Glossary of Mysticism

Astral projection

The practice of projecting one's consciousness outside of the body to travel the astral plane, a realm of pure energy and thought.

Chakra healing

The practice of balancing the body's energy centers, or chakras, to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Divination

The practice of seeking knowledge of the future or hipen information by interpreting omens or signs.

Geomancy

A method of divination that interprets markings on the ground or patterns formed by tossing soil, rocks, or sand.

Kabbalah

A Jewish mystical tradition that explores the nature of God and the relationship between humanity and the divine.

Monotheistic mysticism

The study of the divine within monotheistic religions, such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Numerology

The mystical belief in the divine relationship between numbers and coinciding events.

Palmistry

The practice of studying the lines, shapes, and mounts on the palm to analyze a person's character and potential life paths.

Reiki

A Japanese healing practice that involves channeling universal energy through the practitioner's hands to heal others.

Runes

Letters from the runic alphabets used by ancient Germanic languages. They are often used for divination and magic.

Shamanism

The practice of a shaman acting as an intermediary between the physical and spiritual worlds.

Spirit animals and totems

In various indigenous cultures, spirit animals or totems are believed to offer guidance, protection, and wisdom.

Sufism

An Islamic mystical tradition that emphasizes direct experience of the divine through love and devotion.

Tarot card reading

A popular form of divination where a reader interprets the symbols and images on tarot cards.

Voodoo and Hoodoo

Spiritual folkways originating from African diasporic religions. These practices involve rituals, spells, and communicating with spirits to seek guidance, protection, and healing.