Psychic Witch: A Metaphysical Guide to Meditation, Magick & Manifestation

by Mat Auryn, Devin Hunter (Foreword)

Uncover the Secrets to Becoming a Powerful Psychic Witch

Popular writer and witch Mat Auryn reveals his most closely guarded tips, practices, and meditations for unlocking your psychic abilities and elevating your witchcraft into exciting new territory. Featuring over ninety exercises, this groundbreaking book helps your magick and your senses reach their full potential.

Witchcraft and psychism are two sides of the same coin--they complement and strengthen one another. Psychic Witch provides everything you need to not only master the perception and manipulation of energy, but also to perform magick anywhere and at any time. This ingenious book teaches you how to use subtle energy in new ways and manifest your perceptions into instant magickal results.

Genres: Witchcraft, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Occult, Magick, Magic, Paganism

228 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2020

About the author

Mat Auryn is a witch, professional psychic, and occult teacher. He is the multi-award-winning author of the international bestselling book, 'Psychic Witch: A Metaphysical Guide To Meditation, Magick, and Manifestation'. He is a High Priest in the Sacred Fires Tradition of Witchcraft. As a psychic witch, Mat has had the honor and privilege of studying under some of the most prominent witchcraft teachers, elders, and witchcraft traditions. He runs the blog For Puck’s Sake on Patheos Pagan, is a content creator for Modern Witch, has a column in Witches & Pagans Magazine entitled 'Extra-Sensory Witchcraft', and a column in Horns Magazine. He has been featured in various magazines, radio shows, podcasts, books, anthologies, and other periodicals.

To find out more about him and his work visit www.MatAuryn.com or follow him on instagram or twitter @matauryn

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my main qualms with reading books on witchcraft as a beginner who is tepidly exploring this path is coming across collections of spells that list out ingredients and chants to perform for various desired outcomes. I look at the process and think, "Really? That's it?" I'm sure they are very valuable resources to those who are already aligned on their path and who already have a working practice; but they always feel empty to me, missing the elements that I resonate with as sacred in my understanding of the universe. I was very, very pleased to discover that this book is far away from those types of "cookbooks".
In "Psychic Witch: A Metaphysical Guide to Meditation, Magick & Manifestation", Mat Auryn provides a valuable resource detailing his perception on the metaphysical structure of the human energetic bodies, the cosmology of the universe, and the psychic senses. He goes through each clair-sense, describing what it is and giving exercises to help attune you to each. He does not neglect the importance of energetic protection and self-care: first clearing and tuning in to your state of altered consciousness, followed by closing down and grounding once a working is complete.
The later chapters of the book are what really impressed me: drawing correlations between the steps of a successful magical working to the energetic layers of reality that exist within the auric field, a theory that working with yoga and Ayurveda has familiarized me with. He includes the importance of astrological resonance, which is one of the spiritual tools I am most comfortable with. I also wholly appreciated Auryn's attention to linguistics, examining the root meaning of words that we throw around every day and shedding a deeper significance on the evolution of our language and the intangible, ethereal concepts that we are attempting to describe.
Auryn's presentation of multidimensional manifestation was able to open up my understanding to magical working and spell craft in a way that no other book has. There are several examples of specific spells, but what I found most valuable was the listing of the seven steps of manifestation (corresponding to the various energetic dimensions of reality) and how to align our energy and desire within each realm.
Reading through this book got me excited to begin my own practice, generating a multitude of ideas on how to personalize my craft to fit my own style. I highly recommend this book to beginning and long-time practitioners alike, for it is filled with amazing concepts that are waiting to be explored further. For me, it was the missing piece to magic and spell craft that I was searching for -- uniting a sense of my own personal energy with the the wider cosmology of the world, and teaching me to harmonize and sync up with the energies that are present around me as I learn how to harness my own inherent abilities. Heartfelt gratitude to Mat Auryn for creating such a valuable resource!

[Amy Christensen · Rating 1 out of 5]

Over hyped

I am so glad to have finally finished this book, mostly just so that I can say I read it and can direct people away from it. My experience with the author on social media has been pleasant. He comes across as kind, helpful, and authentic. That said, I found his writing to be cluttered and inexperienced.

This work failed to live up to its title. I expected exercises to help me hone psychic abilities. I expected advanced techniques of witchcraft. I received neither. I have seen these ideas presented a thousand times before and I would classify them as new age philosophy and not as anything psychic nor witchcraft. New age material has a place, but I think it is unique from both psychic skill and witchcraft. I do not believe the author had a clear vision of what he wished his audience to take away from his work.

Speaking of exercises, these were just a redundant mess. This should have been better edited. The author would have better served his audience by crafting one to three exercises which best represented the concept he wished to articulate. But instead, the concepts were lost in exercise after exercise (there are over 70) and they completely lost meaning.

I cannot recommend this book. The same exercises are given far more depth in work by Ted Andrews and Laura Tempest Zakroff.

[Teresa Barrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who's been on the journey to finding and exploring my path of spirituality, I found this book helpful and informative.
I've read different books on witchcraft, wicca, psychic abilities and the similarities and differences of working it into your everyday life, but this book felt more detailed and I understood more easily as the author wrote in a more sharing teachable mode than a forceful authoritative mode. I learn better by shared experiences and gain knowledge than by being told, this is how you have to do things, or there's only one right way.
Although there are many books out there by many authors with some I've read and many I haven't read, as of yet, I haven't really seen or read a book that gave a deeper sense of combining the two.
This book gave knowledge and guidance into each of the exercises to better become intune from within yourself and without.
I enjoyed trying each exercise and will continue doing so.
The great thing about this book is that it's not directed to one certain belief system or practice which makes it great for anyone and everyone. It mainly aids into your everyday life in connecting on a deeper level and creating the results we want in a positive way.
I will definitely keep coming back to this book. I also really enjoy the artwork and will hopefully hold a physical copy of this book in my hands soon enough.
Thanks so very much to the author and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book and I'll definitely be checking out more from this author.

[Sheena ☆ Book Sheenanigans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good insights on how to awakened psychic senses and the tools to drive anyone in the right direction. I was impressed by thoroughly explained passages and the numerous exercises included that could be done conveniently at your home, outside or anywhere you must feel comfortable at. This book would be a great stepping stone for anyone looking to dabble into their psychic abilities or to simply learn more about this great phenomenon.

[☘Misericordia☘ ⚡ϟ⚡⛈⚡☁ ❇️❤❣ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Basically, a Book of Shadows with lots of compelling meditation techniques.
Intriguing theories of the 3 souls.

Q:
“To me, the question mark (?) is the most sacred symbol of the witch. For we dare to ask the heretical questions,” writes southern conjurer, witchcraft elder, and faery seer Orion Foxwood. (c)
Q:
Questions are more important than answers. The power of questions and critical contemplation are a driving force behind the development of civilization. Questions have been the singular most important aspect of human existence. I can only imagine our far ancestors asking questions such as why do plants grow, how can I stay warm, why are we here, where did we come from? I cannot help but see inquiry as the driving force behind science, philosophy, religion, and all innovation in history.
Questions have the power to inspire, illuminate, stimulate, create, or destroy. If we want to take on the great mysteries and grow as individuals, witches, and psychics—we must ask questions. (c)
Q:
Who am I?
What is divinity?
What am I?
What is consciousness?
What is holding me back from following my dreams?
What do I believe?
Why do I have this desire?
Why do I exist?
Why does anything exist?
Where am I?
Why do I think this?Why do I act this way?
Why am I feeling this way?
How am I holding myself back?
Why do I treat myself this way?
Why do I treat others this way?
Why do I want to enhance my psychic ability?
Why do I want to perform magick?
What is my real motive? (c)

[Gianmichael Salvato · Rating 5 out of 5]

Required Reading for those Serious Practitioners Interested in Deepening Their Craft!

So my copy of Mat Auryn's book "Psychic Witch" arrived yesterday, and I can tell you that this is a book I highly recommend.

Mat brings into sharp focus the intersection of magick/witchcraft, New Thought philosophy and psychic development, and a bit of solid psychology in a book that I really believe needs to be one of those "required reading" texts for those just stepping on the path, as well as for those who enjoy deepening their practice by engaging new ideas and fresh perspectives.

[Nightshade · Rating 1 out of 5]

I just cannot take this book seriously when it lacks any historical context, focuses on new age ideas, and regurgigates older books on meditation and "how to be a psychic" which have been written for decades. This book is overhyped, is not groundbreaking, and doesn't really have anything to do with witchcraft. I can only think "witch" was added in to appeal to a very particular audience as new age witchcraft has gained in popularity. I am also quite disturbed by ideas of "health scanning" using "psychic" abilities.

[Sarah Esmae Wolfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book for something more intermediate level, it starts out with the basics and goes pretty deep into things. I loved how Mat Auryn explained terms you normally hear in the witchcraft community but only have a vague understanding of them from hearing them in passing. The author goes into depth about what these terms mean and why. I feel like I have a full grasp of what it means to be a psychic and the different types of psychic witches and how to tap into my own psychic abilities. I bookmarked many of the exercises and will be returning to use them many times in the future.

[Latasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I requested this audio book in exchange for a honest review. This book is full of very useful information and exercises to help develop or tune in to your hidden psychic abilities. I think this one would be better read due to all the exercises the author includes. They were great to hear about but it might be aggravating trying to go back and find them in the audio book. I would buy this book for myself or a friend and I would read or listen to more by this author.James Anderson Foster did a really good job reading this book.

[Maria (Ri) · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books that I have read on this subject.

I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book but it sure wasn't this. I really liked how the author gave me a chance to appreciate the journey that I am on. As I read this, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace knowing that I am content with the direction that my spirituality is taking me, especially as it has been decades in the making.

I can tell that the author is an expert in this field and I appreciate all of the expertise that he brings to this book. I really appreciated that it honed in how to use the exercises into channeling into one's second sight. The author wrote this in a way that it resonated with every part of my soul. It was not boring or dry. It didn't seem to be a lecture but instead it was communion for me to savor and hold in my mind for when I needed to have those moments of introspection.

This quote, “When our three souls are aligned a phenomenon occurs called the Witch Fire. The Witch Fire is the energetic elixir of all three of the souls functioning as one unified energy. When we align our three souls, we step into our divinity and our full potential. The Witch Fire is often experienced as an ecstatic state of gnosis, power, and divine love felt as Agape” (location 1973) resonated with me like no other and that is the beauty of this book. I feel like each time I read it and study it that I will glean something new from it.

I highly recommend this book for beginners and experts alike. I already plan to read and practice this book for years to come as well as look further into the list of books and resources that were included in the bibliography.

[Dorian Jandreau · Rating 4 out of 5]

Šitoje knygoje autorius moko atrasti savo psychic galias. Anot rašytojo visi žmonės prarado šias galias atėjus industrinei erai. Tad jas galima susigrąžinti dirbant su savimi. Kai kurie žmonės jau gimsta įvaldę šias aiškiaregystės galias taip pat kaip kai kurie žmonės gimsta su talentu piešti ar rašyti. Tačiau tai nereiškia, kad negalima išsiugdyti šių galių. Būti ragana/raganiumi ir burti nereiškia, kad tai gali daryti tik tam tikra lytis, rasė ar tauta. Burti ir kerėti gali visi.

Autorius taip pat pateikia mokslinių faktų apie mūsų smegenų bangas ir kaip melatoninas veikia psychic galias. Raganos/raganiai dirba tamsoje su žvakėmis, nes tamsoje daugiau gaminasi melatonino, kuris priverčia mūsų smegenis persijungti į alfa ir teta bangas, kurios siejamos būtent su aiškiaregystės galiomis. Šitai mane labai sudomino.

Kitas labai įdomus dalykas, kad skaitant knygas (ypač fantastines) mūsų smegenys veikia alfa bangomis, kurios naudojamos kerėti. Visa tai paaiškinama lavinama vaizduote, nes skaitant mes matome viską galvoje. Taip pat autorius pasakoja, jog vaikai yra jautresni nematomam pasauliui būtent dėl nesuvaržytos vaizduotės. Šitai mane irgi sudomino, nes mano vaizduotė labai laki ir daug kas sako, kad esu infantilus dėl to, kad kolekcionuoju lėles... anyway, norint lavinti aiškiaregystės galias gali visi ir tam reikia lavinti vaizduotę. O tai galima daryti medituojant, skaitant knygas, leidžiant sau atsipalaiduoti ir pamiršti suaugusiųjų pasaulį.

Autorius taip pat daug rašo apie auras ir iš kokių sluoksnių jos susidaro. Knyga man tikrai patiko, sužinojau daug nežinomų dalykų, kuriuos galėsiu panaudoti.

[Kenya Wright · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wasn't a fan of all the exercises. Perhaps it was because I'm listening on audio while I walk. So I don't want to stop in the middle of a chapter and go talk to the moon. It would have been better if it was full chapters and then a few exercises in the back.
However, I believe many others would benefit from this greatly. it just wasn't for me.

[Eliza · Rating 5 out of 5]

“[T]he words psychic and witch are two very succinct words that evoke very strong thoughts and emotions. To me, these words conjure up a level of adeptness and power within their respective realms.” - Mat Auryn, Psychic Witch

Mat Auryn’s Psychic Witch seeks to bridge the gap between psychic abilities and modern witchcraft techniques.

It’s easy to find books on psychic abilities, including many on how to hone your own second sight. In a similar vein, you can also find plenty of books on witchcraft of all sorts.

Precious few titles delve into the overlap between these two subjects, however. Many witchcraft books only address the issue of second sight in passing, and most psychic guidebooks tend to avoid any association with witchcraft.

I consider Psychic Witch an extremely relevant work for today’s occult community. Psychic development deserves a stronger place among the witches’ toolkit. Hopefully this book will also help those involved in psychism and mediumship to learn more about witchcraft itself.

Auryn was initiated into the Black Rose Tradition of witchcraft, and also received the title of priest in the Sacred Fires Tradition. He writes a lively column for Patheos Pagan entitled “For Puck’s Sake”. I enjoy reading his column, and was excited to receive a review copy of Psychic Witch, his debut title.

Auryn writes with a refreshingly fluid style. Psychic Witch is neither incomprehensibly dense nor watered-down. Beginner witches will find it very readable; intermediate and advanced practitioners will find uncommon nuance here.

Ideally, the reader of Psychic Witch should have moderate familiarity with occult terminology and the logic of the supernatural. An established practice is not necessary, though, and it’s written in an understandable fashion for those just beginning their journey.

It pairs well with a lot of the works of Devin Hunter (who wrote the introduction), and I think it would be great read alongside (for example), The Witch’s Book of Mysteries. This isn’t necessary, though - while it complements the information found in such books, it does stand on its own very well.

Novel ideas comprise a quite significant part of what Auryn has to say in this work. I particularly found his theories about sleep paralysis and how it relates to the astral double fascinating and unlike anything I’d ever heard.

There are other occasions in Psychic Witch where he provides an unusual perspective like this, and I see them as interesting and useful contributions to gnosis overall.

As I’ve said, I consider this book appropriate for most beginners; however, it’s peppered with work that prepares one for more advanced techniques.

Many subtle passages have a sort of dual-meaning, and will have extra significance for those who’ve a more intermediate or advanced perspective. For example, Auryn writes,

“When our three souls are aligned a phenomenon occurs called the Witch Fire. The Witch Fire is the energetic elixir of all three of the souls functioning as one unified energy. When we align our three souls, we step into our divinity and our full potential. The Witch Fire is often experienced as an ecstatic state of gnosis, power, and divine love felt as Agape.” - Mat Auryn, Psychic Witch.

In some ways, that passage describes a technique suitable for a beginning witch. On another level, it contains what seem to be veiled instructions for a much more advanced operation. I quickly realized it was the same concept I’d met under different terminology, previously, but am only now beginning to fully grasp.

It’s far beyond the scope of this book review to explain what’s being taught in those passages. A parallel concept is the “black fire”, or certain degrees of “Kundalini awakening”, which may be sufficient hint.

If you truly take this book to heart, expect the meaning of terms like “Witch Fire” to grow alongside you and within you.

Indeed, the Witch Fire will take on a significance you could not have anticipated.

All things considered, I rate this book five out of five stars. I recommend this book to witches of all levels seeking to deepen their experience of second sight.

To be released on February 8th, 2020, Psychic Witch can be purchased on Amazon, or directly from the publisher. Much thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a galley copy!

Blessed be, and may our magic flourish!

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Psychic Witch - Mat Auryn

One of the most highly anticipated and my prediction to be one of the most successful books of the year is the Psychic Witch by Mat Auryn. I caught my breath when I saw the announcement for this book to come out several months ago because it's a topic that I knew many were looking for more information on and I was so excited to see that Mat going to be the one to deliver that information.

If you've been looking to learn more about being psychic Mat gives you a front row seat to one of the most wonderful classes I have ever had the opportunity to take part of. While this is a book you feel like you are right there with him as he guides you through information and exercises designed to help you work on your intuitive skills. I've been lucky enough to have a lot of the same teachers as Mat and I loved watching their influence on his craft come through in the pure labor of love that he has given as a gift to everyone. This energy, this commitment, his love and expertise is what I believe will make this one of the top selling books of the year.

You have the opportunity to work with what I consider to be one of the top teachers in the Metaphysical world today. If you take the time to work through all the exercises and information in this book I am quite confident that you will love this book and learn a lot from it. It doesn't matter if you are experienced or just starting down this road he truly has something for everyone. Mat is going to take you on a journey that will be a wonderful influence on your personal craft and path in life. I think this is a book that should be included in every witch's library.

Have a magickal day!

Much Love and Many Blessings,

Jasmeine Moonsong

[Joe Pagani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I pre-ordered Psychic Witch back in August, and thought it would be easy to devour it; I couldn’t have been more wrong. What Mat Auryn has written is a future cornerstone of the metaphysical canon that is all at once informative, supportive, challenging, empowering and educational. It requires slow, thoughtful reading and exercise that helps strengthen the innate psychic power in us all; and if you stick with it, it will strengthen.

Mat’s authorial voice is clear and direct; but also perfectly times his reassuring comments to quell the natural doubt about our own power. He is able to synthesize the best tools of the craft and present it in a way that both honors the occult revolution in the West, and reinvigorates it and presents it for the current moment.

I was tearful by page 12 and am still finding treasure on each page. I cannot recommend Psychic Witch highly enough, and an essential for any library.

[Liam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book for the most part but as with most witchcraft books
It references kabbalah in its sources, which is a closed Jewish practice as well as other possibly questionable sources
However the excercises are wonderful for improving your magic qnd psychic abilities, as always read critically :)

[Bimal Patel · Rating 3 out of 5]

My curiosity got the best of me when I picked up this book to review. I have always bordered on physical and metaphysical depending the station of my life is in at that moment. I recently came across a book called Initiated: Memoir of a Witch which piqued my interest in the current book Psychic Witch by Mat Auryn. These days yoga and medication has been gaining great traction given the current chaos we find ourselves in with regards to personal and professional life. The front end of this book is highly dedicated to meditation techniques and may I add in depth. The qualities needed to enhance your psychic powers can surely be awakened through meditation where one can get good insight of one's self and the surroundings couldn't agree with the author more. At the least you can get some peace regardless if you want to achieve psychic abilities or not. The book gets a little weighty as you continue with little more metaphysical contents than to my comfort.

[Alan D.D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great guide on how to develop your psychic abilities. I liked how Mat kept a calm tone while explaining everything to the littlest detail, not to mention the impressive amount of exercises he included. This book is perfect for anyone who wants to perceive what is not seen with just two eyes.

[Kater · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ich kann leider keine dieser positiven Rezensionen teilen. Doch beginnen wir zumindest mit dem positiven: Mit diesem Buch hat man wirklich einige anstrengende und aufregende Tage vor sich, denn es ist randgefüllt, man könnte beinahe sagen, überfüllt mit Übungen. Es handelt sich daher eher um ein Praxisbuch als ein Lehrbuch. Was es gerade für Anfänger äußerst interessant macht, da es spielend leicht in die Praktik der Meditation und Ritualpraxis einführt. Das Buch vermittelt das jede:r zum:zur erfolgreichen Hexe:r werden kann, wenn man nur bereit ist zu lernen. Auch für schon erfahrenere Hexen kann das Buch helfen die Basics wieder mehr zu verinnerlichen. Schließlich ist die Praktik kein Sprint, sondern ein Marathon. Die Übungen selbst sind äußerst zeitintensiv, jedoch auch sehr interessant und meist wohl überlegt. Allerdings sind sie oft sehr visuell gehalten. Als jemand mit Aphantasie wird man mit diesem Buch wohl eher weniger Freude haben. Leider ist das nicht mein einziger negativer Punkt.

Mat Auryn hat offensichtlich ein gesundes Selbstbewusstsein und neigt zur Überspitzung, beziehungsweise teilweise sogar zur Mystifizierung. Wenn man beim meditieren am Anfang einschläft so ist das eine normale Reaktion des Körpers auf den Entspannungszustand, den er vielleicht im Alltag nicht gewöhnt ist und nicht etwa, wie Auryn behauptet, ein Zeichen, dass man mehr übersinnlichen Kräfte/höhere Energien besitzt als andere (wie auch Auryn selbst nach eigenen Worten) und das Einschlafen sei dann ein Selbstschutz (S. 25, 26). So eine Aussage spaltet Hexen unnötig in mehr und weniger qualifiziert und ich sehe keinen Nutzen darin, außer dass Auryn sich hier zwischen den Zeilen als sehr talentierter Hexer darstellen konnte. Wissenschaftlich gesehen ist das Buch oft nicht auf dem neustem Stand. Zwanghaft wird versucht Wissenschaft mit dem spirituellen zu verbinden, das wirkt im Endeffekt albern, besonders wenn man etwas über Quantenphysik versteht und bei Auryns kläglichen Versuch diese in seine Definition des Universums zu dichten (S. 137) nur lachen kann. Wissenschaft und Spiritualität können unabhängig nebeneinander stehen. Sie müssen nicht zwanghaft fusioniert werden.
Auch das Hören von Stimmen sollte immer zu aller erst schulmedizinisch abgeklärt werden und wird wohl nur in den seltensten Fällen ein Zeichen der Hellhörigkeit sein (S. 66). Das selbe gilt für Schlaflähmung (S. 187). Auryn bezeichnet dies als schlichte Astralreise, dabei kann es Symptom einer tiefgreifenden Bewusstseinsstörung oder sogar eines Gehirntumors sein. Und muss daher immer ärztlich abgeklärt werden! Es ist nahezu fahrlässig, wie womöglich schwere Erkrankungen hier als spirituelle Talente dargestellt werden und lässt mich an dem Altruismus des Autors ernsthaft zweifeln. Auf S. 133 soll ein Anfänger die Heilung anderer durch Handauflegen lernen. Eindeutig wird hier auf Reiki angespielt. Reiki ist aber keine Anfängerübung und gehört auch nicht in ein Anfängerbuch. Mitunter sucht man vergebens nach dem Hinweis, dass der:die Heiler:in sich selbst auch schützen und danach reinigen muss!
Viele Praktiken die Auryn in diesem Buch teilt, kommen außerdem aus unterschiedlichen Strömungen des Wicca-Bereichs. Dies liegt allein schon daran, dass Auryn selbst Teil von Black Rose Witchcraft, Cabot Tradition of Witchcraft und dem Temple of Witchcraft ist. Dies ist ja auch erst mal nicht schlimm, wenn dies denn offen kommuniziert werden würde. Jedoch ist stattdessen die Rede von „traditionell unterteilen Hexen…“ (S. 63), wicca Traditionen werden also als allgemeingültig dargestellt (zB law of the three S. 131; Cone of Power S. 183; S. 195 gesamt).
Besonders bezeichnend empfinde ich es, dass Auryn offen für Temple of Witchcraft wirbt (S. 182). The Temple of High Witchcraft ist zwar ein (wenn auch sehr abgedrehtes und wicca lastiges) interessantes Buch, aber der Autor Penczak ist kritisch zu beäugen. Er führt den Temple of witchcraft an (welchem auch Auryn angehört). Diese Organisation verlangt Geld für den Eintritt und mehr Geld für das Aufsteigen der einzelnen höheren Hexerränke. Es gleicht dem Prinzip von Scientology. Jede:r muss selbst entscheiden was er:sie von solchen Machenschaften hält. Ich finde es steht en contraire zu einem Buch, was ansonsten Balance und Gleichheit predigt… Doch mit Gegensätze hat es dieses Buch ohnehin. Auf S. 193 wird dann ein Geldzauber vorgestellt, dabei wurde auf den Seiten davor stets gepredigt, dass Magie Balance heiligt und von nichts nichts kommt. Beim Geldzauber bedeutet dieses Prinzip anscheinend nichts mehr. Man sucht vergebens eine Warnung, dass dies auch unschön enden kann (Familienmitglied stirbt —> Erbe etc). Stattdessen liest man als Vorschlag „ich wünsche mir genug Geld, um meine Miete und meine Rechnungen bezahlen zu können und noch 1200 Dollar übrig zu haben.“ Das nenne ich mal Balance.
Einen weiteren Widerspruch findet man auf S. 203, dort wird ein Zauber vorgestellt, der Menschen aus der Umgebung vertreiben soll. Vorher hieß es noch auf den Willen anderer mit Magie ungefragt einzuwirken, sei Schadensmagie und dies dürfe man unter keinen Umständen tun. Also was nun?
Am kritischsten sehe ich jedoch, dass Aleister Crowley in diesem Buch als Prophet hochgehalten wird (S. 195, 196). Crowley war ein Rassist, der glaubte verschiedene menschliche Ethnien [ mit seinen Worten „Rassen“] existieren aufgrund der unterschiedlich starken Willen und dem Zweck der Seele; er schrieb das antisemitische Buch „The jewish problem“; lebte sich in selbstwerterhöhende Rollen; gab sich selbst alle seine Titel/Rollen; war sexistisch und misogyn; hat mehrere seiner Jünger:innen sexuell belästigt und zwang seine Anhänger:innen zum Drogenkonsum. Die Erkenntnisse, die er in seinen Jahren nieder schrieb und die uns zugegebenermaßen bis heute nutzen, machen seine Taten nicht wett. Das allerletzte was Crowley für mich ist, ist ein Prophet. Dass er in diesem Buch so dargestellt wird, sollte alles über den Autor sagen.

Was ist also mein Fazit? Nun die Übungen sind für Anfänger wirklich schön. Man sollte nur aufpassen, das man dabei nicht am Ende in irgendwelche kritischen Strömungen fällt. Die Verweise auf diese Strömungen sind zahlreich, aber subtil. Die Frage ist letzten Endes ob man ein Werk vom Künstler trennen kann - ich kann es nicht wirklich. Zugegebenermaßen bin ich aber auch äußerst kleinlich und manch andere würden die unterschwelligen problematischen Aussagen wohl gar nicht bemerken. Doch das ist ja das gefährliche an diesen Strömungen, sie ziehen einen langsam an und bis man merkt, dass man im Strudel ist, kommt man nicht mehr raus. (Dramatisch formuliert, aber ich stehe dazu).
Für den bloßen Inhalt und den Autor gibt’s 0 Sterne. Für die Übungen abgetrennt von allem anderen würde ich 5 vergeben.

[Rini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, this book could be a textbook for a course on spellwork. So many books focus more on the right combination of ingredients, but they neglect the key element in magic: YOU. Mat Auryn brings you back into the practice of magic as an active piece. (Which shouldn't you always be?)

Some of the lines of thought and practices aren't for me. And that's ok. "When we get too hung up on one particular model of ourselves or reality itself, we stunt our growth, what's accessible to us, and our possibilities." - pg 182. Whether this perfectly aligns to your tradition or not, I do personally feel that anyone can use Psychic Witch and the exercises within to expand their own practice.

[Claudio Yáñez Valenzuela · Rating 2 out of 5]

¡Me costó mucho terminar el libro de Auryn! Antes de comprarlo había leído reseñar maravillosas del texto pero, una vez en mis manos, me ha resultado arduo de leer, confuso en su ordenación textual y con una tendencia a considerar la mágica práctica como un ejercicio constante de imaginación activa (y poco más). Mezclando varias escuelas de pensamiento y diferentes practicas, su lectura podría resultar estimulante para comenzar en la práctica mágica a personas que no han tenido una formación sólida en el Arte, pero -lamentablemente para mí- su lectura me resultó soporífera.

[Edric Unsane · Rating 5 out of 5]

A phenomenal, concise, masterwork which allows the reader to develope their psychic talents at home and on the go. Good writing, easy to follow exercises, and notations for sources all make this a superb book. Pick it up, read it, and use it!

[Sachi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like several books I read every year, this one came to my notice from a recommendation in a podcast. I also discovered Why We Sleep by Matt Walker and Severance by Ling Ma among others through recommendation lists.
I learned to practice reiki when I was 9 and I have always been fascinated by metaphysics, so a lot of concepts in this book weren’t foreign to me but the things I didn’t know were completely out of the realm of what I have encountered before. Witchcraft is real and alive. The writing is accessible and beginner friendly. I liked it.

[Paige Ovanisian · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Psychic and Magickal Power is Our Birthright"

Being psychic is simply the closeness one possesses in engaging with the subtle energies that surround us, and how we manipulate these energies. Regardless of your natural predisposition with the occult, anyone can enhance their talent with effort and dedication.

A spell is not a spell and a ritual is not a ritual if you are not manipulating energy when you do it. This book teaches psychic techniques through mastering the basics of your spirituality practices, honing your ability to connect with internal and external energies, by training through exercises you can either use as-is or adapt to fit your individualized craft.

Note: This book made me realize that THIS is why I have a great dislike towards the plethora of over-generalized resources and practices out there. INTENT MATTERS. INTENT MATTERS. INTENT MATTERS. It's NOT magick if you are not manipulating energy. It's NOT useful if you are not personally connecting with it. Beginners, it will behoove you to wrap your mind and spirit around what it means to be a real practicing witch, and not just a performative one. This is a great place to start.

While I did not connect with the way many of these exercises are performed, the concepts are pretty powerful and I'm able to practice these in a way that amplifies my unique connection to my magick and my specific energetic self.

Additionally, this is a resource that I can easily pull from while teaching. Although I found some of the content a tad...offputting, overall it was an informative and interesting read that also included several passages on scientific/medical-based spiritual concepts and philosophy that will surely give you something to consider.

eARC provided by Llewellyn Publications via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a baby witch I was looking for a book that would not only introduce me more to practicing magick but also guide me a bit and this book is just great for that! There are lots of different exercises that guide you and tell you why you are practicing them. The book doesn’t feel pushy or pointing at you by saying you have to do this a certain way. I felt good and at ease and of course it takes more than one time to get a hold of the different exercises but when were things ever easy? Especially for a beginner. Highly recommend this book.

[Sheri Maxwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a hard book for me to get through because of all of the exercises that required visualizing. As someone with aphantasia, I go by more of feeling. While I can adapt with most things, many exercises in here I found quite hard to do that adaptation. The ones I could do I enjoyed and found useful. I enjoyed the informational sections more than the exercises. If you can visualize this would be an amazing book I’m sure.

[Marty Pagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant!!! If there were one book to buy to begin your witchcraft path or to elevate your gifts and abilities even for long time witches, this is truly

[Elyse Welles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book I’ll be revisiting again and again. As an initiate of the Faery Tradition I also felt such a close kinship with many of the practices described, and also enjoyed hearing it from a different perspective as the New England branch of our tradition has slight variations.

Mat’s voice as the author was really inviting and approachable. If you feel like you have no experience, are intimidated by developing your gifts, or think you don’t have the ability for psychic gifts, this is the book for you. He allays your fears and excites your intrigue, boosting your confidence to get started.

The exercises are approachable and well-explained, ramping up in difficulty from thought forms to detailed rituals. And all of them are possible with little to no tools, making them accessible for all and reminding witches and practitioners that you don’t need bells and whistles to be an effective psychic witch.

I am excited to use these and return to them! Already a few of these techniques have become regular practices.

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very intrigued by the beautiful cover of this amazing book. As a intermediate practicing witch this book fit my reading and learning style perfectly but could easily be used by a beginner or a more advanced witch just the same. I found this book conversational in nature which meant that is was a nice easy read and less “textbook” then some others. I really appreciated this fact. I love how much insight into daily practice and different psychic abilities there are. I really enjoyed every bit of this book and am planning on picking up a physical copy next trip to the book store.

I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest unedited feedback.

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[Katrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot give enough praise to "The Psychic Witch", by Mat Auryn. Lately I have been feeling off with my practice, my meditation sessions weren't as fulfilling, spells didn't have the outcome I was hoping for, my overall attitude towards witchcraft lacked spiritual balance. I needed a way to align myself with the path I once followed. Then I found this book.

The author suggests you follow this book step by step, one exercise preparing you for the next, and as I began reading, it became clear why the author wanted you to use his book in that way. By exercise four I noticed my self-doubt melting away, my enthusiasm for exploring witchcraft renewed.

"The Psychic Witch", by Mat Auryn not only helps you enhance your psychic abilities, but also encourages you to protect these abilities with numerous self care rituals and meditations.