tulpas

Tulpa is a term with roots in Tibetan Buddhism, where it denotes a being or object produced through mental discipline and visualization, believed to have independent awareness. The word comes from Tibetan sprul pa, meaning "emanation" or "magical projection." In contemporary Western usage, tulpa refers to a consciously created, autonomous mental construct or companion formed through focused meditation and dialogue, sometimes called tulpamancy.

Creation and practice: A tulpa is typically formed by choosing a name, appearance, and personality, then devoting regular attention to it. Practitioners describe giving the tulpa sensory experiences, preferences, and boundaries, and engaging in internal conversations or joint decision making. The aim is for the tulpa to develop its own perceived autonomy while remaining under the creator's voluntary control.

Experiences and characteristics: Reports vary; some describe the tulpa as a distinct inner agent with its own voice and perspective, capable of participating in dialogue, memory, and planning. Others experience the tulpa as a reflective aspect of their own mind or as a vivid inner social partner. The phenomenon is discussed as subjective experience and varies across individuals.

Community and reception: Online communities discuss techniques, safety, and ethics. There is limited empirical research on tulpa phenomena; scholars view it as a psychological or cognitive practice, rather than a supernatural phenomenon. Some psychologists warn that intense or distressing experiences may indicate underlying mental health concerns, and advise seeking professional guidance if needed.

Relation to Buddhism: The modern practice differs from traditional aims; scholars distinguish between Buddhist tulpa, as described in meditative literature, and contemporary tulpa practices focused on companionship or creative exploration.