For thousands of years, yogic traditions in India have spoken of astral travel — the ability to consciously leave the body and journey into other realms of existence. While for a long time these ideas were seen as mystical or metaphorical, modern scientists, including researchers at NASA, are now exploring consciousness beyond the body. Astonishingly, ancient Indian sages seem to have documented these experiences in rich detail over a millennium ago.
Here are four legendary yogis known for their mastery over astral projection:
- 1. Patanjali (2nd Century BCE)
Widely regarded as the father of Yoga, Patanjali compiled the Yoga Sutras, where he described practices like Samyama — a deep meditative absorption that could unlock extraordinary abilities. Some interpretations suggest that through intense meditation, the yogi’s consciousness could transcend physical limitations, an experience very similar to what today is described as astral travel.
- 2. Matsyendranath (9th-10th century CE)
Founder of the Nath tradition, Matsyendranath taught secretive yogic techniques designed to control the subtle body. His teachings hinted at the ability to consciously leave the body and move through different dimensions. Followers of his path practiced deep internal meditations to unlock this hidden potential.
3. Adi Shankaracharya (8th Century CE)
One of India’s greatest philosophers, Shankaracharya emphasized the illusion (Maya) of the material world. His writings often spoke about the separateness of the soul (Atman) from the physical body. Some legends state that he traveled spiritually across India through astral means, leaving his body temporarily to resolve spiritual debates and guide his followers.
- 4. Gorakhnath (11th Century CE)
The most famous disciple of Matsyendranath, Gorakhnath is revered for detailing techniques that included out-of-body travel, time manipulation, and exploration of hidden dimensions. His advanced yogic practices hinted that the physical form was merely a vessel and could be transcended at will.
Today, as NASA explores consciousness phenomena through projects like the Gateway Process, there is a renewed interest in ancient knowledge systems. Were these yogis simply mystics, or early pioneers in understanding the true power of human consciousness? As science pushes into new frontiers, it seems the ancient yogic masters might have been far ahead of their time.
Maybe the answers to the universe lie not in technology alone, but in the forgotten wisdom hidden within ourselves.
