Morbid Outlook - Ask Witch Hazel - Readers' Questions: Beliefs, Fatigue, Crystal Balls, and Cycles

Dear Witch Hazel,
Hello my name is Jason, and I have a little problem with my beliefs. I have been a pagan since I was 14, and I was raised in a metaphysical household. I have had many occult experiences in my life. I am 22 now and I have been doubting that any of what I have experienced is real. This is probably due to the overly-rational environment from my college training (for the record, I am a sociology major with trust issues.)

Well, throughout my college career, I have become less and less proficent at my abilities to where now they are almost nil. I can’t feel anything anymore when it comes to psychic energies. I am having trouble believing anything anymore and it is killing my spirit. Nothing seems to be working and it continues to make me frustrated, dispirited and sad. When I try some energy work or something it doesn’t seem to be very effective. I just can’t rid myself of that part of me that says, “This is stupid, I can’t believe I am still doing this. What if there is no form of divinity and no such thing as magic.” I am not asking you solve all of my problems or anything, I would just appreciate some kind words if you wish to give them. Thank you for your time and concern.

Jason, I am sorry to hear that you feel so troubled. I think it is relatively normal for people to question the ways they were raised and question their faith. This is a bit similar to a question that another reader asked in December 2002. Questioning your faith is part of being human, since we, as human beings, are in a state of constantly striving for more.

Personally, I don’t believe there is a “right religion”. Our spiritual nature is personal and folks simply have to follow what they feel is the right path, whether that is a sect of Wicca, Christianity, Judaism, Islam, etc. Consider this to be a phase of growth for you; if magic doesn’t feel right to you, perhaps you may wish to investigate other spiritual outlets. Listen to yourself.

Dear Witch Hazel,
For several weeks, I have not been able to shake off my fatigue. As of late, I’ve chalked it up to simply having the “summertime blues” since I am stuck in the city, but I am simply so tired of being tired all the time. What do you suggest? Thanks in advance, Leigh

There can be many factors contributing to that yucky, fatigued feeling. Are you getting enough sleep? You may need to change your sleeping habits to ensure you get your z’s. Set a bedtime and stick to it. You may want to even plan for a nice little bath before bed to help soothe away the stress and tension. Sprinkle in some epsom salts or a few drops of lavender.

Are you getting enough exercise? Exercise can combat fatigue and can be as simple as taking a walk to going to a yoga class, or doing arm curls while watching TV. Invest in 5 to 10 pound weights, or you could lift a couple of soup cans or water jugs! Find an activity you like and maybe even get a friend to join you. It doesn’t take much; try scheduling in a little as 30-45 minutes a couple times a week.

What are you eating? Ease up on the caffeine and sugar – which are notorious for giving you that low-energy crash in the middle of the day. Keep fruits and nuts handy for snacking.

Are you overbooking your time? Urban dwellers, especially New Yorkers, are known for this. Perhaps you are stressing yourself out by making too many commitments. It’s too easy to become overwhelmed and exhausted with a million and one projects. Learn to say no.

I also find that listening to invigorating music can boost your energy, especially when doing dreary house chores. Whether it’s a little Leatherstrip or Covenant, get snapping to the beat.

Dear Witch Hazel,
I recently purchased a cat’s eye crystal ball. I was told by the clerk that it was lab created but it was real cat’s eye. Do you think this has any bearing on its properties? – Erica

If a stone is “lab created” it can not be real; the term “lab created” is simply another term for synthetic. Regarding its effect when divining, plastic or artifical materials can give off weird energies and cause confusing readings. Some folks claim otherwise, but for divining purposes, I find any time you have a chance to make your own materials and personally charge them to be best. While we aren’t fashioning our own crystal balls, do look around and invest in something you like. You get what you pay for.

Hello Witch Hazel,
My name is Calalaya. I have been practicing the Wiccan arts for almost five years now and I have yet to find a cure to prevent or put off your menstrual system. You see, I have a ten day event coming up very soon and I will be on my period for that time. It is absolutely vital that I am not going through my cycle. I was wondering if you could help me with this situation. All of your help is more than welcomed and much appreciated.

Ah yes, that wonderful time of the month. It would be incredibly convenient to delay your cycle, but the most reliable way to control your menstruation is through oral contraceptives. When taking the pill, your body is affected by the ebb and flow of hormones. The withdrawal of hormones signals your body to bleed. The last week in the pack, the placebos, can be skipped and a new pack can be started. I wouldn’t recommend doing this all the time, but in the case of the aforementioned event, you can plan ahead.

Women who are not taking the pill will have a much harder time altering their cycle; minor adjustments well in advance could be made with herbal emmenagogues, remedies that trigger menstrual activity. Pennyroyal, mugwort and yarrow are examples but as stated in last month’s column, use caution with herbs. Speak to an herbalist for recipes or to your gynecologist about what your options are.