WICCAN, PAGAN, and NEO-PAGAN THEORIES AND PRACTICES

Wicca is a Neo-Pagan ("Neo" meaning simply "New") religion. Pagan religions are generally earth-based, which is to say based on a reverence for Nature. Wiccans believe that the Divine (the essence of the God & Goddess) is present in everything in existence.

The presence of the Divine is manifest in the natural energy that pervades all of life and in the natural balance of the four elements (Air, Fire, Water, Earth). Wiccans believe that happiness and abundance result from positive energy, and that positive energy flows freely when the elements and the feminine/masculine aspects (Yin/Yang) are in balance.

As in Feng Shui, Wiccan practice is to work within the space desired, adding or subtracting colors, objects, and shapes to the environment in order to achieve and maintain balance. Many Wiccans will also add "sacred spaces" throughout the house, altars or areas where specific energy aspects are gathered to focus the flow of energy to a specific area of life. Rituals and spells may also be used to further focus energy or cleanse the space of negativity.

THE ELEMENTS: Each of the four elements carries correspondences to directions, colors, shapes, materials, and aspects of life. By balancing the energies of the elements in any given space, a strong flow of positive energy can be created and maintained.

NEXT: Wicca: The Four Elements and their correspondences