Pilgrimage Into Soul

December 2, 2023

In my late thirties, I pilgrimaged to North Carolina to learn spiritual breath work. Though leery of altered states of consciousness, I was eager to know more about this technique that, through simple breathing, heals many traumas.

The process was very simple; before the session began, the trainers made me feel comfortable and safe. Reclined and with my eyes closed, they guided me through the stages of deep breathing. During the session, oxygen levels change because of the increased intake of air, which results in a natural alteration of consciousness and inner perception.

This temporary state of consciousness moved blocked emotions through my body and expressed them during the session. The imagery my soul used to heal me was that of being chained at my hands and feet. During the brief but exhaustive session, the chains fell off. I remember that, while lying flat on my back, my eye sockets brimmed over with tears. The trainers reassured me and guided me into freedom.

The spiritual healing was the release of negative emotions which for years had immobilized particular aspects of myself. The tears were expressions of grief over so much needless suffering and of relief.

The inner pilgrimage was into the depths of my soul, therefore it could have been done in any geographic locale. The technique became part of my spiritual practice and I continue this inner pilgrimage today.

Global spiritual leader and teacher Thich Nhat Hanh (1926-2022) emphasized the importance of following our breath in meditation. Heartfulness meditation (Kanha Shanti Vanam Ashram, Hyderabad, India) also includes deep breathing for oxygenating, cleansing the entire being and receiving clarity (see Daaji, Kamlish D. Patel’s book, The Wisdom Bridge, 2022).

Inquiry: Why is breath so important to you in perceiving the unseen landscape of your soul?

Dear God,

I am grateful that you planted in me, at my making, the quest for freedom. And I pray for the courage to break many other chains. Amen.

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