Spiritual Fatigue.

Dear Reader,

When we are under high stress for an extended period of time, we begin to suffer fatigue. It is more than merely being tired at the end of a long day. It is a sense of exhaustion that manages to sap the light out of a sunny day. Fatigue can manifest in a number of different ways. One of the most common is a persistent feeling of weariness or numbness. This sensation is your body, spirit, and mind crying out for a rest from the source of stress.

Managing spiritual fatigue is challenging. It is often accompanied by depression and a general sense of despair. Some people draw strength from reading and reciting the holy texts of their faith. Others find renewal in the wonders of nature. For yet other people, the act of connecting with like minded souls is a refreshing experience that helps lift the shadow off of their shoulders for a moment. Some methods of ameliorating spiritual fatigue are easily accessible:

• Prayers to the Divine
• Meditation
• Gratitude journaling
• Practicing personal rituals of devotion

Other methods of relieving spiritual fatigue are more challenging right now in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic:

• Gathering with your faith community
• Community service
• Visiting holy places
• Collective prayer practices and rituals of devotion

Virtual worship spaces (as discussed in previous posts) are possible. Digital shrines to the Divine are relatively common. Message boards, social groups, and email lists where one may communicate with their faith community and coordinate timed prayer sessions are an option for connection when face to face connection is not possible. While the digital connection with your faith community might not be as satisfying as gathering together in the same physical location, it is maintaining the community and support network for the community members. 

It is important to remember that spiritual fatigue will pass. It may feel endless but renewal always arrives like the spring after a long and trying winter. If you are suffering from the additional burdens of depression or other forms of illness, seek out help. Getting relief for these conditions can help bring relief for spiritual fatigue. Do not let your spiritual fatigue stop you from caring for yourself and those around you who depend on you. Reach out to the Divine, to your community, and your spiritual helpers for support. They will lift you up and help you carry on through the storm that you are weathering.