The evolution of spirituality: from religion to SBNR paths

The text analyzes the process of transitioning from formalized religion to an individual spirituality of the SBNR (Spiritual But Not Religious) type. A key moment was the counterculture of the 1960s, which democratized access to experiences of the sacred and introduced meditative techniques and Eastern philosophies into the Western cultural sphere. The author emphasizes that this reception was selective—instead of entire doctrinal systems, specific consciousness practices were transferred to the West, adapting them to a culture of individualism and pragmatism. As a result, traditional paths of liberation were transformed into methods of self-development and well-being, allowing spiritual discipline to be separated from religious dogma, turning meditation or yoga into portable technologies supporting an individual's quality of life.