g in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction
invariably causes an involuntary muscular reflex action to take place.
This phenomenon is known as an ideomotor action. Usually, as the subject
concentrates more intensely, the reflex action becomes more profound,
causing greater unconscious movement of the hand which, in turn, is
transmitted to the object in the form of larger circles and greater
momentum. The time required for the successful accomplishment of this
test depends upon the degree of suggestibility of the subject. An
interesting action is to see the object revolve in an opposite direction
than suggested. It gives a clue to the personality structure of the
individual.

The Ouija board works on the same principle as the Chevreul's Pendulum
test. Many times the aspirant will remark, "I swear I didn't make it
move!" Mentalists find hidden objects in an audience using basically the
same approach, combined with clever techniques of distraction. The term
given for this is "muscle reading."

This is the point in question. If the crystal ball, ring or locket moves
without conscious direction, you have successfully influenced your
subconscious mind. Self-hypnosis involves the same procedure. The goal
is to consciously cause a subconscious reaction. If the experiment does
not work with your eyes open, try it with your eyes closed for about
five minutes. You will be pleasantly surprised with the results. Should
you want to prove to yourself that you are suggestible with your eyes
open, practice the technique every day for a week or two. The idea of
the practice sessions is to reinforce and increase the response of the
unconscious movement until you develop proficiency. It follows the laws
of the conditioned reflex theory expounded by Dr. Ivan P. Pavlov
(1849-1936), the famous Russian psychologist. If, after several weeks,
you should still not be successful, use the role-playing technique.
Consciously make the object revolve. After a while, it will move
automatically whenever you attempt the experiment.

When this happens you will have proof of your suggestibility. It is
highly improbable that you will not be successful. It would be a rare
occurrence. By the same systematic efforts, I can assure you that you
can achieve self-hypnosis. If you are still not affected favorably, you
might consider one of the psychological means of inducing hypnosis. The
next chapter will discuss this topic.

I would recommend Pavlov's book