Empowering women through spirituality: The rise of witchy communities

Discover how modern witchcraft is reshaping women's empowerment and healing.

Empowering women through spirituality: The rise of witchy communities

When one thinks of the term ‘witch’, images of broomsticks and cauldrons might come to mind. However, in today’s society, the concept of witchcraft has evolved into a powerful movement focused on self-healing and empowerment. The Witchy Women’s Institute, based in Elgin, is at the forefront of this transformation, offering a safe haven for women to explore their spirituality and reclaim their voices.

Breaking stereotypes: What it means to be ‘witchy’

The Witchy Women’s Institute, founded by spiritual practitioner Sophie Bonadea, has attracted over 500 members, primarily from Moray but also from various parts of the UK and beyond. Sophie emphasizes that the institute is not about the stereotypical portrayal of witches but rather about empowering women to embrace their true selves. “The Witchy Women’s Institute is an opportunity for us to have a safe space and to really reclaim our voice, magic, truth, and light,” she explains.

Many women carry the emotional scars of societal expectations and historical persecution. Sophie highlights that the term ‘witch’ has often been used to silence women who were deemed too loud, too quiet, or simply too different. The gatherings at the institute aim to heal these ‘witch wounds’ and foster a sense of community among women.

A glimpse into the gatherings

Attending a gathering at the Witchy Women’s Institute is an enlightening experience. Women from various backgrounds come together to share their spiritual journeys. The atmosphere is welcoming, with participants encouraged to engage in meditation and share their stories. During one such gathering, attendees were invited to reflect on their reasons for being there, leading to heartfelt moments of vulnerability and connection.

One of the unique aspects of these gatherings is the incorporation of cacao during meditation. Sophie explains that cacao helps open the heart and provides clarity. The emotional freedom technique (EFT), a tapping therapy, is also utilized to help participants release emotional and physical pain. This holistic approach to healing resonates deeply with many women, allowing them to explore their spirituality in a supportive environment.

The journey of the Witchy Women’s Institute

Founded in 2017, the Witchy Women’s Institute has its roots in Sophie’s own spiritual awakening, which began after a life-changing car accident. Having held witch circles as a teenager, Sophie felt a calling to return to Moray to create a space for women undergoing their own traumas and awakenings. “I felt called to return back to the area after 17 years to not only heal my own past but help make right the past of the women here,” she shares.

The institute offers a range of services, including the Moonphase Journey Sisterhood Membership, which aligns women’s spiritual journeys with lunar cycles. Sophie believes that recognizing these cycles can empower women to manifest their visions and embrace their femininity. “It can all sound a little woo-woo yet if you were to talk to a doctor about a woman’s phases through her menstrual cycle, they’d say the same thing,” she notes.

As the Witchy Women’s Institute continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the evolving understanding of spirituality and empowerment for women. By breaking down stereotypes and fostering a sense of community, the institute is redefining what it means to be ‘witchy’ in the modern world.