Being spiritually empowered is the cherry on the cake for living your best and abundantly full life. Your connection to something bigger than yourself will give your life purpose, meaning and hope.

Did you know?

Religiosity/spirituality and trust in Divine power are linked to physical and mental health, and longevity (Seeman et al. 2003, Koenig 2012, Zimmer et al. 2016, Mishra et al. 2017).

The Facts

Spirituality encompasses the way one views their purpose and meaning in life, as well as their deepest beliefs and morals, life decisions, character, perspective on spiritual beliefs and a higher being.²

Beliefs about where we came from, why we are here, where we are going, give meaning to life and remove anxiety about the future. They can provide meaning and hope during disappointment and difficult times.

Religious involvement is also connected with better mental health and with lower levels of depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, suicidal behaviours, stress-related disorders and dementia.^3,4 Trust in a Divine power boosts positivity and helps better manage negative emotions, resulting in a fulfilled life and an increase in coping skills through negative life events.⁵

Religious attendance reduced the risk of long-term depression among men, while, among women it reduced the risk of becoming depressed.⁶

Religiosity may reduce the effect of stressful life events on mood because these events are re-framed as happening for a reason and/or leading to spiritual growth, as well as the unique support that a regular faith-based community can offer.⁷

• However, note that intrinsic religiousness (valuing religiousness as a means of getting close to God) reduces depressive symptoms while extrinsic (for status it confers) tends to increase them.

What can we do about it

Take time to define your values and beliefs – they will guide your decisions and actions.

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Take time for personal reflection and time to pray.

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Practice gratitude every day.

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Practice being in the moment, rather than being stuck in the past or worrying about the future.

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Take time to engage with and care for others.

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If you are religious, find a faith community or activity you are comfortable with and participate on a regular basis. 

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