Lesson 2: Connecting with the Elements
There are four elements... of which all elemented inferior bodies are compounded; not by way of shaping them together, but by transmutation and union; and when they are destroyed, they are resolved into elements. For there is none of the sensible elements that is pure, but they are more or less mixed, and apt to be changed one into the other...And this is the root and foundation of all bodies, natures, virtues, and wonderful works; and he which shall know the qualities of the elements, and their mixations, shall easily bring to pass such things that are wonderful and astonishing, and shall be perfect in magick.
Cornelius Agrippa 6th century
Spirit
Water
Air
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Earth Fire
The Pentagram is the most widely used and recognized symbol of the Craft. One of it's main interpretations is that of the Unity of the four elements with Spirit having dominion over all. The four elements are the building blocks of life. All things created are composed of these four building blocks. Becoming a competent Witch requires a thorough study, and understanding of these building blocks and their correspondences..

What do I mean by correspondences? All things are composed of various mixes of elements in varying degrees but they also have affinities leaning towards one particular element. Stones, for example are of the Earth element, however, they can be further categorized into haveing affinities with other elements. Carnelian corresponds  with the element of fire, where Jade corresponds with the element of water. Everything from colors and herbs, to astrological signs can be organized according to which element they correspond with.

This information can seem somewhat overwhealming, but having a basic understanding of the properties of the elements will help to demonstrate that it does actually make sense. Once you  become familiar with them, you will be able to intuitively categorize according to the elemental properties.
EARTH
The element of Earth is feminine and has to do with things grounded in physical nature. Home, prosperity, work, family, the physical body. Colors for Earth element would include browns and greens. Assigment: go to a secluded park area and just lie on the ground relax, and feel yourself sinking into the earth. Contemplate what part of you is related to the element of Earth.Watch for a stone, twig, or leaf  that will remind you of this element. Thank the Earth that provided it and take it home with you. Place it somewhere safe for future use. Record your experience in your Book of Shadows.
AIR
The element of Air is a masculine symbol and corresponds with the mental plane. Inellectual pursuits, thought and learning. Colors for the Air element would include light blues and yellows. Music and sound are part of the element of air.Assignment: find an area close to you that is known to be breezy, a part of a park, or if you are lucky, hike to a mountain peak. Let the breeze blow through you and cleanse you. Imagine it blowing through your head and clearing your mind. Contemplate on those parts of you that are of the Air element. Ask the element air to bring you a gift. You will know it when you see it. Thank the element and bring your gift home, and place it somewhere safe for further use.Record your experience in your Book of Shadows.
FIRE
The element of Fire is also masculine and corresponds with things active and passioanate in nature. Sex, strength, protection all fall within the elemental realm of Fire. Colors for fire are red, deep yellow, gold, and orange. Assignment: to connect with the fire element, if you're fortunate enough to have the space, build a fire in your fireplace, or in a firepit. If you don't have such space available to you, use a candle or a few candles together. Soften your eyes and gaze at the flames, watch for shapes dancing among them. Keep a candle in the safe spot you have placed your Air and Earth symbols. Think about that part of you which is related to Fire. Record your experience in your Book of Shadows.
WATER
The element of Water has dominion over those things which are emotional in nature. It is the other feminine element. It is linked with magick, mystery and intuition. It governs love and romance. It's color correspondences are blue, white, purple, silver and indigo. Assignment: To connect with the water element, find a stream, lake,  or other body of water. If safe to do so, go wading. Feel water's cleansing power. Contemplate upon those  parts of you which are related to water. Perhaps bring some water home in a small container and don't forget to thank the element for it's donation! Record your experience in your Book of Shadows.

Recommended Reading:
Earth, Air, Fire and Water by Scott Cunningam
Making Magick by Edain McCoy
Natural Magick  by Doreen Valiente
Natural Witchcraft by Marian Green
Good Magick by Marina Medici
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