Spirituality is a broad concept which has many perspectives and can be used in management of pain, stress and self-esteem. Generally, it includes a sense of connecting to something bigger than ourselves and can involve looking for meaning in life. It is a universal human experience —something that touches us all.
Some people find their spiritual life is linked to a church, temple, a higher being, prayer, the practice of yoga or meditation.
Others find meaning and purpose through connection to nature or art. For Māori, whenua and taiao (the land and environment) has a strong spiritual connection and connection to wellbeing.
Writing or journaling are also ways of connecting to your experiences and the world around you, and have been shown to improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety and improve sleep.
Your own definition of spirituality may change through your life, adapting to your experiences and relationships – sometimes people with a life-limiting illness feel the need to connect with their spiritual self to find meaning and purpose.
