What images come to mind when you hear the term “spiritual community?”
Some people may imagine church services or religious events. But spiritual communities are not necessarily tied to a particular faith or denomination. Today, spiritual communities are being formed as part of yoga retreats, walking clubs and philanthropic organizations.
Spirituality not only helps you recognize that your role in life has a bigger purpose than your day-to-day activities, but also helps you live a balanced life. And a spiritual community adds to that dimension by providing ways to cultivate higher aspects of yourself.
Today, I’d like to share a personal story that may expand your idea of the purpose of spiritual communities and inspire you to find one that speaks to your heart.
I’ve been a member of New Thought, a metaphysical movement, since I was in junior high school. My daily spiritual practices include meditation, prayer, spending time in nature, and reading articles in Science of Mind magazine, which is published by Centers for Spiritual Living. CSL is an inclusive, global organization honoring people from all walks of life and all spiritual paths, and is focused on spiritual healing and the power of thought.
In an earlier post, I reviewed my plan to bring the spiritual thread front and center in my weekly messaging, through my blog and YouTube videos. I’m showing my followers the importance of merging their spiritual practices with everyday experiences, in order to age beautifully and live their best life.
Last fall, as I was transitioning through personal and professional challenges, I received emails from CSL headquarters and local centers encouraging members to fellowship in person again, because some centers were beginning to open up for the first time since the pandemic. As I was scrolling through pages of interesting information, something special resonated with me. Although it had been there all along, I never paid attention to the online course offerings. It then occurred to me that this was the perfect time to pursue my license as a spiritual practitioner, something that I had been ruminating about for decades.
Licensed Spiritual Practitioners help individuals make changes in their lives by shifting their consciousness through affirmative prayer called Spiritual Mind Treatment. The program takes a minimum of three years to complete. The first year requires participation in foundational courses, and the second and third years include professional training and fieldwork.
As soon as I enrolled in the program, wonderful things started happening in my life. I’m rebuilding a past relationship, I’m meeting the most fascinating and diverse group of people from around the globe who are on a similar path, and I’m making arrangements with spiritual directors to be of service at their centers using my expertise. Due to my willingness to step outside my comfort zone and take a leap of faith, my life is beginning to feel more balanced.
Perhaps this post illuminates your faith tradition or inspires you to consider new practices. Spiritual communities offer an opportunity for you to bond with like-minded people and grow exponentially, while nurturing a deeper connection to Spirit and the world. What are your life goals? If your intentions include nurturing lifelong friendships, using your unique talents to elevate others, assuming a leadership role that showcases your skills, giving back through meaningful service, and improving the quality of your own life, consider the advantages of joining a spiritual community.
Consider This
Do you want to deepen your spiritual practices or learn more about spirituality? Check out these articles from goodnet.org and happierhuman.com
Four Steps to Nourish, Transform and Flourish
• Set a loving intention to investigate the benefits of joining a spiritual community of your choice, or if you’re already a member but haven’t been active, consider ways to get involved.
• Begin by investigating centers online, and attending services and programs in person to see if they are the right fit for you.
• How will becoming actively involved in a spiritual community improve the quality of your life?
• Close your eyes and visualize how this lifestyle change can prepare you for your amazing second half.
Need help devising a plan to live your best life?
It can be challenging to maintain momentum on your own. My Sprout Your New Life™ course will give you the tools and the strong spiritual foundation to make lasting change in your life. Click here for more.
In love, peace and health--
Your feminine glow guide,
T. Kari Mitchell, M.Ed.
Motivational Speaker
Certified Holistic Health Coach
Lifestyle120.com
When your spirit is nourished, your inner light produces an outer glow reflecting your beauty and truth.