As we embark on the next step in our Astral Journey Series, it’s crucial to understand that preparation is the key to successful and safe astral travel. The experience of leaving your physical body and journeying through the astral realms is profound, but it can also be overwhelming if approached without the right mindset and tools. In this post, we’ll dive deep into how to properly prepare yourself—mentally, energetically, and spiritually—for your first steps into the unknown.
1. Establishing the Right Mindset
The journey of astral travel begins long before you attempt to leave your body. It starts with your mindset. To navigate non-physical realms, you need a calm, focused mind that is free from distraction, fear, and doubt. This is where mental discipline comes into play.
- Let go of fear: Fear is one of the biggest obstacles in astral travel. Fear of the unknown, fear of losing control, or fear of encountering unfamiliar energies can block your ability to fully experience the astral plane. To prepare, acknowledge any fears you have, but don’t allow them to control your journey. Affirm to yourself that you are protected and guided.
- Cultivate openness: Astral travel often brings unexpected insights and experiences. Enter the journey with an open mind and heart, ready to learn and explore, without forcing specific outcomes. The universe will reveal what you are ready to receive.
2. Protecting Your Energy
Just as you would protect yourself physically when traveling in unfamiliar places, it’s essential to protect your energy when journeying in non-physical realms. Astral travel exposes you to different energies, some of which can be intense. Here's how to shield yourself:
- Energy Shielding Techniques: Before beginning any astral travel practice, visualize a strong protective shield surrounding your body. This shield can be made of white light, gold light, or any color that feels powerful to you. The intention behind the shield is to keep you protected from unwanted energies or entities.
- Crystals for Protection: Incorporating protective crystals into your practice can help strengthen your energy shield. Crystals such as black tourmaline, amethyst, or obsidian are great for grounding and protection. Place them around your meditation space or hold them in your hands during your preparation rituals.
3. Breathing Techniques to Induce Relaxation
Breathing is a fundamental part of astral travel preparation. It helps to calm your mind, relax your body, and shift your consciousness into a receptive state. Two powerful techniques we’ll be focusing on are Holotropic Breathwork and Box Breathing.
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Holotropic Breathwork: This deep, rhythmic breathing technique is designed to elevate your consciousness. Start by breathing deeply and rapidly, in cycles, without holding your breath in between. This method floods your body with oxygen, creating an altered state of consciousness that can facilitate out-of-body experiences. Begin with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the process.
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Box Breathing: A more controlled technique for relaxation and focus. Inhale for a count of four, hold your breath for four, exhale for four, and hold again for four. Repeat this cycle several times. Box breathing helps to clear your mind and settle your body, making it an excellent practice before attempting to leave your physical form.
4. Setting the Physical Space
Your physical environment plays a significant role in how easily and safely you can leave your body. A well-prepared space provides both comfort and security, grounding your physical form while your spirit ventures into the astral realms.
- Choose a quiet, comfortable space: You should feel completely at ease in your meditation space. This can be your bedroom, a dedicated spiritual area, or anywhere you feel secure. Eliminate distractions by turning off phones, dimming the lights, and ensuring you won’t be disturbed during your session.
- Sacred Space Setup: Surround yourself with items that hold spiritual significance. This could include candles, incense, crystals, or even a calming playlist. The goal is to create a space where your mind associates with peace and spiritual safety.
5. Grounding Practices
Grounding is essential for maintaining your connection to the physical world while you explore the astral. It ensures that when your journey is complete, you can return safely and feel balanced afterward.
- Visualization Grounding: As you prepare for your session, imagine roots extending from your body deep into the earth. These roots anchor you to the physical world, ensuring that no matter how far you travel in the astral realms, you can always find your way back.
- Post-Travel Grounding: Once you return from astral travel, perform a grounding exercise. This can include walking barefoot on the earth, holding grounding crystals, or simply sitting quietly and feeling the connection between your body and the ground beneath you.
6. Intention Setting
Before embarking on any astral travel journey, it is important to set a clear intention. Whether you are seeking guidance, looking to connect with a loved one, or exploring the astral realms for personal growth, clearly state your purpose. Intentions act as a compass, guiding your journey and keeping you focused.
- Example Intention: “I intend to explore the astral realm to receive guidance from my higher self. I am protected and safe throughout this journey.”
7. Using the ITC Family’s Resources
Finally, remember that you are not alone in this journey. Our Astral Journey Series is designed to provide you with ongoing support, and we offer resources to help you along the way. ITC Family members have free access to guided meditation videos that walk you through these breathing techniques, offer additional protection methods, and help you safely prepare for your astral travels. For non-members, these videos are available for purchase and download, allowing you to take them offline and use them at your convenience.