What is a Spiritually Transformative Experience (STE) also known as a Mystical Experience?
“STE’s or Mystical experiences can occur spontaneously, and indeed people report them occurring at completely unexpected times.”
They’re hard to define. But according to https://observatory.synthesisretreat.com/. Mysticism is “Anything that is hard to comprehend or describe with rational or simple language. Generally, it is short-lasting, feels immensely meaningful or profound, and shatters some of your preconceptions.
According to https://www.insightstate.com/spirituality/mystic-signs “Mysticism — otherwise known as “ultimate reality” or “direct knowledge of spiritual truth” — can be obtained through experiences. It’s said to be the final power in reality, yet it’s not originally from faith, principle or dogma” “Many people (who have had these experiences) identify as spiritual but not religious; with a few exceptions.
I have had mystical experiences throughout my life, starting as far back as age nine! Why? I have no idea! It took me decades to find other people who have had mystical experiences as well. I never shared them, until recently, as with all of us who have had them, feared being labeled as crazy. Today you find people from all over the world that speak about their experiences. Mine were all teaching lessons, which expand my thinking, beliefs, understanding of life, death, and ways to living more harmoniously. I think of them a gifts. Special gifts. Yes, the scared me initially. But I cherish them and wonder why I was so lucky to have them.
The percentage of adults who identify as religious in many industrialized countries is declining, while remaining generally high in less developed nations. Even as religious affiliation decreases, a sense of spiritual identification could remain steady or even increase. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/spirituality.