Moving from relationships to spirituality in the integrative health and wellness assessment leads us toward a greater conversation about our overall sense of vitality and wellbeing. With this next series of articles, we look beyond how we relate to the world around us to questions of how connected we feel to a higher power, to nature, to others, and to ourselves. We begin to explore our own sense of spirituality and how we use it in moving through life’s experiences of mystery, love, suffering, joy, and the unending cycles of change. Exploring the realm of spirituality asks us to look at our beliefs in the bigger picture of life, what it all means, and what our place and purpose is in all of it.

First, let’s talk about what we mean when we use the term "spirituality.” Generally speaking, spirituality is the essence of our being, the core truth of every human being on the planet. It is the idea that we are connected to something bigger than our individual selves, whether that be a God or higher power, the beauty and grandeur of nature, or the unique and inspiring personalities of the people around us. Spirituality also suggests reflection; what meaning do we give life? It is a random series of events or are we part of a grander scheme? Is the purpose of life to love others and connect to the god-like aspects of who we are or is it simply to show up at work and receive a paycheck? Spirituality beckons us to ask the more insightful and reflective questions and to grow as people of ethical and moral purpose.

Next, it is vital to establish the difference between spirituality and religion. Religion is an organized framework of beliefs that seeks to identify the cause and nature of the world. This system connects people through practices, rituals, behaviors, and forms of worship, creating community through a shared ideology. Religion may discuss what’s "right” and "wrong” and also what is "true” or "not true.” While spirituality may be a part of religious life, religion does not necessarily play a role in spirituality.

Spirituality is rooted in practices that acknowledge all of humanity’s connection and interrelatedness. Spirituality does not care if you go to a church or a mosque, if you are married are divorced. It cares little if you are a man or a woman or if you get on your knees to pray before bed. Spirituality has a larger message – one that says, "We are all human and we all share that common humanity. We are all connected to one another in our experience on this planet. And we are all a part of something bigger… something more complex than we can see… something divine.”

As we dive into this spiritual journey together, let’s reflect on some questions in community… What do I believe my purpose in life is? What do I think it all means? Who am I really?

Billy Rosa is a Registered Nurse, Integrative Nurse Coach Visiting Faculty, University of Rwanda