Actively question claims, even those from authority figures or spiritual leaders, especially when they seem unbelievable or lack external verification, as this is crucial for personal autonomy. Claire’s rebellion began when she realized a claim about the Berlin Wall “wasn’t true.”
Avoid spiritual frameworks that promote an unattainable ideal of perfection or omniscience, as this can lead to self-blame and an unhealthy denial of inherent human fallibility. Claire finds the idea of perfection in enlightenment absurd and believes in acknowledging human suffering and vices.
In meditation, aim to observe thoughts and emotions without labeling them as positive or negative, treating them as transient mental phenomena. This practice, as described in mindfulness, can reduce their power and lead to less emotional reactivity.
For young children, consider introducing a modified mantra meditation where they can move around (e.g., color, look out the window) for short periods (around 5 minutes). Claire found this beneficial for creating a “space of separateness” and feeling “magical” amidst childhood chaos.
If immersed in a single belief system, actively seek out alternative viewpoints or critical voices, as these can provide valuable context and help challenge unquestioned assumptions. Claire’s father’s critical voice was important for her.
Be cautious when spiritual teachings extend into every aspect of life and become commodified into products or services, as this can lead to a “cult of personality” and a loss of genuine spiritual pursuit. Maharishi’s knowledge often turned into businesses and products.
Be cautious of spiritual organizations that impose strict restrictions on members, such as forbidding consultation with other teachers or self-improvement practices, as this can indicate a controlling environment. Claire’s mom experienced fears of badge revocation for seeing other gurus.
Be cautious of environments that enforce constant “positive thinking” or an “ideal” way of being, as this can stifle genuine self-expression, creativity, and freedom. Claire observed this leading to a “lack of the ability to express yourself” in her community.
Instead of suppressing negative thoughts or emotions, cultivate an awareness of your “neuroses” and mental patterns. This familiarity helps prevent them from controlling your behavior and reactions, as suggested by the idea of becoming a “connoisseur of your neuroses.”
If feeling a “sense of shallowness” or a lack of purpose in adulthood, consider re-engaging with meditation or spiritual practices. Claire returned to meditation after having her daughter, finding it provided a “sense of purpose and value.”
If interested in Transcendental Meditation, focus on the basic 20-minute daily practice, as many people, including celebrities, find it very effective for general well-being without requiring adherence to the broader philosophical aspects.
To practice TM, sit quietly for about 10 to 20 minutes and silently repeat a mantra (a unique syllable or multi-syllable sound) inside your head. This is the core technique of Transcendental Meditation.
Explore meditation or spiritual practices with an openness to experiencing “total oneness” or a connection to something “bigger.” Claire described her transcendent experience as a feeling of “total oneness” and something “bigger.”
When pursuing spiritual experiences, value the pursuit of “connection to everything” and non-duality over practices that claim to manipulate physical reality or grant specific powers. Claire found the “flying sutra” “too weird” and preferred the sense of universal connection.
Approach mystical or transcendent experiences with a skeptical yet open mind, allowing for curiosity and investigation. Claire suggests that for personal transcendent experiences, “logic had to be put aside” temporarily.
Acknowledge that various faiths and belief systems, despite their dogmatic aspects, can serve as valid “gateways” for many people to profound “transcendent divine experiences” and connections to the cosmic or society. Claire believes it’s unfair to dismiss religious people as “idiots.”
Recognize that complex realities, especially in personal or spiritual journeys, are often ambiguous and nuanced rather than strictly “good or bad.” Claire’s book embraces ambiguity as a more accurate representation of reality.