Practical magic witchcraft refers to the use of witchcraft practices and traditions in practical applications. In this form of witchcraft, practitioners utilize spells, rituals, and natural remedies to bring about positive change in their lives and the lives of others. One of the main principles of practical magic witchcraft is the understanding and utilization of natural energies and forces. Practitioners often work with elements such as herbs, crystals, candles, and symbols to harness and direct these energies. By doing so, they aim to bring about healing, love, protection, and abundance, among other things. Another important aspect of practical magic witchcraft is the use of spells and rituals.
Even the W.I.T.C.H. (Women’s International Terrorist Conspiracy from Hell) movement of the late 1960’s was aimed to breakdown walls and structures imposed by the patriarchy through magic. W.I.T.C.H. is still around today, standing strong and fighting against those who tear women and the LGBTQ community down.
Covens, which serve as a sacred bond between people who share the same views and allow for witches to meet in numbers and enable their force, seem to spark extra fear. But for witches, brujas, brujos, and warlocks who have dedicated their whole lives to understanding themselves through their spirituality and magic, it s not just a trend, but a way of life.
Another important aspect of practical magic witchcraft is the use of spells and rituals. Spells are essentially intentions or desires that are stated and worked upon to manifest in reality. These spells are often accompanied by specific rituals and actions, such as lighting candles or creating an altar space.
How to Do Magic and Other Questions You Might Have About Being a Witch
Sabrina Spellman said “witches are having a moment,” on an episode of Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. With shows like that one, and the increasing presence of tarot, sage, and other forms of magic in both pop culture and mainstream life, it seems like Sabrina may be right. But for witches, brujas, brujos, and warlocks who have dedicated their whole lives to understanding themselves through their spirituality and magic, it’s not just a trend, but a way of life.
As usual, the things we see on television aren’t quite realistic. So, to get a more realistic sense of what magic is, how it’s used, and why people are so afraid of it, let’s talk to the experts — witches themselves.
What is magic?
Bri Luna, creative director and owner of The Hoodwitch, defines it simply: “Magic is creating change by connecting with the energies of nature at will.”
In modern times, witches are a symbol of power—those who can see beyond the superficialities of the universe and embrace the four elements of the world (earth, air, fire, and water) to help make declarations surrounding desires and passions, as well as liberation from the restraints of society.
Contrary to pop culture stigmas,like the Wicked Witch of the West, Hocus Pocus, and The Blair Witch Project, witchcraft and magic bring people together, as well as closer to nature and spirituality. Magic practitioner and astrologer Annabel Gat believes magic is, “the chemistry between me and my favorite people, it’s nature, it’s the gift of life. Magic is a spark,” she said. "When you can affect the world around you with your will, you can make amazing things happen. I love seeing magic used in communities as a way to bring people together. The best application of magic is always toward peace of mind and peace between people.”
Why is it so taboo?
Beyond the obvious fear of the unknown making magic marginalized, magic is extra badass because the patriarchy frowns upon it. This is perhaps due to xenophobia, religious concern, and weariness of people who challenge society’s core beliefs.
Covens, which serve as a sacred bond between people who share the same views and allow for witches to meet in numbers and enable their force, seem to spark extra fear. Witches join together to fight against the patriarchy, to implement rights for the LGBTQ community, and for feminist beliefs. The fear of witches is hedged in the patriarchal society’s fear of giving political, mystical, healing, and sexual power to those do not fit in the cisgender male status quo.
Even the W.I.T.C.H. (Women’s International Terrorist Conspiracy from Hell) movement of the late 1960’s was aimed to breakdown walls and structures imposed by the patriarchy through magic. W.I.T.C.H. is still around today, standing strong and fighting against those who tear women and the LGBTQ community down.
What does magic do?
You can't do just anything with magic. You can certainly tilt the scales in your favor with magic, but the most important thing to consider is that the energy for personal wins has to be already in the ether. Meaning, if you light a candle for a promotion at work, the spirits will tell you through candle magic what obstacles stand in your way and how to change your current path for success.
Color magic conjurer and tarot reader, Sarah Potter says, “Magic requires work in every realm. You cannot just light a candle and wish for things and then get them. That would be so nice, though! Anything worthwhile requires major effort and dedication so you must get very clear with your intentions and then put in the work on the astral plane as well as in the physical realm.” Magic is sacred and acts as a double edged sword. Therefore, it’s essential to only manifest your truest intention. Understanding ones deepest yearnings is hard. However, magic allows us to see past the surface and within our subconscious.
Is there only one kind of magic?
No! Magic is a personal relationship and should be used at one’s will. Finding the mix that works best for you is a life-long journey. Luna said she calls on her culture to find her ideal magic. “I infuse elements of both of my cultures, and I find that I’ve really enjoyed utilizing aspects of traditional folk healing from my indigenous Mexican and African-American ancestors, as well as working with practices from others that I feel resonate with me, whom I’ve met and learned from on my path, she said. “I practice energetic clearing rituals (i.e using herbs to cleanse my home or workspace), beauty rituals, which I guess fall into self-care. I love meditation in the sun, or listening to the waves of an ocean. I actually just love being in nature, so taking off my shoes and burying my feet into the soil is very therapeutic for me. Relaxing ritual baths that are infused with aromatic essential oils, with rose or flower petals. I celebrate the new and full moon and share suggested rituals for them on my site. I also love to burn candles.”
So, to the question, am I a witch? I have two answers: One, if you are a creator, from cooking your meals every day to creating babies, to making hilarious memes for the Internet, you’re a witch in my book. Two, do you want to be a witch? Then abracadabra! You are one!
The ingredients used in spells can vary depending on the practitioner's intention and the desired outcome. Furthermore, practical magic witchcraft acknowledges the power of the mind and its ability to shape reality. Visualization is often a key part of practicing witchcraft, with practitioners imagining and believing in the desired outcome as if it has already happened. This mindset is believed to help manifest the desired changes in the physical world. The main purpose of practical magic witchcraft is to bring about positive change, empowerment, and connection with the natural world. It can be used in various aspects of life, whether it is for personal growth, healing, relationship matters, career success, or spiritual development. However, it is important to note that practical magic witchcraft should always be practiced with respect for the natural world and ethical considerations. Overall, practical magic witchcraft is a way for individuals to tap into their own personal power and create positive change in their lives. By harnessing natural energies, working with spells and rituals, and utilizing the power of the mind, practitioners of practical magic witchcraft strive to manifest their intentions and desires..
Reviews for "Exploring the Dark Arts in Practical Magic Witchcraft: Understanding Shadow Work"
1. Emma - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Practical magic witchcraft". The plot was all over the place and I found it hard to connect with the characters. The whole concept of witches and magic felt underdeveloped and cliché. I was expecting something more unique and thought-provoking, but this book fell flat for me.
2. Alex - 1 star - I can't believe I wasted my time reading "Practical magic witchcraft". The writing was mediocre at best, with shallow character development and a predictable plot. The magical elements felt forced and lacked depth. Overall, it was a forgettable and unoriginal read. I wouldn't recommend it.
3. Chloe - 2 stars - "Practical magic witchcraft" had so much potential, but it failed to deliver. The pacing was slow, and the story lacked suspense or any sense of urgency. The romance subplot felt forced and unnecessary, taking away from the overall plot. I wanted to like this book, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations.
4. Max - 1 star - I found "Practical magic witchcraft" to be incredibly boring and unengaging. The characters were one-dimensional, and the plot was filled with predictability and clichés. The author's attempt at creating a magical world felt half-hearted and unconvincing. Overall, I found this book to be a waste of time and would not recommend it to anyone.