Cleansing, Consecrating and Charging a Candle
Candle magic is one of the simplest forms of spellcasting, and as such, it doesn’t require a lot of fancy ritual or ceremonial tools. However, it’s essential to understand the basics and the importance of preparation.
Safety and Practicality:
- Size Matters: Using larger candles means a longer burn time. For spells requiring candles to burn down completely, consider tealights or small taper candles.
- Fresh Start: Every spell deserves a new candle. Bulk purchases of smaller candles can be economical and practical.
Cleansing Rituals:
Cleansing is essential to remove any energies the candle may have picked up before coming into your possession. This ensures that your spellwork remains pure and unadulterated.
- Sage Smudge Stick: By lighting and letting it smolder, its smoke can be used to cleanse the area, objects, or even oneself.
- Salt Water: A traditional cleansing agent. After reciting the mantra, use the charged water to purify your ritual space.
- Moonlight Bath: Leaving the candle under the moon overnight can cleanse and charge it simultaneously.
- Salt Burying: Completely immerse the candle in salt overnight.
- Sage Smoke: Run the candle through sage smoke for a thorough cleanse.
Charging Rituals:
Once cleansed, candles need to be charged with intent. This is where you instill your energy, desires, and purpose into the candle.
- Moonlight: Particularly during a full moon, it infuses the candle with potent energy.
- Personal Energy Visualization: Hold and visualize your energy filling the candle, shaping its purpose.
Consecration:
Further sanctify your candle with blessings or chants, sealing in the intent and charging.
Anointing Rituals:
Infusing candles with oils or herbs personalizes and strengthens the intent behind the spell.
- Oils: Different oils correspond to different magical intents. Choose or blend oils that align with your spell’s purpose.
- Herbs: Enhance your candle’s power by adding herbs. Research individual herb properties to ensure they align with your goals.
Anointing Techniques:
- Positive Attraction: To draw positivity, anoint from the top to the middle and then from the bottom to the middle.
- Banishing Negativity: For banishing, anoint from the middle to the top and then from the middle to the bottom.
Preparation Timing:
While immediate preparation before spellwork is ideal due to the fresh and potent energies, advanced preparation is possible for those with tight schedules. Keep in mind that pre-charged candles may lose some energy potency over time.
Conclusion:
The foundation of successful candle magic lies in proper preparation. Always remember that intent, focus, and sincerity are paramount. With a properly cleansed, charged, and anointed candle, your spells have a better chance of manifesting the desired outcomes. Happy casting!