Whether you choose a communal place of worship, a natural outdoor setting or a cozy quiet corner of your own home, a spiritual practice is something that offers great peace, value and comfort for many people, especially when times get tough. If you’re feeling called to explore something greater than yourself, but you’re not sure how to go about it, here are some tips for creating rituals that resonate with personal meaning. What’s meaningful to you may not matter so much to someone else, and vice versa.
That’s OK. A spiritual practice can be as individualized as your own fingerprint. Start your soul-search by spending some time thinking about the kind of experience you want to have and what you want to gain from it.
Regular religion-based fellowship with a liked-minded community? A closer personal relationship with a deity? Volunteer opportunities to be of service to others? Or a chance to center yourself during a busy day? Getting clear on the goals you hope to achieve will guide your journey toward finding the best outlet in which to pursue them. If you’re still feeling unsure about where to start, ask the people around you to share what works for them. Then choose some of the pieces that feel right to test drive for yourself.
Prayer, meditation, yoga, writing in a journal, even taking a walk in a park or sitting by the ocean — part of the appeal of any spiritual practice is the peace and quiet it provides, and couldn’t we all use a little more of that! It’s hard to hear what your inner voice is trying to say when the noisy outer world is spinning a million miles an hour. Simply slowing down and tapping into a few minutes of stillness can help reset your body and mind, and it can help you forge a deeper spiritual connection. As with any new habit you’re trying to instill, consistency is key.
Prioritize your spiritual practice and set aside time for it on a daily or weekly basis. Just like with an exercise program, the more you do it, the easier it gets. Tight on time? Devoting even 10 or 15 minutes here and there is better than nothing, and tracking your progress can help create a sense of accomplishment.
Although spiritual pursuits are highly personal, it often helps to enlist the support of a friend, partner, family member or even your kids for accountability. Plus, it’s fun to have someone to go to church with, share a yoga class or just enjoy a walk. Spiritual beliefs can evolve over time and change with your life circumstances.
Allow yourself the freedom to grow and experiment with different approaches. You may need to explore several different options and avenues before you find the right fit. Embrace a more healthful life with information to help you Eat Well, Be Mindful, Take Care and Move More.
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