One of the most important texts of Tibetan Buddhism, the Bardo Tödol – commonly known as The Tibetan Book of the Dead – it contains a description of the intermediate states of consciousness. The term „bardo” means „intermediate existence” and refers not only to the state between death and rebirth, but also to any transitional phase during which consciousness undergoes a change.
According to the Bardo Thodol, after death, consciousness passes through various stages, encountering images and impressions of its own karma. These images may take the form of peaceful or frightening figures – the text emphasises that all of this is a projection of our own mind.
This approach is closely linked to the experience of a regression journey. During regression, we may also encounter symbolic figures and events which are, in fact, imprints of our own consciousness. If we understand that these experiences are not „external” forces but internal patterns, then we can consciously shape our relationship with them.
According to Tibetan teachings, if, whilst in the bardo state, we realise that all phenomena arise from the nature of our own mind, we can free ourselves from fear and desire. In a regression journey, this same realisation can help us to let go of the burdens of the past and live more consciously in the present.
*„The bardo is nothing other than a mirror that reflects back everything we carry within ourselves.”*¹
Vows, bonds and forgiveness
During regression work, it often becomes apparent that past vows, oaths or strong emotional ties are hindering one’s free development in the present life. These may include, for example, vows of poverty, pledges of eternal fidelity, or bonds arising from a desire for revenge.
The Bardo Thodol also discusses how, in the states of consciousness following death, attachments and fears influence the direction of rebirth. Through regression, these attachments can be brought to consciousness and dissolved – thereby not only improving the quality of one’s present life, but also transforming future patterns.
Forgiveness is crucial. Anger and resentment maintain strong energetic bonds which, according to Tibetan teachings, can link people across lifetimes. In the regression process, forgiveness does not mean forgetting, but rather the energetic release of these bonds.
Risks and challenges
A regression journey is essentially safe, but emotionally intense. Physical sensations – such as pain – may occur, particularly if there was an accident or a violent death in that past life. These sensations usually subside once we realise that they are not happening in the present.
The greater challenge often arises when the traveller does not want to confront certain memories. In such cases, the guide’s role is to support the client in safely navigating the process, whilst respecting their boundaries.
My first journey into regression
My first journey into reincarnation was aimed at exploring family relationships. The experience was astonishing: almost all my current family members appeared in that particular past life, with only a few role reversals. The behavioural patterns bore an uncanny resemblance to situations today. This realisation helped me to consciously change my own reactions – and whilst we cannot change others, changing our own behaviour does have an impact on the quality of our relationships.
As the Bardo Thodol teaches: realisation is the first step towards liberation. If we become aware that the present situation is not the same as past events, then we can „switch off” the automatic patterns of previous lives and truly live in the present.
¹ Natasa Nábozny: An Interpretation of the Bardo Thodol – The Tibetan Book of the Dead, Academia.edu