Energetic Defense Techniques
(This is a bravery post. I have a lot more to contribute, but damn anxiety keeps me from it.)
When it comes to doing anything, I`ve always been a stickler for safety. The same applies for magick and energy work, in that I probably research warding and shielding methods more than anything else. Here is a quick sort of toolbox of techniques that are easy to cast and at least work for me in day to day life. Adapt these as you will, and sorry for anyone who isn`t big on energy techs or visualizations.
Circle of light: Essentially a quick circle casting method for spells or just to create a safe space. Point to the ground with your projective hand (this is the hand that projects energy most easily, it can be your dominant hand in most cases, but everyone is energetically different), envision a white light flowing from your hands and onto the ground. Turn in a counterclockwise motion, and envision the light trailing behind, eventually forming a circle around you.
Basic Shield: Pretty much everyone who knows energy manipulation knows this one. Cup your hands, visualize your energy flowing out, and shape it into a ball. See the ball getting bigger until it forms a protective bubble. Now here`s some variations on intent:
Filter: Visualize it as more of a net or screen that only allows positive energy in.
Mirror: Visualize it has having a mirror-like surface that reflects energy back to it`s source.
Elements: When I feel overwhelmed with negative energy, I employ the elements of fire and air. Fire has transmutative properties so I visualize a great roaring flame surrounding me and turning the negative “gunk” into white hot, usable, positive energy. Air is good for clearing and purification, so i envision a cyclone surrounding me and “sucking out” negative energies.
For Empaths: Empaths suffer a lot from taking in the energies of others, so whenever i feel overwhelmed, I have a special method of centering myself. I visualize my energies as a large, sprawled out cloud surrounding me, sticking to the energies of the environment. I then “cut” this cloud from the environment, and draw it in into a tight barrier around me (hey, it works).
Just say it: Sometimes the spoken word is just as powerful with the right visualization. If I suspect that there is a negative influence in a certain area, I make a declaration over the space: “All beings, energies, and intentions that do not serve my highest good, are banished from this area. Let no trace of either be left in this space!” As I speak, I envision the sound of my voice shaking everything in the surrounding area drawing off and forcing all negativity away in waves.
These are my go-to methods if I need to do something on the fly. Of course you`ll get stronger defenses with sigils, stones, etc, more physical and long-term methods, but sometimes we need something quick and impactful.