Dark Goddess Magick Rituals and Spells For Reclaiming Your Feminine Fire 9780760370964 9780760370957 0760370966
Dark Goddess Magick Rituals and Spells For Reclaiming Your Feminine Fire 9780760370964 9780760370957 0760370966
C. ARA CAMPBELL
Contents
I call in the powers of our Mother Earth and her blessings from the North
May she aid in bringing my manifestation forth
I call in the powers from the East, the blessings of Sky and Air
Let my space be swept of all ill and left clear
I call in the powers from the South, the flame of sacred fire
Let this space be protected and a vessel for my desire
I call in the powers of Water and Wave, and her blessings from the West
Let this space be empowered and let this rite be blessed.
When you are finished, trace back the circle in the opposite direction. Thank
each of the elements and cardinal points for their help, and release the energy.
OFFERINGS
I believe in thanking the powers that wish to co-create with us, so I leave a
natural sacred offering outside after the rite or practice is complete. Some ideas
for the natural item to leave are seeds for the birds, a crystal, herbs, or flowers.
When crafting your rites, keep salts, oils, herbs, and smoke away from
children and pets, as you never know who will have an allergy. When using
herbs, use ones that are more culinary based and avoid toxic ones. Herbs should
be kept away from curious children and fur babies. When using salt outside,
keep it away from any plants to avoid damaging them.
When looking for items from nature, gather ones that have fallen, such as
branches, to cause as little harm to the tree as possible. When taking herbs or
leaves from nature, only take a small amount, never all of the plant. Give
reverence to the natural world that is providing, ask permission, and give thanks.
After you are done with your rite, do something to bring yourself back into
the present moment, such as grounding, releasing energy back to the earth, yoga,
or a walk to center your energy.
ITEMS LISTED IN THE SPELLS
Each practice in this book features suggested items that carry an intended energy
for that rite. If you don’t have the item on hand or you don’t feel like using that
specific item, feel into your intuition and what you are called to use. Rituals are
unique to the person crafting them, so make them your own. Honor what you are
called to use or what you have on hand. White or natural candles can be used in
place of any colored candle. Salt can be used in place of protective herbs, and a
small fireproof container is a perfect stand-in for a bonfire.
If specific herbs are hard to find, you can find some in tea form. Mint,
yarrow, chamomile, and nettle can usually be found in the tea aisle. Dried
culinary herbs from the grocery can substitute for any fresh herb. Rosemary,
thyme, basil, and sage are all readily available.
INTENT
Make your intentions and desires clear. If you don’t, unexpected occurrences can
happen. For example, you might put a protection spell on your home because
you fear losing it, but someone could still try to buy it and lease it back to you.
So your home would be safe, but technically no longer yours. Be specific in your
wording and crystal-clear in your intent and what you want.
1
HECATE
GODDESS OF MAGICK
THE WITCH
MOON GODDESS
WITCH QUEEN
DARK SORCERESS
CRONE
CREATRIX OF SPELLS
GODDESS OF MAGICK
Hecate (or Hekate) is the Greek goddess connected with dark magick, the
gift of prophecy, the underworld, and the energy of the moon. She is said
to have three faces and is often represented as the crone aspect in a
goddess triad with Persephone as maiden and Demeter as mother. She is
a descendant of the Titan god Perses and nymph Asteria.
HECATE INVOCATION
“Oh Hecate, dark sorceress who stands at the crossroads of life and death,
hear my call. When the path before me is shrouded, I seek your wise
counsel. Guide me through the mysteries that lay in the unseen. Grant me
your eyes, so that I may see beyond the shadows. Grant me your insight,
so that I may connect to the knowledge of the universe. Grant me your
courage, so that I may walk forward on the road meant for me. So it is.”
ECATE’S PATH is that of the witch, and she imparts her great
H knowledge and protection to those who follow the old ways. She knows
the mysteries locked inside of each herb, plant, and stone, and she shared
those teachings with her witches. As she is connected so heavily to the natural
world and the powers of the earth, some myths portray her as an agriculture
goddess protecting fields and farmers from harm by day. By night, she leans
toward the occult, cemeteries, and tombs, spending time connecting with spirits
in the Underworld. In this way she is a multifaceted goddess who holds great
power over the mysteries of the earth, underworld, sea, and heaven.
Crossroads are sacred to her, especially ones with three paths. Ancient
Athenians often left tributes and offerings at crossroads in reverence to her.
Hecate is connected with divination, as she can see into the dark unknown.
Hecate spends time in the underworld, where spirits follow her wherever she
goes. Hounds are sacred to her, and dogs can see her when she visits the earthly
realm. She has a black canine familiar who is said to have once been Queen
Hecuba of Troy. When Hecuba attempted to take her own life after the fall of
Troy, Hecate transformed her into a dog and kept her at her side as a companion.
Hecate is a goddess of many faces, but at her core she is deeply connected
with the dark mysteries of the universe. Whenever we walk through times of
uncertainty or darkness, Hecate is a powerful ally. The Lady at the Crossroads
reminds us to pay attention and open our eyes so we can see all paths ahead.
Hecate tells us we often need to step back and spend some time in solitude to
come to the decision we need.
Hecate is connected with the old ways, and spending time studying the
mysteries of the earth, the stars, and the spirits. She is also a creatrix of rituals
and spellcraft, and is often the goddess chosen in times of need by those who
practice her craft.
VISUALIZATION
When we face times of great uncertainty in our lives, Hecate can be a powerful
force to guide us.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
Envision yourself standing in a vast, open space. Notice that you are in the
middle of the crossroads, and standing in front of you is the goddess Hecate.
“You have come here seeking wisdom from the goddess Hecate for the path
ahead.
You desire guidance and illumination on the choices that you must now
make.
Come, my child, stand with me here at the crossroads and speak aloud what
troubles thee.”
Tell Hecate what choices, issues, or fears you are struggling with, and the
goddess will present two paths from the crossroads.
“On each road is a choice, one that only you can make. Each of these paths
will lead you in a different direction. Walk forward now and see where your
path leads. Open yourself to the wisdom that is revealed to you.”
Walk towards the road that calls to you. Notice there is a black dog standing on
the path ahead. It holds a scroll in its mouth.
“This is my familiar, my shadow hound who travels between all known and
unknown worlds. She sees all and knows all. She has brought for you an
answer to your inquiry, a key to that which you seek. Take the scroll from
her and take this message to heart.”
Take the scroll and read the message, which gives you insight into your question.
Take a moment to be present with what is revealed to you.
“Heed these words, and pay attention to the signs that reveal themselves to
your heart. Trust your feet as you travel upon your road. Blessings to you on
the path forward.”
Bring attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few deep
breaths. As you step back into your day, take Hecate’s guidance and messages
with you.
Hecate Affirmation
“I make decisions that are in alignment with my highest good and deepest
truth. I honor my own path forward. I make choices that honor my needs
and desires. I am a channel for divine wisdom and magick. I see the truth in
all situations. I have the power to manifest anything in my life. I move
forward confidently on my own path.”
Hecate Associations
The Witch. Moon Goddess. Witch Queen. Dark Sorceress. Crone. Creatrix of
ARCHETYPES Spells. Goddess of Magick.
SYMBOLS The crossroads, dogs, spirits, ghosts, graves, two torches, X, the underworld
During the dark moon phase, light a candle and write down what you require
clarity on. This can be a situation, a relationship, or anything that requires aid.
Stare into the flame and say:
Allow yourself to focus on the flame and let your mind wander. Notice where
your mind goes. When you are finished, blow out the candle and go to sleep. Pay
attention to any messages you receive in your dreams or in the days to come.
BREAKING A HEX
At times, we may feel like things are not going our way. We may even feel like
someone has put a curse on us, or that we are caught in an endless loop of bad
luck. It can be frustrating, but the goddess Hecate is here to help. As she protects
and aids her followers, she can help us break negative energy directed towards
us. This spell can be done during the waning moon, during the dark moon, or at
sunset.
SUPPLIES
2 small, dry sticks; Pen
Rosemary, sprig or dried; Sage, leaf or dried;
Black candle
Gather the items. Write the name of the person you think has caused you harm
on each of the sticks. If you don’t know, you could write “foe of mine” or “the
one who wishes me harm.” Place the two sticks on the ground in an X formation
with the candle in the middle. Sprinkle the herbs on the X. Light the candle and
say:
Pick up one of the sticks, hold it in both of your hands, and say:
Break the second stick, envisioning the negative intentions being broken and
severed. Take the broken sticks and herbs to a place they can be buried or
burned. As you dispose of them, say:
SUPPLIES
1 tablespoon (1 g) dried cypress; ½ teaspoon (1 g) dried lavender;
4 tablespoons (2 g) crushed dried sage leaves
Combine the herbs and store in a tightly sealed jar until ready to use.
Burn in fireproof container. Use it in a well-ventilated area, and keep it away
from anything that could suffer from smoke damage. Never leave it unattended,
and keep it away from pets and children.
Gather all the items and bring them to your chosen sacred space. Light the black
candle and hold your hands over the items:
Fill the bottle with the sharp items, salt, herbs, and hair, holding the intention of
protection as you do. Envision negative forces being repelled from your home
and yard. When all the items are in, add the vinegar to the bottle and say:
Seal the jar lid with the wax from the black candle. Bury the jar in an
undisturbed place near the home, such as under steps, at the edge of your
property, or under a nearby tree or bush. When you are finished with the ritual,
thank the goddess Hecate for hearing your petition.
2
KALI
WARRIORESS AND GREAT DESTROYER
WARRIORESS
DARK MOTHER
DESTROYER
THE WILD FEMININE
THE BLACK GODDESS
ALI is the creatrix of the universe, and she holds the power of time,
K rebirth, chaos, and destruction. She is a force to call upon to clear away
what is no longer needed and to tap into a powerful energy of
transformation. She rules the untamed, unbridled aspect of feminine strength and
fury. She is the goddess to connect with when petitioning for powerful
transformation, clearing, and complete change. She has many faces, though
many paint her solely as a battle-frenzied demon and bloodthirsty monster. She
is a warrior, the embodiment of the wild, ferocious, feminine fire that burns
within us all.
Kali has many legends surrounding her origin. In many of her myths, the
gods created her to slay demons no other could vanquish. She became the great
devourer, taking all these demons into herself in order to end their destruction. In
the aftermath, she became bloodthirsty and destroyed all she could see until she
was stopped by the god Shiva, her husband.
Kali is seen as a protectress and defender of her people, as well as the
creative force of the universe. Kali does what needs to be done, no matter how
terrible, raising her sword in defense and protection. As a force of
transformation, truth, and revolution, Kali calls to us to tear away what is no
longer needed in our lives, burning away the old and unneeded so rebirth can
occur. She bids us to dance with our fears so they can no longer hold us prisoner.
She strips away the veil from every aspect of our lives and shows us everything
in raw truth, even when it is hard to see.
The goddess Kali calls to us to take back our power—to reclaim our voices,
our sexuality, and our intense emotions. Kali teaches us there is nothing wrong
when it comes to the fierce aspects of the feminine, and there is nothing for us to
hide. She teaches us that in these shadows, there is much for us to see and many
lessons to learn. She tells us that by looking at what is keeping us stuck, we start
the cycle of rebirth and transforming it into what we want. When we move past
the blocks and clear them, what we are left with is potent soil in which to plant
the seeds of our desires. Kali asks that we dance in her fire and burn away all
that no longer serves us.
VISUALIZATION
Kali is a goddess of protection and destruction known for freeing the land from
the grip of voracious demons that held sway. She can help us to free ourselves
from the demons and issues that bind us in our own lives.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You find yourself in a dark landscape, clouds forming in the sky overhead. In
front of you stands Kali, holding a sword to the sky.
Take up the great sword of Kali. Feel the power flowing in your veins, the
strength moving through your body.
Bring your awareness to any issues that surface. They can be anything that
has been an issue: something holding back advancement on your path forward,
or maybe some beliefs that are keeping you stuck. Perhaps it’s a relationship or
something at work. These are the “demons” that haunt you.
As these demons swirl in your mind, take aim at them with the sword and
say:
Swing your blade at a demon and envision it being destroyed, shattered into a
million pieces. Feel the weight of it being lifted. Repeat this for each demon.
“You can use my sword at any time to slay the demons. Know that you have
the power to vanquish all that stands in your way.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take the guidance and messages of
Kali with you.
Kali Affirmation
Kali Associations
Bloodstone, black tourmaline, black obsidian, smoky quartz, black kyanite,
CRYSTALS black onyx
COLORS Black
PLANTS & Dragon’s blood, patchouli, cypress, eucalyptus, spruce, birch, morning glory,
OILS ivy, Spanish moss, mimosa, asafoetida, bindweed, spikenard, yerba santa
ARCHETYPES Warrioress. Dark Mother. Destroyer. The Wild Feminine. The Black Goddess.
SUPPLIES
Black pen or marker
Piece of paper
Black candle and fireproof container or a bonfire
Natural offering, such as flower petals, herbs, birdseed, or crystals
Gather the items during the dark of the moon. Light the candle and say:
With the pen and paper, write down all that you wish to let go of (for example,
fears that have been present or relationships that need to be released). Take some
time and list all that no longer serves your highest good.
When you are finished, fold up the list, envisioning your fears in one place.
Set the paper on fire with the candle and let it burn in the fireproof container or
bonfire. Picture all your fears and doubts being released, and say:
Envision taking up Kali’s mighty sword and cutting away all the things that
consume unnecessary energy or time in your life. Imagine it being severed from
you and floating away.
SEEDS OF RENEWAL
Within Kali's arms of destruction, we find the perfect new soil for renewal and
rebirth. This practice is for when we are opening to the new beginnings that
occur after great change. Do this practice during the dark or new moon. If you
feel called to plant something that will grow, you can plant seeds to tend.
SUPPLIES
Pot and soil, or an outdoor location
Spade
Seeds or a natural item, such as an acorn or pinecone, to bury
Gather the supplies. Hold what you wish to bury and infuse it with your
intention or desire. You can also hold the general intention for new beginnings.
Bury your seed or natural item in the soil and say:
“Goddess Kali, Lady of the Dark,
I plant what I desire in this soil so stark.
As all things begin in the great unknown,
May renewal occur for what I have sown.
Let my desires come to be.
As I will it, so shall it be.”
3
ARADIA
QUEEN OF WITCHES
THE WITCH
THE MOON GODDESS
THE PILGRIM
DAUGHTER OF DIANA
THE WANDERESS
QUEEN OF WITCHES
“Goddess Aradia, witch and Lady of the Moon, I dedicate myself to your
wisdom and to your guidance in the old ways. May you illuminate the
dark corners of injustice that plague this world and show me how to stand
up for all that I believe in. Shine a light on the ancient wisdom that flows
within me so I, too, can reclaim my birthright as witch.”
RADIA was sent down to earth by her mother, Diana, to teach those
A who were oppressed the ways of the witch. She sought to liberate them
from the tyranny of their persecutors as the living incarnation of her
mother. Her name translates to “goddess of the altar” or “altar of the goddess,”
which could be referring to her followers worshiping her mother Diana through
her. Ara (altar) is a constellation in the night sky that was placed upside down so
her flame of wisdom could be cast down upon the world. Dia translates to
“divine” in ancient Greek.
In another myth, Aradia was born into an Italian family, and she had a deep
connection to the spiritual realm. Her family thought that she would become a
nun, but that was not to be. Her beliefs lay elsewhere, in the wisdom of the full
moon. Within her soul lies the knowledge of the forgotten gods, the medicine of
the herbs, and the mystery of the earth. She heard the voice of the planet and of
the spirits. In her human form, some believe that she was a reincarnation of the
goddess Aradia.
Many feared Aradia as she worked her magick in the forest, and was often
apprehended and jailed because of her beliefs. She would always escape, living
to work her magick another day. La Bella Pellegrina, “the beautiful pilgrim,” as
she was called, taught the wisdom of the Old Religion to the people she met
along her journey.
Aradia is said to have been born on August 13, 1313, and initiated into the
Old Religion on her thirteenth birthday. When she was locked up, trapped by her
parents and the priests for her beliefs, her lover liberated her. They escaped into
the forest, so she could teach her wild wisdom to the world. She was said to
appear to her followers in disguise. She taught them the old ways and the
whispers of the earth, the secrets of the plants that could be used to protect and
heal.
Aradia is powerful to work with during times of oppression. She is a hands-
on goddess who connects us with our divine power to work sacred rites of
protection, healing, and manifestation. Aradia can teach you to reclaim your
voice, to not back down, and to connect with the medicine that lies hidden in the
natural world.
VISUALIZATION
The goddess Aradia brought the teachings of the old ways to the common
people, but she was persecuted for it and went underground. After all, the word
witch has been under sharp scrutiny and misrepresented for generations, by those
who feared the ancient wisdom associated with it. In this practice, we connect
with Aradia to reclaim our ancient birthright as witch.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
Find yourself in a grotto, surrounded by fragrant trees and plants. The full
moon shines brightly in the night sky. You see smoke rising from a fire, a
cauldron bubbling atop the flames, and Aradia standing by the fire, adding herbs
to the pot.
Aradia holds her hands up to the moonlight, gathering the rays in her palms.
“Like the witches of old, we too find power and medicine in the light of the
moon.
Here we connect with the ancient ways. Come, connect if it is your will.”
Hold your hands up to the moonlight and feel the ancient wisdom flow through
your fingers. You feel at peace, connected to the thread of divine wisdom that is
woven within your soul as you draw down the powerful lunar energy. Feel the
wisdom of the goddess Aradia flowing through you, healing you, and offering
you insight and clarity where you need it in your life.
“As you walk in this world, take the knowledge of the ancients with you,
knowing that it flows within you always. You can draw down the power of
the moon and connect with its magick whenever you feel called.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take the guidance and messages of
Aradia with you.
Aradia Affirmation
“I honor the magick that flows within me. I embrace the truth of all that I
am. I open myself to the medicine that I am here to bring into the world. I
connect with the ancient wisdom of the moon and tap into her deepest
insight.”
Aradia Associations
The Witch. The Moon Goddess. The Pilgrim. Daughter of Diana. The
ARCHETYPES Wanderess. Queen of Witches.
SUPPLIES
Dark bowl
Water to fill the bowl
Fill your bowl with water. Go outdoors, if possible, on the night of the full
moon. You can also do this indoors in the light of the moon. If you have a
specific question, set your intention before you begin scrying. If not, be open to
what will be revealed. Allow the bowl of water to sit charging in the moonlight.
Take some time to relax and ease your body. Focus your eyes on the water and
allow your mind to wander. Try not to control your thoughts or the images that
rise; let them move and shift naturally. When you are finished, thank the moon
for illumination and insight. Pay attention to the messages that flow after the
ritual ends. Dreams can continue to reveal wisdom to you. After, use the water as
charged lunar water or you can use it as an offering to the goddess in your
garden, in your house plants, or anywhere outside.
NOTE: If the moon is not out, you can light candles to help in illumination.
The power of the full moon is still present.
SUPPLIES
Items you wish to charge or clear: crystals, tarot cards, art supplies, jewelry, etc.
Full moon
SEAL AN ENEMY
At times, people in our lives need to be stopped from causing us intentional
harm. This wax seal can stop an enemy.
SUPPLIES
Candle
Paper and pen
Pin
Pepper or a dark herb, such as nettle or thistle
Gather your items and light the candle. Write your enemy’s name on the paper.
Fold the paper, trapping the name inside. Pour the wax on the paper, sealing it
closed. While the wax is still pliable, use the pin to mark it with an X. Sprinkle
the pepper or herbs on the wax. Envision your enemy being sealed, no longer
able to bother you or cause you harm.
When finished, burn the paper and scatter the ashes somewhere far away from
you.
WITCH BAG
Witch bags are simple cloth pouches that pack a powerful punch. Filled with
herbs, crystals, and intentions, they are potent tools for drawing or repelling
what we wish. These simple charms have been used for centuries as a way of
working one’s desires.
SUPPLIES
4 inch × 4 inch (10 cm × 10 cm) cotton or linen fabric square (see below for color)
Candle (see below)
Small piece of paper and a pen
Herbs or crystals (see below)
Small mirror or reflective fragment (optional)
String
Cord to hang from neck
For drawing: To create a witch bag for attraction, choose a fabric color that is in
alignment with your intention. You can also match the color of your candle to
your intention and fabric. To draw love, use red or pink. For abundance, use
green or gold. For harmony, healing, or peace, use blue. Use purple for
divination. White can be substituted for any color. Create these witch bags
during the waxing moon.
Herbs and crystals that can be used for these intentions are:
Love Rose quartz, pink calcite, basil, cinnamon, clove, rose
Abundance Citrine, green aventurine, rutilated quartz, fern, orange, cedar,
ginger, wheat, rice
Peace Amethyst, celestite, lavender, violet
Light the candle. Write your intention on the paper. Fold it and place it in the
middle of the fabric with herbs and crystals. Gather the edges together and tie
with string. Carry it with you until you feel your desire has manifested then bury
in the earth.
For repelling: Black is usually the color associated with repelling or banishing.
You can also use a small mirror or reflective fragment to mirror back energy.
Create these witch bags during the waning moon.
Herbs and crystals used to repel energy or banish are black tourmaline, black
obsidian, labradorite, jet, black onyx, salt, pepper, chili pepper, thistle, burr, and
rosemary.
Follow the same process as above to create the witch bag. Create your
intention and fill the cloth. Carry it with you for as long as you feel the desire for
added protection, and then bury it when no longer needed.
4
PERSEPHONE
THE DARK QUEEN
GODDESS OF SPRING
MAIDEN
QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD
DARK GODDESS
“Lady of light and dark, spring and death, grant me the grace to open to the
cycles that flow within my life. All things transform, even time spent in
the shadows. I acknowledge the ancient wisdom of the crone that swims
within my veins and the innocence of the maiden that keeps me curious to
my deeper mystery. From you, Persephone, I learn I can be all things:
wise woman, gentle heart, and dark queen.”
N most Persephone myths, she was portrayed as a naïve maiden who was
I kidnapped by the dark god of the underworld, Hades. This sent her mother
Demeter, goddess of the grain, into a grief spiral that killed all the plants.
Everyone began to starve and the world was in great peril. This causes other
gods to intervene and tell Hades to let Persephone return to her mother.
However, in the underworld is if you eat what grows there, you are not allowed
to leave. Persephone ate six pomegranate seeds while in the underworld and thus
must return for six months of the year. During this time, winter falls on the land
of the living. When she returns from the underworld, the land flourishes once
more.
This tale usually depicts Hades, as an oppressive force with no regard for the
will of others. However, in the myth of Persephone, I see a maiden being reborn,
becoming a queen in her own right.
I interpret the Persephone myth as the story of a woman looking to live her
own life, to follow her own path in alignment with her heart, and to balance that
with a mother having great difficulty in letting her daughter go. While her
mother’s intentions are to protect her child, they take away from her daughter’s
free will. Persephone was not a victim but a willing participant in her own
destiny, moving from the spring of her life (childhood) toward her fullest power
and deepest truth (queen) by embracing her dark aspects in the underworld.
Persephone is a powerful goddess, as she is indicative of birth, innocence,
death, and rebirth. She embodies aspects of maiden, mother, and crone in her
voyage to maturity. As we tap into her energy, we see the cycles of the seasons in
nature as well as in our own lives. She shows us that we too can shift with the
changes of the wheel of the year and flow with transformation. She teaches us
that sometimes the path in front of us may be dark, but when we honor our truth,
all things are illuminated in the end. She tells us that we, too, can be both light
and dark.
VISUALIZATION
“Greetings, and welcome to my garden. This is the place where I first dwelled
when I was the embodiment of the goddess of spring, Kore. Here is where my
myth began.”
You reach the end of the floral path and stand at the gates of the underworld.
“The truth is, one must enter the underworld willingly, as we must give
ourselves over to seeing the shadows that dwell within us. You can be led to
the gate, but you must enter of your own volition; no one can force you. I
entered the darkness willingly, and that is a choice that we all make. I
embraced my shadow, and now the time has come for you to look within
and do the same. To rule your world sovereign and centered in your deepest
truth, you need to embrace all aspects of your being. Do you willingly
embrace yourself, darkness and light, and enter the unknown lands of your
own free will?”
Persephone Affirmation
“I honor the cycles that flow in my life. I open to the transformation that
occurs. I know that with each death comes rebirth into something new. I
embrace my darkness and my light. I am whole. I honor my truth and follow
my own path.”
Persephone Associations
CRYSTALS Garnet, ruby
Gray, silver, black, garnet red (Persephone aspects), spring and pastel colors
COLORS (Kore aspect)
PLANTS & Fir, willow, cedarwood, cherry, cypress, parsley, pine, poppy, vervain, verbena,
OILS vetiver, wintergreen
Follow Persephone through the gates of the underworld. Notice that the walls are
glittering crystals from the depths of the earth, and their luminescence reflects
the torchlight. An ethereal glow transcends the darkness. Persephone motions to
a throne in the middle of the room. On the throne sits a crown.
“The underworld is rarely what others believe it to be. This is a place of truth,
illumination, hope, and coming home to ourselves. The time has come to
take up your crown and rule from a place of wholeness, away from the
expectations of others. You can be all things, as I am both the goddess of
spring and of darkness. Let no one define your fire or how you embody your
truth.”
Walk to the throne and place the crown on your head. Sit down on the throne,
knowing that you are walking your own path free from the expectations of
others.
“I bow to you, queen and sovereign of your own life. Never let them take your
crown from you.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Persephone’s guidance and
messages with you.
SUPPLIES
Childhood photo of yourself
Find a place where you will be undisturbed. Get comfortable and hold the photo
in your hands. Take some time to study it and connect with the feelings that
come up. What surfaces may be difficult but try to remain present to observe
what rises. Take a few minutes and speak kindly to your child-self. Confide in
them, tell the child your pain, your grief, and your hopes. Connect to the dreams
that your child-self had, the things they wanted to do, and all the hopes present
for you as a child.
Vow to your inner child that you will take the sparks that once ignited you
with you into the future and reconnect with the desires you once had. When you
are finished, thank your child-self for connecting with you. Place the photo
somewhere you can see it often as a touchstone to your connection to the past
and vow for the future.
BLESSING A LOVER
The relationship between Persephone and Hades will always be open for
interpretation. But we do know that, as lovers often are, they are separated for
six months each year when Persephone returns to the Earth as the goddess of
spring. This blessing of protection and abundance can be offered to a lover when
there is separation—or when you wish to honor your love, no matter where they
are.
SUPPLIES
Candle
Light the candle. Sprinkle some salt on the mirror to cleanse it. Take it in your
hands. Envision it glowing with protective energy, and say:
Place the mirror where it won’t be disturbed, facing away from you like a shield,
in a window or by your bed. You can repeat this as often as needed to keep the
mirror charged with your intention. If it is no longer needed, bury it outside
facing away from your home.
Place the candle on your altar and arrange the stones evenly spaced around it.
Place the seeds between each stone, evenly spaced. Light the candle and say:
Like Persephone,
I dwell in another world without you,
But only for a time.
This will not last.
Like winter turns to spring,
All things must pass.
Keep the stones where you can see them. Focus on the love that connects you
even though you are apart. You can also carry the stones with you for strength
and support. Place the soil outside in the earth if you feel called to, envisioning
your intentions flowing deep into the ground.
5
INANNA
THE QUEEN OF HEAVEN
“Goddess Inanna, Queen of Heaven and Earth, like you I have ventured
into the underworld to see the darkest parts of myself and have returned
triumphant. Grant me the strength to let go of the people and thoughts that
no longer support the truth of my soul. May you bless my path forward,
ever changing and ever evolving.”
ANY myths surround Inanna, but the most popular is the story of her
M journey into the underworld to see her dark sister Ereshkigal, who
reigns there as queen. In some versions of the myth, she is there for the
funeral of her sister’s husband, whom she sent into battle to his death. Along the
journey, Inanna was asked to strip away all her brilliant robes and jewels. She
gave up all that she has been taught defines her and faced her shadow in the
darkness.
Ereshkigal was not happy at her sister’s presence in her domain, and she
proceeded to kill her and hang her corpse on a hook. There she stayed for three
days and nights. After three days, Inanna’s priestess Ninshubar, who has been
waiting for her return, set to beating her drum in mourning and to petition for
Inanna’s release back to the land of the living. Ninshubar asked for aid from
Enki, the god of wisdom and water, who sent spirits to trick Ereshkigal and
sprinkle Inanna with water of life. She was reborn back into the world by her
shadow self, Ereshkigal, symbolizing her coming into her complete power. But
she was only allowed to leave on the condition that someone replaced her in the
underworld. Ereshkigal suggested Ninshubar, which Inanna refused. She will not
give up her loyal priestess who beat the drum from her and came to her aid.
She returned to the earth to search out a suitable replacement. There she
found that in her absence, her husband, Dumuzi, did not mourn her absence, but
instead consorted with other women, held celebrations, and ruled from her
throne in an attempt to secure his own kingship over her land. So, Inanna offered
him up to the Queen of the Underworld to take her place. Dumuzi’s sister
Gestinanna, however, begged Inanna to free him. Inanna partly agreed, with the
condition that Gestinanna agreed to takes his place for six months of the year. As
Dumuzi was an agricultural god, this is another telling of the origin of
winter/spring season, during which there is death of vegetation and the world
enters a time of rest.
The story of Inanna shows us the power of merging the aspects of light and
dark to rule from a place of wholeness. When Inanna embraced her darkness and
her light, she could go back to her realm and rule from a solid foundation. In the
story of Dumuzi, we see the price of betrayal and learn that sometimes you have
to leave behind those who are not in your corner. Inanna tells us that we can
reign sovereign over our own lives. She is symbolic of death, rebirth, and
embracing the truth that flows in our veins so we can rule our lives from a place
of truth and authenticity on our own.
VISUALIZATION
On her journey into the underworld, the goddess Inanna had to lay down
everything that she had been taught defined her. She ventured away from the
safety of her own realm, where she ruled as queen, and met with her shadow in
the underworld. Inanna can help us to release the aspects of ourselves that we
have been taught we need to uphold because others or society have told us that
we should.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You find yourself in a beautiful palace, the spires of its towers stretching high
toward the sky. Banners hang from the gilded walls and flutter in the breeze. A
woman with a crown on her regal head walks toward you.
“I am Inanna, Queen of Heaven and Earth. This is my realm, and here I rule
connected with my deepest truth. But it was not always so. Once I ruled from
a place that others had dictated for me. I reveled in the trappings that I was
taught must define me. It was only when I gave up the things I thought I
needed that I was able to face all aspects of myself and become wholly
centered in my purpose. The time has come for you to do the same, to let go
of what no longer serves you in order to resonate with the truth of all that
you are.”
Inanna walks the pathway from the palace toward a gate in the distance. Walk
with her. When you reach the gate, there is an altar placed before it. Standing
beside it is Inanna’s loyal priestess Ninshubar, drumming on her sacred drum.
“This is the altar on which we must sacrifice the old versions of ourselves that
no longer fit. When I journeyed to the underworld, I let go of everything—
my crown, my jewels, even the husband who had no grief for me when I was
gone. All of these things were supposed to define me, but I had outgrown
them all and they were weighing me down. What do you wish to leave
behind on the altar?”
Take a few minutes to think of what you wish to leave behind. This can be
anything from relationships to fears to old jobs. As you resonate with something
you wish to let go of, place it on the altar of Inanna. Feel it being lifted from
you, as it no longer embodies who you are. As your offerings are placed on the
altar, Ninshubar drums and they begin to disappear.
Inanna Affirmation
Inanna Associations
ARCHETYPES Queen of Heaven and Earth. Goddess of Love and War. Goddess of the Grain.
“When we have lost it all and venture into the unknown, there is great power.
Here you stand bare, free of the trappings that once bound you. Blessings to
you on the path forward. Know that no matter what we are stripped of in
this life, our truth remains.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Inanna’s guidance and
messages with you.
RELEASING A LOVER
When Inanna realized that her unsupportive husband, Dumuzi, didn’t miss her
when she went to the underworld and that he instead celebrated, she released
him and gave him to the underworld. Sometimes we find ourselves faced with
unsupportive partners and need to let them go. Practice this during a waning
moon, on the new moon, or at sunset.
SUPPLIES
Smudge or moon water; Black candle; String or cord; Scissors or knife; Fire
Start by gathering anything and everything connected to the partner. It’s a good
idea to clear your space of any reminders of them and any of their possessions.
Smudge your home or spray moon water when you are finished to clear the
energy.
When you have this accomplished, gather your items and light the candle.
Take the cord in your fingers and say:
Take the cords and burn them, symbolizing the end of the connection. When you
are finished, snuff out the candle and say:
Gather all the items near a sacred fire outdoors. Place the rose quartz between
the two candles and light them. With your paper and pen, spend some time
connecting with what you are looking for in a mate. Write all these thoughts
down, and be specific. How you would embody such a connection. How does it
feel?
When you are finished, sprinkle the herbs on the sacred fire. Then offer your
list to the flames and say:
When you are finished, leave an offering and celebrate. If you added your items
to a bowl, take them outside and bury them in the earth, offering your intentions
to the soil.
SUPPLIES
Pen and paper
Close your eyes and find your breath. Take a few minutes to ground and center.
Connect with the drum beat of your heart.
With the pen and paper, craft a vow of sisterhood, one that details how you
will support others. For example: “I vow to give up gossiping about my fellow
priestesses. I will help others rise and support their voices. We are all in this
together.”
Take however long you need to connect to your Ninshubar energy, the energy
of the loyal friend and priestess. If you feel called to deepen the practice, you
can recite your vows while drumming.
Twist the paper strip to make a hook. Envision all the things you are on the hook
for that you no longer wish to control or that you want to be free. As you do, say:
Burn the hook and bury the ashes to release the hooks of the past.
6
ERESHKIGAL
GODDESS OF THE UNDERWORLD
E in the darkness, such as anger, envy, and fear. She was jealous of her
sister Inanna, envious of her power, beauty, and queendom in the land of
the living. Thus, when Inanna arrived in her domain, Ereshkigal struck her down
out of anger and jealousy. She is also connected with abandonment, as she is
often perceived as the solitary sister alone in the darkness while Inanna rules
above. Through her, we can connect to our own fears and wounds surrounding
the energy of abandonment, grief, and feelings of unworthiness.
Another version of the story of Ereshkigal and Inanna is that the Queen of
Heaven was selfish and wanted everything for herself, including the realm of her
sister below. Inanna sent Ereshkigal's husband, Gugulana, the Bull of Heaven, to
destroy the land of Gilgamesh, who had spurred Inanna’s advances, and
Gugulana was killed. Inanna then ventured callously into the Underworld for the
funeral, with no regard for her sister’s grief for her husband. Ereshkigal judged
Inanna and killed her for her actions. Inanna rose three days later as in the
Inanna myth, but she was far less heroic than she is in her own tale. In this
version, Ereshkigal is misunderstood and wronged, showing us that even shadow
aspects can be misjudged. She suffered at the hands of her sister’s thoughtless
ploys and ended up a grieving widow.
Ereshkigal is the embodiment of the shadow aspects of the self we have been
taught that we need to hide. We are told that we need to be digestible, easy to
take, and not to make a fuss. But the goddess Ereshkigal shows us there is great
power in our shadows. Although we need to see them fully, they can be a source
of great power and transformation.
VISUALIZATION
Myths of Ereshkigal portray her as both villain and victim. Her deepest truth is
when the two are merged and we see the dark queen in all her power ruling from
her place in the underworld. She teaches us that we, too, need to drop the
judgment of ourselves and embrace all that we are.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You find yourself in front of a vast, towering palace gate, the arch stretching
toward the darkness above. Everything around you is shrouded in shadow. The
gate opens and a guard beckons to you. You walk up the pathway toward a
throne, seated upon which is the goddess Ereshkigal.
“My child, welcome to the underworld. Here in this place of shadow, you can
see the truth of yourself.”
Ereshkigal motions toward a large, dark mirror standing beside her throne.
“When we look at ourselves with the eyes of truth instead of the eyes of
judgment, we fully embrace all that we are. I did so when I let go of my
anger and jealousy toward my sister Inanna and embraced the magic of all
that I am. So often we are taught that there is no benefit in the darkness,
that no medicine dwells here. I am here to tell you that there is great wisdom
in our darkest shadows. Within this mirror, you will face your truth without
judgment. We have been taught to be harsh with ourselves, and we need to
move away from this. Pay attention to any criticisms that comes up for you,
and be there with them. Sit with them as a sister would.”
Face the mirror and scan your reflection. Notice any judgments that arise when
facing yourself. Are you thinking negatively about any aspect of yourself? Are
you judging yourself harshly or unfairly? Are there thoughts present to parts of
yourself that have been called “dark” or have not been accepted by others? Has
your inner monologue shifted to one of criticism?
Envision these dark parts of yourself, your shadow self, the parts that can be
hard for us to accept at times. Perhaps we feel unlovable or there is something
specific we judge harshly about ourselves. Take a few moments to ease the
negative self-talk and move into a place of acceptance for all that you are. Let go
of the feelings of needing to be anything other than what you are here in this
breath. See yourself as whole in the mirror, a tapestry of light and dark, of
brilliance and insecurity. Envision all the aspects of yourself fusing together, all
parts becoming whole.
Ereshkigal Affirmation
“I embrace my shadow. I see the beauty in all facets of my sacred being. I look
at myself with eyes of praise and leave behind all judgment. I know myself to
be worthy. I find strength in my solitude. I express all my feelings, even the
ones I have been taught I should hide. I am whole and magnificent.”
Ereshkigal Associations
COLORS Black
SYMBOLS Hook, bull, corpses, skulls, bones, snakes, scorpions, beings of the hidden
earth, owl
“With time and practice, we can move into a place of embracing all that we
are. Go now, connected in your wholeness.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a
few deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Ereshkigal’s guidance
and messages with you.
SUPPLIES
Pen and paper (optional)
Mirror (optional)
Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed. Take some time and reach
into your feelings surrounding abandonment, worthiness, and jealousy of others.
Why are you jealous? Of whom are you jealous? Do you feel left behind or
abandoned? If so, by whom? And why? If you are called to, write down your
feelings as you explore them. This can be an intense journey within, and it can
bring up some very dark shadows. The purpose isn’t to judge them but to dive
deeper into their roots.
These shadows arise because of our own uncertainty and feelings of
unworthiness. We are taught to believe that we lack something that would make
us worthy. But this isn’t true. Craft words of praise to speak into the mirror. This
can be difficult at first, as we are conditioned not to speak kindly to ourselves.
For example, say:
“Hello. I know I haven’t been there for you as much as I should be, but I will
try to be from now on. I acknowledge that you feel left behind, but you’re not
alone. You have me.”
Be aware, as you move forward, when you slip into negative dialogue about
yourself. Try to gently guide yourself back to a place of acceptance and limit
self-judgment.
BANISHING RITUAL
During our lives, there will be times when we wish to banish something—
energy, unwanted situations, or even people. Ereshkigal can help us, as she
wished to banish her sister from her domain.
SUPPLIES
Paper and pen;
Salt and pepper
Write down what you wish to banish. Sprinkle the paper with salt and pepper
and fold it away from yourself to contain it. Say:
Dispose of the paper far away from you and don’t look back at it when you
leave. You can burn it and dispose of the ashes or bury it in the earth. It is
banished and behind you now.
BANISHING POWDER
You can use banishing powder anywhere you need protection or shielding, for
example, around the perimeter of your home, near doorways, or near gates. It
should be buried so no animal can have access to it. Make it during the dark of
the moon a day before the new moon.
SUPPLIES
Salt; Ash; Burrs or thorns;
Black tourmaline, crushed; Sealable glass bottle or jar
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Store the powder in a glass bottle or
jar. Sprinkle it around the home or near doorways as desired. It can also be
placed in closed bottles around the home.
You can make a quick banishing practice by sprinkling the powder on a paper
written with what you wish to banish and saying:
BINDING RITUAL
Sometimes we know the source of our issue or the person with ill intent toward
us. For these instances, we can create a binding ritual that restricts the ill intent
of someone specific. For this ritual, we use an item of identity or a personal item
belonging to the person we are binding that contains their energy.
SUPPLIES
Black candle; Salt;
Rosemary; Paper and pen
Item of identity (optional)
Straw or grass; Black string
Gather your supplies. Light the candle and sprinkle salt and rosemary around it.
Write down the name of the person with ill intent toward you. If you have a
personal item of this person’s, you can use a small piece of it for this ritual. Fold
the name and item. Use the straw to fashion the shape of a person around the
paper and item: First bind the straw for the torso and head, and then add a cross
section for the arms. It doesn’t need to be perfect. You can also tie the paper and
item to the finished doll. When the straw doll is crafted, wrap it with the string,
tying it up and envisioning the person causing you ill stopping their evil
intentions. Say:
“I bind you, __________________, from causing harm to me and to those I
love.
I bind your ill intents and negative eye.
I bind you from all vile intent.”
If you do not have straw or grass to fashion the doll, you can simply write the
person’s name on the paper or on their item and bind that.
When you have finished, burn your chosen effigy and dispose of the ash
somewhere else. Say:
NIMALS were sacred to Medeina, and her symbol was the wild hare.
A Although she was said to be beautiful and much sought after by suitors,
she was unwilling to marry, preferring instead to run feral through the
trees with her animal friends and craft potions in her forest home. As forest
mother, she has little care for the intentions of humans and vowed to protect the
Earth from their destruction. She would stop at nothing to protect the wild places
from those who would do them harm.
The energy of Medeina is sometimes associated with that of Artemis and
Diana, as they were also known as huntress goddesses and protectresses of the
forest. Medeina’s feral nature is connected to the archetype of the Wild Woman,
and she reminds us of our home in the natural world and our duty to protect it.
She connects us with the Wild Woman aspect within ourselves, allowing the
untamed spirit that flows within to be set free. Howl, she tells us. Run free
through the trees. Here you will find your power and your peace.
The goddess Medeina brings us the message of needing to connect deeper
with the energy of the Earth and the medicine of the animals. She reminds us
that it’s our job to offer protection and reverence to these sacred places and
beings. She tells us to celebrate our single selves and that we don’t need a
partner to be complete; we are whole on our own in the arms of all that we love
and in our sacred purpose on this planet.
VISUALIZATION
“Welcome to the wild wood. Here you will find great solace. Many venture
here during times of hardship seeking the protection of the trees and animals
that dwell here. Have you come seeking the protection of the forest?”
Give the goddess your reply. She beckons you to stand in the middle of the
clearing.
“May the protection of the forest be granted to you, this day and all days, as
you stand in reverence to her power and beauty.”
Stand in the middle of the clearing, feeling the magick of the forest surrounding
you.
“Root yourself deeply in the forest. As you connect to the earth, so she will
protect you.”
Plant your feet firmly on the ground and feel the solid earth beneath you,
supporting your foundation. You hear a howl in the night air, and out of the trees
emerge thirteen wolves of various sizes and hues.
“These are the embodiment of the Earth, the sacred wolves of the goddess
Medeina. They offer you the protection of the forest.”
The wolves circle around you, guarding you with their presence. Let yourself
feel a deep sense of safety resonating through your being.
Medeina Affirmation
“I am open to the abundance of the Earth. I honor the natural world and its
medicine. I find deep healing in the goddess’s creations. I protect the
wilderness and the animals. I am one with the world around me. I am blessed
by the Earth.”
Medeina Associations
PLANTS & Cypress, vetiver, pine, birch, patchouli, bay, wild plants, ferns, trees
OILS
The Wild Goddess. Goddess of the Hunt. Earth Witch. Protectress of the Forest
ARCHETYPES and Animals.
SYMBOLS Wolves, hares, forest, trees, leaves, ferns, paw prints, animal tracks
“The wolves of the forest are always there to protect you. Their energy travels
with you each day. The forest can also heal you of what you wish to give up,
swallowing your sorrow and your hardship. If there is something you wish to
lay down, speak it now within this sacred circle and offer it to the ground.”
If there is anything that you wish to let go of, speak it aloud to Medeina and the
circle of wolves.
“May the Earth absorb what you wish to release. May you be blessed with
wholeness and peace.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Medeina’s guidance and
messages with you.
GROUNDING PRACTICE
Grounding is a way of connecting with the Earth and the self in order to come
back to the present moment. Often, we become scattered in our daily lives and
we need to take the time to come back to our breath in the moment. It is also a
good idea to do some grounding before any other practice, as it can center our
energy and bring us deeper clarity and focus.
VARIATION 1
Sit on the earth in the lotus position or cross-legged. If you can’t sit directly on
the earth, you can do this in your home. To further connect to the element of
earth, you can hold a crystal, sit near plants, or incorporate the earth’s grounding
energy in your own way. Sit up straight and make sure your sit bones (butt
bones) are touching the ground.
Place your palms face-up on your knees. Breath at a comfortable, sustainable
pace. As you breathe in and out, envision your body rooted solidly to the earth
below. Picture strong roots moving down through the soil and into the ground.
As you tap into this energy that connects you to the earth, feel it centering
you, offering you solid foundation and support. Feel the nourishing energy of the
earth flowing through you and anchoring you here in the present moment.
When you are finished, thank the earth for its grounding energy and pull the
roots back to you, knowing you can connect again any time. Take the grounding
energy with you throughout your day.
VARIATION 2
Use the yoga pose Mountain Pose or Tadasana. Begin with your feet hip-
distance apart. Ground down through the soles of your feet and move your arms
up over your head with your fingers touching in a peak where they meet. Follow
the same rooting practice as above, but this time through your feet, envisioning a
strong mountain that withstands all of life’s winds.
You can also recite a grounding affirmation as you do these poses:
“I am firmly grounded.
I am safe and secure.
I am rooted deeply in my truth and in my purpose.
I connect with the energy of the Earth.
I release fear and uncertainty.”
WASH AWAY THE MUCK
When an accumulation of muck sticks to the surface of our lives, it is time to
remove it. Medeina is a goddess of the earth, and so with her we can connect
with the clearing and purifying energy of the natural world.
SUPPLIES
Mud
Water
A place to get dirty
Now wash away the mud. If you can’t do this outdoors, you can do it in your
bathtub or sink with some fine mud and the shower hose, but be careful not to
clog the drains. As you rinse away the muck, envision what you want to leave
flowing away from your life.
SUPPLIES
Sealable bottle or jar
Cotton balls
Salt
Vinegar
Gather the items and put the cotton, salt, and vinegar in the jar. Place it
somewhere near the negative energy or in a general location near an
entranceway to trap anything coming into the dwelling, whether it is a
workplace, home, or somewhere else. Say:
Leave it there for one moon cycle, until the next new moon, and then bury it far
away from you and say:
SUPPLIES
Earth items that symbolize abundance and plenty, such as pinecones, wheat, grains, acorns,
flowers, or produce
Coins
Crystals, such as citrine, green aventurine, jade, and rutilated quartz
Bowl
Green candle
Dedicate a place in your home to your abundance and prosperity items where
they won’t be disturbed. Surround the candle with the coins and crystals. Light
the candle and drop the natural items into the bowl as you say:
Envision the abundance of the Earth being drawn to you like a beacon. Spend
some time thinking on how abundance looks in your life and what you wish to
further manifest. Picture all these things coming to you as though drawn to a
magnet. Let the candle burn down. When it is extinguished, take the natural
items from the bowl and offer them to the Earth:
Leave the crystals and coins on your altar space, if you wish. You may also put
them somewhere you can see them or carry them with you.
8
OYA
GODDESS OF STORMS
SHAPER OF STORMS
GODDESS OF WEATHER
FIRE GODDESS
O storms and the earth. With her warrior fire energy, she is a protectress of
women, their defender from tyranny, oppression, and suffering. Women
pray to her to intercede on their behalf when they need a powerful force of
reckoning after being put upon by others.
As she has the power to shape storms and turbulent weather, so she has the
power to aid us as we deal with transformation in our own lives. Oya is a force
of nature who can help us sweep away aspects that remain stuck. In this way, she
is like a cosmic reset button, wiping the slate clean. Her energy can be erratic,
showing us that sudden change may not be smooth.
Oya connects us with the primal and passionate feminine, shaking loose rules
or chains placed upon her. She breaks free of “should,” and, with a shake of her
hips, she moves mountains. She reminds us to connect with the primal within
ourselves and not to leave it caged because of the misunderstanding of others.
Oya moves in both the seen and unseen, traveling in the hidden realms of the
Earth and guiding deep change into our world.
VISUALIZATION
At times in our lives, we need to clear away what no longer is meant for us, so
we can call in something that fits us better. The goddess Oya, with her sword
held high, cutting a pathway through the old to make room for the new, can
guide us to make these sweeping changes.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You find yourself standing in a vast field, the skies above clear and blue. The
field around you sways in the slight breeze, the grasses brushing your body as
you walk through them. In the middle of the field, you see a woman with wild
hair and eyes, and brandishing two swords in her hands.
She raises her swords to the sky and thunder rumbles in the distance. The sky
darkens as clouds begin to gather.
“With our swords, we will clear a pathway into the future. Do not fear the
changes that come with transformation, as they are needed to make room
for what your heart is calling to you. Envision all the things that you need to
cut from your life, all that you wish to release. Take this sword and raise it
with me.”
Take one sword from Oya and raise it to the lightning-filled sky. Envision what
you wish to cut away from your life. Oya brings down the sharp blade of her
own sword toward the field and cuts into the grain.
Walk along with Oya, bringing your sword to the grain and cutting a pathway
through it, envisioning cutting down the obstacles in your own life and walking
forward in their wake. When you get to the end of the field, Oya motions back to
the path you cut through.
Oya Affirmation
Oya Associations
PLANTS & OILS Fern, cotton, rice, broom, alder, heather, thistle, saffron, bladderwrack, oak
“You have the power to cut through all things difficult or great in your life.
Take this sword with you and know that the power is within you always to
move forward on any road you choose.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Oya’s guidance and messages
with you.
SUPERCHARGED MANIFESTATION
The goddess Oya is a powerful force who can shape the weather and change the
flow of the Earth. She can help us to get energy moving where it is stuck as well
as attract blessings, and she can aid us in manifesting our desires.
SUPPLIES
Rattle, tambourine, or drum (or noisemaker-making supplies, such as pie plates and dried beans
or rice)
Natural offering (optional)
NOTE: If you do not have a rattle, you can use anything that makes noise. A
drum, a tambourine, or even a makeshift drum such as a pot or pan would work.
You can also fabricate a noisemaker by putting two items such as pie plates or
cups together and filling them with a handful of dried beans or rice.
Decorate and embellish your noisemaker if you feel called. Go to a place
where you will not be disturbed. You can do this ritual outside in bare feet to
connect deeper with the earth or you can find a quiet place indoors. Root your
feet firmly on the ground, take your noisemaker in your hand, shake it, and say:
As you shake the noisemaker, feel the sound and energy. Sense it infusing your
blood with movement, empowering your desires for change and manifestation.
Envision it calling to the skies, to the storms, to the lighting and the thunder. Feel
it calling to the goddess Oya. Feel the sound clearing away the blocks, the stuck
parts of your life. Envision the rattling and the movement freeing the path
forward so all that you want to manifest can flow.
If you are called to, dig deeper into the energy of the noise and allow your
body to respond. If you feel inspired to dance, to stomp your feet, or to make
vocal noise, allow what is unfolding. When you are finished, place both hands
on the earth in reverence and in thanks to the goddess Oya for her aid, or leave
her a natural offering.
Go outside in the rain somewhere you will not be disturbed and the salt will
cause no harm to the Earth or animals. Place a little bit of salt in your hand, hold
it up to the rain, and say:
As the salt dissolves, envision all that is blocking you or that pains you being
washed away.
BLESSING A BUSINESS
Oya brings blessings to those in business and was thought to be a protective
force for marketplaces. This ritual can be done in any place of business, whether
in the home or out in the world.
SUPPLIES
Crystals: Citrine, rutilated quartz, or green aventurine
Bowl in which to collect morning dew, rainwater, or snow
Full moon water (optional)
Salt
Place the crystals in the bowl. Leave the bowl on the grass overnight to collect
some dew. You can also use rainwater or melted snow. If you only have a little,
add what you can find to some full moon water. Take the crystals out of the
water and add the salt.
Take the saltwater to your place of business and sprinkle some on the
threshold. If it’s an online business, carefully wipe a little on the back of the
computer where it won’t cause issue. Say:
“Goddess Oya, I call upon you to usher the winds of change into my world,
Sweeping away all ill and negativity.
I call upon your lightning bolts
To supercharge the movement in my life,
To remove obstacles, and to unblock pathways.
I call upon you, shaper of storms, to aid me in shaping my path forward.
Keep my path clear, so I may walk it safely.”
9
LILITH
THE REBEL
THE REBEL
WILD FEMININE
SEDUCTRESS
GODDESS OF SACRED SEX
SPIRIT OF WIND AND STORM
GREAT huluppu tree once stood on the banks of the Euphrates River.
A During a storm, it was washed away and found by the goddess Inanna,
who planted and cared for it. When Inanna reached her full powers, a
bed and a throne were to be made of the great tree, symbolic of her queenship
and sexuality. However, three beings lived within her beloved sacred tree: a bird
in the branches, a snake at the base, and Lilith, who wished to make the tree her
home, in the trunk. Inanna beseeched the hero Gilgamesh to chase them away
and he did, after which he created the bed and throne for her.
Lilith’s existence predates her tales in the Bible and she was a much more
important, ancient goddess than she is usually portrayed to be. Lilith is a symbol
of feminine rebellion against the patriarchy. In her Hebrew and biblical
incarnation, she was Adam’s first wife, who refused to get beneath him to make
love. She rejects the oppressive rules and leads her own sacred rebellion out of
the garden, choosing to leave and live in exile rather than bondage.
In her depiction as the rebellious first wife of the biblical Adam she painted
with the brush of original sinner. Disobedient, disrespectful, and wild, she
refused to bow. And so, she was made into a monster, cursed to give birth each
day to 100 demons, which were killed. Quite a punishment for saving no to a
man.
Lilith is often connected with sexuality, passion, and lust. As so often occurs
in patriarchal stories, she is portrayed as a demon for refusing to lay down her
will in deference to the dominant rule of her husband.
Lilith symbolizes our journey from the known into the unknown. She is the
embodiment of standing up for our body, our rights, and our freedom and of the
willingness to leave to make our own path. Lilith is a survivor. She tells us we
too can find great strength when the storms of life rage and we are swept from
where we once found comfort. We have the power to rebuild our lives how we
see fit, and deserves a home to call our own.
Through Lilith, we connect with our refusal to submit, to bow down and be
ruled by another. Her story is the ultimate rebellion in the face of the patriarchy,
and through her we tap into a vein of feminine power. The snake was sacred to
her, a link to the medicine of the Earth and to our realm. She is often depicted as
having wings and bird’s feet and claws.
VISUALIZATION
Lilith shows us we don’t have to stay anywhere that we are not comfortable. She
tells us we have the power to build our own sacred space away from those who
would restrict us.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You are in a lush landscape with trees and plants growing wildly around you.
The birds sing in the trees and the sun shines brightly overhead, illuminating the
leaves. As you walk through the green paradise, you come to the goddess Lilith.
She smiles, motioning to the greenery around her.
“Welcome to my garden. As you may know, I left the Garden of Eden because
I refused to submit to the will of another. I, Lilith, was demonized, like so
many of us are, when we say no to the games of the patriarchal rule that
would subjugate us. We are not here to be dominated and ruled! To hell
with their garden! Let them keep it, and their rules with it. We are not here
to bow and scrape.”
“When we come back to our ancient power and see that we can create our
own sacred garden anywhere we see fit, then no one holds sway over us. We
do not need their shackles! We have no desire for their games! At times in
your life, you will need to reclaim your freedom and leave situations that are
threatening to swallow you, body and soul. Let no one tell you that you may
not leave the garden. You have the power to create your sacred space
anywhere, to put down roots where you wish and to take them up again
when you go. Know this! Speak now of what you wish to move away from, of
what has oppressed you for far too long.”
“Speak it here in this sacred place, letting your intention for transformation
be like a seed to the earth below. Plant it deep and water it well with your
every breath.”
Lilith Affirmation
“No means no. I decide for myself and my body what is right. I will not lay
down my needs for anyone. I honor my boundaries. I embrace my sacred
sexuality. I am whole on my own. I release the need to people-please. I plant
and tend my own sacred garden. I freely put my roots wherever I desire. I am
a powerful creatrix. No one has the right to tread upon me.”
Lilith Associations
CRYSTALS Serpentine, garnet, ruby, black obsidian, carnelian, jet, malachite, snowflake
obsidian, black tourmaline, black kyanite
The Rebel, Wild Feminine, Seductress, Goddess of Sacred Sex, Spirit of Wind
ARCHETYPES and Storm
Open your fingers and uncover a seed. Holding the seed, envision what you wish
to transform. When you are ready, press it into the earth below, letting it go into
the soil.
“Feed your intention on the path forward in every action and breath. What
you have released will transform from what is no longer wanted into what
will serve your highest self. Go now and take with you the knowledge of the
great power that lives within you to manifest all things.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Lilith’s guidance and
messages with you.
SUPPLIES
Paper and pen
Take some time to relax and come into your body. You may feel called to have a
bath, light candles, or do some yoga—anything that connects you with the
present and with yourself. When you feel comfortable, write down the ways you
vow to honor your sacred sexuality. It can take some time to find the right words,
as we have been shamed for thousands of years for the expression of our
sexuality. But it may look something like this:
You can make it as specific or as general as you feel comfortable doing in this
moment. This practice is not about pushing yourself in any way; it’s about
affirming that pleasure is not evil and celebrating your unique way of
experiencing it.
Envision the way or ways you want to stop settling in your life. Write down
exactly what you wish to break free from. Tear up the paper into tiny pieces,
place it in the dish, and cover it with a little water. Place the dish in the freezer
and let the water freeze. When it is frozen, take it somewhere away from your
home and say:
Roar to the heavens and smash the ice on the ground, envisioning breaking free
from settling. As it cracks and melts, see the ties melting and the paper scattering
to the four winds, taken away by Lilith and her fierce storms.
BOUNDARY SPELL
At times, we may allow our boundaries to become trespassed by those who are
not respectful. This practice can help to secure those boundaries once more.
SUPPLIES
4 small pieces of black tourmaline
Bury the stones at four corners of your home or room, concealed from view. As
you place them, say:
SUPPLIES
Black candle; Salt; Sage; Rosemary;
Black tourmaline, smoky quartz, or black onyx
Detoxing mantra:
Surround the black candle with the salt, herbs, and crystal(s). Light the candle.
Focus on the flame and envision the candle acting like a magnet, drawing the
negative energy from you. As it flows into the candle, it is nullified and
cleansed. Practice this during each dark moon before you do other rituals such as
intention setting or divination.
10
MORRIGAN
THE PHANTOM QUEEN
GODDESS OF DEATH
LADY OF WAR
THE PHANTOM QUEEN
ORRIGAN has been known to give out her dark prophecies to any
M who seek her wisdom. She foretold the fate of all. Her consort Dagda,
or the Great God, sought her wise counsel and prophecy in the hours
before going into great battles, eager to know the outcome, which she always
gave to him.
She is connected to the dream realm and to that of nightmares, garnering both
prophetic messages in dreamtime and in waking vision alike. She sees the truth
in all things and can see all, even the end of all days.
The goddess Morrigan is a potent force for us to connect with when we wish
to see things in a new light or tap into the unseen wisdom of the world. With her
gift of prophecy, we can dive deeper into the messages we receive. She bids us to
honor our intuition and follow the call of our inner compass.
Morrigan also teaches us of death and rebirth, the cycles of life, and to have
courage in the face of the battles we fight. As sorceress, she tells us to honor our
magick and to delve deeper into the rites and spells that call to us, for there is
great power there.
As the phantom goddess, she can aid us when we need a little invisibility or
shielding in our lives, offering us her dark cloak with which to drop deeper into
the unseen.
VISUALIZATION
The Morrigan was a powerful figure during battles, lending her strength and
prophecy to those going into war. We can draw courage from this great goddess
during our own times of hardship and battle.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You are standing in a vast field, the horizon stretching in every direction.
Dusk is settling on the world. In the distance, you can hear the cry of a raven
coming into view. The large black bird perches on the ground below and
transforms into the goddess Morrigan, long black hair falling down her back and
dark eyes staring into yours, searching.
Take a moment to tell The Morrigan what you need courage for in your life.
“You have come here seeking strength for the road ahead, the path yet
unknown to you. But I see it. I see the future of all things, the outcome of
every choice.”
The Morrigan holds her hands open and manifests a gilded cup filled with liquid.
“This brew is from my sacred cauldron. This is the broth that I imbue with
courage, strength, and insight for those moving into battle. Will you take it
now for your path ahead?”
Give your answer to The Morrigan. She offers you the cup. Drink deep and feel
yourself getting stronger, more confident, and empowered to do the things you
must do.
“Your path and the things you have spoken will be supported. You have the
strength within you. You know the road to choose.”
The Morrigan motions to the skies, where a conspiracy of ravens has begun to
gather.
“My ravens whisper the secrets of the world to me. They know the hearts of all
beings and all threads of fate, no matter how unseen. Many fear them and
their dark powers. But they can bring boons as well as warning. They shall
travel with you into your world and give you a touchstone of strength on
your path ahead. They will be a guiding force of protection and will bring
you messages. Travel well, my child, and believe in your power.”
Morrigan Affirmation
Morrigan Associations
CRYSTALS Bloodstone, ruby, black tourmaline, obsidian, red agate, garnet, black onyx
SYMBOLS Raven, dog, wolf, horse, cow, sword, bow, bones, skulls, cauldron
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a
few deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take The Morrigan’s guidance
and messages with you.
DREAM/EVIL CATCHER
The Morrigan is connected deeply with dreams and nightmares, as she moves
between the realms, and with the prophecy and messages that come through
dreams. At times, less-than-pleasant dreams can plague us and the goddess
Morrigan can help to protect us against these intrusive dreams.
SUPPLIES
Hoop, ring, or pliable branch
Black string
Decorations, such as beads or natural items sacred to The Morrigan (raven feathers, sticks, or
dark stones and crystals)
If you are using a branch, carefully bend it into the shape of a hoop or tear. Tie
the ends together to secure the hoop. Tie the string to the hoop. Moving
clockwise, loop the string around the hoop every few inches. When you reach
the spot where you began, thread the string into the loops. It should begin to look
like a spider web.
Keep doing this, moving toward the center, keeping the string taut. Tie it off
when you reach the center. Decorate it as desired. Secure a string to it so you can
hang it.
Hang your dreamcatcher in a window near your bed. If you have no
windows, place it near the bed. As you hang it, say:
STING AN ENEMY
Stinging nettles have long been used in folk practices as a source of protection
against evil and dark forces. With this rite, we call upon the destructive energy of
the goddess Morrigan to sever the ill intent of others toward us and for self-
defense by sending a little sting to those who have wronged us intentionally.
SUPPLIES
Stinging nettle (wear gloves to handle)
Small candle
Knife
Small plate
A few days before you want to cast your rite, cut some nettle and place it
somewhere to dry. Use gloves to handle it, as it will sting, and keep it out of
reach of children and animals.
When you are ready, carve the name of the person you wish to sting into the
candle and place it on the plate. Sprinkle the nettles around the candle and say:
When the candle burns out, dispose of the puddle of cooled wax and the herbs
far away from you. Dried stinging nettle can also be sprinkled anywhere that
protection is desired, such as near homes, near doorways, or around the property.
Carry the sachet with you until you feel you have gained the answer you seek.
You can also keep it by your bed or under your pillow for prophetic dreams and
answers to your inquiry. When you have found the answer to your question, bury
the herbs in the ground in thanks and offering to the goddess Morrigan for her
help.
11
SPIDER WOMAN
THE WEAVER OF FATE
“Oh Spider Grandmother, she who spins and weaves the threads of fate,
guide me to my destiny. Lead me to the pathway that is meant for me, and
open me to the opportunities that it brings. Grant me your wisdom when I
am lost and bless me with your guidance when needed. Help me to
unravel the thread that is meant for me and help me to flourish on my
path. I am open to the blessings of the universe.”
S protection for the natural world and her children. Together with the Sun
God, she was the creatrix of the world and all beings who dwell in it. On
her loom of fate, she weaves each soul a destiny to carry on their path into the
living world. She has been called the Good Spirit among tribes and acted as their
guide in all things. She taught the people how to spin and weave, thus creating
blankets and clothing that would protect them against the deadly cold of winter
and aiding their survival. It is believed that with her web of protection, she traps
those who would do her followers harm.
Spider Grandmother brings us the medicine of honoring our path. She ties us
to our destiny and our dreams and she reminds us that our fate is a thread we
must unravel for ourselves. This can be a lonely prospect at times, but Spider
Woman grants us the strength to move forward, knowing we can cut the threads
that bind us.
Spider Grandmother offers warning to those who would imitate the path of
another or try to steal their destiny. There are great costs for these offenses. She
reminds us our greatest power lies in our own path, not in that of another.
VISUALIZATION
Spider Woman weaves the threads of fate that encircle our lives. She can help us
to unravel those threads and to embrace our path as we follow where it leads us.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
Find yourself in a dark place. The world around you is cast in shadow. You
hear a faint noise in front of you somewhere in the distance, and you move
toward it. You enter the cave of the Spider Woman. The great goddess is seated
at her loom, which hums as her thread slips through her fingers. Starlight shines
from the thread and glimmers brightly from the spools spread around her in
piles.
Grandmother Spider motions to the threads that lie in her lap and those that are
woven in front of her.
“The tapestry of life is not always smooth. The threads can become tangled
and frayed. Not everything is as simple as one would hope, but the thread
remains there, a cord guiding you to your fate. Would you like to pick up
your thread of fate and feel it with your own fingers? To connect with your
path so that you may embrace it more easily in the living world?”
“Take this thread and follow it, now. It may show you the way forward or it
may show you the past, but it is your journey. Allow that it may not be as
you thought it would be.”
Pull the thread from the spool and move it through your fingers in a rhythmic
pattern. As you move the thread, feel your deep connection to it, a resonance that
flows through your being. Notice a sense of confidence that settles upon you as
you know within your soul that you are on the right path. Impressions or images
come into your mind, giving you insight or guidance into the unseen and the
unknown. Take a few minutes to be here with the images that come to you.
The Weaver Goddess nods.
“You are well on your path, my child. As you continue forward, honor the
truth of all that you are. Root yourself in your medicine and follow your
happiness. The thread that is woven within you will always be there to guide
you.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Spider Woman’s guidance and
messages with you.
“I embrace my unique path. I move forward with ready steps toward the
future that is meant for me. I untangle the mystery of my medicine and my
purpose on this planet. I honor the truth that breathes within my soul.”
CUTTING THREADS
When we need to cut ties that bind us, whether in relationships, jobs, situations,
or wounds we need to release, this practice can help. It calls upon the weaver of
fate, Spider Woman, to aid us in severing what we no longer need in our lives.
SUPPLIES
Candle
Two small pieces of light cardboard
One 18–24 inch (46–61 cm) piece of thread
Pen; Scissors
Fireproof container
Nettle; Rosemary
Gather items and light the candle. Tie the cardboard pieces to the string, one to
each end. You can put a hole in each piece of cardboard if it makes it easier to
tie. On one of the pieces of cardboard, write your name. On the other, write what
or who you want to cut from your life. Place both in front of you, stretched out
with the candle between them, and say:
Pick up the scissors and the thread and cut the thread in the middle.
Transfer the paper and thread to the fireproof container and set them alight. Add
the herbs. When they have cooled, dispose of them away from your home.
SUPPLIES
Sacred space, near your bed, on top of a small table or dresser
Chamomile for calm; Lavender for peace; Rose for prophecy; Amethyst for peace;
Purple fluorite for protection from nightmares; Moonstone for dreaming; Selenite for peace
Collect your items and put them in a place near your bed or on your altar, where
they won’t be disturbed. You can collect all the herbs in a special bowl or shell.
Place the crystals around your altar space. Dedicate this space to dreams:
If you have questions you wish answered in dream form, write them down and
meditate on them before sleep. Leave the paper on your dream altar before bed.
SUPPLIES
White candle
Three pieces of dowel or sticks, approximately 6 inches (15 cm) long
String; Herbs, crystals, feathers, or shells (optional); Pen (optional)
Gather the items and light the candle. Spend some time thinking of the intention
you wish to weave. What is it you want to manifest into reality? Lay the sticks
over one another, forming 6 equal ends in an asterisk shape. Tie the string in the
middle to secure the sticks. Holding it tightly, weave the pieces together, going
up and over alternating sticks on the way around, and say:
Keep your intention in mind and repeat the words until you are done weaving.
Tie the end of the thread and make a loop for hanging. Decorate it as you are
called with crystals, feathers, or shells. If you feel called to, write your intention
on the hanging as well.
Hang your Intention Weaving somewhere you can see it each day and use it
as a touchstone to support your desired manifestations with intentional action.
SPELL OF DESERVING
The Spider Goddess is the weaver of fate for each being on the planet. She is
also connected with giving out what is deserved, good or bad. Eventually, we all
get back what we give. We cannot outrun the goddess of fate.
SUPPLIES
Black candle
Item signifying the person you want to be dealt their fate. It can be a paper with the name on it or
any totem you create to symbolize the person.
Black pepper
Melt the black candle, pour it onto the totem, and say:
Sprinkle the pepper onto the wax and envision the person’s fate coming back to
them, sticking to them like glue.
Bury the cooled wax and totem somewhere far away from you or burn it in
sacred fire to release it.
12
COATLICUE
EARTH MOTHER AND DEVOURER OF DARKNESS
EARTH MOTHER
SNAKE WOMAN
DEVOURER
GUARDIAN OF SOULS
Coatlicue is the Aztec earth goddess of life and death, creation and
destruction. She is depicted as having the head of a snake and wearing a
snake skirt with a necklace of bones and human hearts. She is the mother
of all gods and mortals, and she held great power in the ancient world.
She has many forms; as Tlazolteotl, she is the “eater of filth,” and humans
gave up their sins and illness to her to be consumed.
COATLICUE INVOCATION
“Earth goddess of the sacred womb, snake goddess of birth and death.
Within you all things are born and to you all things shall return. You are
both cradle and grave to us all. Grant me the transformation that lives
within you so I, too, can be reborn, renewed like the serpent to rise again
from what I strip away. To you, I give all that ails me, and I am
revitalized.”
C birth of gods and mortals with her womb and giving them eternal rest
within her body. She is the devourer of the dead, for the earth is where all
bones rest and nourish the soil for what is to grow.
She is often depicted in the form of an old woman, symbolic of the ancient
connection between the earth and the wisdom of the crone. Coatlicue is not the
usual embodiment of mothering energy, which is often depicted as kind, caring,
and compassionate. She holds the fiercer maternal energy of protection; she is
said to be the goddess who watches over the souls that pass into the realm of
spirit during childbirth.
As snake goddess, Coatlicue reminds us we are always shedding our skin,
evolving, and growing into something new. We have the power to discard what
no longer serves us to make the space for something new to grow, as we are
always part of the cycle of death and rebirth.
In her incarnation as Tlazolteotl, she devoured evil acts and thoughts of
humans and could absolve them of all wrongdoing. She took sickness and death
from humans as well, purging them of the darkness that plagues them.
The goddess Coatlicue embodies creative energy and destruction, connecting
us with the never-ending cycle of death and rebirth. She is a powerful goddess in
her connection with the mysteries of the Earth. She reminds us of the power we
can find in our connection with the natural world and the healing we can embody
when we surrender to its mystery.
VISUALIZATION
TRANSFORMATION—SHEDDING SKIN
The goddess Coatlicue is a powerful ally and support during times of great
transformation and change. By connecting with her, we can tap into the energy
of the snake and the regeneration and guidance it brings.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You find yourself in a vast cave, cradled deep within the earth. The walls are
high and there is a lot of space around you. Illuminating the clay-covered walls
are torches, casting dancing shadows on the ground. In front of you, you see the
snake-headed goddess Coatlicue.
“My child, there is great wisdom to be found in the womb of the earth. This is
the place from which all things are born and where all things return when
they die. We are one with this great planet, breathing in unison and moving
through the ages. As the Earth prospers, so do we. The snake knows this.
Each movement that it makes in its lifetime is in direct connection with the
healing and wisdom of the earth below. It knows the mystery of the soil, each
line of wisdom written on the sand. From this earthen guidance, it has
learned how to shed its skin when it becomes too tight, casting off what no
longer fits to make room for what shall grow.”
The goddess lies on the ground and bids you to join her. Lay your body on the
earth, feeling the supportive, grounding energy beneath you.
“We, too, hold the power of the ancient serpent within our bones. We have the
ability to shed our skin and rise from the belly of the earth renewed. I ask
you now, in this sacred earthen womb, to follow in the motions of the snake
goddess before you and symbolically give up the skin that no longer fits you.
Lay down what no longer has a place in your life so you may be
transformed.”
Take some time to think about what you wish to give up to the snake goddess.
When you are ready, envision what you wish to shed falling away from you,
from your body, from your heart. Let go of the relationships that hold you down,
the beliefs that cause you harm, or the limiting thought patterns that keep you
frozen. Picture them shedding from your life like snakeskin to the soil below,
which absorbs it from your life.
“Shed the old to make room for the new. All things transform. Heal within the
sacred womb and be reborn again. May the wisdom and blessings of the
snake guide you on your path forward. May you never lose your connection
with the Earth Mother.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Coatlicue’s guidance and
messages with you.
Coatlicue Affirmation
“I am connected to the Earth. I open to her healing and blessings. I shed what
no longer fits me or my life. I am ready for new opportunities and growth. I
honor the Earth and her medicine. I open to the blessings that flow toward
me in every breath.”
Coatlicue Associations
SUPPLIES
Candle
A small squash, top cut open
Small amount of dried corn or beans
Pen and paper
Place the candle, squash, and beans or corn on your altar. Light the candle and
say:
Write on the paper what you wish to be removed. Place it in the open squash and
say:
“Oh great mother of death and life,
I give to you my stress and strife.
As it is taken, I shall give
These sacred offerings; reborn I shall live.”
Take the squash outdoors to be offered back to the earth, symbolizing giving it to
the Earth Mother. Bury it and the beans and corn in offering to her, visualizing
what you wish to be removed from your life being devoured by the Earth
Mother.
SUPPLIES
Potato
Potatoes have been connected with healing since ancient times, as they contain
anti-inflammatory compounds and are absorbent. Cut the potato in half and rub
its flesh on the afflicted area. Envision the potato soothing the affiliated area and
absorbing the associated negative energy. Envision the potato getting darker as it
fills with any illness or pain from the body and say:
“Goddess Coatlicue,
Great mother and devourer of disease,
To you I offer my distress
And ask for some ease.
I banish sickness and illness from my body.
I see myself as whole, all discord dissolved.
May what ails me be devoured by you, Great Mother.
May my body be healed.”
Dispose of the potato far from yourself, preferably by burying it in the ground.
Walk away from it and don’t look back.
SUPPLIES
Bath
Epsom salt
Essential oils (optional)
Draw the bath, consciously envisioning the pooling of healing waters, calling
forward the presence and energy of the mother goddess Coatlicue. Submerge
yourself in the waters and say:
Take as much time as you desire to luxuriate in the sacred, healing waters,
tapping into the connection of all water that runs through the planet.
Gather all your items. Cut two pieces of fabric ½ inch (1.3 cm) larger than your
desired pillow size on all sides. You can make the pillow large enough to sleep
on if you feel called to, or you can create a smaller one that can be tucked under
your regular pillow. Align the two pieces of fabric with right (outside) sides
together. Stitch them together on three sides and turn the pillowcase so it is right
side out. Stuff the pillow with the cotton and the herbs and, as you stitch the
fourth side of the pillow closed, say:
MOON GODDESS
GODDESS OF DEATH
HEALER GODDESS
LADY RAINBOW
WEAVER GODDESS
Ixchel is the Mayan goddess of the moon and crone of death. She is said
to be the mother of all the Maya deities, and she controls the cycles of the
spirit from life to death. She is also connected with weaving, art, and
music, and is a force of great inspiration for all those who seek her
insight. She is often depicted as an ancient jaguar goddess and was also
called Lady Rainbow.
IXCHEL INVOCATION
I found on Isla Mujeres (Island of Women), which got its name from the
sacred statues of the goddess and women that were on the island in tribute to
her. The ruins of her temple still overlook the sea from the southern tip of the
island.
The Lady of the Moon took the Sun as her lover, but he turned out to be a
jealous partner. He was cruel to her, accused her of unfaithfulness with the
Morning Star and kicked her out of his palace. Eventually he apologized and she
returned, but the cycle repeated. One day, Ixchel had enough. She left for good,
preferring to spend her time in the sky alone, away from the jealous gaze of her
former lover the Sun. She claimed the night and traveled freely where the Sun
could not go. As such, she became a protectress of women, of childbirth, and of
the mysteries of women, guiding them and protecting them during their trials
and triumphs.
Venerated as the creation goddess, Ixchel spun the fates of the souls on earth.
She sat on her crescent-shaped throne and wove the stories of life on her great
loom. Ixchel appeared in the guise of each of the triple goddess aspects—
maiden, mother, and crone—to teach their wisdom to her followers.
Ixchel is a powerful ally when we look to connect to our own mystery and to
ancient wisdom. She reminds us we don’t have to put up with bad treatment
from a lover and that we have the power to walk away and start again in a place
where they will not bother us. Ixchel can help us weave a new life for ourselves,
one rooted in our deepest truth. As moon goddess, she tells us to connect with
the lunar cycles to manifest the life we want and helps to guide us in the unseen.
VISUALIZATION
THE SACRED TEMPLE OF IXCHEL—GATHERING THE WISDOM OF
THE GODDESS
Step forward to the great stone altar. The goddess motions to its moonlit stones.
“Here on my altar, all truth is known. Hold out your hands and capture the
wisdom of the moonlight. If it is healing that you wish, pour the moonlight
where you want healing. If you desire clarity, think of what you wish for
insight into and pour the moonlight on your brow and eyes.”
Hold out your hands and capture the translucent moonlight in your cupped
fingers. The light pools in your palms. Raise your hands and pour it over you.
“As the moonlight pours over you, all things are renewed. All is transformed
by the goddess of the moon. If there are any troubles that you wish to leave
behind, set them upon my sacred altar.”
Ixchel Affirmation
Ixchel Associations
If you have any fears, troubles, or issues you want to leave behind, place them
on the altar. The goddess raises her hands in the moonlight and the issues
dissolve.
“Take my magic with you into the world, knowing that I am in every
moonbeam and rainbow to guide and help you. Fear not the unknown, for
the truth of all things is just a moonbeam illumination away.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a
few deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Ixchel’s guidance and
messages with you.
New Moon Focus: Setting intentions and goals, focusing on dreams, and setting
action steps. Renewal and rebirth. Nurturing, creation, dreaming.
Practice—Intention Setting: On the night of the new moon, write down your
intentions for the upcoming month. Word them in such a way that they are
already occurring, for example, “I am blessed with abundance” or “I easily find
myself moving in the direction of my dreams.” Write them out in a journal or
offer them to the sacred fire.
WAXING MOON (NEW MOON TO FULL MOON)
Full Moon Blessings: On the night of the full moon, light a white candle and
say:
“Full moon clarity, all things I see. My desires I seed, Goddess bring what I
need. Bless what has been and open to what shall be.”
Waning Moon Focus: Decreasing energy. Rest. Release. Letting go. Releasing
what isn’t working. Giving thanks. Reflecting, dreaming, clarity.
Practice—Release: Pay attention to what isn’t working with what you are trying
to build so you can release or shift it. If they are mental blocks or thoughts you
wish to get rid of, write them down and burn them in sacred fire. This is also a
very good phase to clear away physical clutter in the environment that can be
holding our energy back: Clean the home. Get rid of clutter. Let go of old
relationships and patterns.
CREATING MOON WATER
Creating moon water is a simple practice done during the full moon. In it, water
is left out to charge in the light of the moon, imbuing it with powerful lunar
energy. Moon water can be further enhanced by adding a crystal or two to its
waters.
SUPPLIES
Glass bowl
Water
Optional Crystals:
rose quartz (love),
citrine (abundance),
amethyst (clarity),
amazonite (healing)
Sealable container
Fill your bowl with cool, clean water. If using crystals, place them in the bowl.
Find a place where it will not be disturbed but will sit overnight in the light of
the full moon. Pick somewhere that the moon can reflect on its waters. If you
can’t, get it as close as possible. As you place your water, say:
Let the moon water gather the energy of the moon overnight. Store it in a sealed
container. Moon water can be used in many ways. You can add it to room sprays,
herbal beauty products, bath water, or humidifiers, or you could use it for
anointing.
If you use crystals to enhance your moon water with a specific vibration such
as love or abundance, avoid ingesting the moon water, as crystal fragments can
come off into the water and most crystals contain minerals that shouldn’t be
ingested.
SUPPLIES
4 carnelian
4 bay leaves
Yellow rose
White or yellow candle
Fireproof container or contained fire
Gather the items in a quiet place. Write the name of the partner on the bay
leaves. Arrange the carnelian and bay leaves around the candle. Light the candle
and sprinkle the rose petals around it. Say:
Burn the herbs and release the relationship. Support your intention by taking the
physical space you need to end the relationship and end all communication.
SUPPLIES
Something to offer the goddess, such as flower petals or a natural item of your choice
On the night of the full moon, take your chosen offering outdoors. Place it where
it won’t be disturbed in offering to the goddess and say:
GODDESS OF PROTECTION
WARRIOR OF RA
THE SACRED CAT
AST is a warrior goddess and daughter of the great sun god Ra, who sent
B her to fight some of his greatest battles against his most ferocious
enemies. Bast is also known as the protectress of Ra who keeps him safe
on his travels through the sky in his blazing chariot. She is often connected to the
goddess Sekhmet, her sister; together they were the fiercest protectresses of the
pharaohs. She, like her sister, has also thought to be the all-seeing Eye of Ra. In
ancient times, wearing a cat amulet was thought to be in devotion to her and
garnered her protection and favor. Her followers also adorned their homes with
statues of cats in her honor.
Like most goddesses, Bast has a dual nature: One side is connected with
mothers and fertility. The other is associated with war and battle. Offerings were
made to her for a healthy pregnancy, childbirth, and protection from illness and
disease.
Bast brings the energy of fierce protection into our lives. This warrior
goddess reminds us that we have the right to protect ourselves and that we need
not stand down to anyone. She tells us to embody our fierce power and to roar
when our boundaries are crossed. Bast tells us to stand up for what we believe
and never settle for less than we deserve.
To connect with the watchful and protective energy of the goddess Bast and
with the prosperity she brings, place a statue of her familiar, the cat, in a
prominent location in your home. This way, the Eye of Ra can always be a
fixture of protection.
VISUALIZATION
“I am the goddess Bast, and I have come to your sacred space today to offer
you my protection. Once I had the face of a lioness, but over time I changed
into the cat. Many said it was because I was domesticated, even though my
powers as a goddess grew. People are so blind; they only see the obvious. I
transformed into something that could move about unnoticed. What better
way to protect my people and to be by their side than to take the form of a
cat? So, as felines were invited into the home, I went with them, bringing my
magic and protection with me.”
Bast comes closer. Notice there is an ethereal glow in the room, a light
surrounding all that you see. The light shield gets bigger. Watch as the wall of
protective energy flows outside of the room and surrounds the whole building,
which is now protected by the goddess Bast.
Offer your thanks to the feline goddess. She dissolves into the light shield that
surrounds your home.
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a
few deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Bast’s guidance and
messages with you.
Matters Associated with Bast
Protection of self, house, and home
Honoring cats or familiars
Security and safety
Protection against malevolent spirits
Promoting our wellbeing
Drawing abundance
Sexuality
Pregnancy and child protection
Tapping into our own magic
Crafting potions
Bast Affirmation
Bast Associations
Gather your items where you will not be disturbed. Place the candle in the center
of the area in a fireproof container. Sit by the candle. Position the four stones
around you, spaced equally. Envision a circle being formed by the stones,
creating a protective barrier around you, and say:
This can be a good time to do other rites; for example, you could cast the
protection circle before doing intentions on the new moon or blessings on the
full moon. When you are finished, say:
PROTECTION POWDER
You can use this simple protection powder as an offering herb or sprinkle it
outside the home, around the home or yard, or around the altar for some quick
protection. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Substitute or omit any items
you don’t have on hand.
SUPPLIES
Mustard seed, Pepper, Salt, Sage, Rosemary, Thistle, Lavender, Mint
Bowl
As you gather the ingredients and combine them in a bowl, hold the intention of
protection in your mind. Envision, with each herb or spice you add, a shield
forming. Sprinkle the finished powder where you want protection and, as you
do, envision a protective wall being summoned. You can also use the powder in
small bowls around the home, out of reach of anyone. Use small jars or bottles
with closed lids if they will be near children or pets.
Mix all the ingredients together. Beginning at the northern part of your yard,
sprinkle a little of the mixture and say:
Move counterclockwise (to the west next). Repeat the process at each direction
point until you are back in the north. Then say:
“This spell is done, my will is cast.
Protect me now, secure it fast.
All ill away from [me/this place] goes.
Scattered away as the four winds blow.”
You can also sprinkle some powder around doors or windows, making sure to
keep it away from children, pets, or plants.
SUPPLIES
Tape you can write on
Marker
Biodegradable balloon
Pin
Write the name of the offender who is stealing your work, truth, or voice on the
tape. Blow up the balloon and place the tape on it. Hold the balloon, visualizing
the party that has wronged you, and say:
Pop the balloon with the pin and envision the power that this party had being
obliterated. Hold the intention for their hold upon you to be broken and for
karma to take care of their treachery. If it is a biodegradable balloon, bury it far
away from you.
Make sure, in any case where someone is stealing your work, that you seek
legal advice for protecting your creations.
15
PELE
GODDESS OF SACRED FIRE
FIRE GODDESS
MOTHER
GODDESS OF VOLCANOES
FIRE OF CREATION
Pele is the volcano and fire goddess of Hawaii, said to live within the
volcano Kilauea on the Big Island. Known for her fiery temper, she is
called “she who shapes the sacred land” because she devours and reshapes
the terrain with the lava she expels. She is the embodiment of the island,
with her body being the earth. She is known for taking the form of a
beautiful young woman who can seduce anyone, but there are legends
that paint her as an old woman who wanders the island in the company of
a white dog—or sometimes in the form of the dog. Some who live on the
island say they see her there to this day, most often in Kilauea National
Park.
PELE INVOCATION
“Goddess Pele, your fire I invoke—your flow of ancient fury, death, and
rebirth. May my life be reborn, shaped anew, carved from the stones of
the past. May all obstacles in my path be melted away and flow from my
life. May the flames of creation spark illumination and inspiration in my
world and flourish.”
HE GODDESS PELE took many lovers, one of whom was the husband
T of her sister Na-maka-o-Kaha’i. She fled the anger of her sister, who
came after her when she discovered their infidelity. Pele tried to create a
new home away from Na-maka’s wrath, but her sister flooded any land that Pele
tried to create. Pele was finally successful in her creation of a home when she
made a mountain that was great enough to withstand her sister’s tirades, Mauna
Loa.
Pele’s emotion and anger could shake the Island of Hawaii to its foundations.
She teaches us about the power we have at our core—power to move mountains
with our fierce might and reshape the world as we see fit. She is connected to
element of fire and calls to us to embrace the divine flame that burns within us.
Pele embodies destruction and rebirth, as she has the power to destroy the old
and reshape the land into something new. When we connect to her great energy,
we see how we can move mountains in our own world and create the landscape
we desire.
VISUALIZATION
Pele is a powerful force that connects us to our inner fire. We can work with her
when we feel a disconnection between our inspiration and empowerment,
rekindling our sacred fire.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You find yourself in a lush, tropical landscape on the side of a towering
mountain. Vibrant green leaves surround you and the trees sway in the ocean
breeze. Move up the mountain. As you walk, the lush green gives way to the
crater of a volcano. You see the goddess Pele standing in front of you.
For centuries, we have been taught that our fierce flame needs to be dimmed,
our voices and desires rendered a whisper in the ever-growing sea of
tyrannical rule. Our fury at the corruption of the world has been deemed
insanity, downgraded from outrage to emotional tirades. But no more. The
time has come to take back our power, to embrace the fire that burns within,
and to live with the passion that we were born. Come, ignite the flame.
Connect with the energy of my volcano, of the fire that burns deep inside the
earth. Let it flow within you; let it empower your ancient wisdom to rise. See
yourself as a flame, my child. No harm will come to you, but you will ignite
your power.”
You glow red like an ember, stoking the fire within. With each breath you
burn brighter, feeling yourself tapping into empowerment. The flames rise
higher. Feel any blocks within you melt away. When you are finished, the fire
diminishes and is absorbed back into your body.
“Let all that no longer serves you burn away and let inspiration be born in its
place. You carry within you the infinite spark of the universe. Let it guide
you on your path forward. Know that your power is in your deepest truth;
that is why they try to take it from you and silence it. Let your truth burst
free.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Pele’s guidance and messages
with you.
Pele Affirmation
Pele Associations
SUPPLIES
Elastic cord
Lava beads, any size
Essential oils, such as bergamot, cedar, orange, or peppermint (optional)
Gather the items. Decide on your intention and what you want to attract into
your life. Keep your focus on your intention as you work. Cut the cord and string
onto it the number of beads you’ve chosen. As you place each bead on the sting,
say:
Tie the cord into a bracelet when you have reached the desired length. Envision
what you desire coming into your life when you wear it. If you feel called, you
can anoint your beads with essential oil to enhance manifestation and add the
healing energy of the oils to the practice. You can use the beads as prayer beads
as well, reciting an intention to Pele for each bead as you envision what you
wish to manifest. You can repeat the mantra above as you pray upon each bead
or you can say something specific, such as “I manifest soul-connected love into
my life” or, “Abundance flows to me in every breath.”
CALL TO ACTION
Pele is connected to primal action and in her action great transformation and
movement take place. In this practice, we connect with her vital energy to invoke
transformation and action in our own lives or to move things when they are
stagnant.
SUPPLIES
2 or 3 carnelian stones
2 or 3 citrine stones
Orange peel, Lemon peel, Dried ginger
Red and/or orange candle
Pin
Gather the items. Place the stones, peel, and ginger around the candle. Using the
pin, carve into the candle what action you want taken or what you need moved in
your life. If there is a block preventing you from moving forward, for example,
write how you want it removed. Light the candle, sprinkle a little ginger on the
flame, and say:
To further invoke the fierce energy of Pele, stomp on the ground and raise the
energy in the surrounding area, just as Pele shakes the ground. Envision all
blocks being shattered and the path for action now being clear in front of you.
SUPPLIES
Fire
Paper and pencil
Envision what you want released leaving your life for good as it is consumed by
the flames.
Gather the items and light the candle. Envision what you want to bring into your
world. Shape the clay into a representation of your intention. You can either
form it into a totem or object of your desire or into a disk marked with symbols,
creating a sigil representing what you want to attract into your life. There is no
wrong way to create your desire. As you create it, envision the life you wish to
embody or picture what you want as part of your life.
“Goddess Pele, as you reshape the land, so I reshape my life. I carve my desires
with my own hands. I see all things as possible and I know that I have the
power to create anything that I wish. My world is mine to build. So it is.”
You can add other items to your desire, such as crystals or other natural things,
to decorate it and further enhance your manifestation. Allow the clay to dry.
Keep it where you can see it each day as a touchstone of your intention.
If you feel called to, you can further intensify the manifestation power by
creating a vision board of your intentions. Find images or phrases that embody
your desire and affix them to a piece of paper or board. Place the vision board on
your wall where you can see it each day.
16
CERRIDWEN
PRIESTESS OF THE CAULDRON AND GODDESS OF AVALON
GODDESS OF AVALON
LADY OF THE MOON
PRIESTESS OF THE GREAT CAULDRON
THE WHITE LADY
“Beyond the horizon, a mist gathers around this ancient isle, protecting it
from eyes that do not have the sight to see her great mystery. My great
cauldron is the source of these mists filled with the waters of Avalon; they
rise from my magick and protect this land. You are here because the ways
are known to you, written on the marrow of your bones. You have come here
seeking the guidance of the great cauldron, insight into the unseen.”
Cerridwen motions for you to approach the cauldron. Move beside it and stare
into its depths.
“The cauldron is different things to different beings, and each one of us gleans
a unique medicine from these waters. Come, stare into the depths. Seek the
wisdom of what has brought you here. Do you desire answers? Clarity?
Inspiration? Within the sacred waters, all things are possible. Ask the
cauldron and take the waters unto yourself.”
Stare into the cauldron, which reflects back to you the moonlight overhead, your
reflection, and Cerridwen at your side. The water changes and you see images
float across the surface, flowing from one into the next—a series of symbols and
shapes that answer your inquiry. Take a few moments to allow the messages to
flow to you. Cerridwen motions for you to scoop some of the water into your
hand and drink. Follow her lead.
Cerridwen Affirmation
Cerridwen Associations
Goddess of Avalon. Lady of the Moon. Priestess of the Great Cauldron. The
ARCHETYPES White Lady.
SYMBOLS White sow, cauldron, cattle, dog, hawk, cat, grain, crescent moon
“The mystery of the cauldron is known only to a few, and you have tasted of
her waters. They hold the magic of Avalon, the insight into all things. Take
this knowledge with you when you go, and follow the inspiration that it
brings, as it will flow into all aspects of your world.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Cerridwen’s guidance and
messages with you.
HONORING ANCESTORS
The goddess Cerridwen honors the cycles of life within her sacred cauldron,
stirring the tides of death and rebirth. In her ancient wisdom, she is connected to
the ancestors and their great knowledge. With this ritual, we honor those who
have gone before us into the spirit realm.
SUPPLIES
Photos and mementos of loved ones
Candles (optional)
Offerings of food and drink
Set up a sacred place to display photos of your loved ones and sacred items of
remembrance. Add candles, if you feel called to, or anything that you feel honors
your loved ones. If you wish, you can say something, such as:
When you are finished, leave offerings of food and drink and have some yourself
in celebration and remembrance of those who have ventured ahead into the spirit
realm.
INSPIRATION RITUAL
Those who seek inspiration often go to Cerridwen to gain her insight and clarity.
This practice can help to inspire us to say the right words, follow a new path, or
try new things.
SUPPLIES
White candle
Bowl
Fresh water
Rosemary, Lemon peel
Symbolic supplies (if specific; see directions)
Peppermint or lemon tea
Natural linen cloth
Jar with lid
Gather the items and light the candle. Pour the water in the bowl and add
rosemary and lemon peel. Say:
Strain the herbs and peel from the water using the cloth and jar. If you looking
for inspiration for a specific type of creation, such as art, gardening, or writing,
add your art supplies, trowel, or pen and paper, for example, around the candle.
Use the water to anoint your items and imbue them with inspiration. If you
are looking for general inspiration, anoint your brow and third eye with the
water. Say:
Make some tea for yourself and relax. Take some time to allow inspiration to
flow. Thank the goddess for her inspiration and insight.
CERRIDWEN’S HEX
When a banishing or binding isn’t enough, you may need to employ a hex on
someone who wishes you great harm. Hexes are powerful and not to be used
lightly. But, when others come at us with harm in their minds or hearts,
sometimes hexes are the only way to be rid of them.
SUPPLIES
Black candle
Pins
Carve the name of the person you want to hex onto the candle. Light the candle.
As it burns, stick a pin in it and say:
Let the candle burn down. Envision being protected from the person’s energy
and that, as the wax melts into a pile, so does their power. Once the candle burns
out, let the wax cool. Bury the wax and pins somewhere far away from you.
HALT GOSSIP
If you are the victim of gossip and other methods have failed to stop it, you can
ask for help from the goddess Cerridwen.
SUPPLIES
Candle
Paper and pen
Scissors
Tape
Cloves
Fireproof container
Gather your items and light the candle. On the paper, draw the figure of a person.
It doesn’t have to be exact; it can be in the shape of a gingerbread person. Give
the little figure eyes, a nose, and a mouth. Cut out the figure. With the pen, write
the name of the gossiper on it. Cover the figure’s mouth with a piece of tape and
say:
THE DESTROYER
JUDGE OF HUMANKIND
PUNISHER OF RA
EYE OF RA
SCARLET LADY
GODDESS OF THE SUN
Sekhmet is the retribution goddess of Egypt. She is often called the Eye of
Ra and depicted with the head of a lioness and holding an ankh, the
symbol of life. She is known as a powerful warrior and fire goddess. It is
said that when the Egyptian god Ra was angry with mankind and in his
frustration ripped out his own eye and threw it at them, it became the
Goddess of Judgment, Sekhmet. She passes the sentences Ra hands out to
humankind. She is the eye that sees all; nothing escapes her sight. In this
way, she can judge all beings, as she knows all things.
SEKHMET INVOCATION
WISDOM OF SEKHMET
The goddess Sekhmet is a powerful ally for gaining deeper insight. As the Eye
of Ra, she sees all; nothing is hidden from her gaze. We can connect with her
when we wish to gain deeper insight and wisdom.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You find yourself in the middle of a vast desert, the bright sun shining down
on you. Walk forward on the hot sand toward a small, palm-lined oasis in front
of you. Enter the oasis. You are met by the goddess Sekhmet. She is tall and
stately with the head of a lioness, wearing the sun as a disk on her crown.
“Then my guidance you shall have. Speak now to me all that you wish clarity
on. Tell me your fears and your doubts. Speak now to the Goddess.”
Take some time and tell the goddess Sekhmet what you wish clarified in your
life. She nods her lioness head and motions to the sun disc she wears.
Take some time and listen to what Sekhmet says to you. Open yourself to the
messages that flow from her all-seeing wisdom and insight.
“Take my wisdom back with you, away from the desert and into your life. Pay
heed, for more messages may unfold for you. Be aware, for my eye is
everywhere.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Sekhmet’s guidance and
messages with you.
Matters Associated with Sekhmet
Destruction
Channeling righteous anger
Awakening
Protection of women and childbearing
Judgment or legal matters
Action
Sekhmet Affirmation
Sekhmet Associations
CRYSTALS Tiger’s eye, cat’s eye, leopard skin jasper (jaguar stone), topaz, sunstone
The Destroyer. Judge of Humankind. Punisher of Ra. Eye of Ra. Scarlet Lady.
ARCHETYPES Goddess of the Sun.
SUPPLIES
Something to symbolize what you wish to move away from
Scissors (optional)
Destroy the symbolic item with scissors and/or your hands. Shred it and say:
Discard whatever remains in an appropriate manner that gets it far away from
you. Bid farewell to the past and walk away. Feed your intentions to move on
from the past by supporting your goal with your choices: Look for a new job or a
new home. Set boundaries. Make the decisions that feed your intentions.
Gather your items and light the candle. Write down who or what you believe has
cursed you, and then fold the paper away from you and seal it with some drips of
wax. With the pin, carve the Eye of Ra or other eye symbol onto the wax seal
and say:
“I bind this curse. It will do no worse; reverse, reverse. I release this curse.
All harm will disperse, as I speak this verse; reverse, reverse. I release this
curse.”
Take the paper to a place, preferably not on your own property, where you can
safely and legally burn and bury it. Dig a grave to bury the curse, burn the paper
in the container, and say:
Once the paper is burned and only ash remains, drop them into the hole and bury
them. Say farewell to your curse and walk away, never looking back.
SUPPLIES
Pen and paper, if desired
Offering
For this practice, speak the truth of your heart. Identify where you need
favorable judgment, and speak it to the goddess Sekhmet. For example:
Hold the vision of the outcome that you desire. Give thanks to the goddess for
her help and leave her an offering.
SUCCESS RITUAL
Sekhmet is connected with the sun and fire energy. She is a deity of action, of
getting things done and moving things forward. We can tap into this energy
when we seek success.
SUPPLIES
6 sunstones
Red, orange, or yellow candle
Pin
Arrange the sunstones equally spaced around the candle, forming a sun shape.
Carve the candle with a sun sigil. Light the candle. Envision the success you
want. This can be in a business, a specific situation, or anywhere you need
success. Say:
Carry the sunstones with you as a touchstone for your intention or keep them in
a place where you can see them often, such as by your bed or upon a sacred altar.
18
DURGA
WARRIOR GODDESS OF STRENGTH
WARRIOR GODDESS
PROTECTIVE MOTHER
GODDESS OF STRENGTH
URGA was created by the gods to destroy a buffalo demon no one else
D could vanquish. Even the strongest gods were no match for it, but Durga
destroyed it. She can also be called upon to get rid of unwanted internal
forces such as jealousy or negativity.
Known as warrior goddess of strength, she is also called Durga Maa
(mother). She is connected with death and rebirth in her roles as destroyer and
protective mother.
Durga is also connected with truth. She calls us to root ourselves deeply in all
aspects of our authenticity. As the slayer of demons, she reminds us we need to
be present and in the moment to fight the battles that rage, to face our fears, and
to have courage even in the face of the unknown.
On her fierce tiger, Durga bids us to take back our power and our voice. The
time has come to rise up and roar, she reminds us. She brings us strength when
we feel powerless. She is an avatar of fierce feminine energy, telling us to never
give up and that there is always a way to defeat and transcend what blocks us on
the path forward. She is the perfect goddess to work with when we need
motherly protection from the world while we set out to live our deepest truth.
Durga wants us to answer the call to lead, to rise up and follow our deepest truth.
Navaratri, meaning nine nights, is a festival that celebrates Shakti, or sacred
energy of the divine feminine. The nine forms of the goddess Durga are
worshiped during Navaratri, which is also called Durga Puja.
VISUALIZATION
“Greetings, child. I am Durga Maa, protectress and warrior mother. You have
come to me when your path is uncertain, when the road ahead is plagued
with obstacles. You have the power to overcome anything; know that. There
is untapped courage that flows within you, and we shall access it now.”
She motions for you to climb behind her on the tiger. Follow her lead and get on
the great golden tiger.
“When you ride Durga’s Tiger, there is nothing that you can’t do.”
She laughs, and the tiger moves quickly, launching forward across the plains. As
you move, notice how free, empowered, and confident you feel. The wind is on
your skin and the strength of the goddess surrounds you.
“You can overcome and rise above all fears, my child. Durga and her tiger of
strength can help you to leap any canyon.”
As she says this, you come to a great ravine, and in one leap, the tiger bounds
over the chasm. You have no fear, no worries about it not working out. You
know everything will work out. The goddess and her tiger stop on the other side
of the ravine, and she helps you to the ground.
“Find me and my great tiger when you need to connect with empowerment.
And never forget the courage that flows within you.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Durga’s guidance and
messages with you.
Durga Affirmation
Durga Associations
PLANTS & Sacred fig, banyan, sacred lotus, butterfly pea, hibiscus, arjun tree, correa,
OILS mango, coconut
EXPRESSING ANGER
Society teaches us we need to bottle up our anger, appear pleasant, and keep
fierce emotions hidden. This can cause stress, sickness, and even death.
Sometimes it can be hard for us to express our powerful feelings, but the
goddess Durga can help. Here are ways that we can connect with and express our
anger.
Yell it out. Go to a place where you will not be disturbed. This can be outside,
somewhere you are alone in your home, or anywhere that you feel comfortable.
Now, yell. Express the anger that is bubbling. Often, we need an outlet for our
rage. Voicing it in a way that we are usually told we need to silence can help us
to begin to process what is behind the anger. You can also envision telling the
person with whom you are angry how you feel. This can help you connect with
where your anger lies and aid in expression.
Take the pressure off. Do an activity that gets you into your body. This isn’t to
silence your anger, but it helps move the excess energy so you can tap into the
anger’s root cause. Dancing, singing, exercise, yoga, or walking, for example,
can help.
Put it into words. Once you have taken the pressure off, it’s time to tap into the
root cause of your anger and put it into words. If you have a hard time finding
the words, write it out first. Take some time to journal your anger.
Speak it. If you are angry with someone, you need to tell them why. Once you
have connected to the root of what is upsetting you, you can more easily speak
your truth. Formulate what you want to tell them and be honest with how you are
feeling.
You can also receive help from the goddess Durga by lighting a red candle and
saying:
SHIELD OF POWER
The goddess Durga has ridden her fierce tiger into battle brandishing swords,
knives, and lances from her many hands. She also holds a shield to protect
herself and her followers from harm. In this practice, we use the shield of Durga
to block the intentions of others and take back our power.
SUPPLIES
Candle
Something reflective that is easy to hold away from you,
such as a compact mirror,
a piece of metal,
a piece of glass, or the lid of a pot
Something to squish, such as a grape on a plate
Carve the name of the person or organization that you need shielding from onto
the candle. Light the candle. Hold the reflective item in your hands, point it
toward the candle, and say:
“Shield of Durga, protect me now.
Lend me your power as I will not bow.
I will not break for those who wish
And those who try, their wills I squish.
With my shield held high, I will not fall.
Durga Maa, your power I call.
Reflect their evil back for them to see.
As I will it, so shall it be.”
Squish the grape and envision the will of your enemy toward you thwarted.
Discard the item away from you. Keep your shield near you, pointed outwards
toward harm.
LEADERSHIP RITUAL
Durga connects us with our truth and our empowerment. She asks us to step into
our power and lead from this place. With this ritual, we can connect deeper with
our leadership role when we are called to take charge.
SUPPLIES
Red candle
Light the candle. Envision the leadership role you are stepping into or the one
you want to take on and say:
THE SORCERESS
THE WITCH
THE PRIESTESS
Circe (or Kirke) is the Greek goddess of sorcery, magick, rituals, and
spellcraft. She is the daughter of the sun god Helios and the Oceanid
nymph Perse. Sometimes she is said to be the daughter of Hecate, goddess
of magick. In most of her myths, she was banished to the island of Aeaea
by her father, left to craft her spells and rituals in solitude as punishment
for her disobedience.
CIRCE INVOCATION
“Circe, lend me your magick so that I can protect myself against those who
would do me harm. Grant me your power so that I, too, can offer
retribution to those who would push their will upon me. Gift me your
strength, so that I can stand alone in my power and cultivate my deeper
truth. Let me acknowledge the sorceress that flows in my veins and
embrace the medicine of all that I am.”
IRCE was a passionate and wild feminine force who has pursued lovers
C voraciously with her seductive advances. When jilted, she would often
angrily change their forms into animals. She loved to transform humans,
especially men, into beasts. She is said to carry a magical wand or staff that
enhances her sorcery. Circe is a powerful feminine aspect of freedom, sacred
magick, and passion. She lives freely, crafting her spells and potions as she sees
fit. She was not destroyed by her banishment; it made her stronger. She is known
for her transformation and illusion spells and her knowledge of the magic in
every herb.
Circe swiftly sought retribution for the harm that others would visit upon her.
When men tried to push their will on her, she transformed them into beasts with
her powerful sorcery. In the myth of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, she turned his
companions into pigs for trespassing on her island and only he was spared. In the
book Circe by Madeline Miller, she transformed them because they found out
she lived alone and intended to rape her. Odysseus petitioned her to turn them
back in exchange for his staying with her for a time. Together they had three
children over the years.
Though her punishments are often thought harsh, Circe teaches us to stand up
for our rights, using our power to protect ourselves. We are not here to be
trespassed by the will of others. We need to stand our ground and say no.
VISUALIZATION
In most myths, Circe was banished to live a life alone on the island of Aeaea as
punishment for her actions. This retribution was an attempt to silence her power,
but her power grew in her solitude. On her sacred island, she cultivated a deep
knowledge of magick, plants, and spells. There may be times when we walk a
solitary path, but we too can come out of it more powerful than ever and reclaim
our own magick.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You find yourself on a tall, vast cliff overlooking the ocean. There is nothing
on the horizon in front of you; it melts into the sky. Turn around and find
yourself on a lush island with a small hut in the distance. As you walk toward
the small cabin, a woman with wild hair and eyes dark as the seas emerges.
“Welcome to the island of Aeaea. I am the sorceress Circe. They were afraid of
my magick, and they banished me to this place, hoping to kill my spirit with
solitude and dull my magick with their wrath. But they failed spectacularly.
You cannot diminish the power of the sorceress with loneliness; it merely
sharpens her blade and hones her skills. At times, each of us must walk the
path of our practice in solitude. When we learn to tap into our inner
knowing and embody the power of the sorceress, there is nothing and
nowhere that they can place us where we will not thrive. Come, stand with
me and root yourself deep in your own power!”
Stand with Circe and follow her as she raises her hands to the sky.
Say the words with her and feel a surge of power filling you. Feel yourself
connecting deeper to ancient knowledge and the secrets of the Earth.
“Come here anytime you feel the need to tap into your strength. I will always
be here, crafting my magic and growing in strength. Never forget the power
that flows in your veins, for it is within you always.”
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a few
deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Circe’s guidance and
messages with you.
Circe Affirmation
“I protect myself from those who wish me ill. I guard against those who would
trespass my boundaries. I stand up to those who would bend my will to fit
theirs. I tap into the magick that flows within my veins. I am powerful. I
cultivate great wisdom in my times of solitude.”
Circe Associations
To clear your sacred space, light some sage and sweep it through the air,
envisioning the impurities dissipating. If you can’t use smoke, use an infusion of
moon water placed in a spray bottle with a few clearing crystals, such as citrine
or rutilated quartz. Or, pass a piece of selenite or quartz and through the air.
Place selenite around the room, for example a small piece tucked above the door
trim, for continued cleansing. Optionally, say:
Make a dedication to your sacred space to charge it for what you want to
accomplish. For example:
POPPET SPELL
Poppets are humanesque forms created as an effigy of a person for the intent of
spellcraft. Use these forms in either protective or banishing rituals; the poppet is
imbued with something personal from the individual intended or, in self-directed
blessings or manifestations, crafted in one’s own image.
Light the candle. Shape a person out of the dried grass. It doesn’t have to be
perfect. Gather the bundle and tie off a section for the head. Tie another bundle
together to form the arms and attach them to the main body. Affix the tag to the
poppet. Say:
Burn the item in a fire and offer the herbs to the flame as well.
Light the candle. Trace a gingerbread person shape onto the cloth, cut it out, and
stitch it together. Stuff the poppet with batting, herbs, and crystals, and affix your
tag. You can also write down what you wish to draw to you on a ribbon and tie it
to the poppet. Say:
Keep the poppet somewhere safe where you can cast it positive intentions and
add more ribbons of desire when needed. For example, you could keep it on your
altar or somewhere you will see it often, such as in your bedroom.
PROTECTION SALT
Protection salt is an easy-to-create substance you can use in rituals, protection
rites, spells, and whenever you need protection. You can craft it during the full
moon and leave it to charge in the moonlight.
SUPPLIES
Anise, Bay leaf, Fennel, Rosemary, Sage
Mortar and pestle (or blender)
Bowl
Sea salt
Airtight jar or container
Black candle
Pin
Grind the herbs until fine in a mortar and pestle or blender. If you don’t feel
called to grind them, crush them into smaller pieces. Transfer them to a bowl.
Add salt and combine. Light the candle and say:
Place protective salt in the jar to store until needed. If you feel called to, drip
some candlewax on the top of the jar lid. When it has cooled slightly, carve a
protective symbol, such as an eye, two crossed spears, or the protection rune
Algiz , in it. (Algiz is a Y-shaped trident or upside down peace sign.)
SHATTERING ILLUSIONS
Circe is a powerful sorceress with the ability to change anyone into any form she
desires, controlling and manipulating illusion as she saw fit. In this ritual, we
will let our illusions take the form of ice and shatter that which has frozen us or
blocked our pathway.
SUPPLIES
Water
Small freezer-safe container
Pin or carving tool
Pour the water into the container and freeze it. When it is solid, carefully etch
what you wish to shatter upon it. This can be any illusion you hold, such as the
illusion of your powerlessness or an illusion you hold in a relationship. When
you have finished etching, say:
Break the ice on the ground and allow it to melt away. Envision the illusion
shattering and melting away.
20
YEMAYA
GODDESS OF THE SACRED WATERS
The goddess Yemaya is the Yoruban Queen of the Sea. She is considered
the Mother of All and a protectress of women and children. Connected to
the energy of the moon, she is the keeper of the divine feminine mysteries
and cycles of the womb.
YEMAYA INVOCATION
“Oh lady of the sacred waters, to you and through you all life flows. You,
who cradle all within a mother’s arms. You, who hold the sacred feminine
mysteries within your dark womb. I surrender all that no longer serves me
to your seas and embrace your blessings. I release all that weighs me
down to your waters. Within your sacred seas, I am reborn, cleansed of all
I no longer need.”
HOUGH her roots are in Africa, Yemaya was brought to the colonial
At times in our lives, there can be so much weighing on us that it becomes too
much to bear. The goddess Yemaya can be a powerful force for helping us let go
of what burdens us.
Lie down in a safe, comfortable place and take a few deep, centering breaths.
Close your eyes and relax your body.
You are standing on a beautiful beach, the ocean waves lapping gently at your
feet. The water stretches out toward the horizon, blending sea and sky into a
vibrant tapestry of blue. The sun is shining, and the birds are singing. Feel the
calm energy flowing through you.
A figure among the waves beckons to you. Move into the sea toward her. The
ocean feels wonderful against your skin and you can move effortlessly through
the waves. You find yourself in the company of the goddess Yemaya, her bright
eyes sparkling, pearls shining in her midnight hair, and beads of water sparkling
like jewels upon her dark skin.
“My child, you have come here with the weight of the world upon your
shoulders. Your burdens are heavy, but the Mother of All Waters can help
you release what drags you down.”
“Here in these divine waters, all is healed; all is taken away. All that no longer
serves and all that drains you is taken away.”
Yemaya opens her arms wider and wider, and she seems to blend into the
horizon, her arms becoming the horizon.
Lie back into the water and float effortlessly on the surface of the sea. You feel
weightless, and you can feel stress flow from your body.
Yemaya Affirmation
Yemaya Associations
PLANTS &
OILS Water lily, moonflower, lotus, reeds
Queen of the Sea. Mother of All. Guardian of Women. Protectress. Lady of the
ARCHETYPES Moon.
Shell, mermaid, waves, fish, driftwood, crescent moon, salt, conch shell, white
SYMBOLS flowers, doves
“Surrender. Let go. Release all that is weighing you down. I now take away all
that weighs heavily upon you. In my sacred waters, you are healed anew. If
you have anything specific you wish to be taken from you, speak it to me.”
Take a few minutes and tell Yemaya what you wish to surrender to her waters.
“All that was heavy is now lighter. All that was dark is now brighter. Come to
me anytime you wish to be cleansed and reborn.”
Walk back toward the shore, feeling light and at peace after your connection
with Yemaya.
Bring your attention back to your body, slowly open your eyes, and take a
few deep breaths. As you step back into your day, take Yemaya’s guidance and
messages with you.
SUPPLIES
Shower
Vessel with which to hold water, such as a pitcher (optional)
When you are under the flowing water of the shower, close your eyes if it is safe
to do so, ensuring that you have proper footing. Feel the water flowing down
your head, your back, and your body. Envision the sacred waters of Yemaya
pouring over and through you, clearing away anything cluttering your energy.
Picture the water clearing away blocked energy from your chakra points and
from your body, leaving shimmering light in its place. Envision the waters taking
everything that is no longer wanted down to the ground and pouring it away. If
you do not have a shower, this can be done in the bath with a vessel to pour the
water over your head.
SUPPLIES
Beach stone
Natural ink, such as charcoal from a fire or another rock with which to etch (optional)
Go to the beach and find a stone that calls to you. Hold it in your hand and pour
into the stone the intention of what you wish to be rid of in your life. It can be a
belief, a problem, or a bad habit, for example—anything weighing you down.
Focus on it for a few minutes. If you feel called to, write a keyword on the stone
in natural ink.
When you have infused the stone with your intention, say:
Throw the stone into the water as far as you can, envisioning the issue going
with it, leaving you feelings lighter. Focus on the feeling of letting go and
leaving behind what you want to release. Offer thanks to the goddess Yemaya
with a natural offering.
SUPPLIES
Sandy beach
Stick
Natural offering
Find a stick and go down to the beach. Stand at the water’s edge and form a
picture in your mind of what you want to release from your life. It can be
anything from a habit to negative thoughts. Use the stick to write on the sand
what you want to release to Yemaya and say:
Watch as Yemaya’s waters come up to the shore and consume what you wish to
release. With each wave dissolving the words, envision your issue flowing into
the sea, into the arms of Yemaya, to be cleansed and taken away from your life.
Thank the goddess and leave her a natural offering.
FERTILITY INVOCATION
Yemaya is connected to pregnant mothers and fertility. As a protectress of
women and children, she can be a wonderful goddess for expectant mothers or
those who wish to connect with her fertile, life-giving energy. Use this
invocation to entreat Yemaya for her protection or aid if you are expecting a
child or wish to conceive.
“I am relaxed and open in body, mind, heart, and spirit
To create the miracle of life.
I openly invite the abundance of fertility into my body and heart.
My womb is a fertile place of nourishment and love.
My reproductive organs are balanced, healthy, and harmonious.
They allow my body to conceive easily,
Supporting the miracle of life.
I open to the gift of life within me.
I am grateful to walk this path of creating life.
I am thankful for the blessings that I have.
I am excited and honored to wear the mantle of motherhood.
Divine creative energy flows through my body.
Miracles flow to me in every breath.
My home is a sanctuary of sacred energy
Supporting the conception of my child.
I embrace the love that I am creating and expanding.
I am at peace, in body, mind, heart, and spirit,
Knowing that the miracle of life flows easily to me.
Bless me, Mother Yemaya,
As your sacred waters run through me
And through all life.”
Glossary
AFFIRMATION
A statement or declaration asserting a specific empowering intention
ALTAR
A sacred space dedicated to spiritual workings, offerings, and rites
ARCHETYPE
A recurring type or symbol from myth or history associated with specific
attributes
ASSOCIATIONS
Attributes of a being or item that are connected to aspects such as planetary,
plants, gemstones, or animals
AVALON
An ancient island connected to Morgan La Fey, legends of King Arthur and
Camelot
BANISHING
Rejecting or casting something out of one’s life intentionally
BINDING
Prohibiting someone from causing harm using restrictive intentions and methods
BLESSING
Words or deeds offered in reverence or thanks
CHARGING
To infuse something with energy or intention
CLEARING
To remove ill energy from a person or place
DARK NIGHT OF THE SOUL
A period when we are faced with darkness, disconnection, fears, wounds, or
uncertainty in our lives that leads to transformation, growth, and evolution
FAMILIAR
Usually used in connection with an animal indicating a tie of a spiritual nature to
whose medicine, meaning, or presence resonates with us
GODDESS
A powerful female figure from myth or legend
GROUNDING
Connecting to the Earth to create stability, release energy, and gain energy from
the Earth
HEX
An intentional ritual designed to repel, curse, or protect to be done when
provoked or threatened
INCANTATION
A spell that is verbal or said aloud
INTENTION
A clarification of our purpose in order to set our desires or goals
INVOCATION
To draw power to oneself or embody it
KARMA
The belief that the nature of past actions dictates future luck or fate
MAGICK
A thread of divine wisdom that breathes through the soul
MAIDEN, MOTHER, CRONE
The triple aspect of the Goddess representing birth, life, and death
MANIFESTATION
Making something tangible or real
OFFERING
Herbs or other natural items given in thanks
OFFERING TO THE FIRE/RELEASING TO THE FIRE
Letting go of what no longer serves us to the fire
OLD WAYS/OLD RELIGION
An old system of beliefs tied toward earth medicine, natural healing, or possibly
working with deities
PATRIARCHY
An oppressive system that has been ruling for thousands of years that excludes
and often blocks women, BIPOC, and LGBTQZIA+ people from equality,
rights, opportunity, and power
POPPET
A doll or totem used to draw energy to a specific person
PRIESTESS
Someone who connects with the ancient rites and mysteries of the old ways; can
be initiated into a specific path or work as a solitary priestess
RITUAL
A ceremony of incantations, actions, or items that are meant to manifest intent
SANTERIA
A religion with African roots that began in Cuba and spread through Latin
America and the United States
SHIELDING
A rite of protection
SMUDGE
To burn dried herbs or plants to create sacred smoke to clear an area of stagnant
or negative energy
SORCERESS
Someone who practices the ancient rites and mysteries
STREGHERIA
An Old Religion from Italy from hundreds of years ago
TEMPLE
Sacred site of worship usually dedicated to a specific deity
TRIPLE GODDESS
maiden, mother, crone
UNDERWORLD
A mythological place where the souls of the dead go
VISUALIZATION
A visual process to empower through mental imagery
WITCH
Someone connected with the medicine and magick of the natural world, the
mystery of the moon and open to the lessons of the unseen world. Can be
dedicated to a specific tradition or a solitary practitioner.
Resources
Coco. “In the Very First Days: Inanna and Lilith.” The Daily Revolution.
dailyrevolution.org/thursday/inanna.html
Eason, Cassandra. The Complete Crystal Handbook: Your Guide to More Than
500 Crystals. New York: Sterling, 2010.
Grimassi, Raven. The Book of the Holy Strega. Springfield, MA: Old Ways
Press, 2012.
Heath, Maya. Magical Oils by Moonlight. Franklin Lakes, NJ: The Career Press,
2004.
Mahalik, Gyanranjan and Sagarika Parida. “Study on the Use of Plants and Plant
Parts in Durga Puja for Worshipping of the Goddess Durga in Odisha, India.
International Journal of Technology Management 8 (11): 2911–2918.
Smith, William and Chris Stray. A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography
and Mythology. CC Little and J. Brown, 1849.
Wolkstein, Diane and Samuel Noah Kramer. “Gilgamesh Epic, Tablet 12.”
jewishchristianlit.com/Texts/ANEmyths/gilgamesh12.html
To all those who have walked with me on this path and made this dream a
reality, I thank you.
I would like to acknowledge all of the wonderful people at Fair Winds Press
and Quarto Publishing for this amazing experience and for making this dream
come true. I would like to thank all of the people that I have been honored to
connect with on this journey over the years. I am so grateful for those I have
come to know around the world in friendship and fellowship. Thank you for
your connection through The Goddess Circle.
I would like to thank my family and friends for their support and love. Your
encouragement is so appreciated. Special thanks to my mom, who has always
been my number one fan, thank you for cheering me on from day one. My sister,
for her dedication to my vision for The Goddess Circle; thank you for your talent
and hilarious sense of humor. To my partner, thank you for standing by me and
for always supporting me. It means more than you will ever know. And to my
dog Sonny for his boundless enthusiasm, cuddles, and eternal love.
Index
abandonment: The Forgotten Shadow Sister: Dealing with Abandonment, 61
abundance
Creating Moon Water, 121
Lava Beads, Bring What I Need, 137
Prosperity and Abundance Ritual, 73
Witch Bag, 39
ancestors: Honoring Ancestors, 146
anger: Expressing Anger, 163
Aradia
affirmation, 36
associations, 36
Charging by the Moonlight (Lunar Charging), 37–38
Divination by the Full Moon (Water Scrying), 37
introduction to, 33
invocation, 34
overview of, 34–35
Reclaiming the Witch, 35
Seal an Enemy, 38
Witch Bag, 39
banishment
Banishing Powder, 62
Banishing Ritual, 62
Banishing Sickness: Spell to Ease Pain, 112
Demon Banishing with the Sword of Kali, 27
Four Corners—Self, Home, and Property Protection, 130
Poppet Spell, 172
Bast (Bastet)
affirmation, 128
associations, 128
Circle of Protection Ritual, 129
Copy Right: Reclaiming Our Words, 131
Four Corners—Self, Home, and Property Protection, 130
introduction to, 125
invocation, 126
overview of, 126
Protection Powder, 129–130
Sacred Space Safety, 127
beginnings. See renewal.
binding: Binding Ritual, 63
blessings
Blessing a Business, 80–81
Blessing a Lover, 46
Blessing the Mother (Pregnancy Blessing), 123
Full Moon Blessings, 120
boundaries
Boundary Spell, 88–89
Circe and, 171
businesses: Blessing a Business, 80–81
Cerridwen
affirmation, 144
associations, 144
The Cauldron of Cerridwen, 143, 145
Cerridwen’s Hex, 148
Halt Gossip, 149
Honoring Ancestors, 146
Inspiration Ritual, 147
introduction to, 141
invocation, 142
overview of, 142–143
change. See transformation.
charging
Charging by the Moonlight (Lunar Charging), 37–38
Creating Moon Water, 121
Supercharged Manifestation, 79–80
Circe (Kirke)
affirmation, 170
associations, 170
Creating Sacred Space, 171
introduction to, 167
invocation, 168
overview of, 168
Poppet Spell, 172–173
Protection Salt, 174
Shattering Illusions, 175
Walking the Solitary Path, 169
circles
calling, 13–14
Circle of Protection Ritual, 129
clarity
Dark Moon Clarity, 21
Dream Altar Ritual, 103–104
Raven Wing of Truth Prophecy, 97
Shattering Illusions, 175
cleansing
Breaking a Hex, 21–22
Charging by the Moonlight (Lunar Charging), 37–38
Cleansing Shower Ritual, 181
Creating Sacred Space, 171
Dark Moon Detox, 89
Earth Witch Bottle to Absorb Negative Energy, 72
Rain Spell: Wash Away the Pain, 80
Smudge Recipe, 22–23
Wash Away the Muck, 71
Weather Spell: To Clear the Air, 81
Coatlicue
affirmation, 110
Coatlicue, continued
associations, 110
Banishing Sickness: Spell to Ease Pain, 112
Dream Pillow: To Devour Bad Dreams, 113
introduction to, 107
invocation, 108
overview of, 108
The Healing Womb: Sacred Bath Ritual, 112–113
The Three Sisters: Offerings to the Earth Mother, 111
Transformation—Shedding Skin, 108–109
courage
Dark Moon Fear-Releasing Ritual, 29–30
Finding Courage on the Battlefields of Life, 92–93, 95
Riding the Tiger, 161
curses
Burn a Curse: Releasing a Curse, 155–156
comfort with, 15
as self-defense, 15
fate
Following the Thread of Destiny, 100–101
Spell of Deserving, 105
Spider Woman and, 100
Weaving Our Fate: Intention Weaving, 104–105
fear. See courage.
fertility
Blessing the Mother (Pregnancy Blessing), 123
Fertility Invocation, 183
gossip: Halt Gossip, 149
grounding: Grounding Practice, 69–70
healing
Banishing Sickness: Spell to Ease Pain, 112
Creating Moon Water, 121
Rain Spell: Wash Away the Pain, 80
The Healing Womb: Sacred Bath Ritual, 112–113
outside help, 15
Sekhmet and, 152
Witch Bag, 39
Yemaya and, 178
Hecate
affirmation, 20
associations, 20
Breaking a Hex, 21–22
Dark Moon Clarity, 21
introduction to, 17
invocation, 18
overview of, 18
Smudge Recipe, 22–23
Standing at the Crossroads, 19
Witch Bottle of Protection, 23
hexes
Breaking a Hex, 21–22
Cerridwen’s Hex, 148
comfort with, 15
as self-defense, 15
Witch Bottle of Protection, 23
Inanna
affirmation, 52
associations, 52
Ereshkigal and, 50, 57, 58, 61
huluppu home of, 84
introduction to, 49
invocation, 50
Journey into Darkness—The Altar of Inanna, 51, 53
Off the Hook, 55
overview of, 50–51
The Priestess Drum: Supporting Our Sisters, 55
Releasing a Lover, 53–54
Written in the Heavens: Calling in a Partner, 54
inner child: Speaking to the Maiden, 45
inspiration
Call to Action, 137–138
Cerridwen and, 142–143
Inspiration Ritual, 147
Rekindle Our Sacred Fire, 135
intentions
clarity of, 15
Lava Beads, Bring What I Need, 137
Moon Magic: Working with the Cycles of the Moon, 119–120
Weaving Our Fate: Intention Weaving, 104–105
Witch Bag, 39
Ixchel
affirmation, 118
associations, 118
Blessing the Mother (Pregnancy Blessing), 123
Creating Moon Water, 121
Dealing with a Jealous Partner, 122
introduction to, 115
invocation, 116
Moon Magic: Working with the Cycles of the Moon, 119–120
overview of, 116
The Sacred Temple of Ixchel—Gathering the Wisdom of the Goddess, 117, 119
jealousy
Dealing with a Jealous Partner, 122
The Forgotten Shadow Sister: Dealing with Abandonment, 61
judgment: Favorable Judgment Petition, 156
Kali
affirmation, 28
associations, 28
Dark Moon Fear-Releasing Ritual, 29–30
Demon Banishing with the Sword of Kali, 27
Howl: Embodying the Warrioress, 29
invocation, 26
introduction, to, 25
overview of, 26
Seeds of Renewal, 31
Time Devourer Incantation, 30
letting go
Beach Stone Release, 182
Cutting Threads, 103
Dark Moon Fear-Releasing Ritual, 29–30
Destruction Ritual: Moving On from the Rubble, 155
Journey Into Darkness—The Altar of Inanna, 51, 53
Moon Magic: Working with the Cycles of the Moon, 120
Off the Hook, 55
Releasing a Lover, 53–54
Sacred Fire: Releasing to the Flame, 138–139
Severing the Past, Making Way for the Future, 77, 79
Shore No More: Sand Release, 182–183
Surrender to the Sea, 179, 181
The Three Sisters: Offerings to the Earth Mother, 111
Lilith
affirmation, 86
associations, 86
Boundary Spell, 88–89
Creating Our Own Sacred Garden, 85, 87
Dark Moon Detox, 89
Honoring Sexuality Vow, 87
introduction to, 83
invocation, 84
overview of, 84–85
Rebellion from Settling Practice, 88
love
Blessing a Lover, 46
Creating Moon Water, 121
Dealing with a Jealous Partner, 122
Releasing a Lover, 53–54
Witch Bag, 39
Worlds Apart: Love Invocation During Times of Separation, 47
Written in the Heavens: Calling In a Partner, 54
Medeina
affirmation, 68
associations, 68
Earth Witch Bottle to Absorb Negative Energy, 72
Grounding Practice, 69–70
introduction to, 65
invocation, 66
overview of, 66
Prosperity and Abundance Ritual, 73
Protection of the Wild Wood, 67, 69
Wash Away the Muck, 71
moon
Aradia and, 34–35, 36
Charging by the Moonlight (Lunar Charging), 37–38
Creating Moon Water, 121
Dark Moon Clarity, 21
Dark Moon Detox, 89
Dark Moon Fear-Releasing Ritual, 29–30
Divination by the Full Moon (Water Scrying), 37
Ixchel and, 116, 117, 119
Moon Magic: Working with the Cycles of the Moon, 119–120
phases, 13–14
Reclaiming the Witch, 35
The Sacred Temple of Ixchel—Gathering the Wisdom of the Goddess, 117, 119
Morrigan
affirmation, 94
associations, 94
Dream/Evil Catcher, 95–96
Finding Courage on the Battlefields of Life, 92–93, 95
introduction to, 91
invocation, 92
overview of, 92
Phantom Queen Shielding Ritual, 95
Raven Wing of Truth Prophecy, 97
Sting an Enemy, 96–97
offerings, 14
Oya
affirmation, 78
associations, 78
Blessing a Business, 80–81
introduction to, 75
invocation, 76
overview of, 76
Rain Spell: Wash Away the Pain, 80
Severing the Past, Making Way for the Future, 77, 79
Supercharged Manifestation, 79–80
Weather Spell: To Clear the Air, 81
Pele
affirmation, 136
associations, 136
Call to Action, 137–138
introduction to, 133
invocation, 134
Lava Beads, Bring What I Need, 137
overview of, 134
Rekindle Our Sacred Fire, 135
Reshaping Ritual: Carving Our Desires, 139
Pele, continued
Sacred Fire: Releasing to the Flame, 138–139
Persephone
affirmation, 44
associations, 44
Blessing a Lover, 46
introduction to, 41
invocation, 42
Mirror, Mirror Spell Reversal, 46
overview of, 42
The Queen’s Throne—Reclaiming Our Path, 43, 45
Speaking to the Maiden, 45
Worlds Apart: Love Invocation During Times of Separation, 47
plagiarism: Copy Right: Reclaiming Our Words, 131
pregnancy. See fertility.
professional assistance, 15, 131
prophecy
Dark Moon Clarity, 21
Finding Courage on the Battlefields of Life, 92–93, 95
Raven Wing of Truth Prophecy, 97
prosperity
Bast and, 126
Prosperity and Abundance Ritual, 73
protection
Banishing Powder, 62
Banishing Ritual, 62
Binding Ritual, 63
Boundary Spell, 88–89
Burn a Curse: Releasing a Curse, 155–156
Cerridwen’s Hex, 148
Circle of Protection Ritual, 129
Copy Right: Reclaiming Our Words, 131
Demon Banishing with the Sword of Kali, 27
Dream/Evil Catcher, 95–96
Dream Pillow: To Devour Bad Dreams, 113
Four Corners—Self, Home, and Property Protection, 130
Halt Gossip, 149
Mirror, Mirror Spell Reversal, 46
Phantom Queen Shielding Ritual, 95
Poppet Spell, 172
Protection of the Wild Wood, 67, 69
Protection Powder, 129–130
Protection Salt, 174
Sacred Space Safety, 127
Seal an Enemy, 38
Shield of Power, 164–165
Standing Our Ground, 164
Sting an Enemy, 96–97
Witch Bottle of Protection, 23
reclamation
Copy Right: Reclaiming Our Words, 131
The Queen’s Throne—Reclaiming Our Path, 43, 45
Reclaiming the Witch, 35
renewal
Dark Moon Fear-Releasing Ritual, 29–30
Seeds of Renewal, 31
sacred items
Charging by the Moonlight (Lunar Charging), 37–38
offerings, 14
Witch Bag, 39
sacred spaces
Creating Our Own Sacred Garden, 85, 87
Creating Sacred Space, 171
Sacred Space Safety, 127
scrying: Divination by the Full Moon (Water Scrying), 37
Sekhmet
affirmation, 154
associations, 154
Burn a Curse: Releasing a Curse, 155–156
Destruction Ritual: Moving On from the Rubble, 155
Favorable Judgment Petition, 156
introduction to, 151
invocation, 152
overview of, 152
Success Ritual, 157
Wisdom of Sekhmet, 153
sexuality
Honoring Sexuality Vow, 87
Lilith and, 84
smudging
Releasing a Lover, 53–54
Smudge Recipe, 22–23
solitude: Walking the Solitary Path, 169
Spider Woman
affirmation, 102
associations, 102
Cutting Threads, 103
Dream Altar Ritual, 103–104
Following the Thread of Destiny, 100–101
introduction to, 99
invocation, 100
overview of, 100
Spell of Deserving, 105
Weaving Our Fate: Intention Weaving, 104–105
success: Success Ritual, 157
uncertainty
Dark Moon Fear-Releasing Ritual, 29–30
Raven Wing of Truth Prophecy, 97
Standing at the Crossroads, 19
wisdom
The Sacred Temple of Ixchel—Gathering the Wisdom of the Goddess, 117, 119
Wisdom of Sekhmet, 153
witch bottles
Earth Witch Bottle to Absorb Negative Energy, 72
Witch Bottle of Protection, 23
Yemaya
affirmation, 180
associations, 180
Beach Stone Release, 182
Cleansing Shower Ritual, 181
Fertility Invocation, 183
introduction to, 177
invocation, 178
overview of, 178–179
Shore No More: Sand Release, 182–183
Surrender to the Sea, 179, 181
© 2021 Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc.
Text © 2021 C. Ara Campbell
Illustrations © 2021 Mary Ancilla Martinez
First Published in 2021 by Fair Winds Press, an imprint of The Quarto Group,
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T (978) 282-9590 F (978) 283-2742 QuartoKnows.com
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