10 unpopular truths about spirituality

10 unpopular truths about spirituality, and what to do instead

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1, Spiritual practices are not therapy…

So the definition of spirituality is this: the quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things. 

And many of us believe that we are spirit beings having a human experience and not humans having a spiritual experience. So in essence for many of us spirituality is a given. 

Now, spirituality looks different from person to person, there is more than one way to be so called “spiritual”. 

But our spiritual beliefs and experiences should never stop us from seeking the help of a qualified mental health professional when perhaps we are dealing with trauma, depression or any other mental health issue. 

We are complex beings with varied experiences and while finding strength in God may be a guiding light for many perhaps it shouldn’t be a block to seeking help when one needs a little bit of help, guidance and care from someone who is qualified to step in and provide help and guidance. 

And the same goes for physical things, like certain health issues… There is the concept of the mind body and spirit connection when it comes to the physical manifestation of disease or illness in the body, however it is wise to see help from a doctor or similar health professional when we are dealing with symptoms of an ailment, sure things we can still look at and try to understand what is that our body is telling us from a spiritual perspective while getting the right help. 

2, Spirituality is not a one size fits all, and it isn’t a silver bullet solution

While spiritual practices can help us find peace within and can lead us to living more connected lives there are many ways to do it. Some find their spirituality in religious practices while others might be drawn to nature or even pagan rituals and witchcraft. 

And while these things can be confronting to accept for some, we should focus on perhaps either on letting others experience their own spirituality freely and if one is open minded then learning a bit about the other person’s practice or religion to see what it is really about. Just a thought. 

3, Spirituality can be free flowing, so to speak 

What I mean by that is this: A person’s spirituality doesn’t have to be defined by an exact practice, they don’t have to belong to any religion or group as such. Everyone should have the opportunity to discover and experience their own spirituality in a way that is safe for them and speaks to them. 

4, Spirituality requires no special setting or practice 

It means that spiritual experiences can and often do happen in small ways, in our everyday lives. Moments of clarity, an epiphany, kairos and synchronicities are all part of our spiritual experiences.   

5, Spirituality is not all “rainbows and unicorns”

Just because someone is a deeply spiritual person it doesn't mean that they are always at peace, that they are always right, that they always make good decisions and choices in their lives. 

Even the most deeply spiritual people can say mean things, make mistakes, experience doubt, can blame or judge others. 

But a deeply spiritual person will use these as an opportunity for reflection and growth. 

6, The dark side of spirituality 

Some ideas and concepts that are very “out there” so to speak are sold as spirituality and unfortunately many people fall for them. There are people and organisations that literally prey upon the vulnerable and that experience can be life altering for some in a very damaging and negative way. So it is good to be aware of that. 

7, Spirituality is not a competition 

As I’ve said there is no wrong or right way of being spiritual. Of course I’m not talking about some crazy extremes… This whole idea of comparing who’s spiritual practice is better or more worthy than the other person's is just crazy. It is divisive and unnecessary. Perhaps we should look for our similarities in moral values instead. But of course as always you decide. 

8, Spirituality can be experienced in many ways…

Religious spirituality is okay, there are scientists who are deeply spiritual people and that is okay, there are nature lovers who find their connection and spirituality there and that is okay. You get it, right. 

9, Spirituality and the afterlife 

Well… this is once again a question where you guess is as good as mine. 

Is there an afterlife? Is there reincarnation? Is there heaven and hell? 

Each to their own belief system with this one I guess. 

The truth is: No one knows the full truth and the one and only truth about any of this. So we should all feel absolutely free to live our lives with whatever belief about this that suits our understanding and outlook on life. 

But in any case, we should absolutely try to make the most of our lives in the here and now. 

10, Spirituality is not the final stop, not the end of the line 

What I mean by that is that it is a lifelong journey, it is something we are and not something we do, it is a deeply personal experience, it is very much about growth and exploration. And it goes on, and on, and on…