So I'm new to witchcraft and I've been pretty interested in it for a few years. It wasn't until just recently that I buckled down and actually started to research practices.
I mainly practice Sigils, Tarot, Astrology (Moon Phases mainly), and Candle Magic. At least I'm trying to. I've made a few Sigils and after I created those I just felt all of the energy drain from my body and I slept 12 hours (oops).
My main question is, I'm wondering if people are getting into it because it's trendy now or if people are actually interested in the practice?
My boyfriend, who've I've been with for almost two years laughs at the idea of witchcraft and I must say I did too, I'm Athiest why wouldn't I. It wasn't until I started to read and practice that I felt energy around me. I still have a lot to go though to decide whether or not it's the right path.
Back to the topic, with Goth Fast Fasion brands like Killstar, the look of being a witch is growing. The hats, the clothes, the monthly subscription boxes from companies like Witch's Moon and the like, I'm all sucked into it. However, I'm not doing just the look, I'm also doing the practices. But I know others aren't. I'm not trying to gatekeep anything, people can buy what they want. What I'm saying is, do you think the trends are starting to attract people into the culture that'll only make a fool of themselves or try and make a bad name for it (R/fakewitch have some excellent stories of these types of people).
I think the trend is a cycle. Some people will come to the practice because of the trend, and they will leave when the trend is over. Others will come because of the trend, find deep meaning, and will stay. I was around in the 90's when The Craft (the movie) was released and there was an explosion of popularity in witchcraft and Wicca. It was thanks to this popularity that more information was available for baby witches. I was just starting to realize that I'd already been practicing, and now had more resources to grow into my craft.
It can be a little annoying when people are latching onto the look but aren't taking the practice seriously, but at least they're being favorable towards witches. I'd take that over persecution any day. At the very least, it provides an atmosphere to talk openly and clear up misconceptions about witches. And, it makes it a lot easier to find the cool stuff we want! If I want to look for cauldron coffee mugs, I have a nice selection to choose from. It's nice to have options and availability!
Personally, I practice the craft because it interests me and is (already) part of my life. I knew growing up that certain things I liked or was doing were magical, but I didn't accept myself as a witch (mainly because of upbringing and internalization) until this year.
I can relate to feeling so drained from working magic. My advice would be to pace yourself. If you have a big spell in mind, save it for Full Moon. And be careful practicing too much at one time. One Full Moon, I worked a few fairly big spells...my fatigue and depression got worse.
Also, don't be afraid to use healing or restorative spells as you work. That could be a good way to keep the flow going for as long as you need.
It has been so interesting to see this trend flourish! I personally think it helps almost integrate it more into the psyche of the public in a slightly non-threatening way. As someone who's been dabbling into the craft since I was 13, I am 31 now, I feel like if I wear something different or say something weird people aren't as alarmed or throwing around the word ' satanic ' anymore.