Origins - January 2020

Wild Goddess Magick

Witchology Magazine The Magick of Get to Know the Editors of

Origins

Witchology Magazine

Getting Started MAGICKALLY PLANNING FOR THE

NEW YEAR Honoring the Goddess

Freya

with BELL

MAGICK

Esbats and Drawing Down the Moon

God of the threshold, who opens up to a new year; god of doors, who opens onto a new time; Janus, who looks both

ways, I pour out this wine to you and ask you to look behind and ahead and guide me through the year that begins today.

~Ceisiwr Serith

Lukas Gojda

EDITORIAL Ambrosia Hawthorn, Owner & Editor Sarah Justice, Co-Editor WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Miss Wondersmith, Mike Sexton, Jon Hughes, Marisa Winget, Jennie Sharples.

ART & PHOTOS Cover: Ambrosia Hawthorn Illustrations: Tiffany Sosa stock.adobe.com All other photos are from free stock sources or from contributors.

SALES ambrosia@witchologymagazine.com SUBMISSIONS ambrosia@witchologymagazine.com sarah@witcologymagazine.com www.witchologymagazine.com/ submissions-ads/ SOCIAL www.witchologymagazine.com www.instagram.com/witchologymag www.twitter.com/wgmagick www.facebook.com/witchologymag Copyright © 2019 by Wild Goddess Magick.

All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review. Magazine is intended for ages 18 and up.

We are a proud participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. All our content is reviewed and vetted in the process.

The opinions expressed in our published works are those of the authors and do not reflect the opinions of Witchology Magazine or Wild Goddess Magick.

Witchology Magazine assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon.

W

elcome!

“These words herein are from me to you, each picture, thought, and quote we imbue.

This issue reflects the knowledge I have to share, use each spell, ritual, and work with care.”

January is the perfect time of the year to get aquatinted with rituals, spells, divination, bell magick, meditation, Druidry, and planning for the new year!

This month we get to share with you a fun exclusive interview with myself and Co-Editor, Sarah, sharing our witchy journeys began.

No matter what your path is, there’s always something that can enrich and elevate your practice!

Please also note, we cannot guarantee any outcomes from the content of this magazine, but please don't give up on the magick within you!

Blessed be witches,

Ambrosia Hawthorn

Wild Goddess Magick

Witchology Magazine

Cover by Ambrosia Hawthorn @wildgoddessmagick

Our Witchy Team

Ambrosia Hawthorn @wildgoddessmagick Witchologymagazine.com Editor, writer, illustrator, and eclectic witch.

Marisa Winget therainbowwitch.tumblr.com Tarot reader, witch, spirit worker.

Sarah Justice @tinycauldron Tinycauldron.com Co-Editor, writer, and shop owner.

Jon Hughes Writer and Druid. jonhughes@eircom.net

Mike Sexton @artistmikes Mikesextonstudio.com Writer, eclectic Wiccan, artist, published author.

Miss Wondersmith @misswondersmith Thewondersmith.com Writer, wondersmith, recipe creator, forager, event hostess.

Jennie Sharples @jenniferksharples AutumnEnchantments.etsy.com Writer, healer, psychic, and shop owner.

JANUARY 7 What’s New in the Witchy Community 8 January Must-Haves 9 January Magickal Workings 16 Interview with Editors Ambrosia Hawthorn and Sarah Justice 23 Origins New Year Tarot Spread 55 Witchology Directory

21

34

CORRESPONDENCES

ARTICLES & LORE 10 Magickally Planning Your Year 20 The Origins of the Mystical and Misunderstood Tarot 48 What Does it Mean to be a Druid?

42

38 Herb: Bay 39 Crystal: Petrified Wood 40 Goddess: Freya

MAGICK LEARNING

8

12 New Year, New Ritual Drawing Down the Moon 14 Rituals 24 Divination Magick 26 Self-Reflection Meditation 30 Bell Magick 35 Moon Magick for Twentytwenty 36 The Tiny Spellbook: Anointing Magick 42 The Spell Book For New Witches and Spells

51

40

FEASTING 51 Mother Moon: Dream Balls and Moon Milk 53 Cinnamon Latte

What’s New in the

Witchy Community Want to know what’s happening in the community? Well, we’ve searched high and low to bring you the latest products, books, and more.

The Spell Book for New Witches: Essential Spells to Change Your Life

Wild Magical Soul

By Ambrosia Hawthorn Magic is present within us all―when accessed, it allows us to connect to the natural world, invite in opportunities, and create the change we need in our lives. The Spell Book for New Witches shows you how to tap into your inner power and make spellcasting practical for your day-today.

This spell book starts with an introduction to spell work, including performing spells, prepping your space, and channeling energy to access your power. Easy-to-follow spells will help you find lasting love, protect your family and friends, advance your career, and live the life you deserve.

Available February 4th on Amazon.

By Monica Crosson Wild Magical Soul is all about weaving natural magic into your life with hands-on practices, spells, and rituals, as well as fun crafts and fascinating folklore.

Join author Monica Crosson on a deep dive into the elemental magic of the wild places, embodied as forests (earth), mountains (air), deserts (fire), and oceans (water). Discover how to connect to the magical energy of the wild plants in your specific region. Explore simple sabbat rituals that are a fun way to pass down ancient knowledge. Develop your skills as a healer, storyteller, and advocate for the earth as you set your soul free and find your inner wild.

Available February 8th on Amazon.

A Positive Magic: A Toolkit for the Modern Witch

by Marion Weinstein Here is a new edition of one of the best-loved introductions to magic that is still used in metaphysical classes around the world. The author makes ancient magic techniques accessible, offering them as practical tools for daily life.

Addressing the needs of today’s readers—beginners and adepts alike—the author provides well-researched historical background on astrology, witchcraft, tarot, and the I Ching as well as channeling, spirit contact, and the connections between quantum physics and traditional magic.Available January 1st on Amazon.

7

Crystal Altar Bell $26.00 My Dragonfly Gems

8Lb Blue Calcite Flame $515.55 Sunset Magick Crystals

Third Eye Spell Candle $22.96 Wild Woman Witchcrafts

JANUARY Must-Haves New Year Tarot Reading $40.00 Boho and Indie Wild New Year New Witch Guidebook $15.00 Wild Witch Wisdom

8

JANUARY MAGICKAL WORKINGS

During January, we have magickally planning for the new year, drawing down the moon, a

new year ritual, divination magick and tarot, a self-reflection meditation, all about bell magick, moon magick, anointing magick,

working with the goddess Freya, what it means to be a Druid, and exclusive spells from

Ambrosia’s upcoming book, The Spell Book for New Witches!

This month, focus on going back to basics along

with hitting restart before planning for the year.

9

Magickally Planning your year A

lthough the Pagan New Year happens at Samhain in October, many witches want to usher in the traditional new year with a little bit of magick too!

Everyone plans for the beginning of a new year differently. Often, this leads to a significant period of introspection about what you want to leave behind and what you’re hoping to bring with you (and attract) moving forward. A great way to honor both of those things is by performing a new beginnings ritual.

To magickally plan your year, gather up the following supplies: a black candle, a green candle, a pen and paper, a fireproof bowl, and a stick of incense.

If you want, cast a circle, light the black candle, then take some time to ground yourself. Think about everything you feel like you want to leave behind, everything you feel is holding you back. Honor those things for getting you to the place you are in now, and say a few words of gratefulness.

Then, write those things down before lighting the paper on fire and let it burn out in the fireproof bowl. As it burns, speak words of release and imagine them leaving you. Once it is fully burnt, put out the black candle then light the green one. Look into the flames and see the things you want in the new year. Once you have them fully visualized, use the green candle to light your stick of incense. Watch the smoke rise into the air and, with it, take your hopes for the 10

new year into the universe. Verbalize them, if you wish, to give them additional power.

Then put out both the green candle and incense, close your circle (if you opened one), and be ready to head into your new year free and ready to reach your goals!

Many witches also choose to use the collective power of the new year for various forms of divination, like tarot reading. This can be a great way to really see what the new year may have in store for you, if you want to!

The new year is also a great time to take up a journaling practice. Journaling, whether by traditional methods like pen and paper or with more technologically based ones like blogging, is the perfect way to keep track of all of your goals, successes, and even failures. This way you can really see how far you’ve come toward the goals you set the previous year.

To further infuse intention and magick into your journaling, be conscious about ink color choice. Commonly used colors are blue, violet, black, red, and brown. Use blue ink for wisdom, truth, opportunity, introspection, learning, and improvement.

Violet for clairvoyance, emotions, spirituality, forgiveness, and memory. Black for rebirth, binding, stability, patience, overcoming obstacles, protection, and truth.

Red for strength, courage, renewal, energy, and ambition. Brown for security, grounding, decisions, and concentration.

11

New Year

New Ritual

By Jen Sharples

W

hile January is a month of stillness, coldness (if you’re in the northern hemisphere), and coziness, it is also a great time to start something new. When I first started walking this path, I began reading up on so many deities – any deity that piqued my interest like Archangel Michael, Kuan Yin, Green Tara, or Buddha to name a few. And I would meditate with them, see what advice they could offer me, and try to incorporate them into my everyday life.

And I would do this every week.

Now that I’ve begun to walk down the Pagan avenue, I find myself connecting to the Goddess Brigid, Cernunnos, The Morrighan, etc. and have found a continued abundance of spiritual support. Continue reading to find out how you can connect with a deity of your choice.

12

First and foremost, you want to pick a day and time of the week to begin this ritual. Mark it in your calendar every week if you have to. Making this ritual a routine, is beneficial to your practice. It keeps the abundance flowing in.

Secondly, pick someone you want to work with. It can be an angel, a God or Goddess, or even a deceased loved one. And please note, each week you will change who you want to work with (if you want to, of course. If you find yourself liking whomever you’re working with then, by all means, keep going).

Next, choose a spot to sit quietly and comfortably. If you have an altar and would like to light a candle, all the better! Light that candle and breathe deeply. Begin to center and ground yourself.

If you already have a grounding technique that

works well for you, use that.

I take a few moments to focus on and slow my breathing.

Whether out loud or quietly in your mind, state that you wish to connect to someone of your choice. Don’t try to rush this process.

Sometimes it takes a minute or two for the connection to commence. I have found that when I connect to Buddha a feeling of subtle joy suddenly washes over me. And when I connect to Brigid, heat rises upon my face and an image of her with fiery red hair flashes in my mind. Everyone has their own way of making themselves known.

Once you feel a connection has been made, simply ask them if they would be willing to work with you during the week. And if you already have planned events going on, don’t be afraid to ask them to be present

during those times. Be as detailed as you want. You will most likely get a “Yes.” There were only two times in the past decade that I actually received a “No, thank you” response. Can you imagine my surprise? I laughed it off and ended up working with them at a later date. I guess it just wasn’t the right time.

And then go about your days. Talk to them every day. Ask them if they can help you cook a wonderful dinner for someone you love (Brigid is a great kitchen assistant), or if they can protect you in court (Forseti is wonderful), or if they will communicate with you in your dreams (Kuan Ti has no problem sending powerful messages).

specific times throughout the week. And be sure to thank them every day. If you feel an offering would be polite, go for it. They have absolutely no problem assisting and supporting us on our spiritual journey. In fact, the more we connect with them the stronger everyone becomes.

So, take the next 52 weeks to see how you can strengthen your own faith.

Become aware of yourself and your thoughts, and see if you feel them during

New Year New Ritual

13

Drawing Down the Moon Rituals What they are and how to perform them!

O

ne of the most controversial rituals performed in modern Paganism is “drawing down the moon.”

When a practitioner draws down the moon, she (or he) opens themselves up to the Goddess. This can be the all-encompassing Goddess or a Goddess of your choice, such as Hecate, Brighid, or even the Triple Goddess.

Drawing down the moon is often a part of Esbats and are very powerful. They are often described as being life-changing or altering.

Performing Esbats are most powerful when they are held outside during the full moon- if weather permits. They can also be performed anytime during the

14

evening after the sun has set.

Try to make it outside during the warmer months, otherwise performing Esbats inside is perfectly acceptable. If performing indoors, think about extra moon imagery, charms, or even adding a candle to represent the energy of the full moon. Another excellent addition to indoor Esbats is the use of full moon charged water or oils to anoint your forehead or objects used in ritual.

People who are interested in drawing down the moon should be aware that this ritual is not for the beginner.

The preparation, and the ritual itself, is hard and challenging work. It may not be successful the first or even the first

few times you try an Esbat. It takes perseverance and dedication, but the results are absolutely worth it.

Drawing down the moon may also not produce the same results every time.

Sometimes it will feel like being fully “possessed” by the Goddess, and others simply a change of perspective that is light as a feather.

To begin, start by preparing your altar with your tools. Then create a sacred circle by calling upon the elements or cardinal directions. This is a vital way to keep yourself safe while you open yourself up. Stand with your feet together.

Turn and face the full moon.

Invoke the Goddess using whatever words feel right.

Welcome the Goddess by opening and raising your arms above your head. Don’t be disturbed if you start to feel some tingling or jolts of energy.

Open yourself up to her and let her speak through you, letting her say whatever she wants to say. Once she is done speaking and you feel the energy starting to fade, you can now begin the next phase of your ritual.

Options are to perform spells, divination, or perform a cake and ale ceremony or set an offering.

Great ideas for spells are for healing, seeking guidance, and fulfillment. Once you’re finished with the main components of your ritual, close your ritual by thanking deity for their assistance and opening your circle.

It is normal to feel differently for a few days after the ritual as well. Make sure that you take this ritual very seriously, as it essentially induces an altered state of consciousness. It’s best to not drive home immediately afterward and to set aside some time for private contemplation.

Drawing Down the Moon Rituals

15

Meet the Editors:

Ambrosia Hawthorn and Sarah Justice Ambrosia and Sarah are experienced witches with backgrounds in a variety of traditions. They are the editors that help bring each issue of Witchology Magazine to life along with the witchy team of writers on page 5!

Can you tell us a little about your journey into the magical community?

Ambrosia: My journey began when I was a rebellious teenager. For me, I felt I could never quite fit anywhere, which led me to on a journey with no direction. I often had dreams that led me to think that there was something out there for me, but I couldn't grasp it just yet. My door to witchcraft didn't open until I was at a local bookstore, and I found Scott Cunningham's books. Heart racing, I knew I found something meaningful that would change my life for the better. From then on, it was my mission to learn all that I could, read everything I could find, and start to share about my journey and what I've learned through writing my blog, Wild Goddess Magick, and as a founder and editor of Witchology Magazine.

Sarah: My experience is similar to Ambrosia’s; maybe a lot of ours are similar. I remember picking up a book in the library in fourth grade on the Salem Witch Trials and being absolutely enthralled. A couple years later, my mother took me to a little village around my hometown called Yellow Springs. It’s a college town that has its roots in informed critical thinking against establishmentarianism and is heavily guided by nature and its surrounding spiritualism. I thrived there. To this day, I still yearn to be there, and I go back every few weeks to soak in its energy. I grew

16

my spiritualism in this village, and it walked with me until I was able to explore The Tiny Cauldron as an extension of my own spirituality and love for old-world witchcraft (and critical thinking; I’m also a college English instructor). I’d say I am working on about 16 years now of actively following this path.

What inspired you to join the Witchology team?

Ambrosia: I started out writing in my blog on Wordpress before moving on to a website, but once I had a website, I felt like I needed to offer something more than just my blog posts. I started creating themes to my blog posts to follow the seasons and to stay current, and one day I realized I had a bunch of articles that I wanted to share in an e-magazine format, and the first issue of Witchology Magazine was born.

Sarah: I had worked with Ambrosia before as a contributor to the magazine. It’s one of the leading voices in this community, and I was honored she included us as an interview.

Witchology is a professional outlet for tips, stories and spells. It’s like a monthly book with an indepth look at an aspect of our culture. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that? I’m also a College English instructor, so co-editing this magazine melded two worlds that I love.

Ambrosia Hawthorn

Author, editor, eclectic witch, artist, and creative

17

What's your favorite issue of Witchology, and why?

inspiration for elevating their craft! It's truly my largest labor of love.

Ambrosia:It’s a tie between June 2018 because it was our first issue and July 2019, our water magick issue. I have always been a water witch in my heart and a little fun fact about me, I sailed across the Atlantic Ocean three times on different boats as a crew member. I was a Chief Stewardess for about six years, which allowed me to work with the magick of the ocean.

Sarah: I organize my herbs by color and if that makes me wrong, I don’t want to be right. :)

Sarah: First off, I am so jealous of Ambrosia’s Sea Witchcraft experiences! But I’d have to say August’s issue this year on Lugnasadh. I was born in August, so I suppose I’m a harvest baby at heart. But when the three harvests come, I notice my crafting increases and my spiritual connection strengthens. Grass dollies and sweetgrass braids are decorations year-round in my house.

How can our readers connect with you?

Ambrosia: You can find and connect with me on my personal Instagram @WildGoddessMagick and the magazine's Instagram @WitchologyMag, on facebook @witchologymag and twitter @wgmagick.

Sarah: You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest @tinycauldron. You can also sign up for the newsletter at tinycauldron.com to catch some free spells, coupons and any other additions to the Tiny Cauldron. We’re building a public grimoire soon on our site, and we’re always thinking of ways to build the witchy community.

Is there anything else you would like Witchology Magazine readers to know about you?

Ambrosia: Yes! I've just written a book that I can finally share with you all! It's called The Spell Book for New Witches: Essential Spells to Change Your Life. This is a 240-page book jampacked with spells and how to connect to the magic all around you. It's not just for newbie witches, and it's for anyone wanting to brush up on the basics, learn a new perspective, and get

Meet the Editors: Ambrosia Hawthorn and Sarah Justice

18

Sarah Justice

Writer, co-editor, shop owner, witch.

19

The Origins of the

Mystical and Misunderstood Tarot

By Marisa Winget

T

arot cards have a vast history compared to other similar divination tools, such as Runes, Oracles, Cartomancy decks, and Ogham staves.

These cards are thought to have originated in the fourteenth century, although it’s very possible they came before. Some belive their origins were directly from the lost Library of Alexandria in Egypt and showed up in England from there.

Others believe the cards are originally from European countries such as Italy, France, and Germany.

The original form of the cards was similar to a classic deck of cards and had rules similar to the game bridge. The four suits were still recognized, Wands

20

(sometimes called Batons), Pentacles (sometimes called Coins), Cups (sometimes called Chalices), and Swords. The numbering system ranges from Aces to Kings.

What makes them different to playing cards are the use of the 21 major arcana cards ranging from the Fool to the World (sometimes called Universe.)

The original rules were written in the fifteenth century by Martiano da Tortona – an Italian man who is recognized as the creator of the game.

These rules have been tweaked a little over time, as many things have been, and most people who still play use the French version of the rules.

Tarot as a card game, gained popularity in

Europe in the eighteenth century and the word Tarot is actually French and loosely translates to “foolishness.”

The first documented use of tarot as a cartomancy tools was also in France.

This was around the same time that the card game was getting popular as well, as divination was growing in response to the periods’ religious views.

The cards were used to help monarchs as well as commoners make decisions and receive otherworldly advice, just as they are today.

The most well-known diviner of this period was Jean-Baptiste Alliete and is who interpreted for the rulers of the day. His personal cards were Egyptian themed.

21

The oldest known deck is in Paris’ Bibliotheque Nationale archives but can be viewed online; they’re known as the “Visconti-Sforza deck.”

They are hand-painted for the Italian monarchy in the fifteenth century and were only used for games.

One of the most famous decks (and what many new diviners begin with today) is known as the Rider-Waite deck. This deck was named after co-creators Arthur Edward Waite, a scholar, and William Rider, a publisher, they were handdrawn by artist Pamela Colman Smith.

Tarot isn’t a set-in-stone practice; it gives advice for what is to come but are not intended to be the entire truth since time itself is so fluid and one action could butterfly effect the number of possible outcomes.

Tarot cards are a great way to connect to your higher self in order to help yourself or others think through decisions. It also opens many doors to the great unknown.

The Rider-Waite Tarot deck can be understood internationally and across every known language due to the heavy use of symbolism. This symbolism is used by many decks being published and created by different artists, and publishers.

The Origins of the Mystical and Misunderstood Tarot

22

Origins New Year Tarot Spread 1

2

3

4

5

1. Summary of last year.

2. Lesson learned last year.

3. What to look forward to this year.

4. What might stand in your way this year?

5. What will help you this year.

23

Divination Magick

By Sarah Justice

Perform this ritual prior to any divinatory method, like pendulum work, tarot cards, ouija or other spirit boards, and any other attempts to connect with the spirit realm.

However, you can also use this spell as a means to enhance clairvoyant skills.

P

erform your incantation on a Monday at dawn when the moon is full. You will be invoking the moon, as it is the moon who controls psychic work. To prepare, you can sip lemon or hibiscus tea or nibble pumpkin, as these are correspondences to the moon.

To start your incantation, form a circle with some salt and herbs like honeysuckle, mugwort and dandelion. Ensure that your altar and all of your workings are inside that circle. Go back over that salt with some (but not all) herbs from your sachet.

It is vital you cast the circle before you begin, as it lends strength in protecting you from negative outside energies that can come and go during ritual. It is especially important to do this when contacting any spirits, as any who enter may want to stay.

Face yourself and your altar in the eastern direction. If you have an altar, follow the instructions for placement below. (If you do not have an altar, place the items facing the corresponding direction along the salt circle.)

24

Half a dropper full of water or oil (representing Water) in an oil burner or small dish: west Lit spell candle (representing Fire): south A palmful of salts and herbs (representing Earth) in a pile or dish: north Smudge stick or palo santo, lit, over a dish (representing Air; you could use incense): east You may set out moonstone, quartz or opal and use any purple, silver or orange candles if desired (all are correspondences to the moon).

Step in the middle of the circle, sit in front of your altar and begin chanting in a quick whisper the following incantation: The sun’s asleep; Mother Moon, arise Hearken, now, the night’s alive I’ve come to you at day’s waking hour To seek the ability to harness your power Next, state the following: I cast a circle of divine intents To learn of what the past portends Of what the present plans to sew What secret symbols spirits know

(Sprinkle herbs once more around the circle.)

These herbs are bound to telling tales Of what the future may unveil Of visions only enchantment can see‌

I cast you out of this space unfettered My sisters, my ancestors, my limbs are alighted Your spirits run through me; I leave you ignited

As you speak, envision your words flowing out of your mouth and rising. Envision your palms or fingertips tingling with energy. Sit with your palm and fingertips facing upward and open, toward the moon. When you feel drained from energy or feel your intention was set, end the spell: If the moon doth will it, so mote it be.

Let the candle burn until all wax is melted.

It is then that you can extinguish it. This is also true for any candle under an oil burner.

Sprinkle the dish of salt and herbs along the threshold of your front door to invite divinatory powers and enhance clairvoyance. If the smudge stick or incense is still burning, allow it to extinguish or dip in water if necessary.

It is now time to enact your divinatory method. When done, or when you feel your plea for clairvoyance is heard, close your circle. This is where you thank the moon for assistance and close the connection you made with the spiritual world. To leave it open means to invite to stay those who may have come in unannounced, whether good or bad. Close the circle by reciting the following.

I close this circle, the spell has ceased It’s time to dance, to play, to feast.

Moon, Mother, Goddess of Night Go fly, be free, I thank thee tonight.

Entities, spirits, any beings now tethered

Divination Magick

25

Self-Reflection Meditation

By Sarah Justice

We may start off a new year thinking and reflecting on ourselves, our path, our choices, our feelings. This guided meditation practice places you in a mindset for such reflection, and it can be revisited at any time one needs to look inward or forward for guidance and change. Some even use meditation as a tool for divination, as we can ask our guides for help in a situation or for symbols to interpret about the future.

For this practice, sit or lay in a manner that is most comfortable. Allow your mind to envision your thoughts as being part of wind gusts or, perhaps a tornado, in front of you. They whirl by, but you can’t identify each. If one thought seems to arise out of the whirling wind, imagine placing it back into the tornado or wind gust and letting it go. Throughout this meditation, you may have to conjure up this imagery to remove intruding thoughts.

Place yourself on a cobbled or dirt path. You’re looking down at its texture, its width. You scan upward to see where it goes: through an opening in the woods, with rickety wooden fencing on both sides. These woods call to you, and so you head toward them. You note the air on your face and your hands. You note any movement in your hair or clothes. You inhale and smell the earth.

You hear the sounds of the path underneath your feet. You continue and, just as you’re about to cross into the wooded area, an animal crosses the path not to far from you. It moves without fear and looks at you. It halts, as if to acknowledge and welcome you, and then it moves. You follow its movements and note them until the animal drifts behind nature, now hidden from view.

You continue on a path for some time; noting your comfort. You’re not afraid of these unfamiliar woods; in fact, you have a sense of where you’re going. You know that there will be a clearing up ahead. You note the weather again, and how its shifted from the open field to the protective cover of the woods. You note the rustling of animals and catch one in the midst as it nibbles. You see flight out of the corners of your eyes and hear shuffling; you relish in the source of the sound and sight. Only a little farther now. Perhaps the heat or moisture from the woods is felt on the skin, and the crackling of branches or rustling of winds is noted.

The path slightly raises, and the clearing emerges, and you look down at the path to ensure an easy ascent. You note any flora and fauna, any natural obstacles or lack-thereof.

26

Upon reaching the top, you see a running spring, the water bumbling over stones and mossy corners. It has created a water pathway over centuries of time. You note the orange-yellow tone of the pathway, colored by the water. You smell the iron and the musty scent. You sway yourself to the ancient, constant sound of water over earth. You may sit or stand; you may take off your shoes and step into the water. This time is for you. You breathe in deeply and exhale it out. You raise your hands to contact your inner self, or a spirit guide. You close your eyes and state: I journeyed deep to sacred spaces I traversed the wood with countless paces To conjure spirit for sage advice For inner wisdom; outer light I ask you to come forth, to guide my thoughts To replace the (fill in emotion or trait here) that has been lost.

You feel a shift in your body as you note particular areas that hurt or move, that are jolted or bothersome. Hyper focus on that area and imagine a melding of the tissue, joints, bones, muscles.

Honor those areas that work hard--a little too hard--for you. Listen to any words that emerge from the depths of you. If you’ve envisioned a spirit guide, note any symbols on his or her clothes or headpieces. Note any pieces of language that emerge. These are your pieces of wisdom. Talk to your inner self or your spirit guide. Pose questions; feel intently for answers, whether it’s seeing a word or symbol emerge in your mind or feeling a particular feeling in your body. When you feel it is time to leave, provide a peaceful goodbye, and thank the entity--be it yourself or a guide--for their presence, patience and guidance.

One last look at the bumbling brook; you soak in its sound, inhale one last wet-earth scent and turn your head to the direction from which you came. You move your foot and begin walking slowly, calmly, more deliberately, down and along the path. Take in all that surrounds you; the colors, textures, light. You feel a sense of gratitude for this space; you feel confident in returning and you promise the woods and animals that you will. You see the initial clearing; the wildflowers start to emerge from a distance, and you welcome them back into view.

With one step you emerge from underneath the comforting, dark canopy of the trees and into the field. A sense of openness and renewal lingers in your breath; let it emerge from your body and exhale it; then, mentally check in on each part of you. Start from your head and slowly move downward, asking how each body part (head, jaw, neck, shoulders, arms, fingers, stomach, abdomen, legs, feet) feels by hyper focusing on feeling that body part just as it is. This allows you to connect slowly back to your physical self. Breathe in now and note the smell of the physical realm in which you’re currently sitting. Note sounds in the background. Note any feeling under your body or fingers. Open your eyes and, once fully present in the current realm, take notes of all that you experienced in your meditation. Notably, take note of what those experiences may symbolize for you and your current or future self.

Self-Reflection Meditation

27

Bells are a magickal tool used to create vibrations that can be felt on a spiritual level, which is why they are considered

great message givers to spiritual entities. Occasionally, bells

can be used to call or welcome spirits as well (this is especially true around Samhain).

28

Bells are also commonly associated with the element of air,

although some traditions will consider it to be related to water

due to the “rippling� of the sound waves. There is no right or wrong answer here, just where you think it fits best on your

magickal altar.

29

bell magick

By Mike Sexton

B

ell magick is something that I feel is often overlooked. The first thing I always see people recommend whenever someone asks how best to cleanse a home, a person, objects are to use sage smudging. Although using sage is terrific, it's not the first thing I use in my own cleansings. There are many wonderful plants out there you can use when performing a cleansing but something that's often never mentioned is the simple use of a bell. Why do I recommend using a bell? There are many reasons. One of the first is that not everyone likes the smell of burning plant material and not everyone can use a smoke cleansing method because of lung issues, allergies or pets, where using a smoke cleansing is dangerous. Yes, you can make a cleansing infusion by infusing a plant material with water for a certain length of time but if you have electronics, you don't always want to have to cover those items to protect them from spray coming down.

People also worry about water spots forming or whatnot, so using a bell is a wonderful alternative that's really simple to do. In many cultures, the sound is used as a way of cleansing things and even people. I'm sure you've heard of a singing bowl that is often used by Tibetans before performing rituals.

Many psychics have come to use this method

30

as well when performing any kind of seance or cleansing work and the same theory applies to a bell as it does with a singing bowl. Each emits a certain level of sound that is thought to clear the air of negative energies. This is one reason why churches ring their giant church bells before services. It not only cleanses the air but also attracts positive spirits to the area. When you're cleansing a home or an object, not only is it important to clear the space of negativity but it's equally important to fill that empty space with something positive otherwise you're just inviting the negativity to return. Many overlook this part of cleansing homes and items. Let me show you how to use a simple bell to cleanse your home as well as your altar space and you may use this method to cleanse pretty much anything. When cleansing a home, light a white candle if you like and focus on your task at hand. I like to recommend opening windows and doors if you're able to when you do this so the energy has a place to escape out of. Follow a clockwise direction around your home(usually starting at the front door), and gently ring the bell as you go along. Spend a bit more time ringing the bell towards the room corners, as they tend to accumulate stagnant energy. Be sure to also open the closet doors and ring inside. Do not

forget about spaces such as drawers, the laundry room, the garage, and the basement.

Once you are done, go to where the candle is and put the bell down and snuff out the candle. Take some time to recharge yourself after you're done. When cleansing an altar space or an altar item, stand at your altar, hold the item in your non-dominant hand and gently ring the bell around the item. If you're cleansing your altar space itself, ring the bell all around the altar space. I like to ring it in the center of the space and then the four corners of my altar area and once more in the center. This way you're covering all the elemental directions as well as the spiritual center. You may even use the bell to cleanse crystals that you may add to your home or any other item that you bring into your home to give it a nice clean, fresh start. Want an automatic cleansing method? Hang a bell or bells at your front door. Each time you come home, ring the bell(s) and you'll be automatically cleansed nicely from any stress and negativity that may have come home with you from work, from shopping or wherever you were. This will also cleanse anyone who comes into your home.

Now in addition to cleansing, you can also use bells to invite spirits into your space; this is especially true if you want to call the elemental spirits to your altar when performing rituals. In addition, use a bell when calling in a spiritual ally such as a

deceased family member you may work with or a deity. The beauty of using a bell to do such work is that it's believed that negative spirits or harmful ones won't come to you when you use a bell because they can't stand to hear the beautiful sounds the bell makes.

This is a great way to call in spirits or guardians if you're someone who's worried about attracting negative or "bad" spirits to your home. The beauty of bell magick is the simplicity of the methods used and how pure and honest the magick is when using a bell. You don't need to buy an expensive bell; I found mine at a thrift shop. You can even use small jingle bells that you can find in any craft department of most department stores.

One of the easiest ways to integrate a bell into your practice is with a simple protection spell. Simply consecrate and purify the bell of your choosing, then charge it with protective powers by holding it in your hand and filling it with your intention for it to keep your home safe. Hang it in a door frame, where it will ring every time the door is opened. This alerts you to people entering your home on a physical level, while also keeping your home safe on a spiritual one.

The added benefit is that the ringing of the bell will also keep your home sounding magickal.

bell magick

31

In general, the ringing of a bell signals the communication of some sort of message during a religious working. This communication falls into one of two categories communication to people still on the physical realm (think dinner bells or clocks chiming on the hour) or to spiritual entities beyond it. In Paganism, the vast majority of bells are used for the second purpose.

32

Subscribe

& Save over 33%

12 digital issues for $40 ($3.33/issue)

In each issue you'll find Book of Shadows pages, monthly herbs, crystals, deities, featured witches, shops, interviews, correspondences, rituals, spells, traditions, lunar magick, and recipes to compliment your practice. #elevateyourpractice

Subscribe Now 33

January’s Moon is

The Cold Moon

34

Moon Magick for

Twenty-twenty As the end of the calendar year approaches, many people are starting to look ahead at the new year with excitement. There are a few different moon events that happen at the beginning of the year, including the Cold Moon, the first eclipse of the year, and the first New Moon of the year. Each has its own potential for special magick reserved only for these special events. The Cold Moon is the first full moon in January. In some Native American traditions, it is also known as the Wolf Moon (due to the fact that the wolves were the hungriest at this time of year and were usually howling). The Cold Moon is especially good for spells and rituals focusing on both physical and spiritual protection. It is also the perfect time to do a full cleansing of the home.

Clearing out the physical baggage can also help give you the mental clarity to move into the new year with a fresher, clearer perspective.

The full moon is also a great time to make sure to

35

appreciate the culmination of all of the hard work you put in to get to the place you are at right now. The Cold Moon occurs on January 10th, 2020.

The first lunar eclipse also falls on January 10th. This makes it an especially powerful day for spellwork.

The focus of this specific eclipse is communication, due to the positions that the sun and Mercury are in.

When combined with the full moon, the lunar eclipse can help you release bad communication and enter into the new year with healthier, open communication. Lunar eclipses are the time for deep transformation, which can be painful but are always ultimately enlightening. This particular lunar eclipse places the focus on communication between family, so pay special attention to those relationships.

Two weeks after that, on January 24th, 2020, is the first New Moon of the year.

Historically, all new moons

are best for focusing on beginnings and fresh starts.

This new moon can be especially powerful after the full moon allowed you to remove any barriers to starting fresh. January is a time where people are setting resolutions and goals for where they want to be for the rest of the year. Doing this on the new moon can add extra power to the goal-setting process. A good way to do that is with a manifestation ritual. Simply write down your goals for yourself for the new year. Then send them off into the world in a way that feels right to you - by burning them, submerging them in water, or attaching them to eco-friendly balloons and letting them float away.

January also brings multiple opportunities to clear out the old to make way for the new.

Knowing how to best take advantage of the Cold Moon and the lunar eclipse, as well as the New Moon later in the month, can help you step into the new year fresh and free of the baggage you may have carried in 2019.

The Tiny Spellbook

Anointing Magick

by Sarah Justice When gathering new altar items or tools, it’s typical to consecrate them, clearing them of any energies picked up from others holding the tool or from the space it was in. It also sets the tool for your energy and your space, and deems it sacred. Consecration practices vary depending on the practitioner.

Naturally, we gravitate toward salt for its cleansing and purification properties, but there are some other correspondences that can help consecrate tools.

Consider fueling the tool with other intentions if the tool is intended to be used for a particular intention. For instance, if your iron nail is intended for banishing entities, you may want to infuse it using a concoction of pine, amethyst and agrimony, but if you intend to use it to banish gossip, you may want to use slippery elm instead. These intentions and their correspondences can be found in many witchcraft books.

After finding correspondences that relate, we need to consecrate the tool. Tools can be anything from athames and bowls to cups, oils, candles, stones and talismans. I recommend an air-based purification and consecration practice for books and cards so they’re not harmed by the salts and oils.

What you’ll need: -Muslin cloth, easily procurable at any fabric store for dollars a yard. Use tight-knit cheesecloth as a replacement.

-An oil that has been infused with herbs, plants and flowers corresponding to purification, spirituality and power. We recommend mixing vervain, hyssop and cinnamon.

-Enough salt to coat the item lightly or to your liking.

Soak the oil and the plants together until you feel they’ve infused. This generally takes 4 weeks, or a moon cycle, but hardy stems and roots will take longer. Strain the plant matter from the oil and place the oil in a bottle.

36

When ready to consecrate an item, place a quarter-size amount of oil onto a washcloth-size square of muslin cloth. Rub the oil into the item, working it into the surface of the item as you concentrate on visualizing a certain intention flowing into that object. If you’re not wanting a particular intention, envision the purifying of the item; visualizing steam or smoke leaving the item is a good starting point. As you do this, state the following: A new device to plant the seed To lift the power from beneath The residue lifts and then submerges Now cleansed from the debris that this spell purges The tool arises pure and ripe For manifesting magick to which it’s ascribed After ward, take another piece of your muslin cloth, enough to wrap the item in. Place the muslin on a surface and sprinkle salt much as you would flour on a board. Place the item in the middle. Sprinkle more salt on the item and cover.

Wrap and tie with twine if possible. Set this on a windowsill during a new moon, waning or a full moon. We recommend third quarter, or when the moon moves from full into a waning half-moon. If this process is too long, a night under the full or new moon is ideal. This adds additional power and cleansing.

When done, take the tool out and wipe any residue from it. It is now ready for use.

For inquiries, questions or topics, email sarah@witchologymagazine.com.

37

Bay Other names: Bay Laurel, Bay Tree, Daphne, Laurel, Noble Laurel, Roman Laurel, Sweet Bay Plant family: Lauraceae.

Bay is an evergreen shrub, often referred to as a small tree.

This plant can be found in your grocery store as “bay leaves” and in your garden center as “laurel” or “bay laurel.”

Magickal properties: Protection, psychic powers, healing, purification, strength, and spell-breaking.

Laurus nobilis Magickal workings: Burning a bay leaf can cleanse the energy of a space, banish negativity, communicate your wishes to the gods, and is even said to break curses. Bay leaves may also be added to any spell or potion designed to enhance psychic ability and is a great addition to a psychic dream pillow.

Scent profile: Herby, dreamy.

Actions: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-oxidant, digestive.

Safety: People use bay leaf for diabetes, cancer, stomach problems, pain, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Bay leaf can also be unsafe if the entire leaf is taken by mouth.

Correspondences: Sun, Fire.

P

etrified Wood Also known as fossilized wood, this stone consists of ancient trees that, eons ago, were covered with mineralrich water. The water slowly dissolved the wood and replaced it with various minerals. This process produced what we know as "petrified wood.� Also, due to its age, petrified wood is used to recall past incarnations.

Magickal properties: Longevity, ancestral healing, grounding, past-life regression, healing, and protection.

Magickal workings: Petrified wood is carried as a protective amulet because of its hardness and strange appearance. In earlier times it was thought to “scare off" evil. Today we view it as setting up barriers of energy which deflect negativity. Petrified wood can also assist anyone who is feeling stuck or experiencing being frozen in time. It helps to create balance and offers a foundation from which to launch new goals or undertake a different path.

Correspondences: Spirit.

F

reya

Freya (also spelled Freyja) is the Norse Goddess of abundance, beauty, childbirth, fertility, love, war, and wealth.

She is part of a group of gods and goddesses known as the Vanir, alongside her brother - sometimes also husband Freyr, who lived in Asgard. Also was the leader of the Valkyries, Freya was renowned for her physical beauty and romantic appetites, taking many lovers.

She is generally referred to as one of three different archetypes - the warrior, the lover, and the shapeshifter. Each of them can be worked with specifically, depending on the type of magick you are trying to do. Freya is the perfect

combination of lover and warrior. She is also the reason we celebrate Friday, which derives from her name, and Friday the 13ths are especially powerful. She can be called upon in many different circumstances, and her powerful energy can literally transform your life.

The warrior can be called upon to help you stand up for yourself and take better control of your life. She is also

the perfect goddess to call upon for protection during domestic violence situations. Freya represents both physical and

emotional strength. The lover archetype is helpful for adding both attractive love and passion to your life as well as

re-igniting a love that may have started to turn cold. In addition to love of the human variety, Freya can also help people find exactly what they are passionate about so that they can develop it further. The shapeshifter helps with flexibility and multitasking. She has the ability to change her own physical appearance as well as being able to change humans into animals.

Offerings to Freya should include “sexy” foods like chocolate, strawberries, and honey. She also loves all things

gold, so golden jewelry is another perfect way to honor Freya on your altar. You can also honor her with mead or champagne. Herbs and plants associated with her include daisy, cowslip, primrose, and mistletoe. Freya’s sacred stone is amber.

Symbolism: Cats, Runes, ravens, amber, daisies, and cowslip.

Model: Elen31 Editing: Ambrosia

41

Change your life with this enchantingly easy spell book!

This spell book starts with an introduction to spell work, including performing spells, prepping your space, and channeling energy to access your power. Easy-to-follow spells will help you find lasting love, protect your family and friends, advance your career, and live the life you deserve.

On the following pages, enjoy spells written by Ambrosia Hawthorn for The Spell Book for New Witches!

42

Complete your Collection Stock up on last year’s digital back issues of Witchology Magazine to complete your collection for only $1.99 each.

Order Now

47

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A DRUID?

By Jon Hughes

What does it mean to be a Druid? Well, that’s a question I’m often asked and one I’ve always found it difficult to answer in a few of short sentences, what’s-more, I’m sure that every Druid you ask would have a slightly different answer. I was raised within the Welsh oral tradition, one that has its beliefs and practices imbedded firmly in the landscape and culture of Wales. This is by no means to claim that it is the only tradition or indeed that it has any president over any other Druidic traditions; it is simply the one that I know the best.

F

or me being a Druid was an accident of birth, in as much as I was born into a Druidic family in rural Wales that had a Druidic history that extended back for at least five generations. In practical terms, this meant that from a very early age, everything to do with my education and upbringing was attuned to Druidic lore in one way or another. Being a Druid means so many things that it’s difficult to know where to start any meaningful explanation, so before even starting to define what being a Druid means, it is worth taking some time to consider what a Druid is.

For Druids who have been brought-up to understand Druidic Lore as a vibrant and meaningful world-view, a Druid is first and foremost a Pagan, one who believes that there is no god and that we revere nature, and our place

within it, above all else. My learning has helped me to understand that the tradition I adhere to actually began long before the arrival of the continental Celts that are so often credited with origin of the Druids, and that we do not need to personify the natural elements and essences, or define them as gods in order to venerate them and benefit from their bounties.

What we know about the ancient Druids can be gleaned from three interwoven sources, namely; the continuing Oral tradition that has been maintained over the millennia; the evidence of archaeological and scientific findings that increases by the day; and from whatever written evidence that has been preserved from a period that for the greater part occurred before any written history was recorded. For the skeptics amongst us, each of these

sources is to some extent flawed and in all cases, none should be taken in isolation as each has a contribution to an overall understanding.

If we look at the written accounts for example, those compiled by individuals who claim to have actually met the Druids, amount to a total of less than two-thousand words.

That’s less than twice the length of this article. Every book, web-site and other account that claims to be based on the contemporary accounts, and there must be millions, is extrapolated from these two-thousand words, all composed by writers from an invading civilization with every reason to discredit the powerful Druids. They went further by applying their own cultural traits and values to the Druids they saw during their invasions.

48

When people saw the Druids conducting rituals in their forest groves and stone circle, they incorrectly assumed that they were worshiping the same pantheon of gods that they prayed to in their own homelands, not understanding that they were in fact venerating the powerful forces of the nature that the Druids believed then and now.

The archaeological evidence is far more convincing. It confirms that these learned members of the ancient tribes of our lands designed and supervised the building of thousands of megalithic stone circles and other arcane monuments around threethousand years before the arrival of the Celtic influence and they were given the name “Druid.” In fact, recent discoveries suggest that there was in fact never a Celtic invasion at all, and that none of us can really call ourselves Celts.

Being born in Wales of Welsh and Scottish parents and now living in Ireland, if anyone could call themselves Celtic then it should be me. But without going in to a prolonged scientific explanation, there are two significant developments in the last thirty years that prove with little doubt that all of us who previously thought that we belonged to a cosy Celtic

49

family, or an extended Celtic nation, in fact have no real basis to make that claim what-soever.

Firstly, a British academic, Professor John Collis, proposed in a conference presentation he called “The Celtic Fantasy,” later published in the prestigious British Archaeological News, that: “There were no cross-European Celtic people. There was no broad-based Celtic art, society, or religion. And there were never any Celts in Britain!” He goes on to suggest that, “No ancient author ever referred to the inhabitants of Britain—the Britanni—as Celts. It was not until the sixteenth century that the term was applied to Britain, and then it was used mainly to denote a group of languages spoken in Western Britain and Brittany (N. France).” Of course, as would be expected, he goes on to demonstrate his theory with the necessary academic rigor in a very convincing argument that is far to lengthy to quote here.

Then, in an edition of the Journal of Human Genetics (100 no. 2: 189–94) following an extensive DNA sampling and analysis program, there is a telling insight into the DNA signature of the current population of Ireland. The population of Ireland of course consider themselves as wholly BEING A DRUID

“Celtic” in every aspect. Again, without going in to the scientific basis for the study, the results are quoted as follows: “No mutation was identified that could represent European Celtic populations, supporting the view that the adoption of Celtic culture and language in Ireland did not involve major migration from the continent . . . Our results show that the culture and language of a population can be independent of its genetic heritage.”

What can we deduce from these ground-breaking, scientific research projects? Well first we can see that there was no actual physical invasion of Celtic peoples into the areas that may previously have been considered as the Celtic homelands. There was very little cross-breeding, resulting in very small amounts of Celtic DNA being found in Ireland. It is likely that what we experience was the introduction of a Celtic influence in our culture, art, and society by a thriving trading exchange between the continental mainland and Ireland, Wales, Scotland and south-west England. This theory had recently been expanded by a debate that has been called “Pots not People” and it seems that “Pots” continues to be the most convincing argument.

How does this impact our subject? Well it confirms that the ancient learned teachers and philosophers existed in preCeltic times long before the Celtic influence arrived, and that these individuals, who became known as Druids, had a sophisticated belief system that was inextricably linked to nature and the Cosmos.

Finally, we should consider the last strand of the maintenance of Druidic lore, the oral tradition. History repeatedly shows us that just about every belief system and world view began as an oral tradition and any of us who involve ourselves in any belief structure know well that the most profound and significant aspects of our belief is most effectively expressed through an oral tradition or an unwritten folk memory.

The oral tradition of the Druids has throughout history attracted more than its fair share of legend and speculation. The famous memory proficiency of the Druids, the secretive writings of the Ogham, the prodigious epic poems of the Druid/Bards, each has its place in the folk lore of the ancient lands. From my own experience, I can confirm that a good memory and the development of memory skills were early requirements in my

learning, and I was not allowed to make any form of written record of any of the knowledge I was exposed to.

To me, the oral tradition of the particular Welsh tradition that I grew up in forms the core of my life and world. As the folk lore suggests, there are specific rules regarding just how and when certain information is given to individuals as they learn, but these are ‘common-sense’ rules that prevent misuse and accidental dangers that are inevitably inherent in any tradition that involves the use of herbs, potions and other gifts of nature that could result in harmful misunderstandings.

Mostly these restrictions mean that no piece of knowledge may be divulged until the learner can demonstrate that they understand all the pieces of instruction that control and influence them.

So, to return to our original question: What does it mean to be a Druid?

It means that we are Pagans who have been taught the oral tradition that contains the wisdom of those ancient learned individuals whose knowledge extends back to a sophisticated society predating the arrival of the Celtic influence by thousands of years.

BEING A DRUID

It means that we acknowledge that there is no supreme being, no God that governs us all, and we accept the responsibility for the freedom of choice that accompanies this selfdetermination.

It means that we understand that all of nature and the cosmos is in a chaotic state of dynamic change, that any perceived sense of order is only temporary, outside our control and will inevitable return to its natural state of chaos.

It means that we understand and maintain an indivisible relationship within nature and acknowledge the need to respect nature and maintain the balance of the natural world.

It means that we respect the equality of all things within nature. Male, female, in fact all definitions of gender are seen as equal.

It means so many other things, far too many to list here, but ultimately it means that we live within a nature that we respect, and we accept responsibility for the effect we, as individuals, have upon it.

50

MOTHER MOON: DREAM BALLS AND MOON MILK

By Miss Wondersmith

These full moon bonbons are filled with nourishment and sleep-inducing herbs. Healthy fats from the cocoa butter and coconut cream help your body function smoothly, ginger soothes your digestive system, and nutmeg lends a delicious flavor and functions as a natural sleep enhancer. You can add adaptogenic herbs to your blend to increase their relaxation power. Valerian is my personal favorite. It’s an ethereal plant that grows all over the mountains in the Pacific Northwest. It can be spotted in early summer by its bright-white clustered flowers that look delicate and vibrant. In the fall or winter, the roots are dug and then tinctured or dried. It’s a strong plant and requires careful handling; even just the scent of the freshly-dug roots is enough to make me feel pleasantly woozy and tired. It’s important to be careful when selecting herbs and to look for credible sources of herbs.

51

MOTHER MOON: DREAM BALLS AND MOON MILK

By Miss Wondersmith

52

These will comfort you, help you sleep, and make a delicious bedtime snack.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Nut Milk: 1 cup nuts (almond or cashew) a pinch of salt water

Nut Milk: 1. Place the raw nuts into a bowl and cover with about 1-inch of water.

Cover this with a kitchen towel and place it in the fridge overnight.

2. Strain and rinse the nuts well, then place into a blender with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Blend on high for 2 minutes; the mixture should look smooth and creamy.

3. Strain through a nut milk bag or a thin kitchen towel placed over a strainer, squeezing to extract all of the milk.

4. You can drink the milk as-is, or heat it with your choice of sweetener and herbs. I particularly like lavender, cinnamon, almond extract, and maple.

5. Heat the milk until it is warm, then blend again on high until it is frothy (optional). Garnish with a sprinkle of a colored herb (I used butterfly pea powder for that beautiful indigo blue); then enjoy! Be sure to save the nut pulp for the recipe below!

Dream Balls: 3/4 cup nut milk pulp, well strained 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 cup cocoa butter, melted 1/4 cup coconut cream (skim the solids off of a can of coconut milk) 1 tbsp tahini 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg 1/4 tsp powdered food-grade valerian root, kava kava, or ashwaganda 1/2 tsp powdered ginger 1 tsp vanilla 1 tsp lemon juice, or to taste coating of choice (I like unsweetened coconut, sparkling sugar, or sesame seeds)

Dream Balls: 1. Combine all of the ingredients except the coating in a small bowl and mix well.

2. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as desired. Adding a bit of lemon juice will make it taste a lot like cheesecake! Roll into loose balls and refrigerate for an hour or so. Then roll them into rounder balls and roll each ball in the coating of choice. The texture of these is soft and fluffy, and they’ll soften at room temperature, so be sure to store them in the fridge!

As always, if you enjoy my writing and would like to support me, please visit my patreon page! There are a lot of wonderful reward options there, from a wildcrafted chocolate subscription to magical photography.

Cinnamon Latte 53

Cinnamon Latte Enjoy this easy, warming, and comforting cinnamon latte that can be made quickly for any cold winter day! Infuse intention in it to add a pinch of magick.

54

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

6 oz boiling water 1 to 2 tsp instant espresso powder or a strong espresso 1/2- cup milk 1/4- tsp ground cinnamon 1/2- tbsp light brown sugar 1/2- tsp pure vanilla extract Pinch of ground nutmeg Whipped cream and ground cinnamon for garnish

1. Stir the espresso powder into the hot water and set aside. (Or brew an espresso of choice) 2. In a glass measuring cup combine milk, cinnamon, brown sugar, vanilla and nutmeg; stir until thoroughly combined.

3. Place in Microwave and cook for 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until the milk starts to froth up.

4. Remove from Microwave and stir again.

5. Place in Microwave for an additional 30 seconds, or until the milks starts to froth up again.

6. Remove and, while stirring the espresso, slowly pour the milk mixture into the coffee.

7. Top with whipped cream and garnish with cinnamon and serve.

Witchology Magazine Directory Shops * Events * Sales * New Products * Blogs

Contact us at ambrosia@witchologymagazine.com or at Advertising for options.

55

Witchology Magazine Directory Shops * Events * Sales * New Products * Blogs

56

Contact us at ambrosia@witchologymagazine.com or at Advertising for options.