What is Ascension, Awakening and Enlightenment?

What is Ascension, Awakening and Enlightenment?

What is the difference between ascension, awakening, and enlightenment?  There definitely is some squishiness to many concepts in spirituality or new-age philosophy. By their very nature, we are trying to describe the ineffable. But I think appreciating their distinctive characteristics goes a long way in assisting us in knowing what tools, resources, and practices can deepen where we are in our spiritual journey.  As with all things that are explored across many disciplines and with different points of origin, interpretations vary. But here is a good guide to understanding these often misused terms.

What is Ascension?

Ascension refers to the process of transcending to a higher level of consciousness or existence. Ascension is both an individual and collective journey towards a higher state of being. And is thought of more as an energetic/spiritual process rather than a physical one. This shift is characterized by moving from a world based on ego identity, separation, and Us vs Them mentality to one of love, unity, and interconnection. From this higher state of being, we have heightened perception and greater intuitive capacities. Gaining access to spiritual gifts that were not previously available due to the density of the 3-D world.

What is Awakening?

Awakening can be thought of as what is happening as we move from the 3-D to 5-D world. If ascension is the larger process, awakening is the unfolding realization and recognition of the nature of reality that happens within that process. Bringing with it profound insights and shifts in perception, leading to increased mindfulness, spiritual growth, and a deeper connection to oneself and the world. These realizations can happen suddenly or over a long period of time with steep stages and plateaus. It can be triggered by unexplainable events, a life transition, or a peak experience, but it starts with a deeper appreciation that we are part of something bigger than just ourselves. 

New to Awakening: 3 Books Everyone Should Read

What is Enlightenment?

Enlightenment is often considered the ultimate result of awakening in spiritual traditions. It is an absolute state of being that once you have achieved it, there is no other way of being. The idea of what the ultimate result is can vary from tradition to tradition. For Buddhists and Hindus, it involves liberation from the cycle of rebirth. In Taoism, enlightenment is seen as a return to the inherent harmony of the Tao (the Way), the natural order of the universe. Some others believe that it is simply non-duality. It is safe to say that there have been very few enlightened people in humanity’s history. Because enlightenment transcends the limitations of ego and conditioned patterns of thinking and involves living with the knowing of our oneness (non-duality), it is not easy to achieve.

Practices and Rituals

Because these concepts are interrelated, all of these practices lend themselves to the awakening path.

Common Practices:

  • Meditation and journeys
  • Breathwork
  • Plant-based medicine
  • Honing intuitive skills
  • Practicing compassion
  • Fasting
  • Light body activations/meditations
  • Using frameworks/exercises that challenge biases/constructs
  • Drumming, shaking, dancing
  • Chanting, singing
  • Adornment
  • Journaling

In conclusion, ascension refers to a process, and awakening are the realizations one has during this process. Enlightenment is the ultimate result or state that can be achieved through this journey. While it is amazing to have personal breakthroughs and ‘AHa’ moments, these are truly important. We must also remember that we are part of something bigger than ourselves. And on some level – WE ARE ONE. Give thanks for all discoveries you have and know that as you awaken so does the cosmos. 

Where do you fit in? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

 

 

To go deeper on this topic – Read Understanding Ascension, Awakening, and Enlightenment on Substack.

Divine Union: Weaving The Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine

Divine Union: Weaving The Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine

In the previous two articles, we explored the Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine Principles individually. In this article, we are going to look at how they come together in Divine Union.. 

Divine union is a term used to describe the coming together of the Divine Masculine and Feminine energies. Leading to a state of balance and harmony as these two forces coming together as an integrated whole. The divine union can be experienced within oneself, as well as within partnerships. It is a sacred and transformative relationship that requires inner work, self-awareness, and a willingness to let go of old patterns and beliefs that create imbalances. When these principles are balanced and harmonized, it can lead to a state of wholeness within the self, deeper intimacy in sacred partnerships, and oneness with the universe.

The Divine Masculine & Divine Feminine

It is important to recognize and value the significant contributions of both masculine and feminine energy. The Divine Masculine principle is associated with traits such as strength, courage, action, and logic. The Divine Feminine principle is associated with traits such as compassion, intuition, creativity, and nurturing. These two energies exist in harmony. If one is out of balance it means that the other is also imbalanced. So if you are too grounded in your masculine energy, you will be deficient in the Divine Feminine and vis versa.

In an ideal world, both men and women would be able to connect with both energies and make conscious choices that blend the best of both aspects in every situation. Each person would be able to embrace intuition and logic. Making decisions with both prudence and inner awareness.  Display self-discipline as well as be able to go with the flow, connecting with the structures within the cycles. Show proper emotions while at the same time being rational and even-handed. You get the picture. 

If you feel stuck, stagnant or out of balance, I would examine how these two divine energies manifest in your life. A great place to start is to look at the formative and important relationships with the men and women in your life. What did you learn about masculinity? What did you learn about femininity?  How did these examples affect who you are and how you show up in the world?

A Great Model

Yin Yang symbolYin/Yang in Chinese philosophy describes equal but opposite forces that are attractive and complementary. It is a great model to understand Divine Union. Yin and yang are interconnected and counterbalancing. Yin symbolizes the dark, receptive, feminine force, while yang symbolizes the light, active, masculine energy. From this perspective, the universe creates itself out of chaos (the Feminine), and organizes into form (the Masculine). Then the cycle of creation and destruction continues indefinitely. 

The symbol itself consists of a circle divided into two halves by a curved line. One half of the circle is black (yin) and the other is white (yang), with a smaller circle of the opposite color in each half. These smaller circles are integral to understanding divine union. They symbolize the masculine within the feminine and the feminine within the masculine. Reminding us that these forces are interdependent and one without the other is incomplete.

The Integrated Whole

This is similar to Jung’s description of the Animus and Anima which describe the masculine and feminine aspects of the human psyche, respectively. The Animus represents a woman’s inner masculine and is often symbolized by archetypal figures such as knights or warriors. The Anima is the feminine aspect of a man’s unconscious mind and is often symbolized by figures such as goddesses, or muses.

To reach our full potential, we must allow these energies to interact and transform our consciousness. He called this the “mysterium coniunctionis,” the synthesis of opposites or the ability to hold opposing forces in balance. Bringing the King and Queen into Divine Union. The Animus and Anima are not fixed or static, but rather exist on a spectrum. Both men and women can develop and integrate these opposing aspects of their psyche to achieve a more well-rounded and balanced sense of self.

How They Serve Each Other

The Feminine without the Masculine exists as pure consciousness but has no awareness of where or what She is. The Masculine has structure and direction but no meaning or purpose. The feminine creates the container for all of creation but without the masculine can never bring form out of the formless. She remains unseen and unknown. Without the instruction or structure for her creative force. 

In less esoteric terms, you can be the most creative person in the world, but without structure or self-discipline, you may never see any of your creativity come to fruition. Conversely, you may have may be incredible at getting things done but lack originality or you burn yourself out without taking time to just be. 

Sacred Partnerships

Beyond just being an integrated whole, bringing together the divine forces in sexual partnership is a powerful experience. The merging of the pure consciousness and pure energy of both the male and female principles allows for the attainment of divine union in Tantra. Tantra, meaning to weave, is exemplified through the active feminine energy of Shakti rising into the passive pre-existing masculine consciousness of Shiva.

In her book, The Heart of Tantric Sex, Diana Richardson explores the importance of slowing down, being present, and connecting with your partner on a deeper level. By cultivating sexual energy, first within the self and then with your partner, this union creates a powerful magnetic field. As we learn to harness the polarity – meaning the positive male pole and negative female pole coming together within the individual and between partnerships to create a ‘magnetic intelligence’. It helps to not only build intimacy but also get the individual in touch with a vast well of creative energy that can be used to manifest in our daily lives. Sexual energy is creative energy whether in love or in life. 

Divine union is important for mankind’s evolution. It can lead to a deeper sense of self, more intimacy and catalyze personal growth by allowing us to show up as a whole, integrated human. It is important to understand and embrace both energies to achieve a state of balance and unity within one’s self and in our relationships. 

Check out this Tantric Guided Meditation for Partners 

 

(c) Can Stock Photo / pitinan

Ascension & The Higher Chakras

Ascension & The Higher Chakras

Many people believe that part of our human ascension is the activation of all of our chakras, including our higher chakra centers. However, there is much debate about where these chakras reside and what their purpose is. We do know that there are more than the 7 major chakras commonly discussed. And some feel, as I do, that our ascension has less to do with our lower chakras and far more to do with the activation of those that connect us to higher, less dense states of consciousness. Here I discuss some of the other chakras and their associated connection to our ascension and energy body.

The Earth Star Chakra

This chakra is located approximately 12 inches below your feet and is associated with grounding and physical connection to the Earth. This chakra is responsible for connecting the individual to the Earth’s field and serves as a grounding point for physical and emotional energies. The earth has an almost limitless capacity for neutralizing frequencies. So, it is through this center that we can release unwanted or unnecessary energy to be balanced by the earth. By facilitating this connection an individual will experience a greater sense of balance and harmony as their relationship with nature deepens.

This chakra can be activated through grounding exercises like walking barefoot on the earth, visualization techniques, and meditation. Also, moving the breath in and out the soles of the feet can be a powerful way to connect with the equanimity of the earth’s energy. The activation of this chakra is necessary for the ascension of individuals and establishes the foundation for our relationship with the cosmos. 

Want to learn more about the 7 Major Chakras and how they can be used as a framework for our personal evolution?

The Causal Chakra

This chakra is located three to four inches behind the crown chakra and aligns with the spinal column. This chakra is responsible for the manifestation of thoughts into reality and allows a person to tap into their creative potential. When fully activated, the causal chakra can lead to a greater understanding of one’s purpose, enhanced psychic abilities, and a connection to higher wisdom and intuition. Some people would describe this as the seat of the higher self which acts as our guide on our awakening path. This center must be connected to the heart. Creating a clear channel for direct communication. Using meditation, intention, and visions of light, one can open up this channel and receive divine guidance from this chakra.

The Soul Star Chakra

The soul star chakra, also known as the eighth chakra is located approximately 6 inches above the crown of the head. It is associated with the color white or gold and is said to be the seat of our soul and assists in the expansion of consciousness beyond the physical body. It is responsible for connecting our minds to the cosmic wisdom of other galaxies. Allowing us to obtain information from galactic sources. It is believed to be the connection point between our individual consciousness and the universal consciousness. It is also thought that it is the entry point for divine love. Whereas personal love is experienced in the heart chakra, here we have the experience of unified love from the Divine. 

The Stellar Gateway Chakra

The Stellar Gateway Chakra is the highest energy center of the human body and is located roughly 12 inches above the head above the Crown Chakra. It is a gateway to the source of creation itself. It represents our connection to the universe and the larger cosmic picture of our existence. Activating this chakra is a critical piece in the evolution of all of humanity. The opening of this chakra is not something an individual can open themselves, it occurs as a function of humanity’s ascension as a whole. This center of the light is thought to be timeless, holographic, and multidimensional and is our direct connection to Source.

Check out this moving meditation that blends sacred geometry, the chakra centers, and a guided meditation to activate your light body. 

 

Joseph Holmes on Messages from Mary

Joseph Holmes on Messages from Mary

Subscribe on iTunesSpotify, Google Podcasts or Spreaker

Have you ever witnessed an angel? What is fearless faith? Do we need to open space in our lives for our purpose to come to us? In this episode, Joseph Holmes shares decades of stories of his relationship with Mary Magdalene and Mother Mary. We also explore how to find your purpose, how God answers our prayers and how to overcome fear and doubt.

About the Guest

Joseph Holmes is a mindset juggernaut, spiritual warrior, best-selling author, mystic, and international speaker He helps people come out of their “Angel Closets,”  and discover the Gift they were born to give to the world, how do share that Gift and how to fearlessly deal with the inevitable doubts and fears that end up holding most people back from creating a life of meaning, significance, joy, love and success.

Links

Joseph Holmes’ Website  

www.chaosandlight.com

Carrie Kohan on Near Death Experiences & Sacred Activism

Carrie Kohan on Near Death Experiences & Sacred Activism

Subscribe on iTunesSpotify Google Podcasts or Spreaker

What happens after we die? Is there such a thing as heaven and hell? In this episode, Carrie Kohan shares the stories of her two near-death experiences. We explore how these NDEs changed her perspective on life, spirituality and our soul’s journey. She also shares how they compelled her, with direction from Spirit, to live a life of sacred activism. Helping to write 14 laws that protect children from sexual abuse. We also touch briefly on aliens, the Council of Men, and the angelic realms. It is a fascinating listen.

About the Guest

A womanCarrie Kohan is the author of The Five Lessons of Life, which is a life-changing book about her two near-death experiences. When Carrie returned from her second death, she became a Coach and Business Partner of Tony Robbins from 1993 – 97. In 1995, Carrie’s family was the second in Canada, to bring the cellular industry to the Supreme Court over safety concerns of EMFs. She then went on to write her first book on Fauci and his ‘reclassification’ of AIDs. Then she became the first voice in Canada to speak up about child sexual abuse. As a federal government witness, Carrie has amended and written 14 laws to protect children from predators. Today she speaks about her encounters with ETs, the end of the Mayan Calendar, and is working on her next 3 books.

 

Links

Carriekohan.com

Book: The Five Lessons of Life: A True-Life Story about an Ordinary Woman who Survived Two Extraordinary Near-Death-Experiences in Both Heaven & Hell!

www.chaosandlight.com

Cycles of Life Guided Meditation

Cycles of Life Guided Meditation

 
This guided meditation is part of a weekly Living Light Meditation gathering in the Chaos & Light Community. This meditation takes you through the seasons of life and the cycle of creative energy. We explore each cycle through the lens of nature and the elements of air, fire, water and earth. The Chaos & Light Community is an online space for spiritual seekers to collaborate, share, inspire and learn with a community of like-minded people that nurture and foster evolving states of consciousness, and promote personal evolution and well-being.
 
Music credit by StockProMusic
Photo credit Canva.com

SHOW LESS