What is an Altar? Magic Day 4 of 31

The altar sits on a two shelf bookshelf. White. Given to me by my grandmother.

I have a collection of religious and spiritual books on the bottom shelf. The top shelf houses other precious artifacts and tools like my tarot cards, journals, and treasures from around the world.

The top is covered with a beautiful silk scarf, a gift from a friend during her travels in Egypt.

The abalone shell was a gift from my dad. I use it as a safe place to burn sage and incense.

The blue candle is made by Coventry Creations and was a gift from my mother-in-law.

The brownish item leaning against the candle was a gift from Esalen. I went there on a Shamanic Painting Retreat earlier this year. Masks like these can be found all over the property. They were placed there to serve as reminders to those who find them, to not turn a blind eye to nature. I didn’t actually find this one, but the meaning resonated me and it captures so many wonderful feelings from that trip.

The long black envelope with flowers on it holds my Osazuke blessing. It is a sacred document bestowed to me by the Tenrikyo Church when I was 17. With it, I have been granted the gift to extend healing prayers to others. So, if you need/ want a healing prayer, let me know!

The crescent moon and sun bells were a gift from my sister. They are used to alleviate stress. You roll them around in your hand and they create this soft chiming sound. I also like the images of the sun and the moon. Two strong astrological symbols for me. Well for everyone really.

There are 11 other items arranged towards the front. A smoky quartz ring, used for grounding energy, quartz, petrified wood, moonstone, seashell, elk skin rattle, bronze figure, and of course, a magic wand. These are pieces that were found or gifted to me and carry reminders of my spiritual journey.

Above the altar is this painting. Another gift from my mother-in-law! These words inspire me to live authentically.

“Unleash your joy.

Embrace your truth.

Pick more wild flowers.

Leap fearlessly,

Collect moments of kindness.

Ask for what you need.

Speak of your gratitude.

Listen to forgiveness.

Surround yourself with good people.

Trust your creative spirit.

Wear red shoes.

Let it go.” – Kelly Rae Roberts

Finally, just on the left side of the wall is a mantra to remind me of what I’m striving for:

“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in perfect harmony.” – Mahatma Ghandi

The items on the right wall include a beautiful mirror, gifted to me by a loved one, and all of my creative tools: paints, canvases, and easels.

My altar is the sacred place in my home where I connect with myself, the Great Spirit, the Universe, All That Is. It’s the place where love is kept, and where magic is made.