Spiritual wellness

As part of our continuing examination of the Wellness Wheel, a visual representation of seven dimensions of wellness, we will be exploring Spiritual wellness.

Spiritual wellness may not have been something you've previously considered, but its impact on your life is inescapable. It is important for us to be objective when examining the concepts of spiritual wellness as spirituality can have many meanings and may be interpreted differently by different people. Generally, the term represents discovering, experiencing and living out the effects of an authentic human life. The best example of someone with spiritual wellness is someone who regularly finds meaning in life, and feels connected to a higher purpose.

The Four Domains Model of Spiritual Health and Well-Being embraces all extant world-views from the ardently religious to the atheistic rationalist. The National Interfaith Coalition on Aging originally proposed the framework in 1975, and it has been adapted for research in many areas. Spiritual wellness is a dynamic state of being, reflected in the quality of relationships people have in four domains: Personal: where we intra-relate with self; Communal: in-depth interpersonal relationships; Environmental: connecting with nature; Transcendental: relating to something or someone beyond the human level. The quality of the relationship that a person has with themselves, with others, with nature and/or with God constitutes a personal spiritual well-being in those four domains. Thus, spirituality can be seen as a fundamental component of being human.

The concept of spirituality is emotive, as it pertains to the very essence of being. If we can understand self-worth, self-esteem and self-actualization, then our exploration should also include spirituality, for these concepts are equally as intangible as spirituality.

Spiritual wellness can be defined as expanding a sense of meaning and purpose in life, including morals and ethics. It may or may not involve religious activities. Spiritual wellness is a person's need for meaning, purpose and connection to something greater than themselves. It can involve religious practices, but it can also include personal practices that are not defined by a religion or religious group. Some say that spiritual wellness is the most important aspect of health because it gives context and meaning to all other parts of ourselves and life experiences. Spirituality involves connecting to your inner and outer worlds to support you in living your values and purpose.

The foundation of spiritual health is discovering a sense of meaningfulness and purpose in your life. Many factors play a part in defining spirituality - religious faith, beliefs, values, ethics, principles and morals. Some gain spirituality by growing in their personal relationships with others, or through being at peace with nature. Spiritual health helps us to find the inner calm and peace needed to get through life's challenges, regardless of beliefs or where you are on your spiritual journey.

The human spirit is often the most neglected aspect of ourselves. In the same way that we exercise to condition our bodies, a healthy spirit is nurtured by purposeful practice. Our spirit is the aspect of self that can carry us through anything. If we nurture our spirit, we will be able to experience a sense of peace and purpose even when life is challenging. A strong spirit helps us to survive and thrive with grace, even during trying times.

Please call our office at (661) 903-8822 if we can support you on your journey. We accept most major insurance plans.

Carla Cook is a Clinical Supervisor at Healing Solutions Family Therapy Center.