Working with the hidden world…
No matter what archetype you choose, be it the forces of nature, a “God” of your choice, Christ, archangels, or an archetype (such as dragons). There are certain rules that must be applied to get more than placebo effect.
1- you need to pay tribute to them, on a daily basis! This is done through prayers, offerings, and an altar.
2- your altar can be anything, but it should be exclusively dedicated to the primary force you wish to work with. (Your altar serves the role of being a tangible bridge to the hidden worlds. Using physical and tangible representations of the force you choose to call on.
3- prayers, meditation, or whatever medium you use to connect with them should be done DAILY! Ideally, three times a day (sunrise, noon, and sunset). In the early days of the ritual arts, this was done for a minimum of 40 days, in total dedication! Before even truly working with the spirits or being considered a worthy initiate.
(Sumerian times, the initiation process was a full seven months! Before even being accepted as a student!) I have not only recreated these ancient rituals, but I have performed them! Without interruption!
If you break the cycle of loyalty, one needs to start over again!
*prayers should be in such a manner as to pay respect to them, not in asking them to work with you. Come from a place of giving, not taking!
Upon completion of the assigned days, one can create a proper ritual for working with them (if you need assistance in this, I am available for help!)
In the formal practice, ritual tools are similar to your altar. Tangible tools to serve as a bridge to hidden forces. Think about what tools best represent the desired connection.
Sword or athame: energetic(fire)
Incense: intellectual (air)
Chalice: emotional (water)
Stones or metals: tangible (earth)
The use of a ritual robe is recommended, for the purpose of creating a mindset of your ritual arts being different than that of the mundane world. You can use anything for your robe, but it should be ONLY used for ritual and sacred practice, and should be organic! (Synthetic materials block spiritual energy).
*your items also should not include any iron or steel, these materials also form a barrier.
In working with spirits, patience and commitment are required! These are powerful forces! And should be given respect at all times!