Why is Spiritual Awakening So Painful?
Let us explore the Pain in the Spiritual Journey. Uncover the reasons behind “Why is Spiritual Awakening So Painful?“. Discover how challenges shape your spiritual journey.
Spiritual Awakening
Have you ever wondered why the path to spiritual awakening often feels so challenging, even painful at times? It’s a journey that promises enlightenment and inner peace, yet the road to get there can be filled with obstacles and discomfort. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind the pain in the spiritual journey, offering insights and understanding to help you navigate this transformative process.

1.The Nature of Spiritual Awakening
Spiritual awakening is a profound process of self-discovery and transformation. It involves
- Self-discovery and transformation and personal growth.
- A sudden realization that challenges your existing beliefs and creates a desire for deeper understanding.
- A period of learning, questioning, and exploring various spiritual practices, philosophies, and teachings.
- Integration and transformation and incorporation of new insights and practices into your daily life.
- Deepening connection and awareness with the Divine .
- Living in alignment with your spiritual values and using your blessings to serve others and contribute to the greater good.
- Increased sensitivity in energy, emotions, relations and the environment
- A desire for authenticity, truth, and deeper connections with God.
- A sense connection with all living organisms and nature.
- A deepening sense of generosity ,compassion, empathy, and love.
- Intuitive insights, hallucinations, vivid dreams and immense increase in psychic abilities
- A deeper interest in spirituality, personal growth, and holistic wellness, yogic practices etc.
- A yearning for clarity about one’s soul plan and purpose in life.
- The ability to see beauty and meaning in everyday life.
- A feeling of inner peace, joy, and contentment, and gratitude even during hurdles of life.
In this process one identities to reveal a more authentic and connected self. But why is this process often accompanied by pain?
2.The Role of Ego in Spiritual Pain
Our ego, the part of us that identifies with our personal story and achievements, often resists the changes that come with spiritual growth. This resistance can manifest as emotional or even physical pain.
When we are struggling with issues around our feelings of self-worth and security, Ego, in this context, is the false self . It is current state of consciousness of humanity that doesn’t let the universal intelligence shine through.
In other words, Ego it’s an entity which is based on mental conditioning i.e. our thoughts and emotions through which you see and act on the world.
Ego was a necessary stage in the evolution of the consciousness, but to take the next step towards conscious evolution and ensure our spiritual awakening and spiritual growth, we must recognize and dissolve this ego.
Considering the current times, Don’t just read with your mind but pay attention to any deeper feeling responses as you read. It’s because feeling will get you closer to the truth than thinking.
3.Choosing a life full of Gratitude or not
While going through the painful journey of spiritual uplifting, one always has two options in front of him. That is to either be “grateful to his God or not“.
In our lives, there are two scenarios.
Either one is on the way to progress and prosperity or he could be on the way to decline and descent.
If he chooses the Path of Gratitude in both these journeys to success or failure. He is ultimately, choosing the path of Eternal Peace and Solace.
Lucky and blessed are the people who always choose the path of gratitude regardless of their situation.
Particularly in the phase of spiritual awakening, that feeling of gratitude keeps them hooked to their spiritual self.
If anyone chooses to be grateful for all the blessings of his God this painful journey will become easy for him.
4.Growth Beyond Comfort Zones
Spiritual growth pushes us beyond our comfort zones. It challenges our perceptions and asks us to embrace new ways of being. That can be a painful process for most of us.
Stepping outside the comfort zone in itself is a Spiritual Journey. We all have our comfort zones that we are mostly trapped in. The comfort zone is nothing but our state of mind that says “I’m safe here and I don’t want to see any changes in life.”.
It’s the mind that controls our life process and also this crucial spiritual journey. The mind is like a stubborn child. He wants to feel safe and pampered. He wants to be entertained enough. He wants to feed himself with his desired food. He wants a dopamine fix every second. So if you have a kid like that at your home, that is rude, ill-mannered and adamant .As the parent, it is your responsibility to train and tame him properly. Guide him, show him the better ways of living a life which is going to help him finally lead a successful life.
At some point in your life, you have to answer this basic question. To let the child be the way he is? Or to teach the child the basic obedience that it needs to learn? The sooner you answer this haunting question, the better it is. Of course, it takes time and patience but with your dedication finally, he will learn the manners that you teach him. The mind is the child and we have to deal with it and it’s in our control how we train the mind to be calm and be progressive both spiritually and physically.
Also read article about handling the Addictive Social Media phenomenon that is causing problems and issues for parents, children, and teachers all around the world.
5.The Dark Night of the Soul

Many on the spiritual path experience the ‘Dark Night of the Soul,’ a period of deep existential crisis and disconnection. This phase is often marked by intense emotional pain but is crucial for deep spiritual transformation.
“Dark night of the soul” is often used informally to describe an extremely difficult and painful period in one’s life, for example, after the death of a loved one, the break-up of a marriage, or the diagnosis of a life-threatening illness.
This phase is usually occur when one starts his spiritual journey after immense loss.
Only spirituality and closeness to God can provide the necessary SAP that is needed in one’s life to deal with such traumas. When a person becomes more spiritually awakened he can deal with greater losses of life like the death of a loved one, divorce, lethal disease or accidents.
The pain experienced on the spiritual journey can be a powerful catalyst for growth and transformation. It teaches resilience and deepens our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
7.Learning from Life’s Lessons
Life’s challenges are not random. They’re lessons designed for our growth. Embracing this perspective can help us find meaning in our pain. Everything that happens in our life is due to some reason. God has always better plans for you. If you are spiritually more connected to your God all the pains, accidents and traumas of life are worth it. As they say “One who has found God in his life he has lost nothing and one who has not found the God in his life has gained nothing”.
Two laws of nature really work in this preceptive. The Law of Cause and Effect and The Law of Perpetual Transmutation of Energy.
i. The Law of Cause and Effect
The Law of Cause and Effect states that every action has a consequence, and that nothing happens by chance. By embracing this law, you can cultivate a deeper understanding of the relationship between your actions and their outcomes. Empowering you to make conscious choices that support your spiritual growth and well-being.
ii. The Law of Perpetual Transmutation of Energy
The Law of Perpetual Transmutation of Energy asserts that energy is constantly changing and shifting forms. As you awaken spiritually, learning to harness and direct this energy can help you manifest your desires, transform your life, and deepen your connection with the Divine. You can channel your sufferings and sorrows to feel closer to your Lord and to help others. You could become more empathic and sensitive to the suffering and pains of others.
8.The Importance of Patience and Resilience
Patience is key on the spiritual path. The journey is not a linear path. it has its ups and downs.
Maintain a persistent commitment to growth and transformation. Remember understanding and healing take time. You have to develop the qualities of Patience and Resilience to go through the journey of spiritual awakening.
You got to have the ability to adapt and bounce back from challenges and setbacks. By cultivating a resilient mindset, you can navigate the ups and downs of this difficult journey. In this way your spiritual awakening journey will progress with greater ease ,strength and grace.
9.Navigating Uncertainty
The path to awakening is often unpredictable and full of uncertainties. You have to learn from your experiences and continue moving forward. It can be a source of anxiety and pain. But we have to understand that to attain greatness we have to endure pain. They say “no pain no gain in life”. You have to deal with challenge doubts, especially regarding existential questions like the existence of God. Am I following the right path and the right faith etc. .
First, it’s okay to feel unsure sometimes. Uncertainty can lead us to learn more and understand things better.
Second, you have to look into things yourself. By checking out arguments and evidence firsthand, you can feel more confident in what you believe.
Lastly, be kind and connect with other . Working together with others who are also passing through this phase of spiritual awakening .it can help us find answers. When we respect each other and work as a team, we can discover new ideas and understandings together.
10.Finding Strength in Vulnerability
Embracing our vulnerability can be painful, but it’s also where we find our greatest strength and capacity for connection.
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” Brené Brown.
As we awaken spiritually, we often unearth suppressed emotions and unresolved traumas. This emotional release, while ultimately healing, can be intensely painful in the moment. When we face difficult emotions, our natural reaction is to step away from these feeling, numb them, or channel them in unhealthy ways .like wasting our time in leisure activities, procrastination or stop following our heart.
If you’re feeling vulnerable, share your feelings to someone who you deeply trust. If you can’t tell anyone, write them down in form of a journal. Research has shown that writing down about your tough feelings can help you use them to your advantage.
One of the best ways to find strength in vulnerability is through meditation. Meditation can help us connect with our inner selves and tap into our hidden potential. When we meditate, we allow ourselves to be vulnerable. In this way we’re open to whatever thoughts and emotions come up, without judgment or resistance.
11.The Role of Faith and Trust
Faith and trust in a higher power or the journey itself can provide comfort and reduce the pain associated with spiritual growth. The more you are connected to the supreme power of the universe, more easier it will become to leave worldly possessions and desires.
Having faith is having trust. You have to trust with your entire being that God has your back that he will help you and take care of you. He knows what is best, but to truly embrace what he has planned for you, you have to fully trust. Our trust is not foolish, for our God is both faithful and good.
12.Embracing Change
Change is an inevitable part of the spiritual journey, and accepting it can alleviate much of the associated discomfort. There is a famous saying that one who spends most of his life in the same way and then expects a change in the outcomes, results and his lifestyle is living in a fool’s paradise. So to evolve spiritually and emotionally you have to change yourself.
Let us dive into the amazing journey of transformation eagle has to pass through when it reaches age of forty.
Changes after 40 in the life of Eagle

The Eagle has the longest life span of its species. It can live up to 70 years.
But to reach this age, the eagle must make a very difficult decision!
In its 40th year, the eagle’s long and flexible Talons can no longer grab a prey which serves as food.
Its long and sharp beak becomes bent.
Its old-aged and heavy wings, due to their thick feathers, stick to its chest and make it difficult to fly.
Then, the eagle is left with only two options.
DIE or go through a painful process of CHANGE!
This process lasts for 150 days (5 months).
The process requires the eagle to fly to a mountain top and sit on its nest. There the eagle knocks its beak against a rock until it plucks it out.
Then the eagle will wait for the new beak to grow back after which it will pluck out its talons. When its talons grow back, the eagle starts plucking its old-aged feathers.
And after this, the eagle takes its famous flight of rebirth and LIVES for 30 more years!!
Why is Change needed?
To survive and live. We too have to start the change process.
We sometimes need to get rid of the unpleasant old memories, negative habits and our fixed mindset.
Only Freed from the past burdens can we take advantage of the present.
If an eagle can make a life saving and life-changing decision at the age of 40….why can’t we?
In order to take on a New Journey ahead, let go of your negative old limiting beliefs.
Open up your mind and let yourself fly high like an eagle!
When it rains, all birds occupy shelter. But the EAGLE avoids the rain by flying above the clouds…
The problem is common to all but the attitude to solve it makes the difference!
Don’t be afraid of change…accept it gracefully..!!!
To know more about the journey of Bald Eagle check this link.
13.The Power of Community Support
The community can be a source of spiritual growth. Connecting with others who are on a similar path can provide invaluable support and lessen the sense of isolation that can accompany spiritual awakening.
Human Connection has immense impact and power. Connecting with right minded, positive thinking mates on this lonely and painful journey is deeply comforting.
Having a supportive community can provide a sense of safety and security, allowing you to explore your spirituality without fear or judgment is kind of crucial in this journey.
Joining a spiritual community or support group can provide a
- Sense of Connection
- Understanding
- Encouragement
as you go through your spiritual awakening journey. Seek out communities and people that align with your values and beliefs, and consider attending spiritual programs, workshops, retreats, or online forums to connect with like-minded individuals.
14.The Light at the End of the Tunnel
Each painful step on the spiritual journey prepares us for a new beginning. A more enlightened and connected way of living. Despite the challenges, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel.
This is something that gives you hope for the future. After this long and difficult period of spiritual awakening there will be a sense of peace, understanding, and connection that comes with spiritual maturity.
15.Preparing for a Continual Journey
The spiritual awakening journey is an ongoing process of growth, exploration, and expansion, and by embracing it wholeheartedly, you can truly transform not only your own life but also contribute to the collective healing and awakening of our world.
Many indulge in hobbies, interests and activities of their choice and after a certain time long or short their journey of interest in this field just stops. But this journey of spiritual awakening is a continual process. One could not attain anything material in it, so this journey goes on. Furthermore, the interest in the Divine can never be declined in any stage of life as we all need help and guidance in hurdles of life.
Always remember ,no luxury in life, can compete with the closeness to God.
This is the main outcome of a spiritual journey so once you are on this way, you will never prefer to go back on that meaningless life again.
16.Conclusion
The pain in the spiritual journey is not a sign of failure, but rather a natural part of the process of awakening. It’s through overcoming these challenges that we grow and find deeper meaning in our lives.
Remember that spiritual awakening is a unique journey, that vary from person to person. Your path may look different from others. Embrace the process patiently, gracefully with openness, and a willingness to grow and learn. By doing so, you can cultivate a richer, more fulfilling, and deeply connected spiritual self.
As you continue this painful journey , remember that you are not alone. By building connections with other like minded people who are also experiencing spiritually awakening you feel motivated. Also by sharing your Experiences, Thoughts you can inspire and uplift others spiritually.
FAQs
1. Why is spiritual awakening often accompanied by pain?
Spiritual awakening involves deep transformation, which often means confronting and releasing old traumas and beliefs, a process that can be painful.
2. What is the ‘Dark Night of the Soul’?
The ‘Dark Night of the Soul’ is a period of spiritual crisis where one feels deep despair and disconnection, often preceding a major spiritual breakthrough.
3. How can we deal with the pain of spiritual growth?
Embracing the pain as part of the process, seeking support from a community, and practicing patience and self-compassion can help in navigating the challenges.
4. Can spiritual awakening lead to positive changes?
Yes, despite its challenges, spiritual awakening can lead to betterment in personal growth, greater inner peace, and a deeper connection with oneself and the world
5. Is it normal to feel lost during spiritual awakening?
Yes, feeling lost or uncertain is a common part of the spiritual journey, as old beliefs and identities are shed to make way for new understandings.
6. Does community support helps in spiritual transformation?
Yes, having a supportive community can provide a sense of safety and security, allowing you to explore your spirituality without fear or judgment.