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Mysticism

Mysticism

Spirituality

A selection of numerous notable mystical traditions, as well as the corresponding practices and rituals.

Occult ≠ Tibetan Buddhism ≠ Western Esotericism ≅ Wicca ≠ Yoga



Mystical Traditions

(sorted alphabetically)


Occult symbol

Occult

Occult comes from 'occultus' (Latin) which means hidden or secret, but occultism rather refers to 'knowledge of the paranormal' and deals with a deeper spiritual reality.

  • Automatic writing
  • Channeling
  • Divination
  • Ouija Board
  • Self-induced hypnosis or trance
  • Spellcasting

Buddhist symbol

Tibetan Buddhism

Tibetan Buddhism uses three methods of spiritual practise of Buddhism: Foundational Vehicle, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. The goal is to reach enlightenment in order to more efficiently help other beings reach it as well.

  • Analytic meditation
  • Deity yoga visualization
  • Mantra (e.g. 'Om Mani Peme Hung')
  • Mudras
  • Phowa (transferring consciousness)
  • Samadhi (incl. Samatha) meditation
  • Vajrayana (Tantric Buddhism)
  • Taking refuge to the Three Jewels

Esoteric symbol

Western Esotericism

Western mystery tradition includes a number of spiritual traditions from the Western society, such as alchemy, herbalism, astrology, tarot, and ritual magic, to name just a few.

  • Astral projection
  • Divination
  • Evocation
  • Initiation rituals
  • Mediumship

Wicca symbol

Wicca

Wicca is nature-based and pagan in origin, with roots in ancient Europe (predating Christianity). Wiccans worship the Triple Goddess and the Horned God. Magic and altruistic rituals are a common practise.

  • Drawing down the Moon ritual
  • Evocation
  • Handfasting
  • Initiation rituals
  • Self-initiation rituals
  • Spellcasting
  • Wiccaning

Om Yoga symbol

Yoga

Yoga originates in India and refers to a range of mental and physical traditions. In Hinduism it is additionally one of the six astika schools of Hindu philosophy, and their goal.

  • Asana (Yoga postures)
  • Meditation
  • Pranayama (Breath control)
  • Shatkarma (Purification of the body)