Exploring Ways to Cultivate Spirituality
There are as many ways to cultivate spirituality as there are individuals—and that’s the good news! The possibilities are endless, and the paths are diverse.
Spirituality, in many ways, is about cultivating the vision to see that there are limitless paths to the sacred, all around us.
Here are just a few ways to explore spirituality:
1. Commune with nature. Spend time outdoors—on trails, beaches, or in the wilderness. Nature offers an abundant source of spiritual nourishment.
2. Seek out a guide. There are countless teachers and authors whose writings can illuminate your spiritual journey.
3. Work one-on-one with a teacher. Spiritual direction offers personalized guidance as you deepen your understanding and practice.
4. Sit with someone ahead of you on the journey. Share your questions about faith, belief, and the sacred with someone who has walked the path longer.
5. Visit a monastery. Experience the spiritual practices of those who dedicate their lives to contemplation—practices like centering prayer, meditation, Vipassana, and loving-kindness.
6. Embrace simple moments. Sometimes spirituality is as simple as being fully present in the moment—a sunset, a hug from a loved one, or the quiet beauty of nature. The sacred is everywhere.
Sometimes, one of the most powerful steps on the spiritual path is to return to our root tradition. Even if it’s a tradition we’ve left behind or disagreed with, or one that carries trauma, this is often recommended by the Dalai Lama. Revisit where you started and learn a little more. You may find hidden wisdom and the presence of others who share your journey.
The French philosopher Pierre Teilhard de Chardin famously said, “We are spiritual beings having a human experience.” We are more than just our physical bodies. In this human experience, we long for a connection to something greater—whether it’s a transcendent God, an energy that flows through the universe, or ultimate values like compassion, oneness, or interconnectedness with all that is.
How do you experience spirituality in your life? What is one way you wish to expand your spiritual wellness?