Harnessing Spring’s Magic: Herbal Allies for Health and Witchcraft

If I haven't already made it abundantly clear, working with plants is one of the key tenets of my magical practice, just like the hedge witches who came before me. The relationships I have built with the plants in my garden and around my home are precious, allowing me to cast spells, develop rituals, and create healing medicines. As the seasons change, so do the plants I work with. Part of practicing local, animistic witchcraft means shifting with the seasons and relying on what is available. That isn't to say I don't bring in some plants that aren't necessarily prevalent this time of year, but I am definitely more cognizant of my choices each season.

Seasonal plant allies are an excellent source of magic and healing, bringing a potent natural element to your work. But what is a plant ally exactly? 

A plant ally is a plant that you have a close relationship with, much like that of a close friend. Just like real friendships, your plant allies shift and change as you grow. Some will be fair-weather friends, while others will stick with you through the thick of it. They come into our lives to guide us, challenge us, and encourage us to face life's challenges and adventures.

How you connect with your plant allies is entirely personal and a topic for another post, but developing these relationships is critical for those interested in working with plants in their magical or healing practice. We are but one spirit in the cosmos, no greater or smaller than others. Respecting others is paramount to an ethical practice, and I take it quite seriously.

Spring is a time for rejuvenation, rebirth, and new beginnings. However, it's also a time for hay fever, asthma, and other seasonal allergy symptoms. Flowers are blooming, life bursting forth for the first time in months, sprinkling the landscape with vibrant colors and filling the air with pollen. This rebirth is the perfect time for manifestation magic, as well as creating healing remedies to treat allergy-related symptoms.

In today's post, we will journey together to get to know the plants I rely on most during the spring months for witchcraft and healing. I have grouped the plants based on need and offered alternatives where possible.

For Fertile Opportunities

I always associate spring with new beginnings and fertility, and I am not alone in this. Spring is a time of rebirth: the snow is melting, the weather is warming, flowers are returning, and baby animals are being born. This is the perfect time for fertility magic and medicine, whether you are looking for fertile opportunities or family planning.

The herbs on this list are magically and medicinally associated with fertility, abundance, and new opportunities.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense): Quick to grow and bloom as soon as the weather warms, red clover contains isoflavones which have an estrogen-like effect on the body, allowing them to help reduce menopausal symptoms. it also contains phytoestrogens which help regulate hormone production and improve the uterine lining, thus helping with implantation and overall fertility in women. In men, some studies indicate red clover supports prostate function and potentially increases sperm count, but more research is needed. Due to its abundant nature and how fast it reproduces, red clover is magically associated with fertility, abundance, love, fidelity, and strength. Add to spells, rituals, and remedies to strengthen relationships, ensure your partner is faithful, increase fertility, and bring abundance.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): Thyme begins growing and blooming early to mid-spring, and its rapid growth has led to its deep connection with fertility and abundance. Wherever you plant thyme, expect more to soon sprout, taking over entire garden beds if allowed. Many studies have suggested that thyme mimics estrogen's effect on the body and improves overall sperm quality, thus improving overall fertility. It is also naturally antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory as it contains thymol and carvacrol, making it perfect for treating infections, both topically and internally. As such, add thyme to spells, rituals, and remedies for fertility, sowing seeds, abundance, health, and productivity.

Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus): Blooming in late spring and early summer, the chasteberry isn't harvested until late fall, but stores well so it can be used all year. Chasteberry has historically been used to treat infertility and irregularities in menstruation in women, and it is still used in many countries for these purposes. Research suggests that chasteberries are capable of decreasing levels of prolactin, which helps rebalance other hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which can reduce PMS symptoms, help regulate menstruation, and increase fertility. Magically, the chasteberry is associated with chastity (surprise, surprise), fertility, and the divine feminine. Use in spells, rituals, and remedies for fertility and femininity.

Other potential plant allies for fertility, new beginnings, and abundance include maca root (Lepidium meyenii), catnip (Nepeta cataria), parsley (Petroselinum crispum), and raspberry (Rubus idaeus).

For Finding Balance in Change

Spring is an in-between time and is marked by the spring equinox when the day and night are equal in length. As such, spring is a time of balance, reminding us to recenter after a long slumber. This sudden change in weather, especially in the south, can sometimes lead to imbalances in the body and mind, resulting in sickness, so why not rely on your plant allies to prevent this?

The herbs on this list are magically and medicinally associated with balance, action, renewal, and cleansing.

Larix (Larch arabinogalactan): Larix is a deciduous conifer, meaning, unlike other conifers, it sheds it needles in the autumn only to regrow them in the spring. These newly grown needles are high in arabinogalactan, a prebiotic that helps balance the microbiome of the gut. It's also high in antioxidants, specifically polyphenols, and flavonoids, which help the body adapt and adjust to seasonal changes, helping the body maintain balance while promoting seasonal well-being. Magically, larix is associated with rebirth, balance, action, and emotional strength. Use in spells, rituals, and remedies to remain balanced during times of change, take action, renew, and strengthen resolve.

Chickweed (Stellaria media): Chickweed begins growing early to late spring and continues through the summer months when it produces small white flowers. This self-seeding annual helps increase metabolism and cell permeability, allowing for the absorption of nutrients and the removal of metabolic waste. As such, it helps cleanse the body, aiding in weight loss, reducing inflammation, and bringing overall balance. Magically, chickweed is associated with balance, peace of mind, healing, and fidelity, making it perfect for spells, rituals, and remedies for balancing the body, mind, and spirit during times of change.

Cleavers (Galium aparine): Cleavers is among my favorite spring plants; its bristly, slender stalk and whorled leaves spread quickly across my garden beds in a matter of days. While generally viewed as a weed, I allow cleavers to grow for quite some time before pulling them to make my favorite spring pesto. They are known for their ability to cleanse the blood and lymph and aid in digestion while also improving overall immune health, making them perfect for awakening the body after a long winter slumber. Magically, they are associated with protection, cleansing, and binding. Use in spells, rituals, and remedies for cleansing, protection, and balance.

Other potential plant allies for balancing the body, mind, and spirit, protecting your peace, realigning, and strengthening your resolve include elderberry (Sambucus nigra), 

For Awakening After A Restful Slumber

While the winter season brings a time for rest, relaxation, and slowing down, spring brings the awakening. It's a time of action, new beginnings, and springing forward into plans. This is when you should set those goals and resolutions and devise a plan of attack. Sow the seeds of change now for the later successes. However, winter can leave you feeling sluggish and overwhelmed, unprepared for starting a new adventure.

The herbs on this list are magically and medicinally associated with awakening the body, mind, and spirit, energizing your body, encouraging health and wellness, and letting go of the past so you can take on the future!

Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica): Harvested between late March and April, stinging nettle is one of spring's most nourishing plants. It is naturally detoxifying, especially for the kidneys and urinary tract, and naturally helps "build" blood due to its high iron content, thus improving circulation. Its nutritive properties help bolster the body, stave off physical exhaustion, awaken the mind, and energize the mind in a non-stimulating way. Magically, stinging nettles are associated with strength, healing, protection, and the element Fire, making this warming herb perfect for stimulating both your body, mind, and spirit, as well as your spells and rituals. Add to stinging nettles spells, rituals, and remedies to clear your mind, give you strength, energize, and stimulate health and wellness.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Dandelions are the herold of spring in most places, the lush, yellow blooms being among the first to arrive. Being among the first to bloom, they are the first food source for many insects, including honey bees. Their fresh greens are high in nutrients such as iron, potassium, folate, and vitamins C, A, E, and B6 which help to naturally restore the body and prepare it for the coming physical activity of spring. The roots are often used to stimulate digestion and appetite, helping to promote bile production in the liver. Magically, dandelions are associated with happiness, joy, hope, and balance. Add the flowers, leaves, or roots to spells, rituals, and remedies for joy, happiness, health, and balance.

Horsetail (Equisiteum spp.): One of Earth's oldest plants, horsetail shoots arrive in early spring with harvesting occurring late April through May. Horsetail contains over 35% silica, which is readily absorbed by the body and used to build collagen, thus strengthening connecting tissues in the joints as well as teeth, skin, nails, and hair. It also contains quercetin, a natural anti-inflammatory, and helps flush uric acid from the body. This makes it perfect for joint health and overall movement, allowing you to spring into action as the weather warms. Magically, horsetail is associated with strengthening resolve, setting and maintaining boundaries, commitment, and letting go of the past. Use horsetail in spells, rituals, and remedies for strength, awakening the body, shedding the past, and committing to the future.

Other potential plant allies for awakening the mind, body, and spirit include ginger (Zingiber officinale), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus obliqua).

For Breathing Easy & Fighting Allergies

Oh, allergy season! As the flowers blossom, they release pollen, which many people are unfortunately allergic to. The sudden swings in temperature from cold to warm and back to cold can weaken the immune system, leaving our bodies tired and unprotected. Colds and flu are prevalent in the spring, along with asthma.

The herbs on this list are magically and medicinally associated with lung health, overall wellness, cleansing, and purification, making them perfect for breathing easy this spring season.

Forsythia (Forsythia spp.): Forsythia is one of my favorite flowers of spring, its yellow buds blooming early in March through April. Its blooming season is short, but powerful. Studies have shown that forsythia inhibits mast-cell-meditated allergic reactions, reducing inflammation and symptoms related to both seasonal and non-seasonal allergies. Unlike other herbs, forsythia specifically targets air passages, reducing inflammation in those areas to help treat respiratory illnesses. Magically, forsythia is associated with anticipation, hope, optimism, and new beginnings, making it perfect for spells, rituals, and remedies for starting new projects, clearing the way and removing obstacles, and vitality.

Lilac (Syringa spp.): While commonly planted for its lovely scent, lilac's medicinal properties are often overlooked. Lilac leaves are naturally anti-inflammatory and high in antioxidants, helping to soothe respiratory symptoms, especially coughs and asthma symptoms, and promote overall lung health. Lilac's cooling properties also make it perfect for treating hay fever and other related allergy symptoms, with some studies suggesting it may be a mild antihistamine. Magically, lilac is associated with healing, exorcism, protection, and banishing negativity, making it perfect for spells, rituals, and remedies for fighting allergies, breathing easier, removing obstacles, and promoting overall well-being.

Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana): This hardy root is part of the mustard family and has been cultivated for centuries for overall sinus health due to its pungent and fiery flavor. Horseradish is naturally high in sulfur compounds such as allyl isothiocyanate which causes the unmistakable heat that travels quickly through the nasal passages upon consumption. This results in an immediate clearing of the sinuses as mucus is broken up and expelled. It's also naturally antimicrobial, helping to treat and clear respiratory issues such as bronchitis sinusitis, and even allergies. Magically, horseradish is known for removing obstacles, purification, cleansing, and exorcisms, making it perfect for spells, rituals, and remedies for such purposes.

Other potential plant allies for breathing easily, fighting allergies, and removing obstacles include goldenrod (Solidago spp.), elderflower (Sambucus nigra), violet (Viola spp.), and peppermint (Mentha piperita).

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As the wheel turns toward spring, these plant allies can help ensure you are happy and healthy for the coming months. Magically, they can empower and enrich your spells and rituals, timing them with seasonal changes and encouraging a bright and prosperous future. How you work with these plant allies is entirely up to you, but remember to always ask them for their assistance and thank them for whatever they provide for you in return. Maintaining these relationships is important and worthwhile.

Is there a plant you like to work with during the spring months that I failed to include on this list? Let me know in the comments below!

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Nutmeg

Gender: Masculine
Planet: Jupiter
Element: Fire
Powers: Fidelity, Health, Love, Luck, Money, Wealth

Magical Uses and History: Nutmeg derives its name from the Latin "nux," meaning nut and "muscus," meaning musk, an ode to its unique and unforgettable aroma. Endemic to a chain of islands off the coast of Indonesia known as the Banda Islands, nutmeg has a long and bloody history as it was one of the most valuable spices harvested and traded during the height of the spice trade. Around the 1400s, Arabian-Persian merchants happened upon the island chain by chance but were pleasantly surprised to find not only nutmeg but also mace and cloves, spices the Western world had previously never seen. These merchants immediately began exporting said spices to Europe, where they surged in popularity. All three spices were new and exotic, and nutmeg soon became prized not only for its flavor and aroma but also for its medicinal properties. 

During the outbreak of the bubonic plague, it was believed nutmeg was a potential cure and preventative. It was often placed into the beaks of plague masks to purify the air and mask the smell of death. This tradition has carried over into modern "Theives" blends, which are said to be based on remedies used during this time. Not only was it used to cure and prevent the plague, but also gas and chronic indigestion, especially among women who were said to carry nutmeg and a grater in their pocket to grate over their food or drink as a carminative. Ornate silver boxes were commonly used to store this valuable spice within the voluminous skirts and petticoats of the elite, while smaller wooden boxes were used by the poorer classes for the same purpose. These boxes were roughly an inch or two in height and large enough to store a full-sized nutmeg and a small grater. It was also used to prevent sore throats, scarlet fever, ailments of the spleen, headaches, fevers, bad breath, and even hemorrhoids. As such, nutmeg became well known for its potential medicinal properties and is therefore often magically associated with health and wellness. Add it to spells and rituals for health and wellness. Burn it as an incense or use it in an oil diffuser in the room of the sick to promote healing or add to food for the same purpose. Carry on your person to prevent illness or hang in your home to protect your family. Amy Blackthorn suggests drawing a circle in nutmeg essential oil around a family photo to prevent disease and illness from infecting your family.

Nutmeg's history, however, was not all sunshine and rainbows. In the 17th century, the Dutch set sail to the "Spice Islands" where they proceeded to torture, genocide, and enslave the people indigenous to the Banda Islands to take control of nutmeg production and took every step imaginable to ensure no other countries or traders were able to get their hands on nutmeg seeds, even going so far as to sabotage seed stores. For nearly 200 years, the Dutch controlled the trade of nutmeg, inflating prices by hoarding large amounts in warehouses to control distribution or even setting fire to any surplus to keep demand high. Wooden replicas were sometimes added to batches of nutmeg to dupe customers, thus keeping prices high and distribution low. These inflated prices meant nutmeg became less and less available to the poor as a potential spice, leaving only the wealthy to enjoy its culinary and medicinal uses. As such, nutmeg became associated with money and wealth and can be used in spells and rituals for such purposes. Annoint money, wallets, or cash registers, sprinkle on green candles, burn as an incense, or diffuse as an essential oil to attract money and wealth, or place an entire nutmeg in your cash register or kitchen for the same purpose. Hollowed-out nutmeg can also be used to make charms for the same purpose.

While most of nutmeg's folklore consists of its uses for health and wealth, a select few regions viewed nutmeg as a good luck charm. In 1147, Saint Hildegard wrote that obtaining a nutmeg at the New Year and carrying it in your pocket would prevent you from all sorts of ill-luck, such as breaking even the smallest of bones. This belief remained popular well into the twentieth century and even later in some rural areas, thus linking nutmeg with luck. Some report that hollowing nutmeg, filling it with mercury, sealing it in wax, and wrapping it in a green cloth will bring you luck in games of chance, while Cunningham suggests creating a good luck necklace of nutmeg, star anise, and tonka beans. Either way, there are plenty of ways to include nutmeg in luck magic.

Due to its warming nature, nutmeg is also associated with love and fidelity. During the 16th century, a monk apparently praised it for its ability to stimulate the male anatomy, much like modern-day Viagra. It was sometimes added to food and drinks to stimulate arousal or attract a lover. There are a host of spells and rituals across multiple cultures detailing nutmeg's use in attracting and keeping a lover. In Zanzibar, women supposedly grate fresh nutmeg into their porridge in anticipation of their wedding night. An old Creole spell says that sprinkling nutmeg on someone's left shoe at midnight for seven straight days will drive them mad with love or keep them faithful. Most sources state this is specifically to encourage a woman to fall in love with you, but I can see of no reason it wouldn't work on others as well. According to Cunningham, to ensure your partner's fidelity, you can cut nutmeg into four pieces, then bury one, throw one off a cliff, burn the third, and boil the fourth. Sip the nutmeg infusion and carry the boiled nutmeg with you so no one will tempt your lover. As such, add nutmeg to food, spells, and rituals to promote love and fidelity.

Nutmeg can be used in a number of spells, including:

   Love Spells

   Fidelity Spells

   Protection Magic

   Wealth Magic

   Prosperity Spells

   Luck Magic

   Healing Spells

Medicinal Uses: Nutmeg is naturally rich in antioxidants, which helps prevent signs of aging and can prevent such diseases as cancer, heart disease, and liver disease. It is also naturally antibacterial and can be used to treat bad breath, inflamed gums, tooth decay, and gingivitis. As a stimulant and carminative, nutmeg stimulates the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating symptoms of gas, colic, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. However, nutmeg is considered an abortifacient in high dosages and, therefore, should not be consumed in large amounts by those who are pregnant or wishing to become pregnant. Some suggest nutmeg can be used to induce hallucinations as it contains myristicin, a psychoactive substance. However, nutmeg only contains trace amounts of myristicin, and nutmeg poisoning is more likely to occur than a psychological trip in large enough doses. As such, avoid the use of nutmeg in large amounts. It is recommended to use no more than 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg every 12 hours to prevent poisoning in adults and no more than 1/8 teaspoon for children over the age of 3.

Preparation and Dosage: To create an infusion (for adults), combine 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg with 1 cup of boiling water. Allow the mixture to steep for 15 minutes before drinking. Drink up to twice a day or once every 12 hours. As a tincture, take 20-30 drops up to 4 times per day. Nutmeg can also be used topically as an oil or cream to reduce soreness and inflammation.

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

*You may notice there is a new design. This is because I lost access to Photoshop when I upgraded my computer, and I am not relying on Canva. From here on out, all printables will be made in Canva and will have the design seen above. I did my best to replicate exactly what I created before, so theme it should work well with my other printables and not take away from the aesthetic. 

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Book Review: How to Read & Interpret A Birth Chart by Laurie Farrington

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. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I am not going to lie; I am not super interested in astrology. I find the entire field fascinating, and I love reading and hearing about astrological predictions, but it isn't a field I practice, at least not at this point in my journey. However, that doesn't mean I will pass up the opportunity to learn or the opportunity to review a book I know many of you dear witches may be interested in. That's where How to Read & Interpret A Birth Chart: Guideposts for Understanding Natal Astrology by Laurie Farrington comes in.

First and foremost, How to Read & Interpret A Birth Chart is a dense book for being so short. There were times I felt myself shaking my head trying to process what I had just read, often having to go back and reread sections. Farrington covers everything required to read and interpret a birth chart but assumes the reader already has a foundation in astrology. I do not, which is part of the reason I found this book challenging. Furthermore, because I am no expert in astrology, I cannot comment on the accuracy of the information Farrington presents, but considering she has been practicing astrology for the majority of her life and has experience using multiple systems, I think it's safe to assume her information is valid. She also includes a variety of sources, both historical and practical, and encourages her readers to seek out these sources to learn more and grow as an astrologist. I always love authors who are willing to suggest learning from others. It tells me they know they are not infallible and do not know everything.

Again, I found How to Read & Interpret A Birth Chart to be challenging because I do not have the background knowledge to fully understand what Farrington has to teach. As such, I do not recommend this book to those who are just starting out. This is a much more advanced book and one I would not use until all other astrological guides had been exhausted. I do believe, however, Farrington's How to Read & Interpret A Birth Chart would pair well with Keywords for Astrology: The Essential Guide to Correspondences & Interpretation of Planets, Signs, Houses, & Aspects by Hajo Banzhaf and Anna Haebler.

Despite my lack of background knowledge, I loved reading the birth chart interpretations of others, especially those of Monica Lewinski and Chelsea Clinton. Farrington pulls famous birth charts as exemplars, helping the reader to understand the guideposts or lessons she is trying to teach. I am a sucker for "visuals" and need to see things in practice to fully comprehend how to do something.

If you are interested in astrology and already have a solid understanding, I highly recommend How to Read & Interpret A Birth Chart: Guideposts for Understanding Natal Astrology by Laurie Farrington. Learning on the internet is great, but as Farrington mentions in her introduction, the internet gives a very surface-level view of astrology as creators try to appease the masses. This leads to generalizations instead of in-depth understanding and furthers the divide between novices and experts.

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Healing After a Loss: A Ritual to Release Grief

Losing someone you love is never easy. In fact, it's been so challenging lately that I have found myself taking a step back from many of the things that previously brought me joy because they remind me too much of the person I lost or feel incredibly unimportant or unappealing now. It's not fair they were taken from me so soon, and I am struggling to figure out this new normal in which they no longer exist.

I've heard a litany of well-intentioned comforts from friends and family, but they don't fix the emptiness I feel inside. Lately, I've been feeling that mind-numbing emptiness with books, devouring fantasy novels at a breakneck speed, at least for me. It's been a long time since I've felt such a deep desire to escape reality.

Grief doesn't follow any rules or patterns. We each approach it differently and in our own time; its uniqueness makes it difficult to soothe and even harder to predict. This is not my first rodeo with grief, but it's certainly the most gut-wrenching grief I have ever felt. The thing is, grief isn't about the person you lost; it's about you. It feels selfish to say that out loud, but they are gone and I am still here trying to process all of this. Taking care of myself is not selfish. Trying to move on from this loss is not selfish and does not mean I don't love or care for the person I lost, despite what that nasty inner voice has been saying lately.

And so I come today to share a ritual I am using to overcome this grief. This is not a spell to forget, but instead one to heal.

What You'll Need

• Paper
• Writing utensil
• Bowl
• Glass of water
• Black or white candle
• Flower of choice (gardenia, rose, lavender, or your loved one's favorite flower)
• Sodalite, amethyst, or green aventurine

What to Do

Before beginning this spell, cleanse and consecrate your space and items using your preferred method. Remember to wake up your crystal and flower using your preferred method (mine is by blowing on them). When ready, take a deep breath in through your nose for four seconds, hold for four seconds, then exhale through your mouth for four seconds. As you box breathe, visualize your energies concentrating in the center of your body. Repeat until you feel relaxed and centered.

Now that you are relaxed and centered, begin writing or drawing anything that comes to mind about the person you lost, how you are feeling, or what you want to say to them. What is your best memory of them? How did you meet? What words did you leave unsaid? None of what you write has to make sense; just let it all out. End your writing with how you feel about losing them. Let all those emotions out onto the page, even if that means you lose the words to write and just cry and scream instead. Let your tears stain the paper; let your spittle splash the words you've written. All those emotions may be best conveyed without the use of words. Allow the paper to collect it all.

Once all of your thoughts and emotions are out and your grief is plainly displayed upon the page, light your candle. Roll the paper up, and seal it with a bit of wax. Hold the rolled paper close to your heart and whisper a prayer of your choice. It could be a prayer your loved one was known to use or you can just speak whatever comes to your mind. Say what you need to out loud before placing the rolled paper into the bowl.

Next, hold the crystal you have chosen in your right hand until it is warmed. Visualize the crystal bringing you comfort, support, and peace. Place next to the paper in the bowl. Pour the water over the top of the paper and crystal. Place the flower on top of the water where it can float. Spend a few moments holding the bowl in your hand, cradling your grief, and honoring your loved one who has passed.

When you feel ready, begin box breathing again by inhaling through your nose for four seconds, holding for four seconds, and exhaling through your mouth for four seconds. Repeat until you feel recentered, balanced, and calm, using the flame of the candle to guide you if you wish.

Finally, place the still-burning candle and bowl in a sacred place or on your ancestral altar until the candle burns out. Do not leave the candle unattended. You can dispose of your spell remains in several different ways. You can pour the water in your garden, somewhere your loved one liked to visit, or in a moving body of water. The paper can be buried near your front door, at a crossroads, or even at their burial plot or dried and burned and the ashes scattered in the wind.

Warnings/Modifications/Alternatives:

• Altering your breathing can cause a reduction in blood pressure which can cause you to pass out. It can also trigger seizures in some people and PTSD in others. If you are worried about passing out, begin this exercise by lying down. I also suggest practicing with a friend to ensure your safety.
• If you live near a body of moving water, such as a river or stream, use it instead of a bowl and glass of water, being mindful that anything left behind is easily biodegradable and eco-friendly. If it is warm enough and safe to do so, you can even bathe in the river to wash away and heal the grief you are feeling. It's too cold here right now, but I used a river and bathed my hands in it.
• Do not leave candles unattended or near children and pets.
• Other useful healing crystals include black tourmaline, moonstone, rose quartz, howlite, kunzite, and Angelite. You can also use your loved one's favorite crystal or stone.
• Other candle color options include blue for healing and communication, red for love and passion, pink for love, friendship, and peace, or yellow for remembrance and joy. You could also use a candle your loved one gifted you or one in their favorite color to strengthen the connection.
  
  

Why You Did It

Understanding the whys of a spell (or ritual or recipe) is just as important as performing it. It helps you understand the process so you can modify the spell or ritual to suit your needs and helps guide you in writing your own. It's my intention that by providing these explanations, you can build a better understanding of how spells are written and executed so you can modify and build your own spells (the goal of my Spellcrafting Series). 

This spell begins with a cleansing. and centering through a technique called box breathing. It's always good practice to bring neutral ingredients into your spells. As for centering, grief has a nasty habit of dispersing our emotions and scattering our emotions, making it difficult to focus on the task at hand. This practice draws that energy back to you and relaxes you in preparation for the difficult work ahead.

By writing, even if incoherently, you draw those thoughts and emotions to the surface and splatter them across the page, giving them a tangible link in the physical world upon which the rest of the spell can act. The process of writing out your grief also provides an opportunity to "get it out" or release it from you, transferring all of it to the paper, which represents you in the spell.

The candle, whether white or black, represents your loved one. Candles have been used for centuries to send prayers, messages, and spells to Spirit, otherwise acting as a link between realms. The flame also represents the light that person brought to your life and the love you still have for them. Furthermore, black and white candles are both associated with healing and grief. Black is commonly used during mourning to represent the absence or loss of the person, Death, the Underworld, banishment, protection, grounding, or as a symbol of respect for the deceased. White, on the other hand, represents healing, rebirth, new beginnings, hope, and peace. Which even color you choose, however, is valid for this spell, so trust your gut. The wax from the candle represents your loved one and by sealing the paper with wax, you connect yourself with the person you have lost.

Next, the crystals chosen for this spell are all associated with healing grief and loss and bringing peace to those left behind. It is added to the bowl with the rolled paper to bring comfort and healing to both you and your loved one. This is further supported by the use of water, which is also associated with healing. By pouring it over top of the paper, you are washing away and easing the pain and suffering you are feeling, clearing your thoughts, and letting the grief go.

The flower (all of which are associated with healing, peace, tranquility, and love) is placed on top of the water to pull peace, harmony, and love to the surface so that you may fully heal from your loss. I chose a gardenia flower (which also grows in my yard) for this spell as it was one of my loved one's favorite flowers and is deeply associated with loss and grief. Gardenia is a commonly sent sympathy flower as its flowery scent helps to soothe emotions, heal broken hearts, and calm disquieted minds. It's known for bringing peace and harmony to even the worst situations, so what better flower to use in a grief ritual?

Finally, the spell remains were disposed of in such a way as to keep your loved one close, but to let some of that grief go. Pouring the water out symbolizes release, especially if poured into a moving body of water, while burying the remains allows for healing. Burning is also associated with healing and releasing that grief while sending your love to Spirit. Again, let your intuition guide you when it comes to disposal, but always make sure you are being respectful of the Earth.

Want to break this spell? Unfortunately, this isn't one you can break, but it also isn't permanent. Grief has this ability to sneak back in when we least expect it so keep an eye out for it.

Remember to record this ritual in your Book of Shadows or use my Spell/Ritual Worksheet for reference later.

***

I hope that you are all doing well during these trying times. If you should ever be faced with such unending grief, know that you are not alone. Lean into your support systems and ask for help if you need it, but don't allow the grief to overwhelm and consume you. It's okay to take care of yourself. It's not selfish or rude or disrespectful to those you have lost. They want you to carry on; to do great things with the time you have been given.

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A Complete Guide to Isa, the Ice Rune

Today, we continue our runic study journey by looking at Isa (EE-sah), the Ice rune. It is sometimes viewed as the rune of death as the ultimate stillness or pause in life is death. It's a traditional symbol of winter but also represents strength and perseverance in the face of adversity.

As seen in my previous runic guides, today's post will include a deep dive into the runic poems, Isa's cultural significance, its correspondences, how to work with it, its meaning in a spread, and its relationships with runes. Also included is a free printable for your Book of Shadows or Grimoire!

Isa's Portrayal in the Rune Poems

Isa ᛁ is the third rune in the second ætt, which represents stillness and cycles. It is coupled with Jera, the Harvest or Year rune that represents cycles of time and reward. Isa, on the other hand, captures the stillness before rebirth. Like Jera, Isa appears in all three runic poems, suggesting similar cultural meanings across the continent.

Icelandic Rune Poem                                  Translation:

Íss er árbörkr                                                 Ice is bark of rivers

ok unnar þak                                                 and roof of the wave

ok feigra manna fár.                                     and destruction of the doomed.

glacies jöfurr.                                              

Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem                            Translation:

Is byþ ofereald, ungemetum slidor,               Ice is very cold and immeasurably slippery;

glisnaþ glæshluttur gimmum gelicust,          it glistens as clear as glass and most like to gems;

flor forste geworuht, fæger ansyne.              it is a floor wrought by the frost, fair to look upon.

Norwegian Rune Poem                               Translation:

Ís kǫllum brú bræiða;                                   Ice is called the broad bridge;

blindan þarf at læiða.                                  the blind man must be led.

From each of these three poems, a pattern emerges. First and foremost, Isa ᛁ is referred to as "Ice." This is where Isa gets its modern English name "Ice" and why it's associated with stillness, stasis, and inactivity. Secondly, the dangers of ice are mentioned in all three poems, particularly how dangerous crossing bridges of ice can be. This points to the darker side of Isa, suggesting death and destruction if not taken seriously. Isa is a reminder that ice is a barrier, but an untrustworthy one at that. We must slow down, pause, and wait until we act. Moving too soon or too quickly will most likely end poorly, but this forced stasis is not all bad. Resting is required for rebirth, and in that rest, beautiful things can still happen; "like to gems."

The winter months were particularly difficult for Nordic peoples as they made it impossible to grow food for several months each year. People relied on their communities to ensure they made it safely through these harsh months, as referenced in the Norwegian Rune Poem: "the blind must be led." This is a reference not just to aiding the blind, but to helping all those in need during the winter months. 

We see further reference to the Isa or ice in Havamal 81 which says "Give praise to the day at evening, to a woman on her pyre, To a weapon which is tried, to a maid at wed lock, To ice when it is crossed, to ale that is drunk." This particular passage reminds us to be cautious of acting without thinking and planning first. You shouldn't cross a bridge of ice without first testing it just as you shouldn't drink ale from a stranger or use a weapon you haven't tried first. However, ice is not all doom and gloom as seen two passages later.

Havamal 83 tells says "By the fire drink ale, over ice go on skates..." This tells us that while ice and winter are harsh, there is joy to be found. The only time you can ice skate is during the winter, reminding us to enjoy the stillness.

Being in the second ætt, Isa is associated with Heimdal, the guardian of the Bifrost. All runes within the second ætt are symbolized by resilience, strength, survival, and the cyclical nature of life, and Isa is no exception.

Isa's Cultural Significance

Nature played a pivotal role in Norse society, especially the changing seasons and the wildlife available. This connection is seen in the language and symbolism of the Elder Futhark. The word Isa has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word īsaz meaning "ice," referencing the harsh winters the Norse people were accustomed to. Some suggest Isa's simplistic design (ᛁ) is reminiscent of an icicle, further signifying ice, winter, stillness, delay, and stasis. Others have suggested it could represent a pillar of strength and the strength needed to survive the dark winters.

Some have suggested Isa, like Algiz, may have been carved into weapons or amulets, but I could find no verifiable sources to corroborate this suggestion. Most Nordic weapons have severely deteriorated with time, leaving any inscriptions illegible. Despite the lack of evidence on weapons, Isa is found on tons of waystones and grave markers.

Restored runic waystone

The south side of inscription Ög 224

The above gravemarker depicts ships on the south side and a serpent on the north side and says, "This stone raised in memory of Halfdan, their father; and Ástríðr in memory of her good husbandman." Like all runes, Isa was used to depict sounds and words to communicate with others in the same way our modern alphabets are used.

Isa was also used to create bind runes, most famously in the Vegvísir (Wayfinder) and Ægishjálmur (Helm of Awe). Sometimes referred to as the "Viking Compass" or "Norse Compass", the Vegvísir originated in Iceland but was probably not used by ancient Norse people as the earliest record of it is from the 19th century.

Some suggest the Vegvísir is a Christian magic symbol as the three Icelandic books it appears in state: "To avoid getting lost: keep this sign under your left arm, its name is Vegvísir and it will serve you if you believe in it – if you believe in God in the name of Jesus – the meaning of this sign is hidden in these words, so you may not perish. May God give me luck and blessing in the name of Jesus.” However, it's important to note that the Christianization of the Norse people resulted in a number of kings commissioning runestones that dedicated their lands to Christ. It is possible the three Icelandic books that feature the Vegvísir connected an older pagan symbol of unknown age and origin with 19th-century Icelandic Christianity or that it is a blend of two faiths, which was fairly common during the post-Viking age in Iceland. Furthermore, we know a number of books were burned during "witch hunts" including one in 1664. A schoolmaster confiscated a book from one of his students that supposedly contained 80 spells and 237 figures including "#41: To get no storms at sea, accompanied by a figure." Could this figure have been Vegvísir? We will never know because it is not specifically mentioned by name.

No matter its origin, the Vegvísir, which means "That which shows the way" was a magical stave used for protection against getting lost, particularly at sea. The incorporation of Isa runes may suggest finding your way through frozen or treacherous waters.

Old magic scroll with Ægisjálmur

While the Vegvísir is not mentioned by name in the 1664 account, the Ægishjálmur, or Helm of Awe, is. It also appears in the 1670 Galdrakver manuscript, suggesting it was likely used for far longer than Vegvísir. Furthermore, Ægishjálmur is mentioned in the Eddic poems and Volsung Saga, but these mentions refer to a physical helmet and not the symbol. However, the symbol by the same name is believed to have the same powers as the physical helm with eight arms emitting from the center. It features Algiz runes that are intersected by a number of Isa runes which combined likely means a hardening or victory or protection or the ability to overcome adversity.

Like all runes, Isa held cultural and likely spiritual significance, much of which has been lost over time, but remains a symbol of reflection, solidification, control, stillness, and endurance.

Isa's Correspondences

It should be noted that general correspondences are not mentioned in any Nordic text. Instead, these are a best guess based on experiences from both myself and others. In fact, most of these are of modern invention, pulling inspiration from Wicca. As with all correspondence lists, you can add and subtract based on your experiences.

• Upright Meaning: stasis, stillness, introspection, challenges, self-preservation, delay, focus, self-control, roadblocks, forced pause before rebirth, lack of change, stagnation, ego
• Reversed Meaning: None
• Letter: I
• Element: Water
• Zodiac: Sagittarius
• Planet: Moon
• Animal: reindeer, polar bear, penguin, moose, arctic fox
• Colors: white, light blue, black
• Deities: Freya, Skadi, Verdandi
• Plants: alder, henbane, lavender
• Crystals: chrysoberyl, milky quartz, clear quartz, moonstone, opal
  
  

How to Work with the Isa Rune

Incorporating runes into your magical practice can be incredibly rewarding and bring new energies to spells and rituals. But how exactly can you use Isa in your workings?

1. Use in spells to bind or bring stillness when things are getting out of hand.
2. Draw the Isa rune on your forehead in a calming anointing oil or visualize it to still your mind.
3. To stop gossip, write the gossip onto a piece of paper and draw the Isa rune over the top of it before placing it in water and freezing it.
4. Use in healing spells to help halt the spread of disease through the body.
5. Wear it as an amulet if you want a less emotional outlook on life or are prone to "overreacting."
6. To cool heated tempers, draw the rune in food or drinks and share it with whoever you are fighting with.
7. Draw the Isa rune into a piece of ice and place it on your tongue to still your words.
8. Draw the rune on a candle before performing shadow work to enhance reflection and concentration while keeping impulsive reactions at bay.
9. Use in love spells to cool things down or stop a relationship from continuing.
10. Visualize the Isa rune radiating around you and your home to create a barrier to slow things down when you feel overwhelmed or like time is flying by too quickly.
    
    

Isa's Meaning in Rune Spread

What does it mean if Isa appears in a rune spread? Isa holds various meanings depending on its position and relation to other runes in the spread. Like Jera, Isa has no reversed meaning. 

Below are some examples of how to interpret Isa when it's next to or near other runes:

• In proximity to Thurisaz suggests someone at work is trying to sabotage you.
• Next to a reverse Laguz can indicate infidelity in a relationship.
• Near Ehwaz means that there is nothing you can do to change the current course of events. Keep an eye on what you might be missing so you can see things clearly.
• Near Ansuz, the stasis or barrier you are currently facing will soon thaw.
• In proximity to Fehu suggests a pause or delay in a new venture, potential gain, or fulfillment of your ambitions.
• Next to a reverse Uruz or Wunjo indicates a period of falling out of love in a relationship and a growing distance between lovers.
• Near Raidho suggests a potential need to pause vacation or traveling plans or implies the need for more careful consideration and reflection before attempting to move forward with any plans.

Isa's Relationships with Other Runes

Isa generally opposes other runes in the Elder Futhark, particularly those with a positive meaning. When found with Wunjo, Ehwaz, or a reversed Uruz, it often points to a relationship cooling and potentially ending. You may experience coldness from your partner or a sense that the relationship is not moving to the next step. There is a disconnect or barrier preventing movement forward. When found with abundance runes such as Fehu or Jera, it can symbolize a freeze on wealth, abundance, or fertility or a potential barrier blocking your future success.

However, opposing the other runes does not suggest everything is all bad. Instead, Isa reminds us to pause and reflect. While we may or may not be able to do anything about the current path, we can still learn from it. Sometimes stillness is what is needed for things to correct themselves, and instead of pushing forward into further disaster, we should wait patiently for things to work themselves out. You have no idea what the Universe has planned for you, and often times you just need to take a step back and wait patiently for things to unfold.

Isa also reminds us to rest, even when we feel like we should continue pushing forward. Just because it opposes Uruz, the rune of health, strength, and vitality, doesn't necessarily mean sickness is on the horizon. Instead, it could mean that you need to rest and relax in order to maintain your health and well-being. Isa is not an inherently negative rune, despite how things may appear on the surface.

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Isa invites us to remember that caution, patience, rest, and reflection are necessary for growth and development. It's a reminder that good things come to those who wait. Below you will find a printable, cheat-sheet that includes a summary of all important information that you can incorporate into your Book of Shadows or Grimoire.

Click the image below to download your free cheat sheet for your Book of Shadows or Grimoire.

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