Mind meld
A Mind meld is a term used by Vulcans to describe a mind-link.
The mind meld involves two individual forging a psychic connection, with at least one of them being Vulcan. This connection allows them to experience the entirety of each other's thoughts, memories and emotions. This act takes the two minds involved beyond telepathic communication, creating a shared consciousness. Though the mind meld is temporary, it leaves both parties with some knowledge and memories gleaned from the other, mind and generally results in a deeper understanding of each other. Vulcans view mind melds as the act of carrying each other's katras (their 'souls') in their minds.
Vulcans require physical contact to initiate a mind meld. Generally, they choose to place their fingers at pressure points around the face of the individual they are melding with, which allows them to access nerves and blood vessels to facilitate the link. However, since different Vulcans use different methods of making contact with their subject, it seems likely that it is the physical contact itself which is essential, rather than the manner in which contact is made.
The mind meld is considered by Vulcans to be a profound and intimate experience, one which they prefer to remain private. It is rare for them to initiate these links with non-Vulcans. The act is considered so intimate, that it was once almost taboo in Vulcan society, with those who chose to participate in mind melds being viewed as outcasts. Though this attitude towards mind melding is no longer prevalent among Vulcans, it is still something which generally only occurs between two Vulcans who have an already established personal commitment to each other.
There are recorded instances of mind melds being used to transplant an individual's consciousness from their own body into that of another. Presumably, a telepath of great skill is required to this. Though Vulcans can force a mind meld onto an unwilling individual, they rarely do so since this is regarded as a gross violation, by Vulcans themselves and by most other species. They can also employ a mind meld as a deep telepathic probe by initiating the link but shielding their own minds, leaving only the mind of their subject open.
Mind melding can be dangerous for both parties. It often leaves the two individuals involved feeling exhausted and weak. Occasionally, the meld can be difficult to fully break and can result in a certain amount of identity loss, though this is usually temporary. An untrained Vulcan initiating a mind meld runs the risk of transmitting Pa'nar syndrome, a disease which degrades synaptic pathways. Pa'nar Syndrome can be cured by the intervention of an experienced and skilled mind melder.
