:earth_element: WITCH CHALLENGE - Earth Magick

[BryWisteria]

Merry meet!

Thank you once again to all those who joined in for last week’s Witch Challenge - Water Magick

As above, so below, and one element leads into the next. After exploring water magick last week, we’re sinking in our roots and digging into a neighboring element.

The theme for this challenge is…

Earth Magick

Earth is the element of the wild mountains and the ground beneath our feet. It is the sturdy bones that keep us standing and the powerful urge to make, shape, and craft. Associated with the Suit of Pentacles in tarot, earth is tied to all things tangible. It is an element of structure, grounding, and having a solid foundation.

There are some suggestions for how to explore this theme below, and if you’re looking for additional inspiration, feel free to revisit entries shared in the previous earth-aligned challenges: Of the Element Earth , Practicing with Nature , and Earth-Friendly Witchcraft

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This challenge is about earth magick - how you choose to take on this theme is up to you.

So are you ready? Because it’s…

CHALLENGE TIME!

Picture made in Canva

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Earth Magick

This challenge is all about using earth energy in the Craft - as always, feel free to explore the theme in a way that aligns with you and your unique practice.

Still not sure where to begin? To help you get started, here are a few suggested spells and other ways in which a witch might approach this challenge.

Please make sure you are logged into your Spells8 Account so you can view all of the resources shared!

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Cast & Craft Earth Spells

Earth Elemental Invocation

Green Candle Spell to Grow Prosperity

Plant Magick & Spells for Green Witches

Earth Mother Perfume

Herbs & Spices for Protection

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Work with an Earth Deity

Working with the Earth Goddess Gaia

Working with the Horned God

Goddesses of the Forest, Wild Animals, and Nature

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Work with the Element of Grounding and Abundance

How to Ground & Center Yourself

Nature-Based Spirituality: Wisdom and Quotes

The Suit of Pentacles in Tarot

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Study Earth Correspondences

The Elements in Astrology

Crystal Element Associations

Magickal Correspondence Charts

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…And More!

The suggestions above are just a few ideas to help kickstart your creativity. If you feel called to explore the challenge theme in another way, you are welcome to do so.

From Thyme to Be Healthy - Cold Protection Charm

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How to Join the Challenge

In order for your entry to be counted, all you have to do is write/share about your experience and label it as your challenge entry. There is a lot of chatting here (which is awesome- chatting and discussion are very welcome!) so please clearly write that it is your entry so I know to count it!

Where Do I Share My Entry?

Click here to learn where to share your challenge entry

You are welcome to post it right here- just click “reply” to this post and write your experience in the text box that pops up!

Alternatively, you could create a new post in the forum (this is good for when you have a lot to share and/or would like to discuss aspects of your entry not related to the current theme)

Note: If you do choose to create a new thread, please add the “challenge-entry” tag and/or add a hyperlink back to this post so that it can be easily found- thank you!

Click here for a note for our lovely lurkers

Everyone is welcome to join the challenge. For those who would like the challenge prizes, please know that you will need to share your experience if you want to receive a prize and a public shout-out.

Don’t feel comfortable sharing? No fear! For lurkers and those who are shy, it is absolutely okay to follow along with the challenge on the sidelines. At the end of the day, these challenges are here to help you help yourself by expanding and enhancing your personal magickal practice. I hope they can be helpful for you!

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Deadline

This challenge will close in 13 DAYS

To join in, please share your experience by:

Tuesday, June 17 at 7:00 AM EDT (Eastern US Time)
2025-06-17T11:00:00Z

(Note that the time zone is ET- if you don’t see your time displayed above, you can use this time zone calculator to check for your time zone!)

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Prizes

For their efforts, all participants will receive a special shout-out and a small prize!

Acknowledgments will be given in a Props and Presents Post that will appear in the forums the day the challenge closes.

After the challenge closes, you are still very welcome to post but please be aware that no additional prizes will be given. This discussion will remain open for about a week after the challenge finishes.

From Spells8: Elemental Spirits: Gnomes

A warm reminder that the challenges are designed to be very open- everyone is encouraged to participate in a way that honors and reflects their unique practice

If you’re not sure whether or not something is acceptable to post, please double-check with the Forum FAQ and/or reach out to your friendly Moderator Team.

And for those new to challenges- welcome! Know that the goal of these activities is to help you further diversify and strengthen your abilities and to bring together the Spells8 forum family to inspire and support one another in creative ways

Picture from Spells8: Hag Stones and How to Use Them

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Bury your feet and let your roots grow
Among forest and stone, a world you well know
You’re a child of Earth and will stand your ground–
Here in amongst nature, your strength will be found.

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Blessed Be

[BryWisteria]

Once again, the Earth Witch badge has already taken root in the forum - so we’ll need a different title that honors this theme! Here are a few alternatives that are similar but unique. Which one do you like best?

(Poll is anonymous)

• Woods Witch
• Witch of the Wilds
• Nature Lover
• Forest Witch
• Blessed by the Earth

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[Artemisia]

Yaaaaaaaay!! So. Many. Ideas. Again. If these element challenges had come up this time last year, none would have really resonated with me. I didn’t practice with elemental magick much, or so I thought. Since shiting more to a nature based or bioregional practice, these challenges sing to me of the opportunities to work with plant, lake, tree, bird and animal spirits!

And oh wow, would I switch my label to Witch of the Wilds!

[jayne]

Oh this is right up my street! Now I have to figure out what to do for it. Lots of ideas here. Thank you!

I’m liking “Blessed by the Earth” as my label.

[jayne]

Challenge Entry

Note: As with the spells and rituals I have created, I worked with Microsoft’s Co-Pilot to sort my rambling in to a cohesive essay

Earth Magic

Earth magic is a term used to describe the spiritual and mystical connection to the Earth’s natural energies and elements.

I have always felt a natural connection to gardening, to nature and the world around me, since I was a kid (inspired by my dad, now 95 year old and still going strong).

So last year, when I started reading about earth magic, it inspired me to delve deeper into the subject and essentially brought me to Spells 8 and started me on this spiritual journey and my relationship with the Goddess Gaia.

Earth magic is deeply rooted in reverence for the Earth, often drawing from ancient traditions, folklore, and modern interpretations of nature-based spirituality. Below are some key examples of earth magic, showcasing how it intertwines with rituals, healing, and the mysteries of the natural world.

1. Crystal and Stone Magic

Crystals and stones are often considered repositories of earth’s natural energies.

Each stone is believed to hold unique properties that can be tapped into for various purposes:

• Amethyst: Used for calming the mind and enhancing intuition.
• Citrine: Associated with prosperity and creativity.
• Quartz: Known as the “master healer,” it amplifies energy and intentions.
• Obsidian: A powerful protection stone that helps remove negative energies.

Practitioners of earth magic use these stones in meditation, rituals, or by simply keeping them in their environment to harness their energies.

2. Herbal Magic

Herbs have long been used for their mystical and healing properties. In earth magic, they are central to potions, incense, and ritual work. Common examples include:

• Sage: Burned for cleansing and purification.
• Lavender: Incorporated into spells for peace, relaxation, and protection.
• Rosemary: A symbol of remembrance and used for protection and mental clarity.
• Mugwort: Known for enhancing dreams and intuition.

Herbal magic connects practitioners to the essence of plants, drawing their energies for spiritual and practical purposes.

3. Rituals with Soil and Earth

The soil itself is a powerful element in earth magic. Examples of these rituals include:

• Burying Intentions: Writing desires on a biodegradable medium and burying it in the soil to “plant” the intention.
• Grounding: Walking barefoot on soil or grass to connect with the Earth’s energy and stabilize one’s own emotional or spiritual balance.
• Earth Offerings: Leaving natural items such as flowers or seeds as a gift to the Earth in gratitude or to ask for blessings.

These rituals foster a deep connection with the Earth and its grounding energy.

4. Weather Magic

Weather magic involves working with natural phenomena like rain, wind, and storms. Practitioners may seek to influence the weather or use it as a symbol in rituals. Examples include:

• Rainwater Collection: Gathering rainwater for purification rituals or as a blessing for growth and renewal.
• Storm Magic: Using the energy of a storm to amplify intentions or as a source of transformation.
• Wind Spells: Releasing intentions or banishing negativity using the power of the wind.

This practice is often accompanied by deep respect for the forces of nature, recognizing their uncontrollable and awe-inspiring power.

5. Animal Totems and Spirit Guides

In earth magic, animals are often viewed as messengers or spirit guides. Each animal carries a unique energy and symbolism:

• Wolf: Represents loyalty, intuition, and freedom.
• Owl: Associated with wisdom, mystery, and the ability to see what is hidden.
• Deer: Symbolizes gentleness, grace, and connection to the forest.
• Snake: Represents transformation, rebirth, and primal energy.

Earth magic practitioners may meditate on these animal energies or incorporate their symbolism into rituals to seek guidance or strength.

6. Seasonal and Lunar Celebrations

Earth magic often aligns with the rhythms of nature, including the cycles of the seasons and the phases of the moon. Seasonal celebrations include:

• Spring Equinox: A time for renewal, growth, and planting new intentions.
• Summer Solstice: Celebrating abundance, vitality, and the height of daylight.
• Autumn Equinox: A period to honor the harvest and reflect on gratitude.
• Winter Solstice: A time for introspection, rest, and preparation for the return of light.

Lunar phases are also central to earth magic, with the new moon representing new beginnings, the full moon amplifying energy, and the waning moon aiding in release and closure.

7. The Practice of Eco-Magic

Eco-magic is a modern extension of earth magic, focusing on environmental protection and sustainability. Practitioners integrate their spiritual beliefs with actions to conserve and heal the planet. Examples include:

• Tree Planting: Performing rituals of intention and gratitude while planting trees.
• Water Blessings: Purifying and honoring bodies of water as sacred sources of life.
• Native plantings: Using plants that are native to a certain area in a home landscape reduces the need for supplemental watering, provides food, shelter and breeding grounds for native wildlife and improves soil conditions.
• Rewilding Practices: Encouraging the return of natural ecosystems as an act of spiritual healing for the planet.

This form of earth magic emphasizes the interdependence of all living beings and the necessity of safeguarding nature.

Conclusion

Earth magic is a powerful and deeply personal practice that fosters a harmonious relationship with the natural world. Whether through the use of crystals, herbs, rituals, meditation or grounding, earth magic offers countless ways to connect with the planet’s energy and wisdom. At its core, it reminds us of the profound interconnection between humanity and the Earth, inspiring both spiritual growth and environmental stewardship.

[Irena_Moonshower]

Very well said, put together and inspiring. Thank you.
Blessed be

[georgia]

Attempting to grow lavender (large pot) and daisies (soda can) inside a north facing window.

I also have a pear tomato out on the balcony. It only gets a half hour of sun per day, so the leaves are dying, but I did get one ripe tomato off of it, and there is at least one more growing. As you can see, it’s dark out, so no pics outside.

I’m not allowed to put the rest of my plants out on the balcony: received a threat of eviction for having a camp chair and a folding table out there. They weren’t especially made for patio furniture. Well, surprise: I put out bird food and water: they’ll have worse problems when I leave!

[dan3]

Witch Challenge - Earth Magick

On Entering Bridal Cave, Camdenton Missouri

Stillness, Spirit, and Elemental Earth

In many ancient traditions, the four classical elements—Earth, Water, Air, and Fire—serve as metaphysical lenses through which we can better understand both the natural world and our inner selves. The Elemental Earth, in particular, embodies the qualities of grounding, stability, silence, fertility, and enduring presence. It is a force of stillness, patience, and transformation. One of the most tangible places to encounter this element in its raw and sacred form is within the natural caves found in many places throughout the US but most prominently in the state of Missouri. List of caves in the United States - Wikipedia

Missouri is home to thousands of documented caves, more than almost any other U.S. state. These caves were formed over millions of years by the erosion of underground rivers. They range from large, showy tourist attractions like Meramec Caverns, Onondaga Cave and Bridal Cave to remote and wild caves filled with unique ecosystems, ancient formations, and archaeological significance. The caves often feature striking stalactites, stalagmites, underground streams, and even prehistoric art, offering a window into both natural history and early human activity.

These subterranean chambers are not only geological marvels but also spiritual sanctuaries. Their ambiance speaks directly to the soul, inviting us to ground ourselves, listen deeply, and reconnect with the core energies of Earth. These are silent and respectful places to appreciate Mother Earth and her elemental nature. When I enter them, the coolness and awareness of something immense and beautiful sets a tone in my mind of awe and respect. I love the feeling of sharing myself with the surroundings – and it, in turn, shares itself with me.

And, of course, most of the larger caves have rock shops outside their entrance.

Note: All pictures are from the Bridal Cave website except the first one which is mine.

[dan3]

@jayne

sort my rambling in to a cohesive essay

It came out great!

I used chatgpt to make an outline and to get started and then I realized the outline was terrible so I redid it several times… threw most of it away… kept adding my own experiences… so ended up with mostly my stuff. I had nothing like I started with so. I just claimed it as mine. It was very handy to get started, though.

[Ostara]

It’s 2 am and I’m repotting plants. Does that count as Earth Magick?

[jayne]

That’s wonderful Dan. Caves fascinate me. We visited Carlsbad Caverns on a road trip a few years ago.

@ostara - photos or it didn’t happen! But yes, digging around in soil is definitely earth magick!

@georgia sorry to hear you can’t put out more plants on your balcony. I hope your indoor plants thrive. North facing windows provide good light for artists but not so much for plants.

@Irena_Moonshower most of the credit goes to Co-Pilot, but the general ideas were mine. Thanks.

[georgia]

@dan3

most prominently in the state of Missouri.

I have lots of memories of caves during travel at the age of 4. These travels included Missouri and New Mexico, but I don’t know the precise location of a specific memory. Perhaps you have seen this cave?

The tour guide wanted my mother to leave me in the child care area. It was a cavernous room with a bowling alley decorated as though it were inside the cave. The noise from bowling echoed so much that I couldn’t handle it, so I clung to my mother. She looked down at me and chose to take me through the cave with her.

In the ensuing decades, I have connected the bowling alley with the cavern of pennies stuck in mud, and that with Jesse James’ hideout. I realize that after so much travel, memories start to merge. There are also memories of the cave Mark Twain wrote about, Mammoth Caves, Fire and Ice Caves, and Carlsbad Caverns. I have since returned to Mammoth Caves, and that wasn’t the bowling alley.

I’ve been in a LOT of caves in my time, including Metamora, the Blue Hole, in Indiana; the Earth Crack in Belleview, Ohio (gotta be crazy to do that one again!); and a cave near the Speedway in West Virginia, just across the border from Tennessee, where knocking on cave bacon and curtains creates music. Caves are fascinating! One in Northern Ohio’s islands is a giant geode!

I guess I’m asking if you have any idea where the bowling alley may have been. Thanks.

[georgia]

@jayne

North facing windows provide good light for artists

Hmm. I’ve had nothing but north facing windows since I left from under my mother’s roof. Is someone trying to tell me something? After 33 years, one would think I’d get a clue, but this is the first I’ve ever heard of such a thing. Thanks!

[jayne]

Most of our windows face north too, other than our guest room and my husband’s man cave/pit.

I could probably set up a little artist studio by the windows in our master bedroom, except that’s where my altar is, LOL.

[Cosmic_Curiosity]

CHALLENGE ENTRY

Geb is the Egyptian Earth God. He is the son of Shu (the air God) and Tefnut (the Goddess of moisture). He is also the grandson of Ra, the Sun God.

Geb is the brother and consort of Nuit, the sky Goddess. He is also the father of Osiris, Isis, Nephyths and Seth.

Geb and his sister were born in a loving embrace and were inseparable. Their father, Shu , knew that they had to be separated to maintain Ma’at and to ensure that life could develop and flourish. Therefore, Shu used all his strength to lift Nuit above the Earth, where he would stay between them to separate the Earth and sky. Geb was devasted by this and cried. His tears landed around him, forming the oceans and seas.

Geb is not just a representation of the Earth, his body IS the Earth. He is often shown lying down with his sister, the sky, arched over him. In this stance, he is often shown with green skin to represent fertility, growth and nature. It was beleived that Geb allowed crops to grow from the land, thus providing a source of nourishment and abundance for the people of Egypt. His laughter was also beleived to be the cause of earthquakes.

The pharaohs linked themselves closely with Geb, beleiving that they were his descendent. They often titled themselves the Heir of Geb. The Egyptian throne was known as the Seat of Geb while the Earth was considered the House of Geb.

Geb also played a role in the souls journey to the afterlife. He was present at the weighing of the heart ceremony. If a soul was granted access to heaven, then Geb would release it from the Earth or from his jaws.

We can work with Geb when we need grounding, stability, connection to nature or fertility and growth (of life or ideas).

I have created a jar that can be used if:
• You are feeling scattered or uprooted
• To nurture growth of self or a project
• Greater connection to nature

Keep it on an altar, on a windowsill where the sunlight will help your intentions to “grow” or even in the garden among the plants.

Blessed Be

Alan

[dan3]

@georgia

you have any idea where the bowling alley and cave

No idea - there are so many of them!

Like yours, my family loved the caves and we would go to at least one on any vacation. We lived just 20 miles across the Iowa border so dropping down and caving was an easy, fun and inexpensive vacation. I loved them and would just stand and stare when inside.

[Ostara]

Witch Challenge Entry

About a month ago I harvested a huge bunch of rosemary. I had so much I hung some to dry and made some smudge sticks with the rest of it. I lit one outside tonight (because I didn’t know how the smudge stick would behave when lit) and I like it better then the store bought ones!

When burned, Rosemary is believed to clear negative energy from the physical space, and the aura. As a bonus, it also keeps mosquitos away!

[shelly1]

Absolutely!!!

[Jeannie1]

@dan3 these are beautiful caves
I really enjoyed reading your post because I’ve been working with obsidian and the cave!!

Black Obsidian

A powerful stone of scrying—offering insight into the past, present, and future.

It serves as a potent force of psychic protection, acting like a vacuum cleaner, clearing away negative energies and stagnant emotions.

It is deeply rooted in the Root Chakra, anchoring us firmly to the Earth through grounding and cleansing.

Ask yourself: What is holding me back?

Does it stem from something long buried in the past?

For me, it feels tied to my early years.

What fears still dwell in the depths of your unconscious or subconscious?

Invite Black Obsidian to assist in shadow work, especially at night——during the dark moon, a sacred time for deep transformation.

Call upon your guides, angels, faeries, guardians, elementals, Gods, and Goddesses for their wisdom and protection.

Incantation:

Mighty Hecate, torchbearer and guardian of the crossroads,

Grant me the gift of insight as I stand at the mouth of your sacred cave.

Let me see through the veil into the hidden truth.

Mighty Hecate, Queen of Witches,

Help me uncover what lies in the darkness
Bye Jeannie

So I may walk forward with clear vision and awakened purpose.
I was inspired by a book that I read and it’s called dolphin DOLFYN volume IV more spiritual gemstones

Blue Lace Agate

A gentle guardian of harmony, unity, and protection.

She is the spirit of flowing water—streams, brooks, rivers, and creeks—Earth Mother’s dancing lifeblood.

Blue Lace Agate cleanses and invigorates, washing away despair and nurturing hope, optimism, and joy.

A stone that honors the wild places of nature, she encourages us to go with the flow, gracefully and with purpose.

She’s especially helpful to those who often feel out of sync with time—bringing promptness, peace, and ease.

Petrified Wood

An ancient being—the memory of trees turned to stone—in hues of gray, red, and brown.

This fossil holds the wisdom of ages past, offering stability, security, and the strength of deep-rooted tradition.

It awakens distant memories, calls us back to ancestral wisdom, and honors the legacy of lost civilizations.

Petrified Wood also teaches us to connect with tree spirits—guardians of the Earth who stand ready to heal, guide, and ground us.

Trees, after all, are the great balancers—reaching high into the heavens while digging deep into the Earth, holding the mysteries of both.

They share their balanced energy freely with those who seek their companionship with reverence.
I actually bought some petrified wood from somebody here on Infinite Roots Spells 8 absolutely love it!
Tigers Eye - Strength
Jasper -
Today, on my walk, I found sage and fashioned it into a wand—a sacred tool.

I am also tending the flame in honor of Litha, the turning of the wheel, the celebration of light.

In my creative space, I’m working on a bracelet, beading with intention. I’ll soon share the treasures I’ve gathered for this project.

I’ve also found some inspiring books on beading, and they’re guiding my hands and heart.

Almost looks like a snake or a swan?
I found some Jasmine on my walk, Roses, feathers for earrings I’ll be making
I’m just burning off all of my fears and worries and regrets in the flames and turning into light! I had a mystical experience listening to my guides !I just need some bay leaf!
@Ostara
That’s a great way to clear the air what are you smudgeing?
@Cosmic_Curiosity
hi Alan, I just wanted to let you know that I have been really interested in learning more about the Egyptian gods and goddesses and I really enjoyed your post. The last thing I heard about Egypt and Giza was that they had the coils underneath Jian that just blew my mind! Thank you for sharing!
@jayne
oh, I just looked up your book and I saw that I could get it on Kindle for 399 and it’s 85% off and it’s only for a limited time for I think like a half hour💪That is so awesome. Thank you for sharing.! I’m gonna cancel my audiobook on Audible and go with Kindle unlimited
Jeannie

Mod Note: Crystal information is from The Book of Stones

[georgia]

@Jeannie1

Almost looks like a snake or a swan?

The first fire pic has a dragon’s head! He looks like he’s looking around at your beautiful altar. What a wonderful fire bowl that has turned out to be!