The word "witch" contains a multitude of meanings. But after centuries of being misappropriated, it finally seems it's stepping out from under the cloak of misogyny.
Today, "witch" isn't slander so much as a self-designation, worn proudly and made to symbolize an attunement with the natural world, deep intuition, and a sense of liberation.
For Bri Luna, better known as The Hoodwitch, being a witch encompasses everything from stepping into your power to a solitary dip in the ocean — there's no one-size-fits-all. Intrigued and ready to dive deeper, we got a glimpse into Luna's witchy world and gained insights on how to sprinkle a little magic into the everyday.
We’re curious — what’s it like being a full-time witch?
I would say it’s an honor. I'm immensely grateful to be of service to my community and, much like anyone else's life, I have my good days and my shitty days. As much as I’d like it all to be well-curated photos, that’s not the reality of it.
Spiritual work can be more draining, so it's absolutely important to enforce major boundaries with your clients and for yourself. I do a lot of energetic work, especially in my readings with clients. I have to be very upfront about my boundaries and very mindful of my energy to make sure I'm clear, grounded, and not holding onto other people’s shit.
(Bri Luna wearing the Good to Go High Neck Seamless Bra and Leakproof Dream Short in Black)
People will suck you dry if you allow them, so you gotta stay on point. For the most part, I really love my life: I love helping people and have a deep love for guiding more Black and Brown women into their power, and into their magic.
I like to lead a very relaxed lifestyle — one that is very much centered around ancestral and spiritual reverence. I love being out in natural environments, the solitude of being in the forest, or swimming in the ocean alone. I love exploring old cemeteries and learning about their history. I read a lot of old books and like creepy antique stores.
I also really enjoy preparing meaningful rituals with friends, but the pandemic has made that more difficult. I make it a point to create meaningful personal rituals for myself — whether it's beauty magic or powerful energy cleansing in my space.
My family is very important to me, and my main priority. In this way, there's even magic in the mundane, like creating elaborate meals with lots of love and the recipes passed down by my elders. I practice candle magic, and I find comfort in honoring natural cycles, like the seasons, and passing this information down to my son.
How would you define what it means to be a “modern witch?”
Well, there is no “one-size-fits-all” and that’s the beauty of the witch: having autonomy over oneself and doing so fiercely and unapologetically.
What are some ways people can incorporate a little magic into their everyday lives?
Believe in your magic! Know that you are the powerful creator of your own reality and that anything and everything can become a ritual to improve the circumstances of your life.
(Bri Luna wearing the Papaya Slip Dress in Garnet)
You don’t need expensive candles or these bullshit “spell kits." You can accomplish the same results with a 99 cent store candle than with a $30 “intention” candle. Your intention, the essence of your hopes, and your energy are what make it powerful.
What do people stand to gain from cultivating spiritual practices and rituals?
First and foremost, we are all spirits having a human experience. You have everything to gain by learning how to co-exist with this planet, the cycles of nature, and pursuing a more balanced, peaceful, and healthy incarnation.
You can achieve this by connecting with practices that uplift you, make you laugh more, feel more beautiful, sane, alive, whole, and free. Magic is your birthright!
How did you uncover your calling as a witch?
I have always been called to do this work, it wasn't a trend or something I just stumbled upon. Magic is in my blood and has been passed down to me from both of my grandmothers. I began my own journey as I became more connected to my intuition and my soul.
As a child, I was very tapped in, very psychic, and very sensitive to spirits who had passed on. At that time I didn’t know how to explain what I was feeling, or why I felt called to the unknown or occult teachings. I had to learn for myself. I began to read a lot of esoteric books and I met many witches and healers on my journey.
(Bri Luna wearing the Good to Go High Neck Seamless Bra and Leakproof Dream Short in Black)
I stepped into this work by sharing with my community. I stated making teas and giving tarot readings at local markets, the rest just fell into place. To this day I'm continuously learning and evolving my craft.
Do you have any witch tips for 2022?
Unapologetic relaxation. Don’t feel guilty for prioritizing yourself, your rest, and your healing. Say “no” to things you don’t want to do without feeling guilty. Life is short, don't waste a single day giving energy to the shit you hate. Get into the habit of deep cleansing your home and aura weekly!
Brag about yourself! What’s the deal with your upcoming book?
My first book is coming out this year by Harper Collins! I don’t like giving away too much (that’s the Scorpio placements in my chart), but I’m very proud of myself and eternally grateful to my Ancestors and my Guides for holding me up and allowing me to walk this path.