Spirituality

What does spirituality mean?

Alongside physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, some people consider spirituality an important part of their overall wellbeing. Spiritual practices may offer a way to explore personal goals, find a sense of balance or manage stress. For some, spirituality may also involve helping others or contributing to their community. The Royal College of Psychiatrists also recognises that spirituality can involve our sense of meaning and purpose, connection, values and beliefs.

People may find that spirituality helps them feel more connected to others, reflect on what is meaningful to them and gain a greater sense of perspective. It may also offer opportunities for personal growth, reflection and forgiveness.

In this video, Juliet Bunting (MBACP) explores how counselling, spirituality, and holistic approaches can help.

Spiritual practices

There are many different ways to practice spirituality, as part of everyday life, or by taking time out for specific practices. Below are some ways to practice spirituality:

Spiritual experiences

It’s common for people to have vivid dreams, but sometimes unusual experiences can occur in our waking lives, outside of the everyday norm. Some people describe unusual or deeply meaningful experiences, such as visions, out-of-body experiences or near-death experiences. People may understand these experiences in spiritual, psychological or other ways, and there is not always a single explanation for them.

If an experience has affected you or left you with questions, counselling can offer a non-judgemental space to explore what it means to you.

Rituals and worship

This can range from traditional religious worship, such as attending services at places of worship, to rituals involving words or objects which are completely unique to the individual. They may involve listening to music or saying sacred chants.

Pilgrimages and retreats

There are many kinds of spiritual retreats, both in the UK and further afield. They are usually based around a specific type of spiritual practice, such as yoga, or they can simply be a way of escaping from the pressures of daily life and enjoying peace and quiet.

A pilgrimage is a meaningful journey to a sacred place, often leading to a personal transformation. A pilgrimage may involve searching for new or expanded meaning through the experience, whether in relation to oneself, others, nature or a higher purpose. 

Practising something spiritual on a regular basis can be a good way of finding balance.

- Counsellor David Seddon, MA Couns, Dip, BA Philosophy, MBACP Accred

Meditation

Meditation includes a range of practices that involve focusing attention or becoming more aware of thoughts, feelings, sensations or the present moment. There are many different methods of meditation; some people prefer complete silence, while others will use music or a guided meditation track. Some meditate regularly, while others use it as a form of stress relief when required.

Prayer

Prayer can relate to specific religions, with specific prayers, conventions of praying, and a higher power or God to pray to. Others may choose to pray to a higher power or being that isn't associated with a particular religion, or to the universe.

Yoga

Yoga is a physical practice that combines movement, stretching and breathing techniques, and can also incorporate meditation and relaxation. Some people find yoga supports their physical and mental wellbeing. It can be practised in a class with an instructor or independently at home.

How can counselling help with spirituality?

Being able to explore different ideas and beliefs without judgement can be hugely rewarding. Working with a counsellor can allow you to explore your sense of spirituality or ask existential questions, such as 'What happens after death?' or 'Why am I here?'. Spiritual counselling may also offer space to explore spirituality alongside experiences such as trauma, loss or grief.

Other spiritual beliefs and practices

Some areas of spirituality are based on methods, theories or specific practices. Some spiritual traditions and practices involve concepts such as chakras, auras, crystals and mantras. Their meaning and use vary between traditions and individuals.

These include:

• Philosophy – some may use a set of philosophies to live their life by, for example, the seven principles of spiritualism.
• The human aura and colours – reading auras and analysing what the colours of auras represent.
• The chakras – placing specific crystals on specific chakra points on the body.
• Creativity – many believe that being creative is an important part of spirituality. Creativity can take many forms, from sculpture or painting to gardening and cooking, or keeping a journal of thoughts or dreams.
• Goal setting – goals can relate to becoming a better person, helping others more, or setting time aside to meditate, pray, or be contemplative.
• Taking part in spiritual/community groups – whilst spirituality can be a very personal thing, some may prefer to share it with others, coming together to engage in spiritual practices.
• Mantras – a mantra is a word, phrase or sound that is repeated as part of some spiritual, religious or meditation practices.

Exploring spirituality through counselling

Spirituality is personal, and what it means to you may change throughout your life. If you’re questioning your beliefs, exploring your sense of purpose or trying to make sense of a spiritual experience, you don’t have to have all the answers. Counselling can offer a supportive, non-judgemental space to explore what spirituality means to you, at your own pace.

Use our advanced search to find a counsellor who supports spirituality and explore the type of support that's right for you.