When we think about our overall health, physical wellness often first comes to mind. However, your mental and spiritual health can play just as much of an important role in your overall well-being.
But what is optimal spirituality and how can we achieve it? According to the National Wellness Institute, optimal spiritual wellness requires living a life that is consistent with your values and beliefs. Read on to learn about meditation and how spirituality can improve your overall happiness.
How Spiritual Health Helps Your Mental Health
Numerous studies have found that religious and spiritual people are generally happier. The reason, in part, is that the founders of religious or spiritual movements were searching for meaning and freedom from cycles of suffering.
Daily acts like prayer and medication offer a counterbalance to hectic days that are frequently filled with long to-do lists. Rather than focusing on those never-ending lists, consider spending time with a prayer book.
Many spiritual practices calm our minds from the constant buzzing of responsibilities and reflections. When we slow down, we cultivate purpose in our life and re-energize. This is why many religious practices call for inward reflection to increase feelings of compassion, connection, and empathy.
Avoid Social Isolation
Aging can come with feelings of social isolation. Over time, friends and relatives move away, become isolated, or pass on. These can be challenging times.
Isolation can lead to feelings of despair and depression. One means of preventing this situation is by joining a church group or another religious organization. Your newfound spiritual community can help you stay active while rediscovering your purpose.
If you are going through a grieving stage of life, those social connections can be especially helpful.
Spiritual Health Benefits Your Overall Health
Research has shown that religious adults have healthier lives than those without regular spiritual practice. The benefits include stronger immune systems, lower blood pressure, faster recoveries, and even lower blood pressure.
Those advantages span every major religion. So spiritual health benefits can be enjoyed regardless of specific religious practices.
How Can I Enjoy the Benefits of Spiritual Health?
Start by evaluating your current state of mind by answering these questions.
- Do I take time to relax during my day?
- Do I make time for prayer and meditation?
- Do my values guide my actions?
- Do I feel in harmony with the world?
- Am I accepting of others?
Did you answer yes? Then you already embody many important religious values. Find time to practice your beliefs by reading devotional books, meditating, and praying.
Journaling can also be a great benefit. Log instances of unhealthy habits. Be honest and record your present state of mind.
Learn More Useful Spiritual Health Tips
Cultivating optimal spiritual health is a life-long journey. Rather than fixating on the destination, take one step at a time and focus on the moment. Remember, your spiritual health is an integral part of your overall health.
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