An Alternative to Casting with Salt [Na][Cl]
It is common practice for most to cast circle with a protection ring of salt
I will talk about a few options to opt out of using sodium chloride aka table salt which is harmful to the Earth. We use this mineral to protect us during ritual and to create a barrier from the mundane.
Option # 1
But did you know that sodium chloride elements (NaCl) may be good for the body in small quantities. However, it is bad for the very Earth we live on? Most people do not know that when you cast circle with sodium chloride (salt) it draws out all the moisture and kills off all the beneficial bacteria from the ground. It can take a very long time for the earth to heal itself from this damage.
You will notice if you cast circle with salt in the same place often you will see a black ring. This is the cause due to the sodium chloride killing the soil. If you are like me you may wonder what can you do to be more Green in your path. But, there are solutions! Not only is it safe for you it is also safe for the Earth, and those beneficial bacteria/organisms in the soil.
Frequently gardeners will sprinkle a mineral called magnesium sulfate aka Epsom Salt in their garden. It is used as a fertilizer which helps feeds plants and promotes growth and flowering. So as you can see this would be the Green Way to go. Plus the use of this type of salt is temporary. So with in a couple of days or shortly after a rain storm it will dissolve into the Earth to feed her. Leaving no trace behind except healthy plants/soil.
Another alternative is to use sand. That's right sand any color as long as it doesn't have chemicals or any treatments. If your train of thought is to create a barrier between the spiritual world and the mundane use this method. It will not cause harm to Mother Earth or beneficial creatures. Unlike epsom salt it will not absorb into the earth as easily so it will last longer wind permitting depending where you live. Where do you get soil? There are many sources such as the beach, pet shops, or online. You may even live in an area that is plentiful with it. Use what you got.
A side note, if you wish to collect sand from a beach make sure its permitted # 1 and # 2 you want to make sure to dry out the sand prior to storing it in a glass jar. Why? Well if you place wet anything into a jar with moisture its going to grow mold. Unless if that is what you want I recommend drying it out. Simply use a flat surface with perhaps a cloth on top so the soil doesn't fall through. Spread the sand evenly and lay out in the sun to dry out. Do this when during mid day or when its really hot outside with low humidity. You will also want to do this on a day that isn't windy. You can also place your sand in the oven with parchment paper over your pan. I suggest turning your oven to 200 °F for 20-30 minute or until dry. Occasionally flipping over the sand gently as to not spill any into your oven. This will prevent you from burning your sand and speed up the drying process. Once dry store in jars and keep in a cool dry place. Remember in this case moisture is your enemy.
- The Greenman Alchemist
 |
| A ring of (epsom) salt will protect you 😍 |
Option # 2
Another alternative is to use sand. That's right sand any color as long as it doesn't have chemicals or any treatments. If your train of thought is to create a barrier between the spiritual world and the mundane use this method. It will not cause harm to Mother Earth or beneficial creatures. Unlike epsom salt it will not absorb into the earth as easily so it will last longer wind permitting depending where you live. Where do you get soil? There are many sources such as the beach, pet shops, or online. You may even live in an area that is plentiful with it. Use what you got.
A side note, if you wish to collect sand from a beach make sure its permitted # 1 and # 2 you want to make sure to dry out the sand prior to storing it in a glass jar. Why? Well if you place wet anything into a jar with moisture its going to grow mold. Unless if that is what you want I recommend drying it out. Simply use a flat surface with perhaps a cloth on top so the soil doesn't fall through. Spread the sand evenly and lay out in the sun to dry out. Do this when during mid day or when its really hot outside with low humidity. You will also want to do this on a day that isn't windy. You can also place your sand in the oven with parchment paper over your pan. I suggest turning your oven to 200 °F for 20-30 minute or until dry. Occasionally flipping over the sand gently as to not spill any into your oven. This will prevent you from burning your sand and speed up the drying process. Once dry store in jars and keep in a cool dry place. Remember in this case moisture is your enemy.
Option # 3...
A long term solution is gathering local stones from river banks, beaches, or even in your yard. If you are out sourcing your stones again make sure you have permission to do so. Once you calculate how many stones you'll need and what size of a circle you are making start your placing of stones. Personally if I was going to use this method I would use small to medium size pebbles. I have in the past even used fish tank pebbles. It was a very cheap option plus you do not have to go out of your way to hand pick stones.
You can even go as far as purchasing glow in the dark pebbles. They come in colors like Blue or even Green. Other colors are also available online. Now this option isn't "Green Friendly" per-say but it is an option. Plus it would look really cool to have a glowing ring around you while you perform rituals.
Regardless which option you go with have fun with it. Get your coven or family involved in this project with you as it will create a special bond in your circle.
As I always say stay Green, Leave no trace behind. If it isnt good for the Earth or you DON'T use it. Thank you for visiting. Please leave comments and share this with your social media outlets.
As I always say stay Green, Leave no trace behind. If it isnt good for the Earth or you DON'T use it. Thank you for visiting. Please leave comments and share this with your social media outlets.
- The Greenman Alchemist
Comments
Post a Comment