Overtired, stressed, inability to maintain sustained concentration, vacation, limited privacy (i.e. time or location), new to Wicca, prefer simple formats. If none of these circumstances apply AND you are looking for more symbolism and ceremony, choose a complete ritual, otherwise use the simple rituals.
CIRCLE CASTING
In simple rituals, you might want to walk a sunwise (clockwise) circle 3 times at the beginning of a ritual for good luck. In complex rituals, circle casting is primarily used to mark the beginning and end of a ritual.
THE MAGIC SITE
Anywhere, but outside is best. Remember oneness with nature is the focus of the Witch.
CENTERING
Terminology can get a bit confusing when talking about grounding and centering. Centering is what you do before you begin a ritual or spell and grounding is what you do after a ritual or spell.
* Face east with feet shoulder width apart.
* Place both hands at the top of the staff and hold it in front of you.
* Lower staff to the ground in front of and between your feet (this should form a triangle).
* Close your eyes and put your forehead on your hands.
* Breathe deeply and feel the earth energy rising up your legs, throughout your body. Feel it driving out all negativity such as fatigue, pain, sadness, anger, etc.
* You should feel comfortable and as if your feet are planted on the earth.
* Continue as long as you are comfortable.
* Relax.
* You will now feel fully connected with the cosmos and centered.
Note: Always center before performing rituals or spells.
POWER RAISING
The primary way to raise power is by dancing but power is also raised by tensing the muscles, chanting and simple visualization.
Do you remember watching westerns as a child? Remember how the Indians used to dance? That is the type of dancing I am speaking of. You begin by grabbing your staff and slowly alternating foot taps, steps, heel drops and hops. You can use these steps or not use them, however you want. Just remember to begin slowly and find a rhythm. As you dance, increase the speed. Keep increasing speed until you feel the power has reached its peak. While you are raising power, focus on the goal, see it, feel it, smell it, taste it, know it.
When you are focused and the power has reached it's peak, suddenly fall to your knees, thrust your staff out and shout. I use the word "Go" but you can use any short word that makes sense to you. Also, instead of power, you may want to try cupping your hand beneath your mouth and blowing. Both shouting and blowing work wonderfully but blowing is especially nice when you need to be quiet.
GROUNDING
Once you have released the power, it is time to ground the energy that remains. To do this, lay on the ground and breathe deeply. You will feel incredibly alive. Take that energy and direct it through your body and into the earth until you are at an energy level that feels comfortable.
Keywords: retrieval mending self beginners world wise planetary totem spirit animals candle magick spirit guides salem witchcraft casting spells totem animals spirit ways working with
