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shunned recommendations based on work with thousands of people. When unsuccessful, practitioner himself would be solely to blame for the wasted time and effort. It should always be remembered that many even quite-accomplished practitioners try to avoid using the direct method to enter the phase. Direct techniques seldom produce quick and clear results, unlike entering the phase via becoming conscious while dreaming or through the use of indirect techniques. At first, direct techniques produce sporadic results, which is why the path of practice should not begin with direct techniques hoping for fast reward. It is better to systematically practice a technique, working toward mastery on a consistent basis. There is no cause for worry if results are not achieved after a month of attempts. A continual effort to analyze practice and improve should be the primary focus because failures are always caused by distinguishable mistakes. Although difficulties may arise with direct techniques, one should never abandon what worked until then (i.e. indirect techniques), as this could temporarily deprive one of the experience that one has enjoyed so far. A combination of direct and indirect techniques should never be used during the course of a single day since this would be detrimental to practical focus and enthusiasm. It is better to separately perform each type of technique on different days. TYPICAL MISTAKES WITH DIRECT TECHNIQUES     
Lack of a free-floating state of mind, even though it is mandatory. Assuming an incorrect position when lying down. Performing direct techniques during the day when a practitioner is inexperienced, instead of in the evening or at night. Performing more than one attempt per day. Performing protracted relaxation before the techniques, even when this may play a negative role.