Unlocking the Secrets: Consciousness Through the Eyes of a Witch

Kirsten Weiss
Jun 7
4 min read

Today, I want to dive into a topic that’s both ancient and deeply personal: consciousness.

But not the usual kind you might think of — this is consciousness from the perspective of magic with a k, not stage illusions.

If you’re curious about how consciousness ties into the mystery of magic, and how you can boost your own awareness with a few practical steps, then let’s get started.

Why Consciousness Matters in Magic and Mystery

You might be thinking, “Of course, I’m conscious. I’m reading this right now.”

But consciousness is more layered than simply being awake or alert.

There are different levels and qualities to it — and understanding these can change the way you live your life.

In the mystery school tradition, consciousness isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a core principle.

When we let our unconscious mind run the show — unless it’s been carefully programmed — things usually go sideways.

Most of us haven’t had the best programming, so we find ourselves repeating the same mistakes, over and over.

Maybe you keep choosing the same kind of unhelpful partner, or you fall into the same negative habits without realizing it.

That’s your unconscious mind casting spells on itself — spells you didn’t even know you were casting.

Here’s a little secret I share in my mystery novels: people are always casting spells and curses, but usually on themselves and without realizing it.

Ethically, any spell should only be cast on yourself, but that’s a story for another day.

The Chariot: A Metaphor for Consciousness in Magic

One of the most powerful symbols in tarot, especially in the mystery tradition, is the Chariot card.

Plato’s allegory describes the chariot being pulled by two horses — one pulling upward toward the heavens, the other pulling downward toward the earth.

Neither direction is right or wrong; it’s the charioteer’s job to decide where to go and to steer the horses.

Psychologically, these horses represent the subconscious and the superconscious, while the charioteer embodies consciousness itself.

If you’re not in control of your chariot, your spells — your intentions and actions — will go awry.

The subconscious is a powerful tool that can be programmed to transform your thoughts, actions, and relationships.

In essence, magic is about changing the way the world relates to you by changing how you relate to the world.

That subtle difference is crucial.

How to Increase Your Conscious Awareness: Three Simple Practices

Being conscious, truly present, is a skill — and like any skill, it takes practice.

Here are three concrete methods you can start using today to boost your conscious awareness:

1. Active Listening:

The next time you’re talking to someone, try this:

Focus fully on their words.
Don’t think about what you’re going to say next.
Maintain eye contact — or better yet, focus on a spot just above the eyes, like the forehead.
Nod and paraphrase to confirm you understand.

This kind of listening pulls you out of your own head and into the moment.

It’s a wonderful gift to the other person and a powerful way to be more conscious in your interactions.

2. Sensory Check-in

Take a few minutes throughout your day to notice your surroundings using all your senses.

For example, look around and search for the color red — no labeling, just seeing.

Listen carefully to the sounds near you — again, without labeling or judging.

Feel the texture of your chair or the floor beneath your feet.

Smell the coffee in your mug or the air around you.

Then, shift your attention inward.

Feel your feet in your shoes, your toes wiggling if you like, and the energy flowing through your body.

Breathe in and out slowly, sensing yourself as part of your environment.

This practice roots you in your body and your space, making you more present and conscious.

3. Set Digital Boundaries

Technology is amazing — I used it to generate this transcript of my video on consciousness.

But it can also pull us away from ourselves.

Try turning off all nonessential notifications and set limits on your screen time.

Designate tech-free zones, like during meals, at bedtime, or while spending time with your kids.

This helps you stay grounded and prevents your mind from being hijacked by endless distractions.

The Mystery of Consciousness in Your Everyday Life

Consciousness isn’t just a mystical concept reserved for witches or mystery novels.

It’s something you can cultivate every day, whether you’re casting spells or simply living your life.

When you’re more present, the world becomes richer, more beautiful, and yes, more fun.

It’s a little like stepping into a cozy mystery — where details matter, and you’re fully engaged with the unfolding story.

By choosing to be the charioteer of your own mind, you take control of your destiny and the spells you cast on yourself.

And that’s a powerful magic.

Explore More Mystery and Magic

If you’re interested in diving deeper into the world of mystery, magic, and consciousness, check out my Mystery School series on Amazon or visit my website.

These books blend metaphysical elements with cozy mystery storytelling, inviting you to play along with the magic.

Also, if you want to go further on your journey to conscious awareness, I have a guided meditation on consciousness that can help you get started.