What Are The Main Characteristics Of New Age Philosophies?

By Odessa Edwards


It can seem like there are so many disparate theories and practices associated with new age philosophies that it is difficult to gain an understanding of exactly what they are. Are there some themes which are applicable to these ideas?

From the basic idea of the dawning of the new astrological age of Aquarius which began in the seventies the new age movement developed into a broad spiritualism. This new age was supposed to bring about a fundamental change in the planet and a time of increased peace and harmony throughout the world. Many people still believe this will happen or is currently occurring and they are working to help the process along. However, new age now describes more than just this focus.

Many disparate fields can be included within the term new age such as metaphysics, religion, mysticism, psychology, health and self-help. The majority of theories incorporate both western religions with eastern beliefs. It is common to find a people who believe in Christianity and Buddhism at the same time. Often the emphasis is on an individual deciding on their personal definition of God. A focus on meditation and metaphysical science is also popular as this links in with the central tenet of self improvement.

Disciplines such as Reiki and yoga are often associated with new age beliefs. These disciplines stem from the belief in the importance of energy and the possibility of working with energies to increase well being. Reiki is used to encourage the flow of energy through the body thus maintaining both physical and mental health.

There is a lot of focus on the connections between bodily health and mood or mental health. Psychology, meditation and self-help are all incorporated into the philosophies as people try to gain an understanding of how they can bring about positive experiences in their lives. There are no uniform ideas or practices. However in the same way that individuals from their own ideas about God they also choose which parts of these ideas apply to them.

An emphasis on natural living and environmental preservation is common among new age people. Not causing harm to the earth or wasting its precious resources is important. The vibrations of the planet and its inhabitants are thought to be kept higher if everything is in harmony.

There are so many possible parts to new age thought that it has spread across the world as adherents seek out ideas and theories to use in their quest for self improvement. They will take ideas from such different schools of thought as Kabala, Taoism, Shamanism, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and many others.

The breadth of belief in new age philosophies is really quite unique. From beginnings around astrology and the Age of Aquarius ideas from all over the world and many vastly different disciplines have been incorporated. This is because of the central ideas of plurality and self improvement which deliberately search out new ideas and theories. Taking the idea of inter-connectedness from metaphysics also automatically means that similarities are sought between many different things. Using a varied number of theories has lead to a multitude of practices and ways of implementing the ideas giving the new age movement its characteristic variety.




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