Let us start this blog with a simple question. What is spirituality? Think about it for a minute and then answer. You will notice, the more you think about it, the more you try to articulate the definition of spirituality, and the more tongue-tied you will get.
Spirituality is a multi-faceted term, which has a different meanings for different people. For some it is a ritual, for some; it is a process, for some; it is the journey and for some; it is the functional aspect of spirit. Keep in mind, when we say ‘spirit’ we don’t mean it literally. It is more about understanding yourself.
It doesn’t matter what religion you are from; it doesn’t matter what is your age and it surely doesn’t matter what gender you are. Spirituality is the essence of life. Understanding spirituality is a personal journey that you have to take alone. No one can take it for you.
Spirituality is making a connection with something that is bigger than yourself with an aspiration to achieve self-awareness.
Where to Start?
We often find people asking, where do we start? Where to begin? Is there something special that I need to do?
The answer to what is spirituality may be difficult, but answering this question is actually very easy. Start from where you are right now. Right now, is the correct time and the correct place. Your journey to spirituality can start only when you yourself want it to start. Begin your journey with an open mind, willingness to change, curiosity about your surroundings, positivity towards life and commitment towards personal growth.
Why Do I Need Spirituality?
Having a belief that there is someone who is watching you and who is looking after you, brings a feeling of security. Remember, how we used to crawl in the lap of our mother whenever we felt otherwise? Why? Because it gave us a sense of security. We knew we are safe. Nothing is going to happen to us now. The same is with spirituality. It is like a security blanket.
Whatever path you follow, to achieve this spirituality, in a way takes away the negativity that has accumulated in your mind over years. May it be yoga, meditation, social work, or mindfulness. It relieves you from the stress and anxieties of life and promotes a healthier lifestyle.
Spirituality paves the way to knowledge and the greater good. A healthy mind affects your overall aura. Your aura attracts the people around you. A positive aura will attract positive people.
Are there different types of Spiritualities?
As said earlier, spirituality is a journey toward self-awareness. Different people find themselves in different things. Some people find spirituality in their religious beliefs while others find it in nature, social work or even in creative art.
Spirituality can take any form, some of them are:
# Religion-Based Spirituality
Spirituality is an individualized experience. Every religion is connected to spirituality. May it be Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity or others. The sense of connection with the supreme power is considered as spiritual in different religions. It may be achieved through prayers, meditation, chanting etc.
# Social-Welfare-Based Spirituality
Some people find spirituality in helping others. They believe in doing good without any expectations. Giving back to society and working for the betterment of the people is their way of achieving spirituality. These people believe in the saying, ‘what goes around, comes around’. Meaning, if you are good with people, the universe will be good to you.
# Mindfulness-Based Spirituality
Mindfulness is living in the moment. Understanding one’s emotions and thoughts at the present. Not overwhelming oneself with happenings of the past and not unnecessarily dwelling on the future. Meditation, yoga and breathing techniques are used to practice mindfulness.
# Creativity-Based Spirituality
Different people express themselves in different ways. Many people are blessed with creative expressions may it be music, art or writing. Their art is their way of achieving spirituality. Their words express their emotions, their drawings portray their thoughts and their music brings calmness to their soul.
# Nature-Based Spirituality
For some, spirituality is spending quiet time in the lap of nature. They get a sense of inner peace and freshness by being in the presence of nature. Away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. Listening to nature’s melodies is what brings smiles to their face and tranquillity to their minds.
When Do I Achieve Spirituality?
Is there a way to know that you have achieved spirituality? When does it end? When do I stop? The answer is very simple. There is no end to spirituality. It is a continuous process. There is no finishing point. It is a journey and when your mind is actually on this journey, you would understand the beauty of this trail. You will have a feeling that you don’t want this road to the end, ever. It’s an expedition to understanding one’s emotions and personal growth.
It is important to understand here that each and every one of you is already on a spiritual journey. Some have found the right path and others are still struggling. But that doesn’t mean that you should give up. Every moment you spend doing something you love, engaging in something that makes you smile or brings joy to your heart is one step closer to understanding spirituality.
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