What is the ‘Dark Night of the Soul’?
The “dark night of the soul” is a term that has been used throughout history to describe a spiritual crisis that one may experience on their journey towards self-discovery and enlightenment.
According to Carl Jung, this crisis is a necessary part of the process of personal growth, which is the development of learning how to integrate the various aspects of the self, including the unconscious and the shadow, in order to become a more whole and authentic person.
In the context of the hero’s journey, the dark night of the soul represents the point in the journey where the hero must confront their deepest fears and insecurities in order to overcome them and move forward. This may involve facing the shadow, which is the part of the psyche that contains repressed desires, fears, and negative aspects of the self. It can also involve confronting the archetype of the “anima” or “animus,” which is the inner feminine or masculine aspect of the psyche that is often out of balance.
Esoteric knowledge suggests that the dark night of the soul is not just a psychological or emotional experience, but also a spiritual one. It is believed that this crisis marks a turning point in the soul’s evolution, as the individual is forced to confront their illusions and attachments and let go of them in order to move closer to the Truth. This process is often accompanied by feelings of confusion, despair, and a sense of being lost or disconnected from the world.
However, it is important to note that the dark night of the soul is not a state of being, but rather a process that one goes through.
It is not something that can be fixed or solved, but rather something that must be experienced and integrated in order to bring about growth and change. It is a time of great transformation, where the individual is forced to let go of their old ways of being and open themselves up to new possibilities.
4 Ways to Help Move Through the Intensity
- Connect with a Higher Power:
Connecting with a Higher Power (God/Universe/Source, etc.), whether it be through prayer, meditation, or connecting with nature, can provide a sense of comfort and support during difficult times. It allows one to release control, and trust that they are being guided and supported on their journey. - Practice self-compassion:
Treat yourself with kindness and understanding during this difficult time. Remember that it is a normal part of the human experience, and that it is okay to feel a wide range of emotions. - Let go of the ego:
The “dark night of the soul” can often be triggered by the ego’s attachment to certain beliefs, ideals, or outcomes. By letting go of the ego’s attachment to these things, one can begin to see things from a different perspective and find a deeper understanding of themselves and their journey. - Embrace the present moment:
During the “dark night of the soul” it can be easy to get caught up in past regrets or future fears. By embracing the present moment, one can find a sense of peace and tranquility, and begin to move forward on their journey. This can be done through mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga, or simply taking a walk in nature.
This is a necessary and integral part of the hero’s journey and the process of individuation. It is a time of great challenge and transformation, where the individual must confront their deepest fears and insecurities in order to overcome them and move forward on their journey towards self-discovery and enlightenment. Through this process, the soul evolves and becomes more whole and authentic.
These spiritual principles can help to provide a sense of comfort and guidance during the intensity of this part of your soul’s journey. Remember that this is a natural and necessary part of the human experience, and that it will pass with time and patience. Trust in the journey and know that you are not alone.
