Being a witch is often associated with magic, spells, and potions. However, there are certain characteristics and qualities that are considered hallmarks of being a witch. These hallmarks go beyond simply practicing witchcraft and delve into the core elements that define witches and their way of life. First and foremost, **a deep connection with nature** is one of the hallmarks of being a witch. Witches have a profound appreciation for the natural world and all its wonders. They understand the interconnectivity of all living beings and respect the balance and cycles of nature.
So here are some common traits I notice in witches – see if you can recognize them in yourself – and if you do, you might want to begin calling yourself a witch.
Being that it s the mid mark between the autumnal equinox and the winter solstice, the veil between the material plane and metaphysical world is thinned. Infamous witchfinders like Matthew Hopkins and John Searne inspired such terror in the community that it didn t take long for women to accuse other women of witchcraft as a way of deflecting their own indictments.
They understand the interconnectivity of all living beings and respect the balance and cycles of nature. This connection with nature often extends to a strong affinity for plants, animals, and the earth itself. Secondly, **intuition** plays a significant role in a witch's life.
Here's What It Means to Be a Real-Life Witch In 2021
Contrary to popular belief, we aren't menacing broomstick-flying old hags who cast hexes all day long.
Lisa Stardust is a New York City-based astrologer who is known for her pop culture horoscopes. Stardust acts as a guide for clients to help navigate them through finances, relationships, and other important facets of life. She is the author of Saturn Return Survival Guide and The Astrology Deck.
Updated on October 29, 2021 @ 02:28PM Photo: ShutterstockThe season of the witch is upon us. That means it's time for us all to take out our broomsticks to start some trouble, right? Just kidding.
As a witch, it's time to set a few things straight: Contrary to what you may have learned from The Wizard of Oz, we aren't menacing broomstick-flying old hags who cast hexes all day long. And, no we can't zap magic through our fingers like Sabrina the Teenage Witch. (But, we do unite within covens and dive into the metaphysical forces of the universe like in the modern remix of the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.)
So what is a witch? Well, we are actually pretty much the same as everyone — except we see situations with a dimensional lens that helps us to understand the world on a deeper level. First thing's first: Anyone can be a witch. Some people are born into mystical families while others have natural abilities. Some join covens and houses to be intimated into a certain branch of Magic. But, we are all magical at heart.
Being a witch also requires a few things: being one with nature, seeing matters with an open mind, and healing others. We are seers of truths and givers of wisdom, and nurturers of Earth and those who inhabit it. We are high-vibe peeps who want to make the world a better place — not cauldron-stirring trouble makers like the infamous Sanderson sisters.
Read on to find out what it means to be 100% that witch.
Getty ImagesConnecting With Nature
As a magic practitioner, I find it important to align and harmonize with nature. Using the elements (fire, earth, air, and water) that make up the Earth can help us to create and elevate our own innate power. Understanding that the world isn't as it seems and is composed of many dimensions is important, as is being able to let your mind and body feel their way through different realms and synergize with those frequencies. This allows us witches to be open to receiving downloads and information from domains that remain hidden to the common eye.
The person we glorify the most is Mother Earth and we never take her for granted. That means showing love for all living things — flowers, plants, animals, and other humans. The Sun and the Moon give us our power to lean into our cast spells and alchemy to see through the darkness with the intention of illuminating truths that have been kept secret.
Connecting With Ancestors And Spirits
As a witch, it's important to connect with one's personal ancestors. These are blood relatives who have passed away and whose DNA runs through our bodies. Honoring them by celebrating their birthdays and commemorating the anniversary of their passing helps our post-mortem energy flow through us and around us. Not only that, but they can protect us, guide us, and bring things to our awareness which we hadn't seen before. They are entities that are similar to guardian angels. Often, they serve as spirit guides who ensure that we walk the right path and that no one messes with us. Spirit guides and ancestors give us the truth and the real tea, while making sure we walk the right path.
Cleansing Our Bodies, Minds, And Hearts
Witches are sensitive to the vibrations of others and the rhythms of the world. Therefore, it's easy for us to pick up on situations and matters that others don't notice, due to our ability to connect with the more sublime and subtler energies which are constantly at play. We are able to tap into our intuition, our magic, and tools for divination, which includes astrology, herbalism, tarot, scrying, and psychic abilities. Witches use astrology to know when to cast spells because we use the lunar cycle as our timeline for when magic is the most potent and we use planets to know what days of the week to cast them, too. Crystals and stones (such as amethyst, obsidian, and pyrite), healing baths (with Epsom or Himalayan salt, herbs, and flowers), foods and spices, dreams, and meditations can help ground us. This helps us connect to our intentions (our objectives) and manifestations (what we want to bring to fruition).
Are You a Good Witch Or a Bad Witch?
To be real, we don't throw out hexes on unsuspecting people. That's not how we roll. We're not going to waste our magic and power on those who haven't done any wrongdoing to us. The reason we choose to take the high road is because we use our power for good — to elevate ourselves and others. We don't use our gifts to cause destruction. In fact, our magical powers are used for greater causes such as civil rights, religious rights, and fighting the patriarchy. There's a long history that associates witches with advocacy for others and defending the disenfranchised. In fact, witches started wearing pointed hats to stand in allegiance with Jews and Quakers who were persecuted for their religious beliefs. There's even a band of mystics called W.I.T.C.H. (Women's International Terrorist Conspiracy from Hell) who stand together for the rights of others. The organization was started in the 1960s as a feminist group but later took the streets to protest the patriarchy, stand up for feminism and LGBTQ rights, and defunding the police in allegiance with the Black Lives Matter Movement.
There’s a Little Witch In All Of Us
Little known fact: There's no wrong or right way to be a witch or to craft spells. The power to see is in us all. We just have to be more aware of our psychic abilities and intuition, and as well as the natural energies of the world. Embracing the majestic and enchanting flow of the Earth is essential. Magic is in us all. We just have to believe in the metaphysical, not the material world — as well as ourselves. True power comes from within.
And. How Will I Be Celebrating Halloween?
Witches celebrate the Celtic festival Samhain from October 31st to November 1st (which marks the beginning of the "darker half of the year). TBH, Samhain was the witch's holiday way before Halloween was ever a thing. The two differ because on Halloween we dress up in costumes to scare ghosts away and on Samhain, we light bonfires or candles to keep the ghouls at bay while holding a communion to talk to the dead. Being that it's the mid mark between the autumnal equinox and the winter solstice, the veil between the material plane and metaphysical world is thinned. This means that we can connect with ghosts and ancestors on a clearer vibration than usual.
As for how I'll be celebrating, I will be lighting a candle on my altar for my ancestors who have passed and whose guidance I listen to every night. They show me the way to understanding my present and future life. My fellow witches will be celebrating Samhain and/or Halloween — they'll be anointing their flying oil (a mystical brew of herbs) and meeting me on the astral plane (a realm that we can go to through medication, trances, and sleep) to celebrate.
You’re magnetic and you’ve got reams of proof, so just accept it already.
Witches are keenly aware of their inner voice and trust their instincts. They rely on this inner guidance to make decisions, cast spells, and perform rituals. Intuition is seen as a powerful tool in navigating the spiritual and magical realms, and witches cultivate and hone this skill through various practices such as meditation and divination. Another hallmark of being a witch is **empathy and compassion**. Witches often possess a deep understanding of human emotions and are adept at sensing the energies and emotions of others. They are known for their ability to provide comfort, healing, and guidance to those in need. Witches believe in the power of love, kindness, and empathy and strive to spread positivity and light in the world. **Independence and self-empowerment** are vital aspects of being a witch. Witches value their own autonomy and believe in their ability to manifest their desires and shape their own lives. They often embrace alternative lifestyles and reject societal norms that limit their freedom. Witches are known for their strong sense of self and their ability to create their own path, guided by their own beliefs and values. Lastly, **knowledge and continuous learning** are hallmarks of being a witch. Witches have a thirst for knowledge and are constantly seeking to expand their understanding of the mystical and occult. They study ancient texts, mythology, astrology, and various esoteric subjects. Witches understand the importance of education and personal growth, as it allows them to deepen their magical practice and connect with the divine. In conclusion, being a witch encompasses far more than just magical abilities. It is a way of life characterized by a deep connection with nature, intuitive wisdom, empathy, independence, and a thirst for knowledge. These hallmarks define witches and guide their spiritual journey, ultimately shaping their unique identity as practitioners of witchcraft..
Reviews for "Balancing Darkness and Light: A Key Trait of Being a Witch"
1. Karen - 2 stars
I was really disappointed with "Hallmarks of being a witch". The storyline was slow and predictable, and the characters lacked depth. I found it hard to connect with any of them, which made it difficult to be invested in the outcome. Additionally, the writing felt unpolished and amateurish, with numerous grammatical errors throughout. Overall, I found this book to be a forgettable and unenjoyable read.
2. John - 1 star
I couldn't even finish "Hallmarks of being a witch" because it was so poorly written. The dialogue was forced and unnatural, which made it difficult to engage with the story. The plot was also highly predictable, leaving no room for surprises or excitement. I ended up feeling extremely bored and frustrated, and I don't understand all the positive reviews this book has received. Save your money and find something better to read.
3. Emily - 2 stars
I had high hopes for "Hallmarks of being a witch", but sadly it fell short. The pacing was incredibly slow, and it took forever for anything interesting to happen. The characters felt one-dimensional and lacked any kind of development. The romance aspect of the book felt forced and out of place, and it distracted from the already weak plot. Overall, this book was underwhelming and not worth the time and effort to read. I would recommend skipping it.