Spirituality is a deep and personal aspect of life, often linked to an individual’s beliefs and practices. While some define it as religious belief, others consider it to be a more general sense of connection with the self, others and the universe.
Whether it’s taking time in nature, engaging in private prayer, practicing yoga or meditation, being spiritual can take many forms. It may even include a commitment to service. In fact, research has shown that spirituality can be a strong factor in coping with stress and promoting overall well-being.
Spirituality often fosters compassion, empathy and forgiveness in individuals and their relationships. It can also provide an individual with a clearer sense of meaning and purpose in life, as well as help them identify their values and priorities.
For some, being spiritual means embracing a higher power or a greater good – and the belief that we are all connected and equal. For others, it’s about a more personal experience of the universe and finding peace in the present moment. It can also include a belief that we must learn from the past, live in the now and have hope for the future.
Regardless of how people define it, studies have found that being spiritual can help promote mental and physical health. Individuals who say they are spiritual tend to have lower levels of anxiety and depression, better coping with illness and surgery and are more likely to be satisfied with their lives.