This last month was spent totally gutting my practice. I do this every couple of years, going back to basics and reviewing the values that form my foundation. I think this is an important exercise as a practitioner, since we are always growing and changing through the passage of time. As a Scorpio Sun in the 2nd House, my possessions, values, and sense of self-worth are deeply intertwined with my spiritual practice. And with Vesta, the asteroid of sacred devotion, nestled in Taurus in my 8th House, I crave stability and find profound meaning in rituals that connect me to the mysteries of life, death, and transformation. My first order of business in this project is decluttering my home--and despite how much we've already sifted through, rehomed, or discarded, we've only made a dent.
It's wild how much I've accumulated over the last six years, having gone from only owning what I could carry to outright maximalism. Not all of it belongs to me, mind you. I live in a communal home, so this is a collective effort. So far we have downsized the basement pantry and garage. The pantry is an essential key for much of what I choose to keep, since most of my belongings are various kitchen appliances and food stock. We found many lost treasures as well, including an old stock pot which I was window shopping for the last few days! Repurposing and repairing what we already have is part of the learning curve as well. In our capitalist society, it’s too easy to throw away possessions that we think are broken rather than trying to mend them.
About four months ago, I lost my full time job due to how my chronic illnesses affected my performance. The eight years I worked for that company is a blur, as I was sucked into fast paced living all the while my health deteriorated. Insurance benefits were par for the course, leaving most of my treatment needs inaccessible by a massively high deductible. I’ve been recovering from burnout, not only from that career, but also from working since I was 13. Capitalism does not permit one chance to get out of survival mode, we have to make room for it ourselves. I am lucky enough to have the means needed to get by until next July at least. Now is the time for me to finally slow down, simplify, and be present in the moment.
While decluttering my practice and environment, I wrote down some of my personal ethics;
Clear Intentions: Before embarking on any spell or ritual, I meticulously clarify my intentions. This ensures that my energy is focused and my actions are aligned with my desired outcome. Just as a gardener carefully tends their seeds, I cultivate my intentions with precision and care.
Respect: Respect is the cornerstone of my practice. I approach all beings, spirits, and energies with reverence and honor. This includes respecting the natural world and honoring the traditions of my ancestors. Respect fosters harmony and allows for reciprocal relationships.
Engagement: My practice is not a passive pursuit; it requires active engagement. I immerse myself in study, dedicate myself to consistency, and remain open to continuous learning and growth. I cultivate my skills and deepen my connection through active participation.
Groundedness: Remaining grounded is crucial for navigating the often subtle energies of witchcraft. I prioritize practices that connect me to the earth and my physical body, such as spending time in nature, mindful movement, and breathwork. This allows me to maintain a clear perspective, and integrate the wisdom I gain into my daily life.
These are the building blocks for my foundation, following into;
Knowledge + Understanding: A solid foundation of knowledge and understanding is essential to my craft. I delve into a variety of my ancestral traditions, studying herbalism, astrology, and lore. This pursuit of knowledge empowers me to work with magic safely and effectively, while fostering a deep appreciation for the intricate web of connections that binds all things.
Consistency: Consistency is the key to unlocking the subtle nuances of magic. Through dedication, I cultivate a deeper connection to the seen and unseen, refine my intuition, and strengthen my ability to manifest. Like a river that carves its path through consistent flow, I shape my reality.
Experimentation: Witchcraft is a living, breathing practice that invites curiosity and exploration. I embrace experimentation, adapting ancient wisdom to my modern life and exploring new techniques with an open mind. This allows me to personalize my practice, discover what resonates most deeply with my soul, and forge my own unique path.
Community: While solitude holds its own magic, I also find immense value in connecting with fellow practitioners. Sharing knowledge and exchanging experiences enrich my understanding and create a sense of belonging and service.
As the Taurus Moon waxes towards her full luminescence on the 15th of November, I find myself drawn to an introspective inventory of my skills, both those rooted in the magical and mundane. It is a time for discernment, for choosing which embers of knowledge to fan into flame.I think a refresher for basic herbalism and sewing will be a great start. For in a society that often seeks to limit or outright prevent true self-sufficiency, the acquisition of these skills becomes an act of quiet rebellion.