Astral Projection
Astral projection is, simply put, the transfer of consciousness from the physical body to other planes of existence. If you think of your consciousness as a camcorder which moves while within the physical body, then imagine Astral Projection as sending this "camcorder"' of your consciousness to anywhere else that your heart desires. The projection process can be understood better, if the mind is thought of as being half physical and half astral, so in a way the two forms of existence are balanced. It is the consciousness which stays in the physical half for most of the time, but if it can be either drawn or guided into the astral half, then the astral plane will be the new area of existence for the consciousness. Since the Astral plane is reached by mental methods and consists purely of mental substance, existence there is also purely mental.
In the physical plane, if you run out of physical substance, (physical energy), you die from the physical plane, and likewise for the astral plane: the sole reason of your existence there is because of your mental energy or "concentration ability".
When your mind begins to waver even by the slightest bit, it usually means an instant "snap-back" to your body, but unlike in the physical world, it is not a permanent exit. The longer you can concentrate on a subject without your mind wavering, the longer you can spend in the astral plane, so concentration exercises should be practised regularly. More information about these exercises can be seen in other areas of the site.
A steady focus must be maintained, because if an unstable trail of thought is not held, leaving the body will prove to be practically impossible. Another consequence is that your projection will also be unbalanced and premature. Such projections are confusing and likely to be forgotten. Astral Projection has received quite a bit of attention in the past few years. This ability and skill has been around for centuries and has been commonly accepted and used within the Craft for countless centuries.
The old wives tales and superstition of Witches Flying on a Broom is actually a reference to a practitioner of the Craft using Astral Projection instead of actually flying. In the past, it was quite common for a Witch to use a Flying Ointment to assist them in achieving this state of altered consciousness and awareness. Most of these preparations used herbs or plants which are quite dangerous to the untrained and can be fatal, some are commonly used in today's society as a socially relaxing substance, albeit illegally.
While I have these recipes, no amount of begging will get me to divulge them, so don't bother e-mailing me to ask. If you find any supposed flying ointment which lists ingredients such as Hemlock, Belladonna, Aconite, or Cowbane posted somewhere on the net by a foolish webmaster, I strongly suggest that you do not use them. These plants are extremely toxic and you stand a very good chance of killing yourself. I will list a couple of alternate non-toxic ointments later in this text for those of you who wish to use them.
While working on developing your Astral skills, it is important to choose a place and time where you will not be disturbed. Normally if you are interrupted during a flight, your spirit self will automatically and immediately return to your physical body. It is somewhat of a shock to the system to get snapped back to consciousness in the middle of a journey, so pick a place and time where you can be undisturbed. If you choose to Project while others are in the house, it is a good idea to let them know what you are doing, so if they encounter you in this state, they will not become too concerned. In answer to the many questions I receive on the topic of returning to your body, the answer is quite simple. All you must do is will yourself to return and it happens.
The Gazing Technique
This method involves the body falling asleep best done when you are going to bed. You need something to focus on, if it is in view the moon, the stars, a crystal or a favourite doll will work well... Use whatever you like.
Some use a candle for this technique, I would advise against it as you will be leaving the lit candle unattended
Place the object within your view and lie down in your bed. Just stare at the object as you doze off. The first few times may be frustrating. You may just fall asleep and that's it. But after a few tries, this worked for me.
Keep staring at the object. As your eyelids become heavy, keep staring. Eventually your eyes will close, but you will still be able to see the object. You will still be staring at the object, sit up or stand up and don't be surprised to see your physical body sleeping peacefully in your bed!
This works fairly well for me. When you are out of your body, do whatever you wish. I am still getting used to the out of body feeling as there are many experiences to be had, to a certain extent it may be something one never becomes used to as the boundaries can't realistically be defined. At first your travels may not see you leaving your home or the general area you have chosen. Personally I have achieved travel to quiet some distance, but I am sure in time I too will travel farther and once the art is gained so will you.
This time is yours. Just tell people that you are attempting this and don't wish to be disturbed.
Happy travelling!
