Although the usual approach to magick in the West tends to give excessive importance to the external ceremonial or operative elements, it is essential to remember, and to keep at the centre of the magician’s concerns, that the objective of his/her efforts lies in his own internal development, which extends to and involves not only the spirit, but also his body and mind.

The body stands as the first and most important temple for the practitioner of the Arte Magical. Its proper maintenance, strengthening, and nourishment, are unavoidable if there is a genuine desire for ontological perfection and apotheosis. The neglect with which the physical receptacle is conceived within modern Western occultism is undoubtedly one of the most significant problems today. By understanding its grave relevance, it is not surprising why, in the East, it is the initial centre of esoteric praxis, maintaining importance throughout the incarnated path.

To a similar extent, the mind must necessarily be mastered and nourished to provide a suitable channel for the impulses of the Spirit and, in turn, serve as an effective rider for the bodily horse.

We will delve into these quintessential aspects in this discourse, which seeks to lay the necessary foundations within the magical practitioner, so that he/she can not only effectively exercise the Old Craft, but also provide them with the essential tools for sustained long-term success. If their focus remains merely on external ritual aspects, they will be destined for a vacuous and insubstantial practice, puffed up by the mirages of the world, eluding the touch of the divine and triumph in their Great Work.