That’s the thing with magick.
You’ve got to know it’s still here, all around us,
 or it just stays invisible for you.

Charles De Lint

 
Magic vs. Magick

 "Magic" and "magick" are two very different things, though most people would likely stumble if asked to explain how. In truth, it's fairly simple.

"Magic" is the type of entertainment flogged by magicians (think of illusions like pulling rabbits out of hats and purportedly sawing people in half). "Magick," on the other hand, encompasses a series of techniques used to harness energy (both internal and external) to help change oneself and one's surroundings.

  

What is Magick?

 from: The Clever Cupboard

It is a practice  

It is the art of harmonizing with the energies of the universe. It is an understanding of the Earth and everything beyond, no matter how much or how little we use. It’s a practice that has been relied upon for thousands of years; people focused their knowledge and understanding of local fauna, folklore, and beliefs to produce medicines and spells that would benefit themselves and those who were willing to ask for them. To this day, Witchcraft has seen many changes, adapting to the modern age and paving the way for new and more accessible ways to practice. Although we may have different intentions and desires, the heart and soul of Witchcraft remains the same within all of us.

It does not follow a straight path

There is not one single way to practice; you may want to continue the traditions of Witchcraft within your culture, or you may go down a different route altogether; perhaps there is a family grown practice you wish to honor, or you just feel drawn to something that brings out something undiscovered within you; no matter what you choose, they are all valid. Witches can create whatever they wish from what is available to them; they are resourceful and considerate, and so the variety of Witches becomes infinite.

It is explored and practiced by many cultures

Many cultures around the world have their own unique way of practicing Witchcraft; steeped in history and folklore, it’s what shapes the various types of practice that have been built and protected for thousands of years. An example of this diversity is the practice of Hoodoo; originating in Africa, it has no strict form of practice.

It is a gender-neutral term

Although Witchcraft has been seen and stereotyped over the years as a female-oriented practice, it has never truly been that way. It is open to all genders and its term “Witch” is used by all; it is an identity that gives us all power and strength, and it helps us find each other, no matter where we sit on the gender spectrum.

The "K" in Magick

The reason for the “K” is simply for aesthetic reasons. It was added to the end to differentiate it from that of commercial magic. The “K” is completely optional.

Magick vs. Mundane

Magick is definitely not a cure-all, and even though there are herbal remedies available to help aid the relief of certain ailments, it is always best to seek professional help for both physical and mental illnesses. See magick as a way of complimenting mundane medicines; use magic to help make things easier but do not substitute it completely. It is also important to understand that herbal remedies should be handled carefully, and are best done by an experienced herbalist. Always make sure you know exactly what you’re using and how you’re using it. 

What Is Magick? - A Video by Alan Moore

 "Art is, like magick,
the science of manipulating symbols, words or images
to achieve changes in consciousness."