Astral projection is the experience of the consciousness or 'astral body' seeming to leave the physical body and travel beyond it. It is one of the most famous and debated practices in the world of the esoteric.
Astral projection describes an intentional out-of-body experience, in which awareness feels as though it separates from the physical body. Practitioners report floating above themselves, moving through walls, or travelling to distant places while their body rests. In esoteric tradition this travelling self is called the astral body, connected to the physical one by a subtle link. The experience is typically vivid and convincing, quite unlike ordinary imagination.
Many traditions hold that astral projection allows travel through the 'astral plane,' a non-physical realm said to overlap our own. This realm is described as fluid and responsive to thought, populated by imagery, energies and sometimes other beings. Some travellers report exploring recognisable earthly locations, others entirely otherworldly landscapes. The astral plane is understood as a bridge between the material world and higher levels of consciousness.
Astral projection has been described across many cultures and spiritual traditions for centuries. Science generally interprets these experiences as vivid states of the mind — closely related to lucid dreams and sleep phenomena — rather than literal travel. Whatever the explanation, the experiences are real and often profound to those who have them. Many pursue astral projection for spiritual insight, self-exploration and a sense of expanded awareness.
Astral projection and lucid dreaming both begin in the world of sleep. Explore our free Dream Dictionary to understand the messages your dreams carry.
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