Q&A: What is Spirituality?

Q: Dear Soul Analyse,

What is spirituality?

I’m struggling with the concept behind it and I’m confused about what it means. 

A: Dear Reader,

First of all, it’s worth mentioning that you are not a human being having a spiritual experience; you are a spiritual being having a human experience, so while the idea of spirituality may seem a bit alien to you, it is already a part of who you are. 

Spirituality is a broad term, and there are many interpretations and meanings surrounding it. Generally being spiritual means being connected to something bigger than ourselves – some call it the universe, some call it God, others refer to it as the source of all life. In the words of the great Alan Watts, you can’t get wet from the word water – a name is merely a label, what something is called and what it means are two entirely different things. 

Spirituality is all about connection; connecting with yourself and every aspect of life on a deeper level. For many people spirituality means being more mindful, compassionate and kind to others as well as yourself, which in turn helps you to experience inner peace.

As mentioned at the beginning, spirituality is something that impacts us all. It’s likely that you have encountered many spiritual experiences, perhaps without recognising them as being spiritual.

Find out the difference between spirituality and religion. 

If any other readers would like to ask a question click here for details.