Psychic First Aid

[brokers]

Considering some of the suspicions regarding the possible nature of our next Jaunt destination, it seems that it would be wise to remind everyone - and to inform those who have had very little experience with Traveling - that it is possible to learn how to shield your thoughts from outside intrusion. It may not be perfectly effective against intrusion originating outside the Network, but should provide some protection, and will help insulate your mind against your fellow Travelers. I would be willing to teach the method to anyone who has not yet had the chance to learn it, though I will warn you that some facility with telepathic communication is usually necessary to put the concepts into practice.

There are also methods by which psychic damage can be eased, and potentially fully healed, though it is not a simple process. I have some experience with this, and I believe there are several others who have practice in the techniques as well, if they are willing to identify themselves in case anyone requires aid, whether now or in the future.

Comments

[brokers]

Never?

Well, we can certainly remedy that. It is, believe it or not, one of the simpler aspects of the psychic network to learn, if not to master.

[professorwolf]

I never really saw a need. I have my pack in my head a lot of the time, and I wouldn't want to keep them out, so....

[There's the awkward sense of what might be a shrug.]

I suppose I'll have to now, though. Can you walk me through the basics?

[brokers]

It is not automatic - even if you learn it, you do not need to use it.

In essence, you draw a boundary around your mind, and reinforce it with your will. It is easiest if you visualize it in a way that is meaningful to you: what do you see as a protective barrier?

[professorwolf]

Oh, no, I know that. At least I think I did. I just meant now I'll have to learn it.

[He sounds resigned but a little amused.]

That does sound fairly simple. Though what seems protective to me might not work.

[He immediately got mental images of fur and teeth, and that definitely doesn't work as a mental barrier, he thinks. Not unless he wants someone poking at his mind to get bitten. So he goes with,]

A general wall should suffice.

[brokers]

It doesn't actually take that shape.

[Her tone is somewhere between reassurance and mild amusement - she isn't certain exactly what he might picture, but some of the frameworks she is familiar with can certainly trend towards the strange.]

It is simply a tool to focus - and because the strength is drawn to your mind, the more conviction you have in your protective metaphor, the more effective it will be.

[professorwolf]

Oh, I know. I just doubt visualizing a pack of wolves circling around my mind will be a very effective tool.

[He sounds a bit sheepish at the admission.]

An electric fence from around an important building might be better. At least that isn't constantly in motion.