Harnessing Ancient Energy: The Magic Behind Our Evil Eye Candles
The Psychology and Science Behind Mythical and Crystal Inspiration
I have a great love for history, myths and legends. Hearing and reading stories about people from the past that achieved incredible things, often against all odds. I’m not alone in this, in fact it seems that history many of us are turning to history more than ever at the moment.
Our fascination with myths, legends and the individuals that feature in them, is more than just a love for storytelling - although we love a great story don’t we! There’s actually science behind why we are fascintated but them. We humans are naturally drawn to stories where the hero is pitted against the impossible, overcomes the unjust and even the fact that heroes and gods aren’t perfect and have flaws. From the time in which we painted pictures on cave walls to our modern Netflix obsessions.
Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious
Carl Jung, the famous Swiss psychiatrist, developed the concept of the collective unconscious, which he described as a reservoir of shared human experiences and archetypes. Archetypes are universal, primal symbols and figures embedded in our collective psyche, such as the Wise Old Sage, the Hero, and the Nurturing Mother. The goddesses and heroes of Greek mythology fit into these archetypal roles: Athena as the Wise Strategist, Aphrodite as the Lover, and Medusa as a symbol of transformation and fierce protection.
These archetypes are deeply ingrained in our subconscious and this is where a little magic comes in. We can pull on the strengths, on the energy of these archetypes - these rich, powerful personalities. With a little focus, with right awareness, we can tap into these mythical stories through simple rituals. When we channel the energy of a figure like Athena, we aren't just tapping into a mythical story; we’re activating the qualities of wisdom and strategic thinking within our own psyche. This phenomenon is not only psychological but also neurological.
Mirror Neurons and Visualization
Neuroscience provides further insight through the discovery of mirror neurons. These are brain cells that activate when we observe someone performing an action or even when we imagine ourselves embodying a specific quality. When we visualize ourselves as brave, wise, or loving—using the traits of a mythical figure as a guide—our mirror neurons help us simulate that behavior, making us more likely to act accordingly. Lighting a candle dedicated to a goddess like Hera or Medusa, for instance, can anchor this visualization, making the act more powerful and transformative. This is hugely powerful in practices like manifestation. There is real science behind these practices that we are just starting to discover now with modern science.
Rituals and Anchoring
Rituals, such as lighting a candle or holding a specific crystal, serve as psychological anchors. When we set an intention and anchor it to a powerful image or story, like that of a Greek goddess, we strengthen our commitment to that intention. For example, holding Lapis Lazuli while invoking Hera’s energy can reinforce our inner sense of authority and wisdom. This can be wonderfully powerful when we aren’t feeling quite so wise or confident but we have that all important job interview coming up that we want to ace!
Historical Figures Who Drew Strength from Myths
Throughout history, powerful leaders and influential figures have turned to myths and legendary symbols to bolster their strength, inspire their people, and even legitimise their rule.
Alexander the Great is perhaps one of the most famous examples of a historical figure who drew upon Greek myths for strength and legitimacy. He claimed to be a descendant of Achilles, the legendary Greek warrior, through his mother, and often modeled his own behavior on the heroes of Homeric epics. Before setting out on his conquest of Asia, Alexander visited the city of Troy and paid homage at the tomb of Achilles, asking for the hero’s strength and favor. He even fashioned his image after Hercules, wearing a lion skin to symbolize the demi-god’s bravery. By associating himself with these legendary figures, Alexander reinforced his own narrative as a destined and divine conqueror.
Cleopatra, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, and possibly one of my favourite historical figures - also used mythology to her advantage. She famously aligned herself with the goddess Isis, one of the most revered figures in Egyptian mythology. Cleopatra was often depicted as Isis incarnate, a strategy that not only reinforced her divinity and right to rule but also endeared her to the Egyptian people. By embodying Isis, a goddess associated with fertility, protection, and motherhood, Cleopatra wielded both political and spiritual power.
Queen Elizabeth I, when confronted by men who thought her weak because she was female, strategically presented herself as the Virgin Queen, aligning herself with the mythical and almost divine image of Britannia, a female personification of Britain. By invoking these myths, the monarchy reinforced its legitimacy and the idea of a divine or chosen lineage. Even today, royal ceremonies and traditions are steeped in symbolism and references to ancient legends.
The Modern Appeal and Use of Myth
Today, many people still turn to mythology for inspiration and strength, whether through literature, films, or personal rituals. For instance, in the world of literature, the resurgence of interest in Greek myths has given rise to retellings like Circe by Madeline Miller and the Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan. I’ve even found wonderful podcasts and books by National Geographic (Greeking Out) that my own kids have fallen in love with. These stories continue to captivate us, offering lessons on resilience, self-discovery, and the power of transformation.
Our Evil Eye Candles we born from this. If you have followed me for a while, you may know how when I spent part of my childhood growing up in Cyprus, the birthplace of Aphrodite, that I was heavily influenced by the ancient world. The Evil Eye candles are a love story to the past and strength for our future. They are designed to tap into this same ancient wisdom. By aligning each candle with a specific goddess and crystal, we hope to help you to create a meaningful ritual that draws on centuries of myth and spiritual practice. Lighting one of our candles is more than just a sensory experience; it’s a way to connect with the energy and stories that have shaped human history, infusing your space with the qualities you wish to manifest in your own life.
I will be doing a deep dive into each one, how you can use it and the inspiration behind it. I hope that you fall in love with them like I have. Click the button below to explore the collection.