Introduction
Recently there was a question asked during a workshop.
“I think a lot of us struggle with two resistances: 1) resistance to wake up, feeling it might be unpredictable or unsafe, 2) we reach a point of terror because the astral light is imprinted with witches burnt, people put in clinics, etc.
Is there a trick to calm down the unconsciousness?”
Below are some of my comments related to this question.
Part 1
These concerns can be quite valid. Unpredictability and perceived dangers surrounding awakening experiences are indeed not totally unknown. It’s understandable to feel cautious or even fearful, given both personal and collective historical imprints.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I’ve found it helpful to recognize that our personal journeys can vary widely — not just vary from person to person — but, even within one’s life. There are options on how I walk the path.
For me, moments that could have been overwhelming or potentially problematic led me to consciously shift gears and choose gentler, subtler pathways. I found value in opting for steady growth rather than abrupt or cathartic shifts.
I recall moments that felt as if they might open doors to unfamiliar or unpredictable outcomes that looked like they could be beyond my ability to cope. In those moments, I trusted my own gut feelings and backed off the accelerator — choosing to let things unfold in small, intentional steps rather than leaps. I suppose if I was feeling pressured or egged on, I could have taken more drastic leaps. However, like a hiker alone deep in the back country, it is perhaps best to not take stupid risks.
Perhaps the key isn’t necessarily to eliminate resistance entirely but to acknowledge it and work at a pace that respects your comfort, emotional security, and of course your intuition.
Each person’s journey is unique, and honoring your intuition and emotional signals can serve as the best compass. Trusting yourself to navigate with gentleness can transform potential fear into curiosity, guiding you forward safely and authentically.
I like the image of being a hiker in the back-country. A hiker with a path they need to walk. Give yourself permission to not take unnecessary stupid risks. Sometimes we need to take risks — stupid or not. In those situations it is on you to be thoughtful, free from pressure and listen to your instincts and guidance.
Part 2
On those occasions when an activity was heading in the direction of “yikes, this could get a bit more freaky than I want to deal with” I have found that it was not necessary to abandon the activity. Instead, I made a slight modification in how I went about the activity.
Maybe choosing another time of day, a different pace, or perhaps a slight shift in posture (mental, physical or otherwise).
Often a shift in attitude is key.
That said, there were occasions when I simply put aside the activity and put my efforts in another direction.