Ostara - March 2019

Wild Goddess Magick

Witchology Magazine Getting Crafty with

DIY NATURAL EGG DYING

ALL ABOUT

WANDS

4INTERVIEWS WITCHY

FROM THE COMMUNITY

Ostara Celebrating The Spring Equinox

GETTING TO KNOW THE HISTORY OF EOSTRE

Your Guide to a Magickal Ostara

For the first time in nearly 40 years, the spring equinox will occur on the same day as March’s Full Storm Moon.

Wild Goddess Magick

Witchology Magazine EDITORIAL Ambrosia Hawthorn, Editor Maya LeMaitre, Copy Editor

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Holly Charles, Deborah Mesdag, Stefanina Baker, K. Freeling, M. Evergreen, ChosenEyes, Monica Crosson, Mike Sexton

ART & PHOTOS Cover: Jesus Santos Illustrations: Ambrosia Hawthorn Photographers: ©anna_shepulova ©YakobchukOlena ©Evgeniy ©gitusik ©rvo233 ©seanlockephotography stock.adobe.com All other photos are from free stock sources or from contributors.

SALES & SUBMISSIONS admin@wildgoddessmagick.com www.wildgoddessmagick.com/magazine/advertising

SOCIAL www.wildgoddessmagick.com www.instagram.com/witchologymag www.twitter.com/wgmagick www.facebook.com/witchologymag Copyright © 2019 by Wild Goddess Magick.

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

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The opinions expressed in our published works are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the opinions of Witchology Magazine or Wild Goddess Magick. Wild Goddess Magick assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon.

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

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

Welcome to a publication filled with equal parts wonder and magick!

March is a busy time filled with the changing seasons from Winter to Spring, the Pagan roots of Easter, honoring the goddess Eostre, the Spring Equinox, and the Astrological New Year with the Sun moving into Aries, the first sign of the zodiac. No matter what your path is, there’s always something that can enrich your practice.

You’ll find printable Book of Shadows pages, a monograph of a herb and crystal, a Celtic tree, a goddess, spells, exclusive interviews, recipes, and rituals to elevate your practice.

This Magazine is for all the witches and Wiccans out there! Please note, we cannot guarantee a spell or ritual but don’t give up on the magick within you!

Blessed be witches,

Ambrosia Hawthorn

Our Writers & Contributors Ambrosia Hawthorn Editor & Content Creator Ambrosia is a writer, card slinger, and an eclectic witch. She found her practice at a young age and still balances being a witch and being discreet. She also has a witchcraft blog. Her goal is to provide modern content to every kind of witch! www.wildgoddessmagick.com @witchologymag @witchologymag @wgmagick admin@wildgoddessmagick.com

Holly Charles Tarot Spread Creator Holly is a modern day mystic, a holistic and Ayurvedic therapist, an eclectic witch, medium, and spiritual development specialist. She helps people on a spiritual path to find balance and restore harmony in order to become the truest and brightest version of themselves. www.hollysholistichealing.co.uk @holistic_holly @hollysholistichealing @holisticholly holistichollymoderndaymystic@gmail.com

Monica Crosson Ostara and Spring Blessing Contributing Writer Monica Crosson is a contributing writer for Llewellyn Worldwide and Faerie Magazine, weaving magick in beautiful Pacific Northwest Washington. She is the author of “The Magickal Family: Pagan Living in Harmony with Nature.� Published by Llewellyn Worldwide. www.monicacrosson.com @monicacrosson @themagickalfamily @monicacrosson1 tangle-wood@hotmail.com

Miss Wondersmith Chosen Eyes Blueberry Spruce Cookie Recipe Contributor Renewal Divination Contributor Spreading wonder through writing everyday to ChosenEyes is a teacher, creator, andabout truth-teller.

Shemagic organizes enhance our courses connections to ourselves, our community, andofthe and executes to share her knowledge with witches glorious natural world of the Pacific Northwest. all backgrounds. www.thewondersmith.com@choseneyes9 @misswondersmith www.choseneyes.com @thewondersmith @choseneyes9 patreon: thewondersmith @choseneyes misswondersmith@gmail.com choseneyes9@gmail.com

Deborah Mesdag Vegan “Egg� Salad Contributor Deborah is a kitchen witch, chef, and food blogger with a passion for sharing delicious gluten-free and vegan recipes for all occasions- from simple everyday fare to elaborate holiday feasts. www.vegankitchenmagick.com @vegankitchenmagick @vegankitchenmagick @vkitchenmagick vegankitchenmagick@gmail.com

Stefanina Baker Talisman for Protection and Prosperity Contributor Stefanina is a psychic, Tarot reader, and eclectic witch based out of Wilmington, Delaware. She has been a practicing witch since she received her first Tarot deck at 13. She practices folk magick, enjoys performing fire rituals, and mixing potions and elixirs. www.readingsandrituals.com @readingsandrituals @readingsandrituals readingsandrituals@gmail.com

M. Evergreen World of Wands Contributing Writer M. Evergreen is a wandmaker, actress, and Wiccan. She makes wands for all kinds of witches and has a love of art in many forms. She hopes her work will help people become more connected with nature and themselves through their practice. www.evergreenmagicalarts.etsy.com

@theevergreenwitch

evergreenmagicalarts@gmail.com

Mike Sexton Correspondences Contributing Writer Mike is an eclectic solitary Wiccan practitioner with strong knowledge in kitchen and hedge witchery as well as crystals and many other areas. Mike has been practicing for many years and is also an author of On Your Wiccan Way: Learning to Build Your Wiccan Path www.mikesextonstudio.com/bitomagick.html @mike.sexton.547 @mwsstudio mwsexton77@gmail.com @artistmikes

Karla Freeling Performing Rituals at Home Contributing Writer Karla is a devout Pagan witch and a working mother in the military. Her passion is to create one of a kind florals and crystals that pay homage to the Gods. www.wiccanology.etsy.com wiccanology@yahoo.com

@wiccanology

Many modern Pagans mark

Ostara as a time of renewal and rebirth. Take some time to celebrate the new life that

surrounds you in nature. Walk in a park, lay in the grass, or

hike through a forest to feel the

awakening energy of the Earth.

MARCH & OSTARA

11 What’s New in the Witchy Community 12 March Magickal Workings 13 Dates to Remember 14 Interview with Arcane Enchantments 17 Preparing for Ostara 20 March Must-Haves 36 Interview with Astral Garden 48 Ask the Experts 54 Interview with Mugwort and Seashells 64 Interview with The Alchemy Witch 72 Witchy Shops Directory

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RITUALS & LORE

18 Ostara Ritual for Balance 21 Pagan Origins of Easter 22 ‘Eggstra’ Nice Garden Blessings 26 Ostara Spring Cleaning Blessing 30 Performing Rituals at Home 51 Top 3 Herbs for Spring 59 Famous Witch: Laurie Cabot

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CREATIONS

25 DIY Natural Egg Dying 28 Lavender and Sage Allpurpose Cleaner 40 Charging a Talisman for Protection and Prosperity

24 27 20

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31 34 42 46 62

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CORRESPONDENCES Ostara Goddess Eostre Herb: Jalap Crystal: Aquamarine Celtic Tree Lore: Ash The Storm Moon

MYSTICAL MAGICK Egg Magick 101 Spring Equinox Tarot Spread The World of Wands Correspondences- Do you

have to Follow what's Written on a Certain List?

Rabbit Symbolism Renewal Divination Beginning Again with the Astrological New Year

FEASTING

Ostara Chocolate and Orange Hot Cross Buns Vegan “Egg” Salad

What’s New in the

Witchy Community

Want to know what’s happening in the Pagan community?

Well, we’ve searched high and low to bring you the latest products, books, and more.

Water Witchcraft: Magic and Lore from the Celtic Tradition

Keeping Her Keys: An Introduction To Hekate's Modern Witchcraft

By Cyndi Brannen Over the past few years Hekate has gained increasing popularity around the world.

While there are books written about the historical Hekate, there is a lack of information applying this knowledge for personal development and practicing witchcraft. Keeping Her Keys blends the ‘keys' of personal development, magick and the ancient goddess, Hekate, together.

Released on April 26, 2019 on Amazon.

By Annwyn Avalon An accessible in-depth guide to Celtic water lore, including spells, rituals, water spirits, and merfolk Let Annwyn Avalon, a practicing water witch herself, take you into the world of water magic. The water magic and lore in this book focuses on the Celtic tradition, but draws on other water magic traditions as well, and features rainwater, as well as lakes, rivers, oceans, canals, swamps, and other watery locations, together with the folk and magical customs that have been and are still practiced at these places.

Released on March 1, 2019 on Amazon.

5-Minute Magic for Modern Wiccans: Rapid rituals, efficient enchantments, and swift spells

By Cerridwen Greenleaf 5-Minute Magic for Modern Wiccans is the essential spell book for busy witches, with spells and practical magic for prosperity, romance, healing, and more.

Did you know you can use your TV remote for divination? Do you know the quickest way to bring love into your life? Interested in money magic you can turn on a dime? There is no doubt we live in hectic times, but that is no reason life should be any less magical. 5-Minute Magic for Modern Wiccans is steeped in ancient wisdom with updates for modern times and an emphasis on maximum manifestation in the least amount of time.

Released on March 12, 2019 on Amazon.

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MARCH MAGICKAL WORKINGS

The focus of March is the blossoming of spring, and the Vernal Equinox. Typically, the Celtic peoples did

not celebrate Ostara as a holiday. They often celebrated throughout the entire month of March. This can be achieved setting up your altar, performing various

rituals, get crafty and creative, honoring your own

traditions or the goddess Eostre, or even just celebrating the changing of seasons.

The themes of Ostara are renewal, resurrection,

rejuvenation, and rebirth. It’s a time of looking forward and honoring the fertility of the land.

During the month of March we also have a Full Storm Moon in Libra and the astrological New Year with the Sun entering Aries.

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MARCH 2019 SUN

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1st Quarter Moon in Gemini

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18 Celtic Tree Ash Ends

19 Celtic Tree Alder Begins

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20 Storm Moon in Libra Ostara, NH International Astrology Day Sun Enters Aries

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Last Quarter Moon in Capricorn Death of Scott Cunningham 1993

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SAT

New Moon in Pisces Birthday of Laurie Cabot 1933

Daylight Saving Time

St. Patrick’s Day

FRI

Meet Nikki, the Artist Behind Archane Enchantments

Tell us a little about you and your art and how you began painting.

My name is Nikki, and I am a 31-year-old self-taught watercolor artist from a city just outside of Toronto, Canada. I started my journey by creating gemstone jewelry to keep my 14

creative mind busy, but upon storing my mass amounts of supplies/materials due to a move, I began to feel stagnant and edgy after a few months of not creating. Randomly walking through Michael's craft store, I felt a pull to the paint section and the urge to try my hand at watercolor. I spent a minimal amount of money to get started,

and from there my love for watercolor grew. I introduced illustration drawing shortly after and began incorporating both together. I vibe the contrast between the free flow of the watercolor and the precision of the pen. I feel as though this is where I started to define and develop my style and brand.

Use code

OSTARA19

for 10%

off your order for the month of March.

When and why did you create Archane Enchantments?

Archane Enchantments was officially created just over three years ago. I started weaving dream catchers, which then developed into jewelry making. I have experimented with a few different mediums- wire wrapping, weaving, and then polymer clay. I enjoyed working with each one in its way, but feel as though starting Archane this way was only a stepping stone to lead me into the current artistry I do.

What inspires you in painting?

I take so much of my inspiration from my seasonal surroundings. Nature has a significant impact on my creations. I am also a lover of whimsical and magical things so that impacts my paintings

too. I try to bring life to my thoughts and visions of how magic is seen through my eyes.

What are your hopes and dreams for the future of your witchy business?

My brain never stops so I have a lot of ideas for the future of Archane. But ultimately I want to keep doing what I love and hope people continue to enjoy following my journey as an artist and person.

What are your go-to sources of inspiration and knowledge?

It could be anything from nature or holidays, or it could also be a photo I scrolled past on Facebook sparking my imagination, or it could be a show I was watching. As silly as it sounds, I have even gained inspiration from Paw Patrol (it's a constant on our

TV for my son). Inspiration is everywhere, so I don't have a "go to" per se. I am completely self-taught. I tried watching tutorial videos when I first started but quickly realized that only by doing my own thing will I be able to find my style and vibe. From there I had to allow myself to try it and learn from my mistakes along the way. I am continually learning, every day, every new piece, I am always growing as an artist.

Is there anything you want to share with the witchy community about your business in particular?

I want to say thank you to anyone who has shown my art love and support. Comments, shares, and likes never go unnoticed as a small business owner.

Connect with Nikki: FB: @archaneenchantments IG: @x.archane_creations.x Etsy: Etsy.com/archaneenchantments 15

O

stara

March 20th

Focus: Balance, birth, change, fertility, new beginnings, renewal, and strength.

Magickal Workings: Abundance, balance, change, fertility, growth, lust, new beginnings, passion, prosperity, and purification.

Deities: Amalthea, Aphrodite, Venus, Eos, Eostre, Epona, Flora, Freya, Gaia, Libera, Maia, Persephone, Renpet, Vila, Cernunnos, Herne, Dagda, Eros, Cupid, the Green Man, Mabon, Osiris, Pan, and Thor.

Colors: Green, light blue, pink, silver, violet, white, and yellow.

Herbs: Broom, jalap, irish moss, and lemon grass.

Trees: Alder, apple, and hawthorn.

Crystals: Agate, aquamarine, and bloodstone.

Metals: Silver.

Animals: Bees, boar, butterflies, chicks, horse, phoenix, rabbit, ram, and robin.

Oils and Incense: Apple blossom, daffodil, daisy, honey, honeysuckle, jasmine, lilac, orange blossom, primrose, rose, and rain.

Symbols: Baskets, eggs, rabbits, and seeds.

Preparing For Ostara

By Ambrosia Hawthorn Ostara is a beautiful time of year! It’s when flowers are starting to blossom, butterflies and birds are returning, and the sun begins to heat the Earth with its growing rays.

There’s a lot you can do this month from making some delicious Ostara inspired foods, perform rituals or blessings, craft your own cleaners to spring-clean your home, to even do a little shopping to get into the symbolic feeling of Ostara.

I love getting creative with natural egg dying or getting fake eggs to hide notes of wisdom inside for me to find later on. As a solitary, there’s an abundance of things you can to do celebrate.

Those who are in a coven, share with others ideas of honoring the spring and the new life that springs forth!

Add some divination in your life by using our Spring Equinox Tarot spread or look up to the stars with the astrological happenings on the 20th of March.

There’s plenty to learn and discover during March. All you need to do is flip these pages to find something for you!

Merry Ostara!

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O

stara Ritual for Balance

Ostara is a time of equal parts light and dark similar to Mabon, except after the Spring

Equinox the warmth of the Sun will begin to grow in strength, hope, and life. Which makes

this is the perfect time to honor balance and growth. To prepare for this ritual, decorate your altar, and get together an item or candle to represent each element, a pastel-colored candle,

and who you will be calling to aid you in your ritual. This could be others to join you or

symbols of deity for those who choose to call a particular god or goddess. If you are calling a

specific deity, it’s always good to have an offering, and this can be an edible item or a symbolic one.

If time allows it, this ritual is perfect for the morning of Ostara. Once you are ready, cleanse yourself and your area where you will be performing the ceremony. Sage sprays, smudge sticks, incense, or using bath salts are always great options for cleansing.

If you will be using fire in your ritual, please take fire safety precautions and use fire-safe bowls, dishes, etc.

To begin, place the symbol of air or candle representing air in the East of your altar,

“Guardian of the East, the power of air, come to this circle, and bring your brisk spring breeze and lightness of spirit.”

Turn to the South, placing your fire item, or lighting your candle and say, “Guardian of the South, the power of fire, come to this circle, and bring your burning warmth of spring and joy.

Turn to the West, placing your water item, or lighting your candle and say, “ Guardian of

the West, the power of water, come to this circle, bringing life-giving rains and healing energy.

Once more, turn to the North, placing your earth item, or lighting your candle say,

“Guardian of the North, the power of earth, come to this circle, bringing energy for growth and strength.”

This is the time if you are calling a deity, place the symbol and light your candle and invoke them. To incorporate Eostre, you might want to say something along the lines of, “Goddess,

known by name Eostre, I invoke your presence on your day of balance and new beginnings, I call on you to join me in honoring the new life and welcoming back the strength of the Sun.” Once all energies have been collected, sit or stand in the center or in front of your altar and light your pastel candle that represents the changing season of spring.

Close your eyes focus on how the elements are changing from winter to spring from the

warming breeze, burning sun shining brighter, waters unfreezing, and the earth sprouting new life. Use this time to focus on how in your life you can incorporate more balance into

your own world. Like the Earth, we have our cycles of beginnings and endings. Let yourself feel the balance falling into your life.

Finally, if you called forth a diety, place your offering on your altar and thank them for lending you their energy and strength.

To complete the ritual, close and say goodbye to the elements one at a time in reverse order as before.

Ostara Witches Egg $22.00 Gray Vervain Goddess Necklace $55.00 EnamelMagic

Ostara Altar Decoration Doll $26.82 HedgecraftHouse

Ostara Oxymel Spring Herbal Tonic $12.00 MotherHyldesHerbal

MARCH Must-Haves Our favorites for Ostara & Spring!

Ostara Altar Tile $15.29 Julianum Rupert's Tales: The Wheel of the Year Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, and Ostara $19.99 Amazon

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Pagan Origins of Easter

By Ambrosia Hawthorn Like many Christian holidays, the celebration of the springtime holiday of Easter can be traced back to its Pagan roots.

In much of the Pagan folklore, rabbits, and colored eggs feature prominently. The spirit of renewal and rebirth is universal in all of these traditions. Fertility, the return of warmer weather and the prosperity of growing crops, and a general feeling of hopefulness are prevalent this time of year, and that hopefulness plays strongly into the way the holidays are celebrated. The obvious connections are the Easter baskets and the dyed Easter eggs that are standard for children to receive around Easter.

In the story of Ishtar, the themes of resurrection and rebirth can be seen to directly correlate with the story of Jesus dying and being reborn.

While Ishtar was gone, spring wasn't unable to start which led to both the crops and the animals dying. However, when she returned, so did prosperity. Many disprove Ishtar being the origin of Easter due to her also being the symbol of power, war, and sex.

For Eostre, the problem is that the only source for the goddess Eostre is Bede. Also, Eostre shares a likely “linguistic origin with various IndoEuropean goddesses of the dawn like the Greek goddess Eos. The questions then becomes whether the dawn was named after the deities in question, or if the deities were named after the rising sun. The word Easter then could be linked directly to a pagan goddess, or simply mean beginnings.”

Whichever you believe, you can see the themes rebirth and renewal.

Through both of the examples, Easter’s lineage can be directly traced to its Pagan origins. The traditions aren't that far removed from the folklore, either. Regardless of your religious or spiritual beliefs, if you're using rabbits or eggs to celebrate this season, you're celebrating some of the oldest roots the world has.

Holloway, A. “The Ancient Pagan Origins of Easter."Ancient-origins.net.

McDougall, H. “The Pagan Roots of Easter.” TheGuardian.com.

Ericksen, A. “Ishtar Vs. Easter: Pick Your Story.” Patheos.com.

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‘Eggstra’ nice garden blessings

By Monica Crosson When Josh was thirteen and Elijah was nine, they started a very boyish egg decorating tradition- The Phallic Egg. Yes, it was exactly what you are thinking. A large erect penis done in crayon relief on a beautifully dyed egg. I caught their snickering as they placed their masterpiece in an egg carton. "What's so funny?" I asked.

"Oh, nothing, Mama."

Eli said, in a voice way too sweet. Then they both burst out with laughter.

I grabbed the egg. But instead of reacting with complete shock, probably to their dismay, I laughed. I laughed hard. "I cannot believe you guys!" I said. "I've taught you well. It's all about fertility!" I lifted the egg so their father could see it. He rolled his eyes before opening the fridge to graze.

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It wasn't until the next year when I found they had created another, that I made it our Ostara 'golden egg,' worth $10.00 to the child who could locate it.

That was enough to secure its placement in Crosson family Ostara traditions, forever.

The egg has been used to symbolize renewal and fertility since ancient times. In Germany, an egg was smeared on the plows to ensure the fertility of the land. Early Europeans hung eggs from trees and buried them beneath burgeoning roots to symbolize life's regenerative forces.

In ancient China and parts of India, women proposed marriage by handing a man an egg.

And if a woman wanted to become pregnant, northern European folk magick dictated tossing her an egg.

Even early Christians believed that if eggs laid on Good Friday were cooked on Easter, it promoted fertility of the crops.

The practice of coloring eggs goes all the way back to Paleolithic Africa where painted ostrich eggshells 60,000 years old have been found. Ancient Persians colored eggs for their New Year festival known as Nowruz as far back as 500BCE- the tradition continuing to this day. And the ancient Egyptians placed ostrich eggs covered with gold and silver in their tombs.

Central European folk customs made egg coloring an art with the Ukrainian Pysanka and Polish Pisanka. They are lovingly created with intricate symbolism and color by a method known as batik (wax resist).

It was German immigrants who brought the practices to America along with their tales of an egg-laying hare (Osterhase).

Children would make a nest the night before Easter, and the next morning it would be filled with dyed eggs.

Dying eggs, as a rite of spring, has had a long history. The egg itself may have taken a few new forms- plastic, marshmallow, and chocolate- to name a few.

But the passage of time has not changed the meaning. With Spring comes renewal- and with renewal there is hope.

Below is an “Eggstra Nice” garden blessing for your whole family.

This is a fun ritual that will bring out your inner artist. We will be burying an egg (eggs) in the garden for fertility of the land.

If you live in an apartment or have a small yard, you could bury your egg in a flower pot or window box.

You will need: Enough eggs for everyone involved Permanent fine tipped markers Egg Dye (commercial is fine) Garden Spade (or spoon for digging your hole) The evening before Ostara, prepare enough eggs for every member to decorate. You can boil them, blow them out by pricking a hole at both ends or leave them uncooked. We boil the eggs for our egg hunt and leave the ones for burying uncooked. They decompose pretty quickly.

For your ritual egg take a fine-point permanent pen and write blessings, draw spirals, runes, sigils or whatever symbols suit you. I like to start at the top and spiral the entire egg with an appropriate poem. Sometimes I write it myself, and sometimes I go to Yeats (his stuff is great!).

Little kids might draw a picture of a blooming flower with a bright sun.

As you do this remember to focus on growth!

Now dye your egg in whatever manner you typically do, whether it is commercial egg dye or natural dyes you make from spices or vegetables, that's up to you.

On the morning of Ostara (as the sun is rising is nice, but isn't always convenient) go to the garden. Use your garden spade to dig an approximately 6" deep hole for each egg.

Before burying your egg say together or elect someone to say: With this egg, I place in the earth, We ask the Maiden for rebirth, Sprouts of green, please return for us to see, As I speak this- so mote it be!

As you cover your eggs with dirt, focus for a moment on the growth of your garden — picture full, mature plants with beautiful blossoms.

When you're finishedthank the Maiden for her regenerative powers.

‘Eggstra’ nice garden blessings

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EGG MAGICK 101 Much like the more commonly known Christian holiday of Easter, the uses and symbolism of eggs during the springtime holiday is hugely prevalent.

One of the origin stories of the Ostara hare comes from a year that Eostre (sometimes known as Brigid) arrived late to start spring. When she arrived, she came upon a small bird frozen to the forest floor. Feeling guilty, the goddess turned him into a rabbit as he had lost his ability to fly, which allowed him to run freely. To also honor his previous life as a bird, it is said that Eostre also gave him the ability to lay brightly colored eggs.

After some unfortunate personal issues with the goddess, the rabbit was sent to live in the constellations as Lepus (or, The Hare), but is allowed to come back to earth once a year to hand out his brightly colored eggs to the children in springtime.

So how can you involve eggs in any magick you perform during this springtime holiday?

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Due to its associations with fertility and rebirth, eggs are often incorporated into rituals related to pregnancy as well as for prosperity with any spring crops that are being planted.

Many Pagans use a simple egg charm to harness these powers. Starting with a single egg (either boiled or with the insides blown out), choose a color to dye it. Many people prefer to use colors associated with the holiday - white, orange, or red.

After the dye is dry, you can draw different runes, symbols, or spells depending on the specific purpose the egg will be used for.

Plant the egg in the garden, hang it in your kitchen, or simply set it next to a tree outside to harness the hopeful powers that Ostara has to offer. Good luck, and Happy Spring!

DIY NATURAL EGG DYING Many Ostara traditions include the dying of eggs for either the altar or for use in various springtime related rituals.

However, more and more, people are becoming aware of the number of chemicals and artificial ingredients in many of the products we use. This also extends to the products we use to dye our eggs.

Starting with one cup of water, you can add a variety of different natural food products to add color to eggs without worrying about any artificial or unsafe ingredients. A tablespoon of white vinegar will help intensify and preserve the color as well. It will usually take around four cups of water to color a dozen eggs.

To color an egg blue (with white eggs), add a cup of chopped, purple cabbage.

With brown eggs, this will stain the egg green.

To make either lavender or red eggs, add a cup of red onion skins. Another

way of coloring eggs lavender is to add a single bag of Red Zinger tea.

For orange (with white eggs) or rusty red (with brown eggs) colors, add a cup of yellow onion skins.

A cup of shredded beets will turn white eggs pink or brown eggs maroon.

Yellow eggs can be made by adding two tablespoons of ground turmeric.

For the boldest color possible, let eggs sit in the dye for around 24 hours.

It may also be helpful to dip and dye them multiple times for a stronger, more solid color.

Have fun while safely and organically coloring your Ostara eggs in an all natural way!

Ostara Spring Cleaning Blessing

By Monica Crosson With the approach of spring, we watch the growing sun as he gathers strength- his brilliant fingers stretching higher and higher above the eastern hills until finally, the golden rays slip through my windows and illuminate a house in huge need of a spring cleaning.

"Are we breathing that?" my daughter asks of the dust particles no longer masked by winter's cloak.

I sheepishly make up something to save my pride. "It's just the play of the light. You know, an optical illusion,” I say.

She looks skeptical for a moment then replies, "Interesting how the optical illusion resembles our cat's hair floating around."

It is about this time we throw open the windows, allowing the breeze to blow out winter's residue.

We can't help but take in all that is fresh and new, and it stirs within us a renewed strength. We 26

suddenly feel as if we can take on the world! And if we can take on the worldwe can clean this house!

Ostara, or the vernal equinox has arrived. The Goddess, who stirred the earth's renewal at Imbolc, is fully awake and the earth revels in her young presence. Light and dark are in balance as the sun lines up with the Earth's equator, and all around us, the Maiden demonstrates her regenerative power.

Ostara takes its name from Eostre, an obscure Germanic Goddess of the dawn, fertility, and new beginnings. Her symbols include the hare and eggs, both potent fertility symbols. Although she is only mentioned briefly by the Venerable Bede (c.

673AD-735AD) in his “Temporum Ratione” or 'The Reckoning of Time,' the goddess, in her guise of maiden, along with the symbols of renewal and fertility have been revered in the rites of spring for thousands of years.

And what better way to begin this season of growth and new beginnings than getting the whole family together for a spring cleaning.

Throw open the doors and designate each family member a section to clean. Take down those curtains and wash every window- move the furniture and sweep, wash or vacuum every inch.

Wipe down the walls and clear out the clutter that has accumulated over the long, dark winter.

After the house is physically clean, use your ritual besoms to sweep away any negativity that might be lurking about.

As you come to the end of your clock-wise sweep, ending at the front doors, opened wide, say: Farewell to the muck and snow, and with the light negativity must go, Welcome Maiden of greening trees, Thank you for renewed energy!

Blessed be the Maiden!

1- What do I need to leave behind me?

2, 3, 4- Where does my life need to be brought back into balance?

5- What do I need to focus on to find balance within myself?

6- How are the seeds and intentions that I have planted over the last 3 months unfolding?

7- What do I need to remember to live a more centered and joyful life?

L

avender and Sage All-purpose Cleaner

By Monica Crosson

This lavender and sage cleaner pairs with a Spring cleaning blessing. It can help clear what has accumulated from winter.

1 c water

1 c white vinegar

40 drops lavender essential oil 20 drops sage essential oil Spray bottle Funnel

Using the funnel, add the water and

vinegar to spray bottle and shake to mix.

Add essential oil and shake. Label and store out of direct sunlight.

Spring is in the air. Baby animals are romping

through the forest and prancing in the meadows.

Flowers are bursting through the ground—and in some places even through the snow—and

blooming. The trees are forming buds that grow

larger every day; some will soon be flowers that will grow into fruits, and other buds will grow into leaves to help collect the nutrients the trees need to grow and thrive. ~Kerri Connor in Ostara

of Llewellyn's Sabbat Essentials

29

PERFORMING Rituals At Home

By Karla M. Freeling Performing rituals and writing spells are by far some of my favorite things I enjoy most about being a witch.

I usually take advantage of my downtime and try to come up with different rituals and incantations to do during sabbats and esbats. Throughout the years, I have realized that following some of the same steps for every ritual has helped me become more in tune with the ritual process.

Because of this, there are three things that are a must when I perform a ritual.

First, tiny bonfire! I live in an apartment that has a tiny balcony; which means elaborate bonfires are simply not possible. However, I do have a cast iron cauldron and I really enjoy putting offerings in it and creating my own private cauldron fire for about 10 – 15 minutes.

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Secondly, I always try to write my own incantations. I must confess though, I usually write what my intent is and my husband is actually the one that turns my words into an incantation that flows and rhymes.

He is very good at it. I am not sure if it’s because English is his first language or if it’s just that he is that magickal.

For example, a while back we performed a spell to help us to communicate within our marriage. I told him that I wanted us to include crystals, our elemental signs and that I wanted the words to somehow combine our spirits to essentially help us see things from each other’s perspective. A few hours went by and he came back with this – “Earth and Fire are combined, mind and heart are intertwined. Fire, light this candle white, communication it does

invite. We use these crystals to ignite, intentions pure as candlelight. That as we speak our words inspired, they calmly sound our heart's desire.” – It was perfect!

My third must-have is a safe space where I feel comfortable and inspired to do my ritual.

While in Japan, it seems like this space is almost always my home and usually my living room or balcony. Sometimes I turn my entire dining room table into a huge altar with tools, candles, crystals, and decorations. Other times, I am not as inspired and I simply light my cauldron and say a prayer/incantation.

Either way, I always trust in myself and in my intent. I never doubt myself and I take pride in my spiritual convictions. The main thing to keep in mind is that rituals could be as elaborate or as effortless as you would like.

The World of Wands

By M. Evergreen One of the many recommended altar tools you may encounter as you peruse Pagan and witch information is a wand.

A wand is generally a wooden stick, often with a crystal attached, sometimes with a wrapped handle, and other design variations.

The wand is used to direct energy generated from you, the wand holder, outward. Some examples of wand work in your practice may be to invoke the Goddess and God, casting a circle, to draw sigils or other symbols in the air, in accompaniment with spell chanting, cauldron stirring, and forms of divination.

Wands have been used for thousands of years for magical as well as religious ceremonies.

Although wands are traditionally wood, metal, crystals, and other materials have also been used. It has been said to be associated with either the element of fire or of

air as there is some dispute in Pagan communities.

The wand is associated with masculine energy or of God because of its phallic nature.

Type of Wood As you choose the wood for your wand you may want to consider what kind of properties are ascribed to different kinds of woods. For example, a traditional wood, willow, is feminine, related to intuition, and dreams.

Some other popular woods include ash, hawthorn, oak, apple, and many more. Wands that are custom are traditionally the length of the crook of the wand holder’s elbow up to the tip of the forefinger. The wood can also be carved or burned with symbols or other art.

Naturally Fallen Wood and Asking Permission As witches from many paths like to incorporate a respect for nature into their craft, it may be

important to you to create a symbolic relationship with the materials through respect. The first way is finding naturally fallen wood.

This consists of looking for branches and wood that have already fallen from the tree, found usually on the ground near the base of the tree.

This method is good because you are not harming the tree and are repurposing a part of it.
 The second way to acquire wood is to ask the tree for permission. This is done by placing a hand on the tree and asking for permission to cut some of its wood. Feel the energy that comes back from your question. If it is positive you may proceed. If the energy feels uncertain or negative, move on or perhaps ask at a later time. Some witches offer the tree water as a gift of gratitude.

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Use a sharp knife or clippers to remove a section of branch. Avoid removing wood from trees that are unestablished or are considered toxic.

Crystals If you choose to have a crystal on your wand you may want to think about what kind of energy you want it to have in aiding your work. Crystals, like a wand’s wood, carry certain associations and energies.

Finishing touches may include a wrapped handle of hemp or twine for a good grip (In case that spellcasting gets a little wild. That’s happened to someone else too, right?)

You can also carve or burn symbols into your wand like a pentacle or perhaps the symbol for fire if it feels right. You may want to consecrate your wand with a ritual or anointment.

An example is that carnelian is related to courage and self-esteem.

You may use any crystals to your liking but may want to avoid crystals that are water-soluble.

Some popular crystals would be amethyst, clear quartz, citrine, and moonstone. Many witches like to charge their wands in full moonlight and this would also be suitable for your wand.

The World of Wands 32

In the end, your wand could be very simple, just a bare branch, but the important thing is that you feel connected to it.

-M. Evergreen

www.evergreenmagicalarts.etsy.com 33

Correspondences- Do you have to Follow what's Written on a Certain List?Â

By Mike Sexton This question comes up quite a bit, and I can completely understand the confusion many people experience, especially when they're first starting on the Pagan path.

You come across several books, and each one might have a different correspondence for different colors, herbs, candle colors and so on, and you don't have a clue which one's truly right, so you're confused on what to follow as far as reliable information goes. Does this sound familiar?

If it does, please don't worry that you're doing something wrong or that you're not intelligent enough to be on this path.

The truth is, the reason why you come across different correspondence lists from various

34

authors, from various websites, and so on is because correspondences, in no small degree, are subjective. By that I mean we all have different experiences from our own lives, how we grew up, were raised, what country we were raised in and so on; so depending on those things, what we associate with a specific color, herb, food, crystal might be entirely or just slightly different from what someone else connects with.

What I always suggest people do when they're beginning on this journey is to take the correspondence tables you find in books and online as a template.

For example, in the Western part of the world, we often associate success, wealth, good fortune with the color green. We associate death with the color black; yet, in the East, people wear white to a funeral, gold color can be associated with wealth and so on.

Now, the question you might ask, "Does this mean I still should use their information when I'm performing a ritual, spell or anything else?"

And the answer is, it's truly up to you.

Some of the things written might connect correctly with how you think and feel about colors, herbs and so forth but other items written down may not and that doesn't make you or the author right or wrong, it just means you see things from a different perspective.

Let me remind everyone of something that's often overlooked in the world of Paganism, especially

when performing magickal rituals, spells and so on. A great deal of success hinges on our mind's ability to fully and ultimately connect with what we're doing- that goes all the way from the ingredients we use, the words we say and the actions we take.

All of these things are powerful cogs in the magickal wheel, and if we don't fully connect with something, it may not work or work in a way we didn't intend for it to work.

If your mind as well as how you feel about something is different from what you read in a book or on a website.

By all means, go with how your mind connects with something. If your mind connects the color red with wealth instead of lust and strength, by all means, use red for a spell or ritual involving

helping you succeed in life. If you associate orange with spring instead of autumn, go with that and so on.

Magick is a deeply personal thing, and it's not always easy to quantify it and make everything fit in a tidy little chart, box or table because magick, in the end, is about us using nature, our mind, and our innate strengths to shape and affect the world around us. In the end, it's up to each and every one of us to use the things we have around us, colors, flowers, herbs, weather and so forth, in the way that makes the most sense to each of us and will help us to grow on our path. To help us be able to help others, we love and care about.

This path you're on is never-ending, always evolving and changing and as you learn more about not just your path but the world around

us. As you learn from others, your beliefs, connections may very well change. Embrace this but always make sure that in the end, you are true to yourself, your mind, your beliefs, and feelings.

-Mike, author of On Your Wiccan Way: Learning to Build Your Wiccan On Your Wiccan Way: Learning to Build Your Wiccan Path

Correspondences- Do you have to Follow what's Written on a Certain List?Â

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GETTING TO KNOW Liz, Owner of astral garden Liz is an artist and jeweler who creates magical dark faerie adornments for the body and home.

Where and how did your craft begin?

I became obsessed with faeries—the darker, more interesting ones rather than the sparkly childlike kind—when I was a young teenager, which then naturally led to a love of all things magical. I was also born and grew up in a haunted house so my eyes were open to the spiritual world from a very young age.

I would describe my path as eclectic, taking bits and pieces from various beliefs and intertwining them with my own flare. I believe that art and creation is an act of magic.

While most people will be surprised to hear that I don’t personally believe that certain crystals help with specific physical/mental ailments, I do believe that crystals have a very special energy.

I do my best to weave magic and good energy throughout my everyday life. I wear herbs around my neck to attract benevolent fae and good fortune, I do tarot when I feel stuck, I draw sigils to keep in my pockets, I celebrate the cycles of the moon, seasons, and sabbaths.

I try to honor the cycle of life by utilizing animal parts and objects from the earth for my art. I do my best to be a good person and put good energy and beauty out into the world.

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www.astralgarden.net IG: @astral_garden FB: @astralgardenjewelry astralgardenjewelry@gmail.com

“ I put a lot of time and good energy into each piece I make and I hope that my customers will be able to feel that!

months since this happened, so I am just beginning the process of restoring my business.

The two biggest things that I had invested in before the fire were a huge amount of vending supplies—tons of display items, banners, lots of cute details such as a handmade and handpainted board for hanging necklaces and lots of decorations. I also had recently gotten all of the necessary things for copper electroforming.

What inspires you when creating your works of art?

My inspiration comes heavily from nature. I love showcasing natural objects in my work as well as sculpting nature scenes. I have a range from what I like to call “dark fae” to “light fae”.

Dark fae would be the more witchy, black pieces with bones and beautiful symbolism such as the moon phases or runes.

My biggest immediate goal is that I will quickly get back to the place I was before the fire.

Beyond that, I would like to start vending at markets, renaissance fairs, and festivals. I love meeting the lovely people who wear my art.

I also would like to start electroforming again. I was very excited about the copper jewelry that I was beginning to make and I have so many more ideas now. Once I figure out what new town I will settle down in, I am planning on taking several classes on metal-working and jewelry design in order to elevate my craft.

Light fae would be the whimsical forest scenes with little mushrooms, moss, leaves, and lovely more colorful crystals. I also love experimenting with mixing those two sides and I am inspired by the crystals themselves.

Most of the time, I don’t plan what I’m creating until I stare at the crystal itself for a while.

What are your hopes and dreams for the future of your witchy business?

In November, a fire swept through my town of Paradise, CA and destroyed most of the town, including my little forest cottage. All of the art supplies that I had invested in for myself over many years were destroyed. It’s only been a few 37

Use code:

WITCHOLOGY100FF to receive 10% off for the month of march!

38 WWW.ASTRALGARDEN.NET

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C

harging a Talisman for Protection and Prosperity

By Stefanina Baker

You’ll need:

-A piece of jewelry, a metal of your favorite saint or deity, or any other trinkets -A plate or candle-safe tray (pocket sized) that calls to you -White salt (enough for a small circle- Âź cup) -5 Evergreen branches of your choice (I use pine, holly, or yew) -A white novella candle (3-5 day candle) -3 seashells -A sprinkle of cinnamon

-A 3 (or 4) leaf clover from your yard for dressing the candle

Gather your materials. Call in any protective deities or Ancestors

with whom you work. Use some of the evergreen branches to smudge

the area in order to clear your space. Then take the candle, set it on the plate. Surround the candle with white salt. Take your five

evergreen branches and use that to surround the plate itself. Use three seashells to create a triangle outside of the salt. Sprinkle cinnamon

and clover into the candle. Take the talisman and put it around the candle, or on the plate with the other items.

Light the candle and say, I call in the light with this candle, Protection with salt,

Shells with Prosperity

Evergreen to clear energy,

And to invite success and prosperity.

Charge my talisman with protection and prosperity, A magnet for good luck A mirror for ill will.

So mote it be (or amen) Let the candle burn out, and wear your item when you want to attract protection and prosperity.

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Rabbit History & Folklore in Magick

By Ambrosia Hawthorn Springtime every year brings with it thoughts of warmer weather, green grass, and rabbits.

Although much of this time of year has been coopted by Christian interests and holidays (Easter the most prominent among them), it's important for Pagans everywhere to remember the real history of the holiday.

Rabbit symbolism and folklore in magick, especially around the celebration of Ostara, has been around for centuries.

The rabbit is often associated with fertility magick and sexual energy.

Some of the original lore surrounding the goddess Eostre ties rabbits (or hares) to her as the myth suggests that her light (which brought back the

42

dawn and the warmer weather) was carried to the world on the backs of the animals.

Rabbits, in general, are also well known for being prolific with their breeding, so their association with fertility is relatively apparent. They reemerge in the spring, seemingly overnight, and are suddenly everywhere just a few weeks later. The goddess Ostara is a fertility goddess as well, with her arrival marking the return of spring and the banishing of colder weather.

colored eggs left in the night by an Easter Hare.

That doesn’t mean the Easter Bunny didn’t exist before those first references to the Germanic Oschter Haws (or Osterhase), it just can’t be documented.

Rabbit symbolism and folklore is extremely prevalent around the holiday of Ostara.

Knowing a little bit more about the history can help you best incorporate them into any traditions or rituals you plan.

Hoppy Ostara!

The character of the "Easter bunny" first appeared in 16th-century German writings, which said that if well-behaved children built a nest out of their caps or bonnets, they would be rewarded with

Mankey, J. Eostre, “Easter, Ostara, Eggs, and Bunnies.” Patheos.com.

Wigington, Patti. "Egg-Laying Bunnies and Mad March Hares."

Thoughtco.com.

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Goddess Eostre Eostre, or Ostara, or Eastre, is the Germanic Goddess of spring and dawn. She is associated with flowers and springtime, and her name gives us the word "Easter," as well as the name of Ostara itself. She is only mentioned once in scholarly writings of the period - Bede the monk states that during Eostremonath- the old Anglo-Saxon name for April, the Pagan Anglo-Saxons held festivals in her honor.

Eostre is often said to have been worshipped by the Anglo-Saxons under the name, Eastrgena which appears in 788 CE. In the book “Pagan Goddesses in the Early Germanic World� the author links Eostre to the German Austriahenea, a matron goddess connected to the East or dawn.

To work with the goddess Eostre, call on her for

renewal, fertility, or healing. Decorate your altar with pastel colors, egg decorations, flowers, and symbols of rabbits.

This is an excellent time to walk barefoot in soft

grass or create and wear a flower crown in honor of spring.

Once you have your method of honoring Eostre, you can invoke her through meditation or invocation.

Symbols: Rabbits, flowers, chicks, and eggs.

Renewal Divination

By Chosen Eyes After the cold, dormant energy of the winter, the need to dust yourself off and shine can be intense.

Don’t get me wrong, winter is a very important time for earth and spirit by bringing forth the energies of cultivation, incubation, and replenishment.

We tend to view that which is not lively, as being dead, which couldn’t be further from the case. There is life in all things, you just have to know where and how to look! But we’re not here to talk about winter.

Spring is upon us and the elements are stirring. Water begins to flow as it transitions from its solid state, air reveals its compassion as it warms with the aid of the Sun’s fire, and Earth awakens as it thaws and begins to

46

bring forth new life cultivated during the winter months. With these awakening elements, the spirit is reborn.

As the material world begins to develop, our spiritual bodies begin to follow suit- the body is less groggy, diets become lighter, we are awakened by the scents of freshness, and activated by the sunlight while fellowship amongst beings of all species increases.

This is the perfect time in my humble opinion, to break out the scrying bowl and begin connecting to the cosmos.

Though I identify as a psychic-medium I have been reading mirrors and scrying for as long as I can remember. In fact, it was the first form of divination I learned.

My favorite mirror to use is the glass bowl of water called a water bowl.

To use a water bowl, fill a glass bowl just under halfway. Next, add fresh flowers corresponding to the season and your region. The point is to connect to the ethers from your space or time.

Add stones or pebbles from a local creek, stream, river, or ones found on your path that speak to you. You can add the stones to the water bowl, or simply create a grid around the scrying area.

Feel free to light candles and/or incense to place you in a meditative state.

With your eyes closed and palms facing upward, breathe in the natural world around you with as many deep breaths as possible.

Once centered, open your eyes and gaze into the water.

I recommend having a writing utensil handy and paper for notetaking. Allow the water to wash over you and listen or watch the messages that come to you.

By incorporating the elements into your reading, you awaken the sense. To tap in to higher self and replenish the soul at once. By trusting the messages received in the process, you are restoring your faith in higher self and your personal wisdom. #keepyourgazesforward

Renewal Divination 47

Ask The

Experts

Have a burning question about Wicca, witchcraft, or being Pagan?Send your question to admin@wildgoddessmagick.com for the chance to be featured on these pages.

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M. Evergreen

Kim

Marie

is a wandmaker, actress, and Wiccan. She makes wands for all kinds of witches and has a love of art in many forms. @theevergreenwitch

is the owner of Worldofmagick.com, a place where you can find information to enhance your practice and help you enjoy the magickal life. @world_of_magick

is the owner of Anita Apothecary, a shop filled with ritual candles, altar tools, and other magickal goods for the home and body. @anitaapothecary

Q: Can I use a single wand for multiple different spells or should I have a different wand for healing, banishing, etc.?

Q: Do you have any Book of Shadows advice for witches who have too many blank journals?

Q: As a beginner, what is the best way to get informed on being a witch?

A: A single wand can absolutely be used for all different kinds of spells. A wand is an extension of yourself and it is you that is the powerhouse of magick that channels the energy into the wand. Your intentions are the wand’s intentions.

A: For witches who have too many blank journals, put all of your favorite journals away in a drawer or cupboard but leave one out to work on. Once you’ve completed that move on to your next least favorite and so on.

The wood, gems, and symbols in your wand can be associated with certain properties depending on what your wand is made of, which can help you to set specific intentions, but it is really a personal preference if you’d like more than one wand and is not necessary to have successful spellcasting sessions. Just as clear quartz is known for being able to take on the qualities of other crystals, the wand tends to be deeply personal to its Witch and have a similar adaptability to intention.

Your personal style will develop as you progress through each journal so by the time you get to your final and favorite journal, you can look back and see how far you’ve come on your witchy journey!

A: We live in a time where we have extensive resources available at our disposal.

However, I will always believe spending as much time as possible in the elements and nature is one of the most valuable ways to connect with your inner witch. Reading books, of course, is essential and can provide us with many different ideas and insight into the craft. There will be books where certain things don’t feel right, or you won’t connect with, and that’s ok. Take with you what you do connect and resonate with and leave the rest behind. If you live in an area where there are meetups, festivals or classes, I would highly encourage you to try and meet some like-minded individuals where you can share experiences and ask questions.

Just remember no two witches are alike. Our spirituality is personal and different for each of us, and there is no one-sizefits-all way to practice your craft.

3

TOP HERBS FOR SPRING

Burdock primarily is a nutritive and metabolic tonic; that is, it is rich in minerals and vitamins, and eating it is beneficial for digestion. It is best eaten fresh or tinctured. Burdock is one of the best known remedies for the treatment of skin conditions.

Stinging Nettle helps with digestion, immune response, liver metabolism, skin reactions, and kidney elimination. It is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, so that it i s a n e x c e l l e n t a l l - a ro u n d nutritive tonic.

Dandelion root is perhaps the best widely applicable diuretic and liver tonic. It’s the ideal spring cleanser, spring bitters, and spring tonic. Dandelion is slightly bitter but baby dandelion leaves are delicious when added to a salad.

(Wood)

(Hoffmann)

(Grieve)

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Jalap

Other names: John the Conquer root, wild potato, wild jalap, bindweed, moon flowers, and morning glories.

Plant family: Convolvulaceae.

There are over 500 species of the Ipomoea genus and are

found in subtropical regions of the world. They are often climbing plants with long vines. The root called John the Conqueror is commonly used in the hoodoo tradition. It’s named after a folk hero called High John the Conqueror.

Ipomoea purga

Magickal properties: Money, success, protection, and prosperity.

Magickal workings: Jalap root is often used in mojo bags or charm pouches, incense recipes, candle dressings, oils, sprays, and other external concoctions. It’s a powerful laxative it shouldn’t be used internally.

Scent profile: Spicy.

Unsafe actions: Cathartic, purgative, and diuretic.

Correspondences: Venus, Water.

Aquamarine The name aquamarine comes from the Latin aqua

marinus, meaning "water of the sea," and refers to its bright ocean-like color. The pale blue, transparent crystal is a member of the beryl family.

Magickal properties: Courage, peace, sleep, healing, purification, emotions, and subconscious.

It’s a stone used often by sea or water witches. In

ancient lore, aquamarine was believed to be the treasure of mermaids and was used by sailors as a talisman of good luck, fearlessness, and protection.

Magickal workings: Use aquamarine in a charm bag, or worn as a piece of jewelry to enhance psychic powers. It can also be used in purification workings and cleansing

magick. Aquamarine is used much like the amethyst in soothing and calming emotional problems. It is a stone of peace, joy, and happiness, especially in relationships.

Correspondences:Energy: Receptive energy, Moon, water.

GETTING TO KNOW Sarah, Owner of mugwort and seashells Sarah creates nature inspired, eco-friendly creations drawing inspiration from the beautiful world around her.

Tell us about your practice/ craft and how it evolved.

I think I've always felt very intuitive with my practice. I've been drawn to nature and the earth for as long as I remember. Before I was old enough to know anything "organized" I remember singing to tree spirits or being horrified at anyone damaging the earth.

This in part I think was down to early education in a Waldorf/ Rudolph Steiner school where we had midsummer fires and maypoles and biodynamic gardening (growing according to moon phases).

I think as a teen it began to evolve into witchcraft, and I felt the need to read every book I could afford to learn how to practice this naturebased religion "properly" but now I feel drawn to follow instinct — listening to the rhythms of the earth and cycles, working with herbs, trees, the elements.

I'm most comfortable away from too many people 54

wandering around barefoot on the earth, drinking it all in.

The moon plays a big part in my practice, and I'm deeply in love with woodlands and the rivers and oceans. The older I'm getting, the more the sacred feminine means to me too.

We're a family that loves legends and ( particularly my daughter and I) draw a lot of inspiration from the old myths and legends of the land we live on, the Celts, the Druids, the fae, sacred sites, and creatures. I think this feeds my practice now too as there is a lot to be learned from how our ancestors lived with the earth and oceans and the deities they worshipped.

What inspired you to create your witchy business?

I've always wanted to explore my creativity and wished it were possible to make a living out of making things. I started years go selling my knitwear at craft fairs and local artisan shops but stopped when I began home educating. A few friends have been encouraging me to sell again, and in the last few months, I've braved it.

This time though I'm not restricting myself to one medium! I love creating things, and it is such an honor when someone likes my creations enough to buy them.

There is also a wonderful campaign called Just A Card which has inspired and motivated me. They support artisans and highlight the difference it can make buying independent rather than mass produced.

I've only been selling for a couple of months and feel like there is a lot more to explore as my confidence grows.

Use code:

WITCH10 to recieve 10% off the entire shop for the month of march!

Etsy.com/shop/mugwortandseashells

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What is your inspiration for your journals?

The journals combine several passions for me; my love of books (particularly old books), creating art, writing, using upcycled "junk" to create something new. In an ideal world I'd love to be making the paper for the pages too, but currently, it's recycled. The artwork is reflective of my lifestyle and moons appear often! I'm still testing the waters, but I have plans for more ocean and woodland themed journals.

I think a person's journal or book of shadows is a very special tool to help record one's journey, be that through life or their practice. I hope to create a place where these

56

journeys can be recorded and cherished. And I aim to make each one as unique as possible as no two journeys are the same!

I think the binding process reflects that wish. When the journal is born rather than just being pieces, I can't help but think about what might be written on the pages as they get stitched together; what will the cover mean to each person- it's quite magical.

“

My work appeals most to those less mainstream looking for ways to express individuality or live a greener lifestyle. I aim to be diverse enough to offer something for those trying to be more environmentally aware but also for those who are looking for something a bit more Pagan!

What's your favorite medium?

I think that it depends on my mood and the time of year. I love working with wool and fabrics in the winter months whereas the summer calls me outdoors to paint or draw.

Spring is all about new beginnings and plans for the following year so I think a lot of new ideas will flow and Autumn calls me to express with color.

I love making with unwanted things though, saving them from being trashed and giving them new life. Be that the card I use in the journals or fabrics that have been torn and no longer wanted. I feel it's one step closer to a greener life.

Connect with Sarah at any of her platforms: Etsy: @mugwortandseashells IG: @mugwortandseashells Blog: mugwortandseashells.wordpress.com/

C

eltic Tree Lore Ash - Nuin

The Ash Celtic Moon

February 18 - March 17 Latin: Fraxinus excelsior The ash tree has been an essential tree throughout history.

The World Tree Yggdrasil was a giant ash that connected the realms of existence. It’s a tree that is sacred to the god, Odin in Scandinavian cultures. Also, the spear of Odin was made from the branch of this tree, which is also known by the Celtic name Nion, pronounced knee-un. Sometimes referred to the hoop ash, the Ash is associated with dreams, spiritual journeys, flight, prosperity, protection, and strength.

Many magickal tools are made from ash due to the straight grain of the wood. It’s also the wood of the maypole.

Magickal Properties: Healing, divination, strength, endurance, and protection.

Magickal Workings: Ash wands are good for healing, general and solar magick.

Symbolism: Strength and protection.

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FAMOUS WITCH: LAURIE CABOT (1933)

Laurie Cabot was born Mercedes Elizabeth Kearsey on March 6,1933 in Wewoka, Oklahoma. While her childhood was mostly spent in the state of California, it wasn't until she moved to the East Coast as a teenager that she started exploring the occult more closely and becoming a pioneer in the modern Witchcraft movement.

Today, Cabot is one of the most high profile witches in the entire world. She was one of the first and most outspoken people to introduce witchcraft to the general public in the United States and helped to turn it from a taboo subject to one that people were less afraid to speak about or research.

Cabot is the author of six publications over her storied career - The Power of the Witch, Love Magic, Celebrate the Earth, The Witch in Every Woman, Book of Shadows,

and Book of Spells and Enchantments.

Cabot is best known for her teachings of “Witchcraft As A Science” to all, emphasizing meditation and psychic development and establishing her own Cabot Tradition of Witchcraft. She later found the Cabot-Kent Hermetic Temple as a federally recognized religious organization for furthering the Witchcraft community and culture.

She also championed the rights of Witches and Pagans through establishing the Witch's League for Public Awareness.

Cabot also founded the first official witch shop in Salem, Massachusetts, which closed its doors in 2012. However, the online shop is still going strong. She currently runs the business with her youngest daughter, Penny.

She still resides in Salem and continues to be a local celebrity- Former Governor of Massachusetts, Michael S. Dukakis, awarded her the Patriot Award for public service and declared her the “official Witch of Salem, Massachusetts.” The exposure she gave to witchcraft has helped to legitimize it as a practice and de-stigmatize it in the public eye.

As a teacher, author, and activist, she was one of the first to inform the public on who and what Witches are.

She later created the Project Witches Protection, educating the media on inaccurate and demeaning portrayals of Witches and educating government representatives on the religious rights of Witches.

Cabot, Laurie; Cabot, Penny; Penczak, Christopher. Laurie Cabot's Book of Shadows Rice, Justin. Boston.com. archive.boston.com/ news/local/massachusetts/articles/2012/02/05/ laurie_cabot_salems_official_witch_closes_up_s hop_after_40_years/ Jen. Wicca Daily. http://wiccadaily.com/lauriecabot-the-official-witch-of-salem/

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S

torm Moon March

Also referred to as the Ice Moon, Worm Moon, Cleansing Moon, or Hunger Moon. During this month, we see new life sprouting up and blossoming along with the changing seasons. Due to the equinox in March, we see equal parts of light and darkness which represents a time of balance in our lives. The March full Moon is particularly special because it reaches its peak on the same day as the spring equinox, on March 20, 2019. This is also the third and final supermen of 2019.

Correspondences: Colors: Green, yellow, light purple, and pastel colors.

Gemstones: Bloodstone and aquamarine.

Trees: Ash, honeysuckle, lilacs, and cherry blossoms.

Deities: Eostre, Isis, Morrighan, Artemis, and Cybele.

Herbs: Jalap, pennyroyal, wood betony, apple blossom.

Element: Water.

During this Full Moon, work on spells and rituals related to rebirth, prosperity, fertility, balance, and growth. Earth experiences a re-birth as it awakens from its winter slumber.

MARCH’S MOON IS THE STORM MOON

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Beginning Again with the

ASTROLOGICAL NEW YEAR

By Lightworker Astrology According to the Gregorian calendar, the beginning of the New Year falls on January 1.

Astrologically, however, the New Year does not begin until the Spring Equinox which is always in March.

This has to do with the Sun- the center of our solar system and it entering the fiery zodiac sign of Aries. Aries is all about new beginnings, action, and courage, while being the sign of the pioneer, the entrepreneur, and the selfstarter.

Sounds fitting for a New Year don’t you think?

Can you feel the youthful zest and energy of the ram?

The rest of the year, the Sun moves through the twelve signs of the zodiac which you already know as your star or sun sign.

Other important planetary movements happening on March 20th are Mars creating a 120° angle or Trine to Pluto, generating more action and transformation than we 62

will expect. It might be a good idea to ready yourself for a profound transformation. Mars and Pluto don’t play around when it comes to generating a new cycle.

Also on this day is the Full Storm Moon in Libra. This event will draw you in emotionally to take a good look at your relationships and to focus on peace and the wellbeing of everyone.

Did you think that was it?

Mercury Retrograde wants to add one last thing for March 20th with it creates a 60° angle or Sextile with Saturn.

Mercury Retrograde (or Rx) is a period of three weeks when Mercury appears to stop (station) and spin backward (retrograde). Of course, it isn’t moving backward, but much like two cars passing each other, this creates the optical illusion that Mercury, in this case, is going backward.

With Mercury Retrograde’s transit to Saturn, the past with regards to tradition,

structure, and authority can be rearing its inconvenient head.

Instead of moving forward as this transit suggests, the retrograde is slowing you down causing you to look backward.

What does this mean altogether? Look back and mentally close those left open doors to allow yourself the transformation that’s calling you before beginning anything new.

What to look for? Past relationships, partnerships, or friendships that were left unattended.

To help you with this, light a red candle to honor Aries, then create your intentions for the astrological New Year.

Visit me for more on Astrology IG: @lightworkerastrology Patreon: @lightworkerastrology

Interview with Rebecca Troy, The Alchemy Witch It was a pleasure getting to know Rebecca Troy, I’m sure you noticed she was one of our featured Ask the Experts page last month. She is an author with an abundance of knowledge to share!

Can you tell us a little about your practice?

I work with alchemical processes to show a person how to shift and manifest into their true nature. No two client experiences are the same, but, with the help of the person's ancestral line and sense of self, away from what opinions have been formed through projections onto one's soul, it is inevitable that a new understanding of truth will emerge.

I work with divinely guided spirits, and even in different realms to create a new way of being for a client. It's interesting to think that a soul can reach completion by working outside of the earthy realm, but, that manner of being has always had the most profound, and the quickest results for folks I work with (plus, let's not forget that we're not all originally from this planet).

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How do you incorporate healing into your work?

The most straightforward answer I have for this question is- I don't. Anyone who has worked with me is profoundly ready to reclaim their soul on their terms. I merely become a witness and a gentle guide to do what they are ready for- to become whole.

The healing is just a natural by-product of the alchemical process. I always say to my clients, after we have finished working together you'll never need me again, you'll be doing the work yourself! And, they do.

It's amazing how a life can change when someone is witnessed without judgment, and seen for their unique beauty.

What inspired you to write your new bookHealing and Witchcraft in a Conformist World?

I was in the middle of writing a novel-length work of fiction (about witches and parallel universes- because why not?) when I stumbled upon the idea of writing a nonfiction book about my experiences with Witchcraft and the essence of healing. I wanted to write a book that I wished I had read or had existed, when I was young, a book that would create a platform of hope, unity and a little bit of badass-ery too!

I was also given the name the Merry Way Witch in a mediation- a name I was convinced I had heard before, but, when I researched online there was nothing, and no one (so far) who had taken that name, so, I love to believe that this book was divinely guided in its own unique way.

Who is this book aimed at?

Even though I love my community of witches, this book is written for any person who draws their knowledge from the beauty of the natural world and the examples of strength and truth, as lived by our feminine bloodline and ancestors. It is a book that holds space for those who desire to be their unapologetic self while releasing the negativity of the Patriarchal censorship of self. All this can be achieved through incorporating magic and personal power into the mix of becoming you. It is my hope that any person seeking to integrate the essence of the Masculine and Feminine aspects of self through a magickal practice, and, receive support while taking on this work, would appreciate this book.

Where to find Rebecca Troy: Rebeccatroyearthangelalchemist.com Rebeccaferreiratroy.com IG: rebecca_alchemywitch FB: alchemicalwitchcraft

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Ostara Chocolate & Orange Hot Cross Buns These chocolate and orange hot cross buns are so soft and fluffy, and deliciously warm from the oven, ready for a spread of butter. They are the perfect way to honor Ostara.

INGREDIENTS FOR 12: DOUGH: -4 c all-purpose flour -2 and 1/4 tsp instant (fast-action) yeast -1/2 c caster sugar -2 tsp mixed spice -1/2 tsp ground cinnamon -1/4 tsp ground nutmeg -3/4 c chocolate chips -1 c milk, warm -1/4 c unsalted butter, melted -1 large egg -1/4 c orange juice -Zest of 1 large orange CROSSES: -1/2 c all-purpose flour -1 Tbsp caster sugar -1/4 c water

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DIRECTIONS: BUNS: -In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and spices.

Toss in the chocolate chips.

-Make a well in the center, and add in the milk, butter, egg, orange juice, and zest. Mix well, then bring everything together with your hands to form a sticky dough.

-Transfer the mixture to a lightly floured surface, and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover with clingfilm and leave to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

-Divide the dough into 12 balls. Place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking tray, cover and leave to rise in a warm place for another hour, or until they are touching and doubled in size.
 -Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
 CROSSES: -Whisk together the flour and sugar. Stir in the water until smooth.

Place into a piping bag, and pipe crosses over the buns.

-Bake for 18 - 20 minutes, or until risen and golden brown.

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Vegan“Egg” Salad

By Deborah Mesdag

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Vegan “Egg” Salad

By Deborah Mesdag

Egg salad is a perfect choice for lunch on Ostara, but what if you’re vegan, allergic to eggs, or need to reduce your cholesterol? You can make “egg” salad with tofu that looks, tastes, and feels just like it is made with eggs!

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

-14 oz firm or extra firm tofu -1/2 to 3/4 c vegan mayo -1 1/2 tsp nutritional yeast -1/2 tsp black salt (Kala Namak) -1/4 tsp black pepper -1/4 tsp ground turmeric -2 green onions -1 stalk celery -Salt to taste

- Drain the liquid from your package of tofu, then press out about 2/3 cup of additional liquid from the block of tofu. If you have a salad spinner, place the spinner basket on a large plate, put the block of tofu in the basket, put a plate on top of the tofu, and then add weight on top of the plate. Or, wrap the tofu in a clean dish towel and place it on a plate, put another plate on top, then add weight on top of the plate. Pressing the extra liquid out of the tofu will take about 30 to 40 minutes.

- Add 1/2 cup of the vegan mayo, nutritional yeast, Kala Namak, pepper, and turmeric to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Whisk to combine.

- Finely chop the green onion and celery, then mix them into the mayo mixture.

- Crumble the pressed tofu into the bowl, then mix to combine.

- Add additional mayo if needed and salt to taste.

- Cover and refrigerate your “egg” salad for at least an hour and up to several days.

- Make sandwiches and enjoy!

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package and remove the block of tofu. If you have a salad spinner, place the spinner basket on a large plate, put the block of tofu in the basket, put a plate on top of the tofu, and then add weight on top of the plate. Or, wrap the tofu in a clean dish towel and place it on a plate, put another plate on top, then add weight on top of the plate. You should press out about 2/3 cup of additional liquid from the block of tofu within 30 to 40 minutes.

Add 1/2 cup of the vegan mayo, nutritional yeast, Kala Namak, pepper, and turmeric to a mediumsized mixing bowl. Whisk to combine. Add the chopped green onion and celery and mix again.

Tofu, when pressed and crumbled is nearly identical to the texture of hard-boiled eggs, and black salt (Kala Namak) adds the eggy flavor.

(You can find Kala Namak at Indian grocery shops or get it on Amazon. It is also wonderful in scrambled tofu and vegan eggnog, so I always keep it on hand.) You can leave it out and just use regular salt, but your “egg” salad will not have a definite eggy flavor. Nutritional yeast is the only other ingredient that you might not see at your usual grocery store. Trader Joe’s has it as do most health food stores, or you can order it online.

The first thing you will need to do is to press your tofu.

Start by cutting a slit in the top of the package and pour the liquid into your sink. Then, open the 70

Crumble the tofu into a bowl and mix into the mayo mixture.

Add additional mayo if needed and salt to taste.

Cover and refrigerate your “egg” salad for at least an hour and up to several days. Make sandwiches and enjoy!

Vegan “Egg� Salad Correspondences Celery

Soy

Element: Fire

Energies: Protection, Spirituality,

Gender: Masculine

Psychic Awareness

Planet: Mercury Energies: Fertility, Lust, Mental Powers, Psychic Awareness

Onions Element: Air Gender: Masculine Planet: Mars Deities: Aine, Bastet Energies: Endurance, Healing, Money, Prosperity, Protection, Stability

Salt Element: Earth Gender: Feminine Planet: Earth Energies: Cleansing, Grounding, Protection, Psychic Awareness, Purification Turmeric

Element: Fire Planet: Mars Energies: Banishing, Courage, Passion, Purification, Strength

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