The Yule Log

The Yule Log is a traditional part of the celebration of Yule or the Winter Solstice. It is a log typically made of Oak, Aspen, Pine, or Birch but can be made from any wood type as they all possess magical properties that the family or individuals may wish to enhance or possess.

It is said that the Yule Log holds its origins in Germanic Paganism. However, it may be traced back to the 6th and/or 7th century Anglo-Saxon Paganism. The Yule Log may be decorated and used as a festive ornament or centerpiece. It may also be burned in the hearth of the home for protection and bringing in bright blessings. Or it can be used as both!

The Yule Log represents the return of the Sun to the Earth. It represents the heart of the home and the presence of the Sun God which will return in the next half of the year with Spring and Summer. Ashes and some of the wood from the Yule Log are saved for the next Yule. This will be used in the ceremonial lighting of  next year's Yule Log.

How to Make Your Yule Log:

~Materials

• Log (any wood, 14-18" long)
• Pine Cones, Ivy, Holly, Mistletoe or Berries
• Feathers and/or Cinnamon Sticks
• Ribbon or other festive decorations
• Hot Glue (if you are attaching anything)

You may choose to place these items around the Yule Log or attach them in a festive manner. You may also drill holes into the top of the log to place candles if you desire. The ribbon may be used for attaching feathers and other miscellaneous items if you prefer to use a more natural method other than hot glue.

As always, cleanse and consecrate the items.

For a Chocolate Yule Log Recipe click here.

Yule Wassail Recipe

Wassail is a traditional yuletide drink. In olden times it was drunk during wassailing, an ancient drinking ritual, to ensure a bountiful apple harvest for the next year. Wassail in Old English literally means "be you healthy" and through wassailing promotes the health of the trees. It's main purpose was to scare away evil spirits from the cider apple trees so that they may grow and thrive.

Traditionally, the drink was made with a base of cider and topped with pieces of toast. However, modernized wassail drink recipes now have a base of ale, fruit juice, or wine and include apple and/or orange slices.

Here's a traditional carol about wassailing:

Gloucestershire Wassail

    Wassail, wassail all over the town
    Our toast it is white and our ale it is brown
    Our bowl it is made of the white maple tree
    With the wassailing bowl, we'll drink to thee

So here is to Cherry and to his right cheek
Pray God send our master a good piece of beef
And a good piece of beef that may we all see
With the wassailing bowl, we'll drink to thee

And here is to Dobbin and to his right eye
Pray God send our master a good Christmas pie
A good Christmas pie that may we all see
With the wassailing bowl, we'll drink to thee

So here is to Broad Mary and to her broad horn
May God send our master a good crop of corn
And a good crop of corn that may we all see
With the wassailing bowl, we'll drink to thee

And here is to Fillpail and to her left ear
Pray God send our master a happy New Year
And a happy New Year as e'er he did see
With the wassailing bowl, we'll drink to thee

And here is to Colly and to her long tail
Pray God send our master he never may fail
A bowl of strong beer! I pray you draw near
And our jolly wassail it's then you shall hear

Come butler, come fill us a bowl of the best
Then we hope that your soul in heaven may rest
But if you do draw us a bowl of the small
Then down shall go butler, bowl and all

Then here's to the maid in the lily white smock
Who tripped to the door and slipped back the lock
Who tripped to the door and pulled back the pin
For to let these jolly wassailers in.

Reference:Gloucestershire Wassail

Yule Wassail Recipe

From: http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/yulecooking/r/Wassail.htm

By: Patti Wigington

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 3 hours

Total Time: 3 hours, 15 minutes

Ingredients:

1 Gallon apple cider
2 C. cranberry juice
1/2 C honey
1/2 C sugar
2 oranges
Whole cloves
1 apple, peeled and diced
Allspice
Ginger
Nutmeg
3 cinnamon sticks (or 3 Tbs. ground cinnamon)
1/2 C - 1 C brandy (optional)


Preparation:


Set your crockpot to its lower setting, and pour apple cider, cranberry juice, honey and sugar in, mixing carefully. As it heats up, stir so that the honey and sugar dissolve. Stud the oranges with the cloves, and place in the pot (they'll float). Add the diced apple. Add allspice, ginger and nutmeg to taste -- usually a couple of tablespoons of each is plenty. Finally, snap the cinnamon sticks in half and add those as well.

Cover your pot and allow to simmer 2 - 4 hours on low heat. About half an hour prior to serving, add the brandy if you choose to use it.

Celtic Music

© All music composed by Adrian von Ziegler.

The video artwork was made by Carina aka Aelathen:
http://www.facebook.com/CarinaGrimmArt

I love soothing Celtic music. It's quite beautiful and this piece is magnificent! Try using soothing tones such as this during meditation practices to help enhance your experience.

Spell for Motivation

The New Moon is approaching and I'm feeling like I need a little motivation to get through this month of December! Whatever you're trying to accomplish it's best to have motivation to help push you forward with your goals. I hate feeling stagnant and a little motivation can take you a long way. Here's something you can do to help you get back some of that motivation.

This spell involves simple candle magic and meditation. You may want to start this spell with a sacred Circle or a simple Salt Circle depending on your preference. Here's what you'll need:

~Materials:

• 3 Candle Holders
• 3 Taper Candles (1 green, 1 red, 1 blue)
• Bowl of Salt
• Bowl of Water
• Sage 
• Incense (bergamot and cardamom are good for motivation!)
• Anointing oil (cedarwood, rosemary, or any of your choice!)

You may want to begin by relaxing with a nice bath and cleansing yourself before starting the spell. It will help clear your mind. If you choose to do this, use bath salts with the properties you are trying to seek, in this case motivational, uplifting properties.

Begin by preparing a nice relaxing space and altar for yourself and your tools. Make sure this space is relaxing and without distractions so that you may focus on your intentions. Each color corresponds with what you are trying to achieve. Green symbolizes grounding energy and strength for your motivation. It is the base upon which your motivation stems from. This candle will be placed in front center of yourself.

The color red symbolizes the power you wish to possess and achieve with your goal. It is your inspiration and your desire to change, grow, and flourish. It is as vibrant and intense as your will and it burns within you as you travel the path to what you seek. This will be placed to the back left of the green candle.

The color blue symbolizes aspiration. Your hope will prevail and motivate you to achieve your goals. It reminds you of what will be gained and what you must shed in order to reach your goal. Blue brings about change for the better. It will be set to the back right of the green candle.

Cleanse and consecrate all items. Be sure to cleanse the water as well. Let the incense burn as you anoint the candles with oil. Let your thoughts rise into the air with the smoke from the incense. Light the candles starting with green, then red, then blue, focusing on each one's meaning. Meditate on the goals you wish to achieve. Plan how you are going to achieve them. You may want to whisper what you desire from each candle. These words will rise into the air as the candles burn. You may want to say prayers to the God and Goddess as well.

Let the candles burn out completely. Close the Circle and give thanks to the God and Goddess.

For more on candle magic, click here.

Justice Spell

This is a spell that will affect the outcomes of certain events. These events include justice in the matter of: civil proceedings, criminal cases, trials and hearings. It is meant to restore balance and peace to the lives of those who deserve it. It is not meant to pass judgment or to be done out of spite. The karmic law still applies to this spell so it is to be used with extreme caution. It is to be used to right a wrong that has been done but keep in mind that what we perceive to be wrong may not be so in the eyes of the God and Goddess. The final outcome is left up to them to decide upon.

This spell can also be modified to suit your needs as any other spell. You may use the colors you wish, the symbols you wish, etc. Black and white are traditionally used to represent justice as someone is right and someone is wrong. There is no gray area in between. You may also want to use the color blue to represent peace.

Here's what you will need:
~One black candle
~One white candle
~One blue candle
~Anointing oil (representative of protection, justice, or peace)
~Bowl of Water
~Bowl of Salt

Note*- Use smaller pillar or votive candles as you will need to let these candles burn out completely. That way it won't take many hours/days for them to burn.

Set the black candle to the left, the white candle to right of the black, and the blue candle center front. They should be in the form of an upside down triangle with the blue candle closest to you representing the tip of the triangle. Set the bowl of water to the left of the triangle and the bowl of salt to the right of the triangle. Cleanse the bowl of water with a pinch of salt. You will use the bowl of salt and the bowl of water to make a quick cleansing circle around you. You may chant: "I cleanse this space of negative energy and ill will. Only positive energy shall remain. So mote it be."

Once you have cleansed the area to your liking, anoint each candle with the oil by touching the tip of your finger to the top of each and declaring in the name of the God and Goddess (you may want to use specific deities that represent Justice) that they are sacred. After doing so, light each candle and visualize the wrong you wish to be righted. Start with the black candle, then white, and last, the blue one.

Say this invocation:

"Injustice, I do see thee,

Right the wrong I do decree.

Dear Goddess hear my plea,

Right the wrong as you do see.

As I do will, so mote it be!"

Repeat this chant 3 times. Let the candles burn out completely. Blessed be everyone!

Witch Ball

A Witch Ball is typically made of clear or stained glass in intricate designs. These balls were designed to ward off evil spirits, misfortune, and curses.Witches would enhance the ball's effect by enchanting them with protective spells. The bright colors of the ball would lure evil spirits inside while the intricate design would entrap them inside forever. Traditionally, witch balls were blue or green in color but have since been created with bright colors and designs.

Some say the modern day Christmas ornament derived their origins from the witch ball. It is not uncommon to see gazing balls in gardens which did originate from witch balls. Here's an easy and fun way to create your own witch ball:

Creating a Witch Ball:

Materials:

~Clear glass ornament ball or glass/plastic bulbs

~acrylic paint

How to:

Open the top of the glass ornament and place acrylic paint inside. Shake the ornament to spread the paint in an intricate design. You may also place herbs, protective stone chips, etc inside the ball. You may want to place a protective spell or enchantment over the ball how you see fit. Hang the ball up by a window or in front of a door or fireplace. You may also hang it outside near the home to ward off evil spirits and negativity.

Apache Tears

Apache Tears are a type of Obsidian that occurs from the solidification of lava that is forced into the air in bursts. The air hardens the lava before it hits the ground. This stone is great for grounding energy into the Earth since it was created from the hot molten core of the Earth. It is also a stone that can be used to help relieve and release any grief one my have. Through this, it can bring about a sense of hope and relieve stress.

It is a prominent stone in protection, including psychic attacks. This stone will remove any negative energy and block negative energy from reaching your aura. Physically, this stone helps reduce muscle spasms, assists in detoxification of the body, enhances immunity, and helps the body with vitamin absorption.

You may want to add the Apache Tear to your crystal collection for added protection. You can even place some in oils and bath water for detoxification and cleansing.

Apache Tear Charm

  ~~~~~)O(~~~~~ 

Materials: Apache Tear (small to medium size), thin crafting wire, leather string, clip for key chain

Instructions:

1. Create a Sacred Space to create this charm within. You may call upon the elements and create a Salt Circle as you see fit.
2. Bless, and cleanse all materials with each element.
3. Create your charm by wrapping the crafting wire around the Apache Tear as a holder until secure. You may want to use crafting glue to ensure security.
4. Leave two lengths of the wire leading from the stone and braid in the leather string with the wire by first wrapping the leather string around the base of the wire near the stone, knotting it (glue if needed), and braiding it upward.
5. Create a length of leather and wire braiding about 1 1/2 to 3 inches in length.
6. Attach the key chain clip to the leather and wire braid.
7. Bless, cleanse, and concentrate the charm.

For more about stones on auric protection, click here.

Dill

Lao Coriander, otherwise known as Dill, is an herb used in many traditional dishes around the world as well as for medical purposes. Its name has thought to have originated from the Norse or Anglo-Saxon word "dylle" which means "to soothe or lull". In Anglo-Saxon England, Dill was used for various medicinal purposes such as for:

• Headaches
• Boils
• Lack of Appetite
• Stomach Problems
• Liver Problems
• Nausea

It may also be used for:

• Fever and Colds
• Cough
• Bronchitis
• Sleep Disorders
• Menstrual Cramps
• Nerve Pain

For a more complete list of uses, click here.

In Greece, Dill leaves were used as fragrance. It also has the ability to be used as an antibacterial against Staph infection. However, Dill may also cause miscarriage.

Wicca and Thanksgiving

Yes, it's that time of year again. Time to get out your turkey and dressing. Time to sit around a table with relatives that you may like or dislike, catch up on all the juicy gossip, and give thanks for the feast everyone is about to stuff their faces with (for the rest of the week ie. leftovers).

I must say that I typically celebrate Thanksgiving at Mabon which is the traditional Wiccan Sabbat to give thanks for the bountiful harvest. However, we Americans celebrate Thanksgiving on the last Thursday in November of each year. In school, we were all taught about how the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth and the Native Americans discovered them and helped them grow crops and learn to survive. If it wasn't for the the Native Americans, I'm sure all the Pilgrims would have died.

Anyway, many people see Thanksgiving in a negative light. It signified some of the first interactions between the Europeans and the Native Americans. Then later the Native Americans were driven off their lands, enslaved, converted, or murdered. So I can see where the negativity comes from.

However, you can make this day how you choose for it to be. You can look at it as a day of mourning and recite blessings, give offerings to the land, acknowledge those that were lost, or do a healing ritual. Or you could look at it as a day of Thanksgiving such as with Mabon and give thanks for what you have and your family and friends, offer thanks to the God and Goddess and for the harvest, bless the feast as an offering to your loved ones, and so on.

Here's a universal blessing one can do on Thanksgiving. It was written by Starhawk. Click here to view it.

Healing a Broken Heart Spell

Everyone needs some sort of healing to occur for them throughout their life whether it is physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually. We need healing from sickness, from broken hearts, from disastrous relationships, from many things. I performed this healing spell when I needed to heal my broken heart after a terrible break up so now I'd like to share it with my readers.

Here's what you'll need:

7 Rose Petals (dried)

Pinch of Rosemary

Pinch of Thyme

Rose Quartz Chip

A piece of Paper and Pen

Cauldron

Pentacle

One pink candle

Rose oil

Before beginning the spell, be sure to cast a Circle of Protection with the 4 elements. You may review how to cast a circle here or you may perform a simple Salt Circle of protection. Once the Circle has been cast, place the cauldron upon the pentacle and set the pink candle to the side. I would suggest using a simple pink votive candle.

Cleanse the rose quartz chip in a bowl of water with salt and then place inside the cauldron. Sprinkle the herbs around the stone within the cauldron. Drizzle rose oil over the herbs and stone in the cauldron. Write on the paper what you wish to heal within your heart. Set the paper aflame from the candle and drop it into the cauldron to burn. Once the contents inside the cauldron have burned, cover the cauldron with the lid and set it in a safe place for 7 days. Let the candle burn itself out by the cauldron.

After 7 days, remove the rose quartz chip and place into a small satchel for safe keeping and release the rest of the contents into running water or upon the ground. The rose quartz chip has been charged with your words of healing. Carry this on you for as long as you need till you have healed. Bury the rose quartz chip within the ground afterward symbolizing ridding yourself of all pain.

The Healing Power of Crystals

http://www.longhairedjewels.com/stones.html

46th Annual Gathering of the Tribes

I wanted to share my very spiritual experience at the Gathering of the Tribes Festival in my home state. The Celtic Church of Dynion Mwyn which I have been a part of for quite some time hosts a gathering of many people from all walks of life in the Pagan and Wiccan Community. Many covens/groves come and there are many vendors that come in hopes of restocking our wonderful herb cupboards and broom closets.

I went with my significant other. He had never been to such an event before as he is not a Witch such as me. However, he thoroughly enjoyed himself so much that he's begged me to take him to other events that are similar and wants to go back to the Gathering next year. I was quite happy to know that he had a wonderful time.

The Gathering lasts for four days. It typically starts on a Thursday and lasts till Sunday evening. The events and schedule changes every year but this year there were many vendors, speakers, and entertainment events. One of the most notable speakers was Oberon Zell-Ravenheart which I'm sure most people have heard of. He has written many books about the Craft.

Unfortunately, I was not able to attend until Saturday morning after my college classes had all let out so I can only account for my activities on Saturday and Sunday. I attended a talk with Oberon about polyamory which was very interesting. I must say that I was a little ignorant to the term and what it stood for. I had heard of it before but he described it in much more detail since he was the one who coined the term!

I stayed to exchange hugs with my High Priest, Rhuddlwn Gawr, who has also written numerous books and had several talks at the Gathering. He and many other leaders in the Pagan community had a talk about leadership and especially in involving the younger generation. My boyfriend and I were the "younger generation" present. Of course, after a time we scooted off into the skyclad section to have a frolic through the woods.

We were out in the middle of these rolling fields of lush grass with scattered patches of wooded areas. My boyfriend and I, along with many others, camped out. It was beautiful waking up to the early morning sunrise and the fresh dew. On Saturday night, the energy was flowing and swirling around us. Open rituals are usually performed on Friday and Saturday night. Once the ritual was finished there were many concerts featuring many different artists and bands. I danced in my flowing skirt as well as many others. It was quite a magical night.

Later, my love and I sat by the huge bonfire and talked about life while watching the stars. It was a very deep and connecting moment. We later participated in a Fire Ritual with everyone. We danced to the drumming and I found it to be very arousing!

My experience at the Gathering was beautiful and just what I needed to get back in tune with my spirituality. If anyone wants information on the Gathering of the Tribes you can visit http://www.dynionmwyn.com/. This is an annual event and I look forward to it next year!

Evening Breeze

Song: Evening Breeze

Artist/Composer: Adrian von Ziegler

https://itunes.apple.com/artist/adrian-von-ziegler/id445469270

Birthstones & Their Meanings

Picture from: http://www.talismancoins.com/servlet/Detail?no=1568

I thought this was a very informative chart for those wishing to know their birthstones and their meanings. Each semi precious stone has a unique meaning that more often than not fits the personality and qualities of the person born for that month. My birthstone is Peridot. What's yours?

Advice from a Tree

Ideas for Lammas

The sabbat of Lammas or otherwise known as Lughnasadh is upon us. In the Northern Hemisphere, Lammas is typically celebrated on August 1st although I know of some people that tend to start celebrating on July 31st. It is a major Sabbat representing the first Harvest Festival. Some traditions include baking a loaf of wheat bread made from the first wheat of the harvest and making corn husk dolls in the image of a woman.

Lammas is the time to celebrate the Celtic Sun God, Lugh. His rays shine down upon the fields instilling life and strength into our harvest. He lives within the harvest and we take in his essence when we eat of the bread we create with the flour ground from the wheat we've harvested. Ceres and Demeter are also celebrated on this Sabbat as they are Goddesses of the Grain. This Sabbat can be thought of as Thanksgiving.

We thank the Earth for providing the soil and nutrients for the food we eat to give our body sustenance and we revere the sun for providing light for the seed to strive toward from out of the ground. It truly is a Sabbat where all the elements are represented in harmony and the cycle of life is clearly defined.

Some simple things you can do in celebration of this Sabbat is a 20 minute meditation on the cycle of life and the interconnectedness of all things. You may also bake a simple bread that can be used as a ritual sacrifice and offering to the Gods and Goddesses of the Harvest. For a simple and creative bread recipe try this recipe here. For some directions on how to create your own corn husk doll to decorate your alter with, click here.

Remember to stay safe on the Sabbat and have fun!!

Lammas Song

Song: Lammas Song

Artist: Lisa Thiel

Album: Circle of the Seasons

Caim

Celtic in Origin

Healing Moon Chant

I thought this was a very simple and powerful affirmation to use during rituals recognizing the lunar phases. The Full Moon is a good time to do a healing ritual whether it be for yourself or for a loved one. The energy from the moon can be quite powerful and potent for spells and rituals. Use it wisely!

Sleep Chant

Benefits of Nature

Ah, nature. How we adore thee. Nature does a lot for us mentally, emotionally, and physically. Spending some time out in nature can be calming to the mind and energetic for the body. Just spending half an hour outside can uplift our mood, our self esteem, and our energy. So go ahead and take a moment to sit out on a park bench, go walking around your neighborhood, or tend to your gardens. You'll feel more optimistic and the nature around you will appreciate the company.

Animal Spirit Guides

Do you find yourself attracted to a certain animal or animals? Do you feel as though you can relate to the animal(s)? Do you have recurring dreams of a certain animal or do you see it often throughout your life in art, mascots, books, etc?

Animal Spirit Guides or Totems have been popular throughout many cultures. Animals, along with humans, were given high positions in spirituality. The ancient Egyptians had deities who were part human and part animal, the Native Americans had animal totems that were for protection, reverence, and spiritual guidance, shamans when entering into the spiritual world would often describe animals that were seen on their vision quests. There are many instances were animals have played vital roles in our spiritual journeys.

I am strongly attracted to black panthers. I've seen black panthers in my dreams, in the physical world, and in symbols all throughout my life. Each animal represents different traits and characteristics such as wolves representing loyalty, and the bear representing strength.

Here's a quick list of some of the most common animal spirit guides and their traits:

Bear: Strength, Confidence, Healing
Cat: Patience, Courage, Independence
Crow: Intelligence, Audacious, Magic
Fox: Cunning, Dreams, Awareness
Horse: Passionate, Balance, Driving force
Owl: Intuition, Change, Wisdom
Lion: Assertiveness, Strength, Aggression
Snake: Healing, Transformation, Life
Wolf: Instinct, Intelligence, Loyalty

For some interesting information on animal spirit guides check out this site: http://psychiclibrary.com/beyondBooks/animal-spirit-guides

Book Review: The Earth Path by Starhawk

Starhawk is a very well known author in the the Wiccan tradition. She's also a very well known environmental activist and spreads her wisdom around the world through her books, her workshops, and her involvement in the Pagan community. Her book, The Earth Path, incorporates her views of the Earth, its energies, and how they connect to the Wiccan tradition.

In her book. she speaks about biodiversity in the the ecosystems and the importance of grounding and using energy to help heal Earth along with the reverence we can show toward the Earth. She speaks of environmental activism and ways for the average person to take part in energy conservation such as converting "gray water" (contaminated water) into a reusable source for gardens. Other ways include creating hydroelectricity from running streams, catching rainwater in tanks as a usable source, and by converting solar energy into electricity for the home.

Starhawk dedicates a good portion of her book to creating lasting connections with nature and the five elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Spirit. She equates the Spirit to patterns such as spirals that can be seen throughout nature. She also incorporates exercises with each element and outlines of rituals that can be done with groups or alone.

I found this book to be very insightful and especially detailed when interpreting the elements and their significance to the cycle of life. I would recommend this book to people who wish to learn more about the environment and who wish to become more connected with their home in nature.

To learn more about Starhawk and this book, you may visit http://www.starhawk.org/writings/earth_path.html

Health Benefits of Herbs and Spices

Picture from: http://suhanijain.com/2012/10/29/health-benefits-of-herbs-spices-daily-health-tips/

Aloe

Aloe is notorious for its soothing abilities for burns such as sunburn. It also soothes dry, itchy skin. It helps to sooth inflammation and keep bacteria away from from organs that are vulnerable. Studies show that this little plant can even help heal gastric ulcers. Also, aloe may help those with type 2 diabetes with its blood sugar-lowering effects.

If you'd like to read more about these medical effects and about the research being done you may click on the reference below.

Reference:
The Amazing Healing Properties of Aloe Vera

Crystals to Maintain Health

Uplifting Crystals

Apatite

Apatite comes in multiple colors which include blue, green, gray, and yellow. It is a stone associated with manifestations. It is a stone that aids in psychic development and enhancement. It also balances the physical, spiritual, mental and emotional aspects of the human body by keeping the chakras attuned. It helps to draw off negativity and promotes motivation. It can help with concentration, clear up confusion, and ease negative emotions such as sorrow and anger. Other properties include:

• Increases focus
• Intellectually stimulating
• Increases learning ability
• Promotes acceptance
• Connected to Unconditional Love
• Enhances communication
• Stimulates thoughts and ideas
• Promotes peace
• Promotes harmony and balance
• Helps to fight viruses and infections
• Improves arthritis
• Encourages healthy eating
• Aids in meditation

Reference:

Healing Properties of Apatite

Tree Hugging

This doesn't come as a surprise to people who follow nature-based religions but for those who need more evidence it may be quite a shock. Tree hugging has been around for ages. The benefits have been observed through personal experience but it is also scientifically validated. Matthew Silverstone, author of Blinded by Science, has scientifically approached the conclusion that the vibrations given off from trees and plants prove to be beneficial to health. Some of the affects caused by hugging trees include:

• calming those with ADHD
• improving concentration levels
• healing headaches
• emotionally stabilizing

For more information about these discoveries you can visit the article about tree hugging by clicking here.

I learned through my studies of Wicca that different trees can help heal different ailments. Each tree gives off its own vibration depending on its type of wood. That is why when considering what wand to create or use, you should also consider the type of woods and their magickal properties. For example, lets say you had a wand created of Black Walnut wood. Black walnut is a type of wood that kills all the plants around it because of its toxicity. In that case, black walnut does not have good healing properties and you would not want to use that type of wood for a wand that you intend to use for healing purposes. However, it is good with transitions in life and helping sever ties with the past and looking toward the future.

So basically, think about what vibration the tree or the wood from the wand provides. What are you seeking? Happiness? Love? Relief? Which vibration do you need the most? If you are unsure then common trees are the best choice such as Oak, Willow, Cedar, Ash, Birch, Maple, Elder, and Sycamore.

If you'd like to look at some trees and their meanings, you can check out this article connecting tree meanings to the Celtic Ogham System by clicking here.

Stevia

Picture from: http://ezgrogarden.com/all-about-plants/stevia-the-sweet-herb/

Stevia is a very interesting herb. Native to South America, this herb is known as the "sweet herb". It's been used as a natural sweetener for years. However, it has medicinal properties as well that can prove beneficial  These properties include:

• may aid in weight loss
• an alternative sweetener for diabetics
• may treat high blood pressure and heartburn
• may increase muscle contractions within heart to help pump and circulate blood
• may aid in preventing pregnancy 

Stevia may be able to reduce blood sugar levels after meals which would be ideal for people with type 2 diabetes. More research is currently being done in order to solidify the following medicinal properties above. However, it has been shown that stevia does interact with the body to produce these effects however minor it may be. Stevia may cause nausea, bloating, dizziness, and muscle pain in some people. People may also have allergic reactions to it. Stevia may also interact with diabetic drugs, high blood pressure drugs, and lithium.

As for magickal uses of Stevia, it is unknown. However, it makes a wonderful natural sweetener for herbal teas!

Reference:

Stevia: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, and Warnings

Pentagram Vs. Pentacle

Image from: https://www.facebook.com/ALLMagick

So, I notice that "pentacle" and "pentagram" get used interchangeably, however, they are different. The main difference as you may notice in the picture is that the pentagram is just the 5 pointed star whereas the pentacle has a circle around the star. That is the noticeable difference. They also have a slightly different meaning because of this.

The Pentagram represents the 5 elements of Wicca: Earth, Fire, Water, Air, and Spirit. The 4 lower points represent the material realm and elements (Earth, Fire, Water, and Air) whereas the upward point represents the Spirit and points toward the Divine. The Spirit point may also represent the mind/spirit over matter.

Picture from: http://www.squidoo.com/blazingstar

The Pentacle is a pentagram which has been encircled. When the pentagram is encircled, this is said to represent the elements bound in harmony with one another. It also creates a center point of energy which is used in rituals to consecrate and energize ritual items.

Both these symbols, when worn, can be used as protection. Although, the pentacle and pentagram are shown upright and are worn upright they also have meanings when the point is down. When the pentagram or pentacle are worn with the point down it is said to represent matter over the mind/spirit. It is also the symbol for a second degree Gardnerian Witch. However, most people (even some Wiccans) consider the inverted pentagram or pentacle to be a symbol of blasphemy and Satanism. 

Here's a link to an interesting website that speaks of a different way to define the pentagram and pentacle.Its always good to look at different points of views to help draw your own conclusions!

http://www.paganspath.com/magik/pentacle.htm

The Elements

Picture from: http://integrationtraining.co.uk/blog/2011/06/types.html

I'm sure everyone has heard of the four elements: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. You've seen these 4 elements referenced in books, in myths, everywhere really. In classical thought, they are the basic foundation for life as we know it. In ancient beliefs, these elements were discovered as the basis for life through natural observation of the environment. They represent the states of matter: Earth for solids, Air for gases, Water for liquids, and Fire for plasma. In Wicca, we recognize these four elements as existing in harmony with one another but we also recognize a fifth element that is not from the material world. This fifth element is the Spirit. These elements are not unique to Wicca. They have been recognized by many faiths and peoples such as Hinduism, Buddhism, the Greeks, and Egyptians. 

So, what do these elements represent for Wicca? Well let's take a look.

Air

Air is typically associated with the direction of North or East depending on what tradition of Wicca you're from. Many Neo-Wiccan traditions associate Air in the East where the sun rises. In my tradition, we associate Air with the North for the Northern winds. Also, depending on which hemisphere you live in (I being from the Northern hemisphere) the direction will vary. Air is normally attributed the qualities of wisdom, knowledge, the mind, travelling, uplifting, communication, and a connection with the soul. Air is connected to the masculine. Its corresponding colors are yellow and white and it is connected with the suit of Swords in Tarot.

Earth

Earth can be associated with the direction of East or North depending on the Wiccan tradition. Its qualities include strength, endurance, stability, material possessions, prosperity, the home, wealth, nurture, and the cycle of life (birth, life, death, and rebirth).I consider this element to be very important as it represents our home and the womb the Goddess. Earth is connected to the feminine and is strongly connected to the Goddess. Its corresponding colors are green and brown and it is connected with the suit of Pentacles in Tarot.

Water

Water is associated with the West in most traditions. Its qualities include emotions, compassion, healing, clarity, cleansing, love, empathy, peace, serenity, and purification. Water is connected to the feminine and the Goddess. Water can also be used as a psychic medium and absorbs the psychic energy around it meaning it typically must be cleansed often.  Its corresponding color is blue and it is connected with the suit of Cups in Tarot.

Fire
Fire is typically associated with the South (or North in the Southern Hemisphere). This direction faces the equator which is home to the hottest and driest areas of the world. Fire is associated with purification, strong will, energy, passion, desire, sexuality, and fertility. Most people associate fire with destruction, however, it can also create. When a forest fire sweeps the land it leaves ashes behind. These ashes fertilize the ground and clear the land in order for new seeds to sprout and to create a new, more stable ecosystem. It is an important element in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Fire is masculine and is often associated with the fertility of the God. Its colors are red and orange and is connected to the suit of Wands in Tarot.

Spirit
The spirit is associated with the center of the Circle. It is not connected to the material world. The Spirit is where all the elements connect. Some say the Spirit represents the essence of the Divine and our Higher Power. However, it can also be associated with the intangible, paths into the unknown, of promise, the soul of life itself. It is the place of great energy. Its color is represented as black or purple.

References:

http://www.thewhitegoddess.co.uk/the_elements/spirit.asp

http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/wiccaandpaganismbasics/a/elements.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_element

Beltane Fires

Song: Beltane Fires
Artist: Gaia Consort
Album: Secret Voices

Full Moon Names and Their Meanings

So I'm sure everyone is wondering what the deal is with all these full moon names that we've been seeing. Most people refer to the full moon as what it is, the full moon. However, each full moon has a unique name that means something to that specific full moon. This naming process can be traced back to the Native Americans as a way to keep track of the seasons.

Let's start at the beginning:

January
Full Wolf Moon--since the wolves would wander the forests during this cold winter month, the people would hear the howling of the wolves at night. Thus the name of this moon.

February
Full Snow Moon--it is said that February is the month of the heaviest snowfall.

March
Full Worm Moon--the ground begins to thaw in this month and comes the appearance of earthworms and the birds that prey upon them. What a cool way to signify the coming of Spring!

April
Full Pink Moon--herb moss pink, or wild ground pholx, is one of the earliest and most widespread flowers to appear for this month. It's another signal for spring.

May
Full Flower Moon--by this month, flowers are abundant everywhere.

June
Full Strawberry Moon--this is the month when strawberries are in season.

July
Full Buck Moon--this is the time when bucks begin to grow their antlers and they become visible.

August
Full Sturgeon Moon--Sturgeon is a large fish caught out of the Great Lakes and it is known that during this month there is the most abundance of this fish.

September
Full Corn Moon or Full Harvest Moon--this moon signified when it was time to harvest corn crops. It occurs very close to the Autumn Equinox and sometimes peaks in October instead of September.

October
Full Hunter's Moon or Full Harvest Moon--this is the time when people began preparing for the long winter months ahead by storing meats, grains, and other materials from their crops.

November
Full Beaver Moon--Beaver's were hunted during this month for their furs to keep warm during the winter. The beaver's are also preparing for the winter at this time.

December
Full Cold Moon or Full Long Nights Moon--During this month, the nights are at their longest and the winter is fully upon the Earth.

For more complete details for these moons, check out the link below. Some of the moons are referred to with different names other than the ones listed above. Also, in other traditions, these moons have different names.

Reference: Full Moon Names and Their Meanings

Here are a few different names for different traditions!

Earthing

Picture from: http://www.naturalcuresnotmedicine.com/2013/04/the-health-benefits-of-walking-barefoot.html

I've known about the benefits of Earthing, or walking barefoot, for quite sometime but until recently have I been seeing these pictures pop up around the internet highlighting being barefoot. When I do outdoor rituals when the weather permits, I do them barefoot to feel the ground. To use the Earth energy around me to feed into the purpose of the ritual. I also love to dance barefoot.

Since we live in a society where being barefoot in cities and certain areas is not permitted we tend to keep our shoes on whenever possible because it's convenient. Go ahead. Take those shoes off and feel the grass and dirt beneath them. Even if you're surrounded by concrete you can still make use of the ground. Earthing, is becoming very popular. It's always been popular to me but now it's finally being recognized as healthy and energizing.

Love the Earth. Walk the Earth. Harmonize with the Earth.

Legend

Song: Legend

Composer: Adrian von Ziegler

This man composes Celtic music and is very good at what he does. Please visit him at http://www.facebook.com/AdrianvonZiegler or https://twitter.com/AdrianVZiegler

Thyme

Picture from: http://www.crunchybetty.com/thyme-to-control-blemishes-and-acne

Thyme is a very interesting herb. Did you know that thyme volatile oil was placed in milk to keep it from spoiling before the invention of refrigeration? Interesting right? During the periods of plague, townspeople would burn this herb to ward off the disease from themselves and their home. This herb has a multitude of uses which include:

• treatment for coughing
• aiding in curing bronchitis
• relief from the common cold
• fights respiratory infections
• aides in asthma relief
• aides in allergy relief
• combats parasites

As for spiritual uses, thyme has a reputation for improving health, sleep, and increasing psychic awareness, mainly clairvoyance. It is also used in procuring love and can be seen coupled with rosemary in many love spells. It's also said to increase courage.

Reference: Thyme: Herbal Remedies

Try This!

Make a small satchel of lavender and thyme to place under your pillow to help you sleep peacefully at night.

Drink herbal tea that consists of 1 part rosemary, 1 part thyme, and 1 part peppermint to help ease your common cold. Add honey to help ease your sore throat and aide in cough relief. 

Wiccan Graces

These are qualities that I believe everyone should aspire to have, especially that of compassion. Without compassion toward our fellow human, animal, plant, etc, this world would be a dismal place indeed. Spread the love, joy, and peace to everyone!

Crystals That Relieve Back Pain

Lunar Eclipse

This is an event I am so ready to witness! Not only is April 25th the day of a lunar eclipse but it is also the day of the Full Moon, or Pink Moon. I hope everyone will take some time to see this wonderful event take place.  In Wicca, we recognize the moon phases as having specific affects on the universe and on the performance of magick, rituals, and spells. 

A lunar eclipse may heighten psychic awareness, increase the strength of spells and rituals, and produce massive amounts of energy that we may use for healing. However, it has also been said that adversely the lunar eclipse may excite negative entities or spirits. Be prepared and well protected on this sacred night, honor the deities, respect the laws of the Wiccan Rede, and try to stay out of trouble!

To Be A Witch

This is a little different than my usual posts but I really liked this saying, or poem, if you will. It reminds me why I chose this path. For the beauty, for the knowledge and wisdom, for the freedom, for the spirituality, for the love, for the compassion, and for empowerment. I hope you all enjoy!

Witch's Rune

Song: Witch's Rune
Artist: S.J.Tucker
Album: Blessings

Basic Ritual Altar Setup

There are quite a few ways you can setup your altar table. You may place items and tools wherever you wish. For me, I put meaning into where I place my ritual tools and items. Above, is one basic setup you can do for your altar. The tools that are present in this altar setup are standard in Wicca. The tools shown above are used as follows:

1.) God Candle--this is representative of the God and is lighted in his honor as an offering.
2.) God Idol (Statue)--a physical representation of the God
3.) Cakes--this is a plate of cakes used during the Rite of Cakes and Wine typically performed at the end of a ritual.
4.) Chalice--the chalice may hold any drink that is being used for the Rite of Cakes and wine and represents feminine energy.
5.) Goddess Idol (Statue)--a physical representation of the Goddess
6.) Goddess Candle--this is representative of the Goddess and is lighted in her honor as an offering.
7.) Incense Burner--used for lighted incense and is representative of the Air Element.
8.) Athame--used to call the Quarters and direct energy when casting the Circle, represents masculine energy and associated with fire (or air depending on tradition).
9.)Wand--used to perform spells and also direct energy, represents masculine energy and associated with air (or fire depending on tradition).
10.) Pentacle--a disc normally inscribed with symbols used to ground energy, associated with earth and feminine energy.
11.) Bowl with Water--water is used for cleansing.
12.) Bowl with Salt--salt is used for cleansing.
13.) Bell--the bell is used to signal the beginning and end of rituals, chants, etc.

Some of the items missing from this setup include the cauldron, herbs, crystals, and any extra candles or items that you would deem necessary for a ritual you are performing such as representing the elements. Here are some pictures of other altar setups.

Picture from: http://witchcraftbasics.webs.com/sacredcirclesetc.htm

Picture from: http://www.thewitchescollective.com/Altars_Divination_Chants/altar.html

Picture from: http://heckate.wordpress.com/2011/11/14/the-altar/

As you can see there many different ways to setup your altar. You can either go "by the book", along with your tradition, or you may move things around as you see fit.

Getting to Know Your Cauldron

The cauldron above is the exact cauldron that I own. I use my cauldron for many things such as holding candles, burning herbs and paper with spells written on them, for holding water for scrying, as a symbol  of the Goddess, and much more. The cauldron is an essential ritual tool of a Witch when performing rituals and magick.

The cauldron is typical and metal pot or kettle with three "feet" and some sort of handle so that you may be able to hang it over a burning fire. They are typically black in color and some of them adorn symbols such as the ond adorning the goddess symbol above. I've seen other with triquetras and pentagrams as well. They may be small, only about 5 inches in diameter or larger. When choosing the size of your cauldron and if it has symbols or not inscribed on it, think about the purpose of it and what kind of magick you will be making.

Cauldrons are not typically used for cooking any longer, however some people still use them to cook broths and herbal teas. As for now, they are used in tools of Wicca and are associated with the Goddess. In Celtic mythology, the cauldron is associated with the Goddess Cerridwen. During symbolic representations of the Great Rite in Wicca, the cauldron is used to represent the feminine and her womb. An athame, or sometimes the wand depending on the tradition, is placed inside the cauldron to represent the sacred union of the God and Goddess. The cauldron may also represent rebirth and renewal. 

Getting to Know Your Besom

Besoms are traditionally made from a piece of wood about 3 to 5 feet in length and an inch to two inches in diameter. At one end, a bundle of twigs, straw, or herbs is tied together to form the end of the broom as seen in the picture above. Witches who use these brooms ceremonially tend to place charms, crystals, ribbons, and other objects on the broom for decoration, charging, cleansing, protections, etc.

The wood and bristles of the broom can be made from any material or wood you choose. However, I would advise to choose a type of wood or material that is most meaningful to you so that it can serve your purposes the way you want it to. The besom holds both masculine and feminine symbolism. The handle is a phallic symbol representative of the masculine while the bristles are feminine. You may think of it as the masculine and feminine joining in harmony or union.

The besom can be used as a tool to "sweep" away negativity within a sacred space or Circle. It is also an important tool in handfasting ceremonies where the couple who is to be wedded jumps over the besom to symbolize their new beginning together as a couple. Also, it is said that hanging your besom with the bristles upward will keep good fortune within the home and from getting lost. Place it next to your door to keep your home positive and cheerful within your home.

Dandelions

I don't know about you but Dandelions are everywhere where I live. They always pop up in the spring and stick it out through the summer till they finally die and children pick them to blow their seeds away for their wish. When I was younger, I thought they were really pretty flowers and I used to pick them for my mom all the time. It wasn't till I got older that I found out that they were undesired by people and labeled a weed.

Dandelions have wonderful healing properties though that I think everyone should have a chance to know about! These properties when ingested as extract include:

• Weight loss
• Supports Insulin production
• Contains Pectin which is anti-diarrheal and helps lower cholesterol
• Contains Gallic acid which is anti-diarrheal and anti-bacterial
• Contains Choline to help improve memory
• Supports healthy teeth and gums

For a more thorough list please Reference: The Health Benefits of Dandelions

Amber & Selenite

What do you think of when you think of amber? Do you think of tree sap entrapping an unsuspecting bug? Do you think of a beautiful yellow orange stone? Well amber is not actually a stone but fossilized tree resin. It's very unique. Some of the healing properties of amber are:

• Love
• Purification
• Cleansing
• Energy
• Joy
• Patience
• Balance
• Strength
• Wisdom
• Spontaneity
• Success
• Good luck
• Absorbs negative energy

As for Selenite, it is a peaceful stone. It helps enhance clarity of situations and thoughts. It cleanses negative energy and helps one find a deeper inner peace. It can also be used to enhance psychic abilities.

Negativity and Misfortune Banishment Ritual

This is in a group ritual format, however, it can be changed to suit a solitary ritual. This ritual is to be performed on the waning moon or the new moon.

Charge and cleanse tools.

Cast your Circle.

Have all four elements present. Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Allow the members to enter with the correct password and anoint them with oil on their forehead.

To enter the Circle they must say: “With Perfect Love and Perfect Trust.”

Cleanse everyone with sage.

Call the Quarters:

Stand to the East:

“I call upon the Guardian of the East, who dwells in the Realm of Earth. I beckon to you to come forth from your entombed realm and harmonize our souls to the rhythm of the Earth. Bring to us strength, endurance, and power as we perform our rites. Hail and Welcome. So mote it be.”

All: “So mote it be!”

Stand to the South:

“I call upon the Guardian of the South, who dwells within the candle flames and basks in the light of the sun. I beckon to you to come forth from your fiery realm and teach our souls the power that you hold. Bring to us confidence, will, and empowerment as we perform our rites. Hail and Welcome. So mote it be.”

All: “So mote it be!”

Stand to the West:

“I call upon the Guardian of the West, who dwells within the waters of the rivers and the waves of the ocean.  I beckon to you to come forth from your watery realm and wash upon our souls the sensuality you possess. Bring to us Healing, Renewal, and Purity as we perform our rites. Hail and Welcome. So mote it be.”

All: “So mote it be!”

Stand to the North:

“I call upon the Guardian of the North, who dwells within the Northern Winds. I beckon to you to come forth from your airy realm and rush through our souls the knowledge that you possess. Bring to us Wisdom, Understanding, and Freedom as we perform our rites. Hail and Welcome. So mote it be.”

All: “So mote it be!”

Call upon the Goddess:

“We call upon the Goddess in her aspect of the Crone, the mother of the waning moon, the means to an end of all things, the path to regeneration and rebirth. We call upon thee to come forth within this sacred Circle and aid us in our ritual. Help us to end our miseries, our negativity, and our misfortunes. And with this end, help us rise to embrace the gifts of wisdom, cleansing, and purification which you have gracefully bestowed upon us.”

“We honor you, and your many gifts. So mote it be”

All: “So mote it be!”

Call upon the God:

“We call the God, to assist us and his Lady during this time of the waning moon. Bring us understanding and clarification of our goals upon this night. Be our light that lights the dark. So mote it be.”

All: “So mote it be!”

Call upon the Old Ones:

“We call upon the Old Ones, the ancients, our teachers, our guides, to aid us in our endeavors to rid ourselves of negativity and misfortune. We call upon you to join us as we perform our rites. So mote it be.”

All: “So mote it be!”

Ridding Oneself and Building Oneself:

For this ritual, we will be energizing people. One person will stand in the middle of the Circle at a given time and have a lit white candle, while the members stand around them. The members standing around the one member will hold hands and spin in a deosil direction. As the members do this, the member in the center will ask the God and Goddess what they desire an end to (ie an end to money troubles, negativity, an end to misfortune) and then state what they would like new beginning to (ie a fresh start at a new job, a new positive outlook). Once the member finishes their requests they will end by saying: “So mote it be.”

All shall say: “So mote it be, so mote it be, so mote it be.”

The members will keep circling until every member has said at least three positive things about the member in the Circle (ie you are strong willed individual)*. This will be done as the member in the center meditates upon her requests of the God and Goddess. Once every member, has said their three positive things, all the members who are circling shall say: “So mote it be.”

The member in the center shall say: “So mote it be.”

They will then extinguish their candle.

Briefly, switch places with another member and begin the process again.

*Note: When saying positive things about a member, make sure it addresses to that member. Use the member’s NAME.

Cauldron of Rebirth:

Each member will sit upon the ground and will be passed a piece of paper and a pen. They will write down what has been bothering them for the past month. The leader shall say:

“Dear Crone, we write upon this paper our worries and our sorrows. We ask thee to heal us, to guide us, and bestow upon us your wisdom in overcoming our troubles. Help us achieve our goals, aide us in improving our misfortunes, and banish all negativity from us and our surroundings. So mote it be.”

All: “So mote it be.”

Each member may choose to either read aloud what they wrote before casting it into the cauldron or they may simply place their paper into the cauldron one by one, each saying “As I do will, so mote it be.”

Once all is cast into the cauldron:

“We cast our troubles into the cauldron of rebirth. What is put forth shall be born into something good, that which is desirable to us. So mote it be.”

All: “So mote it be.”

Light the contents of the cauldron and meditate while holding hands in the circle around the cauldron (still seated).

Say:

“As the fire transforms us, we begin anew. For what we have asked, we shall receive. So mote it be.”

All: “So mote it be.”

Cakes and wine:

Hold the cakes and say:

“Dear God and Goddess, bless these cakes that we take into our bodies. May we never hunger.”

Hold the Wine:

“Dear God and Goddess, bless this wine that we take into our bodies. May we never thirst.”

Thank the God, Goddess, and Old Ones for their services. Thank the Quarters, and open the Circle.

End Ritual