To enjoy spiritual wellness is to possess a set of guiding beliefs, principles, or values that give meaning and purpose to your life, especially in difficult times. The well person uses spirituality to focus on the positive aspects of life and to fend off negative feelings such as cynicism, anger, and pessimism. Organized religions help many people develop spiritual health. Religion, however, is not the only source or form of spiritual wellness. Many people find meaning and purpose in their lives on their own — through nature, art, meditation, or good works — or with their loved ones.
Qualities and behaviors associated with spiritual wellness:
- Capacity for love
- Compassion
- Forgiveness
- Altruism
- Joy and fulfillment
- Caring for others
- Sense of meaning and purpose
- Sense of belonging to something greater than oneself
