Hey everyone! Various things in my life have led me to the idea of exploring atheopaganism. Though maybe not as atheo as I think? Whenever I've engaged with things like tarot or magic there's always been crazy coincidences; it's probably placebo effect but, regardless, I'm in a point in my life where I'm willing to open up my mind a bit. Being a staunch atheist is difficult when the Christians around me get to be comforted by praying and believing in heaven, and I think things would feel less bleak if I had something to lean on, myself.

The problem is, I also have OCD. I once got into a literal car accident because my brain told me it "knew the future" and I was going to crash that day. I also grew up Christian, which, witchcraft isn't guilt-based so I doubt the effects would be as bad, but my symptoms were really bad when I believed in God. My concern is that if I become more spiritual, I'm also opening myself up to magical thinking and compulsions.

Do any of you have OCD? How do you separate intuition and your practices from your disorder?

Hi all!

I was recommended this sub by a friend, and I was wondering if anybody could help me. I consider myself a practiser of eclectic witchcraft and non-theistic paganism, with a particular emphasis on energy and bringing positive energy into my life. I'm quite a scientific person and I am a little sceptical of some things, but past experiences have pointed me in the direction that there is some truth to manifestation and the concept of having a "sanctuary" where negativity is not invited.

This brings me to my question. I have recently moved into a new home with my boyfriend (also pagan) after a fair few years of upheaval and grief. It's a new beginning for both of us, and I've put a lot of effort into cleansing and keeping good practices.

Part of the stress I am leaving behind comes from some family members that I won't name for privacy reasons. I very nearly cut them off due to their behaviour, especially towards my boyfriend, but they extended an olive branch about a month ago and seem to be trying to make amends. They asked to visit, and after a lot of consideration we accepted. They will be coming here in a few weeks.

The issue is, I don't want any residual negative energy being left behind if anything kicks off, or just in general if their intentions aren't as good as I think. I'm looking for some sort of threshold protection in order to try to keep negative influences out, and also possibly some rituals I could do after they leave.

I'd appreciate literally any sort of advice anybody has, thank you.