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By Sangeetha Shreekar

Let us first have the disclaimer, spirituality is not limited to religious following or faith, instead spirituality is about seeking a meaningful connection with something bigger than yourself, which can result in positive emotions, such as peace, awe, contentment, gratitude, and acceptance.

 

Spirituality, linked with mindfulness, cannot be separated from the body. The latter is responsible for being able to have spiritual experiences. In the era of thriving in the digital world, mindfulness needs to be in the forefront of our day-to-day activities.

You can use spiritual practices to purify, strengthen, and elevate your body, mind, and spirit. All three are connected. There are several practices to purify and strengthen your body also support the increased flows of energy, let us list the 3 basic practices to get you started on your spiritual journey:

  • Practices for your body: These practices include yoga postures, breathing exercises, and energy balancing.

  • Practices for your mind: These practices include meditation, contemplation, study of spiritual teachings.

  • Practices for your spirit: These practices include reverential rituals, chanting and singing of hymns.

Spirituality recognises that your role in life has a greater value than what you do every day. It can relieve you from dependence on material things and help you to understand your life’s greater purpose. Spirituality can also be used as a way of coping with change or uncertainty.

Since we have recognised how spiritual awakening can benefit your mental health, we have few tips for practicing spirituality without religion/faith:

  1. Connect with nature. Ireland is blessed with beautiful places to pack your weekend picnic basket and immerse in process of finding self-love in the lap of picturesque Ireland trails. Check out the staycation list we have collated for your benefit here.
  2. Practice journaling. If you’re an excessive worrier, or an overthinker, try simply writing down what’s on your mind, with no filters. You may find that you become more aware of your thoughts, which allows you to attain a clearer state of mind as a result.
  3. Practice conscious breathing. Research ‘box breathing techniques to improvise your stress levels.
  4. Enjoy creative pursuits. Whether it’s drawing, writing, cooking, dancing, singing, playing music, or something else entirely– you likely know just how it feels to get lost in your craft. You could also try few simple steps to keep those gloominess in check while you take the spiritual path journey.
  5. Become mindful of your bodily sensations. An easy way to begin building body awareness is to notice when your muscles tense up: think forehead, jaw, shoulders, and hips. Practice relaxing these muscle groups when they become tight. 

Bottom line is: Your spiritual practice is for you. As always, take what works for you, and leave what doesn’t!