Do you have purpose in life?
How do you seek happiness and deal with suffering?
In what ways do you feel connected to others, the earth, and the universe?
How do you view life, death, and possible life-after-death?
Spiritual health can often be overlooked, especially when things are going smoothly. However, when change happens (as it certainly has recently), spirituality can bubble to the surface in which we can question what we thought we once knew and seek out new and different answers to the mysteries before us.
Whether it’s from the loss of a loved one, a serious diagnosis, a traumatic experience, or even a pandemic, change can get us thinking about what’s really important and why that matters.
Following, Dr. Graves talks about the importance of spiritual health and how change can bring on an evolution of faith:
What can spirituality do to help one adapt to change?
Dr. Graves: Spirituality can help us make sense of change. It can also help us make sense of pain and suffering – both of which may be accompanying the shifts we are currently experiencing.
To make sense of pain, we have to find our purpose. Spirituality can give us guidance and inspiration on what our purpose is in life, therefore, creating meaning for pain and suffering.
What if I’m questioning my previous spiritual beliefs?
Dr. Graves: Change can definitely do that! It can make us ask, “What’s the point of all of this?”
Don’t shy away from asking questions.
We may have been raised in a certain faith or religion, but during trials and tribulations, it’s important that we seek out beliefs, perspectives, and guidance that serve us while letting go of those that don’t.
How do I go about finding a spiritual path that works for me?
Dr. Graves: This is a good question and one that can be overwhelming.
Personally, I have experienced this myself. My spirituality has grown from a certain religion I was raised in to a different philosophy altogether.
Throughout this evolution, it was a maturity process of going from one resolute faith to the realization that there are many beliefs throughout the world – and that I have the option of finding something that fits me.
If you’re searching for a spiritual path that speaks to you, try:
– Taking Inventory: click here to download our health inventory form that includes analyzing your spiritual health.
– Traveling: see how others around the world live and how their beliefs shape their everyday lives when it comes to suffering and happiness.
– Studying: research, read and/or take a class to learn about other philosophies, how they came about, and the form they take today.
– Experiencing: see for yourself what it’s like to meditate for a weekend, participate in a philosophical retreat, or practice under a mentor. Reach out to organizations, affiliations, churches, etc. to connect with others that follow that belief system.
It’s okay to question your beliefs. It’s okay to dive deeper into your current faith. And, it’s okay to seek out something new.
We encourage you to search for what brings your life purpose and meaning as well as how it guides you in handling pain and suffering. All of this can afford you the ability to be flexible during times of change.
Dr. Graves and his team at CNMA are here to help you optimize your health – including fresh mindsets that can help you navigate your spiritual journey. Acupuncture, massage, and holistic counseling can all be ways to give yourself time and space to open your mind to new ways of thinking.
If you live in Castle Rock, Castle Pines, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Parker, Centennial, Larkspur, Monument, Colorado Springs, or the greater Denver metro area and would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (303) 688-6698 or click here.
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