Rev. Colleen Irwin

A Personal Journey into Mysticism

Modern mysticism is a deeply personal and evolving journey. It’s about taking what resonates with you, leaving what doesn’t, and approaching spirituality with mutual respect and kindness. Unlike traditional mysticism, which often follows rigid religious structures, modern mysticism is fluid, allowing individuals to explore different paths that align with their inner truth.

For me, mysticism has always been present in my life. I just didn’t have the words to define it until my 50s. My journey with spirituality has been anything but linear. I grew up Catholic, later converted to Judaism for my first husband, and even spent some time exploring the Church of England. For many years, I drifted without a formal spiritual practice. It wasn’t until I discovered spirituality in a broader sense that I truly began to understand mysticism. Through my journey as a medium, I have learned that modern mysticism isn’t about following a single set of rules—it’s about trusting yourself, your intuition, and the experiences that shape your spiritual understanding.

The Foundations of Modern Mysticism

Mysticism is nothing new; it has existed across cultures and religions for centuries. Traditionally, it was often reserved for monks, sages, and spiritual seekers who dedicated their lives to connecting with the divine. Today, modern mysticism has become more accessible, allowing individuals to incorporate mystical practices into their daily lives while still maintaining their roles in the modern world.

At its core, modern mysticism encourages self-exploration. It invites you to read, learn, and follow your intuition while building strong boundaries and working for the highest and best. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about embracing the unknown and discovering what feels right for you.

Mysticism, Religion, and Spiritualism

Mysticism and religion have long been intertwined, though they are not the same. Many religious traditions contain mystical elements—Christianity has its mystics like St. John of the Cross, Judaism has Kabbalah, and Sufism is the mystical branch of Islam. These traditions emphasize direct experience with the Divine rather than relying solely on doctrine or rituals.

Spiritualism, while distinct from traditional religion, also has a deep connection to mysticism. As a Spiritualist medium, I’ve found that my work aligns closely with mystical principles—seeking direct communication with Spirit, trusting intuitive insights, and embracing the unseen world. Unlike structured religious traditions, Spiritualism allows for a more fluid, experiential approach, encouraging individuals to explore their own connections to Spirit without rigid rules.

For many, modern mysticism serves as a bridge between religion and spirituality, offering a personal and evolving way to engage with the mysteries of existence.

Key Practices in Modern Mysticism

There is no single way to be a mystic, but here are a few practices that many modern mystics incorporate into their lives:

1. Mediumship & Intuition – For me, my mediumship has been the most profound aspect of my mystical journey. Learning to trust what I feel and the messages I receive has been both empowering and humbling. Mysticism often involves strengthening intuition and recognizing the subtle ways Spirit communicates with us.

2. Prayer & Meditation – These practices help quiet the mind and create space for spiritual insight. Whether through silent reflection, guided meditations, or conversations with Spirit, these moments deepen our connection to the unseen world.

3. Energy Work & Vibrational Awareness – Understanding how energy flows and affects our well-being is essential. Some explore this through Reiki, chakra balancing, or simply being mindful of the energy they give and receive in daily interactions.

4. Signs, Synchronicities, and Divine Guidance – Paying attention to repeating numbers, meaningful coincidences, or intuitive nudges is a powerful way to navigate the mystical path. The universe often speaks in whispers—our job is to listen.

5. Community & Connection – Surrounding yourself with like-minded people can be incredibly validating and inspiring. Engaging in discussions, attending spiritual gatherings, or joining development circles can help nurture your path.

The Personal Nature of Mysticism

One of the biggest misconceptions about mysticism is that it’s easy to develop. The truth is, like any spiritual practice, it requires dedication, patience, and self-trust. Mysticism is not about instant enlightenment—it’s about continuous growth and deepening your understanding of yourself and the universe.

For me, one of the most transformative shifts has been learning to love, believe in, and trust myself. When I embraced self-love, my connection to Spirit became stronger, and my confidence in my abilities grew. Mysticism is not about external validation; it’s about finding truth within yourself.

How to Cultivate a Mystical Practice

If you’re feeling called to explore modern mysticism, here’s my advice:

• Start reading everything. Let your intuition guide you to the books, teachings, and practices that resonate most.
• Follow your inner voice. Your path is unique; trust where it leads you.
• Build strong boundaries. Protect your energy and ensure you are working in the highest and best, surrounded by white light.
• Practice daily. Even a few moments of meditation, prayer, or reflection can make a difference.
• Stay open and curious. Mysticism is a lifelong journey—embrace the unknown and allow your beliefs to evolve.

Embracing the Mystery

Modern mysticism is an invitation to explore, question, and connect with the deeper mysteries of existence. It’s about learning to trust yourself, follow your intuition, and embrace the journey with an open heart. Whether you’re just beginning or deepening your path, remember that there is no right or wrong way—only the way that feels true to you.

Have you had mystical experiences in your own life? I’d love to hear about them—share your thoughts in the comments!