Psychomanteum #

A visionary mirror-gazing chamber for altered states and inner contact

🧪 This technique is part of the Fringe Testing Lab.

Overview #

The psychomanteum is a darkened space designed to induce altered states through mirror-gazing. Popularized by Raymond Moody for after-death communication, the technique has roots in ancient Greek necromantic practices and traditional scrying. The method is simple: gaze into a dimly lit mirror in a controlled space and allow visions, impressions, or emotional insights to emerge.

This is one of those pieces of weird tech that sits at the crossroads of occultism, sensory deprivation, and experimental consciousness engineering. This is enough to make some people run, but remember that a slight edge of fear can actually heighten your receptivity to altered states. If you’re brave, embrace it and expect the unexpected.

Theory #

The psychomanteum can be understood as a form of low-grade sensory deprivation. When visual input is reduced—but not eliminated—the brain begins to fill in the gaps, leading to visual distortions, hallucinations, or emotionally charged imagery. This is a known feature of the visual system under monotony and dim light, similar to the Ganzfeld effect.

Additionally, the mind is highly suggestible in states of stillness and dim focus. The act of mirror-gazing may reduce analytical processing and allow subconscious material to surface. In this state, memory, imagination, and expectation can combine to produce compelling inner experiences, often interpreted symbolically or spiritually. The mirror becomes a psychological “surface” for projection and exploration.

This effect is neither purely hallucinatory nor supernatural—it occupies a liminal space between perception, memory, and suggestion. Whether one interprets the imagery as communication, catharsis, or spontaneous insight, the method taps into a very real altered state of consciousness.

Step-by-Step Guide #

1. Create a private, quiet space – ideally with no windows or light sources.
2. Set up a mirror at head height – tilt it slightly so you don’t see your reflection directly.
3. Use low, indirect lighting – place a dim lamp or candle behind you so the mirror stays dark.
4. Sit comfortably and relax – meditate, breathe slowly, and enter a receptive state.
5. Gaze softly into the mirror – don’t focus on any one detail; allow your vision to blur.
6. Remain open and still – stay for 15–60 minutes. Images, faces, or scenes may appear gradually.

Expected Outcomes #

• Heightened emotional awareness and introspective insight
• Spontaneous visual phenomena or face morphing
• Felt sense of presence, memory surfacing, or “contact” with inner archetypes

Risks & Considerations #

• Can be emotionally intense or triggering—go in with clear intent
• Long sessions may cause disorientation or fatigue
• People with a history of psychosis or dissociation should avoid unsupervised use

Variations & Extensions #

• Black Mirror Scrying – Instead of building a full room, use a small, spray-painted black glass in a dark space. The technique is the same: dim light, soft gaze, stillness.
• Portable Psychomanteum – A blackout box, sleep mask, and tablet-sized mirror can be used for a more accessible version.
• Symbolic Anchors – Add meaningful objects, incense, or ambient sound to shape the experience.

You can take this pretty far, but it’s the same basic idea. I once bought an old painting from a charity shop, took out the painting, and spray-painted the glass with several layers of black paint. I then put it back into the frame, and decorated the front of it with various symbols in white. I fixed a felt black curtain to the front so I could keep it covered when not in use. It was a fun addition to a room and startled a few guests. Open the curtain and stare into an endless dark corridor to nowhere… - Void.

Further Exploration #

• Read Raymond Moody’s Reunions for background and case studies
• Explore cross-cultural scrying practices (e.g. Aztec obsidian mirrors, water bowls)
• Pair with breathwork or intention-setting rituals

Call for Reports #

What did you see—or feel—when you entered the mirror? Did anything unexpected arise?