Consciousness Growth: A deeper exploration of the awakening journey.

An advanced study of this amazing journey. One, if not the most, impressive experience of a lifetime.

It is recommended to first read the “The Awakening Journey” article as it gives the Foundation for understanding this particular topic.

When we dive deeper into the journey itself, we find that it’s a process of personal transformation that occurs when an individual becomes aware of their true nature and the nature of the world around them. It involves an increased level of consciousness, a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things, and a shift in perspective that leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

In this article:

1. Consciousness Growth through Awakening

2. Awakening Catalysts: The Start of the Journey

3. Deep Exploration of the 9 Major Stages of Awakening

4. Awakening Happened. Now What?

I. Consciousness Growth through Awakening

It is important to note that during the journey, one experiences more than one awakening. Although, the first awakening is the most impactful and quite memorable, the subsequent ones may have deeper meaning, increasing one’s level of consciousness. Therefore, referring to this phenomenon as Consciousness Growth seems more adequate.

For those who are still asleep, it can be difficult to understand or even recognize the need for an awakening journey. This is due to the simple fact that they are at a level of consciousness that doesn’t allow them to see and understand other perspectives to life. The journey often begins with a feeling of dissatisfaction or a sense that there must be more to life than what they are currently experiencing. As they begin to explore and question their beliefs, values, and assumptions, they may start to see things in a new light and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

II. Awakening Catalysts: The Start of the Journey

The search for spiritual meaning is a universal human experience that has been explored throughout history and across cultures. While the experience of spiritual awakening can be different for everyone, there are some common triggers that can lead to this profound shift in consciousness.

As presented in the “The Awakening Journey” article, the common catalysts to an awakening are:

1. Significant life changes

2. Intense emotional experiences

3. Near-death experiences

4. Mystical experiences

5. Psychedelics experiences

6. Personal growth practices

One of the most common triggers for a spiritual awakening is significant life changes. Major life events such as the loss of a loved one, a divorce, a serious illness, or a career change can create a sense of upheaval and challenge our existing beliefs and assumptions about the world. These moments of crisis can prompt us to question our purpose and meaning in life, leading to a deeper exploration of spirituality.

Intense emotional experiences can also be a powerful catalyst for spiritual awakening. Trauma, anxiety, depression, or other intense emotional experiences can lead to a sense of disconnection and a desire for deeper meaning and purpose. When we are faced with difficult emotions, we may seek out practices such as meditation or mindfulness to help us find inner peace and connect with something greater than ourselves.

It is said that those on the verge or suicide are one thought away from awakening. This is best explained by author Eckhart Tolle who is best known for his book, "The Power of Now". In the following quote, Tolle describes his personal awakening experience, which occurred during a time of intense suffering and despair. His realization of the illusory nature of the "mind-made self" led to a profound sense of peace and presence, and set him on the path to becoming a renowned spiritual teacher and author.

"I couldn't live with myself any longer. And in this, a question arose without an answer: who is the 'I' that cannot live with the self? What is the self? I felt drawn into a void! I didn't know at the time that what really happened was the mind-made self, with its heaviness, its problems, that lives between the unsatisfying past and the fearful future, collapsed. It dissolved. The next morning I woke up and everything was so peaceful. The peace was there because there was no self. Just a sense of presence or "beingness", just observing and watching." - Eckhart Tolle.

Near-death experiences are another common trigger for spiritual awakening. Surviving a near-death experience can often lead to a profound shift in perspective and a heightened awareness of the interconnectedness of all things. These experiences can provide a glimpse into a deeper reality beyond our physical existence, leading to a desire to explore spirituality further.

Mystical experiences are also a common trigger for spiritual awakening. Encountering unusual or profound experiences such as visions, synchronicities, or spiritual encounters can awaken a person to the possibility of a deeper reality. These experiences can be unexpected and transformative, leading to a shift in consciousness and a desire to explore spirituality further. Psychedelic experiences can sometimes induce mystical experiences, as the use of certain substances such as psilocybin, LSD, or DMT can alter one's perception and consciousness, leading to a profound sense of connection and unity with the universe. However, it's important to note that the use of psychedelics is not necessary for having a mystical experience, and there are many other ways to access this state of consciousness, such as through meditation, prayer, or other spiritual practices.

Finally, personal growth practices such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness can help individuals cultivate greater self-awareness and openness to the spiritual dimension of life. These practices can provide a foundation for spiritual exploration and can help us develop a deeper connection to ourselves, others, and the world around us.

The triggers for spiritual awakening are diverse and can vary greatly from person to person. Whether it's a major life event, an intense emotional experience, a near-death experience, a mystical encounter, or a personal growth practice, the common thread is a desire to explore the deeper dimensions of life and connect with something greater than ourselves. While the process of spiritual awakening is highly individual and can be a lifelong journey, these triggers can provide a starting point for those seeking to deepen their spiritual awareness and understanding.

III. Deep Exploration of the 9 Major Stages of Awakening

Embarking on a spiritual journey can be a profound and transformative experience, regardless of whether or not one identifies as spiritual. This journey is one of self-exploration, growth, and healing, and can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around them.

It's important to note that not everyone may be open to the idea of a spiritual journey, and that's okay. It's possible that some individuals have yet to reach a point in their lives where they are ready to embark on this type of journey. It's important to approach this idea with an open mind and heart, and to understand that everyone's journey will be unique.

The awakening moment, a key aspect of the spiritual journey, is a transformative experience that marks a passage from automatic living to conscious living. This awakening can be triggered by a variety of experiences, including a sudden realization, a significant life event, or simply a desire for something more. Once awakened, individuals may feel a sense of clarity and purpose, and a renewed connection to themselves and the world around them.

Overall, the spiritual journey is a deeply personal and meaningful experience that can bring about profound change and growth. Whether one is just starting out on this path or has been on it for years, the journey is always evolving and offering new insights and opportunities for growth.

In the previous article, we got introduce to various stages. Now let’s delve into more defined stages of the journey. These stages can provide a framework for individuals to understand and navigate their own spiritual journey.

Note: The following order is not definitive. Some individuals might experience these stages in a slightly different order, with blending stages and even have repeating ones. One must always try to listen to its own emotions and feelings.

1st Stage: Asleep—There’s no defined notion of one’s true nature

The first stage in the spiritual journey is often referred to as the "Asleep" stage. At this stage, individuals have no clear or defined notion of their true nature or spiritual identity. They may be unaware of their spiritual potential or the existence of a higher power.

People in this stage may be caught up in the busyness of daily life, consumed by materialistic pursuits, and completely disconnected from their inner selves. They may have a sense of emptiness or a feeling that something is missing in their lives, but they don't know what it is or how to find it.

In the Asleep stage, people may also experience a sense of disconnection from the world around them. They may feel like they are just going through the motions of life without any real purpose or meaning. They may also experience a lack of fulfillment and a sense of restlessness or discontentment.

This stage of the spiritual journey is characterized by a lack of awareness or understanding of one's true nature. Individuals in this stage may not even be aware that they are on a spiritual journey or that there is more to life than what they currently experience.

To progress from the Asleep stage to the next stage of the spiritual journey, individuals need to start becoming aware of their inner selves and their spiritual potential. This may involve taking time to reflect on their lives, exploring different spiritual practices and beliefs, and seeking guidance from spiritual teachers or mentors.

Overall, the Asleep stage is an important starting point on the spiritual journey. It is a time of realization that there is more to life than what we can see and touch. By becoming aware of our true nature and spiritual potential, we can begin to experience a deeper sense of purpose, fulfillment, and connection to the world around us.

2nd Stage: Glimpsing—The call to adventure

The second stage of the spiritual journey is commonly referred to as the "Glimpsing" stage. At this stage, individuals begin to experience glimpses of their true nature and spiritual potential. They may have moments of clarity or insight that reveal a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world.

During the Glimpsing stage, individuals may feel a call to adventure, a sense of excitement and curiosity about exploring their spiritual potential. They may feel drawn to explore different spiritual practices and beliefs, seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

At this stage, individuals may begin to question their previous beliefs and ways of living. They may feel a sense of discontentment or restlessness with their current lives and seek out new experiences and opportunities for growth.

The call to adventure in the Glimpsing stage can take many forms, including:

• A desire to explore new spiritual practices or teachings

• A feeling of being called to serve others or contribute to a greater cause

• A sense of inner restlessness or dissatisfaction with one's current life

• A sudden realization of one's spiritual potential or purpose

To progress from the Glimpsing stage to the next stage of the spiritual journey, individuals need to take action on their call to adventure. This may involve taking risks, exploring new paths, and stepping out of their comfort zones.

The Glimpsing stage is an important stage of the spiritual journey, as it provides individuals with a glimpse of their true nature and spiritual potential. It is a time of exploration and growth, where individuals can begin to uncover their purpose and find a sense of meaning and fulfillment in their lives.

Overall, the Glimpsing stage is a crucial step on the spiritual journey, as it calls individuals to venture forth and explore the unknown. By embracing the call to adventure, individuals can continue to progress towards a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world.

3rd Stage: Waking Up—The veil gets lifted even if it is for a brief moment; a choice is presented

The third stage of the spiritual journey is known as the "Waking Up" stage. At this stage, individuals experience a profound awakening to their true nature and spiritual potential. They may have moments of clarity where the veil that once obscured their perception is lifted, allowing them to see reality more clearly.

During the Waking Up stage, individuals may experience a deep sense of connectedness to the world around them. They may feel a sense of oneness with all of creation, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the world.

At this stage, individuals may also be presented with a choice. They may have to decide whether to continue on their spiritual journey or to retreat back into their old ways of being. This choice can be challenging, as it requires individuals to confront their fears and let go of old patterns and beliefs.

To progress from the Waking Up stage to the next stage of the spiritual journey, individuals must make the choice to continue on their spiritual path. This may involve letting go of old habits and patterns, and embracing new ways of being and relating to the world around them.

The Waking Up stage is a critical turning point on the spiritual journey. It is a time of profound transformation, where individuals begin to see the world and themselves in a new light. They may experience a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty and complexity of life, and feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience it.

Overall, the Waking Up stage is a powerful and transformative stage on the spiritual journey. It requires individuals to confront their fears and make a conscious choice to continue on their path of awakening. By embracing this choice, individuals can continue to grow and evolve, deepening their connection to themselves, others, and the world around them.

4th Stage: Closer Examination—Choosing a path

The fourth stage of the spiritual journey is known as the "Closer Examination" stage. At this stage, individuals begin to explore different spiritual paths and traditions, seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

During the Closer Examination stage, individuals may feel a sense of curiosity and openness to new ideas and experiences. They may explore different spiritual practices and traditions, such as meditation, yoga, or prayer, to see what resonates with them.

At this stage, individuals may also begin to develop a sense of discernment, learning to distinguish between different spiritual paths and teachers. They may begin to question the teachings and practices they encounter, looking for deeper insights and understanding.

To progress from the Closer Examination stage to the next stage of the spiritual journey, individuals must choose a path that resonates with their values and spiritual aspirations. This can be a challenging process, as there are many different paths and traditions to choose from, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.

Choosing a spiritual path involves examining one's own beliefs and values, and looking for a path that aligns with them. It also requires a willingness to let go of old patterns and beliefs that no longer serve one's spiritual growth.

The Closer Examination stage is a critical stage on the spiritual journey, as it provides individuals with the opportunity to explore different spiritual paths and traditions. By taking the time to explore and reflect on different paths, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Overall, the Closer Examination stage is a time of exploration, growth, and discernment. It requires individuals to be open and curious, while also developing a sense of discernment and critical thinking. By choosing a spiritual path that resonates with their values and aspirations, individuals can continue to progress on their spiritual journey, deepening their connection to themselves, others, and the world around them.

5th Stage: Seeking—Following the path

The fifth stage of the spiritual journey is known as the "Seeking" stage. At this stage, individuals have chosen a spiritual path and are actively following it, seeking to deepen their understanding and experience of their chosen tradition.

During the Seeking stage, individuals may engage in regular spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, or study. They may also seek out guidance from teachers or mentors, who can offer insights and support on their journey.

At this stage, individuals may also encounter challenges and obstacles, such as doubts, fears, or setbacks. These challenges are an integral part of the spiritual journey, and can help individuals to deepen their understanding and strengthen their resolve.

To progress from the Seeking stage to the next stage of the spiritual journey, individuals must continue to follow their chosen path with dedication and commitment. They must be willing to face challenges and setbacks with resilience and perseverance, and to continue to grow and evolve in their spiritual practice.

The Seeking stage is a critical stage on the spiritual journey, as it requires individuals to put their spiritual beliefs and practices into action. By following a chosen path with dedication and commitment, individuals can deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them, and cultivate a deeper sense of connection to the divine.

Overall, the Seeking stage is a time of growth, challenge, and commitment. It requires individuals to be dedicated and committed to their chosen spiritual path, while also being open to new insights and experiences. By continuing to follow their chosen path with dedication and commitment, individuals can continue to progress on their spiritual journey, deepening their connection to themselves, others, and the world around them.

6th Stage: Dark Night of the Soul—Losing the path

The sixth stage of the spiritual journey is known as the "Dark Night of the Soul" stage. At this stage, individuals may experience a sense of confusion, doubt, or despair, as they lose their sense of connection to their chosen spiritual path.

During the Dark Night of the Soul stage, individuals may experience a sense of disillusionment with their chosen path or tradition. They may feel a sense of disconnection from the divine, and may question the validity of their spiritual beliefs and practices.

At this stage, individuals may also experience a sense of loneliness or isolation, as they struggle to find meaning and purpose in their spiritual journey. They may feel as though they have lost their sense of direction, and may be unsure of how to proceed.

To progress from the Dark Night of the Soul stage to the next stage of the spiritual journey, individuals must confront and work through their doubts and fears. They must be willing to explore their beliefs and practices with openness and curiosity, and to seek guidance and support from trusted mentors and teachers.

The Dark Night of the Soul stage is a critical stage on the spiritual journey, as it requires individuals to confront and work through their deepest fears and doubts. By facing these challenges with courage and resilience, individuals can emerge from the Dark Night of the Soul stage with a deeper sense of clarity and purpose.

Overall, the Dark Night of the Soul stage is a time of deep questioning, challenge, and growth. It requires individuals to confront their deepest fears and doubts, and to be willing to explore their beliefs and practices with openness and curiosity. By working through these challenges with resilience and courage, individuals can continue to progress on their spiritual journey, deepening their connection to themselves, others, and the divine.

7th Stage: Healing—Balancing the mind, body and spirit

The seventh stage of the spiritual journey is known as the "Healing" stage. At this stage, individuals may have emerged from the Dark Night of the Soul stage with a deeper sense of clarity and purpose, and are now focused on balancing their mind, body, and spirit.

During the Healing stage, individuals may engage in practices such as meditation, yoga, or energy work, to help balance their physical, emotional, and spiritual energies. They may also focus on developing healthy habits and routines, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and good sleep hygiene.

At this stage, individuals may also seek out healing modalities such as acupuncture, massage, or therapy, to help release emotional blockages and promote overall wellbeing. They may also work with spiritual mentors or teachers to deepen their understanding of their chosen path and develop a deeper sense of connection to the divine.

To progress from the Healing stage to the next stage of the spiritual journey, individuals must continue to focus on balancing their mind, body, and spirit. They must be willing to explore different healing modalities and practices, and to integrate these practices into their daily lives.

The Healing stage is a critical stage on the spiritual journey, as it requires individuals to take responsibility for their own physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. By developing healthy habits and engaging in healing practices, individuals can deepen their connection to themselves, others, and the divine, and promote overall wellbeing and balance in their lives.

Overall, the Healing stage is a time of deep self-care, self-exploration, and spiritual growth. It requires individuals to be willing to take responsibility for their own wellbeing, and to explore different healing modalities and practices to help balance their mind, body, and spirit. By continuing to focus on healing and balance, individuals can continue to progress on their spiritual journey, deepening their connection to themselves, others, and the divine.

8th Stage: Recovery—The calmness after the storm

The eighth stage of the spiritual journey is known as the "Recovery" stage. At this stage, individuals may have emerged from the Healing stage with a sense of calmness and balance, and are now focused on continuing their healing journey.

During the Recovery stage, individuals may continue to engage in practices such as meditation, yoga, or energy work to maintain their physical, emotional, and spiritual balance. They may also continue to work with spiritual mentors or teachers to deepen their understanding of their chosen path and to integrate their spiritual practices into their daily lives.

At this stage, individuals may also begin to share their spiritual journey with others, offering support and guidance to those who are just beginning their own journey. They may also become more active in their communities, engaging in service work or activism to promote positive change and spiritual growth.

To progress from the Recovery stage to the next stage of the spiritual journey, individuals must continue to focus on their own healing and growth, while also sharing their knowledge and experience with others. They must be willing to step out of their comfort zone and engage in new experiences and challenges, while remaining grounded in their own spiritual practices and beliefs.

The Recovery stage is a time of continued healing and growth, as individuals work to maintain their physical, emotional, and spiritual balance, while also offering support and guidance to others. By continuing to focus on their own healing and growth, individuals can deepen their connection to themselves, others, and the divine, and continue to promote positive change and spiritual growth in the world.

Overall, the Recovery stage is a time of calmness and stability, as individuals continue to focus on their own healing and growth, while also sharing their knowledge and experience with others. It requires individuals to be willing to step out of their comfort zone and engage in new experiences and challenges, while remaining grounded in their own spiritual practices and beliefs. By continuing to focus on healing and growth, individuals can continue to progress on their spiritual journey, deepening their connection to themselves, others, and the divine.

9th Stage: Seeing—Merging with the path.

The ninth stage of the spiritual journey is known as the "Seeing" stage. At this stage, individuals have progressed through the previous stages and have merged with their spiritual path. They have a deep understanding of their purpose and are able to see the world through a new lens.

During the Seeing stage, individuals may experience a heightened sense of intuition and spiritual awareness. They may be able to sense energies and vibrations that were once hidden from them, and may have a deep sense of connection to the divine.

At this stage, individuals may also experience a sense of inner peace and contentment, as they are living in alignment with their true purpose and values. They may be living a life of service, using their gifts and talents to make a positive impact in the world.

To progress from the Seeing stage to the next stage of the spiritual journey, individuals must continue to deepen their connection to the divine and to live in alignment with their true purpose. They must be willing to continue to grow and evolve, while remaining grounded in their spiritual practices and beliefs.

The Seeing stage is a time of deep spiritual connection and understanding, as individuals have merged with their spiritual path and are living in alignment with their true purpose. It requires individuals to be open to new experiences and challenges, while remaining grounded in their spiritual practices and beliefs. By continuing to deepen their connection to the divine, individuals can continue to progress on their spiritual journey, living a life of purpose and service, and making a positive impact in the world.

The Seeing stage is a time of deep spiritual connection and understanding, as individuals have merged with their spiritual path and are living in alignment with their true purpose. The Seeing stage is not considered the final stage of the spiritual journey. While individuals at this stage have a deep understanding of their purpose and are living in alignment with their true values, there is still more growth and evolution that can take place on the spiritual journey.

The spiritual journey is an ongoing process of growth and transformation, and each stage builds upon the previous ones. Even individuals who have reached the Seeing stage will continue to face challenges and opportunities for growth, and may progress further along their spiritual path.

It's important to remember that the spiritual journey is not a linear process, and individuals may move back and forth between stages depending on their experiences and growth. The ultimate goal of the spiritual journey is to achieve a state of enlightenment or oneness with the divine, and this may take many lifetimes of growth and evolution.

So while the Seeing stage is a significant milestone on the spiritual journey, it is not the final stage, and there is always room for further growth and evolution.

IV. Awakening Happened. Now What?

Once a person has had a spiritual awakening, the next natural step would be to integrate the insights and experiences gained during the awakening into their daily life. This involves cultivating a deeper awareness of oneself and the world, and living in alignment with one's true nature.

One of the key ways to integrate a spiritual awakening is to develop a regular spiritual practice, such as meditation, yoga, prayer, or other practices that help to cultivate inner stillness, presence, and connection to something greater than oneself. This practice can help to deepen one's awareness and provide a foundation for living a more conscious and fulfilling life.

Additionally, it's important to continue to explore and learn about spirituality, whether through reading spiritual texts, attending workshops or retreats, or connecting with like-minded individuals who share similar values and interests. This ongoing exploration can help to deepen one's understanding of spirituality and provide ongoing support and inspiration.

Finally, it's important to live in accordance with one's inner truth and values, and to make choices that align with one's spiritual path. This may involve letting go of old habits or beliefs that no longer serve, cultivating more meaningful relationships, or pursuing a new career or creative passion that aligns with one's purpose and calling.

Overall, the next natural step after a spiritual awakening is to continue to cultivate inner awareness and live in alignment with one's true nature, in order to experience greater peace, joy, and fulfillment in life.

In conclusion…

"The first step to the knowledge of the highest divine symbol of the wonder and mystery of life is in the recognition of the monstrous nature of life and its glory in that character: the realization that this is just how it is and that it cannot and will not be changed. Those who think -- and their name is legion -- that they know how the universe could have been better than it is, how it would have been had they created it, without pain, without sorrow, without time, without life, are unfit for illumination." — from Joseph Campbell's "The Hero with a Thousand Faces"

In this quote, Campbell emphasizes the importance of accepting the world as it is, with all of its flaws and imperfections, as a necessary step towards spiritual awakening. The hero must come to terms with the "monstrous nature" of life before they can fully understand and appreciate its wonder and mystery. The quote also suggests that those who try to impose their own ideas of how the world should be onto reality are "unfit for illumination," implying that true spiritual awakening requires a certain level of humility and acceptance.