Feeling ick and irky

 Today is one of those days where I'm sat in the office at work... wishing I was in bed; where everything and everyone makes me seethe.

So what can I do to fix this? ............ well if I'm honest probably nothing  Witch crafty.

Some days we just have a bad day; we're snippy and grouchy and we don't want to deal with other humans. 

Have a little compassion for how you are feeling, and take a break from the self criticism.

I came to work today wearing a pentagram jumper, a spell jar necklace and most of the things in my pack up are known for bringing comfort . I didn't know today was going to be an icky day... but i guess maybe somehow i did. 

I guess this post isn't very helpful or entertaining, but sometimes the best magic we can make is a five minute post about having a bad day to release the negative energy; followed by a slice of watermelon and a walk outside to shake off the icky and welcome in the good vibes again. Maybe a little incantation of sort might help dispel the negativity too; pop some mystical intent in there too.

Either way if you've read this post; i'm sending groovy good vibes to you from our office ( i'm on my break don't worry) and a reminder to stay hydrated, eat something salty and sweet; and just relax a little

Stay sweet guys! Claim the day

Exploring Spiritual Themes Across Cultures

Hi everyone!

I wanted to share something that’s been on my mind lately—how different spiritual paths, across cultures and continents, often share surprisingly similar themes. Whether you're into witchcraft, spirituality in general, or just curious about how humans make meaning, I think it’s so important (and powerful) to learn about beliefs from all around the world.

It helps us connect. It builds compassion. And honestly, I find it makes my practice that much richer. So why not do a bit of research 🌍✨ Just remember the difference between cultural appreciation and homage, and appropriation. Learning must be respectful, and you should always be careful that you are not taking a culture that is not yours and using it for yourself. Culture is shared, but some areas may be off limits due to the nature of it, or what is called closed, not open to those not within that culture.

So, in the spirit of open minds and magical hearts, let’s take a look at some common spiritual themes and see how they show up in different cultures. You’ll see how beautifully interconnected we all are.

🌗  Cosmic Dualities & Balance

Common Thread: Opposites aren’t enemies—they’re necessary complements. Harmony is born from balance.

• Chinese: Yin & Yang – light/dark, passive/active, feminine/masculine.

• European Paganism: Triple Goddess & Horned God – cyclical feminine and untamed masculine forces.

• Hinduism: Shiva & Shakti – divine masculine and feminine energies.

• Zoroastrianism: Ahura Mazda vs Angra Mainyu – good vs evil.

• Inuit: Sedna & Raven – provider of life and trickster.

🌿  Elemental Systems

Common Thread: Elements are more than physical stuff—they're spiritual building blocks and forces of change.

• Chinese: Wu Xing – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water.

• European Paganism: Earth, Air, Fire, Water (sometimes Spirit too).

• Hinduism/Buddhism: Pancha Mahabhuta – Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ether.

• Japanese (Shinto): Go Dai – Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, Void.

• Native American: Often tied to the 4 directions, elements, and sacred animals.

🌞 Sun, Moon & Celestial Deities

Common Thread: The skies aren’t just beautiful—they’re divine storytellers, marking time and transformation.

• European Paganism: Triple Moon Goddess – Maiden, Mother, Crone.

• Japanese: Amaterasu (Sun), Tsukuyomi (Moon).

• Incan: Inti (Sun), Mama Killa (Moon).

• Hinduism: Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon).

• Norse: Sol (Sun), Mani (Moon)

🃏 Trickster & Chaos Figures

Common Thread: Tricksters stir the pot—but they often teach, transform, or reveal deeper truths.

• Chinese: Sun Wukong – rebellious monkey spirit.

• African: Anansi – clever spider god.

• Norse: Loki – shapeshifter, chaos-bringer.

• Native American: Coyote or Raven – mischievous wisdom.

• Polynesian: Maui – trickster-hero, world-shaper.

☠️ Underworlds & Afterlives

Common Thread: Death isn’t the end—it’s a passage. The soul continues, judged or transformed.

• Greek: Hades.

• Chinese: Diyu – 10 courts of judgment.

• Egyptian: Duat – soul journey, heart weighed against truth.

• Mayan: Xibalba – underworld trials.

• Norse: Hel – for those who died of age or illness.

• Christianity/Islam: Heaven, Hell, judgment day.

🌲 Nature Spirits & Animism

Common Thread: The natural world is full of spirit. Trees, rivers, animals—they're all alive in their own way.

• Japanese (Shinto): Kami – spirits in everything.

• Celtic/Druidic: Sacred groves, stones, springs.

• Inuit/Siberian Shamanism: Animal guides, spirit journeys.

• African Traditions: Nature deities and ancestors.

• Amazonian Tribes: Plant spirits like Ayahuasca.

🏞️ Sacred Places – Mountains, Rivers, Trees

Common Thread: The Earth holds portals—some places pulse with power.

• Hinduism: Mount Meru, Ganges River.

• Norse: Yggdrasil – World Tree.

• Buddhism: Bodhi Tree – where the Buddha awakened.

• Celtic: Sacred oaks, groves.

• Indigenous Americas: Mountains as gods’ homes.

• Aboriginal Australia: Songlines and Dreaming tracks.

🌕 Divine Feminine & Earth Mothers

Common Thread: The feminine holds immense power—creation, destruction, love, and sovereignty.

• European Paganism: Triple Goddess.

• Hinduism: Durga, Kali, Parvati – fierce to nurturing.

• African: Yemaya, Oshun – water and fertility goddesses.

• South American: Pachamama – Earth Mother.

• Slavic: Mokosh – fertility and moisture.

🧚 Mythical Beings & Folklore Creatures

Common Thread: Spirits and beings beyond the veil—some helpful, some mischievous, all meaningful.

• Celtic: Fairies – magical, morally complex.

• Japan: Kitsune – fox spirits, shapeshifters.

• India/SE Asia: Yaksha, Naga – spirits, serpent beings.

• Middle East: Djinn – spirits of fire and air.

• Inuit: Tupilaq – crafted avenger spirits.

• Norse: Elves, Dwarves – tied to nature, craft, magic.

🌌  Creation Myths & Origin Stories

Common Thread: Everything begins in chaos, darkness, or divine union—and what follows is sacred order.

• Maori: Rangi and Papa – Sky Father and Earth Mother.

• Egyptian: Atum emerges from the watery Nun.

• Chinese: Pangu creates the world with his body.

• Norse: Ymir – a cosmic giant turned into the world.

• Native American: Earth formed on Turtle’s back, sung into being.

🌈 Final Thoughts

Across the globe, spiritual systems do often echo the same truths. It is beautiful and connects us all.l

• Life is full of dualities that need balance.

• Nature is alive and deeply sacred.

• Tricksters, trials, and transformations are part of the journey.

• Sacred places and celestial bodies guide and protect us.

• The unseen world is just as real as the seen one.

Whether you call it witchcraft, animism, mysticism, or just a deep curiosity about the world, we’re all exploring similar stories and beliefs. But these myths and systems aren’t just old stories—they’re reflections of human consciousness, mapped across time and place. It's true magic how we share so much with everyone in the world, even when we have nothing to do with them in our day-to-day lives.

Thanks for reading, and may your path (whatever it is) be full of wonder, wisdom, and a little wild magic. 🌿💫

When the East meets the West, Zodiac basics

Western and Chinese Astrology: A Guide to Zodiacs, Elements, and Personality

In Western astrology, the zodiac is divided into twelve signs, each lasting roughly a month in a repeating annual cycle. These signs are linked to specific dates and grouped into four classical elements: Fire, Earth, Air, and Water. Each element governs three signs, offering insight into a person’s temperament, emotional tendencies, and motivations.

Western Zodiac Signs & Their Traits

♉️ Sign (Dates)	🌟 Traits	🎨 Symbol & Vibe
Aries (21 Mar – 19 Apr)	Bold, driven, impulsive	🔥 Energetic, fiery ram
Taurus (20 Apr – 20 May)	Grounded, sensual, loyal	🌿 Stable, earthy bull
Gemini (21 May – 20 Jun)	Curious, talkative, adaptable	🌬️ Airy, dual-natured twins
Cancer (21 Jun – 22 Jul)	Emotional, protective, nurturing	🌊 Sensitive, caring crab
Leo (23 Jul – 22 Aug)	Charismatic, proud, creative	☀️ Radiant, bold lion
Virgo (23 Aug – 22 Sep)	Analytical, practical, perfectionist	🌾 Grounded, meticulous maiden
Libra (23 Sep – 22 Oct)	Harmonious, social, indecisive	⚖️ Balanced, charming scales
Scorpio (23 Oct – 21 Nov)	Intense, passionate, secretive	🦂 Mysterious, powerful scorpion
Sagittarius (22 Nov – 21 Dec)	Adventurous, philosophical, honest	🏹 Free-spirited, optimistic archer
Capricorn (22 Dec – 19 Jan)	Ambitious, disciplined, reserved	🐐 Determined, steady mountain goat
Aquarius (20 Jan – 18 Feb)	Independent, unconventional, intellectual	🌬️ Innovative, visionary water bearer
Pisces (19 Feb – 20 Mar)	Empathetic, artistic, dreamy	🌊 Compassionate, intuitive fish

Western Elements

🔥 Element	✨ Qualities	🌟 Signs
Fire	Passionate, energetic, bold	Aries, Leo, Sagittarius
Earth	Practical, stable, grounded	Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn
Air	Intellectual, communicative, idealistic	Gemini, Libra, Aquarius
Water	Intuitive, emotional, sensitive	Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

The 12 Astrological Houses

Each of the twelve astrological houses represents a different area of life:

🏠 House	🌟 Area of Life
1st House: Self	Identity, appearance
2nd House: Money	Finances, possessions
3rd House: Communication	Siblings, intellect
4th House: Home	Roots, family
5th House: Creativity	Romance, children
6th House: Health	Work, wellbeing
7th House: Partnerships	Marriage, one-on-one dynamics
8th House: Transformation	Death, rebirth, shared assets
9th House: Beliefs	Travel, philosophy
10th House: Career	Reputation, ambitions
11th House: Community	Friendships, social groups
12th House: Subconscious	Secrets, healing, the unseen

Chinese Astrology and the Lunar Zodiac

The Chinese zodiac follows the lunar calendar and is based on a twelve-year cycle. Each year is associated with a zodiac animal and one of the five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water), resulting in a full 60-year cycle.

Chinese Zodiac Signs & Their Traits

🐾 Sign	🌟 Traits	🎨 Symbol & Vibe
Rat	Intelligent, quick-witted, strategic	🐀 Clever and resourceful
Ox	Dependable, methodical, strong-willed	🐂 Steady and powerful
Tiger	Courageous, assertive, unpredictable	🐅 Fierce and bold
Rabbit	Gentle, elegant, compassionate	🐇 Soft and graceful
Dragon	Ambitious, magnetic, innovative	🐉 Majestic and dynamic
Snake	Wise, intuitive, discreet	🐍 Mysterious and thoughtful
Horse	Independent, energetic, impatient	🐎 Free-spirited and lively
Goat	Kind, artistic, peace-seeking	🐐 Gentle and creative
Monkey	Clever, resourceful, mischievous	🐒 Playful and sharp
Rooster	Honest, observant, perfectionist	🐓 Proud and detail-oriented
Dog	Loyal, responsible, fair-minded	🐕 Faithful and protective
Pig	Generous, sincere, easy-going	🐖 Warm-hearted and easy-going

Chinese Elements

🌱 Element	✨ Qualities	🌟 Symbol & Vibe
Wood	Growth, creativity, compassion	🌳 Life, renewal, and nurture
Fire	Passion, energy, transformation	🔥 Warmth, power, and change
Earth	Stability, nourishment, loyalty	🏞️ Grounded, dependable, steady
Metal	Precision, determination, control	⚔️ Sharp, resilient, and focused
Water	Wisdom, adaptability, depth	🌊 Fluid, deep, and intuitive

Each element has a Yin or Yang nature, affecting how each animal's traits express themselves.

Yin and Yang in Astrology

Yin and Yang are dual but complementary forces:

🌙 Yin	☀️ Yang
Feminine, dark, intuitive, passive	Masculine, light, logical, active

Each Chinese zodiac sign and element is either Yin or Yang. This dynamic affects personality, health, behaviour, and energy flow.

BaZi: The Four Pillars of Destiny

The BaZi system uses four key data points from your birth:

📅 Pillar	🌟 Description
Year	Represents ancestral influences and early life
Month	Reflects your upbringing and family environment
Day	Core self—personality and inner nature
Hour	Hidden potential and future opportunities

What Is an Ephemeris?

An ephemeris is a table of the positions of celestial bodies at specific dates and times. In Western astrology, it helps calculate where planets were during your birth—used to create your natal chart. Today, digital ephemerides are used in astrology software.

How Natal Charts Work

Western Natal Charts

A map of the sky at your birth based on:

Date, Time and Location

It shows where the planets and signs were, across the twelve houses. It reveals your personality, emotions, potential, and spiritual path.

Chinese Natal Charts (BaZi)

Uses: Year, Month, Day, and Hour of birth

Each time stamp contains elemental and animal influences. The balance and interaction of these give insight into your destiny, health, and fortune cycles.

Astrology and Witchcraft

Western Astrology and Witchcraft

In Europe, astrology has long been intertwined with mysticism and occult traditions. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance:

• Astrological knowledge was used in alchemy, herbalism, and magical timing (known as electional astrology).

• Witches, cunning folk, and occultists used planetary positions to cast spells, make talismans, predict weather, and diagnose ailments.

• The zodiac and planetary influences were part of grimoires (books of magic) and ritual calendars.

The association of astrology with witchcraft contributed to suspicion and persecution, especially during the Inquisition and witch trials, though elite scholars continued to use astrology for kings and courts.

Today, in modern witchcraft and pagan traditions (such as Wicca), astrology is used to:

• Align rituals with lunar and planetary cycles

• Personalise spellwork and magical timing

• Understand personal archetypes and spiritual journeys

Chinese Astrology and Mystical Practice

Chinese astrology is more commonly part of Daoist metaphysics than witchcraft. It’s used in:

Spirit rituals
Feng Shui and ancestral rites

Choosing auspicious dates

Spellcasting in a Western sense is uncommon and often culturally discouraged.

Cultural Taboos and Closed Practices

Western astrology is generally open and widely used and shared. Though there are some "experts" who look down on those without knowledge of the fundamentals before utilising astrology 

Chinese metaphysics ( Including BaZi and Feng Shui) should be approached respectfully
Some rituals are sacred or lineage-based and may be inappropriate for outsiders to teach, sell, modify or partake in.
Sharing someone else's BaZi chart without consent may be taboo

Other Zodiac Systems Around the World

🌟 Zodiac System	🌍 Origin	🔮 Key Features
Vedic Astrology (Jyotish)	🇮🇳 India	Uses the sidereal zodiac and 27 lunar mansions (Nakshatras). Focuses on karma, dharma, and life path.
Babylonian Astrology	🏺 Ancient Mesopotamia	The earliest known zodiac system. Foundation of modern Western astrology, using omens and celestial patterns.
Egyptian Zodiac	🌞 Ancient Egypt	Centered around deities like Ra and Thoth. Later merged with Greek astrology during the Ptolemaic era.
Mayan Astrology	🌿 Mesoamerica	Based on the 260-day Tzolk’in calendar and 20 day-signs. Deeply spiritual and tied to divine timing.
Celtic Tree Zodiac	🌳 Britain & Ireland (modern)	Reconstructed system based on sacred trees and lunar cycles. Influenced by Druidic spiritual beliefs.
Native American Zodiac	🐾 North America (modern)	Animal-based and nature-focused. Represents seasonal energies; varies across different tribes.
Tibetan Astrology	🕉️ Tibet	Combines Indian, Chinese, and Bon traditions. Used for medical astrology, karma, and spiritual insight.
Romani Zodiac	🎭 Romani Diaspora	Spiritual and symbolic system blending Indian roots with European folk traditions.
Persian Astrology	🏜️ Ancient Iran	Rooted in ancient star lore; influenced by Babylonian and Hellenistic astrology, focusing on planetary cycles.

Update on me- Where did i go?

OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

My days, it's been so, so long since I updated this blog!

To anyone who still reads, I am so, so, so sorry. 

Life just sort of got in the way—big time.

So, how are you? That's a good question. Well, while I can't hear your answer, I can only say that I hope you are doing as well as you can.

How am I? Geez, what a long question. How do we cover three years in one short post... well, let's try.

Well, I started an apprenticeship 4 years ago at my local authority as a member of business support, while finishing off my master's degree, which had been extended due to COVID. COVID actually helped me in many ways. Not actually getting it—that made me very, very unwell—but I learned who my true friends are, that I was really burnt out mentally; and being surrounded by such high death numbers has actually cured (almost) my phobia of death—long story short, in school, my drama teacher made us re-enact a school shooting, and I developed the phobia and would have nightly panic attacks for the next 10 years. Then COVID happened, and over the 2 years, it's virtually gone. Now it's 2025, and I can actually have a restful night's sleep.

Anyhoo, so I started an apprenticeship which ended with me becoming a permanent member of staff, and now I've been there 4 years. I work in health, specifically paying hospital bills and analyzing data. But I'm always learning. I've also been on the next level of apprenticeship... and I'm ready for it to be over.

I no longer have contact with a toxic ex-friend, a narcissist. That's relatively old news, but a good banishment spell after our last argument has meant I've not had to deal with her. Though she does do this comical strut suddenly if she notices me in town. At this point, it's such old news that now I just chuckle at it.

My best friend got married! In fact, today is their first wedding anniversary and 11th year being together. I hope they've had a magical time today!

I finally got diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which has now meant that at work, I get some accommodations to make working easier for me, and it means I've got quite a bit of work to do compared to most people. I go to bed, and I risk my shoulders dislocating. I have to have a diet rich in protein, magnesium, and vitamin B12, as well as a higher level of sodium. It’s been both liberating to have my condition confirmed and draining, as now I need to care for myself differently, or at least in a way that's better for my body.

Last year, I went on antidepressants after a concussion, so I was put on sertraline as the damage was causing mood problems. We found out it helps with my pain levels and anxiety. So I stuck with it until the last couple of weeks—I am now dealing with the symptoms that come with tapering off medication that affects your brain. Vitamin B12 spray helps with the symptoms, though!

I can legally drive now—scary thing and very hard work for me due to the above condition, causing issues with my hand, but the car is called Freddie-Ray after my grandad, who sadly, last month, died due to poor mental health, self-neglect, and health problems. It has been very hard and upsetting. But we are trying to take it one step at a time. Also, if you're wondering why I named the car after him—well, it was his car, and while he was alive, he wanted to give it to my family, so it made its way to me. It is now pimped out with mushroom decor, and pop music is already in its stereo.

I had a boyfriend; however, we split up 3 months ago this week after a year and a bit—honestly I'm at the "good riddance" stage and whilst I do wish good luck to him- I also wish him to take on board a very hard lesson on how to treat people- or better yet how not to treat them- because you can't just treat people the way I was treated no matter what you've been through or feel like. Not one of my better partners, for sure. I’d basically been led on to the point we were buying a house together at his request—only for him to become avoidant, emotionally cold, and then snarky and even a little mean towards the end. He told me that he was certain the only reason he’d been getting off during the last couple of times we were intimate was because he’d been drinking alcohol... not gonna lie, no matter what, that's just arseholeeee vibes... Glad to say I am finally moving on, because that was just a cruel thing to say, and now I have to build my confidence up from scratch—all because of his words and behaviour towards me. I always had confidence issues with my face, my weight and the fact that I have a resting grumpy face; and I come from a background where you had to appear a certain way to prevent bullying.
 I also found out within a week of my grandfather's funeral that he had actually got in contact with his ex within days of the break-up. I won't grass up what he was doing, but let's just say that I lost respect for him, and I really didn't need to see screenshots of some of those conversations from his ex as she played things off dramatically. He's been blocked and unfollowed where possible to prevent drama, as I just can't deal with any more of it. I told him I'd be respectful in a group setting, but that girls stick out for each other, and to lose my number. It's all I could say as I'm so drained right now, and I was so angry, and it was like rubbing salt in the wound. I am also avoiding his ex, too, as I have a sneaky suspicion she was stirring the pot- she's friends with the toxic narcissist I mentioned. So I'm just being careful and avoiding. Means a delay in seeing my family over in Australia, as she's also where my aunt lives. But easy enough to avoid day to day.

So yes, the years haven't been kind, especially the last 2, but there've been a lot of good things too. I have my very first tattoo. It's a reminder to breathe, using the air alchemy symbol, moon phases, and other symbolism for home and pathways. I got it done in brown ink only, as I want my skin decorated with a more natural colour. I would say I am trying to be healthy again, but after that first break-up month, where I was working out daily and starving myself until I felt unwell... I've decided the focus should be on loving myself again- carbs and belly and all. 

I will eventually get back into fitness, but I have a lot going on right now first. I will be trading at a convention in August over a three-day event! I sell alternative jewellery- specifically choker collar necklaces. Which I upcycle and add crystals and other things too. I just hope they sell well! I'm super excited and have even bought new business cards, made a custom tablecloth and runner- I have even sorted camping gear as it's a three-day event!

My main priority at the moment is investing in myself, spoiling myself with self-care. For instance, I put off buying quirky glasses to fit in; I wore a cheap, ugly pair that wasn't my style. Now I am sitting here in prescription heart-shaped glasses typing like there's no tomorrow. I'm organising my finances so I can finally be debt-free- soonish ish I hope, because I want to start saving for my house deposit. I'd like to purchase my grandparents' family home to keep it in the family. Though it's probably too expensive to run and I'd only own a portion, as my grandmother, though not at capacity, is still alive, so it would be super wrong to move in. I'll keep my options open.

I have been social too, I try to meet up with some of the good people I met through my ex; I've also tried to meet up with them and other friends and family more. Though it is difficult with the mutual friends as they're all very music-oriented, and I'm very out of touch with that. Sometimes it's like they speak another language; I feel sad when I can't connect with people. So I hope I'm able to find a place of some sort, still with them- awkwardness between me and ex and all. Though I have a sneaky suspicion things are cooling off between me and them on their part, as I tend not to go out in the evenings compared to them. And when I do, I feel so awkward and like I shouldn't be there- the vibe is beginning to feel off, and I can't put my finger on it. Which is ridiculous, as they always said I'd be welcome. Gotta love anxiety, right? I guess we will find out if it's in my head as a silly worry or if my gut is right.


 I've booked a week off to rest and sort my convention stuff out, so hopefully I'll be able to do some fun stuff soon too. Some DIY, some driving, sneaky Starbucks or Maccies trip. Double chocolate chip frappe, anyone?

I really want to get back into writing this blog. And I'd love to compile what I learn into a book for beginners. With enough info in to get people started, without shoving ideology down people's throats and encouraging its readers to make their own choices and get creative.

We'll have to see how this goes; I can't promise a perfect, regular upload. And whilst I know I only have like 3 followers. Blogging just helps me relax, gives me a creative outlet without needing to worry about energy. 

So let's welcome in a new adventure and some new content!

BB
- WitchyBird

What to do with a witchy slump

 Good day everyone! 

You know, with the last two years I feel like I've been in a witchy slump, it's partly why I haven't been on here fulfilling my content promises ( sorry guys).  So today is a short and sweet what to do with a witchy slump post.

Does the idea of practising your craft make you feel tired emotionally and physically, do you feel your life it too hectic that you can't get anything done, even reading this feels like a rare bit of time to be witchy.

Well firstly, forgive yourself. Witchcraft isn't a lifestyle, it's an element of your life.

 Witchcraft is a craft, it's not going to disappear from you if you can't commit to it. If your spirituality and personal beliefs connect to your craft, do you honestly think you will be forsaken if you don't light incense every day or do elaborate ceremonies, spellwork or cleansing? 

Secondly, have you ever considered that maybe you're in a witchy slump because you are in a rut emotionally yourself. So you should probably check in with yourself and see how you are feeling before you even consider witchcraft- as your emotional wellbeing and general health are all factors in the end result of any witchcraft. So if you're feeling a slump- maybe that is a sign that you need to rest, recuperate and heal. And I don't mean a five-minute nap and a face mask, I mean scheduling a designated time and not allowing plans to cover it and making arrangements so that you can have the appropriate time for peace and quiet- to all the parents out there - this does mean asking someone to babysit for the day if needed.

So how do we start to deslump the witchy slump? Well, I always start off by getting myself psyched up with a good start to the day, a nice fresh breakfast and a stretch is always a good start ( if that feels a little too much how about a glass of fruit juice with breakfast and rolling your shoulders backwards 3 times and then 3 times forwards) . Don't forget to clean your teeth. When I do this I play an empowering song on my phone and dance to this- but if you're not feeling like dancing you can just clean your teeth normally.  You should, if you haven't done so the night before, make sure your body is clean for the day too ( yes a morning shower does really perk you up for the day)
 

I then get dressed in something that I am comfortable in and confident in ( i would avoid loungewear but that's only because I associate joggers and baggy jumpers with the need for a snuggle in bed for a week- which although fun isn't what I aim for when I'm trying to de-slump. You might feel differently so go with what feels right for you) where I make a bit of an effort ( i.e makeup and hair) to get ready ( though the makeup is optional, ensuring your hair is tidy and your face is at least washed is just as good of a start). Then I follow up by tidying or re-organising my craft space so it is clean and as aesthetic as I like.

I know this sounds like self-care, but getting yourself into a refreshed headspace, feeling clean and well presented; can really motivate you for the day, or in this case your witchcraft practices.

So what can I do to start the magic ball rolling?

Here are a few low energy activities you can do when you are trying to de-slump but don't want to spend ages planning, prepping and partaking in.

1. Stir/consume your food/drink with intent- yes you can actually do this. Colour magic and the use of an item's metaphysical properties can be applied to your breakfast, lunch and dinner. Whether you're preparing it or eating it. Let's take Orange juice as an example. Orange colour is for motivation and energy. Orange as fruit is cleansing, brings good energy and from a vitamin perspective- its vitamin C helps boost immunity. Add a little intention to the mix and your Orange juice has the potential to become a good day elixir or enchanted with a boost for you and other drinkers. Heck draw a couple of sigils onto the carton/bottle in sharpie and you can make the whole thing magical. 

2. Air doodle sigils and protection symbols- pretend your finger, spoon, pencil (whatever you want) is a wand and draw in the air what you want to happen for the day.

3. Say a small encantation under your breath, out loud or in your head. For example, I tend to say/sing out loud on windy days to try and reduce wind ( doesn't always work but the wind is wind and I have to respect its nature ) " wind be gentle, wind be calm, keep me safe now, here from harm, wind be gentle, calm and still; do this now of free will" 

4. Light a candle/ incense just to perk you up. No need for anything dramatic or too intentful, just light it to feel good.

5. Go for a walk and just enjoy the weather, imagine as you walk the negativity is exiting through your feet and that the air brings in something new and positive.

6. Go witchy shopping/searching- Get yourself a few bits to get you in the mood, stock up on supplies, treat yourself; find a fun stick for waving around from outside or collect some flowers.

7. Have a shower/bath with cleansing ingredients and use your intent to ground yourself as you wash

8. Make something- Get crafty in general- I'm currently decorating a glass ornament so it looks like a hobbit house- which I will use as a hanging tealight holder. But a doodle for your altar counts too!

 9. Read a page or two of that book you bought with the intent of reading but haven't yet- We've all done it- in fact, I have a shelf full of witchcraft books I bought with good intentions or was gifted.

10. Just have a dress-up day- sometimes just dressing up a bit more witchy or fancy can empower us and motivate us. So have a bit of fun and see where the day takes you.

Well that was a few tips on how to get out of a witchy slump, if you're reading this, why not comment below with your own tips!?

Witchy 101 Other Pages

 You know, I've been wondering recently if any of my pages have ever been seen... let alone read. So as a little experiment. Here is a contents post of all the pages of information I have written so far. 

What is this Blog? And Witchy FAQ 

 Witchcraft vs Wicca: What is the difference?

 Different Witches?: Witchy 101 

 Witchy Holidays: Wiccan Wheel of the year 

Witches and Cultural appropriation

 Drying Flowers and Herbs 

 Witchcraft 101: Taking notes in a Book of shadow or Grimoire 

 Witchcraft 102: Getting started with Research 

Witchcraft 103: Getting started with tools

Witchy Water: How to make Moon and Sun Water 

 Altars 101: What are they? Do you need one? How to decorate one? 

 Candles 101: Colour Magic 

Crystals 101: Crystal Shopping 

Crystals 102: Bringing home your crystal babies

Crystals 103: Breaking crystals! 

 Cleansing 101: Preparing a space 

Protection 101: Casting a Circle 

 Protection 102: Witchbells 

Deities 101: Who are they and how to encourage them to come forward. 

WitchTube: 3 Youtube Channels for beginners 

 Imbolc Solitary Witch ritual 

Emergency Ward spell and Calming spell 

Luck Spell 

 

Coming out of the Broom closet?

 You know , over the last couple of weeks' on various media, I've seen a lot of " How do you come out as a witch?" Type posts. I thought this was a rather interesting topic. Whilst my "Coming out of the cauldron" page explains how my journey to the craft started; I never really wrote how I really publicized my craft to friends, family and work colleagues.  Well today whilst chatting with one such colleague (who's sitting behind me right now (shh don't tell my manager I'm blogging at work 😉) I rather casually mentioned I was a witch and now am wondering how I got to this stage. So I thought I'd write something short and sweet in the next few minutes before my shift ends.

I guess the answer to how to "come out" as a witch is to just start opening up a little bit more. I started by openly collecting crystals and having the occasional book on meditation, candles and having them in view of my peers. I wear witchy jewelry so I started wearing that daily in public eye sight. And if a conversation came up... lets say Halloween, I would chip into facts about my belief's culture like " Did you know Halloween , aka Hallows eve...was originally a part of Samhain celebrations?"  or whilst watching magical films I would point things out like " ah but the they prefer to be called the fair folk or the gentry" little tid-bits like that. I slowly integrated my secret witch life into my 'normal one' until all that left was my life. I guess i basically just made my interests known in a really boring way.

Now I appreciate that some readers are now thinking about " how do I tell someone though" possibly thinking about a family member with specific beliefs against the craft. I want to say this one thing to you now. A lack of education on the topic leads to fear and then hate. And the simple question is, if your asked about your beliefs, feel free to say yours is a bit different, but don't condemn their own by expressing yours as if it's the only way- that's how arguments start. For example I got asked " do you not believe in God?" once. I simply responded with something like " It's not that I don't, I just prefer to believe there is something, some call this god, others give it different names, multiple forms, some believe this is not one individual, or even any sentient force. But it's not my place to give it a label of some kind. So I acknowledge the feminine, neutral and masculine elements of this something; which may or may not be God as written or Gods in the stories we read. It's a very flexible way of seeing things and allows me to understand my peers and their beliefs a lot better. And I'd rather increase my understanding and knowledge, because that will make me a better person."

So if your worried about saying " I'm a witch"  well here's a question for you. Why do you need to use that word? What is it about those words that hold something for you? Because at the end of the day it's just a word.

Let's remove the word and break down witchy stuff so it sounds like a regular hobby. " I have an interest in herbology and how the history of medicinal and cultural practices link to them"  that's literally indicating your use of herbs, rituals and healing you use them for.

" I'm interested in the long tied history of the condemnation of innocent women and men" granted a little vague, but throw in a few historical facts about witchcraft ( there's a lot of persecution across the globe so it doesn't even have to be from your own country)

 " I have an interest in mythology and learning about my peers' cultures and beliefs so that I understand them" Mythology is just religion and stories that the majority of people have put to the side- not forgotten but not wholeheartedly believed in. So if your personal spiritual beliefs would class as mythology to others- claim that term for yourself.

 " I like crystals because they're pretty and they bring me joy; and candles light up the room and make the world feel special"  Ok crystals can be described as an interest in geology, jewelry making or just because it's pretty... and candles can just sort of be signed off by most people as a normal house hold item... but you get the point.

You're not hiding your self by using different ways of description, your not being dishonest by separating the elements of witchcraft into what we would define as "Normal" labelling. Your just providing information in a way that certain types of people will grasp better and accept.   Witchcraft is just a craft and encompasses the mundane... the normal. Magic is in the 'normal' things we do and and ' normal' is in the magic we do- both one and the same and different but not ( sorry if that causes a headache- the two are just two sides of a coin).

There are multiple ways to view something and if someone doesn't like looking through one viewpoint because they're uncomfortable, show them the same thing from a viewpoint of comfort. Yes it would be nice to suddenly go up to a random person and go "I'M A WITCH" and have them shrug their shoulders like it's completely average- and it can feel like an effort. But society associates the word witch with the out of the ordinary, it's unique, different. And acceptance often comes from the boring, the known, the ordinary. With the term Witch, Pagan and many other terms being associated wrongly with negative outcomes and evil, it's up to our community to show the truth in a way which our peers understand.

It doesn't change anything by using the boring, 'normal' terminology - nor does it devalue your practice ( and if your feel it does you should ask yourself why that is). Your still you, you still have your hobbies, your interests and your craft, and your beliefs are still safely within you. And granted your not saying "I'm a witch" but you are showing you are one and sharing yourself with someone. Which promotes their understanding of you, remains honest and allows you to be who you are without hiding.

I have no idea if this is helpful in any shape or form or even if it makes sense. But I hope it has helped promote some deeper thinking on how you can open yourself up to non witches- especially if they're the condemning type.

Crisp gold twirling leaves..

 ... falling downwards far from me; and into the gust.

This is one of my favourite haiku's I wrote at age 14 (there are three more verses but this is my favourite). Autumn is by far my absolute favourite season. The beauty of the leaves changing colour, the last berries and veg of the season being harvested, the slight chill in the air meaning I can wear a wooly jumper. I'm a big fan of the pinafore dress and turtleneck look. So I've been really excited to see how this autumn goes.

But lets talk about something fun! Autumn Altar décor This is by far my favorite and I can't wait to get started.

You can use pretty much anything you want to decorate an altar all year round, as long as you keep it tidy and clean, anything is a go. This year for autumn I have opted for my home made pentagram star and orange candles as my base, and quartz as my crystal of choice. Buttttt .....it needs that little pinch of pumpkin spice and autumnal flare... so I'm planning on going foraging for some decor! and yes i mean some decor from the outside! Leaves that have fallen to the ground and changed colour can be a fantastic altar addition, as can feathers, flowers and wild herbs ( as long as you know they're safe for you to touch and you vocalize your gratitude for using them)

Wild berries such as wild blackberries and mushrooms (I can not stress the need to be careful for wild mushrooms and berries- if you don't know what is safe, avoid picking anything!). Make great altar offerings and decor. Horse chestnuts and acorns are also easy to find at this time of year! ( Bonus: Horse chestnuts can help ward off spiders!) As are seasonal vegetables like gourds ( Pumpkins, Marrow, Courgettes etc.)

I'm quite fortunate that my family and my grandfather both have allotments (small pieces of farm land that is rented to the general public to grow fruit and veg on) which means seasonal fruit, veg and even wild flowers ( and on the rare occasion eggs) can be found quite well. I've actually managed to claim some pumpkins already from the allotments ready for October so will attempt to make a spiced pumpkin soup! Anyway back to the subject at hand... Autumnal Altars can include just about anything, some people even like to add bones, twigs, shells and other things they've found. Personally I'm not keen on animal altar items but as long as your finding these items, not hurting an animal to create these items, feel free to use these in a respectful manner.

I've created ,as a loose guide, a list of what you can include in your own altar. This is available to download from here Autumn Altar Ideas for free!

Until next time, blessed be

Why the long silence

 Hello everyone, 

Firstly happy Mabon (Autumn Equinox)! Hope you all have a fantabulous day.

It's been a very long time since I've updated on here- and I know I'm not the most regular person when it comes to blogging. I'm really sorry. I could list a number of reasons to you as to why I haven't written everything but to put it quite simple. I'm not doing so great in terms of my health, the old mental health and anxiety department and I've been dealing with quite a heavy workload whilst studying my apprenticeship at my local county council. SOooo this means I've have had very little time and energy to post anything.  There's a lot of pressure on me financially at the moment as I'm trying to save for a house, whilst paying rent, various loan repayments ... and it's just a bit stressful. I'm also playing the role of confidant and stress reliever to my friends as they are all going through something important so my time has just been filled with taking care of them. 

I've found that this all can sometimes be a bit too much for me mentally though, so I've been studying up a little on self care over the last few months; and am trying to ensure that I don't take on other's problems as if they are my own. As an empath this is very difficult to do as I'm pretty much a sponge absorbing any energy around me. However I have recently been releasing this energy and reclaiming my own. I've found just saying allowed " I release all energy that is not my own, especially that which is negative . And I reclaim what has been taken from me without my permission"  I've found that saying this allowed has just given me a bit of a breather- though I'm not sure if this is because it could be considered an incantation, because it's fueled with intention... or if it's simply because it's allowing me to release a deep breath as I say it.

So... on to something a bit more positive what have I been up to that's witchy.

Well I've been making Mabon/Samhain decorations. I've painted a ceramic pumpkin for Mabon and have nearly finished a skeleton themed bit of art for Samhain, I've also created a couple of new candle holders, created herb mixes for my witchy friend, completes a couple of spells to bring good luck and health... and as always have spent wayyy to much money on crystals. I quite easily am in the mid 200's for crystals now... oops.

Things I have done that's not so witchy?

I've started going to the gym 2-3 times a week after work, granted I've had to put it on pause due to some awful blister from my work shoes ( my pinky toes were the size of massive grapes-ewwww) 

I've , with the help of my dad, repaired , stained and reupholstered some free chairs we found in a skip.  All about the whole re-use and revamp nowadays and i can't let good things go to waste. 

What about you all, what are you up to?

Motivation

 Today  i wanted to do a brief post about motivation. Motivation for anyone, including witches can be what makes or breaks a person in their practices and routines. If you feel unmotivated in your practice it can make you feel less of a person. Well i've got news for you!

PRACTISING LESS DOES NOT MAKE YOU LESS OF A WITCH. 

It is more than ok to only practice when your motivated to do so. Your energy plays into your practice and if you do not have the energy, practising the craft will only draw on what you have left. This is why self care is super important in witchcraft. However if your looking at ways to increase your motivation in general i have a couple of tips.

First off Self Care. This includes 4 areas.

1. Eat/Drink well and healthy. Vitamin A, The B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, B6, B12, and folate), Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin K, Vitamin E and Omega 3 all effect your mental and physical health- especially Vitamin B and D. Remember to also stay hydrated and keep a low level of caffeine in you. (caffeine can increase anxiety, heart rate and effect sleep)

2. Ensure your getting enough exercise. Half an hour of moderate exercise is all you need ( you don't have to be sprinting but a good walk, gym session or dance party goes a long way.) Currently as an experiment i have not exercised purposefully in a few months- everything now hurts and i feel uncomfortable from not moving as much.

3. Check in with your feelings. By this i mean keep an eye on how you feel, why you feel this way and what you can do to improve your mental health. I myself have been a long term sufferer of anxiety and have only just (after 9 years of trying) started to see how i can combat my negative thoughts and feelings. The answer for me was talk back at it and question every negative thought as if it were a person. It's a technique i learnt from " Badass ways to end anxiety and stop panic attacks" by Geert Verschaeve

4. Take a break and slow down. The real world is more flexible then you think and you have every right to take the time you need- this applies to your craft also. Sometimes we sacrifice our mental health to achieve a set goal. However you do need to sometimes put the goals to the side and take yourself out of the picture to recuperate. And to have a bit of fun. I couldn't understand why i was so drained at work until my manager pointed out i hadn't had a day off in 4 months. No i schedule in at least 1 day a month- mid working week for me to have off as a holiday day ( i appreciate not everyone has the capacity to do this but allocating a regular slot of time off from any work or home responsibility is important) 

Next is metaphysical items to help with increasing motivation

Crystals: I wear on my least motivated days- two rings. Moldavite and Opal. Moldavite is a trans-formative crystal known for either sending it's wearer hyperactive like a child on sugar.. or into an anxious or crying mess on the floor. Depending on the day it effects me differently. But i have found when worn with Opal it increases my energy and motivates me to work hard. Monday morning blues become more motivating for me. Now i appreciate that Moldavite is incredibly expensive. But there are certainly other crystals that can be used. These are:

Citrine: Joy, wonder, enthusiasm

Yellow Calcite: Clearing old energy, personal motivation, 

Tigers Eye: Mental focus, protection against fear and anxiety

Red Tigers eye: Motivation to the unmotivated, reduces lethargy, increases confidence

Opal: Encourages freedom, independance, soothes anxiety

Sun stone: Removes fear, alleviates stress, increases vitality, encourages independence and originality

Carnelian: restores vitality and motivation, stimulates creativity. Gives courage, promotes positive life choices, dispels apathy and motivates for success

Garnet:  Cleanses and re-energises the chakras, revitalises, purifies and balances energy ( especially sexual), brings serenity or passion as appropriate. Inspires love and devotion.

Adventurine: Prosperity, diffusing negative emotions, reinforcing leadership, promoting compassion and encouraging perseverance. 

and naturally you can use clear Quartz also.

Lighting a candle and playing music is good for motivation too

I've found lighting an orange or yellow candle  and playing some upbeat music is the perfect way to energise me- especially when i'm doing  something tedious.

A Citrus simmer pot

A simmer pot is where a pan or cauldron of water is heated with items that have a specific metaphysical property. My personal favourite for motivation includes adding citrus ( Apples, Lemons, Limes, Oranges) and cinnamon with a dash of lavender and rosemary or a bit of sage.

Finally we have Witchy fun

Within your craft, sometimes you may find yourself doing something a bit repetitive or something you just don't feel enthused about. This is why getting creative and doing the occasional witchy fun can help boost your craft as a whole. I personally find the task of changing my altar decorations for the season, a little bit tedious. So every now and then i will take some time to create something new to add. For example i recently up cycled two candle jars to with some artwork i found via google . I also every now and then like to watch a magic themed film ( I rather enjoy Sword in the stone by Disney) or like to do some metaphysical baking by making some herb infused cake of some kind.

Now you know a few things that can help with motivation and witch craft. 

Witch-Tea recipe: Chamomile Milk

 Today i'd like to share my recipe that i use on those days where i need a bit of a cleanse mentally. Some times i do this on a new moon, as an offering on my altar or when i just have the need for it. This is a great drink for cleansing bath-time and before bed to help relax and soothe. It's also a nice offering for the Fair folk or deities with a sweet tooth. I recommend this recipe to be drank cold,  but will need to be prepped hot ( and can be drank warm also) in order to get the best flavour. It works well with Boba (Tapioca pearls) too!

What you will need to make this

Chamomile tea bags x 2

Milk ( Vegan or Dairy)

Saucepan and Stove ( or a microwaveable glass jug and microwave)

Vessel to drink from

Something to sweeten-Optional: A little white chocolate/honey ( or vegan alternative)

Step 1: Heat your milk slowly on a low heat ( in a microwave i recommend using half the milk you intend to drink/use and just top it up with cold milk after) with your teabags inside the milk. If on a stove i like to do this for about 5-10 minutes ( depending how strong you like your tea or how long it takes for the milk to simmer- stirring regularly to ensure the milk/teabags do not burn.

Step 2: Add what you wish to sweeten your milk. Personally i like a little honey or a tiny bit of white chocolate. Stir until everything is well mixed, turn off the heat and remove your tea bags if you like a mild chamomile flavour- if you like a stronger flavour leave the teabags in for a little longer.

Step 3: If you'd like to drink this hot add to a cup- be careful not to burn yourself. If you'd like to drink this cold, remove and place in a glass jug/cup with clingfilm/saran wrap on top ( this will prevent any flavours and scent from loose food in your fridge melding with the milk) and place in the fridge to cool and chill.

If placing on an alter as an offering, please remember this is still milk and will go sour. So please do not leave for more then 36 hours on your Altar ( Especially if you live somewhere hot- in fact if you live somewhere hot- no more than 12 hours). And please do not drink it. Instead you can pour it outside by a tree or in some soil, just remember it is food and may attract animals like ants. You can also get rid of it normally via a sink.

I hope you enjoy this recipe, i certainly do. Feel free to adapt it or use it as an ingredient for other recipes like cakes and biscuits.

New Beginnings 2021

 Good day to you! 

I just wanted to come on here and say thank you to anyone who's taken the time to read these posts, pages and interact with me on my social media. 

Whilst my posts have always been sparse on this blog compared to its pages and other blogs. I've always found them to at least provide you with enough of the basics to spark interest for you to learn more. They will however be getting a little sparser. This is due to my current job which i started in January, and my university work, which i was hoping to have completed last year ( Pandemic fun times).  I wanted to be honest with you guys who have been reading along and learning with me. Hopefully you'll stick by me and this blog will grow even more.

I will soon be putting up some more information pages up for you. Spell Jars seem ever popular at the moment so perhaps some guidance on that? Maybe i shall even put up a page on burnables (resin, incense, wax melts) I'm also planning to prepare a metaphysical property week where every day will contain the metaphysical properties of herbs, crystals etc.
I'd also like to put together a shopping page of recommended websites and places that can help you get kitted out. 
But please, if your reading this, leave me a comment on what you'd like to see and learn on here. I'm more then happy to provide and if i don't know, i'll research it for you and create a post or page about it.


Thanks for reading guys.

2020

 Well, it looks like my Sabbath posts have gone full circle and we are fastly approaching Imbolc again. This year my Altar is decorated with a green cloth, candle and last years Brigid doll, cross as well as a few things I received on the 27th for my Birthday. Yes, I am now 23! And I was impressed to find the majority of gifts I received were witchcraft-related. I've been gifted crystals, altar ware and a rather fetching spirit board themed lunch box. I also started my new job so have splurged my first paycheck on an olive green backpack with my initial and a triquetra embossed on!!!  So I am more than happy and enjoying being a little more materialistic at the moment.

How are you all doing? I know this blog doesn't reach many people but if you are reading drop a comment on how your doing :D