Spiritual Awakening Books for Beginners A Guide

Spiritual awakening books for beginners offer a gateway to self-discovery and personal growth. These books explore the fascinating journey of inner transformation, revealing common signs and experiences. From understanding the nuances of spiritual awakening to recognizing its distinction from other personal development concepts, this guide delves into the world of enlightening texts, offering practical advice and insights for those embarking on this profound path.

This exploration will cover various types of spiritual awakening books, examining their genres, target audiences, and core concepts. We’ll also uncover essential elements for a beginner-friendly book, along with common challenges and misconceptions. Ultimately, this guide empowers readers to navigate the world of spiritual awakening literature, choose the right book, and embark on their own unique journey.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Spiritual Awakening

Embarking on a journey of self-discovery often leads to a profound shift in perspective. This shift, known as spiritual awakening, is a transformative experience that can profoundly impact one’s life. It’s a journey inward, a blossoming of awareness, and a deep connection to something larger than oneself. It’s not a destination but a continuous process of growth and understanding.Spiritual awakening isn’t about achieving some mystical state, but rather about expanding your awareness and connection to the world and yourself.

It’s about moving beyond the limitations of ego and embracing a more holistic and meaningful existence. It often involves a shift in values, priorities, and a deeper understanding of your purpose.

Defining Spiritual Awakening

Spiritual awakening is a profound shift in consciousness, often characterized by a heightened sense of awareness, connection, and purpose. It’s a journey of self-discovery that transcends the boundaries of the material world. This awakening is a gradual process, not a sudden event. It is a transformation of perception and a deeper understanding of one’s place in the universe.

This awareness can lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Common Signs and Experiences

Experiencing a shift in perspective, a growing sense of connection to something larger than oneself, and a profound change in values are common characteristics of a spiritual awakening. This awakening often involves a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things. This journey of self-discovery can lead to a renewed sense of purpose and a greater appreciation for life.

Distinguishing Spiritual Awakening from Other Concepts

Spiritual awakening is distinct from personal growth or self-help initiatives. While personal growth and self-help techniques can be beneficial tools in a journey of spiritual awakening, they are not inherently spiritual awakenings. Personal growth focuses on improving specific areas of one’s life, whereas spiritual awakening often involves a more profound shift in perspective and a deeper connection to something larger than oneself.

Self-help focuses on practical tools and techniques for improvement, while spiritual awakening is a deeper, more existential experience. Both can contribute to a fulfilling life, but they differ in their focus and scope.

Comparing Spiritual Awakening with Other Concepts

Sign	Description	Potential Cause	How to Recognize
Increased Empathy and Compassion	Feeling a stronger connection to others, understanding their perspectives, and experiencing a heightened sense of empathy.	Shifting focus from personal needs to a larger perspective, deepening awareness of interconnectedness.	Notice if you’re more attuned to others’ emotions and needs. Actively seeking to understand different viewpoints.
Deepening Intuition	Developing a heightened sense of inner knowing, trusting gut feelings, and experiencing a stronger connection to your inner wisdom.	Increased mindfulness, quieting the ego, and accessing a deeper level of self-awareness.	Notice if you’re more attuned to subtle cues and have a growing trust in your instincts.
Shifting Values and Priorities	A reevaluation of what matters most, leading to a prioritization of meaningful experiences and personal growth over material possessions or external validation.	A deeper understanding of purpose and meaning, recognizing the impermanence of material things.	Assess if your priorities have shifted from external validation to internal fulfillment.
Increased Mindfulness and Presence	Becoming more aware of the present moment, paying attention to details, and experiencing a greater sense of connection to the present.	Cultivating practices like meditation or mindfulness, reducing distractions and focusing on the present.	Notice if you’re more attuned to the present moment, less caught up in thoughts about the past or future.

Types of Spiritual Awakening Books

Embarking on a spiritual journey can be an exciting and transformative experience. Books play a crucial role in guiding beginners, offering diverse perspectives and practical tools for personal growth. This exploration delves into the various genres of spiritual awakening books, illuminating the diverse approaches they employ.Navigating the landscape of spiritual awakening literature can feel overwhelming. Different books cater to different needs and interests, from the deeply philosophical to the intensely practical.

Understanding the various types can help readers select resources that resonate with their individual journeys and aspirations.

Genres of Spiritual Awakening Books

Spiritual awakening books cater to a wide range of interests and approaches. They can be categorized into several genres, each with its unique focus and style. Understanding these genres can help readers find books that best suit their needs.

New Age books often focus on holistic well-being, incorporating elements of various spiritual traditions, including Eastern philosophies. They frequently explore concepts like energy healing, intuitive development, and connecting with nature. These books often emphasize self-discovery and personal empowerment, drawing inspiration from a blend of ancient wisdom and modern insights.
Mindfulness books emphasize the practice of present-moment awareness. They often provide guided meditations, exercises, and techniques for cultivating mindfulness in daily life. These books typically focus on reducing stress, improving focus, and cultivating inner peace.
Self-Help books frequently offer practical strategies and actionable steps for personal growth. They often incorporate elements of psychology, motivation, and goal setting to help readers develop specific skills and overcome challenges. These books emphasize taking concrete steps toward desired outcomes.

Target Audiences for Each Genre

Understanding the target audience for each genre can help readers select books that best suit their needs and aspirations. The target audience for a spiritual awakening book can be quite diverse. These audiences are often united by a shared interest in personal growth and self-discovery, but they differ in their prior knowledge and desired outcomes.

New Age books often attract individuals seeking holistic approaches to well-being, those open to exploring different spiritual traditions, and those who are interested in expanding their consciousness. These books often appeal to those drawn to a wider range of spiritual practices and perspectives.
Mindfulness books frequently appeal to individuals seeking stress reduction, improved focus, and a deeper connection to their inner selves. They often attract those seeking to cultivate inner peace and develop a greater sense of calm in their daily lives.
Self-help books appeal to those wanting concrete strategies and actionable steps for personal growth, often targeting individuals who want to address specific challenges or improve specific areas of their lives.

Approaches to Spiritual Awakening Books

Different books employ varying approaches to guide readers on their spiritual journeys. These approaches influence the style, content, and overall tone of the book.

Philosophical approaches explore the theoretical underpinnings of spiritual concepts. They delve into the historical and philosophical context of different spiritual traditions. These books often require a more active engagement with ideas and concepts.
Experiential approaches often focus on personal narratives and guided practices to foster a deeper connection with one’s inner self. They frequently encourage introspection and self-reflection to encourage profound understanding.
Practical approaches offer actionable strategies and techniques for integrating spiritual principles into daily life. They emphasize concrete steps and practical applications to enhance daily experiences.

Categorization of Spiritual Awakening Books

This table provides a concise overview of the various genres, their focus, and typical content.

Genre	Focus	Typical Content
New Age	Holistic well-being, spiritual exploration	Energy healing, intuitive development, nature connection, Eastern philosophies
Mindfulness	Present moment awareness, stress reduction	Guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, techniques for focus, inner peace
Self-Help	Personal growth, actionable strategies	Practical steps for overcoming challenges, goal setting, skill development

Key Concepts in Spiritual Awakening Books

Embarking on a spiritual journey often feels like venturing into a vast and uncharted territory. Spiritual awakening books for beginners act as insightful guides, offering a roadmap through this transformative process. They provide essential frameworks and tools to understand the intricate concepts and practices that underpin personal growth and self-discovery. These books often delve into the profound aspects of consciousness, mindfulness, and personal development.These books often emphasize the interconnectedness of all things, prompting readers to explore their inner landscapes and cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

This exploration frequently leads to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Common Themes in Spiritual Awakening

Spiritual awakening books often explore universal themes, prompting reflection on the nature of reality, purpose, and the human condition. These books often touch upon core principles, practices, and techniques to help readers navigate their own spiritual journeys. A keen understanding of these themes can be a vital step towards personal transformation.

The Nature of Reality: These books frequently delve into the multifaceted nature of reality, exploring concepts like interconnectedness, illusion, and the illusion of separation. These discussions often promote a sense of unity and interconnectedness, which can profoundly influence how we perceive ourselves and the world around us.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Cultivating mindfulness is often presented as a cornerstone of spiritual awakening. The ability to observe one’s thoughts and emotions without judgment is emphasized. Meditation practices, whether formal or informal, are frequently introduced as tools to foster this awareness and tranquility.
Energy and Consciousness: The books may touch upon the concept of subtle energies, chakras, and their influence on our well-being. Understanding how energy flows and how we can work with it to harmonize ourselves is often presented as a vital aspect of personal growth.
Personal Responsibility and Growth: The books may emphasize the role of personal responsibility in shaping our experiences and outcomes. This includes accepting accountability for our actions, choices, and beliefs, thereby facilitating self-improvement and growth.
Transformation and Acceptance: A core theme is the exploration of our inner world. This often includes confronting our fears, insecurities, and limiting beliefs. Spiritual awakening books often emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and the journey towards wholeness.

Core Principles of Spirituality

These core principles form the foundation of many spiritual awakening journeys. Understanding these principles can illuminate the path towards a more profound connection with oneself and the universe.

Non-Judgment: Embracing non-judgmental awareness of thoughts and emotions is often presented as a crucial step towards self-understanding and emotional balance.
Self-Compassion: Cultivating self-compassion, understanding our own flaws and limitations, is highlighted as an essential component of personal growth.
Gratitude: Appreciating the good things in life, fostering a sense of gratitude, is often emphasized as a key to inner peace and contentment.

Common Practices and Techniques

Spiritual awakening books for beginners often introduce practical tools to support the journey. These techniques range from simple mindfulness exercises to more complex practices.

Meditation: Various meditation techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, loving-kindness meditation, and guided meditations, are frequently presented as methods to quiet the mind and connect with inner peace.
Journaling: Regular journaling is often encouraged as a means to reflect on thoughts, emotions, and experiences, facilitating self-discovery and personal growth.
Yoga and Movement Practices: Yoga, Tai Chi, and other movement practices are frequently highlighted for their potential to connect mind, body, and spirit.
Connecting with Nature: Engaging with nature, through walks, contemplation, or simply appreciating the beauty around us, is frequently presented as a way to connect with the larger world and foster a sense of awe and wonder.

Key Concepts Table

This table Artikels five key concepts central to spiritual awakening, their definitions, and their relevance to personal growth.

Key Concept	Definition	Relevance to Spiritual Awakening
Mindfulness	The practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment.	Cultivating mindfulness helps us become more aware of our thoughts, feelings, and sensations, fostering a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us.
Self-Acceptance	Embracing our strengths and weaknesses, flaws and imperfections, without judgment or self-criticism.	Self-acceptance is fundamental to emotional well-being and spiritual growth. It allows us to move beyond self-imposed limitations and embrace our authentic selves.
Inner Peace	A state of tranquility and calmness, free from internal conflict and external pressures.	Achieving inner peace is a core goal of spiritual awakening. It allows us to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and clarity.
Interconnectedness	The understanding that all things are interconnected and interdependent.	Recognizing interconnectedness promotes compassion, empathy, and a sense of belonging to something larger than ourselves.
Purpose	A sense of direction and meaning in life.	Discovering our purpose is a key aspect of spiritual growth, as it allows us to align our actions with our values and contribute to something larger than ourselves.

Essential Elements of a Good Spiritual Awakening Book

Embarking on a spiritual journey can be exhilarating, but navigating the vast landscape of self-discovery requires a reliable compass. A good spiritual awakening book acts as a helpful guide, illuminating the path with clarity and fostering a deeper understanding. These books are more than just collections of wisdom; they’re catalysts for personal transformation.A truly effective guide will not just present ideas but will empower readers to integrate them into their daily lives.

It will resonate with readers on a personal level, sparking curiosity and encouraging exploration, not just passively presenting information. The book should nurture a sense of hope and empowerment rather than fear or doubt.

Language and Style

Effective communication is paramount in a spiritual awakening book. The language should be accessible and engaging, avoiding jargon or overly complex terminology. Using metaphors, analogies, and relatable stories can make abstract concepts more concrete and understandable. A conversational tone can foster a sense of connection and make the reader feel like they’re having a meaningful conversation with the author.

A well-crafted narrative can draw the reader into the journey, making the concepts more vivid and memorable. Furthermore, the writing style should reflect the book’s intended audience. A formal tone might not resonate with all readers, and a playful approach could be better suited for a younger or more open-minded audience.

Inclusivity and Sensitivity

A truly helpful book recognizes the diversity of human experiences and beliefs. It avoids perpetuating harmful stereotypes or biases, and embraces inclusivity in its approach to spiritual concepts. A good book respects different traditions and perspectives, acknowledging the wide range of paths toward spiritual growth. It should be mindful of cultural sensitivities and avoid concepts that could potentially trigger harm or offense.

The language and examples used must be respectful and considerate, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all readers. Respectful discussions of various spiritual practices and beliefs are essential for a well-rounded approach.

Ten Essential Elements for a Beginner-Friendly Book

A good spiritual awakening book should be designed to support readers, offering them practical tools and actionable advice. A structured and comprehensive approach, while engaging, is key to making complex concepts accessible.

Clear and Concise Language: Avoid overly complex jargon and use accessible language. Emphasize clarity to prevent confusion.
Relatable Examples and Stories: Illustrate concepts with relatable examples and stories to make them more understandable and engaging.
Practical Exercises and Meditations: Include guided meditations and practical exercises to help readers integrate the concepts into their daily lives.
Mindful Storytelling: Use stories to illustrate concepts and to build a sense of community among readers.
Thought-Provoking Questions: Encourage readers to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs through thoughtful questions.
A Balanced Perspective: Avoid dogma or exclusive claims. Present a balanced and inclusive view of spiritual practices and beliefs.
Emphasis on Self-Discovery: Focus on the journey of self-discovery and personal growth, not on specific outcomes or beliefs.
Accessibility and Inclusivity: Make the book accessible to diverse readers with varying backgrounds and beliefs.
Respect for Different Paths: Acknowledge and respect the diversity of spiritual journeys and beliefs.
Emphasis on Positive Affirmations: Use positive and uplifting language to cultivate hope and empowerment.

Common Challenges and Misconceptions: Spiritual Awakening Books For Beginners

Embarking on a spiritual awakening journey is often a beautiful, yet sometimes bewildering, adventure. It’s a path paved with personal growth, but also littered with potential stumbling blocks. Understanding these common challenges and misconceptions can empower you to navigate the terrain more effectively and embrace the journey with greater clarity and resilience. Many find the path to their true selves through this experience, a journey of profound self-discovery.Navigating the labyrinth of spiritual concepts can be challenging.

Often, we encounter misleading information or our own preconceived notions that obstruct our progress. Recognizing these pitfalls and misconceptions is the first step toward a more fulfilling spiritual experience. Understanding these hurdles allows us to address them constructively, fostering personal growth and a deeper connection with our inner selves.

Common Misconceptions about Spiritual Awakening

Spiritual awakening is not a sudden, dramatic event, nor is it a destination to be achieved. It’s a gradual process of self-discovery, characterized by subtle shifts in perspective and a growing awareness of one’s inner wisdom. It’s a continuous evolution, not a single, monumental experience. Often, individuals expect a singular, dramatic shift, overlooking the ongoing process of growth and integration.

Potential Pitfalls and Obstacles

The path to spiritual awakening is not without its obstacles. One frequent pitfall is the expectation of instant transformation. Another is the temptation to seek external validation for one’s experiences, rather than trusting the inner compass. The journey often involves facing unresolved emotional patterns and past traumas. This process can be emotionally challenging, and it’s essential to approach it with compassion and understanding.

Emotional and Mental Challenges

Spiritual awakening can evoke a range of emotions, from profound joy and peace to anxiety and fear. These shifts in emotional landscape are a natural part of the process. Learning to navigate these emotions with awareness and acceptance is crucial. Individuals may experience periods of self-doubt or questioning, leading to a temporary sense of instability. These are often opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery.

It’s important to remember that the journey is about self-acceptance and self-understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Spiritual awakening is a deeply personal journey, and questions are inevitable. The following answers address some of the most common inquiries:

Is spiritual awakening a religious experience? Spiritual awakening is not tied to any specific religion. It’s a universal human experience that can be explored regardless of religious affiliation. It is an inner journey toward self-discovery and a connection to something greater than oneself.
Can spiritual awakening be triggered? While external events can trigger self-reflection, spiritual awakening is primarily an internal process. It arises from within, often as a result of self-reflection and self-discovery.
Is spiritual awakening always positive? The process can involve periods of discomfort and challenges, as individuals confront unresolved issues and beliefs. However, these experiences can lead to profound growth and a deeper understanding of oneself.
What role does meditation play in spiritual awakening? Meditation can be a valuable tool in promoting self-awareness, inner peace, and a deeper connection to one’s inner wisdom. It facilitates the process of self-reflection and emotional regulation.

How to Choose a Book

9 Best Books for Spiritual Awakening | 99 Acorns - Blog

Embarking on a spiritual journey is a deeply personal experience, and choosing the right book can be a significant step in that process. It’s like selecting a compass; you want one that points you in the direction you truly desire, not one that leads you astray. This section will guide you through the process of selecting a book that resonates with your unique needs and aspirations.Navigating the vast landscape of spiritual awakening literature can feel overwhelming.

But with a thoughtful approach, you can confidently select a book that fosters your growth and supports your journey. This framework provides a practical and insightful method for evaluating books and making informed decisions.

Assessing Author Credibility

The author’s background and experience significantly influence the book’s value. A strong foundation in spirituality, coupled with a demonstrated ability to communicate complex concepts clearly, are essential. Look for authors who have personal experience with spiritual practices and can offer practical insights rather than just theoretical discussions. Consider their qualifications, certifications, or affiliations with reputable organizations. A strong track record of supporting others on their spiritual paths is also a significant indicator of trustworthiness.

Verify the author’s credentials and background through online research or reputable sources. This ensures you’re engaging with a book from a reliable and knowledgeable source.

Evaluating Book Content

A well-structured book should provide clear explanations of spiritual concepts. It should offer practical tools and techniques, and encourage personal reflection and application. Avoid books that promote fear-based tactics or unrealistic promises. Look for a book that offers a balanced perspective, integrating different spiritual traditions. A genuine guide should empower you to explore your own spirituality without judgment or dogma.

Seek out books that resonate with your existing values and beliefs. A good book will help you understand your spiritual journey, not impose a specific path on you.

Considering Your Needs and Aspirations

The book should align with your current stage of spiritual development and your unique needs. Are you seeking practical guidance for daily life, a deeper understanding of specific spiritual traditions, or support in overcoming personal challenges? Consider the specific areas where you’d like to grow. For example, if you’re interested in mindfulness, a book focused on meditation techniques would be a good choice.

If you’re seeking to understand the concept of karma, a book that explores this concept in detail would be suitable.

Decision-Making Flowchart

Step	Action	Criteria
1	Identify your spiritual interests.	What specific aspects of spirituality intrigue you?
2	Research authors and books.	Look for authors with experience and credentials in your chosen area.
3	Assess the book’s content.	Is the information presented clearly and practically?
4	Consider your personal needs.	Does the book resonate with your current spiritual journey and goals?
5	Read reviews and testimonials.	Gain insight from other readers’ experiences.
6	Make your selection.	Choose the book that aligns best with your spiritual journey and goals.

Following this framework will help you choose a book that not only informs you but also inspires and supports your journey towards a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

Illustrative Examples

Embarking on a spiritual journey is a deeply personal and often transformative experience. Just like a budding gardener nurturing a seedling, your journey may unfold in surprising ways. This section offers glimpses into potential paths, demonstrating how understanding these concepts can empower you on your unique path.Exploring diverse spiritual awakening journeys through fictional examples can illuminate the core principles of these transformative experiences.

Consider these tales as pathways to self-discovery, not rigid blueprints.

A Journey of Self-Acceptance, Spiritual awakening books for beginners

“I used to be consumed by the need to be perfect, to meet others’ expectations. It felt like a relentless treadmill. Then, I started reading books about mindfulness and acceptance. Slowly, I realized that true fulfillment wasn’t about achieving perfection, but about embracing my imperfections. I learned to love myself unconditionally, and in doing so, I discovered a profound sense of peace. My interactions with others became more authentic, and I found joy in the present moment.”

This example illustrates how self-acceptance can be a pivotal component of spiritual awakening. A book on mindfulness could guide someone towards understanding and practicing self-acceptance through meditation and introspection. The journey, though personal, highlights how recognizing inner worth and embracing imperfections can lead to inner peace and improved relationships.

The Power of Letting Go

A beginner might find a book on letting go particularly helpful in navigating stressful situations. The book could detail specific techniques like visualization exercises and mindful breathing, and how they can effectively manage overwhelming feelings and emotions. This example demonstrates how the ability to let go can lead to profound inner peace and freedom from the constraints of the past.

The Significance of Presence

“I used to feel disconnected from the present moment, constantly lost in my thoughts about the future or the past. A book on meditation helped me focus on the here and now. By practicing mindfulness, I began to appreciate the simple beauty of each moment. This shift in awareness fostered a deeper connection with myself and the world around me.”

This illustrates the transformative power of presence. A book on meditation might offer guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and other practical tools to cultivate presence, allowing the reader to connect more deeply with the present moment and experience a greater sense of peace and clarity.

Illustrative Example: Finding Purpose

This journey, recounted in a book, details a character’s exploration of purpose. The character grapples with feeling directionless, but through self-reflection and engaging with different perspectives on life’s meaning, they discover a deeper understanding of their unique potential and the impact they can have on the world. The book could offer various frameworks and methodologies to help the reader identify their values, talents, and passions, ultimately leading to a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Practical Application

Embarking on a spiritual journey isn’t a solitary retreat to a mountaintop; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven into the fabric of daily life. This section delves into practical ways to integrate the insights gleaned from spiritual awakening books into your everyday routine, transforming abstract concepts into tangible actions. We’ll explore methods, real-life examples, and a comparative analysis of diverse spiritual practices.Turning theoretical understanding into tangible practice is a key aspect of spiritual growth.

It’s about integrating the wisdom and insights from your chosen spiritual awakening book into the routines and rhythms of your daily life, fostering a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you. This transformation isn’t a quick fix but a continuous journey of self-discovery and mindful application.

Methods for Incorporating Spiritual Practices

Applying the wisdom from spiritual texts demands thoughtful consideration. It’s not about mechanically ticking off a list of rituals but about integrating these practices into your core being. This can be achieved through mindful awareness, consistent reflection, and purposeful action. Start small, and observe how these practices enhance your life.

Mindfulness Meditation: This practice involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. Regular meditation can calm the mind, reduce stress, and foster a deeper understanding of yourself and your thoughts. Begin with short sessions, 5-10 minutes daily, and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.
Journaling: Regular journaling can help you explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a safe and structured way. Reflect on your spiritual readings and how they resonate with your life. Record your observations, insights, and challenges.
Gratitude Practice: Cultivating gratitude for the positive aspects of your life can shift your perspective and enhance your overall well-being. Take time each day to acknowledge and appreciate the good things in your life, big or small.
Acts of Service: Contributing to the well-being of others can be a powerful way to deepen your spiritual connection. Volunteer your time, offer support to those in need, or simply be kind to the people around you.

Real-Life Examples of Successful Application

Many individuals have found profound benefits by applying spiritual principles in their daily lives. Their stories highlight the transformative potential of mindful practice.

Sarah, a busy professional: Sarah, a successful lawyer, struggled with chronic stress. After incorporating mindfulness meditation into her daily routine, she noticed a significant reduction in anxiety and an increased sense of calm, which allowed her to better manage her demanding career.
David, a struggling artist: David, an artist facing creative block, discovered that journaling helped him tap into his inner creativity. Through journaling, he identified recurring patterns in his thinking and developed strategies to overcome creative blocks.

Comparative Analysis of Spiritual Practices

Different spiritual practices offer unique approaches to self-discovery and growth. This table provides a simplified comparison:

Practice	Focus	Method	Example
Mindfulness Meditation	Present moment awareness	Focusing on breath, thoughts, and sensations	Observing your thoughts without judgment
Yoga	Mind-body connection	Physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation	Stretching and holding poses to increase flexibility and awareness
Prayer	Connection with the divine	Communicating with a higher power	Expressing gratitude, seeking guidance, and offering supplication