A Beginner’s Guide to Modern Magick
Witchcraft isn’t just about pointy hats and broomsticks (though, let’s be honest, both are iconic). At its core, witchcraft is the art of intention. It’s a spiritual practice rooted in self-awareness, nature, ancestral wisdom, and the manipulation of energy to align with your will. Whether you’re brand-new to the craft or dusting off your old grimoire, here’s a down-to-earth breakdown of what you actually need to get started—and what’s just pretty sparkle.
🌿 1. Intent Is Everything
Before the herbs, crystals, and candles—your intention is the foundation of all magick. What are you calling in? What are you letting go of? Be specific. Be real. If you go into a spell all “meh,” the results will be just that. Your focus and energy are the gas in the spellcar.
🔥 Pro tip: Write it down. Journal. Speak it out loud. Make it real.
🕯️ 2. Tools of the Trade
You don’t need a $300 athame or a custom-carved wand from a Romanian forest. Here’s a short list of essentials (feel free to improvise):
- Candles – Fire = transformation. Colors matter, but white is a solid all-purpose.
- Herbs – Think rosemary (protection), lavender (peace), basil (abundance).
- Crystals – Start with clear quartz (amplifier), black tourmaline (protection), and rose quartz (love).
- Jars, bowls, or dishes – For offerings, spell jars, moon water, etc.
- Salt – Purification, protection, and general bad vibe repellent.
🪄 Remember: Tools are extensions of your will. They help focus energy but aren’t required to be magickal.
🌕 3. The Moon and You
The moon is your cosmic clock. Working with its phases enhances your rituals:
- New Moon – Set intentions, start fresh.
- Waxing Moon – Draw things in: love, money, growth.
- Full Moon – Peak energy, great for charging tools or big rituals.
- Waning Moon – Let go, banish, cut cords.
🌙 Don’t stress if you miss a phase—your energy is still valid.
✍️ 4. Keep a Book of Shadows
This isn’t just a spooky scrapbook. It’s your personal magickal archive. Track spells, dreams, moon cycles, rituals, and what works (or flops). It’s part journal, part grimoire, and 100% yours.
đź““ It can be a leather-bound tome, a Google doc, or a napkin pile. Consistency > aesthetics.
🧿 5. Protection First, Always
Energetic hygiene is as important as brushing your teeth. Before casting spells or channeling energy, protect yourself:
- Cast a circle
- Use protective herbs (like mugwort or sage)
- Call in your ancestors, guides, or deities
- Ground and center
🧼 Energy gets sticky—clean up after spellwork like you’d clean your tools after crafting.
🧙 6. Trust Yourself More Than the Internet
Yes, TikTok witches are fun. Yes, Google is full of info. But your intuition matters more. If something feels off—it probably is. Witchcraft is a personal, evolving practice. You can’t do it wrong if you’re acting in integrity and with respect.
Final Thoughts ✨
Witchcraft isn’t about being perfect or aesthetic—it’s about being aligned. You’re working with forces that want to collaborate with you. Stay curious. Stay grounded. And most importantly: stay empowered.
Welcome to the path, witch. 🔮🖤