Not everyone can practise their craft freely and with no limitations. There’s still a stigma against witches and witchcraft in many societies across the world, created and perpetuated through folklore stories and modern media. This in turn has caused practitioners to stay secret, and remain in the 'broom closet', so to speak.
And whilst you won’t be put on trial and inevitably drowned for your ‘sinful’ practice now, some of you may be bound by misunderstanding housemates, university accommodation rules and strict landlords. If you're itching to get witching but aren't sure how to overcome these obstacles, fear not, as we've brewed together a list of easy alternatives that you can use in your craft, such as substitutes for your candles, incense and crystals.
It’s important to note that none of our suggestions are essential or even necessary for your spiritual journey; these are just some of the many ways you can keep your practice alive. And often practitioners find that as their knowledge and craft develops, the use of tools isn’t always required, but nonetheless, they can be immensely helpful when directing intention
and energy.
Altars
Altars are often used with those who practise witchcraft and paganism; it’s a place where most of the rituals and spellwork unfolds. But of course, not everyone has a space large enough to freely display all manners of herbs, runes and incense, nor are they open with their practice.
Pocket-sized or travel altars are not only a great option for the witch on the go, but they also work very well for those yet out of the broom closet. They’re also easy to make at home with a small box to carry with you, though you can find them online with ease. If you are, however, open with your practice, dedicating a space in your room can also work - even your bed or the floor, as long as you properly cleanse the space and cast a protection circle beforehand. Be sure to discreetly let your housemates know so you won't be disturbed.
Candles
For many practitioners, candles are a key part of their craft for all sorts of spellwork and rituals, or even just for ambiance. Many spells will call for candles in a particular colour that corresponds with an intention, or perhaps even a certain scent. For example, purple is associated with prosperity, and is helpful when casting spells for spiritual help and improving psychic ability.
While it isn’t the same, flameless electronic candles will do the trick if you can’t burn real ones or you’re in need of a quick fix. Plain fake candles are widely available and adaptable for a wide variety of purposes, but if you’re set on coloured candles, we recommend colour-changing fake candles. You can change their colour depending on your intention, and best of all, they make excellent room decoration without the risk of fire. Remember, the candle itself isn’t necessarily magickal, it’s the intention and energy you put into it that makes it so!
Incense
Incense is another item that’s often used in rituals, but just like candles, you might not be able to get your hands on some or be allowed to burn it. Luckily, there’s a few ways around this.
Reed diffusers work excellently for longer-term spellwork regardless, but they’re also a great substitute for incense as they’re available in lots of scents and will likely be permitted in strict accommodation and as room décor. Perfumes, colognes, or scented room sprays would also work a charm, with the added bonus of making you smell great quickly. And of course, if you’re looking for a quick scent, herbal and fruit teas can work too.
Crystals
These are more socially acceptable than most other witchcraft supplies, but there are still some people who might raise their eyebrows at a huge collection. We’d definitely recommend limiting your number where possible, and it’s good to remember that crystals like clear quartz are incredibly versatile.
Jewellery is a great option, especially as crystal-themed items are in fashion and easy to track down from small businesses on sites like Etsy. It’s also an effective way to carry a crystal’s energy with you through your day in a more inconspicuous way.
Besides crystals, there are other ways you can manifest energy into your everyday practice, such as looking into the magickal and healing properties of herbs, and incorporating them into your cooking. Ginger is more than just flavoursome - it’s perfect for success and money spells, as well as easing nausea and sore throats. Whisper an incantation next time you’re cooking with herbs, and feel the magick transpire.
Book of Shadows
Also known as a grimoire, this is a written record of your spells, talismans, rituals, or anything else you might do in your practice that you want to keep a note of. Luckily, with the advent of technology, this doesn’t have to be a physical notebook if that isn’t an option for you.
A password-protected Note on your phone is a common option, but also think about bookmarking pages on a secure Internet browser if you don’t have your own spellwork or rituals to keep track of. If you’re able to keep a physical book it doesn’t have to be huge or aesthetically pleasing - a pocket-sized reporter’s notebook will do the trick just as well, with the added bonus of being able to write things down as they occur to you.
Got your own tips for secret witches? Leave a comment or get in contact with us on our socials. And as always, that these are just suggestions instead of necessary steps or ironclad solutions.