BoS Prompts 19: Starting to learn ie Stones & Herbs etc..

Link to previous prompts: http://ppwwmm.blogspot.co.uk/2017/11/cauldroneers-bos-prompts.html

There's now a dedicated facebook page to support these blog posts @ https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/

Thank you all for the support.  I've now made a dedicated facebook page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/ so if you go there turn on all notifications you won't miss these blog posts!! 

Prompt 19. Sunday 8th April 2018 - The 19th prompt will be..  Starting to learn ie Stones & Herbs etc..

First let me say I hope you all had a very blessed Ostara (Spring Equinox) and a Happy Easter!!  I'm already loving the springtime!

Through out this series of blog posts (Book of Shadows / Grimoire Prompts) I seem to have been asked the same one question, or similar question, multiple times over.  “How do you learn stones?” “How do you learn herbs?”  So I thought I would interject this series and add this blog in to help people with that.  - Doesn't matter if you're brand new or the wisest crone I'm sure you can learn something from these posts..

First note there’s no right or wrong way.  Also if you haven’t read the blog I wrote that includes the basic and key information about ‘Herbs and Stones’ you really should go read that first.

So as said there’s multiple methods..  For a lot of us we will never know every stone name, use, values, properties and such for nor herb for that matter.  There’s a great number of books including encyclopedias, bibles and other directories which hold great details on stones and herbs their properties and uses etc..  Alongside buying some of these books, the internet is an amazing resource.  BUT you might want to learn the basics of say 10 or so of the more commonly used ones, or that you would use most in your practices.  Eg. White Sage, Rosemary, Patchouli, Lavender etc..  Clear quartz, Malachite, Amethyst, Rose Quartz etc..  Just to name a few.

So here’s some of the methods I use (but there’s others).

Stones.

For the purpose of this blog when I say Stone I’m referring to all stones, semi precious and precious rocks, gems, crystals etc..

Now purchase yourself one of each of the stones you’d like to learn (if you don’t already have one/them) this can be online (such as ebay) – where one will be sent at random OR if you can get yourself to a shop and choose one that feels right to you even better!!  Although a lot of people say the stone chooses you not you choosing the stone!!  Note it doesn’t matter the size.  Although when starting out you don’t want to spend silly money on these things; as it might not be for you!  Note it's been said that some stones just don't work for some people.  Some times it's that particular stone and other times it's that particular type of stone.  There are always multiple stones that can be used the the same purpose!

Now you have your stone (feel free to Cleanse, Consecrate and Charge – a lot of people will have been handling the stones no matter where you got it from!  You can move on..

Some people choose to spend a few days with no real knowledge of a stone and try it out try sensing it’s vibrations and qualities, what feelings you get when holding it in your right or left hand, sleeping with it etc.. (write them down).  Other people jump right in at the beginning..  Either way if you spent a few days getting a feel for the stone (note you might have multiple stones but try to learn only one at a time).  Once you’re ready a great way to learn a stone is to spend a week with it!!  Look in books and online to get as much KEY information about that particular stone..  You don’t necessarily need to know its origins or how it’s farmed or made etc.  Although that information can be highly interesting I especially love the history and legend of The Apache Tear Stone.  But knowing things like..

• ·       What is this stone primarily used for in holistic healing?
• ·       Does this stone belong to one of the Chakra points?
• ·       Does this stone have a zodiac sign associated with it?
• ·       Does this stone feel hot or cold?
• ·       What are the metaphysical / magical uses?
• ·       Is this stone affected by Sun or Water (some stones can be damaged!!)

..You have the basics?  You wrote them down?  Good from here you can start practicing with it..  Try carrying the stone around on your person, try sleeping with it under your pillow, try out some workings which would include that stone, what feelings do you get..  If the stone is water tolerant what happens if you put it in a glass of water and then drink the water?  If it’s a stone that helps with say creativity do you notice your creativity enhanced?  A stone that aids with anxieties do you notice a decrease in your anxiety? – Note these things don’t always work straight away but really strong connections to stones may mean that stone is definitely one you’ll find yourself working with more often than not.

Continue your studies, and your regular life..  and see what happens.  There’s nothing wrong with spending more or less time with a stone..  It’s completely your choice.  Then move on to the next stone and repeat.

Note.  Getting to know stones, even if you don’t remember everything about them locks into your subconscious.  You may later find yourself writing a spell, ritual or working of some kind and find yourself reaching for that particular stone even though you can’t remember its properties though upon research that stone may be perfect.  Don’t shrug off that inner voice.

Storing your stones..  I keep my main ones an my alatar.  They’re the first of each that I got since starting my practice and so I keep them in a glass on my God side of my altar and/or placed around my center pentagram (see yesterdays Instagram post here https://www.instagram.com/p/BhP5wQrAD7w/?taken-by=missimoinsane) I keep the other stones I buy that I use in workings and then throw away or are permanently in the working such as a witches ball, in candles that are kept or gifted, in offerings or offering stones, in mojo or medicine bags, in manifestation box etc..  Some people keep them wrapped in silks, individual bags, in thimble display cases, shelves, around their home, in bowls and so on..

Buying your stones..  an idea for buying stones to use in workings is to buy chip stones, small bottled stones and/or beads of the stones you wish to use.  This can be cost effective while still giving your workings the same properties and powers.  Just a thought.  Also look out for deals I know a lot of ebay shows do 3 for 2 type offers.

Stones can be reused such as cleansed by the full moon's light, if they’re tolerant to water you could wash them with salt water or bury them in the ground for a night and a day..  There are multiple ways you can cleanse, consecrate and charge your stones.

Herbs.

For the purpose of this blog when I say Herb I’m referring to all herbs, spices, fungus, flowers and plants (flora) etc..  As well as resin, bark, powders and even oils (essential oils) etc..

Learning herbs can be very similar to learning Stones.  A lot of people do that getting to know it before actually studying about it which is great but I must advise some herbs (when touched, ingested, burned etc) are poisonous to humans and/or animals.  I always do my research before buying any herbs and bringing them into my home.

Again like stones buy some of the herbs you’d like to learn; again this can be online (such as ebay) assuming you don’t raid the kitchen cupboards, grocery store or your garden, nearby woods or other nature places).  Note it doesn’t matter the size/amount but you’ll want enough to do a few practice workings..  Unlike stones herbs can’t be reused unless it’s within the same working (such as you might use them in a blessing ritual which you then anoint your candle and roll it in the herbs and the remaining herbs you put into an incense especially for that particular spell or type of spell then of course..

Now you have your herb (feel free to Cleanse, Consecrate and Charge – a lot of people will have been handling the herbs no matter where you got them from!) you can move on..

Some people as mentioned choose to spend a few days with no real knowledge of the herb and try it out try sensing it’s vibrations and qualities, what feelings you get when holding it, sleeping with it etc.. (write them down).  PLEASE REMEMBER WHAT I SAID ABOUT POISONOUS ONES!!  MOST DIRECTORIES ETC WILL TELL YOU IF THEY ARE POISONOUS – BUT YOU CAN ALWAYS CHECK ONLINE SOME WEBSITES A DEDICATED TO POISONOUS FOR HUMAN, CAT, DOG ETC..  Other people jump right in at the beginning..  Either way if you spent a few days getting a feel for the herb..

Repeating everything I said you’d do for stones..

Storing your herbs..  I keep mine mostly in glass jars/bottles/tubes – or in foil bags in boxes (mostly).  I then keep these in a dry dark place.  Note I find it important to keep my magickal practice herbs and my kitchen herbs separate (just encase of cross contamination).

Buying your herbs..  While buying in bulk is somewhat cheaper note these things do have an expiration date.  So if you buy a few kilo’s of say jasmine make sure that’s something you’ll use within say 12 months.  You don’t want to find you still have practically a full bag four years down the line.  Sometimes a small amount will go a long way and you don’t need to buy much more than a sample bag.

Conclusion. 

I hope that’s given you some ideas for how you can learn herbs and stones.  Some people literally buy a bunch of stuff as a spell / working that requires a specific type of herb or stone and then learn them there and then or at least research enough to make sure it’s something you’re wanting to work with.  Which isn’t a bad way either although it’s good to keep a supply of the basics just in case.  You don’t want to find yourself requiring items for a spell on Friday which the online stores won't ship till Monday and it’s practically a week before you can do the working you wanted to do right away!

A better understanding of herbs and stones means that if you come across a spell that requires eg. White sage for purification but it’s hard to find that where you live or you just burnt your last leaf this morning but you have a bunch of frankincense resin or palo santo wood..  You’re in luck as you’ll know it’s possible to substitute the white sage for either of these two (for example).  – Meaning you can do your working now.  I love to customise workings by using what I have or what I feel connected too that will still work.  The same can be said for substituting other items such as candles.  But that’s now treading on the toes of next week’s blog focus “how to write your own spells and workings!”

Activity..

• Buy a stone / herb and follow the above practice (you don't want to do multiple stones and herbs at the same time nor one of each at the same time..  simply study one item at a time!)
• (Optional) Expand this study to other items..

Book Activity..

• (Optional) Copy down any information from above you think you will find useful.. and/or any further information you find out.
• (Optional) Write down the stone / herb properties of your most used stones / herbs.

Interact with me Activity..

• (Optional) on the Fb Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/ feel free to add any information you deem worthy..  

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Thank you all for the support.  For anyone wishing to share, ask for help, talk about BoS / their book and relevant content (or for more information, ideas and unmissable blog posts go to new Fb group https://www.facebook.com/groups/BoSPrompts/  Also as previously mentioned you can go on the website version of this blog over on the left there’s a ‘subscribe by email’ so you don’t miss a single post from me.  If you’re on the mobile version scroll right down to the bottom and click ‘view as website’ and that should take you to the website version where you can expand, navigate to the left and subscribe by email :)  I will continue to share this on my Patreon *for free* and also on my Twitter and in various facebook groups..  & Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/

Imogen x

Sunday April 15th's prompts No.20 -  Writing Spells (and other workings)

BoS Prompts 14: Protection, Repel, Banish (Workings).

Link to previous prompts: http://ppwwmm.blogspot.co.uk/2017/11/cauldroneers-bos-prompts.html

There's now a dedicated facebook page to support these blog posts @ https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/

Thank you all for the support.  I've now made a dedicated facebook page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/ so if you go there turn on all notifications you won't miss these blog posts!! 

Prompt 14. Sunday 24th February 2018 - The 14th prompt will be...  Protection, Repel, Banish (Workings).

Another one completely open to your own interpretation and beliefs.  Hopefully though you'll have something a bit more hands on and practical things to do this week.  As well as more information for your books.

Protection, Repel, Banish (Workings) 

Here we are at week 14..  I’m really unsure where time has gone!!   - So I feel like we have done a lot of educational and not so much hands on so this week I thought we would look at some simple spell work – Protection, Repel and Banish.  But of course I need to chat away a whole bunch first and bore you to death as per usual hehe.

So first of all there are many types of spells and many types of those types of spell and many ways in which we can do all of that..  So 3 types of spells / workings would be ‘Protection’, ‘Repel’ and ‘Banish’ – I’ve banned these 3 together while very different we can tackle them the same.

As said there are many ways in which we can go about doing this.  First let me say that you don’t always have to cast a circle, call the quarters, invoke spiritual or divine or ancestral beings etc.  And as mentioned there’s more than a few items you could use such as different coloured candles; I found most common to be Black – Negative, White – Purity, Brown – Home / Earth not to say that other colours aren’t used) I of course did a blog on Colours & Candles which you may find useful for reference – though you should have wrote that in your BoS!   I also mentioned in the Herbs and Stones section of this blog entry that there are many different herbs and stones you can use which have Protection, Negative Repel and Banish properties and the same with essential oils.  Also you could look more into the Elder Futhark runes or other runes and symbols such as The Vegvisir which I believe in Norse Mythology is used for guidance (as in travel) and protection.  Similarly Sigils can be created for protection, repel of evil or negativity or bad entities etc and even to banish bad emotions, fears, anxieties etc..

Before we continue I guess I should clear a few misconceptions about magick and the best way for me to do that is to explain it though my beliefs.  Which are that there’s no Hollywood magic..  Sorry but you’re not going to wave your wand and turn you rat into a teacup, a pumpkin into a carriage or magically make something appear in the physical form – Side note, no you do not NEED a wand to do magick!!  The magick we are talking about here is based on your intentions, your energies and the way I see it working is that you’re putting your energies and desires out there into the world, nay into the universe and possibly even into other realms, dimensions and planes of existence..  You’re workings are working towards a goal and setting intentions for you to then carry out.  For me if I have a stone in my pocket to aid me with anxieties that stone is there as a reminder that I am strong enough to get through this event and it’s not some other dimension portal thing that’s going to magically suck all the anxieties away..  I don’t feel that by burning sage you’re going to purify anything but I do feel by burning sage and BELIEVING in it and not doubting and putting your positive energies into doing this activity of burning sage and putting your request physically out there that things happen more so when you work towards it and believe.  I don’t believe by just burning a candle, hanging something over a door or having a statue is in and of itself going to do the magickal deed.  I do however believe that by doing the act of burning a candle or seeing items over and over again or even (as mentioned in my sigial blog) how when you’ve had an item in one place so long it blends in and becomes part of your home and part of your furniture that you don’t really see it any more and then it becomes a part of your subconcience and you notice it without noticing it (I’m hoping you know what I mean as that’s difficult to explain) and then that subconscious part is the part that does the magick it’s the part that creates dajavu that makes you think of other things and can associate two unrelated things (which most call coincidence) which we say is fate.  There’s a very fine line for me where I struggle with the wanting to believe and the doubt.  I struggle with “‘if I can’t see it then it’s not real” yet I expect people to believe me when I say I have fibromyalgia and I’m in terrible pain – pain can’t be seen.. doesn’t make it not real?  So there for if I believe in pain which can’t be seen which is caused by the chemical reaction in the brain and not physical damage or issue then why can’t I believe in magick?  Deity?  Fate?  Spells?  I diverse..  For me I feel doubt or disbelief is why people feel that magick doesn’t work for them..  Much like keep telling yourself you’re going to fail that test.. You will.  You’re not going to get a job.. You won’t.  No one likes you.. They won’t.  Try being more optimistic, more positive and believe even in the impossible and that’s when the magick starts..

So now I’ve waffled for a bit, you still here?  Good!!

So let’s look at the topic shall we first what do I mean by Protection, Repel, Banish?  So protection comes in many forms..  Protection for yourself, your friend, lover, partner, children, your family, home, pet, car, school, place of worship…..  And I don’t mean armed bodyguards, bars on the windows and a can of mace/pepper spray at the ready.  I’m talking about that unexplained other world magickal kind of protection.  That which makes you feel like a near death experience you were touched by an angel, the hand of god, fate, luck…..  That feeling that someone is watching over you and protecting you..  That wanting for God to protect or some divine intervention to happen to keep you, your loved ones and the things you love safe and sound and filled with positivity and happiness.  Same with Repel and Banish.. 

These three are some of the very basic beginner things, so easy to do yet so powerful.  As mentioned before we can use candles, stones, herbs, oils, a mixture of the above…  We can also pray, write our intentions on paper and burn it, give offerings to the divine in exchange for our request..  And it’s not just our culture / religion / faith that does this..  Where is the line between religions such as Christianity that pray to God for the safety of their children, Muslims who give offering in thanks for the safety of their children, Pagans who light candles and send out their intentions for the safety of their children..  I can continue.   

It doesn’t have to be complicated.  You don’t need to go sacrifice your first born (in fact I beg of you please don’t do that!!)   It can be simple things like when you make a cup of tea or coffee stirring clockwise to bring or anti-clockwise to remove or place your hands over the mug and think of your desire request it be grateful for what you have say some words - this is very similar to blessing!  Some people do this with the water they bath in to bring positivity by day and wash away negativity by night.  Perhaps try holding your hands over the water and asking for the negative energies of your day to be washed away.  Perhaps try adding sea salt for purification (or any salt, even Epsom salt) perhaps try adding this to a bath again blessing the water and asking for the negative energies to be washed away.  Salt carries water element properties as well as purification properties; Epsom salt is also really good for physical body relaxation and healing!!  (If you’re like me you can’t get in a bath..  make your own shower salt scrub perhaps use oils or herbs and put your intentions into the scrub for its purpose to aid purify you and remove negative energies!!) you could also add herbs or essential oils that have the properties you desire. 

You could also try some more traditional witchy tips like..

• Hanging a besom (broom) above your door to ward away evil.
• Burying iron coffin nails under your porch steps to keep your property from harm.. 
  - Iron is known for warding off evil entities and energies. So by simply having them around can protect you..  I know people who also wear them in jewellery during ritual.  Coffin nails can also be used in curses and more “bad / dark” magick workings so be careful how you use them.
• The use of Salt placing it on your window sills, or any entry way to your home, gives protection so spirits and entities cannot cross over - unless invited by you (this is why circles are often cast with a ring of salt protection).  – This is also a good one for keeping out slugs, a few other creepy crawlies and is great against damp and mould!
• Add a bell or chime over your main entrance door so when it rings it will scare evil spirits away and keep them from entering your home.  Bells also clear vibrations and a lot of people use them to start and end rituals and workings especially those where you’re calling upon a spirit.
• Witches ball - take a clear ball (typically glass but plastic will work) and put in various ingredients to make a protective witches ball, inc some string inside and hang it in your window so spirits will be attracted to the shiny object but get tangled in the strings and not able to enter your home.  Alternatively a bright colourful ball will attract and entrap or act like a scarecrow.
• Dreamcatchers hang one in your bedroom window by night it catches all the negative energies inc negative and bad dreams and then when the sun rises in the morning it kills anything caught in the dreamcatchers web.  – I’m actually very into dream catchers.  Their history with the spider lady and her children origin is a little creepy but one I enjoy.
• Hang a hideous looking witch or more traditional looking witch (kitchen witch) in your kitchen / kitchen window to ward away negative energies and show that this home (kitchen being the heart of the home) is protected. 
• Create a witches ladder of protection and hang it above your altar. 
• Use smudge sticks of sage and smudge your home to clear away negativity alternative you can create an essential oil and water blend in a spray bottle if you're not allowed to set fire to herbs in your home.  You can also include sage essential oil in your homemade cleaning recipes. - As seen here http://cleanmyspace.com/5-awesome-homemade-cleaners/ use these natural cleaners with essential oils.  Note.  Be mindful of what essential oils you use as some are not safe for pets, some are not safe for various furnitures and some may react with the products and create unpleasant smells.

There are many many many simple things you can do which will have great effect.  You do however need to remember a few things first of all even if you don’t believe in the threefold law (everything you do good or bad comes back on you three times more) or Karma still only do things with the right and true intentions.  Be careful what you do, it’s similar to be careful what you wish for and as Rumpelstiltskin says “all magic comes with a price, dearie!”

So where do we find such spells, rituals, workings etc..?  Well there’s so many books out there and so many websites (though be careful with websites!) and they’re so so so easy to write yourself – it doesn’t have to rhyme, it doesn’t have to be long, it doesn’t have to be complicated.  A good rule would be not to ask someone for a spell, ritual or working.  Often people put themselves into it making it personal and asking is offensive, and shows how lazy you are!!  It doesn’t paint you in a good light especially if you’re trying to claim you’ve been a Witch/Pagan for more than a week!  Plus stealing other peoples work..  copying other peoples work..  and it may not always work!!  But I would advise books..  One book I like particular is The Elemental Encyclopaedia of 20,000 Spells (or the cheaper version 5,000 Spells but if you have the 20,000 don’t get the 5,000 it already has them!).  Which I like to take the spells write them down and then adapt them and add too and change and make them my own and make them personal sometimes it will be a one off thing I do.  Others I’ll write the recipe down in my working book and then if it works I’ll copy it to my Book of Shadows which over time may be added, changed and recreated many times over.  YouTube is also a great resource with YouTubers such as Molly Roberts -HerSpeak, Kelly-Ann Maddox, Adam Balan, Joey Morris, TipToeChick, Tarot Tribe Beyond Worlds, LadyGraveDancer, Earthly Alchemy, Raven Flower, Owlvine Green, Joanna DeVoe, DragonFeather369, Amethyst, Erick Silvermoon and CircleofHeka just to name a few..  Love Simple banishing spell with 3 limes by YouTuber CircleofHeka

Activity..

• Research more Protection, Repel, Banish workings / spells / rituals.  
• (Optional) Write one.. 
• (Optional) Practice one.. 

Book Activity..

• (Optional) Copy down any information from above you think you will find useful.

Interact with me Activity..

• (Optional) Feel free to share your experience with the group and/or me..
• (Optional) on the Fb Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/ feel free to add any information you deem worthy..  
  
  
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  Thank you all for the support.  For anyone wishing to share, ask for help, talk about BoS / their book and relevant content (or for more information, ideas and unmissable blog posts go to new Fb group https://www.facebook.com/groups/BoSPrompts/  Also as previously mentioned you can go on the website version of this blog over on the left there’s a ‘subscribe by email’ so you don’t miss a single post from me.  If you’re on the mobile version scroll right down to the bottom and click ‘view as website’ and that should take you to the website version where you can expand, navigate to the left and subscribe by email :)  I will continue to share this on my Patreon *for free* and also on my Twitter and in various facebook groups..  & Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/
  

Imogen x

Next weeks prompts No.15 - Amulets, Talismans & Charms

BoS Prompts 10: Colours (& Candles)

Link to previous prompts: http://ppwwmm.blogspot.co.uk/2017/11/cauldroneers-bos-prompts.html

There's now a dedicated facebook page to support these blog posts @ https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/

Thank you all for the support.  I've now made a dedicated facebook page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/ so if you go there turn on all notifications you won't miss these blog posts!! 

Prompt 10. Sunday 27th January 2018 - The 10th prompt will be...  Colours & Candles.

Todays blog is going to be another open to your interpretation; while just like herbs and stones etc (as mentioned in last weeks blog post) if you look at enough resources you'll learn specific colours (and/or candles) have specific meanings and uses but again I invite you to make your own mind up what a colour (and/or candle) does for you in your interpretation and use.  It's down to your intuition (which next week we will be looking at: Blog prompt 11 - Intuitive, Empath & Clair's - "What are they?".)

Colours.

Colours are used everywhere and often have varying meanings and uses depending upon the different cultures, professions, opinions, items and such can all have different, same or similar meanings.  Of course each of these colours you will have your own personal taste for, I'm going to use 3 examples of Purple, Orange and Red.  My personal taste favorite colours are Magenta Pink, Black, Monochrome type themes but I didn't want to be bias in these examples, I also hate the colour yellow.  But I'm sure everyone has a favorite and least favorite colour which will also affect your decisions when choosing colour or reading colour meanings.  The Examples.

Purple:
In Feng Shui it's often said that purple is said to bring good luck for wealth and prosperity. It has a feeling of royalty, wealth, and high spirituality.  Purple also has connections to rich, noble, deep, quiet and wise meanings. It's advised to avoid purple if wanting to feel more extroverted or connected to the Earth.

Some say that in Home Decor painting a room dark purple is rich, dramatic and sophisticated. It is associated with luxury and creativity.  While light purple like a lavender is associated with calm and relaxation.

Some say that purple candles represent the day Saturday, that violet candles are good for Allergies and Colds while more of an Indigo purple is good for Depression in healing candles.  Purple candles are often used in workings for Spiritual awareness, divination, tranquility and wisdom.  Where as Lavender candles are used for Intuition, Paranormal, Healing, Calming and Peace.

Orange:
In Feng Shui it's often said that Orange is considered a “social” color, one that is happy, vibrant, and eye-catching.  It's meanings lend itself to being thought of as creative, exuberant, lively, fun-loving, extroverted.  It's advised to avoid orange when creating a space of quiet and reflection.

Some say that in Home Decor painting a room Orange evokes excitement and enthusiasm, energy, positivity, creativity and is an energetic color.  - In ancient cultures, orange was believed to heal the lungs and increase energy levels and rooms were painted this colour to aid healing.

Some say that orange candles represent the day Sunday but it is more commonly associated with Gold or Yellow candles.  Orange is another colour used in healing candles when dealing with Depression.  In workings orange candles are typically used for energy, joy, education, strength attraction, stimulation and increased cognitive behaviour.

Red:
In Feng Shui it's often said that Red represents the element of fire because of the colours intensity.  It is also a colour considered to be lucky, creates energy and can also mean hot, bold, daring and high voltage.  It is best advised to avoid red in cases of anxiety, insomnia, or over-activity.

Some say that in Home Decor red raises a room’s energy level it is an intense colour witch adrenaline increase great for excitement, drawing people together and stimulates conversation, it can create hunger and food association and positive bold mindsets.

Some say that red candles represent the day Tuesday.  Red isn't really associated with healing purposes but it does lend itself to positivity.  In workings red or deep red candles are used for passion, energy, love, lust, relationships, sex, vitality and courage.

You may find you agree with some, or all, of these given definitions but as said reading through resource materials - be it books, the internet etc you'll come to see a common and repetitive theme.  That said this blog is looking at a witchy perspective so let's talk more about colour correspondences from that point of view.

Now it is in my opinion that as previously mentioned you'll interpret the objects colour based on your opinion but not all items colour values are the same, this is something I wrote in my working book based on a lot of research and I tend to work from however there are a few I would use for different purposes (but that's not for here!)

THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS TAKEN FROM MY PERSONAL WORKBOOK BASED ON MY PERSONAL RESEARCH IT IS NOT NECESSARILY RIGHT, WRONG, CORRECT, HOW EVERYONE WORKS ETC BUT I'M SHARING THIS WITH YOU AS A KICK STARTER GUIDE TO YOUR FURTHER RESEARCH - YOU'RE WELCOME!

Bag Colours (HooDoo) - Good for mojo bags or anything that requires some kind of bag like container.

White - Peace

Red - Victory

Purple - Victory 

Pink - Love

Blue - Protection 

Yellow - Money

Green - Money 

Brown - Jinx

Black - Jinx  

Red - Success, Strength, Romance, Protection

Purple - Wisdom, Mysteries, Grandeur, Justice, Wealth.

Pink - Love, Friendship, Healing

Blue - Peace, Calm, Wisdom, Benevolence

Yellow - Healing, Finding Employment

Green - Prosperity, Abundance, Friendship, Growth, Nature

Brown -  House, Home, Justice, Earth, Permanence, Animal

Black - Absorbs, Dissolves Bad Energy, Protection

Orange - Unknown - Communication, Messages, Travel

Candle Days:

Monday - Silver, Grey or White

Tuesday - Red

Wednesday - Purple

Thursday - Blue

Friday - Green

Saturday - Black or Purple

Sunday - Gold or Yellow

Colours for Healing:

Allergies - Violet

Anxiety - Rose

Colds - Green / Violet

Depression - Orange / Indigo / Rose

Insomnia - Blue

Indigestion - Yellow

Fever - Blue

Headaches - Green / Blue

Diabetes - Yellow

Candle workings colours:

White - Destruction of negative / bad energies, Peace, Truth and purity, divination, exorcism - White can be used in place of any other candle as it is blank.

Purple - Spiritual awareness, Wisdom, Tranquility, Divination, Psychic Energies, Wisdom, Spirit, Third Eye, Breaking habits, Government, Riches.

Lavender - Intuition, Paranormal, Peace, Calming, Healing.

Blue - Meditation, Healing, Health, Forgiveness, Inspiration, Fidelity, Happiness, Opening lines of communication, Tranquility, Patience, Protection, Water, Forgiveness

Green - Money, Fertility, Luck, Abundance, Health, Success, Wealth, Ambition, Tree, Growth, Earth, Plants, Jealousy, Growth

Rose & Pink - Positive self love, Love, Friendship, Harmony, Joy, Romance, Caring, Maturity, Nurturing.

Yellow - Realising and/or Manifesting thoughts, Confidence, Bringing plans to action, Creativity, Intelligence, Mental Clarity, Clairvoyance, Learning, Comfort, Sun, Luxury, Memory, Masculinity, Positive attitude, Air / Wind.

Orange - Joy, Energy, Education, Strength, Attraction, Stimulation, Justice / Justice legal matters, Opportunity.

Red - Passion, Energy, Love, Lust, Relationships, Lust, Sec, Vitality, Courage, Strength, Fire, Action, Power, Independence.

Black - Protection, Absorption and destruction of negative / repels negative, Banishing, Retribution, Pride, Shapeshifting.

Silver - Goddess or Feminine energy, Removes negativity, Psychic, Development, Moon

Gold - God or male energy, Solar energy, Sun, Fortune, Spiritual Attainment

Brown - House, Home blessing, Pets, Animals, Earth, Stability, Locating lost items.

Feather Colours & Meanings:

White - The Crown Chakra, Heaven, Angels, The Celestial Realms, Higher dimensions, Opening up to the white Divine light, Spirituality, Enlightenment, A glimpse or moment of awakening, Purity, Innocence, Virgin, Purification, Cleansing, Hope, Trust, Faith, Protection, Peace, Blessings and Wisdom connected with the Moon. Moon / Goddess.

Red - The Root Chakra, Money, Possessions, Security, Stability, Career, Good fortune, Physical vitality, Energy, Life force, Strength, Courage, Passion, Emotions, Courage.

Blue - The Throat Chakra, Communication, Speaking your truth, Reminds you to listen, Acceptance, Peace and calm, Inspiration, Mental abilities, Knowledge, Connection with spirits, Psychic awareness, Spiritual protection.

Yellow - The Solar Plexus Chakra, Gut intuition & psychic ability, Happiness, Joy, Cheerfulness, Playfulness, Blessings and wisdom, Connected with powerful sun energy, Intelligence, Mental alertness, Staying focused and present, Vision.

Green - The Heart Chakra, Love, Emotions, Relationships, Harmony, Unity, Compassion, Forgiveness, Health, Healing, Vibrant well-being, Nature, Environment, Nature spirits, Plant spirits, Animal spirits, Growth, Fertility, Money, Abundance, Prosperity, Fertile opportunity, Success, Luck.

Orange - The Sacral Chakra, Sex, Intimacy, Physical relationships, Physical love, Attraction, Appetite, Energy, Change, Optimism, Keeping positive, Ambition, Success, Will power, Creativity, New ideas, Independence.

Pink - Unconditional love, Romance, Soulmate, Twinflame, Relationships, Friendship, Physical creation, Feelings, Caring, Compassion, Empathy, Kindness, Gentleness, Harmony, Service, Faithfulness, Honour, Inspiration.

Purple - The Crown Chakra, Universal consciousness, Spiritual connection, Heightened spiritual growth and experiences, Higher thought, Opening up of the psychic senses, Deep spirituality, Transmutation of negative energy.

Brown - Earth, Grounding, Grounded balance between the physical & spiritual worlds, Stability, Endurance, Home, Home life, Friendship, Respect.

Grey - Peace and Neutrality (as it is in the middle of black and white), Find peace within yourself: the neutral aspect represents neutrality in your question - the answer is not black and white but grey, and hence neither yes or no but perhaps in the middle or a combination of both wisdom & the attainment of mastery a nudge that you are on the right track, Authenticity, Flexibility.

Black - Protection, Warning, Repelling of negative energy, Death (as in a closed chapter, end of something), Increased mystical wisdom, A sign that you are undergoing a spiritual initiation & growth, Magic, Spiritual wisdom, Being watched over by Angel or Spiritual Guardian or Ancestor.  - When shiny or iridescent, it can represent high mystical insight standing strong & setting strong boundaries, while remaining aware.



     Feather Colour Combinations:

Black and white mixed feathers can represent protection, or the sense of union.

Black mixed with purple represents a very deep spirituality. - I would take it as a deeply mystical sign.

Black, white, and blue mixed feathers denote change on the horizon.

Brown and black striped pattern (like a pheasant/s feather) - balance between the physical and the spiritual.

Brown and white - happiness, and you will go under the radar from psychic or other  harm.

Feathers with red and green in them or together would denote that you are being assisted financially. I would take it as a very lucky sign.

Grey and white symbolise hope.

Skull Candle Colours

Black - Hex or Negativity

Red - Love, Strength, Passion etc

Green - Money or Wealth etc

White - Pure, Health, Any Colour etc

I am truly hoping that gave you SOME insight into colours, believe me there's so much more out there as you can also look at coloured stones and their meanings and other synopses of words and how multiple workings may require multiple coloured candles or mixed coloured candles.  And then there's other aspects of the magickal realms such as we haven't even covered colour correspondences for Astrological Star Signs (hopefully if you did the Zodiac blog prompt then you will know the zodiac colour correspondences!) or the Fae (Fairies and such) colour correspondences, or other mystical, mythical, legendary beings such as Unicorns, Mermaids, Gnomes, Dragons etc..  That being said I wanted to touch on the main colour and candle correspondences here which as you can see there's a lot of repetition there and one thing I like is when multiple sources draw the same conclusion ie colour meaning for the same colour to me that helps me feel like I am on track when choosing a colour to work with.  Granted sometimes you have to go with intuition for example when a spell calls for a yellow candle to represent self love I'd probably be opting to reach for a pink candle as I feel that would work better but each to their own.

Candles.

So that's some basics on colour and while I'm here I also wanted to touch on Candles.  Candles come in all shapes and sizes.  Forget colours for a while and let's just focus on the candle.  Now most common I guess would be Tea Lights, Votives, Pillar Candles, Candlesticks, Taper Candles and Birthday candles (or as I like to call them Wish Candles).  That's not to say there's no other candles like Chime, Spell, Dinner, Floating, Even various shaped candles.  But what I want to note here is that while a spell might call for seven 8-10 taper candles in yellow, light blue and green this is not always something that's easy to find, or afford.  (Especially if you have this big orange book Wicca A Year And A Day - which btw I wrote out a full shopping list of all the requirements for the full year!!  You can find it here!)  I know here in the UK I begrudge paying candle prices and most candles are impossible to find.  So I wrote a blog about substituting those candles for wish candles and I think the readers of this prompt would benefit looking back at that here: Wish Candles - Budget Friendly Alternative! Or of course you could always make your own.  I have three of four different skull moulds for making skull candles, I also have various others like a cat, flowers, hearts.. various silicone fondant and soap molds work great.

Activity..

• On a scrap piece of paper write down the following colours "Gold, Silver, Black, White, Brown, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple, Pink" and then next to each word write 5 words that you associate with that colour.  It can be what you read here or your own associations if they differ.
• Now write those colours down again and ask a friend or family member to do the above task and see what they feel about those colours!!  Repeat as many times as you like it's a fun exercise.
• Research more into colour associations from different cultures, practices, professions etc.  

Book Activity..

• (Optional) Copy down any information from above you think you will find useful.  I obviously find all this useful but in some cases a bit long winded and repetitive.  I'm going to copy down the basics of candle colour, bag colour and feather colour for now into my BoS, although this information is all in my working book.  - You could print it out if it's easier and stick it in, perhaps use a word document and add clipart to pretty it up (ie. Candle, Feather, Bag) you could also draw images into your book or use stickers.

Interact with me Activity..

• Feel free to add other colour correspondences you think other people might be interested in.  Or if you have other unusual connections to colours (like if you're colour blind) it would be interesting to hear from you!!
  • (Optional) on the Fb Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/ feel free to add any information you deem worthy..  

  
  
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  Thank you all for the support.  For anyone wishing to share, ask for help, talk about BoS / their book and relevant content (or for more information, ideas and unmissable blog posts go to new Fb group https://www.facebook.com/groups/BoSPrompts/  Also as previously mentioned you can go on the website version of this blog over on the left there’s a ‘subscribe by email’ so you don’t miss a single post from me.  If you’re on the mobile version scroll right down to the bottom and click ‘view as website’ and that should take you to the website version where you can expand, navigate to the left and subscribe by email :)  I will continue to share this on my Patreon *for free* and also on my Twitter and in various facebook groups..  & Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/
  

Imogen x

Next weeks prompts No.11 - Intuitive, Empath & Clair's

WW. Food for thought - Feed your familiar(s)..!

Do you feed your familiar(s) after you finish your magickal/spiritual working?

Earlier I was talking to a friend about how once I've finished my magickal/spiritual working one of the things I like to do is grounding by getting something to eat...  And I also feed my familiar/cats (I have two cats but only one is a familiar).  My friend found this to be a wonderful concept as apparently it's not something you hear of!  Yet why wouldn't you?  It really does make sense!  - So I thought I'd touch base on that here in a blog.

So extremely briefly a familiar is often a pet/animal that chooses you, typically this pet/animal will lend you its energies to aid you  in your workings among other things.  - Please feel free to go read up about familiars.. The return here to continue reading!

For me, as said, I have two cats but only one of them is a familiar.  How do I know?  - I have one cat that doesn't want to be touched, spoke to, loved, stroked, played with or does much of anything except sleep, eat and toilet.  And I have another which is absolutely into everything, needs to constantly be on, near or with me; especially when I'm being creative or doing something magickal..  Often when I'm doing a ritual, study, divination, or other working he will be sat on/near me watching intently or sleeping/medatating..  He is also very in tune with my emotions and indeed has literally saved my life but that's another story, probably not for here!

So my point..  Once you finish your working.. And you've used up your energies.. Your familiars energies.. And you go get a snack..  Feel free to go look up more on why you would do that and how it helps to ground and restore some of those energies..  Take into consideration why it's a good idea to get a snack for your familiar too!! 

- For me I get these cat treats here in the UK called Crispies by the brand Felix.  They're salmon and trout flavoured, which my cats love!!  Plus these treats are extra magickal (in my opinion) as they come in moon and stars shapes!!  How magickal right?

Anyways.. Just some quick.. Er..  Food for thought...... 😂 Pun not intended but.. Lol! Hehe!! 

Imogen xo

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WW. Skull Candle Magick - How to?

Using skull candles to change, influence, affect and/or open one's mind...

First, and most common, skull candles are used to change/affect/influence someone else's mind.  For example to make someone think about you, to make someone forget you, to aid someone's memory..  And more.

Second, and less common, skull candles can be used to make changes to your mind or thinking,  bring about something you want be it memory, mental behaviour change, make you forget or remember, bring about a mental clarity.  Show a mental/psychic link between you and another.

Using a colour representation of your choice.  Though typically they are

White - all purpose / positive.

Black - negative / dark / grounding.

Red - love / affection.

Green - money / prosperity

And so on. 

I make my own skull candles.  I have a variety of skull styles and sizes.. 

But purchased ones work too.

This is how I do it:

I put in thought about what it is I want to achieve (intention).  I will select relevant herbs, oils, stones and/or other objects to infuse into my wax while melting prior to pouring.  - If you purchase your candle make sure you cleanse and consecrate, think about your intention, select the previous mentioned items to add later. 

Once the candle is made, set and ready.  {Some people like to blindfold the skull candle, so the unknowing intended can not see who is doing this working or what has been done!} 

Carve into the bottom creating a well.  This is where items can be placed..  (also known as loaded / loading candles.)  Such as writing the intention on paper 3 times folding it up and placing it inside - with the name of the person/people it's regarding and/or a photo.. description and/or personal items such as hair, fingernails, or something generally belonging to that person.  (optional add the previously mentioned to a bought candle or more herbs, oils and/or other items to a self made).  Take the removed wax and cover the well in the bottom of the candle.  Seal it all back up.  (optional.  carve the name and/or intention into the side, front or back of the skull. - most people choose back for doing working on others as they can't see the back of their head!)

Meditate, praying, ritual, spell or whatever feels right to you to add your energy, intentions and perhaps additional oils into the candle each night for a week.  Pay attention to moon phase new moon will be great for new things and positive improvements, leading up to the full moon will work best with bringing and building up positive such as making someone come to you, improving memory, aiding with mental health improvements..  The full moon is more or less an all rounder for workings of both kinds.  Leading away from the full moon works best for banishing and getting rid of negative energies, bad relationships, aiding in ending bad thoughts, removing and all those types of workings - at least in my experience and from most things I've read.

Once the 7 nights has passed or the relevant number that feels right to you or the night that corresponds best for you.. Such as there may be a night that is the perfect moon phase, it's in the person's star sign, it has all the relevant astrological aspects and requirements this would be much stronger to do on night 3 than wait until night 7 when the moon is in the wrong phase, it's astrological ratios don't corresponds with you/the intended or otherwise..  So work with what is best to suits. 

Upon the burning night you will want to (if you didn't before you might want to engrave the candle - such as the name of the intended,  usually I wait until this stage as a final this is my intention step) then dress the candle with oils, anointing. Add herbs if you so wish.  Place on a candle stand in a fire safe bowl adding sand and/or salt to the bowl for grounding and additional fire protection. 

State again what your intentions and requirements are for this candle and its contents; once again reaffirming your goals three times.

Light the candle and meditate over the flame.  Let the candle flame completely burn out.  Do not interfere with the flame.  You can put your hands around the outside of the candle a good 4-6" away making sure your skin and clothes are not near the flame.  Stare into the flame and scry or meditate while repeating the desired intention.

HERE IS A GREAT VISUAL WALKTHROUGH BY YOUTUBER Madame Pamita

(click for youtube version)

Once the flame burns out you may have seen a vision in the flame, any smoke from the paper or items, the candle may have only half burnt for example only burnt down the right side of the skull.  Look into those correspondences.. 

- Left hemisphere processes linear and sequence.  It's also the side of the brain that processes verbal information such as speech. Logical. Analytical. Objective.  (so the answer you seek may be in talking, or taking a more logical or objective approach) etc.. 

- Right hemisphere is more creative. Intuitive. Thoughtful. Subjective. (so the answer you may see may be in a creative outlet or take time to be thoughtful and perhaps meditate on the subject.  Or take into consideration that person's thoughts and what could be in their mind) etc..

Delving further into left brain, right brain functions and characteristics. Or associations. May reveal some answers.  In other situations it's a case of allowing that intent to be taken into the air, into energy force and put out those desired intentions and wait.  Not everything is black and white and you don't you get answers at once or even how you may expect.

Once done the remaining contents should be disposed of.  Correctly..

-Negative / neutral / bad energy working such as banishing or removing - toss it away in the bin, bury it at sea or generally take away from your home...

-Positive / invoking / good energy workings bury in your garden, reform into a wearable charm (such as in a vial), bury in a plantpot in your house, keep in a jar under your bed...

Another video by  Madame Pamita to get rid of spell remains https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKA1xwqgV84

My latest experience 1st August 2017 (Blessed Lammas wishes today.)

Me I have no problem sharing this.  Tonight I put out my intentions between me and this other person and during burning I got a phone call out the blue from said person and while the candle was still burning down the right side.  We discussed our situation at hand.  And while my intention was that I wanted things to either move on and progress and develop now or end and be done with because we seem to have been at this stalemate for months where we just 'are' and it's not healthy.  As the conversation turned so did the candle as the majority right side burnt away with the paper that oddly didn't smoke or behave like burning paper at all.  Sadly it seems this has taken a turn for the worst of the two and it would appear it is the end of that relationship, I could be wrong.  But at least it is a development and not just same thing different day...  I wonder how this will unfold.

Imogen xo


2-3 Hours later (update) 
So tonight is riddled with emotional Magick. I did said skull candle spell I've been working on a while and tonight is burn night. The intention was to influence my boyfriend (long distance) to either make the effort to come see me NOW or break up with me. During the first 5 minutes he called... (out the blue) and we talked - we broke up. I'm very sad but at least it's progress one way or another.. Trying to get 'ok' with it by basically blogging and focusing on learning new things. I went to make a cup of tea and that exact area where I was sat doing the skull candle before I found a black craft feather!! I have absolutely no idea where it has come from!! No clue!! So I Googled the meaning of 'black feathers' which apparently means a spirit is watching over me and I am protected and loved and/or a sign of clarity that I'm on the right path. Now I feel somewhat emotional... Shaking.. Actually. 

Back feather meaning http://www.wishingmoon.com/what-do-black-feathers-mean/