World Mental Health Day: How spirituality can help in mental well-being

On World Mental Health Day, spirituality takes center stage as a powerful tool for balancing the mind, body, and soul.
Spirituality, often regarded as the bridge between mental well-being and self-realization, has been highlighted by experts across various fields as a profound means of achieving inner peace and mental clarity. As modern life accelerates and stress continues to impact mental health, spiritual practices are increasingly seen as essential for balancing the mind and body.
Astro Parduman Suri, a renowned celebrity astrologer, emphasizes the role spirituality plays in alleviating stress.He notes, "Spirituality is the best therapy in balancing mind and body." He draws attention to practices such as yoga, meditation, and prayer, which may seem different on the surface but are all interconnected through spirituality. These practices help manage emotional extremes and restore balance, much like the 2007 Hindi film Bhool Bhulaiyaa, which combined psychological treatment with humor and horror to address dual personalities.
"When our behavior becomes excessively cheerful or angry over trivial matters, spirituality is the path that can help balance the mind," Suri adds. Through spiritual practices, individuals gain control over their senses and emotions, making it easier to navigate the challenges of daily life.
Many global icons, such as American media mogul Oprah Winfrey and social researcher Dr. Brené Brown, have also credited spirituality with enhancing mental strength and promoting a balanced connection between the mind and body. Their acknowledgment underscores the increasing recognition of spirituality in personal growth and mental well-being.
For AiR-Atman in Ravi, a spiritual leader and advocate for mental health through spirituality, the concept goes even deeper. He explains, "Spirituality is the science of the spirit. It is about realizing the truth of who we are and why we are here. It has a direct bearing on our mental health and happiness."
Spirituality offers a pathway to discovering the purpose of life, making existence more meaningful and fulfilling. According to AiR, meditation and yoga are essential spiritual practices that quiet the mind and foster inner peace, while also nurturing a connection with the divine. This connection brings feelings of trust, enthusiasm, and hope, essential components of mental well-being.
AiR believes spirituality is not only about managing stress but also about transcending the ego and liberating oneself from toxic emotions like fear, guilt, anger, and pride. He further explains that suffering is often a result of negative karma, but spirituality allows individuals to live with acceptance and surrender, understanding that life’s challenges are opportunities for growth.
“We realize that this world is an illusion and that nothing belongs to us. Thus, we learn to step away from the rat race, from material pursuits,” says AiR. By adopting a spiritual mindset, people can move beyond worldly attachments and find true peace and happiness, greatly benefiting their mental health.
Spiritual leader Gauranga Das Prabhu advocates for a structured approach to incorporating spirituality into daily life for mental well-being. His five-pronged method is rooted in spiritual wisdom and offers practical steps for anyone seeking to enhance their mental health.
The experts agree that spirituality is a powerful tool in promoting mental health. It not only helps individuals manage stress but also encourages self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a deeper sense of purpose. Spiritual practices like meditation, yoga, and prayer help individuals reconnect with their inner selves and find peace amidst life’s challenges.
On this World Mental Health Day, the message is clear: integrating spirituality into mental health care can offer a holistic approach to achieving balance and well-being. By nurturing the mind, body, and soul, spirituality serves as a vital pathway to mental resilience and fulfillment.