What is a Hedge Witch?
One of the most enduring archetypes of a witch is the Hedge Witch. Usually seen as a solo practitioner living at the edge of a community, a hedge witch was both feared and revered for her knowledge of nature and the spiritual world.
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One of the most enduring archetypes of a witch is the Hedge Witch. Usually seen as a solo practitioner living at the edge of a community, a hedge witch was both feared and revered for her knowledge of nature and the spiritual world. Sometimes called a wise woman (or a cunning man) a hedge witch is closely associated with home and hearth and protecting her family. Whether you identify as a witch or just want to slow down and add more intention into your life, the path of the hedge witch offers insight and guidance.
Hedge-Rider, Hex and Hag
The term hedge is used to describe a border between civilization and the wilderness. In spiritual terms, it is used to describe the threshold between this world and the other world. In early medieval Europe a hedge was a physical boundary between a village and a forest. A hedge in those times wasn’t what we think of today - a nicely manicured green shrub. It was a wild tangle of growth between the forest and the village. Those that lived along the hedge, closer to the wild than to the community, were often thought to possess magical powers and wisdom. They would be called upon for help by locals, but otherwise largely left alone. As Christianity gained power through the early and middle ages in Europe, traditional nature based beliefs and healing were deemed evil and those that lived along the hedge were particularly vulnerable to accusations of witchcraft and persecution.
According to Judika Illes in her book Encyclopedia of Witchcraft, the term Hedge-Rider was a northern European synonym for witch. In Old English it was called Haegtessa, while in Old High German hedge-rider was pronounced hagezusse. These were later shortened to Hag and Hexe respectively and were associated with old women who lived near the hedge. Over time, again with the rise of Christianity, both these terms took on a negative connotation - the Lady of the Hedge was turned into an evil old hag who was a threat, especially to children (think of the witch in Hansel and Gretel).
In English speaking countries the term Hag is synonymous with a cantankerous woman, someone who does confirm to the patriarchy’s view of womanhood. A hag does not mean a woman is necessarily old in age, but rather she is outspoken and unapologetic. This makes me think of the character Ouiser (played by Shirley MacLaine) in the movie Steel Magnolias. She was rough around the edges, but with a big heart.
A Modern Hedge Witch
Within the rise of the modern neo-pagan movement, the term hedge witch has been reclaimed by those seeking wisdom and a deeper understanding of the natural world. There are a couple of (very general) distinctions when it comes to the term hedge witch. The first refers to someone who practices rituals like tarot, divination, or has some psychic ability. This would be the more classical version of a wise woman living alone, whom people seek out for help through a reading, herbal remedies or spell work.
The second popular image of hedge witch aligns more with the modern concept of a cottage witch or house witch. Arin Murphy-Hiscock describes this type of practice in her book The Way of the Hedge Witch, as someone who practices magic in the home as a way to ensure the spiritual well-being of herself and her family. This could include imbuing some magical thoughts into everyday life through cooking, cleaning or gardening.
Following Hedge Witch Path
Even if you don’t identify as a witch, the elements of a hedge witch offer simple and easy ways to connect with nature and cultivate a peaceful home. Common ways a hedge witch cares for her home and family include cleaning not just her physical space, but also the energy that fills it. She may sprinkle salt along doorways, to keep evil spirits away or hang a glass witch’s ball* to absorb light and deflect negative energy. She may say little prayer/spell/intention while stirring a pot of soup for dinner. Her magic is in the small moments that make up each day.
Home & Hearth
No matter what interpretation you use for a hedge witch, the home is an integral part of her practice. An important element in the concept of home is the hearth. A hearth is traditionally at the center of home life. It provides warmth and light in the dark months, and is where meals are prepared. Until the late 19th century tending the hearth was an all day job for women who kept their own homes. The hearth as a focal point of life has long been revered in many cultures.
Today’s hedge witch may call upon Hestia, the Greek goddess of the hearth for safety and peace within her home. A traditional fireplace hearth may be replaced by the modern day kitchen or other area that serves as a focal point for yourself and your family. The essence of the hearth, whether invoking ancient deities or tending to the heart of the home, endures as a source of comfort and connection in the modern world.
Some might argue a hedge witch is the original witch - from where our modern associations of witchcraft and the occult stem. Today a Hedge Witch can be a solo practitioner that folks call upon for help. Or she may focus her energies on tending her home, as an extension of her own spiritual practice. Either way, the path of hedge witch offers simple ways to connect to nature, connect with others and connect to one’s self.
References and Recommended Readings*
The Way of the Hedge Witch by Arin Murphy-Hiscock
What is Practical Magick?
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Practical magick, often spelled "magic" or "magick" depending on personal preference, is a spiritual practice that focuses on the application of magickal techniques and principles to achieve certain desired outcomes or goals. Unlike some forms of ceremonial magick or other ritualistic practices, practical magick tends to emphasize simplicity, accessibility, and results-oriented approaches. It can be as part of every day life and requires little time or money. The most important element of successful practical magick is the intent of the person performing it.
Magickal practices often aim to tap into unseen forces and to influence events and consciousness, similar to how those who believe in Law of Attraction use visualization and affirmations to manifest desired outcomes in their lives. This can be done through ceremonies, like casting a circle with a coven; it can be done through a ritual like setting up an altar and doing spell work, or it can be woven into everyday life, through practical magick.
Practical magick is a flexible and diverse spiritual practice that allows individuals to work on self-improvement, achieve specific goals, or address practical concerns in their lives through the application of magickal techniques. Many different groups including neo-pagans, wiccans and other natured-based belief systems use some form of practical magick as part of their daily spiritual practice. This could look like stirring a pot of soup a certain way, while meditating on a peaceful dinner with your family. Or it could be carrying a certain crystal with you, to protect against as you travel. There are endless possibilities for adding some practical magick into your everyday life.
Magick or Magic?
You may notice that the term Magick and Magic are used interchangeably when referring to witchcraft and the occult and you may be wondering what’s the difference? One theory of why the ‘k’ was added is attributed to the occultist and ceremonial magician Aleister Crowley, who helped to popularize occultism and alternative spiritual practices in the 20th century. Crowly wanted to differentiate illusionary magic (think of a white rabbit being pulled out of a hat) and mystical magick that is associated with spellwork, spirits and the supernatural. However, like many aspects of neo paganism and modern witchcraft, this isn’t a universally accepted truth. As such, some authors opt to omit the ‘k’ from and go with the traditional use of Magic.
Easy Ways to Add Practical Magick to the Everyday
Practical magick is meant to be integrated into everyday life. It doesn't require elaborate rituals or complex ceremonies, making it accessible to people with busy schedules. Here are some easy and inexpensive ways to imbue a little magick into your everyday.
Morning Affirmations: Start your day with positive affirmations, focusing on your goals and intentions.
Candle Magic: Light a colored candle that corresponds to your intention or desire. As it burns, visualize your goal manifesting.
Crystal Charging: Carry a small crystal with you that aligns with your intention. Hold it and infuse it with your desires regularly.
Herb Magic: Use herbs or spices in your cooking that are associated with your goals. Focus on your intention as you prepare and eat your meal.
Moon Magick: Spend a few minutes each night looking at the moon. Focus on your desires and imagine them being drawn towards you with the moon's energy. Read more about the different phases of the moon and how they correspond to attracting and letting go.
Visualization: Before sleep or during meditation, visualize your goals as if they have already been achieved. Feel the emotions associated with your success.
Salt Cleansing: Sprinkle a bit of salt around your home or workspace to clear negative energy. Sweep it up after a few minutes, symbolizing the removal of obstacles.
Charging Water: Place a glass of water in the moonlight or sunlight and set an intention for it to carry that energy. Drink it the next day to absorb its magickal properties.
Gratitude Journaling: Keep a daily journal where you write down things you're grateful for. This positive energy can attract more of what you desire into your life.
Intention and Focus
Practical magick is meant to be integrated into everyday life. It doesn't require elaborate rituals or complex ceremonies, making it accessible to people with busy schedules. Practical magick can be as simple or as complicated as a person wants to make it. Some folks opt to align their magickal intentions with the lunar phases, astrology and planetary activity. Others focus on the Wheel of the Year and different seasons and sabbats. The most important aspect of practical magick is the intent and focus of the individual. Essentially you can have a very witchy aesthetic happening, but if you are not really focusing on what you want to achieve through the use of magick, it likely won’t be very effective.
Ethical Considerations for Practical Magick
Many practitioners of practical magick emphasize ethical principles such as the Wiccan Rede "An' it harm none, do what ye will" or the Law of Threefold Return, which suggests that the energy you put out into the world will return to you threefold.
Practical magick is a results-oriented spiritual practice that seeks to manifest desires through the application of magickal techniques. It can be seamlessly integrated into everyday life and doesn't require elaborate rituals or ceremonies. This flexible practice is embraced by various spiritual groups, such as neo-pagans and Wiccans, and offers countless ways to infuse a touch of magick into daily routines. From morning affirmations to crystal charging and moon gazing, practical magick empowers individuals to work on self-improvement and achieve their goals through focused intent and positive energy. Ethical considerations often guide practitioners, emphasizing the importance of doing no harm and understanding the principle of energy return. Ultimately, the effectiveness of practical magick hinges on individual intent and focus.
A Book Review of "Modern Guide to Witchcraft" by Skye Alexander
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One of my favorite books for learning about the Wheel of the Year and witchcraft is the Modern Guide to Witchcraft by Skye Alexander. This book explores contemporary witchcraft and is ideal for both beginners and seasoned practitioners. Alexander provides a comprehensive guide for those seeking to learn more about modern witchcraft. She provides information about the history of witchcraft, alongside hands-on activities and practical advice for the modern day witch.
In this book, Alexander bridges the gap between ancient traditions and the modern world, making it an ideal resource for those looking to incorporate witchcraft into their daily lives. She begins by explaining the history of witchcraft, dispelling common misconceptions and stigmas that have long been associated with witchcraft. I really appreciated that emphasis that the author puts on reducing the stigma around modern witchcraft and paganism. She presents witchcraft as a diverse way for individuals to connect to nature, self-discovery, and personal growth.
Those new to the concept of the Wheel of the Year will find this book especially helpful. Alexander’s writing style is clear and easy to read. She explores all manner of topics including the significance of the elements, moon phases, and magical tools. She also provides helpful outlines for different forms of divination and spellcasting. Alexander also consistently reminds readers that positive intentions and harm to none should always be the driving force behind any spell or ritual.
Alexander offers practical exercises, meditations, and rituals throughout each chapter. This hands-on approach encourages a deeper understanding of the craft and allows individuals to develop their personal connection to witchcraft and their unique spiritual path.
While I really enjoyed the eclectic nature of Alexander’s writing, it might be considered too broad for those looking to dive deep into certain types of witchcraft - ie. green witch, hearth witch, cottage witch, etc... But if you are looking for a resource that explores many different areas of the craft, this book is a great resource you can go back to again and again.
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