The Element of Air

Spring brings in the element of Air. Yes, fresh air! In nature, air is air obviously, but can be further experienced in the wind-the movement of clouds, falling leaves, ripples in water, the sound of wind chimes, tornadoes, the movement of weather currents. The air supports things with wings like bees and bats that help pollinate the earth. Birds take flight in the sky to migrate. For living beings, air is essential because it contains live-giving oxygen.

            Air can also represent mental and emotional concepts. As humans, we need air to breath in order to make sound. Communication, expression, singing, and hearing are all concepts of air. The intellectual process behind our thoughts and actions is therefore also governed by the element of air.

            In terms of spiritual aspects, the element of air fuels our inner voice, sacred chanting or singing, and breathwork. A bell or drum certainly can represent air. Incense and fragrances are often used to fill the air to enhance ritual and workings. The besom, or broom, could also be considered an “air” tool since it is often symbolically used to sweep the air pushing out negative energy. Feathers are another great tool to bring in the energy of air in your magickal workings.

            Two tools that have some debate as to whether it represents air are the sword and wand. In Tarot, the sword represents air and emphasizes the intellectual realm of life. However, in my personal magical working practice, I feel air is more connected to the wand because in a way I use the wand to draw in from the air/ether. I feel the sword or athame is use to direct inner energy outward, which is more like fire energy.

            Each element also corresponds with other symbols often used in witchcraft. Air is represented by the color yellow, and sometimes I personally consider blue since it is the color of the sky and related to the throat chakra (communication).  Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius are the Air signs of the zodiac. Air’s elemental is the sylph, a being with wings somewhat like an angel or what most society might imagine is a fairy.

I have an alter for air that houses a yellow candle, feathers, a beloved statue of a fairy, my drum, singing bowl, a wand, yellow calcite, and my small collection of owl figurines. One day, I hope to add a statue of The Morrigan.

If you are in need of more guidance to connect to the energy of air, there are many meditations focused on the element of air found on YouTube, Spotify, and apps like Insight Timer. Examples of mantras or affirmations related to air can be found below along with a ritual you can try.

I speak my truth

I breath in ___ and breath out_____

I am mindful of my words

I communicate my feelings freely

I am listen to my inner voice

A Ritual With Air

·         Light an incense of your choosing.

·         Take sometime to breathe at your own pace.

·         Imagine a breeze upon your face.

·         When ready, as you exhale, make a noise like humming. If you feel called to, sing. Or you can have an instrument nearby to play. It is also ok to simply have preferred music on in the background.

·         Focus on the sound and let words float into your mind.

·         Take your time and let the words form a short sentence, mantra, or affirmation you can repeat to yourself. You can also have one prepared and begin to state it at this time.

·         Repeat the phrase over and over until you feel the message has imprinted into your mind, body, and soul

·         Jot down the words and write down any reflections you have had during this experience.

What are symbols that you associate with air? What are some of your favorite mantras or affirmations? How do you connect to the element of air?