Did I Experience Hypnosis? – Part 2
The Shift in My Inner State
One of the adepts in that ashram suggested I meditate on an idol they described as “special” for new visitors. My parents declined. I did not. I sat down and focused on the idol with full attention.
Something unexpected happened. As I gazed at it, I felt my sense of agency weaken. A sudden reverence for their spiritual leader arose, which seemed natural. But the shift felt intrusive — as though my inner state was being altered.
At that time in my life, intense concentration often triggered a sharp pain between my eyebrows. That pain suddenly surfaced and pulled me out of the altered state. The moment I regained clarity, the atmosphere around me felt oppressive.
I was visibly shaken, and my mother noticed immediately. I left the ashram and sat in my car, struggling to speak for a while. What had felt serene earlier now felt unsettling. The contrast itself was what disturbed me most.
What This Taught Me
I am not dismissive of spirituality. My life has been shaped by real inner experiences. Mantras are powerful. Sadhana is real. Transformation is factual. At the same time, these tools can become double-edged when placed in the wrong hands.
If an environment like that could momentarily disarm someone who had already spent years in spiritual practice, it raises serious questions — especially about how vulnerable beginners can be when they arrive seeking healing, belonging, or answers.
People are easily swayed by peaceful expressions, eloquent speech, and impressive ashrams. But external polish does not guarantee inner integrity. Charisma is not character. Authority most certainly isn’t wisdom.
If Sri Vidya Sadhana or similar practices call to you, consider approaches that keep your control within yourself — such as self-initiation and home practice (which, to me, is Pranavism). The scriptures do provide such options, though many remain unaware of them.
A Final Caution
By the way, in time, the spiritual leader associated with that ashram was convicted of criminal activity, including the use of manipulative practices (and hypnosis).
That outcome confirmed what I had sensed but could not articulate then: the environment I encountered was not merely misleading — it was unsafe.
Your spiritual growth matters. But your psychological safety, autonomy, and clarity matter more. No spiritual path that requires you to surrender your inner authority is worth the cost — especially in today’s times when appearances can easily be “manufactured.”
Surrender directly to the Divine. It is safer and more rewarding. I say this from lived experience.
