Spirituality refers to beliefs that transcend the material realm. These beliefs can include religious faith, non-religious beliefs such as eastern non-theistic traditions, mindfulness, and other generally positive philosophies. Spirituality has been shown to positively affect human health. It can help with stress, depression and anxiety, as well as with physical health. However, it remains unclear exactly how this effect occurs. This lack of clarity has hindered our ability to improve the efficacy of spiritual traditions and practices over time, which would improve quality of life and societal wellbeing.
People of all ages and backgrounds can develop spirituality. It can be learned through religion, meditation, martial arts, or general positive philosophies. It can also be a part of the way a person was raised, or how they were taught to deal with difficult situations. Developing spirituality often means gaining more understanding of yourself, your purpose and what matters most in your life. It can also mean becoming more connected to others and expressing empathy for them.
Despite its many benefits, spirituality can be dangerous if not done correctly. One potential pitfall is “spiritual bypassing”, which is when a person uses their spirituality to avoid dealing with painful or unpleasant emotions, feelings or problems. This can be particularly harmful for young or emotionally fragile individuals who may be easily influenced by spiritual gurus and leaders, or religious groups that seek to expand their flock. It is also important to be cautious around anyone who tries to use your spirituality to manipulate or control you, especially if they are seeking a financial gain from you.