Many people turn to spiritual paths in search of peace and meaning. However, for some, this search may become a way of escaping from past pains and traumas. The material world can be complex and challenging, which may lead individuals to use spirituality as a “tool for escape,” distancing them from their responsibilities.
- Trauma: Past traumas can make it difficult for an individual to establish a healthy connection with the material world.
- Desire for Control: Escaping the uncertainties of the material world may drive one to seek a sense of order and control through spirituality.
- Identity Issues: Becoming overly attached to spiritual identities can lead to a detachment from the real world.
So What Are the Risks?
When used correctly, spirituality brings healing, meaning, and growth to the individual. However, when used as an escape tool, it carries certain risks.
- Disconnection from Reality: An individual who disconnects from the material world may distance themselves from responsibilities and challenges.
- Avoiding Confrontation with Traumas: Suppressing traumas can lead to a failure in applying the principle of Svadhyaya (self-study) found in the Yoga Sutras.
- Missed Learning Opportunities: The material world offers unique opportunities for spiritual growth. The search for escape may prevent these opportunities from being seized.
What is Dharma?
Dharma is a concept frequently emphasized in the Bhagavad Gita and refers to an individual’s personal duties within the universal order. These duties are shaped by one’s nature, capacities, and social role. Dharma not only encompasses external responsibilities but also internal growth and spiritual evolution.
Some Shlokas on Dharma from the Bhagavad Gita:
“It is better to perform one’s own dharma imperfectly than to perform another’s dharma perfectly.” (Bhagavad Gita 3.35)
Every individual has a unique path. Instead of imitating others, focus on fulfilling your own duties.
“Remain firm in your dharma and do not submit to fear. This path will lead you to true peace and success.” (Bhagavad Gita 2.31)
Here, Krishna emphasizes that by acting according to one’s own nature, inner peace will be attained.
“Do not avoid the challenges that arise while performing your dharma. For even challenges are a form of spiritual learning.” (Bhagavad Gita 18.48)
Problems in the material world are part of the dharma journey and provide opportunities for growth.
The Importance of Balancing the Material and Spiritual
The material world may not be the ultimate reality; however, according to the Bhagavad Gita, it is a stage for our spiritual growth. Krishna describes the world as a “leela” (cosmic play). This play is the space where we fulfill our dharma and grow spiritually.
You can use your spiritual practices not to escape the world, but to become a more effective and meaningful presence in this world.
Ask Yourself These Questions:
- Why am I doing this practice? Is it to suppress my traumas, or to engage with the world more consciously?
- How is this affecting my life? Is it distancing me from the material world, or is it helping me feel more balanced?
- Is it in alignment with my dharma? Does this practice support me in fulfilling my duties?
View the challenges of the material world as opportunities to discover and fulfill your dharma. Approach your responsibilities as sacred duties.
Bhagavad Gita 3.19: “The person who performs actions without expectation reaches inner peace and freedom.”
Transform Daily Life into a Spiritual Practice
- Mindfulness: Be present in the moment when eating, walking, or working.
- Karma Yoga: Serve through your actions, independent of the results.
- Balance Spiritual Practices: Practices like meditation and yoga provide inner stillness. However, create balance by carrying this awareness into your work, family, and community life.
- Face and Heal Traumas: Instead of suppressing them, acknowledge your past traumas and work through them. Seek professional support if necessary. Yoga therapy, pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation can assist in this process.
- Set Meaningful Goals in the Material World: See the challenges of the material world not as obstacles but as learning opportunities. When setting goals, consider your spiritual values.
Living in Balance
With the guidance of the Bhagavad Gita, it is possible to create a balance between the spiritual and material worlds. The material world is the stage where you fulfill your dharma, and spirituality is your guide. By using this guide, you can embrace the external world more wisely.