Every journey, no matter how long, begins with a single step. This is also true for those starting to explore magical studies.
While the first step in a physical journey is usually obvious, the initial step in a magical journey can be less clear.
Organized groups often provide structured lessons for newcomers. However, those studying alone may feel uncertain about where to begin.
It is common to wonder if it is acceptable to start anywhere or if there is a specific place to begin.
Although you can start your studies in any area that interests you, it is important to first learn how to create psychic shields.
There are influences sometimes described as “Things of the Dark.” These may be explained as ghosts, demons, or even uncontrolled aspects of the subconscious mind.
Regardless of their nature, their effects can feel real. Without proper boundaries, these influences may disrupt your mental well-being.
You are most open to these influences during trance or meditation.
For this reason, experienced practitioners begin by setting clear boundaries—deciding what is allowed through their psychic shields, even in simple rituals.
This process is known as protective magic.
There are several ways to create protection.
The most common method is to draw a circle around yourself or a group and call upon protective powers.
This is often done by candlelight, in front of an altar with meaningful objects.
The circle can be further protected and purified using salt, salt water, rum, incense, or other methods.
Some practitioners wear special robes and perform cleansing rituals beforehand.
After calling on protective powers, the ritual can begin.
Some may wonder if these rituals are purely psychological, or why they take this particular form.
To understand this, it helps to look at the process from a psychological perspective, which can also help refine your practice.
Many psychologists and practitioners view the mind as having three parts: the Ego (your conscious self), the Superego (your higher self), and the Id (the instinctive, child-like part).
The Id functions much like a computer, following the principle of “Garbage In, Garbage Out.”
There is a saying: “As you name something, so will it become.”
If you repeatedly tell yourself you are unlucky, your Id may reinforce negative experiences.
Similarly, if you believe you are clumsy, your Id may contribute to accidents.
The Id does not judge whether these beliefs are helpful; it simply follows the instructions it receives.
The positive aspect is that you can reprogram your Id.
This is done by focusing its attention on your intentions and communicating them clearly.
Repeating instructions, especially in the form of chants or rhymes, helps the Id absorb your goals.
Each repetition of the ritual and chant strengthens this programming.
Even if your conscious mind understands the process, the ritual still works on the Id.
To engage the Id, it is helpful to use special tools and clothing, signaling that something important is happening.
Using rare items, drawing symbols, or making symbolic offerings can reinforce the significance of the ritual.
Organized symbols communicate with your subconscious, supporting your intentions.
Drawing the circle sets a clear boundary: what is inside the circle is under your control, while the outside world remains separate.
Purifying and consecrating the circle—such as by sprinkling blessed water with salt—further defines your protected space.
Only what you invite can enter this area. Calling on specific powers can strengthen these boundaries.
You may choose any protective powers that resonate with you.
Some people use traditional Christian symbols, while others call upon deities from their own beliefs.
Many visualize a beam of light representing a higher power or the positive forces of the universe.
The number and type of guardians you call upon can vary.
You might invoke a single powerful being, a universal light and four guardians for each direction, or simply four guardians for the compass points.
There is no single correct system; the best approach is the one that feels right for you.
Take time to choose guardians that have personal meaning and whose qualities align with your goals.
For beginners, it can be helpful to select all guardians from the same belief system or mythological background, to keep the symbols consistent and avoid confusion.
As you continue your studies, your choice of guardians may change. This is a natural part of growth, as you may need different support for new areas of exploration.
It is not necessary to assume that you will outgrow the need for protective circles, even for positive practices like healing.
An open state is always vulnerable, and circles help define which influences are allowed to work with you, providing both strength and protection.
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