Spirituality is, by nature, difficult to define. Here is one attempt- “Spirituality is the aspect of humanity that refers to the way individuals seek and express meaning and purpose and the way they experience their connectedness to the moment, to self, to others, to nature, and to the significant or sacred.”[1]
Spiritual health is one aspect of a holistic approach to wellness. Other areas of health may include physical, psychological, emotional, personal, and professional. For some, spirituality may be synonymous with being part of a faith, belief, religious tradition, while for others it is simply the acknowledgement of something bigger than one self. There are many spiritual pathways that can give us a sense of connection, and purpose and meaning in life.
A basic foundation for spiritual wellness may be the sense that life is meaningful and that you have a profound sense of who you are, where you came from and your place in this world. The search for meaning and purpose in human existence leads some to strive for a state of harmony with themselves and with others while working to balance inner needs with the rest of the world.
Many of the behaviors associated with spiritual wellness include volunteerism, social responsibility, optimism, embracing difference, connectedness with others and nature, feelings of belonging, and regular participation in a spiritual community and other ritual or reflective activities.
There are many resources at CSU and in the community that can support your spiritual health. If you are recovering from trauma, dealing with grief, or are having a challenging experience with a spiritual community, CSU Counseling Services might be the best place for you. If you are exploring your own sense of purpose and meaning spiritually, or looking to connect with community, please see the resources below.
[1] The 2009 Consensus Conference on “Improving the Quality of Spiritual Care as a Dimension of Palliative Care.”
- Be quiet. Spiritual truths often come in the form of a still small voice that is difficult to hear above the chaos and confusion of a frantic lifestyle. Set aside time for solitude and meditation.
- Be open to the spiritual. Spiritual experiences often come in unexpected forms and packages. They surprise us. Foster a nonjudgmental attitude so you’re open to the spiritual dimension in any life event.
- Be inquisitive and curious. An attitude of active searching increases your options and your potential for spiritual centering. Don’t shut doors before you check out what is behind them.
- Be grateful. By becoming more aware of our blessings, we strengthen our connection to our spirit.
- Be playful. Play is a pleasurable, freeing experience. It breeds spontaneous enthusiasm and celebration. When you make music, dance, laugh, sing – however you play – listen for sounds of the spirit.
- Be disciplined. Regularly take part in spiritual practices, try prayer and meditation. Make spirituality a part of your routine.
There are a number of spiritual and religious student organizations on campus where students can get involved and find a community and fellowship.
Check out CSU’s Faith, Belief and Religious Observances Calendar.
Attend a meeting of the Multi-Faith and Belief Student Council to engage in a larger community and explore a variety of perspectives.
If you need to miss a class for religious accommodations, contact your instructor. If you need additional support, see this- Religious Accommodation Request Form
If you have additional questions about spiritual resources at CSU or in the community, contact Viviane Ephraimson-Abt, Manager of Wellbeing Initiatives, vabt@colostate.edu
Authentic Happiness has tools and information to help you develop insights into yourself and the world around you through scientifically tested questionnaires, surveys, and scales.
Belief Net is an independent spiritual web site, which is not affiliated with any spiritual organization or movement. Belief net provides inspiring devotional tools, thought-provoking commentary, and a supportive community.
The Center for Contemplative Mind in Society focuses on developing the contemplative mind as well as the rational mind by developing one’s ability to simply “be,” with awareness, openness and clarity so that one may become more centered, peaceful, and confident.
The Chopra Center provides information on how to identify your healing path through the use of timeless tools and healing principles you can use to nurture your health, restore balance and create greater joy and fulfillment.
Mind – Body Connection Explore how the body and mind are interconnected and emotions play a big part in determining your health status.
Spirituality and Health magazine explores the health of body, mind, and spirit, drawing from a variety of traditional and contemporary spiritual practices as well as science, psychology, sociology, and medicine.
Spirituality and Practice has a tremendous number of resources for spiritual journeys.
