Finding Everyday Spiritual Connection
What small ways do you stay in touch with your spiritual side?
I had my dear friend Mary Lous Costabile, aka Miscellaneous Magic, back on my podcast this week. Two friends catching up is always a good time, and it was super cool having her turning the tables to interview me a little. We talked about my career transition, how I moved from beauty to fitness, wellness and jiu jitsu. For me, it was a great exercise in self-reflection and introspection.
One of the more compelling things she asked me about was how to incorporate self-care and spiritual practice into my daily routine, especially when I’m crazy busy with work six (and sometimes seven!) days a week.
There’s a lot of overlap between those two terms--spirituality and self-care--for me. I think making time to honor yourself and take care of yourself is essential. If incorporating a religious or ethereal aspect to that is your jam, go for it, but the big point is that we need to care of ourselves, mind, body and soul. That’s what re-energizes and restores us.
I’ve talked about this before, but I think that self-care is the first thing people set aside when it comes to their well being. We can be pretty good about finding twenty minutes or a half-hour to exercise, and the same when it comes to planning and preparing some healthier meals. But if you ask people about their spiritual practice, making time to pray, meditate, or just be in a quiet, calm place without distraction for even ten minutes, too many of us roll our eyes and chuckle.
So, I’ll be honest. I usually don’t have time for that either, which is why I try to find small moments throughout every day to make that spiritual connection. I call them my Spiritual Touch Points.
What’s a Spiritual Touch Point? It’s anything that helps keep you in check, grounded and feeling good throughout the day. These little behaviors might take less than a minute, but they are restorative and revitalizing. I’m willing to bet you already have several of these moments built into your day, you just didn’t recognize their value!
Here are some of my favorite Spiritual Touch Points--by all means feel free to make them your own, and if you have different ones you count on, please share them!
Three Deep Breaths
A great way to quickly decompress and refresh.
Fresh Air and Morning Light
Thanks to the daily dog walks!
Essential Oils
They can calm or energize, and they just smell so good!
Crystals
I keep some favorites on my desk and at my bedside. I’ll pick one up for a quick moment of connection.
My Nonna’s Bell
Long story for another day, but I have an old desk bell that was my grandmother’s. I give it a ring when I’m feeling good, when I want some extra luck, or just to remind me of all the blessings I have.
Night Frequency
I always sleep with a low frequency playing. It’s barely audible and is great for relaxation and (if you ask me) manifesting good things.
Prayer
Sometimes you just need to take a moment and talk to a power greater than you.
Journaling
A fantastic way to get your thoughts down and free space in your brain.
Sage/Palo Santo
Like essential oils, these aromatics make everything smell great and each has its own cleansing or calming energy.
Naps
My husband’s favorite: A quick snooze (20 mins or so) is a can’t-miss refresher.
Movement
A little “exercise snack” of some jumping jacks, stretching, or whatever gets the blood flowing and the breath moving!
Meditation
On the weekends, a 30-minute guided meditation is the best for deep relaxation and centering.
Communication
Talking to my partner, my family, my friends--unburden yourself and you’ll feel instantly lighter.
Music or Silence
Sometimes you need to jump around to a favorite jam. Sometimes you need some quiet time. Honor either one when you feel the need.