spiritual journey painful

31 Mind-blowing Physical Symptoms of Spiritual Awakening

Feeling sick? It might not be the Taco Bell feast you had last night, but physical symptoms of spiritual awakening.

Maybe you’ve recently embarked on a spiritual journey. 

You’ve been reading books about spirituality, uncovering your shadows, healing past traumas. Then suddenly, you start feeling some uncomfortable sensations you’ve never felt before. 

Are you wondering why you’re experiencing these sensations? 

Do you want to know if these are signs of spiritual awakening? 

Spiritual awakenings can be painful but there’s a way to make it more bearable and understanding why they happen is the first step.

In this article, I’m gonna shine some light on all your confusion.

I will help you determine if those symptoms are signs of your spiritual awakening, why you’re experiencing them, and how you can better deal with them. 

Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What Is Spiritual Awakening?

Spiritual awakening is the process of elevating your consciousness. This usually happens after a dark period in your life. It’s when we transcend our ego and begin to realize that happiness comes from within and time and fear are just illusions.

It starts with a feeling of wanting to leave a job, a toxic relationship, or wanting to move to a new place.

If you feel this urge to leave but you don’t know where to go, here are some of the most spiritual places you can travel to . 

“It’s exhilarating to be alive in a time of awakening consciousness; it can also be confusing , disorienting, and painful.” -Adrienne Rich     

31 Major Physical Symptoms of Spiritual Awakening

Going through a spiritual awakening can be a spontaneous experience. It usually comes after a deep bout of depression or a traumatic event.

Going on this journey is a very liberating experience and not everyone experiences it in their lifetime.

“You will begin to see through all the illusions in this world and strip off all the masks that you’ve been wearing solely for the validation of society.”

You will begin to live your life through your truest expressions and you will be more connected to your intuition.

The bliss that you will gain from this is indeed astounding but this transformation process isn’t just a calm, beautiful experience. It can also be so intense that you begin to feel it in your physical body.

What are the physical symptoms of spiritual awakening ? 

There are lots of uncomfortable stories of spiritual awakenings. If you’re experiencing something similar, know that you are not alone. 

Spiritual awakening is your ultimate transformation from darkness to spiritual enlightenment.

S o it’s normal that you may experience some uncomfortable symptoms.

Spiritual awakening happens because we are spiritual beings having human experiences and we are put here on earth with a purpose.

That purpose is to evolve, to know the true meaning of happiness, to live more consciously and with more compassion.

Without spiritual awakening, we will continue to live a life chasing material rewards and live a life based on fear and anxiety. We will keep believing that the world is scarce and take the present moment for granted.

Why is spiritual awakening so painful ? 

Spiritual awakening involves the purging of everything that doesn’t match the higher self that you are about to evolve into.

It includes breaking out of illusions you’ve based most of your identity on and these changes might be too much for the mind to grasp.

“As you rise into higher frequencies, apart from the pain of losing people who are no longer a vibrational match, your body may try its best to resist all these unfamiliar changes you’re experiencing.”

Here are some of the common spiritual awakening symptoms one experiences during a spiritual awakening.

Please note that t hese could also be symptoms of an underlying medical condition and in those cases, it’s important to seek medical help.

Without further ado, here are the major physical symptoms of spiritual awakening!

1: Body shivering or trembling

Our bodies are filled with chakras that activate once we go through a spiritual ascension or awakening.

These give off energy that may be too much for your body to handle causing you to shiver or tremble.

You are rebalancing in many aspects and elevating to a higher frequency.

Your inner ears may be sensitive to this causing you to feel off-balance or experience vertigo.

3: Feeling drawn to metaphysical things

You may feel drawn to metaphysics and spiritual practices like reiki, meditation, and yoga.

This is because these are great tools to help you with your spiritual awakening and your guides want you to know that. 

4: Throbbing or other sensations on the top of your head

Your crown chakra is located at the top of your head. This is the chakra that connects us to the source so the sensations you feel may be a sign that your crown chakra is activating. 

I often feel this during full moons and eclipses. 

5: Buzzing in the ears

As you begin to tune in to a different frequency, a higher vibrational one, you may begin to hear buzzing in your ears.

This is also a sign that your senses are getting more heightened and receptive. 

6: Feeling more empathy and compassion

You may begin to feel more intensely the energies of people around you so it’s easy to feel drained in social situations.

You also begin to love purely, without expecting anything in return.

7: Feeling at peace with the darkness

You begin to feel a sense of peace and you are no longer afraid of the darkness.

You see that fear is only created by the egoic self and darkness is a vital part of your spiritual awakening.

8: Heat on hands and feet

In Hinduism, hand postures known as “mudras” are supposed to aid in the transfer of higher energies while the feet symbolize balance and grounding in the physical realm.

9: Tingling sensation between eyebrows

This might be one of the most common physical symptoms of spiritual awakening and something I often experience during meditation.

The space in between your eyebrows is where your third eye chakra is located, also known as “the seat of the intuition”.

Tingling may mean that it’s starting to activate and your intuition is becoming stronger. If you want to know how to fully activate it, read this article “How to Open Your Third Eye Safely”.

10: Vivid dreams

This is a sign that you’re connecting to universal consciousness and you’re starting to ascend to a higher dimension.

We’re all more receptive to these in our most relaxed states such as while meditating or sleeping. 

If you want to know how to control and experience your dreams, you may read about lucid dreaming here.

11: Headaches

This could happen especially when there is a surge in energy such as during full moons. This is due to you being more connected with the energies in your surroundings. 

I recommend that you do a full moon ritual to help you channel this intense energy into making positive changes in your life.

12: Skin irritation

Spiritual awakening includes the purging of everything that isn’t good for your higher self.

This may be a sign that your body is trying to get rid of cellular toxins and they’re coming out through the skin. 

13: Symptoms of virus or infection

Spiritual awakening illness is more common than you think. Symptoms of a virus or infection that cannot be explained may just be your body trying to adjust to this new energy flowing inside you.

During a spiritual awakening, the lower density energies are removed from within you.

14: Insomnia

The intense energies activating in our bodies may be too strong that our bodies begin to need less sleep.

Our brains’ subconscious gets reprogrammed or rewired best while we’re sleeping which may cause you to wake up multiple times during the night.

15: Increased sensitivity

As you become more present and aware, all your senses get heightened causing you to feel more sensitive to lights, sounds, smell, taste, and touch.

You may begin to hear sounds you would’ve not heard before, notice details in your surroundings you never noticed before, and more.

16: Depression or anxiety

We are creatures of habits and our brains hate everything unfamiliar.

When everything we’ve ever known turns out to be false, our brains activate a fight or flight response. This causes us to experience a spiritual awakening depression, or anxiety.

17: Awareness of negative habits

You might not think this belongs on a post about physical symptoms of spiritual awakening, but since it’s something both me and many of my lightworker friends have experienced, I thought it was important to mention. 

And that is that you become hyper-aware of the negative habits in your life and feel a strong desire to change them .

It’s your spirit guides leading you to a path towards becoming your higher self. 

18: Feeling disconnected from everyone

As your frequency changes, you will lose a lot of people that aren’t a match to your vibration.

This has to happen because if they stayed in your life, their energies might disrupt your awakening process. 

19: Bloating or water retention in the lower body

Your consciousness gets elevated to higher levels. Your body is trying to recalibrate and ground itself causing you to feel heaviness on your lower body.

You may even gain weight but it’s usually just water weight and they will go away eventually.

20: Pain and aches

Pain comes from resistance.

It’s normal for your physical body to try to resist all these energy transformations happening inside you and that’s why you may experience some pain or aches in certain areas of your body.

21: Personality changes

You may notice that you don’t like the same things as before, you don’t look at things or treat people the same way because your ego-self is being stripped and your authentic self is taking charge.

To help guide you towards becoming your truest self, this free numerology report can help you uncover your hidden talents, strengths, and deepest desires.

22: Feeling the need to purge

One of the biggest physical symptoms of spiritual awakening is that you feel the need to do a detox for your body, step away from toxic relationships, leave the job that makes you feel like a zombie, or move away from a place that’s draining you .  

These are all spiritual purging symptoms . You may crave solitude to protect your energy as you go through your self-awakening process.

24: Experiencing jerks or rapid eye movements

There may be times you feel parts of your body jerk or like you couldn’t control the movement of your eyes.

This is because of all the intense energies inside you, chakras activating, and negative energies trying to flow out.

25: Feeling irritated with small talk

You no longer have tolerance for shallow talk. You talk to people from this higher state of spiritual consciousness and you feel it when people aren’t on the same frequency.

When you talk to someone on the same levels of consciousness, it feels like you’re talking to their soul.

26: You see through the illusions

It’s as if your eyes got sharper and developed a deeper dimension. You see through the illusions in society that you’ve never noticed before.

You’re no longer a prison to the material world and you begin to see that you are not what you own nor who society says you are. 

27: Heightened intuition

Intuitive abilities are innate to us humans but because of society, we’ve come to distrust our own intuitions and trust whatever society tells us instead.

When your intuition heightens, you become more op en to receiving secret messages or signs from you r guides.

28: Feeling angry

A lot of people may be confused if they feel strong emotions such as anger during spiritual awakening especially when they’ve been suppressing them. However, doing so allows those negative energies to be stuck in our bodies causing us to feel sick.

Letting yourself feel those emotions without judging them is healthier. Feeling all those emotions is a part of being human.

“Being awakened doesn’t mean we never feel the negative ones. It means that we acknowledge and observe them without judgment instead of reacting to them.”

29: Food intolerances

Every cell in our bodies is intelligent. They know what’s good for us and what isn’t.

Some foods you used to love before, your body seems to reject.

You may get cravings for foods you didn’t like before.

This is because you’re getting more in tune with this inner intelligence.

30: Fatigue

One of the most common physical signs of spiritual awakening is fatigue.

This usually happens after you feel all the intense symptoms.

Your body has gone through a lot and now it needs time to rest and recalibrate. Don’t worry, this feeling of exhaustion won’t last. 

31: Feeling great

This is the best symptom of all. After your body has recalibrated, you just feel so good and so light.

You’re now in a high vibrational state and the heaviness from your formerly dense body has vanished. 

How do I deal with spiritual awakening symptoms?

You just have to accept that they’re part of your awakening process. Remember that what resists persists so just let them be. Doing some yoga may help alleviate the pain and aches that you’re feeling. 

Physical symptoms of spiritual awakening are not fun stuff, but it’s necessary to purge what doesn’t serve you so be grateful when it happens.

How long does spiritual awakening last ?

A spiritual awakening is not a linear path with a finish line. It’s a lifetime commitment. As long as you commit to your higher self, no matter how crazy your path gets, the important thing is that your overall trajectory would be upwards.

What happens after a spiritual awakening?

You become enlightened, you begin to live your life as your most authentic self, and you operate on a higher level of consciousness. Your task now is to do everything you can to nourish your soul and maintain that level of consciousness .

Consistent meditation is one of the best ways to do this. You can try this free 30 Days Meditation Challenge here .

Most people think that a spiritual awakening experience is calm and beautiful but it can be coupled with strange, uncomfortable physical symptoms as well.

Knowing that these are all parts of your journey will help eliminate the fears you associate with them so you could just let them be and trust that you will come out of the other side blissful and whole. 

These are just common physical symptoms of spiritual awakening because the energies we use during this period of transformation are usually too intense for our bodies to handle.

Don’t let these hinder you from reaching the final stages of spiritual awakening .

If you want more personalized guidance on your ascension journey, you can find vetted healers and psychics with my partner Keen .

Are you going through a spiritual awakening? Which of these symptoms have you been experiencing? Let’s have a conversation going below!

This Post Has 61 Comments

I feel like I’m going to burst into tears for silly or no reasons at all. It’s embarrassing & makes others uncomfortable which makes me uncomfortable.

That’s healing, dear. Releasing of pain and tension. Plus, welcome sensitivity. 🙂

Thank you! <3 In the last 10 years I had my two 20-day "pre-enlightenments" + two long dark nights… in this, the third, energy healing – yes, most of the above symptoms but THANK YOU for intolerance for the small talk, fatigue, and anger… it seemed to me that somehow, after dilligent and people-pleasing decades, I'm becoming a lazy and rude person… Maybe just self-confident. The reading says: a free soul 😉

This! Exactly what I thought to myself when I read the small talk/fatigue/anger!

Greetings Author,

This helped me in unexplainable ways. Oh, how thankful I am to have searched, “are headaches a part of spiritual activation/awakening”. I’ve been going through several of the mentioned symptoms (it’s been a great deal too). I’m 41 & to face childhood traumas at this age as part of my commitment to fully embrace all things higher (ascension) has not been easy.

Unlearning everything prior has become my definition of “rebirth”. Nonetheless, I will remain fully committed to the rising of self; within lies a whole new world. Again, I’m thankful & grateful for this read; you helped me.

A Healing Soul

Magical! You’re welcome. Sending you lots of love and blessings 💕

I am understanding most of them.thsnks for explaining the reasons very well and the measures to be taken. At one point my anger was very much heightened that it was creating troubles for me at office. I felt as if someone inside me is demanding me to be my true self irrespective of what others might think. One symptom i have which you have not mentioned here is extraordinary sense of humour,i see almost every situation has a space for humor and i use it to lighten the work environment and people live it. This is strange because I was very introverted earlier and this almost uncontrollable urge to laugh is embarrassing to me ,but people seem to enjoy though. I am being brutally honest in conversations and doing it through sense of humour is playing to my advantage sometimes. But i dont feel comfortable being center of attraction though.any pointers on this heightened sense of humour

Correcting few typos

1.,I am undergoing most of the symptoms. 2. One symptom i have which you have not mentioned here is extraordinary sense of humour,i see almost every situation has a space for humor and i use it to lighten the work environment and people LOVE it

I think that is a great call out – the humor!! During my journey, I’ve reflected on how I believe the “entertainment” industry has somewhat plagued much of society, in a way that we often laugh at the “wrong” things, however laughter is so needed for the soul & it’s one of my favorite things to do and this journey has shown me just how hilarious life and the god of the universe truly is! …without having to laugh at the “wrong” things. I absolutely love laughter and life is beautifully humorous!

Yes laughter and fun is such a simple way to raise our vibrations, isn’t it!

Thank you very much ❤️

OMG I’m just letting this go thru me I could be in an exorcist movie lol I’m like Steve Martin and Lilly Tomlin in one body AND I’m laughing so hard at it I look like I’m possessed – (now they’re cracking my neck as I type – sometimes it hurts but I just hate waiting for anything and I’ve been in pain my whole life so bring it on and let’s get going!) LET’S WAKE OUR PEOPLE UP!

I know that this is an old post, and I probably will feel silly later for being so compelled to comment 5 months later, I just had to tell you that you’re reply spoke to me deeply. I am 39, but feel so young, curious and awestruck all at the same time; especially when I realize how grateful I am for even the most brutal but crucial parts of my life.

You have woven a thread golden of light through my existence. Thank you so very much.

I feel bloated and got strange weight around my waist. Don’t like the feeling. It feels like I had too much food and don’t feel like socializing. How can I ease that feeling?

I stopped fighting it and didn’t eat if I wasn’t hungry and sometimes I was SO hungry all day but for just fruit and beans and tonight I’m having Brussel sprouts I used to hate them and I can’t wait but yah – the bloating sucks – I think of these awful symptoms as nothing more than symptoms you’d have after an exhaustive surgery – bloating – confusion – odd pains – just trust the doctors and nurses in your soul group – you’re doing great (and avoid people till you are stronger … I’m just permitting right now – I have NO desire to interact with anyone other than whatever this is.) ALL THE GOOD EMOJIS …. WEEEEEE here we go ….

Hello spiritual community

I’m very new to all of this but was able to accept that I’m an empath a few years ago. This explained a lot and of course filled in many blank spots for me. Nevertheless, in my studies and my path to self-discovery, I never thought that I fit any of the criteria for being a healer however I’ve had a few very unsettling experiences lately that make me feel a bit differently.

Bare with me as I try to paint a picture…

Apparently it’s always been second nature for me to have my protective walls up (without even knowing) so I don’t typically have to deal with a lot of unwanted energies, etc. With that said, I’ve had a few experiences as of late that feel, none other than, what I assume a jolt or a surge of energy being injected into my feet/legs or.. shooting out of my feet. This last experience happen while in a dead sleep, and I shot out of bed, into a standing position at the side of my bed. Forced myself to go back to sleep and about 30 minutes later, same thing happened again. Both times, it hit me like a panic attack but I was keenly aware that what anxiety/emotion I was feeling was NOT mine. These experiences always follow either hanging out with or talking on the phone with a very specific family member and in a emotional type crisis.

These experiences have not been pleasant and unfortunately painful..

Has anyone experienced anything like this??

Does anyone think that I’ve unfortunately overlooked the healer aspect of my empathic abilities or was recently awaken as a healer?

I really need help and am desperate for answers.

I too have had very similar experiences. They always prove to be true but I never know what exactly will unfold until it unfolds in real-time, earthside time. All I can do is brace myself. I try to tune in and accept the gift so that I can become sharper. It’s hard work.

I haven’t experienced that as I have a feeling I WAS that family member and not so very long ago … take a deep breath and return to your physical body if you’re not ready – you have all the time you need – don’t rush it but don’t concentrate on fear – we are all here talking about really odd stuff that would scare anyone not going thru it so hang in there and this too shall pass AND IT’S A REALLY GREAT THING so hang on and smile – I’m streaming Jeshua … it’s a blast!

I don’t know who can help I don’t feel awakened my body buzzes all over all the time I always hear ringing no one else hears and feel the vibrations everywhere as frequencies change if I close my eyes I see the sound in vivid colors and all three of those occur simultaneously but it feels amazing I’m just trying to find out what is happening if I touch anyone with my eyes close I see inside of them and feel any pain they feel and it seems I absorb the pain they don’t hurt but I do then after a while I feel better any suggestions would be cool this has been happening for a long time but has intensified recently I know it sounds rediculus so maybe I’m nuts

Do some meditating and ask for guidance from your Angels and spirit guides. look into reiki attunement because it sounds like you would make a wonderful healer! If you are seeing colors and hearing sounds, you are very gifted. look into auras and clairaudience and clairvoyance as well. Sounds like you are an empath as well. Your not crazy! just a special person!

wow this resonated with me so much! I”m a few years into riding the waves of awakening. I’ve had a ton of physical symptoms, slowly starting to release the resistance and try to just SURRENDER! haha =) it’s tough but so rewarding.

Now i understand why!?!Almost all of the sign I’m having it right now. Sometimes I just don’t know what to do or how to deal with it. Symptoms starts last year. And now almost 2 months I didn’t go to my work, I just feel that I want to GO somewhere else like SPACE or other PLANET and live there peacefully.

Thanks for your comment! Sending you lots of love and blessings 💕

Thank you so much. I feel exhausted , like my body wants stillness and silence. It’s a relief to know it is normal part of awakening!

maybe you are a star seed!

Thank you Julia. I understand myself much better now. I will keep working on releasing anything that’s holding me back to fully awaken. I send you love, gratitude and blessings. Namaste.

I recently had a very strong awakening Wich scared me completely. I felt lifted up, looking down on my body and there was a swirling sense of energy in my legs, wrists, arms, head and heart. I actually thought I was having anxiety attack but smth kept me from not panicking. I had to keep breathing – i was in meditation Wich I’ve been doing for years. But this sensation was absolutely mind-blowing.. i feel very light on my feet and like i can’t really balance well. I hope this gets calibrated in time… Background is that I’ve had a year with jobless, divorce, two movings, and a breakup recently. I guess there is just so much stress in my system. Right now i feel like I am exposing my wound to the world, like i have no protection against my inner world. It’s raw and beautiful but also feels very vulnerable and strange …

Thanks for sharing your story! 😊 Sending you lots of love and blessings 💕

Hi there. I’m very new to this but I had a healing session overseas last week and have been unwell, dizzy/vomiting/vertigo for around four days. Also heightened emotions – strange to find myself getting emotional during movies where previously I never would. My symptoms are slowly subsiding but my mind feels really light. Im cautiously excited about how I feel but am wondering if I should find a local healer to continue the process or can I find my own way? I must admit the extent of my symptoms (really unwell) did shock me but I guess it means there was a lot to resolve within myself. Would love your perspective.

It is a relief to know that the symptoms I’ve been experiencing are a result of spiritual awakening. My mind creates thoughts and feeling that I’ve been attached to or addicted to my whole life. It seems constant but my higher mind is fully aware of them and labels them so there’s this chatter in my head constantly. If I slip into worry my higher mind says to me ‘that’s just worry , stay in the moment.’ Or if I’m feeling anger or resentment in the moment my higher brain takes me to a moment in childhood or even a past life experience where I’ve felt like that and tells me you need to release that. As well as various physical symptoms, skin rashes, feeling like I need to vomit or purge, pressure at my third eye like it’s about to burst.

Some of these symptoms might be from dark entites that are already attached to you becoming uneasy about your spiritual growth. Once your light grows, dark entities will leave but you might attract others as well, entities of higher vibrations, but still dark. It’s important to maintain your core and continue forward. Spiritual awakening can be quite unsettling at times. Connecting with your Divinity (Higher Self, for some people) will help a lot. Also, lower the ego. The ego coupled with spiritual awakening can attract more darkness. We’re not special for going through this, we’re just at a different stage. A level that some people have reached already, others not yet. Everyone goes through this eventually in this life or another life.

So true, well said!

Why do the angels or what have U keep trying to make me think I died and that I don’t belong here and that there is something I have to do to get to heaven…

Love that I came across this and all of the insightful comments! I’ve been on my journey for a little bit now and as I work thru my anxiety, uncomfortable physical symptoms tend to really raise my anxiety. As I try to fully let go of fear, there seems to always be something new. But I refuse to “worry”. However, certain physical symptoms can trigger worry or anxiety. Currently (about the last couple weeks) I’ve felt this throbbing in the top of my head and temple area. It’s not painful at all as I had suffered from headaches most of my life and this is not what I would call an “ache”. It’s like a throbbing or pulsating. I’m glad the post touched on it but also wondering about others’ personal experiences with any type of feelings or sensations in the head. Anyone?

Thank you so much for posting this. I mostly love my spiritual journey that began in the summer of 2021. It’s been amazing and I feel so blessed and grateful. The highs are incredible and the lows really suck. The physical symptoms have really caught me off guard though. I pretty much have had or am having all the ones you listed. Thanks for sharing…. I’m not alone! Xo

Ummm, didn’t know this was happening but yeah… 28 of the 31 I’ve experienced in the past 6 months.

Disturbing symptoms I’ve came across or it might be linked to 2 sleep paralysis episodes I had at my old apartment.

1) Low pressure zone, where ever I go anyone within a 20ft radius instantly dry coughs, or rubs their ears, scalp, nose, neck, or eyes. (Brought it up to only a few people and they all had a disturbed look on their face) 2) based on the position of my body, wind will rage aggressively in my direction. (Multiple witnesses) 3) when driving at night 1/20 street lights will randomly go out as my vehicle approaches or passes them. (Multiple witnesses)

My hypothesis’s for those 3 symptoms is either 1)in my old apartment one of the AC units was idk sounds crazy.. possessed. When I had my 2 episodes of sleep paralysis there, it felt as a electrical entity was holding me down by my ankles. A month or so afterwards I started getting randomly shocked when I was in my bed.

2)Magnets. -So my old phone case had a strong magnet on the back; for the mount in my car. When I say strong, I’m not kidding. -I went through a phase of quitting cigarettes and substituted with juuls (For those who don’t know the charging system had a relatively strong magnet at the base of the device) also would have occasionally 2 devices in my pocket at once. -wireless earbuds/playing music too loud (Same as the juul for charging) I think a combination of having all three on my body when in bed; mixed with tossing and turning. Oh and stress. And the claustrophobic sense of being trapped in my room because my roommate wouldn’t play with his dog/take her for long walks. I did, so she wouldn’t leave me alone if my bedroom door was open.

Idk what to do… I actually own/wear a 3rd eye pinecone & have experimented a good amount of psychedelics in my life. Also refuse to drink tap water/fluoride toothpaste.

So this could be an awakening like listed above.. but I don’t know what to do.. I can keep composure in public/around other people. But when I’m by myself I feel a constant urge to twist and turn.. this symptom might be due to a spinal/neck injury. TMJ. Or PTSD.

Should I seek a psychiatrist or neurologist? I haven’t listed the feeling of all my nerve endings being twisted up in places they shouldn’t. If I do yoga, some of these will return to normal placement, usually followed by loud a crackling/crack noise. (Witnessed by father/sister/best friend)

As I’m typing this my right eye is irritated and idk what to do… I don’t have health insurance and I don’t have any money..

Is this all in my head due to extreme stress/anxiety. Or should I maybe seek out a priest?

I would greatly appreciate it if someone would get back to me. Thank you

I have a question, how many stages of spiritual enlightenment are there? I had major mental problems for many months and weakness and felt a sense of disconnection from people, almost the whole time.

I also had anxiety all the time. With the first 2 stages I have been feeling spiritually dead a lot at times even though I was trying to develop a spiritual awakening.

Thank you so much for this post.

I have been experiencing all these symptoms for few months now, its truly challenging. One night I woke up suddenly knowing that i feel super dizzy, its like i was on a boat, I had a panic attack and next morning my body felt strange, as if i was scared of myself, since that night, i been experiencing high vibrations in my body ( especially one night when i was aware of the vibrations) which felt like i was taken away by someone by this hight vibration/energy, its so hard to explain but something was happening to my body.Since then i been reading alot of books about spirtual world and listening to NDE made me feel awakened, i feel like a different person , i feel all these terrible physical symptoms but at the same time I am kind to people , i want to help without receiving anything in return, i want to move and live in nature, i want the world to be a better place, i think alot about human life and afterlife and our purpose on this earth, I see angels trying to connect with me through numerology, I know all the meanings I know their messages I know they are here and I am aware what is happening, I am however sometimes feel like I would like to feel normal again, without feeling any physical symptoms that are most disturbing. I have faith that this will pass and I will be happiest soul on this planet <3 I wish there was a group we could all connect and share our experiences, I would feel less alone in this journey 🙂 bless all and thank you again for this post ! xxxxx

Mante, First and foremost you’re definitely not alone! Your story resonates with the beginning of my own journey four years ago. I have also, just recently, begged, cried and prayed for my old self be returned to me and off this spiritual path. To no avail. Once you’re chosen, it cannot be undone. The best thing I can reccomend for you to start doing for some relief is pray. Pray coming from the deepest parts of your heart for enlightenment, direction, and support. Then sit quietly with your eyes closed and wait for the answers. Pay attention to the signs your body will give you, tingles, throbbing, heat etc. These are all answers! Then ask questions as you feel them and you will be guided. It may take practice but make sure you set aside some quiet time everyday to do this and eventually you’ll open the lines of communication with your guides, Angel’s, God etc. There’s a special reason/job you’ve been chosen to do and it’s your responsibility to grow and find out what it is. I’m here for you with any questions or feel free to reach out so you’re not alone. You would be helping me too!

I had my spiritual awakening 4.5 years ago. I went through the bliss stage where I just felt so connected to the Divine. But the past two months I have been going through something dark, I just have lost interest in work my body feels so heavy, I have been feeling some type of electrical charge going on in my head. I burst out in tears out of no where but then I’ll laugh. I have to make myself get out of bed and take a shower. To get everyday things done at home. I just want to curl up in bed and seclude myself away from the world.

Having insomnia, anger outburst, the strong recognition that a deep sweeping of resentments is required. Along w this a feeling of rebirth and reconnection, renewed hope, It’s a lot! Thank you for your article and the shares. In this together right now is well wonderful. So much brighter! Yay team!

You’re welcome! 😊 Thank you for your kind words. Sending you lots of love and blessings 💕🙏

From Thursday to yesterday. I felt so sick that I actually did a covid test. I typically suffer from allergies so it is hard to determine if my headaches, clogged ears and pressure are from that or allergies. But no medication would help. Today is a better day. I feel I was transcending, or maybe wishful thinking on my part. I believe this started 2021. In the past 6 months I have had several bouts where it feels as if I have the flu, chills, headache severe pressure in my E.T. tube. I am going to have to note if they are happening around the full moon. Ty for this article

OMG yes! Every one of them applies to me. Also more emotionally sensitive. If I hear of a story of an animal being mistreated to the point of death my soul gets so grieved. I always felt sad about it before, but NOW I almost lose a piece of myself when it comes to beings like animals, children, the elderly, or disabled people suffering.

Amazing Lacey! Do you have any suggestions for future videos? Sending you lots of love and blessings 💕

All n more but faith keeps me Going with Jesus all is possible

Hi, my name Kevin. I love your posts breech (is it) but it gets deeper.

Thank you! 😊💜

Thank you for sharing your insightful perspective on the physical symptoms of spiritual awakening. It takes a brave soul to embark on the journey of spiritual awakening, and your words remind us that it is not an easy path. However, the ultimate purpose of this journey is to evolve in all aspects of our being, to truly understand the meaning of happiness, and to live our lives with greater awareness and compassion. The pain and discomfort we experience along the way are reminders that we are shedding old layers of ourselves and making space for new growth. It is through this process that we gain clarity and wisdom, and ultimately find a deeper sense of fulfillment and purpose in our lives. So let us embrace the challenges of our spiritual awakening, knowing that they are all part of the journey towards greater self-awareness and inner peace.

It was amazing to read such a wonderful post! Most of the symptoms mentioned here were being experienced but did not make sense to me because of perceived imagery of spiritual awakening as a state of total calm and quietness! Now, every bout of anger, panic and pain make sense fully! Thanks for sharing such a wonderful article and so many uplifting comments by other seekers, especially one by Roberta Block Hempfling ! Be blessed, All!!

You’re welcome 💜

Thank you for your kind words. Sending you lots of love and blessings 💕🙏

Spirituality is a broad and subjective concept that encompasses a sense of connection to something greater than oneself. It often involves exploring questions about the meaning of life, the nature of existence, and the purpose of our existence. Different cultures, belief systems, and philosophies have their own interpretations of spirituality. For some, it is linked to organized religion and faith in a higher power or deity. For others, it may be more secular, focusing on inner peace, mindfulness, and a sense of interconnectedness with the universe.

Designed to foster open and respectful conversations about spirituality. It should be used with sensitivity, and the information gathered should be used to support the individual’s holistic well-being. Additionally, the questions can be adapted or expanded based on the specific context and the preferences of the person being assessed.

Theres a huge universal and vibrational shift going on, known as Khali Yuga in ancient Hinduism, it’s a rebalancing. It is defined by dysfunction, disease, departure, war, and is vibrational in nature. It is affecting sensitives, healers, indigenous peoples, meditators the most and energy will shift to affect larger groups of people as it shifts. Guides have explained to me that it’s a time when the lowest amount of cosmic light is coning in, but light is steadily overtaking darkness to bring cleansing, it is Karmic in nature. I have experienced extreme dizziness, nausea, body aches, rashes , fatigue, nightmares, and a host of similar testimonies on this blog. Dark energies are attacking light and light workers, because they are being lowered into darker places and being eliminated. The lack of compassion and anger , rage, dishonesty, crime we are witnessing is due to a cosmic lack of light, but we are shifting to a higher place, it will be difficult for a while .Because the symptoms and discomfort in your bodies is vibrational, the best way to deter it now is to move the vibrations out, driving in a car helps because when you physically move the vibrations are thwarted, I also twirl, spin, walk, and found the most helpful tool to be an electric tooth brush, used as a hand tool, massage areas like lips, nostrils and ears, vibrations come thru openings in your body. Put cotton in your ears to plug them. Massage your crown area on head, the vibrations and lower entities are hostile and can cause brain dysfunction, blurred vision, confusion; they are mentalists. think of a hypnotist putting negative emotions, thoughts and depression in your mind, they can ” freeze you ” physically. Lower energies are hostile and manipulative, if you have guides; evaluate the information they bring. Young people are vulnerable who are attracted to lower energies; they are being influenced to commit crimes. Animals are acting unusual and are vulnerable as they feel these energies. Instead of being quiet, meditating, or listening to calmer music, listen to music that gets you moving, movement is a way to move them out. As we shift into more cosmic light, higher beings and people who are open to light will experience renewed energies and improvement in all areas of life, and lower minded people will be sickened physically. Society is vulnerable to disease now, protect yourself with this awareness, I’m still wearing a mask mostly when I go out, and even gloves, as my guides have asked me too. Know that Angelic beings, healers, have reincarnated at this time to help transfer LIGHT into the world, and are here to overcome darkness, mostly know darkness cannot defeat or overcome the Light. I also use electric body massagers and they are helpful to remove lower vibrations. Be patient, vibrational rates are quickening as they overcome slower vibrations.Our bodies and all things are Vibrations.

I’ve been feeling many of these symptoms since my spiritual awakening. In the last couple of months, I’ve had painful physical symptoms, and currently, the left of my neck is hurting so much as if I have strep throat on that side. I normally see that these pains have a purpose for me, as I continuously grow in my spiritual journey. But I do tend to feel depressive and so sad at times when dealing with the pain of my body. I have most all of the symptoms you mention Breech. It has been amazing to finally feeling more authentic and true in my 40s, to connect with others going through similarly or on their way. I’ve had a life with a lot of traumas and have always struggled to stay here. But this spiritual journey has awakened me surely, to God and Jesus, my angels, spirit guides. I feel other people’s energies too much as I always have. I will continue on now knowing that there is a higher purpose in life for us. Namaste friends.

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How to Find and Release Physical Pain During a Spiritual Awakening

For my awakening friends, you probably have found some surprising pains stuck in your body as you’ve gone through your spiritual shifts and realizations . It can be quite a shock to discover how much pain you’ve been living in, and of course, physical pain is one of the hardest things with which to come to peace. Everything in our anatomy says that we should fix physical pain more so than most any mental or emotional pain that we may feel. But this fixing attitude is fraught with problems, and it rarely takes the time to truly understand why a physical pain has manifested in our bodies. As such, deeper rooted issues are never fully understood, and we tend to find situations and remedies that offer relief, but not release. By the way, the difference between relief and release can be found on this link:

Understanding Releases and Relief on Your Spiritual Journey

Simply put, relief is when the pain is numbed, masked, or sent back into remission. Release is when part or all of an issue leaves your body and energy. Clearly, the better of the two is obvious, but most people don’t know what releasing an issue is like. We live in a world where people have become masters of self-delusion, numbing , and denial. As such, most people don’t know how to release a mental issue, much less a body issue. Which brings us to the topic of today, and one which I hope to leave you a little more emboldened to find the roots of all your pains and to realize deeper peace in your heart, mind, spirit, AND body.

If you want support in releasing ego issues and attachments, you may be interested in my one-on-one online sessions:

Tracking the Many Trails of Pain

Let me be honest, if you haven’t worked with your mental and emotional issues, you’re unlikely to be ready to dig into the physical pains you may be feeling. I also want to be clear that we’re not talking about broken legs. That’s easy to figure out what happened. You fell out of a tree, and now a trip to the ER is in order. We’re not trying to meditate away a fracture. What I’m discussing is more along the lines of this spiritual awakening blog post:

Phantom Physical Pains and Spiritual Awakening

Many of these pains are revealed because we were too numb to feel ourselves. Other aspects of physical pain are kind of like channels that are two narrow for all the current rushing through us in a spiritual awakening . We’re being stretched and transformed in an amazingly powerful way. It’s surprising just how painful that can be. Additionally, old emotional pains and especially traumas take up root in the body, and the physical memories of any abuse received or often caused by us to others also is remembered and held onto in the muscle memory of our bodies. In so many ways, our physical body has become a warzone of dis-ease. Is it any wonder that some human beings end up breaking down?

Honing Your Focus on Pain

Especially at the early stages of a spiritual awakening, it can be difficult to focus on anything. Sometimes you have to just let things ride for awhile to get your bearings on all the emotional, mental, physical, and energetic stimuli that are arising. But generally, it is important to be engaged as much as you can, and if you’ve never really paid attention to your body, this will be a very unsettling time for you. All kinds of stories in the language of the body–which is often pain–come bursting into your awareness. You may feel incapacitated.

But don’t let the mind’s overwhelm take you by storm. Too often people allow themselves to shut down by this feeling of overwhelm. As I said, this stage of spiritual healing is best engaged with after you’ve become comfortable working with your mental and emotional issues. It’s too easy to keep regenerating the pain in your body with old mental patterns that do not serve you.

For instance, you feel exhausted by your life. You say over and over about how tiring everything is. You feel like you can’t handle anything. In turn, your body replays this message. “Well, she said we’re tired. So I guess we’re tired.” That means you physically feel tired and thus create a nasty of repeating loop. Your body feels tired, and now you’re justified in what you say. You probably have found ways to over-exert yourself, sleep deprive yourself, under-nourish yourself, or other things to further self-sabotage and justify this whole story. But if you’ve worked with this story and realized that perhaps this is about not feeling good about yourself and a self-worth issue, you can then go deeper into fatigue in the body. You can start to focus on what this type of discomfort is telling you and see what the body wants to show you to come into better physical alignment, which usually means you become healthier.

Working Through Waves of Discomfort

One of the hallmarks of spiritual shifts is that when a wave of energy subsides, things settle down. The pain you were trying to figure out seems to vanish. The immature spiritual person figures that the issue is gone. But it’s just gone back into remission because the energy is no longer driving it up into your consciousness. If you are in awakening, don’t worry. It’ll get driven up again. If you’re not, you need to be more focused and dedicated to finding it. Remember that many people spend a great deal of their lives holding onto an innumerable number of issues. We’ve become pros at hiding our own crap, and most of us won’t have an awakening to land us face down in our own shit. It’s one of those gifts that those of us who have awakened don’t fully appreciate at first.

So when another wave of awakened energy comes up, you can go even more deeply into the physical pain or discomfort you are working on. Oftentimes, the waves are also a gift because they give space to catch our breathe and integrate what we have discovered and how we have spiritually grown. Then another wave comes through, and we have a little bit more awareness and self-confidence to drop deeper into the dark places where we need to go. Most importantly, remember that the discomfort is temporary, and as an issue unfolds and releases, some of these physical pains will simply dissolve.

5 Tips for Pinpointing Physical Pain

As I said, having the space to be with physical pain is a challenge, and it is one of the most important skill-sets any of you can develop on the spiritual path . This isn’t sitting with back pain for three hours of meditation. That rarely has much meaning, and that is usually the ego inflicting an idea on your body and trying to achieve something. Healing physical pain on the spiritual path is really understanding where the pain is in your body and what it is trying to tell you. This is done without any attempts to change the pain. You simply allow it and allow things to unfold. With that said, here are some tips for pinpointing the true source of a physical pain:

• Sit still. Moving and doing lots of things keeps the body too agitated for us to discern much. Oftentimes, it makes physical pain worse, and other parts of your body are stressed more because they are compensating for the deeper source of pain.
• Take your time. Patience is key. Remember that a lot of this pain has probably been with you for years. A half hour of meditation is unlikely to resolve a physical issue overnight even if you’ve had big mental and emotional break-thrus about what it is about.
• Work through outer layers . Don’t be fooled by the initial or loudest source of pain in your body. Your body is interconnected. The initial pain or the seemingly worst may simply be the place that has compensated the most for some other pain or lack of physical alignment. Use this first pain as the beginning of the thread to follower deeper.
• Relax into the pain . This is soooo important, and it can be soooo hard. It is counter-intuitive to relax into physical pain, but it’s important so that you don’t create tension onto of the pain that is coming up. The relaxation helps you to further see how this pain is interacting in your body and go deeper.
• Bring touch to the deepest layer you have found . This may not always be the deepest layer of the pain, but adding touch can be a nice way to focus your attention. Once you are here, breathe and let go. Breathe and let go. Remember step number two. This can take some time.

The Arising of Physical Enlightenment

In a healing process like this, we begin to really appreciate this house we live in our whole lives, and we start to come into deeper appreciation of its wisdom. Once you’ve pinpointed an issue, it may take some time for the issue to unwind itself. It is the body, and the body lives in the world of duality. Some issues may dissolve immediately. Some may not and may require you to make changes to how you are interacting with your body in your daily life to further the healing. But mainly, I encourage you to sit with the pain, and let it reveal itself. Fully allow yourself to feel it, and see what happens. What does your body say? Now that you’re here, a new level of listening is needed. You can’t run from this pain. You don’t need to. It will address itself. That is the power of the body’s natural healing abilities.

The Profundity of Physical Releases

The easiest way out of physical pain is the way through it. Feeling that pain and acknowledging it are so critical. Then, something releases. Sometimes, it will be a memory stuck in your body of a past pain or personal transgression. Sometimes, it’s simply how out of alignment your body became from being stooped over a computer, and now it’s telling you to focus on ergonomics. Sometimes, it’s how you physically hid your heart–stooped shoulders and a concave chest–and that led to all kinds of back pain. Whatever you discover, the conscious changes you are most likely going to make after a discovery will be physical ones. They will require physical action because that’s how the body behaves. It does not care about emotions and thoughts; it wants a little intentional action.

And a little intentional action goes a long way. Unless something is really out of whack (you’ve been living on corn chips and ice cream your whole life and need to radically change your diet, for instance), physical changes don’t necessarily need to be huge. Conversely, when there’s a physical release, the ease and openness we feel in our bodies is unmistakable. It was one of the most pronounced releases we can feel on the spiritual path.

An Easeful, Flexible Body

A body at peace and free of pain is full of ease and flexibility. You can have issues release so deeply that parts of your body immediately regain a renewed flexibility. It simply depends on the type of issue and what was being held in that part of the body. As I said, generally speaking, you don’t want to expect big changes like that for the body overnight. This is especially true for chronic pain caused by an issue you’ve carried with you most of your life. But sometimes, it does clear this quickly, and that is a true gift. If you’ve felt this kind of physical release, you know what I’m talking about.

The great thing about physical releases from the body (or any part of us) is that we are done with that issue or that part of the issue. We don’t have to deal with it again. But as we come into greater health and integrity, other parts of our body that aren’t in integrity have new light shined upon them. In a spiritual awakening, it may seem like the release lasts extremely briefly before the next issue is hit. The raging flood of awakening does not like to wait around it seems.

But each time you release a physical issue, the body becomes more at ease and more open. This creates a very relaxed space from which to interact with the world, and that can have amazing impacts on how we interact with others, how we touch others, how we receive touch, and how we touch ourselves. It impacts our food choices, our sleeping habits, and pretty much any other physical part of our spiritual journeys. To be sure, a peaceful, pain-free body makes this lifetime an absolute joy to live, and it’s why this part of the spiritual healing that we do–which can be quite challenging–offers us some of the greatest rewards we can ever experience as a human body.

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Enlightened Exercise: Discovering Your Body’s Natural Shape

5 popular spiritual awakening videos.

Wow, this was an unanticipated article that soundly resonated. It filled me with a deeper gratitude and awareness of what has been going on in this journey. I have witnessed other people healing and they are not aware of the cause- but it seems like a general deepening of consciousness. It is fun. Thank you, Jim!🙏. -Katy🦋

Nice article, Jim! I have been K-active for about 20 years, it came on spontaneously along with the sound of a tornado in my bedroom. I have been working with a masseuse that is deep tissue oriented – but we have devised a way of locating and releasing the deep muscle memory. He puts one thumb near the base of my skull (or anyplace else!) and another thumb in some other area of my body, my back, sides, legs, etc. He pushes down hard and remains there. I ease into the discomfort, and if there are memories associated with the areas he is touching, sooner or later the kriya will occur. Sometimes it takes 30 seconds or more. We are learning this together. What happens is a current of kundalini energy cycles in a circle, through him as well. He feels the heat, the tingling; he'll start sweating and at the end of the session he's rejuvenated, as am I. It's really pretty amazing and real simple. I do get flashes of memory depending on where he's pushing. I imagine it's a bit like rolfing.

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Why Is Spiritual Awakening So Painful? 9 Reasons Why

Anyone who has gone through a spiritual awakening knows it can be an incredibly painful experience.

Though the rewards of becoming spiritually awakened are great, the journey there is often fraught with pain and suffering.

Why is this?

In this article, we’ll explore some of the main reasons why spiritual awakening can be so painful and what you can do to ease the process.

Key takeaways:

• Spiritual awakening can often lead to the end of relationships – both romantic and platonic.
• This awakening can be painful because it causes us to question everything we once held to be true.
• During this time, it’s common to feel isolated and alone, but remember that we must go through this process in order to grow.

Table of Contents

Understanding the pain of spiritual awakening

Before we can talk about why spiritual awakenings are so painful we have to discuss the physical, mental, and emotional pain people experience during an awakening.

The physical pain of a spiritual awakening can be pretty intense.

Many people report feeling like they are going through withdrawal, as they detox from the lower vibrational energies that have been holding them back.

This process can be extremely uncomfortable, with symptoms including headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

However, it is essential to remember that this pain is only temporary.

Once you have reached a higher level of consciousness, you will no longer be subject to the same lower vibrational energies.

In fact, you may even find that your physical health improves as a result of your spiritual awakening.

Mental pain during an awakening can take many forms.

One of the most common is anxiety.

As you begin to see the world more clearly, you may become anxious about all of the problems that exist in society.

You may also become anxious about your own life and what you are doing with it.

It is not uncommon for people to feel like they are going crazy during an awakening.

This is because your mind is bombarded with new information and is trying to make sense of it all.

Emotional pain is one of the most common types of pain people experience during a spiritual awakening.

This can manifest as feeling overwhelmed by emotions, feeling unsupported by those around you, or feeling like you’re just plain old stuck.

Emotional pain can be incredibly frustrating because it can feel like no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to escape it.

However, the good news is that emotional pain is often a sign that you are progressing on your spiritual journey .

The reason is that when we first awaken spiritually, we tend to be very attached to our ego-self.

This attachment can cause us to experience a lot of suffering because we constantly try to protect and defend our ego-self.

As we release our attachment to our ego-self, we experience less emotional pain.

So if you’re going through a lot of emotional pain right now, it’s a good sign that you’re on the right track!

Why is spiritual awakening so painful – 9 reasons why

I wish spiritual awakening could be all flowers and rainbows but the truth is, it’s not.

I thought something was wrong with me for a long time because the process was so incredibly painful.

I felt like I was dying like my life was being torn apart, and like I would never make it to the other side.

But I did make it to the other side and I’m here to tell you that you can too.

Here are 9 reasons why spiritual awakening is so painful:

1. Old wounds start to surface, and you’re forced to deal with them head-on

A spiritual awakening is often an intensely painful experience.

It can feel like all the rug has been pulled out from under you, leaving you feeling lost, confused, and alone.

This is because an awakening forces you to confront your deepest and darkest truths – often referred to as our shadow self.

These are the parts of ourselves that we have been hiding away, often for many years.

And when they come to the surface, it can be a very confronting and scary experience.

It’s easy to ignore the parts of ourselves that we don’t like or that make us uncomfortable, but when faced with them head-on, it’s hard to deny their existence.

This process of facing our shadow selves can be incredibly painful, but it is also necessary for our spiritual growth.

Without it, we would remain stuck in our old patterns and behaviors, never truly moving forward on our spiritual journey.

2. Change isn’t easy

Most people resist change at all costs – even I used to be one of those people!

We like our lives to be comfortable and predictable, even if that means staying in a place of pain and suffering.

But the truth is, that change is inevitable.

It’s an essential part of life; without it, we would never grow or evolve.

Spiritual awakenings often come with a lot of internal and external change.

And for many of us, this can be tricky to adjust to.

We may have to let go of old beliefs and ways of thinking that no longer serve us.

We may have to end relationships that are no longer healthy.

Our whole way of life will likely change as we start to live more authentically.

This is never easy, but it is always worth it because it can lead to a much happier and more fulfilling life.

3. You start to see through the illusions that you’ve been living in

Imagine this – you’ve lived in a beautiful house for many years.

You love this house, it’s your home.

But one day, you start to notice that the walls are cracked, the roof is leaking, and the foundation is slowly crumbling.

You start to see that this house is not as perfect as you thought it was.

At this point, you have two choices – you can either ignore the problems and continue living in denial, or you can face the truth and start looking for a new home.

For many of us, our egos are like that crumbling house.

We build them up to be this perfect, invincible thing, but in reality, they are full of cracks and flaws.

And when we start to see through the illusions we’ve been living in, it can be a very painful experience.

When you go through a spiritual awakening, what you once thought was true really starts to unravel before your eyes.

Your belief system is challenged, and everything you thought you knew is called into question.

This can be a very disorienting and confusing time, but it is also an essential part of our spiritual journey.

Without this process of questioning and deconstruction, we would never be able to create something new and better in our lives.

4. You no longer fit into the box that you once did

If you’ve ever tried to fit a square peg into a round hole, you know how frustrating it can be.

It just doesn’t work.

And yet, that’s often what we try to do with our lives – force ourselves into a mold that just doesn’t fit.

We try to live up to other people’s expectations or fit into a role we’re uncomfortable with.

But when we start to awaken spiritually, we realize that we don’t have to do that anymore.

We can start to create our own path in life that is authentic to who we are.

This can be a very liberating experience, but it can also be very scary.

We may have to give up things that are familiar to us, or venture into the unknown.

But ultimately, it is always worth it because it leads to a more authentic and fulfilling life.

5. Relationships may fall apart

One of the most challenging things about spiritual awakening is that it can often lead to the end of relationships – both romantic and platonic.

This is because, as we start to grow and change, we may no longer be compatible with the people we are currently close to.

We may realize that we no longer share the same values or goals .

Or, we may simply outgrow them.

It’s hard saying goodbye to someone who was once an essential part of our lives, but sometimes it is necessary to create space for new and more authentic relationships.

6. It’s easy to feel isolated

Going through a spiritual awakening has to be one of the loneliest experiences a person experience.

This is because, during this time, we often question everything we once held to be true.

We may feel like we have no one to turn to, because no one else seems to understand what we’re going through.

Friends and family may not be able to relate to us, and we may feel like we are entirely alone.

But it’s important to remember that there are others out there who are going through the same thing.

You are not alone in this experience, even if it may sometimes feel that way.

No one can understand exactly what you’re going through because every spiritual awakening is different, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t people who can provide support and love.

Finding your kindred spirits is one of the most important things you can do during this time.

7. The people closest to you may not understand

As I’ve mentioned, people who are close to you may not be able to understand what you’re going through.

They may think that you’re going through a phase or just being difficult.

And while it’s essential to have patience with the people in your life, sometimes it’s necessary to take a step back and give yourself some space.

It’s okay to distance yourself from people who don’t understand what you’re going through – you don’t need that kind of negativity in your life right now.

Focus on surrounding yourself with people who love and support you, and who will be there for you no matter what.

8. The world may seem like a dark place

When most people think of spiritual awakening, they think of it as a time of growth and light.

And while it can be both of those things, it’s important to remember that it is also a time of great darkness.

As we question everything we once held to be true, we may realize that the world is not as perfect as we thought it was.

We may see the darkness and pain in the world, and feel overwhelmed by it.

But it’s important to remember that the light always exists, even in the darkest of times.

Eventually, we will find our way back to the light.

9. You experience a spiritual death, in which all that is false within you dies

To experience a spiritual awakening, we often go through a period of death and rebirth.

This is because, to awaken spiritually, we have to let go of all that is no longer serving us.

We must release our attachment to the things holding us back, and allow ourselves to be reborn.

It is a painful and challenging process, but it is necessary to grow.

Final thoughts

Spiritual awakening can be a difficult and painful process, but it is necessary to grow.

It is important to remember that you are not alone in this experience and that there are people who can provide support and love. eventually, we will find our way back to the light.

If you are currently going through a spiritual awakening, I encourage you to be patient with yourself and to surround yourself with people who love and support you.

You may be wondering what happens after you’ve gone through the pain of a spiritual awakening and what comes next.

Well, you can find out more about what comes after a spiritual awakening .

If you found this article helpful, please share it with others who may be going through a similar experience.

Thank you for reading!

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5 Ways to Overcome Physical Pain During Your Spiritual Awakening Journey [Expert Tips]

Short answer spiritual awakening physical pain:

Spiritual awakening can cause physical pain as the process involves a transformation of the mind, body, and spirit. This may include purging of negative emotions, release of trauma stored in the body, and heightened sensitivity to energy shifts. It’s important to prioritize self-care during this transformative time.

How Spiritual Awakening Can Help You Overcome Physical Pain

Spiritual awakening is an incredibly powerful and transformative process that can change everything from our perception of the world to how we relate to others. One of the most fascinating aspects of spiritual awakening, however, is its potential to help individuals overcome physical pain.

At first glance, this may seem hard to believe. After all, how could a non-physical process possibly have any bearing on something as tangible and corporeal as physical pain? Here’s where things get interesting: while spiritual beliefs alone are unlikely to “cure” chronic conditions like arthritis or migraines, they do have the potential to drastically alter how we perceive and react to that pain.

For starters, spiritual awareness tends to be accompanied by a heightened sense of mindfulness and focus. When we’re in tune with our inner selves and deeply connected to our surroundings, it’s easier to focus fully on the present moment rather than getting caught up in worries about future pain episodes or regret about past flare-ups.

In addition, spirituality can provide individuals with a sense of purpose or meaning that extends beyond daily discomforts. This greater purpose can act as a powerful motivator when it comes to managing chronic pain; when we feel like we have a reason for dealing with our struggles (such as pursuing greater enlightenment), those struggles become more bearable.

Another key aspect of spirituality is connection – both connection with oneself and connection with others. Having an established support system in place – whether through community groups, family/friends, or virtual support networks – has been shown time and again to decrease instances of depression or anxiety which are often comorbidities amidst chronic health conditions. By feeling less isolated from the world around them through fostering these relationships spiritually awakened individuals lessen their experiences of pain by reducing stress levels which contributes strongly towards amplify physiological impact on the body functioning.

All in all, while there’s no singular magic cure for physical pain (whether acute or chronic), there’s plenty of evidence pointing to the healing power of spiritual awakening. By fostering a deep connection with oneself and others, building awareness and focus on the present moment, and seeking greater purpose in life, individuals who have experienced spiritual awakening may find themselves better equipped to manage difficult physical symptoms.

Ultimately – Being spiritually awakened differs for different people but its benefits are universal irrespective of individual differences. Therefore, it is important to be spiritually alert for increased quality of life overall – not just pain management but stress relief which can consequently aid in preventing damages from potential triggering agents of lifestyle diseases.

The Step-by-Step Process of Navigating Spiritual Awakening and Physical Pain

Spiritual awakening is a term that has become increasingly popular over the years. Essentially, it refers to a process of becoming more aware and attuned to spiritual realities and experiences. This can happen gradually or suddenly, and often involves a shift in one’s beliefs, values, and sense of purpose.

While spiritual awakening can be an incredibly transformative experience, it’s not always easy. Many people report experiencing physical pain or discomfort as they navigate this process. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the common steps involved in navigating spiritual awakening alongside physical pain.

Step 1: Acknowledge the Pain

The first step in navigating any type of pain is acknowledging its existence. For many people going through a spiritual awakening, this may mean accepting that they’re experiencing physical symptoms that aren’t easily explained by conventional medicine or other health practices.

If you’re experiencing physical pain or discomfort during your own journey of spiritual awakening, take some time to really tune into your body and acknowledge what it’s telling you. This might involve taking note of specific symptoms (like headaches or back pain) and tracking when they occur throughout the day.

Step 2: Seek Professional Support

If you’re experiencing significant physical pain during your journey towards spiritual awakening, it’s important to seek out professional support from experts who can help guide you through these challenges.

This might include working with doctors or other medical professionals to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to your pain . It may also involve consulting with alternative healers like acupuncturists or energy workers who are equipped to address imbalances within your body from a holistic perspective.

Step 3: Embrace Mind-Body Techniques

Once you’ve identified the source of your physical discomfort and connected with supportive practitioners who can guide you on your journey towards healing, it’s time to embrace mind-body techniques designed specifically for use alongside spirituality practices.

These methods might include yoga, meditation, visualization techniques, and deep breathing exercises, each of which can help calm your mind and release tension within your body. As you begin to experience more peace and calm within your physical form, you’ll likely find that the journey towards spiritual awakening becomes clearer and even more transformative.

Step 4: Connect with a Spiritual Community

One final step in navigating spiritual awakening alongside physical pain is to connect with a supportive community of like-minded individuals who can offer encouragement, guidance, and support throughout the process.

This might include finding local groups or communities online who share similar beliefs or spiritual practices . Even just connecting with a few trusted friends who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly valuable as you work to align your body, mind, and spirit during this transformative time in your life.

In conclusion, navigating spiritual awakening alongside physical pain is no easy task. However, by acknowledging any discomfort we experience along the way, reaching out for professional support when needed, embracing mind-body techniques to promote healing from within – plus finding a community of those sharing similar journeys – we’ll be better equipped for this meaningful path towards spirituality than ever before!

Spiritual Awakening and Physical Pain FAQ: Answering Your Most Common Questions

Spiritual awakening is a profound journey of self-discovery that can be both transformative and challenging. One of the most common aspects of this journey is experiencing physical pain. If you’re going through a spiritual awakening, you may be asking yourself why it’s happening and what to do about it.

Below, we’ve put together some frequently asked questions on this topic to help you better understand what’s happening.

1. Why am I experiencing physical pain during my spiritual awakening?

During a spiritual awakening, your body and mind are undergoing major changes as your energy shifts to higher frequencies. This shift can cause physical pain as the body adapts to these new vibrations.

2. What kind of physical symptoms can occur during a spiritual awakening?

Physical symptoms can vary greatly but may include headaches, joint or muscle pain , fatigue, dizziness, tingling sensations in various parts of the body, changes in appetite or digestion, sleep disturbances or even flu-like symptoms.

3. How long will my physical symptoms last?

The duration of your symptoms may depend on how quickly your body adjusts as well as other subjective factors such as personal lifestyle choices and previous experiences with healing work.

4. Can I alleviate my physical symptoms during a spiritual awakening?

There are many different ways to alleviate your physical symptoms during this time – choosing ones like meditation for example – which primarily serves as an effective way to several types of pains and health issues related to stress levels. Other methods could include working with energy healers or holistic practitioners who can assist with rebalancing and aligning chakras.

5. Is it necessary for me to go through physical pain during my spiritual awakening?

No! While it’s common for people on this path to experience some form of physical discomfort or pain due to adjustments from low-vibration energies being released from their bodies; there doesn’t have to always be any suffering involved especially if precautions are taken by listening closely when their inner voice speaks out with potential red flags such as discomfort.

In conclusion, if you are experiencing physical pain during your spiritual awakening, there is no need to worry. You’re simply undergoing a transformation process that may be challenging at times but will lead to a higher level of awareness and understanding. Consider the above questions as helpful tips for working through any obstacles or pains and know that you can reach out for support when in doubt!

Top 5 Facts to Know About the Relationship Between Spiritual Awakening and Physical Pain

Spiritual awakening can cause a plethora of physical sensations, including pain. As we delve deeper into our spiritual journey, it’s not uncommon to experience aches and discomfort in various parts of the body. The paradoxical relationship between spiritual awakening and physical pain has been the subject of much discussion among experts & enthusiasts alike. Let’s take a look at the top 5 fascinating facts you need to know about this intricate connection .

1) Physical Pain Can be a Nudge From the Universe

It might sound strange, but many individuals on their spiritual path have reported experiencing physical pain that seemingly has no scientific explanation. Believe it or not, this could be the universe’s way of nudging you towards certain areas in your life that require immediate attention: whether it’s untangling from toxic relationships or changing unhealthy habits, physical pain often emerges as an alarm system reminding us that something needs to be addressed.

2) Emotional Trauma Can Manifest as Physical Symptoms

Are you aware that pent-up emotions like fear, shame, and anger can manifest as bodily symptoms such as chronic headaches, neck pain or tense shoulders ? This phenomenon highlights the interconnected nature of mind and body. If left unresolved for too long without adequate expression or release through healthy coping mechanisms like therapy or meditation practices (physical & mental), unprocessed emotions can trigger physiological responses within the body resulting in aforementioned pains .

3) Painful experiences serve as Spiritual Catalysts

Yes – pain can act as a catalyst in aligning oneself with positivity and growth. Unsurprisingly enough some people turn to spirituality when they’re battling physical discomfort / emotional trauma- itself acts as an impetus to initiate change; leading to embark on journeys towards holistic healing via mindfulness methodologies such as yoga/naturopathy/modalities of alternative medicine.

4) Change is inevitable

Change is said to be one heralded outcome post-spiritual awakening. This adjustment period coupled with unfamiliarity may lead one towards heavy emotional and physical turbulence. The resultant pain and distress may cause discouragement, leading to doubts about staying the course. However, it’s important to remember that pushing through such challenges forges inner resilience – a trait worth possessing during turbulent times.

5) Surrender and Acceptance

Sometimes acceptance is the only thing left on the menu. Despite our best efforts, there can be situations where we have no choice but to surrender – like when mental or physiological issues surface as a result of our spiritual pursuits. Surrendering in such scenarios highlights another key lesson on this journey – identifying necessary limits through prioritizing self-care needs, figuring out methods to release resistance in order to align oneself with universal balance.

In conclusion, pain resulting from spiritual awakening isn’t always negative: rather serves as an opportunity for personal growth & enlightening journeys down roads often untraveled. Embrace challenges, practice self-love,and most importantly: trust the process!

A Personal Story of Finding Healing Through Spiritual Awakening and Physical Pain

When you think of healing, it’s easy to imagine the traditional methods of medicine and therapy. However, sometimes healing doesn’t come in a conventional form, but rather through spiritual awakening and physical pain.

At the age of 28, I found myself bedridden due to chronic back pain . As someone who was always active and healthy, this was a huge shock to my system. After going through multiple treatments with no relief , I began to search for alternative methods of healing.

That’s when I stumbled upon spirituality and meditation. Initially skeptical of how sitting still could bring any relief , I decided to give it a try. To my surprise – it worked! My initial intention was only to find some form of relaxation or calming method amidst the pain that weighed heavy on me, but as time went by and I meditated more consistently, something magical started happening.

As if emerging from underneath years worth of physical discomforts and emotional baggage that had accumulated inside me; gradually illuminating every corner and crevice until it shone so bright – brighter than any conventional bulb- at last the realization dawned me: Everything truly is connected. Once you start opening your mind to these kinds of spiritual truths you can even feel physical pains transform into charging points – access points even- that light up something brilliant hidden within us all along.

It soon became clear that my physical pain was symbolic for underlying emotional trauma (something none of the doctors ever realized)- by allowing myself quiet time through meditation regularly , after coming out in one piece from each session- learning techniques like visualisation allowed me space too process long-buried emotions such as anger towards anyone who slighted me in ways big or small or feeling inadequate because we’re comparing our behind-the-scenes with everyone else’s highlight reel online which led towards acceptance and ultimately forgiveness which reflected positively in every area of my life.

Spiritual awakening gave way to a deep sense of inner peace which no amount of prescription could ever deliver. With distance from my pain and empowerment after being equipped with tools to learn how to manage it, I too found myself becoming my own personal sunshine!

It was a long journey filled with ups and downs, but through it all, I learned that true healing comes from within. Sometimes we need a physical nudge in the right direction to find our way back to ourselves- mentally and emotionally.

In the end – this is what spiritual awakening is all about: Connecting with oneself at a deeper level, understanding oneself better so that one can live life fully and joyfully without limitations worth shedding off any excess baggage of negative emotions or energy holding us down.

In conclusion, seeking alternative healing methods may seem intimidating at first, but opening your mind to these possibilities might lead you towards discovering an entirely new world of self-discovery and internal healing that will leave you feeling whole again.

Tools and Techniques for Integrating Spirituality into Your Journey with Chronic Pain

Living with chronic pain can be a daunting and isolating experience. Pain can take over our daily lives, decreasing our overall quality of life and causing us to feel powerless in the face of constant discomfort. However, spirituality can provide a powerful avenue for coping with chronic pain , allowing us to connect with something greater than ourselves and tap into inner resources that we may not have known existed.

Here are some tools and techniques for integrating spirituality into your journey with chronic pain:

1. Mindfulness Meditation: One of the most effective ways to integrate spirituality into chronic pain management is through the practice of mindfulness meditation. This form of meditation involves tuning into present moment awareness without judgment or reactivity. By fully experiencing each moment as it unfolds, rather than resisting or pushing against difficult sensations, one can cultivate greater emotional resilience and acceptance in the face of chronic pain.

2. Yoga: Another powerful way to connect with your spiritual self while managing pain is by practicing yoga. This ancient discipline incorporates physical movement, breathing exercises, and mindful awareness to help increase flexibility, reduce stress levels, and improve overall well-being.

3. Affirmations: Affirmations are short statements that focus on positive outcomes you want to manifest in your life. These positive declarations can help change negative thinking patterns that may exacerbate your pain symptoms by promoting self-love and acceptance.

4. Spiritual Reading: For many people living with chronic pain , seeking connection through spiritual texts or literature can bring great comfort or strength during difficult times where you might be feeling overwhelmed by suffering or disconnected from others.

5. Prayer: Lastly, prayer is another powerful tool that allows individuals access to their spiritual selves—a universal source of support—when feeling physically or emotionally unwell. Whether praying for guidance, healing, or simply offering gratitude & faith towards a higher power or God deity—all acts stem from this place within ourselves which transcends physical limitations.

While everyone’s journey with chronic pain is unique, it’s important to remember that we all have an internal well of spiritual strength, resources, and resilience to tap into. By exploring these different tools and techniques for integrating spirituality into your journey with chronic pain, you may find yourself feeling more grounded, centered, uplifted, and empowered in the face of chronic pain & discomfort.

Table with Useful Data:

Information from an expert.

As an expert in spiritual awakening, I have seen many people experience physical pain during the process. It is common for individuals to feel discomfort as they change their habits and ways of thinking. However, it’s important to understand that this pain is temporary and a sign of growth. Through meditation, reflection, and self-care practices, you can alleviate the discomfort and continue on your path towards spiritual enlightenment. Remember that physical pain does not define your journey but is simply a part of the process. Historical fact:

During the Great Awakening in the 18th century, many people experienced physical manifestations of their spiritual awakening such as fainting, crying, and convulsions. These experiences were often seen as evidence of God’s power and presence.

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Struggling With Spiritual Awakening? Why It Can Be Lonely & Hard

Have you ever felt like as you pursued your spiritual journey no one else understood what you were going through? That was my experience when I went through a spiritual awakening a while back.

While my spiritual awakening was a beautiful and transformative process, it was also a time of loneliness and struggle. In this article, I want to share my personal experience of why spiritual awakening can be lonely and hard, and how I navigated it.

Spiritual awakening can be difficult and lonely because it is such a personal and unique experience. You may want to share your profound experiences and insights with others, but the truth is most people may never truly understand.

Painful symptoms of spiritual awakening

Why spiritual awakening can be so lonely and difficult, how do you navigate the struggle of a spiritual journey.

When you think about awakening spiritually, you may think of something positive and beautiful. This is not always the case in the beginning. Sometimes a spiritual awakening can manifest in negative ways when we resist it or don’t know how to handle it.

> check out my full list of symptoms here “20 Signs of Spiritual Awakening”

1. Heightened emotions

A spiritual awakening can leave you with an open heart and increased sensitivity. As spiritual energy flows through you it can open up a lot emotions.

Sometimes this can look like intense crying for seemingly no reason. To others this may turn into anxiety.

The important thing to remember if this happens to you is that you surrender. Let the emotions flow and run their course. It is all part of the process.

See also “Anxious After Spiritual Awakening? Here’s Why”

2. Losing relationships

As you begin to wake up, you may find that some friends and family aren’t good for your life. This may cause you to distance yourself from those negative relationships. However this can create a sense of loss and grief.

It’s important to find people you can talk to about your spiritual journey. Foster new and beneficial relationships that nurture your spirit and grow you as a person.

3. Awareness of your shadow

A spiritual awakening can bring up lots of junk in your psyche that need to be sorted out. If you have a large shadow, this can be a particularly difficult process. Spiritual awakening, though difficult, will cleanse and heal these parts of you.

This process will bring up internal issues and parts of yourself you dislike. This is happening so you can become aware of it and heal it. But when it comes up, it can be particularly painful.

There are few struggles inner struggles that can occur when you have a spiritual awakening. A profound spiritual insight could change your perspective so much that it feels like you’re in totally new territory with a ton of new struggles despite the beautiful transformation that it is.

Here are some common difficulties after spiritual awakening and some personal examples.

1. Feeling disconnected from loved ones

During my spiritual awakening, I felt like I was on a completely different wavelength than my friends and family. I wanted to talk about things like consciousness and the universe, but they didn’t seem interested or didn’t understand what I was saying.

I felt like I was speaking a different language and no one really new what I was talking about. At best, I’d get supportive nods.

This can leave you feeling isolated and disconnected.

2. Spiritual awakening leaves you questioning everything

Another challenge of my spiritual awakening was the constant questioning of everything I had ever believed or known. After I came to the direct and startling realization that I am not my body, I started to question what else I had wrong about myself and reality.

I started to question my job, my relationships, my habits, and even my identity.

This was a deeply unsettling process, but at the same time I became excited. My curiosity switched into high gear. All of the sudden it felt like I needed more answers.

3. You don’t care about the same things after a spiritual awakening

To some this might be a blessing, to others it will be a struggle. There was a lot that seemed irrelevant after my spiritual awakening. Priorities shifted after my spiritual awakening. This meant that I cared less about unimportant things, but this also posed a problem.

For example, I cared less about school when my family expected me to really give that my all. This then created conflict between what I was expected to do and my new values. That’s just one example, but there are plenty of other places in life this can happen.

4. A profound spiritual awakening can leave you feeling nihilistic

On your journey towards waking up and spiritual awakening, you may come to some startling realizations. One very common realization you may have is that nothing really matters. This may lead to a spiritual depression or confusion for why anything exists at all.

The good news is that there is light at the end of that belief. You can either choose to see that truth with a negative light or a positive light. If you think nothing matters and that’s bad, then you’ll fall into a depression and believe there’s no reason to go on doing anything.

But imagine… nothing matters, and you can do ANYTHING. That’s very much a good thing in my opinion. It’s all a matter of perspective, but the struggle to get there is definitely real.

> see my article “20 Signs Of Spiritual Awakening & How To Know You’re Waking Up”

The biggest thing that transformed my loneliness during my journey was having an insight into the difference between loneliness and aloneness.

Loneliness is a feeling of emptiness and lack of connection . It was what I felt for a while as I longed to share my spiritual experiences with those close to me.

Aloneness on the other hand is simply being alone. The key with aloneness is that you can learn to be alone and yet still feel connected.

The truth is that your spiritual journey will give you that connection if you just keep going. The connection you can feel from experiencing the divine nature of the universe will be infinitely more powerful than the connection you get from a chat with a friend.

> see my article “Spiritual Awakening: What Stage Are You In? (Quiz)”

1. Finding a community or spiritual mentor

That being said, finding someone who you can relate to and discuss with on your journey can be SO valuable. Try to find people online on forums or spiritual social media accounts to connect with.

This will provide a safe and supportive space where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Don’t expect there to be many around though, as the spiritual path is a path not often taken.

A fantastic way to find support through this journey of awakening is by finding a spiritual mentor. It was invaluable to me to have someone many steps ahead who also understands where I was now.

> see my article “How To Find A Spiritual Mentor”

2. Cultivating spiritual practices

Another thing that helped through this journey was practicing spiritual practices and techniques that helped me to stay grounded and centered. For example: meditation, yoga, and journaling.

Meditation or mindfulness in general is a great way to ground yourself and dive deeper into your spiritual journey. These practices helped me to connect with my inner guidance and find a sense of peace.

3. Trust and surrender

Surrender is more important than you might think. In fact, I would say it is the most important part of the spiritual journey.

Trust the process and surrender to the unknown. I realized that my spiritual journey was a personal one, and that there’s no right or wrong way to navigate it.

By trusting in the universe and letting go of my fears whenever possible I was able to fall more deeply in love with life and the process of waking up.

Yes, spiritual awakening can be a lonely and hard journey, but it can also be one of the most transformative experiences of your life. By finding a supportive community, practicing mindfulness, and trusting in the process, you can navigate this journey with grace and courage.

Ryan Molkentin

Hi, I’m Ryan. I’m a meditation teacher, spiritual seeker, and founder of nurtureyourspirit.org. I’m glad you’re here! I founded Nurture Your Spirit because of my love of meditation, spirituality, and spiritual awakening.

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Physical Metamorphosis: Understanding the Symptoms of Spiritual Awakening

Spiritual awakening: a journey of transformation.

Embarking on a spiritual awakening is an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and transformation. It involves a profound shift in consciousness and a deep connection to one’s spiritual essence. In this section, we will explore what spiritual awakening is and the significance of physical symptoms that often accompany this transformative process.

What is Spiritual Awakening?

Spiritual awakening refers to a profound shift in consciousness where an individual becomes aware of their spiritual nature and experiences a deeper connection to the divine or higher power. It is a process of self-realization, where one starts to question the meaning and purpose of life beyond the confines of the physical world. Spiritual awakening is often accompanied by a heightened sense of awareness, increased intuition, and a desire for personal growth and spiritual development.

During a spiritual awakening, individuals may experience a range of physical, emotional, and psychological changes. These changes often manifest as physical symptoms that can have a significant impact on their daily lives. Understanding these physical symptoms is crucial for navigating the transformative journey of spiritual awakening.

The Significance of Physical Symptoms in Spiritual Awakening

Physical symptoms experienced during spiritual awakening are not mere coincidences or random occurrences. They hold deep spiritual significance and serve as signals of the ongoing transformation within. These symptoms can vary from person to person but are often similar in nature. It’s important to remember that not everyone will experience all the symptoms, and the intensity may differ for each individual.

The physical symptoms of spiritual awakening are the body’s way of adjusting to the higher vibrational frequencies associated with spiritual growth. They can be seen as signs of energetic shifts and the release of old patterns or blockages. While these symptoms can be uncomfortable or distressing at times, they are part of the healing and transformative process.

By paying attention to these physical symptoms, individuals can gain insights into their spiritual journey and make necessary adjustments to support their overall well-being. It is essential to approach these symptoms with self-compassion and seek guidance and support when needed.

In the next section, we will explore some of the common physical symptoms experienced during spiritual awakening, including intense fatigue and sleep pattern changes, heightened sensitivity to energy, emotional ups and downs, changes in appetite and dietary preferences, body aches and pains, as well as vivid dreams and spiritual experiences. Understanding these symptoms can provide individuals with a sense of validation and reassurance as they navigate the path of spiritual awakening.

Common Physical Symptoms of Spiritual Awakening

During a spiritual awakening, individuals may experience various physical symptoms that accompany their transformative journey. These symptoms are often seen as indications of the energetic shifts occurring within the individual. Here are some common physical symptoms that people may encounter:

Intense Fatigue and Sleep Pattern Changes

One of the most prevalent physical symptoms during a spiritual awakening is intense fatigue. Individuals may feel an overwhelming sense of tiredness, even after getting adequate rest. This fatigue is often a result of the energy shifts and increased spiritual activity happening within the body. Additionally, sleep pattern changes are common, with individuals experiencing insomnia, vivid dreams, or frequent awakening throughout the night. These sleep disturbances are believed to be connected to the spiritual growth and processing happening during the awakening journey.

Heightened Sensitivity to Energy

As individuals undergo a spiritual awakening, they may develop heightened sensitivity to energy. This sensitivity can manifest as feeling overwhelmed in crowded places, being more attuned to the emotions of others, or experiencing physical sensations in response to energy shifts. It is important for those going through a spiritual awakening to practice self-care and establish energetic boundaries to manage this increased sensitivity effectively.

Emotional Ups and Downs

Emotional fluctuations are common during a spiritual awakening. Individuals may experience intense emotional highs and lows as they navigate the depths of their inner being. This rollercoaster of emotions is a natural part of the awakening process, as it often involves facing and releasing deeply buried emotions and belief systems. It is crucial to practice self-compassion and seek support from trusted individuals or professionals during this emotional journey.

Changes in Appetite and Dietary Preferences

During a spiritual awakening, individuals may notice changes in their appetite and dietary preferences. Some may experience increased or decreased appetite, while others may find themselves drawn to different types of food. These changes are often a reflection of the body’s need for specific nutrients to support the energetic shifts occurring during the awakening process. It is essential to listen to the body’s cues and nourish it with wholesome, balanced meals.

Body Aches and Pains

Physical discomfort, such as body aches and pains, is another common symptom experienced during a spiritual awakening. These sensations can arise due to the release of stored emotional energy or the recalibration of the body’s energy centers. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as gentle exercise, stretching, or bodywork, can help alleviate these symptoms and support the body during this transformative period.

Vivid Dreams and Spiritual Experiences

During a spiritual awakening, individuals may experience an increase in vivid dreams and spiritual experiences. Dreams can become more vivid, symbolic, and filled with messages or guidance. Spiritual experiences, such as synchronicities, intuitive insights, or heightened intuition, may also become more frequent. These experiences serve as powerful tools for self-discovery and guidance on the spiritual path.

It is important to recognize that these physical symptoms are not exhaustive, and individuals may experience a combination of other unique manifestations during their spiritual awakening. Each person’s journey is unique, and the symptoms they encounter are part of their personal growth and transformation. By understanding and embracing these physical symptoms, individuals can navigate their spiritual awakening with greater awareness and self-care.

Understanding the Purpose of Physical Symptoms

As one undergoes a spiritual awakening, they may experience various physical symptoms that can be both perplexing and transformative. These physical symptoms play a significant role in the overall journey of spiritual awakening, serving different purposes along the way. Let’s explore three key purposes behind these physical symptoms: purging and cleansing, activation and expansion, and integration and alignment.

Purging and Cleansing

During a spiritual awakening, individuals often experience physical symptoms that can be likened to a process of purging and cleansing. These symptoms may manifest as intense fatigue, changes in sleep patterns, emotional ups and downs, and even changes in appetite and dietary preferences. These physical manifestations are often seen as a reflection of the release of old patterns, beliefs, and energies that no longer serve the individual’s spiritual growth.

The physical symptoms of purging and cleansing can be challenging, but they are essential for clearing away what no longer aligns with the individual’s higher self. It is crucial to support the body during this process by practicing self-care and nurturing activities. By taking care of the physical body through proper rest, nutrition, and gentle movement, individuals can facilitate the purging and cleansing process.

Activation and Expansion

Another purpose behind the physical symptoms of spiritual awakening is the activation and expansion of one’s energetic and spiritual capacities. Heightened sensitivity to energy, body aches and pains, and vivid dreams and spiritual experiences are common physical manifestations that indicate the activation and expansion of the individual’s spiritual senses and awareness.

These physical symptoms are often a sign that the individual’s energy centers, such as the chakras, are opening and becoming more receptive to higher frequencies and spiritual information. As the energetic and spiritual capacities expand, individuals may experience increased intuition, a deeper connection to their higher self, and a heightened awareness of the interconnectedness of all things.

Integration and Alignment

The third purpose behind the physical symptoms of spiritual awakening is the process of integration and alignment. As individuals progress on their spiritual journey, they may experience physical symptoms that indicate the integration of new insights, wisdom, and spiritual growth into their daily lives. These symptoms can manifest as a sense of groundedness, inner peace, and overall well-being.

Physical symptoms of integration and alignment can include a greater sense of balance and harmony, improved physical health, and a feeling of being more centered and aligned with one’s purpose. These symptoms are a testament to the individual’s ability to integrate their spiritual experiences and insights into their everyday existence, creating a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Understanding the purpose behind the physical symptoms of spiritual awakening can bring clarity and reassurance to individuals going through this transformative process. By embracing the purging and cleansing, activating and expanding, and integrating and aligning aspects of the physical symptoms, individuals can navigate their spiritual awakening with greater awareness and self-care.

Navigating the Physical Symptoms

Experiencing physical symptoms during a spiritual awakening can be an intense and transformative journey. It is important to navigate these symptoms with care and support. Here are some self-care practices, seeking guidance and support, and embracing the journey that can help you navigate the physical symptoms of spiritual awakening.

Self-Care Practices for Physical Well-Being

During a spiritual awakening, it is crucial to prioritize self-care practices to support your physical well-being. Some self-care practices that can help alleviate physical symptoms include:

Rest and Relaxation: Ensure you are getting enough rest and quality sleep. Listen to your body and give yourself the time and space to recharge.

Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to support your overall health. Stay hydrated, engage in regular physical activity, and incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga into your routine.

Grounding Techniques: Grounding exercises can help you stay connected to the present moment and the physical world. Practices like walking barefoot on the earth, spending time in nature, or practicing deep breathing can help you feel anchored and centered.

Energetic Protection: Protect your energy by setting boundaries and creating a safe and nurturing environment for yourself. This can include practices such as smudging, using crystals, or visualizing a protective shield of light around you.

Seeking Guidance and Support

During a spiritual awakening, it can be beneficial to seek guidance and support from others who have gone through similar experiences or professionals in the field. Some ways to seek guidance and support include:

Mentors and Teachers: Find mentors or spiritual teachers who can provide guidance and wisdom on your spiritual journey. They can offer insights, techniques, and tools to help you navigate the physical symptoms and understand the deeper meaning behind them.

Support Groups: Joining support groups or online communities can provide you with a sense of belonging and understanding. Interacting with others who are going through similar experiences can help validate your own journey and provide valuable support and advice.

Professional Assistance: If the physical symptoms become overwhelming or interfere with your daily life, consider seeking professional assistance from therapists, counselors, or energy healers who specialize in spiritual awakening and can assist you in navigating the challenges.

Embracing the Journey

Embracing the journey of spiritual awakening involves adopting a mindset of curiosity, openness, and self-compassion. Here are some ways to embrace the journey:

Awareness and Acceptance: Cultivate self-awareness and observe the physical symptoms without judgment. Accept that these symptoms are a natural part of the transformative process and trust that they are guiding you towards growth and expansion.

Patience and Surrender: Understand that the journey of spiritual awakening is unique to each individual and may take time. Practice patience and surrender to the process, allowing it to unfold naturally without resistance.

Integration and Self-Reflection: Take time for self-reflection and integrate the insights and experiences gained during your spiritual awakening. Journaling, meditation, and contemplation can help deepen your understanding and provide clarity along the journey.

Remember, your spiritual awakening is a deeply personal and transformative experience. By practicing self-care, seeking guidance and support, and embracing the journey, you can navigate the physical symptoms with grace and find greater meaning and fulfillment in your spiritual journey.

• Spirituality of Chronic Pain

Awakening Resilience: Navigating the Spiritual Journey Through Chronic Pain

• September 14, 2023

Introduction

Chronic pain is a formidable adversary that tests the limits of physical endurance and emotional strength. Yet, within the realm of pain’s grip, individuals often embark on a spiritual journey that leads them to the wellspring of resilience within themselves. This journey is one of awakening—a profound exploration of the inner landscape, where the seeds of courage, hope, and transformation flourish. In this article, Dr Julian Ungar-Sargon delve into the spiritual journey of navigating chronic pain and the awakening of resilience that accompanies it.

The Catalyst for Inner Exploration:

Chronic pain serves as a catalyst, propelling individuals into the depths of their inner selves. As the external world becomes challenging to navigate, the spiritual journey offers an opportunity to explore the boundless potential of the inner world.

Shifting Perspectives:

The spiritual journey through chronic pain involves a shift in perspective. It’s about moving from a place of victimhood to one of empowerment. Instead of being defined solely by pain, individuals begin to see themselves as warriors who face their challenges with strength and grace.

Cultivating Mindfulness and Presence:

Mindfulness becomes a cornerstone of the spiritual journey through chronic pain. It’s the practice of fully inhabiting the present moment, accepting it without judgment. Mindfulness not only lessens the intensity of pain but also enhances one’s ability to cope with it.

Exploring the Depths of Acceptance:

Acceptance doesn’t imply surrender; rather, it’s about acknowledging reality and working with it. The spiritual journey involves exploring the depths of acceptance, allowing individuals to make peace with their pain and foster a sense of inner calm.

Finding Meaning Amidst Suffering:

Suffering can be a catalyst for profound growth and meaning. The spiritual journey through chronic pain invites individuals to uncover the lessons and insights that emerge from their experiences, shaping a narrative of resilience and purpose.

Connecting to Inner Strength:

The journey through chronic pain is an exploration of inner reservoirs of strength that may have previously remained untapped. It’s a reminder that the well of resilience is vast and that individuals possess the capacity to navigate challenges with courage.

Transcending Isolation:

Chronic pain can lead to feelings of isolation, but the spiritual journey is marked by a quest for connection. Whether through self-compassion, shared experiences with others, or a deeper connection to a higher power, the journey is a testament to the power of connection.

Transcending the Ego:

The spiritual journey through chronic pain often involves transcending the limitations of the ego—the voice that says, “I am my pain.” By rising above this identification, individuals discover a sense of expansiveness and freedom that empowers them to transcend suffering.

The Awakening of Compassion:

Compassion for oneself and others is a hallmark of the spiritual journey through chronic pain. It’s the recognition that everyone is navigating their own battles, and this shared human experience fosters empathy, connection, and a deeper sense of belonging.

Conclusion:

The spiritual journey through chronic pain is an odyssey of awakening resilience—an invitation to explore the depths of one’s inner landscape, to cultivate mindfulness, and to uncover the boundless strength that resides within. It’s a journey of shifting perspectives, finding meaning in suffering, and connecting to the wellspring of compassion that unites all beings. While chronic pain may be the catalyst, the spiritual journey becomes a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to navigate adversity with grace, to awaken resilience, and to emerge from the crucible of pain transformed and empowered.

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• Nov 27, 2023

Coping with Chronic Pain and Illness

In the journey of life, many individuals find themselves grappling with the harsh reality of chronic pain and illness. Whether it's a persistent ache, a debilitating condition, or an ongoing battle with a life-altering ailment, the toll on one's physical and emotional well-being can be overwhelming. In such times of adversity, individuals often turn to various sources of support, and for many Christians, faith becomes a cornerstone in their coping mechanism.

In this blog, we explore the Christian perspectives on coping with chronic pain and illness, exploring how our spirituality can provide solace, strength, and a sense of purpose amid the trials of health challenges.

Definition of Chronic Pain and Illness

Chronic pain is persistent discomfort that lasts for an extended period, often beyond the expected time for healing. Chronic illness, on the other hand, involves long-term health conditions that may not have a cure but can be managed. These conditions encompass a wide range of physical ailments, from autoimmune disorders to neurological diseases.

The Impact of Chronic Pain and Illness on Individuals

Emotional struggles.

Chronic pain and illness constitute more than physical challenges; they evoke a profound emotional toll. Individuals grappling with persistent pain often find themselves in a tumultuous sea of emotions, including frustration, despair, and at times, anger. For Christians, this emotional struggle extends to a deeper questioning of the divine purpose behind their suffering. The constant companionship of pain can give rise to doubts about the goodness of God, leading to a spiritual journey through the labyrinth of complex and often conflicting emotions.

Spiritual Crisis

The enduring nature of chronic pain can trigger a spiritual crisis, challenging the very foundations of faith. In times of unrelenting suffering, individuals may grapple with existential questions, questioning the purpose of their pain and seeking meaning in the midst of adversity. Christians facing chronic illness often find themselves in a delicate dance between their theological understanding of a benevolent God and the harsh reality of their physical condition. Navigating this spiritual crisis becomes a pivotal aspect of their journey, requiring introspection, prayer, and a profound reliance on the promises of God.

Social Isolation

The limitations imposed by chronic conditions often lead to social isolation , intensifying the emotional burden. Individuals facing persistent pain may find it challenging to participate in regular social activities, leading to feelings of loneliness and alienation. For Christians, the sense of isolation can be particularly poignant, as communal worship and fellowship hold a central place in their faith. Addressing social isolation requires intentional efforts from the Christian community, emphasizing the importance of inclusive practices and a compassionate understanding of the unique challenges faced by those with chronic conditions.

Identity and Purpose

Chronic pain has the potential to reshape an individual's identity, forcing a reevaluation of self and purpose. The limitations imposed by illness may challenge preconceived notions of capabilities and redefine one's sense of identity. Christians facing chronic pain are confronted with the task of grounding their identity not in physical abilities but in their relationship with Christ. This process of rediscovering purpose within the framework of faith becomes a transformative journey, inviting believers to embrace a narrative where their identity is firmly anchored in Christ, transcending the limitations imposed by their physical condition.

Practical Coping Strategies

Mindfulness and Biblical Meditation

Amidst the storm of chronic pain, mindfulness and biblical meditation emerge as practical coping strategies rooted in Christian spirituality. Encouraging individuals to focus on the present moment, these practices provide a path to finding peace in the midst of suffering. By immersing themselves in scriptures that promote positive thinking and gratitude, such as Philippians 4:8, Christians can redirect their thoughts and emotions, cultivating a mindset that transcends the immediate challenges of chronic pain.

Spiritual Disciplines

Engaging in spiritual disciplines such as prayer and regular scripture reading becomes a foundational anchor for individuals facing chronic pain. These practices not only foster a deeper connection with God but also serve as wellsprings of strength and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges. By maintaining a consistent spiritual routine, Christians can draw upon the sustaining power of their faith, finding solace and guidance in the midst of physical and emotional turmoil.

Support Groups and Christian Counseling

The Christian community takes on a crucial role in providing support through specialized groups tailored for those facing chronic pain and illness. These support networks offer a sense of community and understanding, recognizing the unique struggles of individuals navigating persistent health challenges. Christian counseling , grounded in biblical principles, becomes a safe space for addressing the emotional and spiritual dimensions of suffering, offering guidance and companionship through the ups and downs of the chronic illness journey.

Holistic Wellness

Christianity's emphasis on the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit aligns with a holistic approach to wellness for individuals facing chronic pain. Incorporating proper nutrition, engaging in exercise within the bounds of physical limitations, and ensuring adequate rest contribute to the overall well-being of the individual. Recognizing the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), Christians can integrate these practical measures into their daily lives, promoting a holistic understanding of wellness that resonates with their faith.

Chronic pain and illness pose formidable challenges, testing the resilience of individuals on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels. However, the Christian perspective offers a unique framework for coping, allowing individuals to find solace and hope amidst adversity. Through the transformative power of prayer, the strength of community support, the wisdom found in biblical reflection, and the guidance of professional Christian counseling, individuals can navigate the complex terrain of chronic conditions while maintaining their faith and spiritual well-being.

And remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, and we Faith on the Journey has a team of dedicated Christian counselors ready to provide compassionate guidance. You're not alone on this journey; there's a community of faith ready to walk with you, offering comfort and assurance, grounded in the love and compassion of a faithful God.

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Pain is the Touchstone of Spiritual Growth: A Deep Dive Into Self-Transformation

The phrase “pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth” isn’t just a fanciful saying—it captures a profound truth about personal development. This paradoxical concept makes us ponder how discomfort and distress, seemingly negative experiences, play instrumental roles in propelling our spiritual awakening and self-transformation.

When we think about spiritual growth, many people might imagine serene meditations or tranquillity-infused mindfulness practices. However, it’s often through life’s most challenging episodes that meaningful evolution happens on an individual level. In this deep dive exploration into self-transformation, we examine why pain acts as the catalyst for significant changes on your journey towards spiritual development.

Did you know?

Interestingly, neuroscientists at Northwestern University found that exposure to short-term physical pain can actually heighten your sense of joy and contentment because it provides a profound relief once the discomfort subsides. This process mirrors spiritual growth which often involves overcoming painful situations to achieve transformation.

Understanding the Role of Pain in Spiritual Growth

“Pain, often perceived as a negative experience, can in fact play a crucial role in our spiritual growth. This is not to glorify suffering but rather to understand its transformative potential. In life’s journey, pain encounters are inevitable; they shake us out of complacency and guide us towards self-discovery.

Though initially unsettling, these painful moments bring about the awareness necessary for genuine transformation. Pain acts as an indicator pointing towards areas within ourselves that require attention and healing – be it fear, anxiety or unresolved trauma. As we confront these inner spaces through meditation or other spiritual practices, we uncover new depths of resilience and wisdom hidden beneath layers of hardship.

Recognizing Pain as an Opportunity for Inner Transformation

There’s an age-old saying that “pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth.” It implies that pain, in all its forms, physical or emotional, plays a significant role in our journey towards inner enlightenment. But how do we go about recognizing this pain as not just suffering but an opportunity for transformation?

Firstly, consider the idea of ‘touchstone.’ In olden times people used a stone called ‘touchstone’ to test if something was real gold or fake. Similarly in life when we come across hurdles (our figurative touchstones), they test us – our values and strengths.

Let’s delve into recognizing painful moments as catalysts for profound change.

1) Shift Your Perspective: Recognize pain not as punishment but rather a signal from your higher-self suggesting there’s some work needed on specific areas.

2) Embrace The Pain: Before rushing to numb or avoid discomforting feelings embrace them wholeheartedly with kindness without passing any judgment.

3) Explore Your Feelings: Instead of concealing emotions explore each one individually by journaling perhaps? This way you can pinpoint root causes catalyzing particular reactions thus harness healing power residing within self-awareness realm.

Embracing Discomfort to Foster Spiritual Enlightenment

In our journey of spiritual growth, it’s important to acknowledge the role pain plays. Often touted as negative, we’re conditioned to evade discomfort and ache at all costs. However, if we can take on an evolved perspective and embrace that ‘pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth,’ a transformative shift happens.

Pain comes with lessons vital for soul development. Each experience pushes us out from our comfort zones into unfamiliar territories where profound wisdom lies hidden under layers of hardship. It’s here where we realize who truly are; these revelations wouldn’t dawn upon us without such compelling circumstances.

As contrary as it may sound, there’s magnificence cloaked within adversity — you just need discerning eyesight coupled with an open heart!

Furthering your understanding allows acceptance which leads towards healing–the ultimate goal being enlightenment.You become one step closer every time you conquer arduous stages life throws unexpectedly.

The Journey Through Pain Towards Spiritual Awakening

In the metamorphosis of one’s spirituality, like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, pain often plays an unexpected yet crucial role. It facilitates transformation and enlightenment – journeying through it can be likened to walking on burning embers towards spiritual awakening. In this process, experiences that may initially seem tumultuous or unsettling become our greatest teachers; they shape us into resilient beings capable of growth and profound understanding.

The phrase “pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth” encapsulates this intertwining relationship between suffering and self-expansion perfectly. Like a silversmith uses fire to burn away impurities in precious metals – revealing only pure silver – we too must endure discomforts as part of our purification process on our pursuit for higher consciousness.

No enlightened being has ever claimed their path was easy or devoid of tribulation. Rather, struggles are the catalyst pushing us beyond comfort zones propelling deep introspection, acceptance and ultimately leading us towards inner peace and wisdom. The more we face adversity with courage & grace instead merely attempting avoidance–we move forward spiritually stronger than before–this eternal truth underlines every soul’s journey in 2023.

Identifying Milestones in Personal Growth Triggered by Adversity

Understanding personal growth milestones during hardship periods can be a transformative process. In the arena of spiritual development, pain often becomes an unexpected teacher and gatekeeper. The notion that “pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth” underscores this concept beautifully.

Many people seek respite from their suffering without realizing its potential as a catalyst for profound change. It’s essential to recognize that adversity isn’t merely something to bypass but rather an opportunity for learning about oneself and enhancing one’s life experience.

First, when faced with arduous ordeals, they serve as litmus tests for resilience and strength—both physical and psychological traits crucial in forging our identities. Every challenge confronted head-on cultivates qualities like courage, perseverance, patience—all pivotal attributes on the path towards self-transcendence.

Secondly, difficult experiences compel us to confront aspects hidden deep within ourselves which we might not realize otherwise—an encounter with fear might reveal latent bravery; a heartbreaking loss could unfurl boundless capacity to love despite vulnerability or even inspire gratitude amidst grief highlighting human spirit’s indomitable nature.

Moreover , various forms of pain lead many individuals down paths less trodden leading them into realms of meditation , holistic healing therapies thereby initiating them onto unique journeys – these are significant turning points signifying shifts from mundane daily existences towards elevated consciousness marking heights achieved through diving depths .

Navigating Emotional Turmoil as a Catalyst for Developing Spirituality

Navigating the tumultuous waves of emotional upheaval can be a daunting task. However, with an introspective mindset and proactive approach towards self-care, these testing times become potent catalysts for cultivating spiritual growth.

Many people view pain as an antagonist – something that needs to be avoided or fiercely combated against. It’s time to challenge this popular narrative; it is important to understand “pain as the touchstone of spiritual growth”. Rather than viewing pain through a lense of fear and negativity, we should perceive it as a key component in our journey towards enlightenment and inner peace.

Let’s break down how one can harness the transformative power embedded in painful experiences:

Pain’s Intersection with Mindfulness and Meditation Practices

In the journey of spiritual growth, pain acts as a powerful progenitor for robust transformation. It’s in these moments of suffering that we tap into mindfulness and meditation practices to cushion us against life’s calamitous impacts. The intersection of this discomfort with contemplative exercises creates an opportunity for holistic development – a cultivation ground where seeds sprout into wisdom trees.

Mindfulness accentuates our ability to stay present despite adversity, underscoring why ‘pain is the touchstone of spiritual progression.’ When faced with profound tribulation, it has you absorb your surroundings – every sensation felt under variable circumstances without escape or avoidance tactics—the act advocates acknowledging what afflicts us rather intimidatingly turning oblivious towards it—it’s about acceptance more than resistance.

Meditation also enriches this understanding by providing mental stability during turbulent times—like ancient mariners using stars’ position amidst stormy seas; Meditation helps navigate aboard life’s tumultuous voyage—it gives clarity when chaos clouds cognition. As they say, “You leverage stillness within turbulence.” —A key component fostering evolution on our path toward heightened consciousness and enhanced spirituality.

Leveraging Mindful Awareness to Address Suffering

Mindfulness is a powerful tool in our journey towards spiritual growth, especially when we learn to leverage it amidst suffering. When applied with intention and consistency, mindfulness practices can hasten the transformation of pain into an essential touchstone for enrichment and enlightenment.

Let’s begin by understanding that pain is not merely physical discomfort; it encompasses emotional turmoil as well. It may be born out of loss or trauma, heartbreak or failure. But what matters more than its origin is how we perceive and respond to this inherent part of human existence.

Herein lies the beauty – mindfulness helps strip pain off unnecessary layers added by judgmental mental narratives . Instead of viewing your distress from a lens tainted with aversion , you engage with each moment exactly as it unfolds., silently acknowledging everything without seeking change .

This deep level acceptance gradually dismantles unconscious resistance patterns formed over years which often amplify distress instead demystifying them.

From hereon begins true healing . As you make peace with reality free from judgment , shorter paths open up leading towards personal growth .

Integrating Meditation Techniques for Alleviating Emotional Distress

In spiritual growth, pain often plays a central role. As the adage goes, “pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth,” and amidst this transformative process lies an intersection with mindfulness and meditation practices that facilitate self-awareness and emotional healing.

When it comes to integrating meditation techniques for alleviating emotional distress, one can begin by embracing acceptance. Acceptance here doesn’t mean passive resignation but rather understanding that discomfort or stress is part of life’s tapestry; acknowledging your feelings without judgment allows you to shift focus from resistance towards positive transformation.

Breathing exercises form another essential bracket in our arsenal against emotional distress. Paying attention to your breath as it flows in and out help anchor your mind in the present moment – curbing anxiety about future possibilities or ruminations over past mistakes. Just five minutes each day concentrating on your breathing pattern could work wonders for mental serenity.

In the grand scheme of self-transformation, “pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth”. It’s our guide through a riveting journey that reveals strength previously unknown and wisdom unheard-of. Embrace it with courage and resilience, for every painful moment gives birth to an expansive opportunity – one that propels us towards enlightenment.

Take this knowledge into your heart, explore more about it as you continue on your path. Dive deeper into the great ocean of Spiritual Development available on our website – each wave offering new perspectives in understanding life’s profound mysteries. Here’s to unlocking greater depths within yourself as we venture together onto unchartered territories!

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This topic is part of the Spiritual Calling stage of the Spiritual Wanderer's Journey

How to Start Your Spiritual Journey (7 Illuminating Steps)

by Mateo · Updated: Jun 15, 2024 · 215 Comments

There is a candle in your heart, ready to be kindled. There is a void in your soul, ready to be filled. You feel it, don’t you? – Rumi

Welcome, dear spiritual wanderer.

You’ve come to this page seeking guidance, and that’s what we intend to give you wholeheartedly.

Before you begin, we want to honor your self-sovereignty and inner instincts , so:

Please remember to not accept anything as being “true” that I write or anything that anyone on the spiritual journey says/writes/teaches without first checking in with your own inner knowing.

No one is infallible, no matter what degree of awakening they have embodied, so I strongly encourage you to think for yourself, find out for yourself, and always, always trust your intuition. (This advice can save you a lot of pain on your journey!)

With that said:

If you’re short on time, scroll down to see the Table of Contents . Otherwise, I guarantee that this article is worth reading from start to finish (that’s why it’s the ‘Start Here’ page!).

Get Your Spiritual Journey PDF!

Want to go deeper and reflect, integrate, and gain a greater perspective of your journey of awakening?

Let’s begin with the uncomfortable truth:

Most of us in the modern world have resigned ourselves to a cliched existence, indulging in endless distractions.

We go through life with minimal or pseudo-faith and avoid comprehending the emptiness of our lives. We are endlessly haunted by the shallowness of our relationships, neurotic issues, and  inescapable loneliness.

And yet there’s so much more to us as a species than what we really know.

Dissolve the shadows that obscure your inner Light in this weekly email-based membership! Perfect for any soul seeker serious about practicing ongoing shadow work and self-love.

You and I carry the most mysterious and magnificent qualities within us imaginable. Yet, we unknowingly guard and protect the greatest gift that is our  Souls from the world.

It’s so easy for us to feel meaningless when we perceive ourselves as mere cogs in society’s machine.

The truth is that we are much more than slaves of 9 to 5 jobs. We are capable of creating deeply meaningful, mystical, and fulfilling lives. We are capable of finding our true calling and personal destiny.

For centuries, indigenous people throughout the world have known that to fully explore the depths of the Soul and reunite with Spirit, we must go on a spiritual journey into the unknown lands within ourselves.

Many ancient cultures had Elders and Shamans to encourage and oversee these journeys toward a deeper spiritual existence.

Sadly, these days in our own culture, we have lost such sacred rites and rituals. Instead, orthodox religion has replaced living  spirituality with a theoretical god , dismissing, and outlawing personal experimentation and union with the Divine.

On this page, my aim is to help you start navigating your spiritual journey, be a lone wolf, and listen to your soul’s calling to reunite with Spirit.

(If you need extra in-depth support after reading this article, I highly recommend checking out our All-in-One Bundle and Shadow & Light Membership – these offerings can offer tremendous illumination and empowerment on your journey.)

Table of contents

What is the spiritual journey, 12 signs you’re called to the spiritual journey (the ancient hero/ine’s path), the 3 worlds of the spiritual journey (which are you inhabiting), inner work vs. soul work, 5 phases of the spiritual wanderer’s journey, how to start your spiritual journey (7 steps).

The spiritual journey is a personal quest we undertake to reconnect with our Souls, release attachment to the ego, and rediscover our True Nature .

In a nutshell, the spiritual journey is about returning to the Centre of our being : it’s a path traditionally undertaken by saints, shamans, mystics , and sages.

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But in this day and age where times have changed, and we’re suffering from collective soul loss , the spiritual journey is open and accessible to all people (and no longer just ascetics, monks, and other holy people).

Indeed, listening to our Soul’s calling of reuniting with Spirit is our deepest longing and highest calling as a species.

People have felt a pull toward something greater than themselves since the beginning of time.

Ancient cultures had many stories that illustrated the journey to fulfilling one’s destiny and experiencing Wholeness or Enlightenment . These journeys are what mythologist Joseph Campbell described as the “ Calls to Adventure. “

A call to adventure is something we all experience at least once in life. When we embark on this adventure, we begin the process of gaining self-understanding, reclaiming our precious Soul gifts, and dissolving the blockages that obscure our Inner Light.

The archetype of the hero/heroine discovering their true spiritual nature goes back thousands of years.

The Greeks told the story of Orpheus , who descended into the underworld to rescue his bride, Eurydice, from Hades. The Nordic people had their hero-warrior Beowulf , and the Sumerians wrote of Inanna , who battled her sister in the dark world.

Throughout history, there have been so many stories of individuals who have struggled through hardship to find themselves. But of what importance are they to our path?

Essentially, these hero/ines symbolize our spiritual journeys , that is, leaving everything familiar behind, entering the unknown, encountering numerous unconscious monsters, and finally returning back home with a sense of renewed fulfillment and wisdom.

Here are 12 signs you’re being called to walk the spiritual journey of awakening:

• You feel lost in life
• You long for a place that feels like your ‘true home’
• You keep wondering what your meaning or purpose is
• You feel like you have a big destiny to fulfill (which is yet to be revealed)
• You sense that there’s much more to life than meets the eye
• You’re experiencing strange synchronicities, signs, and omens
• You’re shedding your old self and you’re transforming, but you don’t know who you truly are yet
• There’s a sense of nostalgia and nagging longing for something you can’t pinpoint
• You experience bouts of melancholy, depression, and existential crisis
• You feel extra sensitive and fragile
• A lot of what you once valued seems meaningless and empty
• It feels like the rug has been pulled out from underneath you, and you’re falling into a void

Can you relate to any of the above signs? If you can, you’re most certainly being called to embark on the spiritual journey.

The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you. Don’t go back to sleep. You must ask for what you really want. Don’t go back to sleep. People are going back and forth across the doorsill where the two worlds touch. The door is round and open. Don’t go back to sleep. – Rumi 

At some point in life, we all experience the “call to adventure.”

Often, our journeys start when we experience a sudden  spiritual awakening , kundalini awakening , or dark night of the soul . Often, without wanting to, we are cast onto the path of inner exploration.

Like you, I have wandered these paths and have, at times, wound up lost and confused. For this reason, I find it useful to map out the spiritual journey in a way that helps the human mind know where it is and where it will go next.

My Andean ancestry speaks of three worlds that we can experience in life: the Upper World (Hanaq Pacha), the Middle World (Kay Pacha), and the Lower World (Ukhu Pacha).

In many traditions and mythologies, these three worlds correspond to the different realms of Self.

The Upper World is the home of Spirit, the Underworld the home of Souls, and the Middle World is the home of the physical body and human ego .

Different practices and techniques are used in each of the three realms to help us spiritually mature and rediscover joy, peace, and nondual wholeness .

Below, I’ll explore each of these three realms with you:

Middle World

Purpose: Personality development

In our everyday lives, we function within the middle world. The middle world is responsible for our ego development, and yet many people on the spiritual path ignore this vital element of inner growth.

Without developing a healthy personality, our spiritual growth reaches a dead end because we are more prone to falling into many spiritual traps and pitfalls down the line (such as spiritual narcissism , spiritual materialism, and more).

In life, we all begin within the middle world or physical realm. As children and teenagers, we go through various years of personality change and growth.

Finally, as adults, we have all developed unique personalities. Yet many of us fail to continue our self-development, getting lost in corporate jobs and the pursuit of money, status, and fame.

The goal of the middle world path is to develop a healthy personality or ego. Tasks involved in this process include the exploration of core emotional wounds, self-love , and the cultivation of authenticity.

A healthy adult ego will be able to love freely, be vulnerable, express creativity, and display empathy towards others – which are vital in every area of life.

We cannot develop a healthy personality by using techniques from the Upper or Under World, such as meditation or shadow work.

Instead, we must use inner work techniques that pertain to ego development and healing, such as assertiveness training, non-violent communication techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy, NLP, and other psychological avenues of self-development.

Under World

Purpose: Soul discovery

Our Soul is the vital, mysterious, and wild core of our individual selves. It is the unique essence within each of us that goes deeper than our personalities.

Think of your Soul as a stream that is connected to the ocean of Spirit. Our Souls contain our destiny, purpose, gifts, and the ultimate significance of our individual lives. To access these deep layers and qualities, we must descend into the Under World of our unconscious minds.

Unfortunately, for thousands of years, our culture has “protected” us from the hardships and dangers of the descent into the Soul. This has been done through the establishment of comfortable, predictable, and clockwork lives that revolve around material pleasures and shallow values.

In fact, thanks to religious thought, the descent into our Under Worlds has been condemned as “evil” and wayward.  Only Shamanic cultures and a few Western mystical schools like Hermeticism and Alchemy have dedicated themselves to exploring the Under World.

The descent into the Under World has been so feared and avoided because it is a perilous journey. There is a reason why Christianity referred to this place as “hell.”

Within our Under Worlds lie our repressed thoughts, feelings, desires, traumas, and denied gifts. Often when we descend, or inscend, into ourselves, we come across many demons, ghastly creatures, and other parts of our Shadow Selves that we’ve been unconsciously hiding from.

Yet despite the fact that the Under World journey can be such a harrowing and haunting experience, it is ultimately a powerful odyssey. Only by descending into our personal Under Worlds can we truly embrace our true life calling, talents, gifts, and deepest values.

Under World, or deeper inner work techniques, include practices that allow us to access altered states of consciousness . These may include practices such as  lucid dreaming , drumming, shadow work , shamanic trances, breathwork , vision quests, etc.

Upper World

Purpose: Uniting with Spirit

The Upper World journey, or that of the ascent, is what we often refer to as Self-Realization .

There comes a moment in our journey between the middle world and the underworld in which an equilibrium or inner spaciousness forms , allowing us to move up into the Upper World.

For example, it’s much harder to spiritually awaken to the Upper World when our unconscious minds are plagued with deep childhood traumas (that stem from the underworld), trust issues (under world problem), and poor self-esteem (middle world problem).

The practice of inner work is what allows this inner space to emerge because it dissolves the contractions of the ego that hide our True Nature as Divine Consciousness.

We enter the path of ascent up into the Upper World when we learn to surrender our ego identification (known as ego death ) and Soul identification.

It’s at this point of the path that soul work is needed – soul work, in this case, refers to doing the soul’s work of letting go, opening, and merging back into its original home of Spirit.

The experience and realization that the personal identity (or ego) is an illusory thought construct, and who we truly are is Infinite Consciousness, is what has been referred to as Self-Realization , Christ Consciousness , Buddha Nature, Nirvana, or Enlightenment.

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This shift of consciousness involves our Infinite, Divine, Eternal, and Absolute Nature awakening from the dream of the separate egoic self.

Techniques used to induce this inner shift of being are often found in the mystical schools of Zen, Kundalini, Taoism , Sufism, and disciplines such as meditation, self-inquiry , and yoga.

Note:  Unfortunately, many people in the spiritual community believe that spiritual ascension is all that is needed to experience peace and wholeness. As a result, the middle world and under world paths have been cast aside as if they don’t matter.

However, only focusing on your “higher chakras,” cultivating positivity and Oneness with Spirit , creates lopsided individuals. When the darker and more down-to-earth elements of self-growth are ignored, the result is imbalanced and unhealthy individuals .

As such, here on lonerwolf, we try to focus on exploring all three realms (the middle, under, and upper world) to create balance.

In the previous section, I mentioned inner work and soul work a few times. But what’s the difference? And how do both relate to the spiritual journey?

Within this website and the work of Aletheia and I, inner work refers to the active exploration, illumination, and dissolution of blockages within the psyche.

Inner work is a psychological process that helps us to heal and find inner harmony and wholeness on a human level.

Examples of inner work practices include the practice of self-love, inner child work, shadow work, body work, and anything that involves actively finding and releasing the contractions within the mind.

On the other hand, soul work is the more passive and receptive process of opening, surrendering, and resting within our True Nature (also known as Consciousness, Presence, Nondual Awareness, and Spirit).

Soul work is, quite literally, doing the soul’s work of remembering and returning back to Source as our Ultimate Home and True Nature.

Examples of soul work practices include self-inquiry, prayer, contemplation, meditation, mirror work, and anything that involves cultivating a sense of being .

Both inner work and soul work are needed on our spiritual journeys to help us both wake up on a spiritual level and grow up on a human level.

To avoid lopsided development and getting possessed by unresolved inner shadows (which can and do arise no matter what level of realization we’ve had), we need to explore both our human psychology and relax into our birthless, deathless True Nature.

Inner work makes the inner space for soul work to take place. Soul work helps to illuminate and sharpen our inner work.

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Both go hand-in-hand and are vital allies on our spiritual awakening journeys. As you get familiar with this website and our work, you’ll hear about both inner work and soul work.

Roughly speaking, there are about five phases of the spiritual journey (although, of course, there could be many more – but I’m just sharing the phases I’m presently aware of).

I refer to these as ‘ phases ‘ and not stages because the spiritual wanderer’s journey is not a linear process that has a start and end; it is cyclical. It’s like the moon. It’s a spiraling dance of energy that is ever-deepening and changing – there is no “end,” even after you’ve had an enlightened shift in awareness.

Here’s a visual diagram of the Wanderer’s Journey , which is the spiritual wheel of transformation that we base our work around on this website:

Below, you’ll find the five phases ruled by the Seeker, Apprentice, Warrior, Mystic, and Sage archetypes.

I’ve also linked each phase to the ten different parts of the journey that Aletheia and I have discovered, crystallized, and defined after many years on the path:

1. Soul-searching

(Ruled by the Seeker archetype.)

This phase is divided into the following two parts (also linked to on the Wanderer’s Journey page). Feel free to click on any for further guidance:

• The Spiritual Calling
• Resisting the Path

Summary: Phase one of the spiritual journey begins with a deep craving and longing for something more than mundane daily life.

There may be a sense that life has become a dry, desolate, meaningless, and barren wasteland without some kind of spiritual dimension.

This type of existential crisis can arise spontaneously due to a traumatic situation, mental or physical health issues, or simply due to one’s sensitive temperament.

The result is a search for meaning, purpose, and greater spiritual connection – or what is commonly known as soul searching .

2. Awakening & learning

(Ruled by the Apprentice archetype.)

• Finding Guidance
• Starting the Journey

Summary: Awakening and learning is the next phase of the spiritual journey. Once one has listened to the ‘call to adventure’ and has begun searching for answers, the sense of inner deadness and stagnation lifts. The veil is pulled from our eyes. We awaken to fresh possibilities, new horizons, and deep insights.

There is renewed hope, ecstatic zest for life, joyful anticipation, and a passion for learning, exploring, and growing. It’s as if the sun has finally emerged from its slumber, and we’re bathed in the dawning light of spiritual awakening .

3. Death & demons

(Ruled by the Warrior archetype.)

• Turning Inwards
• Facing the Darkness

Summary: As our spiritual journey matures, we eventually face a crossroads. To continue growing, we must enter through the gates of our personal Underworld and face our demons. We learn that the spiritual journey is beautiful, yes. But it’s also demanding.

If we’re sincere about authentic spiritual growth, we need to illuminate our inner darkness, explore our shadow selves, and heal our buried traumas. This death of the spiritual ‘high’ of the previous phase can lead to much fear and confusion.

The result is often an experience of the Dark Night of the Soul , a glimpse of ego death , or even a spiritual emergency where we step out of the ‘sunshine and rainbows’ world into the moonlit world of ghosts and ghouls.

4. Rebirth & reward

(Ruled by the Mystic archetype.)

• Illumination
• Traps & Pitfalls

Summary: Eventually, we emerge from the other side of the Dark Night of the Soul, existential crisis, or ego death glimpse. We have been to hell and back and we’ve had our hearts ripped open and our minds excavated. But we arise victorious with heart and Soul blazing bright with clarity.

This rebirth and reward phase often results in mystical experiences , moments of Satori (Enlightened awareness), and blissful heart openings.

We may go through a new level of awakening, this time at an energetic level, via an experience known as the Kundalini awakening .

However, this experience is not all love and light. There are many lurking shadows and spiritual traps to be wary of .

5. Illumination & sharing

(Ruled by the Sage archetype.)

• Integration

Summary: After the body, heart, and mind undergo this cleansing and purging journey, a deeper level of Illumination may begin to arise within us. We’ll begin to integrate all the lessons we’ve learned, bringing them into our daily lives.

This is the moment where we truly start walking the talk, integrating both the human and Divine aspects of our lived experience. As such, there is a strong desire within us to share what we’ve realized through the grace of Divinity (our True Nature) with those who need support.

We may adopt the role of teacher, guide, creator, or mentor – or otherwise, embrace new ways of helping others through the power of creativity.

Perhaps the key defining quality of this phase is a strong connection to one’s True Nature and sometimes a non-dual shift in awareness. There’s an intimate, inner-lived experience of the Divine as one’s true face, authentic essence , and ultimate home.

Again, the above five phases are by no means linear or static – they are cyclical and ever-deepening. Gradually, we discover that we are Life itself and that what we have longed and searched for has always been right here, right now !

Everyone’s spiritual journey is unique, ever-changing, and ongoing.

There is no single point at which we stop this inner transformation. In fact, the whole mistaken idea of reaching a state of “perfection” really only equals death and stagnation.

And what happens when things stop growing and flowing? They become lethargic, break down, rot, and disintegrate.

While the demands for constant growth and evolution may be difficult to handle at times, they are necessary grit for the inner pearl to develop.

If you wish to find truth, peace, profound love, deep freedom, and your ultimate home, beginning your spiritual journey is not only important but crucial.

Understandably, you might feel a bit intimidated and lost, not knowing where to start. As someone who has been on the spiritual journey for a long time and who has devoted their entire life’s work to the inner call, here are my tips:

1. Be gentle and go at your own pace

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and a little inundated by the influx of information when first beginning your spiritual journey. My advice is to go slowly, be gentle, and go at your own pace. You don’t need to know every tiny detail of every field of wisdom ever created. (I know it’s tempting!)

Besides, everything that you’re learning about is already within you. Yes, you have all the answers you need at a Soul level because you are an expression of the Divine at your core. Everyone else is just a mirror of that.

So cut yourself some slack. The key is to go gently but deeply – that is how you will learn and grow the most.

2. Tune into the deepest yearning of your heart – your holy longing

What is it that you truly, deeply yearn for, above all else? What is the most ancient longing of your heart and Soul?

There are a myriad of reasons why people enter the spiritual journey, many of them stories created by the mind to build a better-looking ego.

But beneath the desires of the mind, what does your heart want? Your heart is the doorway to your Soul, and your Soul is a unique expression of Spirit. So listen to your heart’s yearnings.

How do you listen to your heart? One of the best ways is to place a soft hand over your heart, let all thoughts go, and drop into a sense of stillness. Then ask yourself, “What is it that I truly, deeply yearn for, above all else?”

Do you long for peace, truth, freedom, love, happiness, healing, or something else? There are no right or wrong answers. The heart wants what it wants.

But be aware that the mind may jump in and try to concoct a bunch of ideas, artificial longings, and idealistic stories. What you need to do is listen for the still, small, quiet voice within that responds with gentle clarity (not the loud, anxious, and abrasive voice of the mind).

Finding your holy longing will provide you with the fuel and compass to direct your spiritual search.

Instead of being outwardly led by the egoic self, you’ll be inwardly led by the heart and Soul. You may even find that as you progress through your spiritual journey, your holy longing will evolve and mature. Let it!

3. Pay attention to philosophies, tools, or practices that intrigue you

Once you’ve figured out your holy longing, simply pay attention. Notice what spiritual fields, ideas, philosophies, and practices call to you that relate to your deepest calling.

The spiritual journey doesn’t have to be something dry, monotone, and repetitive (unless you want it to be). This is a quest that can be playful, joyful, and passionate.

In fact, you’ll likely get the most out of your spiritual path if you approach it from this heart-centered place.

Neuroscience has proven that we learn the most when we’re having fun – so find your bliss. Walk a path with heart. This is the path you’re meant to be on.

4. Go deep-diving

One of the main issues that often arises on the spiritual path is a certain kind of spiritual materialism or spiritual window-shopping .

Jumping from practice to practice can be useful at the beginning (to become familiar with the territory).

But if we get into the addictive habit of finding the “next and best” spiritual practice , tool, workshop, etc., we are doing ourselves a great disservice.

We are not only approaching spirituality with a materialistic mindset, but we’re also avoiding the fundamental purpose of the spiritual path: to discover our True Nature.

Once you’ve done some dabbling here and there (this might involve watching YouTube videos, reading books, attending workshops, etc.), it’s time to slow down and commit to something.

Don’t worry if you discover later down the road that the path you’re on is not for you – remember that you can always change routes.

What’s important is that you slow down and commit to something to begin with – this is the only way to extract the nutrients, deep essential truths, and embodied wisdom that contribute to your awakening.

So go deep-diving and commit to something all the way through to the end. What paths, practices, and teachings speak to you on a profound level? What has benefited you the most?

Begin to circle around that topic, practice, or path and dedicate your full attention to it. (And if there are a handful of paths, that’s okay too; stick with them, although it’s generally best to keep your focus simple.)

5. Be aware of sharks

You’ll meet many people on your spiritual path (whether online or in the flesh), and while some of these people will genuinely have your best interests in mind, others won’t.

Yes, there are many ‘spiritual sharks’ out there, aka., there are sleazy, snake-oil salesmen and women who are incentivized to use you for personal gain.

There are also some people – typically leaders of spiritual communities or certain gurus – who are totally unaware of their unconscious shadow motivations (but are equally as dangerous). So be discerning.

Learn to trust your intuition and gut instincts . Tap into your inner lone wolf : that primal wisdom you carry inside that drove you to begin this quest to begin with.

Even if you do fall into the jaws of a shark, know that you can get out. Not only that, but you can actually use the experience as a lesson and fuel to grow even stronger.

No one can take away your power from you unless you willingly give it to them. And even if you do, you can get it back.

6. Record what you’ve learned and experienced

We hear a lot of pretty-sounding words and mystical ideas on the spiritual path. But all of them mean little if we don’t actively find ways of absorbing them into our being.

One of the simplest ways of recording what you’ve learned and experienced is simply through the act of journaling .

Have a special journal or diary that you dedicate to writing down your thoughts, experiences, ideas, and discoveries. You don’t need to be a good writer (or even good at spelling/grammar) to do this – forget about that!

What matters is that you have a solid record that you can refer back to throughout your journey. (Learn more about how to journal .)

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There are also other ways of recording what you’ve learned and experienced, such as creating pieces of art or composing music.

Find whatever creative outlet suits you the most – that might even include creating a vlog where you go into your daily experience (and you can keep this private or share it with others).

Here are a variety of inner work Journals that we’ve created that might help you get started. »

7. Integrate and embody your spirituality

It’s easy to go spiritual window shopping and jump onto whatever new and exciting bandwagon emerges. But it takes much more strength of character, sincerity, and courage to integrate and embody what you’ve learned actively.

To integrate means to absorb something into your being and to make it a living and breathing part of you.

To embody means to be an expression of what you have learned: to be the change you’re looking for, to infuse your life with the essence of what you’ve discovered.

There are numerous ways to integrate and embody your spirituality, but remember that this is an organic process that takes time. You cannot rush or force spiritual integration or embodiment – it is the natural product of spiritual ripening and maturation.

There are, however, numerous ways to begin the integration and embodiment part of your journey. Some of these inner work and soul work practices include:

• Mindfulness
• Contemplation
• Shadow Work
• Inner child work
• Self-Inquiry

Anything that helps you to slow down, be introspective, and go inwards while encouraging present-moment awareness will help you to integrate and embody what you experience.

Instead of being a magical-sounding idea, you will actively live and express qualities such as lovingkindness, presence, and wisdom. But first, you need to be sincere and dedicated to this path.

In my honest opinion, no spiritual journey is balanced (or healthy) without some level of psychological healing.

We need to focus not just on ascending to the Upper World but also on working with the Middle and Under World . See the following articles for more guidance:

• What is Inner Work? (& Why Most People Are Terrified By it)
• Spiritual Psychology: Why Meditation Isn’t Enough

The Spiritual Journey is a Valley, Not a Mountain

Wisdom tells me I am nothing, love tells me I am everything. Between the two, my life flows. ― Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj

Contrary to popular depiction, the spiritual journey isn’t like climbing a mountain.

We rarely start at the bottom and climb to the top. Instead, for most of us, the spiritual journey is like hiking through a series of beautiful but perilous range of valleys.

Our spiritual journeys alternate between periods of descending and ascending.

In one period of our lives, we may cultivate our connection with Spirit, while in other parts, we may descend to the Soul to heal core wounds or the middle world to develop self-care .

Finally, it is very possible and also quite common to get hung up in these valleys. Many of us become lost, distracted, and even forget why we were trying to get to the top of the mountain in the first place. (See our article on traps of spiritual growth for more guidance.)

However, with the appropriate guidance, sincerity, and persistence, we can make our way through.

In the end, you’ll find that the spiritual journey is like a mystical marriage between the ego, the Soul, and the Spirit. One cannot exist without the other. The whole experience is a nondual expression of Life living itself.

I truly hope this guide has given you a place to start. This whole website is based on giving free guidance for the spiritual awakening journey, so please feel welcome to poke around and learn some more.

It’s our calling in life to help you with this. And it’s an honor for the two of us to be your supporters on this journey.

To stay connected and get free weekly Soul-centered guidance, you’re welcome to subscribe to our LonerWolf Howl newsletter .

I also recommend checking out our collection of premium resources that can help you tremendously on your spiritual journey. You’ll find everything from books, journals, meditations, and more!

It’s a joy to continue this journey with you as guides and companions!

Three paths to inner transformation – here’s how I can help you go deeper:

1. The Spiritual Wanderer Course: Are you feeling lost, adrift, and unsure of your life's purpose? Gain clarity, focus, and direction on your inner path by uncovering the five archetypes of awakening within you. Learn how to navigate the highs and lows of your inner journey and chart your unique path with 3+ hours of audio-visual content, workbooks, meditations, and a premium test.

2. Shadow & Light Membership: Do you crave consistent support on your spiritual quest? Receive weekly intuitive guidance and learn to embrace your whole self, including your shadow side. Cultivate deeper self-love with our affordable, personalized support.

3. Spiritual Awakening Bundle: Ready to embark on a profound soul-searching adventure? Dive into our collection of essential transformative resources! Explore five illuminating eBooks and seven in-depth journals, plus unlock two special bonuses to empower your spiritual growth.

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About Mateo

Mateo is a spiritual educator, guide, entrepreneur, and co-founder of one of the most influential and widely read spiritual websites on the internet. Born into a family with a history of drug addiction and mental illness, he was taught about the plight of the human condition from a young age. His mission is to help others experience freedom, wholeness, and peace in all stages of life. [Read More]

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Hi I was wondering if it is possible to get hard cover/paperback books instead of ebooks? I am very eager to read and do the workbooks but prefer to reference them physically in my hands rather than virtual. Thanks for all the information you have provided. Blessings to both of you, I look forward to a long relationship 🙏

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what has happened to me is amazing……i have started this jurney back in 1999 new years eve in a phyicword…then spiritualey slept until 2019…after that i woke i am now aware of masculine and feminine devine energy within myself…then this year i grounded myself to the earth…better…and i realised that the background noise in the back of my mind was accually all the thoughts and feelings of everyone living on planet earth…..i am comforteble with this now….

I am so thankful to have found Lonewolf! I thought I was the only one who felt this way. I am just beginning my spiritual journey and am all over the place. At 55 my past has entered every aspect of my life. Past trauma and insecurities run the show. I am looking forward to taking this journey and learning everyday from people like you.

I am grateful that during my search to at least try to understand the changes I have recently experienced, to have come across your website. I do not feel overwhelmed by the information that is given.

I am not a person to take information at face value, but rather learn the small nuances to understand the bigger picture and then process what I’ve learned.

The information on your site allows me to do so, without all the yippee congrats. For me, that’s shouting, which takes my focus of wanting to learn away.

I am appreciative of not feeling that and can calmly process the situation, thoughts, emotions and reactions and reflections.

I had neck surgery 4 years ago that pretty much stole my life. I’m in a great deal of pain. It makes me forget what I’m doing, thinking, and feeling. I’m doing tapping with a doctor with much success. I’m scared I will. I’m scared! I feel like a drowning man I’m grabbing for anything. I want to be happy. I don’t like using the word want it just brings more sadness. I’m going to stick with this but I would really like someone to stick with me while I walk this path for a little while. What can I do?

I have been reading about spirituality for quite a while now. Especially reading and listening to Tara Brach, but I am so much in what I’ve learned to call my egoic brain that I can’t quite grasp it. What I’ve read about your work sounds more accessible.

I am in a situation thatI cannot donate any money, is that ok?

Understanding Spiritual Pain

It had been five years since I started at OSF HealthCare and I had never stepped inside the executive boardroom, but there I was, packed into this room with a variety of palliative and supportive care team members. As I looked around the room, I felt like the odd man out. It was like being at the big kids’ table for the first time; I kept my eyes down and my mouth shut unless I was asked a direct question.

I passed the time by listening and taking notes about topics we could use for this blog. One of the quietest, but most passionate speakers at the table was Sister Jacque (pronounced jack-ee) Schroeder and she kept referring to this term: spiritual pain.

I was intrigued so I sat down with Sister to chat about spiritual pain. Here’s what I found out…

What is spiritual pain?

Spiritual pain is the pain that comes from the “hidden” areas of our life. It can’t be pointed to on a pain scale, but it is still very real and can impact our physical and emotional health.

Spiritual pain is often broken down into four categories:

• Meaning – struggling with the “meaning” behind life, relationships, and the world around you
• Forgiveness – pain that stems from forgiving others, ourselves and God
• Relatedness – dealing with relationships, whether good or bad
• Hope – feeling like there is no hope or it doesn’t exist

Spiritual pain doesn’t discriminate based on gender or age; it affects everyone in different ways at all stages of life. As Sister put it, everyone is on a spiritual journey from the moment they are born and from that journey, we feel pain and, in turn, we grow. Our society doesn’t often emphasize this journey so we have a difficult time dealing with the pain when it becomes too much to handle.

Dealing With Spiritual Pain

After learning so much in a short time, I asked Sister if there was anything we can do for ourselves or as caregivers to others to keep spiritual pain from becoming too much. Her answer was simple, but powerful: breathe and be silent.

Once, when Sister was faced with some of the hardest choices in her life, she asked God for guidance, but the only response she received was “breathe.” Our society and our lives move much too fast these days so taking the time to just breathe gives us something to focus our minds and keep them clear so the answers we are seeking can rise to the top.

Hand in hand with breathing is silence. Again, we are bombarded with messages and “noise” all around us every day. Having a place to turn that off and just listen and breathe often creates that environment of spiritual and emotional healing we are looking for. As Sister put it, “God doesn’t need time to speak to us; we just need to find the time to be quiet and listen.”

Doctor, Heal Thyself

As caregivers, it is difficult to know how to treat every part of a patient. That’s why hospitals have social services, pastoral care, palliative care, and more in order to treat the entire patient. But, it’s important for all caregivers to remember one thing: we are the medicine we bring.

You have probably heard someone say, “You can’t help others until you help yourself.” This is true with doctors, nurses, and all of our health care providers. Once the caregivers take time to be silent, breathe and confront their own spiritual pain, then they are able to incorporate that into the medical treatments and coordinated care they provide at the bedside.

Last Updated: February 9, 2022

Mike, your efforts to help us understand spiritual pain through your interview with Sister Jacque are very appreciated! I believe that we as health care professionals often avoid this important domain of care because we were taught that “spirituality” is a personal thing not to be discussed. But in reality, patients with serious illness want us to address this domain of care, likely because it can bring them hope and healing outside of the physical domain.

Linda – I appreciate the compliment. I would agree that clinicians can often get wrapped up in “solving” the physical problem when all too often it isn’t always the physical pain that the patient suffers from. I am interested to see how the new health care environment may help or hinder this holistic approach to medicine.

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Spiritual Fatigue: Understanding, Addressing, and Overcoming Spiritual Exhaustion

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Have you ever felt so spiritually drained that it seemed impossible to connect with God? You’re not alone. This feeling, often described as “spiritual fatigue,” can affect your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, leaving you feeling disconnected, uninspired, and distant from God.

My personal journey through chronic pain, spinal surgery, and suffering a stroke has deepened my understanding of this kind of fatigue. These experiences have shown me how much our physical and spiritual lives are connected, and how challenges in one area can deeply impact the other.

So let’s take a look at spiritual fatigue and how we can combat it!

Be sure to download your FREE Be Encouraged and Through the Fire Devotionals at the end of this post!

What Does It Mean to Be Tired Spiritually?

Spiritual fatigue goes beyond the typical weariness we feel after a long day of work or from emotional stress. It’s a deep sense of exhaustion that touches your very soul, impacting your relationship with God , your desire to engage in spiritual activities, and your overall sense of purpose.

In Hebrew, the word “ruach” (רוח) can mean spirit, wind, or breath, and when our ruach is depleted, we experience spiritual fatigue. It’s as though the very breath of life within us has become faint, leaving us struggling to feel God’s presence.

The link between our physical struggles and spiritual tiredness runs deep. For those of us who live with chronic pain, the constant physical struggle can drain not only your body, but your spirit as well. This kind of fatigue can make prayer feel difficult, worship seem distant, and spiritual practices like reading the Word or attending services feel burdensome. The result is often a sense of isolation and a struggle to find meaning in faith.

Signs and Symptoms of Spiritual Weakness

Spiritual fatigue can manifest itself in different ways, impacting your emotions, behavior, and even your physical health.

Emotional Signs

One of the most obvious signs of spiritual fatigue is a sense of disconnection from God . This can be accompanied by a profound doubt in your faith, where you begin to question not just your beliefs, but God’s presence in your life. I have experienced this more than once and it can feel like you’re under water trying desperately to get back to the surface. The prophet Elijah, after his victory on Mount Carmel, fell into a deep despair, asking God to take his life because he felt utterly alone and defeated (1 Kings 19:4). Elijah’s story is a powerful reminder that even those closest to God can experience moments of deep spiritual exhaustion. You are not alone!

Behavioral Signs

When you’re spiritually fatigued, it’s common to withdraw from activities that helped you grow closer to God . You might find it hard to pray, attend worship services, or read the Word . This withdrawal can create a vicious cycle, where the less you engage in these activities, the more disconnected you feel. The people of Israel, during their time in the wilderness, often struggled with spiritual fatigue. Despite witnessing countless miracles , they repeatedly fell into patterns of doubt and disobedience, pulling away from their covenant with God.

Physical Signs

Interestingly, spiritual fatigue can also mirror physical symptoms. You might feel constantly tired, even after getting enough sleep, and struggle with a sense of heaviness that you can’t seem to shake. This overlap between physical and spiritual fatigue is especially challenging for those already dealing with chronic illness, because the lines between these forms of exhaustion often become blurred. The psalmist writes in Psalm 38:10:

“My heart throbs, my strength fails me; And the light of my eyes, even that has gone from me.” NASB

This verse captures the physical toll that spiritual fatigue can take, where the body reflects the exhaustion and weakness in our souls.

Spiritual Fatigue in the Bible

The Bible is full of examples of spiritual fatigue, reminding us that this struggle is not new. Even the greatest figures in Scripture faced moments of deep spiritual exhaustion.

Elijah: A Prophet’s Despair

Elijah’s story is one of the best examples of spiritual fatigue in the Bible. After his victory over the prophets of Baal, Elijah fled into the wilderness, overcome with fear and despair. In 1 Kings 19:4, he prays:

““Enough!” he cried. “Now, O E TERNAL One, take my life, for I am no better than my predecessors.”” JPS

Elijah’s fatigue wasn’t just physical; it was spiritual. Despite his close relationship with God, he felt utterly alone and defeated. But God didn’t leave Elijah in his despair. He sent an angel to provide food and rest, and then spoke to him in a still, small voice, offering guidance and reassurance. Elijah’s experience teaches us that even in our darkest moments, God is there, ready to restore and renew us. It also teaches us about the power of a good meal and a nap!

Job: The Depths of Despair

Job’s story is another great example of spiritual fatigue. After losing his wealth, his children, and his health, Job cried out in deep despair, cursing the day he was born (Job 3:1-4). His spiritual fatigue was so deep that he questioned the very meaning of his life. Yet, through his dialogue with God, Job came to a place of renewed understanding and faith. In Job 42:5, he says:

“I had heard You with my ears, But now I see You with my eyes;” jps

Job’s journey shows us that spiritual fatigue can lead to deeper revelations and a more intimate relationship with God, even when we are at our lowest.

Jeremiah: The Weeping Prophet

The prophet Jeremiah also was not immune to spiritual fatigue. Known as the “weeping prophet,” Jeremiah often lamented his calling and the suffering he endured because of it. In Jeremiah 20:14-18, he curses the day he was born, expressing a deep despair over his seemingly fruitless mission.

Yet, despite this anguish, Jeremiah remained faithful to his calling, showing us that spiritual fatigue doesn’t mean failure. Instead, it can be part of the journey towards deeper faithfulness and commitment to God’s will.

Moses: The Weight of Leadership

Moses, too, faced spiritual fatigue, particularly as he led the Israelites through the wilderness. In Numbers 11:14-15, Moses cries out to God, saying:

“I am not able to carry all these people by myself! The load is too heavy for me!  15  If this is how You are treating me, kill me now! If I have found favor in Your eyes, kill me please—don’t let me see my own misery!” tlv

Now THAT is deep despair. Moses was overwhelmed by the constant complaints and demands of the people (who wouldn’t be??), feeling the weight of leadership pressing down on his spirit. God responded by providing seventy elders to help Moses, showing us that God understands our limits and provides support when the burden becomes too great.

Causes of Spiritual Fatigue

Spiritual fatigue often results from a combination of factors, each contributing to the overall sense of exhaustion.

Physical Illness and Chronic Pain Chronic pain and illness can be relentless, draining both your physical and spiritual energy. My own experience with having suffered two strokes, having cervical spine surgery and having chronic pain due to ongoing back issues has shown me how the constant battle with your body can make it difficult to maintain a strong spiritual connection.

The psalmist expresses this connection between physical pain and spiritual exhaustion in Psalm 31:10:

“Be gracious to me,  Adonai ,     for I am in distress. My eyes waste away with grief,     my soul and my body as well.” TLV

The continuous strain of chronic illness and pain can lead to a deep, soul-crushing weariness that extends beyond the physical, affecting your ability to connect with God. If you deal with chronic pain, I see you! And know in your heart that God sees you too!

Emotional Stress and Trauma Life’s emotional challenges, such as dealing with the aftermath of a health crisis like me or other traumatic events, can also lead to spiritual fatigue. The stress and trauma compound over time, making it harder to stay connected to your faith.

The book of Lamentations captures this sense of despair and exhaustion. In Lamentations 3:17-20, the writer says:

“My soul has been deprived of  shalom ,     I have forgotten goodness. 18  So I said, “My endurance has perished,     and my hope from  Adonai .” 19  Remember my affliction my homelessness, bitterness and gall. 20  Whenever I remember,     my soul is downcast within me.” tlv

This passage reflects the deep spiritual fatigue that can result from prolonged emotional suffering.

Overcommitment and Burnout Sometimes, spiritual fatigue comes from overextending ourselves. Whether through ministry, work, or personal responsibilities, taking on too much can lead to burnout, leaving little room for spiritual rejuvenation.

King Solomon, despite all his wisdom and accomplishments, experienced this sense of burnout. In Ecclesiastes 2:17, he writes:

“And so I loathed life. For I was distressed by all that goes on under the sun, because everything is futile and pursuit of wind.” jps

Solomon’s words remind us that even doing things that are good and godly can lead to a sense of futility and exhaustion if they are not balanced with spiritual rest and renewal.

Unresolved Doubts and Spiritual Questions When we have unresolved questions about our faith, purpose, or suffering , these doubts can fester and lead to spiritual fatigue. The longer these questions go unanswered, the more they drain our spiritual energy.

The psalmist in Psalm 73 wrestles with doubt and envy, saying:

“But as for me, my feet almost slipped. My steps nearly slid out from under me. 3  For I envied the arrogant, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” psalm 73:2-3 tlv

This struggle with doubt can lead to a feeling of spiritual fatigue, where the foundations of your faith feel shaken. Yet, the psalmist ultimately finds resolution in the sanctuary of God, recognizing that true understanding comes from being in God’s presence.

How Chronic Pain and Physical Exhaustion Contribute to Spiritual Fatigue

The Physical-Spiritual Connection As I mentioned previously, there is a deep connection between our physical and spiritual health. Chronic pain and illness can make you feel as though you’re carrying a heavy burden that weighs down your spirit. The Hebrew word for burden, “masse’ah” (משא), also carries the undertone of a prophetic oracle or burden. Just as a prophet carries the weight of a divine message, those of us with chronic pain carry a physical burden that can feel just as heavy on our spirits. This burden can make it difficult to engage in spiritual practices, leading to a sense of distance from God.

Coping with Chronic Illness Over the years, I’ve developed strategies to cope with the spiritual toll of chronic illness. This includes a combination of prayer, meditating on scripture, and leaning on the support of family and of a faith community.

Accepting my limitations has also been crucial; it’s about recognizing that there are days when my body just needs rest, and that’s okay! It is okay to say “no” and it is okay to turn down invitations and requests.

In Psalm 23, we are reminded that God is our shepherd, leading us beside still waters and restoring our soul. This image of God as a shepherd caring for His flock is a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and that God is with us, guiding us through our pain.

The Role of Acceptance and Surrender One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of acceptance and surrender. In Hebrew, the word “hoda’ah” (הודאה) means both confession and thanksgiving. It’s about confessing our struggles to God, but also thanking Him for the strength to endure.

This acceptance doesn’t mean giving up; it means entrusting your struggle to God and allowing Him to carry you through it. The apostle Paul speaks about this in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where God tells him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” It’s in our moments of greatest weakness that God’s strength becomes most evident, teaching us to rely on Him rather than our own abilities.

Overcoming Spiritual Fatigue

Spiritual fatigue isn’t something we have to live with indefinitely. There are ways to overcome it and find renewal.

Practical Steps to Spiritual Renewal

Prayer Prayer is essential in overcoming spiritual fatigue. It’s about being honest with God, expressing your weariness, and asking for His strength. In times of spiritual exhaustion, I’ve found that praying the Psalms can be particularly powerful. Psalm 42:11 says:

Why are you in despair, my soul? And why are you restless within me? Wait for God, for I will again praise Him For  the help of His presence, my God.” nasb

This verse reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we can find hope and strength in God through prayer .

Scripture Reading Choosing specific Bible verses that resonate with your situation can also help. Isaiah 40:31 says:

“…but they who wait for  Adonai     will renew their strength. They will soar up with wings as eagles. They will run, and not grow weary. They will walk, and not be faint.” tlv

This verse serves as a reminder that our strength comes from God , not from our own efforts. The regular practice of reading Scripture , especially passages that speak to God’s promises and faithfulness, can help renew your spirit and give you the endurance to keep going.

Rest and Retreat Taking time to rest and retreat is crucial. Even Yeshua took time away from the crowds to pray and rest. Whether it’s a day spent in quiet reflection, a retreat with your faith community, or simply taking a Sabbath rest , these moments are vital for spiritual renewal.

In Mark 6:31, Yeshua says to His disciples:

“Come away by yourselves to an isolated place and rest awhile.” tlv

This invitation to rest is an important reminder that even in the busyness of life and ministry, we need to take time to recharge and reconnect with God .

Community Support We are not meant to bear our burdens alone. The support of a community —whether it’s a close group of friends, a prayer group, or a spiritual mentor —can make a significant difference. In my own life, I’ve found that sharing my struggles with trusted people not only lightens the load but also provides new perspectives and encouragement.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us:

“Two are better than one, because they get a good return for their effort. 10  For if they fall,     the one will lift up his companion. But  oy  to the one who falls     and has no one to lift him up!” tlv

The strength of community lies in its ability to support and uplift one another, especially during times of spiritual fatigue.

Finding Purpose in Pain One of the most transformative aspects of overcoming spiritual fatigue is learning to find purpose in your pain. I know, this is easier said than done but it IS possible (and really necessary). This doesn’t mean that suffering is good, but rather that God can BRING good out of even the most difficult circumstances.

As Paul writes in Romans 8:28,

“Now we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.” tlv

This perspective helps reframe suffering as an opportunity for growth and deeper faith, allowing us to see God’s hand at work even in our most challenging moments.

The Power of Testimony: Sharing Your Journey

Sharing your story of overcoming spiritual and physical struggles can be a powerful tool in helping and encouraging others . There is healing in vulnerability, both for yourself and for those who hear your story.

When I’ve shared my own story, I’ve seen how it encourages others who are going through similar challenges. It’s a reminder that they are not alone and that there is hope.

In Revelation 12:11, we read:

“They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives even in the face of death.” tlv

Our testimonies can be a powerful weapon against despair, helping others to see that they too can overcome spiritual fatigue through faith in God.

Bible Verses for Overcoming Spiritual Fatigue

Strength in Weakness: 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 Paul writes, “Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’” This verse reminds us that our weaknesses are not something to be ashamed of; they are where God’s power can shine the brightest. Just as God’s strength was evident in Paul’s struggles, He can also provide the strength we need to overcome spiritual fatigue.

Renewing Strength: Isaiah 40:29-31 “He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might He increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength.” These words offer hope that no matter how tired we are, God is ready to renew our strength. This passage is a powerful reminder that our endurance doesn’t come from our own efforts but from waiting on the Lord , who provides the strength we need.

Perseverance in Trials: James 1:2-4 “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” This verse helps us to see trials not as something to be avoided, but as opportunities for growth and maturity in our faith . Spiritual fatigue, though challenging, can ultimately lead to a stronger, more resilient faith when we persevere through it.

Recommended Resources for Spiritual Healing

In my journey, I’ve found several resources to be invaluable for spiritual renewal. Books like “ When Bad Things Happen to Good People ” by Harold S. Kushner has provided comfort and insight during tough times.

Journaling can also be a powerful tool for processing your thoughts and prayers. Additionally, engaging in regular devotional readings and using prayer apps can help you stay connected to God, even when you’re feeling spiritually exhausted.

My Final Thoughts on Spiritual Fatigue

Spiritual fatigue is a real and challenging experience, but it is not insurmountable. Through faith, community, and practical steps , you can overcome this exhaustion and, in the process, find renewed strength in your relationship with God.

Remember, even in your most weary moments, God is with you, offering rest for your soul and the promise of renewed energy. I encourage you to share your experiences in the comments below—your story could be the encouragement someone else needs.

And if you know someone who could benefit from this message, please share this post with them. Let’s support one another in finding strength and renewal .

Download your FREE Be Encouraged and Through the Fire Devotionals below!

NASB – “Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation “

Tree of Life (TLV) – Scripture taken from the Holy Scriptures, Tree of Life Version*. Copyright © 2014,2016 by the Tree of Life Bible Society.  Used by permission of the Tree of Life Bible Society.

Tanakh: a New Translation of the Holy Scriptures According to the Traditional Hebrew Text. Philadelphia: Jewish Publication Society, 1985

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Spiritual Pain: A Symptom in Search of a Clinical Definition

Marta illueca.

1 The Episcopal Diocese of Delaware, 913 Wilson Rd, Wilmington, DE 19806 USA

Ylisabyth S. Bradshaw

2 Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02111 USA

Daniel B. Carr

We conducted a literature search to identify and compare definitions of the experiential dimension of spiritual pain. Key databases were searched, up to the year 2021 inclusive, for papers with a definition of “spiritual” or “existential” pain/distress in a clinical setting. Of 144 hits, seven papers provided theoretical definitions/descriptions; none incorporated clinical observations or underlying pathophysiological constructs. Based on these findings, we propose a new definition for “spiritual pain” as a “self-identified experience of personal discomfort, or actual or potential harm, triggered by a threat to a person’s relationship with God or a higher power.” Our updated definition can inform future studies in pain assessment and management.

Introduction

Spirituality is becoming a focus of increasing inquiry in medicine. Currently, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) has a comprehensive strategic plan for the years 2021–2025, that delineates a commitment to research programs on “the whole person and on the integration of complementary and conventional care,” although the plan omits clear terminology about the spiritual dimension of healthcare (NCCIH, 2021 , p. 1).

Important advances have been achieved by studies of the neuroscience of religious experience. Research from the past two decades provides a functional brain mapping of spiritual practices (Newberg, 2014 ) and includes the delineation of related regional brain activity and EEG patterns (Beauregard & Paquette, 2008 ; Ferguson et al., 2021 ; Jegindø et al., 2013 ), religion’s neurologic substrate (Cristofori et al., 2016 ) and common neural pathways for physical and social pain (Eisenberger, 2012 ). These advances are occurring in tandem with the recent updating of the definition of pain (Raja et al., 2020 ) by the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) and proposals for new and/or reorganized pain-related terms in the 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) by IASP and the World Health Organization (Treede et al., 2019 ).

Spirituality-related instruments or scales continue to emerge (Büssing, 2017 ). For example, the Pain and Palliative Care Service at the NIH Clinical Center developed and validated a scale for psycho-social spiritual healing of individuals with life-threatening and life challenging situations, called the National Institutes of Health-Healing Experience of All Life Stressors or NIH-HEALS (Ameli et al., 2018 ). The latter is a welcome new measure of psycho-social spiritual healing, since there is a scarcity of scales that specifically assess spiritual practices or spiritual healing for patients with significant pain or suffering from life-threatening illnesses. The totality of the emerging data indicates a new appreciation for the potential importance of spiritual practices and highlights the need for dedicated terminology and instruments applicable to the clinical setting.

To address this unmet terminological need, we surveyed the literature in search of descriptors to define and conceptualize a new taxonomy of spiritual pain. Such terminology may help define the experience or symptoms of spiritual pain within the context of each patient's personal spirituality. Based on our findings, we aim to offer a practical and clinically applicable definition of spiritual pain in the hope of providing pathophysiological and ontological frameworks for healthcare providers.

Our narrative review addresses the experiential dimension of spiritual pain, building upon existing theoretical or clinical definitions, including if and how this type of pain differs from the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of pain and/or distress. This review also addresses the extent to which spiritual pain is a component of other types of pain or whether it is a distinct entity.

At the outset of this project, an initial survey of the Hospice and Palliative Care literature revealed an evolution in thinking that described the spiritual context of an individual. Until recently, the existence of a spiritual sphere of being was implicit in research focused on the terminally ill person, with a paradigm shift emerging. The last two decades point toward the distinctiveness of such a spiritual sphere.

In this respect, data was reported from Australia, on the interventional work of staff and volunteer chaplains, employed by hospitals, church or government, dealing with pain patients (Carey et al., 2006 ). The authors underscore the use of pastoral skills in tackling non-physical aspects of the pain experience with exclusively religious interventions (e.g., prayer, devotions, ritual, and worship). Notably, recent research highlights the evolving nomenclature available from the World Health Organization's (WHO) Pastoral Intervention Codings (now called Spiritual Intervention Codings: WHO-SPICs), as part of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), where distinct spiritual interventions in healthcare are codified (Carey & Cohen, 2015 ). Without a doubt, the growing interest in the spiritual needs of patients and their caretakers is becoming more explicit, and has gradually extended into other areas of clinical care.

Early contributions to building a dedicated taxonomy for the spiritual aspects of healthcare are found in the nursing literature. In 1992, the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA) meeting reviewed the terms “spiritual distress” and “risk for spiritual distress” as well as an early nursing definition of spiritual pain as a “disruption in the principle which pervades a person’s entire being and which integrates and transcends one’s biological nature" (North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA, 1992 as cited in Boss et al., 2015 , p. 918). Currently, “spiritual distress” remains as a listed term in the most recent NANDA Handbook (2021) but not “spiritual pain” (Herdman et al.,  2021 ). Caldeira et al. ( 2013 ) characterized “spiritual distress” as a condition contrary to “spiritual well-being,” which results in loss of meaning in life.

Spirituality, specifically, has been characterized in various ways; however, a clear and more focused conceptualization with an angle distinct from existential features is lacking. An early characterization of spirituality was presented in broad terms, as “a personal experiential connection with the universe that is larger than you, and is in, through and around you” (Berger and deSwaan, 2006 , p.98). A few years later, the Archtone Foundation's Consensus Conference spearheaded a landmark set of guidelines seeking to integrate spiritual care as essential for optimal palliative care (Puchalski et al, 2009 ). The agreed upon definition at the time stated that “spirituality is the aspect of humanity that refers to the way individuals seek and express meaning and purpose and the way they experience their connectedness to the moment, to self, to others, to nature, and to the significant or sacred” (Puchalski et al, 2009 , p. 887).

A more recent concept analysis of spirituality further identified three defining characteristics: “Spirituality is a way of being in the world in which a person feels a sense of connectedness to self, others, and/or higher power or nature, a sense of meaning in life, and transcendence beyond self, everyday living, and suffering” (Weathers et al., 2016 , p. 93).

While we agree with portions of the above definitions, they are representative of the broad terminology which is non-descriptive of the transcendental spirituality space. A recent summary of the spirituality literature by Koenig ( 2018 ) highlights the lack of clarity and consensus in existing definitions of spirituality within a clinical context (p. 8). Therefore, we begin by re-examining and updating the concept of spirituality, which we define as “a transcendent space of being, which is non-physical and non-mental, wherein dwells a higher power, God, or universal energy with which a person seeks to enter or bask in a relationship temporarily, periodically, or permanently” (Illueca et al., 2020 ). It is within the context of this transcendent space that the experience or symptoms of spiritual pain may be manifested in the clinical setting. We propose that spiritual pain is a symptom because it can only be experienced and/or identified by the patient, as opposed to a sign that is assessed by an observer.

Cicely Saunders’s spearheaded the hospice movement and was early to point out the multi-dimensional nature of “total pain,” including the mental and spiritual spheres of the pain experience. This view of spiritual pain emphasizes the “unfairness” of terminal events and a “desolate feeling of meaninglessness" (Saunders, 1988 ). We argue that the latter concept of spiritual pain is primarily a reference to existential rather than spiritual issues. By “existential,” we mean those aspects of life that are integral to a person’s self-identity and meaning of life in the here and now. For the purposes of this paper, the existential context is distinct from the transcendental sphere of spirituality, which extends beyond life itself. Frankl describes the existential context in psychological terms as “existence itself” (i.e., the specifically human mode of being), its meaning and the search to find this meaning (Frankl, 1985 , p.123).

With all the above in mind, we surveyed papers from various clinical settings reporting the experience of spiritual pain as a focus for therapeutic strategies. We summarized the prototypes of prior definitions related to the concept of spiritual pain, identified key descriptors in those early definitions, and built a new clinical definition of spiritual pain.

We performed a narrative review by searching key medical and psychology databases for papers published up to the year 2021 inclusive. Inclusion criteria were papers written in English, with a focused description or definition of “spiritual" or “existential” pain or distress, within a patient-centered or clinical context. Only primary sources were included. Exclusion criteria referred to papers mentioning spiritual pain with no clear definition in the text, or papers that provided a definition cited from another primary source.

This search yielded 144 papers from Web of Science, PubMed, PsycNet, and Tufts Hirsch Health Sciences Library's JumboSearch. The searches were augmented with a manual review of citations presented within relevant papers, for a total of 18 articles of interest (Table ​ (Table1). 1 ). Attention focused on whether spiritual pain was studied as part of other types of pain or whether it was treated as a distinct type of distress. Papers that included work on existential distress were included if they defined or characterized spiritual pain conditions or if their definitions of existential pain or distress included a spiritual dimension.

Spiritual Pain Database search results—November 18, 2021

*Not listed but searched with negligible outcomes were PsycNet and JSTOR

**Papers excluded for lack of spiritual pain definition

Only primary sources were included and papers that just cited a primary source for a definition were excluded. Duplicates and papers without an explicit definition for spiritual pain were not included even if they mentioned the term. Definitions for spiritual pain, from the seven papers that met our inclusion and exclusion criteria, were tabulated, and assessed for their applicability to both spirituality and the clinical setting (Table ​ (Table2). 2 ). Essential descriptors were identified and noted as key components that may support a clinical definition of spiritual pain. Mixed definitions were noted as well as those that conflated existential and spiritual components. For the latter, key terms applicable only to the spirituality of the person were considered as true definitional components. Finally, based on aggregated findings, a new definition for spiritual pain is proposed.

Spiritual pain: timeline and definitions from included papers

Seven papers were identified that provided limited definitions or descriptors of spiritual pain in a clinical setting including Saunders' early definition noted above. Four papers were from Western countries (USA and Sweden), one from Japan, and two papers, although written in the USA, did not specify the location of the study (Table ​ (Table2). 2 ). Papers in our review which indicate that “spiritual pain” is largely a self-identified experiential state separate from physical pain are discussed next, with data suggesting that spiritual pain may occur independently or in parallel with signs of somatic or existential discomfort.

Spiritual pain was studied in 57 advanced cancer patients in palliative care (Mako et al., 2006 ). These patients agreed to participate in study interviews given by chaplains. The operational definition of spiritual pain was “a pain deep in your soul (being) that is not physical." A total of 96% of participants reported the symptom anytime in their life and 61% during the study period. Through content analysis of patients' qualitative expression of their spiritual pain, the authors identified three distinct manifestations of the patient's experience. The reported variations included descriptions of an intrapsychic conflict (48%), or an issue in relation to the divine (38%), or an interpersonal loss/conflict (13%) as described by patients (see Table ​ Table2). 2 ). In the same study by Mako et al. ( 2006 ), the authors noted that the spectrum of spiritual pain intensity was consistent across age, gender, natural history of disease, or religious/spiritual background, based on the patients' self-report. In addition, patients rated the intensity of their spiritual pain on an 11-point scale similar to the scale used to grade their physical pain on daily nursing rounds. The study did not report using any validated scales in their methods. The collected data was used to measure and estimate the correlation of spiritual pain outcomes (i.e., physical pain intensity, depression, severity of disease, and religiosity) using t test, analysis of variance (ANOVA) or Chi-square. Pertinent to our review, the only significant correlation was with depression ( r  = 0.43, p  < 0.001), and no correlation was found with the disease stage nor with their physical pain.

Although not part of our primary series of papers, it is of interest that Delgado-Guay et al. ( 2011 ) conducted a cross-sectional prospective study of 100 patients with cancer treated at MD Anderson’s Palliative Care Clinic. Using Mako's definition (Mako et al., 2006 ) this group reported additional data on spiritual pain, assessing the prevalence and intensity of spirituality, religiosity, and spiritual pain. In this publication, as in the literature in general, religiosity refers to the adherence to ritual and ceremonial practices within an established religious dogma. The authors also looked for connections between these factors and symptoms at the time of presentation, ways of coping, and quality of life. Patients in this study identified their own spiritual symptoms. The authors found that spiritual pain was associated with lower self-perceived religiosity and lower spiritual quality of life. Patients reporting more intense spiritual pain had higher levels of anxiety, depression, anorexia, and drowsiness. The adverse effects seen in the latter group of patients extended to increased physical and emotional symptoms.

Hui et al. ( 2011 ) studied spiritual distress from the point of view of its prevalence and symptom correlates in a cohort of patients with cancer admitted to MD Anderson’s acute palliative care unit (APCU). Patient characterization included symptom assessment using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment scale (ESAS), a validated tool for use in palliative care. The ESAS assesses for feelings of well-being as well as nine symptoms: pain, fatigue, nausea, depression, anxiety, drowsiness, sleep, appetite, and shortness of breath. A total of 113 patients were included, and 44% were considered to have spiritual distress. When compared with the group without spiritual distress by univariate analysis, the most frequent features of the distress group were younger age, pain, and depression. Age and depression were also correlated by multivariate analysis.

In addition, Hui et al. ( 2011 ) reported that spiritual distress was evaluated and diagnosed by their team's chaplains, using a shortened seven item version of the original 22 item questionnaire by Nash ( 1990 ). The modified tool included seven spiritual distress domains for which a high prevalence of dysfunction was reported, in at least two of seven domains relevant to cancer care. The seven domains with a prevalence of imbalance were hope versus despair (32%), wholeness versus brokenness (27%), courage versus anxiety/dread (29%), connected versus alienated (16%), meaningful versus meaningless (15%), grace/forgiveness versus guilt (8%), and empowered versus helpless (25%).

Strang and colleagues investigated the concept of “existential pain” as understood by hospital chaplains, palliative care doctors and pain specialists (Strang et al., 2004 ). We included this paper because it addresses religious issues and their existential pain context, defining the latter as a metaphor of “suffering with no clear connection to physical pain” (Strang et al., 2004 , p. 241). This definition is problematic because it does not exclude concurrent psychological pain as it may relate to mental health diagnoses. The latter study is valuable, however, in revealing key differences between the groups. The chaplains’ focus was on the idea of guilt and on religious issues whereas palliative doctors tended to relate existential pain to a sense of annihilation and impending separation. Pain specialist physicians responded in such a way as to indicate a sense that “life itself is painful.”

Another author (McGrath, 2002 , 2003 ) highlighted the role of spiritual and existential beliefs as determinants of the attitudes of patients receiving palliative care. Using qualitative analyses of patient narratives, a pioneering study of differences in the experience of pain between survivors of hematological malignancies (McGrath, 2002 ) and hospice patients (McGrath, 2003 ) was conducted. First, data from the 12 cancer survivors disclosed a few distinctive features (McGrath, 2002 ). In the latter, the notion of spiritual pain was represented by a subjective, post-treatment painful loss of the meaning of life with an accompanying “sense of void,” “cosmic loneliness,” and “disconnection” with “normal/expected relationships.” Notably, in the survivor report, the degree of spiritual pain was sometimes indicative of a “suicidal intensity.” Additional data from the 14 hospice patients revealed comparable distinctive features (McGrath, 2003 ). The latter were characterized by “relational pain” resulting from “existential losses” including loss of self, personal relationships, and loss of “the expected satisfaction and meaning-making from life” but no relevant reports of suicidal intensity from the spiritual pain. In the two papers by McGrath ( 2002 , 2003 ), we found a recurrence of the conflation around existential issues and spiritual pain or distress.

In this respect, the contrast between existential and spiritual pain or suffering, as it pertains to hospice and palliative care, was further explored through a literature review (Boston et al., 2011 ). Multiple spiritual and existential issues were identified including various dichotomies that highlighted the differences between existential and spiritual parameters: meaning and purpose in life (existential), connectedness with family and others (existential/social), worry about their loved ones (existential/social) and fear of dying (existential/spiritual). Among the existential issues considered distinct from spiritual ones are a sense of purpose, autonomy, freedom, and relational capabilities pertaining to significant others and loved ones. In contrast, the hallmark of spirituality was the self-transcendent tone in its defining traits: a sense of meaning within a religious, non-social context, recognition of a “higher source” of meaning and a relational sense of communion with the divine. The authors also found vagueness and inconsistency in the terminology and conceptualization of spiritual and existential issues.

One more paper was included that explored spiritual pain in Japanese patients with terminal cancer using a conceptual framework approach based on what the author considers the three dimensions of the human being, that is, a being founded on temporality, relationships, and autonomy (Murata, 2003 ). In Murata’s analysis, spiritual pain was defined as “pain caused by extinction of the being and the meaning of the self.” The latter idea is in tandem with the expected sense of isolation or social abandonment frequently noted in patients with pain (Craig et al., 2020 ; Eisenberger, 2012 ). Murata’s findings indicated that spiritual pain was characterized as a state of loss of life’s meaning, loss of identity and lack of self-worth that arose from the deep sense of losses of the dying patient (e.g., their future, their relationships, and their autonomy). The author concluded with recommendations for principles of spiritual care of terminally ill cancer patients that include recovery from this sense of loss in the various existential dimensions of the dying patient.

The available medical literature has not yet produced a consistent or uniform definition of spiritual pain. Therefore, we propose the following:

Spiritual pain is a self-identified experience of personal discomfort, or actual or potential harm, triggered by a threat to a person’s relationship with God or a higher power. Spiritual pain becomes clinically significant when it interferes with one’s functionality and prevents one from entering the transcendent spaces of spiritual practices temporarily or permanently.

In the present review, we found widespread conflation of spiritual and existential terminology with no consistent definition of spiritual pain. Therefore, to seek a clinical definition of spiritual pain is more than an exercise in exact clinical thinking, but rather a series of complex processes that typify clinical reasoning, including the use of a “differential diagnosis” and often, a “diagnosis of exclusion.”

One specific area of diagnostic challenge stems from the interchangeable terminology used in the literature to address “existential” and “spiritual” issues. However unintentional, this overlap of meaning between existential and spiritual aspects of pain is not a new issue. As mentioned earlier, in the 1960’s, the advent of the hospice movement served to manifest the multidimensional nature of pain, including the psychological and spiritual spheres of the pain experience as interpreted by Saunders ( 1988 ) and later expanded by Boston et al. ( 2011 ). In addition, we noted that some papers came from the Hospice and Palliative Care literature, and we propose that these terms can be extrapolated to any sick patient, especially those with chronic pain or a serious medical illness at any stage, not only those in the terminal phase of their illness.

Of interest, within the context of spiritual care, it is important to note potential roadblocks to its implementation within the care plan for every patient. The barriers to psychosocial spiritual care are described in the literature based on a physician group study, considering a major challenge the fact that healthcare practitioners do not offer psychosocial spiritual care (Chibnall et al., 2004 ). The authors defined psychosocial spiritual care as the “aspects of care concerning patient emotional state, social support and relationships, and spiritual well-being.”

Using a qualitative group discussion format, with physicians in a variety of practice settings, Chibnall et al. ( 2004 ) identified barriers in three main areas: cultural, organizational, and clinical. In the area of cultural barriers, a recurrent finding was the marginalization of psychosocial aspects of care as “tangential” within the fundamental curriculum of medical and healthcare training. Among organizational barriers, there was a tangible degree of dissatisfaction among the medical professionals, compounded by the busyness and “workaholic norm” of physicians that get in the way of pursuing the psychosocial aspects of care in the dying patient. And concerning clinical barriers, there were communication difficulties between the evidence-based medical workstyle and the subjective nature of spiritual and psychosocial issues.

Lastly, by November 2021, the time of submitting this paper for publication, there are no new references describing spiritual pain in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic. There is, however, emerging literature considering the importance of “spiritual care” (Ferrell et al., 2020 ) and “spiritual fortitude” (Zhang et al., 2021 ) as areas to consider in future spirituality and health research.

Limitations

There are limitations to our approach in defining spiritual pain. The available scientific terminology is problematic, without uniformity or consensus. The scarce medical literature on this topic, mainly from the Hospice and Palliative Care setting, offers fragmented prototypes of definitions and few descriptors with little or no applicable clinical criteria as summarized above in our results. Attempting to define a clinical symptom or experience that manifests itself beyond the physical and psychological spheres is a task that defies suitability for evidence-based medicine. In our quest to define spiritual pain, we recognized the need for delineating a personalized spirituality context, within which this experience may or may not be identified.

The question remains, how do we approach the spiritual dimension of healthcare within a framework of research and clinical practice? The topic of spiritual pain has a complexity that does not allow for a standard methodology to be used across various patient populations, diverse cultures, and healthcare specialties. Yet, we believe that the definition we are putting forth facilitates the dialog toward this end.

Conclusions

To embrace the idea of a spiritual dimension of care, where spiritual pain is considered a cardinal symptom, it is necessary to be open to an individualized, yet collaborative approach to patient care. Spiritual needs overlap with those of physical and mental maladies, and it is essential to endorse patient-care models in which the chaplain or pastor is a participant in the clinical team. Eventually, through the collaborative efforts of both health care and pastoral workers, it will be feasible to provide patients with relief from this real source of distress and suffering, separate from physical and psychological ailments.

The spiritual dimension of a patient is a crucial yet elusive target for intervention and, more research from more diverse clinical and cultural populations, will help to discern the best strategies to incorporate formal training in this key aspect of the holistic approach to medical care.

Acknowledgements

Unpublished portions of this paper were written in fulfillment of the “End-of-life and Palliative Care Issues” course directed by Ms. Pamela K. Ressler, MS, RN, HNB-BC in the Pain Research, Education and Policy (PREP) program at Tufts University School of Medicine, Public Health and Professional Degree Programs, Boston, MA. The authors wish to thank Ms. Amy Lapidow, MLS, Associate Librarian Research & Instruction, at Tufts Hirsh Health Sciences Library, Tufts University School of Medicine, for technical assistance.

The authors declare that no funds, grants, or other support were received during the preparation of this manuscript.

Declarations

The authors declare no conflict of interest or non-financial interests to disclose.

This paper complies with ethical standards.

Portions of this manuscript were presented in poster form at the 46th International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) World Congress on Pain, Virtual Congress, 2020.

Publisher's Note

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

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Teachings Working with Pain

The Noble Truth of Pain

A teacher with a chronic affliction on the value of being present with physical suffering 

The Pali word dukkha is usually translated as “suffering,” and we generally talk about “sickness, old age, and death” as the basic categories of that suffering. But sickness does not begin to cover all of the kinds of pain physical bodies experience, and understanding and reorienting our experiences to be inclusive of this wider variety of pain is a powerful Zen practice.

To begin with, I’d like to set out a few caveats. First, although it is actually impossible to disentangle physical pain from mental and emotional pain, I’m going to focus on the embodied experience of physical pain, because this topic is so vast. In my specific case, the pain I am referring to is rheumatoid arthritis (aka RA), an autoimmune disease that leads to swelling and pain in the joints, as well as fatigue and brain fog. In addition to the immediate pains of the condition, RA can also lead to longer-term degeneration of other parts of the body, such as heart, lungs, and eyes, but for the purposes of this teaching, I am going to focus on the former physical embodied immediate pains associated with RA. Second, I do not want to claim that my encounters with pain are special. I can say with 100 percent certainty that every single person reading this has experienced physical pain. I can also say with 100 percent certainty that there are people reading this who have had far more intense, long-lasting, and life-threatening pain than I have experienced. But in my attempts to come to grips with having a chronic autoimmune disease, I’ve made a study of pain, and I’d like to share some of what I’ve learned.

What exactly is pain? It’s one of those big fuzzy words that is recognized and used by everyone but hard to actually define. Even the dictionary definitions seem to be searching for clarity. One definition is “a localized or generalized unpleasant bodily sensation or complex of sensations that causes mild to severe physical discomfort and emotional distress and typically results from bodily disorder,” with another definition of pain being “a basic bodily sensation that is induced by a noxious stimulus, is received by naked nerve endings, is associated with actual or potential tissue damage, is characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching), and typically leads to evasive action.” To me, defining pain as “unpleasant bodily sensation” is just kicking the can down the road—what is the definition of “unpleasant”? And I have to say I love the definition of pain as being caused by “a noxious stimulus”—it’s so evocative and yet so unclear.

However, these definitions do point to some important truths. First, pain is not a disorder or a mistake. People who have congenital insensitivity to pain (that is, they cannot feel pain) often have their lives cut short or suffer serious but avoidable injuries, because pain is an important part of life. Without the “evasive action” pain evokes in us, we would leave our hand on the hot stove, walk on a broken foot, or not realize we needed to visit the doctor. Pain, in fact, is good ; it exists to warn us of danger. Of course there are all kinds of pain that aren’t helpful either because the pain continues after the danger has passed (your hand won’t stop hurting the instant you lift it off the burner) or because it’s a false signal (as is true in my case). But it’s still absolutely vital to recognize that pain is a necessary part of life and honor the work it does in keeping us safe and helping us to grow.

Another big fuzzy aspect of pain is that not everyone finds the same things painful. The level of spice in a curry may make one person feel sick while another person barely notices the heat. One person will perceive the sensation of riding a roller coaster as fun and exhilarating, while another person (like me) finds it the very definition of “a noxious stimulus.” And because pain messages are carried along the same nerves that carry pleasure messages, it is possible for a sensation that reads as pain to be considered pleasurable, as anyone who has had a deep tissue massage knows. And this isn’t even getting into the ways we process pain mentally and emotionally!

One of the most interesting things about pain is that it is a universal experience but also utterly personal. It is impossible to describe pain directly—we must resort to metaphor and talk around it.

One of the most interesting things about pain is that it is a universal experience but also utterly personal. It is impossible to describe pain directly—we must resort to metaphor and talk around it. Elaine Scarry wrote a book called The Body in Pain that is a philosophical exploration of pain. One of the points she makes is that when pain is bad enough, language is destroyed—we can no longer communicate in words but only through moans and cries. The difficulty of describing pain to an observer has led to more than a dozen different pain scales, ranging from the comically vague—think cartoon faces in various stages of distress—to the incredibly detailed, like that of the McGill scale, which has seventy-eight words to choose from as well as a full drawing of the body for locating the pain. And have you ever really looked at the descriptions on the Mankoski Pain Scale, the familiar “rate your pain on a scale of 1–10”? Most people think that 10 is the worst pain they’ve ever suffered, but it’s actually “the worst pain imaginable.” I find this hilarious because I believe pain is actually completely unimaginable—we can barely mentally recreate the sensation of pain we’ve had, only the mental response to it. So how can we imagine the worst possible pain? And in the description of physical reactions, the Mankoski scale notes that this level of pain leads to unconsciousness (which, of course, means you are no longer feeling any pain). So apparently “the worst pain imaginable” is the same as no pain—possibly the Zenniest thing ever.

So what does Zen have to say about pain, and how can our practice help us reorient our relationship with pain (because we have to accept that pain will always be with us)? The first thing we can realize is that pain is not an enemy that needs to be fought. Pain is a friend, a good friend. Just as it is only our closest friends who will tell us hard truths, pain is there to make sure we pay attention to problems and to respond quickly and appropriately. Think about how incredibly lucky we are that, as human beings in 21st- century America, we have the ability to understand pain’s message with great clarity and a variety of ways to respond. Right now, my cat Cordelia is going through an autoimmune issue similar to mine. She is allergic to something (we haven’t figured out what yet) and she will scratch her head until she tears open the skin, leaving bloody gashes. In attempting to fight the pain, she causes herself more pain. Nor can she understand that the pills I give her every morning help reduce the itching—she just sees that as one more thing to be upset about. Buddhism urges us to be grateful for the karma that led to a human birth, which includes being grateful for our understanding of the way pain functions. This can be hard to do the moment pain strikes, especially with severe pain, so we practice with the small pain (well, mostly small pain) of sitting still on a cushion. We promise ourselves to be still and listen to what pain tells us so that we can become familiar with the messages and understand them in more drastic situations.

But even closer than a friend, pain is not separate from us, as our practice allows us to understand. Western thought is very much based in the mind-body split, the belief that our bodies are just a vehicle for the “real” us—our mind or soul. Shakespeare describes the Christian view of the body as a house that the soul rents for the span of a lifetime: “Why so large a cost, having so short a lease / Dost thou upon thy fading mansion spend?” This is a lovely expression of the common idea that the mind or soul is perfect and untouchable, and only the body suffers and decays. Zen, on the other hand, teaches us that our bodies are us, because everything is us and we are everything. This, in turn, means that physical pain is not a separate thing that can be avoided or rejected or fixed, and that trying to do so only creates more suffering (sometimes mental but oftentimes it generates more physical pain). At the same time, this also points out that the way to deal with pain is not to ignore it or “rise above it.” The Buddha tried the ascetic path to the point where he almost died, and as such, rejected it as an answer to suffering. We cannot ignore, beat, or bribe pain into going away. If I’ve learned nothing else in ten years with rheumatoid arthritis, I’ve learned that nothing makes pain go away if it isn’t ready to go. I can distract or drug myself for a little while, but the pain is still there. I find much more peace from inviting the pain in to have a chat than I do from barring the door, shutting the curtains, and pretending I’m not at home.

But it’s an easy thing to say when you’re not in any or much pain, and it’s all theoretical. How does understanding pain as an integral and even positive part of yourself actually work? Well, to be perfectly honest, most of the time, it doesn’t. Every instinct we have tells us that the way to deal with pain is to avoid or escape it. Practicing with pain is hard . But practice is intrinsically hard. Practice is about bringing our attention into this very moment and being present for what is, over and over again, until we gain an embodied understanding of reality, which is that you’re not me and I’m not you, and yet you and I are the same. That’s not only difficult, it directly contradicts the version of reality that our ego presents to us. And while pain can be distracting, alienating, and upsetting, it can also be a powerful way to practice being present with what is—without stories or expectations. It can be a powerful way to experience, in a very embodied way, what reality actually is.

This is an especially hard practice because we can’t practice with pain in order to get rid of pain. I’ve read a lot of articles about Buddhism and pain, and a lot of them are, in the end, unsatisfying, because at heart they almost all focus on how to alleviate pain or at least the suffering that accompanies it. I have no doubt that these suggestions could work, and many of them do suggest mindful awareness and attention, but the more I read, the more I felt something was missing. For example, in the article “ Giving Pain the Slip ,” Buddhist scholar Andrew Oldendzki describes how he learned to deal with terrible headaches. By being present with the pain of the headaches, he noticed there were moments when the pain was less. Oldendzki says, “I slowly learned to inhabit those spaces, to give my greatest attention to the instances of lesser pain. By focusing on these, I found that the surges in between were less intrusive, and I was gradually learning to ‘skip over’ them and settle down on the softer areas.”

Pain is a friend, a good friend. Just as it is only our closest friends who will tell us hard truths, pain is there to make sure we pay attention to problems and to respond quickly and appropriately.

While that is wonderful and an effective technique, it’s also picking and choosing. It’s managing pain by discriminating, focusing on the better moments rather than the worse ones. That doesn’t make the technique bad—I use it as well as other techniques like it. But that’s managing pain, not practicing with it. And to be perfectly honest, if all I’m trying to do is manage my pain, I’ve got Vicodin—way faster and more effective!

Then, a couple of years ago, I discovered a book by Darlene Cohen , who was a longtime resident of San Francisco Zen Center and who had very severe rheumatoid arthritis. There’s one passage that really stood out to me, so much so that I copied it out of the book and regularly use it to ground myself when I’m trying to meditate with especially bad pain.

We must penetrate our anguish and pain so thoroughly that illness and health lose their distinction, [allowing] us to just live our lives. Our relief from pain and our healing have to be given up again and again to set us free from the desire to be well. Otherwise, getting well is just another hindrance to us … another idea that enslaves us, like any other achievement. Healing ourselves is like living our lives. It is not preparation for anything else, nor a journey to another situation called wellness. It is its own self; it has its own value. It is each thing as it is.

If we practice with pain in order to get rid of pain, we are not really practicing with pain. We’re practicing with conditions, with our discriminating mind, with greed, anger, and delusion. And that’s just fine. As my former teacher, the late Shuzen Roshi, once said, “It’s okay to be deluded as long as you know you’re deluded.” Meditating to reduce stress, manage pain, see that the pain is impermanent—all fine. But this is goal-driven meditation with an external purpose. In the end, the only reason to practice with pain is to practice with pain.

So how do you practice with pain? I can tell you what I do. I accept the truth that I want pain-filled moments to be different. Breathe. Recognize that the pain is not other than myself, that it is an intrinsic part of being alive. Breathe. Remember that pain is not the same thing as suffering. Breathe. Let go of my desire to be free of the pain. Breathe. Gently turn my attention to one of the other many aspects of the present moment. Breathe. Repeat as necessary.

The piece was excerpted and adapted from a dharma talk given at Soji Zen Center in Lansdowne, PA, in 2019 and republished in arrangement with Annalisa Rakugo Castaldo.

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Interwoven within the 1122 angel number are the individual energies of the numbers 1 and 2, each imbued with its own unique significance.

The number 1 is a symbol of new beginnings, leadership, and personal empowerment. It represents the innate power within you to forge your own path , to take decisive action, and to become the architect of your own destiny. When 1 appears in the 1122 sequence, it is a reminder to embrace your inner strength, to trust your intuition, and to boldly step forward into the unknown.

The number 2, on the other hand, embodies the energy of harmony, balance, and cooperation. It speaks to the importance of nurturing relationships, fostering unity, and finding common ground with those around you. In the context of the 1122 angel number, the presence of 2 encourages you to cultivate deeper connections, to communicate openly and honestly, and to find ways to collaborate with others in the pursuit of your goals.

Spiritual Growth and Awakening

The appearance of the 1122 angel number is often a harbinger of profound spiritual growth and awakening. This numerical sequence is a powerful invitation to embark on a journey of self-discovery, to delve deeper into your inner world, and to uncover the limitless potential that lies within you.

When you encounter 1122, it may be a sign that you are on the verge of a transformative shift in your consciousness. This could manifest as a heightened sense of intuition, a deeper connection to the divine, or a newfound clarity about your life purpose. It is a time to embrace the process of spiritual evolution, to let go of old patterns and beliefs that no longer serve you, and to open yourself up to the infinite possibilities that await you.

Manifestation and Abundance

Interwoven with the themes of spiritual growth is the powerful energy of manifestation and abundance that the 1122 angel number carries. This numerical sequence is a potent reminder of the creative power that resides within you, and the importance of aligning your thoughts, emotions, and actions with your desired outcomes.

When you see 1122, it may be a sign that the universe is ready to support you in bringing your dreams and aspirations into physical reality. This could involve the manifestation of financial abundance, the realization of a long-held goal, or the blossoming of a meaningful relationship. The key lies in cultivating a mindset of positivity, gratitude, and unwavering belief in your ability to create the life you envision.

Harmony and Balance

The 1122 angel number also carries a message of harmony and balance, urging you to seek equilibrium in all aspects of your life. This may involve finding ways to nurture your relationships, to maintain a healthy work-life balance, or to align your personal and professional pursuits with your core values and beliefs.

When 1122 appears, it is a reminder to prioritize self-care, to foster open and honest communication with those close to you, and to create a sense of harmony within your inner and outer worlds. By embracing this energy of balance, you can cultivate a greater sense of peace, joy, and fulfillment, and attract into your life experiences and relationships that are truly aligned with your highest good.

The Power of Master Numbers

As we delve deeper into the meaning of the 1122 angel number, it's essential to understand the significance of master numbers in numerology . These special numerical sequences, such as 11 and 22, are imbued with a heightened vibrational frequency and a profound capacity for transformation.

The Significance of 1 and 2

The number 1 is a symbol of new beginnings, leadership, and personal empowerment. It represents the innate power within you to forge your own path, to take decisive action, and to become the architect of your own destiny. When 1 appears in the 1122 sequence, it is a reminder to embrace your inner strength, to trust your intuition, and to boldly step forward into the unknown.

The Interplay of Numerological Energies

When the master numbers 11 and 22 are combined with the individual energies of 1 and 2, the 1122 angel number becomes a powerful synthesis of transformative potential. This numerical sequence represents a harmonious interplay of personal empowerment, spiritual awakening, manifestation, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships.

By understanding the unique numerological significance of 1122, you can tap into the profound insights and guidance it offers, using this knowledge to navigate your life's journey with greater clarity, purpose, and a deep sense of connection to the divine.

Releasing the Past and Reframing Your Perspective

One of the key messages conveyed by the 1122 angel number is the importance of embracing positive change and letting go of the past. This numerical sequence is a powerful reminder that your past experiences, whether perceived as positive or negative, have all contributed to shaping the person you are today.

When you encounter 1122, it may be a sign that it's time to reframe your perspective on your life's journey. Instead of dwelling on past hurts or regrets, the angels encourage you to view your experiences as stepping stones towards growth and transformation. By consciously choosing to release the burden of the past and focus on the present moment, you open yourself up to the infinite possibilities that lie ahead.

Cultivating Positive Thoughts and Emotions

Closely linked to the theme of embracing positive change is the importance of cultivating positive thoughts and emotions. The 1122 angel number is a powerful reminder that your thoughts and feelings have a profound impact on your reality, and that by aligning your inner world with the vibration of positivity, you can attract abundance, joy, and fulfillment into your life.

When you see 1122, it may be a sign to pay close attention to the thoughts and emotions you're nurturing. Are you dwelling on fears, doubts, and negative experiences, or are you actively focusing on your dreams, aspirations, and the positive aspects of your life? By making a conscious effort to shift your mindset, you can harness the transformative power of the 1122 angel number and manifest the life you truly desire.

Aligning with Your Highest Purpose

At the heart of the 1122 angel number's message is a call to align your actions with your highest purpose. This numerical sequence is a reminder that you are a co-creator with the divine, and that you have the innate power to shape your reality and contribute to the greater good of humanity.

When you encounter 1122, it may be a sign to reflect on your life's purpose, your passions, and the unique gifts and talents you have to offer the world. By tuning into this inner wisdom and taking inspired action towards your goals, you can tap into the boundless energy of the 1122 angel number and manifest a life that is truly fulfilling and aligned with your highest calling.

Connecting with Your Intuition

One of the key ways to harness the transformative power of the 1122 angel number is to cultivate a deeper connection with your intuition. This numerical sequence is often associated with heightened spiritual awareness and the ability to tap into the divine source of guidance and inspiration.

When you see 1122, take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and tune into the subtle whispers of your inner voice. Allow your intuition to guide you, whether it's through meditation, journaling, or simply paying attention to the synchronicities and signs that appear in your daily life. By trusting your intuitive insights, you can align your actions with your highest good and unlock the profound wisdom that the 1122 angel number has to offer.

Embracing Creativity and Self-Expression

The 1122 angel number is also closely linked to the energy of creativity and self-expression. This numerical sequence is a powerful reminder that you are a divine conduit for creative expression, and that by tapping into your innate talents and passions, you can contribute to the greater good of humanity.

Whether it's through the arts, writing, music, or any other form of creative pursuit, the 1122 angel number encourages you to embrace your unique gifts and share them with the world. By channeling your creative energies, you not only nurture your own sense of fulfillment and joy but also have the opportunity to uplift and inspire those around you.

Fostering Meaningful Connections

Another key aspect of harnessing the transformative power of the 1122 angel number is the importance of fostering meaningful connections with those around you. This numerical sequence is a reminder that we are all interconnected, and that by cultivating deeper relationships and finding common ground, we can create a more harmonious and unified world.

When you see 1122, consider ways in which you can deepen your relationships, whether it's with your loved ones, your community, or even with strangers you encounter in your daily life. Engage in acts of kindness, practice active listening, and seek to understand the perspectives and experiences of others. By embracing the energy of harmony and cooperation, you can unlock the transformative potential of the 1122 angel number and contribute to the greater good of humanity.

As you continue to encounter the 1122 angel number in your life, remember that it is a profound and multifaceted message from the divine realm, inviting you to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and manifestation.

By understanding the rich tapestry of spiritual significance that this numerical sequence carries, you can tap into the boundless potential that lies within you. From the powerful energies of the master numbers 11 and 22 to the individual significance of 1 and 2, the 1122 angel number is a catalyst for positive change, spiritual awakening, and the realization of your deepest dreams and aspirations.

Embrace the guidance and encouragement that the 1122 angel number offers, and trust in the divine plan that is unfolding before you. By aligning your thoughts, emotions, and actions with the vibration of positivity, you can unlock the transformative power of this angelic signpost and create a life that is truly aligned with your highest good.

Remember, the journey of 1122 is one of self-discovery, manifestation, and the cultivation of meaningful connections. Trust in the process, surrender to the flow of the universe, and allow the profound wisdom of this angel number to guide you towards the fulfillment of your soul's purpose.

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