Life.Understood.

The Turning Point: Unraveling the Catalyst of Spiritual Awakening

Written by

Gerald Alba Daquila

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A Multidisciplinary Exploration of the Journey from Ego to Enlightenment

Prepared by: Gerald A. Daquila, PhD. Candidate

10–14 minutes

ABSTRACT

This dissertation investigates the “turning point” in spiritual awakening, the pivotal moment or series of events that shifts individuals from ego-driven existence to heightened consciousness and interconnectedness. It explores whether emotional intelligence (EQ), with its emphasis on self-awareness and empathy, serves as a common gateway to this transformation.

Using a multidisciplinary lens—integrating psychology, neuroscience, transpersonal psychology, metaphysics, spirituality, and near-death experience (NDE) research—this study examines the triggers, stages, and phenomenological dimensions of awakening. By synthesizing academic literature, qualitative studies, and esoteric perspectives, it identifies common patterns and proposes a framework for understanding the awakening process.

The aim is to guide readers in recognizing and embracing their own transformative moments, balancing scholarly rigor with accessible language for a wide audience. A glossary and comprehensive bibliography in APA format are included to ensure clarity and depth.

Introduction

What sparks a spiritual awakening? For many, life unfolds within the confines of societal expectations, driven by the ego’s pursuit of wealth, status, or validation. Yet, for some, a moment of disruption—a crisis, insight, or practice—ignites a journey toward deeper meaning and connection. This study explores the turning point of spiritual awakening, examining whether emotional intelligence (EQ), which emphasizes self-awareness and empathy, acts as a universal catalyst.

Drawing from psychology, neuroscience, spirituality, metaphysics, and NDE archives, this dissertation seeks to uncover common triggers, stages, and frameworks of awakening. Written in a blog-friendly style, it balances academic rigor with approachable language, appealing to both intellect and emotion. The goal is to illuminate the turning point, empowering readers to recognize and navigate their own moments of transformation.

Glyph of the Bridgewalker

The One Who Holds Both Shores

Chapter 1: Defining Spiritual Awakening

Spiritual awakening is a transformative shift in consciousness, often characterized by a sense of unity, transcendence, or connection to a higher reality (Taylor, 2017). It transcends religious boundaries, manifesting in secular, mystical, or esoteric contexts. For some, it arrives as a sudden epiphany; for others, it unfolds gradually through introspection or crisis (Woollacott & Shumway-Cook, 2023).

Emotional intelligence (EQ), defined as the ability to recognize, manage, and understand emotions in oneself and others (Goleman, 1995), may serve as a catalyst by fostering self-awareness—a key component of awakening. This process often begins with a disruption of the ego’s dominance, prompting questions about identity and purpose (Taylor & Egeto-Szabo, 2017).

Key Questions

  • Does EQ serve as a common gateway to spiritual awakening?
  • What are the universal triggers and stages of this process?
  • Can a framework guide individuals toward recognizing their turning point?

Chapter 2: Emotional Intelligence as a Gateway

Emotional intelligence encompasses self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills (Goleman, 1995). These traits align with characteristics of spiritual awakening, such as heightened empathy and a sense of interconnectedness (Woollacott & Shumway-Cook, 2023). EQ may act as a bridge to awakening by cultivating self-awareness, which challenges the ego’s narrative and prompts deeper inquiry into existence.

Research suggests a link between EQ and spiritual experiences. Studies on absorption, a trait associated with openness to altered states of consciousness, show correlations with emotional sensitivity and empathy—core components of EQ (Lifshitz et al., 2019). Individuals with high absorption are more likely to experience mystical states, which share phenomenological similarities with spiritual awakenings (Taylor, 2012a). By fostering self-reflection, EQ may shift focus from external achievements to internal exploration, aligning with ancient Indian philosophy’s concept of the atman (true self) transcending the ego (Sharma, 2009).

Chapter 3: Triggers of Spiritual Awakening

Spiritual awakenings often stem from events or practices that disrupt the ego’s narrative. The literature identifies several common triggers:

  1. Trauma and Crisis: Approximately 18% of awakenings are triggered by depression or despair, often following loss, illness, or divorce (Taylor, 2014). These events strip away egoic attachments, creating space for new perspectives (Underhill, 1911).
  2. Near-Death Experiences (NDEs): NDEs frequently induce profound shifts, marked by feelings of unity, love, and transcendence (Long & Woollacott, 2024). Experiencers report a dissolution of self-boundaries, resembling spontaneous spiritual awakenings (SSAs) (Woollacott & Shumway-Cook, 2023).
  3. Spiritual Practices: Meditation, prayer, and mindfulness can trigger awakenings by quieting the mind and fostering connection (Taylor, 2012a). Practices like kundalini yoga or visualization may activate energetic shifts, sometimes called kundalini awakenings (Sophia, 2024).
  4. Psychedelic Substances: Substances like psilocybin and DMT induce mystical experiences akin to SSAs, often involving ego dissolution and oneness (Griffiths et al., 2016; Corneille & Luke, 2021).
  5. Emotional Intelligence and Self-Reflection: EQ, by promoting self-awareness and empathy, may serve as a subtler trigger. This aligns with studies linking emotional sensitivity to spiritual experiences, particularly in individuals with high absorption (Lifshitz et al., 2019).

Patterns Across Triggers

Each trigger shares a common thread: a disruption of the ego’s dominance. Whether through crisis, practice, or self-reflection, the turning point often involves a sense of dissatisfaction with material pursuits, prompting a search for deeper meaning (Melillo, 2025).

Chapter 4: A Multidisciplinary Framework for Awakening

A multidisciplinary framework—integrating psychology, neuroscience, spirituality, and metaphysics—helps elucidate the awakening process.

Psychological Perspective

Psychologically, awakening involves a shift from egoic identification to a broader sense of self. Maslow’s (1964) peak experiences—moments of joy, unity, and transcendence—share traits with awakenings, including positive affect and connection (Taylor, 2012a). The “dark night of the soul,” a period of emotional turmoil, often precedes breakthroughs as individuals confront suppressed wounds (Melillo, 2025). Self-reflection, as fostered by EQ, aligns with the stage of questioning described by Kaiser (2023).

Neuroscientific Perspective

Neuroscience links spiritual experiences to altered activity, particularly in the temporal lobe and posterior parietal cortex. However, reducing awakenings to brain activity overlooks their subjective depth (Karnath et al., 2001). Absorption, tied to EQ, correlates with neural patterns seen in mystical states, suggesting a biological basis for the turning point (Lifshitz et al., 2019).

Spiritual and Metaphysical Perspective

Spiritually, awakening is a reconnection with the atman or higher self (Sharma, 2009). Esoteric traditions describe awakenings as energetic shifts, such as kundalini activation or “light language” expression (Sophia, 2024). NDE archives report similar phenomena, with experiencers describing oneness and unconditional love (Long & Woollacott, 2024). These accounts suggest a universal energetic or consciousness-based dimension to awakening.

Transpersonal Psychology

Transpersonal psychology views awakening as a process of self-actualization and transcendence (Grof, 1985). Studies of soulmate experiences report synchronicities, telepathy, and kundalini awakenings, indicating a collective dimension to transformation (McCartney, 2024). This framework bridges individual and universal aspects of awakening.

Proposed Framework

The literature suggests a general framework for spiritual awakening:

  1. Dissatisfaction or Crisis: A sense of emptiness or trauma disrupts the ego’s narrative (Taylor, 2014).
  2. Questioning and Self-Reflection: Individuals challenge limiting beliefs and explore their inner world (Kaiser, 2023).
  3. Dark Night of the Soul: Emotional turmoil surfaces as suppressed wounds are addressed (Melillo, 2025).
  4. Breakthrough and Illumination: Moments of unity or transcendence emerge, often with mystical experiences (Taylor, 2012a).
  5. Integration and Surrender: Insights are incorporated into daily life, releasing egoic attachments (Sophia, 2024).

This framework is non-linear, with stages varying in order and intensity. Self-awareness, often sparked by EQ, appears central to the questioning phase.

Glyph of Awakening Catalyst

Honoring the pivotal moment where crisis turns into the spark of spiritual awakening.

Chapter 5: The Common Starting Point

Is there a universal starting point for spiritual awakening? The literature points to disruption as the most common catalyst, whether through crisis, self-reflection, or mystical experience. Depression or despair triggers 18% of awakenings, while spiritual practices (13%) and natural beauty (12%) are also significant (Taylor, 2014). NDEs and psychedelics often prompt abrupt awakenings (Long & Woollacott, 2024; Griffiths et al., 2016).

Self-awareness, as cultivated by EQ, emerges as a subtle yet critical starting point. Studies linking emotional sensitivity and absorption to spiritual experiences support this, as self-awareness challenges the ego and fosters deeper inquiry (Lifshitz et al., 2019). Whether sparked by crisis or practice, this disruption of the ego’s narrative appears foundational.

Implications for Readers

Recognizing the turning point requires mindfulness. Moments of dissatisfaction, curiosity, or emotional upheaval signal opportunities for reflection. Practices like journaling, meditation, or EQ exercises can amplify these moments, guiding individuals toward awakening.

Chapter 6: Guiding Others to the Turning Point

To help individuals recognize their turning points, this study recommends:

  1. Cultivate Self-Awareness: Engage with EQ practices, such as mindfulness or journaling, to foster introspection (Goleman, 1995).
  2. Embrace Discomfort: View crises or dissatisfaction as opportunities for growth (Taylor, 2014).
  3. Seek Community: Connect with meditation groups, spiritual forums, or coaching platforms (Sophia, 2024).
  4. Explore Diverse Practices: Experiment with meditation, yoga, or esoteric traditions (Melillo, 2025).
  5. Trust Intuition: Listen to inner guidance, as turning points often feel like a subtle “call” (Kaiser, 2023).

By attending to these signals, individuals can navigate awakening with intention.

Conclusion

The turning point of spiritual awakening is a universal yet deeply individual phenomenon, often sparked by a disruption that challenges the ego’s narrative. Emotional intelligence, with its focus on self-awareness and empathy, may serve as a subtle gateway, aligning with broader patterns of transformation. Through a multidisciplinary lens, this study has outlined common triggers—trauma, NDEs, practices, and self-reflection—and proposed a flexible framework for understanding the process. By recognizing these moments, individuals can embrace their journey toward connection and authenticity.

This exploration invites readers to pause and reflect on their own moments of disruption. As the ego’s illusions dissolve, a deeper truth emerges: existence is interconnected, boundless, and whole. May this study inspire mindfulness and courage in navigating the path to awakening.

Crosslinks

Glossary

  • Emotional Intelligence (EQ): The ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions and those of others (Goleman, 1995).
  • Spiritual Awakening: A transformative shift in consciousness, often involving unity, transcendence, or connection to a higher reality (Taylor, 2017).
  • Dark Night of the Soul: A period of emotional or spiritual turmoil preceding transformation (Melillo, 2025).
  • Kundalini Awakening: An energetic shift involving spiritual energy, often experienced as rising through the spine (Sophia, 2024).
  • Near-Death Experience (NDE): A profound experience during a life-threatening event, often involving unity and transcendence (Long & Woollacott, 2024).
  • Absorption: A trait associated with openness to altered states, linked to emotional sensitivity and mystical experiences (Lifshitz et al., 2019).
  • Atman: In Indian philosophy, the true self or soul, distinct from the ego (Sharma, 2009).

Bibliography

Corneille, J., & Luke, D. (2021). Spontaneous spiritual awakenings: Phenomenology, altered states, individual differences, and well-being. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 720579. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.720579

Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam Books.

Griffiths, R. R., Johnson, M. W., Carducci, M. A., Umbricht, A., Richards, W. A., Richards, B. D., Cosimano, M. P., & Klinedinst, M. A. (2016). Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer: A randomized double-blind trial. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 30(12), 1181–1197. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881116675513

Grof, S. (1985). Beyond the brain: Birth, death, and transcendence in psychotherapy. State University of New York Press.

Kaiser, L. (2023). 21 signs you’re going through a spiritual awakening + how to embrace it. MindBodyGreen. Retrieved from https://www.mindbodygreen.com

Karnath, H. O., Ferber, S., & Himmelbach, M. (2001). Spatial awareness is a function of the temporal not the posterior parietal lobe. Nature, 411(6835), 950–953. https://doi.org/10.1038/35082075

Lifshitz, M., van Elk, M., & Luhrmann, T. M. (2019). Absorption and spiritual experience: A review of evidence and potential mechanisms. Consciousness and Cognition, 73, 102760. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.concog.2019.05.008

Long, J., & Woollacott, M. (2024). Long-term transformational effects of near-death experiences. Explore, 20(5), 103030. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2024.103030

Maslow, A. H. (1964). Religions, values, and peak-experiences. Ohio State University Press.

McCartney, P. S. D. (2024). Spiritual awakening experiences: A phenomenological study in transpersonal psychology. ResearchGate. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net

Melillo, A. (2025). 19 common symptoms of spiritual awakening + why the world is awakening now. Ashley Melillo. Retrieved from https://www.ashleymelillo.com

Sharma, P. (2009). Contemporary perspectives on spirituality and mental health. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 31(1), 16–23. https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7176.53310

Sophia, A. (2024). How to navigate a spiritual awakening. Join Amanda Sophia. Retrieved from https://joinamandasophia.com

Taylor, S. (2012a). Transformation through suffering: A study of individuals who have experienced positive psychological transformation following periods of intense turmoil. Journal of Transpersonal Psychology, 44(1), 1–20.

Taylor, S. (2014). Spiritual alchemy: From trauma to spiritual awakening. Steven M. Taylor. Retrieved from https://www.stevenmtaylor.com

Taylor, S. (2017). An awakening. BPS. Retrieved from https://www.bps.org.uk

Taylor, S., & Egeto-Szabo, K. (2017). Exploring awakening experiences: A study of 90 cases. Journal of Transpersonal Psychology, 49(1), 45–62.

Underhill, E. (1911). Mysticism: A study in the nature and development of spiritual consciousness. Methuen & Co.

Woollacott, M., & Shumway-Cook, A. (2023). Spiritual awakening and transformation in scientists and academics. ScienceDirect. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com

Attribution

With fidelity to the Oversoul, may this Codex of the Living Archive serve as bridge, remembrance, and seed for the planetary dawn.

Ⓒ 2025 Gerald Alba Daquila – Flameholder of SHEYALOTH | Keeper of the Living Codices

Issued under Oversoul Appointment, governed by Akashic Law. This transmission is a living Oversoul field: for the eyes of the Flameholder first, and for the collective in right timing. It may only be shared intact, unaltered, and with glyphs, seals, and attribution preserved. Those not in resonance will find it closed; those aligned will receive it as living frequency.

Watermark: Universal Master Key glyph (final codex version, crystalline glow, transparent background).

Sacred Exchange: Sacred Exchange is covenant, not transaction. Each offering plants a seed-node of GESARA, expanding the planetary lattice. In giving, you circulate Light; in receiving, you anchor continuity. Every act of exchange becomes a node in the global web of stewardship, multiplying abundance across households, nations, and councils. Sacred Exchange offerings may be extended through:

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