Color Me Magical

© Copyright 2024 Fran Carey, All Rights Reserved.

Ötzi the Ice Man, found in the Alps and dated to 3350 to 3105 BCE, sports the oldest tattoos found on human skin. Since he didn't exactly blog about his life, we don't know why he got the artwork, but, given the history of tattoos, it was probably either as a healing method, an initiation, or a rank or caste mark. Traditional peoples around the world use permanent skin decoration for those purposes today. The colorful designs we see on our neighbors at the grocery store are more commonly simply for the beauty, or as a membership sign for a frat, a military unit, or other exclusive group. Some people do still use skin modification for magic.

Magical tattoos can be used to incorporate the energy of a totem animal into the body, a wolf for family and teaching, an eagle for foresight and far vision, a bear for strength. A magical word can be inscribed - "Breathe", "strength", "love", or "trust". Tattoos can still be used for healing. Put healing flowers on the scar from surgery for endometriosis, or for ACL issues. A bright sun for preserving health. A Tai Ji (yin/yang) to maintain emotional and mental balance. Brainstorm with your artist. The list is endless.

When choosing an artist, get recommendations from people whose ink you admire, and talk to him or her before you start. Don't just choose random flash from the wall. Discuss if he or she is comfortable doing a magical tattoo. It's possible they have done many and can add some Reiki or other magical energy as they poke holes in you. Most artists can do custom designs or alter an existing flash or something you printed off the internet. Do ask to see photos of their previous work if you aren't familiar with it from someone else's skin.

Keep in mind, when choosing a design, straight lines are difficult to use, as skin stretches. Also consider how the design will wear as you stretch or shrink, especially with healing tattoos. Follow your tattooist's care recommendations to prevent infection, fading, and bleeding of the lines. Never introduce chemicals not approved for use in the human skin. Tattoo ink isn't what's in your Bic pen. Don't drink alcohol before your session. It makes you bleed more. Do go into it expecting pain. Tattoos hurt!

When getting a magical tattoo, work with your artist to set a sacred space and mood. If he or she agrees, burn some low smoke incense associated with the goal of the design. Listen to music that is soothing or matches the intention. Say your intention aloud before you start and when you finish. Relax and let the magic get under your skin.

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