From darkness to light: the stages of spiritual awakening

Over the last century, American culture has undergone a significant shift away from spirituality. As scientific and technological advancements have dominated our collective focus, many have found themselves feeling increasingly disconnected from a sense of meaning and purpose in their lives.

However, as people have become more aware of this spiritual void, a growing number have started to seek out ways to reconnect with their inner selves and find greater fulfillment in life. In this blog post, we will explore the stages of spiritual awakening, from the initial sense of darkness and disconnection to the eventual discovery of the light that lies within us all.

Now, if you're wondering 'how to start a spiritual awakening', remember, the first step often involves recognizing your desire for deeper meaning and connection, and then seeking out resources, practices, or communities that can guide you on this path.

This journey of spiritual awakening is often referred to as 'ascending' or "ascend spiritual", meaning spiritual growth and evolution towards enlightenment. Through this journey, we will see how spiritual values are beginning to reemerge in our society, and how they are helping people to find their own path to a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in their lives.

What does it mean to be spiritually awakened?

What's a spiritual awakening? Being spiritually awakened means that an individual has had a profound shift in their understanding of themselves and the world around them. This awakening often comes after a period of feeling disconnected, lost, or unfulfilled in life. Interestingly, some individuals report experiencing physical symptoms such as a 'fever' during their spiritual awakening, signifying a kind of intense inner 'burning away' of old beliefs and patterns. Spiritual awakening can happen suddenly or gradually, and it often involves a change in perception, a deepening of self-awareness, and a newfound sense of connection to a higher power, even amidst internal conflict.

Spiritual awakening can take many forms and can be experienced in different ways by different people. Some common signs and symptoms of spiritual awakening can include a greater sense of empathy, compassion, and love towards others, an increased ability to live in the present moment, a deeper connection to nature and the universe, a heightened awareness of synchronicities and signs, and a sense of inner peace and contentment.

Ultimately, being spiritually awakened means that an individual has come to a new level of understanding and awareness about themselves and the natural world. It's through this ascension process that you realize your potential and find the ability to change your life profoundly. In other words, they've had a spiritual ascension.

Now, it's important to understand the difference between awakening and ascension. While spiritual awakening refers to the internal shift in consciousness that an individual experiences, leading to a profound change in their understanding of themselves and the world, ascension, specifically 5D ascension, signifies an evolution beyond the physical reality into a realm of higher spiritual enlightenment and awareness.

This spiritual ascension, often referred to as 5D ascension, signifies a shift from the 3-dimensional physical reality to a 5th-dimensional realm of spiritual enlightenment and awareness.

It often involves a newfound sense of purpose and direction in life, as well as a deepening of one's spiritual practices and beliefs.

What are the principles of spiritual psychology?

Spiritual psychology is a relatively new field that has emerged over the last few decades as more and more people seek ways to integrate their spiritual beliefs and practices into their daily lives. This field combines the principles of spirituality and psychology to help individuals explore the deeper aspects of their psyche and connect with their inner selves.

Historically, spirituality and psychology were seen as separate fields of study, with little overlap between the two. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of spirituality in mental health and well-being. Many people have found that integrating spiritual practices and beliefs into their lives can lead to a greater sense of meaning, peace, and overall happiness

The roots of spiritual psychology can be traced back to the work of influential psychologists such as Carl Jung and Abraham Maslow, who explored the connections between spirituality and human development. Jung believed that the human psyche was inherently spiritual and that the process of individuation - or the journey towards self-realization - was a fundamentally spiritual process. Maslow, on the other hand, proposed that self-actualization - the realization of one's full potential - was a key component of spiritual growth.

Today, spiritual psychology has become a recognized field of study, with many universities offering degree programs in the subject. Spiritual psychology practitioners may work with individuals to help them integrate spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, or mindfulness into their daily lives. They may also help individuals explore their spiritual beliefs and values, and how these beliefs can inform their approach to life.

Let's explore some of the key principles of spiritual psychology:

Connection to a higher power:

Spiritual psychology recognizes that many people seek a connection with something greater than themselves, whether it be a higher power, universal consciousness, or a sense of the divine. This connection can serve as a source of guidance in life, a sort of divine light. For some individuals, this connection may involve a specific religious tradition, while for others it may be more of a personal or intuitive sense of connection and eternal life (at least spiritually).

This key principle of spiritual psychology points to the fact that individuals are not alone in the world and that there is a greater purpose and meaning to life beyond our individual selves. This can be a powerful source of comfort and inspiration for individuals who may be struggling with feelings of isolation or disconnection.

Connecting with a higher power or universal consciousness can also help individuals to gain a greater sense of perspective on their problems and challenges. By recognizing that there is a larger, interconnected web of life, individuals may feel more empowered to face their adversities and find contentment in their circumstances and experiences.

In addition, spiritual psychology recognizes that the search for a connection to a higher power can be a deeply personal and transformative journey. Practitioners in this field may work with individuals to help them explore their beliefs and experiences and to deepen their sense of connection with something greater than themselves. This can involve a variety of spiritual practices, such as prayer, meditation, or mindfulness, as well as exploring one's values and beliefs.

Mind-body-spirit connection:

The mind-body-spirit connection is a fundamental concept in spiritual psychology. This perspective recognizes that the health of the body is intimately connected with the health of the mind and spirit, and vice versa. For example, stress or negative emotions can have physical effects on the body, while physical illness or injury can have a negative impact on mental and emotional well-being.

In order to achieve holistic well-being, practitioners of spiritual psychology may work with individuals to address each aspect of the self. This may involve a variety of approaches, such as mindfulness practices to cultivate greater awareness of thoughts and emotions, physical exercise to improve physical health, and spiritual practices such as prayer or meditation to cultivate a sense of connection to a higher power.

Through mindfulness practices, you may notice an increase of intense energy as your awareness heightens and you become more connected to your thoughts and emotions.

Self-awareness:

Self-awareness is another key concept in spiritual psychology, reflecting the recognition that understanding our inner and outer world is essential to achieving greater well-being and fulfillment in life. As we discuss the stages, it's important to define spiritual awakening as the internal journey one undertakes to connect with their true self, transcend the ego, and connect with a universal, divine consciousness.

Spiritual psychology encourages individuals to cultivate self-awareness by exploring their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in order to gain greater insight into themselves and their experiences. In the stage of self-awareness, individuals begin to see how their actions in the physical world reflect their inner beliefs and emotions. As we delve into the concept of 'how to reach spiritual enlightenment', it is vital to understand that this journey calls for consistent inner work and self-awareness practices.

The process of higher self-awareness involves developing a greater sense of mindfulness, or the ability to be present and fully engaged in the present moment. Ascension symptoms can manifest during these stages, often taking the form of emotional, physical, or psychological changes that signify your spiritual growth. This can involve practices such as deep breathing or other mindful exercises, which help individuals to develop greater awareness of their thoughts and emotions, as well as to develop a sense of detachment from them.

By cultivating self-awareness, individuals can gain greater insight into their patterns of behavior and thought. This can help them to identify negative patterns that may be holding them back, such as limiting beliefs or negative self-talk. In addition, self-awareness can help individuals to identify their strengths and values, and to cultivate a greater sense of purpose and direction in life.

Inner wisdom:

Last but not least, inner wisdom is a core concept in spiritual psychology, reflecting the belief that individuals have innate wisdom and intuition that can guide them toward their highest potential. Spiritual psychology recognizes that this inner wisdom is often overshadowed by external influences, such as societal norms, cultural expectations, or past experiences, and that accessing this inner wisdom requires cultivating a deeper connection to oneself.

In addition, spiritual psychology recognizes that inner wisdom is often expressed through the body, emotions, and intuition, rather than solely through logical thought processes. Therefore, practitioners in this field may work with individuals to develop greater trust in their instincts and emotions, and to learn to listen to the wisdom of their bodies.

By cultivating a greater connection to their inner wisdom, individuals can gain greater clarity, direction, and purpose in life. Inner wisdom can guide individuals toward their true passions and interests, and help them to make decisions that align with their values and goals.

What can cause a spiritual awakening?

A spiritual awakening can be triggered by a variety of factors and experiences and is often a deeply personal and transformative process. Here are some common factors that can contribute to why spiritual awakenings occur:

Crisis or trauma:

Experiencing a crisis or trauma can be a catalyst for spiritual awakening, as it can shake an individual's sense of security and bring up existential questions about the meaning and purpose of life. A crisis or trauma can take many forms, such as the death of a loved one, a serious illness, a divorce, or a major life change, and can cause individuals to question their beliefs and reevaluate their priorities.

During a crisis or trauma, individuals may experience feelings of confusion, despair, or hopelessness. However, this period of upheaval can also be an opportunity for growth and transformation. Many people report that going through a crisis or trauma led them to a deeper understanding of themselves and the world, and helped them to find greater meaning and purpose in life.

In spiritual psychology, crises or traumas are often viewed as a necessary step on the path to spiritual growth and awakening. These experiences can help individuals to let go of old beliefs and patterns that may no longer serve them, and open up to new perspectives and possibilities.

While going through a crisis or trauma can be difficult, it can also be a time of great growth and transformation. By seeking support from loved ones, engaging in self-reflection and personal growth practices, and exploring spiritual beliefs and practices, individuals can find meaning and purpose in the midst of even the most challenging circumstances.

Dissatisfaction with materialistic culture:

The emphasis on materialism and consumerism in modern society can leave many individuals feeling empty and unfulfilled, even after achieving success in terms of wealth, career, or social status. This can be a common cause of spiritual awakenings, as individuals search for deeper meaning and purpose in their lives.

Spiritual awakening often begins with a realization that the pursuit of external achievements and material possessions has not brought the sense of fulfillment and contentment that one hoped for. This realization may be triggered by a crisis or life event, or it may simply arise gradually as one begins to question the values and beliefs that underpin modern society.

Religious or spiritual experiences:

Experiencing a profound connection to a higher power or universal consciousness, or having a mystical or transcendent experience, can be a powerful trigger for spiritual awakening. These experiences often involve a sense of awe, wonder, and connection to something greater than oneself, and can leave a profound impact on an individual's worldview and sense of self.

A connection to a higher power or universal consciousness can take many forms, depending on an individual's spiritual beliefs and practices. For some, this may involve a connection to a specific deity or religious figure, while for others it may be more of a sense of connection to the universe or a higher spiritual power.

Mystical or transcendent experiences, on the other hand, often involve a sense of being transported beyond the physical realm and into a higher state of consciousness. This may involve experiences such as out-of-body experiences, near-death experiences, or encounters with spiritual beings or entities.

While these experiences can be intense and even overwhelming, they can also be transformative, leading individuals to question their beliefs and seek greater spiritual understanding and connection. These experiences may also trigger a sense of purpose and calling, leading individuals to pursue a path of spiritual growth and service to others.

Personal growth and development:

Engaging in personal growth and development practices can be a key trigger for spiritual awakening, as it can lead individuals to a greater sense of self-awareness and spiritual growth. Personal growth and development practices can take many forms, including therapy, meditation, yoga, or journaling, among others.

These practices help individuals to cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness, as they become more attuned to their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This increased awareness can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and can help individuals to identify patterns of thought and behavior that may be limiting or self-destructive.

As individuals become more self-aware, they may begin to question their beliefs and assumptions about themselves and the world around them. This questioning can lead to a greater openness to new ideas and experiences, and can ultimately lead to a sense of spiritual growth and transformation.

In addition to increasing self-awareness, personal growth and development practices can help individuals to cultivate a greater sense of inner peace and well-being. Meditation, for example, has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while yoga can help to improve physical health and reduce feelings of tension and discomfort in the body.

Seeking answers to existential questions:

Asking existential questions such as "What is the meaning of life?" or "What is my purpose?" can be a powerful catalyst for spiritual awakening, as it can lead individuals to seek deeper spiritual understanding and connection. These questions reflect a sense of longing for greater meaning and purpose in life and can be a sign that an individual is ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.

When individuals ask these existential questions, they are often seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. This may involve exploring spiritual beliefs and practices, engaging in personal growth and development practices, or pursuing creative or artistic endeavors that allow them to connect with a deeper sense of self.

By asking these questions, individuals are acknowledging that there is more to life than simply existing and going through the motions. They are opening themselves up to the possibility of a deeper connection to themselves and the world, and are seeking out ways to cultivate greater meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in their lives.

Exposure to different beliefs and practices:

Learning about different religious and spiritual beliefs and practices can expand individuals' understanding of spirituality and lead to a personal spiritual awakening.

It's important to note that a spiritual awakening can happen suddenly or gradually and may involve a combination of these factors or others. Ultimately, a spiritual awakening is a unique and deeply personal experience, and the path to spiritual growth and understanding will be different for each individual.

Here's what happens during the spiritual awakening process

Stage 1: The dark night of the soul

What's a spiritual awakening? It's a process that involves different stages, including the phase known as The Dark Night of the Soul, where individuals may experience intense inner turmoil, despair, confusion, and a sense of loss of meaning and purpose. Symptoms of spiritual ascension can include questioning one's beliefs, values, and identity, which may lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and their connection to the universe. This transformative process, which includes stages such as The Dark Night of the Soul, can be triggered by significant life events such as the loss of a loved one, a major life change, or a spiritual crisis.

Signs that you may be experiencing the Dark Night of the Soul include:

For more information on navigating the challenges of midlife, you can read our blog post on Male Midlife Crisis Stages: What Are They and How to Deal with Each.

Stage 2: The awakening

The Awakening is a stage in spiritual awakening where an individual begins to experience a profound shift in consciousness and awareness. It is a time of self-discovery, where one may feel a sense of connection to something greater than themselves. This stage can be triggered by a spiritual experience, a deepening of one's spiritual practice, or a newfound sense of purpose and direction.

As you navigate the Awakening stage, you may experience a stronger sense of intuitive guidance that can lead you towards spiritual experiences and a deeper understanding of your purpose.

Signs that you may be experiencing the Awakening include:

Stage 3: The integration

Integration is a stage in spiritual awakening where an individual begins to integrate their new insights and experiences into their everyday life. It is a time of balance and integration, where one may feel a sense of inner harmony and coherence. This stage can be triggered by a desire to live a more authentic and purposeful life, or by a need to align one's values and beliefs with their actions and behaviors.

Signs that you may be experiencing the Integration include:

Stage 4: The expansion

The Expansion is a stage in spiritual awakening where an individual begins to experience a deeper sense of connection to the universe and all living beings. It is a time of transcendence, where one may feel a sense of unity, consciousness, and interconnectedness with all things. This stage can be triggered by a deepening of one's spiritual practice, a desire for personal growth and transformation, or a sense of spiritual mission or calling.

Signs that you may be experiencing the Expansion include:

Stage 5: The transcendence

The Transcendence is a stage in the spiritual path of awakening where an individual transcends the limitations of the ego and experiences a sense of unity with the divine. It is a time of ultimate transformation, where one may feel a sense of enlightenment or spiritual liberation. This stage can be triggered by a profound spiritual experience, a deepening of one's spiritual practice, or a sense of completion or fulfillment of one's spiritual path.

Signs that you may be experiencing the Transcendence stage include:

What to do after spiritual awakening

After reaching the Transcendence stage of spiritual awakening, many individuals may wonder what to do next. It's important to remember that spiritual awakening is an ongoing process, and the journey doesn't end with the attainment of enlightenment or spiritual liberation. In fact, the Transcendence stage is often just the beginning of a new phase of spiritual growth and development. Some suggestions for what to do after spiritual awakening include continuing to deepen your spiritual practice, serving others, and living a life aligned with your newfound insights and values.

For tips on living your best life, check out our blog post Be the Best Version of You: 11 Tips for Living Your Best Life.

FAQs for spiritual awakenings

The journey to a more meaningful life can be an emotional roller coaster. As you begin to turn your focus to higher spiritual values and examine old belief systems and the external world through a new lens, you may feel completely lost and will likely encounter numerous questions as well as a newfound desire to seek answers. Although these questions will be driven by your inner self and vary from person to person, we've compiled a short list of some of the most frequently asked questions associated with common spiritual awakening signs and symptoms.

Are there any physical spiritual awakening symptoms?

While spiritual awakening is primarily a psychological and spiritual process, some people may also experience physical symptoms as their body adjusts to the changes occurring within them. However, it's important to note that these physical symptoms can also be caused by other medical or psychological conditions, and you should always consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your physical health.

Some physical symptoms that have been associated with spiritual awakening include:

Body shivering or trembling

Body shivering or trembling can be a physical symptom that some people may experience during the spiritual awakening process. This can manifest as involuntary shaking, tremors, or quivering sensations in the body, often accompanied by a feeling of energy moving through the body.

These physical symptoms can be related to the conscious awakening of the kundalini energy, a powerful spiritual energy that is believed to lie dormant at the base of the spine in some spiritual traditions. As the kundalini energy awakens and rises through the body, it can trigger physical sensations and movements.

It's important to note that not everyone may experience body shivering or trembling during their spiritual awakening feel process. Additionally, these physical symptoms can also be caused by other medical or psychological conditions, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your physical health.

Vivid dreams

Vivid dreams can be a physical symptom that some people may experience during the spiritual awakening process. These dreams can be more intense, vivid, and memorable than usual dreams and may contain symbolism, archetypes, or messages that are significant to the individual's spiritual journey.

These dreams can be related to the deepening of the subconscious mind and the integration of spiritual insights and experiences. As the individual's consciousness expands and becomes more attuned to the spiritual realm, they may have more frequent and vivid dreams that reflect this new level of awareness.

If you are experiencing vivid dreams during your spiritual awakening process, it can be helpful to keep a dream journal and write down any significant symbols or messages that you receive. This can help you to integrate these insights into your waking life and gain a deeper understanding of your spiritual journey. Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can also be helpful in promoting restful sleep and managing any stress or anxiety that may be impacting your dreams. Seeking support from a trusted spiritual teacher, mentor, or community can also be helpful in navigating this process.

Fatigue or insomnia

During the spiritual awakening process, an individual may experience intense inner work and energetic shifts. These changes can be profound and can require a significant amount of physical, mental, and emotional energy to integrate. As a result, some people may experience physical symptoms such as fatigue or insomnia.

The fatigue experienced during spiritual awakening can be caused by the body's need to rest and restore itself. The physical body is a crucial component of the awakening process, and it needs to be nurtured and cared for during this time. The body may be working overtime to release old patterns and energetic blockages, and it may need extra time and rest to integrate the changes that are occurring.

In addition to the physical aspect of fatigue, there may also be emotional and psychological components to this symptom. The spiritual awakening process can be intense and may require an individual to confront and process deep-seated emotions and beliefs. This can be exhausting and may require additional energy and resources to manage.

Insomnia during spiritual awakening can also be related to the release of energetic blockages, dark insight season of discovery or past traumas. As the body and mind release old patterns and beliefs, it can be challenging to settle into a peaceful sleep. Additionally, the integration of new spiritual experiences and insights can be emotionally and psychologically intense, leading to anxiety, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.

Can you force a spiritual awakening to happen?

Spiritual awakening is a complex and multi-faceted process that involves various aspects of an individual's being, including physical, emotional, and spiritual components. The causes of spiritual awakening are not fully understood, but they are thought to be related to a variety of factors, including:

While it is possible to engage in spiritual practices that can support and facilitate the awakening process, it is not possible to force or manipulate the process to make spiritual awakening happen itself. How to spiritually awaken: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how to spiritually awaken. However, there are some general practices that can help to support the process. These include meditation, yoga, prayer, and spending time in nature.

Spiritual awakening is a natural and organic process that unfolds in its own time and according to its own rhythm. Attempting to force or manipulate this process can actually hinder it and create more resistance and blockages.

10 physical symptoms of spiritual awakening: There are many different physical symptoms that can accompany spiritual awakening. Some of the most common symptoms include:

The best approach to the question "am i having a spiritual awakening" is to cultivate a receptive and open attitude and engage in practices that support your inner growth and transformation. These practices may include meditation, prayer, journaling, or other forms of introspection or self-reflection. Additionally, seeking guidance and support from a trusted spiritual teacher, mentor, or community can be helpful in navigating the challenges and opportunities that arise during the awakening process.

It's important to remember that spiritual awakening is a unique and personal journey that unfolds differently for each individual. While it's natural to desire a deeper connection with the divine and a greater understanding of the mysteries of existence, it's important to approach this process with patience, humility, and an open heart.

How long does a spiritual awakening last?

The duration of a spiritual awakening process can vary widely from person to person and can depend on various factors, including an individual's background, spiritual practices, and life circumstances. Spiritual awakening is not a one-time event, but rather an ongoing process of growth and transformation that unfolds over time.

For some people, the spiritual awakening process may be relatively brief and may occur spontaneously or in response to a specific event or experience. For others, the process may be more gradual and may last for several years or even decades.

It's important to note that the spiritual awakening process is not a linear path, and there may be periods of intense growth and transformation followed by periods of integration and rest. The process may also involve challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt or uncertainty.

Ultimately, the duration of a spiritual awakening process is unique to each individual and cannot be predicted or controlled. It's important to approach this process with patience, openness, and a willingness to embrace the unknown and unexpected. Seeking guidance and support from a trusted spiritual teacher, mentor, or community can also be helpful in navigating the challenges and opportunities that arise during the awakening process.

What is the role of a spiritual psychologist?

A spiritual psychologist is a mental health professional who incorporates spirituality and personal growth into their work with clients. They integrate traditional psychological methods with spiritual principles to help individuals achieve greater self-awareness, understanding, and transformation.

The role of a spiritual psychologist can vary depending on the needs and goals of their clients, but some common areas of focus may include:

The role of a spiritual psychologist is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their spiritual and psychological needs. They draw upon a range of evidence-based approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and transpersonal psychology, to help clients achieve greater self-awareness, healing, and transformation.

Should I be scared of a spiritual awakening?

It's natural to feel some fear or uncertainty about the spiritual awakening process, especially if you are not sure what to expect or have heard conflicting information about it. However, it's important to remember that spiritual awakening is a natural and organic process that unfolds in its own time and according to its own rhythm.

While the spiritual awakening process can be intense and may involve confronting deep-seated emotions, beliefs, and patterns, it is ultimately a process of growth, healing, and transformation. Through this process, individuals can develop a greater understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their place in the world, and may experience a greater sense of purpose, meaning, and connection with the divine.

Recap: embrace your spiritual journey

Spiritual enlightenment is a profound journey that can transform our lives in ways we may not have imagined. As we move through the stages of awakening, from the Dark Night of the Soul to the Transcendence, we learn to trust the process and embrace the journey, even when it feels challenging or uncertain.

Through introspection, inner work, and the integration of spiritual insights and experiences, we deepen our understanding of ourselves, our relationships, and our place in the world. We develop a greater sense of connection with the divine and a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.

It's important to remember that the process of becoming spiritually awake is unique to each individual and unfolds in its own time and according to its own rhythm. While the beginners guide to spiritual awakening journey may be challenging at times, seeking guidance and support from a trusted spiritual teacher, mentor, or community can help us navigate the challenges and opportunities that arise, including cultural conflict.

Ultimately, as we move from darkness to light, we discover a sense of peace, fulfillment, self-love, and joy that comes from living in alignment with our true selves and our highest potential. So, let us embrace the journey, trust the process, and allow ourselves to be transformed by the light of spiritual awakening.

For more on how to apply the above in a corporate setting, check out: The secret weapon to your organization's growth and success: a middle manager and Demystifying the middle manager.

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