Cutting through Spiritual Bypassing
A lot of people get involved with spirituality for reasons that have little to do with awakening or Enlightenment. Many seekers hope that their very human struggles and relational pain would simply disappear if they had an awakening. I used to think that way.
Looking at our bypassing tendencies can feel extremely confronting and uncomfortable. Being gentle with yourself is key in this process.
Unfortunately, seeing into the Absolute might not change anything in your life. In spirituality, there are no guarantees. A moment of awakening can feel extremely freeing, yet might in turn unearth buried shadows and traumas that need to be dealt with in their own domain.
Seeing that there is no escape from Life can be devastating. As our illusions about Reality begin to disappear, there can also be a great disillusionment about spirituality itself.
When we begin to show up to our lives, instead of waiting for a cosmic finish line in the name of Enlightenment, we can step into our authentic spirituality.
Now our longing for Truth is for Truth’s sake and without agendas.
Truth does liberate, but only if we come to it empty handed.
Ask yourself what you really expect from your spiritual practise or tradition. Be honest and uncover any personal or relational agendas you might have in the name of spirituality. Be kind with yourself.
You might be involved in spirituality because it gives you a sense of purpose or because it connects you with community. Perhaps it gives you an ego boost to be “spiritual” instead of “materialistic.”
Maybe you are expecting to feel better through spiritual practice. Perhaps spirituality has become an escape from the pain of your relationships or past traumas.
Working with a compassionate and respectful guide and getting into some life-affirming shadow work can greatly clarify and complement the genuine longing behind your spiritual impulse.
Learn more about the work I offer on Spirituality and Embodiment and get in touch with me for a free discovery call here.