Treading the Mill
Place a candle at the center of the area youβve designated for your rite and light it. If you prefer you can also use a cauldron with a large flame in it, a bonfire, or even a simple item like a stone or a crystal. If you are raising power for a spell or working, consider putting the spellwork in the center of the area. Take a moment to ready yourself, relaxing your mind and body and honing your focus on the purpose of Treading the Mill. When ready, begin walking slowly in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction, depending on the purpose of the rite[1]. Move with steady breath and honed focus.
As you walk, let your steps become rhythmic. This can be done with or without an incantation. If using a song or incantation, begin it softly, letting it grow in strength as the movement continues. Gradually increase speed, feeling the current of spirit and power rising beneath your feet. One example of a mill-treading chant you might use is[2]:
Round and round the millstone turns,
Fire burns and cauldron churns.
By hoof and horn, by fang and claw,
I tread the path, I speak the law.
Three times round, the veil grows thin,
Four times round, the power spins.
Five times round, the spirits wake,
Six times round, the thread we take.
Witches walk where none may see,
Bound by foot and spirit free.
Through hedge and gate, through iron and bone,
The path is trod, the way is shown.
With repetition, the world beyond the circle may begin to fade, awareness shifting inward and outward at once. Visions, messages, or sensations may arise. If working with spirits, they may make their presence known as the veil thins.
When the energy reaches its height (or when you reach an agreed upon point in the spiral dance, if working with a group), either slow your steps naturally or come to an abrupt halt, depending on the work at hand. If raising power, send it forth with a spoken word, gesture, or silent release. If seeking guidance, pause and listen.
[1] Traditionally, workings used to build up, improve, or reinforce something are done in a clockwise motion, while workings used to break down, undo, or take away from something are done in an anticlockwise motion.
[2] This can be spoken as a whole or, if simplicity is preferred, a single couplet of lines can be repeated through the entire rite.
