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Month: August 2024

Study Reveals Spiritual Awareness Fluctuates Throughout the Day

Spiritual awareness is far from constant, according to a new study from the University of Connecticut, which finds that individuals experience varying levels of awareness throughout the day. The research, set to be presented at the 110th Annual Meeting of the American Sociological Association, suggests that moments of heightened spiritual consciousness are most frequent in the morning and during activities such as prayer, worship, and meditation. Surprisingly, listening to music, reading, and even exercise were also linked to increased spiritual awareness. However, the study found that work-related activities tend to suppress this awareness, with those spending the most time at work reporting the lowest levels. Video games similarly diminished spiritual consciousness. Interestingly, people...

What the Revival of Druidry Reveals About Modern Spirituality

Every morning in California, Larisa White begins her day by stepping outside to greet nature. As a practicing druid, her spirituality is rooted in celebrating the rhythms of the natural world, from the arrival of fog to the blooming of the first flowers. White’s practices, though personal, reflect the growing global resurgence of Druidry—a belief system that has evolved from ancient, largely lost traditions. Druidry, once centered in the British Isles, has spread to English-speaking countries worldwide, with an estimated 60,000 to 100,000 adherents today. Despite its historical mystery—ancient druids left no written records and were largely described by outsiders—modern druid practices have coalesced around a respect for nature and seasonal changes. White’s research into global Druidry sho...

How Digital Religion Is Reshaping Spirituality Among Millennials

In an era of increasing digital connectivity, a new study suggests that digital religion among millennials in the U.S. and Canada is not replacing traditional worship but instead enriching it. The research, conducted by Sarah Wilkins-Laflamme, a sociology professor at the University of Waterloo, examines the role of digital platforms in the spiritual lives of young adults and explores whether these technologies are driving a “spiritual revolution.” With the rise of online sermons, religious social media content, and virtual chat groups with faith leaders, religious communities have found digital avenues to engage younger generations. However, Wilkins-Laflamme’s study reveals that while digital religion enhances the experience of those already involved in organized religion, it is not neces...

How the Metaverse Could Transform Religious Experience

Throughout history, new technologies have consistently reshaped religious practice. In the late 19th century, when early radio broadcasts emerged, many listeners described their experience as spiritual. The ethereal voices seemed to emanate from another dimension, and some even believed that radio had unlocked a gateway to the spirit world. Séances, too, gained popularity during this era, driven by a fascination with unseen forces. Today, religion is again undergoing a profound transformation, with the digital age offering new ways to engage with spirituality. As the internet continues to evolve, it presents unprecedented opportunities to understand, participate in, and experience religious activities. Though participation in traditional religious institutions is on the decline in parts of...

Breathwork: Harnessing the Power of Breath for Wellness

Breathing is one of the most fundamental and automatic processes we perform, yet it holds untapped potential beyond its essential function. In moments of stress, our breath quickens and shortens as a natural response, but with intentional practice, breathing can become a powerful tool for calming the mind and body. This practice of controlled breathing, known as breathwork, offers a range of psychological and physical benefits. Below, we explore the practice, its benefits, and how to easily incorporate it into daily life. What is Breathwork? Breathwork refers to a variety of exercises that involve consciously regulating the breath to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. According to Mandy DeVries, a registered respiratory therapist and director of education at the American A...

The Divine in Sight: How Sacred Images in Asia Come Alive

Walking into a restaurant in Knoxville, Tennessee, I was immediately greeted by the serene gaze of a golden Buddha statue. Its gemstone eyes sparkled as I passed, and though the scents of Thai curries filled the air, I found myself lingering on those eyes, their glint suggesting more than just a decorative presence. Sacred objects are everywhere—gracing museum galleries, adorning homes, or even standing in yards. Some shine with bejeweled splendor, while others carry the patina of generations of devotion. Often, it feels as if these sacred images are looking back at us. The ways in which sacred objects convey divine presence in many Asian cultures offer a fascinating glimpse into how the material world intersects with the spiritual. My research focuses on this intersection, exploring how s...

Reflections on Reading Tarot in a Bar

The following article is a personal account from HuffPost detailing a tarot reader’s journey in a bar setting and the challenges faced along the way. In the bustling environment of a New Orleans-themed restaurant in downtown Chicago, a professional tarot reader was stationed at the bar, offering readings for a fee of $15. The reader shared their deep-rooted connection with tarot, having stumbled upon the practice at the age of 8 and evolving it into a spiritual ritual over time. Venturing into a professional realm under the guidance of a neighbor, the reader saw an opportunity to establish themselves as a reputable practitioner in a bar setting. However, the initial allure of the job soon waned as encounters with clients brought forth varied experiences, some uncomfortable and challe...

The Spiritual Roots of Modern Fitness Trends

As Americans embrace fitness resolutions each new year, the blend of exercise and spirituality is increasingly prevalent in modern workout culture. Fitness programs like SoulCycle and CrossFit are not just physical routines but offer something akin to a religious experience, fostering community, ritual, and even personal transcendence. Historically, fitness has often been linked to spiritual discipline. From ancient Indian mystics to medieval Christian ascetics, the body has long been viewed as both a temple and a challenge to the soul. In the 20th century, movements like “muscular Christianity” and the YMCA merged physical fitness with Christian values, reinforcing the idea that a healthy body signifies a virtuous soul. Today’s fitness trends, such as Peloton and boutique studios, continu...