You don’t have to consider yourself a religious person in order to experience some relief in the form of spiritual nourishment.
Living with a chronic condition, facing life threatening illness, or dealing with a sudden loss or unexpected life event can cause us to ask some pretty big questions:
Why me? Why now? Will I survive? And if I do, what comes next?
The soul section of your canvas is your space to consider these deeper questions, and to think about the role of your own spirituality in coping.
My personal spirituality is something that’s evolved over time. But my strongest spiritual connections have always come through the outdoors and the arts. Appreciating the beauty of nature, reading a favorite line of poetry or a prayer, and listening to music.
Going for walks, hiking, and just getting outdoors was just as important for my spiritual and mental health as it was for my physical well-being.
During my inpatient stays, I actually requested special orders from my doctors -- and thank god they obliged -- that allowed me to leave the cancer ward and get outside into the fresh air each day. Sometimes in a wheelchair, and always with my IV pole rolling right beside me, but if I could get just a few minutes of time outdoors, I could feel it in my soul.
I also kept a journal and a blog -- which served the practical need to keep my friends and supporters updated, but for me the real value for me was in the act of writing itself. It was definitely a spiritual practice.
Everyone’s CareCanvas is different. For some people the “soul” quadrant is the first place they’ll go to when they face adversity. Others might shy away from it, or lean into other areas.
For members of faith-based communities, the social and spiritual connections they feel as a part of these groups can be an incredible source of strength and inspiration.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer. The important thing is to be honest with yourself, and commit to making sure your needs are being met -- regardless of where they fall on your canvas.