Spiritual Bypassing
Book • 2010
Robert Augustus Masters' 'Spiritual Bypassing' examines the tendency to use spirituality as a defense against unresolved psychological wounds, emotions, and unmet needs.
The book builds on John Welwood's original concept, detailing how practices intended for growth can instead serve to avoid conflict, accountability, and shadow material.
Masters explores dynamics such as neurotic tolerance and 'holy dread,' offering clinical examples and therapeutic interventions to reclaim authentic spiritual development.
He emphasizes integrating shadow work with spiritual practice to achieve genuine healing and relational health.
The book has become a key reference for clinicians and spiritual teachers concerned with ethical, embodied approaches to spirituality.
The book builds on John Welwood's original concept, detailing how practices intended for growth can instead serve to avoid conflict, accountability, and shadow material.
Masters explores dynamics such as neurotic tolerance and 'holy dread,' offering clinical examples and therapeutic interventions to reclaim authentic spiritual development.
He emphasizes integrating shadow work with spiritual practice to achieve genuine healing and relational health.
The book has become a key reference for clinicians and spiritual teachers concerned with ethical, embodied approaches to spirituality.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 0 episodes
Mentioned by 
Lissa Rankin
Healing Beyond Medicine: Dr. Lissa Rankin on Trauma, Spirituality, and Healing
