This was definitely a research-heavy month here at Smudge as we launched into some deeper dives into Spiritual Wellness with different histories exploring some of the different verticals that we explore here at Smudge Wellness.
While I am a firm that history is important to know and understand, I am very rooted in the present and what we can do with that information. So how do we incorporate Spiritual Wellness into our daily lives and practices? I like to think of all the different ideas and things that we learn each day as little seeds that get planted and it is up to us to water and fertilize them, get them some sun, and help them grow and flourish.
I believe that whatever we feed grows and that we each have a toolkit of resources that we carry with us that is worth revisiting, updating, and tuning from time to time. These are just a few of the tools that I am aware of, we can definitely add more as we all continue to grow and learn. If you have favorite tools you like to use, head to Smudge Wellness’ Instagram to share.
Astrology
Astrology is the divination of the influences of the stars and planets on human affairs and earthly events by their positions and aspects. As we established in the histories shared last month – when we are talking about astrology we are talking about how we are affected by the planets and stars. So what are some tools that astrology readers and practitioners use?
Birth Chart – We were all born with a magical chart that defines who we are astrologically based on when we entered this universe. A Birth Chart determines your placements in signs, planets, asteroids, etc. It shows us who we are at our core and it calculates the astrological aspects and sensitive angles of the magical moment of our Birth. You can have your chart professionally done online or do it yourself with some research.
Horoscope – A forecast of a person’s future, typically including a delineation of character and circumstances, based on the relative positions of the stars and planets at the time of that person’s birth. You can find horoscopes in many magazines, newspapers, or websites. You can also get personalized readings from an astrologer.
Applications – There are applications that you can use to chart the stars and planets, there are also applications that will do it for you. Technology has come a long way and there are many digital tools that exist now that you can utilize. I use Co-Star because it keeps it simple for me and allows me to connect with friends and family.
Tarot
Tarot is a practice with cards, traditionally a pack of 78 with five suits, used for fortune-telling, especially in Europe, in certain games. The suits are typically swords, cups, coins or pentacles, batons or wands, and a suite of trump. It started as a popular game and didn’t evolve into what we see today until later. Tarot is a tool for self divination and meditation, an art form, and a card game. The cards contain archetypes, symbols, and imagery to convey human emotions, challenges, and circumstances. The individual can interpret these cards and relate them to their own life as a sort of meditation and reflection or read them for others utilizing their intuition. So what are some tools that tarot readers and practitioners use?
Tarot Cards – Of course, tarot card reading starts with finding your deck. There are definitely some traditional choices that many folks will encourage like the Smith-Waite Tarot Deck. I definitely encourage you to find the deck that speaks to you and I don’t subscribe personally to the idea that a deck has to be gifted to you, I think you just have to be drawn to each other, however that shows up. I’m currently working with the Modern Witch Deck and loving it.
Oracle decks – A tool for self-reflection some like to add to their spiritual practice. Oracle decks have fewer rules and there is no one way to make an oracle deck and they can contain as many cards as the creator chooses. Cards come in a variety of themes such as Chakra, Moon or Soul cards and may contain messages from goddesses, famous witches, or self-care tips. You can do a single pull for inspiration or a spread like you do with tarot cards.
Spreads – Past, present, and future spreads are a common go-to for beginner readers but there are many ways you can interact with your cards. If you are uncomfortable with making up your own spread, connect with more seasoned readers or get some tarot books for new spreads to try.
Crystals
Crystals have long been used for therapeutic purposes in alternative medicine for healing and to bring balance through resonance and vibrations. The healing benefits of crystals predominantly bring feelings of increased tranquility, positivity, and focus, some have experienced enhanced immunity and pain relief. So what are some tools that crystal healers and practitioners use?
Crystals – Crystal healing starts with the stones and there are many ways that you can utilize these crystals based on material, shape, and size. There are also many different ways that you can carry and wear crystals.
Books – While our intuition is very powerful and sometimes we do what we need without even realizing it, there is also a major power in our ability to learn. There are a lot of great resources that exist that can help broaden your knowledge of not just the crystals but also how to tap into them.
Crystal Grids – A special arrangement of crystals and stones, used with the intention, to manifest the desired result. Common intentions that people use for crystal grids are for well-being, abundance, healing, and protection. When assembling a crystal grid, it is always best to follow your intuition. Most Crystal Grids include a central stone, surrounding stones, amplification stones, and any objections of importance.
Rituals/Manifestation
Rituals are often ceremonies that consist of a series of actions performed according to a prescribed order, sometimes historic, sometimes self-designed. Manifestation in this context means to create something or turn something from an idea into a reality. Both of these things can be simple and basic or complicated and advanced. It can be a regular practice or something you do special once a month. So what are some tools that are used for rituals and manifestation?
Everything Above – Many of the tools listed above are also used for rituals and manifestations and can be used together or rituals can be used to amplify the tools above.
Candles – Candles are a great tool for focusing and centering your ritual or manifestation. It can also be the source of fire in an elemental ritual. There are many ways that candles can help amplify or ground your ritual or manifestation.
Beyond/Other
The categories above are important aspects of Spiritual Wellness but they don’t cover everything. There are some other great practices and resources that you can include in your spiritual wellness toolkit.
Movement – Movement is a great way to get the blood flowing and get yourself back into your body. It can be yoga or dance or just going for a walk. Anything that gets you moving and connecting your body and mind can be a practice.
Grounding or Earthing – Grounding, also called earthing, is a therapeutic technique that involves doing activities that electrically reconnect you to the Earth. Imagine plugging back into the Earth through the soles of your feet. Electrical charges from the earth can have positive effects on your body.
Breathwork – Breathwork refers to exercises that teach you to manipulate your breathing rate and depth with the goal of bringing awareness to your breath and ultimately providing the same benefits similar to a meditative practice.
Journaling – Journal begins with simply writing down your thoughts and feelings to understand them more clearly. Some people just let out whatever comes to mind on the page, sometimes people utilize prompts. Whatever gets your thoughts flowing onto the page.
Books – I love reading!! Books are a great resource for your growth and education. I believe that we are forever students and love getting new books on a subject that interests me. Go to the library, the bookstore, or download that audiobook and get to learning.
Courses – Want to really dive in? Find a teacher that resonates with you and take their class. There are some really awesome online courses around all of the tools above that can help you grow and enhance your practice. Find those that interest you and sign up to learn. Check your local library, many offer a variety of learning opportunities that people overlook.
If you have favorite tools you like to use or something we have overlooked, head to Smudge Wellness’ Instagram to share.
