Spiritual Health While Recovering from Religious Trauma

A sometimes neglected aspect of our total wellbeing can be our spiritual health. While emotional health focuses on understanding, managing and expressing feelings in a healthy way, and mental health emphasizes our thought patterns, core beliefs about ourselves, brain chemistry and more, spiritual health centers on finding meaning, purpose, and connection to something larger than yourself. If you've come from a background where you've experienced religious trauma, there can be a strong block when considering this aspect.

Below is a list of ways you can nurture your spiritual side that do not require organized religion or a single belief system:

1. Connecting with Nature:

• Nature bathing:

  Spending time in natural settings like forests, parks, or by the ocean can be deeply restorative.

• Grounding:

  Walking barefoot on the earth can help create a sense of connection and stability.

• Observing nature:

  Simply watching a sunset, the stars, a lit candle or the movement of water.

2. Mindfulness and Meditation:

• Meditation: Practices like mindfulness meditation can help calm the mind, increase self-awareness, and reduce stress.

• Yoga and Tai Chi: These physical practices integrate movement, breathwork, and mindfulness, which can create the space for you to connect with your spiritual side.

3. Personal Growth and Self-Reflection:

• Journaling:

  Writing can be a powerful tool for processing emotions, exploring personal values, and gaining clarity.

• Creative expression:

  Engaging in art, music, or other creative activities can be a way to connect with one's inner self and find meaning.

• Learning and exploration:

  Expanding one's knowledge through books, podcasts, or other resources can broaden perspectives and foster a sense of connection to a larger world. Reading stories about resilience and shared humanity can help balance negative news and life events we might be faced with.

4. Connection to Others and Community:

• Service and volunteering:

  Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and connection to a larger community.

• Volunteering at an animal shelter,

• Engaging in meaningful conversations:

  Talking with others about topics that are important to you can foster a sense of connection and shared understanding. 

5. Finding Personal Meaning and Purpose:

• Identifying personal values:

  Reflecting on what truly matters to you can help you live a more authentic and fulfilling life. 

• Setting goals and pursuing passions:

  Engaging in activities that align with your values and interests can bring a sense of purpose and joy.