Unlocking Mediumship: Historic Techniques and the Power of Terrestrial Magnetism

Spiritual Megnetism

In the late 19th century, as spiritualism captured the imagination of a curious public, one compelling theory emerged from the fringes of both science and metaphysics: could Earth's magnetic field enhance mediumistic ability? In The Development of Mediumship by Terrestrial Magnetism, Judson S. Bury explores this bold idea—while also outlining several key techniques for aspiring mediums.

Though some of Bury’s scientific theories may seem outdated by today’s standards, his approach to mediumistic development remains both fascinating and instructive. Let’s explore the key methods he describes for cultivating mediumship, rooted in both inner discipline and subtle natural forces.

1. Harnessing Terrestrial Magnetism

Bury believed that terrestrial magnetism—the natural magnetic field of the Earth—plays a subtle but powerful role in human consciousness. He suggested that:

• Mediums are more sensitive to magnetic fluctuations, particularly during certain phases of the moon or geomagnetic activity.

• Developing mediums should spend time in nature or places of strong magnetic activity (such as near water or in open country) to enhance sensitivity.

• Regular exposure to natural magnetic forces can help align the nervous system and create the right internal environment for spirit communication.

While modern science doesn’t support this magnetic connection in the same way, the idea of syncing with natural rhythms remains a powerful metaphor for spiritual attunement.

2. Stillness and Receptivity

A central teaching in Bury’s work is the need for mental quietude and emotional balance:

• Mediumistic sensitivity increases in a passive, calm mental state.

• Emotional turbulence or excessive willpower disrupts the mediumistic process.

• He recommends daily practices of stillness, light meditation, or sitting in silence—what modern mediums often refer to as “sitting in the power.”

By quieting the conscious mind, the subconscious becomes more receptive to impressions from spirit sources.

3. Physical Magnetism and Human Aura

Bury draws attention to the vital magnetism present in the human body. He writes that this “vital force” or personal magnetism is strengthened by:

• Healthy living (proper sleep, food, exercise, and avoidance of stimulants)

• Contact with magnetic individuals (people whose energy fields are strong and balanced)

• Laying on of hands and group circles, where energies are shared and amplified

In a development circle, energy builds over time, and the collective magnetic field enhances communication with spirits. Bury encouraged regular group sittings in dark or dimly lit rooms to help the senses focus inward.

4. Sensitivity Through Practice

Mediumship, according to Bury, is not just a gift—it is a faculty that can be cultivated through:

• Repeated sittings at the same hour daily or weekly, to condition the mind and body

• Journaling impressions after sessions, helping to distinguish between mental chatter and genuine spirit contact

• Discernment training, where mediums review their impressions for accuracy and emotional tone

He emphasized patience and consistency, warning that development could take months or even years.

5. Magnetism and Spiritual Entities

Bury also believed that certain spiritual entities are drawn to magnetic environments and to individuals with harmonized energies. To attract positive and evolved spirit communicators, he recommended:

• Maintaining moral integrity and pure intentions

• Avoiding fear, skepticism, or undue excitement, which could attract deceptive influences

• Using prayer or invocation to create a protective and welcoming space for high-level guides

This ethical component—aligning the character of the medium with their intended spiritual work—remains a core principle in modern mediumship circles.

Final Thoughts: Science, Spirit, and Self-Development

While the scientific model Bury proposed—linking mediumship with Earth’s magnetism—is speculative by today’s standards, his structured approach to developing spiritual sensitivity is deeply practical. His emphasis on regular practice, mental calm, healthy living, and moral clarity remains foundational advice for those seeking to unfold mediumship today.

For those drawn to this path, Bury’s work offers a bridge between the physical and the metaphysical, suggesting that the Earth itself may be not only our home but a subtle ally in awakening our spiritual senses.

Explore Judson S. Bury’s original work on the Internet Archive: Read the full text.