Discussing Spirituality and Religion (Core Competencies: 1.4; 1.5; 1.7; 1.11; 2.5; 2.7; 2.8; 2.9; 3.2; 3.5; 3.7; 4.4; 4.6; 4.8; 4.11; 4.16; 4.18) The topic of spirituality and religion is important for a certified peer specialist to consider because of the positive and negative impacts spiritually and religion can have on a peer’s life. Additionally, spiritually and religion can influence a person’s recovery journey. First, general background is offered. Then, the topic is discussed in the context of recovery and ethics. Finally, implications for peer support are discussed with an opportunity for practice. Spiritual versus religious People often unconsciously link the concepts of spirituality and religion, but spirituality does not always need to be defined through the lens of religion. Some may feel like they have a sense of or practice spirituality even though they are not affiliated with a specific religion. Those who practice a religion often find the religion serves as a suitable framework from which to get their spiritual needs met. Some find it helpful to think of religion as rules, practices, or traditions agreed to by several people, whereas spirituality is more related to a person’s individual experience and connections. Though no one definition of spirituality will resonate with everyone, a more inclusive definition is provided by Christina Puchalski, a professor at The George Washington University. “Spirituality is the aspect of humanity that refers to the way individuals seek and express meaning and purpose and the way they experience their connectedness to the moment, to self, to others, to nature, and to the significant or sacred.” Spirituality means different things to different people. Individuals express their spirituality in many ways. Spirituality may be: • Their religion or faith tradition. • Meditation or mindfulness. • Meaning and direction in their life, sometimes described as their journey. • A way of understanding the world and their place in it. • A belief in a higher power or a force greater than any individual. • A core part of their identity and essential humanity. • A feeling of belonging or connectedness.
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