Alright, guys! By now you’re probably feeling like you’re starting to understand Transformational Nutrition and you’re definitely starting to understand how it’s unlike any other coaching approach out there.

You’ve read how science is an essential factor in listening to the body and letting it show you areas that need attention.

You got a chance to look at psychology and learn how it is a must when it comes to healing and achieving ultimate health.

Now, it’s time to take a look at the Spirituality of Nutrition and why that too is essential when it comes to putting together a health plan for your clients.

At the Institute of Transformational Nutrition, we believe that the spirit is not just some pie-in-the-sky, inconsequential idea.

The spirit is very real, and neglecting it – as does mainstream medicine – has horrible consequences. In fact, it is impossible to achieve optimal wellbeing without the foundation of spiritual health.

Without acknowledgment and intentional focus on spiritual growth, well-being will escape even an individual who has the healthiest diet, the best medical care, and a resilient mindset.

Spiritual practices can do wonders to accelerate recovery and healing.

Unlike other healthcare providers, ITN graduates are well equipped to tackle even the toughest spiritual issues.

In general, spiritual health is reflected in the strength of relationships people have in three specific spiritual domains. (Don’t worry, we’ll get to those in a second!)

A person can either be actively growing, stagnant, or declining in spiritual health. As a Health Coach, it’s your responsibility to help them find a spiritual approach that works for them and allows them to grow.

Spirituality can be broken down into three areas, which include communal, personal, and environmental spirituality.

Our model examines how to feed the three human spiritual hungers. To be:

• seen
• heard
• to matter

Individual spirituality is not the same as communal religion. However, these terms are not mutually exclusive either.

Your clients must work to find the best combination that fits their individual need to feel connected.

Let’s dive right into this important – but often overlooked – pillar of health!

TRANSFORMATIONAL NUTRITION MODEL: SPIRITUALITY (PART 3)

PERSONAL SPIRITUALITY

Personal spirituality is a person’s relationship to and connection with oneself. Many people are afraid to be alone in silence and solitude with themselves because they do not accept and embrace their thoughts, feelings, and individual quirks.

As Certified Transformational Nutrition Coaches learn, you can lead by example by being a dynamic, self-confident mentor and encouraging your clients to find inner peace by embracing who they really are.

It’s important to encourage your clients to take part in meaningful activities throughout their day.

This doesn’t mean they have to go out and volunteer each and every day. Instead, ask them to extract meaning from even the most mundane occurrences, like making their children breakfast or tackling a project at work that will, in turn, have an impact on those around you.

And hey, if they have time to volunteer, challenge them to do so! There is no greater gift we can give than that of time and service.

Support your clients in keeping their goals and desires rooted in purpose and direction for the future to continue developing a deep connection within, and never give in when it comes to their core values or discovering their truth.

Here are some ways to practice personal spirituality:

• Journaling.
• Getting quiet and listening.
• Doing things that bring you joy.
• Using positive affirmations.

COMMUNAL SPIRITUALITY

Communal spirituality is the quality of a person’s relationships with others.

This category includes romantic and professional relationships, as well as, friendships. Studies show that a strong support system can significantly enhance physical health.

In fact, as a Health Coach, you will likely be an essential component of your client’s support system.

It’s important to have meaningful, healthy relationships that connect your clients to others, challenge them to grow, and continuously support them.

These relationships come in all shapes and sizes, from romantic relationships and friendships to professional relationships or casual acquaintances.

Your client most likely has some of these relationships and connections in their life, so simply encourage them to make a point to prioritize and nurture them.

This will help your client to develop a deeper sense of communal spirituality.

Here are some ways to strengthen your communal spirituality:

• Prioritizing time with loved ones.
• Joining a group or organization that brings you joy.
• Feeling a deep sense of love for others.
• Volunteering.

ENVIRONMENTAL SPIRITUALITY

Finally, environmental spirituality includes a relationship with the physical environment, as well as, a connection with the universe.

There are many ways to build and develop this connection. An easy way is to step out into nature and get lost in your surroundings. It’s easy to slow down and find peace when taking in all the beauty the outdoors have to offer.

A relationship with a higher power – whatever that means for you – can also generate meaning and purpose in your life. This is much different than simply categorizing yourself as a member of a religion. It’s developing a deep, meaningful connection with a higher power that in turn promotes a sense of comfort and trust.

 

Here are a few ways to practice environmental spirituality:

• Spend time in nature. (Preferably barefoot on the grass.)
• Meditate.
• Pray.
• Get quiet and listen for guidance.
• Tap into your intuition.

IN CONCLUSION

When you begin to look at health as a foundation built upon science, psychology, and spirituality, it’s easy to see what areas need a little TLC for each individual client.

From there, you can work together with your clients to create a personalized approach to healing. (Personalized nutrition is the missing link and the most important part! Head here to read more about personalized nutrition.)

We can tell you’re eager to find out how you can become a Certified Transformational Nutrition Coach so that you can begin utilizing the Transformational Nutrition Method and getting your clients real results!

Head here to begin your journey as a CTNC!

Tell us your favorite spiritual practice in the comments below!