This is the most comprehensive and exhaustive guide to how to safely and effectively enter and to exit possessory trance — a voluntary offering of one's body as a vehicle for spirit work. It differs from other forms of trance in that one's "e;normal"e; personality is replaced by a personality that is identified by oneself and one's community as a spirit or a god. The steps leading up to the possession are voluntary, but at some point, the medium relinquishes control to the spirits. Whether this transition is an exchange, a seduction or something darker depends on the training of the person possessed, the nature of the Power and the context and expectations of the culture surrounding it. Paxson explores all aspects of trance possession, including: How to prepare for possessory trance How to enter and exit trance possession safely and what to do if things get too heavy Possessions in the past Saints and Spirits including those found in Afro-Diasporic religions Possessory trance in the Pagan communityThis is a practical book. Each chapter includes two to five exercises that assist the reader in their personal quests for possession.
