Techniques for Practicing Spiritual Discernment: Spiritual Growth Practices

Spiritual discernment is a deeply personal journey. Over time, I’ve come to realize that it’s not just about making decisions but about tuning into a deeper wisdom that guides us beyond the noise of everyday life. It’s like learning a new language - the language of the soul. If you’re curious about how to practice spiritual discernment, you’re in the right place. I want to share some techniques that have helped me grow spiritually and find clarity when faced with life’s many crossroads.

Understanding Spiritual Growth Practices

Before diving into specific techniques, it’s important to understand what spiritual growth practices really mean. For me, these practices are daily habits or rituals that nurture my inner and outer selves and help me connect with a higher sense of purpose. I listen closely to my intuition and the subtle messages from the universe.

I believe that all humans are intuitive, psychic, have extra-sensory perceptions. I believe that our inborn, intuitive abilities are vital to our well-being, health, careers, maybe our lives. I hope this article will encourage you to hone your abilities, regardless if you are just beginning or have been practicing for many years.

I’ve talked to some successful people. One thing those people had in common is what they call “gut feelings” or “instincts” when it comes to knowing who to trust or when to sign that important deal.

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When learning to become a good psychic, the first and most important requirement is to

PAY ATTENTION.

I mean pay attention to everything. What you see. What you hear. What you feel, smell, taste. What you imagine that you feel, smell, or taste. When your hair stands on end or you get goosebumps (I call them truth-bumps) or you just KNOW.

You need to pay attention at all times during the day and night. When you’re by yourself. When you’re with others. When you’re tired; when you’re alert. When you’re driving, or as a passenger. When you’re watching TV or a movie or listening to music or the radio or to someone else speak. When you’re at work. When you’re at home or out in public. You must pay attention to everything. Every nuance. Especially the things that don’t seem to have any meaning at all.

You can visualize the stereotype of a Native American we’ve seen in movies. You know, those depictions of an American Indian getting off his horse to closely examine something on the ground. To sniff it. Examine it. Track it. To know the difference between the scent of a deer or that of a bear. You can aspire to be that noble native. This is in spite of the fact that you haven’t been trained as natives once were. You must train yourself to intuit messages in every leaf, stone, word, smell, news report, and personal interaction. Everything is important, as you will learn.

You must be willing to appear ridiculous. Others may not be picking up what you do. Others may even make fun of you, if you tell them what you’re picking up. But ultimately you will possess a special talent to rely on. To intuit messages that only you can hear. This talent can protect you and others in simple and also amazing ways.

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IGNORE the logical mind. You can trust your senses in becoming intuitive – NOT your logic. The logical mind will try to talk you out of your message.

For example:

“That’s ridiculous.”

“That doesn’t make any sense.”

“I must be tired – or anxious – or have an over-active imagination.”

“I’m just being judgmental.”

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The logical mind is good for balancing your checkbook or doing your job – but not for psychic information.

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Your logical mind may try to convince you otherwise — but pay no attention. In fact, when I am guiding clients on “past life journeys” I tell them to leave the logical mind behind. If they get stuck and can’t remember details, I tell them to “make it up.” It disengages the logical mind and takes them directly to their intuition.

You will discover the method(s) in which you pick up messages best – whether it is seeing (clairvoyance); hearing (clairaudience); sensing (clairsentience); knowing (claircognizance); tasting (clairgustance); smelling (clairtangency) or a combination. Three days ago I did a session for a woman who lives out in the forest. I could "smell" fire danger approaching her home. I told her -- "Pack up some items. Fire is coming." Today a wildfire is not far from her home.

Psychics know it’s of utmost importance to pay attention to that silly little thought that pops into your head out of nowhere. The thought says: “You ……” as though someone separate from you is talking to you. You may only get one chance to pay attention to that thought. If it’s extremely urgent, you may get the message again — but usually it won’t repeat. Sometimes when I intuit something significant, it sounds like “bells and whistles” go off in my head, which is hard to ignore. I don’t ignore them anymore. The same is true for instant gut feelings and visions. You may even be able to “sniff out” danger. Pay attention to them all.

Your messages may come in the form of dreams. So if you dream something important, pay attention.

Practical Techniques for Spiritual Discernment

Now, let’s explore some practical techniques that have helped me develop spiritual discernment. These methods are not about quick fixes but about cultivating patience and trust in your inner guidance.

1. Journaling Your Inner Dialogue

Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be incredibly revealing. I often journal questions like, “What feels right about this choice?” or “What fears are holding me back?” This process helps me separate my intuition from my ego or anxiety.

I write without censoring myself. Sometimes, the act of putting pen to paper or fingers to computer keys uncovers hidden truths or patterns I hadn’t noticed before.

2. Practicing Mindful Listening

Spiritual discernment requires paying attention to messages.

3. Using Symbolism and Signs

The universe often communicates through symbols and signs. I’ve learned to pay attention to recurring numbers, dreams, or even random encounters that feel meaningful. These signs can act as gentle nudges, helping me confirm or reconsider my choices.

Keep a small notebook or use your phone to jot down any symbols or synchronicities you notice. Reflect on what they might mean in the context of your current situation. Over time, you’ll develop a personal language of signs that supports your discernment.

Cultivating Patience and Trust in the Process

One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that spiritual discernment doesn’t always provide instant answers. Sometimes, the clarity we seek unfolds slowly, requiring patience and trust. It’s okay to sit with uncertainty and allow your intuition to mature.

I remind myself that discernment is a practice, not a destination. Each time I pause, reflect, and listen, I strengthen my connection to my inner wisdom. This ongoing process builds confidence and peace, even when the path ahead isn’t crystal clear.

Embracing Your Unique Spiritual Journey

Remember, your path to spiritual discernment is uniquely yours. What works for me might not resonate with you, and that’s perfectly okay. The key is to stay curious, open, and gentle with yourself as you explore.

If you want to deepen your understanding, I encourage you to explore resources and communities that support your growth. And if you’re wondering about how to practice spiritual discernment, there are many guides and teachings that can offer valuable insights.

Spiritual discernment is a beautiful dance between listening, trusting, and acting. It’s about learning to hear the whispers of your soul amidst the noise of the world. With patience and practice, you’ll find that your inner compass becomes clearer, guiding you toward a life filled with meaning and peace.

I hope these techniques inspire you to embark on or deepen your own journey of spiritual discernment. It’s a path worth walking, step by step, with an open heart and a curious mind.