The Rite of the Enchanted Woods is a foundational practice for those starting out in witchcraft, especially within the HedgeWitch tradition. This rite is intended to support a connection with the inner self, ancestors, and the natural world, while also encouraging the development of a personal quality that may be helpful for growth.
There are two main ways to approach this rite. One option is to visit a wooded area in person, ideally with a trusted companion for safety, during daylight or afternoon hours. It is helpful to choose a location that feels safe and peaceful, where the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest can be experienced.
Another option is to use visualization at home. For this, a piece of wood or a dried herb associated with the woods, selected from the “herbs for today” category, may be used. In a quiet space, hold the wood or herb, close your eyes, and imagine being in a magical forest. Engaging all the senses—such as feeling the earth, hearing leaves, smelling moss and bark, and noticing sunlight—can enhance the experience.
In both approaches, the aim is to reach a clearing in the woods, either physically or in imagination. This clearing represents a sacred space where a special gift may be received. The gift is not a physical item, but a personal quality, such as patience, resilience, creativity, or good humor, that one may wish to develop.
Upon reaching the clearing, it can be helpful to pause and center oneself. Standing or sitting comfortably, the next step is to invite the presence of ancestors. The general HedgeWitch conjuration is often used for this purpose. To perform it, close the eyes and slowly turn in place, raising the left hand with the palm facing outward. Noticing any subtle sensations, such as pressure or warmth, may indicate a personal gateway to the ancestors. This gateway can serve as a unique connection in future practices.
In this position, taking a deep breath and respectfully asking ancestors for guidance and support is suggested. The chosen quality can be visualized as a radiant light or energy, flowing from the clearing, through the ancestors, and into oneself. Breathing deeply and allowing this energy to be absorbed may help with the process.
It is generally recommended that this process feels positive and uplifting. If discomfort or negative emotions arise, it may be useful to reflect on whether the chosen quality is truly suitable. Selecting a different quality and repeating the visualization may be beneficial in such cases.
When the rite feels complete, expressing gratitude to the ancestors and the universe for any gifts received is considered appropriate. A simple thank you, spoken aloud or silently, is sufficient. Smiling at the end can help reinforce positive energy.
To conclude the work, the final stanza of the general HedgeWitch conjuration may be recited: (short pause) “As above and so below, This working now is sealed. O spell, be secret, safe, and sound, Fruition in its field!” This affirmation is intended to protect and empower the intention, supporting both effectiveness and security.
After the rite, it may be helpful to record the experience in a HedgeWitch journal. Drawing a secret sigil for wood, or for the concept of learning new things, can serve as a symbol of the journey. Choosing a personal good luck animal and adding its image or symbol to the journal is another option.
On a separate page, gathering all the sigils created over the past twelve days can provide a visual record for reflection. In the following days, two more sigils may be added: one for the thirteenth night, and another representing personal transformation, which is designed during the dedication ceremony.
Reviewing the journal in the evening and considering how each sigil and each step of the rite has contributed to growth can be valuable. The Rite of the Enchanted Woods serves as both a magical exercise and a meaningful way to deepen self-awareness and connection to the world.
