How do New Age movements differ from traditional religions?

New Age movements distinguish themselves from traditional religions primarily through their emphasis on personal spiritual experience. Unlike many traditional religions that often have established doctrines, rituals, and communal practices that followers are expected to adhere to, New Age movements promote an individualized approach to spirituality. This allows practitioners to explore various beliefs and practices from multiple spiritual traditions, tailoring their spiritual journeys based on personal insights, experiences, and desires.

This focus on personal experience encourages individuals to seek their own truths and connections to the divine or the universe, rather than conforming to a fixed set of beliefs or communal guidelines, which is typically a hallmark of conventional religious practices. The flexibility and inclusivity of New Age spirituality attract those who may find traditional religious structures too limiting or prescriptive.