When you think of witchcraft, what do you think of? Magical, fantastical sorcerers from popular media? Or perhaps evil, animal-sacrificing women who defy the rules of morality? Neither is correct when looking at witches in our real world. So what is a witch?
Well, despite the sexism that history holds, anyone, regardless of age, religion, or gender identity, can be a witch and practice witchcraft. Witchcraft, or the practice of magick, is at its core, performing rituals to connect with spiritual and unseen energies to achieve a desired outcome. Typically, it is associated with folk magic and can be a part of certain religions, such as Wicca or Paganism. While people often think of rituals as being evil and malicious, many are just everyday things we do for good luck or prosperity. For example, praying to angels, praying for your dead ancestors, and manifesting things through positive words like “I will get this job” are all examples of magick and rituals. They are just listed under different names and religions.
The reason why the practice of magick is so frowned upon is because of old, misogynistic beliefs and popular media. Due to women questioning Christian teachings and outrage about how women were treated, influential people saw this as a challenge to their authority and thus claimed the Devil had possessed and influenced these feeble-minded women. Media, even today, depicts female casters as evil and powerful. Think of the Wizard of Oz, or witches in Halloween culture. All of it is just a way to put down non-Christian beliefs and women.
Some ways I like to personally practice are through color magick, tarot readings, and positive affirmations. Black, for example, is a protective color and is most used due to its protection. Yellow attracts positivity and joy, and brown is security, warmth, and a foundational color. Tarot readings help me better communicate with myself and delve deeper into my subconscious. I also love practicing stitch and knot magic, weaving intentions and goals into my work brings me a sense of fulfillment. It’s a self-care way I like to invite positivity into my life.
bippity boppity boo…..now you are a dog….how is it comrade…?
tastes like joy and bone marrow
although I like the wizard of oz I do see how it’s used to force the idea that witches are a certain stereotype. I also think that many people do practice magic unknowingly especially with like positive affirmations or pre-game rituals. epically with like stuff yourtaught as a kid for example walking in the door backwards at night to avoid spirits coming in either someone in my family was crazy or related to the great voodoo priestess mama odie.
Yess!!! I practice too, using mostly color magick and Tarot!! I love my practice so much, and it is very dear to me. I’ve been working to start making talismans, charms, and other protective accessories for my friends, and I’m really interested in learning knot magick and the such to help with that!! Do you have any good knot magick resources?