Astral projection, also known as an out of body experience, is the ability for a person to separate their consciousness from their physical body in order to explore distances in time and space. Essentially, one is sending out the astral body to obtain knowledge and possibly communicate with spirit guides or other spiritual beings. Astral projection can take place during a meditative state or during a trance state and some people have even claimed to experience astral travel a lucid dream state while sleeping.
During astral projection, one’s consciousness is said to travel on an astral plane. The astral plane is believed to be a place where the thoughts, memories and dreams of everyone in the world exists and is made up of many levels. In some ways, the astral plane can be likened with Akasha which is one of the five elements of Hindu philosophy and is believed by some to be an atmosphere that contains a record of everything that has ever happened.
Astral projection stems from the belief that we have seven bodies that exist within seven planes of reality. This belief was a teaching of Madame Helena Patrovna Blavatsky (1831- 1891) who was one of the co-founders of the Theosophical Society in New York. According to Madame Blavatsky, the astral body leaves the body during astral projection but is attached to the physical body by a fine and infinitely long silver cord. Some people, rather than following the belief of seven bodies, believe instead that astral projection is a shift in consciousness and one in which no movement actually occurs.
What is the purpose of astral projection?
The purpose of astral projection varies depending upon a person’s belief system or spiritual philosophy. But for the most part astral projection is seen as a way develop spiritually and to expand the mind’s awareness. However it is not only limited to spiritual development and enrichment. It is also used as a way to expand creativity, heal from past traumas, find inner peace, heighten intellectual capacity, reduce stress or a myriad of other reasons. Some people even claim to have contacted departed loved ones or historical figures from the past during astral projection. Another purpose of astral projection is the reassurance many people find that consciousness exists outside the limits of the physical body and in this way is evident for them that there is life after death.
What does it feel like?
The astral projection, out of body experience is different for each person, but generally one has a feeling of being outside the body and yet in control of their movements through space and time. Astral projection also has a very lucid feel to it. There is nothing dream-like or out of control about the feelings of this state.
How does one induce an out of body experience?
There are many different techniques for inducing this experience, but most all of them involve relaxation, imagery and concentration. Relaxation involves such techniques as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation and imagery involves focusing on an image that is within the mind rather than an outer image. This can also be called visualization. Concentration and control are also important in that they help one focus on and decipher the images that they see during the out of body experience, control how they move about and keep their mind clear of distracting thoughts.
Are there risks involved?
Astral projection is for the most part believed to be a safe and enlightening spiritual experience. However it’s important to read up and be aware of what you are doing before trying it for the first time. One of the biggest fears some people have as far as astral projection is concerned, is the fear of encountering some type of evil or negative energy. For this reason many people will take safety measures beforehand such as strengthening their aura or envisioning a protective cocoon of energy around themselves. Another safeguard against experience anything negative during the experience is to make sure that you are in a good state of mind beforehand. This means free of stress, anger or any strong negative emotions.
Astral Travel For Beginners: Transcend Time and Space with Out-of-Body Experiences by Richard Webster
Astral Projection for Beginners by Edain McCoy
Mastering Astral Projection: 90-Day Guide to Out-of-Body Experience by Robert Bruce and Brian Mercer
Adventures Beyond the Body: How to Experience Out-of-Body Travel by William Buhlman
