Qualities of McSpirituality, Its Bullshit and Its Dangers
Spirituality is important, but what are the potential dangers and problems in some spiritual perspectives
This article was originally shared on my witch’s blog on shopceremonie.com
I first want to say that when I use the term ‘McSpirituality’, I am discussing extractive, reductive, and non-contextual spiritual and New Age teachings, practices, and characteristics. Essentially, fast, nutrient-low, culturally out of context, and potentially harmful approaches to spirituality. I list them below, so we can identify these qualities that lead to spiritual bullshit that profits specific spiritual influencers / leaders / brands that unfortunately, create misunderstandings of ancient and culturally-rooted practices. These statements may be uncomfortable for certain New Agers, especially those who resonate with ‘light and love’ based thinking (though not limited to this perspective alone). Let’s ask ourselves, how do these show up? Ultimately, these are traits and mechanisms that can show up in any wellness, spirituality, or witchcraft circle / practice, it’s not the costuming (what something looks or sounds like), but our actions and their impact.
McSpirituality justifies and even spiritualizes self-obsession, prioritizing one’s own emotions and individuality over the needs and realities of a group.
McSpirituality misuses psychology terms like ‘trauma’, ‘trigger’, and ‘narcissist’ to describe ordinary discomfort and someone who holds a difference of opinion.
McSpirituality confuses spiritual terms for the spiritual practice.
McSpirituality confuses spiritual tools for the spiritual practice.
McSpirituality looks to complex, intricate spiritual teachings, reduces them to decontextualized clear cut “truths”, and then sells them as tidy “answers” to complex, intricate life problems.
McSpirituality uses opaque, vague, and pre-fabricated ‘spiritual speak’ to avoid the need to use clear and simple language. Simultaneously, it expects individuals to speak in the same way as the rest of the group because performance is mistaken as the real thing.
There’s a strong, unspoken pressure to fit in instead of taking the time to build on a consensus of belonging despite diversity and difference.
McSpirituality hides behind the concept of “intent” and does not explore how “meaning well” can impact otherwise.
McSpirituality prioritizes feeling good and validated over responsibility and accountability.
McSpirituality centers the “teacher” / “practitioner” instead of the practice.
McSpirituality markets the false idea that there is an end point to “healing”.
McSpirituality others.
McSpirituality assumes we are the main characters of the universe, and that the universe exists for us.
McSpirituality confuses knowing your astrological star placements or attachment style with self awareness.
McSpirituality wants fast, sensational, or heightened experiences, and discounts quiet, long- term, dedicated practice.
McSpirituality prefers teachings taught by celebrity or highly popular facilitators.
If you’re here, thank you. Like my work? Consider signing up for my monthly newsletter or subscribe by clicking the button below.