​I am sure you have seen the pretty little resin pyramids filled with crystals and other things in metaphysical stores, online, and other places. These are called Orgonite pyramids. While it may seem like a newer “new age” idea, it was actually an idea brought about by a man named Wilhelm Reich in the 1930’s. He proposed a kind of energy called orgone energy, much like life energy known as prana, chi, or qi, that derived from the “purest expressions of love such as orgasms”*. His initial “discovery” (in the sense that he first realized it) of this energy was within the body, but eventually he realized it also existed out side the body, everywhere. This realization caused him to experiment with building mechanisms capable of accumulating and manipulating this energy. One of the first of these inventions was called the Bacquet of Mesmer. It was a crude first draft, but it did effectively accumulate orgone energy. His inventions were described as “an enclosure formed of a layered arrangement of metallic and non-metallic materials which result in a concentration of energy within the enclosure”*. When the materials used were layered properly they would act as a magnet for the orgone energy, which he claimed could heal a person of various diseases, including cancer. The medical community, including the FDA took exception to this, “investigated” him and his claims, and he was subsequently imprisoned, which is where he died.
Orgone pyramids are a pretty and portable way to harness this energy for oneself. Not just a decoration, these little pyramids (and other forms) are made from metals, gemstones, and crystals inside a resin form, and are used to harness, harmonize, and amplify this energy. The materials used would change the focus of the healing, as different metals, gemstones, and crystals have different healing properties. They are said to have a healing affect on all levels (physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual), and that they transmute lower vibrational energy (negative) to a higher vibration (positive), and promote balance by helping the subtle energy bodies become whole/align with the physical body. While just having them around in your home or office can be helpful, purposeful meditation or healing sessions with them would also be quite beneficial.
Depending on who is making them, the resin used can be either polyester, epoxy, or tree sap. I have found no information about which one (if any) is more effective, but this may boil down to personal preference.  I have heard people question about whether the resin encasing the crystals and other materials would hinder their energetic properties (and therefore diminish if not negate their healing abilities). I would like to point out here that resin actually has electric and thermal conductivity properties. I would say that this information should allay any such concerns.
Have you used orgonite before? Do you have one of these little energy powerhouses? Did you know what it could do? Would you buy one now, after reading this?
 
 
*All quotes were taken from crystaldreamsworld.com

​Keys may seem like rather uninteresting things, but like many other “everyday” objects they can have greater meaning, and are useful in witchcraft. As a magical object used in spells its symbolism is two-fold. It can either help one open the door/path to something they want/need, or it can be used to close and lock a door to something they wish to leave behind. This makes it great for spells for new beginnings or for letting go. While it doesn’t really matter what kind of key is used, antique skeleton keys give off mysterious/witchy vibes which make for a good visual and set a nice tone for the work. Being more visually pleasing can make them easier to carry or wear out in the open if the spell caster feels it is necessary, without calling a lot of attention other than maybe some “how cute” comments.
In dreams, keys can represent the solution or needed “thing” to solve a problem, overcome an obstacle, or attain a desire (represented by the lock).  On a more personal level, keys can represent one’s thought, feelings, or new attitudes needed to “unlock” hidden knowledge or memories/experiences that could lead us to opening up our true selves not only to the world, but to own self as well.
In the realm of Gods and Goddesses there are few who are related to keys. Portunus (Roman) and his counterpart Janus (Greek) are considered the Gods of keys. They are both the God of doors and keys in their respective cultures and are both often depicted with two opposing faces. In Rome, keys also were a symbol used to show a traveler he or she had found safe harbor. Possibly more well-known today is Hecate. She has her own special association with keys. As the goddess associated with the underworld and the key-holder to the gates of Hades, death itself, and possibly to the cosmos, it is no wonder she is often depicted with keys. She is also associated with boundaries, which can also suggest the need for a key; though maybe not always a physical one.
Beautiful antique looking skeleton keys can be found pretty much anywhere these days, from occult shops to Amazon, but your average house, bike lock, or handcuff key can be used just as effectively. Like any other spell work material, you don’t have to spend much, if an, money to work your magic. So, do you use keys in your magic? Have you considered the magical potential of this simple object you carry every day? Are you carrying a spelled key as you read this?

​If you are a practicing witch chances are good you have at least heard of a book of shadows and a grimoire; you may even have one or both yourself. There are countless books on witchcraft available that reference one or both of them, sometimes using them interchangeably. However, they are not actually the same thing.
A grimoire contains the knowledge you have gained as a witch. This can include spells, recipes, rituals, general knowledge, and so on. Kind of like a personal reference book or manual. This could be information handed down from other witches, read in reference books/papers, or found through other sources. A grimoire may be passed down, shared with others, or kept to oneself; it is up to the individual. It is simply knowledge.
A book of Shadows is much more personal. While it may contain some of these things, it is more of a record of a witch’s personal journey in his or her craft. The spells, rituals, recipes, etc.. that it contains would be ones that have been tried, pertinent information like moon phase, season, timing, and other such things recorded, and the results documented. It may include personal notes or changes to make improvements or things to try next time. This personal  record is not generally shared with others, unless it is one created by a coven for group use.
Either of these books can be made as personal as the creator/user would like. They can be nicely decorated books or plain for easy concealment, handwritten or typed, totally organized or organized chaos, whatever works for the witch in question. Not every witch will have one or both of these books. With easy access to so many books on witchcraft, one could have a whole library of resources that replace a grimoire (I may be guilty of this lol). Not every one likes to record every spell or ritual they do; some people are just not into writing anything down at all. While it would be helpful to remember what you did, when, and how it turned out, it is not necessary, and certainly doesn’t make you any less of a witch if you don’t. Both can be helpful, but neither are necessary to be a practicing witch.
So, do you have either or both of these? Do like to record, or just do? Do you have a grimoire, or more of a personal library?

Sigil magic is one of my favourite kinds of magic to use. There are two main trains of thought on sigil creation that I would like to talk about here.
The first way, the way I use most, involves coming up with a short sentence that outlines what you are trying to accomplish or manifest. This sentence should be a complete thought, expressed in as few words as possible, and be in a positive frame. So, if you were in a financial bind you would use something like “I attract money” rather than “I am not poor”, or if you were being bullied you could say “I am protected” rather than “My bully can’t harm me”. This positive phrasing goes for any manifesting really. The universe does not see the negative (words like not, doesn’t, or won’t), and so you would likely end up attracting what you didn’t want in the first place by using that type of phrasing. Next you would write that sentence down and cross out all the duplicate letters (leaving the first instance of it). So in the case of “I am protected” you would be left with the letters *I a m p r o t e c d*. Next you would take these letters and combine them together into one symbol. It does not matter if the letters are sideways, upside down, and once you have created that symbol you can leave it as is (as I do), or add some embellishments to make it look more “magical”. Whatever works for you. It might look something like this:

​The second way is to combine symbols that correspond to the message you are trying to convey. You could look up symbols and their meanings in various books like The Element Encyclopedia of Secret Signs and Symbols by Adele Nozedar, but using ones that have special meaning to you is a better way to go to make your sigil more personal. To do this, you would make a list of all the concepts you need for your sigil like love, family, home, money, protection, man/woman etc.. and combining those symbols rather than letters. It would definitely be a good idea to write these symbols and what they mean to you in a journal or your grimoire for quick and easy reference in the future. It would also not be a bad idea to write down the sigil you created and its purpose somewhere as well, so that you can use it again if need be, and to keep track of what worked for you and what didn’t. If you want to learn more about this type of sigil magic I recommend Sigil Witchery by Laura Tempest Zakroff.
Now that you have created your sigil, you need to do something with it. You could write it onto paper, paint or etch it onto a crystal, burn or etch it into wood, paint it on your (or someone else’s) body, or anything else you can imagine that will help your spell work or manifestation. When you are ready to activate your sigil, you will then ground and center yourself, raise your energy however you normally do this (connecting your crown chakra to the universe, visualizing a white or coloured light stemming from your power center, connecting to the earth through your root chakra, etc.. whatever works for you) and you will bring this energy/power to your hands so that you can use it to trace out the sigil. If you used the first sigil making method you would trace out the letters in the sigil in the order they appear in the sentence, saying the sentence word by word as you do. This sets your intent. If you chose the second method you could trace out each symbol in the order they are needed for your intent to be laid out. So if you are a woman and your intent was to attract love and you chose symbols to represent a man, a woman, a heart and something for attraction, then you could trace them in the order of woman (representing you), the symbol for attraction, the symbol for man, and then the heart, while stating “I, (your name), attract a man to love, who will love me”. The same could be used for same sex attraction. I do recommend, however, that if you intend to do any kind of love spells, that you ask only to attract love to you, and not a specific person. Not only would this interfere with free will, it could backfire on you badly, and the universe may have a better plan, you never know. Always ask for these and other things “for your highest good, and to harm none”, unless you are cursing someone, but that is a whole different story.  
So, have you used sigil magic before? Which method did you use? Which one do you prefer? After reading this, would you try sigil magic (if you haven’t before)?

​Animism is a popular concept in metaphysical circles; however, this is not the only subject it holds meaning for.
In psychology, part of Jean Piaget’s cognitive behaviour theory attributes animism to the way children (usually ages 2 through 7) project life like qualities to inanimate objects. So, for example, how they may feel their toys are alive and have their own thoughts and feelings, or how an object may not “like” them if they fall or stub their toe. Carl Jung also used the term animism; however, he used it to describe the dual archetypal images of the feminine and masculine aspects of our subconscious. He described the anima as the female aspect of a man’s subconscious which he attributed to qualities like empathy, emotion, and sensitivity. The opposite of this, then, was the animus, which he described as the masculine aspect of a woman’s subconscious which displayed qualities like intellect, exploration, and activity. It is important to note that every person has both feminine and masculine aspects. The quality we most often display can depend on each person, to varying degrees, and for various reasons. We express these aspects through our hobbies/talents/interests, and we can use them to gain new perspectives and knowledge about ourselves, our environments, and other people. He proposed that each person needed to develop and express both of these aspects in order to continue to “grow” as a person.
Spiritually speaking, animism suggests that everything, whether it is an animal, a plant, a place, or an object, has a “soul” or spiritual essence. If you practice any kind of pagan or earth-based practice, then this is kind of a given. We tend to treat all living things with respect, recognizing them as conscious sentient beings. We may also recognize the spirit of place (genius loci), the spirit of plants (particularly when we are growing them, or harvesting from them), and that everything has its own vibrational frequency, which could be considered its “spirit”. Which is why we talk to our animals and plants, leave offerings/gifts when we take from nature, and keep totems/figures of animals we wish to connect with/learn from, and voice our needs and desires to the gods/goddesses and the universe itself, because yes, it also has consciousness.
Psychology and spirituality are both topics I read/research regularly and in depth. Though I am aware of the concept of animism from both points of view, and have been for a long time, I always sort of took it for granted as “the norm”. I talked to animals and plants as child just as much I did my favourite toys. It never occurred to me that they didn’t answer back/communicate with me in some way. I still talk to animals and my plants. Did you do this as a child? Do you still do it? Did you know that that was what it was called? Do you come across this term/concept in your reading often?

​While not specifically metaphysical terms, the words microcosm and macrocosm are often used in metaphysical books and conversations. While some texts helpfully explain what these concepts are, not all are so accommodating; possibly leaving the reader (or conversation partner) a little confused or without context. What may sound like a couple of five-dollar words, are actually fairly simple concepts. A microcosm is simply  a smaller part of something that has the same qualities/features as the larger whole, which is the macrocosm. They are the same, separately and together. So, for example, a country can hold specific laws, values, history, cultural beliefs/standards, etc..(representing the macrocosm), and each town would still hold those same qualities, but in smaller form (a town, not the whole country). On a larger scale, the universe is made of many particles, substances, and energies, which are also contained in our galaxy (one small portion of the universe as a whole). We can even say that our solar system contains those same particles, substances, and energies, which makes it a microcosm of our galaxy, or the universe itself. As you can see, pretty much anything can be listed as a microcosm, as long there is something with the same feature/qualities larger than it that is the macrocosm.
In metaphysical books, these terms are usually used to describe the universe and man (as they say, we are all made of star stuff). Also, as I see it, as the human race we are one collective, all connected (whether we choose to believe so or not), made up of the same basic parts. As individuals, we are still part of that collective, but with our own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The individual within the crowd, the microcosm within the macrocosm. Sometimes it is also used to describe our relation to the divine. As spiritual beings we all hold the divine within us.
Before today, had you heard these terms before? Did you have a good understanding of what they meant? If not, was this helpful? (I hope so!). 

​In Greek mythology there were 9 goddesses, known as the muses, that provided inspiration for literature, science, and the arts. They are said to be the source for the knowledge passed through stories, writing, poetry, dance, and songs, and were worshipped on Mount Helicon. Though it is also said that originally there were only 3 which represented song, practice, and memory, or the three chords of the lyre, depending on where they were worshipped.
While we still refer to someone or something that has sparked our creativity and passion to create as our muse, we don’t really worship or pray to the muses as goddesses like the ancient Greeks did. That said, we still seek out inspiration from sources outside ourselves all the time. Usually in the things that bring us joy, like books, music, art, and even other people. Anything we can perceive with our senses can impel (or compel) us to create, to learn, or simply become passionate about something. It could be a visual thing like an object/picture seen repeatedly, a phrase or song we keep hearing, or something more subtle like a smell or a tactile stimulus that reminds us/makes us think of something. Likewise, anything we do, say, or create can inspire someone else.
Some of what I write about in my blogs is inspired by the books I read, some by good conversation with like minded people, and some topics just pop into my head sort of randomly. Perhaps that is one of the muses whispering to me, maybe it is my intuition/higher self/guides telling me someone needs to read this today, or maybe it is my subconscious trying to get something off its mind. I could not say for certain either way, but I do know that I have been inspired to write these words for you today. The same goes for my books.
Motivation, while not the same as inspiration, can come from the same sort of stimuli. Reading other people’s books often motivates me to continue to write my own, and the music I listen to can motivate me to keep going when I am feeling down or stuck. The difference between them can be thought of as inspiration being  influenced mentally/emotionally for the purpose to create, while motivation is a stimulation designed to cause action towards a particular goal. Both are needed to bring our creative projects to life.
So I guess the questions for today are: Have you ever felt you were inspired by a muse to create something? Have you ever felt someone you know is/was your muse? Has anyone ever called you their muse or told you that you inspired them to create? Do you pray or call out to the muses (or any other deity) when you need inspiration, but seem to be lacking?

​If you are a witch, chances are good you have cast a circle before. There are, of course, different ways to accomplish this. Some are very formal, involving tools, specific words, and even symbols. Some are much more relaxed, using nothing more than one's own body and voice. However you are most comfortable casting when solitary is up to you. When you are casting with a coven, casting can become either a group effort where all, or some, participate, or only one or two members cast regularly. Individual covens must decide what works best for them.
This also goes for when to cast a circle. Whether you are part of a coven or not, a circle can be cast for many reasons. Some people choose to cast one every time they do any kind of magic at all, while some choose only to cast when they feel it is necessary, or maybe they only cast during sacred holidays. Personally, I fall into the middle. I really don’t cast a circle very often, but there is no right or wrong when it comes to this. Not every thing requires a circle, but some people feel more comfortable within one when doing magical work, and some need it be in the right frame of mind to do magic. The point here is that you should never let anyone make you feel bad or “less than” for how you practice, or don’t practice, your craft.
So why do we cast circles? When you cast a circle you are not only creating sacred space, but it is also believed you create a space between worlds. A big reason for casting then is protection and providing a safe space. Not only are we protecting ourselves from possible negative outside forces/interference, but we are also containing and protecting our magical workings while they are in progress. When you are casting the circle, it is common to clear/cleanse the space first. Casting the circle then keeps that space cleansed and ready for whatever work you are doing, like an energetic bubble. As this bubble contains the energy raised during your spell work/ritual, that energy builds inside until it is released all at once, which can raise the potency/efficacy of the spell, especially if one raises a come of power within the circle. This is not always the case. I know some wonderful witches who do amazing work without ever casting a circle.
Have you ever cast a circle before? Are you very ritualized when casting, using tools, memorized invocations, and sigils, or are you more casual; just you and your energy? Do you cast the same every time, or do you cast differently depending on the work you are doing? Inquiring minds would like to know. 

​Today we are going to touch on a bit of Egyptian lore. Something I have always been interested in/attracted to. Obviously, this will be, by no means, comprehensive. Just a simple guide to this popular symbol.
The eye is depicted a lot in Egyptian art and jewelry. Symbolically, it is connected to the gods, and are aspects of power. The Wedjat-Eyes represent the sun (Right - Ra/Re) and moon (Left - Horus). Though, this was not always so, and these associations were not made until much later in Egyptian history. Wedjat refers to the familiar eye symbol used that combines the falcon facial markings that represent Horus with a human eye. The myths surrounding the eyes often have common themes, have feminine aspects (like Hathor, Sekhmet, and Bastet), and describe acts of power, creation, and destruction. Common themes include the loss of an eye, and the eye acting independently (usually in a feminine aspect) to facilitate anything from vengeance to healing.
 
Following the sun/moon Ra/Horus theme, common correspondences are:
 
Ra (Sun God) – Right Eye: the sun, power, violence, destruction, and protection.
Animal aspects include the Cobra (often depicted with the solar disc), and the lioness.
 
Horus (Sky God) – Left Eye: the moon, protection, well-being/healing, offerings (both ritual and funerary).
 
Both of these symbols are used for protection, depending on your needs. Amulets, and jewelry can be bought and worn, or they can be made. Tattoos have also become popular. There is so much more you can learn about the myth and symbolism of the wedjat eyes. I encourage you to google it, or better yet, pick up a book!
Are you, like me, attracted to ancient Egyptian lore/culture? Do you feel a connection to them? Would you use the eye of Ra or the Eye of Horus in your magical practice? 

​If you pick up any self-help, witchcraft, or spiritual practice book these days, one of the first things they will suggest to you is to keep a record of the work you do. Usually this is in the form of journaling, which can be done as a written record or a voice recording. Regardless of what you journal about, or how you do it, records can be important. There are many reasons to keep a journal. Some examples would be:

1. Monitoring your progress for a task or project
2. Keeping track of what does or does not work for you during spell work
3. Remembering dreams so you can analyze them later or see if there are repeating themes/dreams
4. Monitoring your thoughts/feelings during different moon phases and/or seasons
5. Recording your sabbat/esbat celebrations
6. Keeping track of your divinatory insights during readings
7. Noting signs you see so you can interpret them or see patterns as the emerge
8. Remembering things you would like to try when the timing is right for you

Really, you are only limited by your own needs and imagination.  You can journal about anything you want. There are plenty of beautiful journals out there to write down your every thought for almost every budget; or you can make your own if you are crafty.
In my youth I used to keep personal journals (which I still have in storage). Now I mostly keep track of tarot and other divinatory readings that I feel are important, and recipes for oils/balms/tinctures/etc.. that I use. With all the other writing that I do, journaling everything else seems a bit much. If I kept a journal for every psychology and spiritual book I read I would have hundreds of them laying around by now.
That said, not everyone likes to write, or to keep a written record of their practices, let alone their thoughts and feelings. Journaling can seem more like a chore than a helpful tool if you don’t like to write. Sometimes we just jot down a few notes in a notebook or make a sticky note so we don’t forget, and that is perfectly OK. Personally, I have notebooks all over my house that I use to keep track of things I need/want to remember later. I wish I could say I was more organized than that about it, and I guess it is kind of an organized chaos, but that is just how it works for me. Whatever works for you is what you should do.
So the question is, are you a stickler for writing everything down? Do you like keeping a written record at all, or do you prefer to write down only the essentials? What is your writing/record keeping style?