While I don’t have any quantitative data, I have gathered qualitative data on spiritually embodied spiritual experiences and practices. Spirituality is increasing and I see this as an expression of the rising divine feminine, which isn’t structured or contained the way divine masculine energy is. The divine feminine whispers to you about an unseen world not wholly governed by logic and reason. She sings a song of creativity, joy, and connection that is for you and you alone. Identifying as a spiritual person may mean saying, “No thank you” to the hierarchy present in many religions and recognizing there is a Self within you that is wise, compassionate, and all-knowing. A spiritual practice helps you get in touch with this Self.
Read MoreSeeking out the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco for my doctoral degree was important and has tremendously helped shape my practice today. Started by Haridas Chaudhuri, student of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, this institute offered a lens into ways to address and help the whole person, not merely the mental aspect of the lived experience. Studying in India deepened my understanding of how art, music, body movement, and states of consciousness are as much an integral part of the practice of psychology as much as are the id, ego, superego, transference and countertransference. It was easy to see the archetypes personified before my eyes as I saw 50 foot statutes of Ganesha and Saturn.
Read MoreThe big difference with spirituality is it’s not based on hierarchy. There’s no barrier between you and a spiritual figure or force. Instead of a middle person or religious leader telling you what to think or do, there’s direct access. With spirituality, there may be certain rituals (lighting a candle, playing certain music, etc.) but there also may not be. It’s up to you what you do and what you don’t do.
Read MoreWe human beings are complex and often, unconsciously and creatively, employ various strategies to avoid pain: primarily addictions and bypassing. Spiritual bypassing is sidestepping or avoiding facing unresolved emotional issues, psychological wounds, and unfinished developmental tasks but talking the talk of an individual who is more “spiritually evolved.”
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