Witchy wares and self-care sorcery: How Salem has reinvented itself as modern wellness hub
Briefly

Witchcraft is the original form of self-care, using nature and your intuition to heal and help yourself. Its use as a tool for meditation, relaxation, and communion with nature is somewhat at odds with its negative, devilish perceptions. Doane illustrates that the church historically defined these centuries-old magic practices as malevolent without evidence, emphasizing that the true essence of Witchcraft promotes healing and positive energy, not negativity.
Leanne Marrama, co-founder of the shop Pentagram, highlights the importance of daily folk magic practices in her Italian upbringing. She encourages personal empowerment and healing through rituals, such as lighting a green candle on a Friday to honor Venus and the goddess Aphrodite. This connection with nature and the divine is a cornerstone of modern witchcraft, reaffirming self-care as a multifaceted practice that transcends societal misconceptions.
The significance of the broomstick, a classic symbol of witchcraft, is rooted in both literary and pagan interpretations. Popularized by Shakespeare’s Macbeth in 1606, this iconic representation also connects to themes of fertility and abundance from ancient rituals. At the Witchery shop, workshops teach the art of broom-making, emphasizing that the orientation of a broom can influence energy in the home—showing how ancient practices are woven into contemporary self-care methods.
Reflecting on my personal experiences in Salem, it becomes clear that traditional practices can evoke profound self-awareness. Crafting rituals like making a broom and setting intentions encourages individuals to confront their desires and aspirations, providing a deeper understanding of self-care beyond surface-level affirmations. This journey challenges the notion that well-being can be confined to simplistic mantras, affirming that true self-care fosters introspection and growth.
Read at CN Traveller
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