Shattering the Myths

Myth #1 – Spirituality is only suitable for people with sedentary lifestyles: People with very active lifestyles and high ambitions often have a preconceived notion that the spiritual path is unsuitable. It is often assumed that spiritual practitioners are boring, just like sitting idle and immersed in joy and bliss. 

In reality, spiritual practice not only allows the practitioner to be more productive, but spiritual practitioners can also do more and better work with a sense of happiness and joy. According to Master Choa Kok Sui, “People on the spiritual path are not anemic. They must be sharp, strong, and courageous. Being spiritual means being dynamic, powerful, and intelligent.”

Myth #2 – The spiritual path is not for those who want to lead a ‘normal’ life: Many do not embark on the spiritual journey because they fear that they will have to “change” their lifestyle. Of course, spiritual practice will bring change in one’s life, but most of these changes are for the better. Through spiritual practice, you will feel happier and develop a better self-image. You will feel more energetic and productive. You will be able to get rid of several weaknesses or detrimental habits.

One needs to understand that being spiritual does not mean having to meditate and do charity work all day (though there is nothing wrong with that decision if it’s your path and calling). To be spiritual does not mean that one has to be serious and detach from fun and enjoyment in life. One can lead a normal life, have fun, go to parties, watch movies, and enjoy life while still being spiritual. There is no conflict.

Myth #3 – Spirituality is not practical today: Another common misconception is that it is impractical to practice spirituality in today’s age because it’s difficult to find time for it. It’s not uncommon to see people discouraging the children in their family from walking on the spiritual path because they think it’s not the right age or time for them and that it might distract them from their career and material pursuits. 

Interestingly, MCKS says, “Spirituality is connected with practicality.” Spirituality cannot be compartmentalized as a separate facet of our life. Spiritual pursuits are not meant to escape from life but to enhance life, including our material life, careers, and even our relationships. Spiritual practitioners are not detached from reality. In fact, spiritual practice teaches people to be more balanced and realistic about life. Most MCKS Arhatic Yoga practitioners feel that regular practice makes life smoother and more comfortable.  

Myth #4 – Spiritual practitioners do not want to lead a regular, family life: Imagine the shock of parents who have been planning their child’s wedding since they gave birth to him/her, only to find them embarking on a spiritual journey. Well, the good news is that there’s no need to panic. One doesn’t have to renunciate or go to the Himalayas to progress the spiritual path. Individuals who wishe to tread on the spiritual path need not retreat from the world, their career, or their current relationships. In fact, these pursuits are used to help the individual to further develop through the daily challenges and interactions, as well as difficulties that may occur within the family, in the office, or in the contemporary lifestyle. Also, contrary to popular belief, spirituality and prosperity are compatible with each other. 

Spiritual practices can be comfortably done while leading a regular family life. Also consider, for instance, MCKS himself. In addition to being an enlightened Guru, Master Choa was also a successful businessman and a family man. 

Myth #5 – There is a correct age: Some people feel that spiritual practices are only for people who are old. In reality, this is a myth with minimal grounding. No age is too young (or too old) for spiritual cultivation. For example, take the MCKS Arhatic  Yoga system which introduces several powerful meditation techniques. The techniques revealed during the Higher Levels of Arhatic Yoga require your body to be fit and strong. Hence, the earlier you start, the better! 

Myth #6 – Spiritual practice is based on blind faith: It is often assumed that spirituality is just based on blind faith because verifying spiritual experiences using a device or gadget is difficult. However, the right spiritual path encourages the students to use discernment and validate the teachings through regular experimentation and observation before concluding. As it’s often said, ‘the proof of the pudding lies in eating it.’ Similarly, the proof of the effectiveness of the spiritual system lies in experiencing it and its effect on our lives.

After regularly practicing the spiritual teachings for weeks or months, one needs to ask:

• Is my life improving?
• Am I more happy and peaceful?
• Am I becoming a better person?
• Do I have better relationships with my family, friends, and colleagues?
• Is my career/work progressing at a greater rate?
• Do I have more energy?
• Do I have greater clarity and understanding about my life?

If the answer to some of the above questions is ‘yes,’ then it’s a good idea to continue the practice and keep validating.

Spirituality has nothing to do with what we believe. Spirituality is about self-discovery and experiences. It’s about living fully and honestly and to become a better person. It is ultimately about self-mastery and self-realization. This is why it has been said that spirituality is a way of life.