Maxxie Crichton

07/28/2026

One thing I always try to remember during busy astrological seasons is that the sky isn’t happening to us. It’s simply marking a moment in time, much like the changing of the seasons.

For thousands of years, people watched the moon to keep track of planting, harvesting, migration, weather patterns and the rhythms of everyday life. Over time, those observations became folklore, traditions and eventually astrology.

Whether you believe every planetary transit or simply enjoy learning about the symbolism, I think there’s value in paying attention. Sometimes these moments encourage us to slow down, reflect and ask better questions instead of rushing into bigger decisions.

So if this week feels a little louder than usual, don’t panic.
Let things unfold before deciding what they mean.

Hang on to your hats and glasses, folks… but remember, even bumpy rides come to an end.

07/28/2026

07/28/2026

The Lion’s Gate Portal is one of the most talked-about manifestation events of the year, but it’s so much more than August 8. This portal unfolds over several weeks, giving you time to reflect, release what no longer aligns, clarify your intentions and take meaningful action toward the life you’re creating.

Whether you work with manifestation, folk magic, astrology, moon magic, tarot, journaling or simply enjoy living with intention, Lion’s Gate is an opportunity to pause and ask yourself: What am I ready to step into, and what needs to stay behind?

Remember, manifestation isn’t just about asking the universe for more. It’s also about creating space to receive it.

Have you ever worked with the Lion’s Gate Portal before?

07/27/2026

The Lion’s Gate Portal officially opens on July 28, marking the beginning of what many consider the most powerful manifestation portal of the year.

Associated with Leo season, the rising of Sirius, and the symbolism of the number 8, Lion’s Gate is a time to set intentions, align your actions with your goals, and consciously create the life you’re calling in.

One thing many people don’t realize is that Lion’s Gate isn’t just August 8. The portal builds toward its 8/8 peak, giving you time to work intentionally with the energy rather than feeling like you have to do everything in one day.

This is exactly why I created the Magical Monthly Calendar. It helps you stay ahead of moon phases, astrology, magical dates, seasonal folklore, rituals, monthly correspondences, and first-of-the-month practices so you’re never finding out after everyone else.

Will you be working with the Lion’s Gate Portal this year?

07/26/2026

If you’re building your first magical apothecary, don’t feel like you need 50 different herbs. Start with the basics.

Rosemary, bay leaves, and lavender have been used in folk traditions for generations because they’re versatile, beginner-friendly, and easy to find.

• Rosemary is traditionally associated with protection, purification, healing, and remembrance. Many folk practitioners even use it as a substitute when they don’t have another herb on hand.

• Bay leaves are associated with wishes, clarity, victory, and protection. Writing an intention on a bay leaf is one of the simplest folk magic practices to begin with.

• Lavender is known for peace, healing, restful sleep, and creating a calm, harmonious home.

You don’t need an overflowing apothecary to start building a meaningful practice. Sometimes three herbs are more than enough.

Which one should I overexplain first?

07/25/2026

Not every ritual needs candles, crystals or a full moon.

Sometimes it’s sticky water. Sometimes it’s sticky coffee.

The magic isn’t in making it perfect. It’s in slowing down long enough to stir in gratitude, intention and the life you’re creating before the day begins.

Sometimes the ritual is elaborate.

Sometimes the ritual is coffee.

07/24/2026

Not everything in the spiritual community resonates with me… and that’s okay.

These are a few of my personal woo woo red flags. Not because I think everyone has to agree with me, but because they’ve encouraged me to ask better questions and trust my own intuition.

I don’t believe you need to be gifted your first tarot or oracle deck. I don’t believe your anxiety, illness or trauma should automatically be blamed on an attachment or that you somehow manifested it. I don’t think you need expensive crystals or fancy tools to practice witchcraft or folk magic. And I definitely don’t think one person or one tradition has the only “right” way to be spiritual.

Healthy spirituality leaves room for curiosity, discernment and personal experience.

Which one do you agree with… and which one would you add?