I find that when it comes to women taking up witchcraft as a feminist practice, it's important to distinguish between actual traditional practices and self care with a 'witchy' flavor. Both are valid on their own but you need to call a duck a duck.
I love this comment! I hadn't thought about this but it's true. Drinking herbal tea, embracing femininity, and owning a rose quartz, does not a witch make. I'm not saying that to be gatekeepy, it's just a fact. You can do aesthetic witch-adjacent things and even use products made by witches, without being one. You can be a feminist who loves nature and not be a witch. The practice of magic makes the title of Witch. Something being "witchy" doesn't make it a ritual.
Officer Riya so very true, I think another problem that contributes to this is an over attachment to labels. A desire to label ourselves before we've done the work. An attraction to an aesthetic alone is a fashion lifestyle choice. What is fundamentally needed to start is a deep understanding of ones own place and sovereignty over ones life within a spiritual framework.
@@ninaroux8791 Yep. If one was initially attracted to witchcraft first and then started their own witch-path, that's a perfectly valid beginning for a witch. BUT BEING ATTRACTED TO THE PRACTICES DOES NOT MAKE THEM A WITCH FROM THE GET-GO, and so many people seem to miss that one. You are a witch when you *start* your craft, not *before* you begin.
YES! I feel like many of these insta witches are just "doing a witchcraft" and not being a witch if anyone understands that. I find that many of them say stuff like these women did along the lines of: "I don't have to believe in the inherent magical power of say crystals, just to have them as a reminder to do stuff and to stay grounded". but like then you could just write it down on your calendar, right? Stay positive! There magic done apparently. I also find it important to outright say that hey this is just my way of doing things and that witchcraft itself is not inherently tied to any political ideology. If we don't draw that distinction people on the outside get confused. I get asked if I am a neo-nazi because of my Odal rune tattoo - just because neo-nazis have tried to own that symbol - and recently a local newspaper wrote an article about feminist witches in my city and apparently "they don't actually believe that magic is real or that rituals and spells actually work - this is just a protest to them". And so my actual belief in magic gets lumped in as a protest. Not saying that it can't be that - just that obviously doesn't apply to everyone. Anyway, thanks for reading my TED talk, lol.
Ive never understood why the "placebo effect" is used as a way to discredit something. When you think about it what is placebo really? In a medical trial its a sugar pill vs a drug and often the sugar pill serves to be just as effective if not more then the drug. Placebo's work so whether something is placebo or not does it really matter? Belief is powerful, so if anything placebo proves the power of a person!
The significance of a placebo effect in medicine is that it marks a baseline of effectiveness for the drug being tested. If patients react to the drug to the same degree as the placebo, it means the dug isn't working very well. You want the drug to far exceed the placebo effect- the placebo effect IS NOT evidence for the healing power of the mind. Rather, it is evidence that some people, some of the time, do better even without treatment due to the high complexity of the human immune system and the chemistry involved in the pathology. Now if every single placebo patient shows a reaction, then the effect points to something else going on. But that never, ever happens.
AGREED! However I feel like the Basic Witches are more "new age spiritual" vs being a witch. Nothing bad about that. I feel they have the want and the good intentions; and the instinct to do magic, however I don't think they have a solid foundation like a medicine wheel or a compass. I would be curious to see if their magic would blossom if they incorporated a good foundation ( my bias would be to do ancestral work too)
I really liked the way she handled her investigation, none of the usual eye rolling or dismissive snark, she was respectful and seemed genuinely interested in expanding her knowledge
I respect their ability to bring other people into magic, especially their creation of a safe and empowering space for women. It's definitely not how I practice, but making witchcraft a little bit commercial probably lead many people who previously didn't know about witchcraft to find healing in it.
About sacrifice.... if blood is to be used in rituals ( like an offering, or to use vital force energy for specific uses ) , the best one i think, is to use yours. Sacrifice ur own blood. And if u use a knife instead of a dart to open ur flesh, it makes for a very good practice for inner will, and for mental control. Naturaly i do it, but im not encouraging anyone to do it. If u do, do it at ur own risk ( put care in using sterile blade .. etc. Use common senses )
Same: As someone who is male identifying (despite my outwardly feminine appearance), it's pretty invalidating and demoralizing when I hear people pushing the idea of witchcraft being a feminine practice: I almost didn't get into witchcraft because of that. I kept hearing people talk about their Goddess and about working with their Goddess in their practice all the time, and a big emphasis on feminine energy, which... just didn't fit me. I so strongly relate to being a non-conforming man, and really rebelling against the idea of gender roles.... So to hear witchcraft to be a Feminine thing is just.... it gets under my skin.
In addition to everyone else's points, also hate the self-centering of this kind of craft and thinking. We live in a society facing climate change, poverty, cruelty, degridation of life in general and we've got a lot of fairly privileged women on Instagram performing rituals for the sole sake of receiving things.
As a 50 (ish) year old witch, I appreciate you and explaining that Witchcraft is for EVERYONE. I also like how the separation of Wicca and Witchcraft are explained here. Been a witch for about 10 years and I learn something new each time I watch your channel.
Good to see you representing us older practitioners. I'm 50 as well. I haven't been in the craft long, although I dabbled as a teen, and I feel like I have a very different view of the craft at this stage of life. Cheers!
They had me at Dylan, lost me at the Basic Witches. Not that they're not lovely people but as a POC non binary witch, they definitely made me feel like I shouldn't really... 'belong' in witchcraft. If that makes any sort of sense.
@@Wolf_Mama you do what makes you 😊! Honestly, I've watched those girls a couple of times, they are lovely as you said Wolf. They made me even feel like I wouldn't be welcome in witchcraft which I don't understand. One thing that gets under my skin when the minority of people that don't believe in or do what's the "norm" tell you that you're wrong or don't belong with anyone. Total hypocrites!
To add to your comments about the placebo effect... my husband and I have been talking about this a lot (we are very recently branching out into Paganism, Druidry, witchcraft, but we both have strong feelings about science, the laws of physics, thermodynamics, etc.) . We talked about how one the one hand, we sometimes feel a sense of conflict about witchcraft and magic, rooted in our tendencies towards scientific skepticism, and how every observable effect in witchcraft might just be in the head of the practitioner... but on the other hand, there's the old saying, "It's not dumb if it works!" The placebo effect DOES have a real effect - it has statistical significance, that's why it was given its own name to begin with. It just goes to show that the human mind is a powerful thing, and it has great potential to shape its own reality. So yes, it might just be placebo effect. But that doesn't make it any less cool. It's not dumb if it works. Great video, Hearth - I'm really enjoying your content (love the intellectual/educational bent to everything).
I truly appreciate when people branch the subject of science with magic. After all, a lot of modern 'medicine' was once upon a time labeled 'witchcraft' simply because the 'science' hadn't been 'defined/discovered' yet. (I do not use the ''-marks to discredit or scepticize these terms only emphasize my understandings of their evolved roles in the history of scientific understanding). Theory(for lack of better word here) Step 1) It is scientifically recognized that the planets and large-organic-space-objects (ie: moons) have a gravitational pull. Theory Step 2) It is scientifically accepted that our moon's gravitational pull effects the Earth's water such to create currents and tide. Theory Step 3) Connect some dots using scientifically approved math(s) Theory Step 4 (or walk-Through Conclusion to the point I started this on): The many varying strengths of the sun/star, our moon, planets in our Galaxy & their moons all have individual gravitational pulls not only sending these magnets our way but also interfering in eachother and eachother's magnetic pulls. The human body is (approximating off the top of my head) 96% (?) water.. And already staying on earth due to Earth's gravity. Is it so far out of the realm of possibility that 'true' horoscopes (yes, there's asthetic bs thrown around from time to time) aka the mathematic calculations of the planetary alignments effects on a physical or mental electricity-brain/water-body organism (ie: human) at a specific time may be able to have an educational interpretation pattern? This, alongside the widely acknowledged link that shadow-work is psychology by another name (as emphasized with the placebo effect) are only two example of how well one can reinforce sciences while respecting individuals and their paths. 🙂
I saw a great post once that went along these same lines like. Maybe it is all in my head...But it still works! Personally I do believe there is more to it than just placebo but if there weren't, it wouldn't stop me. This is an awesome comment
Even if it IS just placebo, the placebo effect is actually insanely powerful. One time someone was part of a double-blind trial for a drug (i forget what it was for now). They’d just had a bad breakup so they took the drug they’d been given and massively overdosed on it. They were admitted to the hospital unconscious and with severe signs of poisoning. When the doctors investigated, they found that he’d actually been in the “placebo” side of the trial. The person woke up within 5mins of hearing this and all signs of overdose and poisoning vanished. There’s evidence to suggest that giving people a lower dose of medication but with an added placebo actually promotes better recovery as there’s less side effects to deal with. It’s actually a really interesting subject but the main take away from it is that the placebo effect is more powerful than a lot of people think. So, even if it just simply is placebo and placebo only, it’s still pretty damn powerful.
As a trans male, I love the fact that they included a male witch in this video. Sometimes seeing a lot of females in this craft can leave me feeling really dysphoric or even invalid in this craft.
I'm a relatively new witch in my 50s and male, and i don't understand why so few if any men don't make videos about witchcraft. It seems so odd, especially when people like Gerald Gardner and Alieister crowley were probably the most well-known witches in modern times. No disrespect to the sisterhood who have taught me so much, but i can see how the lack of men speaking up can put newcomers off.
I’m a nonbinary witch, and while I don’t often see representation of other nonbinary witches, representation of male witches still feels like a step toward people seeing witchcraft as the nongendered practice that it is! :D
Mystic Dylan is really Cool, he's friends with Olivia from The Witch of Wonderlust. I love that the first Witch they visited was him, representing us male witches and witches alike. This was one of my favorite "Real Witch" videos except for the "New Age Feminist Witches". I believe to achieve true balance you need a balance of God and Goddess/ Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine. I feel that people forget the essence of Yin Hang masculine having Feminine and Feminine having Masculine.
Do you mean the white dot within the black and the black dot within the white? Because I love that reminder, that masculine and feminine are two sides of one coin, not two sides of a battlefield. They share with just as much as they contrast each other.
Well. You know non binary witches are usually beginners, I say that enbies and trans people have the least representation. I try to represent the groups but it’s a little scary since transphobia exists.
Also, masculine and feminine does not mean a man and a woman. It means ideas and creation, seed and place for it to grow, the thought and the action... It is an energy not a -sex-
I’m quite new to witchcraft but I definitely felt that Dylan’s practice seemed much more natural and genuine. I do like the aesthetic stuff too but I’d love to learn more about the as you put it every day nutty gritty stuff. I’m struggling to find ways to make it work in my everyday life rather than just doing rituals and etc.
Some tips to get more magick into your everyday life: (if you feel like it) incorporate magick into meals! Find out the associations and properties of ingredients and herbs and put intentions into meals. Another idea is simply daily meditating over a flame, taking ten minutes to really calm your mind. You can buy yourself a pack of tarot cards and learn some easy spreads (for example just choosing a daily card) And my personal favorite: Sigils! There's tons of videos on how to write them and then you can put them on everything and boom instant magick! These are my favorites i hope it helps
The everyday stuff can be just lighting candles, incense & burn sage to cleanse your home, ritual baths, divination of your choosing, doing spells, green magick (herbs-used in putting meals together), making spell candles, meditation, walking outside to ground yourself, work on your chakras, shadow work is also good to do esp as a baby witch. And so much more, keeping a book of shadows and reading and writing a daily journal, I even have a dream journal, grimore and bos yes there is a difference between the 2. 1 I wrote in daily and write in during rituals and a daily affirmation and much more and the other I put all my spells and things in and I keep it neat and organized.
As a trans man, the basic witches make me feel rather excluded and uncomfortable. Thank you Hearth, your words mean so much to me. ☺ It's like you said, there's nothing WRONG with what they do, but representing only one side of things like instagram can tend to do...well, it's not all sunshine and roses. To be told that magic comes from my uterus or whatever...um ouch
Officer Riya as a trans male witch myself, I highly agree with you 🤧 it was a bit uncomfortable. I’m glad they at least added Dylan into the video for some type of balance
@@starlightbard87Hey, it's so nice to hear from others! Ours is culturally a very lonely little corner 😓 Dylan is a blessing honestly, I'm glad he's representing, he seems like an extremely competent witch 👌
You’ve been practicing for 15 years? I thought you were like twenty! You’re so pretty! Also the part you said about black and white magick is soo true. It enrages me that people think that hoodoo or voodoo are evil. It is so obvious that they have been demonized in the US for racial reasons.
I love Mystic Dylan, I think you would love his Podcast "the witch and the medium" it is such a great feeling that my two favorite witches get somehow connected
I've watched several "I did witchraft with a real witch!" style videos and absolutely cringed my way through -- but my reaction to this particular video was much like yours. Unlike most videos in this genre, it showed real curiosity, minimal snark, and (most importantly) real respect. Considering the format, platform, and intended audience, it did a nice job of covering very different aspects of witchcraft without all the "nudge nudge wink wink" snark or a single self-professed "expert" saying, "it is THIS" and nothing else. Unfortunately, it would take a much longer video to cover more of the subject properly, but Sky Life did a really good job. As a male of the species, I also found it refreshing for a male witch to speak onscreen for a measurable span of time. (Multiple sources state that in Russia, more men were executed for witchcraft than women.) Your comments about Instagram's effect seem right on-target; I've seen better info & representation on TikTok!! (Scary, eh?) And yes, it was fun to watch your face at some points in the video.
I just don't like it how this one feminist witch said "weather or not I believe in it or not" when talking about crystals. It shows a lack of research and the fact that she doesn't take them or subtle energies seriously. Don't get me wrong. People can believe or disbelieve in whatever they want, but if you're going to *actually use* something in your practice, you better take it seriously and not assume that the popular opinion is a correct one.
You are awesome! Thank you so much for reviewing my video and sharing all of your wisdom. I loved learning about witchcraft so much and the experience opened my eyes a ton. Wishing you much magick and love!
The Witch of Wonderlust brought me here and I'm so happy she did. Mystic Dylan is such a force! This vid peaked my interest in your content. I'm off to go binge some beauty 💚
OMG! Mystic Dylan! I love the Witch and the Medium podcast! Amazing! YESSSSS and WITCHCRAFT IS NOT A RELIGION - it's a practice that people can practice within other religions - including Wicca - or outside of any religion! The amount of times that people misunderstand this is literally astounding!
I liked Dylan's part in this video! As for the other 2 witches, I too do not like that they tied together feminism and magic, to me they are different things. Both important, but different. I know that they do not necessary exclude men just because they do not mention them, but since they are in a video that many people that do not practice will see, maybe they could clarify...? Also the theatrical gasps when they read the tarot etc were not my thing! But they seem to be lovely girls and I will search for their podcast!
As a 62 year old woman feminism is very much a part of my path. Maybe because of the fact that it was very central to my life as a young woman. That does not mean I ever wanted to exclude men. I raised my son as Wiccan he no longer follows that path but follows his own.
I'm 49 and feminism movement as I know it was ending here in US when I was growing up. Personally, I think they are two separate things also. Also a "feminist" now is not the same as it was in 60s-70s. Things were different for women back then, but now in 2020 there nothing holding a woman back. Unless it's herself or her abilities. Yes there are men that are pigs but you normally don't have to deal with them on daily basis.
@@brekke668 and that's awesome for you, of course we all incorporate things that affect us or make us stronger in our practice! What I am trying to say is that Wicca or magic is not tied with feminism in general, in Wicca and other neopagan/pagan religions people have God(s) and Goddess(es) and witches of both genders/energies are equally respected!
@@JustDiane71 I tend to agree, although I am a little younger(30) and have no personal experience, for me the feminism movement was something I could be on board with untill the 2nd movement. 3rd movement has some serious aspects too, but most of it is focusing on the wrong topics in my opinion, so now I can not call myself a feminist, I just speak for equality and respect for all!
I feel like someone needs to remind the basic witches that feminism is about equality 🥴 That includes male and enby witches. I've had so many arguments with other witches about this. It's a practice for everyone. If you're a woman, or femme aligned, it's totally fine to focus on feminine power in your craft. But it can be incredibly exclusionary when talking about "the power of the womb" and things like that, because it excludes trans witches when talking about femininity. 🙁 The basic witches seem like they must be fairly new at this, and I hope they continue to learn more, because it kinda seems like they're doing this for all the wrong reasons.
i love this representation for male witches, im trans (ftm) and a witch and sometimes feel this social dysphoria surrounding my title and practice, even tho it makes me happy and it has no gender. and thank you for acknowledging it.
As a Non-binary baby witch, I found the first part of this video very comforting. Dylan sets an example for the balance in witchcraft, the push and pull of both feminine and masculine. While I think the modern witches have good intentions, I’m just a bit uncomfortable with the rhetoric of witchcraft being largely feminine. I don’t find myself very attached to one over the other. What draws me to the craft is the balance itself.
I’m in my 40s, I was raised with the craft- not Wiccan. I have a hard time with the young witches saying it’s about empowering women. I believe it’s about empowering self thru energy. It does not speak to only women. It’s for everyone to use the energy all around us to empower and direct intentions. I am not part of a coven. I can not separate it from my daily life. Meaning, it’s not just something I do once a day and leave it for the next day. It is engrained in everything I do. I believe it’s all about energy& placebo effect IS energy. It goes much further than just feminine/masculine energy. Great video!
It’s really refreshing to see something that asks intelligent questions AND get interesting and knowledgeable replies back. It’s also really interesting to see different kinds of witches talking about the way they work. It must be nice for you Hearth to see something like this including people you actually like and agree with 😁
Thank you for your wisdom and maturity. Every second of your channel is rich with information. I appreciate that you are drama-free, articulate, wise, and kind. **Thank you** for bringing so much dignity to the practice. With the world being so attention-seeking and false, you're a shining example of humble, traditional knowledge. Even when you share a criticism, it is done with kindness and grace. This solitary crone (me) has learned so much from you. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Feminism can be included in a persons practice however it’s important to understand that witchcraft is not a feminist movement. It can be used to aid in the feminist movement, however you need to understand the difference between an ancient practice and self care with a bit of a witchy aesthetic
It would be nice to see more representation of traditional witchcraft, but making it more practical/modern. But not losing the origins of the craft. I hate the idea of it being an empowerment only for women, when it should be an empowerment for witchcraft. Would avoid the basic witches, they just seem too feminazi and not as knowledgeable on the original craft
I have to say I, like many others who have commented really agree with everything you've said during your reaction. I watched this video when it first came out and I thought it was so much better and non biased than others I've seen. I also want to mention that I truly appreciate how well you express yourself and your degree of knowledge is truly impressive. It makes watching your videos not only entertaining but I also always feel like I've come away a little wiser. So HUGE thank you!
i like how the girl talking to all the practioners seems geniunly interested and respectful. it's really nice to see in these types of "i spent a day with a witch" videos.
I agree with you, I think a lot of people get really caught up on the “witchy aesthetic” I am a witch, but I don’t dress “witchy” every single day. My whole life doesn’t fit into that aesthetic but that doesn’t make me less of a witch.
of course witchcraft comes from a place in our minds, bcuz we have to think on what we want and desire, so it has to come from our heads/minds/thoughts. what we bring about we teach about. of course our hearts play a significant role in witchcraft as well
Ok the cultural appropriation and exclusion of masculinity with the things the Basic Witches were saying made me want to tear my hair out! They made me extremely uncomfortable. Dylan is an absolute gem though, he is the kind of which I aspire to be further along in my journey. Such an amazing role model to baby witches ❤️
I'm also Slavic ( I'm half Russian & Half Polish) Can Slavic Witchcraft be passed down by a Ancestor, when there aren't any close relatives who were witches ...and half passed on ?
Basic Witches = Prosperity Gospel for Feminists. It's about what can witchcraft do for me opposed to what can I do for the craft. (I say this as a Feminist Witch)
I literally got chills watching the ritual with Dylan. I felt like I was watching something so meaningful and personal, almost like I should have closed my eyes out of respect. Watching the girls describe their practices didn't feel anything like that. I felt very self-congratulatory and performative.
I agree with everything you said about this video. I don't view witchcraft as a feminist movement. There are plenty of men who are witches; Mystic Dylan being a great example. I don't know if you've ever watched the Witch of Wonderlust but she has a couple of videos with Dylan which are full of fantastic information although I'm sure it's about things you already know. You are definitely a pro at candle magic. I always enjoy your video content. Keep up the good work. Love the vlogs!
Well also men can be feminists but yes I agree those who view witchcraft itself as intrinsically part of feminism do exclude men ALOT and it’s not fair. Witchcraft is for everyone and yes it does make me feel empowered as a woman to be doing witchcraft and I do feel very against the patriarchy when I cast intricate spells and such but it is not inherently part of feminism and my whole craft is not based around it.
Very nice video, you're right about everything you've said. In my opinion Witchcraft / Magic isn't about just waving a wand and everything is going to be easy in an instant. It's something that will empower you (Male & Female) as you continue along your journey of life. It can empower anyone wanting to use it, and while it can be a potent tool in the empowerment of females and girl power it is not limited to a specific gender. There are male and female witches.
You talked about there’s a lot techniques in witchcraft. Could you make video about it. Because Ive always trying that popular basic type of technique and never worked. Thank you
Yeah I would like this also. I dont feel like the women in this video neglected other methods, they just werent mentioned. Might have had something to do with the reporter of the editing but not once did I hear those women say "this is the only way people practice" nor "this is exclusively for women".
I am very new to witchcraft and the first contact I had with it was Skylife's video. I am grateful for that because that video opened my eyes to something I resonated with, and her approach to the topic is very accurate. I do not agree with everything Sky says on her video but it is thanks to her that I am now in this path. Great video, thank you 💜💜
Witch of Wonderlust is also a very good youtuber when it comes to the basics of things. Harmony is good if you want to learn from a Wiccan's point of view, I do love her though. Haven't heard of Lady Gravedancer, gottah check her out!
I remember way back in the day on, I think, Sally Jesse Raphael or something, where they did a little expose and interview with some witches... their coven was apparently nothing but nubile young women with perfect bodies who worked completely nude and worshiped Lucifer and Lilith and I'm pretty sure they had some super fundies on the show as well. I'm so glad there's better representation now - there's nothing wrong with that coven but I'm pretttttty sure they were just actresses.
I loved this reaction so so much I love learning from my peers and I get so much from just you reacting because you help to stop that stigma and get rid of some of those myths xx plus I love that you don’t believe in just concentrating on women or on goddess I too believe balance is so important we all have both in us and both needs to be seen in balance. I also love that you pointed out not all witches are Young I definitely felt self conscious at first starting this journey in my 40s xx
I am a Christian and do not practice witchcraft, but I relate so much to several aspects of what you mentioned in this video. I have always felt a connection to ancestry and love to do genealogy research. I also love to decorate for the fall and Christmas seasons. I guess you would refer to them as Samhain and Yule. . I recently discovered that my paternal ancestors come from Scotland. I don’t know if that has any relation to my feelings or not though.
I've always been drawn to the elements. I can't explain my relationship with the moon, and I'm ready to let my heart open to what I've craved since I was a child. I'm looking for guidance, and find your videos inspiring and educational. I often feel alone. Thank you
Beautiful explanation and i just love this video a lot! The thing is that i grew up visiting real witches all my childhood and teenage years because now i am 50 years old now and for me witchcraft was a life and a profession, a job to help people. And I have the call to witchcraft since very young. Thanks for all the young witches that now are considering this practice a profesion. I am not a wiccan but I am a witch and i like that witchcraft is something that is for a new generation a very beautiful spiritual path. and something VERY true is that witchcraft is NOT A GENRE...is a Spiritual path. The way you speak about balance is my favorite way of understanding. You are a great and wise witch.
This is a delightful film about a place I may never see in person but it *feels* like I've been there now that I've seen your travelogue. Thanks so much for sharing it, I've already ordered a couple of things from their shop. :)
I am so excited to see this content and to hear your sage commentary. I am a solo practitioner for about 8 years after being very active in a circle for 9 years prior to that. My frustration with videos I have seen in the past like the one that you reviewed here, have been about the very same things you mentioned. I was pleasantly surprised that they addressed so many of the stereotypes that are continuously regurgitated in media and the movies, further solidifying the inaccurate assumptions that have been going on for centuries. I was also very pleased with your comment about the feminine vs. masculine focus on the practice. There is a balance to all things. If we exclude our brothers from the participation of the healing of the feminine, we are continuing the divide. Instead, if we work together we can heal both the feminine and the masculine so we can stop the damaging cycle.
Thanks for this video, by the way. I appreciate your views. Very nice! Balance! I commented something on that video similar to what you said about the "basic witches". That it's about balance - that their practice is lopsided if they only include femininity. That's as if someone was to only include one element. Or if one was to only acknowledge bad in everything and ignore the good in everything. I look at it as everything has a percentage of each side within. Everything is part feminine and part masculine. Part water, air, fire, earth, and spirit. Part "good" and part "evil" I thank the gods that you're so popular and still stay grounded in reality
I loved the witch clip ftom oz. My mum used to tell me she went into labour watching the wizard of oz. My grandfather not happy his 15 year old was pregnant droped her off at the end of the roas and told her get the rest of the way to hispital herself. She walked home to finish the show first. And once I started practicing she loved to remind ne
Dude, Mystic Dylan is my jam! I saw him on Witch of Wonderlust 2 years ago and when I got on Instagram he was SO supportive. I feel like he's the example that older witches should use on how to teach and just be that go too. I freaking love him to pieces! 💜💜💜 He's a beautiful being that we all should aspire to be.
Ever since I was little, my dad did warn me about "Dark" or "Black" magick, and he explained to me the rule of "Do as ye will, but harm none." I have always tried to live by that. Especially now since I started practicing Witchcraft. I think that's kind of what separates the generic terms of "Black and White magick"; Whether you craft for helping and healing, or for harming and hindering.
Parts of this video really resonated with me and my non-spiritual witchcraft practice, which is a journey I am just beginning. I'm entirely secular and my craft is going to revolve around the aesthetic and manipulating placebo effects.
okay so I honestly hate reaction videos but this was definitely worth my time. I really enjoyed watching this! And I have no idea why but something about bones creeps me out, but I still loved the "behind the scenes look" at bone throwing.
Thank you so much, you have the absolute best way with words and explanation. I had my awakening in 2016, am now a massage therapist and recently discovered my gifts as a Hedge witch.. lots of info in the last 4 years, you make things much easier 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I actually watched this video a little bit ago. I instantly loved Mystic Dylan! I got some information I had never came across before including the broom stick. Thank you for Hearth for your take on this video. As always you are greatly appreciated. :)
Your commentary on this video was so astute and refreshing. I was really hoping you would say what you did about the Basic Witches segment. I actually bought their book (I assume it's written by them) of the same name and couldn't get through more than 3 sections. I was reading it thinking, "This isn't witchcraft, this is self-care with some witchy words and crystals thrown in". Great as a feminist type book for youths, but not at all practical or informative for the average witch. Consider me subscribed!
I had to pause the video and come comment. I COMPLETELY agree with what you were saying about the representation of the craft mainly being not only female, but younger females. That was something that was a very big problem for me in the beginning, because when I was really trying to find information and navigate this new path. All I saw were younger girls, that made me question a lot of things. Like am I being childish for thinking this is for me, if the only people I see doing this are practically children?? And are the only adults that do this the "weird" ones that get shown through media, so since I'm an adult does that make me weird? It wasn't until I found channels like yours and shadow harvest, that I felt like I had found people like me that I could relate to that didnt make me feel crazy for what I was doing.
Our Brothers definitely need more representation in our world. As a practicing witch of 27 years, I am so saddened at the lack of our brothers at gatherings, and now on the internet. Brothers, this witch welcomes you.
Love what you say. I think its important for balance. As someone who has always practiced nitty gritty. I find watching the basic witches a bit disheartening. I feel that its too ceremonial. I feel i conect with Dylans practices and feel he is more nature focused.
This was fun to watch, Hearth! I really like your reaction videos ( the 3 I've seen now), because it really shows how open and non judgemental you are. It also shows how quick thinking and witted you are on the spot and it's impressive! Thank you for making so many videos recently. I've been having daily panic attacks and it's brought me away from daily practice and it sucks but I know it won't last but. When I listen to you it is truly magic. You speak and my spirit starts to calm. For that I owe you so much gratitude. You're the best
i'd really enjoy watching you react to anthony's "i spent a day with witches!" i know you mentioned it in the video, so i'd like to see your real time thoughts.
I consider myself at the start of my craft, while I've had a fair few books on witchcraft as something that intrigued me, I've only this year took my first tentative steps into becoming a practitioner. I've done a couple of 'small' things so I'm not quite at the point where I feel right calling myself a witch just yet. The Basic Witches, didn't quite click with me or the type of work I'm leaning towards. Or maybe I just wasn't keen on the presentation as it felt shallow... Of course I will admit I might be unfairly judging but they come across that way, though I appreciate them making it seem more accepted . Dylan just had this nice down to earth vibe, I like that he's been very educational and actually showed he knew his stuff which I appreciated more.
Yes, would really like to see more male practitioners promoting the craft 👍. Witchcraft has alot of female energies being in the spotlight but it still is all about balance. I've met alot of witches that believe it's only for women, the women have to remember that to truly promote it and practice with love, you have to have that perfect balance in your heart and spirit.
When I had a cleaner diet, I was accessing certain abilities by mistake... things people wouldnt believe. I've slacked lately. However, what I get from witchcraft is the control of these abilities... self- mastery with respect to energy flow. I like this. And your gorgeous. Keep doing your thing.
Hello Hearth! I just wanted to tell you how much I have appreciated your videos. I've been mostly a skeptic about witchcraft throughout my life but I am realizing that so many of my beliefs and the way I walk through life in general aligns with what witchcraft is. My previous oppinions were based around my lack of knowlege. Thank you for teaching me so much in just a couple of videos. I am so curious to learn more now thanks to you. Have a wonderful day!
Dylan seems like a person you could connect with and really learn something from. The other two just seemed like they were trying to sell me snake oil. I've noticed the very feminist attitude in some of the places I've gone to in my area. Nothing against feminism, but going somewhere to practice spirituality and having the "I'm the evil man" thought in the back of my head just makes want to practice from home instead.
I love this....for about a year I've just avoided witchy videos for some time as the info is so diluted. This video and the one you're reacting to gives me something to chew on. THANK YOU!! ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
I live in Blue Ridge Mountains of the south and my practices are pretty deeply rooted in southern and Appalachian traditions and culture. Although I believe in equality, obviously, I've never considered myself a feminist and I've never really felt comfortable with the direction that more "modern" witchcraft is headed in and the idea that it's this massive feminist movement. I'm so glad to find someone who feels the same way. I believe witchcraft is about connecting with the work around you, as well as with your inner self, no matter your gender or identity.
After taking a pause in my craft for a few years i am coming back home. I love everything about witchcraft. I wish there were more people my age (mid 40s) that practiced on TH-cam or tik Tok. I dedicated myself into the practice in 2007 and it speaks to my soul.
Can You please make a video about The Salem Witch Trials. I have watched thousands of videos about it but I want to know more. So please make a video about it. Also I'm a baby witch so please be my guide!😁😁😁😁
Hey fellow baby witch! Hearth is one of my favorite channels for witchcraft 101. If you want to know more about the Salem Witch Trials, there was this old show called Truth or Scare that did an episode about it, and Witchy Tips on IG posted the names of the people killed.
I can give you the nutshell version of it? Nowhere as many actual witches actually got killed during that time as it is made out, and is mostly made up hype to sell trinkets for tourists. The reality is, a lot of women of all ages were killed (under the excuse of "being a witch") simply because they were in actual fact, in possession of land or wealth of some kind and if they were "gotten rid of", then have a guess who would get the abovementioned property and/or wealth? So yeah, sadly, it was a lot less about a hunt for "witches" and a lot more about reclaiming lands and livestock and the like. "Destroying evil witches" was just a convenient excuse as always. ACTUAL witches at the time were too damn smart to get caught up in such theatrics. Knowing how to actually research is a wonderful thing. I do suggest you learn it. :) Some shitty show that mentioned it once is not research. Other people's random opinions is not research. Get multiple sources that more or less say the same thing, and you will be close. Sorry, not sorry. :P
There's a podcast by Aaron Mahnky called Unobscured. The first season is all about the Salem witch trials. It's really well researched and there are interviews given by historians who specialize in the trials. The reality, as stated, is that witchcraft itself didn't play a roll at all. There were a handful of social, economic, and other contextual factors at play, but not witchcraft. There are some books on the topic as well, but if you're really just curious about the type of magic that was practiced by Christians at the time, I recommend doing research into folk magic.
Sky life is absolutely amazing and being open minded and respectful to the Witchcraft community. Also, Anthony Padilla he's very nice as well both are my favorite youtubers.
Love your videos & your channel ,Hearth I agree with Mystic Dylan on the Witchcraft/Wiccan subject In fact the Slavic Witchcraft that I'm studying is a Craft / Practice Which I'm going to combine with Wicca The defination of Sacrifice is to make something Sacred
I find that when it comes to women taking up witchcraft as a feminist practice, it's important to distinguish between actual traditional practices and self care with a 'witchy' flavor. Both are valid on their own but you need to call a duck a duck.
I love this comment! I hadn't thought about this but it's true. Drinking herbal tea, embracing femininity, and owning a rose quartz, does not a witch make. I'm not saying that to be gatekeepy, it's just a fact.
You can do aesthetic witch-adjacent things and even use products made by witches, without being one. You can be a feminist who loves nature and not be a witch.
The practice of magic makes the title of Witch. Something being "witchy" doesn't make it a ritual.
Officer Riya so very true, I think another problem that contributes to this is an over attachment to labels. A desire to label ourselves before we've done the work. An attraction to an aesthetic alone is a fashion lifestyle choice. What is fundamentally needed to start is a deep understanding of ones own place and sovereignty over ones life within a spiritual framework.
@@ninaroux8791 Yep. If one was initially attracted to witchcraft first and then started their own witch-path, that's a perfectly valid beginning for a witch.
BUT BEING ATTRACTED TO THE PRACTICES DOES NOT MAKE THEM A WITCH FROM THE GET-GO, and so many people seem to miss that one. You are a witch when you *start* your craft, not *before* you begin.
YES! I feel like many of these insta witches are just "doing a witchcraft" and not being a witch if anyone understands that. I find that many of them say stuff like these women did along the lines of: "I don't have to believe in the inherent magical power of say crystals, just to have them as a reminder to do stuff and to stay grounded". but like then you could just write it down on your calendar, right? Stay positive! There magic done apparently. I also find it important to outright say that hey this is just my way of doing things and that witchcraft itself is not inherently tied to any political ideology. If we don't draw that distinction people on the outside get confused. I get asked if I am a neo-nazi because of my Odal rune tattoo - just because neo-nazis have tried to own that symbol - and recently a local newspaper wrote an article about feminist witches in my city and apparently "they don't actually believe that magic is real or that rituals and spells actually work - this is just a protest to them". And so my actual belief in magic gets lumped in as a protest. Not saying that it can't be that - just that obviously doesn't apply to everyone. Anyway, thanks for reading my TED talk, lol.
👏👏👏👏👏
Ive never understood why the "placebo effect" is used as a way to discredit something. When you think about it what is placebo really? In a medical trial its a sugar pill vs a drug and often the sugar pill serves to be just as effective if not more then the drug. Placebo's work so whether something is placebo or not does it really matter? Belief is powerful, so if anything placebo proves the power of a person!
Very true.
“often the sugar pill serves to be just as effective if not more than the drug”. 🤦🏽♂️
@@swiftset that's literally the definition of the placebo effect, trials have been done on this, what's your issue?
@@harlequin5664 you're right. I misread the comment.
The significance of a placebo effect in medicine is that it marks a baseline of effectiveness for the drug being tested. If patients react to the drug to the same degree as the placebo, it means the dug isn't working very well. You want the drug to far exceed the placebo effect- the placebo effect IS NOT evidence for the healing power of the mind. Rather, it is evidence that some people, some of the time, do better even without treatment due to the high complexity of the human immune system and the chemistry involved in the pathology. Now if every single placebo patient shows a reaction, then the effect points to something else going on. But that never, ever happens.
The two millennial's felt to me like they were just using the "lifestyle" for followers and making money which is not what the practice is about.
I agree. Dylan spoke much more about the traditions and reasoning behind the practices, but the Basic Witches seemed to be focused on their image
AGREED! However I feel like the Basic Witches are more "new age spiritual" vs being a witch. Nothing bad about that. I feel they have the want and the good intentions; and the instinct to do magic, however I don't think they have a solid foundation like a medicine wheel or a compass. I would be curious to see if their magic would blossom if they incorporated a good foundation ( my bias would be to do ancestral work too)
Instagram witches. 'Nuff said.
@@ryans.k.4941 "It's not about being cute for Instagram" - except that it so obviously is. The myopic, self-centered twits.
Total cringe factor
I really liked the way she handled her investigation, none of the usual eye rolling or dismissive snark, she was respectful and seemed genuinely interested in expanding her knowledge
I really liked Dylan! Honestly, some of the things the Basic Witches had to say made me absolutely cringe...
I agree. They kind of make a joke out of the centuries old traditions of magick.
I respect their ability to bring other people into magic, especially their creation of a safe and empowering space for women. It's definitely not how I practice, but making witchcraft a little bit commercial probably lead many people who previously didn't know about witchcraft to find healing in it.
About sacrifice.... if blood is to be used in rituals ( like an offering, or to use vital force energy for specific uses ) , the best one i think, is to use yours. Sacrifice ur own blood. And if u use a knife instead of a dart to open ur flesh, it makes for a very good practice for inner will, and for mental control. Naturaly i do it, but im not encouraging anyone to do it. If u do, do it at ur own risk ( put care in using sterile blade .. etc. Use common senses )
Same: As someone who is male identifying (despite my outwardly feminine appearance), it's pretty invalidating and demoralizing when I hear people pushing the idea of witchcraft being a feminine practice: I almost didn't get into witchcraft because of that. I kept hearing people talk about their Goddess and about working with their Goddess in their practice all the time, and a big emphasis on feminine energy, which... just didn't fit me. I so strongly relate to being a non-conforming man, and really rebelling against the idea of gender roles.... So to hear witchcraft to be a Feminine thing is just.... it gets under my skin.
In addition to everyone else's points, also hate the self-centering of this kind of craft and thinking. We live in a society facing climate change, poverty, cruelty, degridation of life in general and we've got a lot of fairly privileged women on Instagram performing rituals for the sole sake of receiving things.
As a 50 (ish) year old witch, I appreciate you and explaining that Witchcraft is for EVERYONE. I also like how the separation of Wicca and Witchcraft are explained here. Been a witch for about 10 years and I learn something new each time I watch your channel.
Good to see you representing us older practitioners. I'm 50 as well. I haven't been in the craft long, although I dabbled as a teen, and I feel like I have a very different view of the craft at this stage of life. Cheers!
i'm a 43 yr old wiccan, however i have always been an empath
They had me at Dylan, lost me at the Basic Witches. Not that they're not lovely people but as a POC non binary witch, they definitely made me feel like I shouldn't really... 'belong' in witchcraft. If that makes any sort of sense.
Wolf Mama you don’t tho
@@uglymelon6721 not with that attitude
@@Wolf_Mama you do what makes you 😊! Honestly, I've watched those girls a couple of times, they are lovely as you said Wolf. They made me even feel like I wouldn't be welcome in witchcraft which I don't understand. One thing that gets under my skin when the minority of people that don't believe in or do what's the "norm" tell you that you're wrong or don't belong with anyone. Total hypocrites!
@@Wolf_Mama lol great response. Of course you belong :D
as a trans man, feeling excluded by certain witch groups is a mood ugh
@@uglymelon6721 why not? The whole duality of male and female is a new age thing lol
To add to your comments about the placebo effect... my husband and I have been talking about this a lot (we are very recently branching out into Paganism, Druidry, witchcraft, but we both have strong feelings about science, the laws of physics, thermodynamics, etc.) . We talked about how one the one hand, we sometimes feel a sense of conflict about witchcraft and magic, rooted in our tendencies towards scientific skepticism, and how every observable effect in witchcraft might just be in the head of the practitioner... but on the other hand, there's the old saying, "It's not dumb if it works!" The placebo effect DOES have a real effect - it has statistical significance, that's why it was given its own name to begin with. It just goes to show that the human mind is a powerful thing, and it has great potential to shape its own reality.
So yes, it might just be placebo effect. But that doesn't make it any less cool. It's not dumb if it works.
Great video, Hearth - I'm really enjoying your content (love the intellectual/educational bent to everything).
I truly appreciate when people branch the subject of science with magic. After all, a lot of modern 'medicine' was once upon a time labeled 'witchcraft' simply because the 'science' hadn't been 'defined/discovered' yet. (I do not use the ''-marks to discredit or scepticize these terms only emphasize my understandings of their evolved roles in the history of scientific understanding).
Theory(for lack of better word here) Step 1)
It is scientifically recognized that the planets and large-organic-space-objects (ie: moons) have a gravitational pull.
Theory Step 2)
It is scientifically accepted that our moon's gravitational pull effects the Earth's water such to create currents and tide.
Theory Step 3)
Connect some dots using scientifically approved math(s)
Theory Step 4 (or walk-Through Conclusion to the point I started this on):
The many varying strengths of the sun/star, our moon, planets in our Galaxy & their moons all have individual gravitational pulls not only sending these magnets our way but also interfering in eachother and eachother's magnetic pulls.
The human body is (approximating off the top of my head) 96% (?) water..
And already staying on earth due to Earth's gravity.
Is it so far out of the realm of possibility that 'true' horoscopes (yes, there's asthetic bs thrown around from time to time) aka the mathematic calculations of the planetary alignments effects on a physical or mental electricity-brain/water-body organism (ie: human) at a specific time may be able to have an educational interpretation pattern?
This, alongside the widely acknowledged link that shadow-work is psychology by another name (as emphasized with the placebo effect) are only two example of how well one can reinforce sciences while respecting individuals and their paths. 🙂
I saw a great post once that went along these same lines like. Maybe it is all in my head...But it still works! Personally I do believe there is more to it than just placebo but if there weren't, it wouldn't stop me. This is an awesome comment
I’m so glad someone else put this to words
Even if it IS just placebo, the placebo effect is actually insanely powerful.
One time someone was part of a double-blind trial for a drug (i forget what it was for now). They’d just had a bad breakup so they took the drug they’d been given and massively overdosed on it. They were admitted to the hospital unconscious and with severe signs of poisoning. When the doctors investigated, they found that he’d actually been in the “placebo” side of the trial. The person woke up within 5mins of hearing this and all signs of overdose and poisoning vanished.
There’s evidence to suggest that giving people a lower dose of medication but with an added placebo actually promotes better recovery as there’s less side effects to deal with.
It’s actually a really interesting subject but the main take away from it is that the placebo effect is more powerful than a lot of people think. So, even if it just simply is placebo and placebo only, it’s still pretty damn powerful.
Everything is energy right? Witchcraft is manipulating energy. Low key science
As a trans male, I love the fact that they included a male witch in this video. Sometimes seeing a lot of females in this craft can leave me feeling really dysphoric or even invalid in this craft.
Craft has no gender no age no sexuality it simply just is and you are valid 💜
exactly, im ftm too and i get dysphoric about my title and practice, love seeing the representation and seeing your comment, im not alone
its sad how u feel that way sometimes..... u are very much valid and just as much of a practitioner as any female witch
Much love to my fellow LGTBQ-IA family whether or not you’re witchy…
I love you!!! Be safe and happy in our world
I'm a relatively new witch in my 50s and male, and i don't understand why so few if any men don't make videos about witchcraft.
It seems so odd, especially when people like Gerald Gardner and Alieister crowley were probably the most well-known witches in modern times.
No disrespect to the sisterhood who have taught me so much, but i can see how the lack of men speaking up can put newcomers off.
Mystic Dylan is the love of my life. Always love the videos Hearth!
Ayyee I was the 69th like and I'm also subbed to you. How cool 😂
The Witch of Wonderlust: Mystic Dylan is the love of my life.
Me: Wait what? Fr??
I was 160 like
Fun fact: the witch of wonderlust and hearth witch are my favorite witch TH-camrs
@@AspenBurning Hearth,LadyGraveDancer & Mama Squirrel are my three favorite witchcraft instructors on TH-cam
I’m a nonbinary witch, and while I don’t often see representation of other nonbinary witches, representation of male witches still feels like a step toward people seeing witchcraft as the nongendered practice that it is! :D
I’m a non-binary witch too! Awesome to see another person like me!
you probably know this but ive heard of nonbinary using Wix or Wixes (plural) to describe themselves as witch and wizard are gendered terms.
Holly Taylor witch is used for both males and females so I don’t really see the need for it. Thank you anyways though!!
Non binary practitioner here! Love u.
Holly Taylor I use mage.
Mystic Dylan is really Cool, he's friends with Olivia from The Witch of Wonderlust. I love that the first Witch they visited was him, representing us male witches and witches alike. This was one of my favorite "Real Witch" videos except for the "New Age Feminist Witches". I believe to achieve true balance you need a balance of God and Goddess/ Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine. I feel that people forget the essence of Yin Hang masculine having Feminine and Feminine having Masculine.
Dylan, Magoi of the Thalasso I love Olivia so much
Do you mean the white dot within the black and the black dot within the white? Because I love that reminder, that masculine and feminine are two sides of one coin, not two sides of a battlefield. They share with just as much as they contrast each other.
Officer Riya You mean Yin and Yang.
Well. You know non binary witches are usually beginners, I say that enbies and trans people have the least representation. I try to represent the groups but it’s a little scary since transphobia exists.
Also, masculine and feminine does not mean a man and a woman. It means ideas and creation, seed and place for it to grow, the thought and the action... It is an energy not a -sex-
I’m quite new to witchcraft but I definitely felt that Dylan’s practice seemed much more natural and genuine.
I do like the aesthetic stuff too but I’d love to learn more about the as you put it every day nutty gritty stuff.
I’m struggling to find ways to make it work in my everyday life rather than just doing rituals and etc.
Some tips to get more magick into your everyday life: (if you feel like it) incorporate magick into meals! Find out the associations and properties of ingredients and herbs and put intentions into meals.
Another idea is simply daily meditating over a flame, taking ten minutes to really calm your mind. You can buy yourself a pack of tarot cards and learn some easy spreads (for example just choosing a daily card)
And my personal favorite: Sigils! There's tons of videos on how to write them and then you can put them on everything and boom instant magick!
These are my favorites i hope it helps
@@LeeLeechLee this!!^^
@@LeeLeechLee also when i started with cartomancy i used a simple poker deck theres many tutorials on yt how to use them for a reading
The everyday stuff can be just lighting candles, incense & burn sage to cleanse your home, ritual baths, divination of your choosing, doing spells, green magick (herbs-used in putting meals together), making spell candles, meditation, walking outside to ground yourself, work on your chakras, shadow work is also good to do esp as a baby witch. And so much more, keeping a book of shadows and reading and writing a daily journal, I even have a dream journal, grimore and bos yes there is a difference between the 2. 1 I wrote in daily and write in during rituals and a daily affirmation and much more and the other I put all my spells and things in and I keep it neat and organized.
When you take a shower it’s a good time to cleanse yourself of unwanted energies , like you’re washing them down the drain!
I liked Dylan more ,I've gotten a reading from him he's great and genuinely a nice person 🙂
He's done a couple of hilarious (but very worthwhile) videos with Olivia (the Witch of Wonderlust)... whom I'd love to see do a collab with Hearth!
@@nairbvel yup I believe they are in the same coven .met them both I'm in Los Angeles and both very nice
I’m a green witch who has been practicing for over 40 years. It’s good to see that the internet has shown information like this.
Totally agree I’m the same desert diva .
As a trans man, the basic witches make me feel rather excluded and uncomfortable. Thank you Hearth, your words mean so much to me. ☺ It's like you said, there's nothing WRONG with what they do, but representing only one side of things like instagram can tend to do...well, it's not all sunshine and roses. To be told that magic comes from my uterus or whatever...um ouch
Officer Riya as a trans male witch myself, I highly agree with you 🤧 it was a bit uncomfortable. I’m glad they at least added Dylan into the video for some type of balance
@@starlightbard87Hey, it's so nice to hear from others! Ours is culturally a very lonely little corner 😓
Dylan is a blessing honestly, I'm glad he's representing, he seems like an extremely competent witch 👌
what did they say that made you uncomfortable (im not trying to be rude I’m genuinely curious
How about representing yourselves. Up to you to find your own niche. Everyone must do this eventually.
I 100% feel this, litterally got uncomfortable too. Us trans men gotta stick together in this practice 😔✌
You’ve been practicing for 15 years? I thought you were like twenty! You’re so pretty! Also the part you said about black and white magick is soo true. It enrages me that people think that hoodoo or voodoo are evil. It is so obvious that they have been demonized in the US for racial reasons.
Yeah she looks young because of virgin sacrifice 😉
OMG this was totally awesome! Thank you Hearth Witch! “Witchcraft is for everybody” 🙌🙌🙌
❤️❤️ love your work! Do you think you’ll make more spell videos for your channel?
I love Mystic Dylan, I think you would love his Podcast "the witch and the medium" it is such a great feeling that my two favorite witches get somehow connected
I've watched several "I did witchraft with a real witch!" style videos and absolutely cringed my way through -- but my reaction to this particular video was much like yours. Unlike most videos in this genre, it showed real curiosity, minimal snark, and (most importantly) real respect. Considering the format, platform, and intended audience, it did a nice job of covering very different aspects of witchcraft without all the "nudge nudge wink wink" snark or a single self-professed "expert" saying, "it is THIS" and nothing else. Unfortunately, it would take a much longer video to cover more of the subject properly, but Sky Life did a really good job. As a male of the species, I also found it refreshing for a male witch to speak onscreen for a measurable span of time. (Multiple sources state that in Russia, more men were executed for witchcraft than women.) Your comments about Instagram's effect seem right on-target; I've seen better info & representation on TikTok!! (Scary, eh?) And yes, it was fun to watch your face at some points in the video.
Very well said! I wish more people took the time to format comments like this.
@@alienwizard3695 Thanks!
I just don't like it how this one feminist witch said "weather or not I believe in it or not" when talking about crystals. It shows a lack of research and the fact that she doesn't take them or subtle energies seriously.
Don't get me wrong. People can believe or disbelieve in whatever they want, but if you're going to *actually use* something in your practice, you better take it seriously and not assume that the popular opinion is a correct one.
Churka exactly
Yes! How are they getting away with the dang podcast. They know nothing and believe even less in witchcraft.
You are awesome! Thank you so much for reviewing my video and sharing all of your wisdom. I loved learning about witchcraft so much and the experience opened my eyes a ton. Wishing you much magick and love!
Say it with me now...
WITCHCRAFT 👏 IS 👏 FOR👏 MEN 👏TOO 👏
(Also when the girls blew out the elemental candles I screamed inside).
I feel like this video you're reviewing was better than most because the person didn't go to all the usual suspects for witch "education".
"We went to the Green Man in Northeast Hollywood"
Welp, we gonna learn Wicca.
@@screamingopossum7809 BuzzFeed be like^^^
The Witch of Wonderlust brought me here and I'm so happy she did. Mystic Dylan is such a force! This vid peaked my interest in your content. I'm off to go binge some beauty 💚
OMG! Mystic Dylan! I love the Witch and the Medium podcast! Amazing! YESSSSS and WITCHCRAFT IS NOT A RELIGION - it's a practice that people can practice within other religions - including Wicca - or outside of any religion! The amount of times that people misunderstand this is literally astounding!
I liked Dylan's part in this video!
As for the other 2 witches, I too do not like that they tied together feminism and magic, to me they are different things. Both important, but different. I know that they do not necessary exclude men just because they do not mention them, but since they are in a video that many people that do not practice will see, maybe they could clarify...?
Also the theatrical gasps when they read the tarot etc were not my thing! But they seem to be lovely girls and I will search for their podcast!
As a 62 year old woman feminism is very much a part of my path. Maybe because of the fact that it was very central to my life as a young woman. That does not mean I ever wanted to exclude men. I raised my son as Wiccan he no longer follows that path but follows his own.
I'm 49 and feminism movement as I know it was ending here in US when I was growing up. Personally, I think they are two separate things also.
Also a "feminist" now is not the same as it was in 60s-70s. Things were different for women back then, but now in 2020 there nothing holding a woman back. Unless it's herself or her abilities. Yes there are men that are pigs but you normally don't have to deal with them on daily basis.
@@brekke668 and that's awesome for you, of course we all incorporate things that affect us or make us stronger in our practice! What I am trying to say is that Wicca or magic is not tied with feminism in general, in Wicca and other neopagan/pagan religions people have God(s) and Goddess(es) and witches of both genders/energies are equally respected!
@@JustDiane71 I tend to agree, although I am a little younger(30) and have no personal experience, for me the feminism movement was something I could be on board with untill the 2nd movement. 3rd movement has some serious aspects too, but most of it is focusing on the wrong topics in my opinion, so now I can not call myself a feminist, I just speak for equality and respect for all!
@@nocterniaobscura totally agree!
Mid 30s male witch here. Yep appreciate being included in witchcraft content for sure.
I feel like someone needs to remind the basic witches that feminism is about equality 🥴
That includes male and enby witches. I've had so many arguments with other witches about this. It's a practice for everyone. If you're a woman, or femme aligned, it's totally fine to focus on feminine power in your craft. But it can be incredibly exclusionary when talking about "the power of the womb" and things like that, because it excludes trans witches when talking about femininity. 🙁
The basic witches seem like they must be fairly new at this, and I hope they continue to learn more, because it kinda seems like they're doing this for all the wrong reasons.
i love this representation for male witches, im trans (ftm) and a witch and sometimes feel this social dysphoria surrounding my title and practice, even tho it makes me happy and it has no gender. and thank you for acknowledging it.
As a Non-binary baby witch, I found the first part of this video very comforting. Dylan sets an example for the balance in witchcraft, the push and pull of both feminine and masculine. While I think the modern witches have good intentions, I’m just a bit uncomfortable with the rhetoric of witchcraft being largely feminine. I don’t find myself very attached to one over the other. What draws me to the craft is the balance itself.
Sky is honestly such a great human. She explores some really intense topics and is always very respectful! 10/10 sky life
I’m in my 40s, I was raised with the craft- not Wiccan. I have a hard time with the young witches saying it’s about empowering women. I believe it’s about empowering self thru energy. It does not speak to only women. It’s for everyone to use the energy all around us to empower and direct intentions. I am not part of a coven. I can not separate it from my daily life. Meaning, it’s not just something I do once a day and leave it for the next day. It is engrained in everything I do. I believe it’s all about energy& placebo effect IS energy.
It goes much further than just feminine/masculine energy.
Great video!
It’s really refreshing to see something that asks intelligent questions AND get interesting and knowledgeable replies back. It’s also really interesting to see different kinds of witches talking about the way they work. It must be nice for you Hearth to see something like this including people you actually like and agree with 😁
Thank you for your wisdom and maturity. Every second of your channel is rich with information. I appreciate that you are drama-free, articulate, wise, and kind. **Thank you** for bringing so much dignity to the practice. With the world being so attention-seeking and false, you're a shining example of humble, traditional knowledge. Even when you share a criticism, it is done with kindness and grace. This solitary crone (me) has learned so much from you. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Feminism can be included in a persons practice however it’s important to understand that witchcraft is not a feminist movement. It can be used to aid in the feminist movement, however you need to understand the difference between an ancient practice and self care with a bit of a witchy aesthetic
It would be nice to see more representation of traditional witchcraft, but making it more practical/modern. But not losing the origins of the craft. I hate the idea of it being an empowerment only for women, when it should be an empowerment for witchcraft. Would avoid the basic witches, they just seem too feminazi and not as knowledgeable on the original craft
I have to say I, like many others who have commented really agree with everything you've said during your reaction. I watched this video when it first came out and I thought it was so much better and non biased than others I've seen.
I also want to mention that I truly appreciate how well you express yourself and your degree of knowledge is truly impressive. It makes watching your videos not only entertaining but I also always feel like I've come away a little wiser. So HUGE thank you!
i like how the girl talking to all the practioners seems geniunly interested and respectful. it's really nice to see in these types of "i spent a day with a witch" videos.
I agree with you, I think a lot of people get really caught up on the “witchy aesthetic” I am a witch, but I don’t dress “witchy” every single day. My whole life doesn’t fit into that aesthetic but that doesn’t make me less of a witch.
I love that you find a need for equality in paganism and not just feminism, I feel the same. You have really great videos.
of course witchcraft comes from a place in our minds, bcuz we have to think on what we want and desire, so it has to come from our heads/minds/thoughts. what we bring about we teach about. of course our hearts play a significant role in witchcraft as well
Ok the cultural appropriation and exclusion of masculinity with the things the Basic Witches were saying made me want to tear my hair out! They made me extremely uncomfortable. Dylan is an absolute gem though, he is the kind of which I aspire to be further along in my journey. Such an amazing role model to baby witches ❤️
Hi i'm a Slavic witch (passed down through grandmother etc)~ I love your channel this was an instant subscribe! ^_^
I'm also Slavic ( I'm half Russian & Half Polish)
Can Slavic Witchcraft be passed down by a Ancestor,
when there aren't any close relatives who were witches ...and half passed on ?
8:44 I guess it's different for everyone but I don't like the idea of blowing out candles
Agreed!!
I use a candle snuffer. I feel it is
more respectful and ceremonial.
Banishing though... Blow them away.❤🌞🙏
Especially when they were doing a prosperity working. They don’t seem to have learned the basics.
Basic Witches = Prosperity Gospel for Feminists. It's about what can witchcraft do for me opposed to what can I do for the craft. (I say this as a Feminist Witch)
I literally got chills watching the ritual with Dylan. I felt like I was watching something so meaningful and personal, almost like I should have closed my eyes out of respect. Watching the girls describe their practices didn't feel anything like that. I felt very self-congratulatory and performative.
I agree with everything you said about this video. I don't view witchcraft as a feminist movement. There are plenty of men who are witches; Mystic Dylan being a great example. I don't know if you've ever watched the Witch of Wonderlust but she has a couple of videos with Dylan which are full of fantastic information although I'm sure it's about things you already know. You are definitely a pro at candle magic. I always enjoy your video content. Keep up the good work. Love the vlogs!
Feminism is very intertwined with my practice and it is for many others but I’d agree with you that I don’t really view it as a “feminist movement”.
Well also men can be feminists but yes I agree those who view witchcraft itself as intrinsically part of feminism do exclude men ALOT and it’s not fair. Witchcraft is for everyone and yes it does make me feel empowered as a woman to be doing witchcraft and I do feel very against the patriarchy when I cast intricate spells and such but it is not inherently part of feminism and my whole craft is not based around it.
Very nice video, you're right about everything you've said. In my opinion Witchcraft / Magic isn't about just waving a wand and everything is going to be easy in an instant. It's something that will empower you (Male & Female) as you continue along your journey of life. It can empower anyone wanting to use it, and while it can be a potent tool in the empowerment of females and girl power it is not limited to a specific gender. There are male and female witches.
You talked about there’s a lot techniques in witchcraft. Could you make video about it. Because Ive always trying that popular basic type of technique and never worked. Thank you
Doesn't matter the technique necessarily. It matters what your intention is and how strongly you believe it will happen
Yeah I would like this also. I dont feel like the women in this video neglected other methods, they just werent mentioned. Might have had something to do with the reporter of the editing but not once did I hear those women say "this is the only way people practice" nor "this is exclusively for women".
Your openness and welcoming to all types of witches is so nice to see, you have a new subscriber
I am very new to witchcraft and the first contact I had with it was Skylife's video. I am grateful for that because that video opened my eyes to something I resonated with, and her approach to the topic is very accurate. I do not agree with everything Sky says on her video but it is thanks to her that I am now in this path.
Great video, thank you 💜💜
LOVE Harmony Nice!! 💓
Mystic Dylan is very sweet also but my go to witches are Hearth, Harmony and Lady Gravedancer. Respect to everyone 🤗🌸
Witch of Wonderlust is also a very good youtuber when it comes to the basics of things. Harmony is good if you want to learn from a Wiccan's point of view, I do love her though. Haven't heard of Lady Gravedancer, gottah check her out!
I love lady gracedancer... So sad she stopped posting!
I remember way back in the day on, I think, Sally Jesse Raphael or something, where they did a little expose and interview with some witches... their coven was apparently nothing but nubile young women with perfect bodies who worked completely nude and worshiped Lucifer and Lilith and I'm pretty sure they had some super fundies on the show as well. I'm so glad there's better representation now - there's nothing wrong with that coven but I'm pretttttty sure they were just actresses.
Japan: Nights of Insomnia continues. Keep the vids coming, Hearth 😋
Dylan: "bristles up to keep the spirits away"
Hearth: *has a broom behind her with bristles down*
This is a decorative broom, I have others that are used actively that are the correct way x
I loved this reaction so so much I love learning from my peers and I get so much from just you reacting because you help to stop that stigma and get rid of some of those myths xx plus I love that you don’t believe in just concentrating on women or on goddess I too believe balance is so important we all have both in us and both needs to be seen in balance. I also love that you pointed out not all witches are Young I definitely felt self conscious at first starting this journey in my 40s xx
I am a Christian and do not practice witchcraft, but I relate so much to several aspects of what you mentioned in this video. I have always felt a connection to ancestry and love to do genealogy research. I also love to decorate for the fall and Christmas seasons. I guess you would refer to them as Samhain and Yule. . I recently discovered that my paternal ancestors come from Scotland. I don’t know if that has any relation to my feelings or not though.
i love skylife, she is very good at absorbing new information without judging harshly immediately
I really enjoyed hearing your thoughts Hearth, your passion for inclusion and integrity shine through. Much respect!
I just have to say this is the first time I’ve come across your content and I think you are so well spoken and eloquent
I've always been drawn to the elements. I can't explain my relationship with the moon, and I'm ready to let my heart open to what I've craved since I was a child. I'm looking for guidance, and find your videos inspiring and educational. I often feel alone. Thank you
Beautiful explanation and i just love this video a lot! The thing is that i grew up visiting real witches all my childhood and teenage years because now i am 50 years old now and for me witchcraft was a life and a profession, a job to help people. And I have the call to witchcraft since very young. Thanks for all the young witches that now are considering this practice a profesion. I am not a wiccan but I am a witch and i like that witchcraft is something that is for a new generation a very beautiful spiritual path. and something VERY true is that witchcraft is NOT A GENRE...is a Spiritual path. The way you speak about balance is my favorite way of understanding. You are a great and wise witch.
i love mystic dylan especially cus of how much knowledge he has on candle magick and he just seems like an amazing person overall
This is a delightful film about a place I may never see in person but it *feels* like I've been there now that I've seen your travelogue. Thanks so much for sharing it, I've already ordered a couple of things from their shop. :)
I am so excited to see this content and to hear your sage commentary. I am a solo practitioner for about 8 years after being very active in a circle for 9 years prior to that. My frustration with videos I have seen in the past like the one that you reviewed here, have been about the very same things you mentioned. I was pleasantly surprised that they addressed so many of the stereotypes that are continuously regurgitated in media and the movies, further solidifying the inaccurate assumptions that have been going on for centuries. I was also very pleased with your comment about the feminine vs. masculine focus on the practice. There is a balance to all things. If we exclude our brothers from the participation of the healing of the feminine, we are continuing the divide. Instead, if we work together we can heal both the feminine and the masculine so we can stop the damaging cycle.
Thanks for this video, by the way. I appreciate your views. Very nice! Balance!
I commented something on that video similar to what you said about the "basic witches". That it's about balance - that their practice is lopsided if they only include femininity. That's as if someone was to only include one element. Or if one was to only acknowledge bad in everything and ignore the good in everything. I look at it as everything has a percentage of each side within. Everything is part feminine and part masculine. Part water, air, fire, earth, and spirit. Part "good" and part "evil"
I thank the gods that you're so popular and still stay grounded in reality
I'm 65 been practicing for 33 years. I've learned quite a lot from you. You have wisdom way beyond your years. Thankyou and blessings to you.
Im obsessed with this channel..i dont ecven practice
🤣😂💖🤗
I loved the witch clip ftom oz. My mum used to tell me she went into labour watching the wizard of oz. My grandfather not happy his 15 year old was pregnant droped her off at the end of the roas and told her get the rest of the way to hispital herself. She walked home to finish the show first. And once I started practicing she loved to remind ne
Skylife is an amazing video creator! She’s open and excited to learn. I’m not surprised her videos on this topic are better than most other ones.
Dude, Mystic Dylan is my jam! I saw him on Witch of Wonderlust 2 years ago and when I got on Instagram he was SO supportive. I feel like he's the example that older witches should use on how to teach and just be that go too. I freaking love him to pieces! 💜💜💜 He's a beautiful being that we all should aspire to be.
Ever since I was little, my dad did warn me about "Dark" or "Black" magick, and he explained to me the rule of "Do as ye will, but harm none." I have always tried to live by that. Especially now since I started practicing Witchcraft. I think that's kind of what separates the generic terms of "Black and White magick"; Whether you craft for helping and healing, or for harming and hindering.
Parts of this video really resonated with me and my non-spiritual witchcraft practice, which is a journey I am just beginning.
I'm entirely secular and my craft is going to revolve around the aesthetic and manipulating placebo effects.
As someone starting down the traditional path on my own, your channel has been such an amazing tool. Thank you for doing what you do, Hearth!
okay so I honestly hate reaction videos but this was definitely worth my time. I really enjoyed watching this! And I have no idea why but something about bones creeps me out, but I still loved the "behind the scenes look" at bone throwing.
Thank you so much, you have the absolute best way with words and explanation. I had my awakening in 2016, am now a massage therapist and recently discovered my gifts as a Hedge witch.. lots of info in the last 4 years, you make things much easier 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I actually watched this video a little bit ago. I instantly loved Mystic Dylan! I got some information I had never came across before including the broom stick. Thank you for Hearth for your take on this video. As always you are greatly appreciated. :)
Yes yes to all of Dylan's part. I love how he went into such detail.
Your commentary on this video was so astute and refreshing. I was really hoping you would say what you did about the Basic Witches segment. I actually bought their book (I assume it's written by them) of the same name and couldn't get through more than 3 sections. I was reading it thinking, "This isn't witchcraft, this is self-care with some witchy words and crystals thrown in". Great as a feminist type book for youths, but not at all practical or informative for the average witch.
Consider me subscribed!
I had to pause the video and come comment. I COMPLETELY agree with what you were saying about the representation of the craft mainly being not only female, but younger females. That was something that was a very big problem for me in the beginning, because when I was really trying to find information and navigate this new path. All I saw were younger girls, that made me question a lot of things. Like am I being childish for thinking this is for me, if the only people I see doing this are practically children?? And are the only adults that do this the "weird" ones that get shown through media, so since I'm an adult does that make me weird? It wasn't until I found channels like yours and shadow harvest, that I felt like I had found people like me that I could relate to that didnt make me feel crazy for what I was doing.
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 yes Hearth! I love that you touched on the balance aspect 💜 I fully agree with not isolating the feminine or the masculine.
Our Brothers definitely need more representation in our world. As a practicing witch of 27 years, I am so saddened at the lack of our brothers at gatherings, and now on the internet. Brothers, this witch welcomes you.
Love what you say. I think its important for balance. As someone who has always practiced nitty gritty. I find watching the basic witches a bit disheartening. I feel that its too ceremonial. I feel i conect with Dylans practices and feel he is more nature focused.
This was fun to watch, Hearth! I really like your reaction videos ( the 3 I've seen now), because it really shows how open and non judgemental you are. It also shows how quick thinking and witted you are on the spot and it's impressive! Thank you for making so many videos recently. I've been having daily panic attacks and it's brought me away from daily practice and it sucks but I know it won't last but. When I listen to you it is truly magic. You speak and my spirit starts to calm. For that I owe you so much gratitude. You're the best
Slow breathing may help with the panic attacks.
i'd really enjoy watching you react to anthony's "i spent a day with witches!" i know you mentioned it in the video, so i'd like to see your real time thoughts.
I consider myself at the start of my craft, while I've had a fair few books on witchcraft as something that intrigued me, I've only this year took my first tentative steps into becoming a practitioner. I've done a couple of 'small' things so I'm not quite at the point where I feel right calling myself a witch just yet. The Basic Witches, didn't quite click with me or the type of work I'm leaning towards. Or maybe I just wasn't keen on the presentation as it felt shallow... Of course I will admit I might be unfairly judging but they come across that way, though I appreciate them making it seem more accepted . Dylan just had this nice down to earth vibe, I like that he's been very educational and actually showed he knew his stuff which I appreciated more.
Yes, would really like to see more male practitioners promoting the craft 👍. Witchcraft has alot of female energies being in the spotlight but it still is all about balance. I've met alot of witches that believe it's only for women, the women have to remember that to truly promote it and practice with love, you have to have that perfect balance in your heart and spirit.
It's nice to see thoroughness in videos, keep up the great work Hearth Witch
I'm so glad Harmony has been my guide on this subject for a while now, and now you too :)
When I had a cleaner diet, I was accessing certain abilities by mistake... things people wouldnt believe. I've slacked lately. However, what I get from witchcraft is the control of these abilities... self- mastery with respect to energy flow. I like this. And your gorgeous. Keep doing your thing.
Hello Hearth! I just wanted to tell you how much I have appreciated your videos. I've been mostly a skeptic about witchcraft throughout my life but I am realizing that so many of my beliefs and the way I walk through life in general aligns with what witchcraft is. My previous oppinions were based around my lack of knowlege. Thank you for teaching me so much in just a couple of videos. I am so curious to learn more now thanks to you. Have a wonderful day!
Dylan seems like a person you could connect with and really learn something from. The other two just seemed like they were trying to sell me snake oil. I've noticed the very feminist attitude in some of the places I've gone to in my area. Nothing against feminism, but going somewhere to practice spirituality and having the "I'm the evil man" thought in the back of my head just makes want to practice from home instead.
feminists don't think men are evil, perhaps you met people with bad attitudes towards men, but that's not what feminism is.
I love this....for about a year I've just avoided witchy videos for some time as the info is so diluted. This video and the one you're reacting to gives me something to chew on. THANK YOU!! ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
I live in Blue Ridge Mountains of the south and my practices are pretty deeply rooted in southern and Appalachian traditions and culture. Although I believe in equality, obviously, I've never considered myself a feminist and I've never really felt comfortable with the direction that more "modern" witchcraft is headed in and the idea that it's this massive feminist movement. I'm so glad to find someone who feels the same way. I believe witchcraft is about connecting with the work around you, as well as with your inner self, no matter your gender or identity.
Completely agree with your views on that video 👏🏻 Also it was so cool seeing Dylan on the video! Love watching your videos Hearth! 💜
After taking a pause in my craft for a few years i am coming back home. I love everything about witchcraft. I wish there were more people my age (mid 40s) that practiced on TH-cam or tik Tok. I dedicated myself into the practice in 2007 and it speaks to my soul.
Can You please make a video about The Salem Witch Trials. I have watched thousands of videos about it but I want to know more. So please make a video about it. Also I'm a baby witch so please be my guide!😁😁😁😁
Hey fellow baby witch! Hearth is one of my favorite channels for witchcraft 101.
If you want to know more about the Salem Witch Trials, there was this old show called Truth or Scare that did an episode about it, and Witchy Tips on IG posted the names of the people killed.
@@trippysiren7966 Thank You So So Sooooo Much!!! I Will Definitely Watch The Show!!!!
I can give you the nutshell version of it?
Nowhere as many actual witches actually got killed during that time as it is made out, and is mostly made up hype to sell trinkets for tourists.
The reality is, a lot of women of all ages were killed (under the excuse of "being a witch") simply because they were in actual fact, in possession of land or wealth of some kind and if they were "gotten rid of", then have a guess who would get the abovementioned property and/or wealth?
So yeah, sadly, it was a lot less about a hunt for "witches" and a lot more about reclaiming lands and livestock and the like. "Destroying evil witches" was just a convenient excuse as always.
ACTUAL witches at the time were too damn smart to get caught up in such theatrics.
Knowing how to actually research is a wonderful thing. I do suggest you learn it. :)
Some shitty show that mentioned it once is not research. Other people's random opinions is not research.
Get multiple sources that more or less say the same thing, and you will be close.
Sorry, not sorry. :P
There's a podcast by Aaron Mahnky called Unobscured. The first season is all about the Salem witch trials. It's really well researched and there are interviews given by historians who specialize in the trials. The reality, as stated, is that witchcraft itself didn't play a roll at all. There were a handful of social, economic, and other contextual factors at play, but not witchcraft. There are some books on the topic as well, but if you're really just curious about the type of magic that was practiced by Christians at the time, I recommend doing research into folk magic.
Sky life is absolutely amazing and being open minded and respectful to the Witchcraft community.
Also, Anthony Padilla he's very nice as well both are my favorite youtubers.
Love your videos & your channel ,Hearth
I agree with Mystic Dylan on the Witchcraft/Wiccan subject
In fact the Slavic Witchcraft that
I'm studying is a Craft / Practice
Which I'm going to combine with Wicca
The defination of Sacrifice is to make something Sacred