8 Important Stages in the Spiritual Awakening Journey

There comes a point in most people’s lives when they yearn to embark on a spiritual awakening journey. But what is spiritual awakening? When and why must you start on your spiritual awakening journey?

The spiritual awakening journey consists of the stages you must go through before becoming more aware of your true self. It’s a path to personal growth and fulfillment.

The reason for embarking on a spiritual awakening journey is purely personal but usually triggered by a life-changing event such as the death of a loved one, separation from your partner, a huge financial loss, etc.

You will be disoriented, sad, and depressed when this happens, but it may be a blessing in disguise. It’s your cue to start your spiritual awakening journey and find peace and tranquility.

What is Spiritual Awakening?

A spiritual awakening is a profound shift in consciousness. It’s when you start to see life from a deeper perspective. You become more aware of your true self and the interconnectedness of all things.

Spiritual awakening gives birth to a feeling that there’s more to life than what meets the eye. It’s about finding a deeper meaning and purpose.

During a spiritual awakening, you will have a heightened sense of awareness, increased empathy, and a desire for solitude.

Physical symptoms like changes in sleep patterns or energy levels can also occur. It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience is unique.

This is my personal story. The confluence of a series of unfortunate events during the pandemic demolished me. Living seemed impossible and utterly meaningless. I thought I had hit rock bottom and there was no future.

However, my decision to embark on a spiritual awakening journey completely transformed my life. I now cherish every moment of my life.

Let me explain what I think are the important stages in a spiritual awakening journey.

8 Important Stages in the Spiritual Awakening Journey

Some say there are 7 stages in the spiritual awakening journey, some say there are 8, and some have an even higher number. Please understand, that it is the process and not the number of stages, that is important.

So, let us go with my 8 stages in the spiritual awakening journey. Feel free to modify it, if another number works for you.

Stage 1: Crisis & Yearning

“In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.” – Lao Tzu

The first stage of spiritual awakening often begins with a crisis. I mean, a real life-changing event or even a series of events. You might feel empty, lost, confused, depressed, and question the meaning of life.

This existential crisis can be overwhelming, but it’s also the initial spark that may lead to a yearning for deeper self-awareness. This yearning acts as a catalyst for the start of your spiritual awakening journey.

The series of tragic events that engulfed me during the pandemic, and the challenges I faced made me question everything. The deep yearning for something more led me to explore ancient wisdom and embark on my spiritual awakening journey.

Stage 2: Dark Night of the Soul

The Dark Night of the Soul is a tough and often painful phase. You confront your inner shadows, unresolved emotions, and past traumas. It’s a period of deep introspection and release.

You might feel confused, despairing, or lonely. These feelings are natural and part of the process.

To navigate this phase, be gentle with yourself. Allow yourself to feel and process your emotions. Seek support from trusted friends, family, or a therapist. Most importantly, give yourself time to heal.

Stage 3: Exploration

While struggling with Stage 2, the Dark Night of the Soul, start seeking out new knowledge and insights. Look for spiritual practices, philosophies, and communities that resonate with your evolving understanding of life.

This might involve reading spiritual books, attending workshops, or joining a meditation group. The goal is to gain clarity and direction.

Explore various spiritual teachings and practices to find what works best for you. This could include meditation, yoga, journaling, or spending time in nature. Be open to new experiences and allow yourself to grow and learn.

Take your time and be pragmatic. There are many paths. At the same time, there are many fake gurus and spiritual salvation salesmen. Be wary, but at the same time explore different ideas and practices.

Stage 4: Experimentation

If you get overwhelmed with Stage 3, the Exploration stage, take a deep breath. It’s normal to feel this way when absorbing so much new information. The next stage, Experimentation, can help you find clarity.

Start by taking progressive steps. You don’t have to try everything at once. Begin with one or two practices that resonate with you.

For example, you might start with journaling to reflect on your thoughts and emotions. Next, try mindfulness to stay present and aware. This can help you feel more grounded.

Meditation is another powerful practice that can help you connect with your higher self. However, you will be lost if you start on meditation without experimenting with mindfulness.

No single guru or coach can ensure success in your spiritual awakening journey. Only you can. Learn from many, experiment, and then plow your path.

Stage 5: Emergence of the Self

“The only real prison is fear, and the only real freedom is freedom from fear.” – Aung San Suu Kyi

Now, it’s time to discover and embrace your true self. This stage is about integrating the spiritual insights you’ve gained into your daily life. Focus on living in the present moment and being true to yourself.

Journaling is a great spiritual practice to follow. Reflect on your journey and insights. Be critical of yourself, if you are faltering, and make course corrections as you go along.

Embrace your true self and live authentically. This is a time of growth and fulfillment.

To support this stage, practice mindfulness and meditation regularly. These practices help you stay grounded and connected to your higher self.

Stage 6: Expansion of Consciousness

If you have achieved self-awareness, you have already done a great job. You are well on your way. But, you can go further.

You can expand your awareness beyond the individual self to a more universal consciousness. This is the stage of consciousness awakening. Start to experience a sense of oneness with all beings and a deeper connection to the world around you.

You may have brief moments of heightened awareness or connection to a greater reality. These glimpses serve as affirmations that you are on the right path.

They can inspire further exploration and commitment to your spiritual journey. Embrace these moments and let them guide you towards greater understanding and fulfillment.

Stage 7: Living in Alignment

Now you embody your spiritual insights in every aspect of your life. Love, compassion, and a sense of purpose guide your actions, thoughts, and choices. You live authentically and in harmony with your true self.

Balancing spiritual insights with practical living is key. Recognize that spiritual growth is an ongoing process. Stay mindful and continue to nurture your spiritual practices.

Embrace each moment with gratitude and openness. This stage is about living your truth and finding joy in the journey.

Stage 8: Transcendence

“Enlightenment is when a wave realizes it is the ocean.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

This is the ultimate and not in the grasp of mortals like us. Rare individuals, such as Buddha, achieve this stage.

It represents the pinnacle of spiritual awakening, where one transcends the ordinary experience of life and attains a state of profound spiritual insight and harmony.

In Conclusion

These stages of the spiritual awakening journey are not strictly linear; individuals may revisit certain stages multiple times throughout their lives, and experiences can vary widely from person to person.

The journey of spiritual awakening is unique and unfolds in a way that is most supportive of each individual’s growth.