Magic. What does it mean to you? While it may form the basis of a riveting mystical novel or enchanting blockbuster, spell casting is actually a tangible tool for spiritual growth and personal development in the real world, too – and you don’t have to don a pointed hat to plug into its mastery!

Alike many holistic practices, spell casting is a means of tapping into the Universe’s pool of energy in order to reclaim control of your destiny.

“Its the science of Earth’s hidden powers,” confirms esoteric author Judika Illes. “Various magical energies permeate virtually everything that exists: plants, stones, colours, sounds, and even people. These energies are invisible but very real nonetheless. A magic spell is a conscious effort to harness them in order to achieve a desired goal.”

And at the heart of every magical ritual is the the person performing it because, contrary to what many believe, this practice sets out to impact your life rather than grant mastery over others. “The one myth I feel is important to dispel is that you can influence or change another person’s behaviour,” adds white witch Patricia Weston. “I frequently get asked for spells to get lovers back. This is wrong, unethical and impractical as we cannot change another person. We can only change ourselves.”

Explore the wonder

Think you need to be a white witch to embrace the magic? Think again. “Traditions derive from all over the world, encompassing different cultures and spiritual persuasions,” explains Judika. “It’s a basic human skill that anyone can learn and develop.”

Completely inclusive, you needn’t join a circle or become part of a coven. All that’s required is a healthy appetite for self-improvement, and a good spoonful of faith. “I run wicca gatherings and people from all walks of life attend; they don’t necessarily consider themselves witches,” says Patricia. “We cast spells for their needs or for healing, and people can come and go as they please.”

A fancy bit of kit isn’t required either…

“Virtually anything and everything can be used to cast spells, from traditional wands and cauldrons to computers and television screens used by modern techno witches. But these are all tools intended to aid our success,” says Judika. “Ultimately, your emotions and desires are what truly fuels your magic.”

Cast out of goodness

One thing that is important to note is that white witches only cast for the greater good, as is instructed by the Wiccan moral system (also know as the Wiccan Rede): ‘If it harm none, do what you will’. “We work in harmony with nature; when we gather herbs for spell casting we ask the plants’ permission before we take from them. We respect and honour one another, nature and our surroundings. I also put ‘for the highest good of all’ after all my spell chants to ensure that what I am looking for does not take away from someone else, that it is for the highest and best good.”

Be mindful of your wishes

Have you shied away from the mystical arts out of fear that it may go wrong and you could subsequently transform your love interest into an unsightly toad? Don’t worry – there’s no danger of that! “Spell casting can only be dangerous in the sense that it works,” smiles Patricia.
“That old cliché is correct: be careful what you wish for! Be sure it’s what you really want, before you begin the spell and accurately expresses your true desires,” adds Judika.

“Typically, the worst thing that will happen if a spell doesn’t work is that you’ll be left in the same situation as before and must continue searching for solutions.

“Don’t be discouraged if this happens; keep looking for the spells, materials or tools that are your own most powerful allies. As with so much else, spell casting success is won by persistence.”

That said, to supercharge your chance of positive outcomes, you must fully and clearly understand what is is you’re yearning for. “The most typical goals are focused around love, prosperity, security, protection, success, money and fertility. However, any desire can be transformed into a spell,” says Judika. “Make sure that you are working toward your truth: what you really want, not what you think you should want. “Its purpose is to enable you to exert some authority over your life and destiny, rather than just being shaped by circumstances.”