folkwitchesofscotland images

Resurrection of the sacrificial god-king. 🌿 . Stone Cock and Wood Cock are two of several physical representations of the sacrificial god-king in my DIY/Choose Your Own Adventure practice. Inherently tied to the strength of the sun the king's “raised” from the dead by resurrective maypole rites on his summer feast [St. George’s Eve, May 5th] and is venerated throughout the agrarian year until his winter feast [St. George's Day, Dec 9th]. . Upon the god-king's seasonal death - which I observe between November 23rd [Catholic St. George's Day] and December 9th [Orthodox St. George's Day] - Stone Cock and Wood Cock are ritually dethroned, prepared for funeral rites (washed, anointed, etc.), shrouded in sabbatic maypole ribbons, and ceremonially interred in coffins until ecstatic celebrations resurrect the sacrificial god-king again on his May feast the following year. . you had jesus on your breath and i caught him in mine sweating out confessions the undone and the divine -- florence + the machine, 'bedroom hymns' . ** Instagram's been distorting some of my photos - if you hop over to my diary you'll be able to see unglitched pics & link-jump to associated entries. . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitch #folkwitchcraft

Preparing to resurrect a sacrificial god-king with the help of Sviatyi Yurii [Saint George] on the eve of his Orthodox feast. . “It is the eve of St. George’s Day. Do you not know that tonight, when the clock strikes midnight, all the evil things in the world will have full sway? Do you know where you are going, and what you are going to do?” – Bram Stoker, 'Dracula' . ** Instagram's been distorting some of my photos - if you hop over to my diary you'll be able to see unglitched pics & link-jump to associated entries. . #witchesoinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #sabbat #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #folkwitch #altar #altarsofinstagram

Wiggly tree #aberdeen #aberdeenbotanicalgardens #universityofaberdeengarden #tree #noideawhatthisis #wigglytree #nature #scotland #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchywoman #witchylife #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofscotland #folkeitchesofscotland #folkwitchery #thebarefootwitch

May King is risen! Glory to the lord of verdant life, the beloved saint of summer pleasures. 👑 . deprived of root, and branch, and rind yet flowers i bear of every kind and such is my prolific power they bloom in less than half an hour – jonathan swift, ’a maypole’ . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitch #folkwitchcraft #maypole

“People greet one another with the traditional Easter greeting ‘Khrystos Voskres!’ [Christ is risen!], to which the reply is ‘Voistyno Voskres!’ [He is risen indeed!].” — Traditional Ukrainian Cookery . Khrystos Voskres!, followers and friends. May the blessed power of resurrection bring you and your loved ones comfort and hope. ❤️ . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchcraftofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #folkwitch #paska #bread #eastersunday #eastereggs

Cherry blossom & larch scourge for St. George's Sabbat - the branches drive out, the blossoms beat in. . Awaken the skin, awaken the land, awaken the beloved saint of summer pleasures. 🌿 . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofinstagram #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchcraftofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #folkwitch

Dirty's May Schedule . may, and among the miles of leafing blossoms storm out of the darkness — mary oliver, ’may’ . May 01: Holy Wednesday & Beltane [Summer] May 02: Strastney Chetver [Holy Thursday] May 03: Velykodnia Piatnytsia [Good Friday] & Bandcamp Friday May 04: Harrowing of Hell [Holy or Black Saturday] & Feast of Our Lady of Solitude May 05: Velykden [Easter Sunday] & Yuriev Den Vesenniy Eve [St. George’s Day in the Spring] May 06: Spanking Day [Easter Monday] & Yuriev Den Vesenniy [St. George’s Day in the Spring] May 08: Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation May 09: Anniversary [27 years] & Feast of Saint Christopher May 12: Bird’s Homeday [13 years] & Mother’s Day [USA] May 13: Old Hexennacht [Witches’ Night] May 14: Old May Day May 16: Vyshyvanka Day [traditional embroidered shirt] May 18: Day of Remembrance of the Genocide of the Crimean Tatar People May 20: World Bee Day & ☀️ enters ♊ May 22: World Goth Day May 23: Blossom Moon [Full Moon] May 24: Husband’s Birthday May 26: Cake Marriage [2021] & Husband’s Grandfather’s Birthday [1918] May 27: Saint Melangell’s Day & Memorial Day . Saint dates and Ukrainian holidays typically run on Julian time, while birthdays, death anniversaries, Scottish and other European holidays on Gregorian. . img: netty van der waarden . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofinstagram #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #folkwitch #may #schedule

“If there’s a bustle in your hedgerow, don’t be alarmed now. It’s just a spring clean for the May Queen…” - Led Zeppelin. Happy May Day/Beltane/Bealltainn. I hope everyone had an eventful Walpurgis Night. Bealltainn is one of my favourite festivals despite the flowers and the fertility, there’s some very spooky goings on. #beltane #mayday #bealltainn #mayqueen #fertilityfestival #firefestival #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofig #witchywoman #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Happy Walpurgis Night my witches! #walpurgis #walpurgisnacht #walpurgisnight #witchessabbath #sabbath #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchywoman #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinsta #folkwitchesofscotland #witchesofinstagram

Adapting old resurrective rites to reaffirm my devotion to this land. . “In most liturgical churches, Palm Sunday is celebrated by the blessing and distribution of palm branches (or the branches of other native trees), representing the palm branches which the crowd scattered in front of Christ as he rode into Jerusalem. The difficulty of procuring palms in unfavorable climates led to their substitution with branches of native trees, including box, olive, willow, and yew. The Sunday was often named after these substitute trees, as in Yew Sunday, or by the general term Branch Sunday…” – Wikipedia, ’Palm Sunday’ . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #palmsunday #branchsunday #holyweek

My ancestors’ holy days are my holy days. I reinterpret and redefine to create personal meaning so my connection to them is genuine, but reflective of my own beliefs. Even though Jesus Christ isn’t my savior he has a welcomed place at the resurrective god table I waitress. . Lent, Holy Week, and Easter are how I prepare for and celebrate the resurrection of the land, and how I venerate and welcome the new sacrificial god-king of the year. Despite appearances, I don’t consider these rites to be specifically Christian or pagan; they’re 100% Dirty. . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraf #altar #altarsofinstagram

Feast of the Virgin of Montserrat [April 27th]. . Homemade wild rose incense, locally foraged wild rose petals, homemade wild rose & honey liqueur, and a ceremonial earthen burial for Catalonia's beloved Black Madonna, Rosa d'abril [Rose of April], on her feast day. 🌹 . (Any soil clinging to La Moreneta's exhumed statue's left where it is. Once dried, the dirt's brushed off and added to my jar of holy earth.) . rosa d’abril, morena de la serra... [rose of april, dark-skinned lady of the mountain...] - escolania de montserrat, 'el virolai' . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofinstagram #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #blackmadonna #lamoreneta #roseofapril #virginofmontserrat #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft

We came across swathes of wild garlic on our walk to Haddo House yesterday. Wild garlic is a popular plant to forage, and as a folk witch, I love me a good forage. But I decided not to take any for several reasons. 1- its on a popular walk for people and dogs, it’s probably covered in dog piss. 2- I don’t need any. It’s often used in culinary dishes (it’s popular in pesto and soup) and like it’s domestic counterpart, it’s got mild healing properties. 3- Most importantly; it’s not my place. I don’t own the land, work on the estate or tend the gardens. I’m not familiar with or connected to the spirits of that particular place. So to rock up and take some would be rude. The spirits know who’s there the grab the fruit, and who’s there to tend the soil. Also; if you are going to forage, please do so safely and sustainably. #wildgarlic #foraging #forage #garlic #nature #plants #tendthesoil #responsibility #ethics #witch #greenwitch #themagicofplants #themagicofherbs #hedgewitch #witch #witches #witchesofianstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchesofscotland #folkwitch #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Throwback to last Bealltainn when I left offerings for the fair folk in the hopes that they wouldn’t eat me…. I don’t know if I should do the same this year for the spirits in the wood (because they have taken an interest in me) or if I should just hunker down and not draw attention to myself… I’ll definitely be visiting the ancient yew trees though. #beltane #bealltainn #mayday #offerings #fairfolk #scottishfairfolk #thegoodfolk #spirits #witch #witches #witchesofscotland #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchywoman #folkwitch #folkpractitioner #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofig #thebarefootwitch

I LOVE this! Very similar to my STFU poppets. #witch #witches #poppets #charms #oldmagic #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Dirty's April Schedule [2024] . the april rain, the april rain, comes slanting down in fitful showers, then from the furrow shoots the grain, and banks are fledged with nestling flowers; and in grey shawl and woodland bowers the cuckoo through the april rain calls once again. - mathilde blind, ’april rain’ . Spring starts on February 2nd and lasts until May 1st. . My devotional focus shifts from the deities, saints, and spirits that played significant roles in my ancestors’ lives, and turns towards the land and its inhabitants waking from hibernation. . Apr. 01: Huntigowk Day [April Fools’ Day] Apr. 05: Bandcamp Friday Apr. 06: Tartan Day Apr. 07: Feast of the Annunciation Apr. 08: Day of the Master of the Lightning [Synaxis of the Holy Archangel Gabriel] & ☀️ eclipse Apr. 11: Dirtymas [Dirty’s Birthday] 🎂 Apr. 20: ☀️ enters ♉ & 420 Apr. 21: Serpents’ Day & The Fog & National Tea Day [UK] Apr. 22: Earth Day Apr. 23: St. George’s Day Apr. 24: Dirtymas [Orthodox Birthday] 🎂 & Full Moon [Hare Moon] Apr. 26: Viernes de Dolores [Friday of Sorrows] Apr. 27: Feast of the Virgin of Montserrat [Rosa d'abril] & Lazarus Saturday Apr. 28: Verbna Nedilya [Willow Sunday] Apr. 29: Holy Monday & Mama’s Birthday Apr. 30: Holy Tuesday & Hexennacht [Witches’ Night] & Feast of St. Zosim . “The springtime of the Fast has dawned, the flower of repentance has begun to open…” . Saint dates and Ukrainian holidays typically run on Julian time, while birthdays, death anniversaries, Scottish and other European holidays on Gregorian. . img: Netty van der Waarden . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #april #schedule

Thunder's welcome, burning the house down isn't. 🍷🌩️ . Here in northeast Scotland cherry season coincides with thunder season so I figured some homemade wild cherry-based liqueur would be an appropriate offering. . [April] 8 - Day of the master of the lightning. Archangel Gabriel is honoured as such, so as to prevent him from burning one's house down. – @katttia.sh . great captain of the heavenly hosts, we ask you, though unworthy, by your prayers to protect us with the covering wings of your spiritual glory; and guard us who bow before you and cry: deliver us from all need, for you are commander of the powers on high. – synaxis of the archangel gabriel (from vespers) . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofinstagram #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #archangelgabriel #synaxis #liqueur #wildcherrybrandy #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft

The Annunciation of the Mother of God is celebrated on March 25th by those following the “new” [Gregorian] calendar, but the feast isn’t observed until April 7th by those following the “old” [Julian] calendar. . greetings, favoured one! the lord is with you. greetings, pure virgin! greetings, unmarried bride! greetings, life’s mother! blessed is the fruit of your womb! - annunciation of the mother of god (from vespers) . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #annunciation #ladyday #theotokos #virginmary #altar #altarsofinstagram #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft

Around the vernal equinox I return to my outside office to throw open windows and pull off dust covers (translation: reactivate my private woodland altar). The unshuttering typically coincides with the feast of Komoeditsa, when my ancestors left solar cake offerings to bears emerging from their winter dens. . Currently the largest hibernating mammal native to Scotland that rouses with the strengthening sun is the European badger (Meles meles) - which, admittedly, are more weasel than bear, but you work with what you got when dealing with localized extinction. . This year’s Komoeditsa was a washout (again), so we offered several solar cakes via my working altar to mark the ancestral feast. Once the days are drier we’ll unfreeze the cakes and take them - along with raisins, sunflower seeds, and the last of our winter-stored apples - to one of our local badger setts. . I should probably mention that pumpkins aren't traditionally associated with the feast; we still had a pair kicking around from Halloween that needed to be carved, and I thought lit jack-o-lanterns would provide some solar vibes (glowing orbs emanating heat and light and all of that). . great bear, come down, shaggy night, cloud-coated beast with the old eyes, star eyes. through the thickets your paws break shimmering with their claws, star claws. – ingeborg bachmann, 'invocation of the great bear' . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #komoeditsa

Assorted mischief, feasts, and wanderings from this past March. . 01: Decanting some of my Queen of Hungary’s Water to send to friends. . 02: Late-night candle blessing on a belatedly observed Sreteniye [Candlemas]. . 03: A local birch mother was felled even though she wasn’t ill or a danger to property. . 04: A solar cake offering [pumpkin-enriched cornmeal hoecakes] on Komoeditsa. . 05: There are good mail days, and then there are stellar mail days. 📦 . 06: Maty Syra Zemlia [Moist Mother Earth] and Mokosh guiding our ancestors home. . 07: Gifting the final paska from last Easter to my chosen Larch sponsor for the year. . 08: Final blessing of St. Mary Magdalene’s rose-infused crème de mûre [blackberry liqueur]. . 09: Hugely smitten with my new Cucuteni–Trypillia goddess figurine by @clay.art.ua ❤️. . (Instagram's still distorting photos. 🙄) . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstsgram🌙🔮 #witchesofscotland #witchcraf #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #altar #altarsofinstagram

The candle representing the person to be banished bleeding into the candle representing the person in need of protection. These candles aren’t touching, so I have literally no explanation as to how thos happened. All I can say is that the person needing to be banished is clawing onto or has their claws in the person in need of protection. #spell #spellcraft #spellwork #candlemagic #caromancy #waxdivination #witch #witches #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchywoman #witchylife #witchyvibes #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofinstagram #thebarefootwitch

The banishing candle (black) burnt down in a messy way. Feels like this one might need a repeat or an extra kick… #spell #spellwork #candlespell #banishingspell #protectionspell #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchywoman #witchylife #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Spell to banish a dangerous man, and provide protection for a vulnerable woman. Hecate and the woman’s maternal ancestors were implored for this one. #witch #spell #banishingspell #protectionspell #spellwork #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofscotland #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

The Barefoot Fucking Witches Guide to Fucking Magic. Let’s talk offerings… here is a typical offering that I usually give. Whisky for the Witch Father/ Devil. Sugar/tablet for the Queen of Elphame, and some sort of food (in this case oatcakes) for the spirits of the land. Now, not all offerings need to be food, and not all offerings need to be physical. Acts of service, such as litter picking, volunteering at a local botanical garden etc can be an amazing way to connect with and venerate the land spirits. However I’ve seen “witches” on this (and other apps) use their breath and their *ahem* semen as offerings. I wish I was kidding. This is incredibly egotistical. You’re venerating the spirits, not the other way around. The air you’ve breathed isn’t a blessing to them, calm down. Neither is your semen (I mean that just sums up the male ego perfectly doesn’t it?). When making an offering to spirits, deities, entities that you want help or assistance from, don’t insult them; offer them something they might actually want, none of this pageantry. #truth #offerings #nononsensewitchcraft #nononsense #advice #witchyadvice #witch #witches #witchcraft #realwitchcraft #witches #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Making my Blessing Oil. #blessingoil #blessings #oil #botanicals #herbs #plants #themagicofherbs #themagicofplants #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #witch #witches #witchcraft #thebarefootwitch

Witch tip: when using things like wool, thread, string etc try to use as natural a material as possible. This wool is 80% sheep’s wool and 20% acrylic. Obviously 100% sheep’s wool would be ideal, but it’s not always possible. TRY not to leave anything man made or harmful in nature. #nature #bekindtonature #witchtip #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitches #folkwitchraft #thebarefootwitch

Calling ANY and ALL of my witches on the West Coast or the Hebrides! I need some Hebridean dirt… trying to break a generational curse. IF you can help, please send me a DM. Thank you so much. #scotland #hebrides #scottishwestcoast #scottishwitches #witchesofscotland #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Took a second to get going and then whoosh! #candlemagic #candlemagick #banishingspell #curse #banefulmagic #messwiththewrongwitch #spell #spellwork #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofinsta #witchywoman #witchylife #witchyvibes #witchythings #witchery #witchcraft #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Assorted mischief, altars, and wanderings from this past February. . 01: Saint George presiding over my Lenten Fire of God ritual cleansing. . 02: Coconut-scented western gorse (Ulex gallii) in flower. . 03: My tradition of buying 1 or 2 new(ish) "tools" at devotional new year continues. . 04: Heralds of spring make their annual front yard appearance. . 05: Quiet contemplation and miscellaneous devotional chores on the 24th. . 06: Close-up of my winter-blooming amaryllis (Hippeastrum 'Minerva'). . 07: Winter-hardy flat-leaf parsley about to be made into chimichurri. . 08: Homegrown sweetgrass and a blessed apple for Cow on St. Vlasiy's Day. . 09: 1 large floral bouquet and 5 daffodil bunches to celebrate 22 years of marriage. . 10: Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary [aka Candlemas] . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #folkwitch

Vernal vignettes from Bride’s Day [devotional new year] last month. . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #imbolc #candlemas #bride #altar #divination

Hindsight’s 20/20, which is why I normally take a photo of birthday and winter holiday gifts as I’ve often found they provide divinatory hints about the year ahead. . (Within a month of being given the cow oil lamp I drew ‘Cow’ as my animal for the year during my annual queendom draw.) . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #folkwitch

The Barefoot F*cking Witch’s Guide to Authentic F*cking Witchcraft. Part 2. Effectiveness. I suppose this could also fall under aesthetics; but I felt it needed it’s own post. I’ve seen many a spell contain very pretty blends of dried flowers that don’t correspond to each other in meaningful ways. I’ve seen spell jars that contain a dead bee, rosemary and lavender, a piece of snake shed, and glitter. I kid you not. These things might look pretty or cool, but are they effective? Witchcraft is supposed to be dirty and messy, it’s not traditionally been a pretty craft. Yet so many witches focus on making their spelljars look pretty, or making their altars look pretty. What they need to be is effective. Some of my most effective spell candles looked terrible; but they worked. Now that’s not to say that spellwork can’t be pretty (I have become enthralled with jars of my infused oils before), but it doesn’t have to be. It’s not a requirement. Magic is pointless if it’s pretty but not effective. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. #authentic #authenticwitchcraft #guidetoauthenticwitchcraft #screwaesthetics #witch #witches #witchcraft #folkwitch #folkcraft #folkmagic #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Although my poppet dolls are usually made from cotton, there is something powerful about fashioning them from twigs, leaves, bark, grasses and mud. Especially if these materials are collected from the grounds/gardens of your target… #witch #witchcraftthoughts #witchcrafthints #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchywoman #witchylife #witchyvibes #witchythings #witchery #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchery #folkmagic #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofinstagram #thebarefootwitch

There is a tawny owl (male I believe because the call is a “twoo” sound) hunting in the woods behind my house. Tonight is the first night that I have heard him. My good friend John, who is an avid bird watcher and ecological surveyor thinks it’s a juvenile bird getting ready for spring. Amazing. Me being a witch, I’m listening to his calls and researching the symbolism surrounding tawny owls in general. In many cultures, the Owl is a symbol of wisdom and change; guiding people through transitionary periods. The tawny owl is associated with wisdom and magic in Celtic mythology. According to legend, this wise bird was once human and possessed knowledge of both the natural and supernatural worlds. However, the tawny owl is also said to be a herald of death, appearing to those who are about to pass on to the other side (all birds are psychopomps in my opinion). In some cultures, the tawny owl is considered to be a bad omen, while in others, it is seen as a protector of the dead. Regardless of its interpretation, the tawny owl remains one of the most popular Celtic symbols. #owl #tawnyowl #bird #owlsymbolism #nature #celticsymbolism #witch #woods #woodlands #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofig #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

The Crocuses and snowdrops are everywhere! It finally feels like the earth is waking up here in Aberdeenshire. #spring #crocuses #springcrocuses #springflowers #flowers #aberdeenshire #nature #witch #witches #witchesofscotland #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

The Barefoot F*cking Witch’s guide to Authentic f*cking Witchcraft; Part 1. Aesthetics. Myself and many other practitioners have noticed that as social media platforms such as Instagram and Tik Tok, many witches are trying to conform to a certain “witchcraft aesthetic”. There seems to be two; the cottagecore hobbit/medieval tavern wench, and the Wiccagoth aesthetic. Now if cottagecore is something that sings to you; regardless and outside of witchcraft, then great. BUT there is no requirement to conform to any specific type of aesthetic because… there is no such thing as a witchcraft aesthetic! Witches come in all shapes, sizes, ethnicities and styles. Some of the most knowledgeable and dedicated witches I know dress in sportswear and bright colours. So, if you’re feeling pressured to fit into a particular style, in order to feel like a witch, remember that witchcraft is authentic (and therefore effective), only if you are authentic to yourself. #bettruetoyourself #authentic #beauthenticallyyou #authenticwitchcraft #realwitchcraft #witch #thereisnowitchcraftaesthetic #witchaesthetic #witch #witches #witchesofinsta #folkwitch #folkwitchesofig #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Brat Bhride [Brigid’s Mantle] - ritual linens blessed by Bride. . Just before sunset on the eve of Bride’s feast I usually hang some sort of cloth on my patio apple tree (whitethorn substitute; we don’t have any hawthorn growing in our backyard) to receive a special nocturnal blessing as she walks the land. . Last year Cow’s khustka [headscarf] and an antique ecclesiastical altar cloth were left out for Bride’s touch, this year I decided to hang two ordinary pieces of cheesecloth - not as showy, admittedly, but now I can cut, alter, and stain my Brat Bhride to really squeeze out its curative and protective properties. . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #bratbhride #brigid #saintbride #imbolc

After two years of continuous work these devotional oils are almost ready to be strained and put to use. . Tall jar = post-sabbat butt balm. A mix of homegrown and locally foraged medicinal herbs to treat the bruising consequences of sabbatic flagellation: calendula, comfrey, yarrow, St. John's wort, rose petals, and elderflower. I used a cold-pressed linseed oil that I infused with the immature berries and fresh leaves of European black elder that were harvested and blessed on Assumption. . Smaller jar = anointment oil based on A. Solanaceae's Magdalene Oil [from the Saint Mary Magdalene guide published by @hadeanpress]. A mix of bought and locally foraged ingredients: fly agaric, myrrh, rose petals (dry & fresh), and spikenard. I used a locally produced cold-pressed rapeseed oil that I infused with local fly agaric and fresh rose petals that was created and blessed on Saint Magdalene's feast. . More involved entries regarding each oil when they're finally done. 👍 . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft

healing and protection spell for a client believe this spell is already taking effect (from what the target has said).  #spell  #spellwork  #spellcraft  #candlemagic  #fullmoon  #fullmoonworking  #herbs  #plants  #themagicofherbs  #themagicofplants  #witch  #witches  #witchesofinstagram  #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙  #witchesofig  #witchtwomen  #witchylife  #witchyvibes  #witchythings  #witchery  #witchcraft  #folkwitch  #folkwitches  #folkwitchesofinstagram  #folkwitchesofscotland  #thebarefootwitch 1 day ago

healing and protection spell for a client believe this spell is already taking effect (from what the target has said).  #spell  #spellwork  #spellcraft  #candlemagic  #fullmoon  #fullmoonworking  #herbs  #plants  #themagicofherbs  #themagicofplants  #witch  #witches  #witchesofinstagram  #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙  #witchesofig  #witchtwomen  #witchylife  #witchyvibes  #witchythings  #witchery  #witchcraft  #folkwitch  #folkwitches  #folkwitchesofinstagram  #folkwitchesofscotland  #thebarefootwitch 1 day ago

healing and protection spell for a client believe this spell is already taking effect (from what the target has said). #spell #spellwork #spellcraft #candlemagic #fullmoon #fullmoonworking #herbs #plants #themagicofherbs #themagicofplants #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofig #witchtwomen #witchylife #witchyvibes #witchythings #witchery #witchcraft #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Late last year, my good friend @thenorthenglishwitch released the second edition of his book; “Barbarous Words: A compendium of Conjurations, British folk magic, and other Popish charms.” I loved the first edition, and I believe I called it “a modern take on old folk magic”. Well the second edition has a few revisions, and updates and is definitely worth reading if you haven’t read the original (or even if you have). George, having lived all over the UK, and practiced magic for decades, is definitely one of the few folk practitioners in the UK qualified to speak on the differing practices in different parts of the country. Brilliantly written, and I look forward to anything else he publishes. #barefootbookreview #bookreview #barefootbooks #book #books #barbarouswords #occultbook #witchybook #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

When @bindrunes sent me this utterly stunning photo, I looked at it snd instantly thought “that is a liminal place!” What is a liminal place you might ask? Well the term liminal means; 1. relating to a transitional or initial stage of a process. 2. occupying a position at, or on both sides of, a boundary or threshold. But that’s not quite what we witches mean. In witchcraft terms, a liminal place means a place that is between places or realms, or a place shared by beings in or from different states/realms. A graveyard for example is a liminal place because it is a place for both the living and the dead, shared by both the living and the dead. The shoreline is also a liminal place because it is neither land nor sea. Bogs or marshes are liminal spaces for the same reason as shorelines. Forests are one of my favourite liminal places, because it is a place shared by the beings of this realm, but also those of other realms; and you never know who (or what) you might meet. Many witches choose liminal spaces to work in because we ourselves are liminal creatures, and sometimes it’s just easier to connect with spirits/guides/energies/the frith whilst in these liminal spaces. Picture credit: @bindrunes #liminalspaces #forest #forests #liminalplaces #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofig #witchesofinsta #witchywoman #witchylife #witchyvibes #witchythings #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thbarefootwitch

These popped up in the woods overnight. I absolutely adore snowdrops as they remind me of my grandparents (my granda planted snowdrops on my grandmother’s grave, and snowdrops were my French Grandfather’s favourite flower). I am very tempted to start some guerrilla gardening and scatter British woodland wildflower seeds in the woods (think foxgloves) and plant some British wood anemomes. Think that would be a suitable gift for the land spirits. #flowers #spring #britishflowers #nativeflowers #wildflowers #guerillagardening #nature #scotland #fosteringaconnectuontotheland #landspirits #scottishfolkwitch #witchesofscotland #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Bride's bed, veiled boudoir, and guest of honour place setting. . On the eve of devotional new year the veil's drawn off, the "hearth" lit, and the door physically opened as she's invited indoors to share a meal and spend the night. . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchcraft #bride #saintbride #brigid #imbolc #bridesday #altar #altarsofinstagram

Là Fhèill Brìghde! Happy Imbolc. This time last year I was livin in the far north of the Scottish Highlands, and it was snowing. My friends back North reported thunder and lightning and snow last night. Today in Aberdeenshire we had bright skies. If you know Scottish folklore surrounding Là Fhèill Brìghde, and The Callieach, you know what’s coming. #làfhèillbrìghde #imbolc #brigid #stbrigid #thecallieach #scottishfolklore #scottishmyrhology #scottishlegends #scottishfolkbelief #scottishfolkbeliefs #folkwitch #folkwitchesofscotland #scotland #thebarefootwitch

This is the day of Bride, the queen will come from the mound… . moch maduinn bhride [early on bride’s morn] thig an nimhir as an toll [the serpent shall come from the hole] cha bhoin mise ris an nimhir [i will not molest the serpent] cha bhoin an nimhir rium [nor will the serpent molest me] – alexander carmichael, ’carmina gadelica’ . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #altar #altarsofinstagram #serpent #snake #cauldron #imbolc #bridesday #saintbride #bride

Always interesting shapes in the smoke, wax and flames when I do spellwork for this particular individual… #spell #spellwork #spellcraft #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchywoman #witchylife #witchyvibes #witchythings #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitcbesofig #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

My Irish great, great, great grandparents (on my maternal grandmother’s side). Charles and Sara Agnes Benington, and their two young children (the boy is my great, great grandfather); taken 1856. This photo was developed from a glass negative. I’m showing you this, to remind you that not all of your ancestors will have your back (just like your living relatives). I’m pretty confident that these fine, upstanding, god fearing folks would not have approved of my sinful lifestyle and they certainly wouldn’t have approved of the witchcraft. And that’s ok. Times change and we move. Death doesn’t bring enlightenment. If someone was intolerant or held strong beliefs in life, it’s very likely that their spirit will still hold those beliefs. Be mindful of this fact when connecting with and working with your ancestors and you’ll be fine. #ancestors #ancestorveneration #ancestorworship #family #familytree #familyhistory #dnadoesntmatter #spiritwork #spirits #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchywoman #witchylife #witchyvibes #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

I saw this cast iron fairy door for sale on Vinted yesterday. No shade to whoever is selling it; I just thought that this door is the perfect example of people not understanding the Fair Folk. It’s widely accepted that the Fair Folk are easily offended, placing a fairy door made from cast IRON in your home would deeply offend them, and you don’t want to do that; trust me. Please please please, take the time to research the lore and make sure that you understand the spirits you are working with; just to avoid becoming lunch… #fairfolk #thefairfolk #castiron #iron #witches #witch #thefae #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchywoman #witchylife #witchyvibes #witchythings #witchery #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Mossy tree stumps. Nature’s own altar. #nature #naturelovers #treestump #moss #mosslovers #offerings #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofscotland #folkwitch #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofinstagram

The burning of the candle. Some interesting omens in the wax… #candle #candlemaking #waxdivination #divination #carromancy #newyearseve #newyearsday #newyeardivination #witch #witchcraft #witchesofinstagram #witchesofig #witchywoman #witchylife #witchyvibes #witchythings #witchery #folkwitch #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

The results of my candle making. I’m really pleased with how he (I dunno why but I feel he’s a he) turned out. I love how some of the herbs settled in a misfit like mohawk. Going to light it at midnight… #candle #candlemaking #skullcandle #skull #newyears #newyearseve #liminaltime #liminality #witchcraftin #witchcraft #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofig #folkwitch #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofig #thebarefootwitch

My first foray into candle making. Skull shaped candle with “old world botanicals” crafted at dusk on New Year’s Eve for protection and prosperity in 2024. Happy New Year folks! #newyear #newyears #newyearseve #candle #botanicals #herbs #themagicofherbs #witchcraftin #witch #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofig #witchywoman #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitches #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofinsta #thebarefootwitch

May the light that illuminates your path guide you to peace, happiness, and understanding at the end of your longest night. ☀️ . “Arise, shine, for your light has come…” – Isaiah 60:1 . #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #solinvictus #wintersolstice #midwinter #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchcraft

Back in October I was contacted by the editor of the @scottishpaganfederation’s magazine and asked if I’d write an article for their quarterly magazine (eSpin). I was told it could be about anything I wanted; so I decided to look into the winter folk customs of Scotland. eSpin isn't for general sale: it goes out to members of the Scottish Pagan Federation, so if you’re a member, please go give it a read and let me know your thoughts. #eSpin #scottishpaganfederation #eSpinmagazine #scotland #witchesofscotland #scottishwitch #scottishwitches #scottishfolkmagic #scottishfolkbelief #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Hey folks, I’d just like to point out that the spellwork and practices I share on TBW are my own personal practices. Scottish folk practice is a semi closed, land based practice, so I don’t share Scottish folk practice in order to protect & preserve those practices. So when you’re looking at my page please bare in mind that although I am a Scottish folk practitioner, what I’m posting is not Scottish Folk Practice (it’s my personal witchcraft practice). #witchcraft #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesifig #witchesifinsta #witchywoman #witchylife #witchyvibes #witchery #witchcraft #scottishwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Funeral of the sacrificial god-king. 👑 . Stone Cock’s one of several physical representations of the sacrificial god-king in my DIY/Choose Your Own Adventure practice. Inherently tied to the strength of the sun he’s “raised” from the dead by resurrective maypole rites on his summer feast [St. George’s Eve, May 5th] and is venerated throughout the agrarian year until his winter feast [St. George’s Day, Dec 9th]. . Upon his seasonal death - which I observe between November 23rd and December 9th - Stone Cock is ritually dethroned, prepared for funeral rites (washed, anointed, etc.), shrouded in sabbatic maypole ribbons, and ceremonially interred in a coffin until ecstatic celebrations resurrect him again on his May feast the following year. . how shall i bury thee, o my god? how can i wrap thee with winding sheets? how can i touch thy most pure body with my hands? what songs shall i hymn thy departure, o compassionate one? i magnify thy passion. i glorify thy burial and thy holy resurrection, crying: o lord, glory to thee! – arabic holy friday hymn . #witchesofinstagram #witchcraft #witchesofscotland #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchcraft #folkwitchesofscotland #altar #altarsofinstagram

Instructions below 🖤🧙⚘️ Thankyou @the_barefoot_witch_ Posted @withregram • @the_barefoot_witch_ To silence an enemy/stop gossip Take an indigo (used in colour magic to silence gossip) or white piece of cloth and cut two out human shapes. I use a permanent marker to draw on a face, and any distinguishing features such as tattoos. Sew the two halves almost all the way together and stuff the poppet with stuffing (cotton wool, or teddy/cushion stuffing works perfectly for this). I also include herbs such as slippery elm, and licorice root (slippery elm is good for stopping gossip and licorice root is great for controlling a situation and gaining the upper hand). Place a piece of paper with the target’s name/date of birth etc or any other tag locks that you have inside the poppet (I try to place the tag locks in the chest). Cut the mouth open, then finish filling the poppet and sew it all the way shut. Breath life into the poppet. “You are (target’s name). I breath life into you. What is done to you is also done to (target’s name).” Then exhale onto the poppet, visualising a golden energetic link between it and the target. Stuff the mouth with slippery elm, STFU powder, and licorice root (whatever you have, i also dripped some banishing oil into the mouth), whilst telling the herbs what they need to do and telling the poppet what will happen “you will keep your mouth shut, you will not speak about (the person they have been gossiping about). You will say nothing! You are silent as the grave!” You could also write this on a piece of petition paper, fold it up small and stick it in the poppet’s mouth. Then take some thread (black or red is ideal) and sew the mouth shut, repeating to the poppet what is going to happen. I also added pins. This poppet can be buried or hidden somewhere where it is unlikely to be discovered (somewhere no one can hear it). #poppet #poppetdoll #poppetmagic #poppetmagick #silencegossip #spell #spellwork #spellcraft #ritualwork #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofig #witchesofinsta #folkwitch #folkwitchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofig #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

To silence an enemy/stop gossip Take an indigo (used in colour magic to silence gossip) or white piece of cloth and cut two out human shapes. I use a permanent marker to draw on a face, and any distinguishing features such as tattoos. Sew the two halves almost all the way together and stuff the poppet with stuffing (cotton wool, or teddy/cushion stuffing works perfectly for this). I also include herbs such as slippery elm, and licorice root (slippery elm is good for stopping gossip and licorice root is great for controlling a situation and gaining the upper hand). Place a piece of paper with the target’s name/date of birth etc or any other tag locks that you have inside the poppet (I try to place the tag locks in the chest). Cut the mouth open, then finish filling the poppet and sew it all the way shut. Breath life into the poppet. “You are (target’s name). I breath life into you. What is done to you is also done to (target’s name).” Then exhale onto the poppet, visualising a golden energetic link between it and the target. Stuff the mouth with slippery elm, STFU powder, and licorice root (whatever you have, i also dripped some banishing oil into the mouth), whilst telling the herbs what they need to do and telling the poppet what will happen “you will keep your mouth shut, you will not speak about (the person they have been gossiping about). You will say nothing! You are silent as the grave!” You could also write this on a piece of petition paper, fold it up small and stick it in the poppet’s mouth. Then take some thread (black or red is ideal) and sew the mouth shut, repeating to the poppet what is going to happen. I also added pins. This poppet can be buried or hidden somewhere where it is unlikely to be discovered (somewhere no one can hear it). #poppet #poppetdoll #poppetmagic #poppetmagick #silencegossip #spell #spellwork #spellcraft #ritualwork #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofig #witchesofinsta #folkwitch #folkwitchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofig #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Saint Olga keeping my ass on the straight and narrow. . (She was meant to be temporarily displayed, but seemed so settled in her altar spot that I've been reluctant to dethrone the canonized queen.) . The beaded garland was created from windfall rowanberries brought down by Storm Babet, the bundle of locally grown standing stone barley blessed on Honey Feast of the Savior is destined to become a woven sceptre, and the partially obscured rod's my sabbatic riding crop which inexplicably placed itself within Saint Olga's reach. [😬] . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #altar #altarsofinstagram #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft #saintolga #saintolgaofkyiv #icon #rowanberry #barley #grain #ridingcrop

Barefoot book review. “Yew: A History” by Fred Hageneder. I’d recommend this book for anyone wanting to work with yew trees, tree lovers, woodland lovers, botanists and those who are just curious. It’s a fantastically detailed book on everyhh to ing ypu could wish to know about yew trees; and the photos are stunning too. #yew #yewtrees #fredhageneder #book #barefootbookreview #bookreview #books #trees #themagicoftrees #witch #folkwitch #folkwitchesofinstagram #scottishwitch #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofig #thebarefootwitch

Cultural context. It’s vital when reading important historical texts; to take into consideration the humour within the culture, language barriers, the author’s interpretation of material, the editing, the political landscape at the time of publication, and the context of the material. These might be considered important or even sacred texts within folk magic, but like the Bible, the stories have been re told and re edited. It’s not a primary source. It’s also important to read the full title of the book; not all of the things recorded were necessarily “witchcraft” or “magic”. A lot falls under superstition, proverbs, stories and even just good old fashioned advice. #culturalcontext #context #historicalcontext #historicaltexts #history #primarysources #primarysource #book #books #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchesofinsta #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

Apologies for the radio silence since Samhainn folks; and apologies if this page has felt less “witchy” to you, or lacking in pictures of spell work since my relocation in July. But there’s a reason for that. I recently relocated 180 miles south to Aberdeenshire. Now that might not sound like a lot to my American followers; but Scotland is a small country with a huge amount of diversity packed in. The landscape, food (I’d never heard of Skirlie until I moved to Aberdeenshire), langue, folk beliefs and spirits are quite different here from the ones I’ve been familiar and immersed with for the last 20 something years. So, as a result, my practice of practicing witchcraft (I’m a Scottish folk witch and my practice is tied to the land and the spirits on that land) has taken a backseat in favour of familiarising myself with the local land and spirits (something that takes time). So apologies for the silence. #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinsta #witchesofig #witchywoman #scottishwitch #scottishfolkwitches #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofinstagram #thebarefootwitch

As much as I don’t want to quote the mother of Wicca (because I am not Wiccan), she has a point here! You can read a thousand books on the subject; but unless you actually practice, you won’t understand what magic and witchcraft practice actually is. So this is a gentle push to put down the books; get your ass out of your armchair and start to actually practice. Immerse yourself in the local landscape, get to know her; the rocks, the trees, the plants, the water and most importantly; the spirits. #witch #witchcraft #animism #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofig #witchywoman #doreenvaliente #folkwitchgolkwitchesofinsta #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchesofig #thebarefootwitch

We're still in post-covid recovery mode, so we have to carefully choose which feasts and holidays we'll be celebrating over the next couple of weeks. . Since Martinmas, aka Old Halloween, also falls on Armistice Day we decided to put full effort into observing a low-key Remembrance Weekend to spend time with our veteran ancestors (his Scottish grandfather, my Ukrainian grandfather, and my Native American grandfather). . I'll still be making Queendom Stew later this month (an annual event), but there isn't a Martinmas altar, St. Martin's Bouquet, or Martinmas menu this year. Pretty bummed, tbh, but health's got to come first right now. . I went through my archives and pulled 10 photos from previous Martinmas celebrations to share today as we sadly sit this one out. Wishing everyone celebrating a very happy Old Halloween. 🎃 . "It became obvious a few years back there weren’t enough hours in the day to enjoy holidays and perform all necessary rites and rituals involving the land and our ancestors. Devotion always won, which meant sometimes the Christmas tree never got decorated, and birthdays slipped past barely acknowledged (one of the drawbacks of being an April-born Aries is having your nativity jostle with Holy Week and Easter for priority in your devotional calendar)." . "Halloween was eventually halved, creating New Halloween (October 31st) and Old Halloween (November 11th). On the 31st we indulge ourselves with rubber bats, 1950s monster bop, and TV specials from the 1980s, and then on the 11th - also known as Martinmas, St. Martin’s feast day, and an old Scottish quarter day - we honour ancestors, and pay tribute to the land through various rituals and rites under the guise of Final Harvest. (And maybe get a bit witch-faced, too. 😉)" -- Dirty, 'Wild Boar [Sintober 7/31]' . #witchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofinstagram #witchesofscotland #folkwitchesofscotland #witchcraft #martinmas #folkwitchcraft #crossquarterday

Assorted mischief, omens, and wanderings from this past October. . 01: Two suns spotted overhead while walking back home after apple picking. . 02: Foraged elderflowers were the last addition to an almost finished project. . 03: Preparing seeds from Saint Thérèse of Lisieux's rosehips for planting. . 04: Catshead apples - a cooking variety - ripening in my condemned orchard. . 05: 'X' marks the spot of something... . 06: Our first frost arrived a day before our first winter storm (Babet). . 07: A fly agaric-enhanced walk prior to Babet to better assess post-storm damage. . 08: Fading outlines of an old holy grounds road that once led to the Devil's Loch. . 09: Guess who was panic-picking late-ripening apples hours before Babet's arrival. . 10: Homemade pumpkin & cep [aka porcini] soup just in time for covid jail. . #witchesofinstagram #witchesofscotland #witchcraft #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofscotland #folkwitchcraft

In 2019, thanks to one incredibly problematic “Scottish folk practitioner”, the world learnt the term “saining”. Saining has since been peddled as “a Celtic alternative to smudging” and a way for the disapora to feel like they’re not appropriating a culture. This is not only incorrect, it’s complete bullshit. Saining is not celtic. It is uniquely Scottish. Scottish folk practice is a semi closed, land based practice, and saining falls under the closed part of our semi closed practice. You need to be taught these practices by one of a handful of Scottish folk practitioners that know what they’re doing and live on the land, whilst you yourself are on the land. If you don’t live in Scotland and you claim to be saining, you are in fact appropriating a culture. There’s also more to saining than just wafting some juniper branches around. A LOT MORE. Saining is not just “smoke cleansing””. To Sain doesn’t mean “to cleanse”. The problem here is the vast amounts of misinformation that is now floating about the internet, like so many turds, because of this one creator and their massive NEED to be the spokesperson for Scottish folk practice. Beware of people who are very willing to teach or sell off pieces of a semi closed or closed practice. Their motives are often not pure, and you’ll often find that they’re not that well liked within that community as their information is false. This product is sold on Etsy by a Canadian; so as much as it’s probably a pleasant botanical room spray, that’s all it is. It’s not a Saining blend. #saining #thetruthaboutsaining #scottishfolkpractice #semiclosedpractice #stopappropriatingmyculture #mycultureisnotforsale #scottishfolkwitch #scottishfolkwitches #folkwitchesofscotland #thebarefootwitch

NOTE: AUSTRALIA THIS IS NOT A POST FOR YOU. YOU GUYS JUST DO YOUR THING. Just a reminder to my NH friends; that as the weather gets colder, that you will see an increase in spiders in your home. This is totally normal (abet horrifying to those of us that aren’t fans). This is also a reminder NOT to kill them. They eat other bugs and are an important part of the eco system. I’d rather have a spider in my corner than an infestation of something else… #nature #spiders #spidersarefriends #spidersareessential #dontkillspiders #nature #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofig #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofig #folkwitchesofscotland #scottishwitch

NOTE: AUSTRALIA THIS IS NOT A POST FOR YOU. YOU GUYS JUST DO YOUR THING. Just a reminder to my NH friends; that as the weather gets colder, that you will see an increase in spiders in your home. This is totally normal (abet horrifying to those of us that aren’t fans). This is also a reminder NOT to kill them. They eat other bugs and are an important part of the eco system. I’d rather have a spider in my corner than an infestation of something else… #nature #spiders #spidersarefriends #spidersareessential #dontkillspiders #nature #witch #witches #witchesofinstagram #witchesofinstagram🔮🌙 #witchesofig #folkwitch #folkwitches #folkwitchesofinstagram #folkwitchesofig #folkwitchesofscotland #scottishwitch #🕷 #🕷️🕸️ #thebarefootwitch