Small and portable, omamori charms were originally pieces of wood inscribed with prayers, placed inside an embroidered pouch and sealed. While the power of the charms and the wishes of their owners haven’t changed, temples and shrines are revamping their omamori to meet the changing times.
With the New Year's rush long gone, now’s the ideal time to seek out a few interesting talismans. Don’t forget, though: if you want your wish to come true, it has to be made in earnest to the powers that be, who must also be thanked once it comes true.