What is the New Age Movement?

Emerging from the counterculture of the 1960s, the New Age movement has quickly integrated into mainstream culture, incorporating elements such as energy healing, crystals, and plant-based medicine. However, defining the New Age movement is challenging due to its lack of core beliefs, with the common premise being that life extends beyond physical matter. Unlike traditional religions, which have foundational figures and codified teachings, the New Age movement is characterised by a diverse array of practices without a formalised structure. This autonomy allows each individual to determine their own beliefs and practices, resulting in a movement that rejects institutionalised authority. The New Age movement can be seen as an attempt to develop a religion free from the constraints and failures of organised religions, reflecting a desire to explore divinity without the perceived failings of authority.