Open roads, clear skies, and good friends– what more could you ask for this autumn? Travel calls for all of us during the cooler months, beckoning us down new and mysterious roads to further discover the world. We must use caution, though: what lies at the end of these trials may not be what we want or need. There are always ways to protect yourself, though! Materially, bug spray maps, and flashlights all do well to keep us physically safe. But how do we protect ourselves spiritually?
For those of you who possess witchy proclivities, here are a few items and three spells you can carry to defend yourself from whatever life throws at you on your journey.
Crystals, Herbs, and More for Traveling
Certain natural items possess certain properties that, when harnessed, can adjust the vibrations around you! Crystals like Amethyst promote clarity and peace, which makes it ideal to stow in your glovebox during a long car ride. Tigers Eye and Carnelian are fabulous crystals to use when wanting to meet new people on the road. Confidence and courage are enhanced by these two crystals, but beyond that, Tigers Eye is a grounding and naturally protective stone. Another grounding crystal is Shungite. Known for its purifying properties, Shungite works best as a shield from negative energies and expels them from wherever they are used. Carry a bit of Shungite in your carry-on for safe plane travels, or attach a Shungite sticker to your phone to rid it of negative callers.
Herbs and herbal remedies have also been known to aid travelers. These herbs could be used in mojo bags or small, portable jar spells. In particular, Comfrey Leaf is a popular travel herb that draws in protective energies. Many herbal remedies, like this Cool Soothe, feature Comfrey as a soothing ingredient. This balm can also double as a protective mask for your skin! Of course, Lavender is always a popular choice for serenity and safety. A baggie of lavender hanging from your rearview will smell amazing and calm any nerves you may find on the road. Consider this Rosebud Facial Mist for soothing hotel nights.
Travel Spells
There are various protection spells many could cast to aid their travels. Here are a few collected from Judika Illes “Encyclopedia of 5,000 Spells” and my own grimoire.
Moon’s Protective Mojo Hand
This is a spell found by Illes. Mojo bags are protective talismans from African-American Hoodoo that offer a variety of different results. This bag is meant to harness the power of the moon to protect its creator. Please ensure you do ample research on the history and significance of Mojo bags before attempting this spell.
- Place a moonstone, a clear quartz crystal, and smoky quartz into a beaded bag.
- Add moonwort and a silver bead.
- Dress with white camphor essential oil (or any light perfume) and carry/wear the bag wherever you go.
Traveler’s Mirror Charm
Another from Illes, this charm is easy to have on hand! All you need is a small mirror (makeup compacts work great) and a peeled, crushed garlic clove. Simply rub the garlic on the mirror, place it under your hotel bed or any bed within an unprotected room, and bam, instant protection charm!
Salt, Salt, and Silver
This is one of my spells, developed from an older protection spell used for homes. This spell has been adjusted to allow for it to be portable!
- Take a small glass jar that you can cover (cork, stopper, etc.) and cleanse it how you see fit. I usually use incense smoke.
- In the jar, add a layer of black salt.
- Next, do a layer of white OR pink Himalayan salt, both work well.
- Finally, add a small piece of silver. This can be an earring, a silver marble, anything that will fit and is silver will work.
- Carry this talisman with you wherever you travel to invoke its protective properties.
Remember, these spells are only as powerful as the trust and energy you feed to them. And don’t allow them to substitute common sense– if you ever feel unsafe in a traveling situation, be sure to have a few backup plans! Travel safely down these roads this autumn and return enlightened by the world around you.