Medieval mysticism refers to a spiritual movement during the Middle Ages, primarily in Europe, where individuals sought a direct, personal experience of the divine. This often involved practices such as prayer, meditation, and contemplation, aiming to transcend ordinary understanding and connect with God or the divine. Mystics like Julian of Norwich and Meister Eckhart emphasized inner experiences and the importance of love and unity with the divine. The movement was influenced by various religious traditions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Mystical writings often explored themes of divine union, the nature of the soul, and the quest for spiritual truth. These ideas contributed to the development of theology and philosophy during the medieval period.