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Posted on February 12, 2025February 12, 2025 by Modepogdemystic

Roar with your authentic, unique, confident voice as you gain clarity under the snow full moon in Leo

The February full moon of 2025 roars into the skies with a fiery burst of passion, to ignite our hearts desires amongst the frozen winter landscape. This full moon we find under the sign of Leo on February 12th. Despite the nickname for the February being the Snow Moon, this full moon is sure to bring the heat as it radiates Leo energy and shines a bright flame on our true “heart’s desires.” This Full snow Moon in February 2025 strips everything down to bare bones, just like Winter. It shows up in our life with the same energy of February itself; forcing us to see reality with harsh, cold clarity while getting a burst of fiery hope for spring with Leo. When the full moon is in Leo you’re able to celebrate your wins and let go of anything holding you back. With the Full Moon in Leo, the bold and fiery energy of this fixed fire sign takes center stage. Leo is all about creative self-expression, leadership, and generosity. Come join me in this blog post on a frozen winter walk under the fiery full moon light as Leo roars into the skies with me.

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 snow moon

During February we can experience some of the biggest snow falls, harshest days, and coldest nights of Winter. This is something I have learned throughout my life living in Minnesota. You never judge a winter until you get through February and see what that month has in store for. So, you can imagine that in ancient times this month was a rough one when resources were running low in storages, there was nothing really to hunt and gather yet, and the weather made it impossible for maybe days to even leave your shelter. This month the snow really determined at times if you and your family would make it through the rest of Winter to the Spring. This is why this month’s full moon gets it name as the snow moon. The amount of snow we get or don’t during this month determines if we have the resilience to survive until Spring. When the world offers nothing but ice, bitter cold, and hunger, you either give up or push forward and learn how to live with less.

The Snow Moon is brutal, relentless, and demanding. It doesn’t care about comfort. It asks, How bad do you want it? It forces you to look into the unyielding white of the snow and ice with a harsh clarity about your reality. Look at what feels frozen and stuck in your life with patience and understanding its resilience, instead of frustration. Remember, some things take time, they must go through cycles of no movement because change cannot be forced. Use this time of stillness to your advantage. Sit with your thoughts and be open to taking in the harsh clarity it offers with acceptance. Strengthen your spirit but, don’t forget how much strength its had to make it through winter this far. Prepare for what’s blossoming next in Spring because, the best plans take shape in quiet, clear, and still moments.

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

Hungry Month (Kagali) Cherokee Native American origins
Storm Moon, Ice Moon, and Snow Moon-Celtic and Old English origins
Thorri (Þorri) Norse origins- Nordic Culture
Frost Sparkling in the Sun Arapaho Native American origins
Moon of Purification and Renewal Hopi Native American origins
First Flower Moon (Siwekure Araskehe Nuti ) Catawba Native American origins
Dassie Moon South African origins
Bear Moon-Ojibwe
Bald Eagle Moon-Cree

Who is Leo?

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 Leo. So who is Leo? As the fifth sign of the zodiac ruled by the sun, Leo is the Zodiac sign shining a spotlight on your life with bold roaring, radiant, and confident energy. Leo is all about stepping into the spotlight and owning your own power. Claiming what is yours with courage, bravery, and conviction. Being ruled by the fifth house Leo connects you to what makes you feel good, such as attention, orgasms, or the fulfillment of a creative project. It’s the sign that shines a bright light on your inner talents, your leadership abilities, and the courage you have to playfully create.

Leo constellation

The Leo constellation sits between Cancer the crab to the west and Virgo the maiden to the east. It is located south of the Big Dipper. It is one of the brightest constellations located in the Northern celestial hemisphere. This may be due to the fact that one of the brightest stars in the night sky sits in the heart of this constellation; Regulus. What’s unique about the Leo constellation is it contains many bright stars, many of which were individually identified by the ancients. It’s also one of the few constellations that is visible from pretty much anywhere on Earth, except for Antarctica.

Leo is one of the oldest known and recognized constellations in the sky with many different myths surrounding it. Archaeological evidence suggests that Mesopotamians had a constellation similar to Leo as early as 4000 BC. The Persians knew the constellation as Shir or Ser, Babylonians called it UR.GU.LA (“the great lion”), Syrians knew it as Aryo, and the Turks as Artan. In Sumeria, Leo may have represented the monster Humbaba, who was killed by Gilgamesh. The ancient Egyptians associated Leo with the flooding of the Nile, which occurred during the hottest time of year, when the sun entered Leo. Maybe that’s why the sphinx overlooks the Nile and is half lion?

The most commonly known myth about it’s placement among the stars would have to come from the Greeks. The Greeks associated Leo with the Nemean lion, the beast defeated by Heracles during the first of his twelve labors. Man Hercules is responsible for quite a few constellations being placed in the sky. Anyway, the Nemean lion lived in a cave in Nemea, a town located to the south-west of Corinth. It was terrorizing the local people who could not defeat it because, of it’s impenetrable skin. Heracles could not defeat the lion with arrows, so he trapped it in its cave, grappled with the beast and eventually defeated it by strangling it with his bare hands. He used the lion’s claws to cut off its pelt, and then wore the pelt as a cloak, complete with the lion’s head. From that day forward Hercules wore the pelt as his armor. The cloak both protected Heracles and made him appear even more fearsome. Leo was placed in the sky by Zeus as a reminder of Hercules’ heroism and bravery.

There is another Greek myth about this constellation though, which may be the inspiration for Romeo and Juliet. The poet Ovid’s tale of Pyramus and Thisbe. Both sets of parents of this young couple considered them too young to marry and stopped them seeing each other. However, the pair made arrangements to meet secretly by a mulberry tree with white berries. When Thisbe arrived at the appointed place, a lion sprang out from some bushes and she ran away in fright. Unfortunately, her veil fluttered to the ground as she ran and the lion, bloody from its latest kill, pounced on it. A short time later Pyramus arrived, saw his beloved’s bloody veil and believed that she had been killed. Totally distraught, and unable to face life without her, he threw himself on his sword. As he lay dying, Thisbe returned, took his sword and killed herself. The blood of the tragic pair colored the berries of the mulberry tree red, and so they remain to this day. Some suggest that Zeus placed Thisbe’s veil in the heavens as Coma Berenices.

Magical Themes for the Leo full moon

Every full Moon contains its own themes, which are related to the sign that it falls under. This time, we experience the full Moon in the fiery, confident, creative, loyal, courageous, passionate, playful, headstrong, sign of the lion; Leo. You are most likely to see themes focused on these topics as you ignite a fire in your soul to shine brightly on your talents, strengths, and unique voice. The Leo full Moon is going to bring the spotlight on your leadership roles in life, your sense of self worth, and creative projects coming to life. As well as on career and your leadership dynamics that we need to address or take care of, confront, and finally release and let go. Keep in mind that the full Moon relates to the continuation of your journey to manifest your desires and dreams. So, make sure your release work helps you make those happen. Let’s shine a light on some of the themes and energies of Leo more brightly below.

Confidence
self worth
passion
Courage
playfulness
creativity
leadership
loyalty
ambition
protection
strength
Generosity
Independence
Strong willed
Friendly
faithful
Bravery
big-heartedness
Charismatic
determination
sovereignty
rulership

Magical Themes for the snow full moon

Responsibility
Personal Development
Growth
Re-evaluation
Hearth or Home Workings
Meditation
Astral Travel
Dreamwork
Scarcity
Seed Magic/Working with seeds

Leo the sign of radiant self worth and burning confidence

The Full Moon in Leo invites you to embrace your inner power, your immense worth, and ignite your confidence. Leo pushes you to assess your sense of self-worth. To have the courage to ask yourself and answer with honesty; are you truly valuing yourself? This is the time to step fully into your authentic self and understand your true worth. This is the time to ignite your confidence into an inferno blazing so brightly, no one or anything can extinguish your light. This full moon reminds you to express who you truly are without holding back. Let go of any lingering self-doubt or fear of judgment that’s been keeping you small. Let that fiery light inside of you shine as brightly and bold as it was meant to. Leo’s energy encourages you to not only shine bright but, to have the courage to stand in your truth. Making it the perfect moment to own your unique voice and talents. Let that voice out with a resounding roar under the moon’s bright silvery light.

Leo Embrace your inner courage and leadership with conviction

Leo’s energy ignites the fire inside of us that fuels the courage to take charge and be a leader in our lives. Leo’s leadership isn’t just about power; it’s about leading from the heart with courage and conviction. During this Full Moon, align your personal power with a purpose that serves both yourself and others. Lead with passion, kindness, and courage, knowing that true leadership comes from inspiring and uplifting those around you. Use this fiery energy to fuel your goals and have courage in life, but keep your heart at the center of your actions and how you treat others.

Leo the sign of youthful creativity

Leo wants to find the zest in life and creative inspiration. Leo craves to find that unexplainable and mystical reason that makes us want to be alive. That reminds us that no matter where we are and what we’re surrounded by we can find beauty around us. Leo reminds us that we matter and our own individuality deserves its spotlight through our creative expression. That our inner light has the ability to inspire oneself and others too, when we use it to fuel our creative passion. It’s an excellent time to reconnect with our playfulness and creativity, allowing ourselves to follow our passions without being weighed down by ego-driven distractions and self doubt.

Uranus is active

Let’s talk about another energy in play right now; Uranus is active. When Uranus gets together with the Full Moon, it can bring all sorts of surprises and clashing energies, but it’s not called the planet of awakening for nothing. Sometimes, we need these shake-ups so we can see what is no longer stable and relevant to our journey forward. Uranus joining the Full Moon indicates that we may need to shake free from something in our lives. Uranus wants us to think outside the box and stretch the possibilities that we have been looking at. Stay open-minded under this Full Moon, as you never know what new inspirations and brain waves may find you. Uranus shakes us to awaken us, so if you are feeling the winds of change or the ground shaking beneath you, ask yourself- How am I being called to awaken to something bigger?

Chiron the wounded healer is active

Chiron, the asteroid of the wounded healer, is also active under this Full Moon, holding the promise that whatever wounds or challenges we face will eventually lead us to a brighter place. Chiron is one of my favorite energies to work with and I feel he is overlooked so much when he is active. So, who is he? He is the most famous centaur, from later Greek Mythology, and he was known to be a wise man and a healer. In Greek Mythology, it was Chiron who taught humanity the constellations. That’s huge! Chiron is our celestial teacher. On top of that, many well known Greek gods and goddesses looked to him for spiritual advice, most will know him nowadays through the hero Hercules. All of this is why Chiron is the one who reminds us that our wounds and troubles don’t disqualify us from being able to find beauty, purpose, and meaning in our lives. Chiron wants us to acknowledge our wounds as a part of the fabric of our destiny, and something that can make us stronger, wiser, and more compassionate. When Chiron is active some of the most profound healing can happen. To learn more about him check out my guide HERE!

What to be cautious of this Leo full moon

During the Full Moon in Leo, it’s important to avoid impulsivity, getting swept up in drama, or seeking excessive validation from others. Leo energy can be intense, and it can burn bright and hot as hell at times, just like the sun whole rules this sign. It is vital to take the time to balance it and not let it burn too hot, by staying grounded and focused on your authentic self. Be mindful of not letting your pride get the better of you and being overly focused on your own achievements or image. Tapping into Leo’s fire to ignite our self confidence is something our soul needs but, don’t let your fire get so hot and bright that you burn others around you. Avoid the temptation to act out of ego or let others’ opinions steer your path. Be open to constructive criticism and don’t dismiss feedback as personal attacks. Control the fire of Leo burning around you and keep it’s focus on self-love, playfulness, and creative empowerment.

Leo and duality

Since, I am a grey witch every single energy I work with I look for the duality in that energy and how I can connect to it. First, let’s talk about the sign Leo. Leo energy is bright, bold, and full of fiery burst of confidence. Which is something we all need to build ourselves up, honor our talents, and be a courageous leader. But, it can burn really hot at times and let our ego get out of control and our flames of confidence can do unintentional harm to those we love around us. 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 snow full moon in Leo

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 Leo, I will list below for you to use. Remember to follow your intuition with the correspondences you choose to work with and that you can always use any that correspond to the moon itself as well.

planet-Sun
Animal-Lion
Element-Fire
Sex-Masculine
Modality- fixed
Symbol- the lion, snowflakes, bare branches, fire
colors-orange, gold, yellow
Motto-“I will”
Chakra-Heart
Herbs- marigolds, sunflowers, nutmeg, chamomile, calendula, Frankincense, Bergamot, Lemon balm, rue, rosehips, sage, lavender, mugwort,
Stones/ crystals-tiger’s eye, carnelian, amber, sunstone, citrine, onyx, peridot, pyrite, lapis lazuli, moonstone, selenite, clear quartz, amethyst, Labradorite, rose quartz
Deities-Helios, Amaterasu, Sekhmet, Surya, Sol, Kali, Durga, Apollo, Xihe, Ra, Arinna, Aphrodite, Brigid, Juno, Mars
Themes-Confidence, self worth, passion, Courage, playfulness, creativity, leadership, loyalty, ambition, protection, strength, Generosity, Independence, Strong willed, Friendly, faithful, Bravery, big-heartedness, Charismatic, determination, sovereignty, rulership
House-5th house
Day-Sunday

How to connect to the snow full moon in Leo

Now, that we have talked about the themes of this snow Leo full moon and how it is going to affect you let’s talk about how you can specifically connect to and work with this moon. In magical practices, under a Leo full moon we can focus our spells on things like self love, creativity, confidence, leadership, courage, and honoring your authenticity.

First, make sure to do all of your staples that your learned in the previous blog post on the full moon and the moon in general like, charging your crystals, making moon water, and resetting your altar. Make sure to make moon water this lunar cycle. Moon water is great for release work and can be used to help tame the flames of Leo to not burn to hot and burn you.

With this moon there are certain spells and rituals that will help connect you this moon in the most effective way. It’s a wonderful time for truth spells, shadow work, cord-cutting rituals, and clearing out those tasks you never quite seem to finish. Spells and rituals focused on creativity, authenticity, Finding your courage, enjoying the pleasure in life, 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 snow full moon in Leo.

self care rituals and things to build your self worth
Abundance spells-You can learn how to connect to abundance with my in depth guide here
Meditation and Visualization with the lion
release and heal wounds no longer serving you
Spells to increase courage, bravery, and strength
Perform solar magic
Heart Chakra Energy Work
Spend time with your mother and/or connect to maternal energy
Divination– Try divination associated with the element fire like fire gazing or ice with cryomancy.
Self reflection– You can do this through mirror magic. To learn more on how to do this you can read about it here
Cleansing
Candle magic
create a gratitude and joy list, read it out loud, then burn it in a fire for thanks
Ritual bath
Ask for the promotion into a leadership role you have been wanting at work
Get creative and express yourself with art in whatever modality sings to your soul
Connect with your inner child. To learn more about how to do this you can purchase my eBook HERE
Practice lunar magic
Protection magic and spells– To learn more about how to do protection magic you can watch part 1 and part 2 of my classes with Divination academy on YouTube
Burn Bay leaves with things you would like to release on them
Show how to lead from your heart space by volunteering in your community
add the Lion to your altar
Visit the winter woods to ground and connect to nature and keep your ego in check
snow magic or fire magic for release work
Work with the energy of the snake since it’s the year of the snake
Buy yourself a gift to love yourself, like flowers or chocolates
experience pleasure with orgasms’ in sex magic
Celebrate Lupercalia starting today
do a ritual bonfire release
Work with the lioness goddess of Egypt Sekhmet
Release unhealthy patterns and wounds related to your mother
Cast truth spells
Make a spell jar-to connect to the zodiac Leo. To learn how to make spell jars you can purchase my ebook here
Work with the element Fire in your magical workings and spells- You can learn more about how to do that here
Connect to the energy of February. You can read my extensive guide here
Make a simmer pot-clarity, warmth for the home, creativity, fun, courage, self love
Journal– focus on your self worth, creativity, clarity on your goals, leadership skills, situations or people you need to have courage with in your life
Dance, move your body, open your hips
Show off some of your creative piece of work to others
Speak up and use your own authentic voice
Go to a social event

Reflection questions and topics for snow full moon in Leo

During the Full Moon in Leo, your focus should be on assessing your self worth, Embracing your courage, igniting creativity, and stepping into leadership roles with conviction This is an ideal time to tune into your inner fire, and acknowledge any emotions that have been burning beneath the surface, and create a safe space for your inner child to feel heard. 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 snow full moon in Leo . 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 does having confidence look like, sound like, and feel like to you?
How is your relationship with confidence currently?
What would it feel like to trust myself more and doubt myself less?
Where in my life do I need to step forward and be seen?
How can I use my authentic voice to speak up for myself now?
What can I do to control my fire and not let it burn too hot and out of control?
What can I do to stay out of drama in my life?
How can I be a leader in my own story more?
How can I stoke my internal fire?
What area of my life needs the most growth?
How can I best set myself up for long-term success?
What passions have been rising in me and how can I feed the flame?
What makes me feel powerful? How can I get more of it in my life?
How do I align with my true heart’s desire daily in my life?
What is the snow moon bringing me clarity about in my life right now?
How do you feel frozen and stuck in life right now?
How are you going to unthaw the things that are frozen in your life right now?
What are my unique gifts and talents? How can I share them with the world?
What creative project do I need to focus on and finish right now?
What is holding me back from claiming my power?
How do I express myself in a way that is uniquely and creatively mine?
What activities and things bring me joy? How can I have more of them in my life?
Where in my life is my ego harming me?

Final thoughts

Remember this full Moon in Leo offers an opportunity to explore self-love and authentic expression. This full Moon is a powerful time for transformation. The full Moon in Leo illuminates anything that’s lowering your vibration, helping you identify thoughts, feelings, and words that may be blocking your manifestations. It carries the power to help you break free from anything that dims your light. Use this Leo energy to help you align more fully with your authentic self and highest potential. This full Moon in Leo tune into your heart’s wisdom. But don’t forget this is also the snow moon. That bright flame from Leo is also going to come with a bite of harsh, cold clarity and reality. The Snow Moon is a time to reflect on one’s innermost thoughts and feelings. It is said to bring clarity to emotional issues and provide insight into parts of ourselves that we frequently neglect or ignore. Taking the time to reflect deeply on our lives, relationships, and goals can help us make better decisions in the future and effect positive changes in our lives. This snow moon in Leo appears to help you clear away anything that no longer serves you and burn it all away.

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.

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

Posted on February 9, 2025February 9, 2025 by Modepogdemystic

The gods and goddesses of Winter to work with as the snow falls and nature rests

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
invoke them during your commitment ceremonies
Draw their sigils on your mirror before doing mirror magic and/or mirror work
Use their prayers during sex magic rituals and spells
Ask them to join you on astral travels, meditations, and inner healing work sessions
Wear their colors during the day and use color magic to connect to them
Journal about signs you in your life during your days that are connected to them
Use their images as inspiration in glamor and beauty spells
Divination like fire gazing, snow scrying, melt snow and use the water in scrying, or Cryomancy
create Brigid’s crosses for Imbolc
Add their sigils, names, correspondences, and images to your holiday and festival celebrations
leave a plate and place for them at your festival dinners so they can join you
meditate as the snow falls and listen for their words of wisdom and them call to you
call to them in prayers to ignite and guide your creativity in creativity spells
Volunteer and serve at places in your community that align with deities you wish to work with this season
Use their sigils on your spells to help aid in your rest during winter
go on a shamanic journey with their animal companions to connect with them
invoke them, use their prayers, use their correspondences, or sigils to bless your magical tools
daily prayers, affirmations, poems, or songs to honor and venerate them
Live your life in accordance with their own personal philosophies and energies
Make them part of your new year goals and resolutions
If possible take a trip or spend your vacation at places sacred to them like their temples or countries of origin
add their images, symbols, and sigils to your gift wrappings or Valentine’s cards
wear jewelry with their image, symbol, name, or sigil on it
draw or tattoo their sigils onto your body
Perform a dedication rite or ritual to dedicate yourself to them during their season and most potent time of the year

Don’t forget to check out my 9 spells for an enchanting and magical Valentine’s day post!

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.

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Posted on February 1, 2025February 1, 2025 by Modepogdemystic

Work with the transitional energy of Midwinter by celebrating Imbolc

At Imbolc, the Earth is beginning to wake up and we celebrate the approaching return of spring. We are through the harshest, longest, and darkest part of the winter. We begin to prepare ourselves to awaken from a hibernation and time of reflection. We begin to reach for the light again as we open our eyes, stretch our limbs, and prepare to leave our places of safety to venture out into the wilderness again. Imbolc is a time for cleansing, renewal, and planting the seeds — both literal and metaphorical — for what you want to grow in the year ahead. Imbolc is holiday all about reflecting on the promise of new life and the first signs of spring stirring within the earth. Come with me as the wheel turns again and learn all about this transitional festival from Winter to Spring with me in this blogpost.

First, What is Imbolc?

Imbolc is a sabbat on the Wiccan Wheel of the Year but, is originally an ancient Gaelic/Celtic holiday celebrating the first signs of Spring. The word Imbolc is believed to mean either “ewe’s milk” or “in the belly”, which many believe refers to the birth of baby lambs around this time in Ireland and Scotland. In modern times, most of us don’t understand the harshness of Winter and what a brutal mistress she can be, that our ancestors endured. Not even me who lives in Minnesota. Our winter’s get quite harsh but, I still can’t understand their experience. So, at this time they were coming out of a period of brutal weather. They had endured the harshest part of the winter and their food stores were declining. So when the baby lambs were born around this time and their mother’s milk started flowing, it was a good day. The birth of new lambs and milk meant they’d have more food to last the rest of the Winter season. Another coming mean I come across, is that Imbolc means; “in the belly of the Mother,” because the seeds of spring are beginning to stir in the belly of Mother Earth.

In addition to celebrating rebirth, life, and replenishment, the Celtic goddess Brigid is honored on Imbolc and takes a central role. This is because, another name for Imbolc is Brigid’s Day. I am going to talk about her more below so just keep reading if you want to learn why she is so important.

When is Imbolc celebrated?

Imbolc is celebrated annually on February 1st in the Northern Hemisphere and August 1st in the Southern Hemisphere. Imbolc marks the halfway point between the winter solstice or Yule and the spring equinox or Ostara. Because Imbolc is the midway point between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox, it was regarded as a season unto itself. A time of change, when the days are longer and the sun is stronger.

History of Imbolc

Historically, this was a time to honor the increasing sunlight and prepare for the coming growing season. Although winter still holds its harsh grip, the days are growing noticeably longer, and we see signs of the earth beginning to awaken. Farmers would bless their fields and livestock, symbolizing hope for a bountiful harvest to come. Our ancestors looked forward to Imbolc as a sign that the darkest days of winter were behind them. As the darkness began to give way to the light, they experienced a sense of hope and anticipation that the cold, dark winter season was coming to an end.

Imbolc the day the earth begins to awaken

On this day, the earth stirs from its slumber, and the first signs of spring begin to emerge. Imbolc means we see the gradual return of warmth and light, the stirring of life in the natural world, and a sense of rejuvenation that permeates both the earth and our own spirits and bodies. This energy brings a palpable sense of anticipation and renewal as nature prepares to burst forth with life once more. Even though there may still be snow on the ground where you are, even if it’s freezing cold outside, we are beginning to feel the very earliest hints of spring rising in our spirits. After months of turning inward, of hibernation & of rest, life is beginning to stir again. The Earth is beginning to reawaken after her Winter slumber.

Imbolc a day of fertile manifestation

The dormant earth starts to awaken, and we sense a surge of potential and possibility in the air. It’s a time for new beginnings, for setting intentions, and for sowing the seeds of our dreams. Imbolc gives you a chance to reflect on your own life and how you want to grow in the coming year. Now is a time to honor the potential waiting within you as well. It’s the spark of an idea or a dream waiting to come true. Let your creativity and imagination help manifest these dreams!

Brigid the Irish goddess of Imbolc; who is she?.

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.

Other names she goes by

Brigid is also known as Brigit or Bríg

The Bright One
Fiery Arrow
The Powerful One
The High One
Great Mother Goddess of Ireland
Lady of the Sacred Flame
Eternal Flame of Life
Flame of Inspiration
The Mistress of the Mantle

Cailleach, the Goddess of Winter, heads out to gather wood

On Imbolc, 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. 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.

Cailleach is a goddess that until this year I had only read about and had not worked with. This is for many reasons but, the main one being I hate winter. Well, now it’s hated. since I have been able to walk alongside her in the winter wonderland that is the Minnesota woods this year. This winter I have listened to her call from the woods to come and join her time and time again. Each time she was able to help me heal a layer of trauma, let go of parts of me that need to rest, and remember the strength found in the resilience of winter. This Winter has shown me that Cailleach teaches us that winter’s resilience and silence is just as important as the energy of growth. Her winter reign creates the space needed for rebirth and growth, teaching that sometimes we must go through periods of stillness, darkness, and challenge before we can emerge into the light. If you want to learn more about her check out the anthology that is within the Dark Goddess Collective I am apart of.

Common traditions for Imbolc

Most traditions observed around Midwinter are focused on awakening Nature from its sleep and dormancy and the coming fertility of spring. Honor Imbolc by including traditions connecting you to the rhythms of Nature. Let’s take a look at some of the many but, certainly not all, of the ancient traditions associated with Imbolc. Listen to your intuition and celebrate Imbolc in whatever way calls to you.

Use milk and dairy as an offering to Brigid or in your spell workings

Traditionally milk and dairy are included in meals. This is an easy way to work ancient traditions into your modern Imbolc rituals. Leave a glass of milk as a offering to Brigid or your spirits at the table or on your altar. When you have your Imbolc feast make a dish that features cheese, cream, or milk. Lastly, you could use milk in spells or rituals. Some of my favorites are adding it to ritual baths for fertility and purification or in abundance spells.

Lighting a fire in your hearth

As a fire festival, Imbolc symbolizes the return of light after the dark days of winter. The hearth fire was central to celebrations, representing warmth, protection, and the growing power of the sun. Fire is also used to purify and protect and is an Imbolc symbol for these reasons. In addition, fire is an element sacred to the goddess Brigid and employed to honor her on her sacred day.

Making a Brigid cross or dollie

The Brigid’s cross is a four-armed cross constructed of reeds. It is traditionally made fresh every year and hung above the front door for protection. This has become one of the most popular symbols of Imbolc.

Bless your seeds to plant this coming spring

Now is the traditional time to bless the seeds for the coming planting season. I f you already purchased seeds for spring, leave them on the altar on the night of Imbolc to charge with positive energy for fertility for planting in the spring.

Cleansing and purification rituals
Imbolc is also a time of purification and cleansing after the festivities of Yule. Cleansing rituals are common at Imbolc as a way of sweeping away the dense and dark energy of winter. To usher in the joy and hope of Spring.

Magical themes of Imbolc

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 on the wheel perform spells to harness the energies of winter, spring, fertility, awakening, growth, manifestation, and renewal. This is also a time to reflect on the past year, but in a way to be present. To truly let go of the things that no longer serve you. This festival is reminder to harness the last bit of the reflection power of winter as Spring begins to awaken for the planting soon just ahead. On Imbolc, 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 Imbolc.

Creativity
Awakenings
Fresh Beginnings
Renewal
Healing
Introspection
Resilience
Patience
Self-Care
The Sun
Potential
purification
abundance
reflection
light
Manifestation
Fertility
Last half of winter
beginning of Spring
hope
Home and hearth
Joy
quickening
Inspiration
new life

Imbolc and duality

Since, I am a grey witch I look for the duality in every single energy I work with including sacred times like Imbolc. The duality of Imbolc is as deep as it’s fertile energy. That is because, this is the transition period aka a liminal period between the harsh winter and the warming, new life of spring. Imbolc is that moment between what was and what’s still to come – a time to pause, reflect, and let the first seeds of hope take root. It’s not about rushing forward or forcing change but gently preparing ourselves for what’s next. Imbolc is a festival that celebrates the duality of light and dark, and the need for in our life. It’s reminds us of the wisdom found in the reflection and introspection of winter and the spark of hope and creativity in the light of spring. It’s a time to honor the cyclical nature of life and rebirth.

Correspondences for Imbolc

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 Imbolc. I will list below for you to use. Remember this is not an all encompassing list and there may be other correspondences to use. Just follow your intuition and use what calls to you.

Planet-the sun
Animal-bears, deer, sheep, lark, swan, cow, wolves, groundhog
Element-fire
symbol- Brigids cross, Candle Flame or Light, Besom/Broom, snake/ serpent, Sheep, Flowing water and springs, snowflakes, white flowers, seeds
colors-White: represents the Snow and milk, Green: represents the newly emerging earth and the green of Brigid’s mantle, Pink: symbolizes the female reproductive system, Orange and red: represent Brigid’s sacred fire, Pastel Spring colors, you can also use silver
Herbs/flowers-acorns, evergreen, basil. bay leaves, chamomile, jasmine, rosemary, lavender, Snowdrops (one of the first flowers to blossom), Cinnamon, Cedar, Juniper, Dandelion
Stones/ crystals-amethyst, moonstone, ruby, garnet, bloodstone, onyx, turquoise
Deities-Brigid, Hestia, Epona, and other fertility or hearth-related deities
Food/drinks-grains, dairy, milk, oats, butter, seeds, or bread, Root vegetables, Dried fruits, Stews, Mead, Fermented foods, Cider, Herbal tea. Canned foods, Pancakes

How to celebrate Imbolc

However you choose to work with the Imbolc magic and energies make sure to follow your intuition where it leads you. Make sure you tap into the energies of abundance, renewal, manifestation, and awakening from the slumber of winter. In your everyday life, you can work with any affirmations, mantras, and visualization work for abundance, new beginnings, endings, renewal, awakening, fertility, and Spring. Let’s take a look at some of the many different ways you can magically work with the energy of Imbolc.

Light candles in your home on Imbolc eve

Lighting candles during Imbolc rituals symbolizes the awakening of the earth from its dormant state and the emergence of new possibilities. The illumination serves as a beacon of hope, guiding individuals through the last throes of winter toward the light-filled days of spring. Don’t forget to set an intention with each candle you light, focusing on renewal and new beginnings.

Cleanse, purify, and clean your home or space
Imbolc is an excellent time for a thorough physical and energetic cleansing. Perform a symbolic “spring cleaning” by decluttering or tidying your home. Sweep your home to remove stagnant energy, smudge with rosemary or sage, and open the windows to invite fresh air and light.

Honor Brigid by creating poetry or art and giving it to her as an offering

Brigid’s connection to poetry and craftsmanship makes Imbolc an excellent time to engage in creative pursuits. Write a poem, craft a piece of jewelry, or work on a project that sparks joy and expresses your unique voice. Dedicate your work to Brigid and ask for her blessings of inspiration and skill.

Other ways to celebrate Imbolc

Make a Brigid Cross. Crafting a Brigid’s Cross from straw or wheat is a traditional Imbolc activity. Place it above your door or hearth for protection and blessings throughout the year.
Set up an Imbolc altar with symbolic items like candles, flowers (like snowdrops), and representations of Brigid
visit a dairy farm if possible
Light a candle in each room after sunset to honor the suns rebirth
take a mindful walk in nature; notice all of the early new growth
Give an offering of milk to the earth
honor Brigid
cleanse and purify your home and personal spaces
charge new tools to use for the spring season
Go and meditate or reflect as you touch a frozen waterway, Feel the energy just pulsating under the surface
Add a cup or bowl of fresh water to your altar or by the front door
Plant seeds and place them on your windowsill inside or in a greenhouse to begin their growth before moving them to their outside home later
Make snow cakes
Reflect on goals set during Yule and check in with your word of the year set on the new year
Have a bonfire or do elemental magic with fire
prepare and host an Imbolc feast
Visit a spring or steam and make an offering. Brigid whose life giving waters are said to flow from springs and holy wells . You can make a flower or pebble offering to her
Light a candle on Imbolc eve to meet Brigid in the liminal space
Make an ice lantern
candle magic
Take a ritual bath to cleanse and renew yourself. Don’t forget to add some self love to it as well. I have a self love ritual bath spell on my Pinterest here.
Make your own candles since it is also known as candlemas
Take a cleansing shower
Divination like fire scrying, water scrying
perform spells and rituals to bless and bring hope into your home and hearth
Use snow in your rituals for renewal, cleansing, purification
do release work and let go of the things that no longer serve you by burning them in a ritual fire
Do spells for growth, transformation, renewal, rebirth
Work with the lingering energy of the lunar new year
Work with herbs and start planning your garden
Harness the energy of fertility for manifestation work
Since this is a fire festival its a great time to use it passion in sex magic

Reflection questions for Imbolc

Remember how Imbolc is a liminal time. This is because it is a time when we are sitting on the edge of awakening and growth. Growth often begins in darkness and stillness like the essence and energy of winter we have been in and we are now beginning to awaken from. To celebrate Imbolc is to honor the bravery of new beginnings by going within and doing the reflective work needed to heal. One of the best ways to do this is through shadow work . During Imbolc, Shadow work focused on letting go of what no longer serves you, renewal, the return of the light, and awakening to the fertility of spring. 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. Also don’t forget to head to the shop and register for my 6 month course on shadow work starting at the end of this month!

While you’ve been cooped up over the winter, what has been growing and stirring within you?
What brings sunshine and inspiration to your daily life? What brings you light? What can always be relied on to cheer you up?
How are you transforming during this season of new beginnings and transformation? What will be your fresh start this Imbolc?
Brigid is a very protective deity. If you could have protection from anything over the next year, what would it be?
How can you be more creative in your life? What things are inspiring your creativity right now? How do you like to express your creativity?
What do you need to let go that no longer serves you before the growing season?
Are there any old beliefs or habits that I need to let go of to truly grow and flourish this spring?
What tiny buds of new life are beginning to appear from those winter dreams? What new beginning are you experiencing?
What are the projects & plans you’d like to bring to life over the next few months?
How are you building wisdom in this season of your life? How can you nurture that growth this winter?
What areas of my life need be reborn the most with the return of the light?
Are there changes currently taking place in your life, or transitions you are experiencing that are making you feel out of balance or uncomfortable?
If you could start fresh and renew an acquaintance from your past life, with whom would you renew it? Reflect on your past relationship with this person.
What wisdom have you learned this Winter you want to take with you into Spring?
How will you transform (or contribute to transforming) your community or the world? How will you bring new life this Imbolc?
What are your favorite signs of spring and new growth as the earth is beginning to come to life? What are the things you look for in nature during this season?
What are you planting this year, in terms of your personal development? What are your plans for growth?
How have you been honoring and connecting to winter this season?
How do you wish to connect with the coming Spring?

Imbolc Wishing Ritual

Imbolc is a celebration of light and the first spark of spring. It is a whisper of warmer weather and an ember of hope in the darkness of winter. Which is why its a time of ripe fertile energy great to focus towards your manifestations and deepest wishes. Use this simple Imbolc wishing ritual below to create a potent vessel to help your deepest wishes come true with the blossoming energy of Spring.

How to preform spell

You can use either a box or a Jar. Take the vessel and decorate it with Imbolc and spring correspondences. Than take a sheet of paper (green if you can) And write out all your wishes for the coming year and/or season. You can also add rosemary and/or bay leaves into the box. Than take the paper and energetically seal it within your vessel while saying

“ As the sun begin its rebirth I gave my thanks back to mother earth. Embracing change, with the light of hope the seeds of the future I continue to sow.” Than Take the vessel and add it to your altar or leave it in a place you can see it often and come back to and charge yourself with its energy.

Burst of creativity ritual with Brigid on Imbolc

As you begin to awaken from your hibernation during winter, Imbolc is a time for reigniting our motivation and fertile creative energy. It’s a time to be willing to let go of the past ways of creating and feel into those fertile grounds that rest has nourished. Imbolc invites you to reflect on what fires up your soul creatively, what brings you back to your why, the thing that really fires your soul. Then dares you to have the courage to follow that spark and let a passionate inferno of creativity ignite in your soul. Use this ritual involving candle magic and the element of fire to call on Brigid to help you do just that.

What You’ll Need:
White candle (tealight or spell size is best)
Lighter
Carnelian

How to Cast the Spell:
Gather your supplies , pick your spot and get yourself into sacred container however works best for you. If you want to cast a circle you can do this now. Set your carnelian and your candle next to each other directly in front of you. Take the time now to focus on what the igniting passion of fire can light in your soul to create right now. Focus on the energy of fire lighting your creativity and bringing your project to life.
Next, Focus on your breath and when you feel ready on an inhale, light the candle then exhale. Then, recite this spell as you stare into the dancing hot flame now ignited, “candlelight, fire bright, burst through the darkness and stagnancy inside of me. I ask Brigid to lend me her fire of inspiration and creativity.” Close your eyes and repeat the prayer two more times. Visualize a small flame in your heart growing bigger and brighter. This is the fire of passion and creative ingenuity. Let it continue to grow in your mind’s eye as the candle burns down. When the candle is done burning, pick up the carnelian stone and carry it on you. Wear it daily and know that the fire of creativity is inside of that stone. Lending its energy to you. Now CREATE. Whatever that means to you: writing, content, arts and crafts, a new project at work, music, etc. etc.

Milk and Honey Prosperity Spell

A milk and honey prosperity spell is a magical ritual that uses milk and honey as its key ingredients to attract abundance and financial prosperity into your life. By drawing on the symbolism of nourishment and sweetness, essentially invoking a “land of milk and honey” into your life . Bringing you plenty of wealth, happiness, and well-being to you. With Imbolc being a festival and time of fertility and the coming abundance of spring and the return of light it’s a great time to do this spell. Learn how below.

Mix a small bowl of milk with a teaspoon of honey. You can personalize the spell by adding other ingredients that resonate with your personal goals (like cinnamon for motivation, or basil for business success)
Then take a deep breath and Stir your mixture clockwise while focusing on abundance and blessings. Make sure you focus on what it is you specifically want abundance of in your life and what it is you want to sweeten up your life.
Place the bowl on your altar as an offering to Brigid, or pour it into the earth as a sign of gratitude.

Final thoughts

These cold Mid-Winter days give us a moment to pause and notice the signs of life return. The days are beginning to lengthen, and we receive the first faint whispers of warmth. Imbolc is a reminder that Winter does not last forever. Earth’s magic is never idle, even when it appears to be sleeping. Imbolc really is a special time of the year where the chill of winter begins to fade and the promise of spring peeks through. Just like the first flowers pushing through the snow, this is a chance to reconnect with ourselves and embrace the quiet energy of new beginnings. May the life stirring underground stir new dreams to life within you. May the flames of inspiration and passion be ignited in your soul this Imbolc/ Midwinter.

Don’t forget to head over to my shop and register for my Valentines day sex magic event as well; Essence of the sacred dance. When you register for this event you will learn; Sex magic techniques to increase pleasure, create more presence in the moment, manifest your desires through organisms, and strengthen your connection through timeless intimacy! Let me show you how something as simple as the right energy, intention, and breathing technique with your blowjobs can heal years of trauma for your partner even! Plus you will leave with an eBook full of sex magic spells you can do on your own and journal prompts to help unlock more of your sexual prowess, desires, and release blockages holding you back in bed.

If you have ever wanted to learn how to make sex apart of your magic and spiritual life this event is for you! We begin at 6:30pm CST- 8:30pm CST on Wednesday February 11th in google meet. To register for this event purchase today!

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Posted on January 4, 2025January 4, 2025 by Modepogdemystic

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

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

History of January

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

Zodiac Signs For The Month Of January

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

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

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

Sacred Days And Celebrations In January

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

New Year’s day

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

Lunar New year- Year of the snake (2025)

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

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

Yule

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

Other Sacred days and holidays

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

Magical And Witchcraft Themes For January

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

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

The gods and goddesses of January

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

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

Janus

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

Jana

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

Hestia– Greek goddess

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

Skaði (Skadi / Skathi) – Norse goddess

Cailleach – Celtic / Scottish

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

Baba Yaga

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

La befana

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

Correspondences For The Month Of January

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

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

How to connect to the magic of January

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

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

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

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

Duality and the month of January

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted on December 22, 2024December 22, 2024 by Modepogdemystic

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

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

Who is Santa?

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

Other names for Santa

Saint Nicholas
Saint Nick
Father Christmas
Kris Kringle
Sinterklaas
Odin

What does Santa look like?

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

Santa as Odin

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

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

Santa and Saint Nicholas

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

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

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

Myths of Saint Nicholas

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

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

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

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

Patron of Sailors

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

Saint Nicholas Day

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

Other ways to celebrate

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

Sinterklaas

Ways to celebrate Sinterklaas

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

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

Santa and Christmas

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

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

Father Christmas

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

Other Entities associated with Santa

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

His Reindeer

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

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

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

Elves

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

Mrs. Claus

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

Krampus

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

Santa and duality

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

Correspondences to connect with Santa

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

Ways to work with Santa

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

Study, get to know him

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

Leave offerings out for him

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

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

Gift giving

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

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

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

Do things that help and protect children

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

Other ways to work with and connect to Santa

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

Why work with Santa?

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

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

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

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Posted on December 15, 2024December 15, 2024 by Modepogdemystic

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

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

First, What is the Full Moon

The cold moon

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

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

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

Who is Gemini?

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

Gemini constellation

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

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

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

Gemini The Sign Of The Mind And Shifting Perspectives

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

Gemini the sign of communication

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

Gemini The Sign of Learning

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

Themes for the Gemini full moon

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

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

What to be cautious of this Gemini full moon

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

Gemini and duality

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

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

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

Correspondences for the Gemini full moon

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

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

How to connect to the Gemini full moon

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

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

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

Reflection questions and topics for Gemini full moon

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

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

Full moon Prayers and affirmations

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

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

Some prayers or affirmations you can state with Gemini are:

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

Candle Spell For Learning During Gemini Full Moon

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

How to do spell:

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

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

Final thoughts

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

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

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

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

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Posted on December 12, 2024February 1, 2025 by Modepogdemystic

Working with the Magic of the Winter Solstice during Yule

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

What is the winter Solstice?

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

What is Yule?

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

Other names for yule

Jól
Jólablót
Jul
Yule time
Yuletide

Other Celebrations of the Winter solstice

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

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

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

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

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

The wild Hunt

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

Yule a time of renewal, rebirth, and transformation

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

Yule a liminal time of instrospection

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

Yule a time of celebration and family

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

Winter solstice, Yule, and duality

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

Yule and Santa

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

Yuletide “monsters”

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

Krampus

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

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

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

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

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

12 days of yule

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

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

Common Traditions

Lighting of the Yule log

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

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.

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

Ways to connect to Yule

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

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

Decorate and burn a yule log

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

Shadow work and reflection

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

Pine cone wishing spell for new beginnings

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

Tell ghost stories or do graveyard magic

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

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

Welcoming the Sun

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

Simmer pot for the winter solstice and Yule

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

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

Other ways to connect to Yule

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

A Witch Ball Yule Spell for Protection

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

What you will need:

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

How to perform:

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

12 Days of Yule = Your Next 12 Months Divination Method

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

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

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

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

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

Fire and Ice renewal Yule spell

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

What you will need

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

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

How to perform:

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

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Posted on November 30, 2024December 13, 2024 by Modepogdemystic — 4 Comments

Working with the magic of December; Introspection, Rest, and Rebirth

December is a time of reflection, renewal, stillness, rest, introspection, hope, celebrating community and our own uniqueness. The magic of December calls us inward for deep introspection to be a catalyst of rebirth and growth to bloom. Now is the time when we rest while we wait for the spring when the ground thaws and life begins again. In December the energy is focused on the journey deep within as the spirits from the other world are held off by the wild hunt and Odin seated upon Sleipnir. December calls us to focus on transformation, shadow work, releasing the past, and choosing the goals we will focus on this coming year to create the life we truly want. December is associated with Yule and the winter solstice marking the rebirth of the sun and the return of light after the longest night of the year. It’s a time to celebrate the return of light to the world next to the glowing hearth with our family and friends. It is a time to set intentions for the coming year, and reflect on the past year’s experiences. This month envelopes us in the duality and magic of winter. By showing us the introspection in dark nights and the hope of day light finally getting longer again. During December in the stillness and silence as the snow falls, and the ground freezes profound secrets of wisdom are whispered with each inhaled breath. Come join me in this blogpost to learn all about the magic falling down in each silent snowflake covering the realm during the month of introspection, rest, and rebirth; December.

History of December

December is the 12th month of the Julian and Gregorian calendars. The name December comes from the Latin word decem, which means “ten”. This is because it was originally the tenth month of the year in the Roman calendar, which began in March. December has marked the end of the year and the start of winter since the ancient Romans created their first calendar.

Zodiac Signs For The Month Of December

Those born in December are said to be born under either the sign of the archer Sagittarius or the mythical seagoat Capricorn.

Sagittarius are typically born between November 22 and December 21. Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the zodiac, and is represented by an archer. They are known for being self-sufficient, independent, free and are a one-of-a-kind, and wise beyond their years. Sagittarius, is the learned healer whose higher intelligence forms a bridge between Earth and Heaven.

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

Sacred Days And Celebrations In December

Every Single month has sacred and important days and celebrations to help you connect to the energies of the month. Plus they usually are a lot of fun to take part in! Below you will find a list of the sacred days and celebrations for the month of December! The common theme you will find is connection to family, our homes, light vs dark and rebirth. But, first we are going to talk about a few that take centerstage during this month having us focus on the introspection in dark nights and the hope of day light finally getting longer.

Saturnalia

First up, one of my favorite festivals and holidays to read about in December because, it just sounds like so much fun; 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 that it was observed around Midwinter a.k.a. the Winter Solstice. Saturnalia was a jovial time for the entire city of Rome because, everyone in ancient Rome had off of work and participated in the excitement. Especially the most interesting tradition of this festival when the social norms of society were lifted. For example, slaves were able to be the masters and masters turned into the slaves. Women could switch roles with the men and vice versa. It was a true time of merriment and debauchery for all.

Krampusnacht, or Krampus Night

Krampusnacht, or Krampus Night, is a holiday celebrated on December 5th to celebrate the horned, cloven-hoofed companion to St. Nicholas; Krampus. Krampus is a terrifying winter devil who accompanies Saint Nicholas in Eastern and Central European Christmas parades. You’ll find him in Bavaria, Austria, Slovenia, Hungary, and parts of Croatia and Northern Italy. Krampus is said to punish children who misbehave, while St. Nicholas rewards the good ones. Krampus is said to have been part of pagan rituals for the winter solstice and is thought to be the son of Hel, the Norse god of the underworld. There’s also an uncanny resemblance between Krampus, Pan, fauns and the Celtic horned deity Cernunnos. But as with almost every pagan entity he Christianity came along and he became associated with Christmas despite efforts by the Catholic church to ban him.

Winter Solstice

The Winter Solstice, occurring around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, is the moment when the sun takes its lowest arc across the sky, marking the longest night and the shortest day.The Winter Solstice is a special event that occurs when the Earth tilts farthest away from the sun. It is the shortest day and the longest night of the year. It’s a special day when one part of the Earth, where you might live, gets the least amount of sunlight in a whole year. The Winter Solstice has been important to many cultures and religions throughout time. It represents a moment of stillness, reflection, and gratitude amidst the busyness of our day-to-day activities.

Yule

As the days draw short and the nights grow long, there are celebrations full of cheer as well as a tinge of fear in the cold, crisp air as Yule is celebrated far and wide. Yule is one of the oldest winter solstice festivals, with origins among the ancient Norse thousands of years ago. Yule or Jol is believed to be first an ancient Germanic holiday season. The name Jol is believed to come from a name for Odin himself – JÓLFAÐR, which translates to Yule Father. 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. At this time of year, people are experiencing both the height of darkness and the knowledge and hope that the light and warmth will return. Yule is a time for people to rest, enjoy good food and drink, and turn their thoughts to the gods and ancestors. Plus during this time it was thought that Odin seated upon Sleipnir stampeded across the sky leading the wild hunt keeping the spirits on their side of the veil.

The Celts also celebrated Yule, but their focus was on the rebirth of the sun and the coming of a new year. 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.
Some mark the holiday with reenactments of the battle between the Holly King
(representing darkness) and the Oak King (representing light) of Celtic legend.

Other sacred days and celebrations

Saint Nicholas’ Day – December 6
Egil Skallagrimsson’s Day – December 9
Human Rights Day – December 10
Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe – December 12
Saint Lucia’s Day – December 13
Festivus – December 23
HumanLight – December 23
Yule – December 21
Christmas – December 25
Hanukkah- December 25- January 2
Boxing Day – December 26
Kwanzaa – December 26 – January 1
Dies Natalis Solis Invicti – December 25
Brumalia
Saturnalia – December 17
Mōdraniht
Holy Innocents Day – December 28
New Year’s Eve – December 31
Yalda Night
Toji (shinto)
Dong Zhi

Magical And Witchcraft Themes For December

During this month the darkness and silence calls to us to take a break from everything. We have put in the hard work all year, reaped what we have sown during the harvest festivals and now is the time to turn inward and rest. Between Samhain and Yule during the month of December, can be an ideal time for shadow work, working on anything that you want to heal, and release. Allowing for a profound rebirth and personal growth. Leaving room this month to focus on the next year ahead and what intentions you wish to set. To begin our new year with an inner flame of power that is burning bright all year long. Lighting the way for a year to manifest all that we truly desire. Performing intention setting and goal rituals during December will have a lasting affect on what you manifest in the year ahead. Don’t forget to cast fire spells as well during this month to bring you heat and warmth during the cold winter months. As well as connecting you to the hope of brighter and warmer days soon to come. I love to perform fire magic via candles during this month to create a beacon of light and hope for my mental health during the darkest days ahead. Lastly, if you live in a part of the world that freezes during the winter with frozen water ways and falling snow, binding and banishing magic can be extremely powerful and protective right now. Use the power of the alchemy in ice and snow to banish things from your life you need to let go, or to bind someone or something in place that no longer serves you in a wanted way.

The gods and goddesses of December

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

During this month a few deities take center stage because they have festivals or sacred days during this month to help you connect with them in a very intimate way. The deities that are going to be the best for you to connect to right now are deities connected rest, rebirth, protection, winter, snow, renewal, darkness, reflection, wisdom, and the winter solstice. Below we will talk about some of the deities you can work with this month. I could never list them all here. Plus take note how most of them are dark goddesses as well.

Hestia– Greek goddess

The first deity I want to talk about I personally feel is overlooked far too often especially during the cold winter months. December is the month that ushers in the winter season. Which means we need warmth and heat for us to survive and thrive. Which is why I always feel pulled to her during this time. Especially living in Minnesota I need her to bless my hearth with continuous heat during the long winter months. Not only that, but she can make your home extra cozy during this month while you spend more quality time with your family. 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 December, the first month of winter when the temperatures begin to drop, and snow begins to flitter down. 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.

To learn more about and meet Hestia, you can come join me in my upcoming class all about her with Divination academy on Sunday December 15th @ 2:pm CST

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 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 class all about this on YouTube here and decide for yourself.

Skaði (Skadi / Skathi) – Norse goddess

Cailleach – Celtic / Scottish

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

Baba Yaga

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

Correspondences For The Month Of December

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

Planet-Saturn
Animal- stags, bears, owls,
Element- fire and earth
colors-Red, green, gold, silver
Symbol-Evergreen trees, candles, yule log, stars, bells, krampus, santa claus
Herbs-Holly, mistletoe, cedar, pine, juniper, Ivy, thyme, rose hips, peppermint, oregano, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, chicory root, yarrow, elderflower, poinsettia, myrrh, Narcissus
Stones/ crystals-Ruby, garnet, obsidian, jet, lapis lazuli, serpentine, turquoise, tanzanite, Amethyst, Pyrite, Clear Quartz, aquamarine
Deities-Dagda, Cernunnos, Odin, Thor, Freyr, Morigan, Cailleach, hestia, Baba yaga, Amaterasu, Skaði, Mithras, Sol Invictus, Alcyone, Baldur, Holda, Bona Dea, Dionysus, Helios, Osiris, Sunna, Nyx, Isis, Freya, Apollo, the oak king, the holy king
Zodiac- Sagittarius and Capricorn
Themes-Rebirth, renewal, light, generosity, reflection, darkness, stillness, silence, coldness, introspection, to endure, wisdom, Personal alchemy, Spiritual paths, Purification, Meditation, banishing, binding, cleansing, home and hearth, family, shadow work, healing, transformation, duality, balance, goals, intentions, new beginnings, endings

How to connect to the magic of December

We’ve talked a lot about all the different types of energies the month of December has and gives us access to work with. So, how can you specifically connect to those energies? In your everyday life you can make sure your affirmations , intentions, and manifestations align with the energies of renewal, reflection, healing, new beginnings, and aligning ourselves with the cycles of the natural world with the darkest nights and coldest days ahead of us in this month. Make sure to grab onto the energy of warmth in the fire crackling in your hearth and home as well as you let go of the past year and head into new beginnings with hope as the next one unfolds. You can celebrate and honor any of the sacred days and holidays this month like Saturnalia, Yule, and many of the celebrations to honor the winter solstice and turning of the wheel.

Some Rituals and spell workings during this time that will be really intensified will be based on cycles of the seasons, rest, reflection, the winter, stillness, silence, and the darkness of the shadows surrounding us. Other spells that will have some significant meaning right now and help you connect to the energy of December should be centered around new beginnings. Setting intentions for you to manifest the life of your dreams in the new year to come. This month is another month when you can really get some clear and transformative messages from your guides. through any means of divination you prefer but, fire gazing or Cryomancy ( snow and ice divination)are some to think about to align with the correspondences of this month.

December creates a very potent liminal pocket of time that is teeming with duality, balance, and the power of transition from not only one season to the next but, from one year to the next.. It’s a month that really pulls us to go deep within ourselves in the darkness, stillness and silence for introspection, reflection, self awareness, and growth. This makes it a great month to do any work on transformation, reflection and preparation for dark times through shadow work. Allowing the energy of the frozen winter in the final days of the year to prep you for the long introspective months of winter ahead. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here; you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

Elemental magic with the element of Earth or fire
Solar magic
Shadow work based on transformation, rest, the cycles of nature, new beginnings through darkness, hope through light
Simmer pot for cleansing, renewal, and warmth in your home
Transformation and transition spells and rituals
Herbal magic-brew teas especially, or add herbs to your hot drinks
Protection magic– most potent right now will be banishing and binding
Purification and cleansing rituals and spells using snow
Abundance and gratitude magic- one of my favorites this month is using drinks like hot chocolate and apple cider to call in abundance daily to my life
Candle magic
Bake fresh loaves of bread and add sigils to the dough for good health and prosperity
Set SMART goals and intentions for your manifestations for the new year
Journal reflecting about the past year than take the piece of paper and burn it in a fire
Slow down, rest, do soft self care for yourself
Add a yule log to your home or altar
Decorate an evergreen tree for yule and the solstice
Create a pentagram wreath and hang on your front door for protection and winter blessings
Make a manifestation and wish pinecone
snow magic
work with deities of darkness, the underworld, and winter
Divination like fire gazing, snow scrying, melt snow and use the water in scrying, Cryomancy
Create a spell jar to connect to the winter solstice
Make a holly crown
reflect on the past year in gratitude try my 7 day gratitude challenge
Get out in nature, feel the snow, the cold, and the frozen ground while listening to the silence all around
Create a witches ball
Random acts of kindness
Make snow water
Write situations or people you want to cool off on a piece of paper and bury it in the snow
Learn about the history of Krampus and Santa claus
Hang garlands of dried oranges and cranberries for prosperity around your home
Create a freezer spell
hang mistletoe over your threshold for protection
Add ice to your ritual bath for added protection and purification
Make a snowman as protection ward for your property
Make snowballs and release things you need to let go when you throw them
draw sigils in snow and ice
meditate as the snow falls
make ice lanterns
Caroling
Visit light festivals
Mirror magic and mirror work

Duality and the month of December

Since, I am a grey witch I look for the duality in every single energy I work with including sacred times like a month of the year like the one we are currently in, December. I’m going to be honest until this year I really struggled with the duality of this month. I used to hate the bitter cold, and the wetness that chills to the bone with falling snow. All I would focus on was the untold stories and lost dreams frozen in silence all around me. I would let the harshness of this month drown me in the things of the past and let the darkness hold me back. But, now this year I am able to see clearly the other side to this month. There is absolute beauty in the pure whiteness of the snow blanketing the world right now. It washes all of nature in a cleansing and healing way as it goes into a deep rest to hibernate. Waiting to awaken when the ground thaws and spring begins to bloom as new being that was able to get the rest it needs to reflect. The silence and wisdom you find whispered in the creaks of trees is profound as each breath you take in reminds you of being alive with a bitter bite. The duality of this month send us into, what I am coming to learn may be the most liminal pocket of time in the entire year. Allowing us to be reborn by the sunrise of the brand new year when the solstice blesses us with hope as the days get longer and bright again.

Final Thoughts

We talked about many things in this blogpost including the history, some celebrations, the different energies and magical themes we can work with during this month. Along with how to connect to those energies, deities we can honor and worship, and how to work with the magic of December. December is a uniquely magical time that invites everyone to plant the seeds for hopes and dreams. December reminds us that even in the darkest nights, in the harshest conditions, and the coldest times we can still find hope and light. It’s the month that shows us the depth of our resilience and our willingness to thrive in harsh conditions. December invites you to let go and open up, to give out of yourself and to receive. It asks you to look within and tend to our inner garden. It asks you to weed out the old that no longer fits, and to make room for the new that holds endless magical possibilities. December shows us that just like nature we have the ability to every year become a blank canvas. Ready for us to paint and create something brand new and beautiful again. As the snow falls and blankets nature December’s magic brings the promise of rest, introspection, new beginnings, and endless possibilities.

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

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

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