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Astral Projection
In accordance with occult philosophy, New Agers believe the physical body has an etheric double. This spiritual body can be separated from the physical body while still maintaining contact through a thin, umbilical-like cord. Commonly referred to as astral projection or an out-of-the-body experience (OBE), the event is said to occur spontaneously while sleeping.
Many New Agers purposely seek to precipitate the occurrence at will, so that they may 'travel astrally' to distant locations, taking journeys far and wide to anywhere in the universe. During such 'adventures', information is revealed to them from the Spirit World.
Though it is said spontaneous astral projection may occur accidentally during stress or illness, New Age adherants seek the experience to ascend through astral levels for spiritual purification. Some participants say they are conscious and are able to enjoy physical sensory perception during the experience.
In truth however, astral projection may be hallucinatory. Whether it is an actual event or merely a perceived phenomenon, the spiritual dangers are still there. Willfully desiring to leave one's body is to automatically choose to leave one's own will or choice-making abilities behind. Thus, during out-of-the-body experiences, demons may enter the participant's body, a form of spirit possession some Hindu yogis acknowledge.
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