What is the True Meaning of Spirituality?

Last updated on December 27, 2022

Have you ever found yourself seeking more happiness and meaning in your life? Perhaps you’ve heard of spirituality but have wondered, ‘What does being spiritual mean?’ 

You might be surprised to learn that spirituality isn’t only for religious people but for anyone seeking more clarity and connection within. This beginner’s guide to spirituality will show you how spirituality can form an important part of your journey.

What is Spirituality?

When we think about spirituality, the first thing that comes to mind for many people is religion. But what does it mean to be spiritual? Whilst everyone views its definition differently, we can agree that the spiritual journey is about cultivating a connection within. 

For some, this will revolve around devotion to the spirit of god, the holy spirit, or another religious figure. Spiritual experience is about an awareness of something larger than us and the ability to connect with a higher power to further our spiritual growth.

Signs of Spirituality

Spiritual awareness and connection with a higher power have many benefits:

• Inner peace
• Oneness
• Feeling more grounded
• Noticing joy in the everyday
• A sense of personal freedom
• A deep connection within

Types of Spirituality

Religion is just one form of spiritual experience. There are many ways to spend time in spiritual practice. Here are some of the most common ways to ground yourself in the present moment and experience spirituality:

• Yoga
• Meditation
• Spending time in nature
• Prayer
• Breathwork
• Using affirmations
• Practicing healing modalities
• Reading spiritual books

The Purpose of Spirituality

The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, says that spirituality provides purpose and direction in a modern world that has been consumed by materialism. It allows us to align our thoughts and emotions with our moral compass. Spirituality can also help you in other ways:

1. Discover meaning in life

Spirituality helps us to go beyond the material world and live a life with meaning, purpose, and a sense of fulfilment. We begin to see the world from a different viewpoint, leading to a more meaningful existence. 

2. Become aware of your true self

Spirituality renews the connection to the true self, helping us peel back the mask we wear daily and instead connect with our inner beliefs and feelings. It can also help you to explore your spiritual beliefs, provide insight into who you are, and ultimately help you to understand yourself and your place in the world.

3. Gain perspective

Spirituality helps you to find neutrality and a higher perspective without judgment. It can help you understand your place in the universe, how you fit into the bigger picture, and also see that your problems are just a small part in the grand scheme of things. This, in turn, helps you develop a sense of peace and inner calm.

4. Find comfort

Spirituality provides a sense of hope and rootedness, helping people to find comfort in difficult times. When people can connect with their spiritual side, it gives them the strength to face challenges that come their way. 

5. Find a sense of community

Spirituality can help you find a sense of community by providing you with a common belief system or set of values to connect with others around you. It can also give a sense of support and belonging that can be very comforting and reassuring.

The Benefits of Spirituality

There are many positive ways in which spirituality can impact your life:

1. Less stress 

Spirituality enhances gratitude and inner peace, leading to feeling more balanced. Having a solid spiritual practice helps you connect with something bigger than yourself. It can help you to connect more deeply to the universe and feel less stressed about the small things in life.

2. Better equipped to cope with change

Spirituality helps to strengthen your emotional and spiritual connection so that when unexpected change occurs, you remain rooted in who you are. It teaches us to be flexible and accepting, learning that change is a natural part of life and that everything is constantly in flux. We learn to trust the process and believe things that will work out for the best.

3. Find purpose and meaning

Spirituality allows us to align with something bigger than ourselves and experience true meaning. It gives us direction and helps us focus on what is important in life. By exploring our spiritual side, we can discover our true calling and how we can use our talents to make a difference in the world.

4. Assists in healing

Spirituality works holistically with the body and will help it heal and experience better health and wellness. Spirituality can provide comfort and a sense of purpose and meaning if you’re struggling with illness or physical or emotional health problems. It also helps you connect with your inner power and intuition, helping you to make decisions about health and healing, and finding the right path to recovery.

5. Develop a higher sense of well-being

Those who practice spirituality will experience better mental health and a more positive outlook. Connecting with your innermost feelings and emotions will help you find more purpose and meaning in your life, which can promote a sense of well-being that comes from within.

Key Takeaway 

Keep an open mind when exploring your spirituality and finding what works for you. Notice which practices you feel drawn to, and trust that the one you feel most connected to is the correct path for you. Becoming more spiritual will enhance your overall life experience and bring you closer to your truest self.

Gareth Michael

Gareth Michaelis a Spiritual Coach, Teacher, and Channel of Michael. He is the author of the best-selling bookEver-changing Perspectivesand hosts the #1 podcastPractical Spirituality. Gareth’s mission is to guide people in finding inner peace and understanding their deeper purpose. He has hosted sold-out events across five continents and built a global community of 160,000+ members on social media.He has led thousands of one-to-one private sessions,bringing individuals closer to realizing their true spiritual potential.