For instance, spend time writing or thinking about questions like “Why am I here?”; “What can I contribute?”; “What makes me happy?”; and “Why is life meaningful to me?” The answers to these questions will be different for every person. For instance, you might find that spending time with your friends and family is what makes life meaningful for you.

Expression can mean saying it out loud to another person, but it can also mean doing things like screaming into a pillow when you’re angry or having a good cry because you’re sad. Understanding and acknowledging your emotions is a big part of being more self-aware, which in turn is a part of being spiritual.

Writing about what’s going on in your life can help you become more self-aware. It helps you sort through your feelings about events even if you don’t realize it in the moment. For instance, if you’re writing about going home to visit family, you may realize you’re feeling resentment because they don’t reciprocate by coming and visiting you.

If you’re not sure where to begin, ask for suggestions from like-minded friends or your favorite librarian. If you are wanting to explore different religions, try reading parts or all of the central religious books of the major religions, such as the Hebrew Bible, the New Testament, and the Quran.

You could also attend religious services at a local church, mosque, or temple. You can also look into local spiritual retreat centers for paid retreats and workshops. Going to hear others speak can open up your mind to new ideas about spirituality. You can also find these online.

This type of group can help keep you committed to your journey! If none of your friends are interested, try connecting with people on social media. You may find people in your area who want to meet up, which you can find through sites like Meetup, but you can also just discuss topics online!

Whether you go to a brand new destination or a tried-and-true old favorite, traveling can jump start your spiritual journey, as it takes you away from your normal stressors and allows time for reflection and relaxation.

Try unplugging for an hour each day or set aside one day each week where you turn the electronics off.

For a simple technique, close your eyes and breathe in while you count to 4 in your head. Hold your breath for 4 counts and then breathe out to the count of 4. Wait 4 counts before you breathe in again and repeat the process.

Try a simple meditation first. Sit down somewhere you’re comfortable and close your eyes or lower your eyes to the floor. Check in with yourself while you take a few deep breaths. Feel any pains and aches you have in your body and acknowledge any emotions you might be feeling. Now, focus on what your body can feel. Think about the weight of your body in the chair or on the floor, the cool or warm air surrounding you, the feel of the carpet or clothing on your skin, and anything else you can feel. Try to keep your mind focused on just being aware, not drifting off into thoughts. When one pops up, just acknowledge and gently push it aside to go back to the feelings in your body. You could also try prayer as a part of your religious tradition if you have one.

Yoga can help you destress, focus your mind, and feel more centered in your life. You can also try other types of classes that get your body moving and focus on centering the mind, such as tai chi.

Find any place in which you can connect to nature, from your backyard to a small neighborhood park or an office courtyard. When you’re outside, take in the environment. Focus on the warmth of the sun or the cool breeze against your skin. Take in the bright green of the trees or the light tan of winter grass.

Try acknowledging something you’re thankful for right when you get up and when you go to bed. Let people in your life know when you’re thankful for them and the things they do. It’s helpful to say your gratitude out loud at times! Write 3-5 things you’re thankful for each day in a journal.