Wands are Wonderful: Be a Crafty Conjurer

Gandalf, Glinda and Harry Potter shouldn’t have all the fun. It is a marvelous thing to make your own wand. Start with a tree branch that has fallen to the ground on its own. Sand and polish the rough edges, as it is a wand and not a weapon. Then give it a good smudging. Hot-glue on a large quartz crystal onto the wand near the handle, and hot-glue on any crystals featuring properties that will complement your magic.

Sweetheart Tea

Here is a quick recipe to create exactly the right mood for a dreamy evening:

• Stir together in a clockwise motion:
• 1 ounce dried and pulverized rosehips
• 1⁄2 ounce peppermint
• 1⁄2 ounce dried lemon balm

You can store this in a tin or colored jar for up to a year for those special evenings. When you are ready to brew the tea, pour boiling water over the herbs, two teaspoons for every cup of water. Say the following spell aloud during the five minute steeping and picture your heart’s desire:

Herbal brew of love’s emotion 

With my wish I fortify

When two people share this potion 

This love shall intensify

As in the Olde Garden of Love.

Sweeten to taste with honey and share this luscious libation with the one you love.

WeMoon Sweet Potato Cakes

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love potato cakes;  this recipe adds extra pizzazz to this favorite. 

Hearty and oh-so-healthy, these pancakes make for a marvelous meal for any special occasion would be fantastic to bring to a brunch or a Friendsgiving and might be a fantastic use of leftovers Sweet potatoes are truly beneficial to women’s health and contain estrogen; these tubers are good for you inside and outside as they also give your skin a nice boost. But, their main magic for everyone is that they a vehicle for grounding. Anytime you feel spacey or out-of-sorts or distracted, this food will serve you well, even if you just bake and eat a sweet potato.  For this savory sweet, you will need:

2 large semi-baked sweet potatoes, peeled and grated

1 small onion chopped finely

1 large carrot, grated

2 large semi-baked russet potatoes, peeled and grated

3 eggs

½ cup olive oil

Cup of yogurt

Chives, sage and rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the potatoes and carrot in a large bowl. Beat the eggs and add to the veggie mixture and mix thoroughly. Grind the rosemary and sage to a very fine powder in your mortar and pestle and add in a tablespoon of the herbs; Salt and pepper to taste. Shape into round balls, enough for 8 mooncakes. Warm the oil slowly until it is nice and hot. Place the balls in the oil and flatten into rounds with a spatula. Cook through until they are golden and beginning to crisp on both sides. Plate up and top with organic yogurt and chives. If you feeling decadent, dollop on grated cheddar and sour cream and enjoy with a circle of friends under the sheen of a bright and holy moon. Blessings to you and your soul tribe!

This Crystal Can Help Deal With the Patriarchy

Cuprite does more than just look pretty; it can help fight the patriarchy!

 

Here is a mineral crystal formed from copper ore. Cuprite can have needle-like crystals of a brilliant red, a true red, inside a nearly black crystal. Cuprite has a spectacular sparkle. It is found most frequently in France, Russia, North America, Germany, Britain, and Australia. In the same way that copper has wonderful health benefits, so does cuprite, helping with concerns in the heart, blood, skin, muscles, and bones. Cuprite stimulates the lower chakra. It is a handy stone to take along on air flights, as it can treat altitude sickness. It also furthers the functions of the bladder and kidneys.

Cuprite has another feature not found in other stones—it can help one deal with male authority figures. This may come, in part, from cuprite’s revelatory power to connect with your past lives. If you have father issues you need to overcome, I strongly suggest this stone. The unusual magic it offers is also good for dealing with male coworkers and bosses. Or even elected officials that seem to do all they can to keep power in their own hands and way from women and minorities. Curprite is a power stone for everyone except the patriarchy!

Walking the Labyrinth—A Path of Grace to the Inner Self

At the Grace Cathedral on California Street in San Francisco, scholar Lauren Artress oversaw the installation of not one but two labyrinths. Sue Patton Thoele, author of The Woman’s Book of Soul, invited me to go there one fine day a few years ago. I remember squeezing it into my schedule, feeling hurried, and hoping it would not take more than half an hour or so. I am a bit embarrassed to admit this, but I know I am not the only busy life-juggler who has found herself surprised by the Sacred.

When we got there, a magnificent stillness presided over the entire cathedral. We chose the indoor labyrinth instead of the outdoor one, as there was a distinct chill in the foggy air that day. We read the simple instructions and, as told, removed our shoes to tread the path in bare or stocking feet. For my part, I had already begun to calm down, thanks to the peaceful atmosphere. As I walked in the light of the stained glass shadows, my schedule started to seem petty. Suddenly it seemed as if I could give this just a little more time.

Sue, an experienced labyrinth walker, had gone ahead and seemed to be in a reverie, as did the tourists, students, and random folks who populated the nave. I checked the instructions again just to make sure I performed my barefoot ritual “correctly.”

As I began, thoughts skittered through my head, and I had to struggle to focus and be in the now. With no small amount of effort, I was able to have an authentic experience. As I walked the winding path, a replica of the labyrinth on the floor of Chartres Cathedral, I felt a growing excitement. This was meaningful; perhaps there was hope even for me and my over-busy “monkey mind.” My breathing relaxed and I had a growing sense that I was going somewhere. When I reached the center of the labyrinth, I looked up at the soaring high ceiling of Grace Cathedral. At that exact moment, the sun struck a stained glass window and a golden shaft of light shone directly upon me. I was mystified, and a beaming Sue, having completed her walk, noticed what was happening to me. I studied the window to see if there was any kind of symbol from which to draw further meaning. To my astonishment, the sun had lit up a window that contained the medieval tableau of a sword in a rock. As a lapsed medieval scholar, I immediately recognized Excalibur of the famous Arthurian legend. Tears came into my eyes, and I realized this was a message. I had often felt a bit guilty for not completing my master’s degree in medieval studies. At that moment, I knew I had to complete that quest. One of my specializations was the Arthurian saga, and here, in no uncertain terms, Arthur’s sword had spoken to me as I stood in the center of the labyrinth. Exhilarated, I retraced my steps, and returned as I entered, brimming with joy. Now, I truly understand what it means to be “illuminated.”

Invoking Goddess Blessings: A Ritual of Spring

In China and Tibet, the mountain holds a special place in mythology and religions because they are so close to the sky. Tibetan Buddhists bring down the blessings of one of their most benevolent deities, Nikadama, the female protection deity who lives high in the Himalaya Mountains. To get her attention, tie strings of Tibetan prayer flags or white silk scarves to the trees and bushes near your home or in your yard. If you live in the city, you can hang them at your door to fly in the breeze. Every time the flags and offering scarves flutter in the wind, Nikadama is blessing you! Here is a very simple ritual you can perform alone or with loved ones to bring luck and blessings during the waxing moon. Spring is the best time to do this, but any waxing moon will bring fortune and providence.

Tibetan Prayer Flag 101

The color symbology of a string of Tibetan prayer flags comes from hundreds of years of tradition. Monks always fly the blue flag highest and it should be at the top of the string of flags, as it symbolizes the closest you can get to higher consciousness. Other colors that represent aspects of nature are as follows:

Blue: Sky

White: Cloud
Red: Fire

Green: Water
Yellow: Earth

The Ancients’ Healing Secret

 

Oxymel’s are a very old fashioned tonic that dates back from ancient times that have fallen out of fashion. It remains a favorite herbal healers use and is made of two seemingly opposing ingredients- honey and vinegar. Herbs can be added to great effect and when you see honey menthol cough drops on the pharmacy shelf, note that origin of over two thousand years ago. Oxymels are supremely effective for respiratory issues. The recipe is simplicity itself, equal parts honey and vinegar poured over herbs in a canning jar. Store in a dark cupboard and give the sealed jar a good shake every day. After two weeks, strain out the herbs with cheesecloth and store in the fridge.

Recommended oxymel herbs: Oregano, elder flower, sage, balm, mint, lemon peel, thyme, lavender, rose petals, hyssop, fennel. 

Herbal Healing: Dandy Sassafras Ginger Detox

When I was little living on the family farm, I accompanied my dad to the woods looking for sassafras roots to make tea. I love the taste; it was delightful and also gave me more energy. After apprenticing for my part-Cherokee dad for a few years, he allowed me to go out alone gathering the source of my dearly beloved beverage.  Years later, I discovered sassafras was highly prized by Native Americans who used it for medicine and were extremely knowledgeable about combining herbs to amplify their power.

This morning medicinal is inspired by a shamanic Native healing recipe using sassafras, dandelion and wild ginger. For a wonderfully medicinal decoction, take a half cup of each and boil them in spring water. After steeping for twelve minutes, stir in honey and enjoy. It is pleasantly surprising how good the detox tastes and even more how the herbs combine to eliminate toxins from the body, chiefly the kidney and liver. After the holidays or a pagan feast times, we all imbibe and enjoy rich foods, good wine and sugary desserts. This purifying herbal blend will cleanse the organs that cleanse your body, thus aiding wellness. This detox should be used seasonally and is not intended for daily use, due to its great power.

Comfrey Comfort

Comfrey is beloved by kitchen witches and is one of the best-known healing herbs of all times. It has even been referred to as “a one-herb pharmacy” for the inherent curative powers.  Well-known and widely used by early Greeks and Romans, its very name, symphytum, from the Greek symphyo means to "make grow together," referring to its traditional use of healing fractures. Comfrey relieves pain and inflammation. Comfrey salve will be a mainstay of your home first aid kit. Use it on cuts, scrapes, rashes, sunburn, and almost any skin irritation. Comfrey salve can also bring comfort to aching arthritic joints, and sore muscles.

Lavender Comfrey Cure-All Salve

3/4 cup comfrey infused oil

1/4 cup coconut oil

4 tablespoons beeswax

10 drops lavender essential oil

Combine comfrey and coconut oils. Heat the oil and wax together until the wax melts completely. Pour into a clean, dry jar. When the mixture has cooled a little, but not yet set, add 10 drops of lavender essential oil which is also an antiseptic. Seal the jar and store in a cabinet  to use anytime you scratch yourself working in the garden or want to renew and soften your hands and feet after a lot of house and yard work.   One note, use it on the outside of your skin and it will work wonders but if a cut is deep, don’t get it inside the wound. Let your physician handle that. Comfrey is a miracle plant for healing; in combination with the lavender, this power duo will restore your spirit along with your skin.

Blackberries - The Medicine You Find On the Side of the Road

Blackberries are one of life’s sweetest gifts, growing abundantly in the bramble along the rambling path. An extremely effective medicinal tonic can be made by soaking a quart of berries in a quart of malt vinegar for three days. Drain and strain the liquid into a pan. Simmer and stir in sugar, one pound to every two cups of tonic. Boil gently for five minutes and skim off any foam. Cool and pour into a sealable jar. This potion is so powerful; you can add a teaspoon into a cup of water and cure tummy aches, cramps, fevers, coughs and colds. Best of all, blackberry vinegar is both a medicine and a highly prized dessert topping in the UK. Pour some over your apple pie and cream and you will soon scurry off to pick blackberries all summer. 

An Essential Guide to Essential Oils for Common Ailments

Use these oils in bath water, diffusers, dabbed onto pulse points, or sprays to infuse your home with the healing vitality of these plant essences:

Allergies: Melissa, chamomile

Headaches: lavender, geranium peppermint, linden.

Immune boosters: hyssop thyme, rose, jasmine.

Insomnia: clary sage, hops, lavender

Colds and flu: pine, thyme, eucalyptus, lavender

Tummy troubles: peppermint, chamomile, basil

Cramps, yarrow, sunflower, linden

Arthritis: marjoram, rosemary, eucalyptus, pine

Fatigue: rose, clary sage, neroli, bergamot

Saffron Serenity Spell

Light a yellow candle, for mental clarity, and anoint with calming and uplifting bergamot oil. Place a yellow rose in a vase to the left of the candle. To the right, place a bowl containing at least two citrine or quartz crystals.

Saffron water is made by boiling a single teaspoon of saffron from your cupboard in two quarts of distilled water. Let cool to room temperature and pour into the bowl of crystals. Put your hands together as in prayer and dip your hands in the bowl. Touch your “third eye” in the center of your forehead, anointing yourself with the saffron water. 

Now, speak aloud:

Goddess great, fill me with your presence

This night, I am whole and at peace.

Breathing in, breathing out, I feel your safe embrace.

And so it is. 

Spells for Wellness: Breathe Easy

Banish colds and coughs or keep them at bay with this sweet-smelling spell. Shake together in a blue bottle the following essential oils:

10 drops rosemary

10 drops tea tree

10 drops eucalyptus

10 drops lavender

One teaspoon sea salt

Hold the open container in both hands under your nose and breathe deeply three times. After the last exhalation, intone:

Power of wind,

Strength of the trees,

Energy of the earth,

Salts of the sea,

I call upon you to keep me well and strong.

With harm to none, so mote it be.

You can administer this respiratory booster with four drops added to the water of a vaporizer or diffuser or a cotton ball tucked into your pillowcase. Six drops poured into the running water of a hot bath will ease breathing immediately

Green Witchery Healthy Brews

I began practicing the Craft as a child.  For me, witchcraft was and is the most natural thing in the world- and indeed it is all about being in the natural world. On woodland walks, my Aunt Edith pointed out nettles, wild mint, Queen Anne’s Lace and other herbs which grew by creek beds near my home. We picked, steeped, and sipped concoctions we made together as she imparted her homely wisdom. Little did I know at the time, I was being gently schooled as an apprentice kitchen witch. Lately, I have been called upon to craft spells for peace of mind; so many of us are overwhelmed due to the  fragmented lifestyles requiring long hours at work, zillions of emails, texts,  tweets and all the demands that don’t stop coming. 

Here are some of the herbal cures my dearest Aunt Edith taught me:

Herbal tea nourishes the soul, heals the body and calms the mind. Try these:

Blackberry leaf tea reduces mood swings, evens glucose levels aiding in weight management. This miraculous herbal even helps circulation and such issues as inflammation and varicose veins. It is helpful to cancer patients and is believed to be a preventative.

Cardamom is a favorite of expectant mothers everywhere as it calms nausea and morning sickness; this East India fragrant is excellent for digestion, clears and cleans your mouth and throat. Anyone who likes cinnamon will love cardamom.

Nettle raises your energy level, boosts the immune systems and is packed with iron and vitamins.

Fennel is excellent for awakening and uplifting and is excellent for digestion and cleansing. Fennel also is a natural breath freshener. Catnip is a gentle but potent sleep-inducer

Catnip is one of the witchiest of teas and is not only grown as fun for your feline familiar. At the first inkling of a sore throat or impending cold, drink a warm cup of catnip tea, and head off to bed and you will awaken feeling much better. Catnip soothes the nervous system and can safely help get a restless child off to sleep,

Echinacea lends an increased and consistent sense of well-being and prevents colds and flu. It is a very powerful immune booster.

Ginger Root calms and cheers while aiding digestion, nausea and can also fend off coughs and sore throats.

Dandelion root grounds and centers, provides many minerals and nutrients. This wonderful weed is also a cleanser and a wholly natural detoxifier. 

Melting Stress Away With Magic

How often to you see a stressed out witch?

Rarely, I assure you.

We witches also have to keep pace with the modern world, but our connection to the earth and the cycles of nature help maintain balance and harmony, despite the hurly burly of these tech-driven times. This chapter is aimed at conjuring wellness so you can stay centered, grounded and healthy. When our grandmothers and elders who came before us tended cuts, bruises, colds, flu’s, fevers and other illnesses their family suffered, they didn't have a corner drugstore. Instead, these wise women relied on simple wisdom, common sense, and pantries well stocked with herbal remedies. These preparations were made from plants that grew in the kitchen garden or were wild weeds gathered in the fields and woods surrounding their homes. This stash of kitchen cupboard cures combines the wisdom of our elders with a modern kitchen witch sensibility. Yes, you will save money, but more importantly, you will begin to learn what works for you and master the art of self-care as you bring much comfort to your loved ones.

Lavender Space-clearing Spell

To do any healing work, you must first clear clutter, both physical and otherwise, that creates energy blocks. Banish “stale” and unhealthy energy from your kitchen workspace and living space with this herbal magic. Steep lavender in hot water. Once the infusion has cooled to room temperature, dip your fingertips in and sprinkle tiny droplets throughout your home while intoning:

All is new here now, I say.

Make way, be gone, goodbye

All here is new, say I.

So mote it be!

Use the remainder of the lavender infusion to wash your front steps or stoop, the entry to your home, thereby clearing and cleansing the threshold of your home.

You will notice that every time you enter your home, it feels lighter and brighter thanks to the energetic decluttering. 

Offering you a cup of comfort

Conjuring by the Cup

Growing and drying herbs for your own kitchen witchery brews is one of life’s simple pleasures. Tea conjures a very powerful alchemy because when you drink it, you take the magic inside. For an ambrosial brew with the power to calm any storm, add a sliver to ginger root and a teaspoon each of chamomile and peppermint to a two cups pot of boiling water. Let steep and as the mixture brews and cools, pray:

This day I pray for strength and health,

And the wisdom to see the beauty in each waking moment.

Blessings abound, good health is true wealth.

Green Witchery Healthy Brews

Herbal tea nourishes the soul, heals the body and calms the mind. Try these:

Blackberry leaf tea reduces mood swings, evens glucose levels aiding in weight management. This miraculous herbal even helps circulation and such issues as inflammation and varicose veins. It is helpful to cancer patients and is believed to be a preventative.

Cardamom is a favorite of expectant mothers everywhere as it calms nausea and morning sickness; this East India fragrant is excellent for digestion, clears and cleans your mouth and throat. Anyone who likes cinnamon will love cardamom.

Nettle raises your energy level, boosts the immune systems and is packed with iron and vitamins.

Fennel is excellent for awakening and uplifting and is excellent for digestion and cleansing. Fennel also is a natural breath freshener. Catnip is a gentle but potent sleep-inducer

Catnip is one of the witchiest of teas and is not only grown as fun for your feline familiar. At the first inkling of a sore throat or impending cold, drink a warm cup of catnip tea, and head off to bed and you will awaken feeling much better. Catnip soothes the nervous system and can safely help get a restless child off to sleep,

Echinacea lends an increased and consistent sense of well-being and prevents colds and flu. It is a very powerful immune booster.

Ginger Root calms and cheers while aiding digestion, nausea and can also fend off coughs and sore throats.

Dandelion root grounds and centers, provides many minerals and nutrients. This wonderful weed is also a cleanser and a wholly natural detoxifier

Pharmacopeia – The Spice Rack of Life

Did you know your pantry is like a pharmacy?  Thankfully, it is far cheaper.

Cumin is loaded with phyto-chemical, antioxidants, iron, copper, calcium, potassium, manganese, selenium, zinc and magnesium and contains high amounts of B-complex. Cumin helps with insomnia.  Cinnamon is truly a power spice. Just half a teaspoon daily can dramatically reduce blood glucose levels in those with type 2 diabetes and lower cholesterol. Cayenne promotes circulation and boosts metabolism. Clove is an antifungal and abets toothaches. Nutrient-rich parsley is a detoxifying herb and acts as anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic helping conditions from colic to indigestion. Rub it on itchy skin for instant relief! Sage is very beneficial in treating gum and throat infections. Sage tea has helped ease depression and anxiety for generations. Thyme is a cure for a hangover and doubles to alleviate colds and bronchitis. Cilantro is is a good source of iron, magnesium, phytonutrients and flavonoids and is also high in dietary fiber. Cilantro has been used for thousands of years as a digestive, lowering blood sugar having hypoglycemic properties, possibly the result of stimulating insulin secretion. Ginger stimulates circulation and is an excellent digestive, aiding in absorption of food and rids bloat. Immune champion turmeric boosts production of antioxidants and reduction of inflammation. Blue Zone centenarians credit their long healthy life by drinking turmeric-root tea daily. Pack your pantry with these seasonings for optimal health and happiness. 

Cooking Up Lots of Love: Spells to Attract, Create and Keep Love in Your Life

Like many before me, love spells were my first.  At the age of fourteen, I cast my first and soon my best friend was the object of amorous attention from a previously disinterested suitor. Since then, I have had many years and ample opportunity to perfect this most joyous aspect of the craft. I have happily watched these spells kindle and keep love’s passion alive time and again.

Any metaphysician will tell you the most common requests for help involve matters of the heart. Witchcraft is based in the knowledge that our destinies lie in our own hands, even where love is concerned. Why suffer the slings and arrows of romance gone wrong when you can do something about it? Below are lots of ideas for magical workings so you have a life you love and a life filled with love.

Light of Love: Altar Dedication

Use a small table or chest in your bedroom and cover with a rich red scarf or cloth.  Adorn it with objects that signify love- red candles, ruby-colored bowls, roses, a statue of Adonis, a heart-shaped chunk of amethyst, whatever stirs your feelings and senses. Give the area a good smudging to purify the space to refresh for new beginnings. Anoint your candles with oil of jasmine, rose or any scent that is redolent of romance to you and light similar incense. Light both and speak aloud:

I light the flame,

I fan the flame.

Each candle I burn is a wish,

I desire and will be desired in return.

Twin Hearts Candle Consecration

If you are seeking a soulmate, this simple spell will do the trick. At nearly any new age bookshop, you can find heart-shaped semiprecious stones. On the next new moon, take two pieces of rose quartz and stand in the center of your bedroom. Light two pink candles and cite:

Beautiful crystal I hold this night,

Flame with love for my delight.

Harm to none as love comes to me.

This I ask and so shall it be.

Keep the candles and crystals on your bedside table and think of it as shrine to love. Repeat three nights in a row and ready for yourself for amour.

Mists of Avalon Potion

If you are dreaming of real romance, you can bring about visions of your true love to come with this potent potion:

3 drops rose oil

3 drops lavender

3 drops neroli, orange blossom essence

4 ounces pure distilled water

Pour all these into a colored glass spray bottle and shake well three times. Fifteen minutes before you retire, spray lightly on your linens, towel, and pillow case. Keep a dream journal on your nightstand so you can record details of the great love that will soon manifest.

Conjuring By the Cup: Pagan Coziness

Growing and drying herbs for your own kitchen witchery brews is one of life’s simple pleasures. Tea conjures a very powerful alchemy because when you drink it, you take the magic inside. For an ambrosial brew with the power to calm any storm, add a sliver to ginger root and a teaspoon each of chamomile and peppermint to a two cups pot of boiling water. Let steep and as the mixture brews and cools, pray:

This day I pray for strength and health,

And the wisdom to see the beauty in each waking moment.

Blessings abound, good health is true wealth.

 Green Witchery Healthy Brews

Herbal tea nourishes the soul, heals the body and calms the mind. Try these:

Blackberry leaf tea reduces mood swings, evens glucose levels aiding in weight management. This miraculous herbal even helps circulation and such issues as inflammation and varicose veins. It is helpful to cancer patients and is believed to be a preventative.

Cardamom is a favorite of expectant mothers everywhere as it calms nausea and morning sickness; this East India fragrant is excellent for digestion, clears and cleans your mouth and throat. Anyone who likes cinnamon will love cardamom.

Nettle raises your energy level, boosts the immune systems and is packed with iron and vitamins.

Fennel is excellent for awakening and uplifting and is excellent for digestion and cleansing. Fennel also is a natural breath freshener. Catnip is a gentle but potent sleep-inducer

Catnip is one of the witchiest of teas and is not only grown as fun for your feline familiar. At the first inkling of a sore throat or impending cold, drink a warm cup of catnip tea, and head off to bed and you will awaken feeling much better. Catnip soothes the nervous system and can safely help get a restless child off to sleep,

Echinacea lends an increased and consistent sense of well-being and prevents colds and flu. It is a very powerful immune booster.

Ginger Root calms and cheers while aiding digestion, nausea and can also fend off coughs and sore throats.

Dandelion root grounds and centers, provides many minerals and nutrients. This wonderful weed is also a cleanser and a wholly natural detoxifier.

Heart’s Ease Cauldron Cure

Here is a soothing sip that can uplift your spirits anytime and also serves to ward off chills. This combination of herbs brings about “letting go” of sorrows, worries, and doubts and reignites feelings of self-love.

Stir the following together in a clean cauldron:

One ounce dried rosehips

Once ounce dried hibiscus

Two ounces dried mint

One tablespoon dried ginger root

Combine the herbs, pour into a colored jar and seal the lid tightly. When you are ready to brew, pour hot water over the herbs, two teaspoons per cup. While this steeps for five minutes, write down any thoughts or fears you need to rid yourself of on a small piece of paper.  Now say each one aloud, then chant, “Begone!” After this letting-go ritual, burn the paper with sage in the cauldron on your altar. As you sip the tea, enjoy your renewed sense of self and peace of mind. 

Hearth and Home- Creating Your Kitchen Altar

On a low table or chest of your choosing, place a forest green cloth and a brown candle to represent family and home. Add lovely objects you have gathered, including from the garden and outdoors: ocean-carved driftwood, a gorgeous flower, a dried seed pod, a favorite crystal, whatever pleases your eye. It is of the utmost importance to add a bouquet of wildflowers native to your area you gathered close to where you live or bought locally. These posies will help integrate you and your home into your neighborhood and geographic region. Add a sweetly scented sachet of herbs from your kitchen garden or those you intend to plant: rosemary, lavender, thyme, mint, all of which imbue your space with positive energy. Burn associated essential oils, those which will create an aura of comfort around your kitchen including vanilla, cinnamon, sweet orange neroli in an oil lamp. Finally, anoint the brown candle which concentrating on the power of peace and bliss surrounding your home and all around your kitchen altar. Chant:

Peace and abundance are in abundance

And here true bliss surrounds

From now on, all disharmony is gone

This is a place of powerful blessings

For here lives sheer joy.

And so it is- blessed be!

This consecrated space will ease your spirits at any time. Your altar connects you to the earth if which you are a part.

Power Potpourri

Simmer this mixture on your stove whenever you feel the need to infuse your space with protection or do an energetic turnaround from negative to positive. A bad day at work, family squabble, an unfortunate incident in your neighborhood; instead of just muddling along, you can do something about it and your creation of the positive will help you and your loved one as well as your neighbors. This Power Potpourri will also safeguard from outside influences that can be disruptive. Set your intention and gather these herbs from your stores:

¼ cup Rosemary

4 Bay Laurel Leaves

2 Tablespoons Basil

1/8 cup Sage

1 Teaspoon Dill Weed

1/8 cup Cedar

1 Teaspoons Juniper Berries

Mix the herbs together by hand. While you are sifting, close your eyes ad visualize your home protected bb a boundary of glowing white light. Imagine the light runs thought you to the herbs in your hand and charge them with the energy of safety, sanctity and protection. Add the herbs to slowly simmering water and breathe in the newly charged air.