Coffeetablecoven Mag 92018.pdf

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02/September 2018

Spotlight on: Dani @amethystwitchx Our InstaFeature with Instagram 's resident Crystal Queen

An Academic Witch Allowing the Inner Witch to Flourish No Matter the Circumstance

Rune casting Made Easy A simplified guide to the intricacies of runes.

Crystals and Stones for Chakra Healing Our resident Pranic Healing Practitioner walks us through crystal and chakra correspondences

& many more articles inside!

1

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

Featured Artist: Shop Name: Ephiphany Tresors etsy.com/shop/epiphanyTresors IG: @epiphany.tresors [email protected]

2

3

CoffeeTable Coven

4

IG: @wolfie_rae_

ads@c offe e table c ove n.com

Issue 02

5

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

TABL E OF CONT ENTS Astrological Forecast Astronomy Reference Guide Editorial Letter InstaFeature: @amethystwitchx Rune Casting Made Easy An Academic Witch "The Grave Mistake" A Poem 6

Page 8

Crystals and Stones For Chakra Healing

Page 34

WITCH: Book Review

Page 42

The Witches Moon Subsciption Box: Review

Page 46

CTC Witchy Activity Page

Page 50

September's Tarot Spread

Page 52

"Guide to the Fairy Realm": A Short Story

Page 56

Page 12 Page 14 Page 18 Page 20 Page 28 Page 33 7

CoffeeTable Coven

September's Astrological Forecast LEO

Everything will be okay. Take it easy at work this month; don’t burn yourself out. A change of residency is likely. You may not be seeing the whole picture. You are stronger than you realize and this month, you will show the rest of the world what you are made of. Walk away from a situation that is not benefiting you. Some things have to dissolve in order to rebuild a much stronger foundation. Dinner parties and social events will keep you busy this month. Much better things are up ahead.

TAURUS

The unveiling of a hidden truth will put a distance between you and another. Aggressive energies will ignite some tensions in the beginning of the month. Stay humble, even in the midst of chaos; arrogance is not a good look. You will stumble upon some news regarding someone from your past. September will bring someone into your life. A connection you thought was lost will soon be found again. Follow your initial instinct on whether you should go back or move on. Choose the water over fire. Live your life by your own rules. Recurring dreams hold some truths. By the end of the month, you will finish a project you started recently. Make your physical health a priority.

LIBRA

8

Be careful who you trust; this will save you some disappointment. Keep moving to avoid getting stuck in a situation you don’t want to be in. You are naturally a rational person. Pay attention to how you feel about a certain situation or decision. Your intuition will lead you correctly. Stay true to yourself. Don’t stay in a position out of obligation. Instead, try to find a compromise to where your needs are being met, as well. By the end of the month, a co-worker may be getting on your nerves. A small gesture like bringing them a coffee could ease the tension, and get them off your back.

CAPRICORN

September will bring back the sun in your life. You will be given more responsibilities or a leadership role. Take on the diplomatic role with a friendly approach. You will find yourself revisiting an old feeling or thinking about what might have been. Spend some time with the parental figures in your life. Be careful with what you say to certain people; your words may be used against you.

GEMINI

Avoid messy situations by being completely honest with those you care about. This month will bring a family reunion or reuniting with an old friend. Unexpected or abrupt changes will take place. Traveling will benefit your business. Rise above those who want to manipulate you into stooping to their level. The way to win is to ignore. Someone will declare their feelings for you, but at the moment, your focus is on some other aspect of your life. A recently cleared space will be filled with something new and successful.

AQUARIUS

This month will bring new relationship and financial opportunities. Try not to share your personal business with others. Keep some things to yourself. Promote what serves you for the greatest good. Difficult matters will be over and will soon be a thing of the past. Everything will shift in your favor. You will attend a celebration. A job opportunity will present itself due to your expertise or intellectual knowledge. You will put much effort into making changes in your living space or living situation. Connect with your spirituality or religion; you will find the light you need.

VIRGO

September will bring movement and all for a greater purpose. Accept all the gifts the Universe brings. Intense feelings in relationships will arise because you are still holding on to something that you should have let go a long time ago. Release it. Towards the end of the month, a pending family/financial matter will be resolved. Your fortune will multiply; invest it wisely.

ARIES

This month will be a pleasant month for you. The full moon will highlight your life purposes. When it comes to decisions, go with your initial feeling. A pending issue at work will work out in your favor. Your skills will be rewarded; do everything with confidence. You are likely to secure a job this month. Keep a healthy lifestyle or make some changes to promote overall health and wellness. Let bygones be bygones.

Issue 02

PISCES

September will manifest all the things you wished for. Don’t resist the changes that are coming in, especially in terms of love and relationships. It’s normal to feel somewhat uncomfortable in an unfamiliar situation. You may receive some disappointing news around mid-month, but don’t let it discourage you. This is just a reminder to do different now. A past situation or nostalgia may creep in and this will throw you off balance. Keep a steady head so you don’t lose sight of what’s important. Follow the way of the rabbit: know when to be still and allow your dreams to multiply.

SAGITTARIUS

Don’t be afraid to go for it. Embrace your value. A situation or event will cycle back again. Affirmations will come to light. Expect the unexpected this month. Pour your heart out. Express yourself creatively, bring the inner child in you out to play.

CANCER

September will see you determined and focused in your ambitions and passions. Go after what you love and see it through. Put your money where your mouth is and invest in your ideas. You will travel mid-month. With your drive, you will manifest and get paid for what you love doing. You will be offered contracts, deals, money or opportunities for your services and business. Reaching these goals will require to roll up your sleeves so you can lead by example. Seek advice from someone who is knowledgeable or experienced in your area of business.

SCORPIO

Your efforts will be recognized this month. Around the beginning of September everything will be painted in rose. You find beauty in everything and the energy of love surrounds you. Weddings, celebrations, and social gatherings are in store for you. Promote your skills and talents. Something you’ve been wanting for a long time will finally come in.

About Carina Lizette: I’m a Pisces from south Texas. I’m an empath and intuitive, and I also find messages in the realm of dreams. I’ve been intuitively reading cards for over 10 years. My interest in astrology has been for a lot longer. My practice is rooted in curanderismo, though I blend other traditions and practices to make my magic my very own. Instagram: @silver.moonbeams.tarot Email: [email protected]

9

CoffeeTable Coven

10

IG: _enchantedwhispers

Issue 02

11

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

September’s Astronomy Reference Guide http://www.seasky.org/astronomy/astronomy-calendar-current.html

September 7 - Neptune at Opposition. The blue giant planet will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the Sun. It will be brighter than any other time of the year and will be visible all night long. This is the best time to view and photograph Neptune. Due to its extreme distance from Earth, it will only appear as a tiny blue dot in all but the most powerful telescopes. September 9 - New Moon. The Moon will located on the same side of the Earth as the Sun and will not be visible in the night sky. This phase occurs at 18:01 UTC. This is the best time of the month to observe faint objects such as galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight to interfere.

12

September 23 - September Equinox. The September equinox occurs at 01:54 UTC. The Sun will shine directly on the equator and there will be nearly equal amounts of day and night throughout the world. This is also the first day of fall (autumnal equinox) in the Northern Hemisphere and the first day of spring (vernal equinox) in the Southern Hemisphere. September 25 - Full Moon. The Moon will be located on the opposite side of the Earth as the Sun and its face will be will be fully illuminated. This phase occurs at 02:53 UTC. This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Full Corn Moon because the corn is harvested around this time of year. This moon is also known as the Harvest Moon. The Harvest Moon is the full moon that occurs closest to the September equinox each year.

13

13

CoffeeTable Coven

Letter From The Editor September creeps up on me, as it usually does, sneaky, shy, but solid. The world is getting ready for a big shift, and though where I'm situated, the shift is not as remarkable, I know for most of you reading, you're all gearing up for spooky season. Some of you are entering fall, and some of you spring. It is a return to the dark, or an entrance into light, depending on where you are in the world. Recalling my own journey in witchcraft, September is an important time for me. This year maks my first anniversary of joining the Amino witchcraft world. I owe all the witchcraft Aminos full credit for propelling me out of the so-called broom closet and openly sharing my practice with the outside world. I would have never had the confidence to start a public journey if it hadn't been for the safe space within Amino to share some well-received content. So here we are, facing a brand new month ahead of us. Goals at our feet, memories propelling us forward. The magazine has had a successful first month of circulation, and for that, I thank you. Readers and supporters, without you, this wouldn't even be possible. And though you're probably growing tired of hearing us say this, we appreciate you so much for all the love you're been sharing. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

14

To all our contributing writers, artists and photographers from Instagram, Facebook and Amino, once again, thank you! To my partner in crime, Ashley. You are truly my rock and my driving force. I adore you. The hard work you pour into this creation really shines through. This month's issue (and probably all future months') I dedicate to you. So let's dive into this publication! I wish you all a fruitful month ahead, and hope you enjoy yet another issue (only our second!) of our beloved CoffeeTable Coven Magazine! Julie.

Issue 02

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02, September 2018

Our Patrons: Lagertha Scarlet Sandy Garcia Leslie Young Katt Carpenter Rachel Elliott Jane Hatch Shannon Hinojos Jamie Gold Jessica Starr Kat Wolfe Contributing Writers @taylornicolesgarden @harlequinnkitty13 @xandrasun Kristy Khem S.K. Tom Yick Melissa Menchaca Contributing Photographers @awitchespath @kurogalkarasu @witches.of.the.north @_enchantedwhispers @astrayankh_ @wolfie_rae_ Cover & Bakground Stock Photos: www.pexels.com

Editor In Chief Julie Mango Senior Content Manager Ashley Michele Garcia Lead Developer Kris Sankar Visual Consultant Richard Taylor Contact us: Editorial: [email protected] Content: [email protected] Advertisements: [email protected] Tech Help: [email protected] Connect With Us: IG: @coffeetable.coven FB: coffeetable.coven Website: coffeetablecoven.com Patreon: patreon.com/coffeetablecoven

All editorial content, graphics, illustrations, and photos are protected by copywrite and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of CoffeeTable Coven or the intellectual property holders. The credited writers, artists, and photographers maintain the rights to their own intellectual property as printed in this publication. Copywrite © 2018 CoffeeTable Coven

15

CoffeeTable Coven

16

Issue 02

IG: @ astrayankh_

17

S

InstaFeature: @amethystwitchx

ince CoffeeTable Coven, has its roots in Instagram, we’ve decided to pick one IG witch to interview each month. Last month we started with Tuesday, the original creator of CoffeeTable Coven itself. This month, we’ve contacted @amethystwitchx. Dani caught our eye with her beautiful photography and informative posts. She’s quickly become a popular name within the Instagram witchcraft community and frequently steals our hearts with her gorgeous selfies and enthusiastic attitude. CTC: Tell us a little bit about yourself! D: My name is Dani. I’m twenty one years old and I’m currently a student starting the third and final year of my degree. I study Bioveterinary Science with the hope of working in animal medicine development after I graduate.

CTC: How long have you been practicing your craft, and how has it evolved over time? D: I only recently became “open” about my craft and am therefore able to practice properly. I’d say turning 21 in March was the point at which I realised that putting parts of me away where no one else could see them just wasn’t working for me anymore. I’ve been reading about witchcraft and crystal healing since I was about 14, and admitting that to my partner and friends was probably the best thing I ever did. As I just touched on, it all started with crystal healing. I had a subscription to a monthly magazine that delivered a small tumblestone and some facts about the crystal to my door each month. I’d make elixirs with a couple and never went much deeper than that. Now I’ve become more involved with my craft, specifically through the use of herbs, candle magick, and moon phases. CTC: Do you follow any specific path?

18

D: I feel like all paths are as much similar as they are different. Although I don’t identify as Wiccan, I know people who do and practice in a very similar way as I do. If I were to choose a label, I would say eclectic - although I like the term crystal witch, as that feels true

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

to where this all started for me. CTC: How would you say social media, specifically Instagram, has influenced your practice? D: Social media has been a significant driving force in getting me to where I am today. Making the step from crystal healing to practicing witchcraft wouldn’t have been possible without Tumblr, where I first found the online witch community. I only joined Instagram as a “witchy” profile back in April this year, and the amount of friends I’ve made and things I’ve learned is beyond anything I’ve expected. Although it has its ups and down, Instagram has a personal element that feels welcoming, regardless of how long you’ve followed your path for. I think it also provides an insight into how witches practice around their personal lives, how it isn’t all like the books say it is, and that’s okay! Sometimes, there’s a lot of pressure to do things “right”, especially as a witch just starting your journey. Instagram reveals a more intimate nature of magick which isn’t always elaborate, and definitely doesn’t need to be perfect. CTC: Do you have any favourite books and tools? D: I have an ever-growing collection of books and crystals. Those are my treat-yourself weaknesses! I really enjoyed The Modern Guide to Witchcraft by Skye Alexander, Wicca: A Guide to the Solitary Practitioner by

Scott Cunningham, and The Crystal Healer by Philip Permutt. My favourite crystal is amethyst... but I feel like you might’ve known that already. CTC: Do you have any advice for witchlings interested in starting their own practice? D: I get asked a lot of advice and I’m usually unsure of what to say. I’m by no means an expert myself, so just read. You don’t have to go out and buy a whole new bookshelf. The internet has some amazing resources, and spirituality sections in libraries can be really useful for borrowing books you’re unsure about. There’s this strange belief, probably born out of the Instagram aesthetic, that you need all of the books and crystals and candles to be a witch. This isn’t true. You’re a witch if you think you are, you follow your practice, and you enjoy the craft. All magick really needs is intent.

19

CoffeeTable Coven

20

Issue 02

21

CoffeeTable Coven

W

hat are Runes?

rune for plants is Dagaz which is the rune of fruition, daylight, and prosperity. Since Dagaz is associated with daylight, you can also place this rune in an indoor planter to give a plant an extra burst of light energy. (Photo adapted from The Mystery of Runes by P. Lipari)

Runes are an ancient alphabet that was used by Anglo-Saxon, German, and Norse peoples over three thousand years ago. At first glance, they look like alien squiggles or hieroglyphs, but some are very similar to the letters of the English alphabet. These symbols were originally inscribed on wood, stone, and bone. Each rune symbolized aspects of the physical and supernatural realms around us. The oldest runic alphabet and the most common is the Elder Futhark or Common Germanic Futhark Runes. These consist of 24 symbols, with one blank rune called practice, I have used them similarly to tar“The Unknowable”. This blank rune repot cards and they have been quite accurate. resents divine intervention and fate. Sometimes I also activate single runes for clarity, assistance, and protection.

How are they used?

(Photo adapted from The Handbook of Rune Magic by E. Thorsson)

Runes are a means of communication. They can be used individually or together. In the past, they were used as oracles to predict aspects of the future. Runes signify good and bad by being cast upright or reversed. In my

22

Creating Runes

You can begin your rune-casting practice by creating your own set of runes. You can also buy them ready-made, but as you know, there is magic and power in the energy of creation. I made my runes out of wood and painted the symbols with red paint. They can also be inscribed onto pebbles, shells, or stiff paper.

Using Runes as an Oracle

Use the Three-Rune Layout to gain clarity on a problem. Place them all facedown, then mix or shuffle your runes. After quietly meditating on a problem you may be dealing with or praying for guidance, pick three runes and lay them down in a line. Turn them over. The one on the left represents the nature of your problem, the second represents the course of action you should take, and the third represents a probable outcome.

Issue 02

Alternatively, you can use the Five-Rune Cross Layout for a more in-depth reading. After meditating, pick 5 runes and set them out as in the diagram below. Turn them over to see which ones you picked. In this layout, Rune 2 represents your problem, Rune 1 represents what caused the problem, Rune 4 is the help you may receive or the sacrifices you must make to overcome the problem, Rune 5 suggests the obstacles you may face, and Rune 3 represents the ideal action you should take. It may also suggest a fated future event.

2. For Excellent Results on Exams and Tests: Draw the runes of Jera or Eihwaz on a corner of your exam paper. Jera represents hope and expectation relating to success. It will help you to bring earlier labors and sacrifices you made for the exam (such as your studies) to fruition. Eihwaz suggests driving steadily to a goal, despite any obstacles. It ensures favorable exam results. 3. For Strengthening Partnerships / Contracts: Have you ever noticed that before you sign an important contract or document, the person may draw a small X to show you where to place your signature? Perhaps

Activating Individual Runes

Here are 5 amazing ways to activate individual runes: 1. In your garden: Activate a rune to help your plants. Inscribe a single rune onto a pebble and place it in your flowerpot. A great

23

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

you have also done this. In rune-casting, X (Gebo) represents giving and partnership. It governs relationships and unions. It also represents gifts. We usually give gifts to strengthen our friendships and relationships. If you think about the saying “X marks the spot,” you will realize that it usually refers to buried treasure or hidden gifts. Gebo is perhaps the most widely used rune today. 4. Increasing Financial Abundance: Fehu is the rune of Possessions and Material Gain. It will bring you financial gain if inscribed on your wallet. If drawn upright on a dollar bill (as in the photo below), you can expect your About the Author: money to multiply. Some rune-casters even Kristy Khem is a Trinidadian artist and freelance writer. draw Fehu on a lottery ticket! 5. For Protection: Like in the TV series, Shadowhunters, and the book series, The Mortal Instruments, tattooed runes can be used for protection. A great protection rune is Uruz which is a masculine symbol of strength. Algiz represents temples and shelters, as well as strong alliances that can aid you in times of need. It is a good protective rune for a house. Rune-casting is a simple and easy tool that anyone can use. There are many ways to cast and activate these mysterious symbols to enhance your life. Good luck with your practice and I hope you try out a few of my rune secrets this month!

24

She is an old soul who strongly believes in reincarnation and angels. She loves the supernatural and many of her stories feature elements of magic and folklore. She has a passion for astrology, energy work, and healing gemstones. If you are a fan of her stories on the CoffeeTable Coven Magazine, feel free to send her an email at [email protected]. You can also view her art on Facebook

IG: @awitchespath

25

CoffeeTable Coven

26

IG: kurogalkarasu

Issue 02

27

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

Allowing the Inner Witch to Flourish No Matter the Circumstance By Xandra Sun

28

29

I

have been a witch since childhood – although I didn’t fully realize this about myself until I was graduated from college. School life and professional presentation was so deeply ingrained in my persona that I had never considered acknowledging my inner-most spiritual beliefs.

30

on Green Magick, and an insatiable thirst to learn were all I had to get the ball rolling on my practice. I set daily intentions, I watched the cycles of the moon, I researched crystal properties. I didn’t worry so much about what I was identifying as (I didn’t even fully recognize myself as a witch at this point, but rather as someone that wanted to learn – and someone that gained deep comfort and selfintrospection via my personalized practice). For a long time I identified as After a year off from school, I entered an agnostic, and then, more severely, I a graduate program in writing. Suddenly I frequently called myself an atheist. I felt as was immersed in academia again, and I felt though anyone with academic credibility the pressure of expectations placed upon was rather outright atheist. I also equated me more than ever. I knew there was a lot identifying as an atheist as being a person riding on my performance at school, and so of science – and I wanted to present as the naturally I devoted all of my time and energy most rational version of myself – as a person into my academics. that emulates the scholars I aspired to be like. It was only a matter of time, though, A few months after I finished my until I fell into a bout of what I like to call bachelor’s, I realized I was lost. Surely “Witchy Withdrawals.” I found myself the combination of being jobless, having feeling depressed and dissociated from inner moved across the country, and having just self. I could not focus on my studies and my ended a long term relationship was part of confidence was swiftly dropping. this feeling. I had no ground to stand on What I’m getting at is the inherent and none of the things I had relied on for need for a witch to practice. Even if it’s so long as indicators of my identity had not every day, even if the practice is only dissolved. as much as throwing some salt around or That is when Magick returned to lighting some incense -- it’s crucial to grant my life. (I use the “k” in “Magick” not yourself the time and space to interact with because I identify strictly as a Wiccan, but your personal Magick. because I appreciate Cunningham’s and It was an absolute shame that I had his predecessors’ distinction of magic as let my scholarly pressures take precedence an entertainment quirk versus Magick as a over something that is integral in keeping my practice or spiritual belief – and I implement spiritual self happy and healthy. After a year some Wicca in my eclectic practice). of shoving my inner witch deep down into I practiced daily with the few supplies the darker corners of my being, I finally let I had. A couple crystals, some library books her emerge again last winter -- and oh-my-

CoffeeTable Coven goddess was she so happy to come out of the broom closet. Magick flows the way it wants to. Witches are channels through which Magick can be conducted and utilized. We are manipulators of energy. We are most often witches long before we realize it. And we need to be ourselves. Now, in my final year of grad school, I am just beginning to be more comfortable in sharing my beliefs and practices both in the school halls and online. I’m tired of being in the broom closet. I’m tired of not engaging in my Magick because it might make other people uncomfortable. It might look like a waste of time to some that I can collage in my grimoire for hours. But my Art Magick is sacred, meditational, and critical for me to maintain my sanity as I try to navigate the academic world. What I’m saying is: come out. If you can, if it’s safe for you, be proud of yourself as a spiritual powerhouse and Magickal practitioner. You are exactly who you need to be -- and now is the time for us to be open and free. To quote the most fabulous (and certainly, many of our favorite) 90’s film, The Craft, “Now is the time. Now is the hour. Ours is the magic. Ours is the power.” It’s true. Our power is ours to claim. If you want a great book to help re-awaken your inner witch, check out Lisa Lister’s Witch: Unleashed, Untamed, Unapologetic (2016). Lister is also the author of the provocative Love Your Lady Landscape: Trust Your Gut, Care for the ‘Down There’ and Reclaim Your Fierce and Feminine SHE-Power 2016.

Issue 02

Since my Spiritual Re-Revolution, my practice has grown exponentially. Not only have I slowly gathered supplies over time, but I’ve also created a close, personal relationship with deities. Now that I have developed this bond, I feel I take my practice with me everywhere. Little things like my crystal jewelry and sigils in my purse provide me comfort as I try my best to be an adult and a role model for my students. As the life of academia can be sometimes rather cold, my soul is warmed by belief and practice, and the knowledge that nothing can ever take away my inner power and personal Magick.

About The Author: Xandra Sun is an eclectic witch based out of Southern California. She is a writer and artist as well as an associate teacher at a California State University. You can find Xandra giving tarot readings to friends, working in her art grimoire, burning sandalwood, or mixing magickal bath soak concoctions under any given moon. You can follow her on Instragram @xandrasun.

31

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

"The Grave Mistake" Running past the Silk Cotton Tree, For fear that they may be set free. She dared not stop to take a peek, Legend has it, sweet souls they seek. Below the light of the haunting moon, The canopy shades the eerie platoon. The shadows danced and hummed their praise, As they gathered to set the cauldron ablaze. She turned and twisted in her sleep, The nightmare quickly hastened its creep. She opened her eyes and wished it unreal, But all she could muster was a squeal. She thought to herself it wasn't her fault, It wasn't meant it to be an assault. The body she hid now has strayed, The figure present was the one she slayed. By: S.K Tom Yick

S.K. Tom Yick is a tropical acrylic artist, indie folk vocalist, songwriter and poet. She has an avid love for anything that offers an enhanced connection to the Earth. You can find her art on her Facebook page.

32

33

CoffeeTable Coven

34

Issue 02

35

CoffeeTable Coven

36

What are Chakras? Chakras are our energy centres that have control over the holistic functioning of our physical and non-physical energy bodies that are different from each other in appearance. In Pranic Healing, there are 12 major chakras. The 12 chakras are all different in terms of the color of Prana/energy that they are filled with. These color Pranas are uniquely combined in each chakra to hold properties that influence the internal workings of our bodies. Each of the different chakra colors have their own hidden meanings and specific functions. We all have the same chakra colors and they can be found in anyone, however our auras change with our influences, feelings, and ideas. White is for general cleansing and revitalizing, an all-purpose cleaner that represents clarity, perception, and understanding. Green is for healing of general organs and minor disinfecting, represents prosperity, outer healing, deeply rooted connection, and resilience. Yellow is for cohesion, assimilation, multiplication and growth. It is also associated with the stimulation of nerve cells and represents joyfulness, encouragement, and compassion. Blue is to break through blockages and muscle knots and create calming effects on stressed organs. Also a tranquilizer great for anxiety, it represents inner growth, change,

calmness, and serenity. Red is for increasing vitality, virility and vigor. Great to charge up depressed and physically stressed people, it represents love, vitality, courage, confidence, and selfexpression. Silver is for the healing of broken bones, slipped disks and enhancement of the third eye. It represents clairvoyance, respect, and dignity. Orange is a very potent anti-bacterial and anti-virus color, for prana energy. If someone is infected or sick, this is the color to use. It represents strength, vigor, stamina, and physical healing. Violet is an amalgamation of all the properties of the other five Pranas. Lighter shades of violet are associated with the properties of regeneration and rapid healing. Severe ailments and infections are often healed with the effective use of violet Prana, it represents divine love, divine compassion, divine clarity, and spiritual protection. I use purple frequently on myself and it’s my favorite color of Prana to use. The following chakras are recognized in Pranic Healing: 1st Chakra: Basic The Basic Chakra, also known as the root chakra, is located in the base of your spine. has mostly red and orange Prana with a small quantity of almost unseen yellow Prana. Red crystals are most connected to the basic chakra. Stones related to this chakra are red jasper, ruby, cherry quartz, clear quartz, and mookaite jasper. 2nd Chakra: Sex The Sex Chakra is located by the reproductive organs. It has two different hues of red

Blue Stones: Throat Chakra

I’d like to preface by saying that I’m a Pranic Healing Practitioner taught through Master Choa’s teachings, so my take on chakras and energy healing may slightly differ from yours. My knowledge has been gained from Master Choa’s books and classes, along with practice in my spiritual journey.

Issue 02

Prana along with orange Prana. Orange crystals are most connected to the sex chakra. Stones related to this chakra are carnelian, clear quartz, orange gypsum, orange calcite, cherry quartz. 3rd Chakra: Sacral The Sacral or Meng Mein Chakra is located at the base of your spine. It is mostly filled with orange Prana with a slight infusion of red Prana and very small quantities of blue and yellow Prana. Yellow and orange crystals are most connected to the sacral chakra. Stones related to this chakra are orange gypsum, fire quartz, apricot quartz, yellow calcite, and clear quartz. 4th Chakra: Navel The Navel Chakra is located on your bellybutton. It has yellow, green, blue, red and violet as the predominant color Pranas along with some orange Prana. Red and Orange stones are most connected

to the navel chakra. Stones related to the chakra are clear quartz, red aventurine, carnelian, red jasper, orange gypsum, apricot quartz, and goldstone. 5th Chakra: Solar Plexus The Solar Plexus Chakra is located in the hollow region between the ribs and has a back and a front portion. It has ten petals with mostly red, yellow, green and blue Pranas with a bit of orange and violet Pranas; a small flower that stores that ‘gutfeeling’. Yellow stones are most connected to the solar plexus chakra. Stones related to the chakra are yellow calcite, orange calcite, river rose selenite, opalite, radiated quartz/ citrine, septarian dragon stone, clear quartz, and apophyllite. 6th Chakra: Spleen The Spleen Chakra is predominantly red and blue with subtle shades of yellow, green, violet and orange Pranas.

37

CoffeeTable Coven

Green Stones: Spleen Chakra

Stones related to the chakra are green kyanite, angelite, blue lace agate, sodalite, aventurine, serpentine, clear quartz, and dumotierite. apophyllite, fluorite, aquamarine, African turquoise. 9th Chakra: Ajna The Ajna Chakra, also known as the third eye 7th Chakra: Heart chakra, has 2 parts and the colors of these The Heart Chakra has golden and light red two parts differ from one person to another Pranas and the back Heart Chakra contains and also changes in the same person with golden, red, orange and yellow Pranas. regard to his/her psychological state. Mine Pink and green stones are most connected to is purple on one side and white on the other the heart chakra. Stones related to this chakra currently. are rose quartz, clear quartz, rhondonite, Purple stones are most connected to the jade, green aventurine, bloodstone, cherry Ajna chakra. Stones related to the chakra are quartz, and unakaite. amethyst, sardonyx, ametrine, eudialite, blue kyanite, lapis lazuli, clear quartz, selenite, angelite. 8th Chakra: Throat The Throat Chakra is mostly comprised of blue Pranas along with some amount of 10th Chakra: Forehead green and violet Pranas. The Forehead Chakra has light violet, blue, Blue stones are most connected to the throat red, orange, yellow and green Pranas. chakra. Stones related to this chakra are clear White stones are most connected with the quartz, fluorite, selenite, blue calcite, blue forehead chakra. Stones related to this chakra

38

Issue 02

are clear quartz, lemurian quartz, selenite, angel aura quartz, and diamond. 11th Chakra: Crown The Crown Chakra is located at the very top of the head. Most people describe this chakra as a flower. It has golden energy inside of its twelve inner ‘petals’, and it has light violet, blue, yellow, green, orange and red energy in the nine hundred and sixty outer petals. It sounds like a lot, but visualize a flower made up of all the other chakras. This is the crown. Purple stones are most connected to the crown chakra. Stones related to this chakra are amethyst, clear quartz, moonstone, angel aura quartz, sardonyx, herkimer diamond, selenite, lithium quartz. 12th Chakra: Golden Flame The 12th Chakra, also known as the aura or golden flame, looks like a golden light and evolves into a golden ball, a golden bud or a golden flame as the person matures spiritually. It is not a part of you, it’s above and around you. The color of the aura changes while the chakra stays a golden color above your head. White stones are most connected with the twelfth chakra. Stones related to the chakra are lemurian quartz, clear quartz, pyrite, river rose quartz, selenite, angel aura quartz, spirit quartz, apophyllite.

About the Author My name is Taylor-Nicole and I’m a solitary herbal witch, indoor gardener, and pranic healer. I’ve been practicing paganism for eleven years, and each day is a reflection of my practice. My beliefs follow paganism and druidry closely. I’m a true naturopath who loves using herbs, crystals, and rituals. My Meyers-Briggs personality is INFJ. I’m most active on my Instagram @taylornicolesgarden and the Pagans and Witches Amino Blog as Taylor Nicole.

Crystals I Won’t Use for Healing: My knowledge of Pranic healing tells me that black, grey, and brown crystals shouldn’t be used in crystal healing for chakras. To each their own, follow your intuition and personal knowledge and use stones you’re comfortable with.

39

CoffeeTable Coven

40

Issue 02

IG: @witches.of.the.north

41

CoffeeTable Coven What’s in the Book? Witch is divided into 13 (of course) chapters. The first seven cover history, herstory, different witchcraft practices, plus some autobiographical stuff, but the main thrust of this first part of the book is making the case for women (and I’ll get onto how woman is defined by the author later) to remember who they are and take back their power. Lisa wants to #wakethewitches. The second half of the book goes through the five main goddess archetypes, as Lisa sees them, alongside a kind of witchy 101 of information about practices, spells and Review of Lisa Lister's "Witch" correspondences. The By Jessica Starr final chapter is a rousing call to brooms – The I’ve been following Lisa’s work for a Witch Has Woken! while now. Her first two books, Code Red Overall this structure works, but it and Love Your Lady Landscape are really does feel like the chapter titles came first and good reads and I’ve recommended them a then some of the content was shoe-horned number of times to people feeling out of in afterwards. tune with their bodies and menstrual cycles. The book has sold a LOT of copies, So I was keen to read Witch. it’s been consistently top of the Amazon The fact that Hay House had picked charts in pagan/ wicca/ spirituality etc since up the book (and they sought Lisa out) it’s release) people are buying it in numbers. piqued my interest even more. This was But if you read the reviews it does seem kicking things up a notch or ten. In Lisa’s to be dividing opinion, and I think that’s earlier books she definitely had an embodied, because it is intended for a very specific kind of magical/ holistic take on things, but audience – and if that’s not you, then you this is the first book where she’s properly probably won’t like it. come out of the broom closet and declared herself Witch. So, who is this book for? The ideal reader of this book is a natal

female, still in her bleeding years, who has an interest in witchcraft, but not a great deal of knowledge or experience. Even better if she’s at a place in her life where she’s had enough of patriarchal bullshit and is ready to step fully into her power and start taking steps to fully realise her life as she wants to live it. If this is you, you will likely LOVE this book. Who is it not for? *If you are following a specific pagan or witch path then you probably won’t jive with the pick and mix approach taken here. It’s more suited to an eclectic, and solitary, style of practice. *If you’re easily offended by crass language and swearing (why are you reading books on witchcraft?) you’ll probably struggle to see past the language used here. *If you are a woman who does not have usual female biology and/or monthly bleeds (or if those years are behind you now) then you may not enjoy some of the ideas and language in this book as it is very much an embodied practice Lisa describes here. This has led the book to be criticised for it’s narrow definition of woman – and I’ve seen Lisa being called a TERF (trans exclusionary radical feminist) by some. I’m not totally sure how I feel about this. As an intersectional feminist I do feel very strongly that all marginalised groups need recognition and support to eradicate discrimination. But does that automatically mean that every writer

“I didn’t decide to become a witch. I remembered I was one.” Witch, Lisa Lister

42

Issue 02

need to address every person’s experience in their work? Some will say, yes of course, but I don’t think so (or even believe that it is possible to do this). I am aware that could lead to me also being “called-out” as a TERF, so be it. In Witch, Lisa is addressing a history and a present which keeps women in a position lesser than men, and she’s calling time’s up on that. I feel that is a positive message. Summary Overall the book is a quick and interesting read, which some have found to be incredibly inspiring and powerful, but is not for everyone. If you connect with the ideal reader definition above you’ll likely get a lot out of it, and even if you’ve been a practising witch for a long time you may still connect with the message and some of the practices shared here. I enjoyed it, and I’ve been walking a witchy path for almost three decades now.

43

CoffeeTable Coven

44

ads@c offe e table c ove n.com

Issue 02

45

CoffeeTable Coven

46

Following this, you have the personalized oracle card. Mine this month was titled “Princess Charming.” With the quote “I take the horse by the reins and become my own Princess Charming, taking care of my own needs.” Everyone needs to take some time for themselves, and this month’s box is meant just for that. After these two items you get to unwrap the rest of the box! On the top are three pieces of parchment paper tied together with twine, two of which give you the information about the contents and one blank page to use for writing. The start of the papers gives you a breakdown of the month and tells you the intentions. Once you get past those, you get into the main box. The first thing The Witches Moon: Review I usually go for are the herbs for the month. They included three this month. A monthly subscription box for us (months that include a tea only include two witches! The price is $54, including shipping! herbs). Every month includes some similar items, Queen of Flowers- They suggest using herbs, oil, incense, etc. BUT every month has these in teas, spread around your altar, or it’s own theme. sprinkled in your bath to bring the essence When you first the open box, you of love into your surroundings. have the Book of Shadows art print, this Raspberry Leaf- this herb should be month’s being about the Triple Goddess. kept close, such as in a sachet or include it in There is a different print each month and I your altar blends or incense. This is known really enjoy these because A) the artwork is to protect those that carry a loving intention. beautiful and B) they act as a quick reference Jasmine Buds- these assist in attracting guide. I have them up on the wall around my Spiritual Love rather than physical. sacred space, so they are easily accessible. Next, I always go for the essential oil, The Triple Goddess print talks about the this month we have the “Freyja” Magickal Maiden, the Mother, and the Crone and their Anointing Oil. This was created with the corresponding moon phases and deities. intention of enhancing the passion that flows

through your life. Freyja is confident and unrestrained. When anointing anything with this oil, it is suggested you visualize iridescent ripples of passion flowing into your life. Inside the bottle there is also a lemurian quartz piece, which is said to personify oneness into your aura. There is always a bath salt mix (The Maiden Goddess Sacred Salt) they suggest using before you perform your ritual using the “Goddess Within” Enchanted Spell Candle and spell. The salt is meant to help stop your inner chatter and calm you. The candle is a beautiful hand rolled beeswax candle and has dried rose petals at the base. The purpose of this candle is the awakening of the Goddess within and allowing yourself to connect to her. When using this spell and candle, remember this is a time for YOU. The box comes with a bundle of incense. This month includes an amber incense. It’s a very musky and floral scent. It is a good facilitator in seeking truth and wisdom during rituals that involve love or desire. Also included is a stone or crystal, this month being Amethyst Cluster to boosts one’s self-esteem. The last three items in the box are specific to the theme. We have the “Come to me” Aura Spray, the Crescent Moon Goddess Pendant, and lastly a Sacred Spiral Goddess Altar Statue. The Aura spray was made with the intention to of attracting positivity into your life. The spray has patchouli, amber, and white tea. The pendant is a representation of the power and control we have within us. The Goddess is sitting on

Issue 02

the crescent moon. It is a silver pendant on what I believe to be a leather chord. Finally, we have the biggest item in the box, the altar statue. It is a 360-degree piece. There are details on both sides. One side has a leafless tree, representing our connection to the Earth. The other side has a spiral that is meant to represent the calming of our deepest self-knowledge and personal power. Honestly, words cannot describe it. So I have included a photo of all the items to give you more of an idea. Overall, I love this subscription box so much and I really think it’s worth it. I would rate this box a 5/5. If you all want to check them out, the site is: https://thewitchesmoon.com/

I’m Katt, I’m 28 years old and have been studying/ practicing for over 13 years. I am a solitary practitioner. I work full time and have a part time job at Sephora. I have a YouTube channel which is slowly growing, feel free to check it out and subscribe if you’d like. I’m the cat mom to two wonderful cats, Toothless & Gabriel. I’m the resident witch and token goth amongst my friends and coworkers. IG: Harlequinnkitty13 YT: HarlequinnKitty

47

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

Featured Artist: IG: @chamandahy

48

49

CoffeeTable Coven

Issue 02

CoffeeTable Coven's September Activity Page

50

ALTAR ASTROLOGY BOOKOFSHADOWS CAULDRON CHAKRAS CHARMS CLEANSING COVEN DIVINATION ELEMENTS FAERIE FOLKLORE GAIA

GRIMOIRE INCENSE MEDITATION OCCULT PANTHEON PSYCHIC REINCARNATION SABBAT SOLITARY TALISMAN TAROTCARDS YGGDDRASIL

How To Do These Activities: Option 1: Screenshot and open in an editing app on your device. Draw on the photo and save. Option 2: Print pages out and complete activities. Take a picture when you're finished! Upload to Instagram with the hashtag #CoffeeTableCovenActivities for a chance to win a prize!

51

CoffeeTable Coven

Welcome to the Tarot Corner of The Coffeetable Coven! Every month we share a spread to dig deep-er into the energies of this current month and season, and explore ways in which we can work with that seasonal energy to make our lives more magical.



Issue 02

You can pull one or more cards for each spread position. You might choose to use tarot cards, oracle cards, or a combination of the two. If you don’t want to use cards, or don’t own a deck, these spread questions work equally well as journal prompts. It can be surprising the wisdom we hold inside us that can flow out with just pen, paper and an open mind.

The wheel of the year is the same wheel, but we are on different spokes depending on which hemi-sphere we inhabit. The equinoxes mark a special point of balance on the wheel, shared by us all, wherever we live. The Northern hemisphere is heading towards the darker part of the year, the Southern Hemisphere is heading towards the light. But, for now, we are all poised, with equal light and shadow. It’s time to take stock. Card Positions 1. This year I am working on/ learning/ growing … 2. I have already learned (the aspect of what you are working on that is now in the light)… 3. I am yet to learn (the aspect of what you are working on that is in shadow)… 4. What brought me to this point is… 5. My root of power and balance at the moment is … 6. My next step is …

52

Jessica Starr is a witch and her magic is stories (she’s great at spelling). She lives in Wales UK with her musician husband and their two unschooled children. She writes poems and prose for those who know that magic is real and that stories hold the power to change the world. She also shares her witchy wisdom on her YouTube channel The Story Witch. You can find out more about Jessica at thestorywitch.com

53

CoffeeTable Coven

54

a d s@coffe e t a b le c ove n . c o m

Issue 02

55

CoffeeTable Coven

Guide to the Fairy Realm A Short Story

Part 1 Harmony Bells. Bells that dance. Water that runs and talks and sings of the sky it once touched. Flowers clad in blue and yellow. Pink flowers, purple flowers, white flowers, and a beetle that walks across the page as you attempt to color. These are Harmony’s friends. These are the Fae. If every you lose Harmony, she can be found in the flowers; the ones silly grownups call weeds. Harmony scrunches her nose at those people, for she knows better. This girl called Harmony, such a sweet thing, adopted by a set of boring grown-ups. Or was it the other way around? Was it the Fae that adopted her? Oh she could never tell. And

56

that really wasn’t the point after all. Those people in the house, the ones that carry gray around them like a cloak of adulthood, unsmiling—heck unfeeling—they weren’t really her parents. They wanted to say so, make her do what they wanted, make her boring. She wouldn’t let them. That is why if every you lose Harmony you will find her amongst the flowers, in the garden her grandmother tends, down by the pond her father build, singing to her Fae. Offering them tiny cups of tea. Listen to her, she will teach you the importance of nature. People like this poor child are different. Frightening. They have a truth about them that make people second guess their lives. They are dangerous, because what if you were to look into your life and don’t like what you see. And that is why it is now, after the Fae have sung their song and danced their dance that our story takes a turn. Harmony was very vocal about those people in gray cloaks not being her parents.

So vocal it aroused the police. There was a very embarrassing investigation, where secrets her parents never wanted known were revealed. The neighbors made whispers about that strange child and the parents that couldn’t control her. There was nothing left to do but flee. Swift as they could Harmony’s mummy and daddy sold their home and beloved garden and never looked back. Week after week Harmony was locked in a room with a strange woman her parents called a therapist. She beat her down with rules, expectations, normality, ways to cope with stress that didn’t include making up stories about little people in the weeds. Slowly, bit by bit, the light in Harmony’s eyes deadened. Choked by school, and bullies, traffic lights and starless nights she numbed and blended with dirty gray… Dirty gray parents… Dirty gray sheets… Dirty gray smog… Dirty gray sky… Dirty… gray… Harmony. No. Not Harmony. Just a girl, with a cloak to protect herself, head down, eyes at her feet, normal girl. Years pass. Aching eons that only serve to accumulate dust on wings. Harmony still remembers the Fae… well parts of her anyway. The soles of her feet remember on the rare occasion they are allowed to touch Earth. The tip of her nose remembers when it catches the scent of orange blossoms. Everyone grows up I suppose. That’s not a choice. The choice you have is whether or not you grow old. Harmony in her discord is old, shriveled, her heart made of sand. It doesn’t have to be this way. Not for you. Not for her. Tell her you believe in fairies. Whisper it before you fall asleep. Maybe, just

Issue 02

maybe, she will hear and remember the importance of nature.

About The Author: Melissa Menchaca is a freelance writer living in Modesto California. She has been practicing the craft for 15 years though only recently delved into the rich world of Fae Magick. Other than dreaming up enchanting worlds she enjoys cooking vegan meals, crafting, and attempting to grow award worthy pumpkins.

57

Would you like to submit articles and photography? Email us today at [email protected] or [email protected] Become a patron on our Patreon today, and get exclusive behind the scenes posts and videos! You can even get a say in the magazine’s design and content, and receive great gifts!

Join Our Patreon! Issue 02

58