The Stages of The Dark Night of The Soul

The term “Dark Night of the Soul” was originally coined by a 16th-century Spanish mystic and poet, Saint John of the Cross, to describe a profound spiritual crisis he experienced. In modern times, the term has come to refer more broadly to any period of intense emotional or spiritual suffering that can lead to profound transformation and growth.

The Dark Night of the Soul can be seen as a journey through a series of stages, each of which presents its own challenges and opportunities for growth.

Here are the common stages of the Dark Night of the Soul:

Awakening: This stage can be triggered by a significant life event or a gradual realization that something in your life is not working. It is characterized by a sense of dissatisfaction with the status quo and a longing for something more meaningful.

The Call: In this stage, you feel a strong urge to seek out answers to life’s big questions. You may begin to question the beliefs and values that you have held up until this point, and feel drawn to explore new ideas and ways of being.

The Void: As you begin to explore these new ideas and ways of being, you may start to feel a sense of emptiness or detachment from the world around you. This stage is often characterized by feelings of confusion, disorientation, and a sense of being lost.

The Abyss: In this stage, you may experience intense feelings of despair, hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts. It can be an incredibly difficult stage to navigate, but it is often a necessary part of the process of transformation.

The Rebirth: If you can navigate the Abyss, you may experience a profound sense of renewal and rebirth. You may feel a renewed sense of purpose and connection to the world around you, and a deeper understanding of your place in the universe.

Integration: In the final stage, you begin to integrate the insights and experiences gained during your Dark Night of the Soul into your everyday life. This stage is characterized by a sense of peace and acceptance, as you come to understand that your suffering was a necessary part of your journey to greater understanding and growth.

The Dark Night of the Soul can be an incredibly challenging and painful experience, but it can also be a powerful catalyst for personal transformation and growth. By understanding the stages of this journey, you can better navigate the ups and downs of the process and emerge stronger, wiser, and more connected to yourself and the world around you.

If you are going through a dark night of the soul, you may feel lost, confused, and uncertain about the future. However, with the right support, this challenging time can be an opportunity for growth, transformation, and healing. Contact me here!

Please note that if you are experiencing suicidal ideation, it is crucial to seek help from a medical professional immediately.

Photo credit: pexel.com.