What a terrific store with terrific energy.
You never know what kind of vibes you get at esoterica/metaphysical stores. It drives me crazy to see the same Made in China garbage in every store. Des Balances, tucked away in a little alley near Bellevue, has some pretty interesting things, including hand made books for your grimoires, singing bowls, lots of candles, stones, and oils. She carries some very unique books and cards. Some gorgeous jewelry I've never seen elsewhere, and hand made runes! There were also herbs, oils, incenses and enormous hunks of palo santo... I've never seen huge chunks of palo santo in my life. Everything she sells she sells with care. Who wants to use stones mined by children or incense made by the hands of someone who is being taken advantage of? That wouldn't be good.
Anyhow, I didn't need a consultation or anything. I was just looking for a book, though I found a set of cards. She did help someone out while I was there. While I took care not to listen, I did notice the generosity with which she gave her time and expertise.
The coverage of stuff is pretty eclectic: general hermetics (and Rosicrucian-types of things), Buddhism, flavors of witchcraft from Wicca to fans of baphomet, Egyptian, angels, and European shamanism. Obviously reading German is a plus, but there are a number of English books to hand and I feel confident she will do her best to get a book/card deck for you if you ask.
Sure, it's more expensive than places that stuff their online stores full of junk. It's zürich. The rent must be astronomical. But if you need a little something for your little something-something, go visit. If you need a consultation, go visit. You can't get a more generous spirit than the owner. Do you make unique products with positive vibes with a metaphysical focus? Go talk with her!
This is a hidden gem in the city.
I really was surprised by the super positive energy. read more