The Crystal Ball, by John William Waterhouse, c. 1902
Spellwork Sessions: Scrying 101
by Camille Langston
Intro:Scrying is the ancient art of using an object like a mirror or vessel of water to see beyond natural sight and into the spirit world. While many consider scrying to be a strictly pagan practice, in truth it has been used historically in many cultures around the world as late as the 10th century, but possibly centuries prior. Scrying is essentially a type of divining, which in itself is a shamanic art that is seen cross culturally in virtually all ancient civilizations. The most common scrying device is a mirror, but before the technique of making mirrors was perfected, people used polished stone, fire and smoke, or simply a bowl or chalice of water.
Time/planetary hours: Some people prefer to scry only at night or in the dark so that their senses aren’t over stimulated. However scrying can be done anywhere where you can sit and meditate. What’s most important is that you’re in a safe, comfortable, and quite place for messages to come through.
Altar/Decor/Setup & Suggestions:
Decide on what item you’ll use to scry. This might take some trial an error to find your perfect fit. Three easy options are: a bowl of water, a mirror, or a crystal such as polished obsidian or clear quartz. However any translucent or iridescent crystal will work. Other options are a flame from a candle (doesn’t need to be a ritual candle, any will do) or smoke from incense or cigar.
Perhaps you’ll want to scry at your altar or in whatever space you normally like to sit and mediate. As long as you feel comfortable, the space isn’t important.
A notebook in which to record any visions or messages that come through.
Incense and smoke can be used for scrying.
Simple Steps and Procedures:
Before starting anything PROTECT AND CLEANSE YOUR SPACE. We only want to welcome in messages that are of Divine Truth and serve our highest good. Only welcome in spirits and guides of the highest vibration into your space to assist you. Take the time necessary to smudge your space with copal, sage, rosemary, or any cleansing herb you prefer, ground your energy, and call in any protective spirits you enjoy working with.
Consider what your intention is with scrying. Are you trying to arbitrarily see the future (and maybe only if it’s the future that you want to see) or do you genuinely want to receive guidance that will help you evolve to a greater level of self-authenticity. This is no parlor trick; Scry at your own discretion.
After your space is cleansed and grounded and your intention is set, begin with a short mediation. Focus on your breath, observe your thoughts without judging them, and bring your energy as much as possible into the present moment.
Once you feel like you’re in a meditative state, begin scrying with your desired object. It’s important not to break focus or eye contact while attempting to scry. Once you begin staring into the object, allow your gaze to remain there until visions appear.
Don’t be discouraged if for the first several minutes you don’t see anything. It may take a few tries, but if you persist you will start to see beyond the surface of whatever object you’re staring at.
You should not feel any pain or discomfort while scrying. If this occurs stop immediately and call on the Violet Flame of Transmutation to cleanse your body, mind, and spirit of anything that doesn’t belong to you immediately.
Happy Scrying! Don’t forget to record any messages or visuals you receive! And always end in a prayer of gratitude to your Spirit Guides, Angels, and Honorable Ancestors for protecting and assisting you on your journey
Use a crystal ball for scrying, such as the one above. Visit our store for more ritual tools!
Have your own Spellwork Sessions ritual? Tag @jsouthernstudio and #spellworksessions in your Instagram post for a chance to be featured!
Camille Langston is a Reiki Master teacher in Usui Shiki Ryoho technique, psychic medium, tarot reader, musician, and actor living in Los Angeles, California. Read her bio here.
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