Into the Witch Ways: Creating a Grimoire with Kali O'Connell

Creating a Magickal Text: The Witch's Grimoire

Throughout the ages, great scholars, philosophers, teachers, wise-elders and many people from every walk of life have sought to document their experiences, whether through the written word, photos, drawings/art, music, or storytelling. It is part of the human experience to pass on wisdom and the lessons learned in one’s life. 

The Witch is no different. Witches have been known to keep a journal of sorts. You may have heard the terms, “Book of Shadows” and “Grimoire.” These refer to books of written text in which a Witch records their magickal workings, power thoughts, rituals, observances. As they progress in their knowledge of the Craft, the more they add to their written text. These magickal books were often passed down through the bloodline, sometimes they were passed from mentor to student, sometimes a Witch was known to take their secrets with them to the other side when they passed. This magickal text was an essential component on the Witch’s spiritual journey. 

In this class, we will dive deep into the purpose and importance of keeping a magickal text. We will discuss the Grimoire/Book of Shadows throughout history, folklore, film, and story. We will also take time to discuss and consider how and why we may want to use such a valuable tool in our own personal practice. 

Our hands on activity will be creating a modern day magickal journal (Book of Shadows or Grimoire if you want to get fancy with it) and bless our journals with intention through a small, but meaningful ritual.

This class and activity is open to anyone who wishes to learn. You do not have to be a practitioner of the Craft, nor do you have to self identify as a Witch or come from a particular tradition to keep a magickal journal for spiritual growth. In the ceremony, you will choose how you would like to bless your journal and your own intention for it. 

The Purpose of the Into the Witch Ways Series:

 What to bring to class:

• Notebook or Paper/Writing Utensil (for note taking)
• A small item to the community altar (optional). The idea is that the item will remain on the altar until the end of class
  
• Meditation cushion, blanket or mat for floor seating, though chairs will also be available
• Personal Water Bottle (for your own hydration)
• A snack to assist with grounding

Materials that we will have an assortment of but you are highly encouraged to bring your own to help with personalization: 

• Images/Quotes that Inspire the following ideas: Magick, Spiritual Work, Divine Connection, Power, Intuition, Nature, Faeries, Elements, Witchyness, Stars etc. These can be from magazine clippings, pictures, printed, handwritten, stickers, etc.
• Markers, Pencils, Pens

Age level: 16 and up, participants under 18 require an accompanying adult

This listing is for in-person participation at Body Mind & Soul's physical location. Attendance will be limited to 13 participants.

Kali is a spiritual crafter, artist, educator, and tarot reader. She has been a solitary practitioner of the Craft since 2008. She also has over a decade of experience in the education field, her students ranging from pre-k to adulthood. Her passions in life revolve around crafting with her hands and being of service to those on their own spiritual journey. You can connect with her on Instagram: @serpentandspider