Unlocking the Mysteries: A Beginner’s Guide to Psychic Abilities

Have you ever had a feeling that turned out to be right? Or a sudden thought of a friend, only to get a text from them moments later? Many people chalk these up to coincidence, but others believe they’re glimpses of something deeper, psychic abilities. This ability saved my life one evening in NYC when I was a teenager.

Psychic abilities, also called intuitive or extrasensory perceptions (ESP), refer to the capacity to receive information beyond the five physical senses. While the topic might seem like a mystery, even silly, many spiritual traditions and modern thinkers agree on one thing: we’re all a little more connected to the unseen world than we might think.

So, let's look at what psychic abilities are, the types you might have without realizing it, and how you can gently awaken or strengthen your intuitive side.

What Are Psychic Abilities?

As I point out above, psychic ability is the ability to perceive information or energy that isn’t available through ordinary means. Think of them as our inner senses, ways we receive insight that bypass logic, time, and/or space.

Some people are born with strong intuitive abilities, while others develop them gradually through practice, meditation, or life experiences that open them up to subtle areas of awareness. The most important thing to understand when building your awareness is to learn to feel what your body is telling you. If you can learn to feel what your body is telling you with practice and trust, you’re right on track. That being said, there are other ways to pick up energy, but listening to your body is the best place to start. You know the phrase, “gut feeling”? This is because the gut is often where we feel it first. Plus, the body doesn’t lie.

Types of Psychic Abilities

Here are some common psychic abilities you may have heard of—or even experienced yourself:

• Clairvoyance (Clear Seeing): This is the ability to “see” things beyond the physical realm. It might show up as images in your mind’s eye, flashes of insight, or symbolic dreams.

• Clairsentience (Clear Feeling): A deep sense of knowing through emotions or bodily sensations. You might feel someone’s emotions as if they were your own, or get a “bad vibe” before something happens.

• Clairaudience (Clear Hearing): This is hearing beyond the physical, like internal guidance, a voice of wisdom, or even messages in music or sounds.

• Claircognizance (Clear Knowing): You just know something without knowing how. It’s the classic intuitive hunch that proves itself right.

• Precognition and Retrocognition: Knowing future or past events without logical explanation.

• Telepathy: The ability to read or connect with the thoughts or feelings of others.

• Mediumship: Communicating with spirits or those who have passed on.

Can Anyone Develop Psychic Abilities?

Yes. Just like musical talent, some people are born with a natural inclination, but everyone can learn the basics and improve with practice. It starts with tuning into your own energy, quieting the mind, and trusting the subtle nudges that we usually dismiss.

Here are a few ways to start:

1. Meditate Daily: Meditation helps you tune into your inner world and makes it easier to hear intuitive messages.

2. Keep a Journal: Record your dreams, gut feelings, and synchronicities. Over time, you’ll notice patterns and validations.

3. Practice with Intention: Use simple exercises, like guessing who’s calling before you check your phone, or pulling intuitive tarot cards.

4. Spend Time in Nature: Nature naturally heightens our sensitivity and restores our connection to intuition.

5. Protect Your Energy: Grounding, shielding, and cleansing your energy are key to staying centered and discerning.

Debunking the Myths

Psychic ability isn’t about predicting lottery numbers or reading minds on command. It’s more like learning a new language—one that speaks in feelings, impressions, and subtle nudges. It also doesn’t mean you’re always “on” or have to be perfect. Intuition is meant to be a helpful companion, not a burden. And no, it’s not evil, scary, or something to fear. Like any skill, it’s how you use it that matters.

Why It Matters

At its core, psychic ability is about a deeper connection to yourself, to others, and to something greater. Whether you call that spirit, energy, source, or the universe, the language is the same: love, awareness, and growth. So, if you’ve ever had a moment of uncanny insight, don’t dismiss it. Your inner senses might just be whispering to you. The question is, are you ready to listen?

Also, protecting your energy is essential, especially if you're sensitive to the emotions, moods, or environments around you. Whether you're an empath, intuitive, or just feeling drained after interacting with others, the practices below can help keep your energy balanced and strong.

1. Ground Yourself Daily

Grounding connects you to the earth and helps release excess energy.

Try this:

• Stand barefoot on grass, dirt, or sand for a few minutes.

• Imagine roots growing from your feet into the earth, anchoring you.

• Take deep breaths and feel your body become calm and steady.

2. Visualize an Energy Shield

Your imagination is a powerful tool for protection.

Try this:

• Close your eyes and visualize a bubble of white or golden light surrounding you.

• This bubble acts like a filter—positive energy can enter, but negativity bounces off.

• Refresh it as needed throughout the day, especially before entering crowded or intense spaces.

3. Set Clear Boundaries

Energetic boundaries are just as important as physical ones.

Try this:

• Learn to say “no” without guilt.

• Limit time with people or situations that drain you.

• Give yourself permission to walk away when something feels off.

4. Cleanse Your Energy

Just like you shower your body, cleanse your aura.

Try this:

• Burn sage, palo santo, or incense (always safely and mindfully).

• Take a salt bath (Epsom salt + a few drops of lavender oil works wonders).

• Use sound, like a singing bowl, chimes, or even clapping to clear your space.

5. Carry Protective Crystals

Crystals can help support your energy field.

Try this:

• Black tourmaline, obsidian, or hematite for protection and grounding.

• Keep them in your pocket, wear as jewelry, or place near your bed or work area.

6. Limit Energy Leaks

Sometimes it's not others, it's our own habits that drain us.

Try this:

• Reduce screen time and social media scrolling.

• Let go of overthinking and people-pleasing.

• Do regular “energy check-ins” and ask: What do I need right now to feel better? Then listen and do.

7. Call Your Energy Back

Your energy can scatter throughout the day. Bring it home.

Try this simple affirmation:

"I call all of my energy back to me—cleansed, cleared, and fully mine."

Repeat it aloud or silently while placing your hands over your heart.

8. Spend Time Alone to Recharge

Especially if you're an introvert or empath, solitude isn't selfish, it's essential. I'm an empath and finding solitude daily is an absolute must. I do this by going for daily (mostly 2'x) walks outside by myself.

Try this:

• Take a walk in nature.

• Create a calm, sacred corner in your home for quiet time.

• Turn off your phone, TV, etc. for a bit and just be.

9. Use Intention Like a Superpower

Your intention creates your reality. Use it wisely.

Try this mantra before stepping into your day:

“I am protected, grounded, and aligned. I choose what energy I allow in.”

10. Trust Your Intuition

If something or someone doesn’t feel right, trust that feeling.

Remember:Your energy is sacred. Protecting it isn’t about fear—it’s about respect. When you protect your energy, you’re better able to show up for life with clarity, peace, and strength.

I hope these suggestions are helpful.

Namaste'

Stephanie