Some people erroneously think that spirituality and religion are one and the same. Religion is defined as a set of beliefs generally held by a group of people defined by ritual, prayer, and religious law. For the purposes of this chapter, spirituality is defined as an individual's sense of peace, purpose, and connection to others, as well as one's beliefs about the meaning of life. Spirituality can be expressed in an organized religion or in other ways. In fact, many people consider themselves to be both spiritual and religious. Some people find spirituality in religion, others through music, art, or an appreciation of nature.

Some research suggests that having a sense of spirituality may make an individual with an illness feel better. Spiritual and religious well-being may be associated with improved quality of life by reducing anxiety and depression, reducing a sense of isolation, and bestowing others with a feeling of personal growth, despite having an illness.

Some believe that the mind, body, and spirit are all inextricably linked in a complex mosaic that affects our health and well-being, although it's not crucial to believe that in order to develop a spiritual life. Spirituality can also be seen as a way to feel more content and at peace with your life. Developing a spiritual perspective means being willing to entertain the concept that you are more than just a physical being, but have complex emotional, social, and spiritual needs that factor into your health.

How then, do you improve your spiritual health? First, it might help you to assess your own spiritual health. Do you feel a sense of worth, hope, commitment, and peace? Do you have a positive outlook? If you feel despair, or entertain feelings of emptiness and conflict, these may be signs of spiritual unrest. Here are seven ways you can improve your spiritual health:

1. Take time for yourself each day. The amount of time isn't crucial. Walking or just sitting for fifteen minutes daily may be refreshing and energizing. You may want to include spiritual practices in your free time, such as meditation, praying, or yoga. The point is, spending time alone and away from persistent task-oriented activity gives you time to focus on your own spiritual well-being.

2. Manage your time. In this day and age, very little time is spent on personal interests. Learning to manage your time wisely allows you to lessen your anxiety and factor in some quality moments for yourself.

3. “Hug a tree.” Spending time in nature promotes feelings of solitude and peace. Eat your lunch on a patch of grass. Read a book in the shade. Or lie on a hammock and feel the breeze across your face. Having fresh flowers on your table is another way to let a little of the outside in. Brief interactions with nature can restore a sense of peace in an otherwise hectic world.

4. Recognize the endless possibilities. There is an endless amount to learn in this world. Buy a telescope and gaze at the stars. Learn to speak French. Study philosophy. Have you ever made a “Life List”? A Life List expresses all of the things you've always wanted to do. If you can't visit Spain right now, you can travel there on the Internet. You can learn to make paella. You can throw a party with sombreros and piñatas. The point is to engage your mind. No one should stop learning after graduating from high school or college.

5. Find meaning in the small things. In a world where bigger is best, we often overlook the simple grace and meaning in the small things. There's something to be said for a quiet afternoon reading the paper or making a cake from scratch. Many people with illnesses have reported a renewed sense of appreciation for things they once overlooked — something as simple as a sunset or the smell of a fire burning on a cold winter day.

6. Find a psychotherapist. A good therapist can help you strategize for the future and help you to identify roadblocks to your happiness. Also, learning to vent or share your feelings in a healthy way is imperative to your emotional well-being.

7. Set goals. Since you cannot change the fact that you have MS, it is important to identify the things you can change. What would make you happier in your life? How do you attain those things? Setting goals is imperative to your well-being, as long as you don't become too task orientated. When you identify some manageable goals you start to challenge yourself. You use your mind and creative energy to put your life in motion.

Changing your behaviors can improve your spiritual health. Seeking connections with others by joining a support group or volunteering can help you to feel more a part of your communities and thus less isolated. Practicing self-love and self-care is important, whether it be developing new hobbies, committing to an exercise routine, or spending time alone. It is important to always try to feel a greater sense of yourself.