Spiritual Emergency can be seen as a crisis in connection–without resources to re-establish connection. Experiencers (we) feel less connection to “all that is”, aka God, the Universe. Our dreams are chaotic and leave us disturbed on waking. We have fears we didn’t used to have and imagine bad outcomes. We may wonder, i.e. “Am I crazy?” We may push others away, i.e. “Maybe they are nuts?” We long for the connection we used to have when our meditation was deep and our spiritual community very close. What drives the crisis deeper: We may be suffering fear of loss or deep loss: death of a loved one, loss of a job or role in the community…or seeing the erosion of governmental institutions designed to keep us safe and secure. Our community and inner resources for facing challenges make the difference between crisis and vast positive potential.
The global pandemic has thrown many of us into this kind of loss of connection we never thought possible: cooped up home alone—or with partner and kids for months, stressed out by the irritations they present day after day, no alternative life at a workplace, none of the sweet distractions like restaurants, coffee houses, schools, concerts, religious events, and community dances that helped keep us in balance. No hugs with friends that affirmed belonging to a wider community. Masks hide others human responses at shared events contributing to less connection. The economic crisis and focus on racial prejudice and social justice erode the very foundations of connection to life as well. Resources we used to have are gone, or diminished.
So, we are suffering some or maybe lots of loss of connection. But, is that all bad?
Throughout the ages individuals have paid dearly to go on retreat…to isolate themselves from society. They deliberately let go of the known for a period of time—even consider that of value. Why? To reconnect with their God. To take their spiritual practices deeper via more meditation, prayer, and scriptural study. To focus more fully on yoga, Tai Chi, or specific movements that bring more peace and harmony. To revitalize by connecting with nature and animals without distraction. To re-evaluate their direction in life and seek vision for next steps.
If we value the isolation we look at it this way: Time to immerse in close relationships like family can restore and deepen bonds. A trusting relationship with a mentor or counselor can restore an acceptance with and care of oneself…just as a pastoral or spiritual counselor can help inspire one’s connection to the spiritual realms. – writes Dr. Emma Bragdon
— Valeria interviews Dr. Emma. She is the Executive Director of Integrative Mental Health for You, IMHU.org. They offer 34 online courses aimed at helping individuals have optimal mental health. Dr Bragdon has been a pioneer in the field of "Spiritual Emergency"--crises that are associated with personal evolution. She was licensed as a psychotherapist in 1988 and has a private practice online and in Vermont. She also teaches online courses, has published 7 books, and co-produced 2 documentary films about spiritual healing in Brazil.
To learn more about Emma Bragdon and her work please visit: https://imhu.org
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