Challenge entry
Abilities
When it comes to the concept of being an empath, I’ve been on the fence. To be honest, it’s a term shrouded in so much ambiguity for me. It’s like trying to grasp a cloud – I know it’s there, but defining its contours is another matter entirely.
You know what… I’m hitting the brakes on overthinking this. Let’s return to this wonderful definition:
So, here goes: I am an empath.
I recall this particularly in the workplace. Picture this: a small office, just nine people, including myself, yet the atmosphere felt as populous as a bustling market. I could sense every undercurrent of emotion, each ripple of discontent or joy, as if they were my own. It was overwhelming, to say the least.
This extends to my personal life, too. Take my partner’s occasional battles with depression, for instance. Their low periods affect me, and this has caused a mutual descent into gloom in the past, which feels like a spiral neither of us could escape.
In terms of how I express this empathy, it’s less about grand gestures and more about being there, hopefully, in the ways that truly matter. But it’s not always straightforward. I’m an overthinker, and this can cloud my judgment, leading me to misinterpret situations. Without complete information, my mind races to fill in the gaps, sometimes landing on the conclusion that I’m the problem when I’m not.
Tarot Readings
Delving into tarot readings has been a transformative experience for me, both in terms of personal introspection and in aiding others. Initially, it didn’t seem like something I would find much interest in. But curiosity led me to pick up my first deck, and from that moment, there was no looking back. It was as if I had discovered a hidden part of myself I never knew existed.
Now, the practice of tarot reading has woven itself into my life. Each time I reach for my deck, there’s this sense of peace that washes over me. It’s akin to the feeling of returning home after a long, tiring journey. The cards, with their beautifully morbid designs and deep symbolism, speak to me in a language that’s mysterious yet familiar. It’s a meditative process.
This journey with tarot has opened a new avenue for me to support and connect with people. When I read for others, it feels like I’m offering a piece of myself, a form of guidance and understanding that transcends conventional conversation. Each spread, each card, tells a story, and deciphering these helps bring clarity and solace to those who desire it.
I’ve realised that tarot can be a gateway to empathy, understanding, and self-discovery. The cards have become my allies, guiding me through emotions and situations in my life and in the lives of those I read for. They help me provide a sense of direction when the path ahead seems clouded.
Aura Reading
Recently, my journey took a turn when I began to understand aura reading. I appreciate @Artemisia for sharing the video she used in the post below.
My aura encounters with the world around me were usually with familiar colours – blues, greens, purples, and oranges. But then, I perceived white when I actively tried the task upon myself. It was startling, like discovering a new colour in a rainbow you’d thought you’d known by heart.
That being said, I’d been oblivious to auras until a few months ago, dismissing them as something beyond my sensory reach. But learning about them opened a floodgate of understanding and possibilities, much like a dam bursting open, unleashing a torrent of newfound knowledge and experiences.
Magickal Senses
Reflecting on my previous entries in the magickal sense challenge, some of my perceptions and attitudes have evolved a little. Linked below for reference.
The aspect that’s been most pronounced since moving to our new place is my heightened spiritual sensitivity. Maybe it’s the layout and the influence of better feng shui, which I’ve been making efforts to utilise and have begun documenting below.
https://forum.spells8.com/t/feng-shui-the-bagua-map-and-furniture-placement/42696
As for the effect… My dreams have transformed into vivid narratives, each more intense than the last, leaving me in awe.
And then there’s the matter of spirits. Since setting up my new spaces with all things witchy, my interaction with the spiritual realm has intensified. I’m still trying to wrap my head around this profound shift. This challenge has been a catalyst in pushing me to explore these changes more deeply, but I need more time to fully understand and articulate what’s happening in this intriguing new chapter of my life…
Protection
Protection, in my world, is a blend of the tangible and intangible. My first line of defence, my stalwarts, are crystals. Their presence is woven into the fabric of my daily life – some are constant companions, resting against my skin, others are special reserves, called upon for specific outings. They grace my everyday objects, like the bag I carry or the keychain that jingles in my pocket.
Beyond these personal amulets, my home is a sanctuary guarded by spell jars. These jars are a mix of herbs and crystals, some even exclusively crystalline. Some stand as silent sentinels on my desk, their arrangement as much a part of their magic as their contents. If you could see the before and after of my desk from our move, you’d witness not just a change in location, but a transformation in energy.
[Spell Jars]
But my protective practices extend beyond solid forms. I have a couple of sprays that I use, like an empath healing spray and an energy renewal mist. They’re like a balm to the soul, a mist that clears the air and rejuvenates the spirit. I use them primarily in my apartment, which is where I spend most of my time. It’s a ritual that helps me reset and maintain a sanctuary within these walls, especially when our doors are so open to visitors.
Then, of course, there’s the spirits. Part of my protective ritual involves a short meditation, a practice that I’ve somehow managed not to share here yet! I’m surprised at myself for not sharing it earlier. It’s a meditation that forms a shield, a barrier against negative energies and influences. I’ll have to share it here when I gather more energy. Right now, I feel I’m already pouring so much into this post, yet there’s always more to explore and share in this journey of protection and spiritual guardianship.
Rejuvenation
Rejuvenation is not just self-care, it’s a necessity. I imagine it akin to being a sponge, absorbing the emotions and energies around us and therefore, there’s also the need to wring out that sponge regularly. That’s where my rejuvenation ritual comes in, though it’s a bit elaborate.
This ritual is crucial because of the intense energy drain I experience. It’s like every interaction, every emotion I sense from others, and every ounce of care I feel for them, trickles away my reserves, leaving me in need of restoration.
I’ve also been finding solace in the simple act of taking baths. They’re great for cleansing, refreshment, and renewal. With the room dimly lit, casting shadows that dance in harmony with the flickering flames of scented candles. The water, embracing part of my weight, feels like a supportive friend. Its warmth wraps around me like a comforting blanket, while the bath salts work their magic on my tired muscles. Each additional element, be it a fragrance or an oil, has its role. It’s a wonderful experience, one that replenishes my spirit and washes away fatigue.
[Bathing in the “Blood” of My Enemies – A Hibiscus & Rose Infused Experience]
But there’s also power in the mundane, particularly in conversation. Talking about the events of my life with my partner acts as an incredible release valve. It’s fascinating, really, how verbalising my experiences helps to lift the weight of others’ burdens off my shoulders. This might seem trivial, but it’s a great way to shed the accumulated feelings and troubles that aren’t mine. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest acts can greatly affect wellbeing.
And with that, I find the weight of exhaustion is upon me, a gentle yet insistent reminder that it’s time to retreat and recharge… Transitioning from my usual light-hearted, conversational style to this more reflective and detailed form of writing certainly demands a greater level of effort. Crafting each sentence, pondering over each word choice, capturing and editing photos, and ensuring the depth of my thoughts and experiences are adequately conveyed is a task that requires a significant amount of mental and emotional energy. However, it allows me to explore and share deeper thoughts and feelings.
Anyway… Take care, and keep nurturing your own lights, my wonderful Infinite Roots family.
