Recently, a close friend asked me, “Hey, why don’t you give me some tips on spirituality?” The question took me by surprise, but it also brought a smile to my face.
Some people often look at me as if I’ve renounced all worldly pleasures just because I don’t go clubbing or socialize in the way many do and because I am single in 30s. The truth is, I’m selective in my choices, both in how I spend my time and the people I choose to be with. I deeply value my time and prefer to invest it in ways that align with my values and priorities.
It made me realize how many misconceptions people have about what spirituality truly means.
When most people hear the word “spirituality,” they often envision a life detached from material possessions, perhaps living as a sage in the Himalayas or engaging in rigorous rituals at home. This image, while not entirely incorrect, is just one facet of spirituality. The reality is much more accessible and deeply woven into our everyday lives.
Spirituality has become a topic of great interest in our era, as more and more people worldwide seek to take control of their lives. They are starting to recognize their responsibility towards themselves—their well-being, their mental health, and their overall happiness.
When my friend asked for advice, I explained that spirituality is not about renouncing the world or living an austere life. Instead, it’s about living fully in the present moment and making the most of each day. It’s about striving to improve yourself every single day, whether that means taking care of your mental well-being, staying physically fit, eating healthy, or maintaining focus and dedication in your work. It’s about cultivating healthy relationships and being the change, you wish to see in the world.
In essence, spirituality is about conscious living. It’s about responding to challenging situations with calm and clarity, rather than reacting impulsively. It’s about staying alert, being mindful of your thoughts, actions, and their impact on others. Unfortunately, in today’s fast-paced world, spirituality is often misunderstood as something unattainable or irrelevant, especially by those who are caught up in the rat race, neglecting their health, well-being, and personal growth.
But spirituality is far from a taboo or a relic of the past. It’s a way of life that brings balance, peace, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around us. I truly hope that more people will come to see spirituality for what it really is—a path to living a more fulfilled and conscious life. May Lord Krishna guide us all towards this wisdom.
Hare Krishna!