Spiritual self-care is a way of connecting your spiritual side with the practice of self-care. Being in communion with your higher being, the Divine, Allah, God, creation or however you envision this spiritual side of yourself, reinforces your connection to something larger than yourself and your connection to those around you. It is a remembrance that you are more than a singular self, but that you are part of something greater.

Spiritual self care are the actions you take to deepen your connection with your higher self. You may look at this as connecting to who you truly are or the REAL self. This is the part of you that is driven by deep desires, the things that matter most to you. It is driven by the soul, not the ego. Like all things in your life, balance is needed, and being in alignment with your spiritual self leads to greater connection to your higher being.

Ways to practice Spiritual Self-Care:

• Prayer. If prayer is part of your spiritual practice, continue it. You can use prayers that are already written, you can create your own prayer and talk freely to your higher being. Click here to access prayers from multiple faith traditions.
• Meditation. Many faith traditions practice a form of meditation. Meditation promotes peace within your spiritual being. It encourages you to calm your mind, body, and spirit to connect with your spiritual self. Click here to access guided meditation from our Chaplains.
• Gratitude. Often in our prayers and meditation we invoke words of Thankfulness. You can also practice gratitude through a gratitude journal or white-board or some other way of keeping your gratitude present. Start with 3-5 things you are thankful for each day.
• Nature. Spend time in nature, as often as you can. Sometimes this is difficult in cold weather, but get outside when you can, breathe in fresh air, and listen to the world around you. Some find it helpful to watch nature shows or listen to recordings of the ocean or birds. Disconnect from the demands of technology and let nature fill your ears, even if it is the silence of a winter day.
• Practice religion. You can do this by attending a religious service, joining a study group, prayer group, or other activity hosted by a religious community in your area. Being surrounded by others who recognize a higher being can encourage your connection to your spiritual self. Often religions groups have practices that you can continue on your own at home. Click here for a list of live-stream and recorded religious services.
• Treat yourself. This doesn’t have to be a big, major purchase or extravagant vacation, but its important that it be something you wouldn’t normally do. You show your appreciation to others in tangible ways, now show yourself that you appreciate you.

Self-care should be part of your routine and you may need to schedule time in your calendar for it. Remember, this is part of living a healthy and whole life.