The akashic records are a theosophical term which refers to the universal records of all human experience and the history of the cosmos. The records are not located in this plane, but rather in the aether, a non-physical plane of existence. All beings are thought to contribute and have access to the records. The name originated in the 19th century, although proponents say that the records have been accessed since ancient times by an elite few. In Hindu mysticism, the akasha is thought to be the primary principle of nature from which the four natural principles (fire, air, earth, and water) are created. New Age beliefs hold that the events recorded on the akasha can be accessed and read in certain states of consciousness. These states of consciousness can be induced by certain stages of sleep, hypnosis, and meditation necessary to quiet the mind.

Those who may access the records can also help others, whether through meditation, hypnosis, or other means, catch a glimpse of their records and gain knowledge of their future. While accessing the akashic records, both the events and responses sought can be perceived.