Ancient Ways has such a sparkling vibe: but my favorite part of Ancient Ways is the opportunity to do a tarot reading with Bear Paw! I love being able to receive wisdom both from indigenous Bear Medicine and the orishas of Santeria. Bear Paw's multiracial lineage gives them a fresh approach on spiritual questions. But the best part is the way Bear Paw supports me through making needed changes in my life. It's rare to find spiritual support that is both compassionate AND forceful, and Bear Paw is definitely both. That's the magic of Bear Medicine, I guess. When you think about it, in nature, bears are fuzzy and adorable-- but they are also HUGE and STRONG. So be prepared for that strong Bear Medicine, okay? It's a good thing! Sometimes it takes a bear to push me off my ass and make me deal with my shit. We all need that, right?! Over the years, Bear Paw has helped me navigate my father's death, the reconstruction of my sexual self-image following a nasty divorce, and most recently, preparing for new partnership and motherhood. If you are navigating a challenging transition, Bear Paw is a powerful guide to have. I also love the way Ancient Ways will dress your candles for you and help you get whatever you need while staying within your budget. It really is so affordable. All my altar candles are Ancient Ways at this point I think. read more

I've been coming here for almost two years. The staff is great, but Bear Paw is the GOAT. I have a strong connection with her. Her candle dressing skills are incredible. Once, she put a car in my candle; I asked how she knew I was trying to buy a new car. She said she felt it. I've been burning candles with the intention of buying a fully loaded MY performance. Two weeks later, I was approved with a 1% interest rate, and I'm now driving my new car. Just so you know, these things don't happen overnight; I've been burning candles every full moon since September 2025. On June 19th, 2026 Bear Paw brought the candle to its final stage, and my thoughts came to fruition. I'm now working on freeing myself from all whom try to have Dominance over me. I'm confident I will soon be free of these strong holds and forces and I will use them all as my foot stool. I love Ancient Ways and I love me some Bear Paw. She works on Thurs & Sunday. Tell her Nube said hi. read more

I love this place. I recently returned after a long hiatus. I love their homemade Florida water and candles. The service is really great, and pricing is very affordable. Lily dressed this beautiful candle for me. Thanks again!!! read more

Ancient Ways - Spiritual Shop Near Me - Oakland, California

Wow! I just visited Ancient Ways for my first time and I am awed by so much healing energy in this small shop. I recently met Bear Paw who introduced me to this place and it lives up to its reputation. Such a rich collection of herbs and an enchanting array of crystals and minerals. And these aren't just run of the mill crystals-- these are unique specimens, including many varieties I had never seen before. Bear Paw made a herbal tea blend tailored to my personal health needs while I shopped and found some crystals I just couldn't leave without. I was feeling drained and the positive energy of this place and the staff was just the boost I needed today. This is a true oasis of healing in the heart of Oakland. Seekers, crystal lovers, and all seeking wholeness and health-- I highly recommend Ancient Ways!! read more

Ancient Ways - Crystals - Spiritual Shop Near Me - Oakland, California

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An excellent variety of books, candles, crystals, herbs, and whatever else you might need for your practice. I arrived at Ancient Ways looking for candles + protective dressings for a cord-cutting. There, I decided to feel out the energy of the space and its proprietors first and browsed their book selection. There were a couple patrons browsing the store, and a few who stopped in who seemed to be like happy, regular patrons. Definitely a green flag! Their literature offerings turned out to be amaaaazingly diverse, from Nei Gong energywork to Native American medicine gardens to astrology, spellwork, dreamwork, etc. What distinguishes this store from others was the selection of BIPOC authors -- in my experience, metaphysical stores often have selections that feel all to eurocentric, or on the other side of the spectrum, exoticizing of indigenous knowledge -- but this was not the case for Ancient Ways. Some of the more unique offerings were Blue Moon waters and herbal mixes, made by Bear Paw. Before checking out, my friend felt drawn to some of the crystals in the case, and Bear Paw led her through an intuitive selection of the one that was calling to her. After talking with Bear Paw more, I felt that I could open up to them about my situation, and why I felt the need for a candle cord cutting. From there, she recommended that I pick out a bigger candle with colors suited to the particulars of my situation, and invited me to dress it with oils. At first, I was hesitant, because I wasn't sure which practices candle dressing came from and I didn't want to appropriate from any culture. But Bear Paw shared a bit about their own spiritual lineage and what they've learned about the universality of candle dressing, and I felt more ready after connecting that to what I know about my own culture's candle practices. Bear Paw announced the intention and powers attached to each oil. As she spoke, it felt less like an identification of each, and more like she was wishing those things for me. Once we got to my hands-on participation in the candle dressing, I started processing out loud what I was feeling, and she listened deeply. I could feel the warmth and compassion emanating from her. She said some very kind words and hugged me when I cried. Once we finished the candle, Bear Paw asked if I would like some sweetgrass to top it off -- and very generous offering She shared her phone # for me for any questions I had about the candle, and I texted her a few times with questions about ritual, offerings, etc. She was always immediately responsive and generous with her answers. I'm so excited to have found this space in Oakland, and can't wait to return for the workshops hosted by Bear Paw! I believe they also offer readings, and whenever I feel called to such, I will definitely consider them as a trustworthy, skilled, and grounded practitioner to work with. read more

Great candle selection and tarot variety! However their crystals are overpriced. I found the white woman at the store to be cold and judgy. Wasn't a good vibe overall at the store unfortunately. But good thing I picked up an evil eye on the way out ;) read more

This is a nice little shop that has a good selection of metaphysical items, books, tarot cards, dried herbs, jewelry, and candles. I always like checking out the literature when I stop by. I can't speak for the majority of the items. The only thing that has been an issue for me thus far is the incense in the shop- it's so strong that it permeates shop items... I have to figure out how to deodorize the book I bought there (because it smells so strongly of incense that it's giving me a headache when I try to read it)... if you are sensitive to scents, this may not be the best store to visit. I wish they would ease up on the incense, but understand that many customers and staff enjoy it. 3.5 stars read more

this store has been one of my staples for local metaphysical supplies and classes. my personal favorite is bear paw's classes and readings. both are thorough, deep, and and no nonsense. i've had great experiences all around. i am saddened they no longer require masks in store as it was very comforting a local place still took covid seriously. regardless, they have most anything you could possibly need and i love the free candle dressing service. read more

I love this place. I moved to Las Vegas and I could not find anything here . Everything in the shop is great . the staff, the products, the prices. Thumbs up100000% read more

This is a great shop! I like to come in here even when I don't have anything specific in mind, as there are many things to discover. They are always knowledgeable and helpful. I feel fortunate to have such a resource. There is magic in entering a place and joining real people in that place and perhaps choosing something to bring home...from the community. It was nice chatting with Miriam when I recently visited and I bought a book from the excellent selection as well. Also, I never have any problem parking nearby. read more

Ancient Ways is a fun store. Magic and spells. Crystal balls and well stocked bookshelf of spiritual books. Tarot cards and the occult. Good stuff. It is a metaphysical store par excellence with spiritual supplies from books, candles, herbs, incense, oils, jewelry, gems, magical tools, statues, and so much more. They are open 11am to 7pm daily and glad they seem to be doing well in the pandemic. My personal path is more the yogic path and martial arts. I spent three years in India over many Winters and dedicated my life to that path yet respect other paths. This is a cool store and the owners here definitely seem into the traditions available here and am sure are knowledgeable of it. Worth checking out if you are in the neighborhood. read more

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This place is AMAZING!! It has been my GO-TO for all my occult needs for over a decade now. Unfortunately, I've never gotten the name of the proprietor. However, he, his son & the ladies are all welcoming and knowledgeable in their experiences of items or products. They also have the best prices compared to other shops I've been to. I LVE this place! Thank you!!! read more

One of my favorite stores in Oakland. Super affordable in comparison to other metaphysical shops. I've bought a lot of useful items here- but my favorite are the dressed candles, agua Florida soap and a Bali rattle. And the staff is so nice and helpful. read more

Such a beautiful store. I wanted to start the new year off with good vibes, so I picked up some candles here. A very nice person helped me dress them. I try to buy gifts from here because its much more meaningful than shopping at Target, SHOP LOCAL!!! read more

I really hate that the older man who owns the shop scammed me by asking me questions and basically repeated what I told him. Very negitive and feeds off your pain. save yourself the trouble and find another reader read more

Been going for years. Saw one of the white elderly women using micro aggressions at a black lady who works there. It was very uncomfortable and awkward. I don't wish to go into detail about the micro aggressions. Just know that customers pick up on energies and see things as well. I wouldn't be surprised if the black lady would be let go in the future or if she would leave due to the hostile work environment. I know we are all human, and spiritual people can have bad days too but the black lady was being mistreated for doing her job. It may have very well been a difference in work styles but the way the white lady spoke to the black lady was so unkind. She was unkind 3 times within a matter of minutes. read more

very little books for spiritual practitioners of color, as well as lack of queer literature. Herbs also were pretty over priced given the quality. Suspicious of their sourcing of sweet grass and palo santo as well, including where the profits of selling those sacred tools actually go...? Hopefully back to the indigenous lands in which they were acquired. read more

I love this place and honestly, the only reason I don't go more is because they are further away from where I live. I've been told that there was a dark energy here, but considering the place I heard this in and the people who spend a lot of time there and there serious issues with microagressions, manipulative people, etc. I've rethought this place. I took a class there and had a grand time. I also have bought many things there, candles, some dressed and some not, no crystals, but I bought a hemp bracelet with jewels. I also got a tarot deck or two there, I like that you can look through a sample of the deck. They have remodeled and are not as cramped as they used to be. And there is more light now that they seem to be less cramped. Could that be the light. All and all, I like them and am happy to go there when I can. The only issue is the street parking, which is strange, so when in the area and I can get a decent parking space, I'm in! read more

Friendly folks who were kind and welcoming. I appreciated their warmth towards me, especially as a new customer! Prices were very reasonable too and I was really happy with the selection and was happy with the magical items and purchased. I will be back and am grateful for their store! read more

Piss poor service. A few items were over priced The staff was not friendly at all but rather cold and simply stood there leaning on the counter while on the phone no one bothered to ask if I needed any help When I inquired about an item I got a flat and abrupt no with no other assistance I've been a long time customer and I don't think I'll be shopping here anymore read more

Love this place! Been coming here for years with my mother, who also loves this store. It has a nice, bin corporate, homey appeal to it. They have always been well stocked and product knowledge is top shelf. The staff is very kind, friendly and helpful, especially if you need advise on what you are looking for or what you are trying to accomplish. There are lots of books to assist you, too. I truly appreciate this store's presence in the community and the staff, too. Very wonderful place to check out, even if you're just window shopping. read more

This is my favorite occult, wiccan, vodun whatever other terminology store you can think of! I was born and raised in the Bay and always knew this store existed, and I have visited previously due to my mother buying dragons blood from here and other incense on multiple occasions, but unfortunately, I was a kid and had no money. Every time I have visited since then, I just haven't had the funds on me to buy anything. I went back last week and actually got to shop and I was so happy! I spoke with a man there, I asked him about vodun/hoodoo as that is something I am looking into. I have always been a super spiritual person, but ever since becoming an adult, and working and school, I find that part of me lessened and lessened the older I got. Which made me sad. I asked him and he immediately acknowledged he being a white man, it was not is religion. But he knew enough about it as he was born in New Orleans. He gave me some great book suggestions to get me on my way and some advice! Super great guy and the shopkeepers and staff are super kind and willing to get into interesting dialogue regarding different various occults! Will definitely be returning time and time again! read more

I have been going to Ancient Ways for the past ten-plus years. Over time, several other similar stores have come and gone. One reason they are still in existence is because it is evident that, aside from being a spiritual business, they have a mission of serving the Bay Area community. They do this gracefully and without any pretension! The owners and assistants are always patient, answer every question, and share parts of their spiritual journey with you if you need guidance. I have been at the store at times when mentally ill people came in and caused a ruckus. Even then, the shopkeepers could hold fast to appropriate boundaries while maintaining their professional composure. This in itself is a dying art and something I deeply respect. I hope they are around for years because their knowledge and products are essential to many practitioners. Keep up the excellent work! read more

Loving access to this store! We're so fortunate to have in Oakland. The Proprietors or not as versed as I (my personal opinion) would like them to be on Spiritual Religion but, the products are awesome and they always have what I need. read more

When the new owners took over they completely revamped the place to make it bright and open. Everything is easier to see and get to. The selection is so much better, but still affordable. Even with supply chain issues, there is a good array of candles, crystals, books, and decks, as well as plenty of the herbs, oils, powders, &c the store has always been known for. It really is a one stop shop for reasonably priced, unpretentious metaphysical supplies. The vibe is welcoming and the energy is downright cheery - - you can tell these are folks doing what they love to do. What a difference a change in proprietors makes - if you haven't been in awhile, check it out. For those who can't make the trip to Oakland, they don't have an online store yet, but they do mail order. Visit their website or give them a call. read more

Very knowledgeable. Very welcoming. They had EVERYTHING I needed to help cleanse my friends new home.

One of the last, real, authentic pagan bookshops, and free of the new age silliness of other pretender shops. Here, by simply walking in the door you'll learn so much if you observe their stock, but don't leave with your Amazon shopping list culled from 'showrooming' the place, that isn't fair at all. read more

I have been a customer of ancient ways for many years And haven't been there since moving out of the area although two staff members were very nice there was a women with long grey hair which was very nasty and watched me the whole time I was shopping I didn't like the feel of her attitude I did not buy all that I wanted to because I felt disrespected and policed I never got that from any other employees at ancient ways this was a friendly place and most if not all supplies can be obtained directly from lucky mojo for much less i chose to patronize ancient ways I will not do so again read more

Don't let the looks or location of this place fool you, this place is a hidden neighborhood gem! I love coming here when I need a spiritual boost in work, love, life. There is a candle and dressing for nearly everything and I love their selection of oils and tarots as well. Staff is knowledgeable and prices are great. Support local business- shop here! read more

Been a patron of this magical business for years. We got our home through wonderful prayers and their candles,they have books, and oils, crystals, name it they got it. I'm so glad this business exist read more

I had a horrible experience coming into Ancient Ways today. I was not expecting to be met with rudeness and lack of customer care. I went in to buy a good friend of mine a birthday present. I've been coming here on and off since I was a kid and never have I had an experience like the one I just did with the angry lady who works there. I had to walk out as I was that upset with her rude way of speaking to me. I will not be going back, sad to say because I grew up going here (grew up going here with the friend I came to get a present for). Never again will I shop here. read more

Not a very comfortable experience. The man I spoke to was very knowledgeable, but obnoxiously so. I left there feeling as though I were stupid for seeking what I went there to find. Over explaining something and using examples of a situation he was chastising all while passively applying it to me. I enjoy opinions and knowledge, but that was a bit much. The store has a wonderful selection though. Just not a good vibe for me, I would encourage everyone to go in and check it out based on the selection and who knows...your experience may be better! read more

They have just about everything you'd need in the way of ingredients! Ill be honest, i had some relatively low expectations in the way of them having what i needed but luckily they had everything I needed! I was so relieved to see it, so of course I bought it immediately. I know now, they'll have what I need for the future. They have a wall FULL of things you'd likely need. They have different size options as well. They carried dry ingredients and oils. Both have a grand selection. read more

I came here with a friend today. We picked up some crystals, they have a great selection, along with everything else you could need. The people that work there are very sweet and helpful. They were welcoming but not overbearing which I personally really appreciate. They have tarot readings available as well, Don is the one that did our readings today and he was great. Very insightful, honest, and thorough. I definitely recommend the shop, if I could give them more stars I would! read more

Love that the store is open again and that they've kept to being an affordable and just more fulfilling and lovely alternative to hoity toity spiritual shops. I love the selection of books, candles, incense, herbs, well everything! I recently found a great evil eye necklace that didn't break the bank like it would at other shops and I appreciate that the owners keep it real and seem to be in for community. Will always make my way here if in need of any tools or gifts. read more

Very helpful They really want to help And share their knowledge I will come back and refer I highly recommend read more

Absolutely one of my favorite, if not my absolute favorite, local mystic shop. They have great prices for oils and candles and a large assortment of both. They are always helpful and friendly. They often have unique things you can buy that really add to any alter or mystic space. They have a great assortment of incense, candles, herbs, oils, books, crystals, sage, and more. Great jewelry as well. Limited pendulums. All in all, this is the place is fantastic and worth stopping by. read more

Ancient Ways - Spiritual Shop Near Me - Oakland, California

Dusty, quirky and cluttered windows of Ancient Ways don't exactly call out a friendly welcome -- but inside you will find many fascinating bric-a-brac. I stopped in here looking for crystals and gemstones for a friend who lost his collection off a moving truck years ago. They have occasionally had some pretty bits - I got a lovely sparkly amethyst cluster -- but the overall selection of stones & crystals isn't very exciting to me. I can't speak to the rest of the shop as I'm an atheist and mostly poke around looking for pretty rocks for my friend - but it's definitely a slice of life, more like Berkeley than Oakland. Worth popping in to check out. read more

Came in for the first time about two weeks ago after knowing about it for months. I'm so happy that they've opened! I checked their website and called in for the herbs I was looking for. The person who answered was very kind and patient. When they confirmed what I needed, I came in and was met with the same kind hospitality and wonderful customer service I received on the phone. Everything was organized and easy to find. The shop was very clean and the shopkeeps had masks on and had hand sanitizer available. They had recently opened the shop after months bc of COVID so they had low stock on a few things. However I was able to obtain what I needed through their thoughtful advice and knowledge. They are in process of restocking items now that they opened. I love this place and I'm excited to come back when I need more items read more

Great shop with friendly service!! I don't live in Oakland but I was visiting for the day with my husband. We thought we were going to be at the zoo longer than expected. So he suggested checking out a crystal shop. Unfortunately a few of the shops were closed but we saw that Ancient Ways was still open. Glad we stopped in because I purchased some really cool unique items. I am obsessing over the tourmaline/quartz point, lovers candle and handmade runes pendant. read more