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Embracing My Spirituality

A bit about me:
Merry meet! If you’re reading this, chances are you probably have seen my streams or perhaps stumbled upon my small, spiritual based Instagram page. Though, if you searched the web and my blog showed up, this blog may be interesting to you too! I go by Froax, a small town girl in New England who moved to Long Island in hopes of rebuilding my life. Trauma and pain changed me, but I turned that pain into something beauitufl, something a bit more comfortable. If I was to describe myself a year ago to an audience of complete strangers during a live broadcast, I would only say two words, “content creator” and “dog mom”. I used to dread what people may think when speaking upon Wicca. The fear of hearing “devil worshiper” and “psycho” or perhaps even “stupid girl” held me back. But Wicca really isn’t any of those things. Why was I so nervous about the thoughts of negative, closed-minded people?

Something had to be done if I wanted any type of change!
With the support of my ever-growing community, I realized they were no longer strangers. They were open minded, kind, and caring. It was time I stop letting fear hold me back and time for me to be more honest with both them, and myself. They of all people deserve to get to know me on a more personal level.

Following my chosen path:
Today, I would describe myself as a hereditary intuitive clairsentient empathic Wiccan who’s focusing on herbal apothecary while aiding in the art of nature and tarot. I often say that I’m into candle magick and describe myself as a solitary practitioner to keep conversations with outsiders short as most people are usually quick to assume that I’m a small business selling and making candles. Though, I’m not that crafty and not educated on how to make candles to begin with. Talking to people and connecting with others is my true talent.

Things got easier!
It gradually became easier to talk about and I felt more comfortable being open this past year. I enjoy studying the evolution of Pre-Christian traditional vectors alongside historic symbolism such as Runes, elemental sigils and what they represent, along with the astrological and numerological connection and appeal of modern day magick.

New perspectives:
I owe it to my community, friends, and family to be transparent. Who knows, I may end up inspiring someone along the way! If more people started speaking out, honoring and embracing their spirituality, I believe it may help educate those curious, and further normalize our historic tradition.

A kind introductory:
The responses I received were overwhelmingly nice, despite the occasional insults. I have realized that these insults were not due to blunt judgment, but more so those who spoke out of fear due to being uneducated and misinformed on Wicca. Due to this, I did my best to share my knowledge on Wicca through what I have learned.

A little piece of history:
The rise of the Neopagan religion of Wicca can be traced back to the Twentieth Century with a founder by the name of Gerald Gardner, who often incorporated parts of Paganism into his practice of Witchcraft. Today, Wiccan beliefs are popularized more than ever! With practitioners and curious friends, people continue to study and research more of it’s qualities and traditions thanks to modern day technology and the access of resources we all have available to us.

Where did Wicca stem from?
Wicca, a spiritual-focused religion was derived through Paganism. Without diving deep into the history of Wiccan beliefs and practices, Wicca is basically a sub category of Paganism. Think of Paganism as an umbrella, and Wicca is just one of the many raindrops dripping off of that umbrella. Various religions have evolved in which originated from Paganism. Each pulling their own bit of history while evolving it to their own liking. Pagan’s believed in multiple Gods and Goddesses, spirits and elements carrying on questionable yet fascinating traditions. Although zodiac based religions derived from Taoism, Pagans also believed that the planets had magical powers connecting our energy with the galaxy. Paganism is our oldest and oddly enough, newest religion, due to being the most evolved. Modern Paganism is one of America’s fastest-growing religions with an estimate of 1 million supporters and growing daily.

What is Wicca?
In Wicca, we often believe in the worship of various Gods and Goddesses or none at all. We believe in the worship of nature and manifestation through energy while using various methods such as rituals to transform and boost that energy. That’s where magick in Wicca comes from, that energy is what it is referring to.

What is the difference between a Wiccan and a Pagan?
Wiccans follow a nature-oriented religion incorporated through rituals and practices which are derived from Pre-Christian religious beliefs due to Paganism. Wicca has a bit more structure when it comes to ceremonial rituals and spells. Pagans are a religious, spiritual, or cultural community based on the worship of nature and the earth. In Paganism, Mother Earth is often emphasized as the Goddess and one of the main focus points. Paganism is a bit more free-flowing when it comes to ceremonies, rituals, and whether or not they work with magick. Whether you are Wiccan, Pagan, or actively follow both, it’s important to keep in mind that both share similar history, values, and traditions.

Traditional vs. Modern Wicca:
In traditional Wicca, Wiccans believed in the High Priestess and High Priest. Generally, structured witchcraft is often associated within Wicca along with covens, often mistaken as cults. Covens were referred to as a sacred place, no outsiders were ever welcomed in. Practicing in front of outsiders was a life or death risk and frowned upon. Not only was it once viewed as disrespectful to practice alone, but it was also incredibly dangerous given it’s tragic history when it comes to witches and those of inner power. Covens would usually require an initiation process before being accepted into the coven, and being a part of a coven was viewed as more acceptable and legit in comparison to solitary practitioners. It was thought that those who participated in this practice together created stronger power. It wasn’t uncommon to view those within solitary practice as weak. Traditional Wicca was much more exclusive and strict, and only those who were viewed as worthy were accepted into the inner circle.

With modern Wicca, most Wiccans believe in various Gods and Goddesses including Mother Earth, or none at all. Covens and virtual covens exist today, some of which do not refer to themselves as being a part of a coven, but rather a group of people or friends. It’s common to often see ceremonies outdoors in somewhat-public areas. Ceremonies can be seen in somebody’s yard by someone driving by or simply walking their dog, all without fear. Most of these groups and virtual covens that are around today are inclusive to all, offer no requirements or limitations, no initiation process, and can be found helping out others in various ways. Although Wicca has it’s own similar structure, there is no right or wrong way of invoking or releasing energy. Covens are no longer viewed as a requirement, and solitary practitioners are viewed just as valid as those within a coven or any other type of group. Modern Wicca is much more normalized and inviting.

Similar to modern day Christianity, you do not have to go to church every Sunday in order to be considered a devoted Christian. Though, I am sure many might suggest otherwise and recommend Sunday Service. With Wicca, you do not need a cauldron or an alter, especially resembling the expensive ones you see in mainstream movies and witch-based television shows. It can be as simple as your own vanity or dresser if you wish, maybe even a chair of some sort. As said, some might suggest otherwise and may recommend an alter separately to represent the main focus point of your practice. Personally, I think telling others what is and isn’t acceptable within one’s own spiritual journey of any sort, is limiting and has a fine line between being genuine and over stepping boundaries. This is their journey. As long as it is not causing harm, let people experience their spirituality however they feel comfortable. Modern religion of all types are continuously evolving just as our minds are continuously learning.

What does that little circle and star symbol mean?
There are many historic symbols within Wicca. Some are original and widely known and some have evolved with time. In this case, the five-pointed upright star within a circle is known as a pentacle and represents balance, harmony, intellect, and good intent, with each point of the star signifying the five elements; spirit, water, fire, earth, and air. (Not to be confused with the pentagram), Pentacles that are displayed in comforting areas on surfaces or displays have been known to boost energy, increase one’s psychic ability, and is thought of an act of honoring the ancestors before us bound by either biological relation or by spirit. The Pentacle with the two moons is known as a Triple Moon Symbol which is a symbol used to represent the Triple Goddess. The Triple Moon was also designed to showcase the different moon cycles and is extremely popular amongst Pagan and Wiccan communities.

Wicca wasn’t always good, but it wasn’t all bad either! It was different for all..
A lot has evolved with witchcraft in modern day compared to old western world traditional values and practice. We truly are good people! There’s so many types of practices when it comes to Wicca, such as tarot and cartomancy, moonology, oneiromancy, and even herbal apothecary, along with various other curious, precious practices. Tarot doesn’t always have to be about reading into ones future, but can also be used for self guidance, healing, and daily advice for ones self and loved ones. Things such as necromancy, is also a study within Wicca and other religious vectors around the world. Not every Wiccan engages in each and every practice offered, and we do, it’s often out of pure intention and to cause help rather than harm. It’s all about preference and what calls to you the most. Some being more sensitive at a specific practice than others. Focus on finding your niche that you’re educated on and enjoy by being mentally and physically subjective to the energy around you, as one would say.

Banishing fearful emotions and decline judgment onto others!
People get scared and hesitant to engage in conversations with topics they don’t understand. Fear comes from being unfamiliar with topics or situations either due to lack of knowledge or negative past experiences. Fear is acceptable and should be normalized, but so should stepping out of your comfort zone when it comes to respecting those around you. I don’t judge those who disagree with my spirituality, but I do expect people to respect mine just as I respect there’s. There are more than one religion out there, and all should be accepted and respected equally as long as no physical harm is being done. Another reason why people often get nervous when speaking upon Wicca is due to confusion with the devil and evil. Truthfully, Paganism with the subcategory of Wiccan belief is a traditional Pre-Christian religion, long before God and Devil. Good vs. evil is present in every religion in their own way.

An example of evolutionary magick:
With Wicca, good magick goes well with nature and pure intention, where as the bad aspect goes against nature and offers negative intention. The majority of us are good. We believe that the energy we put out we will receive nine times back, so practice magick to cause harm onto others both mentally or physically would ultimately harm us in the end and much worse. Some even declining to practice traditional love spells due to the lack of consent and interfering with someone else’s preference and goodwill. Instead, we have substitutes for this by having the intended partner placing a rose under their pillow as a form of consent.

Why do you say magick instead of magic?
The spelling is derived from early modern English. Originally seen as early as 1651 English translation of the medieval occultist Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa’s Of Occult Philosophy. An English occultist that grew in popularity during the 20th century by the name of Aleister Crowley, has been known to first popularize this variation of spelling. He wished to separate witchcraft from traditional magic tricks that you’d often see at performances done by magicians. Today, occultists and metaphysical practitioners started to come up with own definitions of magick while all falling under the same commercialized category.

There really is no difference in what a Wiccan is referring to when we say magick or magic. However, similar to Aleister, most of us prefer using the term magick to signify spirituality in comparison to a magician with neat tricks. It’s easier for others to identify our meaning behind our conversations by determining and understanding which type of magick we are referring to. Either are acceptable, and we mainly use this terminology for others rather than ourselves. The standard definition of modern day magick means, “In Wicca and certain other belief systems, action or effort undertaken to effect personal transformation or external change.“

My Concluding Thoughts:
There is no shame in your belief or spirituality no matter how weird or mythical it may come across to others. Learn to embrace your spirituality and accept those with beliefs who do not align with your own. Embrace your curiosity and share wisdom without disrespecting others. Never press your views onto someone, but rather encourage questions and knowledge. The next time you are curious on something, just ask! Always ask don’t assume, be kind or simply don’t engage in the conversation, and educate using free resources online or knowledgeable modern books before providing informative statements to others. I’m grateful to be able to embrace this beautiful gift and very excited to share this virtual journey with you. Thank you for allowing me to share my knowledge with curious friends.
– Blessed be!

Moon Water

To me, moon water is a beautiful tool and I perceive it as a gift. I am always looking for ways I can incorporate my moon water into my ritual and spell work. There’s so many ways to make it. The uses of moon water seem nearly endless and can also make a cute gift to other spiritual believers and practitioners. 

What is Moon Water?

Throughout ancient history, people have worshiped the moon and as it plays a major role in many religions and practices. In Wicca and many other religions, we believe in the charging and charging properties the moon provides. The idea of moon water derives from harnessing the powerful lunar energy of the moon aligned with nature, Earth, and our universe as a whole. Creating moon water can be as simple as grabbing an empty mason jar or some sort of bottle and filling it up with water while letting it soak underneath the moon lit sky.

Uses:

Moon water can be a tool used within your practice, worship, or a deep form of connecting with nature and your higher self. Moon Water has multiple uses. I like to use it for my bath rituals, self care routines, cleansing crystals and other energetic stones, charging tarot and oracle cards, making herbal tea, watering plants, and some people also keep water by their door as a way of automatically cleansing any guests that enter their home. The use of moon water is very popular for Pagan and Wiccan practices, along with many other spiritual or nature-focused religions.

Choosing a Moon Phase to Work With:

I have three sets of moon water, two for the full moon and one for the new moon. This isn’t a requirement but more so a personal choice as I incorporate my work based around the energy of the moon and the Sabbats. Different moon phases offer different properties within Wicca, but ultimately it’s a personal choice based upon your practice and preference. Not only does every full moon in each month vary from the next, but every moon in its regular cycle offers something different. For example, a waxing crescent and a waning crescent indicate two entirely separate representations. If you are looking for specific moon water properties, it may be a great idea to study the moon cycle and what each moon represents. Choose one that corresponds to your intended practice, ritual, and spell work.

Charging & Cleansing:

When charging, I place my jars outdoors under the moon light. I believe in bringing my moon water in before the start of the next day. However, for those who don’t want to use the moon, the sun works just as well, and placing the jar by a window rather than directly outdoors is just as magickal in my opinion. I always boil my moon water before charging as I prefer natural rain water from the sky which is why it takes me forever to fill up my jars. Other times, I grab water from the ocean. Any body of water will do, most people just use tap/distilled. Do not consume moon water if gathering it from the ocean to avoid dehydration and potential illness. I live on an island so I use my moon water from the ocean as a way to cleanse any cuts or scrapes that I get, any new piercings, etc.

Adding Intent & Customizing Your Moon Water:

I keep a jar of water for my plants and tea, but I usually infuse the other jars with an essential oil that corresponds to whatever it is I am doing, and sometimes I add a crystal inside the jar. If you plan on infusing, just be sure to research what is safe for consumption. Always research which crystals are water-safe and which ones are not before submerging them. If you gather water from a natural waterfall or anything of that sort, always boil the water before charging and consuming it. Try to water plants without additional infusions as some plant-based oils are harmful to certain other plants. I often enjoy customizing and labeling the individual jars for my moon water. I personally prefer glass tincture bottles and often add little moon-based charms on thread wrapped around the bottle cap or cork, while adding stickers or labels on the bottles themselves. Be mindful of hand washing your bottles to preserve the lifespan of the bottle itself.

Placement: 

Alters usually have tools that represent the five elements as seen on the Pentacle. Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Spirit. Water usually goes on the West side of the alter as it corresponds with the elements. For example, anything that represents or corresponds with the element Earth, I like to put on the North side of my alter. I prefer to follow some sort of structure, given the fact Wicca has more structure to follow but isn’t necessarily a requirement. Wicca is always evolving, and it is whatever is safe and comfortable for you. It’s your alter, I just prefer to follow some traditional structure! 

Incorporating Paper In Spell Work:

Lots of my personal preference for rituals actually include the use of moon water and the burning of paper. When I incorporate paper into my rituals or any spell work, I try to use flower pressed parchment paper and burn the paper afterwards in my cauldron or anything else that’s either cast iron or fire safe. Be cautious when burning paper or anything with ink involved to avoid any toxic fumes harmful on the body. Some people enjoy adding the ash from flower pressed paper or other handcrafted paper into their black salt or return the ash back to the Earth by placing it outdoors. Alternatively, you can use a whole dried bay leaf and burn the bay leaf instead of the flower pressed parchment paper.

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read a bit about my moon water blog. Blessed be!

Full Moon Of March

What is a Full Moon?

When the sun, earth, and the moon are perfectly aligned in a straight line, it is known as a full moon. Tonight is the full moon aligned with Virgo and the full moon of March which represents the last moon of winter.

Naming The Moon:

The moon has many nicknames derived from Paganism, and evolved to fit various religions practiced around the world. To Northern Tribes, the March moon was known as the Crow Moon. In Hinduism, the moon is known as Phalguna Purnima. In Wicca it is known as the Storm Moon and Sap Moon.

Moon Representation:

In astrology, the moon represents our emotional impulses. Full moons are a time of release and is meant to be liberating and relieving. The full moon of March is now universally known as the Worm Moon. Traditionally thought to be named after the earthworms of warming spring soil, along with larvae which emerge from the bark of trees and other winter hideouts around this time. Today, a full moon universally represents harvest endeavors which means it is a time to harvest the intentions and wishes of past moons.

Celebrating and Honoring The Moon:

Spiritual Practitioners turn to charging and cleansing their crystals, tarot cards, moon water jars, and various other tools under the moonlight. Many people believe that the moon is most potent during a full moon phase, but truthfully the moon is most powerful in a new moon phase as it represents a new beginning and is cleared from the energy of its past cycle. Energy is gradually shifting, take time to reflect on your current and past experiences throughout this past moon cycle. Make room for positive changes and spend some extra time focusing on self care. This is the beginning of the end for our current moon cycle as we approach Ostara / Spring Equinox / Bacchanalia / Holi, marking the arrival of the upcoming spring season!