Spiritual readiness is “the ability to endure and overcome times of stress, hardship, and tragedy by making meaning of life experiences.”

The idea of spirituality means different things to different people.  However, one thing they all have in common is the effect they have on our mental health. 

Spirituality is connected with our sense of purpose and meaning.  Spirituality can help us reduce stress by providing us with guidelines for repairing relationships, finding peace, and successfully forgiving those who have hurt us.  It shows us a way to have higher self-esteem, confidence, and authenticity.  It helps us make sense of our life experiences and provides us with meaning.  It allows us to draw from our internal strength and resilience when life gets challenging.

When we are struggling with hurt and fear, Who we believe in gives us a sense of direction and courage.  Connecting with others who believe as we do, provides us with a supportive community of people who do not need long explanations for why we do what we do.  They simply understand because they have chosen similar coping mechanisms. 

How can you find ways to support your mental health through spiritual practice?

1. Think about what makes you feel peaceful, loved, and connected
2. Discover what makes you feel loved
3. Practice mindfulness – being present in the moment and leaning into your belief system
4. Pray – have conversations with God about your day, what you are thankful for, what you are struggling with, and things you do not understand
   1. Listen for how God responds – in the Bible, in the quiet of your thoughts, or through the insights of dear friends
5. Go for a walk in nature – enjoy the sunshine, the plants, the animals, and the mountains and be thankful for the beauty around you
6. Read books about motivation, inspiration, God, the Holy Spirit, Jesus, living a life of service
7. Spend time in quiet reflection on your blessings,
8. Journal about your day, your longings, and the things you are grateful for.

I hope you choose one or more of the above practices and lean deeply into God for rest, reassurance, and health.