What is a Spiritual Awakening? Meaning, Causes & Process Explained

What is a spiritual awakening? Our definition

The term spiritual awakening has been thrown around a lot in our dialect. But, what exactly does a spiritual awakening mean and what are the spiritual awakening symptoms?

A spiritual awakening often brings noticeable changes, both subtle and profound. One common symptom is increased sensitivity—individuals may feel more attuned to their emotions, the energies of others, and the environment around them. This heightened awareness can be overwhelming at times but also opens the door to greater empathy and intuition.

Vivid dreams are another hallmark of awakening, often filled with symbolic imagery or messages that reflect the subconscious mind’s attempt to process spiritual growth. These dreams may feel intense or even prophetic, offering guidance on the awakening journey.

Feelings of disconnection are also common, as individuals detach from old beliefs, relationships, or habits that no longer resonate. This phase, though challenging, creates space for personal transformation and a deeper connection to one’s true self.

Other symptoms might include physical sensations like tingling, sudden mood swings, or a craving for solitude, all signaling the profound shifts occurring within.

One thing is for sure, it is definitely not the peaceful mindset that we admire in some people who seem so sure of themselves yet embody inner peace. In fact, it is a lot more tumultuous than most of us would initially think. Various cultures from around the world have different spiritual awakening definitions, but ultimately it is awakening to your true nature.

When your spiritual awakening begins, you will probably feel overwhelmed. You went from being so sure of who you are, the direction you are heading, your spiritual and moral standpoints, and all that encompasses you. To suddenly feeling like none of that makes sense anymore and wanting to learn how to start a spiritual journey. This disconcerting feeling leads you to ask questions like, “Who am I?” or, “What am I doing here?”

It is the realization that as you have grown, so has your understanding of life, and yourself for that matter. It is the process of spiritual enlightenment and personal transformation. With this, the way you previously perceived yourself, or the world, might seem out of place, as if it no longer makes sense to you. Many of us feel like we are alone during these times, but, the reality is we each go through these periods throughout our lives.

You may be wondering how to start your spiritual journey. The good news is, once the dust of waking up has settled. A new you will emerge, like the phoenix from the ashes. You will be amazed at your progress when you give yourself the time to look back at how far you have come.

Causes of spiritual awakening

What causes a spiritual awakening? Well, as you discover how to start your spiritual journey you will learn that the causes of a spiritual awakening can stem from the extraordinary and the ordinary. From life-changing to mind-altering. A spiritual journey is something unique to each of us. We all have our own experiences that are meaningful to us in our own way and might trigger us differently. Here are a few examples of what might cause a spiritual awakening.

Reaffirm your belief systems

Living authentically is one of the best ways to trigger a spiritual awakening. The best way to do this is by reaffirming your belief system. This means understanding your religion or spiritual practice. Create a community for yourself with people who believe similarly to you, they act as a support system. Make sure you have strong spiritual teachers, or guides to help you in moments of confusion.

Learning to let go and forgive

Holding a grudge is not only bad for your mental health, but also one of the sure ways to keep you from progressing. Your well-being depends on letting go of the past, especially when it has caused you pain. Forgiving people who have wronged you, as well as forgiving yourself, can set you free. It will also allow your spirit to soar for the lack of weight.

Giving and receiving

Love, wisdom, opportunity, and just about anything that falls onto our wish list i always readily available. You just have to be open to receiving it. If you are giving too much, and keeping a closed heart and mind, your cup will be empty, and you’ll have nothing left for yourself. Keeping an open mind and heart can help restore the balance. The universe has a lot to offer, you just need to be willing to accept it.

Immigrating

Moving to a new house, a new town, or to the other side of the world can be one of the biggest life changes. Moving away from your loved ones and just about everything you know can seriously put you out of your comfort zone. This provides an opportunity to rediscover yourself. You might surprise yourself by finding interest in the least expected.

Starting a new job

Starting a new job can be challenging. You will see a different side of yourself as you learn to navigate the different systems. This job is also the next step in your development, whether or not you realize later that it isn’t working out.

Going through a break up

In most cases, breaking up is seriously painful. However, it puts into perspective the phrase, “through pain, we grow”. The pain you feel is only temporary, and you will thrive once again. Some relationships become toxic and co-dependent, and by leaving it you are becoming dependent. This is a sure way to trigger a spiritual awakening.

Getting married

Starting a marriage can also trigger a spiritual awakening. you have made a great commitment to each other, and this means a lot of learning.

Staying focused on the present

Live in the present moment, and take stock of everything you must be grateful for. This helps prevent your mind from getting trapped in memories from your past, or the expectations for your future. It allows life to flow organically, and universally.

Near death experience

A near death experience is bound to start a spiritual awakening within you. People experience death in different ways, but nearly losing your life can make you realize what you have been missing from your life, or what you cannot bear to lose.

Natural Awakening 

Natural spiritual awakenings often unfold through steady, mindful practices that align us with a deeper sense of self and the universe. Meditation, for instance, quiets the mind and creates space for profound insights, while mindfulness fosters an awareness of the present moment, uncovering hidden layers of consciousness. Over time, these practices act as a gateway to heightened intuition, a stronger connection to inner peace, and an expanded perspective on life’s purpose.

Unlike abrupt awakenings triggered by life-altering events, natural awakenings are gentle and organic. They build resilience and clarity as individuals integrate spiritual truths into daily routines. Practicing gratitude, yoga, or spending time in nature further enhances this transformative journey, allowing individuals to feel grounded while transcending the ego’s limitations.

Vivid or lucid dreams

Having a dream can sometimes feel as if you never went to sleep. Some dreams can feel just as real as your waking life. From time to time, we experience dreams that contradict our belief systems, or they offer a sort of spiritual guidance for something we have been confused about. Just remember to keep an open mind when it comes to reaming, and think of all possible interpretations.

Spiritual awakening process: what happens when you have a spiritual awakening?

When you have a spiritual awakening you will experience a number of different phases. Each phase is very important and contributes to your spiritual path toward enlightenment. Bear in mind that each step cannot be predicted, and anything could happen that might trigger the next phase of your journey. Here is what happens during a spiritual awakening. You can also try our spiritual awakening test.

The Awakening

The awakening part is the first step. This can be identified by the many questions you seem to be asking yourself. Everything you once knew no longer makes any sense to you. You feel as though there is a greater potential for you, even if you don’t know what it is. In order to achieve it, you create space in your life for new opportunities by getting rid of anything that holds you back. Like old habits or connections to people that no longer serve you.

Expanded Awareness

During a spiritual awakening, expanded awareness transforms how individuals perceive themselves and the world around them. Mentally, this involves heightened clarity and an acute sensitivity to thoughts and patterns previously unnoticed. Emotionally, empathy deepens, creating a stronger connection to others’ feelings and experiences.

Perceptual shifts become evident as individuals sense the interconnectedness of all life, often accompanied by a profound appreciation for beauty and simplicity. Everyday moments take on greater significance, and intuition becomes a guiding force. This newfound awareness fosters deeper relationships, alignment with one’s purpose, and an overall sense of unity with the universe.

Dark night of the soul

The easiest way to describe this step is when your ego feels bruised beyond compare by the overwhelming sense of change. you might suddenly be overcome with guilt at your actions and behavior in your past. Or you might cringe when you think of the way you used to think of the world as you change your spiritual goals. This phase is characterized by bad luck, misfortune, and a sense that you have hit “rock bottom”. The good news is, it’s onward and upwards from there.

Experimentation phase

In the previous stages, you realize you are ready to become the new you. You have realized your belief systems have changed, but you need to identify your true authenticity. During this stage, you will try out something new. You might step out of your comfort zone in order to discover familiar aspects of yourself in something that once seemed so strange to you. It is the time when you explore your boundaries, and expand your horizons.

During the exploration phase of a spiritual awakening, people often feel inspired to try new spiritual practices and explore different beliefs. Activities like meditation, yoga, breathwork, or journaling may become tools to help them connect with their inner selves.

Many also explore various religious or philosophical traditions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, or Sufism, seeking wisdom that aligns with their evolving views. This might include reading sacred texts, attending retreats, or engaging with new spiritual communities.

This phase is about curiosity and growth, allowing individuals to gather insights and create a personal spiritual path that feels authentic and fulfilling.

Seeing your true self

The next phase is when you start to recognize your true nature. The clouds of confusion are starting to disperse, and your self of self is starting to emerge. You will start to incorporate activities that honor your authenticity into your daily routines. This might come with starting a career in something that sets your soul on fire – in a good way.

Building the foundations

The previous phase might lead you to believe that you have finished your spiritual awakening because you are now acting on your passions, and living true to yourself. this may be, but you still have some road ahead of you. This next phase is where you build the foundations for your new pathway. It is the part where you are putting together the blocks that will create your empire. You might meet an obstacle along the way, but they are only spurring you on further. even if it sets you back a step or two.

Surrendering

Any of your old belief systems or aspects of the ego that no longer serve you will finally be released in this step. You will finally surrender to the person you have grown into while letting go of everything that was once holding you back. This phase of the spiritual awakening is where you finally accept your full potential and step into your life with full power.

Enlightenment

This is the final step of your awakening journey. You are no longer a servant to your ego, and you are highly aware of your connection with yourself and others. You are no longer affected by things that once brought you down, and you find great happiness in serving others, and thus the greater good.

What does being spiritually awake feel like?

Being spiritually awakened feels like you are constantly connected to the universe around you. Nothing that once hurt your feelings, or caused a reaction within you affects you in the same way. You feel as though you are above that all now.

You might be wondering what is the awakening like. How does it feel to get to the enlightened feeling described above? An awakening is not easy. In fact, it can oftentimes feel overwhelming, depressing, anxiety-triggering, isolating, and lonely phase in your life. However, it only lasts as long as you allow it. Being aware that you are undergoing a spiritual awakening is the key to getting through to the other side. You may also be interested to know more about kundalini awakening symptoms next!

Psychological Perspective: The Mind’s Transformation During Awakening

From a psychological standpoint, a spiritual awakening can bring measurable shifts in mental and emotional functioning. Many individuals report increased self-awareness, a heightened ability to regulate emotions, and reduced attachment to limiting beliefs. This transformation often leads to enhanced psychological resilience and a greater capacity for navigating life’s challenges.

Neurological studies suggest that practices like meditation, often linked to awakening, can restructure the brain by strengthening neural pathways related to compassion, focus, and stress reduction. Over time, the mind transitions from reactive patterns to reflective, intentional thinking.

While the journey can evoke temporary confusion or emotional turbulence, these moments are often precursors to profound growth. Feelings of inner peace, clarity, and purpose emerge as individuals integrate the experience, bridging the gap between psychological understanding and spiritual enlightenment. This blend of mental and spiritual evolution exemplifies the transformative power of awakening.

Psychological Insight: Spiritual Awakening and Expanded Awareness

Spiritual awakening is not only a deeply personal experience but also a subject of interest in psychology. From a psychological perspective, awakening can be seen as a state of heightened awareness, often associated with positive psychological changes. Researchers suggest that spiritual awakenings are linked to increased self-awareness, greater emotional regulation, and a broader sense of empathy.

Psychological studies on mindfulness and meditation, which are often part of spiritual awakenings, show that these practices can lead to lasting changes in the brain. Neuroimaging studies have found that mindfulness increases activity in areas of the brain related to emotional regulation and compassion, such as the prefrontal cortex and the insula.

Additionally, awakening can lead to what psychologists call “cognitive flexibility”—the ability to shift perspectives and adapt to new information. This expanded awareness is often linked to a reduction in stress and an improved sense of well-being, as individuals develop a deeper connection to their inner selves and the world around them.

Impact on Religious Beliefs: Rethinking Faith and Tradition

A spiritual awakening often prompts profound introspection, leading individuals to question or re-evaluate their religious beliefs. For some, it deepens their connection to faith, inspiring a fresh understanding of religious teachings and uncovering new layers of meaning. Practices like prayer or scripture reading may take on heightened significance as they align with their spiritual growth.

For others, awakening can spark a process of deconstruction. Traditional doctrines or practices might feel restrictive or out of sync with newfound awareness. This can lead to exploring alternative spiritual paths, blending diverse teachings, or embracing a more universal approach to spirituality.

The journey of reconciling spiritual growth with existing beliefs is deeply personal. It may create challenges, but it also fosters authenticity and alignment with one’s inner truth. Ultimately, spiritual awakening invites individuals to approach faith with curiosity, openness, and a desire for deeper connection—whether within a structured religion or beyond it.

Integration vs. Detachment: Navigating Spiritual Evolution

A key challenge during spiritual awakening is deciding whether to integrate existing religious beliefs into a new spiritual perspective or detach from them entirely. For some, integration offers a harmonious path forward, where spiritual insights deepen their appreciation for rituals, teachings, and community within their faith tradition. Practices like prayer, meditation, or scripture reading may evolve to reflect a more personalized and expansive connection to the divine.

Others, however, may feel called to detach, finding that rigid doctrines or structures no longer align with their newfound awareness. This can lead to exploring alternative spiritual paths, forging a unique connection with the universe that transcends traditional frameworks.

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong approach. Integration provides continuity and comfort, while detachment allows freedom and exploration. Both paths require self-reflection, courage, and authenticity, empowering individuals to honor their journey and align with their inner truth.

Practical Advice for Managing Spiritual Awakening

Spiritual awakening can feel overwhelming, but there are simple steps to help manage the journey. Journaling is a great way to process your thoughts, emotions, and insights, allowing you to track your growth over time.

Self-reflection is also essential. Taking time each day to meditate, be mindful, or simply sit in silence can help you stay grounded and understand your evolving experiences.

Seeking guidance from spiritual mentors, teachers, or coaches can provide valuable support, helping you navigate challenges and integrate new spiritual insights.

Additionally, maintaining a routine, spending time in nature, or connecting with others on a similar path can offer comfort and strength. The key is to be patient with yourself and trust the process.

Self-Inquiry: Deepening Personal Understanding

Self-inquiry is a powerful practice during a spiritual awakening that helps individuals explore their beliefs and identity. Asking deep, reflective questions can open new layers of understanding. Questions like “Who am I?” or “What do I truly believe?” encourage introspection and challenge old thought patterns.

Other useful questions might include:

• “What is my purpose in life?”
• “What brings me peace?”
• “What am I attached to, and why?”

By engaging with these questions regularly, individuals can uncover hidden beliefs, fears, and desires, leading to a deeper connection with their true self. Self-inquiry helps to clarify the mind, expand awareness, and guide personal transformation.

What is a spiritual awakening? Key takeaways

A spiritual awakening might not be easy, but the efforts you put in will be worth it in the end. Eventually, you will look back and admire how far you have come on this journey through life. Just remember, we all go through this. So, you are not alone.

FAQs

Are spiritual awakenings real?

Human beings are ever-growing and always changing. The evolution of our lives tells stories of the experiences we faced. A spiritual awakening is real to those who believe them. Yet, we all face a low point in our lives where we realize what no longer works for us.

What is the purpose of spiritual awakening?

What is spiritual awakening’s purpose? Well, it is aimed at helping you realize your true nature. The journey to enlightenment may not be the easiest. Many descriptions leave people feeling uneasy, and almost dreading the process. This actually keeps them in their bubble of safety.

In the end, these people never dare to venture forth and discover their true sense of self. An awakening shakes things up a bit so that you cannot avoid the process any longer.

Why did I have a spiritual awakening?

Some people have multiple spiritual awakenings throughout their lives. If you had a spiritual awakening, it is probably because you were not living to your true self. You needed to release preconceived ideas of the world that were holding you back from your full potential.

What happens after a spiritual awakening?

After you have a spiritual awakening, you will go through a series of stages until you reach enlightenment. Stage two is the painful part, where nothing seems to be going right for you. The third stage is the part where you start to explore possibilities.

The fourth step is where you see your true self, the fifth step is where you start building the life you now envision for yourself. The sixth stage is where you let go of the last things holding you back, and the last stage is when you reach enlightenment.

What religion is spiritual awakening related to?

Every religion has its own take on an awakening. Various religions, like Christianity and Buddhism, talk about spiritual awakenings. For Christians, a spiritual awakening is a resurrection from spiritual death. It could be rediscovering your love for God and Christ. In Buddhism, it is taking one more step toward enlightenment.

Resources:

1. https://www.powerofpositivity.com/7-ways-have-spiritual-awakening/
2. https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/spiritual-awakening#:~:text=%22Spiritual%20awakenings%20can%20be%20spontaneous,or%20even%20a%20near%2Ddeath