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Nurture your emotions, release past wounds, and heal under the Wolf full moon in Cancer

The first full moon of 2025 graces the skies with a watery and emotional current of energy in the sign of the Crab Cancer on January 13th. As the moon finishes her cycle in Cancer we are pushed to dive deep into the depths and waves of our emotions. Cancer is one of the most sensitive and intuitive signs of the zodiac. It’s ruled by the moon so when the moon is in the sign of Cancer at any time, you can be sure you’ll be feeling more emotional than normal especially during a full moon! Cancer rules emotions, and you can work on any emotional issues. You can work on facing those feelings you have let sink to the depths of your psyche, embrace them with compassion, and surrender to the waves and let them go. The Cancer full moon connects us with the feeling of home within ourselves, pushes us to develop a new awareness of our emotional nature, and establish a new relationship with our sensitivity and vulnerability. It represents our foundation in life, our home, our roots, and our family of origin or our motherland. So during this full moon our healing and release work can focus on things like our childhood, generational traumas, and toxic family dynamics as well. The Full Moon in Cancer is a profound opportunity to nurture your emotional landscape, connect with your inner world, and release what no longer serves you. Let’s surrender to the waves of our psyche and our deepest emotions riding on the back of the crab under the glow of the full moon light in this blogpost together.

First, What is the Full Moon

Over the centuries, the Moon has played a significant role in different cultures and traditions. The full moon simply put is when the moon is completely illuminated in the sky and it has reached it’s peak in this lunar cycle in the sky. When the moon is completely illuminated it’s time for all to reach full expression. The full moon is the most powerful and potent time of the entire lunar cycle.

A full moon occurs when the transit (moving) Sun and Moon are in the exact opposite positions in the Zodiac (called an opposition). The full moon greatly affects humans and it’s no wonder it does because, there’s a scientific reason for this – we are made up of 60% or more of water. Full Moons are the peak point of the lunar cycle: at this time of the month, the light of the Sun is fully illuminating the Moon, and the luminaries are exactly opposing one another from our perspective on Earth. This potent alignment offers us opportunities to gain more awareness about what is moving in our inner and emotional world, and information previously uncertain or hidden could be revealed at this time.

With the moon being fully illuminated it creates this portal to some of the most potent energy to connect to for us to manifest our desires and dream life. This portal creates a connection to our peak creative energy and the deep seated creative passions we all have within us. This creative energy and power is the energy we need to actually do and create the things and lifestyle we need to manifest what we desire. With the new moon phase being about planting the seeds of what you want to manifest, the full moon is about actually doing the work and moving the energy to make your manifesting happen. The full moon allows you to bridge the connection between these energies and themes and bring them into your life while reminding you how important it is to have them in your life not only when the moon is illuminated in the sky for you to see.

There are so many ways to work with the full moon, to learn more about the basics of working with the full moon energy check out my blog post here and you can watch my class all about lunar magic. But, remember each full moon will be slightly different and have different practices to add and different ways to do it based on which zodiac sign the full moon is currently in at the time.

The wolf moon

During January, as the long harshness of winter has settled in for awhile and food sources to hunt become scarce. The howl of hungry wolves coordinating to take down their prey is something we commonly hear. This is why the full moon of January is known as the wolf moon. This first full moon of the year is an opportunity to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters. The howling wolves have long been a signal of the deep winter season. The Wolf Moon symbolizes both introspection and the power of community. The Full Moon of January connects us to Winter’s strength, the resilience of the wolf pack in harsh condition, and quiet stillness. Wolves, are revered for their wisdom and instinctual nature, and serve as symbols for individuals seeking a deeper connection with their inner selves. Like the pack-oriented wolves, this full moon reminds us of the importance of fostering relationships, improving communication, and achieving harmony in all aspects of life.

As with most pagan names there will be different ones for each culture so below I listed any of the other names for the cold moon I could find across the Earth. The common themes for these moons are, stillness, introspection, community, resilience, wisdom, rest, and the coldness of winter.

  • Mörsugur (Norse) Fat (most likely animal fat) Sucking month
  • Great Spirit Moon or Spirit Moon Ojibwe Native American origins
  • Mantis Moon (Praying Mantis) South African origins
  • Ice Moon Catawba Native American origins
  • cold moon
  • frost exploding moon
  • When Snow Blows Like Spirits In The Wind Moon
  • Stay Home Moon or Quiet Moon Celtic
  • Bear Hunting Moon (táan kungáay) Haida Alaska Native American origins
  • Moon After Yule (Anglo-Saxon)
  • Sun Has Not Strength To Thaw

Who is Cancer?

Like, I said before each full moon will be amplified and influenced by the zodiac sign we find it in and this time the full moon is in the sign of Cancer. So who is Cancer? As the fourth sign Cancer is the very bottom of the Zodiac which makes it associated with our foundations and the core of who we are. As a water sign Cancer is not afraid dive into the depths of emotions and create a nurturing environment to heal the wounds of the past. Cancer represented by the crab is known to be very emotional, nurturing, sensitive, and deeply intuitive.

Cancer constellation

Cancer, the crab, is the dimmest of the 12 zodiac constellations, yet it contains one of the brightest star clusters, the Beehive Cluster. In Greek mythology, the constellation Cancer represents a giant crab named Carcinos that attacked Hercules during one of his 12 labors. The goddess Hera sent the crab to distract Hercules while he fought the Hydra of Lerna, a water serpent. Cancer was able to grab Hercules’s toes with its claws, but Hercules killed it with a kick before it could cause more damage. Hera felt sorry for the crab and rewarded it for its efforts by placing it among the stars as the constellation Cancer.

In Egyptian mythology, the Cancer constellation was associated with the sacred scarab beetle, an emblem of rebirth and immortality. The connection comes from the scarab’s behavior of rolling dung into a ball, which the ancient Egyptians saw as a symbol of the forces that move the sun across the sky, thus connecting the beetle and the constellation with cycles of renewal and eternal life. In Mesopotamian mythology, the Cancer constellation was often depicted as a turtle or tortoise, associated with the summer solstice and sometimes seen as a gateway to the underworld.

In Celtic mythology, the Cancer constellation is most closely associated with the goddess Cerridwen, who is often depicted as the keeper of a cauldron of knowledge, with the stars within Cancer representing the sparks of wisdom emanating from her magical brew; essentially, the constellation is seen as a symbol of the cauldron itself, signifying the potential for enlightenment and deep understanding.

Themes for the Cancer full moon

Every full Moon contains its own themes, which are related to the sign that it falls under. This time, we experience the full Moon in the emotional, sensitive, loving, caring, forgiving, compassionate, foundational, sign of the crab; Cancer. The crab is also the sign that represents our family, our childhood, our ancestral line, and our past. When diving into the depths of your soul, with not only the moon as your guide but the crab as well. You are most likely to see themes focused on these topics as you swim among your emotions. The Cancer full Moon is going to bring the spotlight on your personal life, your inner life, your emotional life, as well as on home and family dynamics that we need to address or take care of, confront, and finally release and let go. The full Moon in her home sign invites us to strengthen our ability to tap into our intuition and reminds us of the value of giving space to our emotions. Keep in mind that the full Moon relates to the continuation of your journey to manifest your desires and dreams. So, make sure your release work helps you make those happen. Let’s explore some of the themes and energies of Cancer deeper below.

  • Nurturing
  • Sentimental
  • Emotional
  • Tender
  • Nostalgic
  • Protective
  • Creative
  • Intuitive
  • Moody
  • Loyal
  • sensitive
  • security-seeking
  • compassionate
  • Kind
  • Sympathetic
  • supportive
  • healing
  • Maternal
  • Foundational
  • devoted
  • Imaginative
  • resilient
  • duality
  • Family-orientated
  • ancestral
  • domestic

Cancer The sign to nurture your emotions

Cancer is a water sign associated with nurturing, intuition, and empathy. The Moon is at home in Cancer and illuminates our innate desire to focus on our deepest emotional needs. The cancer moon reminds us of the importance of letting our emotions flow, of sitting with our emotions without judging them, without rationalizing them, and without attaching a story to them. The Cancer full moon infuses us with its energy. Making it a powerful time for emotional healing, enhancing psychic abilities, letting go of past wounds, breaking generational patterns, and nurturing relationships. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, creating a comforting environment, or simply honoring your own feelings, the Full Moon in Cancer highlights the importance of caring for your inner world. Remember, tending to your inner world is just as important as taking care of others during this extra sensitive and emotional full moon.

Cancer The Ruler Of Home And Family

Cancer is the ruler of the home and family, so we can focus more on home and family matters. This can be a time to work on healing wounds from your childhood, releasing past toxic patterns, and redefining the dynamics in your home and relationships. When the full moon is in Cancer this is a time to go back to our roots, who we are, where we came from, and work on releasing anything holding us back emotionally that is connected to our generational lineage, our childhood, and our upbringing. Now is a great time to begin looking into childhood wounds and working to start to healing them. Cancer is also the sign of mothering energy, so during this Moon you’ll feel a stronger urge to nurture and care for not only your own family more deeply, but everyone as if everyone was one of your children.

Cancer the sign of heightened intuition

Cancer is one of the most intuitive signs of the zodiac and has a natural ability to understand other people. This sign has an uncanny ability to sense the moods of others . This sign really is ruled by their intuition and gut feelings, which often proves to be a trusty compass for them. Guiding them to react to others with compassion and empathy giving them the emotional support they need. To connect to the heightened emotional intuition of Cancer this full moon it’s an excellent time for enhancing empathy, and deepening your intuitive abilities by working with your clairs. This allows you to follow that gut instinct about peoples true emotional state, even when it’s not what you see on the surface.

Eris is active

I don’t normally talk about other energies too much but, I have a soft spot for Eris. I feel she gets such a bad rep and she is so overlooked. Especially for her ability to bring empowerment , fight for the under dog, and bring about much needed justice. So, whenever she is active I always try to bring it up and make a note of it. Eris is known to bring destruction and unsettling energy, but this is only to achieve a greater harmony. Eris can see what is old, broken, or is in need of a massive change. She fights against oppression and outdated beliefs, aiming to bring more freedom. though she is known to be a bit erratic when she feels offended. I mean she did play a big hand in the destruction of troy. When she is active she can ignite some inner rage to stand up for yourself, and even get into the fight for justice within our community. To learn more about her energy and myths check out my class on her in the dark goddess devotionals class with DiviNation here.

What to be cautious of this Cancer full moon

When it comes to the Cancer full moon emotions will be really heightened and it’s easy to become moody if you don’t express how you’re feeling. So make sure to express those hidden feelings that you have allowed to sink to the depths. Another thing to be cautious of with the full moon in Cancer is to not allow yourself to build up stronger defense walls. The crab likes to retreat behind the walls of it’s castle to remain safe and protected as the waves of emotions crash upon the shore of your soul. But, don’t let yourself do that by lashing out in passive aggressive ways to those you love and care about. Allow the walls of your castle to soften and come down this lunar cycle instead of allowing them to be reinforced. The last thing to keep in mind is to make sure you don’t allow the nurturing pull of the crab to overcome you. It’s great to care for others and nurture others but, not at your own expense.

Cancer and duality

Since, I am a grey witch every single energy I work with I look for the duality in that energy and how I can connect to it. First, let’s talk about the sign Cancer. The zodiac sign Cancer is known for its duality, which is represented by the crab’s hard shell and soft underbelly. Cancer energy is said to be tough and protective on the outside, but nurturing and emotional on the inside. Like the crab this energy allows us to retreat into our shell and home we carry on our back and be grounded safely in it. But, when we need to we can stand our ground and defend the home we carry on our backs and protect it until the end. Even though we will feel protective, this energy also allows us to feel, be sensitive, and to nurture not only others but, ourselves. We may feel resilient and hard on the outside right now, but on the inside the waves of emotions are crashing all around us and we internally don’t feel strong and protected.

Second, the full moon itself is all about duality as it is another time of transformation, transition, and rebirth. During this time we are pushed into a liminal space that forces us to look at the things, people, and places that have been obstacles or holding us back. This can be a thing of beauty and hope as well as a thing of pain and darkness which forces us into duality.

Correspondences for the Cancer full moon

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy , or the zodiac energy the moon is currently in like for Cancer, I will list below for you to use. Remember to follow your intuition with the correspondences you choose to work with and that you can always use any that correspond to the moon itself as well.

  • planet- The Moon
  • Animal- crab, lobster, crayfish
  • Element-Water
  • Sex-Feminine
  • Modality-cardinal
  • Symbol- Crab
  • colors- sea green, blue, silver
  • Motto- “I feel”
  • Chakra- Heart
  • Herbs- water lily, aloe, passionflower, lemon balm, lotus, sandalwood, lavender, rosemary, ginger, Geraniums, daisy, honeysuckle, chickweed, peppermint, jasmine, hyssop, morning glory, parsley, verbena
  • Stones/ crystals- pearl, moonstone, aquamarine, turquoise,Rhodochrosite, rose quartz, ruby, opal, Chrysoprase
  • Deities- luna, diana, artemis, lord krishna, deities of the moon, Freyja, Lupa, skadi, calliech, cerridwen, baba yaga
  • Themes-Emotional, Family-oriented, Protective, Devoted, Caring, Maternal/Paternal, Intuitive, Domestic, Sentimental
  • tarot- The chariot
  • House- 4th
  • Day- Monday

How to connect to the Cancer full moon

Now, that we have talked about the themes of this cancer full moon and how it is going to affect you let’s talk about how you can specifically connect to and work with this moon. In magical practices, under a cancer full moon we can focus our spells on things like self love, creativity, emotional healing, generational patterns, and increasing your intuition.

First, make sure to do all of your staples that your learned in the previous blog post on the full moon and the moon in general like, charging your crystals, making moon water, and resetting your altar. Make sure to make moon water this lunar cycle. The moon rules Cancer, so its energy is particularly strong and potent during this time. This makes Cancer moon water incredibly powerful for spells and rituals involving emotions, intuition, home, and family.

With this moon there are certain spells and rituals that will help connect you this moon in the most effective way. Like spells focused on emotional healing, release work, self care, and deepening your connection with your intuition. Remember these are just some of the many ideas. Follow your intuition and the energy of this moon. Below is a more extensive list of ideas on how to connect to and work with the Cancer full moon.

  • Redefine a relationship with a relative
  • Make your home cozy and a safe environment
  • Do inner child work– You can start by purchasing my eBook in the shop
  • Visit a body of water and do some elemental magic
  • Make sure your SMART goals and word of the year are set
  • Do something nostalgic or sentimental
  • self care rituals and things to build your self worth
  • Abundance spells-You can learn how to connect to abundance with my in depth guide here
  • Meditation and Visualization
  • release and heal wounds no longer serving you
  • Heart Chakra Energy Work
  • immerse yourself in water
  • Spend time with your mother and/or connect to maternal energy
  • Divination– Try divination associated with the element water; one of my favorite is by practicing water scrying.
  • Self reflection– You can do this through mirror magic. To learn more on how to do this you can read about it here
  • Cleansing
  • Ritual bath
  • spend time in silence and alone
  • Do things that bring you comfort
  • Get creative and express yourself with art in whatever modality sings to your soul
  • Practice lunar magic
  • Womb healing– To learn more about this practice you can watch my class all about here and book me for 1:1 guided sessions here
  • Protection magic and spells– To learn more about how to do protection magic you can watch part 1 and part 2 of my classes with Divination academy on YouTube
  • release emotions by making worry water
  • Do things that help you feel stable and safe
  • Burn Bay leaves with things you would like to release on them
  • Work with your intuition– sit with your intuition, listen to your intuition, work on developing your psychic clares. To learn more about how to do that you can purchase my eBook here
  • Hydrate
  • attend a community support group and/or therapy
  • Random acts for kindness
  • Spread compassion by volunteering in your community
  • add the wolf to your altar
  • Visit the winter woods where wolves play
  • snow magic for release work
  • Create a spell bag or talisman for a peaceful home
  • watch a feel good movie or read a romantic novel
  • Connect with and ride the waves of your emotions
  • Cook a big meal and host some family
  • Use the last full moon of the lunar year to work with the year of the dragon
  • Make a spell jar-to connect to the zodiac Cancer. To learn how to make spell jars you can purchase my ebook here
  • Work with the element water in your magical workings and spells- You can learn more about how to do that here
  • Connect to the energy of January. You can read my extensive guide here
  • Make a simmer pot-for peace, calmness, emotional healing or clarity
  • Journal– focus on your emotions, emotional healing, family life, family dynamics, childhood, ancestors

Reflection questions and topics for wolf full moon in Cancer

During the Full Moon in Cancer, your focus should be on emotional awareness, self-care, and nurturing your connections. This is an ideal time to tune into your inner feelings, acknowledge any emotions that have been bubbling beneath the surface, and create a safe space for self-compassion. Whether you do it thru meditation, shadow work, or divination like tarot; below is a list of prompts and topics to connect with the energy of the wolf full moon in Cancer . If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here;  you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through DiviNation here.

  • What changes or shifts are occurring within you? How can you embrace transformation and growth during this period?
  • How do you contribute to your “pack” or community, and how do others contribute to yours? What can you learn from the dynamics of a wolf pack?
  • What wounds or past hurts from our childhood do you need to let go of?
  • What does your inner child need from you to feel safe? To feel loved? What did they not get when you were young you can give them now?
  • How can you express your own authentic voice? How can you find your own way to howl?
  • What helps me feel stable and secure? How can I create more of that in my life?
  • What emotions are bubbling just beneath the surface that I need to face?
  • Do I trust my gut instinct? How can I release doubt in my intuition?
  • What dynamics in my home need to be changed and shifted to bring more peace?
  • What generational patterns am I willing to release to step into my own destiny?
  • What in my day to day life feels heavy that I need t be willing to let go?
  • What emotion keeps coming up for me in a destructive way over and over again do I need to face and then let go this full moon?
  • How can I mother myself more?
  • Do I have a mother wound that needs to be healed an addressed?
  • How do I allow myself to flow freely with my emotions? What happens when I let myself ride the waves of my emotions?
  • What do I need to release in order to trust in the source?
  • How have I nurtured myself in the past 6 months? How can I nurture myself in the next 6 months?

Full moon Prayers and affirmations

  • I release all that does not serve my highest good.
  • I illuminate the things blocking my path to my desires.
  • I release all negative energy, feelings and thoughts that are not serving me.
  • I release the belief that I am not worthy or capable of manifesting anything that I want.
  • I call in the energy of the full moon to cleanse my field of anything that is not aligned with my higher purpose.

Affirmations specific to the Cancer full moon

  • I go with the flow of my emotions
  • I let my emotions guide me
  • I trust my intuition is a connection to the universe and is always protecting me
  • I am clear on my needs
  • I allow myself to feel vulnerable
  • My sensitivity and empathy are strengths not weaknesses
  • I trust my instincts, and they guide me wisely.
  • I am a valued member of my community, and I contribute positively to it
  • I protect the members of my community who are vulnerable and need it
  • The past no longer defines me I create my future
  • I let go of stress and emotional wounds and surrender to the flow of life
  • I protect my own energy by allowing myself time alone
  • I nurture myself through ups and downs. Breakdowns lead to break throughs
  • I let go of toxic dynamics to create a safe, nurturing, and peaceful home

Spell for emotional healing

Cancer is the sign of emotions and nurturing which makes it a very potent time to go within and do some emotional healing. Especially with family wounds, childhood wounds, and scars from the past. Use the spell below during the cancer full moon to bring emotional healing to your life as you surrender to healing waves where the crab resides.

What you will need:

  • a bowl of water
  • pink candle
  • oil
  • Lavender, pink rose petals, rosemary, cinnamon
  • rose quartz

How to perform spell:

Get into sacred container by taking some deep breaths and visualizing pink, loving, and nurturing energy surrounding you. Once you feel set in sacred container take the herbs and grind or mix them together. Once done take your oil and anoint your pink candle with it focusing on loving pink energy open you up to emotional healing. Next, take your candle and roll it in the herbal blend you mixed. Next set it next to your bowl of water asking to connect to the energy of the crab and the depths of your soul. Once your items are set light your candle. Take your rose quartz and hold it in your hands while reciting the spell below staring deep into your bowl of water.

” Water wash over my heart and soul to soothe what needs to mend, healing energy to me please send. Heal the inner scars and wounds you touch and I wish to no longer carry. Heal my heart, and soul so here on out I can be peacful and merry.”

Repeat the spell as many times as you feel you need to. Until you feel your emotional wounds mend, heal, and be released. Leave the candle to burn until it goes out on it’s own. Take your bowl of water and give it to the earth outside thanking it for absorbing your emotional wounds as you do so. Carry your rose quartz with you for as long as you need to bring you love and emotional healing throughout the day.

Howl your emotions out ritual with the wolf moon

This first full moon of the year is the wolf moon remember? So why not connect to the spirt and energy of the wild and wise wolf under the full moon rays of light by communicating like them tonight. One of the simplest ways to release pent-up emotions and energy is to actually howl at the moon just like wolves like to do. Though we now know that wolves howl for different reasons (including to find pack members or to coordinate a hunt), this full moon we can take a cue from these majestic creatures and do our own howling. The howl is the spirit of the wolf unleashed in its divine expression.

So this full moon Do what the wolf does: howl to the Moon. With all the stress and unwanted emotion in life let it go, howl what is in your heart. Let loose what is in the depths of your soul. The Moon is listening. Sitting with the Full Wolf Moon especially in cancer you will know that you are not alone.

How to do this:

When the moon is high out in the sky get some warm clothes on and head outside under the moonlight. Find a place where you can get a clear view of the full moon and be alone. Then stand with your feet apart and put your hands on your hips creating your strongest power pose. Focus on drawing the energy of the moonlight down into you and your pose. Feeling the untamed wild , wisdom, and intuition of the wolf. Allowing the rays of the full moon to hunt down the things that need to be released tonight. Once you feel they have been found. With a deep breath as loud as you can howl as the wolves do and let it all out. Feel the tension, the stress, the past wound, the pain, and the hurt, leave you now with the depth of your howl and be left to the winter wild.

Final thoughts

This full moon being the last one before we enter the year of shedding with the wood snake is your cue to slow down, tune into your intuition, and prepare for the release that naturally flows with the full moon. Whether it’s letting go of emotional baggage or simply acknowledging your inner world, this Full Moon invites you to nurture yourself and those closest to you. The Full Moon in Cancer is all about emotional release and healing especilay with the wolf howling by our side. This full moon encourages you to acknowledge what’s been submerged beneath the surface of the waves and let go of any emotional weight that no longer serves you. By focusing on self-compassion and nurturing your emotional well-being, you can create a solid foundation for personal healing and growth during this full moon in sign of the crab with Cancer.

Don’t forget to make preparations for your full moon hangover you may experience after this lumination. If you don’t know what a full moon hangover is or how to deal with one you can read all about it in my previous blog post here!

Have you been feeling stuck, emotionally unstable, missing joy in your life, or having a hard time connecting to yourself and your magic? Do you want to start the new year from a different headspace? I have the answer for you to start out this new year from a place feeling grounded, present, and ready to manifest your dream life. Come join me for this special one time only two day event teaching you how to integrate the practice of Mindfulness to your magic and life!

What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of purposely bringing one’s attention to the present moment without judgment. It allows you to move from just existing in life to thriving, get back to wise mind, create a place to heal and grow in, and most important of all, align you with joy while creating a life where you truly thrive! This skill is a core skill in DBT, the therapy that changed my life! To register for this special two day event visit the link below! https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/JY5UBMB2TA27L

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

Don’t forget to head over to the shop today for eBooks, workshops, resources, and 1:1 services with me!

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

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Celebrate the Chinese new year with the wood snake

The 2025 Chinese new year celebrated alongside the lunar new year falls on January 29th . Marking the end of winter and the beginning of the spring season, Chinese New Year celebrates looking to the future for new beginnings with themes of happiness, health family, and good fortune. This Chinese new year marks the arrival of the Wood Snake, a rare and meaningful combination that appears only once every 60 years. This year of the Snake signifies introspection, subtle power, and transformative growth. It embodies a quiet yet potent and sometimes lethal energy capable of illuminating hidden paths and fostering deep emotional and spiritual understanding. Its strategic, resourceful nature makes it an excellent year for long-term growth. Come with me and slither through this blogpost to learn how to welcome the lunar new year and coil up with the energy that it holds.

First, what is the Chinese new year

Of all the traditional Chinese festivals, the new Year was perhaps the most elaborate, colorful, and important. This was a time for the Chinese to congratulate each other and themselves on having passed through another year, a time to finish out the old, and to welcome in the new year.

The Chinese New Year is a festive celebration at the beginning of the Chinese calendar new year. It has a long and exciting history, and there are many wonderful traditions, meals, and activities to be enjoyed during the holiday. It is also a chance for families to clean their homes and set forth their intentions for the new year. 

The Chinese New year can also be called by other names as well, like the spring festival due to it’s timing with the changing of the seasons and it ushering in spring. It also known as the lunar new year since it starts on a new moon and is based on the lunar calendar.

When is the Chinese new year celebrated?

The Chinese New year is celebrated on the first day of the First Moon of the lunar calendar. The corresponding date in the solar calendar varies from as early as January 21st to as late as February 19th. This year it falls on January 29th 2025. Chinese New Year, just like the Western new Year, signifies turning over a new leaf and starting something new. Socially, it is a time for family reunions, and for visiting friends and relatives. This holiday, more than any other Chinese holiday, stresses the importance of family ties and bonds.

 Traditionally, the holiday lasts sixteen days. The first week is considered a public holiday, and the sixteen days are split into different parts of the celebration. For example, the Lantern Festival is generally hosted on the 15th day, and is one of the most looked-forward-to events. The Chinese New Year is teeming with unique traditions and mythologies. The celebrations includes beautiful outfits, delicious food, and lots of colorful decorations and entertainment. Each region of China and Chinese cultures around the world have their own unique traditions and ways of encouraging hope, prosperity, and positivity for the new year. 

History of the Chinese New Year

The history of Chinese New Year dates back over 3,500 years. Each unique religion and culture around China has its own mythology and tradition related to the Chinese New Year, but most stories agree that it has to do with appeasing ancient deities.

One of the most popular myths associated with the celebrations of the near has to do with a mythical beast. Nian, a mythical beast, would appear during the Spring Festival and eat the villagers every single year. Than one year an old man appeared in the village and hung red paper lanterns and decorations, and set off fireworks to scare him away. When the villagers returned to the town, they saw that Nian had not destroyed it, as in previous years. Red decorations and clothing became associated with the holiday, and thus, the tradition of setting off fireworks for the holiday evolved, as well.

Much of the history is also rooted in praying to the gods for a good harvest since Chinese culture is deeply rooted in agriculture.

Common traditions for the Chinese new year

Sweeping of the Grounds

Preparations for the Chinese New Year in old China started well in advance of the New Year’s Day. The 20th of the Twelfth Moon was set aside for the annual housecleaning, or the sweeping of the grounds Every corner of the house must be swept and cleaned in preparation for the new year. Spring couplets written in black ink on large vertical scrolls of red paper, were put on the walls or on the sides of the gate-ways. These couplets, short poems written in Classical Chinese, were expressions of good wishes for the family in the coming year. In addition, symbolic flowers and fruits were used to decorate the house, and colorful new year pictures (NIAN HUA) were placed on the walls (for more descriptions of the symbolism of the flowers and fruits.

Family Celebration

On the last day of the old year, everyone was busy either in preparing food for the next two days, or in going to the barbers and getting tidied up for the New Year’s Day. Tradition stipulated that all food be pre-pared before the New Year’s Day, so that all sharp instruments, such as knives and scissors, could be put away to avoid cutting the “luck” of the New Year. The kitchen and well were not to be disturbed on the first day of the Year.

The New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations were strictly family affairs. All members of the family would gather for the important family meal on the evening of the New year’s Eve. Even if a family member could not attend, an empty seat would be kept to symbolize that person’s presence at the banquet. At midnight following the banquet, the younger members of the family would bow and pay their respects to their parents and elders.

Lai-See

On New Year’s Day, the children were given Red Lai-see envelopes , good luck money wrapped in little red envelopes. On New Year’s day, everyone had on new clothes, and would put on his best behavior. It was considered improper to tell a lie, raise one’s voice, use indecent language, or break anything on the first day of the year. Starting from the second day, people began going out to visit friends and relatives, taking with them gifts and Lai-See for the children. Visitors would be greeted with traditional New year delicacies, such as melon seeds, flowers, fruits, tray of togetherness, and NIANGAO, New Year cakes.

There are a few guidelines for the money in red Lai-see envelopes. Only clean, unwrinkled bills should be put in red envelopes; it’s considered in poor taste to include old or wrinkled bills. Red Lai-see envelopes should contain even amounts of money and certain numbers are considered more auspicious than others. The amount of money shouldn’t have the number four in it (eg. 4, 40, 44, etc), because the word for “four” sounds like the word for “death” and is considered unlucky. However, it’s considered lucky to have amounts of money with the number eight in it, because the word for “eight” sounds like the word meaning “to prosper”.

Firecrackers Are Set Off
At the beginning of the legend, firecrackers were used to scare away the monster Nian from the village in order to protect the villagers. Many of the Chinese legends tell of using fireworks to scare away”evil” spirits and to prevent poor luck in the new year.

In modern times, fireworks are used to both symbolize the ancient tradition and also to evoke a celebratory mood. All of the firecrackers set off during the Chinese New Year celebration are red, to invite all the good luck. It is also a way to express happiness and joy. In fact, Chinese New Year is the event with the greatest number of fireworks released every year—upwards of a billion!

Lion dance

The lion dance is another one of the Chinese New Year symbols that originated from the story of Nian. Except in this version of the story, instead one one man scaring away the monstrous Nian, the whole village came together to bang on pots to make noise, and to create a large lion that would scare Nian away. The Chinese New Year lion dance honors this story by having people play percussive instruments (drums symbols and gongs) while two people perform a dance in an elaborate lion costume. One person acts as the head of the lion, and the other person acts as the body, performing acrobatic movements to mirror way a lion would move in time with the music. The dance begins with the lion asleep. Once he is woken up by the instruments, the lion shakes, gets up and beings playing.

He then becomes hungry and begins to search for food. This hunt for food is called “plucking the greens”, during which he searches high and low to retrieve auspicious foods like lettuce and mandarin oranges which are attached to red envelopes. He eats the lettuce and oranges and “spits out” good fortune to everyone nearby, keeping the red envelopes for the dancers. The lion dance is thought to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity and good fortune to everyone nearby, especially those who catch the food that the lion “spit out”

Dragon dance

Like the lion dance, the dragon dance is another one of the Chinese New Year symbols that ushers in prosperity and good fortune for the coming year, and wards off evil spirits. While the dragon dance also involves music and movement the two dances are very different. Instead of using two people like the lion dance, the dragon dance uses many people. The size of the dragon dances vary, but usually have over 9 people.

Each person is holding a pole which is supporting part of a serpent-like dragon body. One person stands in front of the dragon, holding a ball attached to pole which represents a “Pearl of Wisdom”. The person holding the pearl uses it to lead the dragon around on a quest for wisdom, knowledge and truth. The people puppeteering the dragon body have to follow the pearl, in time with the percussive elements of the music.

Lucky Chinese New Year foods

Gathering with family to share a meal and leaving food offerings for ancestors are important traditions during the Spring Festival. All of the foods chosen are Chinese New Year symbols that each have a special meaning that corresponds with a wish for the new year.

  • One important Chinese New Year foods you’re bound to see is fish. The word for “fish” sounds like the word for “surplus” so whole fish are eaten to usher in abundance in food and wealth for the coming year. In addition to being served whole, images of fish are also used as decorations to attract abundance.
  • The shape of dumplings (also called jiaozi) resemble the yuanbao, which was a type of ancient currency made from ingot (silver, gold or other metal). Eating dumplings is thought to attract wealth. The more you eat, the wealthier you are believed to become.
  • Tang yuan is a traditional Chinese New Year dessert which is served during the Lantern Festival consisting of sweet rice balls with a black sesame filling. Their name and round shape signify family unity and togetherness.
  • Tangerines and oranges on Chinese New Year are believed to bring luck and wealth for the coming year because the word for “tangerine” sounds like the word for “luck”. The golden color of oranges and tangerines also correlates to wealth.
  • Another golden food that symbolizes wealth is the spring roll, also called chun juan. Not only does their color resemble wealth, but their shape is also looks like gold bars.
  • Make sure not to cut your noodles if you normally do so, because eating long, unbroken noodles in the dish called longevity noodles is believed to encourage longevity in life. It’s also bad luck to cut anything during Chinese New Year, because it is viewed as cutting off your luck.
  • Fa gao, also known as “prosperity cake” or “fortune cake” is a popular dessert made from rice flour and steamed until the top splits. The more sections formed by the split in the top denotes how lucky a person will be in the coming year.
  • Another lucky dessert, nian gao or “year cake” is made from sticky rice flour and can be sweet or savory. The name of this dessert sounds just like the words for “higher year” which symbolize progress, success and a better year than the last.

The importance of wearing red

Red is associated with the colors used to scare away the monster Nian, but it also has other meanings as well. Traditionally, it stands for good luck in Chinese culture and is used to keep away any spirits who might harbor bad fortune. Wearing red is traditional for Chinese New Year, in order to welcome in the new year with good fortune, but you can also wear bold or bright colors for the celebratory mood, as well. You’ll also want to decorate with red around your home. Decorations include paper cuttings, which are intricate and narrative. They often represent symbols from mythology or of good blessings for harvest. Other decorations include Door Gods, red lanterns, calligraphy fortunes, paintings, and more.

The importance of the FU character

The Chinese fu character, meaning good fortune and blessings, is one of the most commonly found Chinese New Year symbols. It is written on a red, diamond shaped piece of paper, which is often hung upside down on the outside of the front door. The reason these fu papers are hung this way is because the word for “upside down” is similar to the word “arrive”. Hanging the fu character upside down signals that good fortune and blessings will arrive at your home for the new year.

The Chinese Zodiac

Chinese Zodiac animals are another one of the important Chinese New Year symbols. Each year is assigned one of the twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac in a very special order. This order is determined from one of the most well known Chinese mythological tales. The twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac are; the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. The tale that tells us their order is the great race and it goes like this. The story goes that the Jade Emperor, the ruler of heaven and earth, held a race to create a calendar and a way to measure time. This race was a call to his dear animal friends to race across the river to him when upon their arrival they would a special meal and celebration together. There are a few different version for the telling’s of what actually happens during the race. But below is the most commonly accepted version for the results.

The rat and the cat were good friends, but they were poor swimmers. They asked the ox to carry them across the river, and he agreed. However, the rat tricked the ox by pushing the cat into the river and then leaping onto the ox’s head to finish first. The ox came in second place followed by a wet tiger after that. The rabbit was having a hard time hopping from stone to stone across the river, when suddenly a log floated by. The rabbit hopped onto the log and it drifted him quickly to shore. Little did the rabbit know that just behind him was the dragon. The dragon saw the little rabbit in need and graciously blew wind to carry the log all the way to shore. The Jade emperor was curious and asked the dragon why it came in fifth place when it could fly. It turns out, the dragon had been distracted from the race by a village that was in drought. The dragon provided rain to save the village then continued the race and was declared the fifth zodiac animal by the emperor. The snake, hid in the horse’s hoof to cross the river, then jumped out to scare the horse into seventh place. Next, a raft floated up to the finish line carrying the friendly ram, the playful monkey and the talkative rooster. The three of them had teamed up and crossed the river together. So, ram was eighth, monkey ninth, and in tenth place was the rooster. The dog, made it across the river, but spent too much time playing in the water and came in eleventh. The pig Stopped to eat and fell asleep, finishing in last place. The Jade Emperor assigned the pig the final space in the zodiac

It may sound odd but, if you want to get a really deep look at this tale and how each zodiac animal really manifests in humans there actually is a really amazing anime about it. Go check out fruit baskets.

The year of the snake

The snake, being the sixth animal in the zodiac, is set to take center stage in 2025. The Year of the Snake is associated with transformation, renewal, and spiritual growth. Snakes are known for their ability to shed their skin, symbolizing the process of letting go of the old and embracing the new. Snakes are everything you aspire to be: smooth, sneaky, and completely unbothered by the opinions of others. They’re the passive-aggressive MVPs of the animal kingdom. They slither through life with the grace and determination to get to there next goal. Never being afraid to strike out with a venomous bites to protect yourself and your way of life. The snake is also a symbol of wisdom, cunning, and adaptability. This year with the influence of the snake you can expect new opportunities and challenges that will test our skills and resilience. This year of the Snake signifies subtle power, and transformative growth. It embodies a quiet yet potent energy capable of illuminating hidden paths and fostering deep emotional and spiritual understanding. Its strategic, resourceful nature makes it excellent for long-term growth. I am just about done with a special guide to dive into this snake energy for the year specifically. So, keep an eye out for that coming in just a bit!

How the element wood affects the snake

When it comes to the Chines New year not only is there an animal associated with each year but, also an element that dominates that years energy. This year we find ourselves in the element wood alongside the snake. Wood represents the energy of growth, and is known for it’s flexibility that paired with the energy of the snake makes this a year of massive transformative energy. The last time we had a wood snake year was 1965 — the Vietnam War, the space race and the first space walk, Malcolm X’s assassination, the civil rights movement and the race riots, and the Beatles and the Rolling Stones tour the world. The snake’s strategic and introspective nature is complemented by the element of wood, which fosters growth, balance, and connection with nature. In the Year of the Wood Snake, the “Wood” element signifies a period of increased growth, flexibility, and creativity. Essentially, the Wood element softens the Snake’s typically reserved nature, adding a layer of compassion and a desire to nurture new beginnings. The influence of wood encourages our creative and innovative sides while the snake’s energy provides us with the strategic insights necessary to achieve our goals.

The Chinese new year and duality

Since, I am a grey witch I look for the duality in every single energy I work with including sacred times like the Chinese new year. Even though this is a holiday and celebration focused on family, good luck, and prosperity which is a very wanted energy there is a duality to this celebration. Remember the myth we talked about with Nian? The mythological beast that came up from the ocean each year to eat villagers. That story reminds us that this time of the year is a liminal time where the veil is thin and protection from unwanted entities and spirits is needed. It also reminds us that often when we are celebrating our precious time with our families we are also reminded of a time we almost lost them or the ones we did lose already.

Correspondences for the Chinese New year

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy, the zodiac energy the moon is currently or for A holiday or sacred time like the Chinese/ Lunar New year. I will list below for you to use. Remember this is not an all encompassing list and there may be other correspondences to use. Just follow your intuition and use what calls to you.

  • Planet- Jupiter
  • Animal-Snake
  • Element- wood
  • symbol- lanterns, zodiac animals, lai-see envelopes, couplets, fireworks, fu character, plum blossoms
  • colors-red, gold, white, black
  • Herbs/flowers-bamboo, fennel, cinnamon, star anise, Szechuan pepper, cloves, ginseng, Chrysanthemum, goji berries, peace lily, money plant, Anthuriums, bay leaves, Jade plants, peach, plum, Kumquat
  • Stones/ crystals-ruby, garnet, citrine, amethyst, peridot, jade, sapphire, clear quartz, aquamarine, black pearl, moonstone
  • Deities-The Year God: Also known as Tai Sui, Door Gods: Also known as Menshen, The Three Star Gods: Also known as Sanxing, The God of Wealth: Also known as Caishen, The Kitchen God, The City God, who is said to be the reincarnation of a human official from an earlier time
  • Food/drinks-Tang yuan, fish, dumplings, spring roll, also called chun juan, Fa gao, also known as “prosperity cake, nian gao or “year cake”, tangerines, plums, peaches, fruit, shrimp, chicken

How to celebrate the Chinese new year with the snake

Marking the end of winter and the beginning of the spring season, Chinese New Year celebrates looking to the future for new beginnings with themes of happiness, health, and good fortune. The New Year is frequently regarded as an occasion to gather and feast together as a family at a reunion dinner to honor household and heavenly deities, as well as ancestors. However, you choose to celebrate the chines new year and work with its energy just follow your intuition and do what feels right for you. Let’s take a look at some of the many different ways you can celebrate and work with the energy of the Chinese new year.

  • create an altar for your ancestors and leave offerings for them
  • Graveyard magic
  • Spread prosperity and good luck by handing out lai-see red envelopes
  • Read the myths and legends of the Chinese zodiac
  • Learn about the culture and region of the China
  • Perform lunar magic to welcome in the lunar new year
  • Sweep your entire home, declutter, deep clean, reorganize
  • hang up decorations like paper lanterns, couplets, and the color red
  • Practice calligraphy and you can even use it to create sigils to welcome in the lunar new year
  • Host a family get together eating traditional lucky foods
  • Cleansing and purification magic
  • Transformation spells
  • Do release work to let go of the past year and shed your old skin
  • work with the snake in your spells, rituals, and represent it on your altar
  • introspection and reflection based on transformation, creativity, and shedding old skins like shadow work.  If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here; you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.
  • Set off some fireworks
  • Attend a lion or parade dance if you can
  • Divination like pulling cards
  • Good luck and abundance spells
  • host a family reunion
  • Give thanks and practice gratitude for the past year
  • Use the venom and bite of the snake to protect yourself with protection magic and baneful magic like hexes, curse, binding
  • Creativity express yourself with the snake
  • be flexible and adaptable with your plans and way to reach your goals like the wood and snake
  • Bathe in the moonlight

Final thoughts on the energy of 2025

2025 isn’t here to hold your hand or sing you a lullaby. It’s here to remind you that you’re a witch. You are a powerful and sovereign entity dammit, and sovereign beings don’t crumble, they conquer. So shed your old skin, step into your power, and slither into this year like the unapologetic, venomous conqueror you were always meant to be. Remember while you do this to never be afraid to show your teeth and strike with a venomous bite if someone gets in your way and threatens your way of life. Be fluid and slither with grace to get to where you need to go and don’t be afraid of the paths in the shadows. The shadows may be mysteries and dark but, in them wisdom can hide. We have a big year full of so much energy that is dynamic, and confrontational unfolding in front us. We won’t be able to slither and hide in the shadows from our purpose, our power, and our true identities anymore. But, we can use them to heal, transform, and find new paths in the dark. This is a year we will be forced to remove masks by completely shedding our skins. We will be forced to uncoil from a place of safety and warmth to find our true way in the world in and new creative way. We will be forced to stand up show our venomous bite and even strike back with a lethal blow when the timing is just right.

Have you been feeling stuck, emotionally unstable, missing joy in your life, or having a hard time connecting to yourself and your magic? Do you want to start the new year from a different headspace? I have the answer for you to start out this new year from a place feeling grounded, present, and ready to manifest your dream life. Come join me for this special one time only two day event teaching you how to integrate the practice of Mindfulness to your magic and life!

What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of purposely bringing one’s attention to the present moment without judgment. It allows you to move from just existing in life to thriving, get back to wise mind, create a place to heal and grow in, and most important of all, align you with joy while creating a life where you truly thrive! This skill is a core skill in DBT, the therapy that changed my life! To register for this special two day event visit the link below! https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/JY5UBMB2TA27L

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

Don’t forget to head over to the shop today for eBooks, workshops, resources, and 1:1 services with me!

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

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Working with the magic of January; rest, renewal, and a new year

The holidays season of December have passed and the bitter coldness, frozen waterways, and piles of snow mounding on the ground have sent us inside to nestle by the cozy lit hearths of our homes. Where we allow ourselves to do as nature does and be still, hibernate, and rest. Allowing the silence to fill our heart with wisdom as we ground back into ourselves with our loved ones no longer gathered around. January marks the beginning of a new calendar year and is often viewed as a time for reflection, renewal, and setting intentions for our manifestation for the year beginning to unfold. During this month the darkness and silence calls to us to take a break from everything. We have put in the hard work all last year and made it the end. Now is the time to sit in the darkness of the unknown as we have an entire new year of endless potential and possibilities just beginning to be seen. This month sets the tone for the new story to be told in the year ahead. Come join me in this blogpost to learn all about the magic falling down in each silent snowflake covering the realm during the month of rest, stillness, and new beginnings of January.

History of January

January is the first month of the year according to the modern Gregorian and Julian calendars and its first day marks the beginning of the year for those calendars. Prior to the Gregorian calendar being invented this was the 11th month of the year. since the calendar was more pagan by following the natural cycles of the two seasons and began in March. January’s name comes from the two faced, Roman God of doorways; Janus.

Zodiac Signs For The Month Of January

Those born in January are said to be born under either the sign of the mythical seagoat Capricorn or the ethereal water bearer Aquarius.

Capricorns are typically born between December 22 and January 19. Capricorn’s symbol is a sea-goat, a mythical creature that is part goat and part fish. This is representative of Capricorn’s ability to navigate both the material and emotional realms. Capricorns are said to be hardworking, honest, loyal, and persistent. They are also known for being determined, responsible, and focused.

Those under the sign Aquarius are typically born between January 20th and February 18th. Aquarius an air sign is represented by the water bearer bringing Earth it’s vital nutrients. Aquarius is said to be innovative, progressive, and revolutionary while spreading wisdom to the world. Aquarius has a vision for themselves and the world, and they’ll work towards it no matter what others say. They can be seen as resilient, holding onto their hopes and dreams long after others have given up.

Sacred Days And Celebrations In January

Every Single month has sacred and important days and celebrations to help you connect to the energies of the month. Plus they usually are a lot of fun to take part in! Below you will find a list of the sacred days and celebrations for the month of January! The common theme you will find is the changing of a year, transition, and the winter season. Also take note how this month is probably the month with the least amount of holidays, festivities, and celebrations. But, first we are going to talk about a few that take centerstage during this month like the duality of New year’s day below!

New Year’s day

The new year is a symbolic time to say goodbye to the old and welcome the new. The new year is the beginning of a new calendar year. The new year is celebrated on January 1st in most countries that use the Gregorian calendar, including the United States. However, the new year is celebrated on different dates in other calendars, such as the Chinese, Jewish, and Islamic calendars. New Year’s day (and eve) is a liminal time exploding with the energy of renewal, transformation, and change. Marking the end of one calendar year and the beginning of another, it offers a secular reason for people to celebrate together. To read more about this holiday and get exclusive spells and ritual ideas read my guide here.

Lunar New year- Year of the snake (2025)

The date of Lunar New Year differs every year and is celebrated by many different cultures across the world, the most well known being in China with the colorful, festive, and loud Chinese new year celebrations. In 2025 it occurs on 29 January. The Lunar New Year is a celebration of the beginning of spring and the new year on the lunisolar calendar. It is celebrated with family reunions, symbolic foods, cultural festivities, and vibrant traditions. Lunar New Year celebrations typically last around 15 days, from the new moon to the full moon. However, the length and ways of celebrating can vary by culture, religion, and region.

This Lunar new year will be the Year of the Wood Snake, the sixth animal in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle. The year of the snake is said to be a time for introspection, strategic planning, and personal growth. The wood element is said to amplify the snake’s focus on creativity, flexibility, and harmony. I can not wait for the energy beckoning us in this year of shedding, transformation, completion, and karma. I am just about done with the guide for this lunar year so check back for the update on it! In the meantime you can check out my guide from last year here.

Yule

The 12 days of Yule continues into this month from December with the last day ending on January 5th for most. The 12 Days of Yule is an ancient Germanic/ Norse holiday that celebrates the winter solstice and the rebirth of the sun. It is also a time to honor the gods and goddesses, the ancestors, spirits of the dead, and the spirits of nature. Yule is a time of renewal and transformation, both in nature and within ourselves. It represents the cyclical nature of life, reminding us that even in the darkest times, there is always the potential for light and growth. Yule is a time to shed old patterns, release what no longer serves us, and set intentions for the future. Each of the 12 days of Yule connects us to a different energy and aspect of the natural world both within and without us. To learn more about his holiday and sacred time you can read my guide about it here. PLUS I have written an eBook that takes you on a winter walk through each days meaning and gives you ways to celebrate that day as well. To get access to this new FREE eBook head here to download it.

Other Sacred days and holidays

  • KALENDS: ancient roman festival to ring in the new year and dedicated to Juno Gamelia, the patron Goddess of marriage.
  • holiday of Epiphany, remembering the visit of the Magi Kings to Baby Jesus, or, according to Eastern tradition, the day Jesus was baptized.(Jan 6)
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Celebrated on the third Monday of January, this federal holiday in the United States, honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. ( Jan 20th)
  • Tamil Thai Pongal Month: A harvest festival celebrated in Sri Lanka and India that expresses gratitude for nature’s bounty
  • Holocaust Remembrance Day ( Jan 27th)
  • ÞORRABLÓT (THORRABLÓT) (End of January/beginning of February): Midwinter Festival honoring Thor, usually by feasting and poetry.

Magical And Witchcraft Themes For January

January is a month of reflection, purification, and new beginnings in witchcraft, marked by the beginning of the calendar year and the deepening of winter’s chill. It’s a time to set intentions, release what no longer serves, and invite blessings and abundance into one’s life. Performing intention setting and goal rituals during January will have a lasting affect on what you manifest in the year ahead. With the beginning of the new calendar year and the deepening of winter’s introspective energy, January is an enlightening time for divination and spiritual exploration. Especially since this is a month of both the past and the future. January is also associated with the thinning of the veil and themes of purification, protection, and cleansing can be helpful now as well.

Don’t forget to cast fire spells as well during this month to bring you heat and warmth during the cold winter months. As well as connecting you to the hope of brighter and warmer days soon to come. I love to perform fire magic via candles during this month to create a beacon of light and hope for my mental health during the darkest days ahead. Lastly, if you live in a part of the world that freezes during the winter with frozen water ways and falling snow, binding and banishing magic can be extremely powerful and protective right now. Use the power of the alchemy in ice and snow to banish things from your life you need to let go, or to bind someone or something in place that no longer serves you in a wanted way.

The gods and goddesses of January

This month is a potent month to work with and honor deities associated with new beginnings and transitions, such as Janus, Hekate, Lilith, and the Crone aspect of the Triple Goddess. This month is a good time to get to know the winter goddesses that rule this cold season. Some are associated with the dark goddess aspect as of the divine feminine as well. Allowing for a powerful portal to ancient wisdom and magical knowledge during this month as the snow falls. Everyone works with and views deity energy a little differently. Whether you view them as archetypes of the human consciousness, representations of the source energy, or as being entities on their own, there are certain deities that now is the time to connect to and honor them in the most sacred and amplified way.( Don’t forget to grab my eBook in the shop to help you explore this)

This month for me is a very feminine month. When I want to go into the womb of mother Earth. When the dark goddess and her healing, justice, empowerment, magic, and darkness beckons me to sit in her embrace. To listen to the past, root myself in introspection, and hear the healing whispers from my womb in the stillness and silence of winter. During this month a few deities take center stage because they have festivals or sacred days during this month to help you connect with them in a very intimate way. The deities that are going to be the best for you to connect to right now are deities connected rest, rebirth, protection, winter, snow, renewal, darkness, reflection, wisdom, manifestion, the moon, and the starting of the new year. Below we will talk about some of the deities you can work with this month. I could never list them all here.

Janus

January is associated with the Roman god Janus. The month was named after him, in fact. Janus had two faces and looked both forward and back. He was the Roman god of beginnings, gates, transitions, time, duality, doorways, passages, frames, and endings. He is usually depicted with two faces, one looking forward and one looking backward. Janus was also the god of the beginning and end of conflict, and had duties related to birth, death, journeys, trading, travels, and shipping. Janus is a uniquely Roman god that does not have any Greek equivalent. This also makes Janus, to some Romans, the curator of the universe and the god of the prime beginning and end.

Jana

This Roman Goddess, whose name means ‘Luminous sky’, shines her light on the new year, extending improved insight and awareness as we move ahead. Jana, is the moon goddess of January, who presides over the Wheel of the Year, doorways, childbirth, new beginnings, and initiations. She is often depicted with two faces, one facing the past and one facing the future. She was worshipped alongside her husband, Janus, who represented the sun. Together, they were considered to represent time and space.

Hestia– Greek goddess

The next deity I want to talk about I personally feel is overlooked far too often especially during the cold winter months. January is the month that solidifies us in the bitter cold of the winter season. Which means we need warmth and heat for us to survive and thrive. Which is why I always feel pulled to her during this time. Especially living in Minnesota I need her to bless my hearth with continuous heat during the long winter months. Not only that, but she can make your home extra cozy during this month while you spend more quality time alone. Hestia is the sole attendant to the celestial hearth of the gods. As the goddess of the hearth, she personified the fire burning in the hearths of every home in Greece. On a very tangible level, Hestia rules the domain of fire. This means that she is directly responsible, at least according to the Greeks, for the fire, the stove, and the heat in your home. Honoring her during January, when the harsh chill of winter solidifies itself in our bones is a great idea right now. She will bless your hearth as she stokes and fuels the flames all winter long. Don’t forget all month long to present her and your hearth with the first offering sacrificed to keep those flames burning strong.

Skaði (Skadi / Skathi) – Norse goddess

Skaði is a Norse goddess, often called the “Winter Queen,” associated with the mountains, hunting, skiing, and the wild, primarily known as a giantess (jötunn) who married the sea god Njörðr. Daughter of a fallen giant, Skadi walks the windswept mountains, a huntress sculpted from ice and legend. Her eyes, sharp as glaciers, scan the frozen realm. Bow in hand, she glides through the snow on swift skis, a predator born of the wilderness. Tales paint her as fierce, her spirit forged in the fires of vengeance and tempered by the unforgiving cold. She is mistress of the mountains, where the sun dances on glacial edges and the howl of the wolf echoes through empty valleys. But beneath the hardened exterior lies a yearning for connection. A goddess caught between two worlds – Asgard, home of the gods, and the wild embrace of the giants. Skadi’s place in Norse mythology is multifaceted and we see this as she is featured in stories with Odin, Loki, and Njordr among others. She’s even associated with snowshoes, and in later stories is said to have married Odin and bore him many children. She is the embodiment of both the untamed wild and a yearning for understanding. She is a warrior queen, a skilled hunter, and a goddess who walks the line between two worlds. Her story reminds us of the power of resilience in the face of loss, the importance of honoring our true nature, and the ever-present tension and duality between harmony and conflict.

Cailleach – Celtic / Scottish

Cailleach stands as a prominent figure in Celtic mythology, embodying the essence of wisdom, transformation, and the cycles of nature. Her presence is deeply rooted in the folklore and traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man. She is a divine figure often depicted as a weathered, old woman wielding a staff or a wand. This staff is said to have mystical powers for when she slams it on the ground winter will freeze all the land. She represents the embodiment of winter, sovereignty, and the primal forces of the natural world. Since, the ancient Celts celebrated two seasons only, her reign bringing cold all over the land began on Samhain. So, take your time this month to connect to her allowing you a smoother and blessed time during the long cold winter months ahead as the snow begins to really fall and the temperatures freeze the ground.

Baba Yaga

The next goddess we have gives me a very similar energy and feel when I work with her as the goddess we just talked about above; Calileach. To modern witches and Slavic pagans, Baba Yaga is a witch goddess who lives deep in a birch forest moving from place to place among the trees in her hut she calls home on top of giant chicken legs. From time to time when she needs to gather more supplies you might catch a glimpse of her flying by up in the sky from her magical mortar and pestle. She’s a wild and untamed old woman, often seen as a hag or crone, but can transform herself into a beautiful woman to manipulate or trick someone if she desires. Baba Yaga is a goddess of wisdom, healing, transformation, death, rebirth, renewal and autumn/winter. When healing is needed, whether it’s from colds/flu or emotional healing, Baba Yaga can offer healing often in the form of herbal teas brewed by herself. Calling on her during this January can lead you through the forest now frozen and blanketed in snow, to her skull fenced lined home. To peer into the darkness of her cauldron and gain the most ancient wisdom from the darkness of the cosmos that she guards. To learn more about her you can read my previous post here.

La befana

The last deity or as some call her a folklore legend we are going to talk about it la befana. She is a grandmotherly woman who resembles a kindly witch. She brings gifts to good little children, depositing them in stockings hung above the hearth. Some even claim she sweeps the floor before she leaves as a symbol to sweep away the previous year’s problems. Even though she has roots all the way back to ancient Roman festivals, she is most well known for her role in Christian stories and legends. I personally believe this is because the church needed a much more acceptable and tamer version of the Germanic winter witch Berchta. ( I’ll be writing about her soon)

In Italian folklore and legend La befana delivers gifts to children throughout Italy on Epiphany Eve (the night of January 5) in a similar way to Santa Claus or the Three Magi. Another Christian legend takes a slightly darker tone as La Befana was an ordinary woman with a child whom she greatly loved. However, her child died, and her resulting grief maddened her. Upon hearing news of Jesus being born, she set out to see him, delusional that he was her son. She eventually met Jesus and presented him with gifts to make him happy. The infant Jesus was delighted, and he gave La Befana a gift in return; she would be the mother of every child in Italy.

Correspondences For The Month Of January

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy, the zodiac energy the moon is currently or for time of the year like a month, which I will list below for you to use. Remember this is just a start to the list for you. You can use any correspondences that connect the magical themes and energies of January. Just follow your intuition on what you choose to work with!

  • Planet-Saturn
  • Animal- Fox, coyote, pheasants, blue jays
  • Element- Earth and Air
  • colors-white, violet, black, blue, red
  • Symbol-Snowflakes, icicles, evergreen trees, Gnomes, Brownies,
  • Herbs-Sage, pine, juniper, snowdrop, kava kava, ashwagandha, chamomile, damiana, rosemary, fennel, nutmeg, cloves, basil, cinnamon, Carnations, crocus, birch, peppermint rose hips, acorns, chicory root, ginger, oregano, cedar, myrrh,
  • Stones/ crystals-Garnet, clear quartz, hematite, onyx, jet, black tourmaline, amethyst, ruby, lapis lazuli, amber, labradorite, jasper, moss agate, opal
  • Deities-Janus, Freya, Inanna, Sarasvati, Ch’ang-O, Sin, Antu, Pax, Felicitas, Irene, Venus, lilith, triple goddess specifically crone phase, jana, calliech, hestia, juno
  • Zodiac- Capricorn, Aquarius
  • Themes-Reflection, introspection, purification, new beginnings, Protection, reversing spells, conception and creation, spirit work, ancestor spells, divination

How to connect to the magic of January

We’ve talked a lot about all the different types of energies the month of January has and gives us access to work with. So, how can you specifically connect to those energies? In your everyday life you can make sure your affirmations , intentions, and manifestations align with the energies of renewal, rest, reflection, looking back to the past year, new beginnings, and aligning ourselves with the cycles of the calendar year. During this month follow that deep alluring pull whispering your name to go in your shadows to reflect, be still, and rest. Make sure to grab onto the energy of warmth in the fire crackling in your hearth and home as well as you let go of the past year and head into new beginnings with hope as the next one unfolds. You can celebrate and honor any of the sacred days and holidays this month has like both the calendar new year and the lunar one as well.

Some Rituals and spell workings during this time that will be really intensified will be based on releasing the old, clearing away unwanted energy from the past year, and welcoming in wanted energy and opportunities. Other spells that will have some significant meaning right now and help you connect to the energy of January should be centered around new beginnings, manifestation, and setting goals. This month is another month when you can really get some clear and transformative messages from your guides as we are in a liminal time when we can look both back and forward as well. through any means of divination you prefer but, fire gazing or Cryomancy ( snow and ice divination)are some to think about to align with the correspondences of this month.

January creates a very potent liminal pocket of time that is teeming with duality, balance, and the power of transition from one year to the next. It’s a month that really pulls us to go deep within ourselves in the darkness, stillness and silence for introspection, reflection, self awareness, and growth. This makes it a great month to do any work on transformation, reflection and preparation for dark times through shadow work. Allowing the energy of the frozen winter in the days of the new year to prep you for the long introspective months of winter ahead. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here; you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

  • Elemental magic with the element of Earth or fire
  • Solar magic to welcome the calendar year
  • Lunar magic to welcome the lunar new year
  • Shadow work based on transformation, rest, shedding skins, new beginnings through darkness, hope through light
  • Simmer pot for cleansing, renewal, and warmth in your home
  • Transformation and transition spells and rituals
  • Herbal magic-brew teas especially, or add herbs to your hot drinks
  • Protection magic– most potent right now will be banishing and binding
  • Purification and cleansing rituals and spells using snow
  • Abundance and gratitude magic- one of my favorites this month is using drinks like hot chocolate and apple cider to call in abundance daily to my life
  • Candle magic
  • Bake fresh loaves of bread and add sigils to the dough for good health and prosperity
  • Set SMART goals and intentions for your manifestations for the new year plus don’t forget to to create your personal develop plan
  • pick your word of the year
  • Journal reflecting about the past year than take the piece of paper and burn it in a fire
  • Slow down, rest, do soft self care for yourself
  • Work with evergreens in your spells and rituals
  • Make a manifestation and wish pinecone
  • Dream work and astral travel
  • snow magic
  • work with deities of darkness, the underworld, and winter
  • Divination like fire gazing, snow scrying, melt snow and use the water in scrying, Cryomancy
  • Create a spell jar to connect to the season of winter
  • reflect on the past year in gratitude try my 7 day gratitude challenge
  • Get out in nature, feel the snow, the cold, and the frozen ground while listening to the silence all around
  • Make snow water
  • Write situations or people you want to cool off on a piece of paper and bury it in the snow
  • Create a freezer spell
  • Add ice to your ritual bath for added protection and purification
  • Make a snowman as protection ward for your property
  • Make snowballs and release things you need to let go when you throw them
  • draw sigils in snow and ice
  • meditate as the snow falls
  • make ice lanterns
  • Mirror magic and mirror work
  • work with the divine feminine during womb healing
  • Work with the snake in your workings and rituals
  • Stand up for yourself with the poison of the snake using hexes, curses, and binding spells
  • Celebrate the lunar new year
  • create an altar for the month

Duality and the month of January

Since, I am a grey witch I look for the duality in every single energy I work with including sacred times like a month of the year like the one we are currently in, January. January is a month that even though it is frozen, silent, and still it is saturated in duality. January is a time to look both forward and back. In January we close one chapter of our life story and begin writing the new one as it begins to unfold. January for me is the month that reminds me of the duality of new beginnings. Beginnings are both exciting AND scary – it’s a time that is both liberating AND paralyzing. Beginnings are a time of endless possibilities full of hope while also being a time of mystery and fear in the unknown. January is a month that can make us aware of the duality of the time we have left living this lifetime as well. We are both excited for a new year coming to bring us more time while we are saddened for the time that has already gone back.

Final Thoughts

We talked about many things in this blogpost including the history, some celebrations, the different energies and magical themes we can work with during this month. Along with how to connect to those energies, deities we can honor and worship, and how to work with the magic of January. January is a uniquely magical time that invites everyone to plant the seeds for hopes and dreams. While also looking back on the things we just worked so hard to harvest in the year that has passed. January reminds us that even in the darkest nights, in the harshest conditions, and the coldest times we can still find hope and light. It’s the month that shows us the depth of our resilience and our willingness to thrive in harsh conditions. January shows us that just like nature we have the ability to every year become a blank canvas. Ready for us to paint and create something brand new and beautiful again. As the snow falls and blankets nature January’s magic brings the promise of rest, introspection, reflection, new beginnings, and endless possibilities.

Have you been feeling stuck, emotionally unstable, missing joy in your life, or having a hard time connecting to yourself and your magic? Do you want to start the new year from a different headspace? I have the answer for you to start out this new year from a place feeling grounded, present, and ready to manifest your dream life. Come join me for this special one time only two day event teaching you how to integrate the practice of Mindfulness to your magic and life!

What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of purposely bringing one’s attention to the present moment without judgment. It allows you to move from just existing in life to thriving, get back to wise mind, create a place to heal and grow in, and most important of all, align you with joy while creating a life where you truly thrive! This skill is a core skill in DBT, the therapy that changed my life! To register for this special two day event visit the link below! https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/JY5UBMB2TA27L

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

Don’t forget to head over to the shop today for eBooks, workshops, resources, and 1:1 services with me!

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

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Build your life in the new year with the ambitious, abundant, and grounded Capricorn new moon

The last new moon of 2024 graces the skies on December 30th in the ambitious , responsible, building, and grounded Earth sign of Capricorn. During this new moon we will be focused on achievement, responsibilities and success. Which comes at the perfect time with us just on the threshold of the new year when goals and intentions are set. A Capricorn new Moon is all about success, progress, achievement, and never taking “no” for an answer. We can set our sights on new dreams and we can hit new heights, make what we want happen, get recognition, and make progress on our path. This new moon is a time when the universe seems to whisper, hey, it’s okay to aim high. This is the new moon when we will feel deeply connected to the Earthly realm we live in which may allow us to set out on a new more productive and efficient path. The new moon in Capricorn, is urging you to solidify your goals and ambitions with an earthy practicality for the new year just ahead. Capricorn, symbolized by the sea goat, embodies the mastery of the spiritual realm and its expression in the material world. This Capricorn new moon is a call to pause, reflect, and redefine our sense of purpose as we prepare to welcome a new year. It challenges us to face limitations, release outdated patterns, and step forward with clarity, resilience, and trust in our ability to co-create a future aligned with our deepest values. the Capricorn new Moon on December 30th, helps us close out the year with vision, ambition, alignment, perseverance and confidence. This second new Moon of December, is a powerful invitation to plan and ground our dreams and ambitions into tangible reality. Let’s climb the highest mountains to reach our dreams this year with the Capricorn new moon together in this blogpost.

New moon what it is and why we honor it

Every month, the New Moon carries us over the threshold of a new beginning. So, let’s talk about the new moon in general before we climb the highest mountains to reach our dreams this year with the Capricorn new moon. The new moon is the time to reflect and cleanse your energy. It is a time to set your intentions for what you wish to attract this lunar cycle. But, remember every intention set requires action and energy from your part as well. You can’t just set an intention and miraculously it is yours. You must also put the movement of energy behind it with action steps.

The new moon energy is there to support you in manifesting what you want. The new moon is a time to allow new ideas and energy to flow with you. It is a time to honor new beginnings, and the turning over of a cycle. Think of these intentions as seeds you are planting for this lunar cycle to be ready to harvest by the full moon. Use this time to rest, reflect, and plant what you will grow just as your ancestors across many cultures did while there was little light in the night sky for them to use.

Each New Moon is unique, offering its own magic within each month. To learn more about the foundations of working with the new moon, and how it affects you, read more here in my previous blog post.  And to learn more about the moon in general and lunar magic you can read my comprehensive guide on the topic here. You can also watch my class on YouTube with Divination Academy here!

So, who is Capricorn?

As a cardinal earth sign, Capricorn is about initiating and building. Capricorn is steadfast, hard-working, goal-orientated and relentlessly responsible. Capricorn is ruled by Saturn. Saturn is the planet of bounds, borders, barriers, constraints and confinements. Saturn, is also the planet associated with time and karma. This makes Capricorn also connected with history and tradition, and asks us to reflect on the environment we’re living in and the systems and structures that are in place.

Capricorn is the height of the Zodiac, the highest point, and this is why it relates to our goals, our aspirations, what we strive for, and the heights we reach in life. We see this in the mountain goat thriving in the peaks of mountains. Capricorn is an ambitious energy with grand ideals; full of potential and a feeling of self importance. Capricorn knows it is meant for something special and expresses itself in pursuit of that. But, unlike the other earth sign Taurus who measures their successes in money and wealth, Capricorn seeks power and control.

The Capricorn Constellation

In Greek mythology, Capricorn is linked to the god Pan, who is often depicted as partially goat-like. Pan is said to have the upper body of a human and the lower body of a goat. In one story, Pan dived into a river to escape the monster Typhon, but only transformed part of himself, becoming half goat and half fish. Zeus was amused by this and placed the image among the stars as the constellation Capricornus. The constellation is also sometimes associated with Amalthea, the goat that nursed Zeus after his mother saved him from his father, Cronos. Amalthea’s broken horn was transformed into the cornucopia, or “horn of plenty”.

Capricorn the mythical Seagoat

Capricorns are symbolized by the sea goat, a mythological creature with the body of a goat and tail of a fish. We often think of Capricorns as high achievers or business-oriented workhorses. This speaks to the goat aspect of their sea-goat symbol. Goats are scrappy, and some of them are capable of climbing to great heights. The fishtail portion of the sea-goat, on the other hand, holds the ocean and the vast, almost spiritual world that lies beneath it. This imagery speaks to Capricorn’s ability to navigate both the material and emotional realms. It’s the job of the Capricorn to strike a balance between these two realms of earthly achievements and spiritual truth.

Themes for the Capricorn new moon

We have talked a lot about who Capricorn is and how Capricorn can affect you and benefit you. This time, we experience the New Moon in the ambitious, building, responsible, determined, and grounded Earth sign of the mythical seagoat, Capricorn. This Capricorn new moon is all about setting our sights on our biggest dreams and with determination climbing the mountaintop to make them come to life. This Capricorn New Moon invites us to ground into our authentic ambitions and commit to the projects and creations that align with our truest selves and highest purpose. Let’s explore some of the themes of the Capricorn new moon below.

  • Committed
  • Patient
  • Goal-oriented
  • Persevering
  • Responsible
  • Dependable
  • Rational
  • Trustworthy
  • Industrious
  • Persistent
  • Creative
  • Honest
  • Reflective
  • Protective
  • Pragmatic
  • Proud
  • Ambitious
  • Perfectionism
  • hard working
  • conservative
  • Duty bound
  • Grounded
  • determined

Capricorn The Ruler of Responsibilities

This hard-working sign values service, honor and public duty. Career, professionalism and reputation are extremely important to Capricorn, so the Moon here spotlights our need to succeed .Now is time to prioritize what you truly want to be remembered for and the work you’d like to contribute to the world. Capricorn is a sign that means business! Instead of being concerned with short-term satisfaction, you’ll be more inclined to dig in and focus on your long-term goals. Under the Capricorn new moon’s watchful eye, you’ll find that discipline comes more naturally to you. It’s as if you’ve got an inner drill sergeant gently nudging you toward doing the right thing, even when no one’s looking. It’s time to button up, show up, and take care of business with a newfound sense of duty to your responsibilities and living with ethics and integrity. This new moon in Capricorn marks the last lunar cycle of 2024, a time to muster your discipline and turn your professional aspirations into tangible actions. If you’ve been vying for a fresh start in your career or a renewed sense of direction in life, consider this phase as your cosmic green light. When the new moon cozies up in Capricorn, it’s like a cosmic signal for you to embrace your inner boss.

The Grounding Energy Of Capricorn

Capricorns is said to have a grounded, practical spirit. It is a sign associated with stability, groundedness, determination, hard work, and ambition. Capricorns are the last earth sign of the zodiac, and are said to embody the stable and nurturing qualities of their element while being adaptable to reach their mountaintop no matter what. When the moon is in Capricorn it becomes a time to really ground into who you are, the direction you want to go, the path you will take, and duty to the world around you. Deeply caring and grounded, Capricorn’s energy adjusts how it moves through the world to make sure you are taken care of. It ebbs and flows, finding the pace and pulse of those around it

Capricorn the master builder and architect

This cardinal earth sign knows how to control and shape earth, building bricks and steps towards goals with ceaseless perseverance. Capricorn is the builder of the zodiac here to master tangible reality – yet in its most true essence it is guided deeply by this unseen realm. We cannot meet our mountains without soul. We cannot build with integrity, truth, and service without imbuing the Sacred into every movement. And we cannot live in this tangible world without getting lost in it, consumed by it, illusioned by it, without this guiding connection from the unseen. Like all earth signs, Capricorn has a connection to the rhythms of life, a gentle but unshakable ability to adapt and build with purpose. When the New Moon shines in Capricorn, it’s a call to honor this flowing yet steady energy. This isn’t about rigid schedules or forcing things to happen. Instead, Capricorn encourages us to tune into what feels right, to listen to our inner wisdom, and to move forward with both intention and grace. Building something meaningful doesn’t mean abandoning intuition, it’s about letting your instincts guide you as you create strong foundations, step by thoughtful step.

What to be cautious of with the Capricorn new moon

We may feel easily overwhelmed by responsibilities we have right now. We can feel the weight of them pushing us down, and we need to work on managing them better. We may need to work on saying no more, and leaving room for small breaks where we can.

We also need to be aware of stubbornness right now. Persistence can often become a double-edged sword and turn into stubbornness. While it empowers us to stand our ground it may make us resistant to alternative viewpoints or new directions. Capricorns’ unwavering commitment to high standards may also force us to be over critical, making it challenging for us to accept imperfections in ourselves and others right now.

Capricorn energy can sometimes be overprotective of itself as well. Being cautious with expression of words or emotions, in fear of moving away from the perfect ideal image of the all powerful leader that it deeply craves to embody. So, be cautious of that coming up right now and remember that a true leader is authentic in who they are and not in an image they want others to see.

The last thing to worry about with the Capricorn energy and this moon is keeping a lid on your ego. Capricorn energy being the mythical seagoat and the height of the zodiac has quite a level of confidence. They really stand at the top of their mountain and look down on all the other signs residing below them. So, be careful that you don’t let your ego get out of control to the point you unintentional tear down the ones you love and are around when building yourself up.

Capricorn New moon and duality

Since, I am a grey witch every single energy I work with I look for the duality in that energy and how I can connect to it. This includes the new moon and the energy of the zodiac sign it currently is in. First, the energy of Capricorn we see duality not only in it’s symbol the sea goat but, also in one of the main themes Capricorn represents; ambition. The sea goat like we talked about earlier is a mythical being that literally represents the duality of the material realm and the emotional or mythical realm. Others even believe the sea goat represents the duality of human existence through evolution, starting in the sea and than moving upwards onto land. Than there is the duality of ambition. While ambition is a very wanted thing. It is pivotal to our motivation, getting things done, and thriving in our life. But, on the other hand it also can cloud our mind, narrow our view/vision, damage our relationships, and lead to burn out by not caring for ourselves properly.

Second, the new moon itself is all about duality and illuminating the night sky in both light and shadows. The new moon is all about rebirth, renewal, and the beginning of a new cycle, which puts you in a transitional liminal space, energy, and time. In order for you to be in a space to begin again, to transition, and be reborn you had to just come from an ending and death.

This new moon in Capricorn has another layer of duality with it being the last one of the year. This new moon in Capricorn ushers us across a threshold holding us in a unique pocket of liminal space. A pocket of time when we are still in one year but, just about to move to another year. From 2024 to 2025. From closing to opening. Ending to new beginning. Guiding us towards a new cycle and turning of the wheel to begin. Balancing us in both the seen and unseen, in frequency and matter, and the psychic and the physical as we do.

Correspondences for the Capricorn new moon

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy , or the zodiac energy the moon is currently in like for Capricorn, I will list below for you to use. Remember to follow your intuition with the correspondences you choose to work with and that you can always use any that correspond to the moon itself as well.

  • planet-saturn
  • Element-Earth
  • Symbol- seagoat,Makara
  • Modality-cardinal
  • gender-feminine
  • Day-saturday
  • Animal- goat , donkey, clove hooved animals
  • Body part-bones, joints, knees
  • colors-black, brown, purple, dark green,
  • Phrase/motto-“I use”
  • Chakra-Root chakra
  • Herbs/flowers-carnation, ivy, Rosemary, Red beets, Tarragon, Caraway, Chamomile, Marjoram belladonna, yew pansy, skullcap, poppy, Cinnamon, Sage, Turmeric, Nettle, thyme, basil, rue, snowdrop,
  • Trees-pine, elm, poplar,
  • Stones/crystals-garnet, black onyx, selenite, moonstone, bloodstone, peacock ore, howlite, agate, emerald, carnelian, labradorite, malachite, smokey quartz, galena, diamond, rose quartz,
  • Deities-Pan, Amalthea, Zeus, persephone, enki, kronos, Horus, Odin, ganga, Narmada, Varuna, lord shani,
  • tarot-devil
  • Ruling House-10th house of career, public image, and duty

How to connect to the Capricorn new moon

Now, that we have talked about the themes of this hard working, goal orientated, committed, responsible, duty driven, fertile, Capricorn new moon and how it is going to affect you let’s talk about how you can specifically connect to and work with this moon.

First, make sure to do all of your staples that your learned in the previous blog post on the new moon and the moon in general like, charging your crystals, making moon water, and resetting your altar.

With this moon there are certain spells and rituals that will help connect you to this moon in the most effective way. With the Moon in Capricorn, magic associated with career, ambition, abundance, goals, grounding and politics is highlighted now. You can also perform magic associated with abundance, vitality, fertility, and the new year to amplify those workings right now. Remember these are just some of the many ideas, follow your intuition and the energy of this moon. You can find more ways to connect to the moon and more information on many of these forms of magic on my Pinterest page here and my Facebook here.

  • Lunar magic
  • Ritual moon bath
  • set intentions and SMART goals for the new year
  • Launch the business or release a product you have always wanted to do
  • Connect to your Root chakra
  • Perform some snow and ice magic
  • Shadow work based on ambition, goals, direction, success ,and releasing perfectionism. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here;  you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; or you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.
  • Elemental magic with the element of earth
  • Divination like tarot and runes or bone casting
  • Discipline includes self love so practice self love to boost your self worth as the new year begins
  • Focus on abundance
  • Meditation and visualization work with the mythical seagoat as your guide
  • Start a savings account, budget, and do financial planning
  • Start a new daily routine, shake up your schedule, reorganize your home/life/schedule
  • moonlight bathe in the nude
  • Work with the balance and duality of light and darkness during the winter season
  • Celebrate all your recent successes
  • Cast spells to increase discipline and make commitments to yourself to take the steps to meet your goals
  • set boundaries and take control of your life
  • Give thanks for the past year and all it brought to you
  • create a vision board or as i prefer to call it a goal board
  • Connect to a deity of December, Yule, the winter solstice, or the new year
  • Make a simmer pot to bring in ambition, hard work, and focus
  • Get outside, do some grounding and/or earthing in the winter landscape
  • Create a spell jar to bring success to your life, career, business, or for the new year
  • Do candle magic with green candles
  • Have some fun with sex magic tonight to manifest
  • Do things to further your career like apply for a promotion or new job, update your resume, or create your business plan
  • Astral projection and travel
  • Do a chord cutting to let go of perfectionism or a binding
  • Refresh your altar
  • Do self reflection on the past year and for the future year ahead using shadow work and mirror magic
  • Define your ambitions, goals, and dreams

Shadow work questions for the Capricorn new moon

Like, we have talked about a lot in this post Capricorn is the sign of the mythical seagoat with a unique attachment to the spiritual and unseen realm. Which makes it a really potent time to do some reflective work with shadow work and asses how we have been showing up wit our integrity, morals, and work ethic. The energy of a New Moon always invites us to plant seeds of intention, but this Capricorn New Moon emphasizes the importance of authenticity. It’s time to stop chasing goals that don’t feel true to us and instead focus on the dreams that ignite our passion and purpose. This is the new moon to sit in the silent introspection of winter and get grounded and authentic about the goals you really want to set. Imagine this new moon as your personal catalyst for change, reaching your dreams, and prompting you to plant the seeds of intention to reach the top of the highest mountain by the full moon. We can take the time to reflect, do shadow work, and visualize the intentions we are about to set. Use the prompts and questions below in whatever way that feels right to free for your soul.

 If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here;  you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

  • What have you been yearning to create but telling yourself you can’t?
  • How can I be more disciplined with my commitment to my goals?
  • What are the necessary steps I can take right now to work towards my goals and dreams?
  • How do I want to rebuild my life in this new year?
  • What does being successful and achieving my dreams look like to me?
  • What does aligning with my soul purpose mean to me?
  • What accomplishments from the past year are you proud of and how can you build on them more?
  • What new habits can I integrate into my life to make room for more discipline towards my goals?
  • How can I bring more structure into my life?
  • How is my higher self and wisdom guiding me to restructure my life?
  • What do I truly value and want to bring more of into my life during this next year?
  • How do I need to reclaim my inner power and authority?
  • What boundaries do I need to set to take back my power and control of my life?
  • How can I create more stability in my life?
  • In what ways can I ground in my authenticity?
  • How am I letting societal expectation and definitions of the norm dictate what I do and how I make my dreams come true?
  • Where do I need to be honest with myself about my work ethic and commitment to my goals?
  • What from my past or with my ancestors do I need to remember now to help me achieve my goals?
  • What do I need to heal and leave in the past year to climb to the summit of the mountaintop?

Grow financial stability seed Spell

To help you harness the power of Capricorn Moon Energy for financial stability and abundance this is the spell I am bringing to you. These rituals can help you to plant seeds for financial growth, attract wealth, improve luck in business, and increase overall financial luck. Not only that, it will allow you to releases the blockages in your current abundance flow that have been holding you back. so it is wide open and endlessly flowing during the entire next year allowing you to nurture it as it grows.

What you will need:

  • a quiet space
  • two pieces of paper
  • a pen
  • a few bay leaves
  • some crushed eggs shells
  • a seed
  • a small pot with soil
  • a green or gold candle

How to perform this spell:

Find a quiet and peaceful area where you can perform the ceremony. Try to make sure you are in the moonlight or even better get outside in the winter landscape. Once you are there get yourself into sacred container.
Take your candle of choice and place it in front of you and then light your green or gold candle to represent wealth and abundance being ignited in your life during this new moon in Capricorn.
Next, take a deep breath and take as much time as you need to meditate while looking at the flame asking for the blockage to your abundance flow to be revealed to you here and now. Whether they be lack of connect to source, not feeling deserving, or something else. Once it is clear and revealed to you take your pen and write down your abundance blocks on your piece of paper.
As you hold the paper, visualize each block being dissolved and replaced with positive beliefs and energy. Visualize the endless flow of universal abundance reconnecting to you in the next year. Once you feel connected that flow and your blockage being released, burn the paper in the flame of the candle, symbolizing the release of your abundance blocks.
As the paper burns, say a simple affirmation such as, “I release my abundance blocks and open myself to financial prosperity to grow and flourish in the next year to come.”

Next, take your bay leaves and write the dollar amount you wish to receive this next year in either your business, career, or side hustle. Once you have the dollar amount written on the bay leaves hold them in your hand and visualize that dollar amount coming to you. Once you feel set in that image and intention bury the bay leaves in the soil to speed up your spell tonight. Next, take a piece of paper, write down your specific financial intentions for the coming year. Be as clear and detailed as possible. Fold the paper towards you and then hold it in your hand while you hold your plant seed in your hand. The represents the growth of your financial intentions set this night. As you visualize what you wrote on your paper coming to you recite this small abundance spell. ” Money flow quickly, money flow swiftly, money flow quickly, money flow to me. Every penny I ask for here will come to me. ” Then take your folded paper and seed and bury it in the soil of the small pot. Next, take your crushed eggshells and sprinkle them into the soil asking them to increase the fertility of the soil now growing your abundance in this seed for the coming year. Water the seed with nourishment and energy, and place the pot in a location where it will receive ample sunlight. As the seed grows, nurture it and continue to visualize your financial intentions growing and manifesting in your life.

Final thoughts

During the Capricorn New Moon, it’s the ideal time to set the stage for new beginnings especially during this new moon with he new year just ahead. This moon phase is all about structure, discipline, and long-term goals, making it the perfect moment for a new moon ritual that grounds your ambitions. Whether you’re setting financial intentions, planning your career, or simply organizing your life, the Capricorn New Moon offers the stability you need to succeed. So, as you move through this new moon, embrace this opportunity to align with Capricorn’s grounded energy and start fresh with purpose and clarity. By harnessing the disciplined and practical energy of Capricorn, we can lay the foundation for our aspirations and take practical steps towards achieving our dreams. The Capricorn new moon invites you to reflect on your ambitions, evaluate your responsibilities, and create a plan for success. Embrace the transformative energy of the new moon in Capricorn and watch as your career takes flight, you start having great success, and reach the highest mountain you have to climb.

Come join me the first Saturday of January to revolutionize how you set your goals for 2025. Let me show you hand in hand how to create my personal development plan. You will leave with your entire years worth of SMART goals planned, a way to keep yourself accountable, and have a clear path on how you meet every goal you set. https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/4ZKQ6FXMUGGEJ

Have you been feeling stuck, emotionally unstable, missing joy in your life, or having a hard time connecting to yourself and your magic? Do you want to start the new year from a different headspace? I have the answer for you to start out this new year from a place feeling grounded, present, and ready to manifest your dream life. Come join me for this special one time only two day event teaching you how to integrate the practice of Mindfulness to your magic and life!

What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of purposely bringing one’s attention to the present moment without judgment. It allows you to move from just existing in life to thriving, get back to wise mind, create a place to heal and grow in, and most important of all, align you with joy while creating a life where you truly thrive! This skill is a core skill in DBT, the therapy that changed my life! To register for this special two day event visit the link below! https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/JY5UBMB2TA27L

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

Don’t forget to head over to the shop today for eBooks, workshops, resources, and 1:1 services with me!

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Santa; Who he is and how to work with him this Christmas

Santa Claus, a beloved symbol of the holiday season, and one of the most well known mythical beings today. He has captured the hearts of people around the world. But who is Santa Claus? Santa Claus hasn’t always been the jolly, red-suited, rotund, grandfatherly gift-giver with a reindeer-drawn sleigh we all know and love. Depictions of Santa have evolved over time, influenced by stories and legends about St. Nicholas, Sinterklaas, and Father Christmas, and perpetuated by centuries of gift cards, stories, advertisements, posters, and movies. Let’s sled into the glittering, snow covered, mythical roots and global legacy of Santa Claus together in this blogpost and article.

Who is Santa?

To most Santa, is the jolly old man of winter, who has been bringing cheer and joy to the world for centuries. From the North Pole, he sets off each year on a magical journey, spreading happiness and gifts to the young and old alike. Santa is a radical optimist with a big heart. He sets his sights on not only his biggest dream but, those of every small child on Earth. He does this and trusts that it will all work out just fine year after year. His idealism is matched by his unstoppable energy and passion to get so much done all for the joy of everyone else. He is encouraging, loving, and supportive of children’s wishes. While the looming threat of a coal-stained stocking is still there encouraging them to behave. Santa is the joy and comfort and motivating them with love and encouragement. His friendly nature, open mind, and energetic spirit help make the holiday season the joyful time it is while reminding us of the importance to give.

Other names for Santa

  • Saint Nicholas
  • Saint Nick
  • Father Christmas
  • Kris Kringle
  • Sinterklaas
  • Odin

What does Santa look like?

Santa is generally depicted as a pot bellied, jolly, white-bearded, grandfatherly man, often with spectacles, wearing a red coat with white fur collar and cuffs, white-fur-cuffed red trousers, a red hat trimmed with white fur, a black leather belt and boots, carrying a bag full of gifts for children. In many of the depictions now, we also see him in his reindeer drawn sleigh flying across the winter night skies. This modern image of Santa Claus most us know now was influenced by Clement Clark Moore’s 1822 poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” and the illustrations of Haddon Sundblom for The Coca-Cola Company. But, NO Coca-Cola does not OWN the image of Santa exclusively nor did they create him. Let’s talk about where his ancient and many origins and possible influences actually do come from next.

Santa as Odin

Although Santa Claus is primarily based upon St. Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian bishop from Lycia (now in Turkey)which we will talk about next. The oldest origin of Santa I can find goes as far back as 2 b.c.e., and is also strongly influenced by the white bearded, old man, flying across the sky on an 8 legged steer during winter time; the Norse all father Odin. Already doesn’t that sound familiar? Not only do they look similar but, quite a few of their legends and myths are similar as well. Let’s talk about them below!

  • Let’s start with their steeds. Many believe Odin may be where Santa gets his reindeer inspiration from. Since, Odin was often depicted as leading a hunting party through the skies ( the wild hunt), during which he rode his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir.
  • Next, during the winter solstice when the wild hunt would roar across the skies, the Norse and Germanic children placed their boots near the chimney, filling them with carrots or straw as a gift for Sleipnir. Quite similar to children doing the same for Santa’s reindeer today or leaving our milk and cookies for Santa Claus. Plus some believe this may even be where the tradition to hang stockings above the fireplace comes from.
  • Lastly, with the wild hunt coming by one way to protect would be wassailing or singing songs to Odin when going from door to door or in orchards. Sound familiar again? It’s quite common to go caroling welcoming Santa on Christmas night.

Santa and Saint Nicholas

Many elements of Santa Claus, especially his reputation as a secret giver of gifts, can originate back to Saint Nicholas, a real historical figure and human being that walked this realm.

The name Santa Claus, which was first used in 1773, is a variant on Sinterklaas, the Dutch name for Saint Nicholas. ( we will talk about him later) He was known in his own lifetime as Nikolaos of Myra. Nikolaos was born on March 15, 270 AD, to a well-off Christian Greek family living in a region of the Roman Empire that is part of modern Turkey. While historians and scholars don’t agree on all parts of his biography, he was definitely a bishop who is best known for his role in the First Council of Nicaea. He was known for his deep generosity as well, with some believing he gave away his entire inheritance left to him by his wealthy Christian Greek parents when they died during an epidemic. It’s said he did this believing it was the way Jesus truly wanted us to live. He also was known for giving generous gifts in secret. Supposedly, Nikolaos would throw toys into children’s windows and leave coins in their shoes.

Nicholas who was later elevated to a saint is said to have lived a life of prayer, generosity, and fought in strong defense of the Christian faith in the name of the Catholic church. He was even imprimisoned by the Roman emperor Diocletian around the year 300. Some even consider him a martyr when he died around the year 343. Within a century of his death he was elevated to Sainthood and celebrated as a saint. Today he is venerated in the East as wonder, or miracle worker and in the West as patron of a great variety of persons-children, mariners, bankers, pawn-brokers, scholars, orphans, laborers, travelers, merchants, judges, paupers, marriageable maidens, students, children, sailors, victims of judicial mistakes, captives, perfumers, even thieves and murderers! He is known as the friend and protector of all in trouble or need. Some connect him solely to Christianity and the Roman Catholic Church, while others see him more as an ascended master and universal energy.

Myths of Saint Nicholas

Saint Nicholas was known for being a very kind man and had a reputation for helping the poor and giving secret gifts to people who needed it. There are several legends about St. Nicholas, but kindness and generosity is a common theme among them all. He is also seen as patron and protector of many including the little children everywhere we hold so dear. First up, the most famous story about St. Nicholas some believe is another version of where we get the custom of hanging up stockings to put presents in first started! It goes like this:

There was a poor man in a small village who had three daughters. The man was so poor that he did not have enough money for a dowry, so his daughters couldn’t get married. (A dowry is a sum of money paid to the bridegroom by the bride’s parents on the wedding day. This still happens in some countries, even today.) One night, Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney and into the house . this meant that the oldest daughter was then able to be married. Unintentionally, the bag fell into a stocking that had been hung by the fire to dry. When the family woke and found the coins they were overjoyed and the oldest daughter was married off right away. But, the father wanted to know who it was he could thank. Soon, it was time for the second daughter to be wed. The same thing happened again with the second daughter. Again the family was thankful and the second daughter was married off with joyful hearts right away. Finally, determined to discover the person who had given him the money, the father secretly hid by the fire every evening until he caught Nicholas dropping in a bag of gold for his third daughter to be wed. Nicholas begged the man to not tell anyone what he had done, because he did not want to bring attention to himself. But of course the father did keep quiet and soon the news got out and when anyone received a secret gift, it was thought that maybe it was from Nicholas himself.

Another story tells of three theological students, traveling on their way to study in Athens. A wicked innkeeper robbed and murdered them, hiding their remains in a large pickling tub. It so happened that Nicholas was traveling along the same route, and stopped at this very inn. (Synchronicity maybe?) In the night he dreamed of the crime, got up, and summoned the innkeeper to his room. Where he asked him about the incident, when the innkeeper denied anything Nick fell to his knees to begin to pray. As Nicholas prayed earnestly to God the three boys were restored to life no longer chopped into pieces even and fully whole. In France the story has a little bit of a different version. It is told about three small children instead of theological students. The three small children, were wandering around as they played until they got lost. Then as they were stumbling around trying to find their way they were lured, and captured by an evil butcher. St. Nicholas appears suddenly, finding the boys bodies sealed in barrels . He then appeals to God to return them to life and to their families, which he does.

One of the oldest stories showing St. Nicholas as a protector of children takes place long after his death. The townspeople of Myra were celebrating the good saint on the eve of his feast day when a band of Arab pirates from Crete came into the district. They stole treasures from the Church of Saint Nicholas and left to bring them back to their ship as booty. As they were leaving town, they snatched a young boy, Basilios, to make into a slave as well. The emir, or ruler, selected Basilios to be his personal cupbearer. So, for the next year Basilios waited on the king, bringing his wine in a beautiful golden cup. During this entire time Basilios’ parents, devastated at the loss of their only child spent filled with grief. As the next St. Nicholas’ feast day approached, Basilios’ mother decided she would not join in the festivity, as it was now the year mark of a day of tragedy. However, she was persuaded to have a simple observance at home—with quiet prayers for Basilios’ safekeeping. Meanwhile, at the same time Basilios was fulfilling his tasks serving the emir, when all of a sudden he whisked up and away. St. Nicholas appeared to the terrified boy, blessed him, and set him down at his home back in Myra. This is known as the first story told of St. Nicholas protecting children.

Patron of Sailors

Several stories tell of Nicholas and the sea. When he was young, Nicholas sought the holy and to be close to the divine by making a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. There as he walked where Jesus walked, he sought to more deeply connect to the experience of Jesus’ life, passion, and resurrection. Returning by sea, a mighty storm threatened to wreck the ship. Nicholas calmly prayed. The terrified sailors were amazed when the wind and waves suddenly calmed, sparing them all. Another legend argues that sailors on their way to the Holy Land were caught in a horrible storm and prayed to St. Nicholas. They then saw an image of him in the clouds and the storm ended. Either way, St. Nicholas is the patron of sailors, dockworkers, and others involved with the sea for this reason.

Saint Nicholas Day

Otherwise I have found places celebrating him on the eve of Saint Nicholas day during Krampusnacht while celebrating Krampus. This day is a holiday honoring the historical figure Saint Nicholas, a bishop known for his secret acts of generosity, particularly towards children in need. After his death in 343, it became traditional to observe Saint Nicholas’s Day on December 6 by giving gifts. People also often celebrate by leaving out shoes or stockings on the eve of the holiday to find small gifts like sweets, coins, or oranges inside, symbolizing the story of St. Nicholas leaving gold coins in the stockings of poor girls to help them get married we talked about above.

Other ways to celebrate

  • Attend a Saint Nicholas day parade if you can
  • Hang a socking over a mantle or place a boot in front of a fireplace and hearth
  • Give gifts to a an unmarried women- In Italy, children aren’t the only ones receiving gifts on Saint Nicholas’ Day, unmarried women make the list. Across Italy, unmarried women might attend a special mass on St. Nicholas’ Day to participate in Rito delle nubili, a ritual where they turn a column seven times to help change their luck in finding a spouse. This is because Saint Nick is also the Patron saint to protect virgins.
  • Host and have a Saint Nicholas day feast
  • Work with and celebrate Krampus his companion bring in another side to protection this holiday season.
  • Dress as a bishop: In Germany and Poland, boys traditionally dress as bishops and collect money for the poor
  • Study and read about Saint Nicholas’s life and myths
  • If you practice Christianity attend a church service
  • Be generous and give to others. You can do this by donating your things, time, or money. Hold a food or clothing drive. Volunteer your time to an organization or cause that means a lot to you.

Sinterklaas

Ways to celebrate Sinterklaas

Built around the image of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children, Sinterklass (the name resulting from the contraction of Sint Nikolaas) is a legendary Christmas figure celebrated and loved in the Netherlands. Although similar to Santa Claus in that he is an older man with a full, white beard who wears a red outfit, Sinterklass is a more serious figure, donning a bishop’s headdress and carrying a long, curled golden shepherd’s staff. The Dutch celebrate the Feast of Sinterklaas honoring the life of St. Nicholas. Sinterklaas arrives in the Netherlands by boat from Spain on December 5th, the eve of Saint Nicholas’ feast day. He rides a white horse and carries a book that tells him which children were good or bad that year. Sinterklaas brings gifts to good children, and sometimes a switch to bad children. The tradition of “putting your shoe” involves children leaving their shoes out for Sinterklaas to fill with gifts. After England conquered the city in the 17th century, Sinterklaas gradually became Santa Claus.

  • Read poems outloud
  • Sing songs
  • Attend a Parade in Holland that occurs annually on December 6th
  • A knock on the door at night, letting children open it to find a pile of gifts
  • Gift people with a “surprise”. The “surprise,” is a homemade gag gift that hides another present inside.
  • Participate in Secret Santa in your home, your work, or your school or kids school
  • Use kitchen magic to bake Sinterklaas deserts, baked goods, and candies
  • Leave shoes near your front door, hearth, or chimney

Santa and Christmas

We can’t talk about Santa whose influenced is heavily based on a Catholic Saint who followed Christianity without talking about Christmas. He is considered by many far and wide to be the traditional patron of Christmas especially in the United States and other countries. To those who celebrate Christmas he is a legendary figure who is widely recognized as the gift-giver on Christmas Eve, embodying the spirit of generosity and joy associated with the holiday.

So, what is Christmas in case you don’t practice Christianity or celebrate this holiday in your part of the world. Christmas is celebrated on the 25th of December. It is a holiday to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, who, according to the Christian religion, is the son of God. The name is a joining of “Christ” and “mass” which means the holy mass (supper, celebration or festival) of Christ. Christmas is a time to exchange gifts with family and friends. It’s also a time to give thanks for the love, hope, and joy found in Jesus. Many things that Christians do at Christmas come from earlier Pagan festivals like Saturnalia, the winter solstice, and Yule.

Father Christmas

Father Christmas is the traditional English name for the personification of Christmas. Although now known as a Christmas gift-bringer, and typically considered to be synonymous with Santa Claus, he was originally part of a much older and unrelated English folkloric tradition. Until Victorian times, Father Christmas was concerned with adult feasting and merry-making. He had no actual connection with children, or with the giving of presents, night time visits, stockings, chimneys or reindeer. But as later Victorian Christmases developed into child-centric family festivals, Father Christmas became a bringer of gifts. Then the popular American myth of Santa Claus arrived in England in the 1850s and Father Christmas started to take on Santa Claus’s attributes and often times the two are now referred to interchangeably.

Other Entities associated with Santa

We can’t talk about Santa without talking about the legion of mythical characters surrounding him and that even live in his home. He lives at the North Pole with not only his wife Mrs. Claus, but also his elves who make the toys, and his reindeer who pull his sleigh. Let’s explore the magic of each of these more next.

His Reindeer

I think almost every child spends Christmas night lying in bed listening for the magical hoofbeats of Santa’s reindeer landing up above. Santa’s reindeer are magical creatures that live at the North Pole and help Santa. On Christmas Eve, Santa and his reindeer embark on their most important mission of the year: delivering presents to all the children of the world in one night.They visit every house where there are children who believe in Santa Claus, regardless of their location, culture or religion.

The idea of Santa’s reindeer flying through the sky in a sleigh was popularized by Clement Clark Moore’s 1823 poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas. The imagery in the poem may have been influenced by Norse and Germanic mythology, where Thor, the God of Thunder, soared through the sky in a chariot pulled by two magical goats. It described how St Nicholas arrived on a sleigh pulled by eight reindeer named Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder (later changed to Donner) and Blitzen.

The most famous of the reindeer is Rudolph who was introduced in 1939 by Robert L May, an employee of Montgomery Ward department store. He wrote a story about a young reindeer who had a shiny red nose that glowed in the dark. In it, Rudolph was teased for being different by the other reindeer and then one foggy Christmas Eve, he was asked by Santa to lead the sleigh and help guide him in the night. Rudolph went on to be a hero – and accepted by his fellow reindeer. The story was printed as a booklet and distributed to millions of children as a promotional gift by the store. In 1949, May’s brother-in-law Johnny Marks wrote a song based on the story; Rudolph the red nosed reindeer, and it later became a hit record by Gene Autry.

Elves

In English-speaking cultures, Christmas elves are a huge part of the Christmas holiday. They live with Santa Claus at the North Pole and act as his helpers. In many of the songs, poems, and stories, Santa’s elves are often said to make the toys in Santa’s workshop and take care of his reindeer, among many other tasks. Christmas elves are usually depicted as green- or red-clad, with large, pointy ears and wearing pointy hats. They are most often depicted as humanoids, but sometimes as furry mammals with tails. They were first introduced in literature by Louisa May Alcott in 1856. The image of the elves in the workshop was popularized by Godey’s Lady’s Book, with a front cover illustration for its 1873 Christmas issue showing Santa surrounded by toys and elves. The origins of the elf are thought to have been derived from Norse mythology, which refers to the álfar, also known as huldufólk ‘hidden folk’ who are similar to the Celtic fae. The elf character is most likely to have been created from a combination of this Norse legend with the house spirits named brownies in Scottish mythology and legends.

Mrs. Claus

Mrs. Claus is the wife of Santa Claus. Her role and character traits vary, but she is generally depicted as a kind, nurturing, and a supportive partner who helps Santa manage the operations at the North Pole. This includes taking care of the elves, managing the toy production, and sometimes baking cookies. She is often portrayed as a maternal figure with a warm personality, enhancing the festive and family-oriented atmosphere of Christmas lore. Mrs. Claus has become an integral part of holiday traditions and stories, particularly in American and European Christmas culture. The first time that there is reference to Santa having a wife is not until in an 1848 short story called “The Christmas Legend” by a writer called James Rees. In the story, two elderly strangers, who turn out to be Mr and Mrs Claus, seek shelter at a house on a long journey. After Mrs Claus asks some questions, they find out that one of their daughters had died. The next morning, they wake to find a house full of presents.

Krampus

In the chilly shadows of European winter folklore (primarily Germanic), the figure of Krampus emerges, distinct with his horns, terrifying hairy body and sinister snarling face. Krampus is a terrifying winter devil who accompanies Saint Nicholas. Krampus punishes the naughty children with spankings, and sometimes his punishments are so severe he even drowns, eats, or carries them off to Hell. While St. Nicholas (St. Nikolaus in Germany) is famous for giving gifts and rewards to the righteous, it’s Krampus’s job to strike fear into the hearts of the wicked. To learn all about Krampus check out my previous blogpost here.

Santa and duality

Since I am a grey witch every single energy I work with I look at how it can help me maintain balance and how it can represent the cosmic energy of duality. Not gonna lie this was a hard one for a bit for me to be able to look into the spirit of Santa and see the duality. But, after some time working with him in the shadows of the holiday season I was finally able to understand the essence of duality he offers us to see. While Santa is a spirit of happiness and kindness, and he represents a loving feeling that comes from being together and doing kind things for each other. He is that reminder at the end of one year closing and a new one unfolding of how important sharing kindness with others is to not only us but, the collective as well. While that reminder can lead to some increased feeling of love , joy and community it can also cause guilt and point out our major flaws in society as well. We can feel guilty for what we do have that others don’t or we can feel guilty for not doing enough during the entire year. It can also show us just how harsh and lacking our world we live in can be to so many of those around us that we usually choose not to see. Lastly, he may make you feel lacking in abundance if you are in a circumstance in life where you aren’t able to give the gifts you’d like to those you love during this holiday season. Especially if you have little ones in your home.

Correspondences to connect with Santa

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be an archetype energy , or the zodiac energy the moon is currently, or like a figure like Santa, I will list below. Follow your intuition and use what speaks to you!

  • Animal-reindeer, polar bear, penguins, mice, goats, lambs, cows, donkeys, kangaroos
  • Planet- Jupiter & Saturn
  • Element-Water & Air
  • Sex-Masculine
  • Zodiac-Capricorn & Pisces
  • Symbol- Red suit and hat, Reindeer, Sleigh, bells, candy canes, wreaths, mistletoe, Christmas tree, stars, gifts, the north pole, stockings, boots, chimneys, coins, spirits, elves, snowflakes
  • colors-red, black, white, silver, gold
  • Themes- protection, Christmas, spirits/ghosts, kindness, children, family, fertility, transition, generosity, charity, reflection, motivation, magic, abundance, wishes, dreams, materialism
  • Herbs- willow leaves, tundra plants, mushrooms, rosemary, thyme, sage, ginger, frankincense, myrrh, cinnamon, lavender, horehound, pennyroyal, bedstraw, chamomile, sweet woodruff
  • Stones/ crystals-garnet, ruby, black tourmaline, obsidian, emerald, malachite, pyrite, gold, silver, coal, clear quartz, Amethyst, rose quartz,
  • Food-milk, cookies, carrots, hot cocoa, gingerbread, beer, rice pudding, breads, cheeses, salami, shepherds pie, dried fruit, deviled eggs

Ways to work with Santa

If after reading this blog post and learning all about the cheerful, and generous Santa. and you want to work with him this holiday season. Especially after learning he is actually based on a human being who either ascended or at the very least was elevated to Sainthood among the church. You can start by adding him to your holiday celebrations this year by celebrating any of the holidays he is associated with like Saint Nicholas day and Christmas. Next, simply work with him by performing acts of kindness that embody the spirit of giving like Santa does; essentially, bringing joy and generosity to others during the holiday season. Otherwise you can also try some of these things in your life and home below. Just remember when you are working with him just like with any other entity you need to do so from a place of reverence and respect.

Study, get to know him

As with every entity I have ever written about or taught about, The first way to get to know them specifically a being like Santa; is to study all you can about him. Look at the different versions of his origin, and how the catholic church paired him with Krampus. You can even, study the evolution of his history and how he shows up in different parts of the world. Plus don’t forget there are modern interpretations of him as well in movies, t.v. shows, poems, pieces of art and books you can look into. The more you study and learn the better! When working with any entity it is all about building a true relationship with them and you do this first by getting to know who they are.

Leave offerings out for him

Even though he is the embodiment of the spirit of gift giving, it doesn’t mean you can’t give him some gifts in gratitude as well. If you love getting gifts for all of your hard work and kindness from time to time why not do the same for Santa as well. They can even be seen as way for him to refuel and continue to be motivated on h is very busy and long night. Visiting each house around the world with children inside. Below you will see a list of some ideas for offerings you can leave for him on either Saint Nicholas day, Christmas eve night or Christmas day.

  • Cookies
  • Milk
  • Rice pudding
  • carrots
  • coins
  • grain mix/straw
  • stockings
  • Glass of sherry or other alcohol
  • Porridge
  • Mince pie
  • gingerbread
  • poems or drawings

Gift giving

Don’t just give Santa gifts in the form of offerings but, do it for others as well. Really embody the main spirit of Santa by giving gifts to others. So, spread cheer, joy, and kindness to others by giving gifts to your loved ones that come from the heart, thought went into them, and they are special, You can even hand out random gifts to strangers, make gift bags to donate to a shelter, or participate in a secret Santa at your work.

Volunteer your time, or donate money and things to those in need

Even though the gift giving part of Santa is full of joy and holiday cheer. The core of Santa and the energy he embodies is the importance of being generous and kind to those in need. So, one of the best ways to work with Santa is to volunteer or participate in activities that spread Christmas cheer. Some ways to do this could be helping with charity drives, organizing toy drives, volunteering at a local shelter or charitable organization, be part of a meal train, visit a nursing home, or pay off a random strangers bill or tab. Just make sure you are simply performing acts of kindness that embody the spirit of giving like Santa does; essentially, bringing joy and generosity to others during the holiday season.

Do things that help and protect children

Another core element to Santa and who he is; is being the patron protective saint of children. Another way to connect to him and work with him i s by doing things that embody this as well. You can cast spells to protect children in your family and home. Some of my favorites is creating protective charms for my son to wear, drawing sigils on his clothes, or using his stuffies to turn them into protective poppets. Or take it a step further and extend your protection to those who are being harmed by others and are in need of justice and help in the world. You can also spend your time at places like domestic violence shelters or foster homes this holiday season to help spread some love , cheer, and a safe place to a child who may need it desperately right now from you.

Other ways to work with and connect to Santa

  • Celebrate Saint Nicholas day on December 6th in any of the ways we talked about above
  • Add images of Santa to your yule tree and holiday decorations
  • Create a sigil out of his name and use it spells or add it to cookies you bake with kitchen magic to offer him
  • cleanse and purify your chimney and hearth he will come down on Christmas eve night
  • Celebrate Christmas eve or Christmas day
  • Attend a holiday, Christmas, saint Nicholas day, or Santa parade if there is one near you
  • Sing song about him when you go caroling
  • Wish magic
  • Leave offering for woodland creatures and his reindeer
  • Go on a mindful winter nature walk
  • Work with the elves, fae, and brownies in your magic
  • Work with his colors red, black , and white in color magic
  • elemental magic with element of fire with a bonfire
  • dress up as Santa or better yet become a professional Santa
  • Work with the divine masculine and ascended master energy
  • Read about Jesus Christ prior to the king James version of the bible whom Saint nick worshipped
  • Volunteer to read stories to children at the library or book store as a Santa or an entity related to him
  • Invite others into your home for a holiday feast and secret Santa gift giving game
  • Do shadow work and journal about how kind you are during the rest of the year and how you may or may not need to change it in the coming year.
  • Cast spells to fulfill wishes with snowflake magic
  • Write a manifestation letter to Santa, read it out loud on Christmas ever night as Santa flies by, and bury it in the snow to have it manifest in the next year for you as gift from Santa
  • Cast spells for peace, harmony, joy, and good will
  • Random acts of kindess
  • Help with Santa’s workshop by donating toys
  • Participate in community holiday events where you can visit and see Santa in person

Why work with Santa?

Santa Claus is someone who will remain in the hearts of children forever and linger in our memoires of past cherished and festive times as adults.. While some may only consider him to be a mythical person who brings toys and good tidings to children at Christmas. As we grow older we see him as the special symbol of good will and selfless giving that he is. Every holiday season he rides through the night skies. Visiting each house to remind us of the importance to be genuinely kind to those in need and to give to our community.

To expand your knowledge about him and his magic or if you’d rather listen than read; you can watch my free class with Divination Academy on YouTube all about him below!

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

Don’t forget to head over to the shop today for eBooks, workshops, resources, and 1:1 services with me

Facebook
Patreon
Pinterest
Email

About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

© 2024, Modgepodgemystic LLC

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Shake up societal norms and liberate yourself during Saturnalia

Yule may be the most well-known pagan celebration of the Winter season, but it is certainly not the only one nor in my opinion is the most fun of them all. That would be The Saturnalia Festival. The Saturnalia Festival l is an ancient Roman holiday that mainly celebrated the Winter sowing season, as well as honored the god Saturn. The actual dates vary but most scholars agree it was once celebrated between December 17th and the 23rd OR December 25th through the 31st, depending on the calendar that was used. Saturnalia was a jovial time for the entire city of Rome because, everyone in ancient Rome participated in the excitement. Saturnalia was a day when all work came to halt for everyone from the emperor to slaves. This meant even the courts of law were closed. Saturnalia was a time of revelry and social upheaval in Roman society, characterized by indulgence, merrymaking, and the suspension of norms.

When was Saturnalia?

The Saturnalia Festival is an ancient Roman holiday that mainly celebrated the Winter sowing season, as well as honored the god Saturn. The actual dates vary but most scholars agree it was once celebrated between December 17th and the 23rd OR December 25th through the 31st, depending on the calendar that was used. What we know for sure is it that it was observed around Midwinter a.k.a. the Winter Solstice and when the Norse celebrated Yule. Saturnalia is thought to have lasted for up to seven days, this was followed by the celebration of the winter solstice and birth of the the sun god, Sol Invictus, on December 25th , an occasion marked by the city wide chariot races.

History of Saturnalia

Saturnalia started out as a one-day farmers’ festival on 17th December each year. As you might have guessed by the name, the festival was to honor Saturn – the god of farming and the harvest. Over the centuries, the festival grew, eventually becoming a seven-day event culminating on December 23rd with Sigillaria – a day of gift-giving. During this period, Romans celebrated the completion of the planting season and honored Saturn, thanking him for the promise of bountiful harvests to come. The festival brought warmth and light to the darkest days of the year and most of all gratitude to the god of agriculture Saturn.

Saturnalia a time to shake up societal norms

My all time favorite Ancient Roman tradition comes from this festival. One of Saturnalia’s traditions consisted of allowing people to revel in a role reversal of sorts. The social norms on Saturnalia were lifted. Slaves were treated as equals, allowed to wear their masters’ clothing, and be waited on at meal time in remembrance of an earlier golden age thought to have been ushered in by the god. Not only that but, it was a time of participating in indulgences we normally wouldn’t get to partake in like orgies, and cross dressing.

Saturnalia a time of Liberation

Saturnalia was even called a “feast of liberation.” Enslaved people were temporarily liberated. Moral rules were loosened, so activities like gambling , swearing in public and cross dressing were allowed on Saturnalia. The strict city dress code enforced upon all was even lifted meaning no more togas during this festival. Instead bright clothes were worn by all. Allowing others to freely be themselves and express themselves in ways that normally are not allowed giving them liberation they don’t normal get to feel the rest of the year round.

Saturnalia a golden era of abundance

At the heart of Saturnalia was a celebration for Saturn, the god of a the best time for humanity, called the Golden Age. This was a time when everything was plenty and peaceful. It was like a magical time with lots of resources, where everyone got along well, and the earth gave abundance without anyone having to work too hard. This time was full of lots of good things and happiness, and life was easy and free. The time when Saturn was in charge was like the beginning of a world that was full of peace and freedom. This is the time we remember and try to receive from the god Saturn again during Saturnalia.

Saturnalia a time when the veil is thinned

Like their Northern European neighbors who celebrated Yule, the ancient Romans believed the spirits and ghosts from the underworld were active during the Winter season and holidays like Saturnalia. Saturnalia, was a time when the spirits of the dead were honored and the boundaries between social classes were temporarily overturned including those between the living and the dead.

Common Traditions

Saturnalia was generally considered a merry festival, with lots of feasting and exchanging of gifts. Many of the common traditions we see during the winter solstice were seen during this festival as well. In Rome, the holiday was kicked off with a religious ceremony in the Temple of Saturn, followed by a free public banquet open to all. Along with the other common traditions below.

Unbinding of Saturn’s feet

The statue of Saturn’s feet, typically bound the rest of the year, were freed from their bindings during the festival. This symbolized the freedom and liberation of the gods, people, and earth. This was done within the temple of Saturn and by most accounts I can read the priest’s was even allowed to uncover his face.

Drinking, feasting, and revelry

Saturnalia was definitely a time of merriment full of Bacchus level style of partying. Drinks were flowing, bellies were full, and voices of laughter and singing were heard throughout every street. Sources say traditional foods included roast boar, cakes, walnuts, honey, grapes, fermented fish, figs, apples and of course, wine. In addition to the role reversals, large parties were had that involved orgies, fertility rites, gambling, and games of many kinds. cross-dressing was a common tradition and enlivened the atmosphere with joy as well.

Gift giving and gag gifts

Gift-giving, still common during the Winter holiday season today, was incredibly prominent in ancient Rome as a Saturnalia tradition. Gifts were given to children and gag gifts between friends. The gag gifts were called sigillaria and were typically wax dolls and figurines made to resemble gods, mythical heroes, and even grotesque monsters. These were typically sold during a Saturnalia market traditionally held during the holidays. Some believe the figurines are a nod to ancient times when human sacrifices might have been made. I wonder if this is where the roots to the famous gag gifting game, the white elephant game, gets it’s roots from.

The king of Saturnalia

The King of Saturnalia was a man chosen in each household to represent the leader of Saturnalia or Lord of Misrule. The King of Saturnalia would then cause mischief or misrule in the household and more specifically at parties and feasts. By playing pranks, telling jokes, chasing the women, etc. Even having the role creating chaos, by yelling commands that other partygoers had to obey. I consider this tradition as a way to create a character or “spirit” of the season. When I read about this common tradition it gives me a very Loki, causing Mischief kind of feel.

Saturnalia and the god Saturn

Saturn, and his consort Ops (Opis) were both worshiped on Saturnalia. To the Ancient Romans, Saturn wasn’t just the god of karma time and boundaries, but he was also an agricultural god and the ruler of a great Golden Age, a time of abundance and perfect peace. He taught the people about agriculture and how to save their money, so they might never experience hunger or poverty again. He taught them the payout of discipline and restraint. Offerings and sacrifices were made to both the god and his goddess in hopes of protecting the Winter-sown crops. Saturn, also called Father Time and Seed-Sower, is the Roman god of agriculture, prosperity, time and fertility. In one of the myths, Saturn is a haggard wanderer who eventually is given the job of door guardian. Tasked with guarding Rome’s immense wealth. Let’s be honest we all know how much Rome loves their money and gold. Which places him as one of the most important gods to Rome of all, outside of their founders whom we celebrate soon during Lupercalia.

Saturnalia and the goddess Ops

Saturn wasn’t the only deity honored during the days of the Saturnalia Festival but, so was his consort Ops. On, December 19th is Opalia, the feast day of Ops. Ops is the goddess of peace, plenty, and protection. She specifically is invoked to guard one’s home against fires and to extinguish fires that have gone out of control. Interestingly, her name influenced the word opulence, which means great wealth or luxuriousness.

Saturnalia Vs the Winter solstice and Yule

While both Saturnalia and the Winter Solstice happen to be festivals that take place around the same time as each other they are quite different with different core meanings. Saturnalia was a time of revelry and social upheaval in Roman society, characterized by indulgence, merrymaking, and the suspension of norms. In contrast, Yule carried a deep reverence for the natural cycles, focusing on the return of light and the cosmic order. While both Saturnalia and Yule involved feasting and joyful gatherings, their underlying philosophies and significance varied. Yule centered on the sun’s rebirth and spiritual renewal, whereas Saturnalia was more associated with social liberties and honoring Saturn as an agricultural deity.

Themes of Saturnalia

Every season and every pagan holiday has certain concepts and magical themes. Which means, depending on your tradition and needs, you can weave one or more of these themes into your personal celebrations. This festival perform spells to harness the energies of the harvest, abundance, expression, gratitude, liberation, accessing our deepest desires, and merriment. This is also a time to reflect on the past year, but in a way to be present. To truly let go and celebrate the hard work you did during the planting and harvest season. Saturnalia is a time to break down walls, let go of fear, and allow ourselves to express ourselves freely. To no longer let the expectations, and rules of societal norms hold us in shackles anymore. On Saturnalia, we see the following magical rituals and spells below as well. Remember these are just some of the themes and energies you can connect to and work with on Yule.

  • Merriment
  • Role reversal
  • Liberation
  • Equality
  • Celebration
  • Feasting
  • Drunkenness
  • Breakthroughs
  • Expression
  • Freedom
  • Abundance
  • The Harvest
  • Charity
  • Community
  • Agriculture
  • Wealth
  • Joy
  • Winter
  • Debauchery
  • Interconnectedness
  • Humor
  • Mischief

Saturnalia and Duality

Since, I am a grey witch I look for the duality in every single energy I work with including sacred times like the ancient Roman Festival of Saturnalia. This festival and holiday is time full of merriment, revelry, and honestly down right debauchery. Allowing us to express ourselves freely. For this one time during the year not be bound by societal norms giving us a taste of true authentic freedom. This may make some think this holiday is only about positive and wanted energies. But, that is not the case. To truly be free, to feel full liberation and be present in true debauchery you have to allow yourself to face your repressed feelings, inner shame, and let go of fear and control. You must be willing to let go of all fears and take a massive leap of faith in yourself, your partner, and the community you have made. You have to be willing to remove any masks you have in place so you can be truly present to feel all the pleasure liberation has for you to taste.

Correspondences of Saturnalia

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy, the zodiac energy the moon is currently or for A holiday or sacred time like Saturnalia. I will list below for you to use. Remember this is not an all encompassing list and there may be other correspondences to use. Just follow your intuition and use what calls to you.

  • Planet- Saturn
  • Animal- pig/ boar
  • Element- Earth
  • colors- red, green, gold, white
  • Herbs/flowers-spruce, fir, holly, bay laurel, cinnamon, pumpkin, mint, cumin, peppercorn, coriander, fennel, Rue
  • Stones/ crystals- Iolite, Sapphire, Moldavite, Black obsidian, Shungite, Smoky quartz, Spirit quartz, Onyx, pyrite, black tourmaline, Jet, blue kyanite, carnelian, ruby, garnet, malachite, clear quartz, Lapis Lazuli
  • Deities-Saturn and Opis. Also Janus, and Bacchus
  • Symbols-decorated trees, evergreen garland, wreaths, gilded ornaments, the sun face, candles, Sigillaria, coins
  • Food/drinks: boar, pork, honey cakes, figs, dates, grapes, mulled wine, mead, apples, olive oil

Ways to connect to Saturnalia

Whether you choose to weave Saturnalia traditions into your Winter holidays OR full-on embrace the ancient Roman festival, there are many festive ways to do so. First, In your everyday life, you can work with any affirmations, mantras, and visualization work for liberation, freedom, sexual desires, abundance, and wealth. Check out below more ways to work with and celebrate this Ancient roman holiday into your holiday season even now!

Switch up the roles in your home

One of the most popular traditions and my personal favorite was the role reversal. So, why not do the same in your life during this festival to honor that as well. Now, you may not be able to do this in your entire life because, it isn’t something that is widely celebrated like it was during ancient times in Rome. But, you can do it in your own home at least. So if you are normally the one managing the home while someone else gets a more laid back role. For these few days switch those roles. Allow each other to understand how the other feels to create more harmony in your home from this day on.

Gambling

During Saturnalia, a time of jovial merrymaking, many social norms were relaxed and inverted. Gambling, normally outlawed, was allowed in public. According to some accounts, you were only supposed to gamble for nuts, not money, to recreate the golden age of Saturn

Abundance and Sharing Celebrations

Host a feast that’s all about gratitude and generosity. Share your blessings with others, perhaps through a community meal where everyone contributes, or by donating to those in need. You can also cast abundance and wealth spells for not only you but, also for others. One of my favorites to do is to make abundance spell bags, or packets and gift them to friends, family members, and even strangers on the street.

Gift giving

Embrace the joy of giving with thoughtful, perhaps handmade, gifts. Acts of kindness, personalized letters, or DIY crafts can be more meaningful than store-bought presents.

Other ways to celebrate

  • Decorate with Evergreens
  • Carry On the Saturnalia Tree Tradition
  • Purification and cleansing Rituals
  • host a Saturnalia Feast
  • Dress in bright and lively clothing
  • add Saturnalia Decorations to your altar
  • Honor Saturn with prayer and offerings
  • Work with some chaos magic to cause a little mischief
  • Designate someone in your home as the king of Saturnalia
  • Throw a Big Party full of dancing, singing, drinking, and feasting
  • Pumpkin magic
  • Shadow work focused on freedom, liberation, and what you view as societal norms holding you back. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here;  you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.
  • Study and learn about the history and practices of Saturnalia
  • Good luck and fortune spells
  • Sex magic
  • Add sigils to increase joy and give thanks for your meal with some kitchen magic
  • Candle magic
  • Apple magic
  • Mirror magic to unmask repressed parts of who you are
  • Spells to increase peace, harmony, and understanding
  • Play pranks, be a kid, do things that make you laugh
  • Celebrate the past years success
  • Charity work, or donate your time focused on feeding those in need
  • Elemental magic with the element Earth

Final thoughts

While Saturnalia seems to be lost to the ancient past by many, its lessons feel timeless. It teaches us to pause, reflect, and connect—to honor the cycles around us and revel in life’s fleeting joys. The Romans embraced Saturnalia as a way of restoring balance, gaining perspective, and finding unity, whether its by serving another or sharing a warm laugh . Follow your intuition and honor Saturnalia however feels right. That could be through sharing gifts, hosting a festive feast, or simply taking a moment to connect with your loved ones beyond the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Saturnalia reminds us to honor both the light and the shadow, to plant seeds for future harvests, and to bask in the merriment of community. It reminds us of the true freedom and liberation we get to feel when we embrace our authenticity and live outside of societal norms no matter what others feel and think.

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

Don’t forget to head over to the shop today for eBooks, workshops, resources, and 1:1 services with me

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

© 2024, Modgepodgemystic LLC

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Shift perspectives, and embrace change with the Gemini cold full moon

The last full moon of 2024 graces the night skies on December 15th. The Moon ending her cycle in the curious and communicative sign of the Twins will stir our minds, increase our desire for variety, and we will thirst for information. Allowing us to shift our perspectives and awaken our urge to connect with others. The Full Moon in Gemini puts the already emotional full Moon in the sign of the mind and expression. Gemini Full Moons are usually times where we express what we’re feeling more easily, and we can say what we mean and mean what we say. We can be authentic and open. This is a time when we can fulfill our desire to feel deeply understood. With the adaptable and curious Gemini energy guiding you this full moon, you’re encouraged to embrace change and let go of what no longer serves you, opening space for fresh ideas and perspectives to emerge. This full moon is a pivotal moment allowing you to explore new perspectives and consider changes that can lead to breakthroughs in your life. This Gemini Full Moon invites us to bridge the gap between mind and heart, thought and feeling. Are your thoughts aligned with emotional truth? Are your feelings guiding you toward your highest good? This lunar moment calls for balance, curiosity, and inspired action

First, What is the Full Moon

Over the centuries, the Moon has played a significant role in different cultures and traditions. The full moon simply put is when the moon is completely illuminated in the sky and it has reached it’s peak in this lunar cycle in the sky. When the moon is completely illuminated it’s time for all to reach full expression. The full moon is the most powerful and potent time of the entire lunar cycle.

A full moon occurs when the transit (moving) Sun and Moon are in the exact opposite positions in the Zodiac (called an opposition). The full moon greatly affects humans and it’s no wonder it does because, there’s a scientific reason for this – we are made up of 60% or more of water. Full Moons are the peak point of the lunar cycle: at this time of the month, the light of the Sun is fully illuminating the Moon, and the luminaries are exactly opposing one another from our perspective on Earth. This potent alignment offers us opportunities to gain more awareness about what is moving in our inner and emotional world, and information previously uncertain or hidden could be revealed at this time.

With the moon being fully illuminated it creates this portal to some of the most potent energy to connect to for us to manifest our desires and dream life. This portal creates a connection to our peak creative energy and the deep seated creative passions we all have within us. This creative energy and power is the energy we need to actually do and create the things and lifestyle we need to manifest what we desire. With the new moon phase being about planting the seeds of what you want to manifest, the full moon is about actually doing the work and moving the energy to make your manifesting happen. The full moon allows you to bridge the connection between these energies and themes and bring them into your life while reminding you how important it is to have them in your life not only when the moon is illuminated in the sky for you to see.

There are so many ways to work with the full moon, to learn more about the basics of working with the full moon energy check out my blog post here and you can watch my class all about lunar magic. But, remember each full moon will be slightly different and have different practices to add and different ways to do it based on which zodiac sign the full moon is currently in at the time.

The cold moon

During December the harsh bitter cold of winter sets in dropping to temperatures we can feel chilling us to the bone especially in my part of the world. This is why the full moon of December is known as the cold moon. This final full moon of the year arrives at the beginning of winter’s stillness and illuminates dark winter nights. Pulling us into the stillness of long winter nights for introspection, rest, and fresh starts as we conclude our annual trip around the sun. The Cold Moon’s energy aligns us with Winter’s dormant energy , stillness, and rebirth coming in the new season. Nature may appear dead and lifeless, right now but looks can be deceiving. Deep beneath the surface, it’s brimming with life and endless potential just waiting to show its new form with the suns return to full light come spring. I know when I go out to the woods during the cold winter months there is so much wisdom to be whispered in the woods. Use the Cold Moon as a wintery guide to “freeze and hibernate” as well. Slow down and be fully present in activities that truly bring you joy and pleasure. This is a magical lunar cycle full of transformation and deep internal work. It’s a chance to recharge and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.

As with most pagan names there will be different ones for each culture so below I listed any of the other names for the cold moon I could find across the Earth. The common themes for these moons are, stillness, introspection, renewal, rebirth, and connecting to the harsh cold of the long winter months ahead.

  • Long Night Moon (Mahican Native American origins)
  • Yule month (Ýlir) Norse origins
  • Little Spirit Moon (Manidoo-Giizisoons)
  • Oak Moon (Celtic origins)
  • Dead of Winter Moon (Ukiugraq) Inupiat Language, North Slope, Alaska
  • Springbok Moon (Antelope) South African origins
  • Sun Has Traveled Home to Rest (ik’ohbu yachunne) Zuni Native American origins
  • Bitter Moon (Chinese Origins)
  • Winter Moon (Tahch’asap’ara) Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana
  • Evergreen Moon (Comanche Native American origins)
  • When the Deer Shed Their Antlers (Dakota)
  • Little Spirit Moon (Anishinaabe)
  • Frost moon
  • Drift Clearing Moon (Cree)
  • Frost Exploding Trees Moon (Cree)
  • Moon of the Popping Trees (Oglala)

Who is Gemini?

Like, I said before each full moon will be amplified and influenced by the zodiac sign we find it in and this time the full moon is in the sign of Gemini. So who is Gemini? Gemini is known for being curious, communicative, and intellectual, and is the third sign of the zodiac. An air sign, Gemini is the zodiac sign that isn’t afraid of change and will adapt easily when they need too. Represented by twins, this sign is deeply independent, but their dualistic nature still has them in search of a lifelong partner.

Gemini constellation

The Gemini constellation is a group of stars in the northern hemisphere that’s known for its two brightest stars, Castor and Pollux and is located between Taurus and Cancer in the zodiac. According to Greek mythology the constellation of Gemini is made up of two twins: Castor and Pollux. Castor was the mortal son of King Tyndarus, while Pollux was the immortal son of Zeus. Both Castor and Pollux, being identical twins, were inseparable in their looks and actions. Castor was great horseman and Pollux was a great fighter. Together, they went with Jason on the Argo and saved the ship from a terrible storm. When Castor was killed in battle, Pollux pleaded with Zeus to bring him back. Zeus agreed to immortalize both Castor and Pollux, if they spend half of their time on the Earth and the other half amongst the stars in the heavens. Since then, when sailors saw these two stars together, they knew their journey would be prosperous. However, seeing only one star foretold bad luck. In Roman mythology, the constellation Gemini represents Romulus and Remus, the twins who founded Rome that we celebrate during Lupercalia.

In Babylon they were known as the Great Twins. The Twins were regarded as minor gods and were called Lugal-irra and Meslamta-ea, meaning respectively “The Mighty King” and “The One who has arisen from the Underworld.” They were regarded as guardians of doorways and may have originally been envisioned as a set of twins guarding the gates of the Underworld, who chopped the dead into pieces as they passed through the gates.

This constellation is a very special one as well since, it is the only one mentioned in Norse mythology among the Eddas.It is a story of how Þjazi, anglicized as Thiazi, Thjazi, Tjasse or Thiassi was a Frost Giant and a shapeshifter and how their eyes made it into the skies. The story goes; One day, while on a journey, Odin, Loki and Hœnir set up an earth oven to cook an oxen they just hunted. After a while they found that it would not cook. They found out that Þjazi in the form of a great eagle, stopped the oven from heating and demanded a part of the oxen. When the oxen was cooked, Þjazi ate so much of it that Loki became angry, grabbed his long staff and attempted to strike him, but the weapon stuck fast to Þjazi’s body and he took flight, carrying Loki up with him. As they flew across the land Loki shouted and begged to be let down as his legs banged against trees and stones, but Þjazi would only do so on the condition that Loki must lure Iðunn, the goddess of youth out of Asgard with her apples of youth, which he solemnly promised to do. Later, Þjazi, again in the form of an eagle, carried Iðunn and her apples away and the gods, deprived of Iðunn’s apples, began growing old and grey. Loki was going to bring back Iðunn. He borrowed a magical coat from Freyja, transformed into a falcon, flew to the hall of Þjazi, transformed Iðunn into a nut and carried her back to Asgard. When the other gods saw Þjazi in close pursuit of Loki, they lit a fire which burned Þjazi’s feathers, causing him to fall to the ground where he was killed. When Þjazi’s daughter Skadi came to avenge her father, the gods offered her atonement and compensation. She was given the hand of Njord in marriage and Odin took Þjazi’s eyes and placed them in the night sky as stars.

Gemini The Sign Of The Mind And Shifting Perspectives

During the Gemini full Moon we are guided to change our thoughts, and examine our current beliefs to let go of ones that no longer resonate with us. The Gemini full moon calls for us to let go of the need to know, and opens us up to the ways in which our trust in life needs to grow. It opens us up to relooking at how we see ourselves and the world around us allowing us to possibly, completely shift our perspectives for major growth and transformation. This enthusiastic energy allows us to embrace uncertainty. To walk through the different doorways of opportunities without fear or anxiety. Now is also a very good time for grounding or earthing, and for finding our way back to the path of our hearts and maybe even going a different direction to get there/ Doing this may allow you to see some new things. Our minds are a gift, a powerful tool that we can guide and use in whatever direction and purpose we desire. And so it’s time to use our minds for a higher purpose and for the highest purpose of humanity. Gemini, the mutable air sign known as the sign of the twins, brings a lively, adaptable energy to the Full Moon. With Gemini’s influence, you’re encouraged to keep an open mind and embrace curiosity as a tool for growth. The Full Moon in Gemini is a powerful moment to identify and release outdated thought patterns and limiting beliefs that have been holding you back. This phase invites you to clear mental clutter, opening up space for fresh perspectives and new possibilities.

Gemini the sign of communication

Gemini is an air sign and ruled by the planet Mercury, it’s about communication and trying different things in life, being adventurous, socializing, and using language as a tool. Take this time to bring out your strengths in the way you communicate with others and how you take the time to listen to others in your life as well. This is the time to set boundaries and let go of toxic ties and relationships that no longer serve you. If you’d like to improve communication in your life with the people around you, communication is ruled by Gemini and this is your time to do it. So, go inwards and ask yourself are there any ways that you communicate that are outdated and cause issues in your relation ships and then commit to let those patterns go.

Gemini The Sign of Learning

In astrology, Gemini is associated with learning and is said to be a sign of intellectual prowess. Gemini is said to be quick at learning, curious, versatile, and have a thirst for knowledge. Therefore, learning is ruled by Gemini. This is the sign to strengthen your mind and become a better learner. Gemini activates the thinking realms, the imagination and the mental channels, seeking patterns, connection and purpose. It’s a really highly mental energy that stimulates ideas and creativity. Gemini energy is also highly intelligent, which makes it a good time for studying or learning a new course or skill. Now is the time to look into subjects that require thinking and discussing ideas, including literature, science, philosophy, art, and more.

Themes for the Gemini full moon

This time, we experience the New Moon in emotional, Open minded, Witty, Social, Flirty, Distracted, Adaptable, Intellectual, dualistic, Expressive, and perspective shifting Gemini. When the Full Moon in Gemini graces the sky, it offers cosmic guidance for us to examine our patterns and release the thoughts and beliefs that no longer serve our highest good. Let’s explore some of the themes and energies of Gemini deeper below. The Gemini full moon is a powerful moon that amplifies the dualistic energy of Gemini allowing us to shift our perspective and learn new ways of being in this world.

Keep in mind that the full Moon relates to the continuation of your journey to manifest your desires and dreams. This will be especially strong this full moon being in the sign of the twins who day dream about the life you wish to create all the time. So, try and have any of your workings based on these topics, and be willing to be adaptable with those seeds of intention you had planted on the new moon. Don’t forget this full moon is layered with many energies for you to connect to as well like the harsh cold of winter’s approach, and the introspection of the winter solstice and yule.

What to be cautious of this Gemini full moon

We may be a little bit more scattered when this sign is aligned with the moon. the Gemini Moon personality can at times be easily distracted it’s hard to focus when there’s always something else that could use our attention or our heads are up in the clouds.. So, do your best to use skills that can help you focus like making to do lists, and grounding or centering often. We also need to be careful about the intensity level for how we react to things. When Gemini is affecting the moon each and every event no matter how small seems like it’s the most significant thing to happen to us. It’s important to take the time to check the facts with your emotions and reactions to make sure you are reacting to things with the valid intensity. Be careful to not catastrophize things.

Gemini and duality

Since, I am a grey witch every single energy I work with I look for the duality in that energy and how I can connect to it. This includes the full moon and the sign it currently is in; Gemini. This month’s full moon might seem pretty obvious to you; that it is literally the definition of dualistic energy to work with. First let’s talk about the duality of Gemini; the sign of the twins and aka the sign of duality in the zodiac. Gemini focuses on duality which means; the relationship between opposites. Logic and emotion, creator and created, “good and evil”, Wanted and unwanted, masculine and feminine, conscious and subconscious etc. and the union that exist between them. All of these are topics we can reflect on and work with using Gemini energy including using grey magic.

Gemini, represented by the twins, is all about the duality within us. Whether you call the two competing voices within the Ego and Soul, Higher Mind vs Lower Mind, or Inner critic vs Inner cheerleader, these dual voices exist within us all, and our role is to learn how to balance them out and keep them lovingly communicating with each other. This full Moon is less about manifesting new “things” and more about letting go of thoughts that no longer support us emotionally. This requires us to change our minds in order to change the thought patterns that aren’t currently supporting us and allowing us to truly be in alignment with our intentions. Gemini reminds us that duality is a natural expression. YES, unity may be a goal, but duality is our reality on this planet right now, and to feel that internally is normal. The energy of duality allows us to be flexible, change our mind, go new directions and be multifaceted with our thoughts, reactions, and how we interact with others. If you’re feeling the tug between opposites, it’s actually okay.

Second, the full moon itself is all about duality as it is another time of transformation, transition, and rebirth. During this time we are pushed into a liminal space that forces us to look at the things, people, and places that have been obstacles or holding us back. This can be a thing of beauty and hope as well as a thing of pain and darkness which forces us into duality.

Correspondences for the Gemini full moon

First, what is a correspondence? ,A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy , or the zodiac energy the moon is currently in like I will list below for you to use. Remember to follow your intuition with the correspondences you choose to work with and that you can always use any that correspond to the moon itself as well.

  • planet-Mercury
  • Animal- birds, butterflies, magpies, monkey, dolphin
  • Element- Air
  • Sex- masculine
  • Modality- Mutable
  • Symbol- The twins, dokana
  • colors- yellow, greens
  • Motto- I think or I speak or I am
  • Chakra-Throat chakra
  • Herbs-Orchids, iris, lavender, poppy, azalea, daffodil, lily, lemongrass, lobelia, mulberry, papyrus, Peppermint, horehound, parsley, valerian, skullcap, anise, gingko, mace, marjoram, dill, hyssop, lemon balm
  • Stones/ crystals-Agate, pearl, emerald, ruby, alexandrite, citrine, white sapphire, diamond, tiger’s eye, peridot, calcite, opal, fluorite, amber, onyx
  • Deities-Hermes, Mercury, Castor and Pollux, Loki, Freyr, Freyja, Veles, Hebe, Ate, Apollo and Artemis, Athena, Iris, Lakshmi, cerridwen, Rhiannon, Selene, Persephone, Amaterasu
  • Themes- adaptable, curious, communication, mental clarity, social, intelligent, Connection, shifting perspectives, conversation, siblings, neighbors and neighborhood, short journeys, transportation, active, charming, inquisitive and thirsting for knowledge, playful, outgoing, clever, imaginative, trickster, self-interested, vain, overly critical, fickle, restless, duality, balance, expressive,
  • tarot- the lovers, the magician
  • foods-Oats. seeds, peas, beans, nuts, spring greens, carrot, parsnip, clover, lemon peel, endive
  • trees-Elder tree, hazel tree, trees with nuts
  • House- 3rd house
  • Day- Wednesday

How to connect to the Gemini full moon

Now, that we have talked about the themes of this Gemini full moon and how it is going to affect you let’s talk about how you can specifically connect to and work with this moon. In magical practices, Gemini’s influence is often utilized for spells and rituals that foster communication, intellectual growth, and adaptability in various situations. Moon phases during Gemini, such as the full moon are ideal times for conducting rituals that leverage Gemini’s energy for learning, networking, and skillfully navigating social situations.

First, make sure to do all of your staples that your learned in the previous blog post on the full moon and the moon in general like, charging your crystals, making moon water, and resetting your altar.

With this moon there are certain spells and rituals that will help connect you this moon in the most effective way. The Gemini Moon is a good time to work on divination and prophecy, wishing spells, luck in gambling, communication, working for positive reception of manuscripts, articles and term papers, increasing web traffic, success in school, getting into the school of your choice. Remember these are just some of the many ideas. Follow your intuition and the energy of this moon. Below is a more extensive list of ideas on how to connect to and work with the Gemini full moon.

  • Daydream Meditation-With the Gemini full Moon let your imagination run wild. Take time to daydream. Let your mind wander and tune into all the crazy ideas that crop up. Write about them. Keep it simple, seeing where it leads you. What are you passionate about or inspired by? Write about your full Moon goals and engage all of your senses “as if” you’ve already achieved it. Be creative and free flow with journaling, allowing yourself to dream a new reality.
  • Set goals using Smart goals– To learn more about what SMART goals are and how to use them you can read about here in my previous blog post.
  • Abundance spells-You can learn how to connect to abundance with my in depth guide here
  • Meditation and Visualization
  • Create and set new firm boundaries in your life
  • Cast a chord cutting for toxic relationships that no longer serve you
  • Throat Chakra Energy Work
  • Divination– Try divination associated with the element air; Aeromancy. Which is a form of divination that involves using the state of the air or atmospheric substances to predict the future
  • Self reflection– You can do this through mirror magic.
  • Cleansing, and purification magic to release stale and stagnant energy
  • Protection magic and spells– To learn more about how to do protection magic you can watch part 1 and part 2 of my classes with Divination academy on YouTube
  • Burn Bay leaves  to release the things written on them
  • Blow bubbles to release your wishes on the wind
  • Reflect on the past year and celebrate your victories
  • Make a spell jar-to connect to Gemini, or a dandelion wish jar
  • Work with the element air in your magical workings and spells- You can learn more about how to do that here
  • Connect to the energy of December, Saturnalia, and the winter solstice/ Yule
  • Shadow work focused on release, learning, communication, and adaptability
  • Work with the energy and magic of duality by casting grey magic
  • Attend a socializing event
  • Make a simmer pot-for clear communication in your home
  • Journal– focus on your dreams, beliefs, and letting go of old beliefs
  • Cast spells based on friendship
  • Cast clear communication spells to assist in a conflict
  • Use Color Magic-The color blue for communication, green for abundance, and purple for the mind
  • Reframe any negative inner dialogue
  • Express yourself freely through writing
  • Research topics you are interested to reshape your perspective of the world
  • Unmask the side of yourself you hide from others
  • Focus on building your sense of self worth
  • Add winter symbols to your altar when you refresh it

Reflection questions and topics for Gemini full moon

Every full moon is a great time for reflecting on those seeds you had planted during the new moon and how they are doing now at the end of the lunar cycle and how you can celebrate your success and adjust the future for even greater success. Whether you do it thru meditation, shadow work, or divination like tarot; below is a list of prompts and topics to connect with the energy of the cold full moon in Gemini. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here;  you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

  • What beliefs and ideas about the world no longer serve me am I ready to release?
  • What new ideas or insights have surfaced for me recently?
  • Where in my life do I need to be more adaptable?
  • How can I improve my communication with those around me?
  • What old beliefs or patterns about myself am I ready to release?
  • How do I handle uncertainty, and how can I approach it with more curiosity?
  • What conversations have I been avoiding, and how can I address them?
  • In what areas of my life do I feel stuck, and what small changes can I make to move forward?
  • How can I bring more playfulness and lightness into my daily routine?
  • How can I shift my inner self talk to being more self loving?
  • How can I better balance my need for social interaction with time for myself?
  • Are there any outdated communication styles or patterns I have that need to be released?
  • What areas of my life do I need shift my perspective to see something clearly?
  • What successes have I had recently do I need to celebrate?
  • What stories do I tell myself about who I am are no longer true?
  • Where i n my life am I resisting change? How can I become more adaptable?
  • What relationships and ties have become toxic and no longer serve me?
  • How can I assert better boundaries in my life and with who?
  • Have I been authentic and impeccable with my words lately? how can I be more intentional with my words this lunar cycle?
  • How can I use this full moon to deepen my understanding of my interconnectedness with others?

Full moon Prayers and affirmations

Some prayers or affirmations you can state with the full moon are:

  • I release all that does not serve my highest good.
  • I illuminate the things blocking my path to my desires.
  • I release all negative energy, feelings and thoughts that are not serving me.
  • I release the belief that I am not worthy or capable of manifesting anything that I want.
  • I call in the energy of the full moon to cleanse my field of anything that is not aligned with my higher purpose.

Some prayers or affirmations you can state with Gemini are:

  • I am open to infinite possibilities and am willing to walk any path
  • I invite new ways of thinking into my life and release old thought patterns that no longer serve me
  • I open myself to the magic and miracles that are available to me each day.
  • I courageously follow the path of my heart.
  • I let go of toxic thoughts and feelings not supporting my highest good.
  • I am ready to accept change
  • I let go of all toxic and unbalanced relationships and ties that no longer server me
  • I don’t take things to seriously and know when to enjoy life
  • I communicate with others clearly and respectfully
  • I free myself from limitations of the mind and my current perspective

Candle Spell For Learning During Gemini Full Moon

Do you want to strengthen your mind and be able to absorb knowledge better? Do you struggle with focus and attention when you are trying to learn? This spells purpose is to do just that during a full moon in Gemini. All you will need is yourself, a quiet area, and a yellow candle. To make this spell more potent you can also hold selenite and then keep it on you when you are studying or learning the rest of the lunar cycle.

How to do spell:

Find a place you can be alone for a little bit undisturbed, and in quiet. Then put yourself into your sacred container connecting to the energy of knowledge, learning, studying and Gemini. You can do this by meditating, grounding, calling your energy back, or doing breathing techniques like boxed breathing.

Once you feel anchored to the energy of learning and Gemini. Light a yellow candle for mental clarity. If you’d like, you can hold a piece of selenite in your non-dominant hand as you write down the ways you want to improve your learning. Visualize yourself learning easily, taking in new ideas and being receptive to lessons you can learn. Once you vision seems clear recite this spell out loud; “I am open to learning anything and everything there is to learn. I learn easily and quickly. My mind works perfectly.” Blow out the candle when you are done and come place in your favorite place to study and learn.

Final thoughts

As the Full Moon in Gemini illuminates the sky, it brings a unique opportunity to embrace change, explore new ideas, and strengthen your connections with others. This is a time to be curious, communicate openly, and adapt to whatever comes your way. By aligning with Gemini’s vibrant energy, you can gain clarity, release what no longer serves you, and pave the way for fresh perspectives and personal growth.The Gemini Full Moon is an invitation to deepen our understanding of how our upbringing, education, and culture continue to shape our mindset, worldviews, and perceptions. It is an opportunity to remember that our mind is meant to be a tool we have full control over, not something we are enslaved by. Embrace this moment as a turning point in your journey, allowing the light of the Full Moon to guide you toward new possibilities.

Don’t forget to make preparations for your full moon hangover you may experience after this lumination. If you don’t know what a full moon hangover is or how to deal with one you can read all about it in my previous blog post here!

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

Don’t forget to head over to the shop today for eBooks, workshops, resources, and 1:1 services with me!

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

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Working with the magic of Friday the 13th

Friday the 13th has held our fascination in culture for a long time now, for many it has gotten a bit of an infamous reputation even. Because, most of the beliefs are that this day is unlucky. While that is the case in some cultures and practices it’s not the case for all. For many, we see that by bringing the beautiful and loving energies of Friday and the transformative and whole energies of the number 13 together, Friday the 13th is in fact, a very powerful day. A day for feminine energy, manifestation, and creativity. We see the magic of this day and it’s energy mirrored in the 13 lunar cycles of the year and in the blood women shed each month. It is also an extremely powerful time of death and rebirth as it represents that mid-point in the cycle between something new emerging and something old slipping away. Friday the 13th is a day that invites us to explore the depths of our soul and embrace our spiritual journey. Join me under the night sky as you speak to the moon, to learn all about the magic you can harness on this mysterious and mystical day instead of being afraid.

History and legends of Friday the 13th as unlucky

To truly understand the significance of Friday the 13th, we need to delve into its historical origins, explore its spiritual interpretations, and unravel the common beliefs and myths associated with it. The number 13 has a long and intriguing history, steeped in superstition and lore. Its reputation as an unlucky number can be traced back to various ancient civilizations and cultural beliefs. In fact, fear of the number 13 even has a specific name: triskaidekaphobia. The fear of the number 13 is so strong that it has influenced architecture and design. Many buildings and hotels skip the thirteenth floor entirely, jumping from the twelfth to the fourteenth floor in a practice known as; “floor numbering avoidance.” Let’s take a look at some of the myths that have lead to this deep seated fear and feeling of being unlucky.

First up an example of this day being unlucky and it comes from Norse mythology. From what I can find this may even be the oldest one. There was a dinner party being held in Valhalla amongst the gods for all, but one. The trickster god loki was not invited. When he heard of this he decided to attend anyways as the 13th guest of the party. Than during the party he convinced Höðr to shoot Balder with a mistletoe-tipped arrow killing him. Thus marking this day as unlucky.

Next up, we look at Christianity where we see the number 13th portrayed again as being unlucky. This comes up in the story of the last supper when the one who betrayed Jesus was the 13th guest; Judas. Not only that, according to Christian tradition, Jesus was crucified on a Friday, which has led some to view the day as a symbol of suffering and sorrow adding more bad luck to this day for some. We see it again in history with Christianity and the knights templar as well. Many even trace the origins of Friday the 13th superstitions back to the day they were arrested. Which was on Friday, October 13, 1307 by French King Philip IV. Most were imprisoned and later executed. This association between the number 13 and betrayal has resonated throughout history and has contributed to the belief that it brings bad luck.

The energies of Friday the 13th

Throughout history, the number 13 has been steeped in mystery and superstition. In numerology, this number is often considered to be symbolic of change, transformation, and spiritual growth. It is believed to possess a powerful energy that can bring about both wanted and unwanted outcomes. Similarly, the day of Friday has its own spiritual connections. In many cultures, Friday is associated with the planet Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. It is seen as a day of romance, creativity, and spiritual connection. When you combine these two energies the ripe fertile energy of manifestation appears. It is said to be a day when the veil between the physical and spiritual realms is thin, allowing for deeper insights, heightened intuition and spiritual awakening.

Friday the 13th; A day of the goddess

Friday the 13th is not only seen as an unlucky day, but a day of deep beauty and fertility. Before patriarchal times, Friday the 13th was considered the day of the Goddess. It was considered a day to honor the Divine Feminine that lives in us all and to honor the cycles of creation and death and rebirth. With it being the day of the Goddess it is a beautiful day for creating and celebrating life. It is a lovely day for getting in tune with your emotions, sensitivities, and giving thanks to the beautiful Goddess that lives in us all. All this fertile divine feminine energy makes Friday the 13th, a very powerful day to manifest, honor creativity, and to celebrate beauty, wisdom, and nourishment of the soul.

Friday the 13th; manifestation and spiritual awakening

Friday the 13th is a very fertile day for setting intentions, visualizing goals, and engaging in rituals to bring about positive change in our lives. the combination of Friday, associated with Venus, the planet of love and abundance, and the number 13, which is associated with transformation and rebirth, creates a potent energy for manifesting desires and intentions. The alignment of these cosmic energies amplifies our ability to attract what we desire and manifest our dreams into reality.

Friday the 13th is also seen as an opportunity for deep introspection, self-reflection, spiritual awakening, and personal growth. Friday the 13th is seen as a time to delve into one’s inner world and confront any emotional or spiritual challenges that may be hindering our personal growth. It is believed that by embracing this day and its energies, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, shedding old patterns and beliefs that no longer serve us.

Friday the 13th and duality

Since, I am a grey witch I look for the duality in every single energy I work with including sacred times like Friday the 13th. Man does, this day have so much duality to it and honestly I hope I have made it obvious at this point throughout this post even. While most people think of Friday the 13th as something to be fearful of as a day full of bad luck, dreadful omens, and misfortune. It’s also a time that is fertile with beautiful and loving energy to guide you towards spiritual awakening and manifestation with creativity. You can’t get much more dualistic in energy then that. Plus this day is also connected to a very liminal pocket of time and energy. It’s a time of death and rebirth, representing the midpoint between something new and something old. 

Correspondences for Friday the 13th

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy, the zodiac energy the moon is currently or for time of the year like a month, which I will list below for you to use. Remember this is just a start to the list for you. You can use any correspondences that connect the magical themes and energies of mystical day like Friday the 13th. Just follow your intuition on what you choose to work with!

Planet-Venus & the moon
Animal- Black cat
Element- Air & earth
colors-black, red, blue, white, pink
Symbol- Friday, the number 13, skulls, coffins, eggs, broken mirrors, ladders, black cats
Herbs-roses, rose buds, lavender, apples, saffron, hibiscus, heather, water lily, coltsfoot, Turmeric, Lion’s mane, Holy basil, Ashwagandha, Oregano, Echinacea, vervain, mistletoe, Rhodiola rosea
Stones/ crystals-rose quartz, peridot, aventurine, jade, rhodonite, lapis lazuli, garnet, coral, emerald, Celestite, pyrite, black tourmaline,
Deities-Aphrodite, Venus, Frigg, Freya, Inanna, Juno
Zodiac- Aquarius
Themes-bad luck, misfortune, duality, protection, manifestation, good luck, bad omens, divine feminine, the goddess, fertility, cleansing, love, beauty, glamor, transformation, spiritual awakening, creativity

Ways to work with the energy of Friday the 13th

As witches, we can associate a lot of great, and magical, things with Friday the 13th. Friday is ruled by Venus, the planet of love, harmony, and money. It’s a good day for self-care, self-love, and to make for some great Venusian-style hedonism. When it comes to this mysterious, mystical, and fertile day there are countless ways to work with it. I will go over some below.

Shadow work

One of my favorite ways to work with this energy is to tap into the very fertile energies prime for personal growth and spiritual awakening on this day is through shadow work. Shadow work on this day is profound leading us to places inside ourselves to release blockages to create a life we have always wanted to manifest. Guiding us to the inner goddess within the creative energy swirling in our womb space.  If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here; you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

Sex Magic
Own your sexuality! Use your orgasms to set intentions. As you pleasure yourself or consensually with a partner, think of a goal that you want to achieve and attain. While climaxing, state the intention over and over. Being that sex and orgasms are full of fertile manifestation energy, you can make your visions true by manifesting them this way into your life. On top of that it adds a very intimate and magical layer to your sex life and relationship. To learn more about sex magic you can watch my class with Divination Academy on YouTube here.

Harness the bad luck for protection magic

A reality we all have to face in life is that from time to time we will need protection from energies that come our way. Whether it be from a thing, place, or person in our life. So, why not work with the unlucky energy that exists within this day to help you do that. This is one of my favorite ways to work with this day! Taking bad luck, harnessing it, and directing it towards others to protect you can really put a damper on others day. Plus you can get pretty creative with your hexes and curses you cast that are anchored in the energy of bad luck and misfortune. You can make them as elaborate or as simples as you want as well! From writing their name on a piece of toilet paper, then taking it and flushing it down the toilet to flush away all of their good luck and bring only bad luck from this day on. You can cast hexes to just annoy them throughout the day as well; like having one of their shoes never being able to stay tied, or losing sight of their phone every time they set it down. The last way I like to work with this bad luck energy is using it in my protection spells as an amplifier by using its energy in things like bad luck charms and spell bags. Or even weaving it’s energy into my reflective shield causing bad luck and misfortune to befall anyone who sends unwanted energy my way.

Other ways to work with Friday the 13th

  • Manifestation magic and rituals
  • Abundance and fertility spells
  • Divination
  • binding and banishing spells
  • Make good luck charms and pouches
  • womb healing
  • Work with the goddess of Friday Venus, Freya, Aphrodite
  • Beauty magic, and glamors
  • Cleansing and purification spells
  • Speak to the moon
  • take a ritual bath to promote self care and boost self worth
  • Cast karma spells using the energy of bad luck from Friday the 13th
  • Leave 13 pennies on your altar and bury some at each door to your home to call in abundance
  • Work with the divine feminine and dark goddesses for healing and transformation magic like, Lilith, Nyx, Baba yaga, Sekhmet, Persephone, and more!
  • Scream your biggest worries and troubles into a jar, seal it shut, and bury it in the earth if you can
  • Bay leaf Manifestation ritual
  • Do a burn release ritual or ceremony
  • Love on some black cats
  • Mirror magic
  • Cast spells for peace, harmony, friendship, and strengthening relationships
  • Make a poppet of someone who has done you harm in your life, then place somewhere dark and keep it there until the next Friday the 13th or you want to bring them back into the light
  • Break up spells and love spells
  • Lunar magic
  • Set SMART goals, and intentions for manifestation
  • Death and rebirth magic, maybe even had to a graveyard for some graveyard magic
  • Inner child healing and healing the mother wound
  • Get creative and artistic today

Friday the 13th manifestation spell

Use this spell I created below with me today, to manifest 13 of your deepest wishes and dreams with the divine feminine and the energy of 13!

This spell is meant to use the ripe and fertility energy of Friday the 13th to manifest your wishes and dreams. What you will need is a cauldron or fire safe bowl, a marker, a white candle and 13 bay leaves.

When you are ready to begin get yourself into sacred container by visualizing white, warm, feminine energy surrounding you. Once you feel anchored in your container focus on 13 things you want in your life right now and focus on them clearly with every detail in your minds eye. Then take your 13 bay leaves and write one manifestation/wish on each bay leaf as you visualize it being in your life. Once done focus on the energy and number of 13 and light your candle sitting within the cauldron or bowl. Next, focus on the flame and as you burn each bay leave in the flame releasing your wish to the multiverse say. “ By the power of 13, my wishes I burn. By the power of 13 all my dreams come to me.”

Final thoughts

While some associate this day with bad luck and misfortune, others perceive it as a time of powerful manifestation and spiritual awakening. It is up to each individual to decide how they want to interpret and engage with the energies of this unique day. Friday the 13th is a day that invites us to explore the depths of our soul and embrace our spiritual journey. It is a time to release fears and embrace the unknown, trusting that the universe has a plan for us. By understanding the spiritual meaning of Friday the 13th, we can navigate this day with confidence and harness its powerful energy to manifest our desires and cultivate a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. Embrace the magic and mystery this day holds and use it as a catalyst for spiritual awakening and transformation. Remember, the power lies within you to make any day, even Friday the 13th, a day of growth, abundance, and spiritual connection.

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

Don’t forget to head over to the shop today for eBooks, workshops, resources, and 1:1 services with me!

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

© 2024, Modgepodgemystic LLC

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Entering a new chapter of dreams come true with the 12/12 portal

Certain dates hold a special significance in the terms of celestial alignment and they create a portal through which we can access heightened energies, spiritual insights, and opportunities for growth. The 12th of December is a really important date as it is the 12th day of the 12th month of the year and for many it is the most potent day to set intentions for the upcoming new year. The 12/12 portal invites you to expand, elevate, and anchor yourself in the higher frequencies that will shape the year ahead. If you have read my previous 11/11 portal articles, you will know that portals facilitate the clearing of our internal energy, so there’s major letting go that is going to happen around this time for us. The 12/12 Portal is not merely a date on the calendar but a moment of divine clarity and an opportunity to manifest your deepest desires while stepping boldly into a new chapter of life.

First, What is a portal?

A portal is an energetic gateway or doorway that creates a powerful opportunity to connect with higher energies. We can make the most of each portal if we work with the incoming energies and channel, anchor, and integrate them.

The importance of numbers
In numerology, every number from 0 to 9 is a symbol and is therefore highly significant. Symbols are the language of the soul and patterns of numbers work together like a code. We can use days like these to connect more fully and readily with our higher nature and choose to elevate our consciousness.

In numerology, the number 1 represents the beginning of all creation. Then the number 11 is very unique number being a “Master Number” and it’s one of only three. A master number, which means it has a unique vibration and a high level of spiritual significance. It’s believed to represent a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms. 11 itself is associated with intuition, spiritual awakening, and enlightenment.

The meaning of the 12/12 portal

Every year on December 12, a powerful spiritual and energetic doorway known as the 12/12 portal is believed to open. This date carries profound significance in numerology as it features the repetition of the master number 12, which symbolizes spiritual growth, completion, and alignment with higher consciousness. The number 12 often represents completion and cosmic order—it’s the number of months in a year, zodiac signs, and even hours on a clock. People often describe the 12/12 portal as a time when the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds is thinner. It’s an invitation to step into alignment with your highest self, shed old patterns, and set powerful intentions for the future. Many people use this period to meditate, heal, and connect with their higher selves. Your dreams are evolving as you grow, so set intentions for the future on 12/12, knowing the Universe supports you. This is a moment to harness the portal’s energy and propel yourself towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.

The 12/12 portal and duality

Since, I am a grey witch every single energy I choose to align myself with I look for how I can connect to it in the sense of duality and balance. With this portal it may seem like, there is no way an energy swirling with abundance, wealth, manifestation, transformation, and all your dreams coming can be anything but, a wanted thing and a wanted energy? Well, every single energy we work with is dualistic and this energy is no different.

When we are putting our energy, faith, and hope behind a wish to manifest and make our dreams come true, we must first go into the dark. We must first go into the shadow of our soul to figure out what we are missing. We have to go into the shadows to see what it is we are lacking. In order for us to be clear in the wish and intention we set today we have to fist experience the duality of our reality. This isn’t always a wanted, fun, and cheery place to be. It opens us up to being open and honest with ourselves about what we have and what we don’t. But, than moving through the darkness, and place of lacking into an energy of deserving and bringing it to you. The other part of the duality to this portal is having to work with fear. When we truly let go and give the universe our faith to make our dreams come true we have to be willing to dive into the unknown and not know exactly where we are going to go.

How To Work With Portals In General

Portal days are a prime opportunity to refocus on ourselves. Below are some ways you can do that with portals in general on portal days when they are open and active.

Listen to your gut feeling: Portal days are not the time for overthinking decisions. Instead, listen to your intuition and trust the inspirations that come to you on these days.

Movement: Energy needs to flow, so make sure you get enough exercise on portal days. For example, you could start the day with some yoga or plan a walk during your lunch break. This will ground you and sharpen your focus at the same time.

Get enough sleep: In order to be as physically and mentally prepared as possible, healthy sleep is essential. Portal days demand a lot from you, so make sure you get enough sleep or take short rest breaks in between.

Journaling and manifestation: Hold on to your thoughts and ideas by visualizing them on a goal board or writing them down in your journal. This not only prevents you from forgetting them again, but also brings order to your potential chaos of thoughts.

Create rituals: Everything has a more intense effect on portal days. This includes the opportunity to create new rituals, reinforce existing ones or overhaul old ones. Rituals ensure consistency and can help us to really put our new insights into practice and integrate them permanently into our everyday lives.

How to use the 12/12 portal Specifically

If you’re looking to make the most of the 12/12 portal, you can start by reflecting on the past year. Get out your journal, or open a Google doc, and jot down what was great, what you learned, what you might like to change or let go, and what you’d like to pursue. From here, you can start setting intentions for your next year. In fact, instead of setting your resolutions in the new year, December 12 is actually much better timing for meaning it’s the perfect time do it! So do things to set intentions, and manifest your dreams before the new year, setting you up for success.

Ways to work with the 12/12 portal

Use the 369 Manifestation Method

This method involves writing down your desires three times in the morning, six times in the afternoon, and nine times in the evening. This repetition helps rewire your brain, focusing your energy on what you want to manifest. Use a journal or sticky notes to write down your desires, feeling the emotions of excitement and gratitude as you do so. Start this method today and then keep it going until the new year to see your dreams be brought to you!

12/12 candle manifestation spell

This one is my favorite one to do this time of the year. Light 12 candles at either 12:12 PM or 12:12 AM. Write your goals on a piece of paper and place it beneath the candles. Focus on your desires and visualize them becoming reality. Allow the candles to burn for 12 minutes to activate your intentions.

Other ways to connect to this portal

  • Write a gratitude list and read out loud in thanks for what you already have
  • Sex magic either solo or with a partner is very potent for manifestation today
  • Start a goal/vision board for
  • Set some new SMART goals
  • Key magic to unlock new doorways and paths
  • Divination like tarot, runes, or using pendulums for yes/no answers
  • Use the whisper method
  • Fire release ceremony
  • Use snow water in manifestation spells
  • Mirror magic for reflection of the past year
  • chord cuttings to release toxic, old, and unwanted patterns
  • Shadow work to release manifestation blockages and to find your true dreams. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here; you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

Bay leaf 11/11 wish ritual

If you want to maximize your manifestation, perform your ritual on 12/12 at 12:12 am or pm. This is the ideal pocket of time to get clear on what you want and ask the universe for whatever your heart desires. Call in your ideal life and the experiences you wish to have. Once you have a clear idea of what you truly want, you can use this bay leaf manifestation ritual below to usher it into existence.

What you will need:

A fire safe bowl, bay leaves, a pen, a lighter or matches

How to perform:

5-10 minutes before 12:12pm or pm, take the time to get yourself into sacred container focusing on the energy of manifestation, your dreams coming true and your the deepest wish in your heart for this year. The amplified energy of this date is thought to enhance the manifestation process, aligning your desires with the flow of the universe. Remember, the more specific and intentional you are, the more powerful the outcome can be. Once you feel set in that intention take your bay leaf and pen and on one side of the bay leaf write that manifestation and wish on it. Then flip it over and on the other side write 12 12. Next, focus again on your wish and intention and right at 12:12 light your bay leaf on fire releasing this wish to the multiverse with the energy of the master number behind it.

Final thoughts

There are many ways to work with the 12/12 portal like, ritual, ceremony, meditation, prayer, channeling, or sacred gatherings. These practices serve to amplify our intentions, deepen our connection to the divine, and align us with the transformative energies of the portal. We can use our own unique way to honor the 12/12 Portal and embrace its gifts of manifestation, new beginnings, and all of our dreams coming true in the next year. Embrace this sacred time as an opportunity for growth, healing, and spiritual evolution, trusting in the guidance of the multiverse/cosmos and the wisdom of our own inner knowing/ intuition. When this portal opens up to you, you can walk through to a new reality of unlimited abundance, bliss, and peace. This portal is an opportunity to tap into your inner strength, overcome challenges, and create space for new opportunities to emerge. By embracing the energy of 12/12, you can harness your intuition and feelings to guide you towards a brighter future. Allowing you to shoot for the stars and make all of your dreams come true.

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

Don’t forget to head over to the shop today for eBooks, workshops, resources, and 1:1 services with me

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Patreon
Pinterest
Email

About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

© 2024, Modgepodgemystic LLC

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Working with the Magic of the Winter Solstice during Yule

As the days draw short and the nights grow long, there are celebrations as well as a tinge of fear in the cold, crisp air as the wild hunt stampedes across the sky on winter solstice night. One of the most popular celebrations honoring the winter solstice was Yule Yule is one of the oldest winter solstice festivals, With roots that intertwine Celtic, Druidic, and Norse traditions from thousands of years ago. Yule is a celebration of the dark stillness of winter and the rebirth of the sun. This ancient celebration marks the point at which the night is longest, the day is shortest, and the journey back toward light begins. the winter solstice offers an opportunity to honor nature’s cycles, reflect on the dark season, and celebrate the sun’s return. Like most winter solstice festivals, themes of light, fire, and feasting are common threads. In Norse culture, the winter solstice was known as Yule or Jol, a festival. It was believed that during this time, the sun goddess Sol gave birth to a new sun, marking the beginning of longer days and the end of winter darkness. Yule offers a beautiful opportunity to honor the cycle of nature, embrace the winter season, and welcome the returning light. Join me on a walk through the crisp winter air, to the feel the snow on your cheeks until you reach the Yule bonfire on Winter solstice night.

What is the winter Solstice?

The Winter Solstice occurs annually around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere and around June 21st in the Southern Hemisphere. This is a day when the daylight is diminished and it’s the longest night of the year. Nearly every ancient culture acknowledged or celebrated the Winter Solstice in some aspect. It is a powerful moment in the solar year: The night is at its longest, but immediately after this peak, the light begins to regain its hold again (slowly). The solstice represents death, the absolute darkest moment of the year, but also rebirth and hope. Even as we acknowledge grief, loss, and the death in nature all around us, we know that everything will come back to life again in the spring and summer as it always has.

What is Yule?

Yule was one of the most important festivals in the old heathen calendar. Yule is a midwinter celebration that goes back to (as early as) the 4th century. Yule or Jol is an ancient Germanic holiday season. Some say Yule lasted for 12 days, from the Winter Solstice forward, while others say the festivities lasted an entire two months. From December through January, if we’re looking at a modern calendar. The name Jol is believed to come from a name for Odin himself – JÓLFAÐR, which translates to Yule Father. Yule holds immense significance as a time of transition, rebirth, and renewal. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, as the sun begins its ascent, gradually growing stronger and promising the return of spring. Yule is a celebration of the winter solstice, representing the return of light, the cycle of life, and the interconnectedness of nature and humanity.

Other names for yule

  • Jól
  • Jólablót
  • Jul
  • Yule time
  • Yuletide

Other Celebrations of the Winter solstice

Many cultures across earth have developed their own stories, beliefs and practices surrounding the winter solstice. These are just a few examples of the diverse ways the winter solstice has been found across different cultures. Many cultures have the universal themes of rebirth, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness, symbolizing hope and the promise of a new beginning.

Alban Arthan
The winter solstice was celebrated by the Celts as the festival of Alban Arthan, which means “Light of Winter.” It was believed that during this time, the Oak King (representing the waxing year) defeated the Holly King (representing the waning year), symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. They believed that the burning of the Yule log was a way to symbolize the sun’s return and that the exchange of gifts was a way to honor the gods and ask for their favor in the coming year.

Saturnalia
The Saturnalia Festival is an ancient Roman holiday that mainly celebrated the Winter sowing season, as well as honored the god Saturn. The actual dates vary but most scholars agree it was once celebrated between December 17th and the 23rd OR December 25th through the 31st, depending on the calendar that was used. Saturnalia was a jovial time for the entire city of Rome because, everyone in ancient Rome participated in the excitement. Especially what I find to be the most interesting par t of this festival the role reversal when power dynamics were switched. Meaning slaves and servants were now the masters for one day and vice versa.

Chinese winter solstice
In Chinese culture, the winter solstice is associated with the concept of yin and yang. It is believed that during this time, yin (representing darkness and cold) reaches its peak, and yang (representing light and warmth) begins to grow, symbolizing the return of light and the gradual transition towards spring.

  • Blue Christmas (holiday) (Western Christian)
  • Brumalia (Ancient Rome)
  • Dongzhi Festival (East Asia)
  • Inti Raymi (Inca)
  • Koliada and Korochun (Slavic)
  • Midwinter Day (Antarctica)
  • Sanghamitta Day (Theravada Buddhism)
  • Shabe Yalda (Iran)
  • Shalako (Zuni)
  • Uttarayana (India)
  • We Tripantu (Mapuche)
  • Willkakuti (Aymara)
  • Yaldā (Western and Central Asia)
  • Yule in the Northern Hemisphere (Germanic)
  • Ziemassvētki (ancient Latvia)

The wild Hunt

Yule was also the time when it was believed the wild hunt would stampede across the skies. This was the night when ancestors visited from the Otherworld, and gods and spirits upon phantom horses rode through the night sky, led by All-father Odin upon his eight legged steed Sleipnir, leading the legendary Wild Hunt! No one wanted to be caught out alone on the road on this night as the ghostly hunting party ripped through the night sky, carrying the souls of the dead to the Otherworld.

Yule a time of renewal, rebirth, and transformation

Yule marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It symbolizes the rebirth of the sun as the days gradually start to lengthen again. Yule celebrates the return of light and the promise of warmth and growth in the coming months. Yule is a time of renewal and transformation, both in nature and within ourselves. It represents the cyclical nature of life, reminding us that even in the darkest times, there is always the potential for light and growth. Yule is a time to shed old patterns, release what no longer serves us, and set intentions for the future.

Yule a liminal time of instrospection

Yule is a time for introspection and reflection on the past year. It provides an opportunity to review personal growth, accomplishments, and challenges, as well as to contemplate the lessons learned and the changes desired for the future. Yule encourages self-reflection, inner work, and setting intentions for personal and spiritual development. One of the best ways to do that is through Shadow work. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here; you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

Yule a time of celebration and family

Yule is traditionally a time of gathering with loved ones, family, and community. It is a time for sharing warmth, love, and gratitude. Yule celebrations often involve feasting, exchanging gifts, and participating in rituals or ceremonies that foster a sense of togetherness and unity. It is a time of joy amongst the darkest, and harshest nights of the year.

Winter solstice, Yule, and duality

Since, I am a grey witch I look for the duality in every single energy I work with including sacred times like the winter solstice and festivals to celebrate it like Yule. Yule embodies a powerful duality by embracing the beauty of darkness while celebrating the promise of light’s return. It reminds us that after a season of long, cold nights and short days, the sun’s return is imminent. Yule recognizes the profound duality of life: the lightness and the dark. Yule is a time to pause in honor of all that’s good, while also holding space for pain. Throughout Yule there is a constant ebb and flow, a dance of duality. Filled with joy and sorrow, Abundance and scarcity, and lastly life and death.

Yule and Santa

We all know about the jolly, white bearded, red suited old man Santa Claus. He permeates the holiday season and Yule is included in that. Santa Claus is connected to Yule, because many aspects of the modern Santa figure, like his gift-giving nature and ability to travel through the sky, are believed to be derived from the Norse god Odin who was associated with the Yule festivities, particularly the “Wild Hunt” legend where he would fly through the sky on his eight-legged horse Sleipnir, delivering gifts to deserving individuals; essentially, Santa is seen as a modernized version of the “Yule Father” figure from ancient pagan traditions. To learn more about all of his history you can check out my class on YouTube with Divination all about here. Plus a blogpost on him will be coming right after this one!

Yuletide “monsters”

Most people have heard of Krampus, but there is a whole legion of Yuletide monsters just waiting to be your friend. Let’s talk about the Icelandic Yule Cat, the Yule Lads, and their leader Gryla the Christmas witch alongside Krampus as well below. Why not add them to your yuletide festivities this year as well

Krampus

First up Krampus! In the chilly shadows of European winter folklore (primarily Germanic), the figure of Krampus emerges, distinct with his horns, terrifying hairy body and sinister snarling face. Krampus is a terrifying winter devil who accompanies Saint Nicholas. Krampus punishes the naughty children with spankings, and sometimes his punishments are so severe he even drowns, eats, or carries them off to Hell. While St. Nicholas (St. Nikolaus in Germany) is famous for giving gifts and rewards to the righteous, it’s Krampus’s job to strike fear into the hearts of the wicked. To learn all about the Christmas devil himself Krampus read my previous blog post here.

the Yule Cat
While many of us have cats we love on in our homes, the Yule Cat isn’t one to bring inside and feed catnip to. This cat is something much different than the fluffy feline sun bathing in your window sill. In Iceland, his name is the Jolakotturinn. Which essentially translates to Yule Cat and he is known to accompany the Yule Lads (of whom we will meet shortly) and Gryla the Christmas Witch. In fact, the Yule Cat myth has it that he is the pet of Gryla, the only one to love him.

Does that mean if you meet the Jolakotturinn you should let him in your home? Only if you’re fond of facing terrifying creatures AND ONLY IF you are wearing NEW CLOTHES on Christmas when you open that door. What do new clothes have to do with the Yule Cat? Well, legend has it, he will eat you if you’re wearing old clothes!

the Yule Lads
If the Yule Cat wasn’t horrifying enough, let’s move on to the Thirteen Yule Lads that hang about for Iceland’s Christmas. Sadly, Santa Claus doesn’t visit the children in Iceland. But the Yule Lads, Jolasveinar or “Yule Swains”, do! The Yule Lads begin invading Iceland on December 12th, thirteen days before Christmas, and hang around until Christmas Day. Each day one new Yule Lad comes down from his home in the mountains. these Yule Lads are more trollish in appearance and nature than human. And they all take on mischievous, if not downright disturbing, roles like one named Window Peeper. Yes, he looks through windows at the unsuspecting people inside. The rest of the thirteen Yule Lads don’t seem much better either with names like Stubby, Gully Gawk, Door Slammer, and Pot Scraper. And yes, there’s even one named Skirt Blower….. Today it’s believed that if the children are bad, the Yule Lads will give them a potato (raw or rotting). And if the children are good, they will receive a gift from each of the thirteen Yule Swains.

Grýla: The Terrifying Yuletide Witch
Gryla is the monstrous troll-woman and Christmas witch of Iceland tradition and lore. She is accompanied by her sons and familiar we talked about above. .Gryla steals down from her domain in the mountains to the towns where the bad children lay asleep in their beds. She carries a large sack with her, so that when she snatches the children up she has a safe place to put them. Sound familiar? A little like Krampus from up above.


12 days of yule

Yule celebrations lasted 12 days, from December 21st to January 1st.. The 12 Days of Yule is a holiday that celebrates the winter solstice and the rebirth of the sun. It is also a time to honor the gods and goddesses, the ancestors, spirits of the dead, and the spirits of nature. Below I break down what each of the 12 days represents listen to your intuition to determine how you want to honor and celebrate each one of them.

  • Day 1:The first day of Yule is also known as Mother’s Night, and it is a day to honor the female ancestors and the goddesses of fertility, protection, and wisdom. (Dec. 20th)
  • Day 2: The second day of Yule is the winter solstice, the shortest day and the longest night of the year. It is also the day when the sun is reborn, and the days start to get longer and brighter. This is a day to celebrate the light, the fire, and the sun. (Dec 21st)
  • Day 3:The third day of Yule is a day to honor the triple goddess, the three aspects of the divine feminine: the maiden, the mother, and the crone. The triple goddess represents the cycles of life, death, and rebirth, and the phases of the moon. (Dec 22nd)
  • Day 4: The fourth day of Yule is a day to honor the ancestors, the spirits of the departed who have influenced our lives and shaped our heritage. The ancestors can be our blood relatives, our spiritual mentors, or our cultural heroes. (Dec 23rd)
  • Day 5: The fifth day of Yule is a day to honor the animals, the creatures of the earth, air, and water who share this world with us and provide us with food, companionship, and inspiration. The animals can be our pets, our livestock, our totems, or our spirit guides. ( Dec 24th)
  • Day 6: The sixth day of Yule is a day to honor the gods and goddesses, the divine beings who rule over the realms of existence and manifest the forces of nature and the aspects of life. The gods and goddesses can be from any pantheon or tradition that you follow or resonate with. ( Dec 25th)
  • Day 7: The seventh day of Yule is a day to honor the elves, the fairies, the dwarves, and the other hidden folk who dwell in the realms of magic and mystery. The hidden folk are the guardians of nature, the keepers of secrets, and the makers of wonders. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the Elf Feast, the Fairy Ring, and the Dwarf Gift. ( Dec 26th)
  • Day 8: The eighth day of Yule is a day to honor the spirits of the land, the beings who inhabit and animate the natural features of the earth. The spirits of the land are the essence of the mountains, rivers, forests, fields, and stones. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the Landvættirblót, the Stone Circle, and the Sacred Grove. ( Dec 27th)
  • Day 9: The ninth day of Yule is a day to honor the ancestors of the spirit, the people who have inspired us and influenced us in our spiritual path and practice. The ancestors of the spirit can be our teachers, mentors, heroes, or role models. They can be from any time, place, or tradition that we feel connected to. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the Ancestor Feast, the Hall of Heroes, and the Shrine of Inspiration. (dec 28th)
  • Day 10:The tenth day of Yule is a day to honor the spirits of the home, the beings who dwell in and protect our household and family. The spirits of the home are the hearth, the door, the well, and the ancestors. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the House Blessing, the Door Warding, and the Well Offering. ( Dec 29th )
  • Day 11: The eleventh day of Yule is a day to honor the spirits of the sky, the beings who inhabit and rule over the celestial bodies and the weather. The spirits of the sky are the sun, the moon, the stars, and the clouds. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the Sun Salutation, the Moon Meditation, and the Star Gazing. (Dec 30th)
  • Day 12: The twelfth day of Yule is the last day of the old year and the eve of the new year. It is a day to reflect on the past, present, and future, and to celebrate the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the New Year’s Eve, the New Year’s Resolutions, and the New Year’s Day. (Dec 31st)

Common Traditions

Lighting of the Yule log

Burning a Yule log is a time-honored tradition that represents the return of light during the darkest time of the year. A large log, often made of oak or other sacred woods, is ceremonially lit and kept burning throughout the night or for the entire Yule season. Symbolizing the light and warmth in the midst of winter’s darkness, a large log is traditionally burned in the hearth or bonfire. As the log crackles and glows, it serves as a focal point for reflection, meditation, and the manifestation of hopes and dreams for the coming year. Keep in mind as well that the type o f wood you choose will add an extra layer of energy to magic this night as well during this night.

Gift-giving
The tradition of giving gifts during the Winter season is ancient and spans cultures. In Ancient Rome, Saturnalia was an ancient Winter festival that celebrated the god Saturn during the month of December. The Romans gave each other gifts during this time. This tradition is reflected in the story of the three wise-men and the gifts they bring to the newborn Jesus. But gift-giving isn’t limited to the Romans or to baby Jesus, as the ancient Germanic peoples also gave gifts to one another. This was a transfer of blessings for health and abundance.

Yule Singing or caroling
Yule singing, also called caroling, originates in the Wassailing tradition made most popular in England. The term wassail comes from the Old Norse word ves heill which means good health. So the idea of singing to people, or in the orchards to the trees, meant to bless the people or property.

Wassail
Wassailing isn’t just a festive activity you can do with your community but also a hot drink. Wassail is a strong drink, often made with ale, honey, spices, or mulled apple cider. The ritual of wassailing involves anointing the tree with wassail and decorating it with wassail-soaked cakes. During feasts, the wassail is poured into a large bowl and guests are greeted with “waes hael”, which means “drink and be well”

Yule Goat (Bock)
The Yule Goat or Yule Bock is a Scandinavian winter solstice tradition. It’s basically a decorative goat made out of straw or wood. Then hung on the Yule tree or placed elsewhere around the home. The goat itself is one of two things: either a representation of Thor’s sacred animals OR a nod to the calendar moving into the sign Capricorn. Either way, the yule goat brings prosperity and luck in the coming year.

Deities of Yule

During Yule and the winter solstice its common for many witches and pagans to work with and celebrate deities that connect to and represent the energies central to the celebrations. This season and it’s celebrations are full of magic, and there are many gods and goddesses of rebirth, the winter, and the sun we can connect to this Yule. Yule is a really important time in pagan culture and there are plenty of gods and goddesses to work with or worship, depending on your practice, festivals, and celebrations. SOME of them you can work with are; Odin, cailleach, Sol Invictus, Brechta, Skahdi, The oak and holly king and more! Keep an eye out for my blogpost coming in just a few days all about the deities of Yule.

Magical themes of Yule

Every season and every pagan holiday has certain concepts and magical themes. Which means, depending on your tradition and needs, you can weave one or more of these themes into your personal celebrations. This Sabbat perform spells to harness the energies of rebirth, renewal, transformation, the light of the day, rebirth of the sun, and the darkness of night. This is also a time to reflect on the past year, and planning for the new year ahead. It’s a very liminal time weaved with the energies of duality. Yule is a great time to focus on spells that remind us of the joy we get when loved ones are near. This is a very potent time to allow yourself to descend into the depths of your soul for inner work and reflection. To be healed by letting one version of you die on the eve of Yule night to be reborn as a new you with the sun at first mornings light. On Yule, we see the following magical rituals and spells below as well. Remember these are just some of the themes and energies you can connect to and work with on Yule.

  • renewal
  • rebirth
  • Life’s resilience
  • return of the sun
  • stillness
  • Darkness
  • light
  • Joy
  • Family
  • Hearth
  • Introspection
  • reflection
  • ghosts and spirit activity
  • fire
  • nature’s cycles
  • Cleansing/ purification
  • hope
  • death

Correspondences for Yule

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy, the zodiac energy the moon is currently or for A holiday or sacred time like Yule and the winter solstice, I will list below for you to use. Remember this is not an all encompassing list and there may be other correspondences to use. Just follow your intuition and use what calls to you.

  • Planet- The Sun
  • Animal- stag, bull, goat, dove, owl, wolf, robin, foxes, reindeer
  • Element-fire and earth
  • colors- white, red, green, gold, silver, white
  • Herbs/flowers- cinnamon, nutmeg, myrrh, frankincense, holly rosemary, sage, oranges, mistletoe, pine, oak, cedar, cloves, poinsettia, peppermint, juniper, bayberry, yarrow, ivy, bay leaves, winter jasmine, all spice
  • Stones/ crystals- snowflake obsidian, blue topaz, onyx, malachite, green aventurine, carnelian, hematite, alexandrite, lapis lazuli, clear quartz, bloodstone, ruby, pearl, garnet, emerald, amethyst, sunstone, labrodorite
  • Deities-green man, holly king, oak king, the horned god, Odin, Brigid, cailleach, baba yaga, freya, Baldor, apollo, mithras, sol Invictus, Demeter, ceres, holda, Diana, Saturn, crones, isis, befena, Horus, Ra, Jesus, Marduk, Ullr , Skadhi, thor, Brechta, sunna, Surya, Amaterasu, Ganesha, Janus
  • Symbols-evergreen tress, bells, yule log, the hearth, sun wheel, candles, wreaths, gifts, krampus, the yule cat, yule lads, Santa, snowflakes, gifts, pineones, elves
  • Food/drinks: apple, cider, wassail, mulled wine, fruits, bread, cookies, bread, oranges, eggnog, nuts, roasted meats. figgy pudding, eggs

Ways to connect to Yule

We have talked about many different themes, and energies you can connect to during this time from rebirth, transformation, rebirth of the sun, darkness, stillness, introspection, keeping a lit hearth, and family. Let’s talk about how we can connect to and celebrate those themes and energies now. First, you can participate and honor any of the deities listed above or that are associated with the winter, Yule, and rebirth. In your everyday life, you can work with any affirmations, mantras, and visualization work for change, rebirth, reflection, growth, and connecting to the wisdom in the stillness of winter. Check out below more ways to work with and celebrate this holiday and time of year.

Refresh Your Altar
One way to connect to a holiday and/or sacred day I always recommend is to cleanse and refresh your altar and/or sacred space. Use earth or fire to cleanse, then decorate with snow water, pinecones and needles, holly, nuts, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, images of Krampus or winter deities, red/green candles and any correspondences we talked about earlier.

Decorate and burn a yule log

Celebrate Yule by joining festivals, feasting, singing, dancing, and spending time with loved ones. The most important and the funnest of all is lighting the Yule log. Hold a ceremony where you and your family can light it together. Nothing says warm and cozy, and keeping unwanted spirits at bay quite like bonfires with your nearest and dearest.

Shadow work and reflection

The winter solstice is a great time for self reflection. There’s no better time to do this than during the darkest and longest night of the year. Wrestling with an issue? Realizations and epiphanies come by easier in the quiet stillness of the season. One of the best ways to self reflect is through shadow work. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here;  you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

Pine cone wishing spell for new beginnings

This is one of my favorite yule time spells and traditions to do. I like it so much I do it again for new years eve as well. Throughout the span of recorded human history, pinecones have been a symbol of human enlightenment, resurrection, eternal life and regeneration. For the Celts, pine cones represented regeneration and were used as a fertility charm where it was often placed under the pillow. So why not take that fertile energy of the pinecone and use it in a manifestation spell? This spell is really simple and easy to do as well! All you will need to do is go outside to your nearest pine tree and pick out a pinecone that is whispering your name and calling to you. Once you have it go back inside and take small pieces of paper and on each one write a wish you want to see fulfilled and manifested in the next year to come. Once you have them written either fold them or roll them towards you while you visualize that wish being manifested and brought to you. Then take them and stuff them into the pine cone so the pieces of paper are stuck in it. Now you can place the pinecone stuffed with your wishes on your altar or even better add a ribbon to the top and hang it on your yule tree. Then on yule night when you burn your yule log, remove your pinecone from the yule tree and burn it in the fire as well. watch as all your wishes come true this next year.

Tell ghost stories or do graveyard magic

Yuletide is a season of ghosts, ghouls and gods. So what better tradition to carry on than telling ghost stories near a roaring fire? This used to be a well-known and beloved winter solstice custom (think of the ghosts in A Christmas Carol) that has all but fizzled out. On top of that why not take it to he next step by doing some graveyard magic as well.

Snow and Ice Divination for Yule
Divination by snow is called nivimancy and divination by ice is cryomancy. There’s different ways to do this. First, if you live in a place where you get snow, simply watching the snowflakes falling and allowing your mind to clear. Then letting images, words, numbers, symbols pop into your mind. If you can go out in the snow, watch the flakes and notice their patterns, how the wind blows them, etc. Ask the Winter gods, ancestors, and spirits to give you messages through the snow. If you don’t live in a place with snow, I recommend the shaved ice method. You can purchase shaved ice, then allow the ice to melt and read the shape, size, etc. of the puddle made. In addition, you can gaze into the puddle and water scry. Living in Minnesota I have learned the Winter spirits really communicate clearly through the falling snow and by scrying off the tops of frozen rivers, lakes, and other bodies of waters. I find I get the clearest messages when I go and sit on the bank of a frozen river in a private little grove or go and visit somewhere I haven’t been before as the snow falls.

Welcoming the Sun

As the solstice marks the turning point from darkness to light, many including myself choose to greet the sunrise on the morning of Yule. Find a quiet spot in nature, whether it be a hilltop or your own backyard, and witness the beauty of the sun’s return. Offer prayers or intentions for the new cycle, and take a moment to feel the warmth of the sun’s rays on your face. Then head on over to sit around a fire you have lit to release what needs to be released as the sun is reborn again and the long nights begin to get shorter.

Simmer pot for the winter solstice and Yule

Whether you consider yourself a Kitchen Witch, are vaguely interested in Kitchen Magic or just want to bring some good vibes and good smells into your home, simmer pots are an easy, accessible and fun ritual for any time of year! Simmer pots are easy to create and customize to your liking, so you can make your kitchen a sacred space whenever you want! So, why not make one specifically to call in and honor the energy of Yule and the winter solstice.

What are simmer pots? Simmer pots are basically potpourri in a pot! You choose your ingredients, put them in a pot with water, bring to a boil, then turn down to a simmer and let it do its thing. They couldn’t be any easier, just be sure you don’t let your pot boil dry! If you want to keep the pot going simply add more water when it gets low. And obviously never leave it going when you are not home. To learn more about how about this magical practice you can check out my previous blogpost on the topic here.

Other ways to connect to Yule

  • Decorate a yule tree
  • snow magic
  • journal and reflect on the natural cycles of the earth
  • do a release burn
  • Go on a mindful walk in nature
  • Plan and set SMART goals
  • Gather Mistletoe-In Celtic times, druids gathered mistletoe from oak trees to ward off “evil” spirits and bring good luck.
  • Make and hang a wreath-Evergreen wreaths symbolize eternal life and are displayed to honor nature
  • Do some kitchen magic by baking sigils into your baked goods like gingerbread and use spices of the season like nutmeg and cinnamon
  • Use Apple magic and orange magic for prosperity and abundance by making a dried fruit garland
  • Hearth magic to keep your home warm
  • Make some traditional drinks like hot apple cider, wassail, or eggnog
  • Make a yuletide wreath and hang it on your front door or add it to your altar
  • Candle magic- light white to welcome new beginnings and cleansing for the new year
  • declutter and cleanse your home only keeping the things and energy you want to bring into the new year
  • feast around a lit hearth with your friends and family
  • Have a ritual cleansing bath to promotes self care and self worth; add herbs of yule and shut the lights off and light as many candles as you can
  • renewal, rebirth, and transformation magic
  • solar magic
  • Create a wishing spell jar for the winter solstice or create one to release the past year and bury it into the earth
  • Exchange gifts with family and loved ones
  • Donate items, time or money to your community to spread joy and give support during the hareshest months of the year
  • Make a yule pomander ball
  • Create a yule charm and gift it to some friends and family
  • Write a gratitude list
  • Leave offerings for animals out in nature

A Witch Ball Yule Spell for Protection

Since Yule, and the winter solstice are thought to be a liminal time when ghosts and other worldly spirits are roaming the earth, a Yule spell for protection may be necessary. Why not create one that will also look great on your Yule tree as a decoration too! You can do this by creating a Yule protection spell witches ball.

What you will need:

  • A fillable Christmas ball ornament (also called terrarium ornaments. Find at craft and dollar stores.)
  • Three protective herbs: rosemary, salt, cinnamon
  • One small stone with protective vibes, examples: tiger’s eye, black tourmaline, obsidian
  • Small piece of paper
  • Something to write with
  • Bow or decoration for top of ball
  • any correspondences that connect you to yule you want to add

How to perform:

  • Gather your ingredients and cleanse them in whatever way you prefer. I like to use sound or smoke cleansing.
  • Get yourself into sacred container
  • Begin by opening your fillable ornament and breathing gently into it. You’re filling this spell with your essence. At this time, you should also be visualizing your intention for the ball or speaking it out loud. This would be the intention of protecting you, your loved ones, and your home for the Winter solstice and and all witner long.
  • Next, add each herb one by one, telling each ingredient it’s job for the Yule spell. For example, “cinnamon protects my home and family and increases this Yule spell’s effect.”
  • Then add your protective stone. And any other charms you feel are protective.
  • Then add your extra correspondences representing yule
  • Last, you’re going to write your intention on your piece of paper, then say it out loud, as you roll it towards you, then place it in the fillable ball.
  • Seal the ball with the top piece and add any bows or decorations to it. You could even draw a sigil of protection on it as well like one from Krampus or Odin for example.
  • Then hang it on your Yule tree, near your front door or other threshold, or add it to your altar for the winter solstice.

12 Days of Yule = Your Next 12 Months Divination Method

This is a technique I’ve used for a few years now and it almost always turns out to be scary on-point. For each of the 12 days of Yule, you’ll record any omens or signs from that day. Each of those 12 days’ omens/signs are your reading for the next 12 months in the coming year. I honestly picked this up off another witchcraft website a few years ago and can’t remember who made the suggestion. So if it was you, let me know so I can credit you.

Here’s a few examples of how this Winter Solstice divination works:

  • 1st day of Yule: the first snow falls
  • 2nd day of Yule: a crow sits on your roof and caws before dawn
  • 3rd day of Yule: your grandma calls and says she’s been thinking about your friend who passed away
  • 4th day of Yule: carolers come to your house and sing your favorite song
  • 5th day: the broom falls over by your front door
  • 6th day: you find a dead mouse in the basement
  • 7th day: a friend visits without first notifying you
  • 8th day: your candle burns down SUPER quick leaving a wax pattern that looks like a heart
  • 9th day: you step outside and hear a coyote call
  • 10th day: nothing remarkable happens
  • 11th day: you spill your coffee all over your new dress
  • 12th day: your heater dies

How this divination plays out month-to-month make sure to record throughout the year what happens so you can look back at the unreal on point results. Then watch as you add this to yearly traditions like I have as well!

  • 1st day = January = turns out to be a quiet, serene month
  • 2nd day = February = you have a new opportunity to join a local coven
  • 3rd day = March = you dream about your old friend and get the feeling she’s visiting from the spirit world
  • 4th day = April = this month goes really well for you, luck seems to follow you everywhere you go
  • 5th day = May = company shows up. It’s your mother.
  • 6th day = June = you’re sadly demoted at work
  • 7th day = July = then your long time friend from Uni offers you a better job!
  • 8th day = August = a passionate romance comes into your life
  • 9th day = September = you find out a coworker has been talking about you behind your back
  • 10th day = October = a calm, quiet month (and much needed)
  • 11th day = November = your project at work slows down considerably
  • 12th day = December = you realize your anger is getting away from you and figure it’s time to “chill out”

Fire and Ice renewal Yule spell

The winter solstice is a liminal pocket of time that is ripe with the energy of renewal. The earth is going through a time of transition as the days get longer and the nights get shorter from this moment on. It is a time when the sun dies in one moment and in the next is reborn again. Why not take the time to harness some of that potent energy of renewal for yourself as well! The spell below is designed for you to do just that using the alchemizing energy of ice, and the burning passion of fire.

What you will need

  • A freezer safe bowl that holds at least two cups of water.
  • Enough water to fill your chosen bowl at least 2/3rds of the way
  • 1 or more white or yellow tealights or small votive candles
  • Small pieces of winter greenery, berries, warm spices such as cinnamon or cloves, pine needles or citrus slices (fresh, dried or candied) of your choice

For this spell there will be a bit of prep work if you are choosing to use water and not ice. At least four hours depending on the bowl size, before you wish to preform this spell, fill you bowl about 2/3rd full with water. If you are adding greenery, pine needles, etc, do so now. I personally really enjoy adding pine needles, smaller pinecones, holly, and mistletoe. If you are using ice cubes, gathered ice, or freshly fallen snow, simply fill the bowl roughly 2/3rds to 3/4th full with ice.

How to perform:

  • Get yourself into sacred container. Personally, I like to either take my bowl of ice and candle(s) outside where I can be in the snow and winter cold or while standing beside or in front of a window.
  • Place your bowl of water that you prepped by freezing, or your bowl of ice cubes or snow in front of you as you do this start to focus on your intention and energy of renewal for the year. Allow yourself to focus what it is in your life that you need to renew in your life whether that be you as a whole, one area of your life, or even a relationship. It is up to you and now is the time to focus on that energy and bring the intention into your minds eye. Once you have your intention of renewal in your minds eye place your candles in the bowl.
  • Now it is time to light the candles. As you light the flame, say the following words or others that feel right to you: “On winter solstice during Yule, the days begin to grow longer, as the sunlight begins to chase away the longer nights. As nature goes through its rebirth, so too am I renewed in all the ways that I need and want, both known and unknown. I ask for the strength of ice and it’s power of alchemy and change. I ask for the passion and power of fire to burn away what I no longer need and ignite a new light burning bright. I ask for the support of winter’s transformative energy to aid me in this process of renewal and rebirth, As it is, So mote it be.”
  • Allow the candle to burn until it either out entirely or for the melting ice to drip onto it and extinguish it naturally, whichever happens first. As it burns, imagine the strength and warmth of its flames recharging you and you instilling renewed energy, drive and determination inside of you on every level that you presently need.

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

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