Astral self defense - Everything you should expect, entities and 12 years of experience
The intent of this document is to provide readers with both clarity and empowerment regarding a subject that, while often dismissed or minimized within this field, is of critical importance. Specifically, we will be addressing the nature of entities, the principles of astral self-defense, and a consideration of firsthand experience.
This document will focus solely on subjects with which I have direct personal experience. Consequently, it will not attempt to present an exhaustive treatment of the topic. I do not speak on matters I have not personally observed, tested, or encountered. It should therefore be understood that I make no claim to complete knowledge; my perspective is limited to what I have learned through experience. Others may hold broader or deeper insights, and that is entirely valid; this is neither a competition nor a commercial endeavor. I maintain no blog, book, or website, and I offer no product or service for sale. The information presented here may be accepted or disregarded at the reader’s discretion. Finally, this document is not intended as a lesson in morality; how one chooses to apply the material remains entirely the responsibility of the reader.
I have twelve years of continuous involvement with astral projection, during which I have gained extensive firsthand knowledge. I share these reflections in the hope that they may inform the reader’s own understanding.
When fear regarding astral projection is discussed, the most common reassurance offered is that one cannot die from the practice and, indeed, that projection occurs naturally during sleep. On this point, however, there exists substantial disagreement, despite some presenting themselves as ultimate authorities. Certain individuals assert that astral projection can result in death; others warn of risks such as possession, loss of sanity, depletion of vital energy, or even abuse. While I do not subscribe to all of these beliefs, I acknowledge that the debate is significant. I do not claim absolute certainty about the full scope of what is or is not possible, and if harm were to truly to occur to someone, how would we even know? Although I am personally inclined to believe such outcomes are unlikely, at least in a direct sense, I recognize the limits of my knowledge.
With respect to my own position on these concerns, I do not believe a healthy adult can directly die as a result of astral projection, though no one can claim to know this with absolute certainty. In my view, individuals with serious health issues may face different risks. Speaking from personal context: as someone with a post-COVID cardiac condition, I have on more than one occasion required hospitalization during or after an astral projection episode. Just as a heart attack may occur during a vivid dream or in response to sudden shock, I believe a similar physiological event could be triggered by astral projection.
I also hold that some individuals with underlying mental-health vulnerabilities may find astral projection exacerbates their condition or triggers latent symptoms. Yet it must be stressed that such risks are not unique to astral projection; they can arise in ordinary life regardless of the practice. In my estimation, the likelihood of serious harm from astral projection for most people remains low. Nevertheless, it is not a practice immune to danger. It is not a realm of unqualified safety or universal benevolence. In my own case, I have accepted the possibility that, because of my pre-existing condition, astral projection may one day be the cause of my death.
A question I am often asked is why I continue to engage in astral projection, given the risks I have described. Would it not be simpler to stop altogether? The truth is that I cannot. I do not intend to dwell on this point at length, as the focus of this document is on what you can do rather than on myself, but some context is warranted. I began astral projecting at the age of 18 and am now 30. At that time, I was in excellent health and such concerns were of little relevance. However, once I initiated the practice, I found myself unable to regain control over it. It became, in effect, a door that once opened could not be closed.
This is why I do not personally endorse astral projection as a deliberate pursuit, though I will not discourage those who wish to explore it. For many, it can be transformative and even religious in nature. What one chooses to do with this information is, ultimately, none of my concern. In my own case, astral projection now occurs involuntarily and with great frequency; it is no longer a matter of choice. Nor is this situation unique to me. In Journeys Out of the Body, Robert Monroe, often regarded as the modern authority on astral projection, describes a similar loss of control. For your benefit, I include a passage from his book below.
-“Beyond this point, I believe you cannot turn back… once you have been ‘opened’ to this other reality, you cannot completely shut it out again ; try as you might. As you start to sleep or awaken, when you merely relax, the vibrational surge may come without call. You can try to shut it off, but eventually you get too tired to keep resisting and you’re off on another excursion.” (Journeys out of the body. Chapter 16).
Although I do not fully agree with Robert Monroe on every aspect of this subject, on this particular point our perspectives align. This is not intended to discourage or encourage the reader but rather to emphasize the importance of informed consent: one should understand the implications of the practice before undertaking it, as there is likely no turning back once it begins. It may become an integral part of one’s life.
Monroe explains, consistent with my own experience, that once an individual engages in astral projection, involuntary episodes during sleep often follow. He describes the process as akin to muscle memory; once the body learns how to project, it rarely ceases. He further notes that the veil between physical reality and the astral becomes progressively thinner. While his outlook on these developments is generally more positive than my own, we are in agreement on this central point. This is not to suggest that I see no benefits in the practice; I do, and these will be addressed later. However, I have not made it my mission to promote or persuade others regarding this matter. I hold that, in nature and in life, there is a time for everything, and the usefulness of this practice corresponds to the readiness of the individual to undertake its burdens. It is not my intention to "awaken the world" to this phenomenon. My aim is simply to inform and equip those who wish to pursue it with the knowledge and tools I consider of importance.
With this context established, we may now turn to the subject of entities.
Dweller on the Threshold (also called the Guardian on the Threshold)
The “Dweller on the Threshold” is widely reported as the first entity encountered during initial attempts at astral projection. It is typically described as a dark, shadow-like figure resembling the Grim Reaper, often perceived as darker than night itself. Accounts differ on its nature. Some interpret it as a manifestation of the subconscious or a psychological self-defense mechanism that prevents premature exploration; others regard it as an independent entity acting as a gatekeeper. Whatever its origin, it is commonly perceived as a test of readiness rather than an intrinsically malevolent presence.
Although not believed to be lethal, the Dweller may provoke fear and cause sensations of physical discomfort. It is frequently reported during episodes of sleep paralysis and may adopt forms designed to elicit fear. Overcoming the Dweller is generally understood as a matter of emotional control. Suppressing fear and maintaining composure enables progression, whereas resistance or aggression tends to end the projection. Attempts to harm the entity appear ineffective, as I have tried many times, and this is one of the only entities that appears to be immune to it.
A quick note before moving forward
What other entities will you encounter in the astral? Over the several months since this post was originally written, I have seriously struggled with this section, and have been cautious not to turn it in to a grimoire, or a catalog of entities for the purpose of spectacle. I also hold a degree of concern that my words may influence the reader's own experiences, while also understanding that it may be of great benefit to enter the space with some level of knowledge. So with that said, continue reading a your own discretion.
When it comes to the subject of entities, there are just so many, that it would be impossible to catalog them one by one here without writing an actual book, which is something I have no intention or desire to do. Some of these seem to hold different levels of power, position, purpose, temperament, and names. Again, since this document is not intended to be a grimoire, I will not list names, nor be overly specific about any one entity in particular. I will, instead, place them in broad categories. Hopefully this helps the reader have a general idea of what is out there, without being overly specific, or disrespecting any of these beings. Yes, I hold a serious degree of concern when it comes to disrespecting the divine in any way, and am trying my best to inform, while also keeping that spirit of respect intact. Some of these I have personal relationships with, and it would be unwise to harm or disrespect said relationship. With that said, here is an extremely broad and generic list of categories of entities I am familiar with.
Shadow Figures
The term “shadow figures” is a broad and somewhat reductive category encompassing a variety of entities reported during astral projection. Experiences with these figures range widely: some appear to engage in disruptive or unsettling behavior seemingly for their own amusement, some ignore the practitioner entirely, some appear recognizably human, and others present as mentally unwell or trapped in repetitive loops. At best they are neutral; I have never personally encountered one that could be described as benevolent.
My own speculation is that such figures represent "low-frequency" entities whose purpose, if any, remains unclear. They may simply exist without a specific function. Because of the term’s generality, “shadow figure” may refer to a variety of distinct phenomena rather than a single class of being. Shadow figures, like other entities encountered in the astral, may at times display aggression; however, they are usually of limited potency. My own response has often been to disregard them entirely. Defensive measures relevant to these encounters will be outlined in the self-defense section.
Human or Humanoid Entities
Human or humanoid entities encountered in the astral are typically perceived as fully sentient and often display greater intelligence or self-awareness than other classes of beings. In my experience, some of these entities are deceased individuals, while others are living humans projecting, and still others may simply adopt a human appearance without actually being human. Their behavior varies widely; some are benevolent, others indifferent, and some are not.
Shape-Shifters
In the astral environment, nearly all entities, including the practitioner, appear capable of shapeshifting. Such beings may assume the appearance of deceased relatives, offer pleasure, or propose bargains or deals. Their true nature is unknown and may encompass countless possibilities. The reasons for their shapeshifting are likewise uncertain and need not be inherently malevolent; it may be employed to invoke fear as a means of self-protection, or conversely, a benevolent entity may adopt a less imposing form to avoid overwhelming or frightening the traveler. Shape-shifting could be described more as an ability, rather than a category of entity. How ever, I feel a need to inform the reader of this, because not everything truly is what it appears to be.
Vampires
The term “vampire” in the astral context refers to a broad category of entities that may appear either as shadow figures or in more attractive, alluring forms. In my own experience, they frequently present as black and oily, almost as though covered in or composed of petroleum, which leads me to suspect that this may be their true appearance or aspect. These beings are often perceived as intelligent and are typically associated with attempts to drain or steal energy from the practitioner. The specific reasons for such behavior are unknown to me. I have a general idea and theories of why this may be the case, but I'll spare the reader of my theories as much as possible.
Practitioners should be aware of the possibility of such encounters. Methods of responding to and defending against these entities are essentially the same as those used for other encounters and will be addressed in the self-defense section.
Doppelgänger / Mimic
The entity often referred to as a doppelgänger or mimic is among the most vicious and violent beings I have ever come across. It appears identical to the practitioner and, in my experience, seems intent on immediate harm. I have personally encountered this type of entity only once, during my younger years, yet the descriptions provided by other projectors, occultists, and shamans are strikingly similar.
Some speculate that it represents a repressed or unintegrated aspect of the self, but this remains conjecture. What is evident is that it cannot be reasoned with; it does not speak and appears driven to injure, dominate, or perhaps even replace the practitioner.
There seems to be no reliable method of avoiding or peacefully engaging with this entity. In my own case, I was forced to destroy it. I have written an entire post just about this specific encounter, if the reader is looking for more information.
Shamanic, Planetary or Cosmic intelligences, and Elder Entities
This term refers to a broad category of extraordinary and often fantastical beings encountered in the astral environment. They seem to live in different locations, levels, or spheres. These entities are typically perceived as extremely powerful, sometimes so powerful, that it becomes difficult even to remain upright in their presence. A guiding entity I have encountered on several occasions, for example, manifests as a large bipedal bear. Its arrival is heralded by a sense of downward pressure so intense that I instinctively fall to my knees until it adjusts to my “frequency” or level, allowing me to remain near it for a period of time.
This category aims to encompass a wide range of intelligences that can only be described as God-like. I would not consider these beings "entities" in the traditional sense, as that would undermine their true nature. There are many of them, they present differently, have different names, seem to occupy different roles, have different temperament, posses specific knowledge and are incredibly powerful.
I have generally had mostly positive experiences with these beings, but this requires a huge caveat. It's difficult to express this without coming off extremely arrogant, but I will say it anyway for the protection of the reader. I practice a specific hermetic system, and have been practicing it for quite some time. I don't know that the reader's experience with said beings will be as positive as mine, because I am engaging with them using a specific framework and set of understandings. This is not to place my self above the reader in any way, but it is to say that - I don't know if the reader would have the same experience as me, because of the difference in background.
What I will say about these beings is that they can be great teachers, and possess specific knowledge that could be of great use to the practitioner. I am extremely wary of discussing them further, or getting in to specifics, for many reasons. So I will just say this - In my experience, such beings are profoundly powerful and should be approached with great respect. They resemble figures one might expect from myth or sacred literature and are not to be treated casually.
Spirit Guides
I’d rather not discuss these. I have extremely mixed feelings.
Guardian Angels
I do not personally believe in angels, but my position is not based on religious rejection. Rather, it is grounded in the fact that I have never encountered one. I do not adopt belief in things I have not personally observed, and until such an experience occurs, I remain unconvinced. This is not intended to dismiss or disrespect the beliefs of others; individuals are free to hold their own views, and I acknowledge that the existence of angels is possible. I simply have no evidence of it in my own practice.
In my most horrifying moments, when attacked, afraid, or surrounded by darkness, I have prayed and called upon guides or angels for assistance. Not once has anything responded. In every case, the outcome has depended entirely on my own efforts. Whether this absence reflects something about my own worthiness, or simply the nature of the phenomenon, I cannot say. I have certainly met incredible entities, but nothing resembling a traditional biblical angel.
Demons
Yet another category of entity I would rather not discuss. All I will say is - I have encountered both extremely powerful benevolent or neutral entities, and also negative ones. Weather we want to call them "demons" specifically, is up to the reader. I tend to refer to these as "negative entities" instead, because the term "demon" is loaded and holds religious baggage.
What I will say is that the term "demon" has been specifically presented to me in the astral before, and so was the offer of a pact or deal. Generally speaking I would highly advise the reader to stay away from making any kind of deal or exchange in the astral. Never accept gifts, bargains or deals. It is not my goal to moralize or impose on the reader, but I can’t, in good conscience, not mention this. I would avoid becoming aggressive toward these, unless it becomes impossible. It is always best to politely excuse yourself, and move on.
Nature Spirits and Elementals
This is a broad category of entities that are clearly nonhuman but some times may appear in humanoid form. These are beings that represent the elements, and are neutral in nature. They represent primal forces, often times are chaotic, other times enchanting. There's not much to say here, other than the reader should approach them with respect and care. They are, generally, impartial beings that hold, what appears to be, specific functions or purpose.
I have personally interacted with a group of beings I would describe as Sylph, Fae, or Nature Spirits, and with one in particular I developed a close and personal relationship. Out of respect for the privacy of that relationship, and because I do not know what would be appropriate to share, I will not discuss it in detail here. My experiences with this specific group were positive, but I cannot speak to whether all such entities are benevolent.
Aliens or Extraterrestrial
I have absolutely no experience with these, nor have I ever seen one. Many projectors speak of encounters with them, such as the famous Reptilians, Mantis, Nordics, Greys, and so on. I have no comment, simply because I have never met one. So until then, I remain unconvinced. I'm not calling other people's experience in to question, and I'm not interested in arguing about it. I'm just saying I haven't seen it.
Self defense
Over time my astral projection experiences have become progressively more positive. I cannot identify a single cause for this shift, but I believe it reflects a combination of factors, including a conscious effort to be less needlessly confrontational. In the past I reacted with anger when disturbed, startled, or forcibly drawn out of my body—a situation that occurred frequently. Violence became my default response once I discovered its effectiveness.
Although I do not fully understand why physically harming an entity in the astral environment works, years of experience and research have led me to a plausible explanation. We seem to possess an inherent energy, often referred to as “Chi,” that arises from our continued link to a physical body. This energy appears to allow the practitioner to inflict physical pain within the astral, making it a highly effective means of defense.
Different individuals employ different methods for managing negative entities: calling on guides, prayer, visualizing shields of light, and so on. These methods may work for some, but they have not worked for me. Physical confrontation has consistently proven effective against most hostile entities I have encountered. With practice, a practitioner may even materialize weapons or tools, which, however implausible it may sound, also prove effective. Whether entities can truly be “killed” in the astral is unknown. In my experience, entities I have harmed or “destroyed” do not reappear, but I suspect they simply cease to exist in their present form rather than dying in an absolute sense—much as a sandcastle ceases to exist when destroyed but reintegrates with the surrounding sand.
For some, it seems guides or angels may provide protection, rendering such measures unnecessary. For me, however, self-defense has been essential; no outside force has ever intervened on my behalf. Still, I have learned that violence should be a last resort. When it becomes a habitual mode of interaction, it appears to drive away not only hostile entities but also potentially benevolent ones. Some beings may look unsettling simply because they are nonhuman and unfamiliar, not because they are malevolent. Approaching them with empathy, patience, and restraint often leads to more positive outcomes.
My own history underscores this point. I invited these experiences when I was young, curious, and grieving, and for many years I resented the results. Consequently, any entity that disturbed me would be met with aggression. In recent years I have often adopted a gentler approach and have found that benevolent, often nature-oriented entities now interact with me more frequently. These beings are genuinely gentle and exhibit a sweetness and wonder that is difficult to put into words. So much so, that I must give the reader a warning:
Do Not Overstay
One important caution I wish to share concerns the duration of time spent within certain astral environments. I recently spent what subjectively felt like three days in a place to which I had been invited, and spent a lot of time with a particular entity. This group, or lineage, of Fae-like or nature spirits introduced me to one of their own, who expressed a desire to get to know me and spend time together. I do not know why such interest was shown. The leading or matriarchal figure of the group resembled a totemic or shamanic entity and granted me permission to interact with the being under its protection. Over time, I developed a close relationship with this entity.
Although I was never expelled, I left reluctantly out of concern for how much time was passing. This was not three physical days of sleep, but within the projection itself I would sleep and wake to find myself still there—a possibility I had not previously experienced. Upon returning, I felt disoriented and emotionally altered for weeks. I normally do not experience depression or nihilism, yet during that period I felt both.
This was not the result of energy drain or harm; the entity was gentle, enchanting, and inhumanly beautiful. Rather, the shift came from my own growing preference for that environment over the physical world. I found myself thinking of the entity constantly and struggling to focus on my daily life. For this reason I advise caution: do not overstay. Extended immersion may lead to a sense of alienation from the physical world and difficulty reintegrating afterward.
Shadow Work
What is commonly referred to as “shadow work” is, in my view, one of the most powerful self-defense practices a person can cultivate. Shadow work involves directly confronting one’s deepest fears, desires, shames, and uncomfortable truths—especially the aspects of oneself one most dislikes. By identifying and confronting these elements, they can be overcome or brought under conscious control.
The fears that weigh most heavily on you should be approached deliberately. Of these, the fear of death is the most crucial to overcome. Once death is accepted, little else retains the power to instill fear, and as a result most, if not all, fear dissipates. When such vulnerabilities are understood and integrated, they lose their hold and can no longer be used against you.
I consider this work essential even before attempting astral projection. I have written an entire post devoted to this topic, which explains its methods and function in greater detail. It is the second post pinned to my profile, and I strongly recommend that anyone considering this practice read that document first.
More advanced techniques (use with caution):
Binding Procedures (Black Rope)
Binding procedures are techniques intended to restrict or immobilize an entity. They may be useful in select circumstances, though their use is rarely necessary. As previously noted, most entities will cower if physically confronted; binding is an escalation reserved for cases where immediate restriction is required. Be aware that binding is typically perceived as an act of aggression, even when the intent is merely containment. Only employ these methods when you are resolute and have a clear purpose.
Effectiveness depends on clarity and authority of intention. Doubt, fear, or hesitation will commonly cause a binding to fail. Choose a calm, firm state of mind before initiating any technique.
Step 1 — Form the bind.
Visualize a black rope, chain, or cord forming in your hand or emerging from your energy center. Black is often used for absorption, neutralization, and restriction. Alternatively, extend your hands toward the entity, and imagine a cord manifesting around the target, which is what I do. Position the hand toward the entity to give the action direction and intention.
Step 2 — Secure the knot.
Encircle the entity with the imagined rope, ensuring the visualization is tight and precise. Keep one hand steady to maintain the bind, and use the other hand to grip the rope and pull back forcefully, as if tying a knot. At the moment the knot is completed, state your intention out loud or mentally. A single, firm word such as “bind” is sufficient; the precise wording matters less than the clarity and authority behind it.
Step 3 — Banish.
Decide on the destination for the bound entity. Some practitioners send entities to a place of light; I will usually direct them into a void. With the free hand, gesture toward the intended exit and visualize an opening behind the entity. Push the entity through that opening into the chosen destination, again by gesturing forward with the free hand. Some traditions recommend invoking a divine name or authority at this stage; I personally do not follow that practice. Instead, I visualize a bottomless void and move the entity into it with deliberate, forceful intention.
Step 4 — Seal.
Once the entity has been banished, apply a seal to the exit point. Different systems use different symbols; use whatever symbol aligns with your practice. I typically visualize an upright pentagram, as per my background in hermetic traditions. See the chosen symbol as bright and vibrant, imprinting it into place like a stamp or lock. Focus your will on the symbol until it feels fixed.
Step 5 — Close with a command.
Conclude the procedure with a final command to reinforce your intent. Phrase this as you prefer; a concise declaration such as “By my will, it is done” is effective. End in a composed state, and withdraw your attention deliberately.
Subtle Body Shell / Armor
This technique is particularly useful for individuals experiencing involuntary projections, sleep paralysis, vivid night terrors, or more disturbing experiences such as feeling forcibly removed from the body or energetically harmed, maybe even abused. The objective is to create an energetic or astral “armor” for the subtle body, serving as a protective shell that keeps unwanted influences at a distance.
Before sleep, I recite a personal mantra designed to establish authority over my own space. The precise wording is not important; effectiveness depends on intention and the firmness of one’s resolve rather than prayer or supplication. It must be spoken—or declared internally—without fear or affection but with calm authority, as an order. What I say:
-"I am the master of body, mind and spirit. Within this space, I reign sovereign. Without consent, nothing shall enter my domain. For here I remain supreme. I am the master of body, mind and spirit. Here I stand absolute."
This can be repeated as needed. When stated from a place of genuine authority, it often produces a tangible physical sensation, such as hair standing on end or a subtle electric feeling. After reciting it, I mentally guide this energy so that it surrounds my body like armor or a protective shell. In my experience, this practice promotes deep, undisturbed sleep. Some even report not being able to dream at all the evening it is performed.
Sentinel
The “sentinel” technique involves creating a watcher or guardian entity intended to protect either the practitioner or another individual. In my experience this practice can be remarkably effective. On one occasion I employed it to assist a friend who was contending with a persistent negative entity. Without informing them of what I had done, I later asked about their sleep; they reported that the disturbances had ceased and that they were resting much better. Although this technique can be powerful, it is not permanent and requires ongoing maintenance. It also demands a degree of experience with energy work. This method is primarily intended to safeguard one’s place of rest.
The process may be performed either in the physical setting or during astral projection. It begins with deep meditation. Visualize the sentinel in a clear and detailed form. While its appearance can be chosen freely, I personally favor animal forms, particularly dogs, which I associate with guardianship. Envision where the sentinel will stand guard, and then attempt to “see through its eyes,” imagining the scene from the servitor’s perspective as though you were the third party.
From this vantage point, issue the command. Use deliberate gestures with one hand—up, down, front, back, left, right—this is to instruct it to protect from all directions, and is called "programming the form". Verbal commands may also be used, but in my experience physical gestures and puppeteering are more effective. Once the instructions are given, envision the sentinel assuming its assigned task and standing guard over the designated space.
Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram (LBRP)
The Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram (LBRP) is a widely known ceremonial practice used to clear, protect, and “lock” the surrounding space. Because it is so well documented, I will not provide instructions here; detailed explanations are readily available in books and online sources. This ritual is particularly useful when astral projection is not possible but the practitioner wishes to remove or neutralize an unwanted presence, perhaps even prior to engaging with the practice altogether, or after doing so, to clear said space.
Energy Weapons
Energy weapons constitute my primary method of self-defense in the astral environment and are effective in the vast majority of situations I encounter. This practice involves envisioning and materializing an object—typically one you are already familiar with and own—in order to make it easier for the mind to “accept” its presence and function. The same principle explains why I struggled for years with flying; my mind initially could not accept that such an action was possible.
Because raw physical force is already so effective, I initially hesitated to share techniques beyond basic weaponization. Part of me questions how a few readers might use some of this knowledge. However, withholding it would be equally problematic, given that these methods can provide crucial protection if needed. In practice, I find myself repeatedly sharing these techniques in comments and discussions, and thus I have included them here for completeness.
Energy Shield
The energy shield is a widely known technique for protection in the astral environment. It involves envisioning a protective bubble or sphere of light surrounding the practitioner to ward off unwanted influences. Although this method is well established, I personally find it to be of limited effectiveness. In my experience, techniques that rely primarily on reaction rather than proactive action tend not to work well for me. Nevertheless, this approach may be beneficial for others, and readers should feel free to experiment with it. Effectiveness appears to vary from individual to individual, and some practitioners report positive results.
On the Scope and Reliability of These Techniques
The methods described in this document do not represent the totality of what is possible. Countless other techniques, traditions, and approaches exist. Nevertheless, what I have presented here constitutes a robust and sufficient arsenal for most situations a practitioner is likely to encounter.
I am not the originator of these techniques. They have been developed and used by others long before me. I share them only as a student who has adopted, tested, and refined them through years of direct experience. Every method included here is one I have personally used and continue to use. For that reason, I can speak to their reliability within the limits of my own practice, but I make no claim to be their pioneer or sole authority.
The Necessity of Confrontation
With sustained practice, it is highly likely that one will eventually encounter negative or hostile phenomena in the astral environment. Most experienced projectors acknowledge this privately but often avoid discussing it publicly. Those who adopt a “love and light” approach generally refrain from addressing negative encounters out of concern that suggestion might influence a newcomer’s subconscious perceptions.
I take a different view. In my opinion, people deserve an accurate understanding of the potential risks before engaging in a practice that may affect them profoundly or even permanently, as it did in my own case. While I accept that the subconscious plays a significant role in shaping what one sees or attracts, I do not believe it exercises absolute sovereignty. Negative phenomena appear to exist independently of the practitioner’s mindset, much as adversity exists in ordinary life. As Above, So Below.
When confronted with something genuinely harmful, the answer never is to cower. One should actively confront and overcome fears rather than allow them to become vulnerabilities. This does not mean responding with indiscriminate hostility, as many beings are simply unfamiliar, not malevolent. How ever, it does mean recognizing that some entities are truly negative and may attempt to inflict harm. Avoidance keeps a person soft and weak; confrontation and resolution build strength and resilience, both for oneself and for those one supports. I contend that one should deliberately confront sources of personal weakness, intentionally engaging and conquering one’s greatest fears until they no longer hold power.
Positives of the Practice
Unfortunately the document had to be trimmed, because of Reddit's character limit on posts. I don't think sharing the "positives" is relevant to the document, as this would be subjective. All I will say is - Regardless of the positives or negatives, I’d prefer to know what’s out there rather than remain ignorant.
Distinguishing Astral Projection from Dreams
People often ask how to tell whether an experience was an astral projection or simply a dream. In my view, the distinction is as self-evident as knowing what you did yesterday versus what you are doing now. If you genuinely cannot tell the difference between reality and dreaming, that may be a clinical matter beyond my expertise.
For me, the difference is unmistakable. When I am awake, dreaming, or projecting, each state carries its own distinct quality, and I believe most people can recognize this for themselves. My personal guideline is that if there is even a shadow of doubt about an experience, it was probably a dream.
I do not intend to be dismissive with this answer. Over the years it has been deeply frustrating to share my experiences with others and be told they were “just dreams.” In my opinion there is a clear and significant difference between dreams and astral projection, and, with practice, that difference becomes obvious.
Are All Negative Experiences “Fear Tests”?
In my opinion, no. Not every negative experience in the astral is a test of fear. Sometimes adverse events occur without serving a higher purpose—just as in ordinary life, where unfortunate things can happen to good people.
I believe it is misleading to impose a positive framework on every encounter through a kind of mental gymnastics that insists all experiences are lessons, tests, or blessings in disguise. While such a perspective may be comforting, it risks becoming delusional. The reality is that not all is love and light; some experiences are simply negative.
It is comforting to think that nothing harmful exists, that every hardship is designed to help us grow, and that all suffering hides a greater purpose. Such beliefs can feel like a warm blanket. Yet the truth is often more difficult—uncomfortable, unsettling, and unpleasant. Most adults understand this principle in ordinary life, and in my view, the same applies in the astral: as above, so below.
Final Advice
My final advice is to treat no one’s word as gospel, including my own. My experiences and interpretations may not reflect your own. This field attracts many individuals who believe they know everything and present themselves as authorities, also individuals seeking to enrich themselves; arrogance is common in these communities. Do not take any single person’s statements as law. Instead, consult multiple sources, listen to diverse perspectives, and gather knowledge from as many places as possible.
If you believe I missed something, rest assured that I certainly did. The document has reached the maximum permitted character limit. For this reason, the document misses a lot of detail I wish I could add.