Let’s get Spiritual…. The Difference Between Religion and Spirituality.
It all begins with an idea.
**Let's get Spiritual**
Because of a lot of people are unaware of the difference, I thought it would be good to explore the difference between spirituality and religion. Religion often nests in spirituality, but spirituality can be more vast in areas that complete us and help us navigate our day to day. While religion often exists in black and white rules that are easier for us to observe, spirituality extends further into other realms and is a deeper exploration of the gray.
In what ways do I find calm? How do I experience stillness? What triggers me and why? What helps me sleep at night?
Every person will have different answers to these questions based on their inner landscaping, their environment, and their individual capacity for regulation.
One quote says:
“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.”
So, while religion is incredibly important, one's individual path to experientially embodying spirituality is going to look different. Let's work to not judge the ways others find spiritual fulfillment. It may be the literal difference of life and death. We can NOT assume our experience of spirituality and our rules will work for everyone around us.
I pray nightly. I find deep joy and love in Christ. But I also have spiritual gifts in music, energy, and deep love for others. My curated spirituality therefore extends beyond confines of religion to wholly honor who I aspire to be in this life (while still honoring religion). This does not mean spirituality is more important than religion and it doesn;t mean it should compete with religion. It means there is more depth to us beyond what a one size fits all situation can lay out for us and we all need to find our own blueprint to the most fulfilling life we can live based on our individual circumstances, while still doing our best to honor the light and joy in others regardless of their religion, spirituality, and beyond. I truly believe this is why Jesus met with the sinners. He always saw the whole complex person and their capacity for something better. This is the work I have been called to do as a social worker- to see the light in others and offer what I can to help them see it themselves.
What are some ways to be spiritual beyond religion?
**Through Nature**
***Spending time outdoors** — walking, hiking, gardening, or simply sitting in nature to feel connected to something larger.
***Eco-conscious living** — treating the Earth as sacred, with reverence for life and natural cycles.
**Through Creativity**
***Art, music, dance, or writing** — expressing inner truths, beauty, and emotion can be a spiritual act.
***Creative flow states** — losing oneself in the act of creation can feel transcendent.
**Through Embodied Practices**
***Yoga, meditation, tai chi** — connecting with breath, body, and present moment awareness.
***Movement rituals** — such as ecstatic dance, mindful walking, or intuitive stretching.
**Through Inner Work**
***Journaling, shadow work, or therapy** — exploring and integrating the inner landscape.
***Psychedelic or altered state experiences** — in safe, intentional, or ceremonial contexts.
**Through Ritual and Symbol**
**Personal rituals** — lighting a candle, creating altars, or seasonal observances that hold meaning.
**Sacred objects or spaces** — crystals, symbols, or items that serve as reminders of purpose or intention.
**Through Connection**
***Deep relationships** — feeling spiritual resonance through love, intimacy, or vulnerability.
***Acts of compassion or service** — kindness as a sacred act that honors shared humanity.
**Through Meaning-Making**
***Storytelling and myth** — using metaphors and archetypes to understand life’s journey.
***Exploring synchronicity or signs** — seeing meaning in patterns or events that feel guided.
**Through Wonder and Curiosity**
***Contemplating the cosmos** — astronomy, stargazing, or pondering life’s mysteries.
***Being in awe** — moments of beauty, silence, or serendipity that stir the soul.
Allow people to be who they know they were meant to be. Believe them. Get curious about their gifts, use discernment in assumption, and above all, let all you do be in love- release the rest.
Note: This isn't a post for debating. It is just a post for reflection. Does this post trigger you? How can you work through that in love?