What is Spiritual Bypassing? And Is It Dangerous?

The Darker Side of Spirituality

Emily Underworld

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Photograph by the author. Originally published on emilyunderworld.co.uk.

Spirituality can provide a deep sense of contentment, connection and awareness. It’s a lifelong journey of learning, practice and growth. What often gets ignored is the darker side of spirituality. The pain, the exhaustion, and the dangers. This article will explain what spiritual bypassing is, how it can be dangerous, and give examples of it.

I see spiritual bypassing all the time on the internet, and from the occasional person in real life. Usually the ‘Eat Pray Love’ types: the ones who travelled to East Asia during a gap year to ‘find themselves’, and came back with ‘enlightenment’… not to mention an affinity for cultural appropriation.

If that made you cringe, I’m glad!

Spiritual bypassing is very prevalent among some communities on the internet. It’s important to raise awareness and understanding, and try to prevent others from falling into the trap.

What is Spiritual Bypassing?

A false sense of positivity, security, and/or enlightenment. Spiritual bypassing is a coping mechanism of escapism. It’s a disservice to real self-growth that isn’t always beautiful or positive. It also invalidates the trauma and emotions of other people.

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