For millennia, humans have yearned to transcend the limitations of the physical body.
Studies of religion, theology, and philosophy all help to bring us closer to our existential meaning, but they’re also a relatively shallow interpretation of a deeper meaning.
Astral projection, on the other hand, offers a more hands-on approach to self-discovery, giving us an avenue through which we can discover more about our physical and spiritual selves.
What is Astral Projection?
Before attempting to travel outside the bounds of the physical self, it’s best to have a basic understanding of the practice of astral projection.
Astral projection, or astral travel, is a type of out-of-body experience where consciousness escapes the confines of our earthly bodies in order to travel through the astral plane. This allows us to explore beyond the limitations of our own minds, creating a clear divide between the spiritual and the physical.
Most people describe astral projection as lifting the soul from the body. Much like those who have had near-death experiences, those who can astral project often report being able to see their own body as they enter a new plane of consciousness.
In essence, astral projection disconnects us from the physical world, allowing us to shift the entirety of our focus to the spiritual world.
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Table of Contents
- 1 Astral Projection Vs. Lucid Dreaming
- 2 1. Prepare Yourself
- 3 2. Relax Your Body
- 4 3. Breathe Deep
- 5 4. Reach a State of Vibration
- 6 5. Release Yourself from the Physical
- 7 6. Return to Your Physical Body
- 8 Death in Real Life
- 9 Separation from the Physical
- 10 Possession by Evil Entities
- 11 Breathing Difficulties
- 12 A Deeper Consciousness
- 13 Enhanced Focus
- 14 Better Sleep
- 15 An Understanding of Death
Astral Projection Vs. Lucid Dreaming
People often confuse astral projection with lucid dreaming. While the two ideas share similarities, there are also profound differences that should be taken into consideration.
Lucid dreaming refers to when a person is able to take control of their subconscious, particularly when asleep. Astral projection, on the other hand, allows you to take control of your consciousness in a lucid state.
The History of Astral Projection
The idea of astral projection has long been acknowledged as a part of the human spiritual experience. We can find evidence going back as far as 5,000 years when ancient Egyptians were just beginning to record their vast cache of medical, psychological, and spiritual beliefs. The Egyptians called the astral body the Kha, often depicting it in hieroglyphs as a glowing light abandoning the body.
Not long after, in ancient Greece, we see references to astral projection in monuments such as the Temple of Eleusis, and the writings of philosophers such as Plato, Herodotus, and Hermotimus of Clazomene.
Perhaps one of the most famous examples of astral projection comes from the ancient Greek historian and philosopher Plutarch. He outlines the story of Aristeu, a parable from the first century. According to Plutarch, Aristeu fell and hit his head, falling into a coma that spanned several days and left his soul floating outside of his body.
In this time, Aristeu was said to have spoken to a spiritual guide, transcending time and space in a show of positive energy. Modern theologists think that Aristeu may have been experiencing an alternate dimension before he was awakened by force upon his burial.
Aristeu changed his ethics, his values, and his behavior in one fell swoop, molding himself into a respected member of society. After nearly being buried alive, Aristeu woke up in the physical plane and changed his perception of ethics, value, and behavior based on what he experienced in the astral world.
Today, astral projection is an essential cornerstone of many religions and spiritual teachings. Shamanism, for example, purports a practice that allows us to seek guidance from higher powers stemming from our own psyche. We are all made of layers, and in this construction, we all have the capacity for physical and emotional change.
The Six Steps to Astral Projection
The reality of astral projection is different for each individual. Though it may be complex in theory, just about anyone can pick up the skills needed to project their psyche on an astral field. Typically, astral projecting is described as an out-of-body experience that transcends the physical nature of our earthly bodies. Just about anyone is capable of projecting onto the astral field, and it requires patience and practice to perfect each step toward spiritual fulfillment.
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1. Prepare Yourself
Creating the right atmosphere is essential for those who are looking to tap into their spiritual selves. It’s a good idea to create a quiet, comfortable space in which you can feel secure. Astral projection is similar to meditation in that you need to embrace a peaceful atmosphere, including features such as:
- Calming sounds
- Dim lighting
- Incense or scented candles
- Comfy clothing and surroundings
- A relaxing room temperature
- Isolation from friends, family, and others
- No electronics
In this day and age, the last rule may be the most important. Astral projection is very similar to meditation in that both require complete focus, and something such as a phone call or an alarm can disrupt your flow of energy.
2. Relax Your Body
Once you’ve set the stage, you need to get yourself into a comfortable position. You should be lying down or sitting, as you’ll be entering a state of total relaxation. It’s best to do this on a bed, an armchair, or another surface that offers full support. It’s vital that you ensure that you won’t fall and injure yourself, even in a hypnotic state.
As soon as you’ve established safety, you can start to relax your muscles. Releasing tension is an important part of astral projection because otherwise, you would be limited by your own psychological and physiological constraints.
It’s best to start relaxing muscles starting at the head, then work your way down to your feet. For each set of muscles, try to focus on how they feel and where they are in relation to the rest of your body. Then, try to visualize the energy flowing through yourself, redirecting it inwards as you loosen each muscle and let go of built-up tension.
3. Breathe Deep
Like meditation, deep breathing is the key to successful astral projection. Meditative breathing techniques can help you to find your center, allowing you to enter a hypnotic state.
Start by slowly breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth, focusing on moving your diaphragm instead of your chest. After a few minutes, your heartbeat will start to slow, and you’ll begin to relax near to the point of falling asleep.
Though it may seem overly simple, breathing is the key to self-discovery. Meditative breathing techniques can help us to stay calm and centered, helping us to enter a hypnotic state.
4. Reach a State of Vibration
Meditation generally ends once you achieve a hypnotic state, but astral projection takes things a few steps further. Even advanced yogis may be unfamiliar with the concept of a state of vibration.
Once you’ve fully relaxed and entered into a hypnotic state, you’ll begin to notice small waves of vibrations throughout your body. If you focus the entirety of your mind on these vibrations, you can sync to their frequency. Try to relax into each vibration as it comes, allowing it to move through you.
The state of vibration is a unique experience for every individual. While some feel a soft current of electricity running through themselves, others feel as though they’re lying under a weighted blanket. However you enter your vibrational state, it’s important to remember to stay calm and stay focused.
5. Release Yourself from the Physical
Once in a hypnotic state, you’re finally ready to separate the soul from the body. To do this, try to imagine the room in which your sitting with you in it. Next, picture yourself slowly moving away from your body and crossing the room. Finally, take a moment to observe yourself from a distance.
Freeing yourself from your physical body is no easy task, and many spend years attempting to achieve release. If you don’t manage to astral project on your first try, don’t get discouraged. With practice, the process will eventually get easier. For those who are having trouble, there are two popular techniques that can help you enter into the astral plane.
The Swing Technique
As you begin to enter a vibrational state, try to imagine that each wave of energy is a swing. Imagine your body swinging back and forth in tune with the frequencies, starting out small and gradually going higher and higher. Eventually, your being will swing into the astral field.
The Rope Technique
First, focus on your hands. Try to imagine them moving, then eventually reaching out past your physical body. The, visualize a rope in front of you. Using your astral hands, grab the rope and use it to pull yourself up into the plane.
6. Return to Your Physical Body
Once you’re done exploring the astral field, it’s time to reconnect with your physical self. Many people do this by picturing what’s known as a “silver cord” that tethers you to your physical body. It usually appears as a white or energetic beam of energy stretching through space. You can use this cord to pull yourself out of the astral plane.
Much like in a dream, the details of an astral journey can be easy to forget after the fact. It’s a good idea to take clear, concise notes directly after a trip, or create some sketches. This will allow you to make the most out of astral projection, allowing you to learn more each time that you travel.
Potential Dangers and How to Avoid Them
Though the media often gives astral projection a bad rap, the practice is generally very safe. You remain in control and connected to your physical self at all times, and you’re always free to return.
That being said, there are some common concerns surrounding astral projection. It’s a good idea to understand the potential dangers you may encounter before embarking on your journey.
Death in Real Life
No harm will come to your physical body while you’re projecting, regardless of what you encounter in the astral plane. The only possible danger may come from real-life threats. When astral projecting, it can be nearly impossible to hear incoming trouble. It’s a good idea to set yourself up in a safe, secure space to ensure that your physical body is safe as you explore.
Separation from the Physical
Some people fear a permanent separation or death of consciousness when astral projecting. Fortunately, it’s impossible to get trapped or suffer death in the astral realm. If you’re worried that you can’t get back to your body, simply stay calm and visualize your silver cord.
Possession by Evil Entities
Many horror movies feature possession as a consequence of astral projection, but this is a rare phenomenon. While you may encounter negative or even malevolent spirits on the astral plane, they can only enter your body with your consent. If you come across one of these beings, simply say no to all offers. If all else fails, protect yourself by visualizing bright, positive energy radiating from your core.
Breathing Difficulties
One of the most real dangers of astral projection is having difficulty breathing. As your body relaxes completely, it may begin to have trouble remembering to breathe. For some, the separation of mind and body can also leave them breathless. The first few times that you try astral projecting, it’s a good idea to have a spotter to ensure your breathing is even.
The Benefits of Astral Projection
While there are some minor dangers, the benefits of astral projection far outweigh the risks. Just about anyone can learn how to project, and it has the potential to be a profoundly life-changing experience.
A Deeper Consciousness
Astral projection lets you access higher planes of consciousness, expanding the reach of your mind beyond the limitations of your physical body. It can help you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the universe as a whole.
Enhanced Focus
Projecting onto the astral place takes no small degree of concentration. The more you practice, the better your focus will become, and you may see this impacting other areas of your life. Enhanced concentration can help you to do better in school, at work, and in the home.
Better Sleep
In addition to improving focus, astral projection also improves your ability to relax. This can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep at night, especially for insomniacs and light sleepers.
An Understanding of Death
Death is a frightening concept for most, primarily because it deals with the unknown. Astral projection, however, can shed some light on what happens once our soul permanently leaves our body. Experiencing the astral plane first-hand can help to ease fears about death and put your mind at peace.
By separating yourself from your earthly body, you can explore beyond the limits of your own consciousness. Astral projection allows us to push past the physical and enter a higher state of being, connecting us with the universe on a much deeper level. If you’re interested in learning the art of astral projection, it’s never too late to start.
