Throughout your path of witchcraft, you will likely spend some quality time outdoors, exploring the wild parts of the world. On those travels, you will likely come across trinkets in nature that you feel drawn to. Maybe a smooth stone, or straight tree branch. Maybe a bird\’s feather or some trimmings from a bush. The earth is full of great materials with unique energies. These can be used to great effect with magickal workings, but it\’s important to harvest responsibly.
When I find something in nature that I feel drawn to, I run through a quick checklist. Firstly, will something be harmed by my taking the object. If the answer is yes, I don\’t take it. Next, will there be a negative impact on the localized environment due to my taking the object. If the answer is yes, I don\’t take it. Next, I ask myself if there are animals in the area that rely on the object. If the answer is yes, I don\’t take it.
As long as it passes all the tests, I feel it is okay to take the object from nature. However, it still is not okay for me to just take the object. It belongs to nature, not me. I take some time to meditate. During this process, my focus is to make a connection with the natural energies of the area. Once I feel there is a connection, I will ask nature for permission to take the object. After a short while, I always receive an answer. If nature says no, I leave the object behind. If nature says yes, I spend a few more moments letting some of my energy seep out into nature with positive intentions as a thank you. Often, while traveling in nature, I carry with me raw stones, seeds, or a stick of plant food. I use these as offerings to leave behind when I take something from nature.
If you choose to do this, be responsible about your offerings. Never litter in nature. Never introduce invasive plants to an area in which they aren\’t native. Never leave something that will harm the environment. You should only leave an offering that will nourish or enhance nature.