Creating a Home Altar for Beginners | Basic Tools
Altars are a meeting place between our spiritual reality and the physical world. Here, we will discuss altars from the intuitive viewpoint; as with our spirituality, there is no right or wrong way to create your space.
If you are working within a formal lineage, we recommend working with a mentor.
Not sure where to begin? We got you!
Five easy steps to create a home altar.
- Put aside time to reflect on what the term “sacred” means to you. When have you felt most connected to your sacred self? This process may not be automatic for everyone. Let answers flow and refine as needed.
- Set an intention for the space. This can be anything that feels right to you but may include the lunar cycle, personal reflection, or creative play.
- Select a space & cleanse. Your altar is a representation of what is sacred to you. Treat it as such. Clean the space physically. Cleanse the space energetically.
- Choose items for your Altar Space. Even seemingly mundane items create a large spiritual impact. You may purchase items at your local metaphysical shop, forage for them in nature, and repurpose sentimental items. There is no right or wrong.
- Place items on your Altar Space and Enjoy! Item placement is pure intuition. Consider what is sacred and the intention of the space. Feel free to experiment with varied placements. Your altar will change with your ever-growing spiritual practice.
When creating an Altar Space, whether for the first time or within a well-established practice, the only limitation is belief. This space is an extension of you. Remember - YOU ARE THE MAGICK!
Select as many or as few items as you would like represented in your Space. These are not an exhaustive list.
ELEMENTAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER
You may choose one or more of each item to represent the Elements.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER
OTHER REPRESENTATIONAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER
Seasonal Cycles or Sun/Moon Cycles
Spiritual Allies, Guides, or Guardian Representation
Religious or Cultural Representation
Astrological, Planetary, or Celestial Representation
Ancestral Representation / Family Heirlooms
Special, Sacred or Sentimental Items
Spiritual Allies, Guides, or Guardian Representation
Religious or Cultural Representation
Astrological, Planetary, or Celestial Representation
Ancestral Representation / Family Heirlooms
Special, Sacred or Sentimental Items
DISCLAIMER:
Not all individuals have the autonomy to create a dedicated Altar Space.
When doing so may result in a threat to personal safety, please consider visiting an Altar Space offered in your local Metaphysical shop. Please note, item/meaning definitions can vary among traditions.
RECOMMENDED READING MATERIAL
“Witchery: Embrace the Witch Within” by Juliet Diaz
“The Book of Blessings and Rituals” by Athena Perrakis Ph.D.
“The House Witch” by Arin Murphy-Hiscock
“Nature’s Hidden Oracles” by Liz Dean
“American Brujeria: Modern Mexican American Folk Magic” by J. Allen Cross
“The Handbook of Yoruba Religious Concepts” by Baba Ifa Karade
“Besom, Stang & Sword: A Guide to Traditional Witchcraft” by Christopher Orapello and Tara-Love Maguire
“The Magical Household: Spells and Rituals for the Home” by Scott Cunningham
“The Book of Altars and Sacred Spaces: How to Create Magical Spaces in Your Home for Ritual and intention” by Anjou Kiernan
