Spirit & Soul
Spirit & Soul
Overview
"I describe spirituality as the practice of bodily, social, political and personal connectedness so that life comes together in a way that both transcends and includes the bits and pieces that make up our search for wholeness, freedom, relationality, and full human dignity."
Letty M. Russell, Theologian
Spirituality is your unique experience of how you relate to something greater than yourself and provides meaning to your life. It also involves how you connect with others. Spirituality may involve belonging to a religion or it may not. Spiritual health means different things to different people. A spiritual practice is something you do regularly that taps into what gives you a sense of meaning and purpose.
Why does spirituality matter?
Studies show that people with a healthy spiritual life tend to live a longer, richer lives. Research has also shown that religion and spirituality may affect a range of health issues. Belief in something bigger than yourself can give you strength and peace during difficult times.
Here's more
There are many ways to foster your spiritual life which may involve belonging to a religion, or may not. Religion is just one form of spirituality. Spirituality might mean focusing on service or on your own growth. It could be tied to a Higher Power, or it may not. Some people find spiritual health through 12-step programs or other communities.
Some people deal with spiritual “illnesses.” Symptoms of these illnesses include moral injury (emotions related to having done things contrary to your beliefs) and feelings of powerlessness, shame, guilt, and meaninglessness.
Take action
Here are some ways to foster your spirit and soul:
- Be clear on what you value. This means asking yourself what matters most to you. Refer to the handout, “What Matters Most? Exploring Your Values.”
- Seek a spiritual and/or religious guide.
- Set aside regular times—and perhaps places—for spiritual activities. Holidays can be important. Some people find meaning in praying, reading sacred writings, or going to a religious service. Others find meaning through a walk in nature or spending time with a loved one.
- Gratitude practice. A gratitude practice can be as simple as looking back at the end of each day and listing 3 things you are thankful for.
- Self-compassion practice. Learning to be kind to yourself and to share this compassion with others.
- Use a spiritual anchor. For example, carry something with you (a ring, a picture, a small object) that you can look at any time to remind yourself about what really matters to you.
Explore further
- Live Whole Health #197: You can be grateful for your struggles, too! - VA News
- Veteran story: Starlette Price (1:40)
- National VA Chaplain Service - Patient Care Services
- Talking Spiritual about Moral Injury - Veterans Health Administration (va.gov)
- Learn about Whole Health activities at your local VA facility.
