Have you felt a distinctive and profound shift in your life perspective, mental awareness, or spiritual understanding? Spiritual awakenings can bring about a newfound understanding of yourself, a higher power, or the world. These moments of insight and enlightenment can be difficult to fully understand unless you experience one firsthand.
However, you don't need to embark on an international journey or detach yourself from modern technology to find inner peace and wisdom. Through mindful practices, you can potentially unlock a deeper sense of yourself and the world around you.
Key Takeaways
- You Understand That There Is No Destination
- You Feel a Connection to a Greater Purpose
- Mindfulness in Everyday Actions
- A Meaningful Detachment From Material Possessions and Hindering Thoughts
- Your Outlook on the World Has Shifted
- Your Thoughts and Emotions Are Not Personal
Keep reading, and we'll share six signs you're experiencing a spiritual awakening.
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What Is a Spiritual Awakening?
41% of U.S. adults have had a spiritual awakening or profound religious experience, according to Gallup.
There are many different definitions of what a "spiritual awakening" truly is. Many people carry the misconception that spiritual awakenings are solely religious experiences. But anyone, regardless of their religious background, can embark on a spiritual journey.
Many believe it occurs when one gains awareness that they are a part of something bigger than themselves. Others believe it could simply be a profound shift in one's consciousness.
There are hundreds of different spiritual paths, each with a specific term for a spiritual awakening. In yoga, it can be described as Moksha or Samadhi. In Buddhism, it is referred to as Nirvana. Many people call it an "enlightenment."
What Causes a Spiritual Awakening?
It's nearly impossible to prepare for a spiritual awakening. It's likely that you'll have this transformative experience when you least expect it.
Though some try to initiate a spiritual journey with drugs or psychedelics, an awakening can be triggered by anything from a near-death experience to mindful meditation.
A Natural Awakening
Sometimes, a spiritual awakening can be a subtle shift that takes place over a long period of time. Studies show that practices like meditation or yoga can reduce anxiety, manage stress, and enhance self-awareness, all of which are critical for becoming spiritually enlightened.
However, a spiritual awakening isn't the only way to live a happier and healthier life. Embracing a holistic approach to wellness can do the same in a more balanced and paced manner.
A Traumatic Experience, Life-Changing Event, or Existential Crisis
Sometimes, all it takes is a sudden, life-changing event to have a spiritual enlightenment. Death of a loved one, divorce, mental health crises, or a serious illness can spark a spiritual experience. Traumatic events, near-death experiences, or an existential crisis can also bring about a profound transformation.
What Is The Process Like? What Is a Spiritual Journey?
Though the specifics of one's spiritual awakening can vary, the general idea remains consistent. It's a life-changing experience marked by meaningful self-discovery and heightened spiritual awareness, which can call into question everything you thought you knew about life.
A spiritual awakening experience is about gaining a deeper understanding of the world around you. Whether it stems from divine love, a higher power, or life-changing events, your spiritual progress will be unique to you.
Reconnecting With Your Most Authentic Self | Spiritual Awakening Meaning
The spiritual awakening process starts with reconnecting with your most authentic self. This is the purest version of you, free from the constraints of society, religions, or societal standards.
It's all too common to develop core values and belief systems based on societal expectations. This can lead to a false sense of identity. In our consumerist society, it's normal for us to attach our self-worth and happiness to material things or professional careers.
However, it's important to note that a spiritual awakening isn't about classifying life practices as right or wrong. Instead, it's about understanding that you are not equal to the life values, spiritual beliefs, or inner thoughts you identify with.
Everything that you once accepted without question can feel unstable. Many people compare it to the moment when Neo takes the red pill in The Matrix.
Spiritual Awakening Symptoms | What Does the Spiritual Awakening Feel Like?
What are the signs of a spiritual awakening?
Sensations associated with spiritual awakenings include heightened sensitivity, increased empathy, and deeper feelings. An awakening can often manifest as a disconnect from your previous self-image or old belief systems. You may also experience physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or stress.
This process of self-discovery and awakening is unique to each individual, so it's impossible to say for certain what anyone will experience. While one person might form a greater connection with a higher power, others might simply feel a stronger connection to their true self.
6 Signs You Are Embarking on a Spiritual Journey
There's no rule book that defines what a spiritual awakening is, and there's no way to know for certain if you are embarking on one.
Here are six signs you're experiencing a spiritual awakening.
#1. You Understand That There Is No Destination
Many people have the misconception that spiritual awakenings are all about reaching an "endpoint." They believe that once you have this profound realization, you can simply sit back and enjoy your new mindset.
However, this is far from the truth. In fact, this assumption embodies everything that spirituality is not.
A spiritual awakening is not about reaching a destination. Your spiritual awakening journey will show you that you only have the present moment, and everything after that is not guaranteed. It's a lifelong journey that has no end.
It's important to trust and embrace the process, letting go of fear and uncertainty. You must shed the "what if" and "what's gone," choosing to leave behind everything that is out of your definite control.
#2. You Feel a Connection to a Greater Purpose
A spiritual awakening is often marked by feeling part of something bigger than oneself or a profound connection to a greater purpose. Being religious could manifest as a stronger relationship with God or a strengthened bond with the universe.
Feeling connected to something bigger than yourself is powerful. It can instill a heightened sense of responsibility, peace, and understanding.
#3. Mindfulness in Everyday Actions
In the Western World, days can feel like a blur. Perhaps you go through your day-to-day routine without much thought, simply "going through the motions."
If you're experiencing a spiritual awakening, you may feel more mindful of your everyday actions. Living in a deeper state of consciousness can anchor you to the present moment, helping you feel more self-aware and reactive.
Even if you're not going through a spiritual awakening, practicing mindfulness can have positive benefits on your overall well-being. Mindfulness and self-reflection are two cornerstones of holistic living.
To encourage a healthy balance in your life, start with a ritualistic skincare routine. By starting a self-care or skincare routine, you'll give your mind and body a chance to reconnect regularly.
Skincare is a great way to restore your complexion's youthful glow while indulging in much-needed self-love. Start your journey with a refreshing, non-toxic body wash before diving headfirst into a creamy anti-aging lotion and silky-smooth body oil.
At JUARA, our skincare products are inspired by the Indonesian wellness customs of Jamu. Jamu is an ancient way of life founded on the belief that true joy comes from within. These healing practices often focus on mindfulness in order to promote a healthy mind, body, and soul.
Bonus: How To Repair A Damaged Skin Barrier
#4. A Meaningful Detachment From Material Possessions and Hindering Thoughts
Materialism is often the source of suffering and sadness. When we place value and importance in things rather than experiences, we lose sight of who we are and what truly matters.
These temporary attachments can be extremely damaging. That's why letting go of material possessions is critical to a spiritual life.
However, we're not saying that you must give up everything to find peace. Instead, the key is understanding that happiness cannot come from material possessions or thoughts.
#5. Your Outlook on the World Has Shifted
There are nearly infinite ways that your overall mindset and outlook can be shifted. Oftentimes, it feels like an earth-shattering, ego-smashing, and alienating experience. Your entire view of the outside world isn't the same as it once was. You can't look at anything the same, including the people and relationships in your life.
While a spiritual awakening can be a positive and profound change, it can also bring about challenges, inner turmoil, and confusion. You may feel like you've entered a new reality, one that may be difficult to grow accustomed to. This can lead to anxiety, stress, or the feeling of loss or isolation.
Be prepared for this side of your spiritual journey.
#6. Your Thoughts and Emotions Are Not Personal
Understanding your thoughts and emotions can be one of the most challenging things you do in life. Nowadays, it's more common than ever for people to book therapy appointments for this singular task.
A spiritual awakening can reveal the truth that thoughts and emotions are impersonal events. Like sounds, tastes, or smells, they are simply bodily sensations that rise and fall. Feelings and emotions are neither good nor bad—they are neutral experiences.
Approach your emotions with perpetual kindness and newfound curiosity. Don't feel "bad" or "good" about having specific thoughts—just consider the possibility of "why" you are thinking or feeling that way. Explore your inner self and gain a deeper understanding of who you are.
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