CONDITIONS CONCERNING MESMERIC SUSCEPTIBILITY

The conditions of mesmeric controls are precisely those favorable to mediumship. A passivity of mind is essential, and this may be the result of a happy, satisfied temperament, or it may be the reaction of grief, joy or other exhausting emotions. Over-exertion is detrimental unless carried to a degree of prostration, where it often spontaneously brings a highly sensitive state.

In general terms it may be said that the condition of the sensitive, or medium, must be one of physical comfort and of health. The room should have the light shaded, the temperature agreeable, and the chair perfectly comfortable. Noise and every form of interruption should be avoided. A dry atmosphere is favorable, while a damp one is unfavorable. As the respiration is greatly affected, if the room is not well ventilated, organic disturbance is sure to follow from non-oxygenation of the blood. The vital powers during the mesmeric state are at a low ebb, and respiration impeded, consequently the purest air should be furnished. Failure to observe this has produced prostration which has been referred to nervous disturbance. Under right conditions the mesmeric state and mediumship are essentially health-giving and restorative processes. In all magnetic treatments for disease or experimentation, when the sensitive or medium becomes unconscious, the presence of a third party should be insisted on.