Taking the Witch’s Walk

The Witch’s Walk is a rite used to facilitate the transition between the mundane and the magical.[1] It marks the practitioner’s shift from one plane of consciousness to another, preparing the mind and spirit for ritual and spellwork. This practice is particularly useful when performing workings outside the home.

Before departing, gather your supplies in a simple bag if needed. As you leave your home, step with intent—once you cross the threshold, you should think and behave as though you have entered the Spirit World, leaving behind the Land of the Living. Travel directly to your ritual location without stopping, speaking, or looking back. Maintain silence throughout the journey.

At the ritual’s conclusion, collect any belongings you need and begin your return journey in the same manner—without stopping, speaking, or looking back. Only once you have crossed the threshold of your home and closed the door behind you may you fully return to the mundane world.

[1] Adapted from the “Year’s Walk” or “Year-Walking” ritual as explained in an interview with Otto Nord and transcribed in Thomas K. Johnson’s “Tidebast och Vandelrot” (2010).