In our modern, fast-paced, digital age, it’s no surprise more and more people are discovering and latching onto practices aimed at slowing down and finding a sense of calm and center, such as mindfulness and yoga. We may be in an era of access to information and opportunity that absorbs our time and energies like no other, but every now and again we feel that ache in our soul that looks for higher meaning and hear that inner-voice that says “be still.” Sometimes such moments occur around the holidays, when engaging in traditions with family, when we experience a life-changing event or when we hit a low point and seek guidance. We may recognize that we are more than mind and body, but how can we find ways to nurture and care for that spirit part of us that self-reflects and seeks fulfillment? As we start to eagerly anticipate spring sunshine on our faces and the smell of new growth after a hard winter, our inner-self looks for a new breath, revitalization and growth.
Spirituality is a broad concept and covers many beliefs and practices, but when one uses an online search engine to search “spirituality” and looks through the images, the first pictures that come up are silhouettes of people and light — a lot of beautiful light. This can be calming, and your spirit can soar a little just looking at them. It can help to simplify. You may not be able to detail all the ideas encompassed under spirituality, but you can describe the desire of those images — hope, connection, purpose, openness, calm. If you want to find tangible ways to experience something rather ethereal, consider these suggestions as simple ways to begin to nurture your spirit:
Take a rest. So many religions and faiths incorporate this into regular practice by setting a “day of rest” out of the week to worship, lay aside work and spend time in the community. You need to physically stop and lay aside your daily routine so your spirit can have the space to also rest and reflect. When you carve time out of your demands and disengage from your work, technology and responsibilities, you can renew your spirit by resting from your typical patterns and cultivating that deeper part of you for a little while so you can return to your efforts feeling restored.
Try some of those new but truly old practices of meditation mindfulness and deep breathing. Who knew that something so basic can be so effective? The benefits both physically and mentally of practicing mindfulness meditation keep mounting in research, from outcomes such as decreasing stress hormones, to improving sleep, to bolstering your immune system, to improving working memory and executive functioning. Treatment for mental health and addictions is starting to embrace mindfulness as a “cutting edge” approach, and it’s small wonder. Mindfulness practice leads to heightened awareness, which allows you to pause, gain perspective on your mental or emotional state, and make a choice to do something supportive instead of destructive. Also, wouldn’t you know? There are smartphone apps for mindfulness now that can introduce and assist you in dipping your toe in the water — like Headspace, Stop Breathe & Think and many more.
Spend some time finding reasons to have gratitude. Depending on the circumstances, this may not be so easy, but reminding yourself of what you have is a simple way to open up your spirit to good. Which relationships have left a positive imprint on your life? What is one good memory you treasure? What do you have that you take for granted?
Do something kind for someone else. When you go beyond empathy and exercise compassion for others through your actions, you touch that part of yourself that is best, noble and loving. This enables you to remember you share your humanity with others and see beyond a problem or a talking point to an actual person. Sparking a light in someone else’s eye or bringing a smile to his or her face will bring that joy back to your own heart, so it’s hard to see a downside to paying it forward.
Chose to forgive or confess as the need requires — both have a way of cleansing the soul. Too many times people have crippled their own well-being by holding onto hurt or bitterness. People are not always kind and not always right, but we have the power to be the gatekeeper of our own spirits and decide what to harbor and what to let go. Easier said than done, you say? Perhaps, but possibly the most worthwhile and caring thing you can do for yourself.
Seek out connection in a community — spiritual, religious or otherwise. We thrive when we are connected and in positive relationships with others. We are less likely to turn to destructive habits or means of coping when we have social connection and acceptance and are more likely to have a positive self-concept. In Western society, we tend to be very individualistic in our practices, but most faiths are practiced in community for a reason. We gain support, encouragement and inspiration from others.
Go on a hike or walk, and spend time interacting with the outside, wider world. Marvel at the intricate design of the flower, the pure white of the snow or the view from the top of the hill. Paddle out, and just sit in the middle of the lake for a while. Inhale the smell of the campfire or the freshly cut grass, tilt your head back, and feel the life coursing through your veins. Feel the miracle — you’re alive in this moment.
Perhaps these suggestions will encourage you to expand your thoughts of self-care beyond getting a massage or making sure you get your health check-ups, although these things have their place. Consider exploring the spiritual component of wellness and reach out toward the light. You are worth it!
Lydia Lipsy, MSW, LSW is a Clinician at Summit Behavioral Health at Florham Park in New Jersey. Lydia is a master level clinician with five years of experience in the field of addiction and mental wellness in admissions, counseling, and administrative capacities. Lydia takes interest in international travel and service opportunities and has enjoyed beginning a regular practice of yoga and Pilates as part of her own wellness journey.
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How to Nurture Your Spiritual Self originally appeared on usnews.com