The Practice of Ally Work

Alchemical conversion, however, is a much more dramatic stimulation of the ally's growth. The effects of the process are so intense that you may experience it only rarely. It is as if the ally has to digest what it has gained before it is ready to convert any more. It is therefore advisable not to do this practice too frequently. You may return to

Imaginal beings are energetic, and if you encounter this figure at an objective level you need to protect yourself from the energy. You could become manic, agitated, or generally unwell if you receive too much energy. It is not always possible to control what happens in an experience, but if you have had an energetic experience, rest and monitor yo

The same occurs in ally work in a process I call conversion, in which imaginal energies of all kinds are ingested by the ally and converted into itself, triggering a powerful process of transformation. It is impossible to tell beforehand just what change will occur in the ally, but there is no doubt that some change does indeed occur.

The ally also helps to mirror you by speaking of what it sees in you, both good and bad. The ally will point out your mistakes, as well as reflecting all that is good about you. I have spoken of the sense of being seen and embraced by the ally which is so strong a feeling in ally work. By opening up to this feeling, and allowing the ally's percepti

As ally work deepens, however, the ally begins to share its mind with you. The ally's mind is much different than that of a human being, and there is much about it that will remain forever incomprehensible. Nevertheless, when the ally begins to share its mind, you experience visions and thoughts that alter totally your way of seeing reality. It is

As in my case, it is easiest in sleep if the ally appears first. To develop the skill of being aware of your ally while dreaming, ask the ally to appear in your dream. Ask it every night before going to sleep, and when it does, try to remember its appearance in the morning. Next, when it appears, try to remain aware of it no matter what else is hap

Your intent is to develop the capacity to connect to your ally anywhere and anytime. Ultimately, the goal is to be in relationship with the ally all through the day and night. Specifically, your intent is to shift your attention to the ally during the course of the day and at night. Place your focus on the ally as often as possible.

When you take the ally into your mind, or in my conception, lend your mind to the ally, you deepen your union with it and you discover that you perceive through the eyes of the ally. You experience reality in a new way and your felt sense develops more quickly. By uniting your mind with the ally, you take on the ability of the ally to perceive real

At other times, however, the ally uses ordinary names, such as Peter, Samuel, and David. Even in such cases, the names have meanings which, sooner or later, the ally reveals. Once you have the name, you can use it in several different ways.