Young generation moving from Religion to Spirituality? Study finds a new trend, it says...
Image for representational purposes
New Delhi: Gen Z's Movement from Religion to Spirituality The article explores the transition of the new generation to searching for a higher purpose by doing inner work, yoga, and meditation. Despite the fact that the present time is full of sudden changes, unpredictability, and overuse of digital technology; however, numerous people born from 1995 until the beginning of 2010 are discovering their own way to spiritual happiness.
A number of the traditional institutions that were originally fully integrated in the life of families and communities have noted a very clear decrease in participation and affiliation among young adults. Nevertheless, it is important to note that Gen-Z are the ones who go the extra mile, exploring personal growth, mindfulness, Eastern philosophy, and yoga to get themselves to the place of wisdom they are looking for.
New studies have found that Gen-Z has been changing to a great degree in terms of faith and spirituality. In the case of the United States, a report by the Pew Research Centre in 2021 found that as many as 48% of the youth of Gen-Z have spiritual beliefs though they do not attribute themselves to the religious institutions. This data has pointed to a spike in youth who refer to themselves as 'spiritual but not religious'.
Psychologist and writer Dr. Jean Twenge, who researches generational differences, said 'Being in touch with the spiritual side is the key to connection and meaning which is less likely to be found in material pursuits for the Gen-Z generation.' Another argument that can be made here is that the more profound orientation toward the meaning of life that distinguishes the approach of Gen-Zs is vulgar through a significant part of Gen-Zs. to existence and personal development.'
A lot of Gen-Z youngsters have grown up in families which were religiously agnostic at best or who were religious naysayers. Furthermore, thanks to global internet expansion and online communication, these people have become globally aware and have also had a chance to learn about other ways of living which naturally led them to develop a pluralistic and questioning personality.
Gen Z's most cherished values of inclusivity, authenticity, mental health, and individual freedom are in constant contention with the strictness of religion and its hierarchical institutions. This causes them to feel disconnected and disenchanted from traditional worship and authority-led spiritual structures. People have seemed to have lost faith in second-hand belief or inherited family traditions, and they are currently in the quest for direct experiences of the truth.
The fact that the psychologist Dr. Jean Twenge is a psychologist who is also a generational researcher is pointed out in the article, noting that spirituality has become a tool for the new generation of religious people, the so-called Gen-Z. Spirituality gives them a sense of connection and a purpose which is in the present moment rather than in fear or guilt.
In the Gen-Z, meditation and yoga are the first choice for inexperienced (sometimes joined by a group of friends) people who want to start their spiritual quest. It is not uncommon for people to have first adopted these practices as stress relief and a way of staying healthy, but with time, these very practices became something sacred to them. Consequently, young people perceive that stillness is achievable in the tumult of the world; they feel the presence of a supernatural power that they can develop a close relationship with there.
Not only that, the Science of Identity Foundation founder , Jagad Guru Siddhaswarupananda Paramahamsa who explains that the ultimate purpose of yoga moves beyond physical activity and in actuality, it is the practice of yoga that makes the connection possible, says of yoga. It implies that yoga is uniting two entities, a man and God together, playing out a loving relationship. Gen-Z is, therefore, to this one version of the divine, entirely natural, purely an internal matter and cannot be identified as only one way.
The mental health of Gen-Zs is seen as the central issue for the generation of the 21st century. We witness the escalating levels of anxiety, stress, depressive states, and burnout in mental cases whereby traditional coping mechanisms are no longer effective among the majority.
A large number of young persons are now doing things like breathwork, mindfulness, and mantra meditation not only to heal the symptoms but also to elevate their spirit. To give additional information, Jagad Guru points out that meditation is a way of reaching yoga, the oneness with the Divine. 'When the individual spirit soul contacts the Supreme Soul, the person becomes God-conscious, and the soul is in the real situation of meditation', he says.
He also added meditation is much more involved than a mere mental break. It is an approach to self-realization. In this way, one can deliberately disconnect from their ego and reconnect with their spiritual core. Many people usually criticize social media for being superficial. However, it has become a totally unexpected source of a spiritual journey in Gen-Z. Social media platforms are full of influencers who smoothly merge olden wisdom and contemporary self-help, and they are giving nuggets of spiritual advice which are attractive and approachable. The Apps like Insight Timer, Calm, and Headspace have achieved that the guided meditation is offering to millions.
Apart from that, various hashtags such as #spiritualawakening, #manifestation and #yogatok are getting millions of views, pointing to the fact that the desire for spiritual development is increasing.
Still, a true increase in consciousness is derived from some action that can be beyond just thinkable contents.
The Science of Identity Foundation organization, for example, uses scientific research to explain and relate spirituality and biology and utilizes its teachings to further its cause of one attaining spiritual enlightenment. One can also find a most relevant framework for spiritual development in the Bhagavad Gita, the verses of which not only provide a never-ending source of wisdom but also teach how to make devotion the most powerful force, how to lead a virtuous life and how to perform only kind acts to others.
It is very interesting to see that when the numerosity of practices and wisdom from the diverse traditions comes into play, Gen-Z is slowly becoming a community yet to be formed in the religious sphere. To say that the shift of the new generation from organized religion to personal spirituality is tantamount to its renunciation is quite a harmful generalization and a far cry from the reality of its genuine interests and pursuits that it is doing.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
20 hours ago
- Time of India
Cat vs. snake: Who will win the fight
From rural backyards to the lanes of Indian towns, videos of cats taking on snakes are going viral. The clips are short but gripping, and they often leave viewers wondering: how does an ordinary house cat manage to challenge a snake and sometimes even come out on top? Snakes are often seen as dangerous, silent, quick, and sometimes venomous. Cats, on the other hand, are viewed as calm, curious, and playful. But when the two cross paths, especially in unexpected outdoor encounters, the outcome can be surprising. In many of these cases, the cat appears to take control of the situation. This trend isn't just about viral videos. It offers a real glimpse into nature– two predators with very different instincts and survival tactics. And when we look at how each animal is built and behaves, the results start to make more sense. Natural hunters at heart Domestic cats might live indoors and relax on soft cushions, but their natural instincts are still there. They're made to chase, stalk, and pounce. Even well-fed pet cats often hunt small animals like lizards, birds, and sometimes snakes. When a cat sees a snake, it usually doesn't get scared. Instead, it stays calm, watches carefully, and only attacks if it feels threatened. Cats rely on their instincts and quick reflexes, which help them stay confident in these situations. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Todos os idosos deveriam ter um desse no banheiro! Veja só! Evite quedas e escorregões Saiba Mais Undo Speed and reaction time give cats an edge Cats have a big edge over snakes because they react much faster. Reports suggest that cats can react up to seven times quicker than snakes. This helps them quickly dodge snake bites and strike back fast. Cats start building their reflexes and coordination just weeks after they're born. These skills get better as they grow, helping them stay safe and fight back when needed. Agility vs. direct strikes Snakes strike fast in a straight line, but their movement is limited during an attack. They mostly rely on surprise and one quick hit. Cats, on the other hand, have flexible bodies and great coordination. They can jump sideways, move back, or pounce from different directions– all in a flash. According to A-Z-Animals(dot)com, cats' unpredictable moves make it hard for snakes to catch them. Because cats can quickly change position, they often stay one step ahead in these sudden face-offs. The senses that keep cats alert Cats have sharp senses. They see well in the dark and can hear very quiet sounds that humans can't. Their whiskers also help them feel movements and vibrations around them. Snakes have some special abilities too, like sensing heat and feeling vibrations through the ground. But their eyesight isn't great, and they can't hear well. This often puts them at a disadvantage when facing a quick and alert cat up close. When claws meet fangs A snake's biggest advantage is its bite, especially if it's venomous. But the snake has to land the bite first. If a cat is quick enough to dodge, the snake becomes vulnerable. Cats use their claws and teeth to strike fast and often, aiming for the snake's head or neck. According to reports, many snakes have fragile bones in their upper body. Repeated strikes from a cat's claws can seriously hurt the snake before it can react again. Every encounter is different It's important to remember that not all cats win, and not all snakes lose. Big, venomous snakes like cobras or vipers can be immensely dangerous. Many cats naturally stay away or run if they sense real danger. Who wins depends on many things– the type of snake and cat, where they meet, their size, and how experienced the cat is. Outcomes aren't always predictable, and in areas with venomous snakes, even a small bite can be deadly for a cat. A fight of instincts, not just strength When a cat meets a snake, it's not about size but about instincts and quick reactions. Cats often win because they are fast, alert, and use their sharp senses well, especially against smaller or non-venomous snakes. However, these fights can be risky, and cats don't always come out safe. Still, their speed and awareness usually give them an advantage in many encounters. Note: This information is based on various online sources.
The Hindu
a day ago
- The Hindu
A generation at a crossroads
I belong to a generation born in the early sixties, a time of great social and cultural change. Those of us born in the fifties and sixties find ourselves at a crossroads, perplexed by the rapid pace of transformation in the world around us. We are a unique breed, having spent our formative as well as youthful years in the twentieth century and now navigating the sunset years in the threshold of the twenty-first century. During this transitional period, we witnessed profound changes that have reshaped the world beyond recognition. The pace of change was dizzying, leaving our generation struggling to adapt. Life has become pretty hectic. Growing up in an era that was both human-centric and eco-centric, we were raised under the guidance of our parents, grandparents, and siblings. Our elders wielded authority, and we were taught to obey and respect them. Our childhood was a vibrant tapestry of friendships, social interactions, and community bonds. However, the turn of the century and the new millennium have upended our values and traditions. As our children left to pursue better lives in distant lands, we were left to face the challenges of aging alone. Our homes, once filled with laughter and warmth, now stand empty and deserted, an eerie silence reverberates. The contrast between our modest upbringing and the opulent lifestyle of the younger generation is stark. We, who were accustomed to a minimalist lifestyle, watch with a mix of dismay and resignation as the millennials and Gen Z indulge in a life of unrestrained luxury. We refrain from offering advice, fearful of being met with indifference or even hostility. Though our youthful years were spent in penury and hardship, we had a rich social life that endeared us to everyone in our village. During our student days, we had no electricity and learned our lessons under the faint glow of kerosene lamps. Few of us had more than two set of clothes, most of us travelled barefoot as footwear was then a luxury. Most of us began our schooling with a broken slate and stubs of pencils, which served as our prized writing tools. Despite these humble beginnings, we thoroughly enjoyed our school life. On rainy days, we waded through knee-deep waters together, sharing laughter, lessons, and quarrels. We learned the art of sharing while exchanging stubs of pencils and a few precious drops of ink with the friend sitting nearby. Many a child from poor families came to school, enticed by the free noon meal. We were oblivious to our caste and class distinctions. In contrast, our children today have access to all modern amenities, yet they often feel lonely, rarely socialising with friends and relatives. From a tender age, they are taught to view their classmates as competitors and potential rivals, rather than friends. Petty squabbles over trivial matters were common in families. However, elders would intervene, suggesting solutions that the warring parties obeyed unquestioningly. An air of unadulterated love and affection prevailed. We followed a eudaimonic lifestyle, vastly different from today's, which often prioritises immediate gratification of needs and desires. For many, life has become a self-imposed exile, isolating them from society and often leading to emotional distress. The unusually long and unearthly working times have taken a heavy toll on their emotional health and mental well-being. The unprecedented rise in suicide rates serves as a grim reminder of the growing disillusionment among educated youth. In the past, despite deprivation, people enjoyed life, deriving pleasure from simple things. Modern life has been a cultural shock for the older generations, who lived contentedly with meagre resources. They had aspirations, but set boundaries, even for their dreams. The pandemic, which struck unexpectedly, kept many senior citizens confined to home, thereby curtailing freedom of movement and livelihood. For many, the lack of adequate social security measures made this confinement more severe than the pandemic itself. The elderly faced untold hardships, struggling to survive in their twilight years. A generation that had toiled to build the nation we inhabit today was subjected to extreme cruelty. Meanwhile, the younger generation, beset by its own problems, lacks the time and patience to care for ailing and aging parents and grandparents. In today's world, where material wealth abounds, we often find ourselves devoid of life's true pleasures and happiness. Ironically, our ancestors, who possessed fewer worldly goods, lived more fulfilling lives. As our lives become increasingly luxurious, happiness seems to elude us. This paradox is starkly illustrated by the alarming rise in suicide rates in recent years, highlighting the disconnect between wealth and happiness. The arrival of electricity transformed the villager's life in ways never imagined. It paved the way for the evolution of a peaceful village into a vibrant and bustling city. The advent of modern amenities like cars, bikes, TVs, ACs and others has transformed our lives. The smartphone is arguably the most significant 21st-century invention, revolutionising and reshaping human existence. With a gentle touch on the mobile screen, it is possible to communicate with the world, conduct banking transactions, learn new skills, and conduct business from the comfort of home. Life has never been simpler. Yet, ironically, we find ourselves starving for love, recognition, respect, support, and happiness — the very things we once enjoyed freely. The social concepts of family, marriage and motherhood have undergone significant changes in recent years. As joint families disintegrated, nuclear families emerged. Today, the traditional notion of family has further fragmented, leaving homes that once buzzed with shared lives now reduced to isolated individuals living separate existences. They remain insensitive to the feelings of others. The emotional impact of this shift is enormous. In contrast, our forefathers and foremothers lived simpler lives, finding joy despite hardships. They maintained physical and mental health through physically demanding work and nurturing relationships. Their secret to happiness lay in hard work, sincere connections, and celebrating life surrounded by loved ones. Until a few years ago, I couldn't have imagined, even in my wildest dreams, that things would take such a drastic turn in such an unimaginable way. In this game of generational chaos, the survivors are those who can adapt and turn the tide to their advantage. In the distant past, mutual help and support enabled our ancestors to navigate life's complexities effectively and admirably. Compromises and sacrifices made their relationships meaningful. They shared their pangs and pleasures, delights and disappointments, with equanimity. In those bygone decades, we had elders in our family who served as pillars of support, allowing us to unburden ourselves of life's stresses and struggles. Unfortunately, we no longer have such supportive figures in our lives, with whom we can share the severe trauma and suffering we experience. It's not my intention to glorify bygone days or denigrate the present moment. Undoubtedly, we're on a wonderful journey in a world abundant with worldly comforts. What we miss, however, are the pleasures stemming from interpersonal relationships, mutual respect, and friendships that formed the foundation of a happy life. Slowly, I realise that this new century and the new millennium do not belong to me. We, the 20th century denizens, are indeed destined to live the remainder our lives in borrowed time alongside Gen Z and millennials who are in a rat-race to eke out a living for themselves and their loved ones, if they have them. tnvgopal@
Time of India
5 days ago
- Time of India
Dread answering calls? It's called telephobia
AI-generated image for representative purposes only Today, most Gen Z and Millennials often feel anxious or uneasy when their phone starts ringing. For generations who've grown up in a digital era, calls can feel awkward and unpredictable. According to Anuja Luniya, a behaviour expert, 'There's been a noticeable rise in phone-related anxiety, especially among younger adults. Many share that phone calls feel intrusive or energy-draining, like a sudden demand on their emotional bandwidth.' This phenomenon is called telephobia . Telephobia is not just about avoiding calls. It's the emotional uneasiness people feel when the phone rings. It can show up as panic, freeze, dread, or discomfort. In my practice, I've seen the condition rise significantly among Gen Z and Millennials. It's not that they don't want a connection. They're just emotionally overwhelmed Esha Bhardwaj, emotional wellness coach, therapist WHY GEN Zs DON'T LIKE ANSWERING CALLS Aishwarya Iyer (28) from Thane agreed to share her experience, over text, of course. 'For me, long phone conversations are anxiety-inducing and largely unnecessary. If something can be conveyed through texts, that's easier communication. I also feel that texting shows respect because you allow the other person to respond at their convenience.' Similarly, Purbali Sarmah (27) from Pune shares, 'I just can't do long conversations. Phone calls feel like too much pressure. With texts, I can respond on my own terms and exit the conversation when I need to. But talking on the phone? It drains me. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Switch to UnionBank Rewards Card UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo I only answer my parents' calls every day.' Pooja (27), based in London, adds, 'After being on calls with clients all day, who wants to take another call? I don't ignore calls from close family unless I'm too drained. When it comes to friends, I have a tier system. I'll take calls from my inner circle. The second-tier friends? Maybe 50 per cent of the time. Tertiary? Just text me.' According to Esha Bhardwaj, an emotional wellness coach and therapist, today's generation is functioning under the weight of emotional hyper-availability. 'There's an unspoken expectation to always be reachable. This has created a false sense of urgency. People aren't just afraid of phone calls. They fear the lack of space to pause, process, and respond with clarity. The pseudo-emergency culture bred by 24/7 connectivity has drained our capacity to relax, ease into conversations, or stay emotionally present. ' DOES THIS REFLECT AN UNDERLYING ISSUE? Avoiding phone calls may hint at deeper nervous system overload. 'In states of chronic stress or burnout, even small tasks like answering a call can feel like too much.' says Luniya. She adds, 'Constant exposure to alerts, deadlines, and emotional demands can keep the brain in a hypervigilant state. Communication that requires spontaneity or emotional energy begins to feel draining. For many, dodging calls is not just a preference. It's a red flag. A sign to pause, reset, and evaluate what's really exhausting the system.' However, she also notes that this phenomenon partly reflects a shift in how we connect. 'Thanks to digital advances, texts, DMs, and voice notes offer flexibility and control. These modes suit a generation that grew up online.' Reji Modiyil, a technology entrepreneur, adds, 'The younger generation prefers texting because it offers comfort and control. They can communicate at their own pace. It also reduces the social anxiety of spontaneous speech. Nonverbal modes are now the norm, especially for quick check-ins, even though phone calls and in-person chats still hold value for emotional expression or clarity.' IMPACT ON INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS The rise in phone anxiety is also affecting our personal relationships. Modiyil points out, 'Telephobia results in a loss of spontaneity and emotional nuance. Texting can feel detached and miss the nuances of voice, tone, pauses, and emphasis that come with verbal communication.' In relationships, dodging calls can come across as disinterest or emotional distance, even if that's not the intent. Luniya notes, 'If left unaddressed, phone anxiety can lower social confidence and deepen withdrawal. It also limits chances to practise presence, navigate discomfort, and build emotional intelligence. All of these are vital to social connection.' RIGHT WAY TO DEAL WITH THIS Being aware of your emotional needs and boundaries makes everything more manageable. Kanika Kishnani (28) from Ajmer says she's found a balance. 'I don't avoid all calls. I always answer calls from work and family. But I do avoid calls that can wait when I'm focused or deeply immersed in work. Messaging gives me the space to respond with intention without disrupting my flow. If something's urgent, people usually call twice. That's my cue to answer the call.' Today's generation is not emotionally disconnected. They are emotionally overconnected, stretched thin, and craving a connection that doesn't drain their energy. We don't need to shame people into returning calls. We need to help them build safer, softer ways to be present. Where boundaries are honoured, presence is respected, and peace isn't lost in the pursuit of performance Esha Bhardwaj, emotional wellness coach and therapist Bhardwaj recommends dealing with phone anxiety in emotionally mature ways: Create boundaries: Let people know you respond best with some notice Send voice notes: Practice listening and speaking without the stress of live response Take grounding breaths: Place a hand on your chest, breathe deeply before picking up Start small: Begin with calls from emotionally safe people and slowly build tolerance Daily nature walks: A 15-minute walk can help regulate emotional energy Use auto-responses: Try, 'Hey, saw your call. I'll get back once I settle down' Prioritise presence: Reply when you can be engaged, not just reactive Follow up with texts: A simple 'Hey, just catching my breath. Will call soon' helps Avoid ghosting: Silence can hurt more than a delayed reply Set a check-in window: Dedicate 10 minutes daily to follow up on missed calls Express intent: Let people know you care, even if you can't always respond right away One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
