Sticks & Stones The Blog

Attributing physical features to the evil eye is not only harmful but also a misrepresentation of both spirituality and health. These beliefs perpetuate misinformation, encourage spiritual manipulation, and foster physical feature shaming, all of which erode self-esteem and promote dependency on external authority.

True spiritual growth requires an approach that integrates compassion, self-acceptance, and a holistic understanding of both physical and spiritual health. By moving away from fear-based narratives and focusing on empowerment, spiritual communities can create supportive environments where individuals are encouraged to thrive, free from the weight of superstition and external judgment.

Water has been an essential element in folk magic for centuries, serving as a conduit for change, protection, and spiritual cleansing. From the rivers of Europe to the wild shores of Australia, water is seen as more than just a resource. It’s a living force, alive with energy and power, waiting to be harnessed for magical purposes. Hallowing water, or blessing it with intent, is one of the oldest and simplest magical practices that transcends borders and cultures. In Australia, with its vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems, hallowing water takes on a unique perspective. The natural waterways, from the Murray...

Why We Don’t Have “Fae” in Australia: The Problem with Forcing European Spirits onto Indigenous Land (Unpopular Opinion) There’s no denying that the fae—those elusive, magical creatures of European folklore—have captured the imaginations of many modern witches, pagans, and spiritual practitioners around the world. For some, working with the fae is almost a rite of passage, a way to connect with nature’s magic. But here’s where things get tricky: in Australia, the fae have no place. In fact, trying to force them into our spiritual practices here isn’t just a mismatch—it’s problematic. It dismisses the deep spiritual connections that exist...

Balancing Heritage and Personal Connection in Magic Ancestry plays a significant role in shaping who we are, influencing everything from our family traditions to our cultural identity. When it comes to spiritual practices, particularly in folk magic and witchcraft, ancestry can have a profound impact on how we connect with the spiritual world. Whether it’s honouring the spirits of our ancestors, working with deities from our cultural background, or practicing rituals passed down through generations, our heritage often informs our magical practices. But how important is ancestry when it comes to working with spirits from a particular tradition? Is it...

Fostering Inclusivity While Respecting Tradition In recent years, the big wide world of witchcraft and spirituality has seen a significant revival. With this resurgence has come a growing and diverse community of practitioners, each bringing their own unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to the craft. However, alongside this increase in interest, a troubling trend has emerged: gatekeeping. Gatekeeping occurs when certain individuals or groups within the community attempt to control who can or cannot participate based on criteria like ancestry, geographical location, or specific knowledge. As discussed in a previous blog, while it’s important to preserve the integrity of magical...