A
Question:
I
have been pursuing what I will refer to as a 'spiritual path' for many
years. I have no real health
problems to speak of, and yet I am often faced with what I will term 'blocks in
the road'. Most alternative
practitioners speak of the body/mind connection, and by implication the
spiritual connection in manifesting illness. What can you offer to someone without illness, but feels
need to shift the energetic dynamics in their life?
First, I would like
to know the specifics of the 'spiritual path' being pursued, and the nature of
the 'blocks in the road.' The
proper advice would depend on the answers. Also, even though subtle energy is often described in
spiritual terms, its functions and flow are just as much a part of the
mechanics of the body as the blood circulation and respiratory function. Shifting the "energetic
dynamics" might involve "lower level" processes such as
acupuncture, shiatzu, Energy Medicine, other body work, or "higher
level" processes, such as constitutional homeopathy, Ericksonian Hypnosis,
Healing Touch, Brennan Healing, Reiki.
Or, this might involve directly grappling with the deepest spiritual
issues. Does the spiritual
path mean belonging to and organized religion, and attending a church, mosque,
synagogue or temple regularly?
Does the person engage in a regular prayer or devotional practice? Are their day-to-day actions, which
might be supported by their spiritual systems and paths, often aimed at service
to others and reducing pain and suffering in the world, or are they more
directed towards self-improvement and development?
The idea of
randomness and simple coincidence or chance is not part of many spiritual
systems. So, when "bad"
things (blocks in the road) happen, a cause or at least an origin is often
considered, which gives them meaning.
The origin of the 'block in the road' might be attributed to various
entities or causes (karma, God's will, a test for learning purposes, a curse, action
of malevolent forces, etc.), depending on the spiritual beliefs. Something I have found to be the case
most often is that no event or development is entirely good or bad. Each situation has the potential for
new choices and opportunities.
Very often, what is needed is an awareness of this possibility, and a
feeling of gratitude for the opportunities.
Perception and
expression of gratitude, regular practice of forgiveness, volunteer activities
devoted to service, altruism, cultivation of a sense of meaning to life,
opening the heart to love and empathy, are among the major factors in spiritual
progress. In addition, all of
these qualities, practices and activities have been shown through research to
be associated with higher levels of overall function and wellness, as well as
reduced rates of various diseases, when compared to people who do not engage in
them. Depending on what the person
is already doing, I would encourage or suggest development or further pursuit
of regular personal practices, including:
daily devotional or centering practice; attention to grounding, both
energetically and spiritually; meditation; energy development practices, such
as yoga, TaiChi, QiGong; work on forgiveness and developing gratitude;
volunteer activity. Taking advantage
of one or more of the various healing systems, such as Reiki and
Healing/Therapeutic Touch could be helpful. I would also encourage the person
to connect with others who are interested in pursuing a similar spiritual path.
©2008 Robert A. Weissberg, M.D.