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Cultivating Spirituality Using Positive Communication

Cultivating Non-Religious Spirituality using Internal and External Positive Communication

Sally B. Wyatt
University of NC at Greensboro CST460

Cultivating Spirituality Using Positive Communication

Abstract:
The following essay seeks to connect parallels between spirituality and positive communication.
After differentiating spirituality from religion, research support is used to expand on how
positive communication and mentality are used to promote core values of spirituality, unaffiliated
with particular religious beliefs. Spiritual values highlighted include: well-being, happiness and
optimism, gratitude, mindfulness, interconnectedness and love, acceptance, understanding,
mystic union, hope and resilience, and prayer. This chapter puts emphasis on how positivity and
its communication can provide spiritual solace.

Cultivating Spirituality Using Positive Communication

Introduction
The search for greater meaning in life seems to be a prescribed human trait. People everywhere
are constantly contemplating the complexities of existence and, regardless of the method, often
seek guidance from some sort of higher power or entity. This guidance takes the form of many
different spiritual or religious beliefs that structure values and actions, reassure doubts, and
provide light and strength during challenging times. These beliefs foster vitality and inner-peace
for individuals well-being and often contribute to building positive social bonds. Through
spiritual belief and practice, one achieves a sense of wholeness and better understanding for
themselves and the world around them. They find peace in the assurance of positive outcomes
for their commitment, and seek to share this peace with others. The belief of a deity or deities is
paralleled across most established religions. Ones concerns are soothed by the idea that there is
a supernatural being at work, who has their best interest in mind. Conventional religions allure
followers to commit themselves to these deities, beliefs, and practices with promises of positive
enlightenment. Though religious institutions have historically remained a foundational pillar
guiding human existence and behavior, their strict requirements and limiting beliefs are less
appealing to societys more contemporary and progressive thinkers. Despite this, the innate need
for some sort of spirituality to establish meaning in life is ever present and even increasing.
People feel obligated to label their belief systems, but are often alienated by strict outlines of
religion that dont completely apply to them. What is overlooked in this system, is that one can
lead an equally enlightened and spiritually positive life outside of the confines of established
religion. The benefits of religious beliefs can be sought and experienced without the written
guidelines of an abstract divinity. One can easily find deeper meaning in life through the use of
internal and external positive communication. The following composition seeks to explain how

Cultivating Spirituality Using Positive Communication

principles of positive communication and positive psychology can be applied to ones life in a
spiritual manner that facilitates the same, and even additional, advantages as institutionalized
religions.
Spirituality VS Religion
The terms spirituality and religion are often used seemingly interchangeably. However similar,
they are separate concepts that must be differentiated in order to best understand the following
concepts. Spirituality is a more broad and ambiguous term that can be universally applied to
individuals authentic inner experience. The Latin root of the word, spiritus, has to do with the
the animating or vital principle of a person (Csikszentmihalyi). The term implies the existence
of mysterious divine energy or force, but does not specify or emphasize this entity. This being
said, spirituality pertains to unique cognitive schemas that involve ultimate and personal truths
and provide a deep sense of belonging, wholeness, connectedness, and openness to the infinite
(Csikszentmihalyi). Spirituality promotes awareness of a transcendent dimension, by which a
person develops ways of being and experiencing that can be characterized by identifiable values
in regard to self, others, nature, life, and whatever else is considered ultimate (Csikszentmihalyi).
Spiritual transcendence is a subjective experience of the sacred that affects ones self
perception, feelings, goals, and ability to transcend difficulties (Csikszentmihalyi). In contrast
with religion, spirituality is more spontaneous, informal, creative, and individually unique. On
the other hand, the term religion entails more specifics. The concept is encompassed by
spirituality but distinguished more definitely. Religion implies the same spiritual structure
aforementioned, but is characterized by specific deities and explicitly stated philosophies,
practices, and expectations. These guidelines vary across different types of religions such as

Cultivating Spirituality Using Positive Communication

Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism, Islam, and many others. Like spirituality, religion
establishes values of the self, others, and nature that motivate behaviors and beliefs. A person can
be spiritual without being religious, but religion is the embodiment of a certain type of
spirituality. Spiritual laws envision a higher perspective that provides guidance to keep our lives
flowing smoothly and in the right direction (John-Roger). Both spirituality and religion serve as
a source of empowerment for believers.

Though specific details of religious and spiritual beliefs fluctuate greatly, similar major
principles and values are present across the board. Principles of well-being, gratitude,
mindfulness, love, cooperation, acceptance, understanding, mystic union, hope, and prayer are
central to most religious and spiritual beliefs (Gottlieb). Considering this, religious virtues can be
practiced spiritually without the acceptance of formal doctrines and are illustrated, internally and
externally, through positive communication. Positive psychology and communication address
well-being and satisfaction pertaining to the past; flow, joy, sensual pleasures, and happiness of
the present; and optimism, hope, and faith as constructive cognitions of the future (Snyder &
Lopez). Those who truly embrace positive psychology and communication, create meaning in
their lives that corresponds with religious and spiritual structure, and fulfills the same innate void
in ones life.
Well-Being
The main goal of any sort of belief system is ultimately to promote individual well-being. In
some ways, faith can be understood as a method of protection used to shield ourselves from
harsh realities and confusing aspects of the world. We use these ideas to shape our ideal selves
and the ideal world, and participate in behaviors that are hoped to eventually manifest these

Cultivating Spirituality Using Positive Communication

concepts in reality. The establishment of religious or spiritual beliefs is often due cultural
upbringing or need for purpose and guidance, especially during challenging circumstances.
Beliefs are bestowed upon us culturally or accepted willingly, with the intention that they will aid
in fulfilling our maximum human potential. Religion and spirituality are often used as a coping
method to enhance quality of life (Baesler, Derlega, & Lolley). Communication of positivity can
serve the same purpose in creating, maintaining, and improving personal well-being. Positive
psychology works to understand, test, discover, and promote factors that allow individuals and
communities to thrive (Hefferon & Boniwell). Research in this area outlines means of using
positive communication to realize our ideal selves and achieve desired outcomes in life. Hefferon
and Boniwell assert that the 6 major components for psychological well-being are selfacceptance, personal growth, purpose in life, positive relations with others, environmental
mastery, and autonomy. Ciarrochi and Kashdan add taking perspective, experiential acceptance,
behavioral control, and cognitive skill to the list of necessary components for wellbeing. Positive
self-talk and embracing the positive communication of others can be used to nurture selfacceptance. A positive disposition within ones self, especially when communicated others, offers
limitless opportunities for personal growth. Its not unreasonable to assert that ones purpose in
life could simply be to embody positive energy in a way that cultivates happiness within
themselves and others. Positive communication is undoubtedly the key source of substantial
relationships with others. In the process of putting to use positive communication skills and
maintaining a positive mental attitude, one acquires the wisdom and abilities necessary for
mastery of their environment. Positive spirituality allows room for autonomy that is often
neglected by conventional religions. Positivity itself is a spiritual perspective that requires
unconditional experiential acceptance, as well as self-acceptance. In embracing positive

Cultivating Spirituality Using Positive Communication

spirituality, one gains a more inclusive view of themselves, situations, and others so that they are
capable of conscious behavioral control. Researched guidelines for fostering and maintaining and
positive mental attitude and communicating this disposition is a corresponding manner also
guide behaviors. Through participation in positive spirituality, one has the opportunity to realize
and embrace cognitive abilities that would otherwise be overlooked. Individual control in
managing their well-being is fully realized through the use of positive communication.
Happiness and Optimism
Generally stated, the pursuit of happiness is a spiritual journey every individual partakes in
throughout their life. This spiritual pursuit is what gives life meaning. The concept of happiness
is subjectively understood. However, authentic happiness is often the ultimate goal and is
characterized by living a pleasurable, engaged, and meaningful life constructed through a mix of
eudemonic and hedonic well-being (Hefferon & Boniwell). Hedonistic pursuits are those that
maximize pleasure within the immediate moment. Satisfaction from this is short lived, and must
be partnered with eudemonic pursuits for long-term happiness. Eudemonic pursuits are when a
person acts in accordance with their central values in a way that facilitates long-term fulfillment.
Eudemonic happiness involves creating meaning and purpose in life and the actualization of
human potential (Hefferon & Boniwell). Religions often avoid hedonism and highlight the
importance of eudemonic pursuits, but a complete vision of authentic happiness requires active
participation in both.
Optimism is defined as the positive generalization of outcome expectancies (Brandt). The
concept of optimism often gets the reputation of naivety in failing to recognize and accept
negative aspects of life. On the contrary, optimists fully recognizes adversity, but chooses to
perceive it in a constructive manner rather than being hindered by it. Optimism assists

Cultivating Spirituality Using Positive Communication

individuals in protecting and increasing psychological well-being by fostering positive mood
(Brandt). Optimism offers opportunity to adopt healthier attitudes that manifest themselves
physically. Studies have shown that optimism is protective against somatic and mental illnesses,
enhances coping strategies, lowers levels of stress anxiety and depression, minimizes intensity of
pain, decreases risk of mortality, slows disease progression, and bolsters psychological
adjustment (Brandt). Optimistic attitudes have direct beneficial influence a persons perceived
quality of life (Brandt). In addition to this, optimistic outlooks allow for recognition of the
opportunity to love, grow, create, share, and help others (Emmons & Hill). Those who cultivate
optimism within themselves and communicate it to the world, experience frequent and intense
episodes of pleasant and pleasurable mood and are generally more cheerful, enthusiastic,
energetic, confident, and alert (Watson). Religious institutions aim to instill optimistic
mentalities amongst followers often appeals to those in need of spiritual guidance. However, this
mentality does not require the governance of any authority other than ones self.
Areas where research could be extended pertaining to this section include studies of differences
in the cultivation of optimism between individuals and the negative effects of optimism (Brandt).
Gratitude
Gratitude can be defined as a psychological state of wonder, thankfulness, and appreciation for
life and benevolence that is empirically linked with positive emotions such as contentment,
happiness, pride, and hope (Emmons & Shelton). The first step in achieving spiritual fulfillment
is found in appreciating our existing blessings and recognizing that there are sources other than
ourselves making contributions to our ultimate wellbeing. Making sure that thanks is positively
communicated, both internally and externally to concrete and supernatural sources of
benevolence, is a spiritual requirement. One does not need religious doctrines to assign a

Cultivating Spirituality Using Positive Communication

recipient or method of this thankful recognition. Each individual is responsible for determining
what they are grateful for and how and to whom they express it. Positive spirituality only
requires that complete gratitude be expressed in ways seen best fit.
A favored opinion amongst the spiritual community is that life is gift that we must constantly
me grateful for (Emmons & Hill). Gratitude is a highly prized human disposition in all major
organized religions. There is a consensus among worlds religious and ethical leaders that
people are obligated to feel and express gratitude in response to received benefits regardless of
specific religious affiliations and beliefs (Emmons & Shelton). Gratitude serves as a positive
affective hallmark of spirituality and those who are spiritual have a stronger disposition for
gratitude (Csikszentmihalyi). However, gratitude, like other virtues, is not naturally or
spontaneously occurring. Gratitude is said to be the undercurrent of the human experience
(Emmons & Hill). It is taught by instilling a positive outlook and using positive communication
practices throughout the experience and appreciation of life. Gratitude, and other virtues, are
gradually acquired through sustained focus and effort (Emmons & Shelton). Gratefulness leads
to peace of mind, happiness, improved physical health, and deeper and more satisfying
relationships (Emmons & Shelton). Despite gratitudes prominent position as a universal virtue,
blessings are often taken for granted because of suffering and misery. Ingratitude is harshly
criticized and is perceived as narcissistic (Emmons & Shelton). This is illustrated by the ancient
saying that Ungrateful people are already dead (Schlitt). Gratitude and generosity are the ways
in which we enter widely varying, enriching, and supportive relationships with one another
(Schlitt). When a person chooses not to show appreciation, its take it offensively and these
people are often alienated. The importance of gratitude is central a wide array of wise, ancient
proverbs (Emmons & Hill). It is a simple concept that possesses passionate and transformative

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force (Emmons & Shelton). Only those who embrace an attitude of gratitude are cognoscente of
spiritual tranquility that is associated with the virtue. Gratitude opens the door to heavenly gifts
and unlocks the fullness of life (Emmons & Hill) It bonds a healthy society by building and
strengthening social bonds and friendships (Emmons & Hill) Prayers of thanksgiving put things
in perspective for believers of all types of faith (Day) Gratitude is expressed and experienced
through positive communication and a central unit is fostering positive spirituality. Gratitude is
important not only in itself, but also because leads to other positive subjective experiences
(Emmons & Shelton). It is completely possible to experience gratitude absent of a definitive
source. Gratitude can, and should, occur unaffiliated with specific religions. A positively spiritual
person feels compelled to positively communicate gratitude by any means necessary and
applicable to their circumstance. It is in fact, the thought that counts.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a philosophical, psychological, spiritual tradition that enhances awareness and
attention of the present moment and improves ones quality of consciousness (Csikszentmihalyi).
Ciarrochi and Kashdan define it similarly as the contemplation, acceptance, and contact with the
present moment. It is this conscious focus on the moment, not the idealization of the future, that
makes life more fulfilling, meaningful, and productive (Emmons & Shelton). Practicing
mindfulness involves paying attention to openness, curiosity, and flexibility and doing so reduces
levels of stress and depression, increases emotional intelligence, and enhances performance
(Ciarrochi & Kashdan) Mindfulness helps us to completely process our experiences. This
conscious presence in the moment helps us deal with painful thoughts and feelings effectively
(Ciarrochi & Kashdan). A person does not need a religious text to instruct them on embracing
their experiences and emotions. Mindfulness is a conscious attitude expressed through actions

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and should be put into practice by anyone who considers themselves to be spiritual (Emmons &
Hill). Mindfulness is a fundamental aspect of perceiving the world with a positive mentality and
then successfully communicating that positivity in understandable ways.
Interconnectedness and Love
Humans possess an innate need to communicate and receive feelings of love and unity. Without
this dimension of existence, life loses purpose. It is a spiritual truth love is better than
selfishness (Gottlieb) Religious ideologies share the belief that god needs humans to partner in
the process of development (Rubin). Beliefs are values that are perceived as central to ones
sense of identity and feelings of meaningfulness within social groups (Day). One of the major
reasons for adopting religious or spiritual beliefs is the opportunity for social support (Baesler,
Derlega, & Lolley). Positive spirituality asserts that it is the centering of individuals and
collective life around dynamic patterns of goals that make life meaningful, valuable, and worth
living (Csikszentmihalyi). Our outlook on positivity connects to our capacity for love (Ciarrochi
& Kashdan). A positive person is more inclined to feel love and accept care from others and also
more likely to express feelings of love and interconnectedness with others (Emmons & Shelton).
A positive mindset and the ability to communicate positively towards others is all that is
necessary for embracing interconnectedness and feelings of love. Using positive communication
to indicate, express, and build the connections that we feel with one another is key to spirituality.
Part of practicing positive spirituality is awareness of interconnectedness, unity within diversity,
and recognizing patterns within the whole (Csikszentmihalyi). A spiritual person constantly
considers their place in a much more complex web of interdependence and strives to make
connections across diverse differences because of this unity. Positive psychology focuses on
relationships and well-being amongst groups just as much as it does individuals (Hefferon &

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Boniwell). Through developing positive spirituality within ourselves and communicating it
outward, we radiate positive spiritual energy to others. Csikszentmihalyi tells us that positive
development is synergetic, meaning it benefits the self and surrounding others equally. In this
way, spirituality is a source of relationships and resources (Rubin)
Positive emotions broaden cognition and increases social bonds that are fundamental in
developing the mindset, skills, and resources needed for survival (Ciarrochi & Kashdan) Positive
thinking and communication provide skills to deal with the world and others in the most
constructive manner (Brandt). It promotes forgiveness, responsibility, nurturance, altruism
civility, tolerance, and work ethic which are all core aspects are strengthening bonds with others
(Ciarrochi & Kashdan) Compassion, another core value that is related to religion and positive
communication in this area, is the sensitivity to the experience of suffering paired with the deep
desire to alleviate this suffering (Ciarrochi & Kashdan). Feelings and expressions of compassion
stem from our shared values in interconnectedness and love. On the contrary, negative mentality
facilitates feelings for isolation and alienation (Emmons & Hill).
Streng stated, in 1989, that people with a positive spiritual mindset recognize that they are
connected with each other in a mysterious and miraculous way that is not fully determinable by
physical forces, but is part of a wider or transcendent context. One does not need a religious
context to understand and appreciate their connection with others in the world, this is a value that
comes innately. What is more important, is possessing the open and objective mentality and
along with a set of positive communication skills in order to harness the spiritual power of
interconnectedness and love.

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Acceptance
To resolve spiritual peace, one must unconditionally accept their current selves and situation.
Until then, a person cannot spiritually progress. Life is abundant with unexpected events that
pose challenges in self and situational acceptance (Brandt). It is often this unpredictability that
leads us to seek spiritual or religious guidance on how to do so. We struggle to accept things
unfamiliar and uncomfortable to us. But, those who refuse to accept whats happening around
and within them disregard true spiritual awareness (John-Roger). Acceptance of the inevitable is
fundamental in spirituality (Csikszentmihalyi). In order to do so, we must believe that good can
and will come, even when we cannot understand our own suffering or the suffering of others
(Emmons & Hill). We must use our arsenal of tools for positive communication as a means of
negotiating how to accept situation and self as is, and simultaneously realize that even though we
cant control what happens to us, but can control the response (John-Roger). This is an essential
premise of positive spirituality. Accepting responsibility for positive outcomes is a choice thats
made within ourselves and is fundamental in having optimal control over oneself (Emmons &
Shelton). Positivity is an irreplaceable instrument used in crisis management (Brandt). Using
positive communication we can repair the worst and build the best qualities of life (Snyder &
Lopez). Positive people possess more psychic maneuverability, are less defensive, and more
open to life experiences which fosters an optimal atmosphere of acceptance (Emmons &
Shelton). There is no growth without acceptance. It is imperative to look at situations as stepping
stone within a bigger picture. One must focus beyond self and immediate desires, accept reality
and go with the flow in order to experience genuine spirituality (John-Roger).

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Understanding
A major appeal of religious and spiritual beliefs is the unique level of perceived understanding
that it provides us. Understanding helps one to feel centered and brings a sense of peace and
tranquility (John-Roger) One should try to view the world without negative judgement in a
way that circumnavigates our conditioning that distorts our perceived reality (John-Roger)
Conveying spirituality through positive communication involves standing outside immediate
send of time and place to view life from a larger and more objective perspective in order to see
the fundamental unity underlying the diverse strivings of nature (Csikszentmihalyi). Religion
and spiritual beliefs often exist to assist in coping with stress and hardship (Baesler, Derlega, &
Lolley). Emotions often influence the context and conviction of beliefs (Ciarrochi & Kashdan)
Instead of illustrating an ambiguous and abstract frame of understanding like religions, positive
psychology works to adapt a sort of scientific method to aid in solving the unique problems that
human behavior presents in all its complexity (Snyder & Lopez). Positivity helps us to deal with
problems in a constructive manner, keep our coping stills active, and use these skills to achieve
long and short term goals (Brandt). Positive communication teaches us to regulate behavior that
is consistent with values (Ciarrochi & Kashdan).
Reactions to situations are dependent on interpretation of our problems (Brandt). How we
interpret issues is determined by our explanatory style. One must have a positive outlook to fully
understand and perceive challenges objectively. In fully understanding circumstances, a
positively spiritual person sees that challenges include possibilities for success and satisfaction
such as building problem solving abilities, creating new goals, and allowing the opportunity for
personal development (Brandt).

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Mystic Union
Belief in some sort of higher power helps people to put into perspective their place in reality.
Value of mystic union is a grounding source in life (Lynch). Most religious and spiritual
believers enjoy the idea that there is a benevolent, invisible entity ultimately controlling the fate
of mankind. Religious followers often claim that their relationship with God provides faith, hope,
trust, and strength (Baesler, Derlega, & Lolley). HIV patients discussed by Baesler, Derlega, &
Lolley mention that they found emotional comfort in belief that there was a higher power that
cared for them (261). Traditional religions often conceptualize this divine entity as a human-like
figure that is constantly aware and in control of all the happenings on Earth. This is the place that
many unload the unwanted responsibility of their fate and attribute the greater meaning of their
misunderstandings of the world around them.
Positive spirituality differs greatly in the area of belief. Instead of assuming characteristics of a
specific God, positive spirituality understands the higher power to be the abstract collection of
energy that we are all a part of. Instead of perceiving an identifiable deity, adopts the idea from
quantum physics that the cosmos as a field of energy and god is no separate entity (Rubin).
Positive spirituality assumes that life is guided by an over-arching field of energy that we are
intertwined with. The true power and meaning behind this force is inconceivable with mere
human intelligence, but it is felt within ones being. Our relationship with this force is determined
by the types of positive or negative energy we elicit in the world. Thus, by using positive
psychology and positive communication to guide our behaviors, we foster a mutually beneficial
relationship with this power and also take autonomy in our own fate. We can be reassured that

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the guiding energy will balance positive and negative aspects in life as long as we are guided by
our internal instincts.
Hope and Resilience
The hope and resilience fostered by spiritual belief is another of its major appeals. Many
followers commit themselves to religious belief system in hopes that it will grant them the hope
and resilience to overcome challenging circumstances. Positive spirituality observes how
optimistic mindset plays a moderating role in fostering hope and how positivity functions as a
source of motivation and encourages us to make continuous attempts at reaching our goals
(Brandt) Like other major belief systems, positive spirituality possesses a unique and
empowering function for stability and support (Csikszentmihalyi). Optimism entails positive
outcome expectancy that contributes to ones sense confidence and perceived control.
Maintaining a positive outlook on life fosters agency, the determination to achieve goals, and the
belief that many pathways to a desired outcome can be generated (Hefferon & Boniwell).
Agency is the belief that one can begin and sustain movement along the envisioned pathway
towards a given goal (Hefferon & Boniwell). Ciarrochi & Kashdan contend that, when
harnessed intentionally, positive mental states are key in developing the resilience needed to
propel one in the direction of a (more) meaningful life. In this way, positive spirituality aides
hope and resilience during challenging times in a way much like religion.
Prayer
Prayer is considered positive communication in itself. The word conveys the act of some sort of
cognitive discussion with a higher power regarding life experiences. Prayer provides a
substantial form of expressional release and is a practice of most religious establishments. Many

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forms of prayer exist separate from an assigned religion (Day). People participate in petitionary
prayers (asking for help from the divine), confessional prayer, and prayers of thanks and
gratitude. Meditation is a form of introspective prayer.
Prayer is used as a method of coping and a type of social processing (Snyder & Lopez) (Baesler,
Derlega, & Lolley) (Day). It has been observed that inhibition regarding the discussion of
emotional upheavals is ultimately unhealthy (Snyder & Lopez). Prayer involves serious
contemplation of self, others, situations and is symbolic of some sort of relationship with a
divine entity (Day). Discussing experiences, especially traumatic ones, increases ones ability to
understand and integrate perceived reasoning for these experiences into our future (Snyder &
Lopez). Positive spirituality does not put requirements on how one prays. It advises against the
congestion of internal feelings and suggests the importance of taking time out of life to
consciously reflect and express internal feelings using positive communication conventionally
labeled prayer.
Conclusion
Spirituality is a nonmaterial outlook on the universe that highlights common values but is unique
to the individual and high in authenticity. It emphasizes personal centeredness, balance, and
wisdom (Rubin). The yearning for spirituality transcends religion and spans all walks of life
(Rubin).Human beings are inclined to be meaning makers (Day) (Ciarrochi & Kashdan). In
order to make sense of the world around us we assign meaning structures such as religion.
However, society over emphasizes intellect and focuses on material things (John-Roger). We
assume more than we know based off of our experiences, but common assumptions are still
generally accepted as truths. Positive spirituality seeks to avoid these material assumptions and
instead be guided by universal spiritual values that are embodied by definable positive mentality

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and communication. Spiritual quest can be seen as an expansion of self that opens to and
merges with the world it is embedded within. It fills a void and provides meaningful answers to
questions of ultimate concern (Rubin). This spiritual quest is undertaken using positive
communication skills internally and externally.
Religion can be seen as a boring and oppressive institution in comparison to spirituality. Many
people are driven to religious beliefs for the notion of salvation, failing to recognize that
salvation cannot be guaranteed by any belief system (Day). A growing number of young adults
do not identify with a specific religion. Many people are inarticulate and inconsistent in regards
to their faith, religious beliefs, practices, meaning, and spiritual place in life. Society is
witnessing a growing interest in alternative traditions (Lynch). A common practice among those
who consider themselves somewhat spiritual seems to be moralistic therapeutic deism which
asserts some type of God that wants people to be good to each other, agrees that the point of life
is to be happy and feel good about oneself, deities are called on primarily during problems, and
there is some notion of positive or negative afterlife (Lynch). It is increasingly realized that
spirituality does not require special equipment or personnel (Baesler, Derlega, & Lolley).
This illustrates the ambiguity of spiritual beliefs. Positive spirituality is more applicable to these
people than any established religion.
Spirituality provides an ultimate vision of what people are striving for and strategies to reach
ends and allows for flexibility amongst individuals (Csikszentmihalyi). Spiritual practice is
often used to create a positive outlook on life but it would be just as logical to use a positive
outlook on life to foster spirituality in life (Emmons & Hill). Our actions are the embodiments of
our beliefs (Day). Reoccurring spiritual ideas demonstrate what values and beliefs are most
influential in shaping our lives in a positive manner. (Lynch) Application of positive

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communication and psychology in a spiritual manner makes sense of the clusters of similar
values and beliefs across religions in a way that universally coincides with the human
experience.

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