Spirit: How to Nurture it for a Fulfilling Life
Don’t get spooked when I talk about our ‘spirit’.
Spirit is not some ghostly figure or an other-worldly entity. It’s the essence of who we are.
Spirit: Here’s what you need to know
Think of our spirit as the vital energy that fuels our being, much like the juice inside an orange. It is what gives it life.
When an orange is left out in the harsh sun, its juice evaporates, leaving it dry and lifeless. The same happens to our spirit when we are constantly exposed to negativity, overwhelming emotions, and dark thoughts. Our spirit, the very core of our vitality and joy, begins to shrink.
Even if we seem fine outwardly, our inner light, our mojo, dims. This inner spark is what brings joy to our lives. If our spirit is unhappy, our life becomes unhappy too.
This internal depletion doesn’t always show on the outside. We might continue with our daily routines, fulfilling our responsibilities, and interacting with others. Yet, underneath this façade of normalcy, our inner light, our unique spark, starts to fade. This inner mojo is crucial—it’s what makes us feel alive, passionate, and joyful. When our spirit is nourished, we experience a sense of well-being and happiness that radiates into every aspect of our lives.
On the other hand, when our spirit ( our inner spark – our inner mojo) is neglected and allowed to dwindle, we lose touch with the joy and zest for life.
Our days may feel monotonous, our emotions dull, and our purpose unclear. The unhappiness of our spirit translates into a general sense of dissatisfaction with life.
To maintain a vibrant, fulfilling life, we must protect and nurture our spirit, ensuring it remains strong and resilient against life’s challenges.
What happens when people lose their inner spark, their spirit, their zest for life?
Inner emptiness. Feeling lonely. Despondent. Lifelessness. Depression.
And then they often turn to various forms of numbing behavior to cope with the emptiness.
This can include addictions such as alcohol, over-eating (even anorexia), excessive work, or compulsive shopping.
Do these coping behaviours help?
Absolutely not.
These behaviours provide temporary relief from the inner lifelessness but ultimately leave them feeling even more disconnected, unfulfilled and empty.
What’s the solution to rejuvenate our spirit?
Reconnecting with our inner child
This is a proven powerful approach for
- rekindling our inner spark
- bring back our mojo
- nurture our spirit.
The inner child represents the part of us that is spontaneous, joyful, and full of wonder.
What are the ways to reconnect with this vital aspect of ourselves?
1. Engage in Play: Allow yourself to engage in activities you enjoyed as a child, whether it’s drawing, playing a sport, or simply playing with a pet. Playfulness can rekindle joy and creativity.
2. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge and validate your feelings without judgment, just as you would comfort a child.
3. Explore Creativity: Indulge in creative pursuits like painting, writing, or music. Creativity is a direct channel to the inner child and can reignite your passion.
4. Spend Time in Nature: Nature has a way of reconnecting us with our innate sense of wonder and peace. Go for walks, hike, or simply sit in a park and observe the beauty around you.
5. Seek Joy in Small Things: Take pleasure in simple, everyday moments. Whether it’s savouring a meal, laughing with friends, or watching a sunset, these small joys can accumulate and reignite your inner spark.
6. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness can help you stay present and connected to your inner self. Meditation can also provide a space to explore and heal the wounds of the inner child.
7. Inner Child Exercises: Engage in specific inner child healing exercises, such as writing letters to your younger self, visualizing comforting your inner child, or talking to a therapist who specializes in inner child work.
In Conclusion
Reconnecting with your inner child allows you to rediscover the joy, curiosity, and vitality that may have been overshadowed by life’s challenges. By nurturing this connection, you can restore your inner spark and live a more vibrant, fulfilling life.