Crossing the Threshold to Spiritual and Personal Freedom

In a group psychotherapy session focused on spirituality and its integration into individual recovery and rehabilitation, we explored how spirituality can enhance personal growth, resilience, hope, determination, and values. A component of this session was an optional exercise, allowing participants to engage in a meditation session designed to aid in thought regulation and mindfulness cultivation. This exercise aimed to assist individuals in achieving mental stillness and a centered presence, yet participation was entirely voluntary.

During the session, a client posed an intriguing question: she found it challenging to reach deeper states of relaxation because her thoughts were dominated by the the analytical part of the brain. She was preoccupied with understanding and making sense of the process, which is a common experience when learning something new. This initial stage involves acquiring knowledge and understanding, often leading to an overactive analytical mind.

The explanation offered was that, in the beginning, individuals are engaged in acquiring information and understanding how it aligns with their beliefs and values. It’s a phase where the information is yet to be internalized. Once this internalization occurs, individuals can better transcend the analytical mind of the frontal lobe – moving into deeper brain wave states. This transition allows for self-hypnotic suggestions and deeper relaxation, but it requires moving beyond the “monkey mind”—the restless, analytical mind.

Many people remain trapped in this analytical state, unable to transcend it. In spiritual terms, they are stuck within the dimension and realm of the mind. This is the labyrinth all seekers of personal development must navigate. Crossing this threshold is essential for achieving personal, mental, emotional, and spiritual freedom.

(c)2024 John Piedrahita