When people hear the term “spirituality” it is commonly stereotyped as a wise sage/guru with a beard that walks around in a flowing robe searching seamlessly for the answers, depicting the idea of perfection. However, spirituality is actually “the quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things.” It has been shown to be extremely beneficial to those who are looking to improve their overall health and achieve happiness.

Spiritual practices are independent on the individual whether they choose to practice it in terms of religion or to gain self awareness and develop their personal growth. Many people achieve this through things like meditation, prayer, yoga, or journaling.

There have been many studies conducted to see how beneficial being in touch with yourself actually is. In one of them they were able to depict the top five characteristics associated with it. They were discovered to be gracious, compassionate, developed a purpose in life, self-actualization, and reflection upon life experience. All are qualities important to a person’s character and while we may think we already possess these, it is further deepened through many techniques.

Aristotle said, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”

This is applicable to those who further their spirituality, as many times they are able to focus on on the good rather than the bad. Which is especially helpful during the hard times everyone experiences because of the altered perspective. It also encourages people to want to be a better person and develop personal explanations to what the purpose in life is which leads to self-fulfillment.

It’s not a common thing for people to think to expand their own spirituality and while it can be related to a specific religion it doesn’t have to be and focuses on the person’s own needs at that time. It may not be for everyone, but is extremely helpful when you don’t understand what your purpose is for being here and especially when those dire situations we have no control of arise.