fire element and to the planet Mars. Traditionally, peppercorns have been used to ward off the evil eye. Add pepper to your home protection powders and sprinkle over your thresholds and windowsills. 6. Salt While technically not an herb, salt is one of the most powerful ingredients to use in your protective magick. Witches use salt to encircle their property, mark the boundaries of a magical circle, and more. Salt sprinkled over your threshold is a powerful way to absorb negativity and ward off spirits. There’s a reason grandma threw salt over her left shoulder if the salt was spilled. Pink, red, and black salt are all effective for protection spells and rituals. Learn more about salt magick here. Listen to our PROTECTION Magick Podcast here: 7. Red Pepper: HOT Herb of Protection Red pepper is a powerful warding herb for protection. This includes red pepper flakes, chili powder, cayenne pepper and whole chili peppers. A string of red peppers hung by the front door wards off negative energy and brings prosperity. Encircle your protection candle with chili powder to send negative spirits away. Mix red pepper into home protection powders, add it to spell jars, and add it to your meals for extra protection. 8. Rue I’ve grown rue in my garden for a few years now and never regret having it on hand. Ruta graveolens, also called herb of grace and rue, which has been used medicinally and in cooking for centuries in ancient Rome, Greece and Africa. In mythology, rue was the only plant the basilisk couldn’t destroy. Rue can be harmful to the skin, so be careful if you plan to use it topically. It can cause lesions if applied and then going out into the sun. Rue is powerful in banishing rituals to rid yourself of unwanted spirits and attachments. 9. Agrimony I’m not kidding when I say I go agro for agrimony. One of my absolute favorite herbs for protection, agrimony is a powerful warding herb when sprinkled around the property. Traditionally, agrimony protects the wearer from malevolent fairies, tricksters, and evil of all kinds. This herb for protection is also great to use in reversal spells, when a witch has sent a spell on you, send it back to them. 10. Angelica: Angels’ Herb of Protection Connected to and named for the angels, angelica is another herb for protection that’s effective in ritual and spellwork. It’s been used for centuries in good luck workings including for gambling, and in doing so wards off bad luck. Grow it on your property to keep negative energy at bay. Add to the bath to break hexes and cleanse the aura. 11. Dragon’s Blood Dragon’s […]

The post Herbs for Protection: 20 of Our Favorites to Keep Negative Energy Away appeared first on Otherworldly Oracle.