Spirituality exists in many forms. For some, being spiritual is synonymous with rituals and traditions. For others, spirituality exists in simple awareness of the present moment, or through specific practices like compassion and meditation.
Here are a few ways in which spirituality touches our modern lives, without necessarily relating to world religions:
Yoga and Meditation for Spirituality
In its simplest and purest form, yoga is about quieting the mind. This can happen through the practice of yoga poses or while seated for yoga or meditation. When the mind becomes quiet and still, our awareness moves inward. In this state of self-absorption, we become more aware of our human spirit. Many people find that yoga or meditation classes are one of the easiest ways to begin a spiritual practice.
Getting in Touch With Nature
Experiences with nature can also serve to enhance our spiritual side. Similar to meditation, getting away from the fast pace of daily activities and distractions can serve to calm the mind. In a natural setting,we often become more aware of our environment and feel a connection to everything around us, whether it is plant or animal life or everything we see.You may be able to find a spiritual connection with nature during a quiet walk in the woods near your home. For some people, a week-long hiking trip or remote mountain vacation better fills this need.
Spiritual Expression Through Art
Any true artistic endeavor, whether it is painting, dance or musical performance, has a deeply personal component. The successful artist has found a connection with the spiritual part of their being and is expressing it through their art. We do not have to be professional artists to have this experience. It is the act of becoming absorbed in the artistic process that allows this to occur. Many artists cannot describe how they create, other than to say they serve as a conduit for some other presence or force. Some would say they have found their own inner spirit.
Spirituality and Human Connections
For many, getting spiritual is a matter of connecting with the people who surround us every day of our lives. This can be formal, as a meditation group, or it could mean a more casual involvement such as simple charitable organizations who share food, clothing or other resources. For many,the act of giving their time, energy or spare resources can be a valuable way of reaching inwards and activating the core human quality of love and understanding.
Spirituality can be found through exploring our inner selves, looking for connections with the natural world or by losing our selves in self-expression. There are many paths to becoming a more spiritual person;they all start with small, simple steps.
