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So You've Left Your Body… Now What?

Background: Full moon, purple night sky with stars, and a foggy forest. Foreground: woman in blue silk night gown floating horizontally in the center of the image with her arms above her head. What to do in the astral plane by gem blackthorn
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Ideas for What to Do on the Astral Plane


Astral projection, or out-of-body experiences (OBEs), are a fascinating concept whether or not you believe it’s possible to launch yourself out of your skin. 


If you don’t believe astral projection is possible, I encourage you to think of it as a deep meditation on a blank canvas. You can do anything. Go anywhere. Just let your imagination unfurl. If you’re the analytical type, you can ask yourself why you imagine the things you do. Why did your brain choose to have a conversation with a certain person or entity in your mind? Journal about it.


If you do believe in astral projection, then it can be a deeply spiritual experience where you can gain wisdom from other entities and environments. 


Belief system aside, experiences with astral projecting will vary from person to person. However, typically, you come to in what I consider to be “the lobby.” It’s usually an astral version of your house or a place where you feel safe. This will be where you first enter the astral realm. It’s where you take your first heavy steps and get used to the numb feeling of this new space. Once you get used to the sensation, you can open the door and go…anywhere. 


Here are some activities to explore while astral traveling. These ideas do assume that you already know the basics of astral travel


Exploring the Astral Plane: Just walk around. The astral plane is said to be a dimension beyond the physical world, filled with vibrant colors, unique landscapes, and otherworldly beings. 


Meeting Spirit Guides or Higher Beings: Some practitioners report encountering spiritual guides, angels, or other enlightened beings who offer wisdom, guidance, or answers to life’s questions. Begin the session by inviting your spirit guides to meet you on the other side. 


Visiting Loved Ones: Astral travelers sometimes visit friends or family members, either to check on them or to communicate messages. This can be especially meaningful if the person is far away or has passed on. Again, try inviting them to meet you on the other side. You can gaze at a specific person’s photo before beginning the session. 


Time Travel: Some claim to be able to visit past or future events while in the astral realm. This can be a way to gain insight into historical events or potential future outcomes. Maybe you’re the mysterious blur on the lawn in Dallas on November 22, 1963? 


Flying and Floating: One of the most exhilarating aspects of astral projection is the ability to fly or float freely. Many travelers enjoy soaring through the skies, exploring the Earth from above, or even venturing into space. (That’s a no for me, though. The sensation of falling in bed is not a pleasant one for me.)


Visiting Other Planets or Dimensions: Why join NASA when you can just astral project, am I right??? The astral realm is said to be a gateway to other planets, galaxies, or even alternate dimensions. Some travelers enjoy exploring these distant places and encountering extraterrestrial or interdimensional beings. Tip: It helps to actually believe that extraterrestrials exist in the first place, which is a whole other thing. 


Healing and Energy Work: The astral plane is often associated with heightened energy and spiritual power. Some use this time to perform energy healing on themselves or others, or to recharge their own spiritual energy. If you are certified in any form of energy work (like Reiki, for example), you can also attempt it in the astral and see if it works. What’s the harm in some trial and error?


Learning and Gaining Wisdom: The astral realm is believed to be a place of higher knowledge. Many travelers seek out libraries, temples, or wise beings to learn about the universe, spirituality, or their own life purpose. I tend to go back to one specific university in the astral before making major life changes. Guides appear as professors, classmates, and even academic rivals. (This could also be because I miss being in school, but let’s not harp on that here.)


Creative Inspiration: Artists, writers, and musicians sometimes use astral projection to tap into their creativity. The vivid imagery and experiences in the astral realm can inspire new ideas and projects.


Connecting with Nature Spirits: Some travelers enjoy interacting with nature spirits, such as fairies, elementals, or animal guides, who are said to inhabit the astral plane. I would suggest attempting this at a park, with people you trust making sure your body and belongings are safe.


Exploring Past Lives: Astral projection can be a tool for exploring past lives or understanding karmic patterns. Some travelers visit past-life scenes to gain insight into their current life. 


Visiting Sacred Sites: Many travelers visit sacred or energetically powerful places on Earth, such as ancient temples, pyramids, or natural landmarks, to connect with their energy.


Meeting Other Astral Travelers: It’s possible to encounter other people who are also astral projecting. Try making an agreement with a fellow woo-woo friend to meet each other in the astral realm and see if it works. 


Overcoming Fears: The astral realm can be a safe space to confront and overcome fears, such as fear of heights, darkness, or the unknown. You can do this on your own or by asking a spirit guide to assist you. 


These are just some ideas. Remember that astral projection is a subjective experience. I recommend approaching astral travel with a of whimsy sense of curiosity! 


But at the same time, this is a fun activity that should not be taken too seriously. Do not use it as a form of escape. You are on this planet experiencing this particular set of events for a reason. You are a human in a corporeal body in this lifetime for a reason. Never abandon the real world for the astral just because it feels easier to deal with. 

Have fun! 


Thank you for making it this far. If you enjoyed this post, subscribe to my newsletter for more esoteric content, or consider showing your support by buying me a coffee. If you’re a writer, download 300+ writing prompts inspired by the Tarot. If you’re a witch, access my Book of Shadows Notion Template here.

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