A Spiritual Awakening In The 70s And 80s

The Rise of the New Age Movement

A Spiritual Awakening in the 70s and 80s

In the turbulent years of the early 1970s, a new wave of spiritual and religious practices emerged within Western society, giving birth to what became known as the WEB New Age Movement. This movement, which spread rapidly through occult and metaphysical communities during the 1970s and 1980s, was not a singular, cohesive organization but rather a loose collection of diverse groups united by a shared belief in the dawning of a new era or "New Age."

An Eclectic Mix of Beliefs and Practices

The New Age Movement became an umbrella term for a wide range of spiritual and metaphysical ideas, including Eastern religions, esoteric practices, alternative medicine, and self-help philosophies. Key themes included self-discovery, individual transformation, and a rejection of traditional religious institutions. New Age practitioners often sought to explore their inner spirituality through meditation, yoga, crystals, and other techniques aimed at enhancing personal well-being.

Historical Antecedents and Cultural Context

Although the New Age Movement gained significant traction in the 1970s, its roots can be traced back further to the counterculture movements of the 1960s, as well as earlier spiritual awakenings throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. The post-World War II era brought about a renewed interest in spirituality and alternative perspectives, setting the stage for the emergence of the New Age Movement.