"Blessed be the earth, and all who dwell upon it.
We give thanks for the season now departing from us,
For the blessings it has bestowed upon us,
And upon those with whom we share this world.
Blessed be the new season.
We pray that it will be a time filled with peace,
With abundance, with prosperity,
With wisdom,
With love."
Greetings one and all!
As many of you may already know - February 1, is St. Brigid's day, Imbolc, Candlemas,
and the Feast of St. Brigid. To Vodouisants, Catholics, Pagans, and more, this is a wonderful day anticipating spring, looking for new love, and being ready to shed off the cold of winter.
A popular prayer for this day is:
"Blessed be the earth, and all who dwell upon it.
We give thanks for the season now departing from us,
For the blessings it has bestowed upon us,
And upon those with whom we share this world.
Blessed be the new season.
We pray that it will be a time filled with peace,
With abundance, with prosperity,
With wisdom,
With love."
For Vodouisants, tonight, the eve of St. Brigid's Day, is when we put a piece of clothing outside for Maman Brigitte to bless with her healing powers. Take any piece of clothing, or even a scarf to tie your head with, and put it outside tonight. Ask Maman Brigitte to walk your way tonight and bless that piece of clothing. Light a small fire outside for a little while, even if you just burn a candle. Before you go to bed, burn the veve of Maman Brigitte in the fire. Then put that fire or candle out. Make sure the wax is smoothed down or that the ashes are smoothed down if you lit a small fire. Any kind of mark or disturbance of the wax or ashes the next day is considered a sign that Maman was there and blessed your piece of clothing!
Now you can wear that piece of clothing any time you aren't feeling well or you doing healing work or healing prayers for someone else.
Veve for Maman Brigitte
There is a LOT more to this holiday/feast day! It is well worth looking up more information.
Love, light, and peace,
Mambo Samantha Corfield
Fire in the Belly
Talk of Imbolc… and thriftiness??
By: Khouzhan Morgan
Hello readers and welcome! One of the 8 traditional Pagan sabbats of the year is almost upon us and during my reading in preparation to write for you fine folks I stumbled upon the most intriguing concept for Imbolc, which will be upon us on February 2nd-the concept of thriftiness!
Now stay with me…as we are just coming off of our latest fireside chat with our beloved Mambo Sam where the focus was letting go of a whole lot of icky stuff like resentments, insecurities and old ideas that no longer serve us, I thought the topic of household thriftiness felt like a great closer-after all, rearranging some furniture or organizing the closets helps clear our minds and can help give us a happier healthier environment to partner with our new freedom from the shackles of negativity!
Minimalism is all the rage these days, but the concept is really not new. Any of us with depression era grandparents can attest that there was a time when people used simply whatever they had on hand for whatever they needed. Coffee cans were used to hold old screws and buttons “just in case” we needed them, old blankets were cut into quilting squares, clothing patches or cleaning rags, and any jar, carton or container might be used to hold leftovers in the refrigerator.
After you do some housecleaning on your mind, body and spirit, it is a great idea to use this time indoors to inventory your immediate environment.
Sure, it’s great to purge and give some unused clothes, household items, etc. to charity so they can be a blessing for someone else but how can we make the most of what we keep?
Imbolc loosely translates as “fire in the belly” or the place on your body where the most creative chakra resides-the sacral or orange hued chakra. This chakra is strengthened by allowing our self expression to run free and by doing things that give us pleasure. And what is more fun than to channel your inner domestic Goddess (or God, respectively) than to create something fun and beautiful?
Maybe it is using old teacups and bowls to start seedlings to plant later in the spring, or to feed your cat, Whiskers. Maybe it involves cleaning and rearranging a shelf to be a little altar space to a lwa you feel connected to, a cherished ancestor, or for a meditation place. Old mirrors, picture frames or small tables are great projects to repaint or bedazzle. And speaking of bedazzling-why not use some old costume jewelry to make some new and interesting creations?
Do you have a really cool candle you’ve been saving to burn? Build a little sacred space around the theme of that candle and spark it up! I know-some will say you are waiting for a special occasion. But if the past 2 years have taught us anything, perhaps the takeaway can be that the here and now is a special occasion!
Maybe you have some old oils or incense that have been tossed in a drawer or closet? Bust them out and use them now! Oils can be worn as a perfume (with a bonus of course) , used in your bath or shower or to dress candles or even used in a simmer pot to fill your home with a magical scent that is sure to bless your abode with good mojo! Incense can be burned to help foster a calm environment or help you keep a goal in mind to make change as we enter this first sabbat of the awakening springtime. Chango’s Mystic Chrysalis incense is a great choice to use the creative force of fire to transform your wintertime plans into burgeoning reality!
Each January, a friend of mine takes the decorations off of her tabletop Christmas tree, keeping the lights intact, and fills that tree with little pink and red hearts and upcycled valentines cards – essentially rebranding it a St. Valentine’s tree! Our inimitable spirit of love, Erzulie Freda would surely approve! 😉
If you have bought products in the past and not used them, use them now! Mambo Sam has a wonderful and easy reconsecration ritual for spell kits and products that have been unused for more than a year. Reconsecration is not mandatory but it can really punch up the potency of your items.
Of course it is always a great time to go with the Imbolc theme of emerging new born from the blanket of cold and snow with some figure candles or 7 knob wishing candles. After all- the full name of the day is Imbolc Brigantia and honors St. Brigid’s sacred flame.
Just as the phoenix rises from the ashes of the old to burn as bright as the sun, now is the time to utilize what you have and make it into a space, an experience or a thing of beauty that stokes your inner fire so you can let your little light shine!
We love to see your awesome ideas and creativity at work and you can send pictures to customerservice@spellmaker.com.
“From ashes a fire shall be woken, a light from the shadow shall spring. “-JRR Tolkien; The Lord of the Rings
Love,
Khouzhan Morgan
Stirring up Springtime!
Hi there Spellmaker readers and welcome to Imbolc season!
In the pagan journey of the year, as the days grow longer at a glacial pace, we invite you to celebrate Imbolc Brigantia. The first of the spring festivals reminds us that after winter's period of preparation, all that is green and good in this world will return in just a little while. In JRR Tolkien's elven calendar, which had six seasons, this time of year between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox was known as the season of “stirring”.
All those little seeds that have been germinating in the dark ground begin to awaken now.
In modern day applications, I feel like these fits right in with making new goals at the new year. Ideas both large and small come to us, and now is the time to get those things underway.
It may be a promise you made to yourself to journal, or learn a new skill, or take up a new hobby. It may be to start working on putting away some savings, bring new love into your life, or even to break a bad habit.
Whatever your personal goals are, the energy all around us right now favors taking the first step.
Many of our clients who have been with us for years likely know that we carry a variety of spell kits that can place you firmly on the path to whatever aims your sweet little heart may desire.
Our customer service desk and caseworkers are available to help you with product recommendations to light up (in the grand tradition of St. Bridget’s sacred flame) your world!
My wish for this season is that you are blessed with health, happiness and boundless inspiration!
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”~Lao Tzu
In Service,
Khouzhan Morgan
The Witch's Besom!
Sit back and enjoy a brief ride through the history and uses of a witch's broom!
As the final candle flickers in the quiet of a completed Imbolc celebration, we reflect on the journey we've taken through this sacred time of renewal and rebirth. For the Green Witch, Imbolc is not merely a date on the calendar but a profound moment of alignment with the rhythms of nature, a time to cleanse, to set intentions, and to prepare for the abundance that the coming seasons promise.
Through rituals that honor the returning light, we have invited the warmth and clarity of the sun back into our lives. We have woven Brigid's symbols into our practices, seeking her blessings of protection, fertility, and inspiration. We've cleansed our spaces and our spirits, making room for the new growth that the gentle stirrings of spring herald. We've engaged in spells and enjoyed treats that resonate with the nurturing energies of Imbolc, setting our intentions and aligning our energies with the transformative power of this time.
As the Green Witch moves forward from Imbolc, the energies of renewal and rebirth are carried in the heart, infused in the daily practices, and reflected in the continuous alignment with the natural world. The light that has been welcomed back into the world is also a light within, a beacon guiding us through the cycles of the year with wisdom, insight, and an ever-deepening connection to the magic all around us.
Let the lessons and blessings of Imbolc be seeds that you nurture in the coming months. May your path be one of growth, abundance, and harmony, guided by the wisdom of the earth and the light of your own inner fire.
Thank you for joining in this celebration of Imbolc. May the spirit of renewal and the warmth of the community accompany you as you navigate the path ahead.
Love,
Sister Bridget
The Enchanting Tale of Aloe Vera: A Witch's Green Ally
Once upon a time, in lands stretching from the sun-kissed sands of Egypt to the far reaches of the Roman Empire, there grew a plant known for its miraculous healing powers – Aloe Vera. This 'plant of immortality', as the ancient Egyptians reverently called it, was not just a healer of bodies but a protector of spirits and a ward against the unseen.
The story of Aloe Vera winds through history like its own sprawling roots. Celebrated herbalists like Dioscorides, in the heart of the Roman era, praised its virtues. It soothed the aching heads of medieval nuns like Hildegard von Bingen and found its way onto the adventurous ships of Christopher Columbus, spreading its magic across new worlds. Its fame knew no bounds – from the noble Japanese Samurai using its juice for healing to its vital role in Chinese medicine, Aloe Vera was a plant of legends.
In our modern world, the Aloe Vera plant continues to be a symbol of healing and protection. Its succulent leaves, filled with soothing gel, are a common sight in homes and gardens, silently standing guard against harm. But what truly makes Aloe Vera a witch's best friend are its hidden, mystical properties.
As you enter the realm of witchcraft, Aloe Vera reveals its deeper secrets. This plant, ruled by the Moon and associated with the water element, holds feminine energy. It is sacred to Venus and Aphrodite, deities of love and beauty. Under the astrological signs of Cancer, Libra, and Pisces, it embodies protection, love, luck, and healing.
Imagine a witch's garden where Aloe Vera plants are carefully tended. Their plump leaves are not just for show – they are powerful amulets. Hung over doorways or tied with red ribbons, they attract prosperity and ward off misfortune. In the soft moonlight, these plants are not merely plants; they are guardians of the home, absorbing negativity and radiating a protective aura.
In rituals, the Aloe Vera shows its versatility. Its gel, reminiscent of sacred waters, is perfect for anointing ritual tools, charging amulets, and even embarking on bittering spells to halt gossip or bring harmony. The plant's bitterness, an echo of its protective nature, can be harnessed to create pockets of intentions – a traditional practice in some Hispanic witchcraft traditions.
And yet, Aloe Vera is not just about protection. It's a symbol of healing and rejuvenation. Whether applied to the skin or added to a ritual bath, its soothing properties transcend the physical, touching the emotional and spiritual realms.
The tale of Aloe Vera in witchcraft is a reminder of the harmony between nature and magic. This plant, which has journeyed through centuries, cultures, and traditions, continues to be a steadfast ally in the witch's arsenal. It teaches us that sometimes, the most powerful magic lies in the simplest of things – a leaf, a gel, a plant growing quietly in the corner of a room or garden.
So, dear reader, if you ever come across an Aloe Vera plant, remember its story – a saga of healing, protection, and magic that has been whispered through the ages. Embrace it, for in its leaves lies a world of ancient wisdom and enchanting possibilities.
Love,
Mambo Sam
Lodestones!
In Hoodoo and Voodoo practices, the lodestone is celebrated for its natural magnetism and is deeply embedded in the rituals and spells of these spiritual traditions. Revered for their ability to attract and draw in desired energies, lodestones are used to manifest intentions ranging from love and prosperity to protection and healing.
Lodestones, being naturally magnetized pieces of magnetite, are believed to work harmoniously with the practitioner's intent, magnetically drawing people, opportunities, wealth, or situations towards them. This magnetic quality forms the basis of their mystical significance and is seen as instrumental in various forms of folk magic, especially in Hoodoo.
In Hoodoo, which is deeply rooted in African American folk magic, lodestones are considered vital in spells and rituals. They are used to attract things like money, love, health, or good luck. The lodestone's magnetic property makes it a natural choice for spells and practices focused on attraction or magnetization of desires.
Traditionally, a lodestone must be charged or baptized before use and may even be named, aligning its purpose with the practitioner's intent. In love rituals, lodestones are often used in pairs to represent attraction and to reinforce fidelity in relationships. They are "fed" with magnetic sand or anointed with specific oils to enhance their potency and maintain their magical efficacy.
Feeding a lodestone involves offering it magnetic sand and anointing oils, such as Hoyt's Cologne or Lodestone Oil. This practice keeps the lodestone vibrant and attuned to the practitioner's intentions, ensuring a steady flow of positive energies like good luck, prosperity, or healing. Cleansing is also crucial to maintaining a lodestone's effectiveness. Practitioners commonly cleanse lodestones with alcohol-based liquids like whiskey or cologne to refresh the stone's energy. It's important to avoid water or acidic substances, as they can cause rust or corrosion.
Lodestones, with their inherent magnetic properties, hold a significant place in Hoodoo and other folk magic practices. They are seen as powerful allies in attracting desired outcomes and are used with care and respect, ensuring their magical properties are nurtured and maintained. Whether used for attracting love, money, or protection, lodestones are an embodiment of the practitioner's intent, serving as a bridge between the spiritual and the material realms.
In Service,
Mambo Sam
As the final embers of the Imbolc bonfire fade into the twilight, the warmth of the festival continues to resonate within us, a gentle yet potent reminder of the enduring cycle of renewal and growth that defines both nature and our own existence. Imbolc, with its rich tapestry of history, tradition, and symbolism, transcends the confines of time and geography, touching the hearts and spirits of those who honor its essence today.
The themes of Imbolc—purification, illumination, and renewal—are not just relics of a bygone era but are strikingly relevant in our modern world. They serve as beacons, guiding us through the complexities and challenges of contemporary life, reminding us of the simplicity and profundity of aligning with the natural rhythms of the earth. In a time when the pace of life can feel overwhelmingly rapid, Imbolc offers a moment of reflection, an opportunity to pause, reassess, and realign with our innermost intentions and aspirations.
Integrating the spirit of Imbolc into our daily lives is an invitation to cultivate a deeper connection with nature, to honor our heritage, and to foster a sense of community and belonging. It's an encouragement to nurture the seeds of creativity, to tend to the gardens of our souls, and to embrace the transformative power of growth and change.
As we carry the flame of Imbolc forward, we are reminded of the impermanence of life's seasons, the resilience inherent in nature, and the potential for renewal that lies within each of us. The festival, in all its simplicity and depth, beckons us to live with intention, to honor the sacred within and around us, and to celebrate the inexorable cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
In the spirit of Imbolc, let us embrace the journey ahead with open hearts, kindle the fires of inspiration within our souls, and step into the light of a new dawn, ever mindful of the enduring wisdom and beauty that this time-honored festival bestows upon us.
We invite you to share your own Imbolc experiences or intentions for the coming spring in the comments below. May the spirit of renewal and the warmth of the community accompany you as you navigate the path ahead.
Much love,
Mambo Sam
Imbolc- illumination and Divination: Candles, Baths, and Beyond
As Imbolc heralds the slow return of the sun and the promise of spring, the Green Witch embraces practices of illumination and divination, seeking insight and aligning her energy with the growing light. This time of year is ripe for introspection, planning, and connecting with the deeper currents of nature's wisdom.
Consecrating Candles: Central to Imbolc is the symbolism of the returning light. Consecrating candles during this time is a powerful practice for setting intentions and inviting clarity. Choose candles that resonate with your intentions for the coming year. As you consecrate each candle, focus on your goals, dreams, and the path you wish to walk. Lighting these candles is an act of welcoming the light into your life, symbolizing the awakening of nature and your own inner awakening.
Self-Purification Rituals: The theme of purification is strong during Imbolc. Engage in a self-purification ritual to cleanse your energy and prepare for the new beginnings of spring. A cleansing bath, enhanced with Epsom salts and herbs associated with Imbolc (such as lavender or rosemary), is a nurturing way to release the old and welcome the new. Set your intention for the bath to cleanse you of all that no longer serves you, making space for growth and renewal.
Divination Practices: Imbolc is an opportune time for divination, offering insights into the coming months and connecting you with the subtle energies of the earth. Use Tarot cards, Oracle cards, a pendulum, or scrying tools to tap into your intuition and the wisdom of nature. Focus on questions related to growth, potential, and the unfolding of your intentions. Remember, divination at Imbolc is not just about seeking answers; it's about aligning with the energy of renewal and possibility that this time of year embodies.
As you engage in these practices of illumination and divination, you honor the light that is slowly returning to the world and the light within yourself. You create a sacred space for introspection, insight, and connection, tapping into the rhythms of the earth and the wisdom it offers.
Next week, we'll explore the magical aspects of Imbolc, focusing on spells, treats, and the celebration of milk as a symbol of nourishment and abundance.