Today we’d like to introduce you to Kassandra Ocasio.
Kassandra, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your account begin?
Growing up in America as a Puerto Rican woman was confusing, to say the least. I always felt like I wasn’t American enough for America and, at the same time, not Puerto Rican enough for Puerto Rico. As a young child, my father would always tell me about the Taino people, our ancestors. Last year, I felt compelled to bridge the disconnect I felt, to find my people and honor them; thus, Karaya Magia was born. Diving into my ancestry and heritage gave me a sense of purpose and gratitude, it felt like coming home. Karaya is the Taino word for moon and Magia is the Spanish word for magic, translating literally to- “Moon Magic.” Inputting the two together, I hoped that it would be a source of healing for the two cultures.
At Karaya Magia, we use the power of the moon to cleanse and charge everything we sell. We believe finding and creating your unique, individual practice is the most important part of your spiritual journey. We sell metaphysical items like crystals, handmade protective talismans, divination tools, altar decor and more to enhance and get you thinking about your practice. All of our paths are different so whether you’re trying to connect with your ancestors, your higher self, or a higher being, you are welcome at Karaya Magia.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being that this is my first time running a small business there have been lots of learning curves. Social media is a big part of advertising so learning algorithms, figuring out posting schedules, content, the perfect product photos, etc. can be difficult but I consider myself to be a long-term student. I learn something new daily and wouldn’t have it any other way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I consider myself a bruja. I read the tarot, oracle cards and make magic with my hands! I make protective talismans with specific intentions, cleanse the products and charge them before shipping them out. I take pride in knowing that if my products are not handmade by me, I know where they come from. Although being creative and sharing my love for crystals is a big part of my business, it’s not the only reason for my business. I wanted a space to amplify oppressed voices, indigenous, POC, LGBTQIA+ communities and help in any way I can. My ideas seem to come faster than my hands can sometimes move so as of recently, I’ve started to branch out into other creative practices like resin and clay as well. In doing this, I hope to create more and more for these communities, with the goal of making them feel seen, safe and heard.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Until I started my first job at The Regional Environmental Council, a youth program for low-income and at-risk youth, I was a very shy and introverted child. That program really gave me the confidence and tools to vocalize what I felt and thought. This is something I still struggle with today but I owe a lot of my progress to this amazing non-profit. My interests were always pretty “nerdy”- reading books, playing Pokémon and singing along to my favorite songs was pretty much my jam.
Contact Info:
- Email: karayamagia@gmail.com
- Website: www.karayamagia.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/karayamagia
- Facebook: facebook.com/karayamagia
- Twitter: twitter.com/karayamagia
- Other: patreon.com/karayamagia
