Reiki comes from two Japanese words which translate to “universal life force.” This universal life force is an energy found within all things—people, animals, plants, rocks, trees… even the earth itself. Someone trained in the use of Reiki channels that life force, allowing the recipient to receive the healing energy. Eastern Methods, Western Medicine This healing modality came to us from Japan, but Western medicine is finally beginning to recognize its benefits. Major medical centers, including the hospital at Ohio State University, are now discovering the value of integrative healing—in other words, traditional Eastern healing methods are used to complement modern medicine. Part of Reiki treatment includes the use of sacred…

So you think you’ve found a Pagan group or coven that might be the right group for you. Great! Ideally, a coven will allow you to attend a few open meetings, in which you can observe the goings-on and meet all the members, without intruding upon the secrecy of any oathbound ceremonies or rites. After attending a series of open meetings – usually three, but that varies from group to group – members of the coven will vote on whether or not membership should be offered to you. Remember, though, there are a few things you should watch out for in any prospective group. Members that don’t seem to get…

The sun has long been a source of myth and legend throughout various cultures, and one of the most significant solar events that can take place is that of an eclipse. Although an eclipse itself is just another scientific event, there are a number of superstitions that surround the phenomenon. If you’re in North America, in many places you’ll be able to see a full solar eclipse this year, on April 8. You can incorporate solar eclipse magic into your rituals and practice. Let’s take a look at some of the stories surrounding the eclipse of the sun. Remember, just like with a full moon, the eclipse doesn’t have to…

So, this is an article that originally appeared on my old AboutDotCom site, but when everything was migrated over to ThoughtCo and then LearnReligions, it vanished. Since I had a discussion about this very topic with someone not too long ago, I thought I’d resurrect it for you, with a few additions and updates: Although many people in today’s magical community find it a bit off-putting, the use of bodily fluids in magic is a long-standing practice in many cultures and traditions. Even if we think of it as unpleasant, it’s disingenuous to pretend that no one has ever used — or may presently be using — things like blood,…

So a few months ago I announced that I was part of a fun new project – I was invited to co-write The Libra Witch with the amazing Ivo Dominguez Jr., who is one of my favorite people ever, and I’m pleased to say you can now get your hands on a copy! Join me and Ivo as we share the strengths and challenges Libra energy brings to both witchcraft and everyday life. Featuring recipes, exercises, stories, rituals, and spells from a host of Libra contributors, this book teaches you how to best connect with your sign’s energy, manage your power, cleanse and shield yourself, tailor-fit magical workings to your sign,…

I live in northern Appalachia, and one of my favorite parts of the fall is when the pawpaw trees start blooming. These chubby little fruits taste like a lil’ bit of heaven, sort of like a cross between a mango and a banana. Their gooey, custardy texture isn’t for everyone, but holy cow do I love them. Unfortunately, because they spoil fairly quickly, you’ll never find a pawpaw in a grocery store – and the window of opportunity for collecting them is fairly short, for just a few weeks in September and early October, so they’re just not that viable commercially. If you’re lucky, you might encounter pawpaws at your…

So a couple of months ago I mentioned that I had the privilege of co-authoring The Libra Witch with the amazing Ivo Dominguez, Jr., and I’m excited to announce it’s now available for pre-order! The Libra Witch is one of twelve books in the new Llewellyn Sun Sign Series, and will offer some insights and ideas for how you can work with the attributes of your own sun sign to unlock your fullest magical potential. I had a wonderful time writing my section, and the whole thing is a great resource to guide you on harnessing your Libra energy and using it to make your practice more rich and rewarding.…