Spirituality is a broad area, encompassing different religious beliefs and practices. It also includes a sense of something larger than the self and a desire to connect to it. Various authors have described aspects of spirituality, such as a sense of meaning and purpose; values, beliefs, and standards related to beauty, worth, and truth; transcendence (someone or something beyond the self); and connecting (to others, to one’s higher power, to nature, to life itself).
Spiritual beliefs and practices can include anything that helps you to feel connected to something greater than yourself. This can include meditating, exercising, yoga, or even just spending time in nature. It can also involve praying, creating rituals in your daily life to bring more meaning to your day, or engaging in service to the community. The key is to find what works for you and feels authentic to your heart.
Many people who seek spirituality do so because they want to connect with a higher power. This may be God, or the universe, or simply a force that is bigger than themselves. Others are looking for a deeper understanding of themselves, or for guidance in dealing with life’s challenges. Still others are searching for a way to live with more peace and happiness. Research shows that having a strong spiritual component to your life is linked to lower levels of depression and anxiety, as well as better quality of life in people with HIV and those who are dying from cancer.