The Magic in Everyday Items

When people think of "pagan" or "magic", they often think of donning a ceremonial robe, waving a wooden wand carved with runes, and kneeling before an elaborate altar covered with statues, stones, and other magical bric-a-brac. What people fail to recognize is that the "magic" itself comes from personal connection and intention. No fancy costumes or tools are required for that.

A wand is simply a tool used for directing intention. It doesn't need to be a fancy bespoke wand carved with symbols and runes, and adorned with crystals and feathers. Those that practice kitchen magic are familiar with using a "wand" we all know and use - the kitchen spoon. A wooden tool that can be used the same as a wand; this everyday item is endowed with the intention of creating nourishing meals for you and your home. It can easily be used to bring nourishment and warmth to your practice as well.

Our tools for magic are all about the connection we develop with them. The stronger our connection with our tools, the stronger our magic and intentions become. This connection is developed by use, and what gets used on a daily basis quite like our trusty hair brush? Whether we are aware or not, we develop a strong connection with this simple grooming tool. Combining the action of self-care during our morning toilette, it can also be used to strengthen our magic and find the grounding we need in our rituals. Whether made of wood or plastic, it does not matter. The simple joy that comes from making ourselves look good with this common tool can spark great things.

Incense is a staple to most magical rituals, however, this can be easily replaced or augmented by a favorite perfume or cologne. What better way to invoke the senses than with the familiar scent you use on yourself everyday? The core of magical work is You. By placing yourself in your intentions with your self-identifying scent you can strengthen your magic and the bond you grow with your craft.

One of the first "tools" we reach for in the morning is the coffee cup. It delivers our first sips of motivation for the day. While having a fancy chalice to fill with offerings at our altar can make our rituals feel more "authentic" and "powerful", the bond with our coffee cup gives us the "power" to take on the day, and can certainly be transferred to give power to our rituals. Never underestimate the intention absorbed by such a frequently used object and the magic it can harness for your craft.

The idea of using everyday items and harnessing the magic of the home is the basis of Cottage Magic or Cottage Witchery. The focus is the idea that the entire home is your altar, and all the tools within it are the tools for your craft. The home you build is the magic you create for yourself and all who dwell within. While Cottage Magic may not be the path you are looking for, adopting some of these simple, everyday tools into your practice can absolutely strengthen your rituals and your personal connections to your intentions.

An excellent resource for experts or beginners is the Cottage Witchery guide by Ellen Dugan. These ideas for rituals, and recipes for spells that bring your magic closer to the hearth and home are a great way to personalize your craft.

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