Why do people spend a high amount on spiritual retreats whenever they feel overwhelmed? Why do people turn to religion or prayers in times of crisis? Why is it that when nothing makes sense anymore, we like to pin all our hopes on the goodness of humanity? Spirituality provides meaning, comfort, and community.
Sure, science is a pivotal part of our lives. But there are some things beyond the realms of science. Spirituality teaches us the deeper meaning of life. It gives us tranquility when all hell is breaking loose around us.
Are you unsure about the role of spirituality in your life? Are you unable to fathom whether you should practice and embrace it? Are you still on the fence about its benefits? It might not be easy to attain spiritual awakening. But it seems to be worth the effort!
How To Define Spirituality?
There are several definitions and practices of spirituality. In simple terms, spirituality is the connection we have with something higher than our own self. It is the belief in something beyond ourselves.
It isn’t uncommon for people to search for meaning and purpose in their lives, and they often turn to spirituality for this. The experience of spiritual awakening is unique for everyone. Some find their path in meditation, while for others, it is the religion that gives all the answers.
Traditionally, the four main pillars of spirituality include meditation, prayer, rituals, and sacred spaces.
Meditation
To understand your inner-self, meditation is very important. Meditation, one of the most popular mindfulness techniques, brings mind and body into alignment through concentration on breathwork.
Prayer
Even if you are not religious, prayer is something people often resort to unintentionally when in a problem or under stress. Spiritual people often incorporate prayer in daily life. Prayer doesn’t have to be a memorized phrase or chant, it can be a conversation with God or the universe or the spirit of love.
Rituals
A ritual is a set of actions performed consistently. Every day you brush your teeth or make coffee. These are small rituals done with ease and often without much thought. Spiritual rituals hold more meaning and resonate with you. Often, rituals have symbolic value and are prescribed by community traditions or religions.
Sacred Places
Undoubtedly, our environment affects us physically and mentally. Visiting and being near sacred places can have a positive effect on you because they can provide a sense of peace, tranquility, and purpose which can draw you closer to spirit. Some people create sacred spaces or altars in their homes for daily rituals.
The meaning and understanding of the spirituality differ in various belief systems and religions. However, one thing is synonymous in all; the aim is to find meaning and purpose in life.
Some signs of attaining spiritual awakening include:
- Having deep questions about various topics like life after death and pain
- Having a deep connection with others
- Being empathetic and compassionate
- Wondering at the marvels of the world
- Being happy without relying on worldly things and rewards
- Seeking the purpose and meaning in life
- Striving to play his role in making the world a better place
Spiritual experiences can be sought in various aspects of life. Some people connect with their spiritual selves in religious places, while others embrace it in the arms of nature.Spirituality does not require you to have religious faith. The only things required are humility and the willingness to connect to oneself and others.
How Spiritual Awakening Makes Us Better People?
You’ve probably heard people feeling like a “changed person” after returning from spiritual retreats. I can personally attest that people can undergo a significant personality change once they get a spiritual awakening. There are several profound effects of spiritual awakening.
Gratitude
Studies have proven that expressing gratitude is closely linked to positive emotions and optimism. Spiritual meditation teaches one to be more positive and grateful for the things he has in life. It encourages people to express their graciousness to little things more often.
Compassion
Spirituality makes people more compassionate. Indeed, this is one of the fundamentals of spiritual life, showcasing compassion towards others. Once someone has experienced spiritual healing, he starts to view the world differently and becomes more empathetic.
Flourishing
Spiritual people are often more successful in life. They flourish due to their positivity and high self-esteem. Their optimism doesn’t let them bow down to challenges.
Self-Awareness
Spirituality makes one more self-aware. It encourages people to recognize their weaknesses and limitations and work on them. It motivates one to focus on their goal and internal values. Indeed, it makes one a better version of himself.
Savoring Life
Spiritual people are more inclined to savor all their special moments. They seek joy in little things, which allows them to build lasting memories. They enjoy the smaller pleasures in life, which fills them with positivity even in the face of a challenge.
What Makes Spiritual Awakening Worth It?
Spiritual healing not only makes you a better person, but it also offers ample physical and mental health benefits.
Relieves Stress
Lives have become chaotic these days. The pressures of work and daily routine can be mind-numbing. Sometimes, this stress can be overwhelming and leaves one feeling crippled.
Practicing spirituality not only reduces stress but also encourages you to focus your energy on more positive things.
Do you feel overwhelmed and unable to cope up with everything going on? Retreat to a quiet spot and give some time to yourself. Calm your mind after relinquishing control and you will feel a lot better.
Remedy For Depression
Spiritual healing has done wonders for people suffering from depression. Depression causes one to engulf in sadness and guilt. The person is unable to carry on with his daily routines. While the condition often requires therapy and medication, spirituality too can be of immense help.
Spiritual meditation allows one to accept the present moment and be calm and flexible. So, the symptoms of depression can be significantly reduced.
Improved Social Connections
Spirituality allows you to build deep connections with those around you. Since you become more compassionate and empathetic, people are more at ease with you.
Longevity
Studies have proven that spiritual people live longer. This is because of the positive impact of spirituality on the mind and body.
Spiritual practices lower blood pressure and control heart rate. As the practices keep stress and anxiety at bay, it enables you to remain healthy for a long time.
How To Practice Spirituality In Current Times?
Not everyone has the means or time to take off on spiritual retreats or Eat Pray Love style travel. So how can one reap the benefits of spiritual healing? Here are some simple steps that can help you out. These steps are easy to follow and can be done alongside your routine activities without any problems.
Start Your Day With Meditation
Begin your day with a prayer or meditation. You can practice a quiet moment of meditation or listen to something soothing as soon as you wake up. Give yourself a few moments in the morning to connect with your own self before the hectic routine takes over. This will give you peace and encourage you to go on with your day with positivity and energy.
Go For A Walk
You don’t always have to visit a temple or perform rituals for spiritual meditation. Sometimes, walking purposefully and consciously suffices. These walks in nature give you time to reflect on your surroundings and clear your mental clutter. They allow you to take a break and grab some time for your own self.
Take Short Breaks
All of us have quite hectic and chaotic schedules wherein we don’t get a minute to breathe. However, this isn’t a healthy way to work. Studies have shown that regular breaks not only improve health but also enhance your productivity and performance at work.
Therefore, take short breaks throughout the day for deep breathing exercises or meditation. You can simply sit out and bask in the sunlight too.
Count Your Blessings
The primary lesson of spirituality is to be gracious. This one feeling keeps negative emotions like envy, anger, and greed at bay. Therefore, always count your blessings. Keeping a gratitude journal can help. If this sounds too much, you can simply take some time out to be grateful for all that is good in life.
Read
Reading opens your mind and gives you a new perspective. If you are serious about experiencing a spiritual awakening, read books on the subject as much as you can. These books will provide you with inspiring ideas and tips. Doors to wisdom will be opened if you read daily before retiring for the day.
Find A Community
Spiritual communities are not only found in spiritual retreats. Indeed, the best thing about spirituality is that it brings people closer. You can join a yoga class or become a part of the spiritual organization to find like-minded people.
Make It A Part Of The Daily Routine
Spiritual meditation is not something that you should do once in a while. This wouldn’t do you any good. Instead, make sure that it becomes a part of your daily life. Try to find joy in those little and simple moments of life and never lose your connection with yourself.
Conclusion
Life has become busy. Even pandemic life is full (of emotions, work, relationships, etc.). In the middle of the crazy, consider getting in touch with your spirituality. Spirituality is the connection with, and belief in, something greater than ourselves.
You can almost always take time for spiritual meditation if you are serious about it. It’s only about a few minutes daily, but its impact is profound and long-lasting. Spirituality can open new doors for you, but only if you are willing to work for it. Consider tapping into a spiritual practice as part of your self-care regimen.
The journey of spirituality is tailor-made according to each person–so try things on for size. As you grow or as life changes, your spiritual practices will likely evolve with you. As a sassy spiritualist, I can wait for you to start your adventure. Let me know how it goes! xoxo Mo
