Witch Balls

Witch balls are fascinating things, They are so beautiful, and made out of glass. Witch balls could be quite large or be quite small. Or they are shiny, painted, filled with items or clear. Basically I could stare at one for hours...

I took this picture in my garden with a completely empty ball, it's beautiful just on its own. Isn't it just mesmerising? All those colours! And it's just glass!

That is precisely what their creation is for.. to draw in and entrap. Folklore has it that evil was so enchanted by these shiny round spheres that once they were drawn towards them they would never leave, therefore entrapping them inside protecting whoever they were meant to harm.

Witch balls or friendship balls  as they are also called today are an ancient way of either entrapping or reflecting back whatever it is you want or don't want.  They first made their appearance in the 13th century in Venice. They were hand made by skilled craftsmen by hand blowing these beautiful spheres, as many are still made like that today. They became a permanent feature in many European gardens and homes because of their beauty.

Traditionally these balls were hung by porches, doorways and windows to protect the house and home from any witches spells, and to ward of evil and ill fortune.

The glass itself is made from a perfect balance of the elements, it comes from the earth, then made by fire, blown to shape by air and is clear like water. A perfect combination, and as its a perfect circle it represents infinity, with no beginning and no end, the perfect entrapment or prison for any evil spirits as there is no way back out. These balls were made to be mirrored, so as to attract or deflect accordingly. They are traditionally filled with herbs, spices talismans, evil eye, twisted bits of string etc. you could really fill them up with whatever your intent is to attract or deflect.

Healing witch ball

Protective witch ball

To make your own witch ball you can either recycle an old glass ornament, by scraping off the paint and decorating it yourself. Add the herbs, or items you want for your specific intent, seal it with wax, add your charms, and while doing so you must visualise what it is you want during its creation.

Remember to always create these on a waxing - full moon phase.

Here are a few herbs and their intents:

Protection herbs:

Angelica, Asafoetida, balm of Gilead, Boneset, Cypress, Dill, Garlic, Fennel, foxglove,  Hyssop, Rosemary, St-johns-wort, Valerian, Vervain, 

Protection crystals/stones/minerals: 

Jet, Onyx, smokey quartz.

by all means this isn't an extensive list but here a few for you to start with

You can use any combination of these herbs/stones/colours to your choosing, or any other items you wish.. as longas you focus your intent when doing so. 

Blessings to you all

Natural deodorants that beat the pong..

Deodorants are a touchy subject especially if your personal smell isn't the best on the planet. We all have a 'personal' smell, but some of us are worse than others. It all really does boil down to personal hygiene, what you eat, and your overall health. There are some conditions that should not be left untreated as it can be very debilitating.

However let's take a look at some of the ingredients that go into a commercial deodorant and antiperspirant.

All these are filled with potentially toxic ingredients that upset the happy equilibrium of your natural balance.

Aluminium, parabens, propylene glycol, triclosan, synthetic fragrances.

Aluminium:

This blocks the sweat, and is found in most antiperspirant, deodorants. It is a known neurotoxin and a suspected contributor to Alzheimer's disease, chemical sensitivities, hormonal imbalances, birth defects, allergies and breast cancer.

Parabens:

These are also a cause for concern. As scientists believe that the parabens that are used in most deodorants and antiperspirants could be responsible for accelerating the growth of tutors in the breast.

Studies do show that women who use these type of deodorants are 8 times more likely to develop breast cancer, in the area closest to the armpit, than any other part of the breast tissue. To read more on this report I have included a link to the BBC

Antiperspirants: 

Why would you want to block your sweat? Sweating is actually a good thing, it's the body's natural process of eliminating toxins from the body. The way aluminium salts work, is by closing, clogging, or blocking your pores completely. This also interferes with the body's natural ability to regulate its temperature. Two very important functions.

The body's reaction to this is, once the antiperspirant wears off, the u dream sweat glands will then increase sweat production to over compensate. This will cause a vicious sweaty cycle, as we will keep grabbing the one item that is the one that causes this.

Deodorants

These are the ones that neutralise body odour while also killing the bad bacteria that causes bad odour. 

What we need to remember is, SWEAT IS NOT THE ENEMY! In fact fresh perspiration is odourless!! The odour happens when sweat mixes with airborne bacteria. 

Commercial deodorants kill the good bacteria as well as the bad. This then leaves our bodies in a defenseless state.

At this point I want to talk about natural deodorants, there are an array of choices out there, from clay based, cream based and solid butters, crystals, etc. So it could be hard choosing one that will work for you.

Everyone is different, and unfortunately the only way to find out is to try them out. What works for one person my not work for another. I tried a clay based deodorant and it did not work for me, but my dear friend does swear by it. 

So I decided to go back to the drawing board and started experimenting. As I'm a bit of a fitness fanatic, I really do test deodorants to their limits

If this will be your first time using a natural deodorant it can take up to 4 weeks for the detox process to occur so you may see a slight increase in odour to start with.

So here is the recipe I have ended up with, through trial and error. 

Probiotic deodorant recipe:

1 tbsp coco butter

1 tbsp coconut oil

1 tbsp Shea butter

1 tbsp beeswax

2 1/2 tbsp arrowroot powder

1 tbsp bicarbonate of soda

1/4 tsp vitamin E oil

15 drops essential oil of choice

2 capsules of probiotics 

TO BUY YOURS CLICK HERE

 Here's a little bit of info about why I chose these ingredients:

Coco butter:

It is high in antioxidants that are beneficial organic molecules that protect the skin from environmental, internal, and external forces that cause irritation and damage to the skin. It's anti ageing and it provides a barrier to the skin that protects it from outside agents ( like odour causing bad bacteria). It reduces inflammation (which great if you shave your underarms).

Coconut oil:

Is a fabulous moisturiser, it's antibacterial (great to eliminate those funky smells) and antifungal so why not have it in your deodorant?

Shea butter:

Shea butter is an amazing thing that nature gives us. Raw and unrefined Shea butter is high in vitamins A and E and is incredibly soothing for your skin. Why not use this butter in one of your most vulnerable places.. Your armpits :)

Beeswax:

I use it as a stabilizer and to harden it up just a tad to give it a stick deodorant feel. It does not clog pores, but it does help the other butters to lock into your skin to help with their moisturising properties. Beeswax has been used for centuries in skin care, with excellent results. 

Arrowroot powder:

This is so versatile in both food and skincare. Not only is it a thickener in this recipe, but it also has the power to draw out toxins, wow! 

Bicarbonate of soda:

It's the best natural deodoriser on the planet, I haven't incorporated much into this recipe as too much can cause irritation. 

Vitamin E:

It's a powerful antioxidant that combats all those nasty free radicals out there. Vitamin E is fabulous for wrinkles, and it has been shown to have excellent healing properties for burns, cuts, eczema and psoriasis.

Probiotics:

The probiotics just work with your friend flora, lactobacillus acidophilus, bifidobacterium bifidum and bifidobacterium lactis are the ones that I use for this formula. It contains 20 billion viable proprietary organisms.

Here is how to make the deodorant bar..
In a double boiler add your cocoa butter, coconut oil, shea butter and beeswax, and melt on a low heat. If it gets to hot your shea butter can get grainy. Once your butters and beeswax have melted add your arrow root powder and bicarbonate of soda. keep stirring until its incorporated into a smooth paste. At this point you need to let it cool to below 40 degrees Celsius before you can add your probiotics, vitamin E and essential oils, as it will render your probiotics usless and destroy the beneficial qualities of your essential oils and vitamin E, if incorporated at a higher temperature.
Once all your ingredients have been added pour into moulds of choice, and let it cool.
Voila! There you have it, Natural deodorant :)

If you don't have the time or the resourses, take a wander over to my shop as I have there ready for you. Click here


****Please Note****

These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. They are educational and informational only. Please consult a professional for any advise before using or making any of our products.

The 12 day celebration of Yule

The 12 days of Yule celebrations explained...

For me it's a reminder of the things that I should be doing on a day to day basis, these 12 days just re-affirm it. It's good to have reminders of who we are. 

Yule is derived from the Norse word Jul, meaning wheel, a symbol of the Sun revolving across the sky~ Yule is a 12 day holiday, it begins on "Mothers Night" (December 21st) and ends 12 days later on "Yule Night" (January 1st)~

♦1st day of Yule – Mother’s Night

Mother’s Night welcomes in the Season of Yule~ As we encourage the return of Sunna (the feminine aspect of the Sun) we honor the feminine all around us. Honor the Idises, Asynjor, all Mothers, Great Grandmothers and your feminine ancestors. Raise a horn to the glorious women who give birth to us and to the feminine spirits that support us. Give this time in honor to all Mothering aspects

♦️2nd Day of Yule – The Winter Solstice

The Winter Solstice represents the shortest day and the longest night. From this day onward Sunna gains strength and eventually breaks winter’s spell. Celebrate Sunna’s return and the fertility she brings!

♦3rd Day of Yule – Remembering the Noble Virtue of Courage

Courage and perseverance have a magical talisman, before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish into air~ We conjure up our courage to face fear, uncertainty, physical and emotional pain, even danger~ Tonight find the courage that lies within you and accomplish the goals and dreams you have~  Summon your inner courage for the coming new year~

♦4th Day of Yule – Remembering the Noble Virtue of Truth

Truth goes beyond little white lies to a deeper understanding of how our universe works~ Truth is speaking from your heart, the deepest part of your being, beyond those filters you have chosen to perceive your experiences through, to the place where your highest self dwells~ The part of you that speaks in the stillness with loving, gentle words of assurance and understanding.~Sometimes our filters are so good at what we placed them there to do, that they completely block out any access or direct connection to the truth~ Speak your Truth from your heart with kindness and compassion~

♦5th Day of Yule – Remembering the Noble Virtue of Honor

“he who sows virtue reaps honor.” – Leonardo da Vinci ~ Without honor in our character we cannot be successful~ Honor represents one of the core principles on which we grow spiritually as human beings~ All great men and women seek its wise counsel and bind themselves to the laws of its wisdom~ Although it is rarely the topic of discussion, it is a source from which joy springs… and abundance can never be enjoyed without it~ living each day with honor in your heart will enrich your soul in ways that are beyond words. We can have all the riches in world, but without honor, none of us shall taste true success.

♦6th Day of Yule – Remembering the Noble Virtue of Fidelity

We must remain loyal to who and what we are as well as to those whom we love and respect~Those around us need to have the ability to take us at our word, and our word needs to be our bond of Love and Truth~ Our handshake needs to seal the deal. The devotion to our deeds has to be of the uttermost importance~

♦7th Day of Yule – Remembering the Noble Virtue of Hospitality

Being hospitable transcends an idea or habit, and allows us to be receptive. It shifts us into a mind set of welcoming and allowing the changes in Energy we would like to initiate. It allows a different perspective. Being approachable; a warm smile; the ability to hear what someone tells you either through language, indirect statements, or subtle bodycues; a receptive nature. It's something we are all capable of~ In what ways can you grow and be more hospitable~

♦8th Day of Yule – Remembering the Noble Virtue of Discipline

Staying true to who you are and what you believe plays a vital part in your spiritual growth~ The key is to be in a state of permanent connectedness with your inner body - to feel it at all times. This will rapidly deepen  and transform your life. The more consciousness you direct into the inner body, the higher its vibrational frequency becomes~ stay focused on spiritual and earthly goals~

♦9th Day of Yule – Remembering the Noble Virtue of Industriousness

Life requires that we work hard. Never sit back and take the easy way out in regards to your ability to create a lifestyle for yourself. No matter the lifestyle you choose, know that your elevation in life, or lack of it, may (but not always) be the direct result of your depth of diligence. Do the best you can, and know that your efforts have been suitably rewarded~

♦10th Day of Yule – remember  the Noble Virtue of Self-Reliance

Do not create codependent relationships in any way~ Do not let your happiness, or your success, be determined by anyone else~ Be responsible for the health and well being of yourself~ Rely on your own efforts to secure your needs~ Everything else given to you will be a blessing~

♦11th Day of Yule – Remembering the Noble Virtue of Perseverance

If you give up, you die. It really is simple, isn’t it? No matter what you are doing, see it to its conclusion. Even if you try and fail, realize that the only real failure is not trying. Failure is evidence that someone has tried. Success is failure defeated. “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.”

♦12th night

Thus ends the season of Yule as we prepare for the upcoming year. It’s a time to remember from whence you came as well as a time to make plans for the near future. Take oaths, make promises, love fiercely, grow spiritually, learn from your mistakes and rejoice in the joys your life brings~ if life brings you struggles, find a way to be reborn from the ashes~

 Merry Yule to all of you~ Wishing you Warmth and Love~

www.witchywoowoo.com

Witches ladders, charms, Handfasting

Witches ladders make perfect gifts, you can make them with ribbon, twine, coloured string, beads, knots, charms, feathers, berries, twigs, bones, beads, crystals, you name it, if you have the items you can make it your own. You could use practically anything, as long as it corresponds with your intent while making it. It's a form of knot or cord magic, and it can be used in Handfasting, altar magic, meditation, binding and so on. 

Witches ladders, are created traditionally with red, white and black cord (representing maiden, mother crone) with either 9 charms, 9 feathers or nine knots. 

So with each charm feather or knot, you are weaving your intent and energy into this magical tool

You can make a witches ladder for any specific purpose, such as for prosperity, healing, protection, binding and so on.. You decide! 

Here's a traditional spell that can be used while creating your witches ladder.

'By Knot of one, the spells begun,

By knot of two, it cometh true,

By knot of three, so mote it be,

By knot of four, this power I store,

By knot of five, the spells alive, by knot of seven, events I'll even, by knot of eight, it will be fate, by knot of nine, what's done is mine.'

Here is my Yuletide witches ladder that I created, especially for this festive season. 

Lovingly made with energies of health, prosperity, and luck

It is made with red/burgundy ribbon, for strength, health, vigour, Yule.

A green crocheted silk scarf, for finances, fertility, luck, success, prosperity.

a ribbon of embroidery floss that was made up with metallic green, gold, silver, red/pink, to give a little sparkle to it.

Silver for the feminine energy

Gold for the male energy

Green (as above)

Pink for healing

It also has 3 red feathers, for health, strength, vigor, Yule

8 bronze/gold pewter charms, in relevance to the season, these consist of, dragonflies one at the beginning and one at the end, (dragonflies are associated with prosperity, harmony and good luck). A Yuletide / winter solstice wreath, bells and holly, candy cane, St Nicholas, a festive tree, an ornate key and one Tibetan silver pentacle charm for protection (making a total of 9 charms) and 9 knots. Each charm and each knot are sealed with a spell of intent.

To be hung up by your altar for the winter solstice celebrations, for meditation purposes, or adding a bit of 'POW' to your spell castings in association with health, prosperity and luck. 

The energies on this ladder were infused on a waxing moon. 

Happy spell casting witches

To purchase this Yuletide witches ladder click here. 

Whilst weaving and adding your charms and knots remember to focus your intent, so these energies are embedded into this witches ladder.

So what are you waiting for my dear witches, time to get crafty! 

Blessed be 

~Opal Storm )O(

Better than salt dough Rune Stones

How to Make Salt Dough Runes

Now heres an interesting topic.... Salt dough... well I think this is better than salt dough anyhow :)

For those of you who would like to get creative, this is a fabulous idea. I have been searching online for some runes  the last few days but I haven't really found anything that I liked or that I was drawn to. I then decided to make some from different materials and here commenced my experimentation. 

This is my first attempted batch of runes and it 'feels' so much better as I am the one that created them. When you are working with your natural materials, remember as you are crafting you are embedding your personal energies into your work. So for the rune 'Algiz' the symbol of protection, envision all the protective forces around you whilst you are working to create it and so on and so forth for each one that you create. 

Now lets commence with what you need 
(You can increase or decrease the ingredient amounts to suit your needs):

Ingredients:
1/2 cup of corn flour
1 cup of Bicarbonate of soda
3/4 cups of water

(you can add food colouring,,micas, herbs etc at this point if you wish, but I chose not to so I can have a blank canvas to paint on.)

Instructions:
Mix all your ingredients together into a pan, stir with a spoon to make sure you get all the lumps out, then place the pan over a low heat. 

Keep stirring until it starts to thicken. This should happen pretty quickly. When it starts to resemble a little like potato mash, take it off the heat, scoop it out with a spoon and place in a glass bowl to cool down. Cover with a damp cloth and let it sit.

Once cooled, there you have it! Pliable white dough that you can work with. 

Next part; sprinkle your work surface and rolling pin with a little corn flour so that your dough doesn't stick and kneed it a little. Roll it out to your desired thickness, then start cutting out your shapes. 

Once this is done, you can start to add your detail, you can make further patterns with the left over dough or you can embed with stones, beads, twigs, feathers, stamps or whatever you choose.

 

Most salt dough recipes call for baking in the oven at a high temperature for 2 hours, but I don't like the way the dough looks afterwards (It browns a little,and the shapes don't always stay true to form. I wanted mine to be pure white, and for them to keep their shape). So what I did as I made two batches at the same time (because I ran out of room in my dehydrator lol), I left half to dry naturally for two weeks, on a tray lined with some baking paper, and placed it on top of my fridge, (you must remember to turn your objects every couple of days so both sides can air dry properly). Or if you are like me and are a little impatient you can use your dehydrator on medium heat, until your creations are dry. I find the heat of a dehydrator isn't as harsh as the oven, your creations don't turn brown and don't expand like a cake when drying. Another plus to using the dehydrator is that if you are decorating with beads or feathers, these items wont melt or burn.

Now your creations have dried, you can choose to leave them as they are, or you can paint them with further detail. Once painted, again let it air dry, then either seal the colour in with a varnish, spray varnish, or if you don't have those to hand clear nail polish will also do. 

So now you have the basics, go and have fun.. experiment! See what you can come up with!! I would love to see what you all can do! Post your creations below in the comments if you can.

Blessings
~Opal Storm )O(

Dragons blood

What?! I hear your say, there is no such thing as dragons... Well here you stand corrected.. Because they do exist or I wouldn't be holding the resin in my hand. The blood red resin and flowers that resemble a dragons head are what gave this resin its name. It's scientific name is Daemonorops

Draco. Okay.. Okay... so its on a real fire breathing dragon... 

My Red Gold

It's has many medicinal benefits as well as magical.

Medicinally it's great for all things skin related, from eczema, psoriasis, cuts, bites, burns, stings, rashes, abrasions, sores, and wounds. It is high in antioxidant and anti inflammatory compounds, so it combats any kind of redness and swelling making this a fabulous addition to skin care cosmetics. It's powerful qualities even have anti-wrinkle effects as it actually 'repairs' the collagen balance in our skin. It is also antibacterial, antiviral, and anti fungal. So no wonder this is a Magickal all rounder, it beats any kind of synthetic ingredient hands down!! 

Not only is it used externally but can be used internally too. For stomach ulcers, diarrhoea etc.. 

It can be made into a face mask too!!! For The recipe follow the link below

Onyx Dragon face mask (For all skin types) - removes blackheads and impurities. recipe

Or if you prefer you can purchase this ready made in my shop

Magickal uses: 

Dragons blood has been used in many spiritual rituals to enhance protection, love, sexuality and evocation. 

If you are seeking a marriage proposal it is said that putting  your 'lovers' name on a small square of brown paper, cross it with their own name, fold dragons blood powder into the name-paper, and throw the packet onto glowing charcoal along with love me incense while saying their prayer, will bring marriage.

In hoodoo, there's a dual belief that dragons blood bring luck in money and love as well as warding off evil. 

Women would burn the resin in their window to invite love or address impotence concerns. 

It can be burned alone or with other incense ingredients.  For a loose incense recipe with dragons blood for magical workings click here. It can also used to add power and potency to any magical workings. Mix in some resin into a carrier oil of choice and let it steep for 4 weeks minimum, the dragons blood oil can then be used in the bath. For mojo bags, charm pouches click here

Magickal inks:

Dragons blood ink you will need:

Dragons blood resin

Alcohol

Gum arabica

Myrrh essential oil

Cinnamon essential oil

Use this ink for magickal workings. Best made during a waxing moon.

This gorgeous Dragons Blood Vial can be found here

Element: fire

Planet: Mars 

Gender: masculine

Disclaimer*******The information contained in this article is intended for information and educational purposes only. This information is not intended to be used to diagnose, prescribe or replace proper medical care. The plant described herein is not intended to treat, cure, diagnose, mitigate or prevent any disease. We recommend to seek professional medical treatment for any health condition you wish to cure, heal or solve

Loose Incense Recipes

Fragrancing Your Home Naturally and/or for Magickal Workings

Whats your reason for wanting to make your own incense? Mine was wanting to be able to make something from scratch and make it personal to me. Besides I had most of the herbs growing in my garden anyway, what better way to utilise them :) Let me know what your reasons are below and what your favourite blends are in the comments box. Sharing is caring! 

Here are a few recipes below: 

You choose as to quantities of each ingredient.

Protection blend :

Myrhh

Sage

Valerian

Calamus

Juniper Berries

Lavender

Bay leaf

Fennel

Shield Of Strength :

Dragons blood

Frankincense

Ginger

Woodruff

Bay leaf

Clover

Prosperity Blend:

Benzoin 

Elder

Sage

Basil

Allspice

Dill

Dream Vivid:

Aloeswood

Sage

Bay leaf

Mental clarity:

Aloeswood

Sandalwood

Rose Petals

Calamus

Spikenard

Positive mojo:

Paolo santo

Tonka beans

nutmeg

Star anise

If your unsure how to make these, don't have time, or don't have the ingredients to hand, I will gladly do it for you! take a look at my shop here

To Be Or Not to be a Dragon (Face mask recipe)

Onyx Dragon face mask (For all skin types) - removes blackheads and impurities.

Here's a beauty recipe for you all:

Onyx Dragon face mask (For all skin types) - removes blackheads and impurities.

ingredients used: 

2 Tbsp Black Kaolin clay (if black can't be found substitute with white)

1 Tbsp Activated Charcoal

1/2 tsp Dragons Blood resin powder

100ml Witch Hazel 

1 Tbsp Echinacea

Mix the Kaolin Clay, Activated charcoal, and dragons blood resin powder in a glass bowl. 

Place your 100ml of witch hazel and echinacea into a glass jar and put it in a warm dark cupboard for at least 3 weeks the longer the better, or if you are impatient like me, the heat extraction method is much quicker. 

All you need for this method is a small saucepan. Place the tbsp of echinacea and the 100 ml of witch hazel into your saucepan, and simmer on the lowest heat possible for 30mins, keep the lid on your pan, so as not to loose essential beneficial elements of your echinacea. Now take your pan of the heat and let this mixture cool down to room temperature. You will now find that you have less than 100ml witch hazel, so top up in the next step if needed, with plain witch hazel. 

Once cooled, strain the liquid and add it slowly to your died ingredients until you have a consistency that you like (try a liquid paste). If you find you need more liquid, then add some more witch hazel. and there you have it! Your very own super charged, antioxidant, anti aging, scar healer, anti-inflammatory, collagen booster, pore cleansing face mask. This will keep for a week in the fridge and gives you more than one use. 

Here you can see its a liquid paste

However if you have a busy lifestyle and don't have the ingredients to hand, you can find this item in my shop here

Magickal Body Scrubs

Body scrubs... what are they and why on earth would you want to use them?!

I will give you a few reasons below...

Here's the difference between a salt and a sugar scrub:

Salt scrubs are generally more abrasive because of their sharper edges and, therefore, do a better job at smoothing the rough skin of the body. What really separates salt scrubs from sugar scrubs is that they offer therapeutic, mineralization benefits. Sea salts, are natural purifiers that remove the toxins that block the pores of the skin. It helps the skin breath easier, promotes better circulation, tightens the skin and improves skin texture. There are many sea salts used in scrubs including Himalayan, Mediterranean, Hawaiian and Dead Sea Salts from Israel. These various salts have different trace minerals, which include calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper and iron. The minerals help to promote circulation, reduce the inflammatory response, and act as a detoxifying agent and general muscle relaxant.

Sugar scrubs are gentler than salt scrubs because the granule is round and therefore doesn’t have any ability to “cut” the skin. It’s a far better choice for sensitive skin types and the only choice for the face. Sugar granules dissolve more easily in hot water, and they are less abrasive than salt scrubs. While sugar scrubs don’t have the mineral benefits of salt scrubs, they are less drying, and many natural scrubs now use natural sugars which contain the nutritive properties of sugar cane. Because of the smaller, finer granules, sugar scrubs make a gentle exfoliant that is suitable for next to all skin types and conditions. The glycolic acid content of sugar is another plus, helping to protect skin against harmful toxins. Vital for the maintenance of healthy skin, this acid works to both condition and moisturize. Even for seriously rough and dry skin, sugar scrubs are great because sugar sizes come in fine, medium and course. But choose your scrubs wisely. Do not use a body scrub on your face – it’s too rough. Sugar also has the benefit of melting as you use it, from the heat of your skin, so you can customize the product based on your personal skin type and need.

Some people use them to help with circulation, others feel cleansed, (imagine how many icky dead skin cells are removed, so that we can witness the beautiful glowing skin beneath!) There is something deeply spiritual, cleansing with a scrub and massaging your whole body. Some like the fact it has super moisturizing benefits. I love all the aromas that nature can provide, but predominantly the more earthy spicy aromas that tingle your senses. I have personally used mine as a cleansing protective agent pre-spellcasting or even just for fun. Scrubs can be used in both the bath or the shower.

Scrubs have been used for hundreds of years, for exfoliating the face and body. Chances are you have a myriad of products for your skin and hair, but you tend to forget a good body scrub. The combination of cleansing, exfoliation and massage, provides benefits that go beyond what a bar of soap can do. A decent body scrub can improve your skins health and texture simply by adding it to your bath or shower routine. A scrub works in a few ways, as you massage it over your body, the exfoliating granules Slough off dead skin, and the rubbing action boosts circulation and helps drain your lymph nodes, by increasing blood flow to the skins surface.

The Egyptian women would make a monthly ritual out of it spending whole days together massaging and scrubbing each other once the feminine moonphase was over. It was a way to be clean, to invigorate and stimulate younger looking skin and prevent wrinkles (with the oils used) from the scorching suns heat.

So what should you be putting in a scrub, well anything you would eat of course! For starters the basic ingredients are either sugar or salt for the scrubby factor. (None of these synthetic molecules, that have no health benefits whatsoever, we are talking about a 'real' scrub) Then you can add herbs, or berries and resins ground finely. then you can start to add clay's of choice, again each clay has different qualities and skin benefits, so choose as per your personal requirements.

Citrus peels are another way of getting antioxidants directly in contact with your skin, banish those free radicals I say!! (Just a note of warning here however, anything citrus-y has photo toxic qualities, meaning that you should not go out into direct sunlight right after use, so your best bet is do this at night, to allow your body to absorb all the goodness.)  Coffee granules are a perfect way of getting rid of stubborn cellulite, and toning those annoying jiggly bits on your thighs :)


After that you can then start adding your butters and oils, add these slowly as you really want your scrub to be the consistency of damp sand (see pic below). Once you are happy with the consistency of your scrub, you can add essential oils, this is not necessary but can do wonders for your mood.. think of all the times you gone to a spa or a beauty therapist and all aromas that are wafting around bring you to a sense of calm, they invigorate your senses and just basically put you in a happy place.

Each ingredient will do something different for your skin, I suggest you do your research for yourself as everyone is different.

Below is one of my favourite recipes. I like this particular one because I can share it with my partner, For me its a sensual, magickal, practice. Its not just a scrub its much much more than that. Remember that old saying...? Sugar and spice and all things nice?

Now with your Love Potion scrub I would always use a sugar base, as you want the sweet factor to rub off... literally!! So for sweetening up your lover go for sugar :) Heres a little bit about the ingredients used and why I use them.

Sugar: It acts as a humectant, which basically means that it draws in moisture from the environment around it and places it onto your skin. It is naturally occurring in AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) the high glycolic factor in sugar that helps generate skin turnover, promoting the young, fresh, youthful dewy look we all love. It helps greatly with aging and sun damaged skin. And because its granular,its a fabulous exfoliator, for body I would use normal granulated sugars, and for the face I would use brown sugar as it is softer and the granules are smaller.

Shea Butter: This is a a super moisturizing butter. It has a slight nutty smell to it. Reduces inflammation according to this study, so may be beneficial in some cases for people with acne. It's skin smoothing, by aiding the skins natural collagen production, so can be used on scars and stretchmarks to aid the healing process and minimize scarring. It also has a natural SPF of 6.

Almond Oil: This is a very light oil, it is hypoallergenic (unless you have a nut allergy),it is fully absorbed by the skin making it great for after bath application. It is naturally high in vitamin E, its one of the best natural treatments to aid in easing the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. Its also fabulous for hair. 

Sandalwood essential oil: Sandalwood essential oil protects wounds from infection, soothes inflammations due to fever and other conditions, clears up spasms, tightens gums and muscles and helps stop hair loss. It can also reduce the chance of hemorrhaging, heal scars and after marks, give relief from gas, increase urination, fight infections, and it keeps skin smooth & free from infections. Finally, sandalwood essential oil traditionally cures coughs and colds, reduces blood pressure, increases memory, soothes nervous disorders and inflammations, and boosts your immune system. So as a sedative and a tonic substance, it is the perfect addition to your love potion :)

Patchouli essential oil: This can be used to fight depression and uplift mood, soothe inflammation resulting from high fevers, does not allow wounds to become septic, increases libido and cures sexual disorders. Furthermore, it helps to tighten gums and muscles, and it stops hemorrhaging, heals scars and after marks, promotes cell growth, eliminates body odor, increases urination and removes toxins. Finally, it is well known for its ability to cure fever, kill fungus and insects, as well as reduce emotional and nervous disorders.

Ylang Ylang essential oil: It fights against depression and uplifts mood, stops sebum secretion, protects against sepsis, increases libido and cures various sexual disorders, while also reducing blood pressure, curing nervous disorders, soothing inflammation and reducing the severity of nervous disorders.

Sage essential oil: It has been known to inhibit viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections, and thus protects wounds against becoming septic, heals damages done by oxidation, soothes inflammation, clears spasms, increases the production of bile, and promotes digestion. Furthermore, it fights infections, opens up obstructed menstruation, cures coughs and colds, reduces fever, helps clear the bowels, stimulates discharges and generally boosts systemic functions

Red Kaolin Clay: This clay is rich in iron oxide and copper and low in aluminum and it was traditionally used in treating joint pain and washing to protect oneself from infections and disease. Red Kaolin clay has anti-inflammatory property good in treating skin that is inflamed and gums. It relieves pain caused by contusion, hematoma and bruises. It’s also reduces swelling on affected areas. Like the other Kaolin clays, it also stimulates blood circulation

White Kaolin Clay: White kaolin clay is rich in silicon and aluminum silicate and it is known to be the mildest of all clays. It provides a silky slip, a property that makes it ideal for sensitive skin and this mainly why it is often used in soaps and shave-creams. 

Here is the recipe below for those who are the DIY-ers out there, but if you dont have the time or the resources to make this let me do it for you! Just click here and purchase from my Etsy shop

Love Potion body scrub:

Add 1 cup of granulated sugar 

2 tbsp shea butter

2 tbsp Almond oil
1/3 cup of dried sage
1/8 cup red kaolin clay
1/8 cup white kaolin clay
1/8 tsp sandalwood EO
1/8 tsp patchouli EO
1/8 tsp ylang ylang EO
1/8 tsp sage EO

So go ahead and add a touch of magick alone or with a partner... I dare you :)

But most of all have fun!!!!!

Please be wary as the oils in this scrub may make surfaces slippery, take extra care. 

Imbolc Feb 2015

Imbolc, (pronounced “IM-bulk” or “EM-bowlk”), also called Oimealg, (“IM-mol’g), by the Druids, is the festival of the lactating sheep. It is derived from the Gaelic word “oimelc” which means “ewes milk”. Herd animals have either given birth to the first offspring of the year or their wombs are swollen and the milk of life is flowing into their teats and udders. It is the time of Blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools. It marks the center point of the dark half of the year. It is the festival of the Maiden, for from this day to March 21st, it is her season to prepare for growth and renewal. Brighid’s snake emerges from the womb of the Earth Mother to test the weather, (the origin of Ground Hog Day), and in many places the first Crocus flowers began to spring forth from the frozen earth.

The Maiden is honored, as the Bride, on this Sabbat. Straw Brideo’gas (corn dollies) are created from oat or wheat straw and placed in baskets with white flower bedding. Young girls then carry the Brideo’gas door to door, and gifts are bestowed upon the image from each household. Afterwards at the traditional feast, the older women make special acorn wands for the dollies to hold, and in the morning the ashes in the hearth are examined to see if the magic wands left marks as a good omen. Brighid’s Crosses are fashioned from wheat stalks and exchanged as symbols of protection and prosperity in the coming year. Home hearth fires are put out and re-lit, and a besom is place by the front door to symbolize sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Candles are lit and placed in each room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun.

Another traditional symbol of Imbolc is the plough. In some areas, this is the first day of ploughing in preparation of the first planting of crops. A decorated plough is dragged from door to door, with costumed children following asking for food, drinks, or money. Should they be refused, the household is paid back by having its front garden ploughed up. In other areas, the plough is decorated and then Whiskey, the “water of life” is poured over it. Pieces of cheese and bread are left by the plough and in the newly turned furrows as offerings to the nature spirits. It is considered taboo to cut or pick plants during this time.

Various other names for this Greater Sabbat are Imbolgc Brigantia (Caledonni), Imbolic (Celtic), Disting (Teutonic, Feb 14th), Lupercus (Strega), St. Bridget’s Day (Christian), Candlemas, Candlelaria (Mexican), the Snowdrop Festival. The Festival of Lights, or the Feast of the Virgin. All Virgin and Maiden Goddesses are honored at this time.

Deities of Imbolc:

All Virgin/Maiden Goddesses, Brighid, Aradia, Athena, Inanna, Gaia, and Februa, and Gods of Love and Fertility, Aengus Og, Eros, and Februus.

Symbolism of Imbolc:

Purity, Growth and Re-Newal, The Re-Union of the Goddess and the God, Fertility, and dispensing of the old and making way for the new.

Symbols of Imbolc:

Brideo’gas, Besoms, White Flowers, Candle Wheels, Brighid’s Crosses, Priapic Wands (acorn-tipped), and Ploughs.

Herbs of Imbolc:

Angelica, Basil, Bay Laurel, Blackberry, Celandine, Coltsfoot, Heather, Iris, Myrrh, Tansy, Violets, and all white or yellow flowers.

Foods of Imbolc:

Pumpkin seeds, Sunflower seeds, Poppyseed Cakes, muffins, scones, and breads, all dairy products, Peppers, Onions, Garlic, Raisins, Spiced Wines and Herbal Teas.

Incense of Imbolc:

Basil, Bay, Wisteria, Cinnamon, Violet, Vanilla, Myrrh.

Colors of Imbolc:

White, Pink, Red, Yellow, lt. Green, Brown.

Stones of Imbolc:

Amethyst, Bloodstone, Garnet, Ruby, Onyx, Turquoise.

Activities of Imbolc:

Candle Lighting, Stone Gatherings, Snow Hiking and Searching for Signs of Spring, Making of Brideo’gas and Bride’s Beds, Making Priapic Wands, Decorating Ploughs, Feasting, and Bon Fires maybe lit. 

Things to do to for the crafty witch over this season:

Things to do at Imbolc.

Bless your candles for the coming year

Burn the Yule greens to send winter on its way

Weave Brigit crosses, ensuring the fertility of mind, body and spirit.

Make the Bride's Bed using the Corn (or Wheat)

Doll made the previous Lughnassadh. (Directions: Double over a

Bundle of wheat and tie it near the top to form a head. Take a bit of

the fiber from either side of the main portion and twist into arms that you tie

together in front of the dolly. Add a small bouquet of flowers to the 'hands', then you can decorate the dolly with a dress and bonnet.) Dress the doll in white or blue with a

necklace that represents the seasons. Lay it in a long basket adorned with ribbons; on either side of the basket,and say:

Welcome the Bride both Maiden and Mother;

rest and prepare for the time of the seed; cleansed

and refreshed from labors behind her; with the promise

of spring she lays before me."

Next morning, remove the dress and scatter the wheat

outdoors (or if you use corn, hang it up in a tree for the squirrels

and the birds). This can be seen in terms of the Lady's recovery

from the birthing bed and readiness to begin the turning of the

seasons anew The Imbolc Corn Doll represents the mother nurturing her son, who will grow and become her husband. This is the earth and the sun, which is still weak but gaining strength.
Plant the seeds in garden and nurture them.

Purification rituals

Brighid is the goddess of poetry. Write a poem in her honor, and read it aloud during any Imbolc ritual you may have planned

Cleanse and re-consecrate your ritual tools and clean your altar

Ritually cleanse your home and start your "spring" cleaning

On Imbolc Eve, leave buttered bread in a bowl

indoors for the fairies who travel with the Lady of Greenwood. Next

day, dispose of it as the 'essence' will have been removed

Place three ears of corn on the door as symbol of

the Triple Goddess and leave until Ostara

Make dream pillows for everyone in the family

Send an e-card to friends who are far away

Start something arty craft.

Excerpts taken from the book “Green Witchcraft” by Ann Moura

Crafty bits

Imbolc Wand

Materials:
Small Tree Branch,
Acorn,
Thin Brown String or Thread,
Yellow, Green, and Gold 1/4" Ribbon,
Small Gold/Silver Jingle Bells.

Children will love the sound of this magical wand as they walk about pointing and shaking it at plants and trees, invoking them to wake up from Winter's sleep to witness the union of the Bride and the Lord of the Forest.

Select a small branch about 1/2" to 3/4" in diameter. Cut top end flat. Approx. 1/2" below top score a groove (parents only) with a sharp knife.
Take 1' long piece of string/thread and tie in groove. Take another 1' piece of thread and tie in groove on opposite side of branch.
Place acorn at top of branch (flat end) and adhere with some glue. Now pull the string up over the cap and wind once around acorn. Repeat with all 3 other pieces of string.
Pull strings back down to the groove in the branch and tie off. This will hold the acorn in place.
Decorate the branch by wrapping it with the ribbons, leaving enough length at top for streamers. Tie gold/silver jingle bells to the ends of the ribbons

For smaller children, thread the bells onto the ribbon while wrapping the branch.

Tell the children about how the acorn-wand is a symbol of the Lord of the Forest, and how this magical wand helps the sleeping plants and animals wake up and prepare for Spring.

Heres something crafty to make that will do some good, perhaps make them for friends who are in need:

Dream Pillows
Cut a 4"x6" piece of fabric, sew 3 sides closed and turn it right side out. In a bowl combine about:
1/4 cup rose petals,
1/2 cup lavender flowers,
1/4 cup mugwort
1/4 cup chamomile.
Mix well. In another bowl pour approximately 1/4 cup buckwheat hulls,
flax seed or corn cob fiber.
5 drops lavender Essential Oil,
3 drops bergamot Essential Oil
onto the buckwheat or corn cob. Stir with a wooden spoon. Then, combine
them, the two together and spoon into your fabric bag you have sewn. Sew
the remaining side closed.

Stress Relief Pillow
1 part bay leaves
3 parts mugwort
1/2 part cloves
1 part lavender
1 part rose
take 1/4 cup of flax seed, buckwheat, or corn cob ground and add 3 drops
lavender, 3 drops rose essential oils. Mix everything together and put
into your pillow.
Make pillow as in above or make it the size you like. These can be
placed under your own pillow at night or hung above your bed.

Sweet Dream Pillow
3 parts mugwort
1 part lavender
1/2 part clove
1/2 part mint
Make a pillow like above. Add 3 drops lavender, and 3 drops peppermint
essential oil to 1/2 cup flax seed, or ground corn cob, or buckwheat.
Mix it all together and put into your pillow.
Also can use it as a potpourri.

With thanks to : craftways@yahoo.com

A member of the group ancientpagan@yahoogroups.com

Imbolc Potpourri

45 drops of Musk oil 'or' Myrrh oil
2 cups dried Heather
2 cups dried Wisteria
1 cup dried Oakmoss
1 cup dried yellow Tulip petals
½ cup dried Basil
½ cup chopped Bayleaves

*source unknown*

Incense by Scott Cunningham

3 parts Frankincense

2 parts Dragon's Blood

1/2 part red Sandalwood

1 part Cinnamon

a few drops of red wine

a pinch of the first flower of the season-dried

Braided Altar Rug

Braided rug making instructions: use those old fabric scraps!
*source unknown*

Materials Needed

In order to create your own braided rag rug, you will need only a few
supplies. The most important of these supplies is a variety of
leftover scrap material. The scraps can be of any type and any
pattern. The only requirement is that the scraps must measure at
least two inches wide. Scraps wider than two inches should be cut
into two inch strips and set aside for easy use. For those who don't
have many scraps, I suggest checking with area thrift stores before
purchasing new fabric. Often, scraps are donated and can be bought
for very little cash. You will also need thread in either a clear
nylon or a color to match the general mood of the fabrics chosen, and
a thick, sturdy needle (a curved upholstery needle works best, but
any thick needle will work).

Putting it All Together

The first task necessary before braiding can commence is to prepare
the strips for braiding. Make sure you have cut all fabric into two
inch strips. Then sew each strip together end-to-end with right sides
facing until you have three long strips. The longer the strips, the
larger the rug will be, and vice versa. You may use more than three
strips if you are familiar with the process. If you are worried about
frays along the cut ends, spray the strips with a spray adhesive or
Fraycheck. In the event that neither of these are available to you,
clear fingernail polish will also work when applied to the edges;
however, this method takes a great deal of time and patience. It's
perfectly okay to braid the strips with no treatment. The frays that
eventually evidence themselves add character to the rug and add more
of a country flair to the finished work.

Next, tie the three strips together. Place something heavy on the
tied end (or have someone hold it for you) to make braiding easier.
Begin braiding using the method most familiar to you. You can remove
the heavy object (or release your helper from holding on to the other
end) when you feel you've braided enough to prevent the tied end from
twisting as you go.

When you have all your strips braided, sew the loose ends together.
Carefully coil the braid on the floor, starting from the center and
working your way outward. For a circular rug, simply coil in a
circle, starting with a very small coil. For an oval, lay
approximately one foot of braided strips along the floor. Holding the
strip down firmly, begin the coil around the one foot braid. Feel
free to experiment with other shapes until you find the one that
suits you best.

When you have finally shaped the rug into the pattern you desire,
start sewing the rows of coil to each other, keeping all stitches on
the top side of the rug. Once secured tightly, fasten off.

If you wish to add a non-slip surface to your finished rug, you have
several options. The two simplest (and cheapest) ways are paint and
rubber backing. By adding designs with Puff Paint (found in the craft
aisle of your local department store), you create a unique surface
that will grip most vinyl and hardwood floors. Just be sure the paint
is completely dry before placing the rug on the floor, or your rug
may actually stick. An alternative method would be to buy some of the
rubber backing used in drains, cabinets, and counters. Your local
Dollar General or Family Dollar will usually carry these at a very
reasonable price. Use liquid Super Glue to adhere the rubber to the
rug. Trim along the edges as necessary.

That's it! Enjoy your rug!