6 Shifts on the Path to Enlightened Self-Discovery

It is a daunting time that is easily misunderstood for depression, anxiety or losing control when what you are experiencing is a natural and organic spiritual crisis. A turn of your inner axis which cracks you wide open rips you apart and often kills part of you off that you have outgrown so you may begin again on your self-discovery.

This time with unwavering integrity, walking to the beat of your own heart drum no matter what comes your way or who attempts to shake you. It is like seeing yourself as a majestic oak tree, strong and deeply grounded and rooted to Mother Earth while being able to sway and move with the breeze and wind. You are flexible but immovable. The harmony of Yin and Yang is balanced within you.

But before you walk with this integrity, authentic conviction and an unwavering inner flame of wisdom, you may feel depths and darkness you have never experienced before that leads into your own shadows, into who you truly are. It will challenge you in ways you have never faced before. It will ask of you more than you have cared to give before and it will likely come knocking on your door when you least expect, or when you have asked, but asked with the naivety of what exactly you called for.

So let’s take a look at the six shifts along the path of self-discovery:

1. Loneliness

Whether you are physically alone or the feeling of loneliness has become strong or overwhelming. This shift may seem like you are all alone in your experience, that no one understands or can relate. That no-one around you gets what you are going through.

2. Unease & Discomfort in Your Environment

You then shift into a sense of unease where you don’t feel comfortable; in your place of work, the spots you usually go to, your home. You may feel uncomfortable around places with a lot of people, noise, and commotion. Desiring instead to be in one sacred space such as the corner of the couch, your bed, outside under a large solid tree or by a body of water.

The calling to remove yourself from environments that are not in alignment with you may propel you to venture even to places you have not traveled. You may find yourself dreaming or longing to go on a train ride far away, drive to the coast, leave on a plane or visit a faraway place unrecognizable as earth.

 3. Big Life Changes

The passing of a loved one or tribe member, the end of relationships, the abortion of a plan, the loss or end of something you were invested in on any level. These life changes are key catalysts to shift your path deeper into self-discovery. This third phase shakes you to your core. Often creating a form of breakdown to allow light to penetrate through your cracks and commence the breakthrough. You want to be gentle with yourself here especially; loving-kindness, compassion, non-judgment, and humility from within while taking the time you need to work your way toward the light.

4. Curiosity to Explore

Like a siren calling you, or the inner voice of your highest self, there will be a driving desire to explore life in ways you may not have looked into prior. Be it metaphysical, esoteric, mysticism or shamanism, healing, consciousness development, psychology or spiritual practices and ancient civilizations. Honor this calling; research, read, immerse your mind and body, spirit and soul in any way you are drawn which can nourish your curiosity and exploration.

Please know there is a such a thing as overstimulation even with something wonderful – too much of a good thing is not ideal. So keep your awareness sharp and when you feel tired or your body is saying it’s time to stop with a practice, reading a book etc. listen and take action. It is also important to give yourself time to absorb, process, and apply what you are choosing to weave into your life.

5. Personal Awareness

The next phase is the awakening of an inner wisdom. Richer awareness that you have higher perception than you previously thought. You have more ability to tap into your psychic nature, sharper emotional intelligence, feeling like your vibration is shifting, that you are becoming aware of these changes within you and how you want to welcome more.

6. The Desire for Guidance

Each of the previous five stages has to lead you onto a path you now long to commit to and honor. Both in its shadow and light form (for you cannot have a day without night). You resonate with a deep knowing that this is something you cannot ignore or turn back around from. You now seek guidance from a light bearer who can shine upon your path and offer you the non-judgmental, loving-kindness, compassion and wisdom of masterful experience and insight to direct you as you walk deeper and deeper still into your core, peeling back the layers that no longer serve as you go.

Enjoy your ever-evolving journey. Sit with which stage you are at and ask “What is the best next move for me to make?” Perhaps you need to retreat and go within, spend time with nature, immerse in books on topics that call to you or seek a guide to assist you along your path. Where to from here is your choice.