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Writer's pictureDr. Stephanie Shelburne

Exploring to Understand - Subtle Energy

subtle energy hands

Have you ever felt an unexplainable connection with someone or experienced a sudden surge of energy that you couldn’t attribute to anything observably material? More than likely, you just in a moment became aware of the flow of subtle energy.


Keep reading to explore a little bit about what subtle energy is, how it influences our lives, and how we can learn to understand and intentionally influence it.


What is Subtle Energy?

Subtle energy refers to the unseen forces that influence our physical world. Unlike the energy described by classical physics—think electricity or magnetism—subtle energy is more elusive.


Unfortunately, because it is typically challenging to read with modern instruments or implements, it is often described in spiritual and metaphysical terms, creating the impression that it is somehow less ‘real’ than its classical counterparts.

Yet, in reality, everything material comes from and contains subtle energy.


Invitation to Think Outside the Box

Traditional science often overlooks or rejects conversations about subtle energy due to its intangible nature. However, there's a growing body of research bringing its existence and influence closer to the surface of mainstream awareness.


Opening our minds to the possibilities of subtle energy and its influence allows us to explore the full spectrum of our human experience and potential.


Fields of Influence

Take a moment and look around you. Though the space between you and whatever next physical object you can see may seem empty, it is actually teeming with varying degrees and levels of vibration or ‘oscillating fields’. Some of which, we can readily use and feel, like gravity or electricity.


Others of which, are much more challenging to see, feel, or test. Yet are no less powerful in their ability to influence or be influenced by our intention and action.


If the idea of subtle energy is new to you, one way to begin understanding the concept and experience is to divide it into points of focus, each with its own characteristics and methods of interaction. Of course, when we do this, we run the risk of oversimplifying but it’s a good place to begin:

  • Personal Energy Fields: These are the energetic layers that surround and permeate our bodies. Traditional Chinese Medicine discusses these layers as our meridians. Ayurveda references through discussion of Chakras. Techniques like meditation, Reiki, and Qi Gong aim to balance and enhance these fields.

  • Environmental Energy: This includes the energy of spaces. Feng Shui, for example, is an ancient practice that arranges your surroundings to create harmony and balance energetically. In Ayurveda, the practice of Vastu is very similar. Forest Bathing, which is gaining in popularity is also a nod towards understanding the energy of place and how it influences.

  • Interpersonal Energy: This is the energy exchanged between people. Have you noticed how spending time with certain individuals either uplifts or drains you? That’s interpersonal subtle energy at play.


Scientific Reality

As mentioned earlier in this blog, while ideas of subtle energy might seem like a concept grounded more in mysticism than science, there's a rapidly growing field of study dedicated to understanding its mechanisms.


Quantum physics, for example, shows us that particles can be entangled across vast distances, influenced by each other instantly. This idea, referred to by Einstein as “Spooky action at a distance”, is currently being confirmed in labs around the world.


Ways of Influencing and Understanding Subtle Energy


Mindfulness and Meditation

One of the most effective ways to tune into subtle energy is through mindfulness and meditation. By quieting the mind and focusing your attention inward, you can become more aware of your own energy fields and how they interact with the environment around you.


Energy Healing Practices

Practices like Reiki and acupuncture are designed to influence subtle energy. These techniques aim to influence and balance the energy flow within the body, often resulting in improved health and well-being.


Environmental Adjustments

Harnessing the principles of Feng Shui or Vastu can help you optimize the energy of your living and working spaces. Simple changes in the placement of furniture, the use of colors, and the inclusion of natural elements can make a significant difference in how a space feels.


Scientific Exploration

Consider this an invitation to engage with the latest research on subtle energy by following developments in quantum physics and biofield science. These disciplines are continually pushing the boundaries of what we understand about energy and its numerous forms.


Conclusion

Exploring subtle energy invites us to think beyond conventional paradigms and engage with the deeper layers of reality. Whether through personal practices, environmental adjustments, or scientific exploration, understanding and influencing subtle energy can enrich our lives in countless ways.


Are you ready to start your subtle energy exploration?

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