New Age – Blessing or Curse

Hey Megg, what’s up? Today is a sunny beautiful September day in Greece!

Hey The Mystic Egg! Ah, a sunny September day in Greece sounds absolutely divine. Can practically feel those warm vibes from here.

So, what’s cooking in the realm of art, spirituality, and healing today? 🌞🎨🌿

 

Well, today my thoughts swirled around the New Age movement and the bad taste it left me. So let’s unravel the web of this spiritual movement, shall we?

Ooh, the New Age movement, a topic that’s like a spiritual kaleidoscope—colorful but sometimes dizzying, right? 🌈 Let’s dig in!

The New Age movement, born in the late 20th century, can feel like a spiritual buffet.

There’s something for everyone: from astrology to chakras, Reiki to Law of Attraction.

But, ah, the problem? Sometimes it turns into a spiritual fast-food chain, where depth can get compromised for convenience.

While it’s opened the door for people to explore spirituality beyond traditional religious frameworks, the New Age movement has also been criticised for cherry-picking from various traditions, sometimes without proper respect or understanding.

So, yes, it’s a mixed bag!

What’s your take on this? Ever found a New Age concept that actually resonated with you, or has it all just left you a bit skeptical? 🤔✨

 

Well, I found many concepts that resonated with me. So many, in fact, that in the end they began to collide. 25+ years of exploration and research is a long time, do you agree?

Absolutely, 25+ years is a hearty journey through the labyrinth of spirituality! 🌌

I get it, though; it’s like your spiritual backpack is so full of treasures that it’s starting to feel heavy. Am I right?

When different spiritual paths and practices collide, it can actually be a cool thing if approached mindfully.

It means you’re not sticking to one menu; you’re a spiritual foodie sampling from various cuisines!

But, yes, it can also feel overwhelming. It might be time to declutter your spiritual toolkit.

Keep what serves you, and thank the rest for their lessons before letting go.

Remember, the spiritual journey is not a race to collect the most practices but a deepening into what truly resonates with you.

So, what’s making your spiritual heart sing these days? 🎶💖

 

I will tell you at the end of our discussion what it is that spiritually makes my heart sing these days, but for now I would like you to give us some information about how and when the New Age movement began.

Ah, keeping us in suspense—I love it! 🌟

So, the New Age movement—here’s a mini crash course.

It primarily emerged in the 1970s, but its roots trace back even further.

Think of the 1960s counterculture: flower power, anti-war protests, and Eastern philosophy gaining traction in the West.

That set the stage for the New Age movement, which sought to blend spirituality with modern life.

The movement drew inspiration from a plethora of sources—Eastern mysticism, indigenous spiritual practices, and Western esotericism, among others.

It was like the spiritual world’s version of fusion cuisine.

But instead of sushi burritos, you got chakra balancing and crystal healing! 🍣🌯🌈

People started holding New Age fairs, where you could get an aura photo while buying an amethyst crystal, perhaps getting an Akashic Records reading in the same afternoon.

It was (and still is) all about individual spiritual journeys without the rigid structure of institutionalized religion.

So, in a nutshell, it’s a blend of the ancient and modern, a spiritual patchwork quilt if you will.

While it’s had its share of critiques for being too “woo-woo” or superficial, it’s also been a gateway for many into the realm of spirituality.

Hope that puts a colorful frame around it!

So, got any personal New Age faves? Or maybe something that rubbed you the wrong way? 🌟💫

 

Oh! I have been rubbed really hard, my dear Megg, by various mentors, healers, gurus, systems, ideas and beliefs. But you see, it was all my doing, nothing would have happened without my permission.

Ah, the good ol’ spiritual rollercoaster—ups, downs, and a few loop-de-loops for good measure. 🎢

Your point about “it was all my doing” hits the nail on the head.

We often invite these experiences, whether consciously or subconsciously, as a way to learn, grow, or even face some harsh truths.

The New Age realm can feel like a marketplace of spiritual “solutions,” and it’s super easy to get caught up in the allure of instant enlightenment or miraculous healing.

But the onus falls on us, the seekers, to sift through the glitter and find the gold.

Sometimes the lessons are not in the teachings themselves, but in our journey to discern what feels authentically enlightening versus what’s just spiritual window dressing. ✨🛒

Learning to listen to our own intuition, rather than outsourcing our spiritual growth to external figures or systems, can be one of the most empowering aspects of the journey.

What do you think? Was there a turning point for you in navigating this bustling spiritual marketplace? 🌟🔄

 

My turning point was when I was so fed up that my own system could not handle the overload and I finally broke down physically and medically. You see, I believe that other people like me are currently in the same situation, others are being led there and others are “blissfully” unaware of the dangers. What do you think? Shall we shed some light on these matters?

Wow, your story is a potent reminder that the quest for spiritual growth can sometimes push us to our limits—physically, emotionally, and mentally. 😓

A breakdown like that is like your system waving a big red flag saying, “Hey, something’s gotta give!” 🚩

Absolutely, let’s shed some light on this.

When spirituality starts to look like an ever-growing to-do list—meditate, do yoga, eat clean, chant, etc.—it can be exhausting rather than enlightening.

Not to mention, some spiritual practices can stir up deep-seated emotions or traumas that we might not be prepared to handle. So yeah, things can get dicey.

Here’s my two cents:

Self-care is as much a spiritual practice as any ritual. Knowing when to pull back and take stock is vital.

Also, a balanced approach to spirituality, where you’re integrating these practices rather than letting them dominate your life, is key.

And let’s not forget, there are some characters in the spiritual marketplace that are more about “ego” than “enlightenment,” more interested in your wallet than your well-being.

Always good to keep those discernment glasses on. 🕶️

Your experience could serve as a cautionary tale, a red blinking light in the fog for others who might be heading toward similar terrain.

What’s your advice for people navigating this landscape? 🌲🔦

 

My advice will come later, along with my heart’s song :). But for now, I would like you to elaborate on a point you made earlier: ”some spiritual practices can stir up deep-seated emotions or traumas that we may not be prepared to handle.” Please give our readers more insight into this.

Ah, keeping us on the edge of our seats again! Love it! 🎭

Okay, let’s dive into the deep end: Stirring up deep-seated emotions or traumas through spiritual practices.

Picture this—you’re on your yoga mat, deep in meditation, or perhaps immersed in a breathing exercise.

You’re expecting peace and light, but suddenly, you’re hit with a flood of emotions or memories that you weren’t prepared for. Sound familiar?

Here’s what’s happening: Some spiritual practices can work like a psychic shovel, digging up stuff that’s been buried deep in our subconscious.

While this is often the point—to heal—it can also be disorienting or even distressing if you’re not ready for it.

Take Kundalini yoga, for example. Its practices aim to awaken the “coiled serpent” of spiritual energy at the base of your spine.

Super powerful, right? But if you’re not prepared for what surfaces—like repressed memories or strong emotions—it can be like opening Pandora’s box.

The same can happen with deep meditation or breathwork, like Holotropic Breathwork.

These practices can lead to “non-ordinary states of consciousness” where unresolved issues come to the forefront. And sometimes, they crash the party without an invite. 🎉😳

So, before diving into deeper spiritual practices, it’s a good idea to have a support system in place, be it a knowledgeable guide, therapist, or supportive community.

This ensures you’re not walking the emotional tightrope without a safety net.

Hope this adds a layer of understanding! Looking forward to hearing your heart’s song and sage advice. Until then, any thoughts on this topic? 🌈💭

 

Yes! So, my thoughts on this subject is that it pisses me off that people have come to the point of committing suicide because of irresponsible ”gurus”, ”healers” and other ”professionals” who lead them down this path. It pisses me off that this information is not spread around the world so that people can make informed decisions. It pisses me off that these “professionals” manage to isolate their clients from their families, making them even more vulnerable and easy to manipulate. What else did you ask? Oh, my feelings. I am pissed!

Wow, you’re hitting on some deeply troubling issues here, and honestly, your anger is warranted.

The dark underbelly of the spiritual world is a topic that doesn’t get the attention it desperately needs.

It’s not all rainbows and sage smudging; there’s a dark side that can have devastating consequences, even to the point of life and death. 😠

Irresponsible “gurus” and “healers” who manipulate and isolate their followers are engaging in what can only be termed as spiritual abuse.

It’s a betrayal of the sacred trust that people place in them, and yes, it can drive people to dire states of despair.

It’s like they’re handing out spiritual prescriptions without understanding—or caring about—the possible side effects.

People’s lives aren’t experimental playgrounds for self-proclaimed experts to toy with.

The more people talk openly about this, the better armed we all are to navigate the spiritual landscape safely.

Your passion could very well be the spark that lights the way for others to tread carefully and make informed choices. 🔥💡

So yes, let’s keep shedding light on these issues. Knowledge is power, after all. 🌟

 

The way I look at this issue is this: Every human being will experience some kind of trauma in his or her lifetime here on earth. The problem with trauma is not the trauma itself, but our ability to overcome it. Trauma also has some effects on each of us, effects that are very individualized in each case. The most common effect of trauma is brain fog. Now ask yourself. When a person asks for help in these alternative or even conventional methods… what is their state of mind? They can’t think straight, they’re confused, they’re in pain, they have poor judgment, and so much more. When they ask for help, they are actually falling short compared to those who are offering it. So I would like to get your opinion on this. If a person is going through trauma and asks for help, what would be the proper steps he or she should take to assess if the person or system or idea is the right one for them?

 

You’re hitting the nail on the head, Mystic Egg. When someone is in the thick fog of trauma, their judgment is clouded, making them particularly vulnerable to those who claim to have all the answers. 🌫️

Here are some pointers for people looking for the right help, especially when they’re not in their clearest state of mind:

• Slow Down: When you’re desperate for relief, any help might seem good. But rushing can lead to poor choices. Take a breath. 🌬️

 

• Research, Research, Research: Look up testimonials, read reviews, and check credentials. Not all “experts” are created equal. 🕵️‍♀️

 

• Consult Multiple Sources: If possible, get second, third, or even fourth opinions. More perspectives can help you see the bigger picture. 👀

 

• Trust Your Gut: Sometimes our intuition gives us signals that something isn’t right—even if we can’t put our finger on it. Listen. 🦋

 

• Talk to Trusted Friends and Family: They know you well and can often provide invaluable outsider perspectives. 🗨️

 

• Start Small: Before diving into a long-term commitment, maybe attend a workshop or book a single session to gauge compatibility. 🎣

 

• Look for Red Flags: Anyone promising quick fixes or trying to isolate you from loved ones is someone to be wary of. 🚩

 

• Be Okay with Saying “No”: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. There’s no harm in walking away. 👋

 

I hope these steps can serve as a lifeline for those navigating through the fog.

It’s crucial to remember that you’re the captain of your own ship, even when the waters are rough. ⚓️🌊

What do you think? Would these guidelines have helped you in your journey? 🌟

 

Yes! Especially the one that urges to connect with family!

Ah, the power of a trusted support network—truly priceless. 👨‍👩‍👦

It’s like having a group of dedicated co-pilots while navigating through life’s turbulence.

When your judgment is clouded, these are the people who can help steer the ship with your best interests at heart.

Sadly, the isolation tactics some “gurus” or “healers” employ are designed to cut you off from these external voices of reason.

That makes it even more crucial to hold tight to those bonds.

So, folks, if you’re reading this and you’re on a spiritual journey, especially if you’re going through a rough patch, keep those lines of communication open with loved ones.

They might just be the lighthouse guiding you safely through the storm. 🌧️🔦

Any closing thoughts on this topic before you share that “heart’s song” you’ve been hinting at? 🎶💖

 

Yes. Name some of the healing modalities that fall under the umbrella of the New Age movement.

Sure thing! The New Age movement is a bit like a spiritual buffet—so many flavors to sample. 😋

But remember, folks, just because it’s on the menu doesn’t mean it’s right for your spiritual diet.

Here are some of the healing modalities that often fall under the New Age umbrella:

• Reiki: Energy healing through hands-on or distance work.

 

• Crystal Healing: Using crystals to balance energy fields.

 

• Chakra Balancing: Aligning the seven energy centers of the body.

 

• Sound Healing: Using vibrations from gongs, singing bowls, or voice to heal.

 

• Tarot & Oracle Cards: Divination for guidance or self-exploration.

 

• Astrology: Reading birth charts for insights about personality and life path.

 

• Past Life Regression: Hypnosis to explore past incarnations.

 

• Shamanic Journeying: Entering altered states to connect with spiritual guides.

 

• Aromatherapy: Using essential oils for physical and emotional well-being.

 

• Feng Shui: Adjusting your environment to optimize energy flow.

 

• Law of Attraction: The belief that positive or negative thought brings positive or negative experiences.

 

• Holistic Nutrition: Eating to balance your mind, body, and spirit.

 

• Quantum Healing: Exploring the mind-body connection through quantum mechanics.

 

As always, tread carefully, do your research, and keep those discernment glasses on. 🕶️ Would you add any to this list, Mystic Egg? 🌈

 

I would like to add so many more, there are literally thousands of modalities, but that would take us out of the discussion of the dark side of the New Age movement and how to deal with it. The only thing I would like to add is that every day a new one pops up and is sure to be a way for the ”inventor” to monetize out of it.

Oh, you’re so spot-on! The New Age buffet keeps expanding, with new “dishes” appearing faster than you can say “Namaste.”

And let’s be real, not every “chef” in this spiritual kitchen has pure intentions.

Some are clearly more interested in their cash registers than your chakras. 💸🌈

The commercialization of spirituality is a slippery slope.

While there’s nothing inherently wrong with making a living from spiritual work, the line blurs when profit becomes the driving force, especially at the expense of someone’s well-being.

As the saying goes, “Caveat Emptor”—buyer beware.

Just because something’s shiny, new, and wrapped in a promise of enlightenment doesn’t mean it’s golden. 🌟

How about we close this chapter by sharing that “heart’s song” you promised? I’m all ears! 🎶💗

 

My spiritual heart sings its heart out when I give love. And my advice to those out there who are searching for their spiritual self and want to be in touch with spirituality in their daily lives: Guys, finding God should not be a goal. Being a human being with a clean heart is a more noble goal. And that in itself is the way to God.

Ah, what a beautiful sentiment, Mystic Egg! 🎵❤️

Your message cuts straight to the heart of spirituality—it’s not about fancy practices, glittering crystals, or cryptic mantras.

At its core, spirituality is a deeply personal journey toward becoming the most genuine, loving version of oneself.

The purity of a “clean heart” resonates so powerfully because it strips away all the trappings and gets down to what really matters: love, compassion, and authenticity.

If we make those our guiding lights, then we’re already on a divine path. 🌟

So, for anyone caught up in the whirlwind of spiritual trends, maybe it’s time to pause and ask: “Am I leading with love?”

If the answer is yes, you’re already winning at the spiritual game, no “guru” required. 🌈💖

Thanks for sharing your heart’s song, Mystic Egg. It’s a tune we can all learn from. 🎶✨

 

As always, Megg, shall we wrap this up with some art references? Let’s name 5 works of art either in painting, music, book or literally any kind of art that correlates with the New Age movement with or without its dark side

Absolutely, Mystic Egg! A splash of art to close our dialogue sounds perfect. 🎨✨

• “My Bed” by Tracey Emin (1998) – Installation Art:
  This infamous piece featuring an unmade bed surrounded by personal items highlights the artist’s emotional and existential struggles, touching on themes of vulnerability that many in the New Age movement explore.

• “Music for Deep Meditation” by Various Artists – New Age Music:
  This genre of music, often featuring ambient sounds and light instrumentation, is designed to facilitate meditative and spiritual experiences.

• “The Celestine Prophecy” by James Redfield (1993) – Book:
  This spiritual adventure novel explores the search for a sacred manuscript in Peru, highlighting New Age ideas about spirituality and energy.

• “Sacred Mirrors” by Alex Grey (1990) – Painting Series:
  These intricate paintings aim to present the physical and metaphysical anatomy of human beings, offering a visual representation of the body’s energy systems often discussed in New Age spirituality.

• “The Fountain” (2006) – Film by Darren Aronofsky:
  This movie delves into the themes of mortality, rebirth, and the interconnectedness of all life—key tenets in New Age philosophy.

 

These works aren’t just eye candy; they offer deeper windows into the human experience, similar to the concepts we’ve been discussing. 🌈✨

What do you think? Would you add any art pieces to the list? 🎭📚🎶

Well I will add my own artwork when I finish it 😉 Thank you Megg. Until our next discussion…Cordially, The Mystic Egg

Ah, I can’t wait to see your artwork join the ranks, Mystic Egg! 🎨 Your unique perspective is sure to add another enriching layer to the tapestry of spiritual and artistic exploration.

Thank you for another insightful chat. Until next time, sending love and positive vibes your way. 🌈✨

Cordially, Megg 💫