Treading the Mill

Treading the Mill is a method of raising power through ecstatic movement and trance. By walking a repeated path around a central point the practitioner builds energy and shifts consciousness, entering a state that opens the way for magic, vision, or spirit contact.

To begin, place a candle at the center of your working area and light it. This will function as the central point and will be the object of your focus while raising power. If preferred, you may instead use a flame in a cauldron, a bonfire, or a symbolic item such as a stone or crystal. If you are raising power for a spell or working, consider placing the object of that working (such as a charm, poppet, or written spell) in the center.

Take a moment to prepare yourself. When ready, begin to walk in a slow circle around the center point. You may move clockwise or anticlockwise depending on the aim of your work.1 As your steps settle into rhythm, allow your focus to really hone in on your central object (as close to the point of hyperfocus or fixation as is possible or safe). You may walk in silence or begin a chant. Speak softly and walk slowly at first; increase the speed and intensity of your movement as well as the volume and force of your words.

An example chant may go as follows:

Round and round the millstone turns,
Fire burns and cauldron churns.
By hoof and horn, by fang and claw,
I tread the path, I speak the law.

Three times round, the veil grows thin,
Four times round, the power spins.
Five times round, the spirits wake,
Six times round, the thread we take.

Witches walk where none may see,
In shape of crow, spirit free.
Through hedge and gate, through iron and bone,
The path is trod, the way is shown.

This chant may be used in full, or a single couplet repeated throughout, depending on the depth of your focus or your preference for simplicity.

As the intensity peaks, the outer world may begin to “fall away” or become out of focus. Your awareness may shift inward or outward. Visions, sensations, or spirit presence may arise. If spirits are being called or honored, this is often when they make themselves known.

When the energy reaches its height—or when you arrive at a pre-determined stopping point in your walk—bring the motion to a close. This can be done by gradually slowing your pace or by stopping abruptly, depending on the intent of your working and how you want to release or use the power you’ve raised. If raising power for a spell, release it with a gesture, a spoken word, or a silent surge of will. If seeking insight, guidance, or presence, pause and listen.