Why more and more people turning to spiritual practices and what they really seeking

Why the search for silence can become an illusion

The world moves faster than ever, and we live amid constant change, facing uncertainty and difficult emotions. Increasingly, people look to spirituality for stability, as if seeking an "island of silence" amid the storm. But often, this need turns into an illusion.

"The spiritual industry sometimes offers a simple answer — to dismiss negative emotions, stay calm, not get angry, not feel sadness. This phenomenon is called toxic spirituality — when, instead of growth, there is an escape from reality," the expert explains.

How suppressing emotions can be harmful

She notes that, according to neuropsychology, emotions exist not to be ignored but to guide us in the world.

"Trying to silence them creates even greater internal stress. True spirituality is not about avoidance, but about integration. We live in a world of dualities. Joy and sorrow, confidence and doubt, love and fear can coexist in the same day, even in the same moment. Spirituality is not about erasing this duality, but about learning to maintain balance — as if walking a tightrope stretched between the skyscrapers of our experiences," says Anna Bohomolets.

What people are seeking in spiritual practices

She explained that when people turn to spiritual practices, they are not simply looking for calm.

"In reality, they are seeking the right to be whole — to fully accept themselves, with the full spectrum of emotions. True inner strength is born from this, not from artificial 'harmony,'" the psychologist concludes.

Six reasons why people turn to spiritual practices

Calm amid chaos

Constant stress and hustle, deadlines, and endless daily tasks push people to seek silence — not outside, but within themselves. Meditation, breathing exercises, and spiritual practices help organize thoughts and reduce anxiety levels.

Search for meaning

At certain points, people begin to reflect on the fact that life is not only about focusing on career and material things. Spiritual practices provide an opportunity to ask questions like, "Who am I?" and "What really matters?"

Self-discovery

Yoga, retreats, spiritual and breathing practices — all of these are paths to recognizing one’s emotions, fears, and behavioral patterns, and learning to manage them.

Communities

Incorporating spiritual practices into one’s life allows people to find a community — like-minded individuals and a safe space to share experiences and receive support.

Psychological healing

Spiritual practices help restore balance, reduce anxiety and fatigue, and teach people to cope with difficulties independently.

Connection to the unseen

Another reason people seek spiritual practices is the desire to feel unity with the world. This does not necessarily have to involve any specific religion; the key is to experience something greater than everyday life.