Spiritual well being

Spirituality is unique to each individual. Spirit refers to the deepest part of us, the part that lends meaning to our world. Our spirit provides us with the revealing sense of who we are, why we are here and what our purpose for living is. It is that innermost part of us that allows us to gain strength and hope.

Spiritual wellness may not be something that we ordinarily think of, yet its impact on our life is unavoidable. The basis of spirituality is discovering a sense of meaningfulness in our life and coming to know that we have a purpose to fulfill.

For some of us spirituality may be equated with traditional religions such as Christianity, Hinduism or Buddhism. For others, it may mean growing in our personal relationships with others, or through being at peace with nature and the world.

Assessing your Spiritual Health

Where are you at this point in your spiritual life? Take a moment to reflect. Do you feel a sense of worth, hope, purpose, commitment, peace, joy, love? Do you have a positive outlook on life? Or do you experience feelings of emptiness, anxiety, hopelessness, apathy or conflict? These may be signs of spiritual poverty in your life and may be the reason for unhappiness or dissatisfaction.

Spirituality and Wellness

Many wellness behaviours can benefit our spiritual health. Such behaviours include feeling connected with others, feeling part of a community, volunteering, having an optimistic attitude, contributing to society and having self love.

Here are some ways to help improve our spiritual health:

·         Be quiet. Take time for yourself every day, even if it's just before you go to sleep, or when you get up in the morning.

·         Be open. Spiritual experiences can happen anywhere at any time.

·         Practice being non-judgmental and having an open mind.

·         Be receptive to pain or times of sorrow. It is often in these times when we discover how spirituality can help us cope.

·         Practice forgiveness.

·         Pray, meditate or worship.

·         Live joyfully.

·         Allow yourself to believe in things that aren't easily explainable.

Be Thankful, be Happy, be at Peace.