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Divination is an ancient practice used to gain insight, clarity, and guidance. With so many different methods available - such as tarot, oracles cards, lithomancy, etc. - choosing the right one for yourself can feel overwhelming. However, by considering your natural inclinations, spiritual beliefs, and lifestyle, you can find the perfect divination tool that resonates with you. So here’s are some helpful tips or 'tells' to assist you in determining which divination method is best suited for you.
Bear in mind that you may have one more than one method that speaks to you. Or, maybe there is a method that speaks to you, but for whatever reason you just can't grasp it. I personally would love to be able to use the pendulum, but it is by far my weakest tool, and I have been practicing for years! Also, you skills may change over the years. Just because tarot is your go-to today, doesn't necessarily mean it will be next year, or in three years time. As we learn and grow, so do our talents, so never be afraid to try something new. 1. Consider Your Intuition and Preferences Start by reflecting on what naturally draws your interest. Are you more visual, auditory, or tactile? Do you enjoy working with physical objects, or do you prefer something more abstract, such as dreams or images? If you're highly visual and like using imagery to tell a story, then tarot or oracle cards may be a great fit. If you connect with patterns and logic, astrology or numerology - such as Angel Numbers - might be appealing. If you like a combination of the two, then try looking into dreamwork, scrying, or lithomancy - these forms of divination rely more on symbols and patterns we need to piece together, but they still allow us to tell a story. 2. Identify Your Spiritual or Cultural Connection Many divination practices have cultural or spiritual ties. If you have a deep connection to a particular spiritual path, you might be naturally drawn to methods associated with it. For example, Runes are rooted in Norse traditions, whilst the Oghma has ties to Irish and Celtic practice. Tarot was developed in Europe, whilst the I Ching comes from ancient Chinese practices. Then there are some, such as crystal ball scrying, which have been used in various cultures. There may even be some more local and lesser known divination practices you may have ties to. I'm sure that many of us in the UK are familiar with the magpie rhyme which starts 'one for sorrow, two for joy...' - well, this is also a form of divination! Exploring these connections may help you find a practice that aligns with your spiritual beliefs. 3. Assess Your Patience and Learning Style Different methods require varying levels of study and patience. Consider how much time and effort you're willing to invest in learning a method. Easy to learn: Pendulums, oracle cards, tea leaf reading, lithomancy, bibliomancy, bird divination, automatic writing. Moderate learning curve: Tarot, numerology, scrying, runes, ogham. Requires deep study: Astrology, I Ching. If you prefer quick answers, a pendulum might be best. If you enjoy lifelong study, astrology or the I Ching could be rewarding. 4. Experiment with Different Methods The best way to determine what works for you is to try a few methods and see which feels most natural. And you don't need to spend a lot of money to do so! You could try: Borrowing or making a basic tarot or oracle deck. Use a necklace as a pendulum and test its movement. Try a simple numerology reading using your birthdate. Meditate on a bowl of water or a mirror to attempt scrying. Build your own lithomancy set out of stones from your garden. Collect stones from the local park and drawn runes or other symbol-based divination signs. Pay attention to how each method makes you feel. If it excites and energizes you, it may be the right one. 5. Determine Your Purpose for Divination Your goals will influence which method suits you best. For quick, daily guidance, I recommend tarot, oracle cards, or pendulums. For quick yes or no questions, you could try the pendulum or a simple 'yes or no' lithomancy set. For deep self-reflection then Astrology and numerology can be valuable, and if you are looking for deeper insights into the situations you find yourself in as well as your own goals, motivations, and ambitions, then scrying or dream divination may help. 6. Trust Your Intuition Ultimately, the best divination method for you is the one that feels right. If you’re consistently drawn to a specific practice, follow that instinct. There is no “right” or “wrong” choice—what matters is that it resonates with you and provides meaningful insights. Divination is a personal journey, and there is no single best method—only the one that works best for you. Be open to experimenting, trust your intuition, and enjoy the process of discovering how you connect with the unseen. As you grow, your preferred method may evolve, and that’s completely natural. The key is to find a practice that enhances your intuition and brings clarity to your path.
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A dedication ceremony is a ritual where you formally commit yourself to the path of witchcraft, whether to a specific tradition, a deity, or to your personal spiritual growth. This is often a requirement for those in covens or within certain traditions, and even though it isn't necessary for the solitary path, many choose to do it. This ceremony is deeply personal and should be tailored to reflect your beliefs and intentions. I performed a solitary one over 20 years ago now, and I still remember it well, as it marked an important part on my life's journey. If you had told young me where this path would take me, I'm not sure I would have believed you! Again, it isn't a requirement for practicing witchcraft, but for many it can be a profound experience. Below is a guide to help you create a meaningful and effective dedication ritual.
1. Define Your Intention Before performing your dedication ceremony, take time to reflect on why you are committing yourself to witchcraft. Consider:
Write down your intentions in a journal or on parchment to use during the ritual. 2. Choose the Right Timing and Setting The timing of your dedication can enhance its power. Consider:
Choose a sacred space where you feel safe and connected, such as a forest, near a body of water, or your personal altar. 3. Gather Your Ritual Tools While a dedication ceremony doesn’t require elaborate tools, some useful items include:
4. Cleanse Yourself and Your Space Before beginning, purify yourself and your ritual area to remove any stagnant energy. You can:
5. Cast a Sacred Circle To create a sacred space, cast a circle by:
6. Speak Your Dedication Statement Stand in your sacred space and read your dedication statement aloud. It might include:
Example: “I, [your name], dedicate myself to the path of witchcraft. I vow to seek knowledge, walk in balance, and honour the energies of the universe. May my journey be guided by wisdom, love, and the forces that surround me.” 7. Make an Offering Offer something meaningful to solidify your commitment, such as:
This act symbolizes your willingness to give and receive energy in your practice. 8. Meditate and Receive Energy Sit quietly and meditate on your newfound dedication. Pay attention to any sensations, thoughts, or messages that arise. You may:
9. Close the Ritual Once you feel ready, thank any spirits, deities, or elements you invited. Close the circle by walking counterclockwise and visualizing the energy dispersing back into the universe, or down into the earth beneath your feet. Snuff out the candles and take a deep breath, acknowledging your transformation. 10. Reflect and Integrate After the ceremony, record your experience in a journal. Consider:
Your dedication is just the beginning of your journey. Witchcraft is a lifelong practice of growth, learning, and transformation. Honour your commitment through regular practice, study, and self-discovery. Trust your intuition, and embrace the magic within you. In today’s digital era, many witches are incorporating technology into their many ways. From online spellbooks to divination apps, technology provides accessibility, connection, and creative opportunities for magic users worldwide. However, there is always the question as to whether this is a good thing or not. Do we risk losing our connection to the natural world, an important reason as to why many pagans practice, if we stay too connected to the digital world? Does the easy sharing of information, often with little knowledge of its source, risk spreading misinformation and falsehood? Does such connectivity exacerbate the negatives and bring more harm than good? It is an interesting topic, and one that is deserving of its own blog post, but today I want to focus on the practical applications of digital tools in our craft, and how we can use these to deepen our practice. So, let's take a look at just some of the ways in which witches today are doing so:
1. Digital Grimoires & Book of Shadows Traditionally, witches kept handwritten Grimoires or Books of Shadows to record spells, correspondences, and experiences. Today, many witches store this information digitally through Apps like Notion, Evernote, or Google Docs for organizing spells and rituals. They also use private blogs, wikis, or password-protected websites to store personal magical knowledge. Voice recordings or video logs for tracking spiritual progress. Finally, a well-organised file storage solution either on their local machine or in the cloud can be used to store such documents. 2. Online Tarot & Divination Tools Technology has made divination more accessible than ever. Again, their 'effectiveness' is an interesting topic which is worth debating, but I will not go into that now (that is for my future blog post). However, many modern witches use tarot and oracle card apps to perform readings on the go, or AI-generated or digital rune casting tools for insight and guidance. Web-based astrology calculators are excellent for creating accurate birth charts and transits and then interpreting these for you. I personally have found these birth chart calculators and interpretations very enlightening, and would highly recommend it is something you look into if you have even a passing interest. 3. Virtual Spellwork & Cyber Magic Cyber magic is a growing field where spells and intentions are cast digitally. Examples include creating sigil magic using drawing software or phone apps; charging affirmations through social media posts or digital vision boards, or even using emojis as modern sigils in messages or status updates. 4. Online Witchcraft Communities & Learning Platforms Technology has made witchcraft knowledge widely available, helping new and experienced practitioners connect and grow. Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube provide tutorials and community discussions (those of you who know me will know I post primarily on Instagram and I love the community I have become involved in there). Forums and Discord servers offer spaces to share experiences, get advice, and ask questions. Then there are online courses and eBooks from platforms like Udemy, Patreon, or personal witchcraft blogs provide structured learning (and of course my own website, Youtube channel, and courses!). 5. Digital Altars & Virtual Sacred Spaces Some witches create sacred spaces using technology when physical space is limited. These can also be good for practicing on the go, so long as you have access to it on your phone or such. You could use Pinterest boards or private folders as digital altars, and check out live-streamed rituals or virtual gatherings to perform magic collectively. You could also use desktop backgrounds and phone wallpapers featuring deities, symbols, or elements that resonate with your practice (my phone background is an image of the sea which helps me connect with my water practice). 6. Spell Timing with Technology Perfect timing is crucial for spellwork, and technology helps witches align their magic with celestial movements. Moon phase tracking apps ensure spells are performed at the most effective time, and astrology apps and websites provide planetary transits and retrograde alerts. Smartphone alarms and calendar reminders help schedule rituals and spellwork (I would have forgotten many full moons if it weren't for the fact I put them all in my calendar and set reminders a couple of days in advance!). 7. AI & Algorithmic Magic Artificial Intelligence and algorithms are being incorporated into magical practice in unique ways. AI can be used for tarot interpretations and spell suggestions for example. However, I would caution that you can never be sure how accurate the information you get from AI is, so I do recommend you do additional research to validate any claims it makes. Algorithm-driven manifestation techniques can be used where witches curate their social media feeds to align with their desired energy; for example, you could perform a 7-day full moon abundance ritual by posting an image of something related to abundance on your Instagram every evening for 7 days around the full moon. 8. Digital Spellcasting & Enchantment Technology itself can be enchanted for magical purposes. You could charge electronic devices with intention (e.g., setting your phone to attract abundance every time you use it). Even simply using your phone to listen to music or sound frequencies for spellcasting and meditation is an act of incorporating the digital into your practice! 9. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Witchcraft with Technology Many modern witches aim to reduce waste and use technology for eco-friendly practices. E-books and digital guides can be used to prevent unnecessary paper use (and also save on physical space for those of us who live in small homes). You can use virtual spells instead of physical materials like candles and herbs. And of course, using cloud storage for grimoires rather than physical notebooks. Again, there are questions as to exactly how environmentally friendly so much online usage is compared to physical means, but - again - this is a topic for another blog post! Technology and witchcraft may seem like opposing forces, but they can complement each other in surprising ways. The digital age offers new tools for spellwork, divination, and community building, making magic more accessible, adaptable, and innovative. Whether you’re using apps to track moon phases, participating in online rituals, or casting digital sigils, technology can be a powerful ally in modern witchcraft. In paganism, when we speak of a ‘sacred space’, this is often a space in which we perform ritual, meditation, divination, etc. It is a space which is dedicated to these activities, which provides us with a safe, relaxing place where we can perform these. It is a reflection of our spiritual selves, where we can manifest our intentions and feel at one with our higher selves. But this doesn’t have to be just one corner of our room, or a singular table with an altar. If a sacred space is one which provides us with this sense of comfort and safety, a reflection of our spiritual nature, then why not turn the entire home into a sacred space?
I appreciate that it is quite privileged to be able to do so. Many people live with parents or partners, or have to share space with housemates and others, or have to be secret in their practices. I personally consider myself one of the lucky ones. I have a one bedroom flat which I live in alone, so the space is mine to do what I want with. However, it is a small flat; my living room triples as my living space, my work space, and my ritual space. So rather than just carve out one tiny corner of my room to dedicate to my spiritual self, I decided to make the whole flat my ‘sacred space’. So, what does this look like? First off, as we have mentioned, this is a space which you should feel safe and comfortable in. What that means to me could be completely different to what it means to you! I personally am a big fan of maximalism. I love every space being filled, I love a mish-mash of colours and textures, of every surface being filled with stuff. However, you may feel more comfortable in a more minimalist space, with light colours and plenty of space. The first thing you need to determine is your preferred style, the environment which makes you feel cosiest. Otherwise, below are some tips to help bring your spirituality into every space in your home. Incorporate colour magic: Colour can have a huge impact on our mood. So reflect on the energy you would like to bring to each space, and use colour accordingly. I see the bedroom as a space of relaxation and rest, so I tend to go for light, pastel colours. However, if you see the bedroom as a place of passion and romance, you may go for dark reds or purples, or pinks. I see the living room as a place of liveliness and entertainment, where I often knit or ‘create’ things, so I have a patchwork sofa and art on the walls in different colour frames. Scents: Different scents have also been proven to impact our mood and how we feel. You can use diffusers, or burn incense and oils, to help bring a certain energy to your space. For example, in Feng Shui, the front door is often seen as the mouth of Chi, as it is here where energy enters the home. So I keep a diffuser by the front door with a welcoming scent such as vanilla. I will often burn lavender oil in the bedroom as it promotes peace and calmness. Place crystals around the home: Even if you don’t believe in the metaphysical properties of crystals, they also make great decorations! I have them on my altar, I keep them by the TV, I even have several placed around the bathtub. Lighting: Consider the lighting in a space. I keep the lights on when I’m working as it helps me feel alert, but if I’m chilling in bed I prefer a himalayan salt lamp to cast a softer glow. Artwork: As mentioned, I have art on the wall in several different coloured frames - I have an entire gallery wall in the living room above the sofa! Here I’ve placed several witchy artworks - just postcards I received over several witchbox subscriptions - as well as some posters and medals and other things that bring me joy. You could try displaying tarot cards which speak to you, artworks of deities and spirits, ancestors, or anything else which speaks to your spiritual side. Bring the natural world in: Unfortunately living in a flat in a large city, I don’t have a garden. As someone who feels very connected to the environment and nature, I have filled my space with a lot of plants! There is a wide variety of plants which are suitable for indoor environments, and are easy to look after. I also have a few jars of shells, and wall hangings made from branches/leaves/fruit around the place to help strengthen my connection to nature. Mini Altars: Rather than having one large altar, consider having several mini altars around. You may have one dedicated to a specific deity, or spirit you work with, your ancestors, etc. Bookshelves, the edge of the TV cabinet, windowsills and the like are ideal to house these mini altars, and bring a bit more spiritual decoration to your space. Don’t forget the little things: Even the smallest of decorations and such can help bring that spiritual flare to your living space! I have a small cauldron mug I use to drink tea for example, and some small crystal-topped teaspoons, and the herbs I use regularly are all stored in glass jars with ‘potion’ style labels. Feng Shui: You can use elements of feng shui to help build your space. Feng Shui teaches that our external energy can impact our internal energy, and so it teaches us how to harmonize the energies of our external space. Some basic tips include:
These are just a few ideas as to how you can bring your spiritual side out and reflect it throughout the home. A sacred space is so much more than just a place to read tarot or perform rituals; it is a temple, a sanctuary, one which you should feel at peace in. What better place to express your spirituality than your home! There was a point in my path where I realised that I had 'outgrown' the beginner witch resources. I knew candle magic, I practiced colour magic, I carried crystals, performed esbats - so what was next? What did I need to do or learn to become an 'advanced' witch? I tried looking for books about 'advanced' witchcraft, but found very little. I tried looking online, but again, it was nearly impossible to find anything on advanced witchcraft.
It took me a while to realise that that witchcraft doesn't quite work like that. It's not as if there is a blanket 'beginner level', and once you have passed your exams you can move onto the next, more advanced level (I'm deliberately excluding coven structures and progression here, and speaking more of solo practitioners). At some point, you will obtain everything you can about a certain subject from books and internet research and feel that there is nothing new you can learn from them. And so, the only real way to become 'advanced' at your craft, is to practice! Witchcraft is a deeply experiential path, one that requires more than just reading books and studying theories. While doing your research and ensuring you are knowledgeable in what you are doing is essential, hands-on experience, trial and error, and personal exploration is the only way to progress. The best advice for those aspiring to become advanced witches is simple: practice, practice, practice. Below, we explore why direct experience is vital and how you can integrate active learning into your craft. 1. Knowledge Without Action is Incomplete Reading about witchcraft can provide an excellent foundation, but knowledge without experience remains theoretical. Books can explain how to cast a circle, charge a crystal, or invoke a deity, but until you physically perform these actions, you won’t truly understand their power, effectiveness, or personal resonance. How to Apply This: Choose a spell or ritual from a book and try it out. Keep a journal of your experiences, noting what works and what doesn’t. Adjust and refine techniques based on your outcomes. 2. Personal Experience Builds Confidence Many new witches hesitate to practice out of fear of doing something "wrong." However, witchcraft is a personal journey, and mistakes are part of the learning process. I can think of many, many things I did wrong when starting out (and more recently!). Or things that I thought I had done wrong - I remember when I first started out, I tried to make a poppet to represent a friend to bring them luck. But, being young, I didn't really have any tools, so I used some string and pencils to create a 'stickman'. Unsurprisingly, the poppet fell apart and I FREAKED out. I was convinced this would somehow harm my friend! Obviously now I know different, but experiences such as these are key. The more you practice, the more confident and intuitive you become. How to Apply This: Start small with simple candle magic, energy work, or sigil crafting. Reflect on what you feel during rituals and spells—your intuition is a powerful guide. Trust your own experiences and let them shape your path. 3. Energy Work Requires Practice Much of witchcraft involves working with energy, and this is something that must be felt, not just read about. Learning to sense, direct, and manipulate energy is crucial for effective spellwork, divination, and healing practices. And it isn't just energy work; most of what we do takes practice, and this can be off-putting to those whose hearts aren't really in it, or maybe don't have the time to dedicate to practice. How to Apply This: Try daily energy exercises such as grounding, centring, and shielding. Work with your hands to feel energy in crystals, herbs, and sacred objects. Practice visualizing energy flowing through you during spells. 4. Intuition Develops Through Experience Books and mentors can offer guidance, but your intuition is one of your strongest tools. Developing intuition requires engaging with your craft regularly and learning to trust your own instincts. Even just on a day-to-day basis, try to listen to your intuition - if that voice in your head is telling you to take the bus rather than the train, then don't ignore it! How to Apply This: Use divination methods like tarot, runes, or pendulums to hone your intuitive skills. Meditate with your tools and let your intuition guide your interpretations. Allow yourself to experiment and go beyond strict rules when you feel led to. 5. Real-World Application Strengthens Your Craft Witchcraft isn’t just about rituals—it’s about integrating magic into everyday life. The more you weave magic into your daily routine, the more natural and powerful your practice becomes. We often talk about witchcraft being a 'lifestyle', and actively working to integrate it into your day-to-day activities can really help elevate your practice to a whole new level. How to Apply This: Create morning or evening rituals incorporating magic. Practice mindfulness and energy work throughout the day. Use simple charms, sigils, or herbal magic in your home and workspace. 6. Experimentation is Key Some of the most advanced witches didn’t get there by following pre-written spells alone. They experimented, tweaked techniques, and crafted their own unique approaches. Often we have our own ways of working, our own quirks, and our own, unique ways of connecting with energy and using it to manifest. What works well for one person may not necessarily be the best way for you. So experimenting and personalising your practice can have a real impact. How to Apply This: Modify existing spells to suit your personal energy and goals. Create your own rituals and sigils based on your intuition. Document your experiences to refine and perfect your techniques. 7. Building Relationships with Spirits and Deities Requires Engagement If your path involves working with spirits, deities, or ancestors, reading about them is only the first step. Building real relationships requires active engagement, offerings, and communication. Again, this can be difficult for those who aren't willing to dedicate the time, or who might struggle to find the time. How to Apply This: Dedicate time for meditation and interaction with your guides or deities. Keep an altar or sacred space as a focal point for connection. Offer prayers, energy, or physical gifts as signs of devotion. 8. Magic is Meant to Be Experienced, Not Just Studied At its core, witchcraft is a living, breathing practice which is meant to enhance our life. The best way to grow as a witch is to step beyond theory and embrace direct experience. Dive into spellwork, connect with nature, experiment with tools, and trust your instincts. Final Advice: Start now, even if you feel unprepared—learning happens through doing. Be patient with yourself and accept that growth takes time. And celebrate every experience as part of your journey! By embracing action alongside study, you will deepen your connection to the craft, refine your skills, and ultimately evolve into an advanced stage of your journey. Throughout history, people have used different forms of spiritual and magical practices to connect with the divine, manifest desires, and transform their lives. While prayers, rituals, affirmations, and spells may seem similar, each has distinct purposes, methodologies, and energies. Understanding their differences allows you to integrate them effectively into your spiritual practice.
1. Prayers Definition: Prayer is the act of communicating with a deity, higher power, spirit, or the universe. It often involves asking for guidance, expressing gratitude, or seeking assistance. The main purpose of a prayer is communication with the divine. Key Elements: Direct appeal to a higher power. Can be spoken, written, sung, or even meditated upon. Often associated with religious or spiritual traditions. May include praise, requests, intercessions, or giving gratitude. Examples: A Christian praying to God for strength and wisdom. A witch thanking the Goddess for protection. A Buddhist chanting mantras to align with divine energy. When to Use: When seeking divine guidance or intervention. To express gratitude for blessings received. As part of daily devotionals or sacred practices. 2. Rituals Definition: A ritual is a structured, intentional set of actions performed for a spiritual, magical, or religious purpose. Rituals often involve symbolism, repetition, and specific timing. Think of rituals as a sacred act with intent and structure. Rituals are repeated over and over again. Key Elements: Can be personal or communal. Often follows a set structure or tradition. Involves tools, symbols, or sacred objects. May include chanting, dancing, anointing, or candle work. Performed over and over again. Examples: A full moon ritual to release negative energy. A handfasting ceremony to unite two people in love. A daily ritual of lighting incense and meditating. When to Use: To mark important spiritual or life transitions. To deepen a connection with a deity or spiritual force. As a recurring practice to honour the elements, moon cycles, or sabbats. 3. Affirmations: Definition: Affirmations are positive, present-tense statements used to reinforce beliefs, change thought patterns, or attract desired outcomes. They work by aligning one’s mindset with a specific goal or energy. Essentially, they are positive statements we repeat to ourselves to shift our mindset and aid in manifestation. Key Elements: Always phrased in the present tense (e.g., "I am strong and confident"). Repeated regularly to shift subconscious beliefs. Focused on personal empowerment and transformation. Examples: "I am surrounded by love and abundance." "I am protected and guided on my journey." "My body is healthy, strong, and vibrant." When to Use: To reprogram negative thought patterns. As part of a manifestation or self-improvement practice. To build confidence, peace, and resilience over time. 4. Spells Definition: A spell is a deliberate act of magic performed to manifest a specific intention by directing energy. It often involves spoken or written words, symbolic tools, and focused intention. This is intentional energy work to create change. They differ from rituals in that rituals are often repeated, whereas a spell is often only cast once. Key Elements: Uses willpower and intention to bring about change. May include candles, herbs, crystals, sigils, or incantations. Can be written, spoken, or performed through movement. Rooted in folk magic, witchcraft, or esoteric traditions. Often performed as a 'one off'. Examples: A love spell to attract a romantic partner. A protection spell using black salt and candles. A prosperity spell with cinnamon and green candles. When to Use: When actively working to manifest something specific. As a way to channel personal energy toward a goal. To enhance one’s magical practice and align with natural forces. How They Work Together: While each practice is distinct, they can be combined for a more holistic spiritual experience, and often are. For example, a ritual may include prayers, affirmations, and spells. A spell may incorporate affirmations to reinforce its intention. A prayer can be part of a ritual to call upon divine assistance. Whilst affirmations can be spoken daily to strengthen magical workings or manifestations. By understanding these differences, you can determine which method aligns best with your needs and integrate them into your personal spiritual practice effectively. Whether you choose to pray, perform rituals, use affirmations, or cast spells, each method brings something different and can aid us in our journeys. Feathers are associated with air energy, communication, freedom, and divine messages. They can be used in many ways, depending on their colour, origin, and your intention. I love collecting feathers, and have a wide range from a variety of different birds. Now, I'm sure I don't need to tell you, but please make sure you only use feathers which have been ethically sourced; all mine are ones I have found whilst walking out and about, but if you are buying them online then please do your research. Also make sure you check your local and national laws on such, especially if you are wanting to purchase feathers from endangered species.
If you find a feather, take a moment to thank the bird or spirit that left it for you. You can leave an offering like a small seed, a few drops of water, or a simple spoken gratitude. Here are some ways to incorporate feathers into your practice: 1. Use Feathers to Connect with the Element of Air: Feathers represent the element of Air. You can use them to help you connect to this element by placing a feather on your altar when calling in the elements, or in rituals where you may want to call on the element of air to assist in things such as communication, clarity, or truth. 2. Use Feathers as Offerings: Place feathers on your altar, under a tree, or in any other sacred space as an offering to deities, spirit guides, or ancestors. 3. Use Feathers for Smoke Cleansing: Feathers make excellent tools for wafting cleansing smoke, most often from incense or herb bundles. Gently fan the smoke around yourself or your space to clear stagnant energy. 4. Feather Divination: Finding feathers unexpectedly can be a sign from spirit guides or ancestors. Pay attention to the colour and type (see below for meanings). Ask a question of your feather, then release a feather into the wind—watch how it moves for symbolic answers. 5. Create a Mini Besom (Witch’s Broom) with Feathers: Tie a few small feathers to a stick with twine to make a mini cleansing broom. Use it to sweep negative energy away from your altar, tarot deck, or home. It's a great alternative for those who prefer not to use smoke cleansing! 6. Wear Feathers: Incorporate feathers into jewellery, hair accessories, or clothing for spiritual protection. A black feather in a a charm bag wards off negativity, whilst a white feather worn in a hat or pinned to clothing can enhance spiritual awareness. 7. Write with Feathers for Spellwork: Use a feather as a quill to write petitions, sigils, or magical affirmations. Dip the feather in magical ink or infused water (like moon water) for extra potency. 8. Use it to Connect with Specific Birds: Try to understand which bird the feather came from, and then use it to bring the energy of that bird into your spiritual workings. For example, the swan is associated with love, so a swan feather could be used in romance spells. 9. Use Feathers for Manifestation: Feathers can be used in manifestation. You could bury a feather in your garden or a potted plant whilst focusing on your intention, or write an intention on a feather and let the wind carry it away. Feather Colour Meanings & Correspondences: Different feather colours carry unique magical meanings. Oftentimes feathers will be a combination of colours, which allows you to combine intentions. It can also help to identify the type of bird that feather came from. White – Purity, peace, angels, spiritual messages Black – Protection, banishing negativity, mystery Grey – Balance, neutrality, wisdom Brown – Grounding, stability, home blessings Blue – Communication, intuition, truth Red – Passion, courage, energy Yellow – Happiness, creativity, intellect Green – Healing, growth, abundance Purple – Psychic abilities, dreamwork, spiritual power Humans are creatures of habit. Many of us find it easier to stick to good habits when we have a set routine. However, unfortunately life does have its own habit of getting in the way! It can be unpredictable - even the small things, such as a train being late or forgetting to pack lunch can throw us off course! This also applies to our spiritual practice. I especially have been victim to this many times in the past; I’ve woken up too late to do my morning devotions or meditation, or I go on holiday and do basically nothing for the week.
So what can we do to make sure we stay on track, even when life seems to do its best to disrupt us? Firstly, don’t be hard on yourself. It’s OK to take a break! We only have a limited energy supply, and sometimes we need to be practical and save it for where it is needed. Maybe you are grieving the passing of a loved one, maybe you are having to work longer hours on an important project, or maybe you’re having to be there for a friend who is going through a difficult time. If you don’t have the energy for it, then don’t force it. Make sure you are taking care of yourself through whatever it is that life is throwing at you, for that is the most important thing. If you are feeling happy and healthy, and just struggling to keep up your practice through a busy or unexpected time, below are some tips which have helped me maintain my spiritual practice during these periods. As I reiterate with everything, everyone is different, and just because they have worked for me doesn’t necessarily mean that they will work for you. However, feel free to give these a go and see if they resonate with you! 1. Stop putting a ‘time’ on your practice: As I mentioned, I try and perform morning devotions. I got into the mindset of thinking that if I missed my morning devotion, then that was it. It was strangely difficult to remind myself that there are many more hours in the day that I can perform a devotional! Just because I don’t say good morning to my deities or spirits doesn’t mean that they are going to abandon me for the day. A devotion at midday is just as good as one first thing in the morning. So, don’t feel disheartened if you miss the period you had assigned for a specific activity, and try and fit it in and some other point in the day. 2. Create a list: Lists are great - I live by lists! Maybe too much at times, but I can’t deny that they do come in handy. I have a Trello board where I set myself goals. For example, ‘practice 3 breathing exercises’, or ‘write a poem to X deity’. Lists can help keep us focused, and motivate us to chase that feeling of achievement once we have ticked something off of our list. Don’t underestimate the power of a good list! 3. Work it into your necessary routine: There are lots of little acts you can perform alongside the ‘necessities’ or your routine. For example, we all have to get dressed in the mornings (well, most of us I’m sure!). Maybe you could incorporate some colour magic into your wardrobe? For example, if you know you have to deliver a big presentation at work, maybe wearing something blue to encourage communication will help. When you are washing your hands after going to the toilet, maybe use a soap which is infused with lavender to help calm you. If you walk past a tree on your way to catch a train, mentally give thanks to the tree for the oxygen it provides. 4. Keep it small and simple: Rather than focusing on carving out time to perform intricate rituals, try and keep your magic small and accessible. I once performed (successfully) a spell to find a lost item in the toilets at work just using visualisation and some internal chanting! Pick up a crystal to carry with you, memorise a short mantra you can repeat in your head on the train, or drink a cup of peppermint tea to bring you focus for example. 5. Carry a travel altar on you: I love travel altars! The one I use is a tin small enough to fit in my bag, and discreet enough that I don’t get asked about it. In it, I keep a small bottle of salt water I can anoint myself with for cleansing and protection, a mini oracle set, and a small octopus charm as the octopus is my main animal guide. 6. Carry a journal with you: This is actually an idea I got from a friend, Nico Solheim-Davidson (Instagram @northseapoet). Ancient Greeks and Romans would often write, or etch, devotions to deities into clay and other materials. This is something we can emulate today! Taking just five minutes out to focus on writing a devotion to a deity or spirit you work with is a quick yet effective way of connecting with them when you don't have much time. You can also jot down mantras, spell ideas, or anything else which may come to mind. It can be difficult to maintain a practice when life is throwing curveballs at you, but it isn’t impossible! Hopefully some of these tips will help, but the most important thing is to make sure you are looking after yourself through the challenging times. A patron deity is a God or Goddess who takes a special role in an individual’s spiritual journey. This relationship can be lifelong, or even just temporary. Having a patron deity is not a requirement of practicing witchcraft or paganism; in fact, there are many who don't work with deities at all! I myself have formed very strong relationships with several deities over the years, but not to the level that I would call them my 'patron' deities. A patron deity tends to play a central role in your spiritual practice, rather than one you may work with occasionally. I personally tend to fall into the 'work with deities occasionally' camp, and I still get great results! However, working with a patron deity can be a rewarding experience for those who want it.
A patron deity is a divine being who forms a close relationship with a practitioner, offering insight, support, and lessons. Some people are drawn to a particular god or goddess through dreams, meditation, or a deep personal resonance with their mythology and attributes. Others may feel chosen by a deity who repeatedly appears in their life through signs and synchronicities. Discovering your patron deity is often a process of self-exploration and divine communication. Here are some methods to help: 1. Research Different Deities: Study mythology from various cultures to see which deities resonate with you. Pay attention to the attributes, symbols, and domains of different gods and goddesses, and see if these align with your personal beliefs, goals, and needs. 2. Meditate and Ask for Guidance: Spend time in meditation, inviting a deity to make their presence known. There are plenty of guided visualizations out there to help you connect with divine energies. When I was first starting out I used a meditation which involved heading into a cave, writing your intent on a piece of parchment, and then knocking on a door three times to help discover your deity. The Greek Goddess Selene was revealed to me (I had no idea who she was, I had to do a lot of research based on her appearance and her energy). That was over 20 years ago, and Selene is still a Goddess I work with today. 3. Observe Signs and Synchronicities: Repeatedly encountering certain symbols, animals, or themes in your daily life may be a sign that a deity associated with those is trying to get your attention. Unexplained emotions or deep feelings when reading about a specific deity can indicate a connection - I have experienced this several times. It is almost like the puzzle pieces fall into place, a 'knowing' and undeniable pull towards that deity. 4. Work with Multiple Deities First: Before committing to a patron deity, engage with various gods and goddesses to see who aligns best with your energy. Pay attention to how you feel when working with different deities. You may think you have identified your deity, but once you start working with them, you don't really feel a connection. That's OK! But it is always better to find these things out early before you decide to dedicate yourself to a specific God or Goddess. 5. Divination and Dreams: Use tarot, pendulums, or rune readings to ask which deity might be reaching out to you. I personally find tarot is useful, and there are plenty of spreads out there which will help you connect with, and receive messages to help you understand the deity you may be speaking with. Keep a dream journal and look for patterns of divine messages or imagery, as oftentimes these sorts of messages can come when we are in the sleep state. How to Work With Your Patron Deity Once you have established a connection with your patron deity, there are many ways to deepen and honour this sacred relationship. 1. Set Up an Altar: Creating a sacred space dedicated to your patron deity helps maintain a connection. You could include a statue or image of the deity, candles in their associated colours, crystals, herbs, or items linked to their energy, and symbols or offerings specific to their mythology. 2. Offerings and Rituals: Regular offerings show gratitude and devotion. You could try lighting an incense, or leaving flowers, or food as offerings; pouring libations such as wine, water, or herbal tea; writing poetry, prayers, or songs in their honour; or performing rituals aligned with their themes and mythology (I actually wrote a blog post a few weeks ago on creating rituals using myths, so check that out if this is a route you are interested in!). 3. Meditation and Prayer: Speak to your patron deity daily, either aloud or in your mind. Meditate to receive messages and guidance from them. 4. Celebrate Their Sacred Days: Research festivals, feast days, or special times associated with your deity. If there are none, then create your own! 5. Study and Learn About Them: This one may seem obvious, but reading myths, folklore, and historical texts about your patron deity can help strengthen that connection and develop your understanding of them. 6. Invoke Their Guidance in Your Practice: Call upon them during spellwork, divination, and other magical practices. You may even with to dedicate a specific aspect of your craft to them, such as protection, healing, or creativity, and always involving them in that type of working. It is important that you actively work to maintain a healthy relationship with your patron deity. Make sure that you show gratitude for their presence and their guidance, and never demand anything of them or throw a tantrum if you don't see immediate results. Just because a deity doesn't produce the result you wanted doesn't mean that the deity isn't listening - often, they know what is best for us, even though we may not see it at the time. Be patient - building a relationship takes time - and make sure you are consistent in how you work with them. Even a quick, spoken prayer in the morning before you head off to work can help maintain that connection you have with them. Many of those who work with a patron deity find it to be a deeply transformative experience. They can become a guiding force in your spiritual journey. By honouring them with devotion, respect, and an open heart, you can cultivate a meaningful and lasting bond with the these divine energies which can truly enrich your spiritual practice. Throughout history, people have looked to the world around them for signs and omens, seeking guidance and understanding from nature, dreams, and everyday occurrences. Whether we believe these messages come from the universe, deities, ancestors, or your own subconscious, learning to interpret them can be a powerful tool in our spiritual practice.
What Are Signs and Omens? Signs and omens are symbolic messages that appear in our daily lives, often pointing towards future events or offering insights into our current situations. While signs can be compared to 'subtle nudges', omens are often more striking and carry stronger implications. How To Know If It's A Sign or Omen: One of the most difficult parts of signs and omens working out exactly what one is. Not every feather we see on our walk to work is a sign; sometimes, a feather is just a feather. If we get caught up in believing that everything is a sign or an omen, we risk being led down the wrong path or missing the messages being shown to us whilst we are distracted trying to find meaning in the mundane. If you experience any of the following, it could very well be a sign/omen:
Where to Look for Signs and Omens: There are some common places to seek signs and omens, or places where they are more likely to occur. Nature is one such place; birds, animals, weather patterns, and plants can all carry messages. For example, a crow cawing three times might signal change, while a butterfly landing on you may symbolize transformation. Dreams are also a common place in which we may recognise signs and omens. Recurring symbols or significant dreams often hold deep meaning and can serve as warnings, reassurances, or guidance. Finally, as we have mentioned before, numbers can be indications of signs and omens: Seeing repeated numbers like 111 or 777 can indicate divine communication or alignment with the universe. These are often referred to as 'Angel Numbers', and there are many, many different numbers with different meanings. That is definitely another post for another time though! How to Interpret Signs and Omens It's all well and good being able to identify what is a sign and what is an omen, but we need to actually interpret them for them to be of any use. And again, there are several ways in which you can do this:
There are some 'tips and tricks' you can use to help you become more attuned to signs and omens. You will probably be unsurprised to find journalling is a great way to help you recognise and interpret omens, and can also help you track patterns and meanings. Practicing mindfulness can help us stay in the present moment and more able to recognise signs and omens as they appear, and meditation can help us connect to our intuition and use that to recognise and identify these signs/omens. By staying open to the world around us and tuning into the signs and omens present in our lives, we can gain deeper insight, guidance, and clarity on our spiritual journey. The universe is always speaking—it’s just a matter of learning to listen. |
The Weekly Witch:Once I week I talk about something 'witchcraft' related I have done with my week. How we incorporate witchcraft into our every day lives is always a topic that has interested me, so I wanted to start this blog to explore it further! Archives
September 2025
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