Oak Moss - Druid's Woodland Scent

Evernia prunastri, also known as oakmoss, is a species of lichen. It can be found in many mountainous temperate forests throughout the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of France, Portugal, Spain, North America, and much of Central Europe.

Oakmoss grows primarily on the trunk and branches of oak trees, but is also commonly found on the bark of other deciduous trees and conifers such as fir and pine. The thalli of oakmoss are short (3–4 cm in length) and bushy, and grow together on bark to form large clumps. Oakmoss thallus is flat and strap-like. They are also highly branched, resembling the form of deer antlers. The colour of oakmoss ranges from green to a greenish-white when dry, and dark olive-green to yellow-green when wet. The texture of the thalli are rough when dry and rubbery when wet. It is used extensively in modern perfumery.

Like all the mosses, this plant is ruled by the Element Earth and so is especially suited for work involving the Crone or other permutations of death/birth. It helps us connect to Elemental Earth energy. Others like to use this magick herb for money spells, seeing the Elemental Earth connection to wealth. It is a good addition to potpourri, helping to fix the scents and to add a forest-like smell, and it makes a great base for vegetable musks, especially when combined with labdanum and patchouli. Try it as an incense base, too; grind it together with resins or hard spices.

Try in combination with other Earth scents for a grounding oil or as an ingredient in Druidic or Celtic oils.

Oakmoss absolutes and extracts, derived from the lichen, have a distinctively woody, sharp and very sensual aroma that combines very well with floral and green notes, and makes a great addition to oriental type fragrances. A special type of oakmoss which grows on pine trees has a slightly different, turpentine-like smell, which makes it highly valued among perfumers.

For many years, oakmoss has been known as a potent dermal sensitizer that should be used with extreme caution in order to prevent adverse dermatological reactions. However, it has become very controversial in recent times, since the IFRA, a body that regulates the guidelines for safe usage of fragrant chemicals and essential oils in perfumes, has listed oakmoss as a restricted ingredient. IFRA regulations state that oak moss extracts obtained from Evernia prunastri should not be used in consumer products if their quantity exceeds 0.1%. Moreover, if the formula already contains tree moss extracts, the levels of oakmoss and tree moss extracts should be reduced in such a way that the total amount of both extracts doesn't exceed 0.1%.

Edible Oakmoss

You have to cook oakmoss before eating and use as an ingredient with other dishes.

Clean the oak moss to ensure there are no bits of bark still attached
Prepare two pans of salted boiling water.
Boil the oak moss for 5 minutes in the first pan then strain and transfer to the second pan for a further 5 minutes.
Strain the water and lay each piece of moss out on the kitchen towel to dry out lightly.
Meanwhile heat some sunflower oil for deep-frying the moss to 160 C.
Drop small amounts of the oak moss into the oil and fry for between 5 and 10 seconds, remove with a slotted spoon and place on some more kitchen towel.

Once its all been fried, place in a bowl, season with salt and pepper, drizzle about half a teaspoon of flavoured oil, a squeeze of lemon and gently toss to coat the lichen with the flavoring ensuring not to be too rough and break the delicate structure.

IMPORTANT notes on ingredients – and a warning

PLEASE exercise extreme caution when consuming wild foods that you have collected and remember that you do so entirely at your own risk. Most lichens contain varying amounts of indigestible polysaccharides and lichenic acids which may be toxic in large quantities, so conduct very, very careful research to identify and decide on the safety of any you collect.

3 Herbal Teas That Boost Metabolism

Bladderwrack

This black herb comes from the garden of the sea and it packs the traditional salty taste you’d expect from aquatic plants.

Bladderwrack herbal tea works on the thyroid and is considered to be a thyroid tonic due to its soothing effects and high iodine content. It also gives the metabolism a nice boost so that the body can start working towards a more healthy weight balance.

Use bladderwrack herb in small doses in fragrant blends to mask its salty, aquatic taste.

Sarsaparilla

Sarsaparilla herbal tea gently stimulates and fires up the metabolism so that the body uses up fats and carbs in a healthier way. This herb is included in just about every weight loss and fat burning blend and its gentle effects makes it a great option for many people.

Ginger Root

You can literally feel ginger herbal tea raise the body temperature slightly as the metabolism kicks into high gear. This herb is favored in the East because when the body temperature gets slightly raised, it doesn’t feel as hot outside as it may be.

In addition to turning up the fat burning heat in the body, ginger root herbal tea also gets the body’s digestive process in high gear so that fats, carbs, and nutrients get handled in a faster and more efficient way.

Stress Tonic Herbal Tea Recipe

Ingredients

1/2 teaspoon Lemon Balm

1/4 teaspoon German Chamomile

1/4 teaspoon Skullcap

1/4 teaspoon Nettle

To Prepare

Steep the herbs in 8-10 ounces of steaming hot water for 6 minutes. You can use a mesh tea ball, reusable muslin tea bag, disposable natural tea bag, or a tea kettle with a built-in strainer. Make sure to keep the tea covered while it steeps so that you don’t lose all the essential oils as the water evaporates.

Sit back and enjoy

Traditional Glögg (Swedish Mulled Wine)

Traditional Glögg (Swedish Mulled Wine)

While many versions of this Scandinavian yuletide punch exist, every rendition invariably calls for red wine, orange peel, clove and cardamom. If you’re pressed for time, prepare this drink one day early and reheat it before serving.

½ cup sugar

2 cinnamon sticks, broken in half

4 whole cloves

6 cardamom pods, crushed

1 orange peel, cut into strips

1 ginger root, peeled and cut in half

1 cup brandy

2 cups Pinot Noir, or other light-bodied red wine

2 cups Port

Raisins, for garnish

Blanched almonds, for garnish

In a large pot, combine the sugar with 1 cup of water. Over high heat, stir the liquid with a wooden spoon until the sugar is completely dissolved, and then bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium, and add the cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, orange peel and ginger. Stir again, keeping the liquid at a simmer.

Add the brandy, wine and Port. Taste the punch, and add additional sugar or spice to taste. Strain and ladle into mugs. Garnish with almonds and raisins, and serve warm. 

Serves 6.

Miller's Ale Wassail Bowl

Miller's Ale Wassail Bowl (an eggless version).

Serves 6-8

1½ litres brown ale or 1 litre pale ale plus 500ml stout (the recipe can also be made with cider)

250g demerara sugar

1 tsp mixed spices (cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and mace)

375ml sherry

1 lemon

7 baked apples (any baked apple recipe should work; try to use tart apples)

Fill a large heatproof bowl with hot water to warm it. Bring half of the ale, sugar and spices to the boil, stirring to keep it from foaming over. Add the remaining ale or ale/stout, plus the sherry. 

Pour the hot water out of the bowl and add the ale mixture.

Peel the lemon. Squeeze the lemon-peel twists over the bowl to extract the oil and discard them. 

Add 3 to 4 peeled-lemon slices and the baked apples.

Serve.

Meditation with Charoite

Meditating with Charoite transmutes negativity and grounds to the spiritual self. It is marvelous for cleansing the aura and filling the chakras with emotional purity, allowing one to open the heart and see how we are all universally connected. It may also inspire visions of past lives and suggest ways to redress karma on a personal and collective level.

5th Chakra Tea

OVERVIEW

A warm and soothing decoction blend designed to improve communication all year round. Dry or scratchy sore throats are no match for this combination of roots and spices. A smooth and comforting blend.

TASTE

A warming tea which slides down smoothly and has a succulent linger.

AROMA AND TASTE

Sweet and viscous with strong licorice and marshmallow notes.

BREW TIME AND COLOR

Golden amber. 5-10 minutes

CAFFEINE CONTENT

Caffeine free

INGREDIENTS

Organic Licorice root, organic Marshmallow root, organic Echinacea purpurea root, organic Orange peel, organic Cinnamon bark, organic Ginger root, organic Fennel seed, and organic Cloves.

I have not tried this yet myself, so you will have to experiment with the combinations of ingredients, to achieve the perfect blend, does sound like a lovely tea.

Cranberries Wiccan Correspondences

Element: Water.
Planetary association: Mars.

Good for: healing, protection, love, lust, positive energy, courage, passion, action.

Cranberry juice or cranberry wine can be substituted for red wine in rituals. With its deep, sensual red color, they are associated with love, and if you are cooking a meal for a loved one, consider incorporating cranberry into the meal.

The cranberry’s beautiful red color has associated it with the planet Mars, and as a result, its magickal correspondences are similar to that of Mars. Cranberry can be used for protection, positive energy, courage, passion, determination, goals, and action. Similarly, the deep, erotic red color of cranberries make them useful in magick for love.

A glossy, scarlet red, very tart berry, the cranberry belongs to the same genus as the blueberry, Vaccinium. (Both berries also belong to the food family called Ericaceae, also known as the heath or heather family.)

American Indians enjoyed cranberries cooked and sweetened with honey or maple syrup—a cranberry sauce recipe that was likely a treat at early New England Thanksgiving feasts. By the beginning of the 18th century, the tart red berries were already being exported to England by the colonists. Cranberries were also used by the Indians decoratively, as a source of red dye, and medicinally, as a poultice for wounds since not only do their astringent tannins contract tissues and help stop bleeding, but we now also know that compounds in cranberries have antibiotic effects.

Although several species of cranberries grow wild in Europe and Asia, the cranberry most cultivated as a commercial crop is an American native, which owes its success to one Henry Hall, an observant gentleman in Dennis, Massachusetts. In 1840, Mr. Hall noticed an abundance of large berries grew when sand was swept into his bog by the prevailing winds and tides. The sandy bog provided just the right growing conditions for the cranberries by stifling the growth of shallow-rooted weeds, thus enhancing that of the deep rooted cranberries.

Cranberry cultivation soon spread not only across the U.S. through Wisconsin to Washington and Oregon, but also across the sea to Scandinavia and Great Britain. The hardy berries arrived in Holland as survivors of a shipwreck. When an American ship loaded with crates filled with cranberries sank along the Dutch coast, many crates washed ashore on the small island of Terschelling; some of the berries took root, and cranberries have been cultivated there ever since.
In terms of scientific classifications, one of the most common cranberry types is Vaccinium oxycoccos, sometimes referred to as European cranberry. This species of cranberry is native to the Northern Hemisphere and found not only in Northern Europe but also Northern Asia and Northern North America.

Another common type—Vaccinium macrocarpon is larger and more common along the eastern parts of the United States and Canada. This is the cranberry species that is most widely commercially cultivated.

Vaccinium microcarpum is a smaller cranberry species that is most widely found in Northern Europe and Northern Asia.

Elder Full Moon Candle Ritual (Dec 21st - Dec 25th)

Light a large, gold candle once a night for one hour from the Winter Solstice Dec. 21 to the Full Elder Moon which falls on the 25th of December this year.

The Elder Moon is the last month in the cycle of the 13 Celtic Moon months, and it indicates the renewal of energy and continuous journey of the soul toward greater happiness and understanding. The candle symbolizes abundance in all things.

Around the candle place items that symbolize things you want in abundance in the upcoming year: for example, a coin for money, hazelnuts for wisdom, seeds for fertility, fruit for health, etc. as long as the items symbolize for you the things that you want, they will work. Focus your mind and visualize your actions coming to completion when you light the candle each night. This way you are setting your intent for the coming year.

Cinnamon the Spice of Life

Correspondences

Element: Fire
Planet: Sun
Season: Winter
Deities: Venus, Aphrodite, Mars, Bast
Gender: male

Cinnamon is masculine in action and ruled by the Sun and the element of Fire. As well as being a valuable ingredient in many recipes, cinnamon can be sprinkled over coals and burned as a pleasing incense to purify your sacred space before beginning your magical work and cinnamon scented candles are readily available as well. It can be made into cinnamon clay and used to fashion any number of delightfully scented sculptures and cinnamon sticks can be added to wreathes and other crafts.

Ground cinnamon sprinkled in cabinets will discourage bugs from entering.

A stick of Cinnamon makes an excellent incense, as it smolders slowly releasing a potent energy. Cinnamon has a high vibration, and can be added to most spells simply to boost their power.
Cinnamon can be used to achieve a higher state of spirituality and as an aid to clairvoyance and to stimulate psychic powers.

Incorporated into a spell or charm, Cinnamon can be used to give your creativity a boost, and it can also be drawn upon to reinforce your will and determination. The fast moving, successful, determined energy of Cinnamon makes it an ideal addition to prosperity and success spells to draw money and increase your personal power, and aid in successful ventures.

However you apply it, cinnamon can be used in magic for protection, prosperity, scrying, and warm, comforting love. Cinnamon is all about security.

Cinnamon is a natural accompaniment to apples and enhances their loving energy.

If you are using cinnamon as an incense or other non edible ways then the shop bought off the shelf Cassia Cinnamon is fine but if you are going to cook with it on a regular basis then use Ceylon Cinnamon because it has low levels of Coumarin compared to Cassia Cinnamon, if you only use it in cooking now and again then you could use either, personally I only use Ceylon Cinnamon.

If you are taking Ceylon Cinnamon for diabetes, take it in moderation as part of a healthy program of diet, proper nutrition and moderate exercise.

Cinnamon is a spice that is made from the inner bark of trees called Cinnamomum.
It has been used as an ingredient throughout history, dating back as far as Ancient Egypt. It used to be rare and valuable, and was regarded as a gift fit for kings.
These days, cinnamon is cheap, available in every supermarket and found in all sorts of foods and recipes.

There are two main types of cinnamon

Ceylon cinnamon: Also known as “true” cinnamon.

Cassia cinnamon: This is the more common variety today, what people generally refer to as “cinnamon.”

Cinnamon is made by cutting the stems of the cinnamomum tree. The inner bark is then extracted and the woody parts removed from it.

When it dries, it forms strips that curl into rolls, called cinnamon sticks. The sticks can be ground to form cinnamon powder.

The distinct smell and flavor of cinnamon is due to the oily part, which is very high in a compound called cinnamaldehyde.

It is this compound that is responsible for most of cinnamon’s powerful effects on health and metabolism.

Ceylon Cinnamon Leaf Oil is a powerful anti-bacterial and makes a great natural disinfectant.

Cinnamon is effective in inhibiting bacterial growth. This maybe one reason why it is widely used in food preparation in hot Asian countries. In Sri Lanka, virtually every dish has a pinch of Cinnamon in it. In addition to great flavor, Ceylon Cinnamon in combination with other spices like Turmeric and Chili may have been an indigenous solution to preserve food without a refrigerator.

Pure Cinnamon Leaf oil not only smells great but is an effective odor neutralizer as it kills bacteria that creates bad odors and not just mask odors. All you need is 2-5 drops of Cinnamon leaf oil mixed with water on a diffuser and within minutes all odors are neutralized. Alternatively spray diluted Cinnamon Leaf Oil and wipe down toilets, floors and kitchen counter tops, garbage cans and the interior of vehicles to rapidly remove foul odors. Far better than any chemical sprays. It also has the effect of improving your mood. Especially great as a cure for the winter blues.

Cinnamon is a well known warming agent. Combined with a carrier oil it is highly effective in relaxing and relieving muscle pain. Try putting a few drops in your bath to relax and to sooth tired and aching muscles.

At the first sign (within 5-10 minutes) of sniffles or an itch in your throat take some Cinnamon Tea or Cinnamon stick Tea. It is said to stop an impending illness in its tracks. Again this is related to the anti bacterial properties and warming properties of Cinnamon and its propensity to increase blood flow and thereby improve blood oxygen levels to fight illness. Chinese traditional medicine commonly recommends Cinnamon for phlegm coughs.

The Gods and Goddesses of the Celtic Lands

The Gods and Goddesses

(Quick reference of the Celtic Gods and Goddesses that begin with the letter A)

Abarta
Location:  Ireland.
Description:  A God of the Tuatha De Danann.  "Performer of feats."
Rules Over:  Understanding the destructive nature of jealousy, teamwork.

Accasbel
Location:  Ireland.
Description:  A Partholan who is credited with making the first tavern (pub) in Ireland.  Most likely was an early God of wine or meade.
Rules Over:  Mabon vine harvest, Beltane's blessing of the meade.

Achtland
Description:  Goddess queen who no mortal man could sexually satisfy, so she took a giant from the faery realm as her mate.
Rules Over:  Sex magick.

Addanc
Other Names:  Affanc.
Location:  Wales.
Description:  Primordial Giant/God who created and rode the crest of the flood near his home on the Lake of Waves.  Was once a deity worshipped by the people of the lake region but who is now reduced to faery or evil demi-god.  In modern times the word Addanc is used to describe any evil fresh water-dwelling faery of Wales.
Rules Over:  Erasing an event/person/etc from your mind, erasing unwanted thoughts so you can have a fresh start.

Adsullata
Location:  Britain.
Description:  Goddess of hot springs who came to Brittany from Celtic Gaul.  A minor sun Goddess in her own right before the time when the Cels relegated the majority of their sun images to male deities and their moon images to female ones.
Rules Over:  Purification, solar magick.

Aerten
Other Names:  Aerfen, Aeron.
Location:  Wales, Cornish.
Description:  Goddess of Fate who presided over the outcome of war between several Celtic clans.  She had a shrine at Glyndyfrdwy on the banks of the River Dee, where legend has it that three human sacrifices had to be made every three years to ensure success in future battles.  Her symbol was the double-bladed axe.
Rules Over:  Peace, overcoming enemies.

Aesun
Location:  Ireland.
Description:  Early Irish God whose name means "to be."  Most likely part of a lost creation myth.  Aesun was also known by the Persians and Umbria and Scandinavia.

Aeval
Other Names:  Aebhel.
Location:  Ireland.
Description:  Goddess who in popular legend is a faery, who held a midnight court to hear the debate on whether the men of her province were keeping their women sexually satisfied or not.  She commanded that the men bow to the women's sexual wishes.
Rules Over:  Lust, sex magick, wisdom in making judgement.

Agrona
Location:  Wales.
Description:  Slaughter goddess often equated with the Morrigu.
Rules Over:  War, slaughter.

Aibell
Location: Ireland.
Description:  Goddess of Munster whose legends were almost lost until she was 'demoted' to a faery queen.  She had in her possession a magickal harp which did her bidding, but which human ears could not hear or else the eavesdropper would soon die.  She was associated with stones and leaves.
Rules Over:  Protection, music, earth magick, ecological magick.

Aibheaog
Location:  Ireland.
Description:  Fire goddess who had a magick well that contained mighty healing powers, especially effective against toothache so long as the petitioner left a small white stone at the well to represent the decayed tooth.  She is associated with wells and the number 5.
Rules Over:  Healing, Midsummer well rituals.

Aife
Other Names:  Aoife.
Location:  Ireland, Scotland.
Description:  Goddess and queen of the Isle of Shadow.  She ran a school for warriors, but her school was less successful than her sister, Scathach's, school.  Aife was not vulnerable to magick, and commanded a legion of fierce horsewomen.  She stole an alphabet of knowledge from the deities to give to humankind.  For that infraction, she was transformed into a crane by the elder deities.  Supposedly, she was accidentally killed by hunters but yet others say she still haunts the countryside in this form today.  She is associated with the three fold law and the crane.
Rules Over:  Protection, general knowledge, teaching, pathworking, lessons of the threefold law.

Aimend
Location:  Ireland, Scotland.
Description:  Minor Sun Goddess who is thought to be the daughter of the king of the region known as Corco Loidhe.

Aine of Knockaine
Location:  Ireland.
Description:  Moon Goddess who was connected with the Summer Solstice.
Rules Over:  Crops and cattle.

Airmid
Location:  Ireland.
Description:  Goddess of medicine and all healing arts to the Tuatha De Danann.  She was looked upon as a magician and herbalist of great reputation.  She was also a craftswoman who, with her brother, helped create the famed silver hand of Nuada.
Rules Over:  Magick, healing, learning, herbalism, understanding family loyalty, inspiration to craftspeople.

Albion
Description:  Son of a forgotten Sea God who may have been part of a lost creation myth.  Was once said to rule the Celtic world.  His name became the poetic name for Britain.

Alisanos
Description:  Gaulish God of stones about whom very little is known.  Probably a deity of the standing stones of Brittany.
Rules Over:  Fertility.

Almha
Location:  Ireland.
Description:  Basically all her myths are lost to us today.  What is known about her is that she was a Goddess of the Tuatha De Danann and that a hill in southern Ireland was named for her.

Ambisagrus
Other Names:  Bussumarus.
Location:  Britain.
Description:  Originally from Gaul, where his Celtic identity was lost during the Roman takeover where he took all the characteristics of the Roman God Jupiter.  Weather deity who controlled the rain, wind, hail and fog.
Rules Over:  Weather magick, leadership.

Ancasta
Description:  A Goddess who survives only in her name through an inscription on a stone in Hampshire.  It is a possibility she is related to Andraste.

Andraste
Location:  Britain.
Description:  War Goddess who was evoked on the eve of the battle to bring favor, and possibly ritual sacrifices were given to her.  Queen Boadicea of the Iceni offered sacrifices to Andraste in a sacred grove before fighting the Romans on her many campaigns against them.
Rules Over:  Overcoming enemies.

Angus Mac Og
Other Names:  Angus of the Brugh, Oengus of the Bruig, Angus Mac Oc, Aengus MacOg.
Location: Ireland.
Description:  One of the Tuatha De Dannan who had a golden harp that could create incredibly sweet music.  He had a brugh (fairy palace) on the banks of the Boyne.
Rules Over:  Youth, love, music magick, protection of lovers, dream work, creativity and beauty.

Anu
Other Names:  Anann, Dana, Dana-Ana, Catana.
Location:  Ireland.
Description:  Mother Earth, Great Goddess, Greatest of all Goddesses.  Another aspect of the Morrigu.  The fertility Goddess, sometimes she formed a trinity with Badb and Macha.  Her priestesses comforted and taught the dying.  Fires were lit for her on Midsummer.  Guardian of cattle and health.
Rules Over:  Fertility, prosperity, comfort, health, cattle.

Arawn
Other Names:  Arawyn, Arrawn, Arawen.
Location:  Wales.
Description:  King of Hell, God of Annwn.  Ruled the underground kingdom of the dead.
Rules Over:  Revenge, terror, war, spirit contact, picking magickal names, strengthening friendships, reincarnation.

Ard Greimme
Location:  Ireland, Scotland.
Description:  Father of the famed warrioress sister Aife and Scathach.  Once a Sun God.
Rules Over:  Fire magick.

Ardwinna
Other Names:  Dea Arduinna.
Location:  Britain.
Description:  Woodland and animal Goddess who haunted the forests of Ardennes riding a wild boar.  She commanded a fine for any animal killed on her land, yet asked for animal sacrifices on her feast day.
Rules over:  Animals, familiars, woodlands.

Ariadne
Description: The only Greek Goddess known to have been worshipped in Celtic Gaul.  Her name is derived from the word arachnid.  Ariadne spun the universe from the primordial darkness like a spider spins her web, a theme with echoes in the creation myths of many other cultures.  She is thought to be very 'unceltic' and to have been brought with the Celts on their long journey across the European continent.  She is associated with spider web, sulphur, thread, yarn.
Rules Over:  Protection, magick, manifestation, time.

Arianrhod
Location:  Wales.
Description:  Keeper of the circling Silver Wheel of Stars, a symbol of time and karma.  Mother aspect of the Triple Goddess.  Honored at the Full Moon.
Rules Over:  Beauty, fertility, reincarnation.

Arnamentia
Description:  Goddess of spring waters who was once a minor solar deity.
Rules Over:  Healing and purification.

Artaius
Description:  God of sheep and cattle herders from Celtic Gaul.  Later, the Romans identified him with Mercury.
Rules Over:  Sheep, cattle.

King Arthur
Location:  Wales, Cornwall.
Description:  Most likely based on a seventh-century king named Artorius who led the fight to drive the Saxons from Britain, and later his legend was merged with that of a now-forgotten father/sacrificial God.  Because of the strength of his legends, some consider him a God (even if only archtypically), father figure, warrior, leader, sacrificial king, protector and defender of justice and mercy.  Son of King Uther Pendragon and Igraine, the Duchess of Cornwall.  Taught and protected by the magician/Druid Merlin, married Guinevere, and was mortally wounded in battle by his son Modred (Morgan LeFay's child).  Arthur's body was carried to Avalon to sleep and await the time when he is needed.  He is a sacrificial God/king in the purest sense.  The oldest legends surrounding him are found in The Black Book of Caermarthen.
Rules Over:  Nearly anything is said to be able to be helped by King Arthur.

Artio
Description:  Bear Goddess whose shrine once stood in what is now Berne, Switzerland.  She is usually depicted as being surrounded by full baskets and animals.  Goddess of fertility and wildlife.  She is associated with the bear, claws and teeth, geode stones.
Rules Over:  Fertility, animals, strength, courage.

The Yew Faery

The Yew Faery is a venerable being indeed. She is the oldest of the tree spirits and has a depth and power that are hard to understand. Yew is an ancient evergreen, from the depths of the primeval forests that reigned across the globe before the arrival of broad-leaved trees.

Because Yews are able to root their branches, they are virtually deathless, and one Scottish yew tree, the Fortingall Yew in Perthshire, is reputed to be 9,000 years old. Yews are often planted in churchyards, and are connected with death, rebirth, and initiation mysteries.

The Yew Fairy carries the breath of the unutterably ancient, from cave and grave, from shadowed forest where the sun never penetrated. 

The wisdom of the Yew Fairy is beyond words, but may come to you as visions. These should not be dissected, for they are unlikely to be comprehended by the conscious mind. They Yew Fairy forms a connection with the eternal, carrying ancestral knowledge as well as opening the doorway to future generations. She can bring you close to loved ones who have passed on. She also brings a sense of perspective, for all our concerns are dwarfed by the passage of the centuries.

The Fairy Bible by Teresa Moorey

Feast of Juul - Winter Solstice Yule Log

The Feast of Juul was a pre-Christian festival observed in Scandinavia at the time of the December solstice. Fires were lit to symbolize the heat, light and life-giving properties of the returning sun.
A Yule or Juul log was brought in and burned on the hearth in honor of the Scandinavian god Thor.

A piece of the log was kept as both a token of good luck and as kindling for the following year’s log.

In England, Germany, France and other European countries, the Yule log was burned until nothing but ash remained. The ashes were then collected and either strewn on the fields as fertilizer every night until Twelfth Night or kept as a charm and or as medicine.

Cinnamon Clay for Winter Solstice Decorations

Cinnamon Clay for Winter Solstice Decorations

This is a non-edible recipe for making a scented dough with which you can create charms, ornaments, and small altar pieces.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsweetened Applesauce
1/3 cup White Glue
Any combination of ground Cloves, ground Nutmeg, ground allspice, and/or ground ginger to equal 1 cup
1/2 cup of ground cinnamon

Directions:

In a medium bowl, stir together cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice and ginger. Mix in the applesauce and glue. Work the mixture with hands for 2-3 minutes to form a firm ball. If it’s too wet, add more cinnamon, if it’s too dry, add more applesauce.

To make ornaments:

Roll out the dough between layers of wax paper to a thickness of 1/8" to 1/4". Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes. Use a toothpick or straw to cut out a hole near the top of the shape for a hanger. Let the shapes dry on wax paper or a wire rack for a couple of days, flip a few times to promote even drying and avoid curling.

When dry, paint with puffy/dimensional paint, if you like, or leave the ornaments plain. Add a ribbon, twine or yarn hanger.

Molded shapes:

Pinch off as much dough as you need to make your shape, and leave the rest in the covered bowl. Work the dough into any desired shape with your hands. When you have finished molding your shape, put it on a piece of waxed paper to dry. It should dry in about 2 or 3 days to a hard finish

Items created with this dough carry the energy of the Sun and the element of Fire. They are useful for attracting love and prosperity and for protection.
You may choose to use items in closets, drawers and chests to keep items safe and smelling nice and to charge those items with the herbs qualities.

Make sun shaped discs and paint them for hanging upon your Christmas tree

This dish carries energies for the following magical purposes:

Protection, love, prosperity.

UNCROSSING OIL

Use Uncrossing oil to hold up a protective mirror against others’ negative projections, and to untangle the knots of competition, jealousy or revenge (in others or yourself).

An uncrossing is a method of removing crossed conditions, which could mean anything from an actual curse someone has put on you, to a run of bad luck, to a destructive behavior pattern. An uncrossing operation is like a souped-up banishing ritual or psychic detox that purges your system of crossed conditions.

Uncrossing Magick Oil Recipe

Ingredients:

essential oil of hyssop
essential oil of angelica
essential oil of frankincense
a pinch of sea salt
a pinch of black pepper
a pinch of cayenne pepper
a sprig of rue
a sliver of fresh garlic
a section of broken chain, e.g., from a key-chain or necklace

Add the ingredients to a bottle filled with blended castor oil and jojoba oil. The crucial ingredients are the hyssop and the chain. Add the other ingredients as desired. Essential oil of angelica has photosensitizing properties: so if worn on the body, avoid exposure to the sun.

This oil is extremely versatile! Just some of the ways you can use the oil include:

* dress candles for cleansing and uncrossing
* add to bath salts for a spiritually cleansing bath
* dress the soles of your feet and wear as a personal power scent to stay clean
* add a few drops to your mopbucket to spiritually cleanse your home
* place a few drops on an unscented incense stick or diffuse in an oil burner to create Uncrossing incense for fumigation or ritual

Make the sign of uncrossing on any place associated with a curse or hex, or on your front doorstep. The sign of uncrossing is like an X, but each stroke is made from the center of the X outward, so as to "undo" the crossed circumstances. Draw each stroke in a counterclockwise direction, since counterclockwise is the direction of unmaking.

Make the stroke from the center to upper left, and recite "Undone the cross." Next make the stroke from the center to the bottom left and say, "Undone the charm." Now, make the stroke from the center of the X to the bottom right, saying "Undone the hex." Finally, from the center to the upper right, say "Undone the harm." I often say this spell four times rapidly: "Undone the cross, undone the charm, undone the hex, undone the harm," or in a set of four times four, sixteen. Each of the "roads" or pathways leading out from the center of the crossroads is a way for the bad energy to leave your life.

Lord Of The Wildwood

A silence lies on the Wildwood,
The light of the stars grows dim,
The wind has died in the branches,
But a shadow moves. It is Him!

He is the stag in the moonlight,
The stallion alone on the hill,
The bull that paws at the tussocks,
The salmon that leaps in the rill.

Each is a part of the Hunter,
The Godhead that lives in the Dark,
Lord of the Wild and the Hidden,
At midnight, the small breathing spark.

His is the glory of sunrise,
The greenness that rises in spring,
His is the force of the tempest,
The strength in the wild eagle's wing.

His is the voice of the pan-pipes,
The power that governs the land,
But She is his wife and his Mother,
And he dwells in the palm of her hand.

Source - A Witch Alone By Marian Green

Sagittarius Sun Sign

November 22 - December 21

Sagittarius, the ninth sign of the zodiac, is the home of the wanderers of the zodiac. It's not a mindless ramble for these folks, either. Sagittarians are truth-seekers, and the best way for them to do this is to hit the road, talk to others and get some answers. Knowledge is key to these folks, since it fuels their broad-minded approach to life. The Sagittarian-born are keenly interested in philosophy and religion, and they find that these disciplines aid their internal quest. At the end of the day, what Sagittarius wants most is to know the meaning of life, and to accomplish this while feeling free and easy.

It's the Archer that represents Sagittarians, although in this case it's a Centaur (half man, half beast) that is flinging the arrows. Centaurs were the intellectuals of ancient Roman mythology, and Sagittarians are quick to consider themselves their modern-day counterparts. Those born under this sign are clear thinkers, and choose to look at the big picture most of the time. They also like it when others agree with their well-thought-out point of view. The alternative to this, for better or for worse, is a Sag who can become argumentative and blunt. That's not to say that these folks are intransigent -- Archers will listen to what others have to say, in keeping with the Mutable Quality assigned to them. Indeed, Sagittarians are enthusiastic consumers of information (and enthusiastic in general), the better to get the answers they need. It's also a good idea to give Sags lots of room to explore their world. Once these folks start to feel hemmed in, they'll become impatient and difficult.

Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter. In ancient Roman times, Jupiter was the King of the Gods, and most Sagittarians would say that the royal pedigree has been passed on to them. The Sag-born are generous and just -- much like a noble leader. These folks are also expansive in their thoughts, as well as in their approach. Sags are forever reaching for knowledge, understanding and answers. They are outspoken in their beliefs, at times to the point of exaggeration. This may be due to their unflinching optimism. Sags are also a lucky bunch, thanks to Jupiter's golden glow. They're quick to take a gamble on things, feeling both lucky and smart. While the process of exploration is what fuels Sagittarians (and translating that to others as a teacher and philosopher), they need to be aware of their tendency to procrastinate. Those born under this sign can be quite self-indulgent since things come so easily to them (thanks to their charming and sociable natures). Smart Archers, however, will catch themselves in time, the better to continue their good work.

The Element associated with Sagittarius is Fire. Just as a fire can move quickly and uncontrollably, so can Sagittarius as they flit from one thing to the next, never looking back. For the Sag-born, it's all about action and adventure (and, hopefully, conclusions). These folks love their physicality and are often athletic, and certainly full of stamina. Life for these folks is played full-on, which is why it's chock-full of experiences. Archers are outgoing, enthusiastic and tend to overstep their bounds as a result, falling prey to the likes of foot-in-mouth disease. They can talk so fast (and so much) that they don't process the full weight of what they're saying, leading to the occasional hurt feeling. Often, however, their words serve to inspire others and to get things going. Yes, Sagittarians are straight-ahead folks who are curious, spiritual and true believers. The fact that they attract others with ease should be no surprise, since they have a great sense of fun and enjoy a good time. They don't lack for confidence, either, not a whit! High-spirited Sags love to socialize -- with an ever-changing crew.

The athleticism of Sags lends itself to challenging sports, and they definitely know they're up to the task. That's why you're likely to find them in an around-the-world solo boat race or climbing up the highest peaks (where they should be mindful of their legs and hips). No stretch is too big for a Sag, if only because these folks know they're ready (and lucky to boot). Mental games such as chess or debate also fuel the Sag's mood. Moody colors they'll wear, since they favor rich maroon and navy hues. When it comes to love games, the Archer is playful, flirtatious and always on top.

The great strength of the Sagittarius-born is their philosophical, wide-open and curious nature. These folks seek both knowledge and truth, and they are eager to share their explorations with others. Their optimistic and generous spirit makes them a pleasure to have around.

Botswana Agate Crystal Meaning

Alternate Names & Name Spellings: Pink Botswana Agate, Gray Botswana Agate, "Change Stone".

It is comforting and protective, soothing to those who are lonely, easily hurt or grieve a loss. Its quiet energy is particularly centering in meditation, and as a fortification Agate, it supports love and the strength to look for solutions rather than dwelling on difficulties.

Botswana agate is sometimes called the "change stone" because of its mystical property of helping one handle change in a positive way. It is said to gently help one make transitions of any kind in a way that change is not as difficult or painful as could be without it; it is a comforting stone. Carrying a bit of Botswana agate in your pocket is said to help one cope easily with the minor changes that life throws at us daily.

Relief from depression and/or grief is another metaphysical energy of Botswana agate. It is said to help us focus on solutions instead of problems, and thereby increases creativity, as well as increasing the power of one's intuition. Botswana agate is noted in crystal healing to be helpful in overcoming addictions and other self-destructive compulsive behavior patterns, as well as dealing with repressed emotional issues. As a success stone, it is said to help one achieve and cope with success. It is also a stone of sensuality. In crystal healing it is said to be beneficial to the nervous system and can help rid the body of toxins.

Agate is helpful to the heart and blood vessels. Wearing an Agate in the middle of the chest strengthens the cardiac muscle, and heals emotional disharmony that prevents acceptance of love.

Botswana Agate is excellent for those serious about giving up smoking. To increase success drink an elixir first thing each morning, made by soaking the crystal in water for a few hours. Botswana Agate is also a stone of protection for all who work with fire, and protects the home from fires.

An "eye" formation in Botswana Agate is both protective and considered especially lucky.

Civilizations in the Middle East and Africa cherished them for their powers of protection against any type of evil influence or negativity, and for their use to prevent injury and bodily harm. They were often offered to the gods of the elements to protect their harvests from drought, flooding or insect invasions.

Botswana Agate is a useful receptacle for negative energy and toxicity, excellent for grinding around a house. It prevents out-of-body visitations from another soul and turns back unwelcome spirits.

Botswana Agate Chakra Healing and Balancing Energy.

Botswana Agate, with its energies of pale red, gray and brown, stimulates the Base Chakra.

The Base, or Root Chakra, is located at the base of the spine, and controls the energy for kinesthetic feeling and movement. It is the foundation of physical and spiritual energy for the body. When physically out of balance the symptoms will manifest themselves as lethargy, low levels of activity, low enthusiasm, and a need for constant stimulation. When its spiritual energies are out of balance, you will feel flighty, disconnected from reality, and distant.
When the Base Chakra is in balance, the physical body regains its strength and stamina, and the spiritual energy is rekindled in the form of security and sense of one's own power. It often leads to independence and spontaneous leadership.

Meditation with Botswana Agate

Botswana Agate is used for grounding and centering in the beginning of meditation rituals. It allows for harmony with nature and in easing into a transition state. Use a Botswana Agate for the first few minutes of any meditation, then switch to a crystal attuned to the intent of the session.

Botswana Agate Goddess Crystals

All Agates honor Aurora, Roman Goddess of the Dawn and Mother of the Winds. She brings the beauty of dawn each day, the vivid colors streaked and swirled across the clouds.

All Agates honor Bona Dea, the Roman Earth Goddess of Fertility and the Greek Goddess of Women. She protects women through all of their changes, and is a skilled healer, particularly with herbs.

All Agates honor Gaia, the Greek Earth Mother Goddess. Born directly out of Chaos, the primal emptiness, she was the first (or one of the first) beings to appear during the process of creation, and is honored as being the Earth itself.

All Agates honor Cerridwen, the Welsh Goddess of Inspiration and Knowledge. She rules the gifts of prophecy and magic, and powers death and rebirth. She is the guardian of spiritual transformation.

All Agates honor Nyx, the Greek Goddess of the Night. She is usually seen riding in a chariot, trailing stars and painting the night sky. Agate is strongly associated with Nyx because of its properties to protect against stress and for keeping bad dreams away.

Botswana Agates can also can be used in devotions to Clota, the Goddess of the River Cldye; Callisto, the Greek Moon Goddess; Chirakan-Ixmucane, the Mayan Creator Goddess; Dione, Phoenician Earth Goddess; Itzpapaloti, the Aztec Butterfly Goddess; and Jana, the Roman Goddess of Secret and Hidden Things.

Botswana Agate Amulets and Talismans

Agate amulets were worn in antiquity to guard from all dangers and to enable the wearer to vanquish earthly obstacles, such as high winds and lightning.

Ancient seafarers used Agate in amulets of protection from the fury of the surging ocean.

Agates are Seeker Transformer crystals. Seekers contain the crystal energy structure that aligns the natural energy of the crystal to the natural power of the human mind to find the way to new horizons and new capabilities. They're pointers, directors, and compasses; the fresh start crystals. These are talismans of the scientist, the adventurer, the hunter, wanderer, and explorer. They're also crystals of the student and the researcher.

Transformer crystals enhance efforts to change our situations, prospects, health, outlook or relationships. By transforming ourselves we transform our lives. We learn to dance, speak a new language, grow stronger, or become a better spouse or child. Seeker crystals with the earth power of the Transformer are excellent talismans to aid our efforts to grow, develop new capabilities and change our lives

Botswana Agate is a variety of banded Chalcedony, a mineral of the Quartz family. It is predominantly banded in shades of pink and gray, though some layers may contain a muted brown or apricot. Agate has a lower intensity and vibrates to a slower frequency than other stones, but is highly regarded as a stabilizing and strengthening influence. It is excellent for balancing emotional, physical and intellectual energy, and in harmonizing yin and yang, the positive and negative forces of the universe.

Named for the area in Africa where it is mined, Botswana Agate is called the Sunset Stone because it retains sunlight and comforts people through dark, lonely nights. It was traditionally used in African fertility ceremonies to encourage potency and the conception of strong, healthy offspring.

Magical Properties of Incense and Smudge Sticks

.What is Smudging?

"Smudging" is the common name given to a powerful cleansing technique from the Native American tradition; however, the burning of herbs for emotional, psychic, and spiritual purification is a common practice among many religious, healing, and spiritual traditions. It is a ceremonial way to cleanse a person, place or an object of negative energies or influences. It is also an effective method for energizing or blessing a person, place or object.

Smudging can be useful when you're feeling depressed, angry, resentful, unwell or after you have had an argument with someone. It is common to smudge yourself, the space and all the guests or participants before a ritual or ceremony or celebration. You can smudge your home or work space as part of a general spiritual housecleaning, and you can cleanse crystals or other objects of any negative or lingering energy with a smudging ritual.

How to Smudge

Any action undertaken with intention and belief can become a potent ritual, so consider your intention before you smudge and hold it clearly in your mind. Smudging should be done with care, with reverence and in an attitude of love.

A candle flame is recommended to light the smudge stick as it may take a little time to get the stick smoking. Once the stick is alight with flame, blow it out so that the smudge stick is smoldering, not burning - be careful not to blow ash everywhere. If you're using loose leaves, a candle is still recommended, but the single leaf will light much more quickly - again, you want to blow out the flame so the sage doesn't burn away too rapidly (you won't get the sweet sage smoke if it burns rather than smolders). And yes, it is still called smudging if you are only using loose leaves not rolled into smudge sticks.

What is the advantage to using loose leaf vs. smudge sticks? You may need to light more than one leaf for your purpose, but you won't be relighting a smudge stick that may smell like old ash the next time you need the power of sage. Further, a goodly portion of a smudge stick can be "wasted" in snuffing out a stick. A smudge stick goes a long way, so it is unlikely that you'll use the whole thing in only one use unless it is a lengthy ceremony.

Smudging yourself or another

Fan the swirls of smoke around your body from head to toe. You may want to especially focus on areas where you feel there are blockages or where there has been or is physical, emotional, or spiritual pain. Imagine the smoke lifting away all the negative thoughts, emotions and energies that have attached themselves to you. If you are feeling depressed, for instance, you could visualize the smoke carrying away all your feelings of depression.

You may want to speak an intention or a suggestion for the smudging as you do it. Repeat this process with your guests as they enter the space at a ritual, ceremony or special event.

Smudging a room or space

Light the smudge stick as suggested above, and walk about the perimeter, giving special attention to the corners and the places behind doors. You can also fan the smoke throughout the room with a large feather. If you are amenable to the notion, you should state a prayer of gratitude for the cleansing and keep in mind your intention of removing any negatively inclined energy from the area during the ritual.

This is a list of Herbs used in Incense and Smudge Sticks

AFRICAN VIOLET: used for spirituality and protection. 

ALOESWOOD: used for spirituality, meditation, luck, love and to strengthen other incenses.

AMBER: used in healing, meditation. 

APPLE: used in love, peace and happiness.

BAMBOO: Bamboo is the stick used to hold the herbs and resins in most stick incense. It has magical uses of its own. It is used in divination in Chinese Temples. Used in luck, protection and hex-breaking rituals.

BANANA: used for fertility, potency and prosperity rituals. 

BASIL: used for happiness, peace and money. 

BAY: used for psychic awareness and purification.

BENZOIN: used for purification, prosperity, knowledge, peace, and psychic protection 

BERGAMOT: used for peace, happiness, restful sleep. 

CAMOMILE: used for sleep, meditation and peace. 

CAMPHOR: used for purification, physical energy and celibacy.

CEDAR: used for purifying, protection and to banish bad dreams. Used by Native Americans in sweat lodges to release heavy emotional energies.

CHAMPA: used for meditation and for creating your sacred space. An auric energizer. It brings one's energies into harmonious balance.

CHERRY: used to attract love and divination.

CINNAMON: raises spiritual and protective vibrations, stimulates psychic powers, physical energy.

COPAL, BLACK: used in immunity, heart rituals, purification. An earthy, spicy Copal. Burned during "Day of the Dead" Celebrations.

CLOVE: used to drive away hostile, negative forces, a psychic enhancer. It is also used to produce spiritual vibrations and to purify the area.

DESERT SAGE: used to drive out bad spirits, feelings and influences. An important, strong, herbaceous Native American Plant. Burned for wealth, wisdom, knowledge, protection, and purification.

DRAGON'S BLOOD: Resin from the palm tree. It is used in rituals involving love, protection and exorcism. Burned for consecration, protection, good luck.

EUCALYPTUS: used in healing and to maintain good health, purification and protection.

FRANGIPANI: used for psychic work to restore peace and harmony with its soothing vibrations.

FRANKINCENSE: used as an incense for purification, spiritual growth, knowledge and meditation. Has been used for over 3,000 years and is still burned in Catholic churches. 

FRANKINCENSE & MYRRH: A powerful combination that is used for spirituality, healing, protection and exorcism. Used as an incense for purification, spiritual growth, knowledge and meditation.

GARDENIA: used in love spells and to attract good, peaceful spirits during rituals. Possesses very high spiritual vibrations. Also used for peace and love. 

GINGER: Used in money and success rituals, for psychic growth, success, sex, love money and courage.

GUM ARABIC POWDER: used in protective and psychic awareness rituals. Burned for purification. 

HONEYSUCKLE: used for love, fidelity, money, protection and clairvoyance. A mental stimulant that aids intuition and psychic perception.

HYACINTH: used for love, protection, happiness and overcoming grief. Guards against nightmares.

HYSSOP LEAF: used for wealth and psychic protection 

IRIS: used for love and psychic awareness.

JASMINE: used to create prophetic and psychic dreams, love, peace, spirituality and raising vibrations.

JUNIPER: used to promote psychic powers, protection, purification and healing. Guards against evil and sickness. Used in sick rooms throughout Europe.

LAVENDER: used in love and healing rituals. Used to attract and protect relationships. Promotes sleep and peacefulness.

LEMONGRASS: used for psychic awareness and purification.

LILAC: used for love, protection, exorcism and protection. Brings peace and harmony into everyday life. 

LIME: used for purification, physical energy and protection.

LOTUS: The Lotus has been long revered in the East as a mystical symbol of life, spirituality and the center of the universe. Burned for protection and as a sacred offering to the Gods. It is said to attract good fortune and love while promoting long life. 

MACE: used for psychic awareness. 

MAGNOLIA: used for fidelity and love. 

MELON: used for healing and health. 

MIMOSA: used for psychic dreams and love. 

MUGWORT: used for psychic awareness, psychic dreams and astral projection. MUSK: used for protection, enlightenment and sexual magnetism. Stimulates self-confidence, determination and enhances extroversion. 

MYRRH: Was used in the temple of Isis. Great meditation and contemplation incense. Used or protection, spirituality, healing and stimulates crown chakra. NAG CHAMPA: A blend of costly, highly fragrant rare gums, resins & powders for meditation and for creating your sacred space. An auric energizer. It brings one's energies into harmonious balance. 

NUTMEG: used for physical energy, magical energy, psychic awareness and money. 

OSHA: A plant revered by all Native American healers for its powerful healing abilities. Used to treat respiratory and rheumatic complaints. 

ORANGE: used for beauty, luck, fidelity, love, purification, joy and physical energy.

PEPPERMINT: used for healing, protection, prosperity, growth and renewal. 

PINE: used for healing, purification, protection, grounding, physical and magical energy.

PINEAPPLE: used for luck, money and chastity.

PINION PINE: used in healing, money, exorcism and protection rituals. PLUMERIA: used for peace and love. 

ROSE: used in love, luck, grief and healing rituals. Induces thoughts of loving affection and peaceful harmonious vibrations. Used for prophetic dreams.

ROSEMARY: used as powerful cleansing and purifying vibrations. One of the oldest incenses. Used in love, healing and mental rituals. Stimulates memory and clarification.

SAFFRON: used for love, healing, happiness, lust, strength and clairvoyance.

SANDALWOOD: used for spiritual awareness, meditation and psychic development. 

STAR ANISE: used for psychic awareness. Sacred Japanese temple incense used to drive away negativity and to bring good luck 

STRAWBERRY: used for love and luck.

SWEETGRASS: used to purify spaces and to attract positive influences. 

SWEETPEA: used for happiness and courage. 

TEA, GREEN: used for money, courage and strength.

Tobacco: Sacred Plant of Native Americans

The custom and belief is that when you pick sage (or receive any gift from nature) you should give the gift of tobacco to the plant first. This is a respectful way of thanking the earth, the sage plant, and the Creator for the gift you are about to receive. Just sprinkle a little tobacco on the plant first, then after your give thanks pick only as much as you need and will use.

TUBEROSE: used to ward off evil and negativity. It restores happiness, peace and harmony.

VANILLA: used for love, lust, healing, luck and mental powers.

VERBENA, LEMON: used or carried for protection and love.

WHITE SAGE: used to purify and protect objects, places and people.

White Sage is traditionally used as a cleansing plant by Native Americans for healing, ceremonies, and to remove negative energy. The belief is that it also said to be mind enhancing

WISTERIA: used for protection and calling higher spiritual forces.

WOOD BETONY: used in protection and reunion rituals. 

YARROW: used for psychic awareness, courage and love. 

YERBA SANTA LEAF: used to drive out negative influences and restores a guarded boundary of protection. 

YLANG-YLANG: used for peace, sex, love, calming and tension relieving'

Sea Glass

Beach glass, or "sea glass", is glass that's been pitched into the sea and tumbled around for dozens, or hundreds, of years. The salt, sand and rocks work to break down the porous outside edges of the glass, smoothing it and creating its distinctive "etched" look.

Beach glass has become a gemstone in its own right, and the various colours are beautiful when set into jewellery. One of the best parts about beach glass is knowing that it came right from the ocean

Sea glass can be found in many different colours. Green, brown and white/clear are the most common and would have originated from drink bottles, windows and glasses. Other colours that can be found are varying shades of green, amber, blues, yellow, grey, orange, red and black (which is actually very dark brown) or a mixture of colours from glass fused together. The rarest to be found is orange yellow and red so if you're lucky enough to find a piece, keep a hold of it!

Where to Find Sea Glass?

Sea Glass can be found all over the world on beaches, rivers and lakes. Head out at low tide and after storms when you're sure to find more and go for the busy areas, popular beaches and harbours.

The history of a place will help to determine if you can expect to find sea glass there or not. For instance, was there a glass factory near by once upon a time?

Much of the sea glass we find today was rubbish dumped into the sea from years ago.

Before going on holiday do some research on what beaches in the area have the best sea glass, no matter what country you're in there will be somewhere to go hunting.

Sabbat Candle Colours

Samhain - Black, orange

Yule - Red, green & white

Imbolc - Red, pink & brown.

Ostara - Green, yellow & gold

Beltane - Dark green

Litha - Green, blue

Lughnasadh - Yellow, orange

Mabon - Orange, brown & yellow

Wiccan Spell to Cleanse the Body of Negative Energy

Tools: 

Three candles – one white (representative here of positive energy), one black (representative of negative energy) and one green (representative of healing). Matches. Herbs (optional).

Technique: 

Sit comfortably and place the candles before you. Clear your mind and light the white candle. Say the following: 

Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Spirit, 

I ask thee to cleanse my body 

of all negative energies.

Light the black candle and repeat the incantation. Light the green candle and say:

Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Spirit, 

I ask thee to free and heal my body from all negative forces. Blessed Be!

Sit without interruption and keep your mind still for 15 minutes, after which you should feel renewed and fresh.

Notes: 

This constructive spell is most effective when performed during the waxing of the Moon, when the Moon is shining brightly. Practice this spell while in a positive mood, as this will achieve the best end. 

If you would like to set some herbs around the candles for additional effect, bay leaves are believed to possess a great deal of positive energy. Use five bay leaves: Place them so that one leaf is on each side of each candle (that’s four) and the fifth is in the front and center.

Divination Herbal Tea

3 tsp China Black Tea
2 tsp Lemon Balm
1 tsp Eyebright
3 tsp Mugwort
3 tsp Rose Hips

Hedge Witch

Hedge craft is a path that is somewhat shamanic in nature, (sometimes referred to as wise man & wise woman) as they are practitioners of an Earth-based spirituality. These are the ones who engage in spirit flight and journey into the Other world. They can, in this capacity, be very powerful midwives and healers. A bird of one kind or another is usually associated with the Hedge Witch, most commonly the raven and the goose. The term “hedge” signified the boundary of the village and represents the boundary that exists between this world and the spiritual realm. (they are said to be Night travelers or walkers on the wind). Their main function is mediator between the spirits and people. They may also work as a herbal healer or midwife. Some claim it to be the continuation of the practices of the cunning folk and wise-women, while others say that it is a modern tradition.