Knot Magic
by Sgeir
You will need:
A piece of string, cord, ribbon or similar
Beads, string or similar for a bracelet
This spell is two-pronged - one side is to remove negativity, and the other is an exercise to build up positivity.
First, think of up to five things you hate about yourself, things that torment you and you want to be rid of. For instance, my list might include depression, self-injury, lack of confidence, that sort of thing.
Once you have thought of some things, make as many knots in your piece of string as you have bad qualities. As you make each knot, visualise that bad quality leaving you and becoming trapped in the knot.
I cage you now in this knot
You are no more a part of me.
(Feel free to create quality-specific words). Then, once you have tied all your knots, shout "Out!" or a verse of your own devising, and throw the knotted string in a fire or bury it in a garden. If you burn it, scatter the ashes in a garden (or a park):
Goddess, accept these my faults,
take them back into Yourself
cleanse them of their nature.
I am whole without them,
and they are no more part of me.
Then, think of a similar list to before, only this one of your good points. So you could put down that you are clever or funny, for instance. If you are having trouble thinking of any, ask family or friends what they think your good points are. Again pick about five or so of these good qualities.
Now take your beads (which should be available from craft shops, or you could use larger things like small stones or wood, whatever you wish. You can also just use knotted string) and your string or ribbon. If possible, choose a different colour bead for each of your good qualities, and tie a knot beneath each bead so that they are separated from one another.
As you tie each bead onto your bracelet, reflect on your gifts, and you could perhaps say a small prayer to a patron Goddess while making your bracelet, thanking Her for your gifts and for the strength to keep them before you even when things are bad.
Once you have made this bracelet, wear it, and you can remember whenever you touch each bead what good quality it represents in you. Whenever you feel the need to self-injure, go through your bead-bracelet first, reminding yourself of your good points one by one, holding it in your hands. You may find that this helps you combat the urge.