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Monday, September 28, 2020

Harvest Full Moon Worksheet

harvest moon, full moon, esbat, ritual, witchcraft, moon magic

The Harvest Full Moon is the Full Moon that falls closest to the Fall Equinox or Mabon. This year, that Moon falls on October 1st, but other times it falls within September. Because it can fall in either month, I made this worksheet separate from the months, allowing it to be used whenever it is needed. The Harvest Moon is usually the moon that marks the last of the crops being brought in for harvest. While some crops may still be harvested after the Harvest Moon, they are on the decline. This is a time for taking stock of what you already have and replenishing your stores, whether this be physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. Shift your focus to hearth and home, spending time to prepare for the Winter months by removing clutter, cleaning, and stockpiling. 

This month's Full Moon worksheet contains the usuals of my past Full Moon worksheets, including a to release and cleanse section, a box for your intuition, and a tarot spread. Unlike past worksheets, however, this one can be used every Harvest Moon, as it is based on the correspondences of the moon itself and not other astrological events. The tarot spread for this month features 6 cards focusing on removing clutter from your life.

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CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE COPY


Looking for more free worksheets? Why not get your free copy of my spell/ritual worksheet to write your best spells and rituals yet?


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Tuesday, September 22, 2020

Mabon Altar 2020

Autumn Equinox, altar, sabbat, Mabon, August Eve, witchcraft, witchy, hedgewitch, pagan, neopagan, wiccan, wicca

Happy Mabon, witches! Mabon, also known as Pagan Thanksgiving, is the second harvest festival and is a celebration of the bountiful harvest coming in. The Autumn Equinox marks the first day of Fall and from this point on, the days will grow ever shorter and cooler and the crops in the field was steadily decrease until there is nothing left. But for now, there is more than enough to go around and save for the coming Winter months. In honor of the abundance of fruits and vegetables and the turning of the Wheel toward Fall, I incorporated earth tones, fruits and vegetables, and antlers to thank the masculine side of nature for fertilizing the crops and ask for its continued strength for the remainder of the year.

Autumn Equinox, altar, sabbat, Mabon, August Eve, witchcraft, witchy, hedgewitch, pagan, neopagan, wiccan, wicca

1. Harvest Candleholder with Red Candle- This beautiful harvest candleholder represents the bounty of the season, full of grapes, pears, squash, and the remainder of the berries. The earthen tones and colorful leaves represent the beginning of Fall and the changing of the seasons as the Wheel turns. The red candle represents the masculine energies of the Sun and the passion that created the crops we are now harvesting. It also works to sympathetically encourage the continued growth of the crops lest harvests not last through the Winter months. (Where did I get it: Goodwill & Dollar Tree; Cost: $3)

2. Deer Antler-  The deer antler represents the masculine energy and the power required to finish plowing the fields and bringing in the crops. It also represents the promise of regrowth and new beginnings; just as the deer sheds it antlers the Earth sheds her green and sleeps for the Winter, only to be reborn in the Spring. (Where did I get it: Found; Cost: Free)

Autumn Equinox, altar, sabbat, Mabon, August Eve, witchcraft, witchy, hedgewitch, pagan, neopagan, wiccan, wicca

3. Leaf Candle Holder with White Candles- The leaf candle holders are an ode to the season and the changing leaves the mark so many areas of the world at this time. Furthermore, having two of them represents balance as during the equinox both day and night are balanced. The candles represent the Sun who is slowly waning in the sky.  (Where did I get it: Dollar Tree 2017; Cost: $3, $1 each)

Autumn Equinox, altar, sabbat, Mabon, August Eve, witchcraft, witchy, hedgewitch, pagan, neopagan, wiccan, wicca

4. Green Aventurine and Rutilated Quartz- In the center of the altar are three crystals, two green aventurine and a rutilated quartz. Green aventurine is a crystal of balance and prosperity, both characteristic of Mabon. The rutilated quartz, on the other hand, is a protector as well as a stone to facilitate change. While the seasons are changing, so to are our lives. This crystal is designed to ease this transition and protect us through the changes while easing anxiety. (Where did I get it: Metaphysical Stores; Cost: ~$8)

Autumn Equinox, altar, sabbat, Mabon, August Eve, witchcraft, witchy, hedgewitch, pagan, neopagan, wiccan, wicca

5. Drinking Horn- On the right of the altar is a drinking horn, a symbol of feasting, joy, and merriment. Mabon is a time of celebration, the wine flowing and spirits high. (Where did I get it: Goodwill; Cost: $1)

Autumn Equinox, altar, sabbat, Mabon, August Eve, witchcraft, witchy, hedgewitch, pagan, neopagan, wiccan, wicca


TOTAL COST: ~$15


Like my other altars, most of the items I use are found, made, or purchased for around $1, although if the items must be purchased by you, then the cost will be higher. I hope you find this sort of break down helpful, especially those of you looking to create Instagram perfect altars on a budget!

How did you celebrate Mabon this year? Unfortunately for me, I lost my grandmother yesterday afternoon and will be celebrating quietly at home with my family. I am thankful for the time I was given with her and for the continued love and support from my family and friends during this trying time. I hope that the rest of you are able to celebrate in whatever way you see fit, or at least eat a hearty meal!


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Tuesday, September 15, 2020

Witch's Cabinet Recipe: Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Quiche

recipe, quiche, spinach, sun-dried tomato, fall, quick recipe, easy recipe

Mabon is right around the corner and what better to celebrate the season than with some quiche? My beautiful hens are still producing an ample amount of eggs, and quiche is a great way to use some of those eggs up. This quiche recipe includes sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and goat cheese (or vegan cheese if you are avoiding dairy as I am), all perfect foods for this time of year. Magically, sun-dried tomatoes are associated with love and romance, but also are a common offering during the first two harvests. Spinach is associated with energy and strength, eggs with fertility and protection, and goat cheese with purity. Combined, this quiche is designed to help continue your prosperity through the winter months, inspire continues love as the nights grow dark, and honor the harvest deities for their wonderful bounty.

Ingredients:
     1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
     1/2 teaspoon olive oil
     2 cloves garlic, minced
     3 cups spinach
     4-6 eggs
     1 cup whole milk or creamy oat milk
     1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
     4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled, or vegan mozzarella
     salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. While the oven is preheating, carefully place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Pinch the dough to create a crust and seal the edges. Poke the bottom lightly with a fork.
  2. Line the pie crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15-16 minutes. Remove from the oven and decrease the temperature to 350°F.
  3. Heat the oil in a pan and saute the garlic until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and cheese. Salt and pepper to taste and pour into baked pie crust.
  5. Bake for 45-60 minutes, until the center of the quiche has set. You may need to cover the edges of the crust with foil to prevent burning.
  6. Allow to cool for 10 minutes and enjoy!
This makes between 4 and 8 servings depending on how to slice it. Honestly, I eat half of this thing in a sitting. I know, I know, but it's really that darn good!

recipe, quiche, spinach, sun-dried tomato, fall, quick recipe, easy recipe

I hope you enjoy the recipe and have a fantastic fall and a lovely Mabon.



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Thursday, September 10, 2020

Apothecary At Home Box Review: September 2020

apothecary at home, herbal remedies, subscription box, witchcraft, witchy, herb, herbal, herabrium, green witch, green witchcraft, hedgewitch

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

So I missed writing an actual review for August's Apothecary At Home box, but I did do an unboxing video on my IG so if you missed the last box, head on over to Instagram and check out my live video. Over the weekend I finally got my mail sorted out and behold, my Apothecary At Home box arrived Saturday afternoon. It was sitting lovingly by my front door and I was so excited to see what this month held. Before I jump into the box though, I wanted to give you guys some more information about the company. First, Apothecary At Home is a small, witchy woman-owned business in Berkley, California. Their mission is to inspire, empower, and equip the next generation of herbalists by supplying an affordable monthly subscription box that brings the herbal classroom directly to you, no matter your herbal background. Each month brings a new theme and wellness topic complete with herbs and step-by-step instructions to create your own natural remedies.

apothecary at home, herbal remedies, subscription box, witchcraft, witchy, herb, herbal, herabrium, green witch, green witchcraft, hedgewitch

September's theme is Breath Easy, which is super timely considering the COVID-19 pandemic, cold and flu season on its way, the fall allergy season (at least here in the South). Needless to say, this month's box is extremely useful longterm. As always, there is a complete, sourced informational pamphlet, this time in booklet form, that explains lung health and disease, each of the herbs medicinal profiles, folklore, and magical uses, and recipes that feature the herbs. I love the time, care, and research put into the booklet and the fact that they suggest future reading, continued study resources, and cite their sources. I am slowly creating a materia medica using this information and the botanical prints. This month focuses on two herbs, catnip and thyme, with a bonus herb mullein. There are 2 ounces of each herb, which is WAY more than I will likely use in the near future, meaning I have plenty not only to restock my herbal cabinet but to use in my magical workings as well. I still can't believe they are able to pack so much into a single box every month for the price point!

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The one thing I absolutely love about this box is that it comes fully stocked with everything you need minus an ingredient or two, to make the herbal remedies. In previous months, this included salve tins, jars, brown dropper bottles, mullein bags, and beeswax or soy wax. This month is no different, except neither recipe is a salve so there is no beeswax or soy wax this month. Instead, we are making an oxymel and a chest rub, just like Vick's Vapor Rub. Having all the supplies on hand makes creating these remedies extremely easy and gives you no excuse not to get started right away. This is a major selling point for me and many others as the easier it is to create the remedies, the more likely we are to do it.

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To keep everything properly labeled, which is extremely important, they have included several beautiful labels so you can record the contents and date of the remedy or infusion. Currently, I have two tinctures and two oils infusing in my spare bedroom. I finally picked up the oils and alcohol needed to create these lovely concoctions and I cannot wait to show you guys the finished results!

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Apart from the supplies to make the remedies, the box also comes with seeds (catnip and thyme) so you can continue your herbalist adventure by expanding your garden. All of their seeds are sourced from Bentley Seeds Co, a small family-owned business in upstate New York. I love that each month Shannon, the creator and founder of Apothecary At Home, continues to support small businesses around the country. This is a major plus in my book and I am glad my money is going to help small businesses. Shannon's mother, Virgi, also created two lovely botanical prints this month of catnip and thyme that you can frame, glue into your Book of Shadows, or place in your materia medica. Starting last month, the prints are printed on much sturdier paper which I greatly appreciate. They are absolutely stunning and I am looking forward to adding more to my collection.

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apothecary at home, herbal remedies, subscription box, witchcraft, witchy, herb, herbal, herabrium, green witch, green witchcraft, hedgewitch

Finally, the surprise bonus item this month is eucalyptus essential oil. Really this is needed in one of the recipes (the chest rub), but a bonus nonetheless. It smells absolutely glorious and I am looking forward to not only using it in the chest rub but in baths as well. Eucalyptus is a great stress reliever and a muscle relaxer, so it's perfect when you have had a long day at work or a difficult workout.

apothecary at home, herbal remedies, subscription box, witchcraft, witchy, herb, herbal, herabrium, green witch, green witchcraft, hedgewitch

I continue to be awed and delighted by this amazing box and strongly encourage my readers to pick up a subscription now. You can save 15% on your first box using code WILLOW15. It's a great way to support a small, witchy business and learn an amazing skill at the same time for a fraction of the cost of an herbalist course.


***
I know that I included a pros and cons list in my original post, but I wanted to expand on some new features and new information I have received since the last box.

Pros:

  • The box is designed to teach, instead of just providing you with goodies. It includes everything you need to learn how to make herbal remedies and gets you started on the herbalist path.
  • The item quality is great. Every item is worth more than I paid and sometimes you even get some bonus items thrown in!
  • The information packet is informative and explains how to use each of the items in the box. The herb profiles are clearly outlines and recipes are easy to follow.
  • There are vegan and non-vegan options. They offer both beeswax and soy wax for salves, so if you are vegan there is an option available for you.
  • They survey you for allergies. When you sign up for the box, you begin with a survey where you can let them know if you are allergic to anything. I thought this is great because I am allergic to opiates and gogi berries, and while I don't think opiates will end up in the box, gogi berries have a strong possibility of showing up. I'm glad that they take this into account and won't put anything in my box that I am allergic to.
  • They are ecofriendly. The box is recyclable and you have the option to receive the information packets printed or digital. I love how much you can customize this box!
  • They support the BIPOC community. Right now, they are offering boxes to BIPOC who are interested in learning herbalism for free or heavily discounted. If you or someone you know is interested in the details, check out their website. You can also sponsor a box to help provide more boxes!
  • They support other small businesses such as The Loose Leaf and Bentley Seeds Co
  • All their seeds are non-GMO. While this isn't necessarily important to me, I know many people find non-GMO a plus, so I stuck it on the list. 
  • They have an online study group specifically designed to answer questions, share ideas, and have support, whether it's from other subscribers or Shannon herself!
  • A monthly/bi-monthly newsletter is sent out detailing important information, updates, savings, and more to help you use the remedies in your box and learn more about the herbs. I really appreciate the contact and support!
  • All of the supplies are reusable. The glass containers can be used over and over again, making it very ecofriendly.
  • There are more than enough herbs to create the remedies and restock your apothecary in the future. I know 2 ounces doesn't sound like a lot, but trust me...its a lot!
  • This box is available! They still have some spots available for next month's box, but you best hurry!

Cons:

  • The box is somewhat expensive. It's currently priced between $25 (not bad at all) and $40 plus $8 shipping within the US. However, if you were to compare this to an online course, this box is significantly cheaper and provides all the supplies needed for a fraction of the price.
  • There is some packaging that is not eco-friendly. The paper and cardboard box can be recycled, but the bubble wrap can not. I believe having eco-friendly packaging as much as possible is extremely important. I need to make a note here that the past two months have NOT contained bubble wrap. Instead, the containers were lovingly wrapped in tissue paper and nestled between herbs to prevent them from breaking. I REALLY appreciate this! August's box contained plastic containers to prevent breakage, so no bubble wrap was needed.
OVERALL: 5 out of 5 stars 

Interested in purchasing this box? Check out Apothecary At Home onlineUse code WILLOW15 to get 15% off your first order!




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Tuesday, September 8, 2020

Sigils for Hedge Riding

hedge riding, sigil, sigil magic, magic, magick, hedgewitch, hedge witch, witch, witchcraft, astral travel, pagan, neopagan, wicca, wiccan, protection, spirit work, spirit communication

Sigils are a great way to pack powerful intentions into a spell using a design. Sigils use symbols and imagery to manifest a specific intent and are one of the most common forms of magic in the modern world. These three sigils are designed to help you hedge ride, protect you while in the Otherworld, and call your guides to you. Enjoy!

Sigil for Hedge Riding

hedge riding, sigil, sigil magic, magic, magick, hedgewitch, hedge witch, witch, witchcraft, astral travel, pagan, neopagan, wicca, wiccan



Sigil for Protection in the Otherworld

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Sigil to Summon Your Guides

hedge riding, sigil, sigil magic, magic, magick, hedgewitch, hedge witch, witch, witchcraft, astral travel, pagan, neopagan, wicca, wiccan, spirit guides, spirit summoning, spirit communication




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Tuesday, September 1, 2020

Magical and Medicinal Uses of Mint



Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mercury
Element: Air
Powers: Exorcism, Healing, Lust, Money, Prosperity, Protection, Travel
Magical Uses and History: Mint is a general term used to refer to several different plants within the same family. However, for this article, I am referring to those that belong to the genus Mentha which includes spearmint, peppermint, and watermint. While each holds slightly different magical properties, as a whole they share many common traits.

The genus Mentha gets its name from the Greek Mintha or Minthe, the nymph who attempted to seduce Hades. According to Oppian, "Mint (Mintha), men say, was once a maid beneath the earth, a Nymphe of Kokytos (Cocytus), and she lay in the bed of Aidoneus [Hades]; but when he kidnapped the maid Persephone from the Aitnaian hill [Mount Etna in Sicily], then she complained loudly with overweening words and raved foolishly for jealousy, and Demeter in anger trampled upon her with her feet and destroyed her. For she had said that she was nobler of form and more excellent in beauty than dark-eyed Persephone and she boasted that Aidoneus would return to her and banish the other from his halls: such infatuation leapt upon her tongue. And from the earth spray the weak herb that bears her name." Because of this, mint became strongly associated with Hades and was used in funerary rites, partly to cover up the smell of a body and partly to connect with the Underworld as an ingredient of an entheogenic drink made from mint and fermented barley. This, however, also associated mint with love and lust as Mintha(e) lusted after Hades. When Hades was unable to reverse the spell cast by Persephone, Hades made her smell sweet and fresh so that any time a man tread upon her, the air would be filled with her sweet aroma. As such, mint is often used in love spells. In Greece, soldiers were warned not to wear crowns of mint lest it increase lust while those not serving often wore it as a good luck charm for their relationship. Culpepper even noted mint's potent ability to increase "bodily lust."

In Rome, however, Pliny argued that mint was "contrary to procreation" and therefore should not be used by those seeking children. However, Pliny suggested that mint, with its strong aroma, was perfect for enhancing one's memory and refreshing the body. Crowns of mint were used to increase memory, soothe headaches, whiten teeth, and in baths to wash away impurities. Across Europe and the Middle East, mint was used to remove negative energies, keep away pests and pestilence, and mixed with marjoram and rosemary to asperge sacred space. Keep mint on your altar to invite helpful spirits and drive away negative ones, rub on your body to protect your person, keep in your shoes to protect you during travel, or use in floor washes to cleanse your home.

Due to its prolific nature, mint is also strongly associated with abundance. Its bright green leaves resemble money and can be placed in a wallet, purse, or cash register to bring abundance to one's life or used in prosperity sachets and spells to invite money.

Mint can be used in a number of spells including:
    Protection Spells
    Healing Magic
    Prosperity Magic
    Exorcisms
    Love Spells
    Travel Spells

Medicinal Uses: Apart from its magical properties, mint has long been used in healing rituals and for medicinal purposes throughout history. Peppermint specifically is one of the most carminative agents on the market, that is it is able to reduce gas and bloating and even cure colic in infants. It relaxes the digestive muscles, stimulates bile and stomach acid production, and has antiflatulent properties, allowing it to treat gas and other intestinal problems, including an upset stomach, by significantly reducing stomach and intestinal pain and aiding in digestion. Due to its diaphoretic properties, mint is able to reduce fevers caused by colds or the flu through sweating. Furthermore, it is able to temporarily treat nasal congestion, headaches/migraines, anxiety, and tension due to its being nervine.

Preparation and Dosage: Mint is taken internally as an infusion or tincture. Pour one cup of boiling water over a heap of dried herbs and allow to infuse for 10 minutes. Drink as often as desired. As a tincture, take 1-2 milliliters up to three times a day. Externally, peppermint oil, once diluted in a carrier oil, can be applied to the temples to relieve headaches and migraines or rubbed on rashes to treat itchy skin. An infusion can be turned into a poultice to relieve skin rashes as well. Fresh or dried herbs or peppermint oil can be inhaled to relieve congestion and aid in memory and alertness or to settle one's stomach. 


Want to print a copy of this for your Book of Shadows? Click below for your free copy!

mint, witchcraft, magic, folklore, herb, herbal remedy, herb magic


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