One of the parts of recovery that turns some people off is the concept of finding a Higher Power. Whether you have had a negative religious experience in your past, or you are just unaware of how spirituality works, understanding the method of getting connected to your Higher is an important tool to add to your recovery. Linking up with a power greater than yourself gives you an opportunity to relinquish control to the things that are actually out of your control and rely on your Higher Power to take the lead. For all you control freaks out there, this may seem scary, but the benefits that you will get from giving up that control will give you a more peaceful outlook on life.
The problem that you may be facing when connecting with a Higher Power is not knowing where to even start. Spirituality is often associated with religion and the two are completely different. Religion implies that you have to conform to a set of rules that maybe you do not believe in to be a part of that religious organization. Instead of using organized religion, simply being open to understanding spirituality as you move through life can lighten the load for you to simply be content.
Spirituality is defined as “the quality of becoming concerned with the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things”. This means trying to be one with the universe in every way can lead you into finding a Higher Power that could be the missing link to long-term sobriety. Searching for your Higher Power is vital and doable by acquiring the courage to learn where your connection lies.
Mindfulness
Sitting quietly to appreciate the moment can lead you to hear some intuitive direction from your Higher Power. In the hustle and bustle of life, taking some time to get grounded through the practice of mindfulness can assist in gaining some positive perspective, discerning the right thoughts and actions to take, and bringing newfound peace into your life.
Journaling
There is something magical about writing your innermost feelings out merely for yourself to read and process. Sometimes you will get some insight as to why you are feeling and acting waywardly when you really do not want to. Writing about your resentments and your fears can really allow you to get to know yourself in a more honest light. You will only be lying to yourself, and your Higher Power who already knows everything when you are journaling to yourself and not telling the whole truth.
Therapy
Finding the right kind of therapy is important in finding a Higher Power. Your pain could be keeping you from having the spiritual connection you are searching for. If you have not found results from traditional talk therapy, there are a myriad of new and holistic therapies that can help you to open up in your pain. EDMR, dialectical therapy, animal therapy, art therapy, aromatherapy, and acupuncture, just to name a few, can all be instrumental in getting you to open up and understand how the trauma of the past is dictating your present circumstances.
Exercise
Using your body as a temple makes you feel good about yourself so that you are more accessible to having healthier relationships with others including your Higher Power. Getting your blood pumping and toning your body feels good which could be the key to keep you from wanting to isolate so that others will not see you at your worst. Once you start getting physically fit, you will be more inclined to begin your journey into becoming spiritually fit. When you look good you feel good, and when you feel good, you tend to do good.
Nature
One of the most prolific ways that people find their Higher Power, is feeling the naturistic energy that comes from being surrounded by animals, fresh air, water, mountains, trees, or the sunshine. All of these elements make the intangibility of a Higher Power seem more realistic because seeing the beauty of nature firsthand makes it undeniable that something bigger than humans were part of their creation.
Prayer
Your Higher Power is your own conception just like prayer can be conformed into your own conception as well. If praying to a religious figure makes you uncomfortable, you can just start with sending good vibes into the universe by being grateful for seeing a beautiful flower or hearing a kind word from a coworker. Prayer can be anything you make it which makes you feel good about yourself or your relationship with your Higher Power. Saying thank you, wishing for healing for someone who is sick, or simply asking for help from your Higher Power when you feel hopeless are all things that can be considered prayer. There are no rules for praying because prayer is your personal dialect with your Higher Power.
Connecting to your Higher Power is up to you because no one can do it for you. If you are leary that these ways will not work for you, do it anyways. Do whatever it takes to feel positive and grateful which a Higher Power can certainly help with if you are willing and open-minded to the possibilities.
Offering a full range of recovery and mental health services, Detox Center of Colorado offers “Expanded Recovery” to enrich our clients’ lives in mind, body, and spirit. Through evidence-based therapy options and the endless adventure of Colorado, Detox Center of Colorado fosters connection, encouraging clients to get connected to themselves, their peers, their families, and their higher power. With the power of recovery, clients are restored to full health and experience life-changing healing. Call us today for more information: 303-536-5463
