It is common to hear that spirituality is important in recovery. But what does it mean? Many people who are new to recovery have questions about spirituality, its importance, and how to incorporate a spiritual practice into their daily lives.
What is Spirituality?
Spirituality is about examining our relationship to the world and how we can connect with our sense of the divine. Spirituality and religion are not synonymous. There is no right or wrong way to be spiritual. Spirituality, at its core, is about finding what speaks to you. It is a way to connect with higher power(s).
Some people find spirituality and religious faith intertwined. Spirituality is how we can get out of our heads and learn to accept people, places and events that are beyond our control. Spirituality can be found within a group of people, nature or in a sense that connects all living creatures.
Spirituality and Recovery
“The human aspect that describes the way people seek meaning and purpose, as well as the way they experience their connection to themselves, others, the significant and sacred.”
Substance abuse disorder can cause feelings of loneliness, disconnection and shame. Community, connection, and a sense if purpose are all foundations of recovery.
It is important to feel connected and part of in recovery. Acceptance and surrender are key building blocks for recovery. Spirituality can help us let go of our self-deprecating beliefs and discover a sense of belonging and interconnectedness.
Spirituality helps us to live in the present and be mindful of our impact on the environment and others around us.
Spirituality and the Positive Impact
Spirituality can have a positive effect on almost every aspect of your life. Studies have shown that spirituality can also lead to physical health benefits. We eat better, get more sleep, and exercise more when we are mindful of our self-care. Spirituality also has other benefits:
- Empathy and compassion for self and others should be increased
- Possibility to deal with negative emotions and experience with compassion and acceptance
- Sense of purpose, hope and faith
- Active spiritual practice can help you boost recovery
- Increase and improve your connection with others
How to Make a Spiritual Practice
How can you start a spiritual practice? It is important to remember that spirituality is about finding a practice that suits you. Every person is different, so each spiritual practice is unique. These are some ways you can incorporate a spiritual practice in your everyday life.
Meditation: Daily meditation improves mindfulness. It also allows you to recognize internal stories that can lead to a loss of wellness and recovery. There are many meditation techniques, but the most important thing is to take some time each day to focus on your breath and feel the sensations within your body.
Being Paleo is about coaching, spirituality, and nourishing the whole being: body, mind, and soul; through the understanding of lost ancient aesthetics, lifestyle, and nourishment that is in harmony with nature.
You can learn to observe thoughts and emotions without judgement. It is important to learn how to just ‘be’, and to stay fully present in your body and mind. A beginner can benefit from guided meditations. Here is a list of great free resources .
Gratitude is a simple way to practice gratitude. To remind yourself of the many blessings in your life, keep a daily gratitude journal or list and remain connected with your “why” during recovery. There are always blessings to be thankful for even on difficult days. A daily gratitude reminder helps you stay connected to your ‘why’ and fosters a sense love-kindness towards yourself and others.
Yoga: To reap the benefits of , you don’t need to be a seasoned yoga practitioner. You can find a local yoga studio offering beginner classes, or you can take a beginner-level online course. Yoga can be used to help you get into the present, focus on your breath, connect with your spirituality, and become more aware of your body.
Art and Music: Many people find their spirituality in beauty. This includes walking with the natural world, taking in a piece of art or listening to soothing music. The beauty of nature can open doors to spirituality and a deeper understanding of the divine. It is important to be fully present for these moments, to practice stillness, and to appreciate all that is bigger than yourself.
