The 7 Stages of Awakening

The following stages are commonly experienced during the awakening process:

1. Living a Lie - the stage of self-betrayal

Remaining oblivious to your true nature and potential, as well as that of others; blissful ignorance; being unaware of the underlying sentience or divinity present in all life and Nature; a fixation with the outward, material 3D world and the lure of money, possessions, popularity/fame/status and physical beauty/perfection; ignoring any inward or spiritual needs in favour of satisfying the desires of the ID (the primitive part of the mind that demands instant gratification and satisfaction, at any cost and with no regard for consequences); elevation of one's Ego identity and self-importance (my story, me first); conditional love based on ignorant or taught judgements.

2. The Choice - the stage of releasing control and breaking your chains

Feeling conflicted, confused or afraid and that there is more to life; a growing disdain for the material world or feeling unfulfilled or unsettled with materialistic goals and possessions; recurring fear of letting go or anxiety around change; rejection of the mainstream/following the crowd; drifting from activities and friendships/relationships that begin to feel toxic; a growing awareness of media manipulation and superficial culture/attitudes; recognising or becoming more aware of your selfish desires and motives; listening to your inner voice or a calling to connect with your soul; a desire for deeper meaning to existence; a need for more authentic friendships/relationships and connections; an urge to be free and to seek genuine happiness and contentment.

3. New Awareness of Wonder and Possibility - the stage of seeing with new eyes

Sensing an underlying unity or divinity in others/all life; feeling a renewed sense of awareness, ambition or direction in life; realising there is more to your existence and the physical world than what you currently know or understand; feeling apprehensive or unsure of your direction; wanting to spend time with new types of people or in new places (which are beneficial to your learning and growth); encountering information that challenges your beliefs, views and perceptions; feeling increasingly upset or disturbed by conflict and division; having experiences that teach you new and valuable lessons; feeling drawn to meditation, yoga or other such spiritual practices; spending more time in Nature and feeling a renewed connection to/love for animals; reaching a new understanding, appreciation or valuing of life.

4. Becoming Heart-Based - the stage of learning, failing and preparation

A hunger for greater authenticity and spirituality; long periods of self-reflection and exploration; resurfacing of old hurts and wounds (for healing/transmutation); retreating from the daily grind and your usual social activities; the ending of friendships or relationships for which you no longer feel an affinity; a feeling of giving up or letting go of past successes; releasing attachment to activities, goals, people, possessions, etc., that are no longer fulfilling; devoting more time to meditation or other spiritual practice(s) that facilitate soul growth; intensive reading and studying of spiritual texts or material relevant to your journey; making a connection with guides, teachers or with people to whom you feel more connected; contending with conflicting beliefs and uncertainties; (re)discovering your soul or spirituality.

5. Rebirth and Transformation - the stage of emptying and refilling

Feeling deeply lost with regards your life direction and the meaning of existence; feeling disconnected from others and Source; exhausting spiritual practices and material in search of a revelation; pronounced emphasis on self-healing and therapy; a sense of desperation or frustration; searching for the unknown in the dark; feeling apathetic, exhausted or melancholic; a longing for answers or divine truths; sensing a breakthrough or success; finding inner peace; rediscovering Source and unconditional love; finding new direction; a renewed understanding of Self; reconnecting with your soul and divinity in a simpler form.

6. The Trial - the stage of testing and confirmation

Feeling reinvigorated; renewed hope; resurfacing of past trauma, in the form of emotional wounds, physical ailments, neuroses and complexes (for deeper healing); encountering past adversaries (testing one's awareness, insight and wisdom acquired); strengthening of the Egoic self and pronounced desires from the ID (testing one's resolve and connection to Source); new challenges and trials designed to elicit deeper courage, love, empathy and wisdom; learning to conduct oneself and react in more authentic and deeply loving ways.

7. Reawakening - the stage of authenticity and fearlessness

Knowing thyself; feeling genuinely empowered (beyond one's ego identity); authentic courage (without instilling fear in others); true wisdom (without self-righteousness); understanding the role of fear and maintaining its place; a comprehension of Ego and its value whilst keeping it in check; encouraging understanding and insight wherever one goes; promoting accord and peace in one's immediate surroundings and in all interactions; helping others transcend fear, ignorance and division; encouraging love, joy, harmony and laughter; a true understanding of the value of all life; a deep sense of love and caring towards sentient life, particularly the wounded or vulnerable; a sense of responsibility for promoting love above all; a desire to share and teach one's love and wisdom; a profound sense of the underlying sentience in the Cosmos.

No stage of awakening is better than any other; such a desire to judge the self or others, depending on a perceived stage, comes only from the Ego. One may find certain stages repeating or requiring greater effort and time. Anšar encourages respect for and assisting others with their current stage of awakening.

In Courage, Love, Empathy and Wisdom.