Do you know very spiritual people? Have you ever wondered how they became that way and why? There may be a part of you that is curious about how to be more spiritual. Nurturing your spirituality is a personal and ongoing journey that can bring meaning, purpose, and a sense of connectedness to your life. Below, I outline some practical tips for daily practice to help you cultivate and deepen your spiritual well-being.
Set aside dedicated time
Changing habits requires practice, even if it’s becoming more spiritual. Becoming more spiritual requires daily practice. Create a daily ritual by setting aside a specific time for your spiritual practice daily. It could be in the morning, evening, or any time that works best for you. Consistency is key to establishing a habit.
Meditation and mindfulness
This part is crucial when becoming more spiritual. Try to engage in meditation or mindfulness practices to quiet your mind, focus your attention, and cultivate present-moment awareness. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath, a mantra, or a specific object. This practice can help you connect with your inner self and the larger spiritual dimensions.
Here are some mantras that might align with you:
- May I be happy? May I be well? May I be safe? May I be peaceful and free from suffering?
- Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti. (meaning: peace of mind, body, and speech)
- I am a magnet for health, wealth, and happiness
- Everything I need is within me
- I love myself, I believe in myself, I support myself
Gratitude practice
Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by reflecting on and expressing appreciation for the blessings and positive aspects of your life. Consider keeping a gratitude journal and writing down things you are grateful for daily. This practice shifts your focus towards the abundance in your life and enhances your spiritual well-being. It only takes a few minutes, but the intention carries throughout your day.
Connection with nature
Spend time outdoors and connect with the natural world. Take walks in nature, sit by a river or in a park, or spend time in the garden. Pay attention to the beauty and tranquility around you, and let it deepen your awe and wonder. Moments such as these can provide personal insights and enhance your well-being, brightening your mood and changing the course of your day.
Sacred reading and reflection
Engage in reading sacred texts, inspirational books, or poetry that resonates with your spiritual beliefs. Reflect on the wisdom and insights contained within these writings. Journal about your reflections and how they relate to your life and spiritual journey. It only takes a small amount of time, but the daily practice will begin to form healthy habits toward nurturing your spirituality.
Blessing or affirmation
Engage in prayer, whether it is through traditional religious practices or personal conversations with a higher power or your inner self. Allow yourself to pray about anything and everything, from your deepest fears to what you wish most for. If prayer is new, let go of any processes or ideas about “the right way” to pray. Think of prayer as talking with your closest friend. Start small and build your prayer practice up over time. If prayer doesn’t resonate with you, create affirmations that reflect your spiritual values and aspirations. Repeat these affirmations regularly to uplift your spirit.
Acts of kindness and service
Engage in acts of kindness and service to others. Volunteer for a cause you care about or perform small acts of kindness daily. This could be holding the door open, having patience for those around you, or buying a stranger’s coffee. These actions not only contribute to the well-being of others but also foster a sense of interconnectedness and compassion within you. These acts will lift your spirits and propel you into more acts of kindness.
Self-reflection and self-inquiry
Regularly engage in self-reflection and introspection. Ask yourself meaningful questions about your purpose, values, and the deeper meaning of life. Journaling can be a helpful tool for exploring your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. As the years pass, these meaningful questions might elicit different responses, year over year. Therefore, check in with yourself every few months/ years to see if your actions align with who you are becoming. Change is the only constant!
Embrace silence and solitude
Find moments of silence and solitude in your day to quiet the external noise and distractions. Use this time to connect with your inner self, listen to your intuition, and foster a deeper understanding of yourself and your spiritual path. With our busy schedules, set time aside to practice silence and solitude.
Spirituality is a deeply personal journey, and these tips are meant to be adaptable to your unique beliefs and practices. Experiment with different approaches, be patient with yourself and allow your spirituality to unfold in an authentic and nourishing way. Over time, you will become more aligned with who you truly are.