as a city witch, I can tell you that throwing something in a gas station trash receptacle works the same as burying at a crossroads. don’t stress over shit.
Drying herbs is a simple practice, and there are several methods to choose from depending on the type of herb and your desire use. Here's how I dry my herbs:
1. Drying on Newspaper
This method works well for larger leaves and herbs that don’t need to be hung.
Lay the herbs flat on a clean sheet of newspaper in a single layer.
Place the newspaper in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Turn the herbs occasionally to ensure even drying.
Once the herbs are dry and crisp to the touch, they’re ready for storage.
2. Hanging Herbs Upside Down
Perfect for longer herbs, like rosemary, lavender or thyme, that can be tied together.
Gather small bunches of herbs and secure them with a cord or string.
Wrap the herbs loosely in a breathable cloth, like cheesecloth or muslin. This helps them air freely while catching any small leaves or flowers that may shed during the drying process.
Hang the bunches upside down in a cool, dry place with good airflow. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can degrade the color and potency.
Once the herbs are completely dry (they should crumble easily), remove the leaves or store them as they are.
I do this with fresh lavender that I put in my closet as shown in the picture.
3. Pressing Herbs
This method is ideal for preserving delicate leaves or flowers for decorative purposes or rituals.
Place the herbs between sheets of paper (such as parchment or regular printer paper).
Insert the paper into a thick book, ensuring the herbs are spread flat and evenly.
Place additional books or a weight on top to press them.
Leave them for 1–2 weeks, checking occasionally for dryness.
4. Drying Small Petals
For small, delicate petals or flowers, a rule bag works wonders.
Place the petals or flowers in a breathable rule bag (such as a mesh or cotton drawstring bag).
Hang the bag in a dry, ventilated area.
Shake the bag gently every few days to prevent clumping and to ensure even drying.
General Tips for Best Results
Use Breathable Cloths: Wrapping your herbs or laying them on a breathable cloth allows air to circulate freely, preventing mold while catching any small leaves or flowers that shed during the drying process.
Timing: Dry herbs as soon as possible after harvesting to retain their potency and fragrance.
Environment: Choose a dry, cool, and ventilated area to prevent mold or mildew.
Labeling: If drying multiple herbs, label them to avoid confusion.
Storage: Once dried, store your herbs in airtight containers away from sunlight and moisture.
Using Dried Herbs
Always check if the plant is safe for use before collecting it. Do not make tea or touch anything with unknown properties. Always clean your plants before drying.
Once your herbs are dried, you can use them for teas, rituals, incense, or other magical and practical purposes. Always remember to respect and honor the plants you've harvested by using them mindfully.
Yule for me is like New Year’s Eve, Christmas, and Thanksgiving together. It’s a time of letting go of the past year, declare hopes for the new one, and celebrate b/c the winter is over. Spring is coming. So, write down things you’d like to see less of in yourself and literally throw it in the garbage far from home. Bring thing you want to be I your like closer. Have an extra piece of whatever brings joy to your life. Magic is in the intent. Whatever you do, it will be what you need.
Let all of what you’s want to do play out in your mind. Get up early and watch the sun rise. The same sun rise that will be aligned at Stonehenge. Stir your coffee or tea in a clockwise motion 12 times for each month of the year that is closing. Keep the connection to the earth by taking deliberate care of yourself. Write down things you want to leave behind on a piece of paper and either use it as kindling for your fireplace or just throw it away far from your home. Magic is in the intent, not the motions. The motions are there to remind us that it is the intent of what we do that matter most. You may have to get creative, but you are not the first witch in a non-open home. We will be here as you need us.
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The state of my room is extremely important to me. It’s a direct reflection of my mental health, so when it’s messy, my energy levels are low and I just feel yucky. There’s no way I’m getting any kind of work done, magical or mundane. When it feels good and clean to be in, it’s a lot easier to deal with my symptoms and be productive. You don’t have to do every step every time of course, but each step has helped me so I figured a list like this might help someone.
Change the lighting. Use natural sources of light (like pulling back the curtains and letting the sun in) over artificial ones. If you have salt lamps to turn on, those are still very nice. If you need artificial light to keep it from being too dark, try to prioritize light bulbs you like the color of, and ones that don’t whistle quietly when they’re on.
Change the airflow. Open a window, if you can. Often our rooms feel yucky because the air is stale. Get some fresh air moving. If it’s too cold, it’s okay to only keep it open for a few minutes or put on a coat while you work because you’re stubborn like me.
Change the sound. Put on your favorite cleansing music. Let it soak into the room. I tend to go or ambient spa stuff, or playlists that sound built for a rainy day. (Note: the music that helps you cleanse the best may not be the same as what you like the most. The playlist should keep you focused/uplifted while you work and reflect the vibes you want your room to have.)
Change the smell. Take out the trash, maybe refresh the sheets on your bed. Light a scented candle, some incense, heat up some oil, something to make your room smell distinctly different from the mucky-feeling room from before. (If your method of choice is something short like a room spray, I actually like doing it at the very end.)
Actually clean and organize. Nothing junks up the energy of a room more quicker than actual junk. Organize everything as much as you can (this might mean finally gutting your closet, even if you can close the door and hide it.) Wipe down any surfaces that need it, get everything fresh and functional again. Do some laundry while you work. If you have clothes or trinkets that are just collecting dust, extra points for purging them!
Cleanse any sacred spaces by themselves. A lot of us have altars or shrines in our rooms. A sacred space can also be just an extra important area of your room, like a reading nook. Make sure to give them extra attention! You don’t need to wipe the board energetically (and probably shouldn’t), but taking a little extra time to clean surfaces, straighten up, and make sure everything feels okay on them goes a long way.
Cleanse in your regular way. Bust out the herb bundles, the bells, the ribbons, the broom, whatever you usually do to cleanse a space! The room is SUPER primed for it now, most of the negative energy probably already feels removed if not broken down. A good once-over with your favorite cleansing method should finish it off nicely.
Refresh any wards or protections. Self explanatory. If you maintain energy borders in your room, now is a good time to check in on them and zhoosh them if needed. Keep the space clean for longer!
Practice self-care. Take a shower, a nap, eat some food, whatever you need. You’ve put in a lot of work and you deserve it.
Basics of Banishing
Basic Warding
Fundamentals of Energy Work
The Energetic Senses
The Path of Least Resistance
What is Witchcraft? (A massive article that has everything a babe of a witch could want to know)
What is Binding?
Binding is an action that extends well beyond spirit work. Binding is the act of connecting two or more objects, spirits, people, or concepts energetically with spellwork. This spell is typically one that creates a limitation of some kind. This, however, isn't always the case. When a spell connects two things, it is technically a binding. The most common types of binding are ones that bind spirits to objects, or bind people from certain behaviors. A lot of naive practitioners perform bindings as “love” spells, when all binding spells often lack consent on at least one side of it.
Blood magic is also binding magic. It binds the working to the practitioner who supplied the blood. It is a relatively common misconception that blood amplifies spellwork. Anything that creates a connection is a binding.
Why is Binding Important?
Like banishing, it is a necessary skill that every witch should know how to do. Binding is used far more often than one might realize. If performing a spell that includes a bind without knowing it is a binding, you may incidentally cause your spell to be less effective or completely ineffective. Not knowing how to bind intentionally, or what method of binding is best suitable for the casting, causes the practitioner to have less control over their own working. In some cases a practitioner may find themselves on the receiving side of a binding. Without knowing how to bind, breaking that binding becomes increasingly more difficult.
When is Binding Important?
While it may never need to be used, depending on the craft, knowing when to bind is so important. In some cases binding may be used when banishing would be more appropriate. Binding really should only be employed when it is desired for a connection to be made, while knowing what potential side-effects may arise from it. Binding an entity doesn’t trap it inside the object, it traps it into that object’s localized field. Wanting to use magic to get a job could be accomplished by a binding; however, if that job is acquired, then the binding will still be intact. In cases like this, it is optimal to program a backdoor into a spell. Here is a list of some circumstances in which binding would be very useful:
Capturing a spirit
Preventing someone from using specific language
Preventing someone from certain behaviors
Keeping two people in the same mental or physical space
Keeping someone from thinking certain types of thoughts
Attaching a spell to a person, typically through a taglock
Causing two+ people, spirits, or objects to cross paths
Causing a specific event to occur
Causing someone to change their philosophy
Types of Binding
Spell Binding: Binding a spell to a person, place, or thing.
Spirit Binding: Binding a spirit to a person, placee, or thing.
Fate Binding: Using Fate Strings to connect two things in time.
Action Binding: Binding to cause or prevent specific actions.
Thought Binding: Binding to cause or prevent specific thoughts.
Conceptual Binding: Binding to modify conceptual understanding.
How to Perform a Binding
Decide on the target(s)
Gather anything that helps you build your headspace, passion, and intent such as: herbs, music, crystals, feathers, twine, rope, candles, etc.
Gather anything that is representational of the thing(s) you are binding. Ex. Taglocks, books, quotes, sigils, etc
Perform your casting
Connect the spell energetically to the representation(s) and/or objects(s).
Ensure that the energetic connection lies between all desired targets.
Close the spell.
How to break a binding
The most common situations in which a witch would need to break a binding are to dismantle a failed or undesired spell, or to remove a casting someone has placed onto them. Regardless of why, to break a binding is dependent on the type of binding it is. Fate binding is by far the most difficult to break if it is cast intentionally, nigh impossible. Other types of binding only require three things: a receptacle, a decent understanding of energy work, and similar representations as the original spell. If the spell originated from you, then use the same representations you used to cast.
Locate where and how the binding is attached. This can be done using energetic senses or psychic abilities.
Prepare headspace and gather representations and the receptacle.
Pull on the energetic connection to isolate it in space, while anchoring it to the receptacle instead of its original target.
While energetically sustaining the connection, sever the cord. In order to do this, I imagine my hand to be a pair of scissors in order to assist in headspace, while creating an energetically sharp construct around them.
If it helps to project the connection into a tangible cord to physically help, then do so. So long as the energy work is present and it isn’t solely representational or visualization it’ll work.
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Path of Least Resistance
Anchors
Fundamentals of Energy Work
Energetic Senses
Conceptualization Vs. Visualization
Spell Design
Why Grey?
Introduction
Regardless of the type of working, all spellwork follows the same basic principles. These principles, when thoroughly understood, can be used to increase the effectiveness of a spell. While knowing and applying this concept isn’t necessary, it can be greatly beneficial. Since it is the basic underlying property of spell design, all spellwork will utilize it regardless.
{Note: STEM concepts are not necessary for magical practices, but using them can be invaluable.}
Nodes
Commonly referred to as correspondences, nodes are bits of information that tie objects, people, spirits, concepts, places, thoughts, feelings, and emotions together in order to create a desired effect. Each node is connected, at least subconsciously, by further bits of information. It can be helpful to think of these connections as a web or a woven cloth. It is because of this that creating your own correspondences is completely valid and functional. Nodes can also be constructed solely of mindsets and concepts. This type of working allows for the means of casting without anyone noticing. Especially when combined with gesture magic and/or energy work.
Thresholds
Thresholds are the foundations of spell work. Whenever Nodes come into contact with one another, it always results in a threshold. It is essentially the doorway through which a spell is projected. When a spell is constructed and cast, the threshold opens and passion projects the spell through it. The more nodes that make up a threshold, the more specific the results will be. However, bogging yourself down with a plethora of nodes could hinder your headspace. There is a balance between simplicity and complexity that is the most efficient. Finding this balance is something that is best understood through experience.
Statistical Dimensions
Whenever a new set of potential variables is added to a sample, the multitude of possible results expands exponentially. When casting spells, the more variables involved in the casting and goal lower the probability of it succeeding. I typically refer to this concept as the path of least resistance. Statistical dimensions can be controlled by creating networks and connections between each component of a working. They can also be controlled by choosing a goal that can happen within circumstances that have the least amount of variables. It is so important to try to avoid higher dimensional situations, which means that the number of dimensions are staggeringly high — so high that calculations, estimations, deductions, and inductions become extremely difficult. With high dimensional data, the number of features can exceed the number of observations. For each spell circumstances should be carefully considered. There will always be unknown variables like environmental happenings, intersocial happenings, seemingly random events, etc. It is best to try to minimize the number of possible unknowns when constructing a spell. One can use statistics and neural network structures to prepare for unknown variables. Actual math isn’t necessarily required to do this. A solid conceptualization can also work. One way would be through adaptive control, which is “the control method used by a controller which must adapt to a controlled system with parameters which vary, or are initially uncertain.”** Another method is estimation theory, which is “a branch of statistics that deals with estimating the values of parameters based on measured empirical data that has a random component. The parameters describe an underlying physical setting in such a way that their value affects the distribution of the measured data. An estimator attempts to approximate the unknown parameters using the measurements. In estimation theory, two approaches are generally considered:
The probabilistic approach assumes that the measured data is random with probability distribution dependent on the parameters of interest
The set-membership approach assumes that the measured data vector belongs to a set which depends on the parameter vector.”***
Sympathetic Magic
Whenever objects, herbs, tools, colors, etc. are used in a spell, the spell is considered a sympathetic spell. The nodes are constructed from associations rather than direct connections. Sympathetic spells have higher statistical dimensions because circumstances cannot be directly observed, and thus one has to account for much more unknown variables. Oftentimes sympathetic magic can be incorporated into direct magic, or non-sympathetic magic, in order to develop a more thorough threshold. Pure sympathetic magic requires a taglock and an anchor for a working. Whether it be hair, photo, candle, or crystal, the spell will have to be bound to associated items. Sympathetic magics are best used for protective or warding spells, while direct magic is best for curses, cleansing, grounding, or cursing.
Non-Sympathetic Magic
Anytime a spell is cast directly onto a target that is within line of site or within one’s energetic awareness, the circumstances in which the spell must maneuver are, for the most part, observable. Non-sympathetic magic is easiest to do via energy work or gesture magic, as they are less conspicuous. Binding spells directly to a person’s subtle body allows for the manifestation of the working to be evoked from the inside outwards, rather than the outside inwards. Working directly with that target allows for substantially more control over the spell and its outcome. Direct magic can be used to ward as well if you are in the space and working with it directly. The more familiar with the space/target you are, the more effective direct magic will be.
Sustaining Thresholds
Thresholds are only as lasting as the caster’s headspace and focus. As a practitioner loses focus, the threshold will start to break down. While a threshold is typically sustained by the practitioner throughout a working, they can also be crystalized and anchored to an object that can sustain them. However, the medium that is used to anchor it will affect how long it can be sustained. To read further on mediums for anchoring, check out my article on anchors linked above.
While a threshold is anchored it is best to hold the object while casting, entering into the proper headspace. If the practitioner has a solid grasp on energy work and the energetic senses, then they need not interact directly with the anchor to use the threshold.
Self-Modifying Thresholds
When creating a complicated threshold that accounts for a large number of circumstantial variations, it may be best to actually create a thoughtform that embodies the spell. This thoughtform must contain as many logical processes as possible so that it has the tools to adapt as the situation changes. Thoughtforms do require being physically anchored in order to be sustained, and their binding should allow for them to stray from the anchor as needed. When creating a thoughtform-bound spell, it is important to have a way to banish it on standby.
References and suggested resources for study
Learn statistics and probability for free—everything you'd want to know about descriptive and inferential statistics. Full curriculum of exe
Wiki on Adaptive Control**
Wiki on Estimation Theory***
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[Title]: Taglocks: How to Target a Person or Place
Related to Taglocks
Threshold Theory
Binding Basics
Introduction to Gnosis
Energy Work Fundamentals
Anchors
Energetic Constructs
Spell Logs
Path of Least Resistance
Blood Magic
Spellcasting Basics
Introduction
A taglock stands as a fundamental element of spellcasting, bridging the material world with the energies, places, and people practitioners seek to influence. A taglock is, at its core, a tangible object that establishes a direct link to a specific target. This object serves as a conduit through which energy can be directed, manipulated, or harnessed in various spellwork and ritualistic practices.
The term "taglock" itself is derived from the concept of 'tagging' or marking something with a specific identifier, and 'lock,' which implies securing or anchoring a connection. Thus, a taglock effectively anchors the essence or energy of a person, place, or thing to the practitioner’s ritualistic focus. This tangible item could be something inherently connected to the target, such as a personal belonging or a biological sample, thereby ensuring that the magical workings are precise and targeted.
History
The use of objects to establish a connection with a person, place, or entity is a practice that can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The principles underlying taglocks are fundamentally tied to the broader concepts of sympathetic magic and animism, both of which have been integral to human spirituality and ritualistic practices for millennia.
Ancient Civilizations
Mesopotamia and Egypt: In ancient Mesopotamian and Egyptian cultures, magic was an integral part of daily life and religious practice. Objects such as amulets, talismans, and personal artifacts were often used to protect, heal, or curse individuals. These items were believed to carry the essence or influence of the person or deity they were associated with. For instance, in ancient Egypt, hair, nails, or pieces of clothing were sometimes used in magical rituals to exert influence over an individual, embodying the early concept of taglocks.
Greece and Rome: The Greco-Roman world also embraced the use of personal items in magic. The Greek Magical Papyri, a collection of ancient magical texts, includes numerous spells that call for the use of personal objects such as hair, nails, and garments. These items were believed to create a sympathetic link to the target, enabling the practitioner to influence them from a distance. This practice reflects the underlying principle of sympathetic magic, where "like affects like," a foundational concept for the use of taglocks.
Medieval and Renaissance Europe
Folk Magic and Witchcraft: In medieval Europe, the use of personal items in folk magic and witchcraft was widespread. Cunning folk, wise women, and witches often employed objects belonging to their clients or targets in their spells and rituals. These objects served as conduits for magical influence, much like modern taglocks. For example, poppets (dolls representing individuals) were frequently stuffed with hair, nails, or clothing scraps from the person they were intended to influence.
Grimoires and Magical Texts: The grimoires and magical texts of the Renaissance period also provide evidence of the use of personal items in magic. The "Key of Solomon," a well-known grimoire, includes instructions for using personal items in rituals to bind or influence others. The "Malleus Maleficarum," a notorious witch-hunting manual, documents the belief in and fear of witches using such items to cast spells.
Indigenous and Non-Western Cultures
African Diasporic Traditions: In various traditional religions and spiritual practices, the use of personal items for magical purposes is common. For example, in Vodou and Hoodoo, personal items such as hair, clothing, and personal effects are used in rituals and spellwork to create a link to the target. These items, often referred to as "personal concerns," function similarly to taglocks by establishing a direct connection between the practitioner and the individual they wish to influence.
Asian Traditions: In Asian cultures, particularly in traditional Chinese and Japanese practices, the use of personal items in magic and healing is also prevalent. In Chinese folk religion and Taoist magic, personal items are used in rituals to heal or protect individuals. Similarly, in Shinto practices in Japan, personal items can be used in purification and protective rituals.
Modern Revival and Adaptation
Contemporary Witchcraft: The modern revival of witchcraft, particularly since the mid-20th century, has seen a resurgence in the use of taglocks. Contemporary practitioners draw on historical and cross-cultural practices, adapting the use of personal items to fit modern magical frameworks. Books on witchcraft and magic frequently discuss the use of taglocks, emphasizing their importance in creating a tangible link to the target.
Neo-Pagan & Occultist Movements: Neo-Pagan movements, such as various forms of Wicca, have incorporated the concept of taglocks into their practices. These movements often emphasize the importance of personal connection and the use of physical objects to ground and direct magical energy. While these practices have evolved, they continue to reflect the ancient principles of sympathetic magic and the use of personal items to establish a magical connection.
How do Taglocks Work?
Energetic Connection and Sympathetic Magic
In the practice of traditional witchcraft, the efficacy of a taglock lies in its ability to establish a connection between the anchored spell and the target. This connection is primarily rooted in the principles of sympathetic magic, a foundational concept that posits that objects can influence one another through their inherent similarities or direct associations; as well as energetic entanglement, the process through which identical energetic compounds can interact without direct spatial contact.
Sympathetic magic operates on the premise that a taglock, due to its intimate connection with the target, acts as a proxy or representative. The energy directed towards the taglock is believed to transfer seamlessly to the target, facilitating the intended transformation or influence. This is often articulated through the maxim "like effects like," underscoring the principle that items connected by similarity or direct contact can impact each other even when physically separated.
The energetic link established through a taglock is akin to an invisible thread that connects the practitioner’s will to the target. This thread is not a physical entity but an energetic conduit through which influence flows. The strength and clarity of this connection depend on the nature of the taglock and the amount of genetic material it carries. For instance, a strand of hair or a piece of clothing with trace amounts of skin cells creates a more potent connection than a mere photograph or written name. This is due to the energetic compounds that are unique to each person’s genetic sequence and their higher probability to be energetically entangled. While a sympathetic connection works well in most situations, having an energetic connection is significantly more reliable.
Incorporating Taglocks into Spellwork
Anchoring is a necessary step in the utilization of taglocks, involving the establishment of a lasting connection between the taglock and the target within a spell. This process entails affixing the taglock firmly to the desired magical outcome, thereby ensuring that the energy directed through the taglock manifests effectively in the target’s life. Anchoring is not merely about physical attachment but the energetic binding of the taglock to the spell's energetic design.
To anchor a taglock, the practitioner must first select a taglock that has a strong and clear connection to the target. The effectiveness of anchoring is directly proportional to the relevance and potency of the chosen taglock. The next step involves ritually preparing the taglock. This can include cleansing the taglock to remove any extraneous energies, thereby ensuring that it is a pure conduit for the spell’s purpose. Common methods of cleansing include using elements like water, fire, or salt, each method tailored to the nature of the taglock and the spell.
Once cleansed, the practitioner imbues the taglock with the desired energy through a ritual. This may involve chanting, the use of symbols, or the invocation of natural forces to charge the taglock. The ritual acts as a ceremonial binding, infusing the taglock with the energy necessary to enact the spell’s purpose. During this process, the practitioner focuses intensely on the connection between the taglock and the target, reinforcing the energetic link.
Finally, the taglock is integrated into the spell structure. This can be achieved by pulling an energetic conduit from the taglock and into the spell’s anchor. This way, a solid circuit can be established. The key is to position the taglock in a manner that aligns with the natural flow of energy, ensuring that the spell’s influence is directed towards the target with minimal resistance. Just placing a taglock into a jar with other elements has a chance of establishing its own energetic connection, however it is not very likely.
Unbinding Taglocks
Energetic Dismantling
The most effective method of unbinding a taglock is energetic dismantling, which requires the careful and deliberate dismantling of the energetic connections that have been established during its use. Energetic dismantling is a method that involves consciously deconstructing the energic structures and pathways that link the taglock to its target. This process ensures that the influences exerted through the taglock are effectively neutralized, preventing any residual effects from lingering.
The practitioner utilizes their energetic awareness in order to visually and mentally map out the energetic connections emanating from the taglock. This step is crucial, as it allows for a clear understanding of how the energy has been structured and directed. Once these connections are identified, the practitioner then introduces energetic compounds that are of the opposite frequencies of the energetic connections. This will cause the energetic connections to cancel out and become inert.
After all the connections have been severed, the practitioner proceeds to cleanse the taglock to remove any residual energy. This can be done using elements such as water, salt, or incense, depending on the nature of the taglock and the preferences of the practitioner. The cleansing process ensures that the taglock is fully neutralized, rendering it inert and free from any remaining influence.
Anchor Destruction
Anchor destruction is a more direct and often physical approach to unbinding taglocks. This method involves the literal destruction of the taglock itself, effectively dismantling the anchor that connects it to the target. Anchor destruction is particularly effective when the taglock is a physical object that can be easily manipulated or disposed of.
The first step in anchor destruction is to identify the nature of the taglock and choose an appropriate method of destruction. For physical objects, this could involve burning, breaking, or burying the taglock. Each method carries its own symbolic significance and energetic impact. For instance, burning a taglock in a fire ritual symbolizes purification and transformation, reducing the object to ashes and dispersing its energy into the air. Breaking the taglock into pieces represents a forceful severing of the connection, while burying it in the earth signifies grounding and neutralization.
During the destruction, the practitioner may recite incantations or prayers to reinforce the unbinding process, so long as they do not cause the practitioner to break their state of gnosis. This could serve to solidify the practitioner's will and direct the energy towards severing the connection. As before, cleansing is also recommended afterwards.
Cord Cutting (Not candle divination)
Cord cutting is a technique used to sever the energetic cords or ties that bind the taglock to its target. These cords represent the strings of fate, or channels through which energy flows, maintaining the connection established by the taglock. Cord cutting is a powerful method for releasing these ties, allowing both the practitioner and the target to move forward unencumbered.
To perform a cord-cutting ritual, the practitioner begins by grounding and centering themselves, creating a stable foundation for the work ahead. The taglock is then placed before the practitioner, and a clear intention to sever the energetic cords is set. This intention is crucial, as it directs the focus and power of the ritual.
A common tool for cord cutting is a ritual knife or athame, though other tools such as scissors or even one’s hands can be used depending on the practitioner’s preference. The practitioner then uses their awareness to feel for the energetic cords extending from the taglock and uses the tool to cut through these cords. Each cut is made with deliberate precision.
During the process, the practitioner may also employ visualization techniques to enhance the effectiveness of the ritual. This could involve imagining the cords dissolving into light, evaporating like mist, or being absorbed back into the earth. These visualizations help to solidify the disconnection on both an energetic and psychological level so long as one is aware that visualization in and of itself is not a spell nor energy work.
After the cords have been cut, the practitioner performs a cleansing ritual to purify the space and themselves. This ensures that any residual energy from the cords is fully cleared away, preventing any unintended consequences or lingering attachments. The taglock, now devoid of its energetic ties, can be safely disposed of or repurposed as desired.
Cord cutting not only releases the target from the influence of the taglock but also frees the practitioner from the energetic investment in the spell. This liberation allows for a fresh start, unburdened by the previous connections, and opens the way for new magical endeavors.
Taglock Alternatives
Taglock alternatives are useful in situations where obtaining a physical item linked to the target is impractical or impossible, such as when working at a distance or in covert operations. Methods like visualizations, sigils, memories, elemental representations, and astrological correspondences may still establish a sympathetic link to the target. However, these alternatives often lack the direct energetic connection that taglocks provide, making them less efficient. The inherent uncertainty and reduced potency of these methods can lead to weaker or less reliable spell outcomes, requiring greater effort and near flawless spell design from the practitioner to achieve the desired effects.
Sigils and Symbols: Creating a unique symbol or sigil that represents the target can be a powerful tool. This symbol can be charged with energy and intent to direct the spell's effect.
Visualization Techniques: Instead of using a physical object, practitioners can employ detailed mental images of the target. This involves deeply focusing on the target’s attributes and characteristics during the spellcasting process.
Memories of an individual or location: Using specific memories that encapsulate the essence or identity of the target can serve as a focal point. Repeatedly recalling or chanting the target’s name or a descriptive phrase can help direct the spell.
Elemental Representations: Associating the target with a particular element (earth, air, fire, water) and using that element in the spell can establish a connection. For example, water could be used to represent a person with a flowing, adaptable nature.
Astrological Correspondences: Using the astrological sign, planetary influence, or birth chart of the target can provide a non-physical link. Aligning the spell with specific astrological times or planetary hours that correspond to the target can enhance the connection.
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This post was reviewed and edited for easier reading by ChatGPT.
Ritual Gestation and Birth: A relatively low-spoons method (at least I think so) of creating powerful* servitors, enchantments, etc
*Powerful as compared to other techniques that work worse.
A common spellcasting method is to immediately deploy the spell once the casting is complete. In fact, deployment is often a part of the casting ritual in and of itself.
A different option is to keep the spell vessel in a state of magical gestation over a period of days or weeks, so that it slowly matures, gains strength, and solidifies, until it's born into this world, ushered by your hands.
This method is opposed to one where huge amounts of energy need to be raised at once. It's not a technique I'm able to manage in a sustainable way, and I find the results to be a little too... jittery.
If you are a witch who must not, or may not, raise lots of energy at once, this technique may be more manageable. It involves supervising a pot of spell, a bit like a simmering pot of stew, but overall I find it to be less of a draining process. Perhaps other people will find the same.
I believe that creating a magical seed (or embryo, if you like), and tying it to a physical object - such as a candle, crystal, piece of jewelry, charm bag, poppet, and so on - is in and of itself a powerful act of magic. This is why a candle can be enchanted, immediately burned, and still result in miraculous effects.
However, I also believe that giving the seed time to magically gestate can produce deeply powerful, effective, and long-lasting (or perhaps better to say, permanent) results. This isn't the same as completing a casting and letting the enchantment sit until you're ready to use it - it's an active process of nurturing.
Instead of immediately sending a spell to go out and work, sending it to a gestation phase is an easy change. If our spellcasting methodologies are anything alike, all you've got to do (in crude terms) is to swap out your targeting/release portion of the spell with an introduction to the magical womb, or egg, or embryonic sack, (&etc), within which the spell will grow and gain strength.
Examples:
If you direct energy as you raise it, instead of chanting, focusing, writing, or affirming that the spell goes to the target as you raise the energy, instead C/F/W/A that the spell goes into the gestational vessel.
If you gather energy and imprint/program it before you deploy it, send it to the gestational vessel instead of the target.
If you fully enchant a spell vessel (such as enchanting a candle, or creating a poppet), after the spellcasting is complete, instruct the new spell to rest and grow strong within the gestational vessel, until it's time to be fully born.
After the spell is cast, and you have magically moved the spell into its gestation phase, the spell components should be placed securely within the gestational vessel and tended to until they're ready to be born.
The "gestational vessel" is a physical object - in Traditional Witchcraft, this is most suitably the cauldron. But the gestational vessel only needs to meet a few qualifications, regardless of its ability to make campfire stews:
The gestational vessel must have a secure lid, even a makeshift lid, which blocks out the light.
It must be large enough to completely hold the physical components of the spell which it gestates.
It must be able to be stored without disruption, where no unqualified persons may accidentally remove the lid or disturb it.
Additionally:
Moving the vessel doesn't seem to typically disrupt what's growing inside. It can be taken down from a shelf, etc.; as long as the lid isn't opened without due cause.
I do not personally consecrate gestational vessels to that special purpose. I tend to use multi-use vessel which I'll use for other things later.
When the spell is inside of the magical egg (tired of saying gestation), it becomes your job to tend to it by providing energy. This can take many forms, and is an intuitive process.
Feeding the spell can be done in any manner which you usually recharge objects, or provide offerings to spirits. The line is blurred here, I think.
Feed the spell more of what you fed it in order to create it; that is, more of the same energy you raised, more of the same emotion you spent, and so on.
If preferred, feed the spell food, candle, and incense offerings. A general offering of "white light," or another creative energy, also does well here.
Intuition may advise that different foods are wanted by the spell at different times. Do with that as you please.
Those able to "tune in" to the energies of their spells and environment may find it to be very easy to keep track of the embryonic spell's hunger. Otherwise, follow a simple schedule.
I usually do not find that spells need to be fed every day, and when they require feeding, I do not find that they respond to huge amounts of energy or offerings.
Feeding about every three days is a safer bet for me.
I notice that an excess of provided energy just seems to pool up and go to waste.
A feeding may be as simple as placing a bit of your dinner next to the gestation vessel along with an offering charm, or if you're able to, lighting a single tea light.
Persons interested in psychism may have an excellent time noting the energetic change in the spell as the gestation develops.
The lid may be carefully opened to peek inside, especially if normally helpful intuition fails without peeking in; but treat the vessel gently, as if a tiny embryonic baby chicken is inside. Be quiet and gentle, and avoid disrupting the lid unless you really need to.
Ahead of time, before you even cast the spell, you should have decided how long you're going to gestate it for. Three days, or a full moon cycle, or dark to full moon, are a good bet; so is one week if you're doing a planetary thing. I find that even a shorter gestation period provides delightful results compared to doing none at all.
Intuition may advise that the spell is ready to be born early, or would like to stay a little longer.
If intuition is not your ally in these matters, follow the schedule you've set. All will be well.
The appointed time has arrived - the spell is to be born! (Celestial enthusiasts may be wise the the idea of birthing their spell at a special hour, day, or election).
Frankly, popping off the vessel lid, saying, "your time of rest is done, you are now at full power, go now and begin your duties" will perfectly suffice.
But better can be achieved.
If possible, consider employing a birthing ritual. Here are ideas, in no particular order:
Symbols of a gateway or passageway are very good, even something as simple as two stones or two candles to mark a 'gate'.
Using an actual doorway, especially moving from indoors to outdoors (or vice-versa, depending on the nature of your spell).
Using a hag stone to represent pulling the spell from the faerie world into our physical one; the reverse process of how such a stone is often employed.
Using a family tradition, or religious or cultural tradition, to celebrate the birth of a new baby; even if this tradition is only symbolically simulated through key points ("I am the grandpa of this family, and as the grandpa, I announce the new baby's name!")
Doing something celebratory and evocative, like that Lion King scene where Rafiki holds up baby Simba, etc.
In general, the spell should be removed from the gestation pot in a ritualistic way, glistening with the gravity of ushering new life into this world.
The spell may be carefully taken from the vessel and passed through a doorway or liminal space; symbolically drawn through a hag stone or other physically impassable space; held up to greet the first light of the day, or the light of a certain moon phase; be passed over a fire; or any number of ritualistic acts to denote movement into a new phase of life.
At this time, you should magically assert that the spell is born, and ready to do its task.
Of course, you do more. And in these matters, I find that more is better.
A christening ceremony, or a baptism, is most excellently employed to further empower this new life to be a living being in our world, capable of great influence and change - as we all imagine our children will be.
A bit of anointing oil, a touch of holy water, a formal naming ceremony ("I name you, My Paycheck is Cleared. Your name is My Paycheck is Cleared."), whatever you like - especially include a small gift to the spell (perhaps a few coins to set it on the right path in life), or - I suppose this post has gotten long enough. You can perhaps imagine what more could be done.
When all is said and done, employ the spell; light it if it's a candle, whisper things to it if it's a poppet, hang it up if it's supposed to be hung up, and so on.
Do mind that such things, having being born into this world and given real life, do not tend to quit it so quickly as only bornless energies that are diffused just as they were raised; like waves, forming and dissipating.
Things with birthdays and names and birthday presents and baptisms and godparents tend to feel as if this world is theirs, too.
I am generally not very much of a "be careful" sort of poster, but for this sort of technique, I'd recommend being careful. It really does work fantastically, and that's the problem.
Feed the spell with your blood at the moment of conception, and at the moment of birth, for something extra delightful.
"[If the head of a household wishes to have a domovyk] he bakes 9 breads before St. George day (the 23th of April/the 6th of May by new style) without using salt, places them around himself at night at the crossroads, and calls devils (did'ky) to share the bread. We shall note that salt is a universally apotropaic substance that protects the living from the harming power of demonic entities. Salt was used in burial rites, but, on the other hand, absent from the memorial dinner. The question presents itself: why is salt a taboo in one instance, and a necessity in another? And why does a Boyko hodovanets' [a Domovyk/household spirit] dislike it so much? Perhaps because he is associated with the unclean powers in general (as salt was used for protection against it). It is more likely, however, that the origin of this motif is to be found in the ideas about afterlife, connected to the cult of ancestors, and, more particularly, about the inverted nature of the chthonic world (all that is good in "this" world is evil and inconvenient in "that" one)." - N. Vojtovych, Folk Demonology of the Boyko Region
I LOVE your post on ritual gestation and birth, thank you so much for sharing it! It was initially brought to my attention by @aesethewitch as something very useful to consider with a crockpot recipe commission, and I agree that it would be so cool to apply this to kitchen witchcraft involving my slow-cooker, things that marinate, pickling things, fermenting things, etc. But I wondered if there were any potential hazards I should consider when it comes to going full hamster and eating your own spell-baby after it's born? It almost felt vaguely wrong in a very funny-to-me way, not that it would necessarily stop me from doing it.
We are in reference to this post
going full hamster and eating your own spell-baby after it's born
Sentence of the year award 😂
I'm not articulate enough to explain myself how I want to, but my answer is no: I do not believe that there is any special taboo about eating spells which you have manifested through an enlivening ritual.
I do like a spell that's a bit creepy, and if it's sort of creepy to think that you've just baptized your pickled carrots and named the Devil as their godmother, and now you're eating them in a weirdly quasi-cannibalistic way, then all the better, I say. Even better if you fed it your blood because that's extra cannibalistic.
This is my blood-fed Devil goddaughter pickled carrot baby named Merciful Rest and I'm going to eat her with a nice Chianti.
If doing a human-baby-centric ritual is a little too weird, though, there are many options. All of them weird.
You could envision the crockpot recipe, when born, as being the first part in its life cycle; you must eat it to complete its destiny.
The spell-baby is surely a life, but what manner of life is it? If you like to garden, friend, consider the lifespan of the annual vegetable. You seeded a tomato plant, celebrated when it sprouted, tended to it with love, then ate its fruit and watched it wither and die. Maybe pulled it out by the root early for the compost pile so the garden beds could be mulched for winter.
So the plant angle I think is a decent one; it's not that weird to bring life into the world just to consume it.
Hmm. I have nothing left to say. I dunno if this was helpful. I hope it was!
Eat your spells. It's shockingly effective. Feed spells to other people, too. Just maybe not if it's got your blood in it.
Ritual Gestation and Birth: A relatively low-spoons method (at least I think so) of creating powerful* servitors, enchantments, etc
*Powerful as compared to other techniques that work worse.
A common spellcasting method is to immediately deploy the spell once the casting is complete. In fact, deployment is often a part of the casting ritual in and of itself.
A different option is to keep the spell vessel in a state of magical gestation over a period of days or weeks, so that it slowly matures, gains strength, and solidifies, until it's born into this world, ushered by your hands.
This method is opposed to one where huge amounts of energy need to be raised at once. It's not a technique I'm able to manage in a sustainable way, and I find the results to be a little too... jittery.
If you are a witch who must not, or may not, raise lots of energy at once, this technique may be more manageable. It involves supervising a pot of spell, a bit like a simmering pot of stew, but overall I find it to be less of a draining process. Perhaps other people will find the same.
I believe that creating a magical seed (or embryo, if you like), and tying it to a physical object - such as a candle, crystal, piece of jewelry, charm bag, poppet, and so on - is in and of itself a powerful act of magic. This is why a candle can be enchanted, immediately burned, and still result in miraculous effects.
However, I also believe that giving the seed time to magically gestate can produce deeply powerful, effective, and long-lasting (or perhaps better to say, permanent) results. This isn't the same as completing a casting and letting the enchantment sit until you're ready to use it - it's an active process of nurturing.
Instead of immediately sending a spell to go out and work, sending it to a gestation phase is an easy change. If our spellcasting methodologies are anything alike, all you've got to do (in crude terms) is to swap out your targeting/release portion of the spell with an introduction to the magical womb, or egg, or embryonic sack, (&etc), within which the spell will grow and gain strength.
Examples:
If you direct energy as you raise it, instead of chanting, focusing, writing, or affirming that the spell goes to the target as you raise the energy, instead C/F/W/A that the spell goes into the gestational vessel.
If you gather energy and imprint/program it before you deploy it, send it to the gestational vessel instead of the target.
If you fully enchant a spell vessel (such as enchanting a candle, or creating a poppet), after the spellcasting is complete, instruct the new spell to rest and grow strong within the gestational vessel, until it's time to be fully born.
After the spell is cast, and you have magically moved the spell into its gestation phase, the spell components should be placed securely within the gestational vessel and tended to until they're ready to be born.
The "gestational vessel" is a physical object - in Traditional Witchcraft, this is most suitably the cauldron. But the gestational vessel only needs to meet a few qualifications, regardless of its ability to make campfire stews:
The gestational vessel must have a secure lid, even a makeshift lid, which blocks out the light.
It must be large enough to completely hold the physical components of the spell which it gestates.
It must be able to be stored without disruption, where no unqualified persons may accidentally remove the lid or disturb it.
Additionally:
Moving the vessel doesn't seem to typically disrupt what's growing inside. It can be taken down from a shelf, etc.; as long as the lid isn't opened without due cause.
I do not personally consecrate gestational vessels to that special purpose. I tend to use multi-use vessel which I'll use for other things later.
When the spell is inside of the magical egg (tired of saying gestation), it becomes your job to tend to it by providing energy. This can take many forms, and is an intuitive process.
Feeding the spell can be done in any manner which you usually recharge objects, or provide offerings to spirits. The line is blurred here, I think.
Feed the spell more of what you fed it in order to create it; that is, more of the same energy you raised, more of the same emotion you spent, and so on.
If preferred, feed the spell food, candle, and incense offerings. A general offering of "white light," or another creative energy, also does well here.
Intuition may advise that different foods are wanted by the spell at different times. Do with that as you please.
Those able to "tune in" to the energies of their spells and environment may find it to be very easy to keep track of the embryonic spell's hunger. Otherwise, follow a simple schedule.
I usually do not find that spells need to be fed every day, and when they require feeding, I do not find that they respond to huge amounts of energy or offerings.
Feeding about every three days is a safer bet for me.
I notice that an excess of provided energy just seems to pool up and go to waste.
A feeding may be as simple as placing a bit of your dinner next to the gestation vessel along with an offering charm, or if you're able to, lighting a single tea light.
Persons interested in psychism may have an excellent time noting the energetic change in the spell as the gestation develops.
The lid may be carefully opened to peek inside, especially if normally helpful intuition fails without peeking in; but treat the vessel gently, as if a tiny embryonic baby chicken is inside. Be quiet and gentle, and avoid disrupting the lid unless you really need to.
Ahead of time, before you even cast the spell, you should have decided how long you're going to gestate it for. Three days, or a full moon cycle, or dark to full moon, are a good bet; so is one week if you're doing a planetary thing. I find that even a shorter gestation period provides delightful results compared to doing none at all.
Intuition may advise that the spell is ready to be born early, or would like to stay a little longer.
If intuition is not your ally in these matters, follow the schedule you've set. All will be well.
The appointed time has arrived - the spell is to be born! (Celestial enthusiasts may be wise the the idea of birthing their spell at a special hour, day, or election).
Frankly, popping off the vessel lid, saying, "your time of rest is done, you are now at full power, go now and begin your duties" will perfectly suffice.
But better can be achieved.
If possible, consider employing a birthing ritual. Here are ideas, in no particular order:
Symbols of a gateway or passageway are very good, even something as simple as two stones or two candles to mark a 'gate'.
Using an actual doorway, especially moving from indoors to outdoors (or vice-versa, depending on the nature of your spell).
Using a hag stone to represent pulling the spell from the faerie world into our physical one; the reverse process of how such a stone is often employed.
Using a family tradition, or religious or cultural tradition, to celebrate the birth of a new baby; even if this tradition is only symbolically simulated through key points ("I am the grandpa of this family, and as the grandpa, I announce the new baby's name!")
Doing something celebratory and evocative, like that Lion King scene where Rafiki holds up baby Simba, etc.
In general, the spell should be removed from the gestation pot in a ritualistic way, glistening with the gravity of ushering new life into this world.
The spell may be carefully taken from the vessel and passed through a doorway or liminal space; symbolically drawn through a hag stone or other physically impassable space; held up to greet the first light of the day, or the light of a certain moon phase; be passed over a fire; or any number of ritualistic acts to denote movement into a new phase of life.
At this time, you should magically assert that the spell is born, and ready to do its task.
Of course, you do more. And in these matters, I find that more is better.
A christening ceremony, or a baptism, is most excellently employed to further empower this new life to be a living being in our world, capable of great influence and change - as we all imagine our children will be.
A bit of anointing oil, a touch of holy water, a formal naming ceremony ("I name you, My Paycheck is Cleared. Your name is My Paycheck is Cleared."), whatever you like - especially include a small gift to the spell (perhaps a few coins to set it on the right path in life), or - I suppose this post has gotten long enough. You can perhaps imagine what more could be done.
When all is said and done, employ the spell; light it if it's a candle, whisper things to it if it's a poppet, hang it up if it's supposed to be hung up, and so on.
Do mind that such things, having being born into this world and given real life, do not tend to quit it so quickly as only bornless energies that are diffused just as they were raised; like waves, forming and dissipating.
Things with birthdays and names and birthday presents and baptisms and godparents tend to feel as if this world is theirs, too.
I am generally not very much of a "be careful" sort of poster, but for this sort of technique, I'd recommend being careful. It really does work fantastically, and that's the problem.
Feed the spell with your blood at the moment of conception, and at the moment of birth, for something extra delightful.
If you are planning a feast tonight, here’s an idea for a ritual to honor your ancestors and dead loved ones…
What is a “Dumb Supper”?
As Samhain is the night when the veil between our world and the spirit world is at its most fragile, you might call upon your ancestors and dead relatives to share one last feast with you. The menu is up to you, but you might want to use traditional Samhain recipes such as pumpkin soups, dishes with fall vegetables, and desserts using apples - or you could try baking soul cakes!
Preparing the ritual
Start by casting a circle around your dining area. This is an important step, to ensure that you are not inviting in malevolent spirits.
“Dumb” is a synonym for mute or silent, as the supper must be entirely taken in silence. Set the table with a black cloth, black plates, and cutlery, black napkins. Use candles as your only source of light - black if you can get them. Set a place at the table for each guest, and reserve the head of the table for the place of the spirits.
Rules for a successful ritual
Cast a protective circle around the dining area
Turn off the lights, phones or television
Eat the entire meal in silence
Reserve the head of the table for the spirits you want to invite
The meal should be spent reflecting on the dead
Once everyone is seated, silently bless the meal
No one may start eating until everyone is served, including the spirits
Finishing the ritual
Once everyone is done eating, the guests should silently exit the room by walking in front of the head of the table and whispering “Goodbye” to the spirits. The food left on the spirit’s plate should be buried in your garden, ideally under a tree, or composted. Make sure to thank the spirits for their presence before breaking the circle.
–
💀 Find more information on Samhain meaning, correspondences and rituals in my Samhain masterpost here 💀
Hello there, I don't know if you accept this kind of questions, but what happens to people who go through spirit initiation and can't manage to come out to the other side?
Feel free to disregard if it's tmi.
This is such a good question, thank you Anon.
Broadly - and I know how frustrating this answer is : it depends. Spirit initiation is an impossibly complex umbrella term. Which context are we talking about here ? Where ? When ? Initiation in order to do / become / gain what ? And, perhaps more importantly : with whom - gods, ungods ?
The short and sweet answer as to what happens to someone braving the ordeals of spirit initiation would be the witty « dead, mad, or a poet ». This dramatic saying emphasizes that as human beings (and no matter whether or not your initiation is a success by your tradition’s standards) we do not come back intact from repeated contact with the spirit world. We are simply not meant to. A witch, for example, is forever marked as Other, their very soul forever changed. One could in fact argue it is the same for the priest.
A little bit of death, madness and poetry all happen all at once. I suppose whether you succeed or fail is the same, in terms of what happens to you during the process. It is the aftermath that matters, the crux and core of it all in my opinion : whether your spirits stay with you, or abandon you completely. (Which prospect you find most terrible is up to you).
Two books which helped me most particularly to make sense of what I was (am) going through, and that you might find useful for your own predicament : Between the Living and the Dead by Eva Pócs, and Shamanism : Archaic Techniques of Ecstasy by Mircea Eliade.
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