Initiation journeys into the mind

Mental and spiritual initiations 

By Jimmy Henderson 

(Hons philosophy, MA psychology, FRC) 

The mind has the potential for the mental creation of elaborate ritualistic settings and rituals which can have a very real effect on one's unconscious. It is therefore possible to conduct self-initiations directed at inner mental development. 

This is normally performed during slightly altered states of consciousness (meditation, contemplation or visualisation), during which time one constructs (in the mind) complex images of sacred sites and locations such as sanctums, temples or natural wonders such as mountains and caves complete with initiatory rituals involving priests, monks or even one's chosen exalted spiritual personalities or masters.      

The next step is to try to superimpose these images on one’s normal view of reality. This can be performed by opening and closing the eyes slowly during the meditation and imagery until the sacred location appears to be suspended in the room and very real.  

As mentioned in other articles, the human unconscious mind responds well to such imaginary dramatisations and this creates the opportunity for directly accessing and altering the subliminal programs (schemas) which regulate our consciousness and perception. These self-initiated inner experiences actually can actually result in these schemas becoming more fluid and subsequently, our minds more open to higher perceptual experiences. These self-created rituals or scenarios also provide a visual field in which other archetypal figures within the collective unconscious can reveal themselves and even assist in the initiations.  

These initiatory mental enactments can be very complex, and can include moving along hidden pathways, entering through portals or even pushing through re-created ‘dimensional’ membranes into higher dimensions of consciousness. With practice, these mental creations can become so powerful and real that one can actually imagine touching and feeling this membrane. When in such a subjective state, the mind is fully open to suggestion and the unconscious will accept these experiences and enactments as real, or at least sufficiently real so as to produce powerful corresponding changes in mental states and consciousness.

Although, when mastered, these experiences may seem like one is travelling into different dimensions or even visiting other historical time-slots, what is actually taking place are shifts in perception, which results in the recovery of impressions and images relating to these sites.

One can also consciously petition or request the privilege of a real initiation from Spirit. 

However, unless the appropriate level of consciousness and emotional and psychological readiness has been attained, it is unlikely that this will take place, or have the desired effect. 

However, it can happen that Initiatory dramatisations can also be spontaneously presented under the direction of powerful archetypal personalities during lucid dreams or meditations, and would also involve complex rituals during which one’s readiness, intention, commitment and courage would be tested. These Initiations differ in form and content, but share common characteristics or requirements. For instance, they all involve a situation where a choice, choices or a decision has to be consciously made (this distinguishes it from a normal dream or vision). As previously stated, they could also involve a practical challenge in which one has to face and overcome certain obstacles and could even include a dramatised ‘battle’ with one or more antagonists. Finally, they all require a new commitment and a purposeful dedication to the service of mankind.

In conclusion, initiations are designed to ensure that one is not moving or evolving at a pace which will damage the fragile human mind and consciousness, and ideally, ‘permission’ should be given before one proceeds. In other words, during advanced meditations and initiations, one should be intuitively ‘invited’ to proceed further, especially when working with high levels of consciousness and energy.

 Jimmy Henderson is a cognitive specialist who attempts to integrate science and psychology with philosophy and spirituality. He has published a number of books and e-books on aspects of human psychology and spirituality which are available on Amazon.com as well as his  website   www.jimmyhendersonbooks.com