Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 2 of 2
Full-Text Articles in Psychology
Two Modes Of Sudden Spiritual Awakening? Ego-Dissolution And Explosive Energetic Awakening, Steve Taylor
Two Modes Of Sudden Spiritual Awakening? Ego-Dissolution And Explosive Energetic Awakening, Steve Taylor
International Journal of Transpersonal Studies
A typology of experiences of sudden spiritual awakening is suggested, proposing that they may occur in two major forms, or modes. In a study of 19 cases of self-reported sudden spiritual awakening (within a larger sample that included cases of wholly gradual spiritual awakening), it was found that 13 cases could be interpreted in terms of either (a) a sudden collapse of the ego or self-system (egodissolution) or (b) a kundalini-like explosive release of energy. Both these types of spiritual awakening appeared to be most frequently induced by intense forms of psychological turmoil, such as bereavement, depression, addiction, and intense …
After Awakening, The Laundry: Is Nonduality A Spiritual Experience?, Jenny Wade
After Awakening, The Laundry: Is Nonduality A Spiritual Experience?, Jenny Wade
International Journal of Transpersonal Studies
Historically the exclusive purview of contemplative religious paths, awakening into nonduality was considered the pinnacle of human attainment, even if, in some traditions, it proved to be the threshold to even more sublime states. Awakening was traditionally available only to dedicated elite seekers, usually renunciates who practiced for years in monastic communities, their progress directed by the authorities of their lineage. Today technologies for creating the electroencephalographic signatures of advanced meditators are available for purchase, and esoteric religious practices like Zen meditation and asana yoga have been secularized as stress-reduction techniques and physical exercise, respectively. Increased numbers of teachers of …