The-horned-raven - The Horned Raven

7 Ways to Strengthen Your Powers

In my coven (for lack of a more suitable translation), we learn the craft to become powerful. Not to have fun. Not to just try it. Not out of curiosity. But to use it as a weapon. The way the 1% use money as ammunition. And while the depth of our teachings are hidden, here is how it all begins.

1) Record Your Dreams

They are a portal to the future, parallel realities and other worlds. Keep a journal on your nightstand. Every morning, list down everything you saw and heard in your dreams. Dates, names and entire scenarios. Reread your journal every couple of weeks to see how the symbols manifested in your life. This is you learning to harvest prophecies in your sleep.

2) Log Your Predictions

If you read the cards, take a photo of every spread and write down your interpretation. If you scry, record your every vision. Leave a space in your notes so you can come back at a later date and comment on the correctness of your predictions. The more clearly you can see where you went right or wrong, the more you can strive towards precision.

3) Analyze People

When you interact with people, take the time to gaze at them and really listen to what they are saying. Soon enough you will be able to know what is going on inside their mind. You will catch gestures, expressions and intonations that reveal their true intentions This logical exercise will awaken the magical side of mind-reading that may be latent inside you.

4) Embody Confidence

Whether you are extroverted or introverted, find your inner beauty and greatness, and give them a chance to come out of hiding. When you are confident in who you are, other people’s energy are drawn towards you, fueling your spirit. You also attract the attention of nearby entities who may choose to reveal their presence to you and grant you favors.

5) Level Up Your Spellwork

Most of the spells you will find on the internet serve as therapeutic activities that may make you feel better psychologically or emotionally, but have no real magic in them. I recommend acquiring a copy of Witchcraft: A Handbook of Magic Spells and Potions (2016) by Anastasia Greywolf. It is a good introduction to authentic spells from all around the world.

6) Learn Your Natal Chart

The sky when you were born is a map of your gifts and strengths. A great dancer will never torture herself for not being able to sing well. Song is not her craft, movement is. You too must hone the skills you have the potential for. Astro-charts is easy to navigate and offers a free service with the option to switch between different astrological systems.

7) Find Your Divination Method

Not everyone will be great at reading tarot or Lenormand. Perhaps your true talent lies in evoking visions from a crystal ball… in calculating the future through the stars… or in seeing one’s destiny by looking at their palms. I recommend The Divination Handbook (2019) by Liz Dean for an overview of your options.

Please, don’t joke about someone’s weight, facial features, insecurities, trauma, appearances, misery and scars. Know that those things are very sensitive. Please be kind always.

Your craft is more than your tools

I see a lot of posts on #witchblr for baby witches saying you need to collect this and that when you are starting out. (So many lists!) As though you can't make magic without a particular starter kit of cups and cards and crystals. I don't think this kind of materialistic approach is useful.

Now, I'm not saying that it's not nice to have shiny rocks and floral potpourri, but it is not necessary. Tools can help focus and enhance spell work, but the spell comes from within first and foremost.

So my advice to baby witches is to not run around and spend all your coin on the aesthetic, but instead invest your time into research, reflection and meditation.

This will give you a much better idea of the things that will actually help you get the most out of your workings—instead of accumulating seasonings that will rot in your pantry—if you even feel you need anything at all.

Finally, if you research well you will probably find that what you have in your home and/or neighbourhood is all you need (markers, paper, salt, flour, matches, water, cups, books, playing cards, birthday candles, perfume, text articles and PDFs on the internet, rocks, leaves, etc.) in terms of tools.

Fungi dragons 😍🥺 🍄🐉by https://www.instagram.com/coliandrium/

I used to think communication was the key until I realized comprehension is. You can communicate all you want with someone but if they don’t understand you, its silent chaos.

The veil is thinning.

Here's a more pragmatic approach to getting started in witchcraft:

Understand Your Intentions: Witchcraft is deeply rooted in intention. Start by identifying your reasons for wanting to explore witchcraft. Is it for self-improvement, healing, personal growth, or something else? Knowing your intentions will help guide your practice.

Learn About Various Practices: Witchcraft is incredibly diverse, with numerous traditions and practices. Research different aspects of witchcraft, including herbalism, crystal work, meditation, and symbolism. This will allow you to choose the aspects that resonate most with you.

Focus on Self-Discovery: Witchcraft is often a journey of self-discovery. Embrace practices that help you understand yourself better. This might involve journaling, meditation, or working with self-reflective tools like Oracle cards or even psychology-based cards for wisdom, learning and introspection rather than interpretation or meaning.

Embrace Practical Tools: Rather than focusing solely on magical tools, consider practical tools that align with your intentions. For example, if you want to enhance your mental well-being, explore mindfulness techniques or cognitive-behavioral tools. Self-empowerment does not have to be a "mystical" thing,

Explore Symbolism: Symbolism plays a significant role in witchcraft. You can incorporate symbols into your daily life to help reinforce your intentions. For example, wearing specific colors or jewelry that symbolize your goals can be meaningful.

Work with Crystals: Crystals are versatile tools that can be used in various ways, even without traditional spells or rituals. You can carry crystals with you, place them in your environment, or use them for self-reflection and intention setting, or reminders of what resonates with you.

Focus on Mindfulness: Developing mindfulness is a powerful practice in witchcraft. Being present in the moment, practicing gratitude, and connecting with nature can all enhance your craft and personal well-being.

Build Your Own Practice: Witchcraft is highly personal. Don't feel pressured to conform to specific traditions or practices. Instead, build your own unique practice that aligns with your values and goals.

Be Skeptical: Maintain a healthy level of skepticism and critical thinking. Question and analyze what you encounter in the world of witchcraft to ensure it aligns with your pragmatic and self-empowered approach.

By taking this pragmatic approach, you can create a meaningful and self-empowering witchcraft practice that is grounded in reality and tailored to your specific needs. This guide encourages you to explore, question, and create a path that resonates with you.

Silver Moon Petal by Natalia Drepina