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- Terms of Service | Ask a Grey Witch
AskaGreyWitch.com does not currently produce it's own income. There are however costs associated with maintaining a website with blog features. And so, this website has been mostly paid for by my profession as an intuitive reader. Therefore, this website is made possible thanks to Stafford Tarot. Please see the terms of service available at www.staffordtarot.com Website - Terms of Service AskaGreyWitch.com does not collect any fees from visitors or subscribers, and no money or funds are exchanged through this website. Subscription and membership are free. It began with a mission to give others a taste of the thoughts and opinions of one practitioner's experiences by answering submitted questions and sharing the responses as a short blog entry. What started as occasional posts has evolved into a rich site filled with a variety of information about various topics that have helped others to feel confident within their own practice. Please note -- names, e-mail addresses, or any other personal or identifying information will be omitted from online (not mentioned in any of the videos and blog posts). Questions submitted are described generally and in an abbreviated form by leaving out the identifying, extra details or background information submitted within the messages sent. This is done for confidentiality of visitors and for privacy of members while a more detailed response is given from Bryan Stafford shared as a blog entry. All information shared in the responses within the blog posts and website information pages are written from the personal experiences, perspectives and practices of Bryan Stafford. As a Humanist Wiccan male, he shares perspective and experience in a way that is helpful to others. To be clear: what one says is not what goes. No one is trying to say that what one thinks is the only way... each and every one has their own way of thinking and individual beliefs, traditions, etc. This website is maintained as a safe place where perspectives are shared, ideas can be explored, and submitted questions can be answered honestly without inquirers made to feel centre staged, or stereotyped, or discriminated against, etc. Lots about workings and experiences can be shared by simply answering submitted questions in a short blog style format. By doing so, together we may be able to help break some of the misconceptions that still exist out there about modern witches, wiccans, or other interesting folk. Any divination services and intuitive reading sessions mentioned at AskaGreyWitch.com are not connected to the S. M. C. coven groups in any way and are separately provided by Bryan Stafford himself under the business name "Stafford Tarot". There are operational costs associated with maintaining this website and blog which are paid for thanks to Stafford Tarot sponsorship. For which, the letter regarding the Stafford Tarot terms of service is provided below: If there are any questions or for more information about these services offered, please visit www.staffordtarot.com -- More about 'Ask a Grey Witch' Open this letter on the Stafford Tarot website Dear prospecting and/or current clients, As a client of Stafford Tarot, you will always be treated with honesty and respect, and offered the same treatment as to all clients. I will never judge you for what you tell me or ask of me within readings, and will always be forthright about myself, my qualifications, and my analysis of the reading. I will always remain objective and separate my personal opinions from the readings I offer. You have my guarantee of complete confidentiality. I will never share with anyone the information you give me for the purposes of a reading. This information may include but is not limited to your name, contact information, and the details of your situation given to help me perform a more accurate reading. Please note that I am not a therapist, nor a medical, financial, or legal expert, and will not perform any reading where I feel that expertise in these fields is necessary. Similarly, I will never give counselling, medical, financial, or legal advice; if you want advice in such an area, you should consult a qualified professional. I will respect your autonomy and ability to make decisions for yourself. I use Tarot to help you reflect on your situation and choose your path. If I offer advice in a reading, I will only give suggestions of possible courses of action that you may want to consider taking, or possibilities that you may have overlooked. I will never tell you what you should or should not do, and ultimately, all of your choices are entirely up to you. So are yours the responsibilities for the consequences of these choices. In requesting a reading from me, you assume all legal and financial responsibility for the decisions you make, regardless of whether you take into consideration possible choices discussed during a reading. I will not perform a reading having to do with any illegal activity. I will not perform a reading for someone who is not present in the reading session. And, I will not perform a reading for a minor without expressed permission from a parent or legal guardian. If there are any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your understanding. Best, Bryan Stafford Intuitive Reader Stafford Tarot www.staffordtarot.com www.facebook.com/bryantarotreading --
- Invitation to join | Sacred Meadow Circle
You are invited!!!! Thank you for visiting and for your involvement with AskaGreyWitch.com! An invitation to the Astral Sacred Meadow Circle Virtual Gathering was previously sent to you. However, it may have ended up in a spam/junk folder. And so, I am attempting to send it again from my personal email. Please feel free to join us! Only those who register will receive the meeting join links required in order to attend the meetings. About AskaGreyWitch.com Hosted by: Read the Blog Submit a Question View Submitted Questions
- About the Grey Witch | Ask a Grey Witch:
About The Grey Witch My name is Bryan Stafford and I live in Guelph, Ontario Canada. I am an empathic male and an intuitive pagan with many years experience with metaphysical workings, including spell work, astrology, mediumship, and divination such as tea leaf, rune and tarot readings. By describing myself as a secular practitioner, I signify both my pagan background that nature itself is holy, thus the planet we live on and the plants, animals and bodies we live in are all sacred and my role as a complex person who works with energetic properties. In my personal non-theistic practice, deities are percieved as common architypes created to symbolize different aspects of our own human nature and are not actually external entities or supreme beings, etc. Sometimes my perspectives are confronted by other practitioners with disdain. Whereas I say, "to-each-is-own". I strive to do what is felt to be right from a humanistic approach and to speak my mind. Secular humanism is that I, myself can live a good and moral life without the existence of having a belief in a supernatural deity within my practices and traditions. But, rather I connect with aspects of my own human nature. When referring to my craft, I'm actually speaking to my personal independent practice involving manifestation and an affinity with nature within my pagan traditions. As I get older, my craft becomes less about trying to cause specific outcomes and more about focusing on helping to become more purposeful and compassionate in my own life. While I still do rituals of the more traditional sort, my magick has become something which I carry with me in all areas of my life. Always learning along my path and relying on my intuition, I personally scrye and work with runes, tarot, pendulums, palmistry and tasseography. With many tools, crystals and herbs to aid me in various workings, I also make my own infusions, potions, salves, candles, and oracles. I dedicated to a Seax Wiccan way of life in 2016 and completed initiation in 2019. More about my Wiccan practice can be read at: https://www.askagreywitch.com/post/secular-wicca In 2022, I became co-founder of the Sacred Meadow Circle. More about the coven can be found at www.askagreywitch.com/coven Devoted to working with all kinds of energies, and finding balance, I am often referred to as grey witch. This means my practice has involved learning as much of the baneful ways in the craft as I have to heal and help, giving me a unique perspective in magick allowing me to work in 'grey' areas in order to bring balance. For example, undoing a hex. Other intuitives have referred to me as a light worker as I am so often drawn to helping others. I offer guidance based on intuitive readings to those who feel they may benefit from another perspective. Random strangers at times unexpectedly sought me out to tell me about their problems or ask me for advice in public places such as in a store or at a bus stop, etc. Quite often I find myself offering guidance, answering questions, providing information and giving advice to other practitioners of magick. Practice suggestions and Advice More information about my coven About AskaGreyWitch.com About StaffordTarot.com
- Suggested rituals and spells | Ask a Grey Witch:
Thank you to everyone who has submitted your questions to AskaGreyWitch.com! Together we can break misconceptions about Wiccans, witches and other magickal folk. All information shared in my responses within the blog posts are written from my own personal experiences, perspectives and practices only. Suggestions and advice Growth, Development, Sustainability Witchcraft 101 page Workings, Traditions, Practices Feeling confused, lost or stuck!? Quite often an example or reference to a starting point is all that's required to become grounded within beginning to set up your own witchy practice. Below, you'll find information, examples of advisable workings and suggested rituals to help to setup an informed practice that is personally meaningful to you. All writings are partaining to my perspective relating to specific non baneful (harm-free) topics. Shadow Work Up Close and Personal. It's called Shadow work because it involves getting to know every part of ourselves that can not be seen by others and sometimes not even realized by ourselves. It can be difficult to explore darker sides of our personalities, or parts of ourselves that we try to hide from the world. But, learning to face all emotions regarding past experiences or feelings that are kept deep within can be empowering in itself building confidence and inner strength. One way to get started that I recommend is by keeping a journal or diary where the entries are meant to create little reflections of yourself over time. Given this purpose, I like to call this a book of mirrors. In it, entries can include written stories, activities or exercises, or whatever you can use to personally analyse thoughts or feelings on a particular topic. A good example of one of these activities is the creation of what's commonly known as a bucket list. Generally speaking, a bucket list is a sort of checklist of things to which one wants to accomplish or experience in their life before they die. Looking at how many of those items remain unchecked can help to create a plan of action before opportunities are missed. Another example would be writing all the things that you do not prefer about yourself, or wanting to change. Whether it's laziness, or lack of passion, or other vices. This can help to understand the alterations or changes needed from our own behaviour in order to make ourselves healthier or happier. Check out the Blog section on this website by clicking the button below to see postings with more ideas for shadow work exercises. There are so many ways to which this can be applied. Exploring and understanding the hidden truths of ourselves allows us to know our true and pure intentions. In my opinion, this makes Shadow work an important place to get started for any practitioner of magick. This is powerful when working with and directing energy, or within spellwork. It is also my opinion that shadow work is important for divination such as tea leaf sessions, rune casting, or tarot reading, etc. Click the button for shadow work journaling examples, if you're interested. Some shadow work journaling examples Shadow work expanded in further More information about witchcraft and Wicca Suggestions and tips ... how?! Read, read, and read some more As mentioned previously, there is so so sooo much information out there. Whether it's in books, online articles, as well as other sources of information such as videos, documentaries, etc. Start with your interests in witchcraft and then go from there. If interested in Wicca, research and discover the different branches of Wicca to be sure that you are comfortable with the traditions and practices you've learned about. Research can help to decide what is the best fit for you, personally. "An' it harm none, do what ye will." Don't just beleive whatever you read or learn about when it comes to Witchcraft. Go with what mostly connects with you. I can't reiterate enough that what works for you may not work for others (and vice versa) and that each and every witches practice is different from eachother. There is no wrong way to setup a practice, and there certainly is no wrong way to beleive what it is that you beleive. Go with your instincts, and follow your intuition. Document your path One of the things that I often hear/read other witches say A LOT is to journal your progress. This is something that was and still is hugely important in my own practice. I write in a Book of Shadows: details of rituals and practice information, a Book of Mirrors: where I write reflections of myself, a Book of Spells: also known as a grimoire, and a Book for my coven's information called The Tree (pages considered the leaves that come and go) which each of my coven members will be invited to take from or add too for/from their own knowledge. Each book is kept up to date regularly (when I'm able). It's important to acknowledge the changes that constantly happen as one grows with their craft. Prevent burn-out Understanding that energy is all around us existing in everything, in every stone, twig, flower, plant, tree, ...all creatures, etc. We can interact within our surroundings in an energetic way through spellwork. It's my advice to not only depend on your own energy. But, make use of the energies around you to avoid feeling exhausted. Also, don't rush - take your time. Witchcraft is a spirituality and has a lifetime worth of learning! Be confident Free will can not be controlled. Your free will is always your own. The more confident you are, the more empowered your free will is. Protection spells allow us to feel more confident. And so, in return our free will is then empowered to not be as influenced by negative energies around, or directed towards. The more confident a witch is in their craft, the less effect and influence any external negative energy will have. Knowing your innerself well, also known as the shadow, will help to know what will work for you, and what won't. Expensives NOT REQUIRED! There are actually no tools required to start doing witchcraft. Most practitioners can direct energy with simply using their index and middle fingers. Nature can provide most to all working ingredients. Find pebbles, rocks, and crystals outside near forests, paths, meadows, beaches, or where-ever your surroundings. Sticks, stones, grass, vines, flowers, herbs, dead insects, bones from victims of prey, etc. Collect the rain water. Charge under the full moon, ... There really are no costs required. HOWEVER, Tools can help Tools are not required. That being said, they can help. Some practitioners find they feel more directive with energy by using an athame or a wand. Although a wand could be selfmade from a thin branch there may be some tools many can't selfmake themselves, such as an athame. It would be my suggestion to start with naturally provided tools. However, when you feel ready and if affordable, there is also nothing wrong with purchasing craftsmanship from others. Just be sure to first cleanse away others' energy and to charge the object with your own energy with intention before implementing it into your practice. Trust your instincts! Don't let anyone else tell you that you're not doing something right, or that you are doing something the wrong way. There is no wrong way for you to express your spiritual. Each and every one of us has different associations to everything based on our own experiences in life. No one walks the same exact path. ...Be you! Do it your way! Manifestation is much more likely when spellwork is personally satisfying to the caster. Follow your intuition We all have guidance we can connect to whether it be ancesters, deities, spirit, or what ever your beleifs. Requesting assistance is always ok. However, do your own spellwork. No one can associate more with your desire than yourself. If a spell is found online, or provided by another practitioner of magick, feel free to change anything: the ritual; ingredients; incantation; etc. so that it resonates more with your own intentions for the workings. Make it your own. About Witchcraft and Wicca More information about witchcraft and Wicca Witchcraft 101 page Submit a question or comment Read the response blog entries
- Magickal Workings | Ask a Grey Witch
Magickal Workings It is a fundamental belief of mine that everyone and anyone, as human beings, has the ability to work with energies, and to do "Magick". The common use of magick evokes some sort of change in the physical world through intended manifestation. In occult and esoteric communities, it can take a wider meaning involving spiritual change. There are so many kinds of witches depending on the type of magick studied and practiced. For example, but not limited to: a green witch harvests and uses plants and herbs in their practice; a cottage witch focuses on the household and family; a hedge witch works with spirits and ancesters bridging the boundaries of the viel between life and death; Astro witches study astrology and incorporates it into their practice, ...and there are many others. It's not necessarily about choosing a type of witch that you want to be. But, moreover the type of witch describes briefly the realm of magick being explored. Some practitioners believe their individual practices have very little in common with other witches. Explaining the various types of magick is just as complicated as defining magick itself. Not all magic has the same intention and each magickal practitioner will use different associations and approaches. It was actually Aleister Crowley who began using the word "magick" instead of "magic" for several reasons and the use of the term spread over time. The most often mentioned reason is to differentiate what witches do from stage magic done for entertainment. Crowley gave several other reasons why he used the term "magick," even though these reasons are often ignored. Contradictory, he considered magick to be anything that moves a person close to fulfilling their ultimate destiny, which he called one's True Will. With this idea of practicality, magick doesn't have to be metaphysical. Any action, mundane or magickal that helps fulfill one's True Will, is magick. The spelling was not chosen randomly. Crowley expanded a five letter word to a six letter word, which has numerical significance. Also, hexigrams are six-sided shapes and are prominent in his teachings. “K” is the eleventh letter of the alphabet, which also has significance. Other spellings that also divert from the word "magic" include "majick," "majik," and "magik." However, there's no other specified reason that I'm aware of in regards to why some people use these spellings. It should also be mentioned that there are also main types of magick: Folk magick has all kinds of practical purposes: healing, attracting luck or love, driving away evil forces, finding lost items, bringing good harvests, fertility, etc. Rituals were simple and then probably evolved over time. They involved everyday items: plant material, coins, nails, wood, and so forth. Folk magick is sometimes called low magick because of its practical nature and due to the fact that it's traditions and customs are passed down through generations of family heireticy. Ceremonial magick is a type of magick that depends heavily on learning precise, complicated ritual and intricate sets of correspondences and associations. Ceremonial magic is also high magick. It is meant to have a spiritual purpose rather than a practical one, although there could be some overlap. It involves improving the soul, which might include gaining divine knowledge, purification, the attraction of proper influences, self empowerment and embracing one's destiny, etc. Knowing where your interests lay and what your intentions are with magick will help you to determine what rituals, customs, and workings are best suited for you and your new practice. Some examples of magical workings: https://www.askagreywitch.com/blog/categories/workings Workings vs spells: https://www.askagreywitch.com/post/workings-vs-spells Introduction to Witchcraft Submit a question
- Registration | S.M.C. Astral virtual gatherings
The Witches Gathering is an educational gathering of modern witches who are seeking to improve their personal craft, and connect deeply to their intuition. Register for free More about The Gatherings The Sacred Meadow Circle Astral Chat. The S.M.C. Astral group is an o nline international diverse assortment of witches that keep in contact and seek support in their discovery and learning of witchcraft. Anyone can participate! There is no requirement other than looking for help or support in setting up a meaningful practice in the craft, or meeting other witches. Quite often an example or reference to a starting point is all that's required to become grounded within beginning to set up your own witchy practice. Join us for this magickal chat experience! Starting in January 2025 Virtual gatherings will happen each week on Wednesdays, to start at 8 PM ET until about 9-10 PM ET. Check the Upcoming events section for topic and details. It should be mentioned: All else that is permitted to be revealed to non-members is that the Sacred Meadow Circle exists as a collaboration of separated gatherings of witches. No in-coven business is discussed outside of the circles such as but not limited to about what is discussed, the magickal workings that are involved, traditions explored, any trainings or lessons that take place within, or whom any of the other members are, etc. Since witches and witchcraft face so many misconceptions and misunderstandings in the world today, revealing identities of witches or other coven information could result in the jeopardization of wellness or saftey for others. Please be respectful and considerate of one another. - Blessed be! About Remote Gatherings: Please join us for the next upcoming online gatherings! Only those invited to the specific group's remote gathering will receive the meeting join links required in order to attend. First, one attends the Astral S.M.C. virtual gathering to find out what's new and upcoming in the coven and participate in introductory discussion topics. From there one may be further invited to get more involved! Starting in January 2025 Virtual gatherings will happen each week on Wednesdays, to start at 8 PM ET for a variety of witchcraft related topics of discussion and planning future events together. In person Full Moon S.M.C. gatherings may be mentioned (However, no locations nor members nor itinerary information is shared) in order for local witches to show interest and possibly be invited to attend. Witches whom show interest to attend in person gatherings are then presented to and approved by the Full Moon S.M.C members before any other information is shared with the potential member such as the gathering location and meeting details. The Astral Sacred Meadow Circle serves as a support for an online international diverse assortment of witches that keep in contact and seek guidance in their discovery and learning of witchcraft. Anyone can participate! There is no requirement other than looking for help or support in setting up a meaningful practice in the craft, and/or meeting other witches. Quite often an example or reference to a starting point is all that's required to become grounded within beginning to set up your own witchy practice. Join us for this magickal chat experience!!! During the gathering, please feel free to use craft-names and to express your witchy-selves as you see fit. These virtual meetings are not recorded, nor broadcasted. However, please be prepared that other meeting participants will be able to see you when your camera is on. And so, we ask for consideration of your surroundings that may be visible within your camera's view range. Stafford Tarot is the sponsor of the AskaGreyWitch.com host website. And so, there will be an opportunity to receive a free short divination reading with either Charms, Runes, Tarot or other oracle during the remote gathering. An A.I. companion IS used during remote gatherings for participants to ask it questions during, and create meeting summaries afterwards which may be shared with registrants as a follow up (Please note that the A.I. generated meeting summary is often not 100% accurate). For more information about the Sacred Meadow Circle gatherings, please visit: https://www.askagreywitch.com/gatherings Registration is free, and helps to prevent scammers or other insincere entry into the meeting. Once registered, please check your spam/junk folders for confirmation and for invitations to the next upcoming virtual gatherings which contain the meeting join link required to attend. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or have any concerns. We look forward to seeing you there! More Information: Register for free More about The Gatherings About The Host/Organizer About the Grey Witch Group Rules: Kno w... ...when TO KNOW Do research and exploration of the craft in the areas of your own interests. Everyone has a different point of view. This path is a lifetime of development. Please be kind and courteous at all times. ...when TO DARE Do what feels right and stay true to your own practice. Please respectfully disagree if doing so. Bullying, targeting, or attacking a member of this group is not allowed and will not be tolerated. ...when TO WILL We can support each other in finding your own way in the craft. Manifest your own will's desires. Be mindful of the Law of III if part of your practice. No selling to or spamming other members. ...when TO BE SILENT Revealing identities of witches or other coven information could result in the jeopardization of wellness or saftey for other members. Please be respectful, supportive and considerate of one another. Check Upcoming Events for the Next Gathering Date
- About StaffordTarot.com | Ask a Grey Witch:
About Stafford Tarot The messages within await! AskaGreyWitch.com does not currently produce it's own income. There are however costs associated with maintaining a website with blog features. And so, this website has been mostly paid for by my profession as an intuitive reader. Therefore, this website is made possible thanks to Stafford Tarot www.staffordtarot.com The messages within await: Offering intuitive readings. Here are some details about the main services which are offered: to see all services available and fees, please visit the website at www.staffordtarot.com for more information. STAFFORD TAROT MAIN SERVICES: Tea Leaf Reading Tea Leaf Reading, also known as Tasseography, is a divination method that interprets patterns and symbolism in tea leaves within the teacup after the client has drank the tea. The reading can either be general or can be based on a particular question if you so choose. Intuitive Rune Casting Rune reading is done either by selecting individual runes from a bag and interpreting their meanings based on positions in a layout or by casting all the runes at once and reading them according to how they land. Readings can be general or based on a particular question. Intuitive Charm Casting Different from rune casting, the charms are not read from a layout. But, rather they are read from how the charms land in relation to eachother, whether they are touching, atop of, connected to or based on how far apart they are from eachother. Each charm holds a special meaning and when read together the messages can be interpreted based on a particular topic or specific question asked, or can be left as a general reading. Astrology Reading By analysing the positions of the stars in the sky at a specific reference of time, I am able to illuminate on the effect the planets have on the different aspects of the living. For a relationship compatibility analysis, I just need both person's birthdates. For a personal life analysis, I just need one's birthplace, birthdate, and if the time of birth is known. A written description of the analysis can be sent via email from bryantarotreading@gmail.com Intuitive Tarot Readings Sessions are usually about a half hour in length ($50). During a 30 minute reading I typically will do a one card draw (which gives me an impression and energy of the client) and then a 10+ card spread full reading (which can either be general or can be based on a particular question if you so choose). I have multiple spreads that I can suggest depending on the querrent or question. There's are many Oracle decks available that can refine the reading if helpful. I also offer a shorter 15 minute session ($25) which I can do a 5 card day spread, or a quick dilemma/solution spread, etc. Psychic Mediumship During a mediumship session I will take a moment to connect with the energies and spirits around you. Whilst requesting confirmations through out, I will interpret the messages that come through. Once validated, questions can be asked. Tarot cards may also be used as a comunication tool. Quite often the messages wont make sense to me. However, make absolute sense to the sitter of my readings. Messages are often what is needed to be delivered by the spirit themselves. Area Cleansing Using several energy cleansing techniques involving smoke, sound, water, crystals and salt, I am able to assist with the removal of negative energies and set the right intention for your home or workspace. It usually takes about 30 minutes depending on the size of the area. In extreme cases, energy protections can be set up to ensure a nuturalizing environment. Please be upfront if there are pets sharing the space being cleansed. If so, smoke cleansing should be avoided which can have unhealthy effects on some animals (especially birds in particular) Consultation and workings More and more, I find myself providing advice or guidance to other practitioners in my craft. Due to the amount of time that this can require, I do include these hours as work. Mentorship is considered a pro bono service and casually happens for free through online interactions or by posting within online communities that I participate in. For more extensive one on one assistance, I do charge a fee for consultations and any workings. There may be additional costs associated with any requirement or necessity of supplies. Groups, Events, or Parties During an event, I can bring my own tarot reading table (2.5' x 2.5' fold up table) on which I will set my crystal ball and several tarot and oracle decks. If outdoors, I can setup my own small 6'x6' tent as seen in the picture and to make individual meetings a bit more private if necessary. I can use several different decks for multiple trans-dimentional tarot readings to do collaborative group sessions, conjoint couple sessions, as well as individual sessions. Self-readings Workshop - Limited space available. Offering a 90 minute workshop on learning to do self readings. Each participant will be introduced to objective-ness, intuitive-ness, and have an opportunity to work directly with a Rider-Waite tarot deck. Feel free to bring your own personal tarot structured deck (no oracle decks please). We'll run through an activity which can be continued afterwards to build on a practice to do your own self tarot readings. Contact me for availability or if there are any questions. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Where in person is not possible, readings can take place over video chat platforms such as Messenger, Zoom, Google Meets, or other of your choice. More information is available at www.staffordtarot.com About the terms of service Visit the Stafford Tarot Website Read the Stafford Tarot Blog Stafford Tarot can also be found on:
- Witches Gathering and Conference | Ask a Grey Witch
The Witches Gathering is an educational gathering of modern witches who are seeking to improve their personal craft, and connect deeply to their intuition. Purchase Tickets Seekers of Magic and Spellcasting, Welcome! Learn, share and connect. Have you heard the call to reconnect with your inner witch? The Witches Gathering is an educational gathering of modern witches who are seeking to improve their personal craft, share their wisdom and connect deeply to their intuition. These workshops and lectures will help you to remember, reconnect and reclaim your inner witch. You will be guided by phenomenal witches of all traditions, as we explore the ancient principles and practices of witchcraft through these educational offerings. These gatherings will no doubt present valuable opportunities, as we honor the collective and the individual growth of the mystic, witch and seeker in a safe and non-threatening environment. Our intention is to provide a beautiful, moving and thought-provoking experience for all attendees. All levels of experience are welcomed! Come and gather with us and become part of a magical community. Workshops: (2025) The Witches Gathering is an educational gathering of modern witches who are seeking to improve their personal craft, share their wisdom and connect deeply to their intuition. These workshops and lectures will help you to remember, reconnect and reclaim your inner witch. You will be guided by phenomenal witches of all traditions, as we explore the ancient principles and practices of witchcraft through these educational offerings. ******EARLY BIRD PRICING EXPIRES JAN 30, 2025***** These offerings are open to all levels of experience. Check out our amazing lineup of workshops & lectures below: FRIDAY MAY 2 WORKSHOPS: I AM A WITCH, I AM: A WITCH’S JOURNEY SOLAR WITCH: HOW TO CAST TO SUN MAGICK HEALING THROUGH SOUND AND CRYSTAL CONNECTION AN EVENING WITH SPIRIT! SATURDAY MAY 3 WORKSHOPS: CHOOSING THE RIGHT WAND INTRODUCTION TO WITCHCRAFT HOW TO USE MIRRORS IN SPELL-WORK THE ETHICS OF MEDIUMSHIP: NAVIGATING RESPONSIBILTY & BOUNDARIES PENDULUM MAGICK WITCHES CIRCLE: A GUIDE TO CREATING YOUR BOOK OF SHADOWS DEVELOP YOUR PSYCHIC & INTUIVE GIFTS HARNESS YOUR 12 INNER SEASONS WITH THE ZODIACS WALK WITH YOUR ANCESTORS: DEEPENING YOUR SPIRITUAL PRACTICE UNLOCKING EVERYDAY WISDOM: THE MINOR ARCANA THE MAGICK OF SIGILS WITCH, HEAL THYSELF ***We will be hosting our Magical Witches Night Market on both Friday May 2and Saturday May 3, 2025.*** ***The Witches Night Market is FREE and open to the public. Two nights of magical fun for the whole family! All are welcomed.*** *** Conference tickets are not refundable or transferrable. *** Workshops & Lectures About the Guides About The Host/Organizer More Information: The 2024 conference was a success: See Dates/Times Above See Dates/Times Above 2024: (Guides subject to change for 2025) More Information: Purchase Tickets About The Host/Organizer See 2025 dates above! Workshops & Lectures About the Guides
- Deep-Dive summaries | Ask a Grey Witch
The Deep Dive: Summaries Below are the audio recordings of The Deep Dive Audio Overviews summarizing the information available on the www.AskaGreyWitch.com website which also includes an overview of the Sacred Meadow Circle coven and gatherings, as well as Bryan Stafford. The Deep Dive are episode structured podcast like discussions created using A.I. powered conversation leveraging advanced language models to help summarize information, generate insights, and explore connections on a particular topic. Powered by NoteBookLM by Google. AskaGreyWitch.com was submitted to The Deep Dive podcast discussions featuring the practices, traditions and structure of the Sacred Meadow Circle, as well as about the answers to submitted questions of the blog at AskaGreyWitch.com The Deep Dive summaries to the information submitted from AskaGreyWitch: About AskaGreyWitch About the S.M.C. coven About Bryan Stafford About S.M.C. membership The information source for The Deep Dive episodes above is the www.askagreywitch.com website. NotebookLM offers a personalized AI collaborator that helps do your best thinking. After providing it an information source, NotebookLM becomes an instant expert in those sources so you can read, take notes, and collaborate with it to refine and organize your ideas. All of the information and ideas shared in these episode structured videos above are provided by the AskaGreyWitch website's blog and information pages. Each blog entry has been fitted with a "NotebookLM" button which when clicked on will load the related blog entry into a Deep Dive Audio Summary for your listening pleasure. Please note that the audio overviews are not exactly 100% accurate with some of the minor details. For example, in some of the audio overviews available on the blog entries, there are a couple of summaries that refer to Bryan Stafford as a women, or uses incorrect pronouns. However, in these specific blog entries gender is not fully revealed in the content. And so, it is understandable that the A.I. Language Models involved would assume either "He", "She", or "They" based on how the particular blog post is written. Each audio overview is personally reviewed and approved by Bryan Stafford himself to confirm that the informative content is presented in an accurate way and the audio overview portrays the concepts of the related topics regarding witchcraft and Humanist Wicca. The program or platform used to create these recordings is primarily a research and note-taking tool developed by Google Labs that uses artificial intelligence, specifically Google Gemini, to assist users in interacting with their documents. It can generate summaries, explanations, and answers based on content provided by users. It also includes "Audio Overviews", which summarizes information in a conversational, podcast-like format. The target source for the audio overviews provided on AskaGreyWitch are the website URL and the content of individual blog entries themselves. It is in hope that these videos help to summarise the information and support that is available at www.askagreywitch.com Please feel free to submit any questions! NotebookLM is available to all users (18+) More information is available at: https://notebooklm.google.com/
- Coven - Legal Status | Ask a Grey Witch
About Sacred Meadow Circle Coven Legal Status: In Canada, the legal status of Wicca and Paganism is varied. The rules in each province or territory may differ from each other. Traditionally, Wicca is a religion practiced only by its priesthood in small groups (covens). The biggest difference between a coven and a church, is that a coven is private and usually closed to it's members. Where as, a church is open to the public. Established Policies: Correctional Services of Canada has recognized and thereby given status to Pagans within federal correctional facilities. A priest of a Wiccan tradition can be employed to serve as a Wiccan chaplain in the Ontario region of Correctional Services Canada. According to the most recent information Pagans and Wiccans reserve equal rights to their holidays in the military, just as members of every other religion does. However, in the event of war any worship may have to yield to military necessity, and Wiccans and Pagans reserve the right to have their religion appear on their identification discs or tags, as well as tomb stones, death notices, etc. Wicca is in fact a recognized religion by the government of Canada. Please refer to: http://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/385123/publication.html for more information on Religions in Canada published by the Directorate of Human Rights and Diversity (DHRD) In Canada, the legal status of Wicca and Paganism is varied. The rules in each province or territory may differ from each other. Traditionally, Wicca is a religion practiced only by its priesthood in small groups (covens). The biggest difference between a coven and a church, is that a coven is private and usually closed to it's members. Where as, a church is open to the public. Established Policies: Correctional Services of Canada has recognized and thereby given status to Pagans within federal correctional facilities. A priest of a Wiccan tradition can be employed to serve as a Wiccan chaplain in the Ontario region of Correctional Services Canada. According to the most recent information Pagans and Wiccans reserve equal rights to their holidays in the military, just as members of every other religion does. However, in the event of war any worship may have to yield to military necessity, and Wiccans and Pagans reserve the right to have their religion appear on their identification discs or tags, as well as tomb stones, death notices, etc. Wiccan Recognition: Wicca is in fact a recognized religion by the government of Canada. Please refer to: http://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/385123/publication.html for more information on Religions in Canada published by the Directorate of Human Rights and Diversity (DHRD) More about the un-established policies in Canada About Sacred Meadow Circle
- Rune Divination | Ask a Grey Witch:
Thank you to everyone who has submitted your questions to AskaGreyWitch.com! Together we can break misconceptions about Wiccans, witches and other magickal folk. Rune Divination An Ancient Oracle Just as Tarot Reading, Rune casting is not considered a form of fortune telling. But rather, a very old technique of oracle consultation. Each a charector, a letter, a magickal symbol, and can have altered meanings depending on how it lands or how it is pulled from a bag. My runes stones Runes can mark stones, sticks, chips, and any other divination tool that can be cast. They can also be drawn as magickal markings to hold intention and power, and even as an alphebet charector set. Uruz / Ur Strength, Animal, Sacrificial Equivalent to "u" Othila / Ethel Separation, Retreat, Property, Inheritance, native land, home Equivalent to "o" Ansuz / Os Signals, Higher Influence, Mouth, Divine Communication, God Loki Equivalent to "f" Gebo / Gyfu Partnership, Gift, Offerings, Generosity Equivalent to "x" Mannaz / Man Self, Person, People, Human Race Equivalent to "m" Algiz / Eolh-secg Protection, Defence, Sedge, Elk Equivalent to "z" Eihwaz / Eoh Defence, a Bow, Rune Magick, Avertive PowersEquivalent to "e (ei)" Inguz / Ing Fertility, a Legendary Hero, Ing, Spiritual Development Equivalent to "ng" Nauthiz / nyd Constraint, Need, Necessity, Cause of Sorrow, Lessons, Hardship Equivalent to "n" Perth / Peord Initiation, a Secret Matter, Mystery, Uncertainty. Equivalent to "p" Teiwaz / Tyr Warrior, Victory, Shooting Star, Arrow, God Tyr Equivalent to "t" Kano / Cen Opening, Touch, Ulcer, Skiff or Boat Equivalent to "k" Jera / Ger Harvest, Year, Fruitful, Success Equivalent to "j" Wunjo / Wyn Joy, Absence of suffering and sorrow, Happiness Equivalent to "w" Fehu / Feoh Possessions, Goods, Wreath, Currency, Cattle Equivalent to "f" Raido / Rad Journey, A Riding, Soul after death, Travel charm Equivalent to "r" Hagalaz / Haegl Disruption, Hail, Sleet, Damaging natural forces Equivalent to "h" Laguz / Lagu Flow, Water, Sea, a Fertile Source, Smooth Process Equivalent to "l" Ehwaz / Eoh Movement, the course of the Sun, Horse Equivalent to "e" Berkana / Beorc Growth, Rebirth, New Life, Birch Tree Equivalent to "b" Thurisaz / Thorn Gateway, Thorn, Demon, Giant, the God Thunor Equivalent to "th" Dagaz / Daeg Breakthrough, Day, Prosperity, Fruitfulness Equivalent to "d" Isa / Is Standstill, Ice, Freezing, Unable to move forward Equivalent to "i" Sowelu / Sigel Wholeness, The Sun, Healing, Power Equivalent to "s" Odin / Wuden The unknowable, Destiny, God Wuden, the Unknown
- Intuitive Readings | Stafford Tarot
The purpose of this website is to provide information about myself and my background. I try to assist anyone who would like to learn Intuitive Tarot for themselves by including blog entries with helpful suggestions, reading tips, and more. You can also find (below) details on locations of events and about the services that I offer. Questions and comments are always welcome. ~Enjoy your visit! AskaGreyWitch.com does not currently produce it's own income. There are however costs associated with maintaining a website. And so, this website has been mostly paid for by my profession as an intuitive reader. Therefore, this website is made possible thanks to Stafford Tarot, Intuitive Readings Info Summary See Terms Of Service Info Summary
- Spellwork advice and suggestions | Ask a Grey Witch:
About Witchcraft and Wicca Growth, Development, Sustainability Witchcraft 101 page Not sure what Witchcraft even is? With the amount of misunderstanding and misleading information that there is amongst the general public about witches, it's no wonder many people don't beleive witches even exist, or think Witchcraft and Wicca the same thing, (they're not). Below you'll find information, some background, and proof that magick is used all around us in every day life, whether a witch or not. Where to start? "Beginner-Witch" tips For anyone hoping to start their journey into witchcraft, It is my hope that this website helps make your journey less overwhelming. Anyone who knows anything about witchcraft knows that there is a current stereotype of witches that has been based on missunderstandings, misconceptions and down right untruths. Let’s be honest, witches don’t fly on brooms, wear big pointy hats or have green skin, etc. In fact, witchcraft is a much more complex and in-depth practice that has many different branches that can be explored. Witchcraft can be overwhelming at first due to the vast amount of information published or available online. Finding what path you want to go down can be difficult at first. There is an enormous amount of different kinds of witches out there. The definition of a witch is, basically: "Anyone who does Witchcraft". It should be mentioned that witchcraft is a form and expression of intention. Where as Wicca is usually referred to more as a religion that involves witchcraft in its traditions. These two terms are not the same. When referring to my craft, I'm actually speaking to my spiritual practice involving magick and an affinity with nature within my pagan traditions. Wicca usually involves magick, nature and the worship of deities. It is a newer set of beliefs in comparison to many of the world religions, starting in the early 20th century and takes much of its practices from Pagan traditions. It's my understanding that paganism dates back to before the Renaissance period, is a bit more broad, and it also typically follows the worship of deities and centers more around ceremonies or festivals. The most important thing to do when starting out with Wicca is to do your own research. For the origin's of, one great place to look is in any books written by Gerald Gardner, who is nicknamed "the father of modern day witchcraft." The main text many Wiccans follow is Gardner’s “The Gardnerian Book of Shadows”. Another important figure in the history of Wicca is Aleister Crowley, who Gardner knew and drew inspiration from, to start the new religion. Raymond Buckland adapted Gardnerian Wicca into an Anglo Saxon perspective. The main text that a Seax Wiccan follows is Buckland's "The Tree". Several more branches of Wicca also eventually formed to express other differences in beliefs, such as but not limited to Alexandrian Wicca, Agard Wicca, Dianic Wicca, etc. More about the paths of wicca is available in the blog post:h ttps://www.askagreywitch.com/post/wicca-in-more-detail Wicca in more detail. Wicca is the largest group within the modern rise to neopagan practices, with nearly half identifying as Wiccan. I, myself, dedicated to a Seax Wicca tradition in my secular practice (involving aspects of my own human nature), beginning in 2016 and completed initiation as a Gesith in 2019. Becoming dedicated isn’t something one does overnight and does take time. It is a path of constantly learning over an entire lifetime. Research, looking into yourself and getting to know your inner self better is a big part of starting the journey and can be widely implemented through Shadow Work. More information on this can be found at: https://www.askagreywitch.com/suggestions suggestions and advice. Some book recommendations More about where to start More information about witchcraft and Wicca More about Wicca in more detail Understanding energy Energetic expression When you feel energy, what you’re really feeling is the impact that the energy is having on your own energy. The key is noticing the change to your own energy created by that 'reflection'. When working with or reading people's energy, most people’s energy is changing all the time. If you think of energy as a symphony, with dozens of musicians playing at once. It’s beautiful, but it’s hard to pick out a single musician. When listening for energy, that’s like trying to hear a single musician, a soloist amongst the orchestra. Just like how the other instruments have to become quiet to allow the soloist to be heard, you must quiet your own energy in order to sense the energy of others. What specifically do I mean? Quieting energy is remaining steady, smooth, and calm. Being flexible and responsive, not rigid or tense. Energy can move, keeping it slow and gentle. Above all, quieting energy means listening and responding. Energy is everywhere. It is a part of us and every item and object that surrounds us. We can interact physically and energetically with our environment. The balancing of energies is an important aspect of all workings in my craft. Energy work is used within many different practices, such as mediumship, metaphysical healing, working with nature or wildlife or deity, sensing or scrying and also includes ritual, ceremony and spell work. Even beyond our planet's surface there are astrological influential energies that impact our day to day lives and can be used in divination to gain clarity of a situation, or to foresee a lifespan of someone's life, from simply observing the positions of specific astrological bodies in our solar system. Some examples of energetic charging would be the process of making moon water by leaving it in moonlight; or similar to making sun water; or during the casting of the runes; or similar to during the shuffling of tarot cards. Etc. While doing so, there is an energetically charging of intention taking place (for example the question of a psychic reading) and feeling the reflection of that energy return is how to know how to read the answer. When casting runes it's the energetic draw of the symbols and their positions in the layout used that guides a rune reading, or when shuffling tarot cards it's the energy of the cards that makes aware when to stop or which card to choose. Again, just like runes it's the energetic draw of the symbolism in the tarot card's design and spread used that guides a tarot reading. To know which runes or cards to choose to work with, you should select the one that energetically "feels" right to you. The same can be said in regards to spellwork. The use of associations and energetic properties of ingredients and supplies of spells are important to make the purest connections with our true intentions. Each of us have different associations that we have developed since the beginning of our lives. And so, no one else can be more clear about your intentions than yourself. The more personal satisfying a spell is to the caster the more likely the desire will manifest from magickal workings. Click the button for more information about how the external astrological energetic influences can effect us: More about astrological energetic influences How to energetically read tarot cards More information about witchcraft and Wicca Suggestions and Advice Witchcraft 101 page Submit a question or comment Read the response blog entries
- Suggestions and Tips | Ask a Grey Witch
Suggestions and Tips Read, read, and read some more As mentioned previously, there is so so sooo much information out there. Whether it's in books, online articles, as well as other sources of information such as videos, documentaries, etc. Start with your interests in witchcraft and then go from there. If interested in Wicca, research and discover the different branches of Wicca to be sure that you are comfortable with the traditions and practices you've learned about. Research can help to decide what is the best fit for you, personally. "An' it harm none, do what ye will." Don't just believe whatever you read or learn about when it comes to Witchcraft. Go with what mostly connects with you. I can't reiterate enough that what works for you may not work for others (and vice versa) and that each and every witches practice is different from each other. There is no wrong way to setup a practice, and there certainly is no wrong way to believe what it is that you believe. Go with your instincts, and follow your intuition. Document your path One of the things that I often hear/read other witches say A LOT is to journal your progress. This is something that was and still is hugely important in my own practice. I write in a Book of Shadows: details of rituals and practice information, a Book of Mirrors: where I write reflections of myself, a Book of Spells: also known as a grimoire, and a Book for my coven's information called The Tree (pages considered the leaves that come and go) which each of my coven members will be invited to take from or add too for/from their own knowledge. Each book is kept up to date regularly (when I'm able). It's important to acknowledge the changes that constantly happen as one grows with their craft. Prevent burn-out Understanding that energy is all around us existing in everything, in every stone, twig, flower, plant, tree, ...all creatures, etc. We can interact within our surroundings in an energetic way through spellwork. It's my advice to not only depend on your own energy. But, make use of the energies around you to avoid feeling exhausted. Also, don't rush - take your time. Witchcraft is a spirituality and has a lifetime worth of learning! Be confident Free will can not be controlled. Your free will is always your own. The more confident you are, the more empowered your free will is. Protection spells allow us to feel more confident. And so, in return our free will is then empowered to not be as influenced by negative energies around, or directed towards. The more confident a witch is in their craft, the less effect and influence any external negative energy will have. Knowing your innerself well, also known as the shadow, will help to know what will work for you, and what won't. Expensives NOT REQUIRED! There are actually no tools required to start doing witchcraft. Most practitioners can direct energy with simply using their index and middle fingers. Nature can provide most to all working ingredients. Find pebbles, rocks, and crystals outside near forests, paths, meadows, beaches, or where-ever your surroundings. Sticks, stones, grass, vines, flowers, herbs, dead insects, bones from victims of prey, etc. Collect the rain water. Charge under the full moon, ... There really are no costs required. HOWEVER, Tools can help Tools are not required. That being said, they can help. Some practitioners find they feel more directive with energy by using an athame or a wand. Although a wand could be selfmade from a thin branch there may be some tools many can't selfmake themselves, such as an athame. It would be my suggestion to start with naturally provided tools. However, when you feel ready and if affordable, there is also nothing wrong with purchasing craftsmanship from others. Just be sure to first cleanse away others' energy and to charge the object with your own energy with intention before implementing it into your practice. Trust your instincts! Don't let anyone else tell you that you're not doing something right, or that you are doing something the wrong way. There is no wrong way for you to express your spiritual. Each and every one of us has different associations to everything based on our own experiences in life. No one walks the same exact path. ...Be you! Do it your way! Manifestation is much more likely when spellwork is personally satisfying to the caster. Follow your intuition We all have guidance we can connect to whether it be ancesters, deities, spirit, or what ever your beleifs. Requesting assistance is always ok. However, do your own spellwork. No one can associate more with your desire than yourself. If a spell is found online, or provided by another practitioner of magick, feel free to change anything: the ritual; ingredients; incantation; etc. so that it resonates more with your own intentions for the workings. Make it your own. Introduction to Witchcraft Submit a question
- Tarot Divination | Ask a Grey Witch:
Tarot card divination The messages within await Cartomancy is divination or fortune taking using a deck or cards. They're are different forms of cartomancy since suit cards were first introduced into Europe in the 14th century. Practitioners of cartomancy are generally known as cartomancers, card readers, or just as readers. One form of caromancy is Tarot card reading. A tarot card reader uses messages received from the cards to gain insight or new perspectives into the past, present or future. A question is formulated and then cards are drawn to interpret the messages. Message can very depending on the card itself and also the direction of the cards in which it lands, and if a layout or specific card spread is used it will also depend on where the cards land into which position. Intuition is generally taken advantage of to clarify the meanings of the messages. The ways in which the messages are related and associated to the different aspects of ourselves and our lives is how insight and new perspectives are drawn out from within us. Hence, "the messages within await". Helpful suggestions Are you interested in doing your own self readings? Here are some tips to get started: F Find a tarot deck that you like. There are many different kinds of cards that can be used for excellent readings. The most common tarot deck is the Rider Waite deck. There are many other tarot decks the use the same or similar symbolism and meanings as the Rider Waite illustrations. There are also other decks that are completely different and have their own design. Take your time to find the tarot deck that speaks to you. When you have purchased or obtained your new cards, keep it in a special pouch, or wrap them in a special clothe, and somehow make them your own. Some sleep with them under their pillow for the first few weeks to charge with their energy. Others place certain types of crystals with them when not in use. Always keep your's covered to remain dust free and they will last longer. Do what feels right to you in creating a relationship with your own personal tarot deck. Spend some time getting to know the cards. For tarot, lay out the entire deck. You can separate the Higher Arcana cards, Court cards, and Lower Arcana cards at first if that helps to focus on the differences between these groups within common decks. Go through the deck and familiarize yourself with each's symbolisms. What does each card 'say' to you? Whether you are working with runes or tarot cards, be objective, and trust your instincts. Most tarot decks will come with an instruction book that can be used at first as a general guideline. However, eventually you should reach a point when you feel confident to read the cards without these descriptions. As you go through the cards more you'll begin to form a kind of relationship as you learn the cards meanings, including your own interpretations. Follow your intuition. Consider how each card may mean something different according to where and how it is placed in your layout or spread. If the interpreted meanings of your cards do not seem to fit with your subject or question, write down those details and watch for events to unfold over the next few days or so - sometimes meanings can make more sense afterwards. Some forewarnings may not make sense until 'it' happens. In the beginning, you're going to have difficulty reading a complicated layout or spread. Especially, if you haven't built a relationship with the cards (getting to know them well). I'd suggest to start with a simple layout or spread first (1 rune/card draw, or a 3-5 runes draw or cards spread for example). Then, when you feel confident learn the more challenging methods, such as a full card casting, or full tarot spreads (5-9 cards spread, or the commonly used 10 card Celtic Crux spread, or others) A great way to start readings is to give yourself readings on a regular basis. I STILL do daily readings for myself to know what to expect that day. Each time you'll learn more and more about your own interpretations of the cards and layouts or spreads used. This allows you to become more comfortable and confident before giving readings to others. Knowing yourself well enough is key to remaining objective while giving readings. Our inner-selves can sometimes throw us off in self readings, which is why some books do not recommend it. The more objective you are in self readings, the more accurately you'll be able to interpreted the messages for yourself, and as well for others. The "Do's and Don'ts" of readings To do? or not to do? DO's: ------ DO create a relationship with the cards or runes and get to know their meanings on a personal level. For simple questions or topics, DO use a simple spread or layout. DO choose a spread or layout to use first, even before shuffling the cards or holding the runes. DO focus on the use of the spread or layout chosen with the intention of the reading while shuffling the cards or holding/casting the runes. DO be objective through out the reading, and remain subjective. DO keep an open mind, and accept the messages received. DO hear what you need to hear, (not what you want to hear). DO expect the unexpected DON'T's: -------- DO NOT read for others while haven't taken the time to get to know the cards for one's self. DO NOT read when emotional DO NOT drawing "classifiers" or extra tarot cards beyond the chosen spread DO NOT do multiple readings on the same question or topic without allowing time to pass in order to offer a new perspective. DO NOT do Readings in hopes for specific meanings. DO NOT use complicated spreads or layouts for simple questions or topics. Personal associations Getting to know the cards Below are some associations to begin reading from tarot spreads, and then allowing intuition to guide fine-tuning the messages of each card according to the energy of the quarrent or sitter. It is important to understand that the interpretations of the meanings of each tarot card will change slightly according to its spread/layout position and also, whether it has been placed right side up, sideways or reversed will further refine the message from the reading, as well as the intuition of the reader. Tarot Reading and The Cards: For the following, these are general associations according to Rider Waite symbolism. Card Suites The Quarrent - Spirit, Within, subject or question Pentacles or coins - Earth, North, money and achievement Swords or blades - Air, East, intellect and decision Wands or rods - Fire, South, and action Cups or chalices- Water, West, and emotion Higher Arcana 0 The Fool - a fresh start or leap of faith I The Magician - power, skill II The High Priest(ess) - intuition, higher wisdom III The Empress - fertility, abundance, creativity IV The Emperor - authority V The Heirophant - religion, group identity VI The Lovers - union, binders VII The Chariot - victory, assertion, momentum VIII Strength - cottage, self control IX The Hermit - solitude, soul searching X The Wheel of Fortune - Karma, turning a cycle XI Justice - fairness, cause and effect XII The Hanged Man - letting go, suspension XIII Death - endings, beginnings IXV Temperance - balance, healing XV The Devil - bondage, restriction XVI The Tower - sudden change XVII The Star - hope, spiritual, guidance XVIII The Moon - illusion, Merry, dreams IXX The Sun - success, vitality, youth XX Judgement - Inner Calling XXI The World - completion, accomplishment Court Page - messages, enthusiasm, synchronicity, curiosity, youth Knight - motion, passion, romance, haste, adolescence Queen - creativity, vibrancy, nurturing, astute, women King - vision, emotional self control, truth, man Lower Arcana Pentacles / coins I prosperity II balance III teamwork IV budgeting V poverty VI charity / giving VII making investment VIII patience IX independent wealth X culmination, ancestry Wands / rods I inspiration II choice III foresight IV community V conflict VI recognition VII standing your ground VIII travel / news IX resilience X burden Swords / blades I clarity II decision III pain IV rest V defeat VI transition VII making a break for it VIII isolation IX anxiety X endings/ defeat Cups / chalices I intimacy II love III friendship IV apathy V loss VI youth VII dreams / fantasy VIII moving on IX fulfillment X marriage / happy home Positions from spreads: Target Environment Quarrant Subject Rival/against Ground Past Present Future Many come to pass Will come to pass Fear Family opinion Hope Outcome Path Dilema Advise Resolve Action Tool Considerations Reversed Oracle Working with the cards An energetic exchange with the deck Energy is everywhere. It is a part of us and every item and object that surrounds us. We can interact physically and energetically with our environment. The balancing of energies is an important aspect of all workings with tarot cards, in my opinion. Energy work is used within many different practices, such as mediumship, metaphysical healing, working with nature or wildlife or deity, sensing or scrying and also includes working with rune casting and tarot card readings. Especially during the shuffling of tarot cards. While doing so, there is an energetically charging of intention that is taking place (for example the question of the querrent) and feeling the reflection of that energy return is how to know how to read the answer. When shuffling tarot cards it's the energy of the cards that lets the reader know when to stop or which card to choose. Again, it's the energetic draw of the symbolism in the tarot card's design and spread used that guides a tarot reading alongside the intuition of the reader. Aside from oracle decks, there are many different tarot decks to choose from when you are ready to purchase your own and get started with doing your own readings. To know which to choose, you should select the one that energetically "feels" right to you. For more information... ... visit the Stafford Tarot website reading tips blog: Visit StaffordTarot.com for more information
- Understanding Energy | Ask a Grey Witch
Understanding Energy When you feel energy, what you’re really feeling is the impact that the energy is having on your own energy. The key is noticing the change to your own energy created by that 'reflection'. When working with or reading people's energy, most people’s energy is changing all the time. If you think of energy as a symphony, with dozens of musicians playing at once. It’s beautiful, but it’s hard to pick out a single musician. When listening for energy, that’s like trying to hear a single musician, a soloist amongst the orchestra. Just like how the other instruments have to become quiet to allow the soloist to be heard, you must quiet your own energy in order to sense the energy of others. What specifically do I mean? Quieting energy is remaining steady, smooth, and calm. Being flexible and responsive, not rigid or tense. Energy can move, keeping it slow and gentle. Above all, quieting energy means listening and responding. Energy is everywhere. It is a part of us and every item and object that surrounds us. We can interact physically and energetically with our environment. The balancing of energies is an important aspect of all workings in my craft. Energy work is used within many different practices, such as mediumship, metaphysical healing, working with nature or wildlife or deity, sensing or scrying and also includes ritual, ceremony and spell work. Even beyond our planet's surface there are astrological influential energies that impact our day to day lives and can be used in divination to gain clarity of a situation, or to foresee a lifespan of someone's life, from simply observing the positions of specific astrological bodies in our solar system. Some examples of energetic charging would be the process of making moon water by leaving it in moonlight; or similar to making sun water; or during the casting of the runes; or similar to during the shuffling of tarot cards. Etc. While doing so, there is an energetically charging of intention taking place (for example the question of a psychic reading) and feeling the reflection of that energy return is how to know how to read the answer. When casting runes it's the energetic draw of the symbols and their positions in the layout used that guides a rune reading, or when shuffling tarot cards it's the energy of the cards that makes aware when to stop or which card to choose. Again, just like runes it's the energetic draw of the symbolism in the tarot card's design and spread used that guides a tarot reading. To know which runes or cards to choose to work with, you should select the one that energetically "feels" right to you. The same can be said in regards to spellwork. The use of associations and energetic properties of ingredients and supplies of spells are important to make the purest connections with our true intentions. Each of us have different associations that we have developed since the beginning of our lives. And so, no one else can be more clear about your intentions than yourself. The more personal satisfying a spell is to the caster the more likely the desire will manifest from magickal workings. More about astrologic energy: https://www.askagreywitch.com/astrology Energetically read tarot: https://www.askagreywitch.com/tarot Energetically read runes: https://www.askagreywitch.com/runes Energetically work with pendulums: https://www.askagreywitch.com/post/working-with-pendulums Introduction to Witchcraft Submit a question
- Covens - in general | Ask a Grey Witch
Covens (in general) Before committing yourself, it's always best to do your research to be sure that any group is right for you. ~ Always Safety First! In case unaware: a coven is a gathering or community of witches. It is composed of a group of practitioners who gather together for rituals and ceremony or celebrating the Sabbatts. The place at which they generally meet is called a covenstead. The number of people involved may vary. Although some consider thirteen to be ideal, any group of at least three can be a coven. A group of two is usually just referred to as a "working couple" of witches. Many believe that a coven larger than thirteen is unwieldy, creating challenging group dynamics and an unfair burden on the leadership. When a coven has grown too large to be manageable, it may split, or "hive". In Wicca, this may also occur when a newly made High Priest or High Priestess leaves to start their own coven. Wiccan covens are usually jointly led by a High Priest or High Priestess. Many covens follow a Wiccan structure, many involve prerequisites, many involve an initiation process, many no not involve skyclad meetings, many do not do any of the mentioned above... Each group can be different. It is very important to learn about the coven first to be sure it sounds good for you (or safe) to join. FYI: Not all witches are Wiccan. However, most Wiccans are witches. Although some covens are led by only one or the other, and some by two of the same. In some forms of neopagan witchcraft, covens are sometimes managed with a rotating leadership. Personally, amongst my coven members, each and every member is considered equal (including the High Priestess or High Priest and within my covenstead anyone is able to teach and help the rest of the group from their own individual perspectives, strengths and seperate areas of knowledge and workings in the craft. Most covens operate in secret, or within some form of discretion which can make them harder to find. Some metaphysical stores may advertise coven groups looking for members. In more recent years it has become very popular for some witches to create "online covens" which remotely teach tradition-specific crafts to it's members. No matter what you are considering, please be sure that any group's intentions align with your own before beginning any kind of commitment or membership. There is absolutely nothing wrong with asking questions, or getting information ahead of joining. If a group is not being uofront or forthcoming with its practices and traditions DO NOT JOIN! Only consider doing what you are comfortable doing. Be sure that any group you consider participating in compliments your interests. Be safe, and blessed be! More about the Sacred Meadow Circle coven Introduction to Witchcraft Submit a question
- Shadow Work | Ask a Grey Witch
Shadow Work It's called Shadow work because it involves getting to know every part of ourselves that can not be seen by others and sometimes not even realized by ourselves. It can be difficult to explore darker sides of our personalities, or parts of ourselves that we try to hide from the world. But, learning to face all emotions regarding past experiences or feelings that are kept deep within can be empowering in itself building confidence and inner strength. One way to get started that I recommend is by keeping a journal or diary where the entries are meant to create little reflections of yourself over time. Given this purpose, I like to call this a book of mirrors. In it, entries can include written stories, activities or exercises, or whatever you can use to personally analyse thoughts or feelings on a particular topic. A good example of one of these activities is the creation of what's commonly known as a bucket list. Generally speaking, a bucket list is a sort of checklist of things to which one wants to accomplish or experience in their life before they die. Looking at how many of those items remain unchecked can help to create a plan of action before opportunities are missed. Another example would be writing all the things that you do not prefer about yourself, or wanting to change. Whether it's laziness, or lack of passion, or other vices. This can help to understand the alterations or changes needed from our own behaviour in order to make ourselves healthier or happier. There are so many ways to which this can be applied. Exploring and understanding the hidden truths of ourselves allows us to know our true and pure intentions. In my opinion, this makes Shadow work an important place to get started for any practitioner of magick. This is powerful when working with and directing energy, or within spellwork. It is also my opinion that shadow work is important for divination such as tea leaf sessions, rune casting, or tarot reading, etc. Journaling prompt exercise examples: https://www.askagreywitch.com/shadowwork Shadow work expanded on further: https://www.askagreywitch.com/post/shadow-work-expanded Introduction to Witchcraft Submit a question
- About | Ask a Grey Witch:
www.AskaGreyWitch.com About this website: Thoughts. Experiences. Inspiration. Home I’m so glad you’ve come! Grey: An ill-defined topic, situation or area of activity not readily conforming to a category or set of rules. Grey Witch: Working within the "Grey Areas" of Witchcraft and finding balance within the spectrum of energies. AskaGreyWitch.com is where I share with you what interests me most as a Humanist Wiccan, my personal practice! I hope to spark excitement so that you can nurture your own passions and projects. For years, I have served as a useful source of motivation, assistance or advice. I finally decided to own that role and be more intentional about it. I started Ask a Grey Witch: with a mission to give others a taste of my thoughts and experiences by answering submitted questions. What started as occasional posts has evolved into a rich site filled with a variety of information about various topics that are near and dear to my being. Take some time to explore the blogs and find what sparks your interest. Submitted questions are very much appreciated! The main focus of this website has become to serve as a support platform for the Astral Sacred Meadow Circle. More about that can be found at: www.askagreywitch.com/coven As a Wiccan male and practitioner of energy work and manifestation, I share my perspective and experience in a way that I hope makes sense and is helpful to others. I want to be clear that what I say is not what goes. I'm not trying to say that what I think is the only way... each and every one of us has our own way of thinking and individual beliefs, traditions, etc. Quite often I find myself offering guidance, answering questions, providing information and giving advice to other practitioners of magick finding their own way. This website is maintained as a safe place where perspectives are shared, ideas can be explored, and submitted questions can be answered honestly without inquirers made to feel centre staged, or stereotyped, or discriminated against, etc. like what can happen in online communities or on social media these days. Lots about workings and experiences can be shared by simply answering submitted questions in a short blog style format. By doing so, together we may be able to help break some of the misconceptions that still exist out there about modern witches, wiccans, or other interesting folk. The blog appears in the order that the questions were asked. Therefore, the newer more recent posts are found at the top of the blog entry list and the older blog entries can be found below in the list with the oldest/first entry at the bottom. There is a search option if that helps to narrow down the subject of the blog that you are interested in reading about. It is my hope that by sharing some knowledge of my own perspectives in this way that it's convenient and helpful to others determining what's best for themselves and will allow me to divide my time more evenly for those requesting mentorship. Enjoy your visit and the information that is shared about beliefs, experiences, and manifestation. All of the blog entries are written to answer a submitted question in a short, yet informative post (the blog entries have an average reading time of around five minutes. The videos have an average length of about 6 minutes). We all need something to motivate us. Take a look around; perhaps you’ll be motivated to discover what exhilarates and fits best for you. After all, the more personally satisfying workings feel to the practitioner, the more likely manifestations will materialize into reality. AskaGreyWitch.com does not currently produce it's own income. There are however costs associated with maintaining a website. And so, the hosting service and domain registration associated has been mostly paid for by my profession as an intuitive reader. Therefore, this website is made possible thanks to Stafford Tarot , Intuitive Readings. At the request of a couple of website visitors, I have decided to add additional pages that will focus on workings advice and witchcraft related information. This is where I can share examples of some of the suggestions and recommendations for certain topics such as cleansings, protections, self empowerment, and other 'high magick' or non baneful topics at https://www.askagreywitch.com/witchcraft Please feel free to share any concerns, suggestions, or comments that you may have as I always appreciate feedback. Thank you for visiting my website! The blog can be accessed at: www.askagreywitch.com/blog The videos used in some of the blogs are stored at: https://youtube.com/channel/UCSsUdaVBMxHbjN1e2ndvyYA Check out the Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/AskaGreyWitch Please feel free to read more in the blog entry about me at: https://www.askagreywitch.com/post/but-first-some-background Or about why I originally started this blog and website at: https://www.askagreywitch.com/post/why-start-this-blog-channel Listen to audio summaries About the Grey Witch More Info at: Astral Sacred Meadow Circle Read answers to submitted questions Submit your own questions See the Terms Of Service Subscribe: Submit Thanks for your subscription!!! Please stay tuned in your email for new posts announcements. This website is brought to you by: STAFFORD TAROT The messages within await! Drawn to the path of a light worker. I am an empathic male and an intuitive pagan with many years experience with metaphysical workings, including tarot readings.www.staffordtarot.com Visit the Stafford Tarot website
- Contact | Ask a Grey Witch:
Names, e-mail addresses, or any other personal or identifying information will be omitted from online responses (not mentioned in any of the videos and blog posts) for your confidentiality. Questions asked are described generally and in an abbreviated form by leaving out the extra details or background information submitted within the messages sent. This is done for your confidentiality and for your privacy while the response given from me, is shared in a blog entry. Submit your question by sending me a message here: Thank you for your interest. After submitting your question, I will let you know in email my response and I will be sharing the relevant information in an upcoming post or video. * Please note -- names, e-mail addresses, or any other personal or identifying information will be omitted from online (not mentioned in any of the videos and blog posts) for your confidentiality. Questions asked are described generally and in an abbreviated form by leaving out the extra details or background information submitted within the messages sent. This is done for your confidentiality and for your privacy while the response given from me, is shared in a blog entry. All information shared in my responses within the blog posts are written from my own personal experiences, perspectives and practices only. greywitchbryan@gmail.com See the list of questions submitted (so far) Name Email Subject Message Submit Thanks for submitting! This website is brought to you by: STAFFORD TAROT The messages within await! Drawn to the path of a light worker. I am an empathic male and an intuitive pagan with many years experience with metaphysical workings, including tarot readings. www.staffordtarot.com Visit the Stafford Tarot website
- Types of Practitioners | Ask a Grey Witch
Types of Practitioners It's important to note that each and every witch is different from the next. There are just as many types of witches, as there are witches. Each is unique in the ways of the craft. The dictionary definition of a practice is the customary, habitual, or expected procedure or way of doing of something or to perform (an activity) or exercise (a skill) repeatedly or regularly in order to improve or maintain one's proficiency. Practices can look like what ever you want it to. The whole point is to create habits and rituals that better ourselves in our skills and self development. For example, someone who considers themselves a green witch (meaning they primarily work with plants) their practice may involve a regularly done routine of harvesting and gathering herbs to make potions and teas that assist with health or some day to day tasks alongside the maintenance and care given to the plants and trees around them. There are non Wiccan practitioners that follow folk traditions which vary depending on the area, country, traditions, etc. Much folk magick is passed down through generations teachings. However, in recent years has become much more accessible to the general public through books, websites, YouTube channels, etc. There are Wiccan practitioners that follow religious guidelines in which involve magickal workings within the traditions, rituals and customs. Most Wiccan traditions usually involve the worship of a Goddess, and/or God. There are also some who have interesting mixes of folk practices and religious beliefs and traditions. I myself, am a non-theistic Wiccan which means I'm secular in my practice (Instead of working with supernatural deities, I work with symbolic representations of the aspects from my own human nature). ...to-each-their-own. There are many eclectic magickal practitioners and eclectic religious practices. In these cases, a person borrows from multiple sources to construct a new, personal practice that personally speaks to them specifically. There are also chaos magickal practitioners who never develops a personalized practice. In this case, what applied yesterday may be irrelevant today - All that matters today is what is used today. Eclectic and Chaos practitioners are never confined by the concept of tradition. As much as there are these and many more "lables" for types of witches this doesn't actually matter! Try to setup a practice that is personally meaningful and spiritually satisfying to you. If you see a ritual or spell described here or on www.askagreywitch.com please feel free to change and manipulate the workings so that it personally fits best with your own associations and intentions. What works for me may not work for you in the same ways, and vice versa. We all have our own experiences in life which gives us all different associations. No matter what your path is in the craft, we can all do similar magick in our own ways. Research and Experience are really key to helping any practitioner of magick to figure out what would most likely be useful and work best for them. Find what speaks to you! Examples of practices: https://www.askagreywitch.com/blog/categories/_about Different realms of my craft personally, as example: https://www.askagreywitch.com/post/different-realms-of-the-craft More about myself as example of personal practices & traditions: https://www.askagreywitch.com/post/but-first-some-background Introduction to Witchcraft Submit a question
- Intuitive Readings | Stafford Tarot
The purpose of this website is to provide information about myself and my background. I try to assist anyone who would like to learn Intuitive Tarot for themselves by including blog entries with helpful suggestions, reading tips, and more. You can also find (below) details on locations of events and about the services that I offer. Questions and comments are always welcome. ~Enjoy your visit! AskaGreyWitch.com does not currently produce it's own income. There are however costs associated with maintaining a website. And so, this website has been mostly paid for by my profession as an intuitive reader. Therefore, this website is made possible thanks to Stafford Tarot, Intuitive Readings Info Summary See Terms Of Service Info Summary