Protection and Progress: Nordic Rituals for Renewal
Runes, Rituals, and the Sacred Art of Protection
Hello fellow witches!
We’re on the cusp of transformation, and with the lunar cycle waning, it’s the perfect time to let go of what no longer serves us. This week’s newsletter is packed with magic to help you reflect, release, and prepare for new beginnings.
But first, here’s a little affirmation for the week:
Weekly Affirmation:
"I release what weighs me down, trusting the universe to guide me towards growth and clarity. My path forward is clear, and I walk it with purpose."
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🌙 Current Moon Phase 🌙
We’re currently in the Waning Gibbous phase, as the light of the moon fades. This is the perfect time to release any old stagnant energy, clear away emotional baggage, and reflect on what you no longer need in your life. As the moon diminishes, so should the weight of anything that’s been holding you back.
🌓 Lunar Look Ahead 🌓
On September 23, 2024, we move into the Last Quarter Moon. This phase is all about closure and tying up loose ends. Use this time to finish projects, let go of unfinished business, and prepare yourself for fresh beginnings as the next New Moon approaches. Reflect on the lessons of the past month and decide what you’re ready to leave behind.
🌟 Rune Reading for the Week 🌟
Each week I will alternate between runes and tarot. Here are some messages from the runes this week.
Rune 1: Raidho áš± (Journey, Movement)
There may be a lot going on right now, but it’s for the greater good. Raidho encourages you to trust the process. Forward movement is happening, even if you can't see every step clearly. It’s a reminder that everything falls into place when the timing is right, especially in your personal and spiritual journeys.Rune 2: Nauthiz ᚾ (Need, Constraint)
Along a journey there are always changes. Nauthiz signals that challenges may arise this week, but they aren’t setbacks—they’re opportunities for growth. These obstacles will push you to focus on what truly matters. This rune asks you to face what you've been avoiding and prioritize what is essential.Rune 3: Berkana ᛒ (Growth, New Beginnings)
Berkana means Birch, and embodies growth, healing, and new opportunities. As the moon wanes, this rune encourages you to clear out the old to make space for fresh starts. Personal healing and renewal are on the horizon.
🌀 The Runes' Advice for the Week 🌀
When these three runes are seen together, Raidho, Nauthiz, and Berkana we see a powerful pattern and message to prepare for transformation. As the moon transitions into the Last Quarter, focus on completing what you’ve started. You might face challenges, but they’re part of your journey (Raidho). As you overcome them (Nauthiz), you’ll find that new growth and opportunities await (Berkana). By the end of the week, you’ll feel lighter, more focused, and ready for what’s to come.
🪨 Crystal of the Week: Smoky Quartz 🪨
This week’s crystal companion is Smoky Quartz—a grounding stone that I felt was perfectly aligned with both the lunar phase and the messages from the runes. Its powerful properties absorb negative energy and help you clear away emotional clutter, making space for the new.
Properties:
Smoky Quartz is known for its grounding and protective qualities. It’s perfect for detoxifying emotional blockages, enhancing focus, and releasing what no longer serves you.Incorporation:
Carry it in your pocket or wear it as jewelry to stay grounded throughout the week.
Meditate with it on your root chakra to help release negativity and emotional baggage.
Place it near your workspace or living area to absorb unwanted energies.
🔮 Spell of the Week: Home Protection Ritual 🔮
As the fall season begins and the veil between worlds thins, it’s important to set energetic boundaries within your home. This modern take on one of my ancestral family protection rituals will help shield your space from negativity while maintaining positive energy within.
For this ritual, I use small mirrored sequins, which reflect away harmful influences. Historically, my family used small coins or bowls of water when mirrors weren’t available. You can watch the full ritual in my reel below!
Benefits of this ritual:
Protect your home by creating a shield of positive energy.
Learn about bindrunes and their ancient purposes.
Connect with your ancestors by calling on them for protection as you place your mirrors or draw your bindrunes.
🪓 Roots and Wisdom: Nordic Charm for Daily Protection 🪓
Tip: Carry a piece of birch bark with you for daily protection.
Advice: In Norse tradition, birch symbolizes renewal, purification, and protection. Carrying a small piece of birch bark can shield you from negativity and harmful influences throughout the day.
✨ New Section✨ Prompt of the Week
Use this prompt to engage with the witchy community here in the comments or on Threads and tag me @witchoftherunes.
If you’re more private, you can use this for journaling:
What is one thing you're ready to release as you prepare for new beginnings?
That’s all for this week! As the moon wanes, remember to take time for yourself—clear out the old, face the challenges, and make room for the new. Your path forward is already waiting for you.
Until next time, stay grounded and keep your magic alive! 🌙✨