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The Spiritual Dimension of Human Consciousness

If you look up the word “psyche” in the dictionary, you will find “breath, principle of life, soul.” But if you look up “psychology,” you will find “the science of mind and behavior.” Somehow, in the translation from essence to practice, the most important aspect of “psyche” has been lost. At the University of Santa Monica, we recognize our task as reclaiming and integrating the spiritual dimension as essential to an authentic psychological inquiry.

What is Spiritual Psychology?

Spiritual Psychology is the study and practice of the art and science of human evolution in consciousness. In order to fulfill this quest, we must begin by distinguishing the essence of human evolution—what does it mean to evolve? In short, it means surrendering anything in consciousness that disturbs one's peace. It also means sacrificing our illusions of separation. Essentially, this “surrendering” and “sacrificing” is work that can and has been called “healing,” which includes healing on the physical, mental, and emotional levels in service to the deeper revelation of who we truly are as spiritual beings: Loving, Peaceful, Compassionate, and Joyful. We refer to this level of awareness as the Authentic Self.

Why a Spiritual Psychology . . . and Why Now?

Change is taking place at an unprecedented pace on our planet. The nature of the change is historically different from anything we have previously experienced. Because of the enormous destructive power now available to so many, the world is being challenged to learn how to get along or pay the consequences, which can be extremely high.When you get a degree at the University of Santa Monica, it won't be that you passed a prescribed line of study - it will be that you can do what it says you can do. - John-Roger As we see it, the only way to truly promote peace is for more people to dare to transform from within so that they experience greater levels of inner peace.

Spiritual Psychology at USM is a response to this global need. The curriculum is uniquely designed for students to learn the skills of issue resolution. (An issue is anything that disturbs your peace.) We must not only embrace who we are as spiritual beings having a human experience but also use that recognition as a foundation for “healing.” While always important, this work may now be necessary for our very survival.

And, by the way, assuming we get through the current challenges, these very same skills will be absolutely essential in a more peaceful, highly globalized world.

To continue learning more about USM, click here.