Past life regression (पिछले जीवन का प्रतिगमन) is a method that uses hypnosis to recover what practitioners believe are memories of past lives or incarnations. The practice is widely considered discredited and unscientific by medical practitioners, and experts generally regard claims of recovered memories of past lives as fantasies or delusions or a type of confabulation. Past-life regression is typically undertaken either in pursuit of a spiritual experience or in a psychotherapeutic setting. Most advocates loosely adhere to beliefs about reincarnation, though religious traditions that incorporate reincarnation generally do not include the idea of repressed memories of past lives. Experiments with subjects undergoing past-life regression indicate that a belief in reincarnation and suggestions by the hypnotist are the two most important factors regarding the contents of memories reported.
Past life Regression Meaning
Past life regression refers to the process of exploring or recalling memories and experiences that are believed to be from previous lifetimes or incarnations. It is based on the concept of reincarnation, which posits that the soul undergoes multiple lives in different bodies.
The term “regression” in past life regression refers to the idea that the individual undergoing the therapy or exploration is moving backward in time to access memories that are believed to be stored in their subconscious mind. The goal is to regress or go back to previous lifetimes to gain insights, understand patterns, resolve unresolved issues, or explore the potential origins of certain emotions, fears, or relationships in their current life.
Past life Regression History
Religion
In the 2nd century BC, the Hindu scholar Patañjali, in his Yoga Sutras, discussed the idea of the soul becoming burdened with an accumulation of impressions as part of the karma from previous lives. Patañjali called the process of past-life regression prati-prasava (literally “reverse birthing”) and saw it as addressing current problems through memories of past lives. Some types of yoga continue to use prati-prasav as a practice.
In the religious mythology of China the deity Meng Po, also known as the “Lady of Forgetfulness”, prevents souls from remembering their past lives: she gives them a bittersweet drink that erases all memories before they climb the wheel of reincarnation.
Past life regression can be found in Jainism. The seven truths of Jainism deal with the soul and its attachment to karma. The fourth truth, Bandha, tells us that karma can stick to your soul. However, the seventh truth, Moksha, tells us that to be freed from the cycle of rebirth and death, one must separate karma from the soul. To find out what karma is attached to your soul, you can participate in “Jati-Smaran.” Jati-Smaran is remembering past lives
Modern era Past life memories
The nineteenth century saw the rise of Spiritualism, involving séances and other techniques for contacting departed spirits. Allan Kardec (1804–1869) sought to codify the lessons thus obtained in a set of five books, the Spiritist Codification (the Spiritist Pentateuch, 1857–1868), including The Spirits Book (1857) and Heaven and Hell (1865); these books introduce concepts of how spirits evolve through a series of incarnations.
Madame Blavatsky (1831–1891), co-founder of the Theosophical Society, introduced the Sanskrit term, Akasha, beginning in Isis Unveiled (1877) as a vague life force that was continuously redefined, always vaguely, in subsequent publications; separately, but also in Isis Unveiled, she referred to “indestructible tablets of the astral light” recording both the past and future of human thought and action.
Past life information
An early report of a human accessing past life information during a trance state comes from 1923, when Edgar Cayce while answering questions posed by Arthur Lammers (publisher) in a trance state, spoke of Lammers’ past lives and reincarnation. The use of hypnosis for past life regressions is said to have been developed by A. R. (Asa Roy) Martin of Sharon, Pennsylvania, who published Researches in Reincarnation and Beyond in 1942.
In 1952 the Bridey Murphy case, in which housewife Virginia Tighe of Pueblo, Colorado, under hypnosis, was reported by the hypnotist to have recounted memories of a 19th-century Irish woman (“Bridey Murphy”).
Past life regression is widely rejected as a psychiatric treatment by clinical psychiatrists and psychologists. A 2006 survey found that a majority of a sample of doctoral-level mental health professionals rated “Past Lives” therapy as “certainly discredited” as a treatment for mental or behavioral disorders.
Past life regression Techniques
In the West, past-life regression practitioners use hypnosis and suggestion to promote recall in their patients, using a series of questions designed to elicit statements and memories about the past life’s history and identity. Past life regression techniques vary depending on the approach of the therapist or facilitator conducting the session. These techniques are designed to guide individuals into a relaxed or hypnotic state, where they can access supposed memories from past lives. Here are some common past-life regression techniques:
Guided Imagery
The guided Imagery technique involves the therapist providing verbal guidance to the individual, helping them create mental images and explore different scenes and scenarios. The individual is encouraged to describe what they see, feel, and experience during the process.
Visualization
Similar to guided imagery, visualization involves asking the individual to imagine specific scenes or environments related to past lives. The therapist may use prompts to guide the journey, such as asking the individual to envision entering a door that leads to a past life.
Open-Ended Questions
The therapist may use open-ended questions to trigger memories and encourage the individual to explore their feelings and experiences in different lifetimes. Questions might focus on relationships, occupations, locations, and significant events.
Body Sensations and Emotions
The therapist may guide the individual to explore physical sensations or emotions associated with past life memories. By focusing on bodily sensations or emotions, the person might access deeper layers of subconscious memories.
Symbol Interpretation
Some therapists interpret past life experiences through the lens of symbols and metaphors. They may ask the individual to describe any symbols or recurring themes in their regression experience and interpret their significance.
Timeline Regression
This technique involves moving through different points in time within the current life and potentially into past lives. It allows the individual to explore how certain events or patterns might be interconnected across lifetimes.
Group Regression
In group regression, multiple individuals participate in a past life regression session together. The facilitator guides the entire group through the process, and participants may share their experiences afterward.
It’s essential to remember that past life regression is a controversial practice, and its therapeutic value is debated within the scientific and psychological communities. The experiences reported during regression sessions can vary widely and may be influenced by the person’s imagination, cultural beliefs, and the therapist’s suggestions. If someone chooses to explore past life regression, they should do so with an open mind, seeking qualified and ethical professionals who prioritize the individual’s well-being and personal growth.
The procedure of Past life regression
The procedure of past life regression typically involves several steps, from preparation to the actual regression session. Here’s a general outline of the process:
Intake and Preparation
Before the past life regression session, the individual meets with the therapist or facilitator for an initial consultation. During this intake process, the therapist gathers information about the individual’s current life, experiences, and any specific issues they want to explore during regression. The therapist also explains the process, discusses expectations, and addresses any questions or concerns.
Setting Intentions
The individual is encouraged to set clear intentions for the past life regression session. These intentions may include gaining insights into current life challenges, understanding relationship patterns, exploring talents or skills from past lives, or resolving emotional issues.
Relaxation and Induction
In the actual regression session, the therapist guides the individual into a state of deep relaxation or hypnosis.
Regression Journey
With the individual in a relaxed state, the therapist begins the regression journey. They may use various techniques like guided imagery, visualization, or open-ended questions to encourage the individual to explore past life memories.
Exploring Past Life Memories
The therapist guides the individual through different scenes, events, or lifetimes that the individual may experience. The focus is on describing details, emotions, and sensations related to these past life memories.
Uncovering Insights
Throughout the regression, the individual may gain insights into their past life experiences and how they might relate to their current life. The therapist may ask questions to help the individual process and understand these experiences.
Resolution and Integration
If the individual encounters unresolved traumas or emotions from past lives, the therapist may guide them through a process of resolution and healing. This may involve letting go of negative emotions, forgiving past experiences, or gaining closure.
Return to the Present
Towards the end of the session, the therapist guides the individual back to their present life and a state of full awareness. The individual may discuss their experiences and insights with the therapist, reflecting on the regression journey.
Post-Regression Discussion
After the session, the therapist and the individual discuss the experience and any emotions or thoughts that arose during the regression. The therapist may help the individual integrate the insights gained into their current life.
Follow-Up
Depending on the individual’s needs and goals, there may be follow-up sessions to further explore past life memories or work on specific issues identified during the initial regression.
It’s essential to approach past life regression with an open mind and a critical perspective. The experiences reported during regression are highly subjective and may vary widely from person to person. Additionally, the effectiveness and therapeutic value of past life regression are subjects of debate within the scientific and psychological communities. As with any form of therapy or exploration, seeking qualified and ethical professionals is crucial for a safe and supportive experience.
Studies about Past life regression
Studies suggest that past lives are likely false memories, implanted through the susceptibility of the hypnotic method.
Scientific studies
The majority of scientific studies and reviews on past-life regression have focused on evaluating the effectiveness of past-life regression therapy in addressing psychological issues, rather than verifying the reality of past-life memories.
Validity of past-life memories
It’s crucial to note that the scientific community remains skeptical about the validity of past-life memories obtained through regression techniques. Many psychologists and researchers argue that such memories are likely constructs of the imagination, influenced by cultural beliefs, media, and other personal experiences.
As with any controversial topic, there might be ongoing studies and discussions about past-life regression beyond my last update. To find the latest information on this subject, I recommend checking scientific journals, academic databases, and reputable sources in the field of psychology and parapsychology. Always ensure that you rely on credible and peer-reviewed sources for accurate and reliable information.
Ethical questions about Past life regression
Luis Cordón states that this can be problematic as it creates delusions under the guise of therapy. Additionally, the hypnotic methodology that underpins past life regression places the participant in a vulnerable position, susceptible to the implantation of false memories. Because the implantation of false memories may be harmful, Gabriel Andrade points out that past life regression violates the principle of first, not harm (non-maleficence).
Benefits of Past life regression
The experiences reported during past life regression are subjective and can vary widely from person to person. While some individuals may find value and personal growth through these experiences, others may view them as purely imaginative or symbolic.
Medical Benefits (Potential)
Stress Reduction
Past life regression sessions often involve deep relaxation techniques, which may help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Emotional Healing
For some individuals, exploring past life memories may lead to emotional insights and catharsis, potentially facilitating emotional healing.
Increased Self-Awareness
Past life regression can prompt individuals to reflect on their behaviors, relationships, and life patterns, fostering greater self-awareness.
Self-Exploration
Participants may gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their life’s purpose through the exploration of past life experiences.
Coping with Phobias
Some proponents claim that past life regression can help address unexplained fears and phobias by uncovering their potential past life origins.
Spiritual Benefits (Potential)
Connection to Spirituality
For those with spiritual inclinations or beliefs in reincarnation, past life regression can be a way to explore their soul’s journey across lifetimes.
Resolving Karmic Patterns
Believers in karma suggest that past life regression can help individuals identify and resolve karmic debts or patterns carried over from previous lives.
Spiritual Growth
Engaging in past life regression might lead to personal and spiritual growth, including a broader perspective on life and a sense of interconnectedness.
Understanding Soul Contracts
Some proponents claim that past life regression can reveal soul contracts or agreements made before incarnating, shedding light on current life lessons and relationships.
Overcoming Fear of Death
By experiencing past life memories, some individuals report a reduction in the fear of death, feeling reassured that consciousness may continue beyond this life.
It’s essential to approach past life regression with an open mind while maintaining a critical perspective. While some people report profound and positive experiences, others may not find it beneficial or meaningful. If considering past life regression, individuals should seek out qualified and ethical professionals who prioritize the client’s well-being and personal growth.
It is also essential to recognize that past life regression is not a substitute for medical or mental health treatment. If you are experiencing physical or mental health issues, it is crucial to consult with qualified medical or mental health professionals for appropriate care.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is a controversial and divisive practice that revolves around exploring memories and experiences believed to be from previous lifetimes. While proponents tout potential benefits such as stress reduction, emotional healing, increased self-awareness, and spiritual growth, it is crucial to approach these claims with skepticism. While some individuals may find value in the insights gained through past life regression, others view it as a form of guided fantasy or a way to explore their minds. Those considering it should approach it with an open mind, seeking qualified and ethical professionals if they choose to explore this alternative therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is past life regression?
A: It is a therapeutic or spiritual practice that aims to explore memories and experiences from previous lifetimes. It is based on the concept of reincarnation, suggesting that the soul undergoes multiple lives in different bodies.
Q: What happens during a past life regression session?
A: A trained therapist or facilitator guides the individual into a relaxed or hypnotic state. The person is encouraged to explore and describe supposed memories from past lives. Techniques like guided imagery, visualization, and open-ended questions.
Q: Can past life regression therapy address emotional issues?
A: Some proponents believe that it can help individuals address emotional issues and traumas believed. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is lacking.
Q: Are the memories retrieved during past life regression accurate?
A: The accuracy of memories is a subject of debate.
Q: Can past life regression help with fears and phobias?
A: Some individuals claim that past life regression has helped them explore the potential origins of unexplained fears and phobias. However, this effect is subjective and may not apply to everyone.
Q: How long does a past-life regression session typically last?
A: The duration session varies but usually lasts between 1 to 2 hours.
Q: Are the experiences during past life regression real?
A: The experiences reported during it are subjective and may vary widely. Some people interpret them as real memories, while others view them as metaphorical or symbolic.
Q: Should I try past life regression?
A: Whether to try it is a personal decision. Individuals interested in exploring this practice should approach it with an open mind. The research qualified professionals to ensure a safe and supportive experience.
Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Past_life_regression