amberrosewitch

Like herbs, oils, and crystals, you don’t need to work with magical timing for your spell to be successful. You can cast a spell at any time, no matter your intention, and get your desired results. However, working with the energy of the sun, moon, and days of the week can add an extra power boost to your magic.

Think of it this way: certain energies are dominant at certain times. Those energies are easier to connect with because they are closer at hand, so to speak, so you can bring them into your life and your spells more easily and in a more powerful way. That doesn’t mean you can’t call on other energies during these times — it just means that you may not connect to them quite so easily.

If you choose to work with magical timing in your spells, there are several yearly, monthly, weekly, and even daily cycles you can align your spells with.

The Cycle of the Sun: Solstices and Equinoxes

These are the turning points that mark the solar year, and are associated with the relationships between day and night, light and dark, summer and winter. Each solstice or equinox marks the end of one season and the beginning for the next. Because they are so rare and so potent, these days are a great time for your “big picture” spells or for spells that need a big power boost.

Winter Solstice. The winter solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, and falls between December 20 and December 23, depending on the year. In some pagan traditions the winter solstice, or Yule, marks the beginning of the new year — you may choose to set intentions for the coming year on this solstice. After the winter solstice, the nights start getting shorter and the days start getting longer — so spells related to healing and bringing things into the light are especially effective at this time of year. The winter solstice marks the end of the “dark half” of the year and beginning of the “light half” of the year; at this point, our focus turns from inward reflection to outward manifestation. You may choose to think of the time between the winter solstice and spring equinox as a “planning phase,” where you examine yourself and your desires, decide what you want to work on in the next year, and make plans for manifesting what you want.

Spring Equinox. An equinox occurs when the day and the night are exactly the same length, representing a perfect balance between light and dark. The spring equinox marks the beginning of spring and occurs between March 19 and March 22. The Christian holiday of Easter and the pagan holiday of Ostara are both related to the energy of this equinox. At this time of year, the natural world is coming back to life as winter begins to fade. Plants are beginning to grow, and baby animals are being born. This is a powerful time of year for fertility magic and any magic related to new beginnings. You may choose to think of the time between the spring equinox and the summer solstice as a “planting phase,” where you “plant the seed” of the things you want to manifest and begin doing the work to make it happen.

Summer Solstice. This solstice marks the longest day and shortest night of the year. It occurs between June 19 and June 23. As I am writing this post, we are coming up on the summer solstice (June 20, 2020). Life, fertility, and growth are at their peak during this time of year, which makes this solstice a perfect time for big manifestation spells. At the same time, this marks the end of the “light half” and beginning of the “dark half” of the year, so after the summer solstice our energy shifts from outward manifestation to inward contemplation. You may choose to think of the time between the summer solstice and fall equinox as the “harvest phase,” where you reap the results of your hard work and manifest your desires in the physical world.

Autumn Equinox. This is the other time of year when the day and night are perfectly balanced. The autumn equinox occurs between September 19 and September 23 and marks the beginning of autumn. This is traditionally the time of year when crops are harvested, and many pagan groups celebrate harvest festivals around this time. Nature is beginning to die or go into hibernation in preparation for the coming winter. This is an especially powerful time of year for shadow work or for magic related to endings and transitions. You may choose to think of the time between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice as the “reflection phase,” when you retreat from the outside world to rest, focus on yourself, and do your inner work and self-healing.

Important Note: This post lists dates for the solstices and equinoxes in the Northern hemisphere. In the Southern hemisphere, the seasons are reversed. If you live in the Southern hemisphere, you would observe the winter solstice in June, the spring equinox in September, the summer solstice in December, and the fall equinox in March.

The Cycle of the Moon: Lunar Phases

If you don’t have time to wait for the appropriate solstice or equinox, you can still connect with the cosmos in your magic. One of the biggest pros of the lunar cycle is that it happens roughly every month — so you never have to wait very long for the next full moon. The moon is also associated with magic and spirituality in several traditions, which makes it an especially powerful astral ally for witches.

New Moon. The new moon is when the moon is completely invisible in the night sky, and is the phase opposite the full moon. The new moon is a powerful time for shadow work (because it deals with things that are hidden) and for magic related to new beginnings.

Waxing Moon. The moon is waxing when it appears to be growing in the night sky; this is the phase between the new moon and full moon. This is a powerful time for any magic that deals with drawing something in, building something up, or strengthening something that already exists.

Full Moon. Many witches believe that the full moon is the most powerful time of month for any kind of magic. This is a good time to cast any spell that needs a serious power boost. The full moon is also an especially powerful time to release what no longer serves you or to work healing magic.

Waning Moon. The moon is waning when it appears to be shrinking in the night sky; this is the phase between the full moon and new moon. This is a powerful time for any magic that deals with sending something away, banishing negative energy, or bringing something to an end.

Dark Moon. The dark moon is the three day period immediately before the new moon. In some traditions, it is believed to be bad luck to cast spells during the dark moon. Other traditions hold that the dark moon is the best point in the lunar cycle for destructive magic, such as curses and hexes. Many modern witches don’t recognize the dark moon as a separate moon phase at all. I personally like to use the dark moon as a time for self reflection, and may focus on shadow work during this time.

Magical Correspondences for the Days of the Week

The days of the week also have their own unique magical energies, and each day is linked to a certain planet and to certain deities.

Sunday. Sunday is, of course, connected to the Sun and solar deities. Sunday is the best day of the week for any manifestation magic that needs an extra boost. Its energy is also associated with healing, personal growth, power, and success.

Monday. Monday is associated with the Moon and lunar deities. Monday is a quiet, introspective day, and can feel very ethereal. It’s the best day for magic related to intuition, nurturing, and shadow work.

Tuesday. Tuesday is associated with Mars and with gods and goddesses of war and action. (It is named for the Norse/Germanic god Tyr/Tiw.) Tuesday is a very “active” day, and is good for magic related to action, activism, victory, or finding courage.

Wednesday. Wednesday is associated with Mercury and with gods and goddesses of wisdom, learning, and communication. (It is named for the Norse/Germanic god Odin/Wodan.) Wednesday is all about mental activity. It’s the best day of the week for magic related to thought, travel, communication (written, spoken, or digital), and learning/study.

Thursday. Thursday is associated with Jupiter and with gods and goddesses of prosperity, wealth, and protection. (It is named after the Norse/Germanic god Thor.) Thursday, like Jupiter in astrology, is all about outward expansion. It’s the best day of the week for magic related to career, prosperity, and wealth.

Friday. Friday is associated with Venus and with gods and goddesses of love, fertility, and sensuality. (It is named after the Norse goddess Freyja, or perhaps the goddess Frigg.) The energy of Friday is fun, lighthearted, and sexy. It’s the best day of the week for magic related to love, beauty, and sex/sexuality.

Saturday. Saturday is associated with Saturn and with time and wisdom. (The day and the planet are both named after the Roman god Saturn.) Saturday is practical and wise, but it does have a little bit of a dark side. It’s the best day of the week for magic related to banishing and protection.

Magical Times of Day

Okay, so you’d like to start working with magical timing, but what about emergency magic and last-minute spells? What if you don’t have time to wait for the next full moon, or even the next Sunday? You can still align your spell with magical timing! There are several moments of power each day, and each has its own magical associations.

Sunrise. Sunrise is, of course, the birth of the new day. This makes it the perfect time for spells related to new beginnings or expanded possibilities.

Noon. This is the peak or high point of the day. This is a powerful time for healing magic.

Sunset. Sunset is the end of the day, and forms a gateway between light and dark. This is a great time for spells related to accepting endings, releasing that which does not serve, and moving on from the past.

Midnight. If noon is the peak of the day, then midnight is the peak of the night. Midnight has a very ethereal, transformational energy. Like with the full moon, some witches believe that any spell will be more powerful if cast at midnight. This is a powerful time for both banishing and attraction magic.

Resources:

You Are Magical by Tess Whitehurst

Green Witchcraft by Paige Vanderbeck

Wicca for Beginners by Thea Sabin [specifically the chapter on the sabbats]

Here's a real tip for all you baby witches out there, diving into spellwork before anything else: Spells aren't as simple as going through the motions, and a spell probably won't work if you don't understand how to use your Will.

This is what I've been taught by my mentor who has been a witch for 25 years. You have to set your intentions and use your Will to match. What is your Will and how is it different from your Intention? This post may get long, but it's important and I haven't seen any others cover this, so please don't give up half way through!

Basically, it's like this:

Intention: your reason for a spell, your goal/what you want + ingredients to match

Your Will: the Power you put behind your spell or working

The intention part is easy. You figure out your goal, pick a spell or create a spell that uses ingredients or actions that match your intent, and then you perform it. This is what most of Tumblr will teach you how to do. While working with simply your intent can sometimes work, it's more like a coin toss because you're not actually making your spellwork as powerful as it could be.

But your Will, as I've been taught, is the most important part of any magick and is the most often overlooked. You can make magick with nothing but your intent and your Will together. Did you know that? What is your Will? It's the power you put behind your intent. Your Will is your Power.

That's right, baby witches. You have to learn how to tap in to the power around you as well as the power within yourself. This is why spells are never as simple as you think; if you can't add your Will to a spell, it will never be as powerful as you want it to be. This concept can prove difficult, so I'll try to break it down as simply as I can.

Your Will comes from the energy within you, but you can also tap into the energy around you to add to that power. This means that to find your Will you have to first learn how to:

Perceive Energy

Feel Energy

Feel your Own Energy

Touch Energy

Gather Energy Inside and Around You

Manipulate Energy

Infuse Energy with Intent

This is the basis for finding and understanding magick. Magick is all about energy, and the sooner you learn how to do these things, the sooner you'll start to realize your power as a witch. And this is why I say that spells are not as simple as Tumblr makes them; at least, they shouldn't be.

When you're performing a spell, you should be raising energy and infusing that energy with your intent. You could be adding energy to your ingredients, or simply raising it and holding it, to be released into the world when the spell is finished. That's your Will; the energy you add to your working. The stronger the energy, the stronger the spell.

A simple way to put it: Intent + Will = Power

So please do yourself a favor. Research energy. Find it, figure it out, feel it within you. Take your time to truly understand that power so you can properly perform powerful spellwork.

Alder- balance between the emotions and actions, Water and Fire elements, Ostara, Mars and the Moon, amethyst, ravens & hawks, purple, Fae, Apollo, Aphrodite; used to help face what you’ve been avoiding lately

Ash- feminine in nature, Fire element, energy conductor; new growth, good wood to use for wands, staves & besom handles; one of the three sacred trees (Oak, Ash, & Hawhorn); (known as to be the World Tree or Yaggdrisal in Norse/Celtic)

Aspen- protection, overcoming fear, ascent, Air element, Persephone, Hades, ancestry, heritage, cleansing, healing, family and community, Mabon, the planet Mercury

Birch-  purification, protection, exorcism; represents renewal, Thor, rebirth and beginnings as it is the first tree after Winter to leaf; great in protection spells; (to ward off Evil Eye, tie a red string to branch)

Chestnut Tree- fertility, grounding and centering energy, healing, love, prosperity, abundance, attracting animals, relieving worry, transforming karma, Artemis, the planets Jupiter & the Sun, masculine

Fir- immortality, seeing situations clearly, planet Jupiter, Earth element, birth, used in blessing mothers and babies, shadow work, Artemis, Frigg, 

Hawthorn- masculine, Fire element, Fae/fairies, love, marriage, Beltane, health, fertility, chastity, protection and death; keep out unfriendly entities/spirits when placed around doors and windows, considered portal to fea realm (NOTE: tree is sacred to fairies, it is strongly recommended that one ask permission before taking the blooms or sprigs; leave an offering when cutting down a whole tree- offerings such as milk, honey, wine or cider poured into the ground, baked goods, crystals & gemstones)

Hazel- spirit contact, manifestation, protection, prosperity, wisdom, dreams, divination, dowsing, knowledge, marriage, inspiration, wrath, fertility, intelligence, reconciliation, poetic inspiration, anti-lightning charm; sacred to Fae; traditionally burned in Balefires during Beltane & Litha (it is also said that mistletoe that grows on Hazel protects you from being bewitched)

Hickory- childbirth support, land nourishment, protection from legal difficulties, transitions, 

Lemon Trees- longevity, the Moon, feminine, Water element, purification, refreshment, unity, uplifting, clarity, friendship, happiness, aura cleanse, rejuvenation, awareness, love, fidelity, lunar deities 

Maple- feminine, Water element, the Moon, the planet Jupiter, wisdom of balance, love, longevity, money, travel, spiritual healing, learning and decision-making (especially when bringing about or dealing with change), great horned owl, communication

Oak- money, success, strength, fertility, stability, health, healing, potency and good luck; known for attracting light; associated with the Sky Gods/Goddesses (especially White Oak) a holy tree; one of the three sacred trees (Oak, Ash & Thorn); (their acorns were carried in the pockets of Druids for good luck)

Olive Tree- masculine, prosperity, wisdom, abundance, peace, protection, console (a person), Athena, the Sun, Fire element, Mabon

Palm Tree- cleansing, feminine, transforming, transitions, divine, masculine, fertility, nourishment, peace, relaxation, victory,

Pine- rebirth, immortality, strength in adversity, overcoming hardships through optimism & inner strength; Pine cones are good for tips of wands or staffs; (use a pine branch like a broom to brush away negative energy from your home or from surfaces (like a altar))

Poplar- life cycles, Zeus, death and rebirth, Hades, the planet Jupiter, enhancing divination tools, love; good for all-purpose wands; leaves for altar decoration for Samhain, celebrations in honor of Hades, ancestral rites, funerals/any ceremony related to the underworld

Redwood (aka Sequoia)- Earth wisdom, protection, fire resistance, healing, abundance, Fire element, balance

Rowan- the Sun, tourmaline, protection, Imbolc, meditation, broadening perspectives, dowsing, divination, the Goddess Bridget

Spruce- ancient wisdom, Goddess energy, healing, protection, purification, spiritual refreshment, pure intentions

Willow-  divination, resonance, harmony, the Moon, moonstone, Water element, masculine, support, death, Hades, directing energy, ghosts/spirits, Hecate, Persephone, Lunar alignment, pain relief, personal empowerment, creativity, fertility, female rights of passage, inspiration, emotion, binding, love, protection, healing

 Witch Hazel- dowsing, the planet Saturn; can be burned to rid of negative emotions, hexes/curses, and general negative

Feel free to add to the Masterlist, and see the latest version on the Google Document (x).

General

Beginner Witch Tips

Types of Witchcraft (and how to know which one you are)

Simple Exercises for Baby Witches

Advice for Beginner Witches, Spirit Workers, Magickal people, etc.

Covens

Keeping Yourself Protected

Book of Shadows Series

Research Ideas

Research Ideas #2

Textbook Links (PDF)

Broke Witch Hacks

Witch Apps

Witchy Self Care

Uses for Moon Water

Discipline in Witchcraft

The Witches Alphabet

Elements

Know Your Elements!

Charging Sigils with the Elements 

Correspondences

Animal Associations

Beginner Crystals

Candle Scent Correspondences

Incense correspondences

Moon Phases Correspondences

Fruit and Vegetable Associations In Witchcraft

Types of water

The Magick of Rosemary

Colour Correspondences

Candle Magick

Types of Magick

Glamour Magick

Warding Guide

Knot Magick

Auras

Spirit Guides

How to find your Spirit Guides/Guardian Angels

Ways to Use Sigils Masterpost

Tools

Ideas for Cheap Witchcraft Tools

Crystals for Beginners

Altars

Making an Altar Masterpost 

Mabon Altar Tips

Centering yourself and connecting to your divination tools

Altar Ideas

How To Make a Yule Altar

Deities

Guides, Gods, and Guardians

The Morrigan

How to find your Gods/Goddesses

Deity Masterpost

Spells/Potions

Healing Incantation Potion

Spell to Help you Remember Information

Snorlax’s Rest - An incantation spell to help the Caster fall asleep and stay asleep.

A Ritual to Thoroughly Cleanse your Living Space

Heart Healing Bath Spell

Rose Quartz Calming Spell

Single Word Spells

Equalizing Rain Spell

Weight Loss Spell

Protection Ring Enchantment

Aggressive Curse and Banishing Spell

Money Injection Spell

Cloaking Spell for Witches

Beauty Reflection Spell

Geminio Spell (HP Inspired)

Quick Accio Energy Spell (HP Inspired)

Summoning Your Patronus (HP Inspired)

Alohomora Spell to Unlock Your Potential (HP Inspired)

Aguamenti Cleansing Spell (HP Inspired)

Growth Spell for Beltane

Leo Spell for Warmth and Joy

Cancer Spell for Sensitivity and Intuition

Best Friend “Success” Spell(Corpse Bride Inspired)

Pepper and Dish Soap - A Binding and Banishin Spell

Spell to Reduce Cutting Urges

Simple Self-love Bath Ritual

Grounding, Meditation & Gratitude

Thunderstorm Grounding Technique

Gratitude

Alchemy 

The Wiccans Glossary: Alchemy Symbols and Signs

Chakras 

Witchy Knowledge with Waya: Chakras

Energy Work 

Energy Work: Energy Types and Sources

Liminal Spaces

Liminal Spaces in Witchcraft

Herbology

Drying Herbs and Flowers

Herbs Masterpost

Astral Travel

Advanced astral travel masterpost 

Astral Travel Glossary

How to Astral Travel

Astral Parasites

Astral Projection & Exercises

Charms

“Unbreakable” Charm

Charm for Beauty

Working with the Fae

some things you should know before you make a bargain with the fae

How to win a faerie’s favour or avoid their curse

Fairy Lore

Fae Witch Guide

Faeries Sigil

Signs of House Fae

Faerie Gardens

Divination

Divination Intro

Tarot Cards

How to Get Started in Tarot

How to Read Tarot Cards When You Don’t Know Shit

Tips for Interpreting Tarot Cards

Reverse Tarot Cards

Yes/No Tarot Tips

Witches’ Collection — 🌟Tips for interpreting Tarot🌟

Moon Phase Tarot Spread

How to Cleanse your Cards

Cartomancy

Cartomancy ABC Guide

Cartomancy: The Suits

How to Cleanse your Cards

Tasseography

Tasseography Guide

Things you can add to your tea

Lithomancy

Preparing a Lithomancy Set

Scrying

Scrying [Witchcraft 101]

Scrying Tips

Runeology

A Guide to Greek Alphabet Divination (Runes)

An Introduction to Norse Runeology

Elder Futhark Rune Correspondences

Blooding Runes

Candle Work

Reading a Candle

Reading a Candle (Yes/No Questions)

Misc.

Lesser known forms of Divination

Seashell Divination

Seashell Divination II

Sigils

ideas about sigils

Some basic ideas on charging sigils with the elements

Ways To Use Sigils Masterpost

Present Tense

Sigils Masterlist

How to use Sigils 

Sigil Magick Masterlist

Sigil Examples

I Channel the Energy from the Constellation ‘Leo’ easily

I Scry Easily and Accurately

I Channel the Power of My Star Sign With Ease

I Stay Alert and Focused Throughout the Day

I Love Deeply

Truth

I Do Not Fear The Future // My Sleep Schedule is Balanced

Spirit Work

Spirit Guides

How to find your Spirit Guides/Guardian Angels

Signs That You Might be Haunted by a Bad Spirit

Some Ways to Bond With a Spirit Companion

Spotting a Malevolent “Guide”

Types of Personal Spirit Guides

How to Bond with a Spirit Companion

Draconic Magic

Draconic Magic Guide

Draconic Magic 101: Part 1 - Drawing and Dismissing Power

Draconic Magic Resource List

Dragon’s Hoard (Spell)

Reading List

The Master Book of Herbalism, by Paul Beyerl

The Modern Guide to Witchcraft: Your Complete Guide to Witches, Covens, and Spells, by Skye Alexander

Out of the Broom Closet, by Arin Murphy-Hiscock

The Tree: The Complete Book of Saxon Witchcraft, by Raymond Buckland

A Witches’ Bible: The Complete Witches’ Handbook, by Janet & Stewart Farrar

The Herb Book, by John Lust

Culpeper’s Complete Herbal, by Nicolas Culpeper

Book of Magical Herbs, by Margaret Picton & Michelle Pickering

The Charge of the Goddess, by Doreen Valiente

Book of Pagan Prayer, by Ceisiwr Serith

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils and Brews, by Scott Cunningham

The Book of Stones, Revised Edition: Who They Are and What They Teach, by Robert Simmons & Naisha Ahsian

Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic, by Scott Cunningham

Supermarket Magic: Creating Spells, Brews, Potions & Powders from Everyday Ingredients, by Michael Furie

The Goodly Spellbook: Olde Spells for Modern Problems, by Lady Passion & Diuvei

Everyday Witchcraft: Making Time for Spirit in a Too-Busy World, by Deborah Blake

Wicca, by Harmony Nice

Norse Mythology, by Neil Gaiman

The Gospel of Loki, by Joanne M. Harris

The Occult, Witchcraft & Magic, by Christopher Dell

Wicca & Witchcraft For Dummies, by Diane Smith

Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, by Scott Cunningham

Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem, and Metal Magic, by Scott Cunningham

The Green Witch, by Arin Murphy-Hiscock

The Witch’s Guide to Self-Care, by Arin Murphy-Hiscock

The Modern Guide to Witchcraft, by Skye Alexander

A Practical Guide to the Runes, by Lisa Peschel

Moon Spells, by Diane Ahlquist

Realms of The Earth Angels, by Doreen Virtue

The Black Arts, by Richard Cavendish

Wiccapedia, by Shawn Robbins and Leanna Greenaway

The Crystal Bible, by Judy Hall

Crystal Enlightenment, by Katrina Raphaell

Gods and Heroes of Ancient Greece, Gustav, Schwab

The Pocket Book of Stones, by Robert Simmons

The Gods of Greece and Rome, by Talfourd Ely

Wicca Altar and Tools, by Lisa Chamberlain

Wicca Magical Deities, by Lisa Chamberlain

Wicca Crystal Magic, by Lisa Chamberlain

Wicca Wheel of The Year, by Lisa Chamberlain

I share a very small room with my sister, and obviously don’t have much room for an altar. I use most of my space for my Hellenic shrines and altar. I keep my witchy stuff on my shared bedside table. Here is what I use, and how I store/display it. This is element based, but you can use it however you like.  

North (Earth)

Small Himalayan Rock Salt Lamp - This is a tool I use all the time. It detoxifies my room, and cleanses the space. I feel so much more at ease with it on, like it’s washing everything away!

Crystals - You might want to move these or switch them out depending on what spell you’re doing, as all energy contributes to the working, but while you’re in your room, or even while you’re away, you can leave these here to represent Earth. 

Salt - Little packets of salt work, or you can place a bowl with some salt in it on your altar. I use my rock salt lamp. 

Dirt - A literal baby jar of dirt works, or you can put a plant on your altar if it’s by a window. I have a succulent!

Earth Imagery - A mini globe would be pretty cool! Or even a little eraser or what not. Having an actual picture of the Earth would be amazing, especially if the clouds were visible, and maybe if it had the sun in the background. Then it could be all encompassing of the elements.

Herbs, Flowers, Plants, etc -  As with the crystals, you may want to change these out or put them away during spells, or switch them out. However, they would look really cool as you went with the seasons!

 Fossils - I think fossils are awesome Earth representations. They have been in the ground for a very long time! I used to have some really cool fossils I used to represent Earth on my altar.

Tree Slice - Have you ever seen those little wooden slices that come from a tree stump? The ones that definitely had huge roots? Those would be perfect to represent Earth! 

South (Fire)

Birthday Candles/Tea Lights - You can colour code! These are great for short workings, or even to call the elements. To make these stand up, place them in a bit of clay and let it harden. 

Matches -  Double whammy here-  light your candles and have a representation!

Ash - I used to have volcanic ash, which was perfect. It got spilled, but for the while that I had it, it was awesome. Collect ash from incense, a fire, etc, and use it (just wait for it to cool!!!)

Charcoal - I always thought charcoal looked kinda witchy. I think a dish of it would make a good rep.

 Charred Wood - If you have a bonfire, or just so happen to light a piece of wood on fire, you could let it cool and use it for your altar. 

Lamp - If you have a secret altar, a little lamp could be an inconspicuous representation for fire, as it does produce light and heat. 

Lantern - You can buy super cute mini lanterns at the Dollar Store. I love them, but haven’t gotten one yet. I think they would be fun to use for Fire.  

West (Water) 

Glass of Water - You can use whatever type of water you’d like; moon water, rose water, purified water, gem elixir; take your pick!  Just make sure it doesn’t get moldy and stay moldy. Change it out each day/week. 

Sea Shells - You can get these in super small sizes! Or, you can get them big and bulky. 

Sea Glass - These little stone-like fragments are so pretty! They look just like crystals, and can be found on the beach or in the store!

Sea Salt -  Sea Salt could work to represent Water, especially if you pour it into a seashell or add in sea glass to it. It could be like a little potpourri of water related objects!

Rain Cloud - You can create clouds out of things like stuffing for toys, cotton balls, and sometimes led lights. It could be a fun project, or you can buy one of them off of etsy.  

Mermaid Image - I have a mermaid book mark made of metal, and it sits with my other water-related objects. I feel like it adds that feel of majesty to my water representation. 

Drift Wood - This is so pretty! The pieces are smooth, have a fun shape, and definitely capture the essence of water!

Sand - If you go to a beach, collect some sand, and place it somewhere on your altar! Be sure to put it in a bowl, though, because it is hard to clean up. 

Sea Weed - You can hang this somewhere, or put it directly on your altar. Either way, it looks great.

Coral - If you find some coral, you can place it on your altar. It looks so neat!

Starfishes/Sand Dollars/etc. - These are a little harder to find on the beach, but if you do, place them on your altar. 

East (Air)

Wind Chimes - These add a little decoration to your altar, as well as give you an air representaiton. You can even listen for the tinkling of bells to see if any fae are around!

Bells - If you ring a bell, it disperses stagnant energy, and helps to cleanse a space. Having one on your altar is a great way to keep it fresh!

Feathers - This is a pretty obvious one, an oldie but a goodie. If you have some feathers, you can use them, but make sure there are no laws against collecting them in your area. Alternatively, you can use fake ones from a craft store. 

Empty Glass or Bottle - Air is all around us. Use that to your advantage! 

Dandelion Puff - This is what I immediately think of when I picture the wind. You can collect some puffs and put them in a glass. 

Bird’s Nest (fake) - You can buy or make a fake bird’s nest. They look pretty real, and have this awesome rustic naturey vibe to them!

Leaves - They were once high in the sky! Collect them during the fal season or after a storm. 

Incense - Another well-known one. You can burn this and use the smoke. 

Tornado Making Jar - You know those little jars that you can shake up, and they make a tornado? Those would be a fun water-air duo!

Other: 

Small Jewelry Box - This can store crystals, herbs, essential oils, etc. I use to use mine to cleanse my crystals becuase it played music!

Multi Colour Light-Up Candle - I found mine at Five Below! It lights up in tons of different colours, but is pretty large. However, it takes up a lot less room than a bunch of different coloured candles.

Your Wand - Having your wand on your altar makes it a sacred, special tool. It will be charged by the witchy items you have there, and will feel natural inn the environment. 

A Mini Besom or Real Besom (Broom) - I use a paintbrush as a mini besom, as I can’t have real one. However, it would be nice if I did, and I’d keep it near my altar!

Your Grimoire/Spellbook/BOS/etc - If you aren’t hiding it, you could keep it on your altar! 

A  Fire-Safe Dish or Cauldron - If you water scry, burn things, or just like to include your cauldron in your spells, you can keep it on your altar. 

Incense Tray - Incense can’t be burned without somewhere to place it. Keep your incense holder handy!

Altar Cloth - This ties everything together! It can be switched out for sabbats/festivals/seasons/spells. 

Chalice - I’m not Wiccan, but I use the chalice in my workings every once in a while, usually for water-related magic. You can get these beautiful metal ones at antique stores, or regular old wine glasses at the dollar store!

Mortar and Pestle - For practical use and an awesome vibe! You can keep this near your herbs.

Coloured/Enchanted Salts - They display beautifully,and are really good to have on hand.  

Spirit Vessels - These can go in their own little corner if you like. They could also be the center of your altar, especially if you work mainly with spirits.  

Tarot/Other Cartomancy Cards - Find a nook for your cards to be kept safe and clean. They will be charged by the other objects all around it, which makes it an awesome idea to have on your altar. 

Scrying Mirror - Make this the main attraction, or perhaps just a piece of the puzzle. If you have an ornate mirror, it could be a very drawing part of your altar! 

Crystal Ball - Like the scrying mirror, it could be a background piece or the focal point. 

Runes - If you cast runes, you can keep your bag or box of them on or near your altar. 

Other Divination Tools - You cans store these, or just la them throughout your altar. Whatever you choose, having your tools close by will be awesome! 

Twig Shapes - You can make sigils out of twigs and hot glue! Add a ribbon or piece of twin in the shape of a loop, and you can hang them above your altar as decoration and as a little energy booster!

Circle (Embroidery Hoop) - I know most people use salt to cast circles, but I actually use an embroidery hoop. I cast one around myself, and one around the items I am working with (ex: what’s in the hoop).

Knife - If you use a ritual or practical knife in your workings, it’s good to have on hand. I can’t have one, but I like my wand better anyway, personally. 

Fae Garden - You’ll have to have plenty of sunlight near your altar for this one, but it will definitely be fun to have some Fae living on your altar!

simply because magic is not needed in every situation, nor is it advisable. recognizing when magic is and isn’t needed, or even a good idea is important in the life of the witch. 

here are a couple of examples of such:

things i have answered “no” to today:

bewitching your significant other (consent issues anyone?)

bewitching a non-signif to find out personal things (consent again)

asked for a spell for communicating with spirits (just because a skill isn’t developed doesn’t mean a spell will replace experience)

weight loss spells (dangerous and against my personal morals)

however, the one outlier i include is this, because it’s important:

easily google-able question (as stated in previous posts, i encourage people to develop their own research skills so they can grow in their craft when they reach an area of their path where there isn’t someone around to hold their hand and slip them the answers)

as for your “other blogs are helpful and list spells and such”, i’d like to direct your attention to the many posts of lists and ~stuff~ i make for people. such as the:

200+ spells all helpfully organized by type

the sideblog @orriculum-grimoire​ in case that wasn’t helpful enough

fucking huge witchcraft 101 masterpost 

every potion related post i have ever made rolled into one

how to ground masterpost because apparently it needed one

how to charge objects with intent or energy

cleansing masterpost

emoji spells 101

how to adjust a spell to suit your super specific needs

how to substitute ingredients in a spell

what does it “MEAN”

how to nullify a spell or remove a curse

disposing of spell materials 

where to find some goddamn herbs

how to make moon water 

an example discussion of researching and understanding correspondences using rosemary

fire safety BECAUSE NO ONE EVER DISCUSSES IT

spring witchcraft ideas

winter witchcraft ideas

coffee witchcraft masterpost

coffee lore and superstition

top five herbs because that’s somehow relevant

how to curse

how to glamour

how to do magic with flower crowns

unpacking witchcraft - spell types 

some basic terms to know 

methods for spells  

how to write your own spells - resources 

when to cast a spell - by weekdays 

when to cast a spell - by time of day 

low effort witchcraft 

tools of witchcraft overview

a witch’s wand -how to make one

building a broom/besom 

correspondence resource 

“to be a witch” falsehoods 

other witches and you 

witchcraft and the law 

difference between a witch and a herbalist 

self care for the witch 

when your spell fails 

tarot and pendulums can get it wrong

curses jinxes and hexes masterpost 

harry potter spells masterlist

sailor moon spells masterlist

florence + the machine song spells masterlist

steven universe inspired spells masterlist

valentine and all love related spells masterlist

infused water magic

floral tea magic 

herbal tea magic 

fruit tea magic

general tea magic

smoothie magic

milkshake magic

hot chocolate magic

how to contact a mermaid 

different types of mermaids

various powers of mermaids

offerings for mermaids

mermaid tips

sea witch resources

you want to know why i dont post lists? it’s because i already have.

THE EMOTIONALLY DRIVEN; MOON IN ARIES

At their best: generous, initiative, enthusiastic, warm-hearted, protective.

At their worst: hot-headed, brusque, carelessness, impulsive, childish, impetuous.

Crystals to work with: Emrald, Grossularite, Melanite, Moonstone, Titanium quartz.

THE ABUNDANCE SEEKERS; MOON IN TAURUS

At their best: steady, warm, creative, trusting, practical.

At their worst: lazy, pessimistic, stubborn, materialistic, arrogant.

Crystals to work with: Dumortierite, Peridot, Muscovite, Opal.

THE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE; MOON IN GEMINI

At their best: emotionally stable, communicative, productive, trusted, adaptable, intuitive.

At their worst: restless, anxious, bored, irritable, callous.

Crystals to work with: Aventurine, Manganoan calcite, Moonstone, Spessartine, Pearl.

THE COMFORT SEEKERS; MOON IN CANCER

At their best: inspired, comfortable, assertive, grounded, connected.

At their worst: emotional, dependent, needy, cranky, passive aggressive, withdrawn.

Crystals to work with: Anhydrite, Cobaltoan calcite, Halite, Pink opal, Rose quartz.

THE SUNBEAM AURAS; MOON IN LEO

At their best: generous, caring, loyal, prideful, imaginative, warm-hearted.

At their worst: demanding, egoistic, self centered, insecure, manipulative.

Crystals to work with: Hemimorphite, Iceland spa, Opal, Thulite, Tree agate.

THE INTUITIVE IDEALISTIC’S; MOON IN VIRGO

At their best: witty, practical, compassionate, in-control, intuitive, productive.

At their worst: stressed, anxious, unbalanced, shrewd, compulsive.

Crystals to work with: Amethyst, Aventurine, Picasso marble, Schorl, Titanium quartz.

THE PEACE MAKERS ; MOON IN LIBRA

At their best: romantic, creative, imaginative, fun-loving, charismatic, balanced.

At their worst: cynical, sensitive, closed off, detached, pessimistic.

Crystals to work with: Azurite, Aquamarine, Chrysoberyl, Flint, Jasper, Moonstone.

THE DARK MOON; MOON IN SCORPIO

At their best: soulful, curious, sensual, committed, loyal, protected.

At their worst: stubborn, aloof, betrayed, manipulative, jealous, tenacious.

Crystals to work with: Dumortierite, Iceland spa, Melanite, Pink Opal, Rose quartz.

THE ADRENALIN RUSH; MOON IN SAGITTARIUS

At their best: optimistic, adventurous, friendly, honest, curious, passionate.

At their worst: tactless, immature, impatient, caged, inconsistent.

Crystals to work with: Chrysocolla, Emerald, Moonstone, Kunzite.

THE AMBITIOUS; MOON IN CAPRICORN

At their best: organized, competent, rational, laid back, efficient, dignified.

At their worst: judgmental, moody, high-standard, resentful, rejected, unstable.

Crystals to work with: Chrysoprase, Falcon’s eye, Fluorite, Garnet, Halite, Idocrase.

THE UNIQUE AURAS; MOON IN AQUARIUS

At their best: idealistic, original, friendly, open-minded, humanitarian.

At their worst: self-centered, pompous, petty, stubborn, unreliable, delusional.

Crystals to work with: Amber, Amethyst, Dumorierite, Fuchsite, Garnet, Spessartine.

THE SOFT INTELLECTUAL’S; MOON IN PISCES

At their best: intellectual, imaginative, intuitive, creative, considerate.

At their worst: sensitive, overwhelmed, despondent, reckless, self-pity, escapist.

As always, this is not a complete list and probably never will be (the amount of herbs and spices is crazy!) but here’s what i found most important/easy to get and wrote down in my grimoire.

Allspice🔆 - Prosperity and energy

Angelica👼🏻 - Protection, divination, and connecting to the angelic realm

Anise💫 - Creativity, and good for anything magickal

Basil⚔️ - Protection, wards against negativity, and provides courage

Bay✨ - Adds power, grants wishes, and good for divination

Briar🧚‍♀️ - Brings good dreams and keeps bad ones at bay, attracts Faeries

Catnip🐱 - Attracts a familiar

Chamomile😴 - Aids in rest and sleeping, calms

Cinnamon🏆 - Brings success and energy to do it, can bring good health

Clove🕯 - Good for wards and cleansing a space

Clover☘️ - Money, luck, and aids in divination

Cumin🗡 - Protection of belongings, and wards against thieves

Dill💚 - Brings money and love

Fern🌿 - Attracts wisdom, good for studying

Garlic🛡 - Provides protection

Hazel🧙‍♀️ - Brings Faeries, luck, and used when needing to find a wand

Heather💃 - Beauty

Ivy🤝 - Brings friendships and protects bonds

Kelp🏹 - Protection

Lavender☮️ - Attracts elves, inspires peace and calm

Mint🍞 - Usually used as an offering to spirits or deities

Mustard🐣 - Fosters luck and aids in fertility

Nutmeg🛌 - Comfort

Oats🎁 - Keeps a home secure, and can be used in offerings

Orange Peel🌅 - Can bring love and good fortune, and amplifies energy in the morning

Parsley🕊 - Purifies and protects

Pepper⚪️ - Just as good as salt actually, good for wards and protection magick.

Rosemary🌕 - Good for blessing your home, can replace sage in spells, and promotes good health

Sage🔰- Good for blessings and protection, can bring great wisdom

Star Anise🔮 - Enhances psychic/meta-physical abilities and aids meditation

Thyme🏃‍♂️- Sets up wards, and promotes courage and swift action

Here’s another little lesson that’s on Spells, Spellwork, Ritualwork, etc. My coven does a lot of lessons for witches and witchlings~! I hope this helps you all. If you have any questions, my inbox is always open!

Dictionary Definition of a Spell: A spell is a spoken or written formula that when used in an act of magick is intended to cause or influence a particular course of events.

Spells, Charms, Hexes, Curses, oh my! This is that part of witchcraft where everyone gets into, and most often the topic you hear when you hear the word “witchcraft” itself. Today in this Lecture we will talk about the details and magick of Spells.

What’s in the structure of the magickal spell?

There are 5 tips that will help create the spell itself:

Intention

Will

Desire

Knowledge

Visualization

Intention: What you aim for.

Will: Your determination and courage

Desire: Your interest of the spell

Knowledge: How much you know about the spell (associations)

Visualization: The magickal process

Another form of magick crafting and structuring, is the Witches Pyramid.

To Dare - Audere

Water - West

Audere is associated with courage. It is the witches emotions of the spell, as well as their intent. It’s their drive to make the spell. They dare themselves to surrender and follow the universal energies to solve the situation they desire. They dare themselves to do magick without fear or self-doubt.

Association:  the witch’s emotions – heart – sense of challenge – drive to overcome and courage.

To Will - Velle

Fire - South

Velle is where morality stands. This is the belief system, what their conviction and how it will manifest the magic. You don’t want to curse when you don’t think it’s right. This is how your opinion is on the matter of the magick. This is also the internal drive of your magick.

Association:  the witch’s will – belief system – discipline – application of magical skills – approach to life – approach to magic.

To Know - Noscere

Air - East

Noscere is the knowledge you need to conduct the spell. There’s of course knowing what to do, the associations that go along with the spell(ie. Materials) and your reasoning and understanding. The more the witch learns, understands, and continues to learn, the more powerful and effective the magick will be. This is where you have to know yourself, your craft, and continue to apply your knowledge then. Intuition applies.

Association:  reason – intellect – intuition – wisdom -psychic awareness -abilities – rationalising – analysing – imagining – skills in the art of magic and mystical knowledge gained on any level, either through tutors on the earthplane or those from other realms.

To keep silent - Tacere

Earth - North

Tacere is the quiet understanding, and that not everything magickal needs to be shared. Sometimes there is power in silence and understanding. Some things are just better understood than spoken about. This also applies to internal silence, the grounding and centering before any spell. Still and clear channels are made before invoking energies.

Associated with inner calm, silent knowing, protecting sacred knowledge.

To Go - Ire

Spirit

Ire is the magick manifesting. It is the point to where the magick is made and directed and going forth. This is also applying to “forget and move on”. If you keep thinking about the spell you made and hoping so much for it to work, the energies will be still trapped within. The moment you forget and move on, the magick flows freely forth. Ire brings the 4 elements into balance. Ire is also the product of the spell.

This is very important, and if any one of the 4 balancing base elements are affected, the spell may be affected itself. If you have trouble getting a successful spell, try and reflect over the Witches pyramid and what could’ve improved. Another thing to remember is to be patient. You don’t want to cast a spell, and after being impatient on it’s product, conducting another spell to help it, and another, only to have it all be effective simultaneously, creating a mess.

Now after learning the structure of the spell, let’s learn the different types!

Types of Spells

The 3 C’s:

Consecrating: blessing and making something sacred

Charging: to fill an item with an intended energy

Cleansing: Literally cleansing or removing of negative energies to a specific person, thing, place, or situation/event.

Blessings: Bringing positive energy(of a certain intent or just in general) to a specific person, thing, place, or situation/event. Bringing upon good luck.

Glamour: Charming an item or being to give an illusion of a changed appearance

Jar spells: Doing a spell charm using jars.

Charms, Amulets, and Talismans: Often enhancements on a specific item with a certain intent.

Negative/Punishing offense Magick: These are often the “dark” part of magick, where the intent is darker and tend to be more negative.

Curses: Any spell meant to cause harm(Physical, Psychologically, or emotionally) to someone of something..

Jinx: A spell that causes repetitive and/or continual bad luck(Normally the intent is to cause irritation)

Hexes: A minor Curse, not as powerful or last as long as a curse.

Binding: restricts the person/entity from doing something. Normally cast to keep the person/entity from hurting themselves or others. Also can be reversible.

Materials, Tools, and Ingredients

Materials, Tools, and ingredients are what help give that spell an “UMPH”. Some people see it as an enhancement to the spell, or, to compare, possibly a recipe to a great big food(metaphorically speaking). The most important tool is yourself, Remember that. Without you, the magick can’t be made. You can make the spell by yourself, and you don’t NEED the ingredients.

The first thing to start off in this are the associations made. How to associate the Materials, Tools, and Ingredients? USE YOUR INTUITION. It’s way more accurate than others. If you don’t feel as though this certain association fits, then use the association that you think would fit best. I will list down some basics and commons on associations, but do not follow if you do not “vibe” with it.

Crystals: used to enhance the energy of an area/person, and possibly charge an item(for example, gem water)

Some known examples:

Amethyst - Calm, Sobriety, Psychic enhancement/awareness

Quartz - universal energy enhancer, substitute for any crystal(all-purpose stone)

Rose Quartz - Love, Romance, Peace

Herbs: Used to enhance the spell by burning, mixing, ingesting, brewing, etc.

Examples:

Lavender: Calmness, Peace

Cinnamon: Fire, Enhancement, Power, Courage

Pink - Permanent rather than passionate love, Compassion, Gentleness

Magenta - Powerful energy source, Transformation

Red - Love, Passion, Strong emotions, Strength, Anger, Transformation, Truth

Orange - Activity, Change, Dynamism

Yellow - Intellect, understanding, Air, Travel, Comprehension, Memory

Green - Money, Prosperity, Luck, Stability

Blue - Relaxation, Peace, Healing

Purple - Psychic, Deep relaxation, Meditation, Magick

Beige - Sweet Sentiments, Permanent Tranquility

Brown - Earthy, Justice, Balance, Moderation, Stability

Silver - Moon, Intuition, Artemis

Gold - Sun, Strength, Apollo

Black - Mystery, Letting go, moving on, Banishing, Necromancy, Control negative forces

White - Substitute for any other color, enhances energy of other colors, Purity, Cleansing, Healing, Divine.

This list is also a great quick reference to candle colors, as they can be used to also invoke specific energies and intentions.

Circles and Rituals

Dictionary definition of Ritual: a religious or solemn ceremony consisting of a series of actions performed according to a prescribed order

Rituals are, as the dictionary says, a ceremony consisting of a series of actions performed in a certain order. Not every spell is a ritual, but not every ritual is a spell. Circles are temporary protective spaces used to conduct rituals. Sometimes, certain rituals can drain, so remember to ground and center!

Making your own spells vs. using other spells

There’s a lot of controversy on spell making and using others spells. For my opinion, it’s whatever you want to do! Some people just can’t write spells and it’s okay! I think of spells as a recipe. You can share one, share them, and others can follow as well. As long as you follow the instructions it’s okay. Remember, the magick comes from you. Now it’s up to you on how to direct it and structure it.

In Conclusion…

Spells are a spoken or written formula that when used in an act of magick is intended to cause or influence a particular course of events. They are what gets a lot of people into witchcraft. There is a structure in every spell, and following it can help outline the spell. There are many different kinds, from blessings to curses. Some spells require materials, tools, and ingredients, and it’s up to you whether it fits with associations. Circles and rituals make up some spells and it’s also up to you.

This is a small excerpt from my coven’s lessons. I’ll continue to post these so witchlings, or witches, can have this information! I hope it helps.

Witchcraft is, in my opinion, the practice of manipulating energy forces into your intent. This can also be simplified as the practice of magick. You can aid it by tools and materials, but no matter what, you are manipulating energy. That is why energy work can be very important.

The Craft started wayy back, from the start of human civilization. Before we started to get scientifically advanced and didn’t know that much, we would believe in the supernatural, that a god or spirit did this and that. Witches were the mediators between humans and the higher powers. Religion and Witchcraft may have gone hand to hand back then, but it isn’t always the case. You can practice witchcraft without believing in a higher power or deity. Here are just some things to know before stepping into the Craft:

Witchcraft ≠ Religion

It isn’t a game(To specify, don’t half-ass a spell. It either might not work, or worse, create chaos. We can learn about this next lesson when we learn about Energy work).

Witchcraft can be used for anything and everything you want it to be, It’s really flexible.

There are morals and ethics to learn about in the craft you should pay attention to

It is an enhancement, not a replacement to your life.

To elaborate on the last point, here is a document by Brian Windvexer that should be looked at:

Don’t Let Witchcraft Erase Who You Are:

Don’t become dependent on Tarot readings to make decisions

Don’t feel like the day is ruined if you left the house without drawing your card for the day

Don’t feel helpless if you can’t figure out a spell to help

Don’t rely on witchcraft alone to improve your relationships

Don’t forget how to speak out because you can hex at home

Don’t forget how to be confident without a candle spell

Don’t forget to discover for yourself because there are so many free resources online

Don’t get panicky if you can’t explain it with your new beliefs

Don’t lose your friends because they don’t understand the new you

Don’t avoid going out with friends so you can buy more herbs and candles instead

Don’t give up your other hobbies to practice endless energy work or Divination

Don’t neglect your job or studies to read witchcraft books instead

Don’t ask yourself ‘what would a witch do’. Ask yourself, ‘What would I do.’

Witchcraft is an enhancement to life, not a replacement for life.

There are different types of witchcraft and I’d say they are all valid. But with every practice, there are certain basics to them.

They are:

Protection

Grounding

Centering

Meditation

Visualization

Protection - To guard and prevent harmful energies to an area/being, especially in Magick practice.

There are 3 types:

Wards: protection of an area (ie. House or room)

Shields: protection of a being (ie. You, someone else, maybe a pet)

Circles: Temporary protection ground for rituals

Here’s the best part of protection, you can think of protection in so many ways, may it be a ring of fire, a giant bubble, a castle wall, whatever your heart desires! You can even more than But, I suggest putting up protection that is similar to a membrane, so things still flow freely, letting the good things in and the bad things out.

There are plenty of techniques to set up protection, starting with visualization. Imagination is a powerful tool, and is very important in practicing energy work and the craft. Some added protection is made by adding protection-associated materials, like Salt for example.

Grounding - To stabilize your energies and stay down to earth

Grounding is a great recommendation to keeping your energies in control and staying connected to the earth. It can help recharge you with energies.

One technique to help ground yourself is to visualize a root shooting from the bottom of your spine and digging into the earth like a Tree. Gather the energies from the earth, and give off all of the negative energies you feel. Cycle the energies until you feel refreshed. You can make 2 roots and have one give the good energy and the other giving to the earth the negative energies.

It can also be as simple as shaking off and stretching!

Centering - Getting your shit together (shit as in energy).

Centering is great as it can help make a state of mindfulness and gets you to stay present in the present. It’s great mentally. It helps get scattered energy into one. Literally, getting your shit together. Centering can help as well in controlling your energies and gathering yourself up so you stay together. How energy works is that you tend to throw bits and pieces of your energy all around different areas(sometimes you may not even know it), and sometimes you just need to recharge. Most of the time you should ground after a centering.

Here’s one technique to practice centering: visualize scattered energy, making you less bright and more dull, very dim as a person. Then, imagine the pieces of energy flying back at you, morphing around you into one bubble, like a puzzle piece. You start to glow brightly again.

Meditation - Being one with the thoughts/self, calming yourself down and staying mindful and aware.

Meditation can do soooo much. It helps you mentally, physically, and spiritually. It can help your energies stay in check, and It can do so much more than that. Before you astral travel, you must fall into a state of meditation. There are two types of meditation, Concentrated and Mindful. Concentrated is when you focus on one object, sound, or mantra. Mindful doesn’t focus on anything specific, just being aware of everything that passes by in your mind. In witchcraft, if it used to help discover who you are, as well as communicate to others(spirits/deities/etc).

Now, the number one thing to focus on when meditating is to breathe. Long, regular breaths help calm down. Get into a quiet area. Now get into a comfortable position, either cross-legged or laying down. Breathe. 4 counts in, 4 counts out. Clear your mind. Now, be aware of your mind.