“In Desoille’s method, the subject lies down with eyes closed in a darkened room. He is asked by the guide to imagine various scenes of rising or descending in imaginal space. Desoille recommends beginning with the images of ascension which he associates with sublimation and evocation of the person’s higher ethical and spiritual tendencies. The images of ascent frequently lead to encounters with archetypal celestial beings and finally to experiences of a mystical nature in which the subject merges with or is surrounded by light.
Desoille believes that such experiences are strengthening and reassuring to the subject, preparing him to face the usually more difficult experiences of descent in imaginal space. The images of descent lead the subject down through holes in the earth or under the sea to encounter archetypal images of animals, monsters and ethonic / underworld entities representing his more primitive, instinctual side. He is encouraged to confront these experiences with courage, and Desoille is not opposed to having the subject destroy his antagonist on occasion.”
