New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
Witch bottles are wonderful protective charms with centuries of historical use. They're not only powerful, but also easy to make. You'll need a small glass jar with a tight lid, some wine or mead, a black candle, matches, and several of the following items: tacks, bent pins, or small nails; pieces of obsidian; sea salt; bits of black wax; a red ribbon; very small pieces of broken glass or pottery (handle carefully!); cleaned bones from a roast chicken; bits of fur or feather; and sprigs of ...
Yarrow has many nicknames, including bloodwort, green arrow, sneezeweed, nosebleed, green adder's mouth, soldier's woundwort, and allheal. These indicate its rich history as an healing herb. Modern research supports its astringent, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, vulnerary, and other qualities. It also attracts beneficial insects and has deep roots in magic. Yarrow sprouts early in spring and is easy to cultivate. The best way to enjoy its benefits is to grow your own. Plant the seeds in sun to ...
The new moon represents endings and beginnings, and an eclipse of the sun is the perfect time to remove undesirable influences from your life. Prior to this astronomical event, physically clean your home. Next, open windows and doors to release unwanted energies. Smoke-cleanse your home using dry juniper boughs, sage, or hazel wands, being careful to catch any sparks or ashes in a safe, fireproof container. Walk widdershins (counterclockwise) around the space while chanting: I remove, banish, ...
Poetry comes from the spirit. It offers a way to see the world a little slant, to make sense of the mystical. It also plays a major role in magic. Most spells include elements of poetry. So do many rituals. This is because the mechanics of poetry, like rhyme and alliteration, provide more traction for moving energy, the same as they give that little "aha" in your head when you hear them. You can celebrate World Poetry Day in a variety of ways. Read a book of poems. Look through your collection ...
