Embracing spirituality to boost health
At A Tam Coaching and Psychology, we believe in holistic well-being, which includes addressing spiritual aspects of life. However, I’ve noticed that many clients hesitate to bring up the topic of spiritual well-being; and the topics of ‘spirituality’ and ‘holistic health’ can be understood very differently. In this post, I want to encourage an open dialogue about spirituality, debunk some common misconceptions, and highlight its potential benefits.
Firstly, it's essential to distinguish spirituality from religion. While they are related, they are distinct concepts. You can be spiritual without adhering to any specific religious faith. Spirituality, in my view, is a sense of connectedness to something greater than oneself. This could manifest as a connection to the environment, a sense of community, or a belief in a universal power.
In the past few years, I’ve really learned to embrace spirituality. Personally, I didn't grow up with a strong religious background, aside from attending a Catholic primary school for a few years. However, Vietnamese culture, which is an integral part of my upbringing, is intertwined with various Buddhist traditions and beliefs. It was in adulthood that I leaned into spirituality, finding connections with things like my ancestors, expressions of gratitude, and the environment.
When clients are hesitant or shy to discuss their beliefs regarding spirituality, I wonder about the messages they've received about this topic. It's crucial to create a safe space for such conversations because there's substantial research and anecdotal evidence supporting the benefits of being connected to a community, the environment, and aspects outside of oneself.
Interestingly, for some individuals, spirituality can manifest as a heightened ability to trust their gut instincts. The mind-gut connection is a well-established pathway between the digestive system and the brain. This connection becomes stronger the more it's utilised.
When clients eventually open up about their spiritual beliefs, it often provides such valuable insights into their lives. It can connect various dots and offer a deeper understanding of their thoughts and behaviors. So I encourage everyone to explore what spirituality means specifically for you.
My ideal future involves people feeling safe and able to talk openly about spirituality and differing views about spirituality. Opening the lid on this topic can provide profound insights into your life and contribute to your overall well-being. We're here to support and facilitate these conversations, helping you embrace your unique spiritual journey.