In the deep hush of the ancient Slavic lands, where the air bites with frost and the forests stand skeletal, a primal energy reigns. This is the domain of Morana (or Mara, Morena, Marzanna), the Slavic Goddess of Winter, Death, Rebirth, and the liminal veil. She is the fierce, uncompromising sovereign of the frozen world, a figure often misunderstood as purely malevolent, yet whose power is essential for the cycle of existence. Morana is the necessary end that ensures a new beginning, the chilling stillness that prepares the soul for spring’s explosion.
For the modern witch and pagan, working with Morana is a profound journey into shadow work, self-mastery, and the courageous acceptance of life’s most final truths. She guides us in the powerful magic of release, severing what is dead, and claiming the cold, fierce strength that only winter can bestow. She is the Dread Queen of the Snows, and her wisdom is as sharp as an icicle.
Who is Morana? The Goddess of the Sacred End
When the light recedes, the harvest is gathered, and the earth hardens under a mantle of ice, it is Morana who is whispering through the winds. She is a deity of duality, commanding the season of winter, the finality of death, the mysteries of the underworld, and the vital spark of spiritual rebirth.
Morana is the embodiment of the cyclical nature of existence. She holds dominion over the darkest half of the year, governing the cessation of life that makes way for the fertile awakening of Spring. She is known as the bringer of frost, the creator of the winter stillness, and the keeper of the gates between the worlds.
Morana isn’t just a figure of doom; her origins tie her to ancient Slavic traditions where the death of the old year (and the goddess) was a sacred, vital act performed to guarantee the return of life. She represents the unyielding truth that all things must end. By embracing her, we learn the power of letting go and the fierce sovereignty found in confronting the shadow.
Morana, Deity of Death, Winter, and the Shadow Self
Morana’s names—Mara (from an Indo-European root meaning ‘death’) or Marzanna (perhaps tied to ‘mors’ or ‘freezing’)—underscore her primal connection to the final breath and the frozen season. She is not cruel, but she is uncompromising.
As Goddess of Winter: Morana arrives when the sun god, Svarog, weakens. She blankets the world in snow, forcing introspection, stillness, and conservation of energy. This stillness is a powerful lesson in non-action and inner wisdom.
As Goddess of Death and Rebirth: She governs the passage of souls and the necessary decay of the material world. To work with Morana is to work with the magic of release—cutting ties to old wounds, habits, and relationships that no longer serve. Her power is the scythe that prunes the dead wood so that the living may flourish.
As a Dark Feminine Archetype: Morana represents the untamed, sovereign feminine that refuses to be softened or subdued. She is the Queen who needs no validation, standing in the purity of her own formidable power. She is the shadow self, the cold wisdom, and the ultimate truth-teller.
Myths, Legends, and the Rite of Drowning
Morana’s most enduring myth is less a tale and more a sacred, annual rite—her ritual death by fire and drowning at the start of spring (often around the Spring Equinox/Ostara).
In Slavic lands, Morana (often embodied as an effigy or straw doll, dressed in white or dark rags) is paraded through the village and then violently destroyed—burned, torn apart, or, most famously, drowned in a river. This act is not born of hatred, but of a deep, primal understanding of cyclical magic:
The Death of Morana is the Birth of Spring.
Her sacrifice cleanses the land of the previous year’s ills, plagues, and, crucially, the harsh grip of winter. Her effigy absorbs the accumulated darkness, and by sending her (and it) away, the Slavs ceremoniously ushered in Vesna (the spring goddess).
This myth teaches the witchcraft principle of transference and release. We intentionally load what we wish to be rid of onto an object or thought-form, and then destroy it. Morana is the ultimate figure of letting go so that evolution can occur.
Familial ties and Cosmic Balance
In the complex weave of the Slavic pantheon, Morana is often seen as:
Daughter of Lada and Svarog: Placing her among the primary, cosmic deities.
Wife/Consort of Chernobog (The Black God): Solidifying her role as a dark, chthonic force and partner to the primordial god of chaos and shadow, emphasizing the necessary balance of light and dark.
Sister to Yarilo/Jarilo (God of Spring): This kinship powerfully reinforces the cycle. Morana’s death ensures her brother’s vibrant return, demonstrating a divine balance where one cannot exist without the other.
Correspondences for Morana
Correspondences are the magical language used to invoke, honor, and connect with a deity’s specific energy. Trust your intuition above all when selecting items for her altar or rituals.
Death (XIII), The High Priestess (II), The Hanged Man (XII)
Timing
Waning Moon, New Moon, Midnight
Signs Morana May Be Calling You
The call of Morana is rarely gentle; it is a primal urge, a chill that settles in your spirit. If you feel drawn to her, it is likely you are in a season of profound, necessary change. Here are signs she may be reaching out:
You are experiencing a life-shattering ending—a job, a relationship, or a painful identity shift.
You feel a powerful, internal pull toward shadow work and confronting your deepest fears.
You are fascinated by the cycles of death, decay, and transformation.
You feel a strong affinity for the winter season, its silence, and its stark beauty.
You consistently hear or see her name, or are drawn to her associated colors (black, white, icy blue).
You are struggling to maintain fierce boundaries and need the strength to say No and let things go.
She appears in your dreams as a regal figure of ice, a figure by a frozen river, or a silent, dark presence.
Ways to Work With and Connect To Morana
Connecting with Morana requires respect, courage, and a willingness to step into the darkness. She is a powerful ally for the witch dedicated to self-sovereignty and transformative magic.
Practice Active Release: During the winter, write down a habit, fear, or past wound you wish to release. Place the paper in a jar of water and freeze it, symbolically binding it in Morana’s icy grip. When spring arrives, melt the ice and pour the water into the earth far from your home.
Deep Shadow Work: Invoke Morana to guide you through your inner landscape. Ask her to be the scythe that cuts away self-deception and what holds you back. Use obsidian or black tourmaline during your meditations.
Honoring the Rite of Drowning (Symbolically): At the transition from winter to spring, create a small, temporary altar (perhaps with pine needles and ice) and thank her for the lessons of winter. Then, ritually pack it away to welcome Vesna.
Consecrate Boundary Magic: Ask Morana to charge your wards and protective spells. Her energy is uncompromising and excellent for establishing clear, cold lines of demarcation.
Divination in the Dark: Use a black scrying mirror or a bowl of water under the New or Waning Moon to seek her cold, unvarnished truth about a situation.
Create a Winter Altar: Dedicate a space during the cold months with her colors, a bowl of snow or ice (if safe), pine branches, and a plain black or white candle.
Offerings for Morana
Morana favors offerings that reflect her cold, stark, and elemental nature.
Black or White Candles (especially during the darkest part of the year)
Pieces of Ice or a small bowl of fresh, clean snow.
Willow, Pine, or Cypress Branches/Needles.
A simple Mirror (symbolizing her reflection of truth).
Onyx, Jet, or Obsidian stones.
Dark Wine (spilled or poured outdoors where permitted).
Quiet contemplation and a vow to face a painful truth.
Sovereignty Ritual: The Cold Acceptance
This ritual is for those ready to face a painful truth, release a stagnant attachment, or sever a tie that is draining their vital energy.
Materials:
One black candle.
A piece of paper and a pen.
A small, fire-safe bowl.
A protective crystal (like Black Tourmaline).
A bowl of water or ice.
Steps:
Purify and Ground: Light the black candle and hold the crystal, placing the bowl of water/ice nearby to invoke Morana’s element. Take a moment to settle into the sacred space.
Invoke Morana: “Morana, Dread Queen of the Snows, Keeper of the Scythe, I invite your fierce, uncompromising truth. Grant me the cold courage to sever what must end.”
The Severance: On the paper, clearly write the thing you must release (a fear, a person’s influence, a toxic habit, a limiting belief). Be brutally honest.
The Vow: Hold the paper near the candle flame (do not light it yet) and state your vow: “I accept the necessity of this ending. I release [the written item]. Morana, give me the strength to let this go and claim the fertile stillness it creates.”
Release by Fire: Carefully light the paper from the candle flame and drop it into the fire-safe bowl, watching it burn to ash. As the last embers glow, say: “It is done. It is ended. I am sovereign.”
Integration: Look at the water/ice, thanking Morana for her cold clarity. Extinguish the black candle. Carry the ashes outdoors and return them to the earth, the ultimate cycle of decay and rebirth.
Solstice Magic: Morana’s Deepest Stillness Ritual
The Winter Solstice, or Yule, marks the longest night of the year and the symbolic peak of Morana’s reign. This is the moment of deepest stillness, where the Earth pauses, allowing us to descend into radical introspection and prepare the soil for eventual return of light. This ritual is designed to honor the dark and harness the power of Morana for spiritual conservation and necessary release before the wheel turns.
Materials
Black Candle: To symbolize the darkness and Morana’s reign.
An Offering: A small bowl of fresh snow, ice, or dark, strong-smelling herbs (like cypress or pine needles).
A Container for Release: A small glass jar or a piece of slate/stone.
Paper and Pen: Black paper or dark ink is ideal.
A Personal Symbol of Sovereignty: A piece of jewelry, a ring, or a small crown to be charged.
The Rite of Deep Winter
Purify and Cast the Circle: On the night of the Solstice, cleanse your space and cast your circle according to your tradition. Light the black candle, placing it centrally on your altar.
Invocation: Stand before the altar and feel the cold energy of the season settling in your bones. Speak to Morana:“Morana, Weaver of Frost and Shadow, Queen of the Deep Night. I honor your sovereignty and your uncompromising truth. On this longest night, I seek the stillness that precedes rebirth. Guide my gaze into the essential dark.”
The Stillness Meditation: Sit before the candle. Gaze into the flame, then close your eyes. Visualize the world blanketed in deep, silent snow. Feel the need to conserve energy. Ask yourself:
What unnecessary noise, activity, or attachment must I let freeze and fall away?
What is the core, essential truth that remains when all else is stripped away?
The Release: Open your eyes. On the dark paper, write down one or two things you are consciously choosing to release and leave behind in the dark year—a pattern, a limiting belief, or a draining relationship. Write it clearly and unequivocally.
Entrusting to the Frost: Fold the paper and place it into the jar or under the stone. Say:“I entrust this burden (or pattern) to Morana’s freeze. It is dead. It is done. It will not cross the threshold of the returning light.”
Charging the Sovereignty: Take your personal symbol of sovereignty. Hold it above the black candle flame (safely!) and then touch it to the bowl of ice or snow. Say:“May the cold clarity of Morana infuse this (item). May I wear her sovereignty, her fierce boundary, and her silent, unyielding power throughout the turning year. I am the sovereign of my own life.”
Closing: Leave the black candle to burn down completely (safely, if possible), or extinguish it to be relit until the end of the Solstice period. Thank Morana for her wisdom and release the circle. Leave the jar or stone on your altar until the spring equinox.
Spell of Morana’s Icy Barricade: Setting Unyielding Boundaries
Morana is the master of absolute boundaries—the frost line that kills what cannot survive and the icy barrier that holds back the spring until the exact moment of power. This spell harnesses her uncompromising energy to create a strong, clear, and cold psychic barrier around you or your sacred space.
Morana’s Ingredients for Protection
A Small Vial, Black Cloth Bag, or Salt Jar: The vessel for the spell.
Salt: Black salt, rock salt, or coarse sea salt for absorption and defense.
A Sharp Thorn or Pin: To symbolize cutting, severance, and the point of contact (you can substitute a small piece of obsidian).
Pine Needles: For ever-green protection and conservation.
Willow Bark or Cypress: To banish and represent connection to the dead/underworld.
A Piece of Paper with a Sigil: Draw a simple sigil representing “Unyielding Boundary” or “No Trespassing.”
The Spellcasting: Creating the Barricade
Preparation: Assemble your ingredients on your altar, focusing on the dark, clear, and cold energy of Morana. Hold the vessel (vial or bag) and visualize it becoming a piece of unbreakable, opaque ice.
Infusing the Salt: Take the salt in your hand. Feel it drawing all scattered energy inward. Say:“Salt of the Earth, cold and deep, bind all that would seek to creep. May this become the foundation of Morana’s keep.”
Layering the Protection: Add the ingredients to the vessel in layers, focusing on their protective qualities:
Add the Pine Needles and Willow/Cypress:“May what drains me freeze and fall away.”
Add the Thorn/Pin/Obsidian:“May any intrusion find a sharp and swift retreat.”
Place the Sigil inside: “I seal the perimeter of my will. My boundary is unyielding.”
The Invocation and Charge: Seal the vessel (tie the bag, cap the vial). Hold it between your hands and raise it over your black candle. Close your eyes and visualize a wall of shimmering, obsidian ice forming around you, reflecting all unwanted energy back to its source.“By the power of Morana, Queen of the Winter and the Severing Scythe, I charge this Icy Barricade. No energy, no intent, no word, and no person shall cross the line I draw, unless invited by my sovereign will. This boundary is sharp, cold, and absolute. Sovereignty is held. So it is sealed.“
Placement: Place the finished Icy Barricade near your front door, in your office, or carry it with you to enforce powerful, necessary boundaries in your daily interactions.
Why Work with Morana?
Morana’s magic is not about sweetness or comfort; it is about unyielding self-sovereignty. She teaches that there is profound power in the ability to let go, to stand in the stillness of winter, and to recognize that every ending is a sacred, necessary precondition for the next beginning.
She is the ultimate patron for the witch who is ready to stop being defined by what others want and instead embrace their own fierce, uncompromising, and powerful truth. She reminds you: You are not what you carry; you are the sovereign who chooses what to release.
I am Kayreign, the Divine Oracle of the Gods and Keeper of Mysteries, a solitary grey magic practitioner with over 15 years of experience walking the sacred paths of the unseen. As a mystic and relentless seeker of all knowledge, I weave together the threads of every magical tradition—light and dark, ancient and modern—to uncover the universal truths that bind us to the cosmos. My mission is to restore and re-enchant magic in this realm, igniting its spark in every soul I encounter, and guiding you to embrace the full spectrum of your being.
My work is rooted in the power of duality, honoring the dance between shadow and light as equal partners in your spiritual journey. I hold space for you to explore all magic paths and practices, drawing from the vast tapestry of mystical wisdom to help you uncover your unique magic and sacred contracts. As the Divine Oracle of the Gods, I channel divine insights to illuminate your path; as the Keeper of Mysteries, I guide you into the depths of the unknown, where true transformation awaits.
When you work with me, you’ll learn to live in energetic balance, embracing your darkness as a source of power, not just a stepping stone to the light. I’ll hold up a mirror to reflect your authentic self—unmasked, raw, and whole—inviting you to face your past wounds, traumas, and hurts with courage. Together, we’ll alchemize every chapter of your story, dark and light, into a blazing internal flame that lights your way on even the coldest nights. Through this process, you’ll find alignment with your purpose, release what holds you back, and step fully into your power.
Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!
The air is cold and winter is the season we are wrapped up in as the days get shorter and the nights get longer. As we snuggle into our blankets, with our cups of cocoa next to our hearths lit to keep us warm we can’t help but, notice the snow fall. Snow and ice are nature’s pristine canvas, a profound and quiet transformation that blankets the world in silent power. In the depth of winter, especially in places where the snow is a familiar presence, these frozen waters hold an ancient, potent magic. They symbolize stillness, clarity, preservation, and the fertile potential that rests beneath the cold surface. From the whisper of a single snowflake to the silent grip of an ice storm, working with these elements is about embracing the pause—the moment of perfect, crystalline stasis before the next cycle begins.
This guide will journey through the Nivamancy of the North, explore the deities who rule the frozen realms, and provide you with practical, powerful ways to incorporate the chilling beauty of snow and ice into your magical rites and spellwork this winter.
What Are Snow and Ice?
Before we dive into the frozen depths of this magic, let’s define these elements beyond their molecular structure. Snow is the frozen crystalline water that falls from the sky, each flake unique, often symbolizing individuality and purity. Ice is water in its solid state, a powerful form of preservation and stasis, which can be clear as glass or opaque with captured air. Both are expressions of the Winter Element—a powerful blend of Water’s intuition and Earth’s structure.
Fun Facts About Snow and Ice:
Snowflakes are Six-Sided: Due to the hydrogen bonding in water molecules, snowflakes almost always form a hexagonal (six-sided) structure, linking them to sacred geometry.
Ice is Insulating: While cold, a layer of snow and ice actually acts as an insulator, protecting the ground and plant life beneath from extreme cold.
The Science of Uniqueness: Though the old saying is charming, it’s virtually impossible for two complex snow crystals to be exactly alike due to the sheer number of possible growth conditions.
Glacial Ice is Blue: Ancient, highly compressed glacial ice absorbs red light and reflects blue light, making it appear deep blue, a color associated with deep intuition and the throat chakra.
The Sound of Silence: Snow is an excellent sound absorber. When it falls thickly, the resulting quiet is a real phenomenon due to sound waves being absorbed by the fluffy structure.
The Magic of Winter: A Season of Stillness and Clarity
For those of us living where winter is defined by a blanket of white, the season is a powerful time for snow magic. It is a time for deep introspection, radical honesty, and planting the seeds of the coming year beneath the frozen ground. The magic of snow and ice in our local winter amplifies intentions focused on:
Cleansing: The pristine nature of fresh snow is unmatched for washing away the residue of the past year.
Protection: The hardened, unyielding nature of ice creates powerful, silent shields.
Clarity: The crystalline structure offers clear vision for divination and focused intention.
Manifestation: Just as seeds rest preserved under the snow, intentions set in this season are preserved and empowered until the spring thaw.
Snow and Ice Across Myths and Legends
The frozen elements have captivated and sometimes terrified humanity, weaving themselves into the spiritual tapestries of cultures across the globe.
Culture
Myth/Legend Focusing on Snow/Ice
Magical/Spiritual Significance
Inuit (Arctic Regions)
The Sedna and the Sea Woman: Often associated with the cold depths of the ocean and the weather. Snow and ice are the essential, life-giving, yet challenging, environment of the spirits.
Embodies respect for the harshness and sustenance of the environment. Used in rites for hunting success and protection from storms.
Norse Mythology (Scandinavia)
Jötunheimr, the world of the Giants, is described as an intensely cold and icy place. Ymir, the first giant, was born from the meeting of the ice of Niflheim and the fire of Muspelheim.
The primordial source of creation and destruction. Ice is a powerful, ancient force, a cosmic forge.
Japan (Folk Tales)
Yuki-onna (Snow Woman): A spirit or Yōkai of snow and ice storms, often depicted as beautiful yet deadly. She is associated with the cold grip of winter.
Represents the beautiful but dangerous duality of nature; a warning about the deceptive stillness of the cold.
Slavic Folklore (Eastern Europe)
Morozko (Father Frost): A powerful winter spirit or minor deity, sometimes harsh, sometimes benevolent, who rewards the good and punishes the wicked with cold and snow.
Symbolizes the harsh lesson and purification of the winter season, tied to judgment and spiritual endurance.
Celtic (Ireland/Scotland)
The Cailleach (Veiled One/Winter Hag): An ancient goddess or divine hag who often ushers in winter, freezing the land with her staff and ruling the ice and snow.
Embodies sovereignty, the crone aspect of the Goddess, and the necessary winter pause before renewal.
North American Indigenous
Various nations have Snowbird or Ice-maker stories, often trickster figures or elemental spirits that bring the snow to cleanse the land.
Renewal, deep cleansing, and a sacred quiet that allows the earth to rest and heal.
Deities and Spirits of the Frozen Realm
To truly work with snow and ice, it is helpful to honor the entities that embody their power.
Skadi (Norse): Goddess of winter, skiing, hunting, and mountains. She embodies the wild, untamed, and cold aspects of nature. Correspondence: Endurance, sovereignty, radical self-reliance, and moving through difficult situations.
Khione (Greek): The nymph goddess of snow. A daughter of Boreas, the North Wind. Correspondence: Gentler snowfalls, the beauty of the white blanket, and quiet introspection.
Boreas (Greek/Roman): God of the North Wind and winter. He is the force that drives the ice and snow. Correspondence: Banishing, swift change, forceful clearing of negativity, and cutting through stagnation.
Nix (Latin/Germanic): Water spirits or mermaids/mermen often associated with the dangerous, frozen surfaces of rivers and lakes. Correspondence: The subtle danger and preservation magic of ice, intuition, and accessing water-based secrets.
Cailleach (Celtic): See table above. Correspondence: Crone wisdom, the deep rest cycle, generational knowledge, and ruling over the environment.
The Spiritual Meaning of Snow
Snow is more than precipitation; it is a spiritual signifier.
Purity and Tabula Rasa: Fresh snow represents a clean slate, a chance to start over. It covers the old mess, inviting a new beginning.
Individuality in Unity: Every flake is unique, yet they all come together to form the powerful blanket of winter. This teaches a lesson in community, individuality, and collective strength.
Clarity and Reflection: The bright white and crystalline structure offer intense clarity, perfect for scrying, mirror work, and seeking truth.
Fertile Sleep: Snow is the protective blanket that ensures the seeds of the new year can rest safely until spring. It is a symbol of potential and deep, necessary rest.
The Magical Properties of Snow and Ice
Element
Primary Magical Property
Intentions to Support
Snow
Purification & New Beginnings
Cleansing a space, washing away emotional debt, starting a new project, self-forgiveness.
Ice
Preservation & Stasis
Freezing a harmful situation, preserving a love or friendship, setting boundaries, slowing down unwanted change.
Snow and ice can be potent allies in spiritual and energetic healing, used to both cool and preserve.
Snow for Energetic Cleansing: Gently rub a handful of fresh, clean snow over your aura or simply walk barefoot (briefly!) in new snow to energetically shock and cleanse stagnant energy. Use it in a ritual bath to wash away a bad habit.
Ice for Pain Management: Spiritually, ice can be used in healing spells to “freeze” emotional pain, inflammation, or the spread of a sickness (use this purely for energy work, not as a replacement for medicine). Place a piece of ice wrapped in a blue cloth over your photo or a sigil related to the issue.
Meltwater Elixirs: Collect snow in a clean bowl and let it melt. This “snow water” is potent, gentle water for making flower essences, charging with crystals, or using as a base for anointing oils for self-love and emotional release.
The Freeze-Frame: Meditate on a piece of clear ice to find a moment of peaceful stasis in your life. Use this energy to calm a racing mind, promoting mental and emotional healing.
Nivamancy: Divination with Snow
Nivamancy is the ancient and local art of divination using snow. This practice involves interpreting the state, sight, or sound of snow to gain insight.
Interpreting the Fall:
Large, Fluffy Flakes: Suggest a gentle, slow period ahead, perhaps a time for rest and easy transformation.
Small, Driving Pellets/Blizzard: Warns of intense, rapid, and potentially difficult change. You may need to weather a storm, but the change will be swift.
Graupel (Soft Hail): Indicates a “mixed bag” or uncertainty. The universe is still deciding on the path forward.
Interpreting the Tracks: Look for marks or tracks in fresh snow that cross your path:
Clear, Deep Tracks: A clear path forward; your intention is grounded and ready to move.
Tracks leading to an Intersection: Suggests a decision point is coming soon.
No Tracks/Undisturbed Snow: Advises silence, rest, and waiting. The time for action is not yet.
The Snow Scry: Find a large, clean patch of new-fallen snow under moonlight. Gaze into the white surface, allowing your eyes to unfocus, and let images or messages form in the reflected light and texture. This is a very powerful, high-vibration scrying method.
Ways to Work with Snow and Ice in Your Magical Rites
Harness the unique energy of the frozen season with these specific rites and spells.
Rites and Spellwork with Snow 🌨️
Snow Water Cleansing Ritual: Collect a jar of fresh, untouched snow (ideally from your yard). Let it melt in the sun or moon, placing a Black Tourmaline crystal in the water for grounding and protection. Use this water to clean your altar tools, sprinkle over your threshold for home blessing, or anoint yourself before meditation for a clean start.
The Snow Altar: Create a temporary altar outdoors or on a porch using packed snow. Carve sigils or place crystals directly into the snow surface. When the snow melts, it sends the intention or cleansing energy directly into the earth.
Wish Snowflake Charge: Catch a single snowflake on a piece of dark fabric. Hold it, whisper a simple, high-vibration wish (e.g., “Clarity now”), and watch it dissolve. The purity of the water carries your wish swiftly to the universe.
Aura Dusting: Scoop up a few handfuls of snow, charge it with an intention for purification, and then let it melt and drop off your hands over your head, symbolically dusting your aura with fresh, clean energy.
Rites and Spellwork with Ice
Ice Box Spell (Binding/Freezing): This is the quintessential ice spell. Write a problem, person, or situation you want to stop on a piece of paper. Place the paper in a small, sealed container (like a film canister or small jar), fill it with water, and freeze it. Do not use this for malicious intent. Use it to:
Stop gossip or rumors.
“Freeze” a debt until you can pay it.
Preserve a situation (e.g., “Freeze our current state of harmony”).
Ice Protection Sigil: Draw a sigil of protection on a large, flat slab of ice (found or created in a tray) using a stick or sharp implement. As the ice melts, the protection is released as a slow, steady stream of energy, guarding the home.
Crystal Ice Charge: Place a clear quartz crystal (for amplification) or amethyst (for spiritual protection) in a small bowl of water and let it freeze overnight. Working with the crystal after it has been “charged” by the ice will give it an unyielding, fixed power perfect for boundary work.
Ice Mirror Scrying: Use a large piece of clear, freshly frozen ice as a natural scrying mirror. Its stillness provides excellent focus, and its reflective surface shows the truths that are hidden beneath the “surface” of a situation.
Skadi’s Ritual of Endurance: Finding Your Unyielding Will
This ritual is designed to align you with the fierce, wild energy of Skadi, the Norse giantess and Goddess of Winter, Mountains, and Hunting. Use this rite when you need to cultivate endurance during a difficult period, set firm boundaries, or gain unflinching clarity on a goal. It is best performed outdoors or near a window on a cold, clear night, ideally with snow on the ground.
What You’ll Need:
Offerings: A small bowl of Akvavit or strong, clear liquor (representing the Northern cold), a piece of dried meat (representing the hunt/sustenance), and a piece of natural stone or wood (from the wild).
The Ice Rune: A small, flat piece of ice (made in a freezer or collected from nature).
A Rune Stone (Optional but Recommended): The Isa (Isaz) Rune (meaning “Ice”)—a single vertical line ( $\text{ | }$ ).
Tools: A white or silver candle, a piece of paper, and a pen.
Attire: Something that makes you feel strong and protected, perhaps a favorite coat or piece of jewelry.
Steps:
1. Preparation and Grounding
Find your quiet, cold space. Light the candle, focusing on the flame’s warmth contrasted with the surrounding cold. Take three deep breaths, feeling the cold air fill your lungs—acknowledge the strength it takes to breathe and exist in the cold.
Say: “I stand upon the frozen earth, where strength is forged in stillness. I call upon the energy of the jötunn and the clarity of the crystalline mountains.”
2. Calling to Skadi
Address Skadi directly. You can use the ice on your altar as a focal point, as it represents her domain.
Say: “Hail to Skadi, the Mountain-Ruler, the Snowshoe Goddess! Daughter of Thiazi, Bride of Njord. I honor your endurance, your silence, and your unyielding gaze. I seek the strength to walk my path with your unwavering will.”
3. The Clarity of Ice (The Intention)
Hold the paper and pen. Write down the challenge you need endurance for, the boundary you need to set, or the goal that requires clarity (e.g., “I will endure this struggle until the thaw,” or “My boundary against X is absolute.”).
Place the paper under the ice, pressing it slightly so the ice adheres.
4. Charging with Isa and Will
Pick up the piece of ice (or the Isa rune stone, if you are using one). Focus on its quality: pure, unmoving, and preserving. If using the rune, visualize the single line (Isa) cutting through all doubt.
Place the ice in your palm (wear a glove if necessary for comfort) and let the cold penetrate you briefly. Feel the cold not as weakness, but as structure and resilience.
Chant (Repeat 3 times):
“Isa, Isa, unyielding line,
Freeze my doubt, make my vision shine.
Skadi’s will, a frozen stream,
Preserve my strength within this dream.”
5. Offering and Commitment
Place the ice back on your altar, covering your written intention. Offer the food and drink to Skadi, pouring a small amount of the liquor onto the ground outside or into a separate dish.
Say: “Skadi, I offer this taste of the Wild to honor your spirit. May your strength become my strength. I commit to enduring this challenge with the same clear focus and silent determination that guides your hunt.”
6. Integration and Release
Thank Skadi for her presence. Allow the candle to burn for at least 15 minutes, contemplating the cold silence and your newfound resolve.
When the ritual is complete, take the ice (with the intention paper beneath it) and place it in your freezer. This freezes your commitment to endurance and preserves the boundary you set. Keep it frozen until the challenge is past or you feel the boundary is established.
When you are ready for the situation to be completely released or transformed, you can let the ice slowly melt outside.
Post-Ritual Reflection
Journal your answers to these prompts, channeling Skadi’s quiet strength:
How did the feeling of the ice in your hand shift your perspective on your challenge?
Where in your life do you need to be more “unyielding” like the frozen mountain?
What is the first step you will take that reflects your new, clear focus?
Khione’s Serenity Ritual: The Soft Fall of Peace
This ritual is dedicated to Khione, the Greek Nymph Goddess of Snow (Daughter of Boreas, the North Wind). Khione embodies the delicate, beautiful, and purifying aspects of fresh snow. Use this rite when you need to bring gentle calm to a chaotic situation, cleanse your emotions, achieve serene clarity, or simply invite a sense of quiet beauty into your life. It is best performed during or just after a fresh, soft snowfall.
What You’ll Need:
Offerings: A small bowl of clear water (representing her essence), a single white flower (representing her gentle beauty), and a teaspoon of honey (representing soothing sweetness).
The Snow Vessel: A clean, clear glass bowl or jar filled with fresh, untouched snow.
Tools: A white or light blue candle, a few drops of lavender or chamomile oil, and a piece of blue satin or silk cloth.
Steps:
1. Preparation and Serene Stillness
Find a quiet space, ideally near a window where you can see the snow or where you have placed the bowl of snow. Lay the blue cloth down as your altar surface. Place the snow vessel in the center.
Anoint the white or blue candle with the calming oil (lavender or chamomile). Light the candle, focusing on the calm light radiating softly through the air.
Say: “I invite peace into this space. I honor the silence and the beauty of the gentle cold.”
2. Calling to Khione
Approach the snow vessel, feeling the cool energy emanating from the fresh snow. Focus on the purity of the white.
Say: “Hail Khione, Nymph of the Fluffy Snow. Daughter of the North Wind, weaver of soft silence. I honor your purity, your quiet reflection, and the cleansing beauty you spread across the land. Come, grace this space with your serenity.”
3. The Soft Fall of Clarity (The Intention)
Dip a finger into the bowl of clear water and touch the snow. Focus on an area of your life that feels chaotic or stressed (emotional turmoil, a relationship issue, or mental overstimulation).
Visualize the chaos being covered and softened by a gentle snowfall, muffling the harsh noise and bringing quiet order.
Whisper your intention into the snow: “Khione, let the soft fall of your magic cleanse [Name the issue]. Bring me stillness, bring me serenity, and grant me the clear sight that rests beneath the white.”
4. Cleansing with the Meltwater
Add the teaspoon of honey and the white flower to the clear water offering. This sweetens your request and honors the beauty of her gift.
Now, take a small pinch of the snow from the vessel. Rub it gently between your hands or over your wrists (pulse points). As the snow melts immediately, visualize it washing away any residual stress, anxiety, or negativity it touches.
Chant (Repeat slowly 3 times):“Snow melts to water, chaos yields to peace.Khione’s stillness, bring swift release.Purity granted, serenity blessed.My heart finds calm, and my soul finds rest.”
5. Offering and Integration
Thank Khione for lending her quiet strength. Place the clear water offering (now infused with honey and the flower) near your front door or window.
Say: “Khione, thank you for the gift of stillness. I will carry the serenity of your snow into my day, seeing my path with clear, calm eyes.”
Keep the bowl of snow on your altar or near a window and allow it to naturally melt over time. As the water forms, it is charging with Khione’s peaceful energy.
6. Post-Ritual Use of Khione’s Water
The melted water in the bowl is now a potent cleanser. Once fully melted, use it in one of these ways:
Gentle Anointing: Dip your fingers in the water and gently anoint your Third Eye or your temples before meditation to encourage clear, calm intuition.
Space Spray: Use the water in a spray bottle to lightly mist your workspace or bedroom to infuse the area with serenity and calm energy.
Quiet Cleansing Bath: Add a few drops to your bathwater to wash away emotional strain and prepare for restful sleep.
Post-Ritual Reflection
Journal your experience, focusing on the quality of calm and clarity:
What sounds or distractions did the gentle snow seem to “muffle” in your life today?
How does Khione’s serene energy feel different from Skadi’s fierce strength? When would you use one over the other?
What is the one peaceful action you will take tomorrow to honor the calm you found today?
Final Thoughts: The Sweetness of the Cold
Working with snow and ice magic is an exercise in respecting stillness, boundaries, and the necessary pauses in life. Just as the earth must freeze to rest and renew, we too benefit from the clarity and preservation magic of the frozen waters. This winter, as the snow falls over your home, remember the unique power it holds. Let the ice protect your boundaries, and let the snow cleanse your spirit, preparing you for the fertile growth that will inevitably follow the thaw.
I am Kayreign, the Divine Oracle of the Gods and Keeper of Mysteries, a solitary grey magic practitioner with over 15 years of experience walking the sacred paths of the unseen. As a mystic and relentless seeker of all knowledge, I weave together the threads of every magical tradition—light and dark, ancient and modern—to uncover the universal truths that bind us to the cosmos. My mission is to restore and re-enchant magic in this realm, igniting its spark in every soul I encounter, and guiding you to embrace the full spectrum of your being.
My work is rooted in the power of duality, honoring the dance between shadow and light as equal partners in your spiritual journey. I hold space for you to explore all magic paths and practices, drawing from the vast tapestry of mystical wisdom to help you uncover your unique magic and sacred contracts. As the Divine Oracle of the Gods, I channel divine insights to illuminate your path; as the Keeper of Mysteries, I guide you into the depths of the unknown, where true transformation awaits.
When you work with me, you’ll learn to live in energetic balance, embracing your darkness as a source of power, not just a stepping stone to the light. I’ll hold up a mirror to reflect your authentic self—unmasked, raw, and whole—inviting you to face your past wounds, traumas, and hurts with courage. Together, we’ll alchemize every chapter of your story, dark and light, into a blazing internal flame that lights your way on even the coldest nights. Through this process, you’ll find alignment with your purpose, release what holds you back, and step fully into your power.
Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!
The Cold Full Moon in Gemini arrives on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 8:14 p.m. CST. This brilliant lunation—which is also a dazzling Supermoon—shines its highest light right at the threshold of the deepest winter, inviting us to illuminate our thoughts, speak our final truths, and prepare for the quiet hibernation ahead.
This full moon activates the energy of the mutable air sign, Gemini, bringing a sharp focus to themes of communication, duality, choice, and mental clarity. Full moons are always a time of culmination and release, and this one asks us to harvest the intellectual lessons learned over the last six months and choose which ideas, stories, and connections we are ready to leave behind before the calendar flips.
Let this Cold Full Moon in Gemini guide you to harvest clarity from the mental noise, reconcile your inner contradictions, and intentionally close the communication loops of 2025, ensuring only what serves your future steps into the new year with you.
Full Moon: What It Is and Why We Honor It
Every month, the full moon brings the lunar cycle to its peak, bathing the night in powerful, visible light. This phase marks a time of culmination, manifestation, and release. It is when the seeds planted during the preceding new moon come to full expression, illuminating what has grown—and what needs to be cut away.
The full moon is a sacred time to pause, acknowledge your accomplishments, and cleanse your energy of anything hindering your alignment. This isn’t just a celestial event—it’s a call to shed burdens and prepare for the quiet rest of the waning cycle.
This Cold Full Moon in Gemini carries the unique magic of the year’s end, blending lunar completion with the season’s call for stillness and clarity. It’s a time to harvest mental lessons and prepare for the deep introspection of the Winter Solstice.
Gemini: The Sign of Clarity and Communication
Each full moon is shaped by its opposing zodiac sign. The Sun is in Sagittarius (expansion, philosophy), which means the Moon is full in Gemini (communication, details). Who is Gemini?
Gemini, the third sign of the zodiac, spans May 21 to June 20, ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication, intellect, and travel. Symbolized by the Twins, Gemini embodies duality, curiosity, and the quest to gather and disseminate information. As a mutable air sign, Gemini adapts and moves quickly, offering mental agility and a talent for connecting diverse ideas. This sign governs the Third House of communication, short trips, and local community, urging us to align our thoughts and words with purpose.
Gemini Energy in Myth and History
In mythology, the Gemini twins are Castor and Pollux, symbolizing the dual nature of life: the mortal and the immortal, the light and the shadow. This reflects Gemini’s core theme: the integration of two opposing ideas or energies. The constellation itself is a beacon of high visibility and quick movement—a light that encourages rapid mental shifts and conversational flow.
The Cold Moon: The Final Full Moon of 2025
The December full moon is traditionally named the Cold Moon, marking the onset of the deepest winter when the nights are long and the air is frigid. This name reminds us of winter’s essential wisdom: growth happens in the quiet.
The Significance of the Final Full Moon
As the last full moon of the 2025 calendar year, this lunation holds immense significance for intentional closure:
Final Release Point: This is your last, major spiritual checkpoint to release emotional baggage, stale communication patterns, and unfulfilled promises before the new year officially begins. What story from 2025 are you still repeating that you need to end?
The Quantum Leap: This full moon helps set the stage for your 2026 timeline. The choices you make and the clarity you gain now create a quantum leap forward, aligning you with the highest possibilities for your future.
Highest Light: Being a Supermoon, this lunation appears brighter and closer, amplifying its energy. Furthermore, the December full moon is the highest-rising full moon of the year (until 2042!), meaning its light powerfully illuminates every corner of your life that needs a final review. Use this amplified light to see your mental patterns with unflinching honesty.
Themes of the Cold Full Moon in Gemini
This Gemini Full Moon brings themes of clarity, choice, and duality, urging us to bring our mental processes to a brilliant conclusion. We’ll feel a pull to reconcile inner contradictions, speak our truth, and make final decisions about the path ahead.
Clarity: Cutting through mental confusion to achieve simple understanding.
Communication: Speaking your truth, releasing unsaid words, and listening with an open mind.
Duality/Integration: Reconciling the two parts of yourself (e.g., the public self vs. the private self).
Choice: Finalizing decisions that have been debated or delayed.
Release of Stories: Letting go of old beliefs, narratives, or limiting self-talk that holds you back.
What to Be Cautious Of With the Gemini Full Moon
Gemini’s energy, when unchecked, can lead to overthinking, anxiety, or intellectual superficiality. This full moon might amplify a tendency toward gossip, fractured focus, or the infamous “Gemini split.”
Be wary of:
Information Overload: Don’t drown in research or excessive social media scrolling. Ground your thoughts.
Reactive Communication: The emotional intensity of the full moon combined with Gemini’s speed can lead to saying something impulsive or hurtful. Pause and respond, don’t react.
Indecision: This is a choice point. Do not allow analysis paralysis to stop you from finalizing important decisions.
Gemini and Duality
As a free witch, I cherish the duality in every energy. Gemini embodies this perfectly—the light side is curious, witty, and adaptable; the shadow side is scattered, anxious, and two-faced.
This Full Moon demands that we look at our own duality. Where do you contradict yourself? Which of the Twins is running the show? The task is not to eliminate one side, but to integrate them—to bring your head and your heart into conversation so that your choices are whole and aligned.
Correspondences for the Gemini Full Moon
Category
Correspondence
Planet
Mercury ☿
Element
Air 🌬️
Modality
Mutable
Symbol
The Twins ♊
Colors
Yellow, Light Blue, Silver, White
Motto
“I Think”
Chakra
Throat Chakra
Herbs
Lavender, Dill, Fennel, Anise
Stones/Crystals
Agate, Blue Lace Agate, Citrine, Moonstone
Tarot
The Lovers, The Magician
House
Third House
How to Connect to the Cold Full Moon in Gemini
This Full Moon calls for rituals centered on clarity, release, and communication. Focus on bringing culmination to ongoing projects or debates in your life.
Communication Release Rituals: Write a letter to someone (or yourself) expressing everything you need to say, and then safely burn or tear up the letter as a symbolic release.
Mercury Cleansing: Cleanse your electronics, clear your inbox, and organize your desk to clear mental clutter.
Throat Chakra Work: Meditate on the color blue or use Blue Lace Agate to support honest, gentle self-expression.
Final Year Review: Journal about the themes of 2025 and celebrate the major lessons learned.
Mantra Work: Create a simple, clear affirmation and repeat it under the bright moonlight (e.g., “I choose clarity; I release confusion.”)
Divination: Perform a Three-Card Spread (Past Story, Present Choice, Future Story) to gain perspective on a challenging decision.
Shadow Work Questions for the Gemini Full Moon
Use these prompts to journal, reflect, and set intentions to release mental blocks and self-defeating narratives.
What stories or beliefs about myself am I ready to stop repeating?
Where in my life am I suffering from “analysis paralysis,” and what simple choice can I make now?
What inner contradiction (e.g., fear of success vs. desire for success) am I ready to integrate?
How can I be kinder and clearer in my communication, both to myself and others?
What thought patterns drain my energy or cause me anxiety? How can I create a boundary against them?
What is the final truth I need to speak or hear before the end of this calendar year?
Final Thoughts for the Cold Full Moon in Gemini
As the Cold Full Moon in Gemini on December 4th illuminates the winter sky, let it be your final beacon of clarity for 2025. This cycle invites you to honor the mental work you’ve done, release the static and noise, and make conscious choices that pave the way for a simplified, intentional 2026.
Take this time to celebrate your growth, trust your intuition, and intentionally close the loop on anything that no longer resonates with your highest path. How will you use the light of this final full moon to harvest clarity?
I am Kayreign, the Divine Oracle of the Gods and Keeper of Mysteries, a solitary grey magic practitioner with over 15 years of experience walking the sacred paths of the unseen. As a mystic and relentless seeker of all knowledge, I weave together the threads of every magical tradition—light and dark, ancient and modern—to uncover the universal truths that bind us to the cosmos. My mission is to restore and re-enchant magic in this realm, igniting its spark in every soul I encounter, and guiding you to embrace the full spectrum of your being.
My work is rooted in the power of duality, honoring the dance between shadow and light as equal partners in your spiritual journey. I hold space for you to explore all magic paths and practices, drawing from the vast tapestry of mystical wisdom to help you uncover your unique magic and sacred contracts. As the Divine Oracle of the Gods, I channel divine insights to illuminate your path; as the Keeper of Mysteries, I guide you into the depths of the unknown, where true transformation awaits.
When you work with me, you’ll learn to live in energetic balance, embracing your darkness as a source of power, not just a stepping stone to the light. I’ll hold up a mirror to reflect your authentic self—unmasked, raw, and whole—inviting you to face your past wounds, traumas, and hurts with courage. Together, we’ll alchemize every chapter of your story, dark and light, into a blazing internal flame that lights your way on even the coldest nights. Through this process, you’ll find alignment with your purpose, release what holds you back, and step fully into your power.
Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!
As the snow begin to fall and the air becomes bitter and harshly cold, the festivals like, Yule, the new year, and Lupercalia it beckons us into it’s embrace of introspection, silence, and prepping for new beginnings to blossom in the Spring. During these festivals its common for many witches and pagans to work with and celebrate deities that connect to and represent the energies central to the introspective and transitional celebrations. I do! This season for me is a very feminine one. I hardly ever have gods and the divine masculine calling out to me now. This a season when I want to go into the womb of mother Earth. When the dark goddess and her healing, justice, empowerment, harsh clarity on reality, 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. This season and it’s celebrations are full of magic, fertility, purification, introspection and there are many gods and goddesses who embody its transitional, silent, and restful energy. Winter season specifically the months of December, January, and February is a really important time in pagan culture and there are plenty of chilly gods and goddesses to work with or worship, depending on your practice, festivals, and celebrations. Let’s take a walk through the Winter landscape blanketed with snow and frozen waterways. To take the time to pause, reflect, and truly connect to the cyclical rhythm of nature while we meet SOME of those deities together in this post today.
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.
Odin-Norse god
Odin is a Norse god who rules over wisdom, war, magic, and sovereignty. Odin is known by many many names. Wodan, Wotan, All Father, One-Eyed Seeker are but just a few. He is the ruler of the Aesir and steward of Asgard. In Germanic lore, it is said during Yule, which takes place during winter, he leads the Wild Hunt while being seated upon Sleipnirs back. This hunt is a spiritual parade of sorts that flies through the sky on Winter nights. Sometimes the Wild Hunt collects lost souls and sometimes a person joins the Wild Hunt in their sleep. In Nordic countries, the people gave sacrifices to Odin in the Winter months to ensure safety from them and prosperity. Including the children leaving hay in their boots by the hearth for Sleipnir to snack on as he flew by. Does this sound familiar to you at all? A white bearded old man, riding across the sky with a stead bringing blessings to those as he goes by? Many believe Odin is the actual inspiration for modern day Santa Claus? Check out my blog all about Santa HERE and decide for yourself.
Kuraokami
Kuraokami is a legendary Japanese dragon and Shinto deity of rain and snow. The name Kuraokami translates to “Ravine Rain Serpent. Kuraokami is said to have been created from the blood of Kagutsuchi, the fire deity. In some versions of the myths surrounding Kuraokami, Watatsumi, and Mizuhanome, Izanami created them to tame Kagutsuchi’s fire if he ever got out of control.
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. This season is the time of year that solidifies us in the bitter cold and harshness of nature. 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 the winter season, when the harsh chill 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.
Boreas-Greek God Boreas is the Greek God of the North wind, winter and ice. He’s also known as The Devouring One. He is the spirit of Winter and can be both violent and benevolent. Depending on the person and situation. The Greeks believed he came from the North, being the North Wind, and because of this was considered Thracian in origin. He is often depicted as a powerful, bearded man with wings, with two faces – one in front and one in back. He is the son of the Titan Astraeus and Eos, the goddess of the dawn, and brother to Zephyrus (the West Wind) and Notus (the South Wind). He is said to be the one who brings cold winter weather and is known for his violent temper, most famously abducting the Athenian princess Oreithyia to become his wife.
Brigid
The next deity I am going to talk about is because she takes central stage during Imbolc the festival that marks the midwinter point. A Goddess in Irish tradition, Brigid is one of the most well-known because, she is the Goddess of fertility and spring. To many she is also known as the Great Mother Goddess of Ireland, and to Christians as a Saint Brigid. With this energy, Brigid brings the remembrance of our Oneness and of the Eternal Essence of the Divine Feminine. She is the daughter of the Celtic God Dagda, a Fae leader of the Tuatha dè Danann.She’s often depicted with fiery hair and a sunbeam cloak. She was born at sunrise with rays of sunlight radiating around her head. She is associated with many things; Poetry, Healing, Midwinter/Imbolc, Flames/fire, Fertility, and Motherhood.
Brigid is considered a Triple Goddess, yet many references distinguish Brigit differently than the traditional Triple Goddess aspects of Maiden, Mother and Crone. Rather Brigid is frequently referenced having three sister selves with three distinct roles, Lady of Healing Waters, Goddess of the Sacred Flame and Goddess of the Fertile Earth.
Callieach
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.. Since, the ancient Celts celebrated two seasons only, her reign bringing cold all over the land began on Samhain and ended with Ostara/spring when she handed it back to Brigid. On Imbolc which is the first of February, Cailleach, the Goddess of Winter, heads out into the world to gather firewood to keep her warm for the rest of winter. If the weather is bright and sunny, Cailleach is out gathering the wood and will be able to gather enough to make winter last a good bit longer. However, if the weather is bad and cold, Cailleach is still asleep and will soon run out of firewood, and spring will come sooner.
Cailleach is often depicted as a powerful, crone-like figure who embodies the harshness and stillness of winter. When she appears to me she also has a blue aurora about her, and her mythical staff in hand. 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. As the guardian of the cold, she is said to control the storms, the winds, and the snow that blanket the earth during the winter months. She is a symbol of death and decay but also of transformation and the wisdom that comes with age and experience. While Brigid heralds the coming of spring and new life, Cailleach represents the slowing down and rest that winter brings, urging us to pause and reflect. On Imbolc, Cailleach’s presence is especially poignant as it marks the shift from the deep, inward-focused energies of winter toward the budding life of spring. Cailleach holds the power to either prolong winter or usher in the first signs of spring, depending on whether she decides to create a fierce storm or allow the warmth to return.
If you really want to learn more about her and read my personal experiences with her this winter come join the alchemist paid tier of the Patreon community or higher and get access to my anthology all about her.
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 Winter season 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.
Morena
In Bohemia and Moravia, the goddess of winter, death and dreams is Morana, who covers the fields in a funeral shroud of ice and snow. She reigns from the winter solstice to the spring equinox. Then Vesna, the goddess of spring and rebirth, takes over. Morena is a Slavic goddess of winter, death, and rebirth. She is also known by many other names, including Marzanna, Mara, Morana, and Marena. She is feared as the bringer of its chill in most areas. This is only amplified by her connection to the Zmora/Mora/Kikimora – a demon of nightmares. She is sometimes pictured in a form similar to those demons.
The most popular myth involving her is that of her marriage with Jaryło/Yarilo/Gerovit – her twin brother and a spring, war, and agriculture god. It was said that she was a daughter of Perun, god of thunder, and Mokosz/Mokosh, the Great Mother. In this story, she was once a nature goddess. When she was young, Jaryło was stolen by the god Weles and taken to the underworld of Nawia/Nav. When he returned, the twins did not know they were related, so they fell in love and were married. This marriage between Morena’s nature and Jaryło’s agriculture brought balance in nature and also peace (temporarily) between Perun and Weles. But then Jaryło committed adultery. So, she killed him for his betrayal, turning her bitter and making her the winter deity we know today. This split is the reason for the seasons, as Morena kills Jaryło in autumn, and he along with a spring goddess (usually either Dziewanna or Żywia/Vesna) kills her in the spring. The cycle continues annually, and neither can exist for long while the other survives.
This story shows a bit of tragedy that is often lacking in many mythological stories. While Maorena is feared, she has a human element of desiring revenge and having her heart broken. An important note is that most gods in Slavic mythology had a fear and a worship element to them. Morena is feared for the death and disease she brings, but she is also a crucial part of the world’s cycle.
La befana
The next 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 that is connected to Christmas. 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.
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.
Nanook
This next deity comes to us from Inuit Mythology. In Inuit religious beliefs, Nanook (the Polar Bear) is the master of bears. He is the one who decides if a hunter is worthy of their kill and whether or not they will be successful. Revered for his strength and wisdom, Nanook symbolizes the profound connection between the Inuit and their natural environment. As a spiritual leader, Nanook not only embodies the qualities necessary for survival in this harsh terrain but also represents the delicate balance between humans and nature in Inuit belief. In Inuit mythology, Nanook is not just an individual deity but an integral part of the pantheon’s familial structure. Revered as a father figure, Nanook is said to have many cubs, each inheriting his strength and resilience. His companion, Sedna, goddess of the sea and marine life, complements Nanook’s domain over land and ice by ruling the ocean depths. Together, they embody the harmonious balance of the Arctic environment, where land and sea intertwine in a crucial interplay of survival and sustenance.
Nanook, a powerful deity in Inuit mythology, exerts profound influence over the Arctic environment through various domains. Known as the master of bears, Nanook controls the movements and availability of bears, crucial for successful hunts where hunters perform rituals and offerings to appease him. Beyond land, Nanook extends his sway over the Arctic seas, believed to calm or stir waters that affect the hunt for seals and walruses. Legends attribute Nanook with control over Arctic weather, where blizzards and storms are seen as expressions of his will or a test for hunters. In the realm of the afterlife, Nanook plays a role in Inuit beliefs, with the souls of hunted bears returning to him, potentially to be reborn or serve as spirit guides.
Pertcha
The next deity I am going to talk about many only consider her to be a folklore legend similar to La befena. While Krampus gets most of the attention during this time of the year as the terrifying side of the holiday season Pertcha is just as terrifying. If not more so in my eyes. In the Alps of Upper Germany, Austria, and Slovenia, you will find stories of Perchta, a goddess connected to Winter and snow. Sources say she has two different appearances: a beautiful woman as white as snow or as elderly and haggard woman. As the crone she is often depicted with a beaked nose made of iron, dressed in rags, perhaps carrying a cane, and generally resembles a decrepit old crone. But this old crone packs a mighty wallop…. and carries a long knife hidden under her skirt. She is said to roam the countryside during the twelve days between Christmas and Epiphany to enter the houses of those she encountered. If your house is neat and tidy and all your spinning for the winter season was done by the twelfth night she would leave you a silver coin. If it wasn’t well…there are many stories of what she would do to you some involving that knife under her skirt even. Some stories say she may slit your belly open, rip out your innards, and stuff you with straw, rocks, and bits of glass. She also disembowels lazy children. Other legends equate Frau Perchta with the legend of the Wild Hunt, and say that she flies through the night sky attended by an army of lost souls, including the demonic-looking Perchten, her army of servants who are visually nearly indistinguishable from Krampus.
Tengliu
Tengliu,is a Goddess of Snow in Chinese mythology. In Chinese mythology, Tengliu is the goddess of winter. She is said to live in the Kunlun Mountains, where she controls the weather. Tengliu first appeared in the Tang dynasty and later became a popular cultural figure in the Ming dynasty through the development in the Song dynasty. Other then her appearance in many songs throughout the Song dynasty not much else is really known about her.
Yuki-onna
Yuki-onna is a Japanese deity or really a spirit associated with winter and snowstorms. I say this because, she isn’t referenced too as a Kami but, instead usually as a yokai. She is also known as the snow woman. In some legends, Yuki-onna is a manifestation of winter, representing its harshness. Some legends say the Yuki-onna, being associated with winter and snowstorms, is the spirit of someone who perished in the snow. She is at the same time beautiful and serene, yet ruthless in killing unsuspecting mortals. In some stories, Yuki-onna is vengeful and freezes travelers with her icy breath. In other stories, she is kind and helps people in the mountains. She personifies the duality and contrast of Winter. Showing us the harness, bitterness, and coldness of the season. Along with highlighting the peacefulness, beauty, ands stillness of the season.
Aphrodite
The last deity I am going to talk about I think far too many forget is connected to winter. I feel this happens because, too many forget Valentine’s day in February is right in the middle of Winter. In Greek mythology, Aphrodite is the goddess of love, beauty, and desire. She is also associated with sexuality, fertility, and pleasure. While best known as the goddess of love, she was also the ancient Greek goddess of fertility, physical pleasure (particularly sexual), eternal youth, grace, and beauty. Additionally, she played roles in commerce, war, and politics. Plus let’s not forget her crucial role, as one of the causes of the Trojan War. Her origins though, are shrouded in mystery. According to Hesiod’s Theogony, she emerged from the sea foam in the waters of Paphos, on the island of Cyprus, born from the severed genitals of Uranus. She supposedly arose from the foam when the Titan Cronus slew his father Uranus and threw his genitals into the sea. However, according to Homer, in Iliad, Aphrodite may instead be the daughter of Zeus and Dione.
Call on her this Winter season to work with the energy of love and deepening your connection to others. Don’t forget to reflect on your relationships as well and find love with those you can. Especially if you are forced into a situation just as she was. Remember, Aphrodite is about so much more than love, beauty and lust though. You can always call on her for those reasons but, Aphrodite is about the passion of creation. Which is why she can be called on for creative expression, and living your passion. She is a great goddess to use for self love, emotional balance and healing as well.
How to connect to and work with these deities
Everyone’s relationship with deities is different and we all work with and believe in them differently. You might believe in multiple gods and goddesses and work with them each as though they are close, personal friends. Or maybe you believe the gods are reflections of Universal energy and simply archetype energies that you can learn a lesson from. However you incorporate deities in your practice is up to you. But here are some ideas to get you started on ways to work with any or all of these deities of the Winter. Remember; it’s important to approach them with respect, reverence, gratitude and by building a relationship with them. Every time you work with a deity it is an even energetic exchange; which means what you put into your intention when working with them and building your relationship to them is what you get back. Don’t forget to check out my shop and for an eBook to help you explore how you view deities more and you can also purchase my deep deity devotionals workshop course HERE!
Research, study and read about who they are, where they come from, and their myths and legends
Refresh your altar and add any of them to it. Or create a new one. Use any of the correspondences connected to them that speak to you
Cast spells to help with personal transition or transformation allowing the deities of the transitional season to guide you through the process
Call on them to assist you with different types of divination like, tarot, pendulum readings, runes, fire scrying or cryomancy
Use their correspondences and energies in protection spells especially for ones for your home
Create a spell jar for them and add them to your altars or place them somewhere in your home
Shadow work focusing on inner work, the cold, resilience, strength, and resting. 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.
Invite them to your circle and castings when performing rituals tied to the cycles of nature
Include them in your celebrations for any festivals like Yule, the new year, Lupercalia, and Valentine’s day
Use snow and ice magic
Go on a mindful walk in nature to connect to the energies of the land the winter deities rule
Invoke their name when creating simmer pots to cleanse and purify your home from unwanted energies
Herbal magic-brew teas especially, or add herbs to your hot drinks
Carve their sigils into candles for fire magic for release work and to keep your home warm and your hearth lit during the cold dark winter months
Purification and cleansing rituals and spells using snow and ice
carving their sigils into the ice for binding and banishing spells
Make some rose water and use in your spells and leave as offerings for deities
Use oil with their correspondences and blessed with their prayers in self love rituals
Bake treats and add their sigils to them for love, family, and relationships
Give them offerings they enjoy for manifestation and building a relationship
Add their sigils and correspondences like herbs to spell bags, talismans, and charms
Leave them offerings of milk to connect to fertility, abundance, and prosperity during winter
carve their sigils into your fire wood before you burn it in your hearth to welcome them into your home and bring you blessings
A fundamental pillar of Paganism is working with the deities that one believes in. While all practicing Pagans have varying beliefs about the gods and goddesses, most agree that honoring their deities is a great way to connect with them and further their spiritual goals. But, again remember not every pagan works with deities. Also remember there are literally thousands of different deities out there in the multiverse and which ones you choose to honor will often depend significantly upon what pantheon your spiritual path follows. This eBook will walk you thru the different ways to view deities, what a deity can be, and the basics to start building a deep meaningful relationship with one.
In this new special 6 month shadow work program I will help you realign your inner world, discover all the versions of you in the shadows, and show you how to integrate your shadows into your own authentic identity. When you purchase and register for this 6 month course you will get pre-recorded lessons, eBooks, journal prompt workbooks, weekly guided sessions, ( with one week off for integration) one womb healing session, and access to a discord chat for all those who are taking the course with you. We begin the last Monday of February for orientation week and then session for courses start the first Monday of March! There will be limited spots so hurry and register today.
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!
New Year’s 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. As we look upon a new calendar year full of possibilities and opportunities, it is important to start off the right way. Along with making resolutions, I like to ring in the New Year with a bit of magic aimed at accomplishing my goals. removing obstacles over the next twelve months, calling in abundance, and protection. This is a time for celebrating the changing seasons by incorporating spells into your New Year’s Eve festivities. Doing this can set the tone for a vibrant, abundant, and magical calendar year ahead.
What is the new year?
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.
History of the New year
While it seems secular now, New Year’s is actually very much tied to ancient pagan celebrations. Many of our modern traditions are passed down to us from the ancients cultures and peoples. New year celebrations go back at least to the Babylonians. The Romans took these celebrations to the next level with copious amounts of drinking, feasting, and partying.
The new year hasn’t always been celebrated on December 31st/ January 1st. In 2000 B.C. the new year was celebrated around the time of the vernal equinox, in mid-March, in Mesopotamia. Today, most New Year’s celebrations start on New Year’s Eve, December 31, the final day of the year on the Gregorian calendar, and continue through New Year’s Day on January first.
The New Year a Liminal Time
As the old year fades away and the new one begins, we find ourselves in a liminal space. This is a time of transition and transformation, when anything is possible. It’s a time when we sit on the edge of one calendar year turning a page for another one to begin. The liminal space between one year ending and another beginning is a special time that should be embraced fully!
The New Year a time of abundance
When the calendar new year comes again it opens up a portal of abundance and wealth. The transition from one year to the next is seen as a chance to “clean the slate” and start anew, creating an optimistic outlook for the future. This includes the abundance of having all our needs met in life. This is a time when we set our intentions for the year ahead and what we all want to manifest. So, on this new years eve we do our best to have our life look like what we wish to manifest in the year ahead. We surround ourselves with an abundance of feasting, drinking, being around community, and loved ones as we ring in the new year ahead. We show the universe and the gods and goddesses all we wish for them to give us in the year ahead.
The New Year a time of reset
The calendar New year is the closing of one new year and the opening of another opening of a new one. This new start comes with a naturally feeling of renewal and reset. It is a chance to press the reset button on our lives, a chance to get it right this time. This is a time to relook at all the past year and reset for something brand new you have never seen before to unfold in front of you. If you want to learn how do to reset your entire life this new year’s eve check our my guide here.
Common folklore traditions
There are many different folklore and traditions around the world for how to celebrate New Year’s Eve. New Year’s Eve is usually celebrated by most with gathering alongside friends and family. Popular rituals include serving food that symbolizes good fortune and making resolutions focused on what one hopes to accomplish in the next year. Along side doing things to draw in good fortune and to protect yourself and the home from unwanted spirits to come into your home. Let’s take a look at some of the many but, certainly not all, of the ancient traditions and folklore from across the earthly realm I have found below.
Ancient Babylonians celebrated the new year with feasts and returning farm equipment that had been borrowed from others.
In Norse traditions, Yule celebrations ended around the new year. The last feasts of the Winter Solstice were huge on this final night to celebrate the turning of the wheel.
In both Ancient Egyptian and Greek societies they paraded a baby around to symbolize the beginning of the new year.
The romans would kiss each other at midnight to bring love and prosperity into the next year plus to also ward off unwanted and malevolent spirits.
For the Aztecs, this was a time to sacrifice children by drowning in order to buy the favor of the rain gods.
DON’T do any laundry on New Years Day. In china it’s thought if you do laundry on New years you are setting up your next year to be full of cleaning
Do NOT cry, crying on January 1st instills a sad and negative mood throughout the next 12 months.
Make sure you wake up at dawn. In fact, according to a Polish tradition, getting up early on New Year’s Eve will make you wake up to the crowing of the rooster (and without the slightest effort) for the rest of the year.
If your dream for the next year is to travel the world on New Year’s Eve in Colombia, people go around with an empty suitcase which, according to ancient superstition, would ensure a nice trip within the year.
Eat 12 grapes (one after the other) just like they do in Spain, where they are said to bring good luck.
Have black cabbage and lentils be apart of your new years feast like the do in the southern United states to call in good luck, prosperity, and wealth
According to the ancient Chinese tradition, on New Year’s Day, you should not clean the house, as removing the dust or sweeping the floor would literally “sweep” away the good luck and the good vibes that would have been attracted by the celebrations and decorations dedicated to the new year.
Observe the weather in the very early hours of January 1st; if the wind blows from the south, the new year will be rich and prosperous; if instead, it comes from the north, then the new year will be problematic and turbulent, so better fasten your seat belts. The wind from the east also brings famines and calamities, while the wind from the west means that the new year will be rich and lush.
According to an Italian tradition, men and women should wear red underwear on New Year’s Eve if they want to find love, passion, good sex, and good luck in the next year to come.
If you live or are celebrating near a lake or ocean, try out this Brazilian ritual on New Year’s Eve, which involves jumping seven waves. With each jump, you make a wish for the upcoming year.
An ancient Persian New year’s tradition that is still celebrated by some in Iran is to light a bonfire and once you do you jump over it twice. On the first jump you say a blessing releasing your past years pain into the flame and then on the jump back. You say a blessing asking for the health of the flame to bless your life in the coming year ahead.
Eat round foods. In many cultures, eating round foods on New Year’s Eve is believed to bring prosperity and abundance in the new year. In Europe and the United States, people eat 12 round fruits to represent each month of the year. In the Philippines, people eat 13, which is considered a lucky number.
Smash pomegranates. In Ancient Greece, pomegranates were viewed as a symbol of abundance and luck. On new years eve people were seen smashing pomegranates outside their doors to bring good luck to the new year. The more pomegranate seeds spilled in the smash, the more luck you’ll have for the new year.
In Denmark, they break plates this tradition is done to ward off malevolent spirits and is symbolic of a fresh start to the new year.
Preparing mochi, which is a Japanese rice cake, on New Year’s is symbolic of renewal and is seen to bring about blessings for the year.
Grab some bread and bang the bread against the walls. The Irish believe that doing so wards off malevolent spirits and brings abundance to the coming year.
Danish tradition includes standing on the chair and “jumping” into the new year at midnight. It’s also believed that if you forget, it’s bad luck. ( I do this one every year)
The 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 New year’s eve. I have always loved New Year’s Eve for it’s duality. It’s a time of reflection for me and a time to set my intentions for the new year. It’s a time to reflect on the past while looking towards the hope of the future ahead. It’s a time to not just look at what I want to change and let go of but, to congratulate myself for the all the mountains I climbed. It’s a time when I take a look at what worked from the past year and what didn’t. I am reminded of the constant ebb and flow in life, the constant change, and how to live in the balance of liminal transformation as one chapter ends and a new one begins.
Correspondences for the New year’s
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 calendar 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, Mars, Venus, and Saturn
Animal-Deer, opossums, whichever Chinese zodiac we are in that Chinese New year
Element- All elements
symbol-sparkles, babies, fireworks, glitter, the clock, the Gregorian calendar, father time
colors-Silver, gold, red, white, black
Herbs/flowers- rosemary, clover, thyme, pine, cinnamon, Lavender, Basil, Oregano, Spearmint, Patchouli, bay leaves, sage, fennel, rose, Cardamom, mugwort, orange, apple
Food/drinks- wines, beer, mead, collards, lentils, black cabbage, pork, soba noodles, mochi, rice cakes, fruits, round shaped foods, NO CHICKEN
Ways to work with the energy of New years
However you choose to work with the New year’s eve magic and energies make sure to follow your intuition where it leads you. Make sure you tap into the energies of abundance, renewal, and the closing of one chapter, and the opening of a new one. In your everyday life, you can work with any affirmations, mantras, and visualization work for abundance, new beginnings, endings, reflection, and the changing of the calendar year. Let’s take a look at some of the many different ways you can magical work with the energy of New year’s eve.
Imagine and set your New year SMART goals
One of the number one ways to celebrate new years eve is to sit down, let your imagination run wild and think of all the biggest and wildest goals you wish to set for the year ahead. This is the eve when you are observing the calendar year that you can really think big, let the walls down and don’t think about what you can’t have but, come from a mindset of abundance and focus on what you can have. But, don’t forget to not only let your imagination run with your goals but take the time to set them in a specific way by making them SMART goals. If you have been with me the last year I have written about SMART goals many times, but I do so because using this method changed how I was able to take those goals in my imagination and bring them to life. To learn all about SMART goals and how to set them this New Year’s eve head over to my guide here now!
Visualization
Visualization is great way to set intentions for the new year. This is going to be the practice I am really intentionally committing to this New years eve and all 2026 long. I’ve come to learn with my manifestation work in the past year just speaking things out loud is not enough. I must see myself already having what I want in my hands. So, close your eyes and imagine yourself surrounded by all of the things you want to manifest in the new year. Picture yourself living out your dreams, achieving success, and feeling fulfilled by all that you have accomplished. Hold onto this image as you move forward into the new year, knowing that it will come true if you put in the effort and stay focused on your goals.
Cast protection spells
New Year’s Eve is a liminal time where the energies around us are more susceptible to change. As we look upon a new year full of possibilities and opportunities, it is important to start off the right way. Protecting ourselves, our family, and our space is something essential to do before we commence into the new year. A New Year’s Eve Protection Spell can be a powerful tool to keep us safe and supported as we let go of the old year and prepare for the future. So cast those protection spells this New Year’s eve to protect you home, your family, and your life all year long. Ps. don’t forget to cleanse yourself, your tools, and your space as well before you cast your protection spells.
Reflection through Shadow work
Remember how New years eve is a liminal time. It is time when we are sitting on the edge of change and transformation. In order to move onto the next stage of evolution and change that we are greeting in the new year ahead we must first look back. We must look at the highest heights we reached and lowest depths we sank to down deep. We must decide what we want take from one chapter into the next and what we wish to leave behind. The best way to do this for me 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.
Release work spells
As we go into the new year ahead with hope for a bright future we have to make sure we have left the things we no longer need in the past. One way to do this is to make sure we energetically and magically release the things from the past year. One of my favorite ways to do this on New year’s eve is to write down the things I wish to release. The patterns in the past year that no longer serve me and I no longer wish to repeat. Along with the blockages I met during the past year to align with the correct energies to manifest all of my goals being met. Once I write them down I wait until the clock strikes 12 then I read them out loud and burn them in fire to release the blockage from life. To no longer carry any of that into my new chapter of life.
Abundance and good luck spells
With a New calendar year unfolding before us on New Year’s Eve this is a day we can set ourselves up for a long and prosperous year ahead. We can tap into that unlimited potential this magical unknown year has for us. There are countless different traditions you can do like some we talked about above from around the earthy realm that will bring in abundance and good luck. Along with just as many spells. One really poplar one I like is to place a bowl of coins outside my threshold. When you return home for the first time in the new year (perhaps after a late-night party),bless them for everything you want in the new year to come. To get more ideas for abundance and good luck spells head over to my Pinterest where I have many or check out my abundance guide and my guide all about Thursdays magic.
This spell is my favorite one to do every single New Year’s Eve. It masters the liminal space and energy of change on the night, the magic and mastery of time to bring in a very abundant, vibrant, and magical life in 2025.
Shortly before midnight on New year’s eve Grab 12 candles, I prefer to use white or green, 12 coins, and an herb bundle made of rosemary, thyme, sage, and bay leaves. Take your candles and set them on the floor in front of in a circle to mimic a clock and place one coin under each candle. Then get yourself into sacred container while you focus on what it is you want to manifest in the next year ahead. Once you feel you have a clear vision in your head and your intent is set, sit with it until the clock strikes midnight. Once the you hear the clock chime, start lighting each candle in your circle starting at the top aka 12 o’clock and going clockwise until all 12 candles are lit. Don’t forget to focus on your intention you are setting for the year ahead as you light each candle in your magical clock. Once this is done go around your entire home and smoke cleanse your space bringing in your most abundant year yet. Let the candles burn until they go out on their own or if you are not comfortable with that for safety reasons burn them for 12 minutes for each candle and then blow them out by 1 as the time is met.
Other ways to work with New Year’s Eve
Divination-pull some cards or do some mirror scrying. Ps. don’t forget you can always book me for a reading in the shop
Perform a gratitude ritual like writing a list of all the things you are grateful for and reading them out loud to the multiverse
Cast fertility spells to speed up your manifestation work done on new years eve night
Do a chord cutting or uncrossing ritual for ties you no longer need in your life ( you can find both on my pinterest page)
Stay up until the stroke of midnight and jump over a fire to release the pain of the past year and welcome in the health of the new year
Work with snow magic for your manifestation and intention set his year
Place coins on your window seal, and/or throw them threw your front door, and/or bury them outside your threshold for a constant money flow all year long
Tie a bulb of garlic to a red string and hang it above your front door to ward off any ill will for the new year and break hexes from the past year
Open your front door at midnight and make a lot of noise to keep unwanted spirits away.
Write a wish or resolution on a piece of paper and burn it on New Year’s Eve, ideally at midnight.
Open all of your windows and doors to help reset and cleanse for the year ahead
Right before midnight switch off the lights in your home then right at midnight flip them back on to bring in new light and to symbolize the changing moment of the year
DO NOT eat chicken or you will bring in bad luck all year
Meditation focused on reflection and new beginnings
Open your front door right at midnight to greet and welcome the new year into your home
Hang a horseshoe above your front door to bring good luck into your home
Make sure your wallet is full of money and maybe even add a herb of abundance in there as well like bay leaves or clover
Do dream work or travel to the astral realm for guidance in the new year
Start a dream journal and a bullet journal
Declutter and cleanse your technology like your apps, email, social media
Create a good luck talisman or spell bag to carry with you throughout the year to come
walk a labyrinth
Make a spell jar to harness the manifestation, abundance, and renewal energy of the new year
Wish magic
Create a simmer pot to cleanse, purify, and protect your home
Write a letter to your future self to open at a later date when you need it during the year
Have a bonfire with friends and family until dawn then release our wishes and blockages into the fire
drink, dance, feast, and be merry
Do some sex magic either solo or with a partner to manifest your goals for the new year
Final thoughts
The New Year has long been used as a time to purge the old and add new meaning to life. In witchcraft, this is done by focusing our energy towards personal goals and intentions. No matter what type of witchcraft practice we choose, the New Year is a great time to reflect on the past and set intentions for the future. Set your eyes high on your highest goals, reflect on the past year to release blockages, reset your life, and protect your family, yourself, and your home. The new year comes with this magical potential in the air swirling all around us, that anything is imaginable in the coming year. With the start of a new cycle upon us, we have a portal of possibility to start fresh, redefine our lives, and cast our vision for the life we choose to live this coming year.
I am Kayreign, the Divine Oracle of the Gods and Keeper of Mysteries, a solitary grey magic practitioner with over 15 years of experience walking the sacred paths of the unseen. As a mystic and relentless seeker of all knowledge, I weave together the threads of every magical tradition—light and dark, ancient and modern—to uncover the universal truths that bind us to the cosmos. My mission is to restore and re-enchant magic in this realm, igniting its spark in every soul I encounter, and guiding you to embrace the full spectrum of your being.
My work is rooted in the power of duality, honoring the dance between shadow and light as equal partners in your spiritual journey. I hold space for you to explore all magic paths and practices, drawing from the vast tapestry of mystical wisdom to help you uncover your unique magic and sacred contracts. As the Divine Oracle of the Gods, I channel divine insights to illuminate your path; as the Keeper of Mysteries, I guide you into the depths of the unknown, where true transformation awaits.
When you work with me, you’ll learn to live in energetic balance, embracing your darkness as a source of power, not just a stepping stone to the light. I’ll hold up a mirror to reflect your authentic self—unmasked, raw, and whole—inviting you to face your past wounds, traumas, and hurts with courage. Together, we’ll alchemize every chapter of your story, dark and light, into a blazing internal flame that lights your way on even the coldest nights. Through this process, you’ll find alignment with your purpose, release what holds you back, and step fully into your power.
Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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
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
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
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.
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.
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
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
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!
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
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.
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.
Below is an example of the Yule log my son and I made last year. For this year we used pine, evergreen, apples, ground gloves, cinnamon, bay leaves, sage, and rosemary to fuel our intentions of the next year. To release patterns tainted by mistrust that no longer serve us. To call in abundance, reciprocated love and energy, and peace and healing in our family and home. With the twine we bound our intentions tight to cut off unwanted energies and leave them in our past life. We bind our commitment to our new intentions and goals we set this solstice night full of bright new energy as the sun is reborn this day with new light.
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.
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
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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