Shadow Magic

June 5, 2023
In this affirming guide, Van De Car (Practical Magic) encourages readers to explore their shadow side, the “aspect of the self that contains what we’re afraid to express.” Defined by Carl Jung as existing outside the “light of consciousness,” the shadow self can manifest in dreams or unbidden waking moments of anger or anxiety, according to the author. When properly celebrated, however, the shadow self allows for “creativity, imagination, intuition, and wonder.” Van De Car outlines ways to connect with one’s shadow self, among them dream interpretation to uncover hidden fears; astrology to tap into intuition; spells to guard against negative energy; and tarot reading to reveal inner truths. Scattered throughout are spells for creativity, intuition, and self-love, along with brief profiles of historical and mythical figures who embraced their shadow selves to powerful effect—such as Baba Yaga, a sometimes-good, sometimes-menacing character from Slavic folklore, and 19th-century New Orleans healer and “Voodoo Queen” Marie Laveau, who “mixed Catholic and African spiritual traditions in ways that people continue to practice.” While readers might already be familiar with the practices Van De Car discusses, they’ll appreciate her message that “we cannot be the fullest expression of ourselves” unless “we embrace... all that we are.” Enriched by Le’s gorgeous, deep-hued illustrations, this is a necessary addition to any collection on magic and witchcraft.

August 1, 2023

Prolific author of books about witchcraft, the occult, and crafts, Van De Car (Ritual: Magical Celebrations of Nature and Community from Around the World) provides a general exploration of magical practices through the lens of the "shadow" self. Based on Jung's theory of individuation, the shadow self is defined as the part of the personality that harbors life traumas and negative emotions, such as anger and sorrow. Often, one tucks these memories and feelings away as uncomfortable, but because the shadow self is also the center of creativity and intuition, Van De Car encourages readers to befriend this aspect of themselves, as that is where their magic resides. Chapters on symbols and sigils, familiars, dream interpretation, lucid dreaming, and various forms of divination begin with a retelling of the stories of famous witches known for their comfort with shadow work or their triumph over hard circumstances. Practical spell work and mindful exercises to increase intuition, creativity, and self-love conclude most chapters. A brief discussion on personal protection wraps up the offerings. VERDICT Readers looking to expand their approach to the practice of witchcraft will appreciate this beautifully illustrated introduction to shadow work.--Janet Tapper

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