In some cases, these experiences act as a subconscious distraction from emotional pain or unresolved life challenges. Instead of offering healing, the intensity of the experiences may just temporarily numb or overshadow what hasn’t yet been processed. Some people are born with a predisposition toward dependency or addictive behavior, while for others, these patterns develop over time through repeated exposure.
The more extreme, prolonged, and immersive these events are, the higher the risk of developing a dependency on intense spiritual events.
What´s underneath?
From a neurological perspective, spiritual highs can create an addictive pattern: intense experiences — with or even without substances — trigger strong surges of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are directly linked to the brain’s reward and addiction pathways. The more we expose ourselves to these highs, the more our system begins to crave them. This creates a self-reinforcing loop that becomes increasingly hard to break free from (this is called tolerance). The higher your tolerance, the more intense the spiritual event needs to be to release the same amount of dopamines and serotonin. In modern society, where we are already exposed to high levels of stimulation — through social media algorithms, fast-paced entertainment, constant stress, and performance culture — many people have developed a heightened tolerance to dopamine already. This may lead to a cycle of seeking ever more intense spiritual experiences, while everyday life feels dull, empty, or meaningless in comparison. Ultimately, this pattern replaces growth with spiritual escapism: measuring progress by the intensity of experiences rather than by inner qualities like compassion, groundedness, or emotional regulation.
Examples
Here are some common examples in this dimension to watch out for.
Constantly attending sessions, retreats, ceremonies, or workshops.
Engaging in increasingly extreme or risky spiritual practices (e.g. taking drugs while doing intense holotrophic breathwork. Doing ayahuasca on a monthly basis. Trying many different hallucinogens after each other.)
Making these intense spiritual events the exclusive focus of one’s identity and activities. Attending these events is like it’s the only thing that matters anymore.
Spending a lot of money on these events. Maybe even going into debt.
“I just need to go to one more event and then I’ll be healed”
“I’ve done Ayahuasca several times and I can feel the next one is going to be the big break trough.” (But it might even be disappointing because it doesn’t create the same highs anymore… and thus justifying keeping going.)
“This session was so intense and deep, I really needed to release a lot” → using generic words of extremity or spirituality instead of concrete insights or link to real life is missing.
Integration
Authentic spiritual development requires balance – integrating transcendent experiences with grounded, consistent daily practices. Lasting growth is not defined by dramatic breakthroughs but by steady embodiment of insight in ordinary life. Approach spiritual experiences as catalysts, not destinations. The goal is not to stay in a perpetual state of “high,” but to bring the clarity and wisdom gained from such moments into how you relate, work, and live. (And also, spiritual experiences can be just that. They don’t have to bring with them some profound insights or big healing.) Keep in mind also that healing is nonlinear: periods of clarity may alternate with times of challenge or emotional intensity. This is not failure — it’s part of the integration process. Recognize that spiritual practices are not replacements for the deeper existential questions of life or for the discomfort of genuine transformation. Spiritual highs can indeed provide powerful insights — but the crucial factor is learning not to get lost in the cycle of seeking them.
Navigating the Path
Understanding bypassing is the first step towards a more integrated and authentic life