Spirituality is not confined to rituals, religions, or outward displays of devotion. True spirituality transcends external practices and connects us to our inner Self, often in ways we don’t consciously recognize. The ancient teachings of the Vedas, Upanishads, and other non-dualistic texts remind us that spirituality is not something we become—it’s who we already are when we strip away egoic identifications, illusions, and unnecessary distractions.
Here, we’ll explore the top signs of being spiritual from a Vedantic perspective, connecting them to ancient wisdom and practical living. You may find that spirituality is already deeply rooted in your life, even if you don’t label it as such.
1. Valuing Freedom Above All Else
A spiritual person often values inner freedom—freedom from attachments, desires, and fears—over material possessions or societal approval. According to the Upanishads, true freedom (moksha) is liberation from the illusion of separation between the Self (Atman) and the infinite consciousness (Brahman).
Vedantic Reference
“When all desires that dwell in the heart fall away, then the mortal becomes immortal and attains Brahman in this very life.”
– Katha Upanishad (2.3.14)
Modern Example
You may notice that you don’t feel the need to conform to societal expectations or chase material wealth. Instead, you prioritize inner peace, authenticity, and alignment with your true purpose.
2. Being Conscious of Your Important Decisions
Spirituality brings heightened awareness. Instead of living on autopilot, spiritual individuals make mindful choices, especially when it comes to decisions that impact themselves and others. This reflects the Vedantic principle of living with awareness and intentionality.
Vedantic Reference
“By understanding the Self, one becomes aware of the purpose and nature of their actions, living a life aligned with dharma (righteousness).” – Isha Upanishad
Practical Insight
You may find yourself reflecting deeply before making decisions—whether it’s about your career, relationships, or lifestyle—ensuring they align with your values and have minimal harm.
3. Striving to Reach Your Highest Potential
The pursuit of self-realization or striving toward your highest potential (Purushartha) is a hallmark of spiritual growth. According to Vedanta, reaching your highest potential doesn’t mean external achievement but realizing your true nature as infinite consciousness.
Vedantic Reference
“The Self cannot be known by the weak. Strive, therefore, to know the Self through discipline and strength.” – Mundaka Upanishad (3.2.4)
Practical Insight
You might find yourself constantly seeking growth—be it mental, emotional, or spiritual—and questioning your life’s greater purpose. This is not ambition driven by ego, but a longing for alignment with your higher self.
4. Choosing Actions That Minimize Violence & Harm
Spirituality often manifests as compassion and non-violence (Ahimsa). You naturally choose actions that reduce harm to others, whether it’s through a plant-based diet, conscious consumerism, or reducing your environmental footprint.
Vedantic Reference
“Ahimsa is the highest virtue, the greatest gift, and the ultimate practice of spiritual seekers.” – Mahabharata (Shanti Parva)
Modern Application
If you find yourself making choices to reduce harm—choosing eco-friendly options, abstaining from unnecessary consumption, or practicing kindness—you’re living a spiritual truth rooted in the idea of interconnectedness.
5. Feeling Deeply Connected to All Life
A key sign of spirituality is an innate sense of unity with all living beings. You feel a deep empathy for people, animals, and nature, and you recognize that separation is an illusion created by the mind.
Vedantic Reference
“He who sees all beings in the Self and the Self in all beings, does not shrink away from anything.” – Isha Upanishad (6)
Practical Insight
You may notice moments where you feel deeply at peace while observing nature or experiencing gratitude for life’s interconnectedness. This reflects spiritual awakening.
6. Letting Go of Attachments
Spiritual individuals understand that attachments create suffering. This doesn’t mean giving up love or relationships, but rather practicing detachment (Vairagya)—loving and living fully without clinging or expectations.
Vedantic Reference
“As rivers flow into the ocean but do not make it overflow, so flow the desires of a sage who is in harmony with the Self.” – Bhagavad Gita (2.70)
Practical Insight
You may find yourself less affected by external outcomes, whether they are successes or failures. Your happiness begins to stem from within rather than external possessions or circumstances.
7. Being Present in Every Moment
Spirituality involves mindfulness—a complete engagement with the present moment without judgment or distraction. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that mindfulness in action is a form of devotion.
Vedantic Reference
“Yoga is skill in action.” – Bhagavad Gita (2.50)
Practical Insight
If you feel at peace while washing dishes, walking, or performing any simple task, it’s a sign of spiritual maturity. You no longer resist life’s mundane moments but embrace them as sacred.
8. Embracing Solitude & Silence
Spiritual growth often leads individuals to find comfort in silence and solitude. This isn’t about loneliness but a desire to connect deeply with oneself without distractions.
Vedantic Reference
“The wise man, seeking solitude, reflecting on the Self, finds peace within and sees the infinite everywhere.” – Mundaka Upanishad (3.1.4)
Practical Insight
You might notice that you no longer need constant stimulation or company. Instead, you seek quiet moments to reflect, meditate, or just be.
9. Finding Joy in Simplicity
A spiritual person finds joy in life’s simple pleasures and has no need for extravagant possessions or achievements. This reflects contentment (Santosha), a core principle of Vedanta.
Vedantic Reference
“One who is content with the Self alone and desires nothing is truly the happiest person.” – Bhagavad Gita (2.55)
Practical Insight
You may feel immense gratitude for small, everyday experiences—a beautiful sunset, a kind word, or the act of breathing.
10. Surrendering to the Greater Whole
The ultimate sign of spirituality is surrendering the ego and accepting the flow of life as part of a greater whole. This is the essence of Ishwarapranidhana (surrender to God) in Vedanta.
Vedantic Reference
“Surrender everything to me and be free from all concerns.” – Bhagavad Gita (18.66)
Practical Insight
If you find yourself trusting life’s processes, letting go of control, and embracing uncertainty, you are practicing spiritual surrender.
The Path Beyond the Labels
Spirituality is not about rituals, dogma, or labels. It’s a way of being—living consciously, compassionately, and aligned with your highest truth.
As the Vedas remind us, the essence of spirituality lies not in external practices but in realizing your infinite, divine nature. By valuing freedom, practicing mindfulness, and letting go of the unnecessary, you uncover the spiritual truths that are already within you.