Spirituality refers to the beliefs, practices, and experiences that people have regarding their relationship with something they believe is bigger than themselves. The term can be used in reference to an individual’s religion or it can be about other non-religious experiences, such as meditation, mysticism, and other forms of self-growth.
The meaning of spirituality can change from person to person and is not easily measurable. However, there are a few core aspects that can be identified, such as: a sense of meaning and purpose; values, beliefs, and standards (related to beauty, worth, and truth); transcendence; and connection.
It’s important to be cautious around individuals who claim to be spiritual because they may try to convert others to their way of thinking. This can be especially harmful to young or emotionally fragile people. It’s also important to avoid judging other faiths and spiritual beliefs if they differ from your own.
For example, some Buddhists want to achieve the cessation of suffering; some Yoga practitioners seek to purify their mind and body; some Sufis aim to experience divine revelation; and other spiritualities focus on awe and gratitude. A therapist can help you explore these aspects of spirituality and how they may relate to your own life. Think about how you might connect these ideas to your own spirituality by drawing a diagram. Draw a thick black line to indicate a strong connection; a dotted line for a weak or distant one; and a squiggly line for a conflictual one.