4 min read

Top 5 Questions Beginner Witches Ask

1. What Kind of Witch Am I?

Ah, this question! Every new witch wonders where they fit into the grand scheme of things. It’s like being handed a big, mysterious puzzle and trying to find that perfect corner piece. The truth? You don’t need to label yourself right away—or at all. Start with what feels right. Do you have a natural connection to the elements, plants, and herbs? You might be a Green Witch. Always whipping up spells in the kitchen while cooking? That’s Kitchen Witch territory.

Historically, witches didn’t exactly sit around labeling themselves. They were healers, midwives, herbalists—people who worked with nature’s cycles. The labels we use today, like Hedge Witch (a solitary practitioner, working with herbs and spirits) or Eclectic Witch (drawing from various traditions), are modern constructs. They’re helpful, sure, but don’t stress about picking a box to fit into. It’s more about what draws you, and this evolves with time. Your witchy path will reveal itself if you follow your intuition.

2. What Tools Do I Need to Start Practicing Witchcraft?

You’ve seen the altars with crystals, candles, and wands on Instagram, and now you’re wondering what you need to get started. Let me tell you: the most powerful tool you’ll ever have is yourself. Your intention, focus, and energy are the backbone of any magickal working.

That being said, tools can amplify your practice. Candles are great for fire energy and spells of manifestation. Crystals like amethyst or rose quartz can support healing or love magick. Historically, witches didn’t have easy access to fancy shops. They used what was available—wooden sticks for wands, a kitchen knife (which evolved into the ceremonial athame), and herbs they could forage.

Start small. A simple candle for candle magick, a quartz crystal, or a journal to record your intentions can work wonders. Eventually, you’ll feel drawn to certain items, but don’t feel pressured to have an elaborate setup right away. Witches have been doing this work for centuries with whatever they had at hand.

3. Do I Need to Follow a Specific Tradition or Religion to Practice Witchcraft?

Nope! Witchcraft isn’t tied to any one religion. It’s a practice, not a faith. You might find yourself drawn to Wicca, a modern pagan religion that has a strong ethical framework like the Wiccan Rede (basically, “harm none”). But if you’re not interested in following Wicca, that’s perfectly fine.

Historically, witchcraft has always been a bit of a rebel—working in the spaces between religions and cultures. In ancient times, practitioners of magick existed everywhere, from ancient Egypt to Rome, and none of them followed one specific doctrine. There were cunning folk in medieval Europe, often Christian, who mixed faith with spells. Some were pagan, some Christian, and some just practical healers who worked with herbs and spirits without any religious affiliation.

Your practice can be entirely your own. Some witches honor deities, some work with the elements, and others simply connect with the cycles of the moon. Witchcraft is beautifully customizable.

4. How Do I Cast My First Spell?

Ah, the thrill of casting your first spell! It’s like your first drive alone after getting your license—a little nerve-wracking but incredibly empowering. Start simple. A protection spell is a great first step. Light a white candle (white for protection and clarity), visualize yourself surrounded by a bubble of light, and say a few words—something like, “I am safe, I am protected.” That’s it! Magick isn’t about complex rituals (unless you want it to be), it’s about focusing your intent and energy.

Historically, spells weren’t written down in elaborate grimoires until much later. Most folk magick was passed orally or through simple everyday practices. In medieval Europe, a common charm might involve tying knots in a cord while chanting for protection or success.

Your spell can be as simple or as complex as you like, and don’t worry about getting it “wrong.” It’s all about intention. You’ll learn as you go.

5. How Do I Protect Myself While Practicing Magick?

This one is important. When working with energy and the unseen, it’s smart to have a protection routine. Historically, witches have always practiced some form of psychic self-defense—whether it was through casting protective circles, wearing amulets (like a pentacle for protection), or carrying crystals like black tourmaline.

One simple method is to create an energetic shield around yourself. Picture a sphere of light surrounding you, like an impenetrable bubble, and reinforce it with your intention.

You can also use herbs like sage or rosemary to cleanse your space. Burn the herbs and let the smoke clear away any negative energy.

In older traditions, witches often employed iron to ward off harmful spirits (hence, the horseshoe over the door). Salt was also commonly used for purification and protection.

Even now, sprinkling a little salt at your door or creating a protective boundary can help keep unwanted energy away.

Remember, protection is about creating boundaries—both physical and spiritual. Keep yourself grounded, and if something feels off, don’t hesitate to stop and reevaluate.

Final Thoughts from a Seasoned Witch

Every beginner witch has questions—and guess what? Even experienced witches still ask questions. That’s the beauty of this path. It’s never stagnant, always evolving. You’ll learn by doing, by trusting yourself, and by tuning into the rhythms of the world around you. Your tools, spells, and even your identity as a witch will shift over time, and that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be.

So, light that candle, cast that spell, and remember—your magick is yours. It’s a part of you, and the more you nurture it, the more it will grow.