🕛 Witchy CHALLENGE ~ Catch-Up!

[WrenEve]

Witch Challenge #1 Who’s your deity?

WITCH CHALLENGE - Who's Your Deity?

Merry meet! Thank you once again to all those who joined in for the previous Witchy Challenge - Your Favorite Magick After welcoming the new year with the coven’s most beloved magick, it’s time to look up - or in. For this challenge, we’re doing a divine show and tell. It’s time to talk about deities [Who's Your Deity Witch Challenge] Who’s Your Deity? Exploring the divine influences in your practice Fro…

I have been drawn to work with Artio, a lesser known Celtic bear goddess, probably revered by Helvetic tribes that settled in regions of Switzerland which is my heritage. A statue of her sits in the museum in Bern, my mother’s hometown:

Artio is often portrayed as a bear and/or a protector of bears and of all wildlife. Additionally as a mother bear she is seen as a protector of children. In researching deities around the region of my ancestors, I was drawn to her initially as I was seeking guidance in my new and challenging role as a mother. Then I was delighted to discover her association with protection of wildlife which is my career path. I call on her especially when I face challenges in balancing my personal and professional desires with motherhood.

Artio, Mother Bear, protector of wildlife, Goddess of nature and abundance,
I call upon you in reverence and love,
To embody the balance of motherhood and strength.

Guide me in nurturing the earth,
In protecting the forests and all living beings,
Help me honour the harmony of life,
As I live and walk upon your land.

[little.elf.queen]

Thank you! I really took my time with this one, which is why I saved it for last.
Blessed be!

[dan3]

I should stop writing late at night. It’s approaching midnight and my brain is chugging along on vapors.

I actually did this challenge once. I started writing something for it and then noticed that the badge is the one I’m using now. duh!

However, comparing my latest draft to the one I got the badge for, I think I did better the second time. So I will wear my old badge knowing I know what I meant.

[Nikki-Phoenix]

CHALLENGE ENTRY 2 - A Touch of Tarot

So I did this on Saturday morning, as you all know I’m keen on trying new things, combining elements of different things - the constant journey to find my flow I guess!

I decided to try a new spread for this, combining runes, tarot and oracle cards, with interesting results! First I meditated with the Eye rune, then I pulled a Soul Awareness oracle card:

Totally true, I’ve been neglecting myself more than normal lately, as I had to focus all my attention on K and the school shizzle.

Then I pulled a Spirit Animal oracle card, just because I wanted to break them in:

Again, spot on - not only am I in a phase of transformation, but there are transformations in multiple areas of my life at the moment. I just have to stay on top of them, make sure that I make real and lasting changes.

Then, as I’ve had a lot of worries lately, I decided to make a spread which I’m calling the Hakuna Matata spread - I wanted to focus on the most pressing worries of my mind, body and spirit, and added cards for more clarification. I’ll just write the takeaways, or this will take forever:

Card 1 - what’s worrying my mind? 7 of Wands
Again, spot on. There are so many actions and ideas I’m juggling at the moment, and it literally feels like a battle in my mind. My personal development and projects, not to mention the outside demands e.g. K’s school, navigating the mind-numbing paperwork and bureaucracy, it is taking a toll on my mind. I need to chill out, prioritise, and try to deal with one thing at a time.

Card 2 - main influence - 7 of Cups.
This is probably an indication of my uncertainty about a personal decision to walk away from something. In this instance, the upright cups suggest that what I’ve left behind may look incomplete, but I did all that I could before leaving it behind. The water in this card is smooth, still flowing, just in a different direction…so maybe it’s time to accept that walking away was the right thing to do, it is time to flow in another direction.

Card 3 - what can I do - 6 of Cups
I need to trust in my intuition, build on the relationships I have and let them bloom just like the cups on the card. Remembering why I’m doing what I’m doing - to help others - will keep me going.

Card 4 - what’s worrying my body - Judgement
This confused me at first, and then I wondered if the cards were being literal again…I need to take better care of my self, or there will literally be a reckoning.

Card 5 - main influence - King of Cups
Hmm. Not gonna lie, I’m stumped on this one so if anyone has any ideas, hit me up!

Card 6 - what can I do - Temperance
Yeah, that’s easy for the cards to say! Maintaining balance and harmony when it comes to my body is not my strong suit, but I am working on it.

Card 7 - what’s worrying my spirit - The Magician
I get this card so much, especially when it comes to spirit or potential matters. I think this is an indication that I’m not really using or trusting in my abilities, and that’s very hard to do when you’re a chronic self-doubter. Or, maybe it’s just a reminder of the ‘as above, so below’ belief - or maybe I need to embrace the magician within, to free my spirit.

Card 8 - main influence - The Tower
Well, yeah, that kind of makes sense. With all the changes going on, plus the changes I think are coming, it’s no wonder my spirit is out of sorts. And it ties in with the spirit animal card, the process of metamorphosis can be a turbulent one, but it’s necessary to emerge as a beautiful butterfly.

Card 9 - what can I do - The Moon
The Moon is light without light, illuminating all that is hidden, including the things one doesn’t want to see. I need to continue developing my intuition, keep doing shadow work, utilise the power of the Moon and trust in that to energise my spirit.

I then felt drawn to pull another tarot card, and I got…

Yes, I know. I’ve always taken on more than I can manage, but all I’ve got is me so if I don’t do things, they don’t get done. But at least I know that the end result I’m hoping for is still in sight, and still achievable, I’ve just gotta hold on and keep going.

This was fun! It also gave me ideas for future spreads, from movies and songs…maybe even a Rock Band spread, like who’s my drummer, lead vocalist, guitarist, etc…the possibilities are endless!

x Blessed Be x

[georgia]

@Nikki-Phoenix

Hakuna Matata spread

Hehe. I like that!

[dan3]

@Nikki-Phoenix

Card 5 - main influence - King of Cups
if anyone has any ideas, hit me up!

Actually and from a literal stand from an onlooker, this seems to fit you. The King of Cups embodies empathy, compassion and emotional intelligence. I could list all the other points but you do fit those. It is one of your strengths.

And like others, I love the name of your spread!

[tory]

Challenge Entry #1: Interpreting Signs and Messages
This one comes at a great time as I have been having recurring dreams of being lost. It never matters what the original intent of the dream is, I always end up wandering around lost or looking for something. When I looked further into this, I realized that it is representing a feeling of change. I had been contemplating changing careers for the last several months and have recently decided to take the plunge. I think this is what it was representing! It kind of confirmed to me that I was indeed on the right track to change.

Challenge Entry #2 Conditional Magick
Although my go to response is that I can do whatever ritual or spell I want to do at any time, I realize that is not always the case. I often will time my magick with the moon phase. I do feel that certain spells and rituals are more powerful at different phases of the moon. I do also believe that everyone’s power lies within them, so that if they want to cast the same spell but at a different time, that is perfectly fine, too!

Weekly Challenge #3 Numerology
I don’t dive into this much, I will confess. So I decided to see what my destiny path is. Here are my results (although, I don’t really feel a connection to this result):
A Spiritual Reflection for Destiny Number 3: Harnessing Your Creative Power

For those with Destiny Number 3, life is a spiritual journey of embracing your creative gifts and learning to channel them in ways that bring joy and meaning to your life and the lives of others.

While your natural talents lie in self-expression and creativity, your deeper spiritual challenge is to cultivate focus and balance. Your destiny calls you to not only share your gifts but to do so in a way that is sustainable and grounded.

The journey of Destiny Number 3 asks you to trust in your creative power while also finding structure and discipline to bring your ideas to life.

When you learn to balance your free-spirited nature with a sense of purpose, you elevate your spiritual growth and live to your highest potential.

Affirmation for Destiny Number 3: “I embrace my creativity and use my gifts to inspire and uplift those around me.”

By honoring your unique talents and learning to focus your energy, you can fulfill your Destiny Number 3’s highest purpose—creating a life filled with joy, expression, and spiritual fulfillment.

Challenge Entry #4 Potion Making
I just recently made a batch of Florida Water using [quote=“SilverBear, post:1, topic:1257”]
This recipe is the more “traditional” one.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup dried sweetgrass
1/2 cup dried lavender
1/2 cup dried sage
1/2 cup dried cedar
6 cups of Vodka

Directions:

Gather your herbs, give thanks to them for their use.

Add the vodka to it and store in a glass jar at room temperature.

Keep the content for 14 days. You can place it outside to infuse with either a full or new moon.

Use a paper towel or cheese cloth to strain out the liquid from the herbs into a clean, preferably glass container. Cover the lid tightly and store until when needed.
[/quote]

I think the color is so beautiful! I’ve never made it before, so wasn’t really sure what color it would be, but find it interesting that it is the color of blood and I made it under the blood moon!

Last one- Challenge Entry #5 Celestial Exploration
Have you ever heard of Primal Astrology? I just recently found out about it when I was researching new tattoos! LOL Here is the link to find your animal spirit!

I found it surprisingly accurate and so much fun! If you try it, let me know what you think!! I am a Hermit Crab!

[georgia]

Challenge Entry
3 Celestial Exploration

I chose to follow the link from @tory because it was easy during a rough health week.

The site told me I was a peacock, but didn’t allow me further understanding of its meanings.

Instead, I was sent to a quiz site

Find out who you are with this personality test and discover characteristics...

According to this, I’m a lot more even tempered and socially adept than I give myself credit for.

[BryWisteria]

One week to go!

Catch-up challenges always get me so excited to see which themes everyone will choose to explore - there’s a menagerie of magick on display this week! A big thank you to everyone who has shared an entry (or two, or three, or more!) so far.

For those still pondering what to share, no fear - plenty of time remains on the challenge clock. There is one more week until this challenge closes.

Looking forward to seeing your entries!

Blessed be

[Nikki-Phoenix]

Thanks @dan3 @georgia, keep an eye out for spreads in the future inspired by Disney and thanks for the compliments from my Egypt post, hard to believe that’s almost 20 years ago!

By the way, @dan3…if you can order a quarter pounder and fries in 4 languages, which in and of itself is awesome, I would argue that you are multilingual! And many thanks for your comment about the spread, I did not think of that at all and very kind of you to say

x Blessed Be x

[dan3]

@Artemisia

I have to say that the number one source that I’ve learned from and continue to do so is Spells8 and this forum!

That rings true for me, too. Finding Spells8 put my learning into high gear. When I got here, I didn’t have a path because I didn’t have the knowledge to pick one. I still have a long way to go but knowing what to study is such a relief.

[WrenEve]

Challenge entry #2 Grounding and centering

My favourite way of centering is through a meditation I learned in a DailyOm course. Here is a snippet of it:

So you can bring your attention to your heart, maybe even putting your hands over it. And with your inner gaze in this very empty receptive place, let your gaze rest into your heart. And allow to be revealed to you the deep flame that is always there. And let it be authentic.
Really notice, be shown the texture, the color, the warmth, the size. It could be like a single candle flame in a deep inner sanctuary, or it could be this hugely radiant hearth fire.
It could be anything.
So take a moment and just let it be revealed to you, the state of the, this flame, this radiance in your heart. With every in-breath, breathe space all around your fire, gently expanding the space around it, welcoming it into residency. And with each out-breath, you can actually direct your own love, breath, presence into your flame as if you’re blowing on a hot coal. So creating a cycle of self-sustaining nourishment, where on each in-breath, you’re opening space, welcoming the warmth and the presence of this flame in you. And then on each out-breath, just feeding that flame, that radiance with your breath, your love, your consciousness
And it goes on with creating a protection circle in which you release all worries and thoughts to the periphery to protect your inner sanctum.

Another favourite of mine is to ground and center amongst the trees, especially this oak tree stand, a bit of a walk from my home:

[Artemisia]

@WrenEve

center amongst the trees, especially this oak tree stand

How wonderful!!! What a gift to find and have close to home! I could see myself visiting that spot a couple times a week. What a lovely photo of you and you pup in the trees!

[dan3]

@Nikki-Phoenix

if you can order a quarter pounder and fries in 4 languages… I would argue that you are multilingual!

Most large businesses - no matter what country - have English speakers. There are exceptions, of course. The thing is, it is fun to speak/read another language and it comes with amazing cultural benefits.

[Jeannie1]

Purify and Cleanse #2 Challenge

I don’t know where I heard this, but I heard that there are light frequencies that can help cleanse your root. The chakra system has subtle energies that gets clogged up and so I use a spinning brush to clean my root, sacral, solar plexus, heart, throat, third eye. The grounding technique start by imagining lots of roots. I have an imaginary tree around my body. Once I imagine this the tree grows roots after that, I connect a 8 grounding to the bottom of mother Earth. Then after doing that, I imagine that the light is entering my chakra systems Up the spine and !!! sing my room of negative energy.I hope everyone is enjoying your challenge!
Jeannie

[Nikki-Phoenix]

@Jeannie1

The grounding technique start by imagining lots of roots.

Omg me too! I visualise a willow tree, it’s roots go deep into the Earth to draw the energy up through each chakra. Then I visualise the others to create a picture in my mind; the sacral is a deep orange sunset behind the willow tree, solar is the sun just above the sunset, a pink heart in the tree trunk for the heart chakra, the throat chakra is a couple of blue rays shining on the willow tree, the 3rd eye is a purple mindstone (yes from Avengers) in the middle of the willow tree branches, and the crown is a silver and violet crown just above the willow’s branches, and as they align, the picture kind of glows.

Sorry, didn’t mean to spill all that, just excited to see someone else does the same thing!

x Blessed Be x

[georgia]

Your image is beautiful @Nikki-Phoenix!

I like the idea of a spinning brush to cleanse the chakras @Jeannie1

[georgia]

Challenge Entry
4 Your Sacred Books

I thought this would be a good time for me to remind myself that I am still writing, still working on sacred books. It’s easy to forget where I am and what I’m doing.

1. my Digital Shadows.
2. Collecting all Spells8 Printables
3. My mirrors is more diary than journal right now, but it is in progress.
4. Several books are awaiting me to get the scanner set up so I can save new pages to the computer so they won’t get lost.
5. I am attempting a mini book of skills learned to be used as a reminder of happy times and possible activities I could indulge in. So far, there are just over 100.
6. A dream journal.
7. A health journal.
8. Notes taken which are unorganized at the moment.

[amanda6]

Challenge Entry 1: Nordic Magic

@BryWisteria

Nordic Magick – Nordic Practitioner

I used the Rune Draw everyday Here are a couple of days screenshots from the last week and here is the spell I did last Saturday

Challenge Entry 2 - Dragon Magic

@BryWisteria

Dragon Magick – Blessed by Dragons

For this Challenge I did some searching and chose these two new spells to save and The protection one is one I have used a few times

Challenge Entry 3 - Greek Magic

@BryWisteria

Greek & Roman Magick – Greek Practitioner (or) Roman Practitioner

Last week I learned about Fortuna and I’ve been researching Hecate and started an altar and did these 2 spells

Challenge Entry 4 - Egypt Magic

@BryWisteria

Egyptian Magick – Egyptian Practitioner

I have worked with Bast for a year Here is my altar and I decided to start learning about Isis

Challenge Entry 5- Celtic Magic

@BryWisteria

Celtic Magick – Celtic Practitioner

This is my 1st time researching Celtic and Irish magic This area was very interesting and I spent quite some time here

[dan3]

Wow. That was a great post. Totally full of information. I’m bookmarking it. I need to study it more.