Written by: Deilen Michelle Villegas, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
In our fast-paced and often hectic lives, finding moments of peace, purpose, and connection has become increasingly important. Embracing spirituality offers a pathway to explore our inner selves, connect with something greater than ourselves, and first meaning in life’s journey. Connecting to our spirituality means knowing that our lives have significance in a context beyond a mundane everyday existence at the level of biological needs that drive selfishness and aggression. It means knowing that we are a significant part of a purposeful unfolding of Life in our universe.
Tapping into our spiritual journey involves first healing and arming the ego so that positive states are experienced; with secure self-esteem, belief in self-worth, and a capacity for love and generosity, a person becomes less constrained by ego defenses. An opening of the heart is an essential aspect of true spirituality. Viewing things from a higher perspective and the bigger picture is necessary for navigating the world differently.
Connecting with inner wisdom
Spirituality encourages us to turn inward and tap into our inner wisdom. We create space for self-reflection, self-discovery, and self-compassion through meditation, prayer, or introspection. By cultivating this connection with ourselves, we can gain clarity, make wiser choices, and navigate life’s challenges with greater purpose and resilience.
Embracing spirituality allows us to explore our existence's more profound meaning and purpose. It offers a framework to contemplate life’s big questions, such as the nature of our existence, our values, and the impact we want to make in the world. By aligning our actions with our core values and purpose, we can experience a profound sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.
Spirituality often emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings. It encourages us to cultivate empathy, compassion, and kindness toward others. The emphasis on connection strengthens our relationships, fosters a sense of community, and enhances our overall sense of belonging. Embracing spirituality can deepen our understanding of others, promote harmonious interactions, and create a more compassionate society.
Separating spirituality from Christianity
Most individuals think that spirituality and Christianity are interchangeable, even though they may share that there is a Higher Power, they are two separate belief systems. Spirituality encourages individuals to go within and seek self-validation, to build a personal relationship and connection with their Higher Power. It encourages individuals to develop a practice that comes from within and feels right to them to increase their connection to their Higher Power and self. Spirituality does not deem one belief system superior to another but instead views all beliefs as all agreeing that there is something greater than us, a creator, and that what we may call that Higher Power or creator will vary from location. We all share similar beliefs but they may be named differently based on the belief system, some people may call it prayer, others call it manifestations, and others may call it spells. But we are all referring to setting the intention to receive what we want to come into our lives. Spirituality encourages us to seek the truth, to find how we are all connected and could help each other.
Spirituality accepts that we are all human and views past indiscretions as life experiences necessary for growth and development. Spirituality believes that there is truth in all beliefs that make up the bigger picture.
Christianity is a specific set of organized beliefs and practices, usually shared by a community or group. These beliefs are based on a set of dogmatic rules. It places superiority in their beliefs above all others and deems all other belief systems false. Christianity condemns individuals for past mistakes and experiences and encourages judgment and outcasting. Christianity has been used over centuries to enslave Black and Indigenous people and to justify the murder and control of all individuals, especially women. Christianity works through a fear-based system and believes in punishment for sins.
Navigating life’s challenges
Life is full of ups and downs, and spirituality can provide solace and support during challenging times. It offers a framework for processing grief, loss, and complicated emotions, providing comfort and hope. Spiritual practices help us tap into our inner resilience, providing a source of strength and guidance when facing adversity.
Spirituality recognizes the interplay between the mind, body, and spirit, promoting a holistic approach to health. It encourages practices that nourish the body, such as exercise, healthy eating, and restful sleep. Moreover, spiritual practices can enhance self-care and promote overall well-being by addressing not only physical needs but also emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of our lives.
Fostering transcendence and growth
Spirituality invites us to explore and transcend our limitations. It encourages us to step outside our comfort zones, embrace uncertainty, and cultivate a growth mindset. By expanding our perspective and embracing personal growth, we tap into our full potential and discover new possibilities for ourselves and the world around us.
Embracing spirituality offers numerous benefits for our well-being and personal growth. It provides a pathway to connect with our inner selves, find meaning and purpose, and foster resilience in the face of life’s challenges. By nurturing our spiritual well-being, we cultivate a sense of interconnectedness, compassion, and inner wisdom that can enhance our relationships, promote holistic health, and enrich our overall quality of life.
So, let us embrace spirituality as a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and transformation.
Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Deilen!
Deilen Michelle Villegas, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Dr. Deilen Michelle Villegas, Ph.D., is a distinguished metaphysician and the visionary founder of The Shamanic Goddess, LLC—a prestigious Holistic Health and Wellness Consulting and Holistic Life Coaching enterprise. Her work is a profound exploration of the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, dedicated to elevating individuals towards holistic well-being, success, and happiness.
As a renowned CREA Global Award Winner, Dr. Villegas is a Board Certified Holistic Health & Wellness Practitioner and Holistic Life Coach, specializing in Trauma Recovery, Behavioral Health, Mindset Transformation, and Somatic Healing. Her extensive list of credentials, including being a Board Certified Holistic Mind-Body Practitioner, Advanced Holistic Herbalist, Master Hypnotherapist, Master Practitioner of NLP, Reiki Master Practitioner, Life and Trauma Recovery Coach, and Master of Cannabis and CBT Practitioner, showcases her holistic approach to healing and transformation.
With over 16 years of experience in various medical fields, including Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, OB/GYN, Oncology, and Urgent Care, Dr. Villegas has enriched her insights into the human experience. Her academic accomplishments include a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, an Msc.D in Natural Medicine, and an M.Sc. in Complementary & Integrative Medicine, forming the bedrock of her metaphysical exploration.
Furthermore, Dr. Villegas is an active member of multiple organizations dedicated to the well-being of individuals, including NAHSE (National Association of Health Service Executives), ForbesBlk, HPOC (Holistic Professionals of Color), ANZMH (Australian and New Zealand Mental Health Association), Society for Health Communication, AADP (American Association of Drugless Practitioners), and IHA (International Hypnosis Association). Her involvement in these organizations underscores her commitment to holistic health, making her a true metaphysician devoted to addressing mental and physical health disparities within marginalized communities. Through the application of Qualitative and Quantitative Research, she seeks to uncover the roots of these disparities and effect lasting change, making her a champion for holistic well-being on a global scale.