Magic is an inherent process. Like a reflex, maybe. Our goal, then, is to make it conscious. You have a great advantage in this case, because you have already done something like that once before -- it is much like learning to play an instrument.

[Celestia takes a seat across from Greg, very much the picture of the perfect regal alicorn as her mane and tail drift behind her.]

To play an instrument, you must first learn exactly how to position your fingers on the strings and just how to strike them with your hoof, and then work so that you no longer have to think about what you are doing when you do that. Magic is much the same way.