What is your understanding of spiritual maturity? Whenever I inquire about this, I receive diverse responses.

A Baby Boomer I asked said it meant going to church, donating to charities, studying the Bible, and following the Ten Commandments.

When I asked a Gen Z client, she said it meant minding your own business and not caring what others think of you because it is none of your business what they think. She also said she was a Wiccan and didn’t believe in wishing negative energy on others, because she knew it would only come back to her if she did.

At a gathering, I spoke with four individuals who were in their 30s and 40s and accompanied by a young teenager. Surprisingly, despite having varied perspectives, they unanimously believed that establishing healthy boundaries with loved ones is a sign of spiritual maturity and essential for one’s mental and spiritual health. To illustrate, a woman shared that severing ties with a particular friend prevented her from reaching an emotional breaking point.

“I simply couldn’t tolerate the manner in which she treated me. I used to invest significant time and energy worrying about her words and actions. I constantly overanalyzed every harmful encounter with her, and our alleged friendship had a negative impact on my mental well-being,” she described. “Therefore, in my opinion, attaining spiritual maturity entails distancing oneself from individuals who drag you down.”

Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself ~ Rumi

I completely agree. In my perspective, if an individual persists in insulting you, breaking your trust, or causing you emotional harm, it indicates their lack of spiritual growth. Spiritual maturity entails not just having goodwill towards others and avoiding desires for their failure, but actively working towards assisting and encouraging those around us. Personally, spiritual maturity involves ongoing growth, retaining what benefits you and letting go of what does not.

Most of all, spiritual maturity for me means recognizing that I am a soul, a spiritual being having an earthly experience in a physical body, and that this comes with a certain karmic responsibility and a divine duty to myself, others, and the planet we inhabit.

I also loved what my guides made me aware of, that the animal kingdom and Mother Nature have much to teach us about true spiritual maturity. We can learn a great deal about spiritual maturity simply by spending time with our pets. Our sweet furry companions are much wiser and more spiritually aware than many people realize.

I think the most important thing to understand is that spiritual maturity is a journey, not a destination. It is an ongoing process of deepening our spiritual awareness, wisdom and understanding. It’s not just about accumulating mystical knowledge or following certain esoteric practices.

Spiritual maturity is not dependent on age, knowledge, education, or life experience, much like how there are elderly individuals who act immaturely and wise teenagers. I have encountered individuals who have dedicated years to studying spirituality, exploring different religions, and engaging in esoteric practices, yet they still lack spiritual wisdom and maturity. It is not measured by the extent of one’s knowledge or beliefs, but rather by their character and actions.

Thomas Merton believes that the spiritual life does not separate us from the world, but rather guides us to delve deeper into it.

Spiritual maturity is about profound inner transformation and personal growth in one’s relationship to the Divine, to oneself, to others, and to the world. This process involves the following key aspects:

Self-Awareness & Self-Control: Recognizing our own imperfections, emotions, and behaviors and striving to manage them constructively. We must cultivate spiritual virtues and personal values such as patience, humility, compassion, and temperance.

A developed spiritual life is marked by a strong and unshakable trust or certainty in individual beliefs that directs your thoughts and behaviors, even when confronted with tough obstacles and uncertainties.

Releasing and letting go: This concept does not imply being alone or apathetic, but rather, having the capacity to be internally unfettered by attachment to physical possessions, outcomes, or even one’s own pride. It involves relinquishing what does not benefit you and refraining from holding onto ideas and belongings that may bring harm to yourself or others.

Growth & Learning: Spiritually mature people understand that spiritual development is an ongoing journey. They embrace opportunities for learning, growth, and transformation throughout their lives.

Inner Peace: Spiritual maturity is also the ability to maintain peace and inner calm in various circumstances, rooted in a deep sense of connection to the divine or a higher power.

Community & Relationships: Spiritually mature people strive to develop and maintain healthy, supportive relationships and contribute to their community in ways that reflect their spiritual values.

Compassion & Service: A spiritually mature person understands, empathizes with, and selflessly serves others, recognizing the interconnectedness of everyone and everything.

Spiritual Practices: Regular engagement in practices such as prayer and meditation cultivates a sense of connection to the divine, enhances mindfulness, and promotes spiritual reflection.

Taking care of ourselves and practicing self-love is a vital part of developing spiritually. It is important to prioritize our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, as it not only benefits our personal health and wellness, but also allows us to effectively assist and support others.

Spiritual maturity is highly personal and varies widely across faiths, spiritual paths, and individual life experiences. It’s the result of a conscious, ongoing effort to grow spiritually and live in alignment with one’s deepest values and beliefs.

The Lifelong Journey of Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual maturity is a lifelong journey that encompasses personal growth, self-discovery, and a deepening connection with the divine. It is a process of evolving and expanding one’s consciousness, beliefs, and understanding of the world around us. This journey is not limited to any particular religion or belief system but is a universal quest for meaning and purpose.

At its core, spiritual maturity involves developing a sense of inner peace, wisdom, and compassion. It is about transcending the ego and connecting with something greater than ourselves. This journey often begins with a spiritual awakening, a moment of realization that there is more to life than what meets the eye. It can be triggered by a significant life event, a personal crisis, or simply a deep longing for something more meaningful.

As we embark on this journey, we start to question our beliefs, values, and the way we live our lives. We seek answers to profound questions about the nature of existence, the purpose of suffering, and the meaning of life. This quest for truth leads us to explore various spiritual traditions, philosophies, and practices. We may find solace in meditation, prayer, yoga, or other contemplative practices that help us cultivate mindfulness and inner stillness.

Spiritual maturity also involves cultivating virtues such as patience, humility, gratitude, and forgiveness. It requires us to confront our fears, heal past wounds, and let go of attachments that no longer serve us. This process can be challenging and uncomfortable at times, as it requires us to confront our shadow selves and embrace our vulnerabilities. However, it is through these struggles that we grow and evolve.

One of the key aspects of spiritual maturity is the development of empathy and compassion towards others. As we deepen our understanding of ourselves and our connection to the divine, we start to see the interconnectedness of all beings. We recognize that we are all part of a larger whole and that our actions have ripple effects on the world around us. This realization leads us to live more consciously, making choices that align with our highest values and contribute to the well-being of others.

The journey of spiritual maturity is not linear but rather cyclical. We may experience moments of profound insight and transformation, followed by periods of stagnation or regression. It is important to embrace these ebbs and flows with patience and self-compassion, knowing that growth takes time and that setbacks are part of the process.

As we continue on this lifelong journey, we may find ourselves becoming more attuned to the subtle energies and synchronicities that guide us. We may experience moments of profound connection with the divine, where we feel a sense of oneness and unity with all creation. These experiences can be deeply transformative and serve as reminders of the infinite potential within each of us.

In conclusion, the lifelong journey of spiritual maturity is a profound and transformative process that involves personal growth, self-discovery, and a deepening connection with the divine. It is a quest for meaning, purpose, and inner peace that transcends any particular religion or belief system. As we navigate this journey, we cultivate virtues, confront our fears, and develop empathy and compassion towards others. It is a cyclical process that requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Ultimately, it is through this journey that we uncover our true selves and find our place in the interconnected web of life.

I have recently joined a mediumship development course that spans a year. Among the initial subjects covered in the course material, we delve into the significance of being self-aware and understanding the factors that influence our individual and spiritual well-being.

In psychic and mediumship work, it is essential to consider various factors that can impact one’s general health and capacity to perform at their best during a reading. As a psychic medium, it is your responsibility to ensure optimal care for yourself in order to offer the highest quality guidance to your clients.

Even if you engage in different self-care routines and are aware of how to sustain your well-being, there will be instances when you don’t feel your best. Hence, it’s crucial to be self-aware and able to identify when you’re disconnected from your true self or feeling unsettled.

The mediumship course explores several interesting topics and aspects of self-awareness beyond what is generally experienced on a daily basis. For example, negative energy in your environment, tension and conflict in relationships, and worries about people, pets, or finances. It is also important to recognize that we are all unique and that what may significantly affect one individual may not have the same effect on another.

Psychic mediums, like anyone in a service-oriented or caring profession — especially one that involves deep spiritual counseling and energetic exchange — must cultivate a solid foundation of personal wellness and spiritual well-being in order to best serve others. This foundation ensures that the medium can connect with clients and the spirit realm in a healthy, clear, and effective manner.

Swami Sivananda states that the aspirant’s true spiritual advancement can be gauged by how much inner serenity she attains.

In order to uphold this basis, it is important for us to participate in routine activities that nurture our spirituality. These activities may include meditation, prayer, mindfulness, grounding and cleansing rituals for our energy, personal introspection, continuous education in our field, and seeking guidance from mentors or peers. Engaging in these practices not only helps to preserve our own overall wellness and spiritual health but also guarantees that we are able to offer the most beneficial, empathetic, and ethical assistance to those who rely on us for support.

Key aspects of staying aligned and in balance are understanding your own “personal cycles” and recognizing the environmental influences that play a significant role in shaping your spiritual well-being and energetic equilibrium. Here’s how these elements can interact and influence each other:

Personal Cycles

PHYSICAL CYCLES

These include the body’s natural rhythms and cycles, such as circadian rhythms, menstrual cycles in women, and hormonal cycles in men. Disruptions in these cycles can lead to mental, emotional and physical imbalances that affect one’s spiritual well-being by causing stress, mood swings, and fatigue that can cloud spiritual perception and practice.

The circadian rhythm, also referred to as the body’s internal clock, is an innate process that controls the sleep-wake cycle and occurs roughly every 24 hours. It is affected by external signals, particularly light, which assist in aligning this rhythm with the Earth’s day-night cycle lasting 24 hours.

Circadian rhythms are present in the majority of living creatures, such as animals, plants, and microbes. In humans, this rhythm not only affects sleep patterns but also influences eating habits, hormone release, cell renewal, and other bodily activities.

Exposure to light during the morning aids in awakening and stimulates the body to generate hormones such as cortisol, which boosts energy and attentiveness. Conversely, darkness initiates the secretion of melatonin, a hormone that induces sleep and informs the body that it’s time to rest.

Disruptions to circadian rhythms, such as those caused by jet lag, shift work, or poor sleep habits, can lead to a range of health problems, including sleep disorders, depression, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and ensuring exposure to natural light during the day can help keep circadian rhythms optimal and promote overall health and well-being.

EMOTIONAL CYCLES

Emotional cycles, often influenced by personal setbacks, traumas, and toxic interactions, can have a significant impact on your spiritual health. The ups and downs of your emotional states can affect your energy levels and spiritual practices. Understanding and managing these cycles through mindfulness, meditation, and self-nurturing ensures better emotional regulation and spiritual alignment.

MENTAL CYCLES

Identifying and deploying cycles of heightened creativity and intellectual engagement can invigorate the process of spiritual development and exploration. Conversely, experiencing periods of stagnation may result in a decline in spiritual motivation. By acknowledging and harnessing these patterns, individuals can enrich their spiritual path and maintain a harmonious energetic state.

In previous experiences, I have discovered that when I experience the sorrowful departure of a loved one or pet, I undergo a temporary condition known as “writer’s block,” despite having been encouraged in the past to express my feelings of grief through journaling. It seems that during these moments, I find it incredibly challenging to engage in any form of creative writing, including journaling. However, even amidst my grieving process, I am still able to create a mental state of intense concentration and focus solely on a client during a reading.

During a grieving period, I have found that establishing a structured and organized environment and lifestyle greatly assists me. As a result, I often create multiple lists of tasks to ensure I can take care of myself and provide support to others who rely on me.

Spiritual well-being is the fruit of discipline; it is not something that falls into our laps from the sky, but something that we cultivate through effort and intelligence ~ Dalai Lama

Environmental Influences

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

The amount of natural light, weather patterns, and seasonal changes can have a profound effect on your mood and energy levels. For example, lack of sunlight in winter can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which affects your mental and emotional well-being.

Connecting with nature, getting enough sunlight, and aligning activities with the seasons can help maintain energetic balance. Fortunately, here in Spain, where I live, we have many sunny days. However, the current gale force winds tend to affect my mood when I am outdoors.

It was also interesting to learn that one of my mentors in the year-long program takes the entire month of August off. After much introspection and observation of her own seasonal cycles, she has found that August is simply not conducive for her to work as a psychic medium, nor is it a good time for her to make important life decisions.

SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT

The energy emitted by the individuals you surround yourself with and the connections you make with them can have a profound impact on your spiritual and energetic condition. Fostered through positive interactions, relationships have the power to elevate our emotional state. Conversely, toxic relationships have the ability to deplete our vitality. Therefore, it is crucial to cultivate a social network that is supportive and empathetic in order to maintain a healthy spiritual well-being.

GEOGRAPHICAL ENVIRONMENT

The locality in which you reside and the cultural environment you are a part of can impact the way you engage in spiritual activities and hold certain beliefs. Certain regions may possess more intense spiritual vibes or provide a stronger sense of communal assistance for cultivating spiritual consciousness and overall wellness.

ASTROLOGICAL INFLUENCES

The emotional and spiritual states can be influenced by the different phases of the moon and other astrological events. During full moons or other astrological events, it is common to experience increased energy or a tendency for introspection. By incorporating awareness of lunar and astrological phenomena into your spiritual practice, you can deepen your connection to the natural world and your inner self.

In her book Lunar Living, spiritual coach Kirsty Gallagher explores the ways in which we can harness the power of lunar cycles. She emphasizes the opportunity to reclaim our connection with this ancient force, explaining that one of the most significant benefits of lunar living is the potential to restore our belief in ourselves and cultivate trust within.

Creating a Solid Foundation for the Psychological and Intuitive Abilities of Psychic Mediums

Psychic mediums possess exceptional skills that allow them to connect with the spiritual realm and offer insights and guidance to others. However, their work can be emotionally and energetically demanding, making it crucial for them to establish a strong foundation of well-being. By giving importance to self-care, maintaining healthy boundaries, and fostering a supportive community, psychic mediums can enhance their abilities and navigate their spiritual journey gracefully.

1. Give Importance to Self-Care:
Psychic mediums often find themselves deeply immersed in the emotions and energy of others, which can be draining if not managed properly. Prioritizing self-care is essential for maintaining a healthy foundation of well-being. Regular exercise, enough sleep, and a balanced diet are fundamental aspects of self-care that contribute to physical and mental well-being. Moreover, engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature, can help psychic mediums recharge their energy and maintain a positive mindset.

2. Establish Healthy Boundaries:
Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries is crucial for psychic mediums to protect their energy and prevent burnout. It is essential to recognize when to say no to requests that may go beyond personal limits or compromise well-being. This includes setting boundaries with clients, friends, and family members who may constantly seek guidance or drain energy. Psychic mediums should clearly and assertively communicate their boundaries, ensuring that they have time and space for self-care and personal growth.

3. Develop Spiritual Protection Practices:
During their work, psychic mediums often encounter various energies, some of which may be negative or draining. Developing spiritual protection practices can help psychic mediums shield themselves from unwanted influences. Techniques such as grounding, visualization, or working with protective crystals can create a barrier between the medium and external energies. Regularly cleansing one’s energy through smudging, salt baths, or energy healing techniques can also help maintain a strong spiritual foundation.

4. Seek Support from a Community:
Building a supportive community is crucial for psychic mediums to share experiences, seek guidance, and find comfort with like-minded individuals. Connecting with other psychic mediums through workshops, conferences, or online communities can provide a sense of belonging and understanding. Engaging in regular discussions, sharing insights, and learning from others’ experiences can enhance personal growth and strengthen the well-being foundation of psychic mediums.

5. Practice Self-Reflection and Growth:
Psychic mediums should regularly engage in self-reflection to assess their emotional well-being, personal growth, and spiritual development. Journaling, meditation, or seeking guidance from mentors or therapists can help in this process. By identifying areas of improvement, addressing emotional triggers, and focusing on personal growth, psychic mediums can enhance their abilities and maintain a strong foundation for their well-being.

In conclusion, building a strong foundation of well-being is crucial for psychic mediums to effectively navigate their spiritual journey. Prioritizing self-care, establishing healthy boundaries, developing spiritual protection practices, seeking support from a community, and practicing self-reflection are essential steps toward maintaining emotional and energetic balance. By nurturing their well-being, psychic mediums can continue to provide guidance and support to others while fostering personal growth and spiritual development.

A few weeks ago, I encountered a highly challenging choice. Despite having to make similar decisions numerous times throughout my time as a pet caregiver, it never becomes less difficult. Even being aware that it is for the animal’s ultimate benefit does not alleviate the challenges.

This time it was a very beloved rescue dog who, despite the neglect and abuse he had suffered for several years prior to his rescue, became the most loving pet I have ever had. Sadly, the time had come for him to leave this world…and for me to let him go.

Clients sometimes ask me if they will see their pets again on the other side when it’s their own time to cross over. From the messages and signs I’ve received from my own pets over the years, I not only believe this to be true, I know for a fact that we are reunited with the souls of our animals when we leave this earthly plane.

The connections of devotion and affection that I have encountered in my life with my own pets, as well as animals entrusted to my care, have been incredibly meaningful. The tragedy of losing such a strong connection is always heartbreaking for those who cherish animals. Based on my personal and professional experiences, I firmly believe that the bonds of love we share with our loved ones cannot be severed by physical death.

Although I have personally studied and engaged in animal communication, I find it challenging to have conversations about the topic with pets who are aging or nearing the end of their life. It is crucial to have such discussions in order to determine when it is the right time. Being a pet psychic or animal communicator is not necessarily required for this task.

I believe that some dogs I know will go to heaven, but I have very few beliefs about immortality when it comes to people. ~ James Thurber

If someone deeply cares for their pet, they will always be able to sense their presence and pay close attention to their pet’s energy. However, achieving this requires putting aside one’s own needs and emotions and prioritizing the needs and wishes of the animal.

Something I have learned from Spirit over the years that is reassuring and comforting is that animals do not view death as negatively or fearfully as many humans tend to do, for they live very much in the moment. They are in tune with their own bodies, the cycles of life and death, and the universal flow. There is no questioning for them, just being.

Sometimes it is an animal’s soul choice to transition suddenly. It is something that all souls decide as part of our soul plan before we are born. But with a sudden death, this concept is often hard to grasp and accept at first. However, it is easier for them because I find that pets will often hold on to life for the sake of their caretakers until they feel their humans are ready to deal with their transition.

If we possess the capability to do this in advance based on our awareness of their health condition, then it is our responsibility to take the required actions to prevent them from enduring prolonged suffering for our own benefit. The most significant act of kindness we can offer to the animals under our care when their life is coming to an end is to let go of them emotionally as much as we can, ensuring that they do not endure unnecessary discomfort by staying in their bodies for us. This demonstrates unconditional love towards them.

We can achieve this by dedicating additional time to take care of our pets and ensuring effective communication, all the while managing our own feelings of guilt, sadness, and grief without burdening them.

The misery of keeping a dog is his dying so soon. But, to be sure, if he lived for fifty years and then died, what would become of me? ~ Walter Scott

If you have the chance to prepare with your pet for a certain period of time, just spend that time with them in silence. Sit or lie down with them while you focus and allow yourself to receive thoughts and visuals of what your pet desires. Here are some useful inquiries to make:

Would you like to handle the transition on your own, or do you require assistance?

Will you indicate to me when you are prepared?

Would you prefer my presence or that of someone else?

Would you prefer burial? If yes, where would you like to be laid to rest? Alternatively, would you prefer cremation?

It may come as a surprise, but your pets have a clear understanding of their desires. Typically, it revolves around providing the utmost comfort to their owners. Their loyalty and support remain unwavering, even surpassing the boundaries of life itself.

Acknowledging your grief and the stages of grief is important, especially when dealing with the loss of a pet. Due to the unconditional love they provide, losing a pet can sometimes be more difficult for individuals than losing a person. If necessary, don’t hesitate to seek help during this process.

It is common to go through emotional ups and downs during the grieving process. There may be moments when you feel composed and capable of handling the loss, but then suddenly you may find yourself feeling vulnerable or overwhelmed. This fluctuation of emotions is a normal part of the grieving journey.

It is crucial to be open to experiencing your emotions and, when needed, consider reaching out to a grief counselor for support. Additionally, there are helpful books and YouTube videos available that can provide comfort and encouragement before and after your pet passes away.

Know that you will see your beloved pets again when it is time for you to return to the spirit realm. This is always a great comfort. However, no matter how strongly you believe this, you still need to process your feelings and allow time for healing.

Understanding and Accepting the Process of Making a Decision about the End of Your Pet’s Life

Losing a beloved pet is an extremely challenging experience for any pet owner. As our furry friends grow older, we may find ourselves faced with the heart-wrenching choice of whether it is time to say goodbye. Making a decision about the end of your pet’s life is always difficult, but comprehending and embracing the process can help you navigate this tough time with empathy and care.

1. Recognize the indications:
As pets age, they may display signs of declining health. These signs can involve reduced appetite, weight loss, difficulty walking or breathing, chronic pain, incontinence, and an overall decrease in their quality of life. It is crucial to pay close attention to these changes and consult with your veterinarian to determine if your pet’s condition is terminal or if there are treatment options.

2. Seek professional guidance:
Consulting with a veterinarian is essential when making end-of-life decisions for your pet. They can offer valuable insights into your pet’s condition, prognosis, and available treatments. Veterinarians are skilled in evaluating an animal’s quality of life and can assist you through this challenging decision-making process.

3. Consider your pet’s quality of life:
One of the most significant factors to consider when making an end-of-life decision is your pet’s overall quality of life. Assess whether your pet is experiencing more bad days than good ones, if they are in pain or discomfort, and if their daily activities have become a struggle. Remember that your pet relies on you to make choices in their best interest, even if it means letting them go peacefully.

4. Explore all feasible options:
In certain cases, there may be treatment options that can enhance your pet’s quality of life or extend their time with you. Discuss these options with your veterinarian to determine if they are viable and align with your pet’s best interests. However, it is essential to be realistic about the potential outcomes and the impact these treatments may have on your pet’s well-being.

5. Seek support for your emotions:
Making an end-of-life decision for your pet can be overwhelmingly emotional. It is important to seek support from friends, family, or support groups specifically for pet owners facing this difficult choice. Sharing your feelings and experiences with others who have been through a similar situation can provide comfort and understanding during this challenging time.

6. Consider euthanasia:
Euthanasia is a humane and compassionate option for pets whose quality of life has significantly diminished. It enables them to pass away peacefully and without suffering. If you and your veterinarian determine that euthanasia is the best course of action, thoroughly discuss the process to ensure you understand what will occur and how you can make your pet as comfortable as possible during their final moments.

7. Allow yourself time to mourn:
Saying goodbye to a cherished pet is a profound loss, and it is important to give yourself time to grieve. Each person handles grief differently, so grant yourself permission to experience the emotions that arise and seek support if necessary. Remember that it is okay to mourn the loss of your pet and that healing takes time.

Making a decision about the end of your pet’s life is an act of love and compassion. By understanding the signs, seeking professional guidance, considering your pet’s quality of life, exploring all options, seeking emotional support, and ultimately making the decision that aligns with your pet’s best interests, you can provide them with a peaceful and dignified end to their life. Treasure the memories you shared and know that you provided your pet with a lifetime full of love and happiness.

In the realm of human-animal relationships, there exists a unique niche that delves into the mystical and unseen realms of communication between humans and their pets. Pet Psychics, often referred to as animal communicators, have the ability to tap into the thoughts, emotions, and even the souls of our beloved animal companions. In this article, …

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