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Rabbi Rami Shapiro

Rabbi Rami Shapiro is an award-winning author, essayist, poet, and teacher. In the print version of our magazine, he has an advice column, “Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Tr…

Rabbi Rami's Meditation Tips

I know that meditation is good for me, but I can’t sit still for five minutes, let alone 20. Is there an alternative to meditation? Meditation is waking to God in, with, and as…

Headshot of Rabbi Rami Shapiro
Celebrations: Rabbi Rami Shapiro

10 Years of Roadside Assistance

Rabbi Rami Shapiro
Rabbi Rami: Is It Trump’s Fault?

Author and teacher Rabbi Rami Shapiro is encouraging Perennial Wisdom to lead us beyond alienation and isolation to integration and unity, based on Genesis 12:3: “You shall be a blessing to all the families of the earth.”

Rabbi Rami: Are Psychics Worth It?

I’m seeing a psychic. She isn’t cheap, but she’s very helpful. My friends say she’s ripping me off. Are psychics real? Are they worth it? Rabbi Rami: If this woman is providing yo…

ISIS: Rabbi Rami Answers Your Questions

Rabbi Rami’s inbox is full of questions about ISIS. In this special edition of Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler, here is a collection he compiled and comment below to…

Podcast: Spirituality in the Time of Coronavirus, Part 1

In this special four-part series, Rabbi Rami gives counsel on how to stay healthy from social, psychological, and spiritual perspectives during the COVID-19 crisis. Here is some …

Rabbi Rami: My Morning Ritual

Before I share what I do regarding spiritual practice, let me share why I do it. I do it because I enjoy it. I don’t do it to get wise, enlightened, holy, or saved. I do it because…

Rabbi Rami: How Best to Live My Dying

Roadside Assistance for the spiritual traveler.

Rabbi Rami: How Do I Make Tough Decisions?

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Rabbi Rami: Help! I’m Being Threatened with Hell

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Rabbi Rami: "Does what I eat really matter?"

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Rabbi Rami: Is Easter an April Fools’ Prank?

Rabbi Rami answers your spiritual questions.

Me and the Dalai Lama: Rabbi Rami’s Experience with Metta

Rabbi Rami Shapiro reminisces on his meeting the Dalai Lama and shares a Tibetan Buddhist meditation practice to cultivate loving-kindness.

Essential Conversations with Rabbi Rami: 21st Century Spirituality

Former priest Matthew Fox speaks with Rabbi Rami Shapiro about his work, and his new book, modern spirituality, and intergenerational wisdom.

Rabbi Rami: What’s Wrong with Being a Disembodied Mind?

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Rabbi Rami: Has Religion Primed Us for Fake News?

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Rabbi Rami: Should I Thank Siri or Alexa?

Rabbi Rami answers your spiritual questions.

Rabbi Rami: Should I Prostrate Myself to My Teacher

Question: My teacher insists we prostrate ourselves to the Father and to him. As a woman, I am all too aware of how women have been made to prostrate themselves to male gods and th…

Podcast: Spirituality in the Time of Coronavirus, Part 3

Rabbi Rami speaks to a public health expert on how can we help ourselves, and others, during the pandemic.

Black Lives Matter Protests: Rabbi Rami Answers Your Questions

Rabbi Rami’s inbox has been filling up with questions from people troubled by and conflicted over what they have been seeing in the news. Here are some of the questions that were sent to Rabbi Rami and his responses.

Rabbi Rami's Guide to Life's 5 Biggest Questions

Let’s face it. The biggest unknown in a parent’s life is her child. These beings come into the world without papers. We have no idea who they are, where they came from, what they a…

Ask Rabbi Rami: "Whose God is the Truest?"

My friends and I have different ideas of God. Is any idea of God truer than any other?Rabbi Rami: Let’s define “true” here as “that which makes me more kind and just.” The more you…

Rabbi Rami: Can God incarnate as both Christ and Krishna?

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Rabbi Rami: Should I Feel Guilty about Being Happy?

Rabbi Rami answers your spiritual questions.

Rabbi Rami’s Top 5 Must-Read Spiritual Books

Books have the ability to take you on a transformative spiritual journey without ever leaving home.

Podcast: Rabbi Rami Shapiro, "Judaism Without Tribalism"

Explore what it's like to be grounded in the divine in this discussion with guest host Sarah Bowen and Rabbi Rami.

Rabbi Rami: Everyone Says “Follow Your Heart.” But How?

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Rabbi Rami: As a fundamentalist Christian, am I safe from Muslims?

Question: I consider myself a fundamentalist Christian, and I fear Muslims coming to America. Is Islam compatible with American values?Rabbi Rami: If by “Islam” you mean fundamenta…

Rabbi Rami: Did Slaves Sell Their Souls to Get Free?

Rabbi Rami answers your spiritual questions.

Rabbi Rami: Should I Pursue a PhD in Islamic Studies?

Rabbi Rami answers your spiritual questions.

Rabbi Rami:​ Am I Morally Bound to Chastise Meat Eaters?

Rabbi Rami answers your spiritual questions.

Rabbi Rami: What’s a Horrified Catholic Mom to Do?

Author and teacher Rabbi Rami Shapiro is encouraging Perennial Wisdom to lead us beyond alienation and isolation to integration and unity, based on Genesis 12:3: “You shall be a blessing to all the families of the earth.”*

Would Humanity Be Better Off With Only One Religion?

In the latest installment of Roadside Assistance, Rabbi Rami answers questions about morality, atheism, and enlightenment (and that Allstate commercial).

Podcast: Ben Nussbaum Interviews Rabbi Rami

S&H editor Ben Nussbaum turns the tables on Rabbi Rami and interviews the host of Essential Conversations.

Rabbi Rami: "Is My Friend Responsible for her Cancer?"

My closest friend has stage IV lymphoma. She’s always been a negative person. Could this be why she has cancer?Rabbi Rami: While our mental and spiritual states can impact our phys…

How Can I Find a Simple Religion?

Looking for a simple religion to share with your friends? Read on.

A Blip in the Cosmos

Got questions? Rabbi Rami has answers.

The Questions of Easter: Rabbi Rami Reflects

What can we learn from the story of the empty tomb?

Shattering Duality: Rabbi Rami’s Interfaith Glimpse into Vedanta

Rabbi Rami Shapiro shares about his initiation into Hindu philosophy, his devotion to the Mother, and the power of mantra practice.

Rabbi Rami: How Do I Afford to Make a Pilgrimage?

Q: I long to go on a pilgrimage, but lack the funds to do so. Any suggestions?A: My understanding of pilgrimage comes from Genesis 12:1–3, where we are called to walk (lech) to our…

Rabbi Rami: How Can I Get My Faith Back?

My dad is dying and angry and takes his frustration out on me. I don’t want to abandon him, but being with him is painful. How do I handle this?Rabbi Rami: Dr. David Reynolds, foun…

Rabbi Rami: "I Find Myself Wishing My Dad Would Die?"

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Rabbi Rami: How Do I Make My Space More Holy?

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Rabbi Rami: How Do I Keep My New Year’s Resolutions?

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Podcast: Spirituality in the Time of Coronavirus, Part 4

Rabbi Rami looks at the practice of metta, which allows us to rest in a field of compassion and peace.

Fact Checking Religion

Got questions? Rabbi Rami has answers.

ASK RABBI RAMI: How can I get my husband to follow my spiritual path?

Over the past few years, I’ve shifted from the material to the spiritual. My husband is supportive and loving regarding this shift but unwilling to make it with me. How can I bring…

Is Love a Solution?

Is our capacity for compassion and kindness enough to resist the ‘dark psychic force’ threatening us?

Should I End My Marriage?

Rabbi Rami on love, marriage, and God.

Christ and Krishna

Got questions? Rabbi Rami has answers.

How Do I Find My Authentic Self?

Rabbi Rami on being authentic, spirituality vs. religion, and aliens.

Bra is Great

Sooraya Graham, a devout Muslim and an art student in British Columbia, took a photo of a woman draped in niqab and abaya (face veil and full-body covering), folding a bra while do…

Am I Not Kosher Enough for My Daughter?

Rabbi Rami responds to questions about white supremacy, a loving god, and Christian tracts, among others.

Podcast: Spirituality in the Time of Coronavirus, Part 2

Maintaining your psychological and spiritual health during the coronavirus crisis.

The Day After the End-Time

Rabbi Rami was relieved when a fake prophecy did not come to pass. Still, “It makes me wonder what the authors of the warning are thinking now that their prophecy failed.”

Is Being a Seeker a Poor Example for My Daughter?

To these perennial questions, I offer some answers — not to close a conversation but to broaden one. I do not claim to know anything you don’t know, but if I can help you remember …

Is It Important To Find a Good Spiritual Teacher?

To these perennial questions, I offer some answers — not to close a conversation but to broaden one. I do not claim to know anything you don’t know, but if I can help you remember …

I Am Not a Robot ... I Think

“I love shouting into the phone screaming Agent! Agent! Agent! It never works.”

This is War

War is hell. And hell—or at least heaven—makes war all the more hellish. Mohamed Merah the Islamic terrorist who recently murdered three French soldiers, three Jewish c…

Heroes

“In a place where there are no heroes—be a hero!” This two thousand year old challenge by Hillel the Elder, whom many consider to have been Jesus’ rabbi, is a staple of Jewis…

Letter to a New Rabbi

[I can't remember who asked me to write this, or if it was ever published, but I wanted to get it out there. It is long, it is Jewish, and some of it might not make sense to those …

What Does Science Fiction Tell Us About the Future of Organized Religion?

“Can it be that Judaism will cease to evolve? Yes. The same is true of Christianity and Islam and any other religion that imagines a golden age that privileges the past over the present and the future.”

Religion By the Numbers

According to a study by University of Nebraska-Lincoln professor Philip Schwadel, the higher one’s level of education is, the broader and more liberal one’s religious beliefs becom…

Pretty? Pay Up!

I’m not wealthy, nor did I ever think I would be, but I always felt I should have more money then I do. Now I know why I don’t: I’m not pretty. According to University of Texas ec…

Pewless in Seattle

Americans love God, but according to the new Barna Group survey on religion in America, we don’t care to visit him all that often. According to Barna, while the number of Americans…

Jews for Krishna

The fall issue of Reform Judaism magazine contains a passionate, even angry, attack on Jesus, Krishna, and John Lennon’s song “Imagine” by Dr. Ze’ev Maghen of Bar-Ilan University. …

The Promise of Interfaith

Where can interfaith dialogue take us? I was asked this recently, and want to share my answer with you here. There are many levels of interfaith dialogue: sharing accurate informa…

Email is Great

Email is so great. Just this morning I opened my mail and found 85 messages waiting for me. Scanning the subject headings I learned that Michelle Obama wants to meet me. Seriously…

Concerning Christmas

Two people emailed me this morning with questions about Christmas. I thought I’d share both their questions and my answers with you here. I’m Jewish; my girlfriend is Christian. T…

Great Jews

Rabbi David Wolpe, citing Rav Abraham Isaac Kook, asks a great question in his 12/29/11 blog post: When will Jews who are great also be great Jews? This questions begs another: Wha…

Trust the Ball

Now that we have two GOP contests under our belt I turned to my trustworthy Magic 8-Ball to determine the future. Here is what I learned: -Will Mitt Romney be the next Presiden…

Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan's 13 Wants

I found this online and wanted to share it with you. I wrote my MA thesis on the work of Rabbi Kaplan, and learned from him privately in Jerusalem in 1976. I had not seen this text…

Tablet Wars

Posting the Ten Commandments in government buildings may soon become legal in Tennessee, and I for one am all for it. After all this is a central Jewish document, and if Tennessee …

Keep the Doubt

I am often told to keep the faith. The truth is, however, I prefer doubt. Faith is about clinging to answers that cannot be proven, while doubt is about wrestling with questions th…

Breakfast at Noshville

I’m sitting at the counter in Noshville, Nashville’s New York-style Jewish deli, talking to a well-dressed fellow who tells me he’s a lawyer. Our conversation turns to the economy,…

Chick-Lit

Chick-fil-A president Dan Cathy supports traditional Bible family values, and because he does many have condemned him and his company as being anti-homosexual and anti-marriage equ…

Mrs. Jesus

What is it with these Coptic Christians? Last week one them started a murderous global protest with his asinine and offensive “movie” about the Prophet Mohammad (PUH), and now Harv…

Why Vote?

I just read that House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) vowed today not to raise taxes on the rich even if President Obama wins in November. So why vote? If the system is rigged again…

Minimalist Religion, Maximalist Faith

Contributing editor Rabbi Rami asks whether you're a maximalist or a minimalist when it comes to religion and faith.

When Will I Know It Is Time to Leave?

“I was not surprised when I got an email through my blog, asking me how we Jews will know when it is time for us to flee the United States for safer ground.”

The God Gap

It isn’t that Generation Z is godless, it’s that they no longer buy into (literally as well as figuratively) the God of the baby boomer generation.

Spirituality and Prayer

Spirituality and prayer: What’s the precise connection? “When asked if I pray, I used to say ‘no.’ ... Now when such a question is posed, I ask what the questioner means by prayer before I answer.”

Bad Gods Make Good People

In a recent study of the impact of religious beliefs on human behavior* researchers found that those who believe in a punishing god are more likely to avoid cheating than those who…

The "America First" Pledge

I am envious of Grover Norquist. First, he's named after a Sesame Street character, and how cool is that? Second, he controls the votes of hundreds of legislators and through them …

Are You Afraid of God?

Are you afraid of God? Millions of Americans seem to be. Their fear is tied to their belief in eternal damnation in Hell. The Hebrew Bible, the Christian Old Testament, knows nothi…

If I Had 1,000 Terrorists

“I would waterboard 1,000 terrorists to save one American life.” That’s what the bumper sticker read on the Ford Bronco driving in front of me this afternoon. It was a compelling …

Avoid Future Disappointment and Regret

I love watching television. I find it both entertaining and educational. Just the other day I was watching a commercial for gold-plated faux $50 coins and learned that by buying to…

Of Gods and Turtles: An Unpublished Interview

I’ve been giving a few interviews lately. This one, I am told, will not be published, so I am publishing it. I am keeping the interviewer’s name out of it as per his request. Rumo…

What I Believe

Every once in a while it is good to sit down and clarify what you believe. I did this recently and came up with the following: 1. Everything is a manifestation of the one thing I …

I'm a Believer (But Not In the Right Things)

During a wonderful conversation I had this morning it struck me (once again) why I have such trouble fitting in even with interfaith groups: I am not a believer. I don’t believe r…

You Say You Want a Revolution

[This morning while sitting in the Nashville International Airport reading the newspaper a mustachioed Frenchman sitting next to me starts up a conversation. In the interest of spa…

I Smell Millenial Spirit

Over the past few months I have visited a variety of synagogues and churches across the country. Each of them had one thing in common: a dearth of young people in attendance. Resea…

Hosting an Interfaith Harmony Breakfast

The first week in February is World Interfaith Harmony Week. The week was proposed by the Jordanian delegation to the United Nations and established by the UN General Assembly in 2…

I Have Failed, Part 1

I’m grading papers this week. One assignment in my Bible class was to rewrite the end of the Book of Job beginning with the premise that God actually tells Job the truth about Job’…

I Have Failed, Part 2

I split this blog post into two sections so as to not lose the import of the second part. In “I Have Failed, Part 1” I bemoaned the fact that try as I did to get my students to thi…

I Have Failed, Part 3

This rant was to have only two parts (you can read Part 1 here, and Part 2 here), but private emails I received in response to them necessitated a Part 3. I received very polite a…

I Have Failed, Part 4

I seem to have opened a can of worms, and I invite you worms to post your comments on the blog rather than emailing me directly. I can’t respond to each writer, and I have to move …

Little Free Library

I spent the last three days with my friend and teacher, Andrew Harvey, at Scarritt-Bennett Center in Nashville. He was our guest speaker for Wisdom House's annual Mystic Heart Retr…

The Real War on Christianity

America is an ideal that can never be completely fulfilled. That’s not something to be disparaged but celebrated: we are always looking to live our values in more and more expansiv…

Why I'm Not A [Blank]

A couple of weeks ago during a Q&A session after a talk I gave I was asked, “Why aren’t you a Christian?” I was intrigued by the question and its corollaries: Why I’m not a Muslim,…

Does God Favor Abortion?

Is God in favor of abortion? Maybe so. An article in The Tennessean newspaper told the story of a fifteen-year-old unmarried girl pregnant with triplets. The pregnancy was not goi…

2012 M(a)y(an) Ass

Damn, damn, damn. I don’t know about you but I was planning to enjoy my final months on earth as the Mayan calendar came to an end on December 21, 2012. I got a reverse mortgage on…

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

In 1968 Mitt Romney allegedly led an alleged assault on an allegedly gay student at his private high school academy during which Mitt allegedly had his alleged friends pin down the…

Vive la Difference?

I’m reading The Forward, a wonderful Jewish newspaper, and two articles catch my attention. The first wonders why young, secular, and liberal American Jews take so little interest …

Who's Afraid of Gods?

Just how scared of Satan do you have to be to flee in the face of a non-Christian prayer? This morning I hosted one of my bi-monthly lunches as Wisdom House at Scarritt-Bennett Ce…

God Always Answers Our Prayers

God always answers our prayers. Sometimes the answer is “no.” You’ve probably heard this said dozens if not hundreds of times. It’s God’s “Get Out of Jail Free” card. In other word…

Free Pray State

Missourians vote tomorrow to save prayer in the public square. A proposed amendment to the state’s constitution would protect a person’s right to pray in public, and would allow st…

Let the Competition Begin

People attending the new Islamic Center of Murfreesboro will have to pass by thirteen crosses erected by the neighboring Grace Baptist Church. According to the local paper (Daily N…

Peace & Harmony vs. Reality

I'm in India as part of a Peace & Harmony conference in honor of the 150th anniversary of Swami Vivekananda's birth. His Holiness the Dalai Lama and I both spoke to the gathering o…

Death of My Teacher Bonia Shur

One of my dearest teachers died last Thursday. His name was Bonia Shur, and he was Director of Liturgical Arts at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR). Bonia…

Random Reactions to the RNC

As the election season rolls on I become more jaded. I am troubled most by the absence of truth in our politics. Facts don’t matter in America anymore. Truth doesn’t matter in Amer…

What I Want for My Grandchildren

I received an interesting questionnaire while I was away in India. I’m sharing my responses with you here as an invitation for you to share your own with us as well. The questionna…

Weather or Not to Vote

I just spoke with my dad in western Massachusetts. He and my mom are praying that hurricane Sandy doesn't cause too much damage or take any lives. My dad isn't what I could call a …

Podcast: Ken Honda

Rabbi Rami speaks with Ken Honda, Japan’s No. 1 best-selling personal development expert. His newest book, Happy Money: The Japanese Art of Making Peace with Your Money, shares how gratitude opens up bounty.

Podcast: Sarah Hurwitz

Rabbi Rami talks with Sarah Hurwitz, a former speechwriter for the Obamas, about her new book on Judaism.

“I Just Can’t Talk”

Got questions? Rabbi Rami has answers.

Making Meaning in Spite of Tragedy

Rabbi Rami Shapiro counsels us to love neighbors and strangers as ourselves.

Jews Are Cool. Judaism? Not So Much.

Jews are cool. Not all of us, of course, but many. Some are humanist and some are Hasidic— being cool isn’t a denominational thing. It is a matter of being at home with yours…

Would The World Be Better Off Without Religion?

“I don’t think we can do away with religion or religiosity, but we can shape new forms of the religions we have as well as create new religions for a new age.”

How Much Do I Love Free Will?

Free will was a hot topic this morning. I was sitting in the Springfield, MO airport watching the news accounts of an American soldier’s murderous rampage through an Afghan village…

iFather Who Art(ificially) in Heaven Hallowed Be Thy Code

Contributing editor Rabbi Rami ponders the Sanctified Theomorphic Operators of the future.

Seeing Isn’t Believing

Seeing is the opposite of believing, writes contributing editor Rabbi Rami.

Mother Knows Best

Rabbi Rami shares his views on the Alabama Fetal Heartbeat legislation.

Limits to My Liberalism

Rabbi Rami warns of the slippery slope of rat-aardvark marriage.

Why I Find the Death Penalty Problematic

“Seeking the death penalty and securing the death penalty should not obligate us to implement the death penalty.”

Podcast: Spring Washam

Teacher, healer, and author Spring Washam talks about spiritual diversity, meditation, and more.

Podcast: Shauna Shapiro, PhD

Clinical psychologist Shauna Shapiro talks about how to use neuroplasticity to reach a place of kindness and compassion, of self love, instead of judgment and fear.

Podcast: Jeana Naluai

Our March/April 2020 cover subject is Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner and lomilomi expert Jeana Naluai. Rabbi Rami spoke with her to learn about healing and forgiveness.

Podcast: David Kessler

David Kessler, the world’s foremost expert on grief, talks about finding meaning in loss.

One Nation Under God?

Can individual states establish a preferred religion? “Lots of Americans believe the United States is a Christian nation, as opposed to a nation established by Christians.”

Podcast: Jaimal Yogis, Author and Soulful Surfer

Life can make us feel slammed. Jaimal Yogis teaches how to surf the waves instead of fighting them.

Podcast: Rev. Michael Curry, the Presiding Bishop and Primate of the Episcopal Church

Rev. Curry on the searing, powerful, counterculture love that can change the world.

Spirituality and Books

“Books are my best friends ...” says Rabbi Rami, discussing the connection between spirituality and books—and why he chooses company carefully.

Spirituality and Luck

Do you think you won a jackpot by being born? Rabbi Rami takes on spirituality and luck.

Hedonism and Spirituality

Rabbi Rami answers your most pressing questions on spirituality.

TIM RYAN: Leading the "Quiet Caucus"

U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, a Democrat from Ohio, spoke with Rabbi Rami about his efforts to bring more mindfulness to the U.S. Senate.

You Are a Part. Not Apart.

The ideal spiritual practice fosters compassion, justice, love, and a sense of unity.

Cultivating the Values of Your Practice

Rabbi Rami shares his personal practice for elevating awareness and compassion to bring thoughts, actions, and values into alignment.

Lana Dalberg: The Divine Feminine

Rabbi Rami Shapiro spoke to activist and theologian Lana Dalberg about women's spiritual experiences and the power of Divine Femininity.

How Do I Not Get Angry with Fundamentalists?

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Roadside Assistance Special Edition: Orlando

Rabbi Rami offers his insight to the influx of questions filling his inbox after the tragedy in Orlando in this special edition of Roadside Assistance.

Redefine Yourself at Midlife

Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler

Our Roadside Oracle Answers Life’s 5 Big Questions

Rabbi Rami Shapiro offers insight into some of life's biggest questions in celebration of our 20th anniversary.

Roadside Assistance in the Holy Land

We asked Rami Shapiro to journey with 30 fellow seekers to this ancient flashpoint of world religions. Our question for the Rabbi was: “What does mature spirituality look like?”

Better to Bury than to Burn?

Contributing editor Rabbi Rami requests that his memorial service be held at a Waffle House.

Stockpiling Nonsense

Rabbi Rami compares and contrasts some of the Trump/Cyrus coins being hawked these days, to hilarious effect.

Kippah Calm and Carry On

After a German official warned Germany’s Jews against wearing kippot in public, Rabbi Rami revisits his long-ago decision to stop wearing one.

Honest Feasting: Mourning and Celebrating within Jewish Traditions

Weddings and funerals: Rabbi Rami has an honest conversation about traditions and how we honor them.

Can God Sue for Unauthorized Use of the Rainbow?

Rabbi Rami claps back at the idea that the rainbow can't be used for gay pride.

White Supremacy and Judaism: A Response

After the terrorist attack in El Paso, Rabbi Rami is asked about the Tree of Life Synagogue murders.

Asking for Forgiveness During Elul

Rabbi Rami explains why he encourages everyone to take part in asking for forgiveness during Elul, whether they practice Judaism or not.

Special Edition: Roadside Assistance

Rabbi Rami is answering your questions, with special editions of his online column Roadside Musings.

A Prayer to Comfort Those Passing

In these heartbreaking times, being together during life's passages is often impossible. Rabbi Rami shares a prayer to bring comfort to those who are passing.

Special Edition: Roadside Assistance Part II

Rabbi Rami is answering your questions, with special editions of his online column Roadside Musings.

Podcast: Kyle Chayka

In this thought-provoking conversation, journalist and art expert Kyle Chayka talks with Rabbi Rami on what living in a minimalist way can mean from a spiritual perspective.

Podcast: David Hanscom, MD

A former spine surgeon presents effective pain-relief alternatives to risky procedures.

Explaining Humans to Martians

Rabbi Rami Shapiro answers questions and offers advice to S&H readers. “Imagine you are sent as an emissary to Mars. What five things would you want Martians to know about us humans? How would you answer this?”

“Overcoming” Original Sin

Rabbi Rami Shapiro answers questions from S&H readers. “How do you overcome Original Sin?”

The Likeness of God: Brown and Black

Rabbi Rami Shapiro answers questions from S&H readers. “My priest confided in me that despite her best sermonic efforts, racism still infects our overwhelmingly white church. What else might she do?”

A Coequal Helpmeet

Rabbi Rami Shapiro answers questions from S&H readers. “I’m engaged to a man I met in Bible study. He asked me to be his helpmeet the way Eve was Adam’s helpmeet (Genesis 2:18) ... What do you think he means?”

Looking for a Standard

Rabbi Rami provides wisdom on reincarnation, yoga classes as appropriation, astrology predicting the future, and more.

What Is Love?

Rabbi Rami dives into deep spiritual waters on the nature of love, evil, truth, and more.

Why I Meditate

Rabbi Rami contemplates his discussion with artist Fariha Róisín and uncovers the root of his meditative practice.

Are You a Mystic?

Who can identify as a mystic? Rabbi Rami investigates during a conversation with a ceremonialist.

Can Mindfulness Aid Recovery?

How can mindfulness help folks in addiction recovery? Rabbi Rami offers his frank thoughts after a compelling podcast interview.

Are We Someone From Birth?

Are we fully ourselves at birth, or do we become ourselves over time? Rabbi Rami explores.

Roadside Assistance: Becoming Enlightened

Rabbi Rami Shapiro answers pressing questions on America, immortality, and enlightenment as a goal.

Without Stories, Who Am I?

What do we do when it's hard to tell our therapist the truth? Rabbi Rami explores.

Balancing Ikigai and Nagomi

The Japanese language and Japanese philosophy offer us numerous terms that help us rethink our life—explore Rabbi Rami's thoughts.

Mysticism, Mary, and the Milk of the Divine Mother

Is it possible to reconnect with the mysticism behind organized religions? Rabbi Rami show us the way.

Living in the Head (Until the Body Says Otherwise)

Rabbi Rami explores how a sudden loss of consciousness helped him explore his relationship to the physical body.

Replacing Happiness With Microjoys

How do we find a healthy balance between joy and sorrow? Rabbi Rami explores the concept of microjoys, as inspired by author and podcast guest Cyndie Spiegel.

What's Next for Spirituality & Health?

Rabbi Rami explores what the next 25 years have in store for Spirituality & Health and American spirituality as a whole.

Never Too Old

It's never too late to become a spiritual leader in your community. Rabbi Rami reflects on four decades of spiritual leadership, and what the process could look like for you, no matter your age.

Are We In Control of Our Time?

How do we know if time is well-spent, or if we're truly cherishing each moment we have left on Earth? Rabbi Rami Shapiro offers advice on whether we should care.

The Many Definitions of Hope

How do we find hope in dark times? After his recent conversation with Rev. Wendy Van Allen for the S+H Podcast, Rabbi Rami explores his philosophy on how to save humanity from itself.

Should You Retire or Rewire?

Entering midlife brings with it many challenges, opportunities, and questions. Rabbi Rami shares his thoughts following a conversation with Chip Conley for the S+H podcast.

Chuang Tzu’s Butterfly and Me

When you can no longer distinguish between your waking and dream lives, how do you view your Self? Rabbi Rami shares his thoughts.

The Key to Open-Mindedness

Is it possible to learn open-mindedness? Rabbi Rami explores his perspective on curiousity versus truth.

Roadside Assistance: My Teenage Daughter Wants to Transition to a Boy

Rabbi Rami explores your questions about trans loved ones, the image of God, and interpreting dreams.

Mindfulness and Me: A Confession of Failure

Like any form of meditation, mindfulness meditation training can be a different experience for everyone. Rabbi Rami reflects upon his own problems with the practice.

Our Children Are Our Future

If children are the future, what sort of world will be waiting for them? Rabbi Rami reflects on his recent conversation with Mind & Life Institute president Susan Bauer-Wu on the Spirituality+Health podcast.

Spiritual Minimalism: Being All, While Schlepping Less

What would you carry in your spiritual minimalist backpack? Rabbi Rami Shapiro considers his own religious necessities after his recent conversation with Light Watkins for the S+H podcast.

Finding Zen by Accepting Impermanence

Rabbi Rami reflects upon his own Zen teachings after a recent conversation with crossword puzzle writer Myles Mellor for the Spirituality+Health podcast.

But How? My Spiritual Practice

When you think of your daily spiritual practice, is it through discipline or joy? Rabbi Rami considers how his strategies for spiritual growth have changed over the years.

Being Free From Delusion

What is "inner sobriety," and how can it help free us from self-delusion? Rabbi Rami Shapiro reflects upon his own experience with food addiction to explore further.

Returning to Our Trees

Inspired by a conversation with Chief Druid Kristoffer Hughes, Rabbi Rami shares his insights on the spiritual significance of trees in both Druidry and Judaism.

The Anxiety of Belief

Explore Rabbi Rami’s thoughts on how unconscious beliefs can produce anxiety, inspired by a recent podcast interview with a clinical psychologist and anxiety expert.

Cloud Hidden, Whereabouts Unknown

After a compelling conversation with author Perdita Finn, Rabbi Rami considers what he wants done with his body after death.

Fighting Societal Affective Disorder

After a conversation with a seasonal affective disorder expert, Rabbi Rami ponders the affliction of societal affective disorder.

The Art of Spiritual Reading

After a conversation with a physician and convalescence expert, Rabbi Rami ponders the power of spiritual reading as a healing art.

Learning From the Trees

After a conversation with environmentalist Judith Polich, Rabbi Rami considers what we can learn from the wisdom of trees.

Happy Bodhi Day

Inspired by a conversation with a druid herbalist, Rabbi Rami reflects on the many holidays happening this season.

The Spiritual Practice of Conversation

After a conversation with authors Neal Allen and Anne Lamott, Rabbi Rami explores the power of spiritual conversation to quiet the inner critic.

Why I’m Not a Motivational Speaker

Rabbi Rami shares why he's no longer a motivational speaker, and explores the complex nature of God's plans for our lives.

Who Is My Authentic Self?

Rabbi Rami explores what it means to honor your authentic self after a podcast conversation with author Myra Goodman.

Learning to Love

Peggy La Cerra’s “Why Relationships Are So Difficult” ends with a challenge: “Perhaps it’s time for a new approach to the problem [of human selfishness and self-centeredness] — an …

Create Your Own Holy Day

We are entering one of the busiest spiritual seasons of the year, so we asked for some special “Roadside Assistance” from Rabbi Rami Shapiro:• What are holy days for?• How should w…

The Spiritual Traveler: Why Does God Hate Me?

Rabbi Rami Shapiro is an award-winning author, poet, and teacher. In this column, he answers reader-submitted questions pertaining to faith, morality, religious traditions, and oth…

What is the Difference Between Religion and Spirituality?

I’m in recovery and suspect that my addictions keep me from knowing something. But what?Addictions are like mud on a mirror: when we look into it, we cannot see our true self. Addi…

Can I Still Love My Brother, the Atheist?

My brother and I have been Christians all our lives. Now he says he’s an atheist. How can I have a relationship with someone who believes in nothing?Being an atheist doesn’t mean b…

Do Dings and Divots Reveal Soul?

My mother died suddenly from a heart attack, and I can’t rid myself of the anger I feel toward her for that. I love her deeply, and I feel guilty about the anger. And I’m fearful t…

The Difference Between Spirituality and Religion?

I know this sounds basic, but what is the difference between religion and spirituality?Religion is about belonging, community, shared values, shared rituals, and mutual support. Sp…

Do I Tell My Dying Daughter That I Don’t Believe in Heaven?

My roommate insists it’s impossible to prove the existence of God. I’m not sure. What’s your take?It all depends on how you define the word “God.” For example, if you define God as…

Enlightenment: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?

I’ve been reading a lot of books about enlightenment lately, and I still don’t have a clue as to what it is and why it matters. Can you help?Think of it this way: You suddenly find…

What’s the Difference Between Jesus and Christ?

You’re a hypocrite. You don’t believe in heaven or hell, and yet you let people who do get away with it. Why not just tell them they’re wrong?If you want to dialogue deeply with pe…

Scriptures Reflect the Best and Worst Within Us

To these perennial questions, I offer some answers―not to close a conversation but to broaden one. I do not claim to know anything you don’t know, but if I can help you remember wh…

Enjoy the Fun of Getting, But Teach the Power of Giving

To these perennial questions, I offer some answers — not to close a conversation, but to broaden one. I do not claim to know anything you don’t know, but if I can help you remember…

Former Priest Matthew Fox on 21st Century Spirituality

Two decades being expelled as a priest of the Dominican Order, Matthew Fox has continued to challenge the doctrines of the Catholic Church with books including last year’s The Pope…

Is There a Male Spirituality?

When my husband and I talk about spirituality, he just doesn’t get it—yet I think he’s a spiritual person. Is there such a thing as male spirituality?Rabbi Rami: Yes and no. Spirit…

Should Public Schools Teach Religion to Kids?

Reader question: My kids are in a public elementary school that teaches them about religion. I’m concerned about this. What if anything should public schools teach our children abo…

Newtown Shootings: If God Exists, Why Do Terrible Things Happen?

My email flooded with questions from readers this weekend regarding the shootings in Portland, Oregon and Newtown, Conneticut. As always, I offer answers not to close a conversatio…

Illuminated by Love: An Interview with Author Camille Helminski

The co-founder of the Threshold Society, an educational foundation rooted in the Mevlevi tradition of Sufism, author and translator Camille Helminski’s books include The Book of Na…

Enlightenment is to be Lived

My best friend and I are intrigued by enlightenment but can’t define it. What is enlightenment?Rabbi Rami: For me enlightenment is the act or art of embracing what is as it is, acc…

Worship a God Beyond Imagining

Religion is only as healthy or as sick as our imaginations allow.

Tim Miner: Spirituality without Religion

A founder of the Order of Universal Interfaith and the executive director of the Council of Interfaith Communities of the United States, the Rev. Tim Miner also is a leader in the…

Arjuna Ardagh: Coaching Toward Awakenıng

Rabbi Rami: Your new book, Better Than Sex: The Ecstatic Art of Awakening Coaching, lays out a powerful and practical model for living. Let’s start with the basics. What do you mea…

You Are an Infinite Nonzero Game

Excerpted from The Golden Rule & the Games People Play by Rami Shapiro

The Consciousness of the Brain with Mariano Sigman

Host Rabbi Rami talks with neuroscientist Mariano Sigman.

Great Expectations with Gretchen Rubin

Rabbi Rami talks to happiness expert Gretchen Rubin.

The Healing Truth

The goal of The World Wisdom Bible is not to create a world religion, but to create peace, 12 coffee cups at a time

Book Review: ​Holy Rascals

Spirituality & Health columnist Rabbi Rami Shapiro won’t tell you that your religious beliefs are silly and superstitious. However, he might tell you a joke that leads you to disco…

Recovering from a Double Mastectomy

I'm recovering at my mother's house from a double mastectomy. Alone in the house the other day, I went into my mother's room, stood before this huge crucifix she has hanging on the…

My Husband Encountered God

On a trek in the desert Southwest, my husband encountered God, who told my husband that he was God’s prophet. He now wants to sell all we have, and start a global ministry promotin…

My Doctors Say I Have Six Months to a Year Left to Live.

I’m dying. My doctors say I have six months to a year left to live. I’ve made peace with this. But when I look at my bucket list, everything in it seems so frivolous. How should I …

Prescribed Opioids or Illegal Medical Marijuana?

My son was prescribed opioids. A doctor friend in Arizona offered to get him marijuana instead. Medical marijuana is illegal in our state, but the opioid epidemic is all too real. …

A Do-Not-Resuscitate Order

I hold the medical power of attorney for my terminally ill sister. She signed a do-not-resuscitate order, but just before going into a coma she whispered, “Don’t let me die.” Do I …

Bumper Sticker about Islam

A coworker’s Ford F–150 sports this bumper sticker: “Everything I know about Islam I learned on 9/11.” As a Muslim, how can I help him know Islam differently?

After Two Years of Marriage, I Lost My Husband to a Disease

After only two years of marriage, I lost my husband to a disease neither one of us had ever heard of. My best friend is getting married and she has asked me not to attend the weddi…

Dad Can't Handle Daughter Marrying Girlfriend

I’m a daddy’s girl, and my upcoming wedding to my girlfriend is killing him. I want him to walk me down the aisle, but I don’t think he’ll even attend. How do I get over my anger a…

Liberally Religious but Politically Conservative

I belong to a very liberal church, and when it comes to religion it is a perfect fit. But politically I am conservative and plan to vote for “He Who Cannot Be Named” (at least not …

What Kind Of God Do I Believe In?

I believe everything happens according to God’s will. Six months ago my neighbor, driving drunk, caused an accident that killed her 12-year-old daughter. Did God do this to teach h…

I Miscarried A Month Ago

I miscarried a month ago. My partner says our baby wasn’t really a baby and I shouldn’t grieve. But I do. I want to name our baby and have a memorial service for her. Am I being si…

I Worry God is Eager to Send Me to Hell

My cancer is terminal. Dozens of people are praying for me to heal, but God has said “no” to them. My friends say this means God is anxious to welcome me into heaven, but I worry G…

If This Were My Dream...

I’ve heard you say that when asked to interpret another’s dreams always begin by saying, “If this were my dream…” I have dreamed the same dream every week for two months: I’…

We told my niece that her mom died in a car crash. She isn't dead.

My niece is dying from a rare blood disorder. She takes comfort in believing she will soon be with her mother in heaven. I know otherwise: My sister isn’t dead. We told my niece th…

In the past three years both my sons committed suicide.

In the past three years both my sons committed suicide, and now I constantly hover over my young adult daughter for fear she’s plotting to do the same. I’m angry with God, worrying…

Which God should I fear most?

I’m a Hindu but my parents sent me to a Catholic school. We have many idols in our home, but I was taught that idolatry is forbidden. In a pique of rage, I smashed my mother’s favo…

She loves me but isn’t willing to marry me as long as I’m taking care of my mom.

I’m a single woman living with and caring for my aged mom. A few months ago I met someone who has become my beloved. She loves me but isn’t willing to marry me as long as I’m takin…

Dining at the Smorgasbord of World Religions

“Honestly, I had no idea there were so many religions in the world. What I want to know is why that is.”

I have a fatal illness. A shamanic cure would bankrupt me. My kids are more concerned with their inheritance.

I have a fatal illness. Western medicine has failed me, and God is not listening to my prayers. I heard about a shamanic cure, but the cost will bankrupt me. My kids are against it…

Barabbas and Jesus Bar Abbas

"Matters become clear when we realize that the Greek name Barabbas comes from the Aramaic Bar Abbas, Son of the Father, and that according to early manuscripts of Matthew’s Gospel the first name of Barabbas was Jesus."

Woke God

"Like the God who guides the Mormons, mine too instructs us 'revelation upon revelation.' My God’s revelations fall into two categories: Wow! and Play Nice!"

No More Warrior Gods

"If anything we are simply better armed fanatics salivating in anticipation of our God’s call to war against the infidels and their idols. But one fanatic’s idol is another fanatic’s God, and religious war is always percolating beneath the surface of human affairs."

Does Your Religion Bring You Joy?

“Ask yourself: What in your religious and spiritual life brings you joy?”

What Astrology Really Tells You

“You may be among the millions of Americans who are curious about, if not seriously engaged with, astrology. Me too.”

​Luciferian Meats: We Answer to a Lower Authority*

Is fake meat the work of Lucifer? Hmm, probably not a spiritual emergency.

A New Way to Worship

I am all about being a human awake to God manifesting as all life.

Is It Okay to Grieve for a Pet?

A comforting prayer to use when releasing a pet from this life.

Why We Don’t Want State Religion

“To put it bluntly: the more power a religion has, the more power a religion wants, and it gets that power at the expense of human freedom.”

What Doesn’t Kill Me Makes Me Funnier

What is my mission here? What is anyone’s mission here? And where can I get a Hawaiian shirt to borrow?

God Hates Dogs?

“This is what is wrong with religion: it walks into the future with its eyes firmly set on the past.”

Is This Weed Kosher? And Other Burning Questions

Is this weed kosher? Is this rabbi Jewish? Are these Doritos good, or what?

Do We Need a New God?

“We need a new understanding of God that allows us to leave behind the zero-sum and xenophobic narratives of country, kin, culture, and parental bias and embrace the diversity of humanity within the greater unity of God.”

You Say Potato, I Say Pogrom

Garden City, Idaho looks pretty picturesque. Not so pretty: A candidate for the area’s city council has been spouting anti-Semitic ramblings.

How Now, Brown Cow

“The fact that I am not among the 16.4 million Americans who think chocolate milk comes from brown cows is sheer luck!”

Muggles Strike Back

“What to do with all these evil books? Expelliarmus!”

Leaving Your Religion

If you have left or are considering leaving your religion for something spiritual, consider seeking out the renewalists in your religion.

Bring on the Global Exorcism!

In October of 1967, Abbie Hoffman and Jerry Rubin gathered Americans and encircled the Pentagon for a grand exorcism. The plan was to use an Aramaic chant to levitate the Pentagon, turn it orange, and shake out the evil that pervaded it...

We Hold These Truths To Be Self Evident

“I am fascinated by religion. I simply don’t like the idea that something is beyond questioning.”

You Don’t Need to Be Brave

“Bravery is the suppression or masking of fear but sharing one’s fear makes more sense to me.”

All Religious-Based Answers Are Acceptable?

“If the students in Ohio schools want to replace math with myth, and fact with fiction, who am I to judge?”

The Problem of How to Greet People This Season

Do you say, ‘Merry Christmas’ and risk the possibility of insulting a Zoroastrian? Or do you say, ‘Happy Holidays’ and risk the possibility of insulting a Christian?

Greta Thunberg as Mad Max

“There are two women tackling climate change in a big way. Michele Bachmann is one of them. The other is Greta Thunberg, the teen climate activist who was just named Time’s Person of the Year.”

Charitable Giving: Do You Know How Your Donation is Being Used?

“The problem isn’t that the Vatican needs money to maintain its operations, but that it is getting millions of dollars from a fund officially designated for helping people. This isn’t new, but it seems all the more egregious when religion preys on those who pray.”

Is Lying About God Okay?

“Lying about God and promoting a Pollyannaish understanding of religion isn’t going to help at all.”

Ram Dass’ Greatest Teaching

“This one line has done more to shape my teaching than any other.”

If Meditation Isn’t Joyful, Don’t Do It

“You might ask, if I am meditating just to meditate—if there is no goal to it at all—why bother with it in the first place? Good question.”

Where Did All the Poop on Noah’s Ark Go?

“One reason people are leaving traditional Bible-based religions is that they are told they have to read the Bible literally rather than metaphorically.” So what happened to the poop on Noah's ark?

The Catholic Church Needs Celibate Women Priests

If the the bishops and the Pope really want to alleviate the shortage of priests, they need to open the priesthood to women.

Pennies From Heaven

“I have come to welcome those found pennies and to use the act of picking them up as a reminder to stop for a moment and think about my dad.”

COVID-19: Fearless Love Is Needed

“If we are going to survive as a species worthy of survival, we will have to get beyond the limits of ‘us’ verses ‘them’ and open to the truth of all of us together.”

Four Biblical Verses For This Time

“Life is wild and nothing is permanent. Now deal with it.”

Pastor Tony Spell: Why I Love Him

Pastor Tony Spell “knows God wouldn’t let the good folks at Life Tabernacle Church die when their only sin is their desire to demonstrate their love of God. God doesn’t act this way, does He?”

Altruism on Your Death Bed

A living will relinquishing your ventilator to a younger, healthier sick person can help spare our healthcare heroes from extra grief and pain.

Are You There, God? It’s Me: Coronavirus

Finding God—and yourself—in a pandemic. Is there divine meaning?

​Condolences in the Days of COVID-19

Someone you know has died due to COVID-19. Here’s the script on writing your gentle condolences.

Is Anything More Important Than Living?

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick doth proclaim: “There are more important things than living.” Are there?

Show You Care—Wear a Mask

“Wearing a mask in public is a deliberate act of caring for others … a concrete way to live the challenge to love your neighbor as yourself.”

World War N

World War N is a fight against nihilism, the belief that power is the only thing that really matters.

Culture, Not Hate? Symbols of the Confederacy

Two blocks north from my house, a neighbor flies a large Confederate flag. A half-mile south stands a statue commemorating the Confederate soldiers who fought to save my city from …

Podcast: Dr. Josefa Rangel, Innate Medicine Specialist

Innate medicine is a new way of looking at healing and seeks to build up the body’s inherent capacity to be well.

Podcast: Psychologist Rick Hanson

Can you climb higher on a path to wisdom and happiness? Yes, and psychologist Rick Hanson shares how with Neurodharma.

Podcast: Sue Stuart-Smith on the Well-Gardened Mind

Cultivating a literal garden is a way to also cultivate a thriving mind, says this prominent psychiatrist and psychotherapist.

Spirituality and Donuts

Donuts can teach us a deep lesson about our brains and how to cease the internal chatter. Read on.

Spirituality and Aloneness

I come to see it for what it is: a ceaseless swirl of mental flotsam and jetsam outside my willful control.

Spirituality and Pronouns

“While I do my best to honor people’s pronoun preferences, the pronouns that really matter to me are the three spiritual pronouns: I, You, and It.”

Thankful This Pandemic Season

“Facing mortality is only one of the gifts I am thankful for this pandemic season. Another is lockdown.”

Religion and Politics

“It seems to me that religion and politics are inextricably intertwined. So much so, in fact, that I think religion is simply politics by another name. Was this always the case or is this something new?”

Spirituality and Hanukkah

Hanukkah isn’t about lighting candles, clogging your arteries with fried food, playing dreidel, exchanging presents, or eating cheap chocolate in the shape of faux ancient coins.

Spirituality and Transcendence

Does your spiritual practice take you out of this world or out, into this world?

Spirituality and Christmas

How are spirituality and Christmas related? “To me Christmas is hopeful: a time to celebrate the potential for God-Realization in all of us.”

Spirituality and Insurrection

“People like to say there is only one God. They are wrong. People believe in many Gods, each mirroring the mindset of the believer.”

Spirituality and the Heart

In the context of heart-centered spirituality, love isn’t a romantic feeling but a state of responsibility calling upon you.

Spirituality and Your Motherboard

“Regardless of your religion or lack thereof, what is your motherboard, your non-negotiable, your red line, your identity anchor?”

Spirituality and Dogs

You have to train a dog to be vicious. For humans, all it takes is religion, politics, or social media. Dogs are the ultimate Zen practitioners.

Spirituality and Other Powers

As something separate from you, a higher power has to be implored to restore you to sanity. When you awaken to the greater power of which you are already a part, sanity happens.

Improvising a Milestone

“Making things up is an act of improvisation while achieving life purpose is an act of following a script. I prefer making things up.”

Spirituality and Pascal’s Wager

Pascal’s logic—to act like you believe in God even if you don’t—is convincing. The problem is, which God?

Spirituality and Reading

Spiritual reading is just one way to engage deeper with wisdom and wonder.

Spirituality and Aliveness

You don’t have to reach Buddhahood to embrace Aliveness. “I don’t believe every life is a happening of a nondual Aliveness, I know every life is a happening of a nondual Aliveness.”

Spirituality and Grokking

People grok daily, often without even realizing it.

Spirituality and the Will of God

Everything happens the way it does because the conditions for its happening are such that nothing else could happen, and those conditions are the will of God.

The Essence of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is not so much an act as an attitude.

Against God

Against God? Whose god? “It is difficult to be against the god of another’s imagining without having the other imagine that you are against them as well.”

Spirituality and Nonduality

Realizing nondual Aliveness in, with, and as all reality is at the heart of all authentic spiritual awakening.

Spirituality, War, and Personal Training

Are humans ready to outgrow their local deities in favor of something more cosmic and inclusive?

Spirituality and 9/11

Meaning isn’t something that one finds; meaning is something one makes.

Spirituality and Releasing

There is a difference between letting go and letting be. It has to do with control.

Spirituality and Dying

“I don’t want to romanticize dying, but I do want to liberate it from the fears we foist upon it.”

Spirituality and a New God

“We need a new understanding of God that allows us to leave behind the zero-sum and xenophobic narratives of country, kin, culture, and parental bias.”

Spirituality and Team Möbius

Humanity is a team sport ... but does it have to be this way?

Spirituality and Creation

There must be a profound shift in the story we tell ourselves about ourselves and our relationship to creation.

The God-Sized Hole

“I feel this great hole in me. A religious friend called this a “God-sized” hole and urged me to find God as the remedy for my hole-y-ness. What would you advise?”

Spirituality and Rewilding

Feeling domesticated? Schedule in time to shatter your schedule and start rewilding yourself.

Starting a Quote Journaling Practice

You will not be disappointed with what this journaling practice reveals.

A Contemplative Walking Practice

“When I walk, I am most Jewish.” A contemplative walking practice is a catalyst for fresh thinking and fresh seeing.

Stop Fearing Change

Are you living your life resistant to change? Are you living your life resistant to life?

What’s Your Number?

It is toward this crystal clarity that all authentic spiritual practice points.

What Is My Life For?

“My experience with Zen was not brief, and yet for all that, it was not fruitful either.”

Spirituality and Sentience

Recognizing the sentience of nonhumans obligates you to engage with life in a manner that, at minimum, seeks to avoid unnecessary suffering.

Beyond Optimism and Pessimism

What’s up with being in the world but not of it? And why do bad things happen to good people?

Book Review: Judaism Without Tribalism

With precision derived from decades of immersive experience and devoted thought, Rabbi Rami Shapiro investigates the diverse branches of Judaism to reveal a creative path that is o…

What Is Pleasure?

Dive into a contemplation of the definition of “pleasure,” and learn how melancholy can have similar effects.

How Dreams Become Prophecy

How do you pose questions to your dreams? Who should interpret your dreams?

Paganism and the Sacredness of Nature

Modern pagan practices may hold wisdom that is desperately needed for our time.

Be a Heretic

Explore what it means to be a heretic, how to measure the health of your soul, and the importance of Paganism for our time.

Do You Talk to Yourself?

Have you tried changing the narrative inside your head? Talking to yourself may just be a healing practice—if you do it right.

Are You a Spiritual Being or a Human Being?

“All that is required of us is to be true to the ebb or flow of the moment.”

Roadside Assistance: The Infinite Aliveness

Your questions on God, grief, and living—answered.

Do People Really Change?

Can we truly become new people in this life? Who does the changing? An interview with an addiction expert sparks questions.

Can Perennial Wisdom Save Our Future?

Taking the "longpath" view of the future can help us become better people today and better ancestors tomorrow.

How Do Gods Die?

Dive into an exploration of archetypal psychology and what it can teach us about where the gods may have gone.

Roadside Assistance: Will Jehovah Deny Me Immortality?

Our roadside oracle answers your questions on immortality, negativity, and the best spiritual path to God.

Roadside Assistance: “I'm a Girl, Gramma, I Don't Want a Boy God.”

Our roadside oracle answers your questions on the gender of God, the potential of hell, and how to find the right spiritual teacher.

Shifting Our Perspective With Dan Millman

Dan Millman talks to Rabbi Rami about broadening our perspective.

Transforming Trauma with Dr. Joanne Cacciatore

Rabbi Rami talks to trauma expert and Zen priest Dr. Joanne Cacciatore.

Opt Out with Josh Korda

Josh Korda talks to Rabbi Rami about his latest book Unsubscribe.

Podcast: Kelly McGonigal

Rabbi Rami speaks with our January/February cover subject, Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D.

Food Fight with Ronnie Cummins

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to the international director of the Organic Consumers Association Ronnie Cummins. "The Food Fight We Might All Agree On" appears in the July/August prin…

The Upside with Jim Rendon

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to Jim Rendon about his new book Upside: The New Science of Post-Traumatic Growth. A review of his book can be found in the July/August 2015 issue of Spi…

Active Aging with Andy Baxter

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to rehab specialist Andy Baxter about active aging. His story "This is Your Brain on Exercise" can be found in the July/August 2015 issue of Spirituality…

Shifting Perspective with Ingrid Newkirk

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. An interview with Newkirk also appears in the May/June print issue of Spirituality & Health magazine. …

Psychedelic Healing with Martin Ball

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to author and professor Martin Ball about psychedelic healing. His story "3 Models of Psychedelic Healing and Spirituality" can be found in the July/Augu…

Felt Sense with David Rome

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to teacher and author David Rome about the felt sense focusing method. His story Your Body Knows the Answer can be found in the May/June 2015 issue of Sp…

Part 2: On the Road at the Parliament of World Religions

On part 2 of this special installment of Essential Conversations, Rabbi Rami attends the The Parliament of World Religions and interviews author of American Veda Phil Goldberg abou…

Part 1: On the Road at the Parliament of World Religions 2015

On this special installment of Essential Conversations, Rabbi Rami attends the The Parliament of World Religions and interviews Elizabeth Ursick, the author of Women, Ritual, and P…

The Zig Zag Life with Natalie Goldberg

Rabbi Rami talks to Natalie Goldberg about discovering her practice, how writing is meditation, and her latest book The Great Spring.

Reconcilable Differences with Dawna Markova and Angie McArthur

Host Rabbi Rami talks with collaborative thinkers Dawna Markova Ph.D. and Angie McArthur.

Writing Letters with Elana Zaiman

Rabbi Elana Zaiman hopes to encourage her readers to share their appreciation, wisdom, and wishes for those they love.

Being Human with Roshi Joan Halifax

Rabbi Rami chats with Roshi Joan Halifax about her spiritual roots and connecting to each other's humanity.

Dr. Daniel Siegel's Wheel of Awareness

One of the leading experts in the human mind Dr. Daniel Siegel talks to Rabbi Rami.

Podcast: Mirabai Starr

Listen to the latest Essential Conversations. Rabbi Rami interviews Mirabai Starr about her most recent book, Wild Mercy: Living the Fierce and Tender Wisdom of the Women Mystics.

Podcast: Jane Brox

Jane Brox is the author of several books, including Silence: A Social History of One of the Least Understood Elements of Our Lives.

Podcast: Julie Peters on Love and Recovery

S&H staff writer Julie Peters talks with Rabbi Rami about her new book, Want: 8 Steps to Recovering Desire, Passion, and Pleasure After Sexual Assault.

Podcast: Pouria Montazeri

Rabbi Rami explores the mystical teachings of Rumi with Pouria Montazeri. A native Farsi speaker, Pouria has a deep understanding of Rumi's language and culture. Drawing from Sufism, Advaita Vedanta, and other spiritual and contemplative practices, he conducts courses to guide people to the map of their hearts.

Podcast: Barbara Brown Taylor

Rabbi Rami speaks with Barbara Brown Taylor, a best-selling author, teacher, and Episcopal priest.

Podcast: Scott Shay

Rabbi Rami's guest this week is Scott Shay, the co-founder and chairman of Signature Bank, a long-time Jewish Community activist, and author.

Podcast: Yoga Expert Seane Corn

Rabbi Rami speaks with internationally acclaimed yoga teacher and public speaker Seane Corn, about her very first book, Revolution of the Soul. Full transcript of discussion included.

Podcast: Christian Conte

Rabbi Rami talks with Christian Conte, Ph.D, one of the country’s most accomplished anger management specialists.

Podcast: Dr. Will Cole

One of the leading voices in functional medicine talks with Rabbi Rami about chronic inflammation, and why it is time for entirely new approaches to health and wellness.

Podcast: Dance Psychologist Dr. Peter Lovatt

Dance psychologist and teacher Peter Lovatt, author of The Dance Cure, believes every human being was born to dance.

Episode 5: Christophe Cognet

Your host Rabbi Rami Shapiro talks to filmmaker and director Christophe Cognet about his film Because I Was A Painter, an unprecedented investigation into secretly created artworks…

Episode 1: Stephen Kiesling

Your host Rabbi Rami Shapiro sits down with editor in chief of Spirituality & Health magazine Stephen Kiesling to discuss trends in spirituality from the past to today. Edit…

Episode 2: Damien Echols

Rabbi Rami Shapiro and guest Damien Echols discuss meditation, energy work, and magick. You can read the S&H story "Spellbound" about Damien here. Editor's note: The audio q…

Thupten Jinpa's Spiritual Roots

Your host Rabbi Rami Shapiro talks to author and scholar Thupten Jinpa, Ph.D, about his spiritual roots and his new book, A Fearless Heart: How the Courage to be Compassionate Can …

The Perils of Consumerism with Reverand Billy

Rabbi Rami talks to Reverend Billy, aka Billy Talen, about his activist background, how reducing consumption is a spiritual act, and his new album The Earth Wants You. A review of …

Episode 6: Clark Strand

Your host Rabbi Rami Shapiro talks to author Clark Strand about pioneering the spiritually independent movement and his new book Waking Up to the Dark: Ancient Wisdom for a Sleeple…

Why Go Paleo with Deborah Gordon

Your host Rabbi Rami Shapiro talks to physician Deborah Gordon, MD, about the benefits of going paleo. Read her full story in the May/June 2015 issue of Spirituality & Health. …

Episode 4: Allan Lokos

Your host Rabbi Rami Shapiro talks to Allan Lokos about the plane crash that deepened his Buddhist practice. Allan Lokos. is the founder and guiding teacher of the The Community M…

Episode 3: Lissa Rankin, M.D.

Your host Rabbi Rami Shapiro discusses how to navigate your fears with author Lissa Rankin, M.D.Lissa Rankin, M.D. is the author of the New York Times bestseller Mind Over Medicine…

Geonomics with George Annas

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to leading health lawyer/bioethicist George Annas about his new book Genomic Messages: How the New Science of Genetics Affects Our Health, Families, and …

Altruism with Matthieu Ricard

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to the "happiest man on Earth" Matthieu Ricard about his new book Altruism: The Power of Compassion to Change Yourself and the World. A review of the boo…

Bridging Differences with Patricia and Alana Raybon

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to mother and daughter Patricia and Alana Raybon about their new book Undivided: A Muslim Daughter, Her Christian Mother, Their Path to Peace. A review o…

Science and God with Nancy Ellen Abrams

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to radical thinker Nancy Ellen Abrams about the complexities of the universe and her new book A God That Could Be Real: Spirituality, Science, and the Fu…

The Power of Gut Microbes with David Perlmutter

Your host Rabbi Rami Shapiro talks to author David Perlmutter about his new book, Brain Maker: The Power of Gut Microbes to Heal and Protect Your Brain—for Life. Read the S&H revie…

Green Burials with Brian Wilson

Your host Rabbi Rami Shapiro talks to co-director and editor Brian Wilson about how we prepare for death and funerals, and his documentary A Will for the Woods. Read the S&H review…

Collaborative Intelligence with Dr. Dawna Markova and Angela McArthur

Rabbi Rami talks to Dr. Dawna Markova and Angie McArthur about their new book Collaborative Intelligence: Thinking with People Who Think Differently. An adapted excerpt of their bo…

Love Everyone with Parvati Markus

Rabbi Rami talks to Parvati Markus about life with the Maharashi and her new book Love Everyone. A review of her book an be found in November/December 2015 issue of Spirituality & …

Awakening the Heroine with Carol Pearson

Rabbi Rami talks to Carol S. Pearson, Ph.D. about her new book Persephone Rising: Awakening the Heroine Within. A review of her book an be found in November/December 2015 issue of …

Fighting God with David Silverman

Rabbi Rami talks to the president of American Atheists David Silverman about his new book Fighting God: An Atheist Manifesto for a Religious World. A review of his book can be foun…

The Sacred Ego with Jalaja Bonheim

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to circle work facilitator Jalaja Bonheim about her new book Sacred Ego: Making Peace with Ourselves and Our World. An interview with Bonheim can be foun…

Living in the Moment with Jon Long

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to filmmaker Jon Long about his new documentary film The Search for Freedom and how living in the moment can bring a sense of peace and happiness. An rev…

Get SuperBetter with Jane McGonigal

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to Jane McGonigal about the benefits of gameplay and her new book SuperBetter: A Revolutionary Approach to Getting Stronger, Happier, Braver and More Res…

Elizabeth Gilbert Gets Spiritual

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to Elizabeth Gilbert about her ideas around spirituality and her new book Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear. A review of the book can be found in Se…

Reclaiming Conversation with Sherry Turkle

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to Sherry Turkle about her new book Reclaiming Conversation in the Digital Age. A review of the book can be found in September/October 2015 issue of Spir…

Awakening the Dreamer with Ruel Walker

Ruel Walker manages the development of the Pachamama Alliance’s educational programs. Beginning in 2005, Ruel helped design and implement the training program for facilitators of t…

Race and Medicine with Damon Tweedy

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to Damon Tweedy about his new book Black Man in a White Coat: A Doctor's Reflections on Race and Medicine. A review of the book can be found in September…

Vidyamala Burch on Living with Chronic Pain

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to Vidyamala Burch about her book You Are Not Your Pain: Using Mindfulness to Relieve Pain, Reduce Stress, and Restore Well-Being—An Eight-Week Program. …

Spiritual Anarchy with John Malkin

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to writer John Malkin about punk rock and spiritual anarchy—themes in his book What You Think Changes How You Act. John is a regular contributor to Spiri…

Talking Miracles with Mark Nepo

Rabbi Rami has a deeply insightful conversation with Mark Nepo about what cancer taught him, surrendering to creativity, and his new book Inside the Miracle: Enduring Suffering, Ap…

Get to Know Muhammad with Steven Scholl

Rabbi Rami talks to religious scholar Steven Scholl about the current climate of global conflict and the misconceptions around extremists and the religion of Islam. An adapted exce…

37 Seconds with Stephanie Arnold

Rabbi Rami talks to author Stehanie Arnold about her book 37 Seconds: Dying Revealed Heaven's Help–A Mother’s Story. Stephanie Arnold was a producer creating and directing TV …

Living on Less with Joshua Becker

Joshua Becker is a minimalist expert, author, and speaker who emphasizes the life-giving potential of owning less stuff.

Koshin Paley Ellison and Matt Weingast

Rabbi Rami talks to Koshin Paley Ellison and Matt Weingast about the journey that brought them to advocating for contemplative care and their new book Awake by the Bedside. A revie…

Sounds of Snatam Kaur

Rabbi Rami talks to Snatam Kaur about the transformational power of sound and her new book Original Light: The Morning Practice of Kundalini Yoga. She also sings a chant shared by …

Positive Transformation with Daniel Goleman

Rabbi Rami talks to Daniel Goleman about emotional intelligence and the influence of the Dalai Lama. An interview with him appears in the November/December 2015 issue of Spiritual…

Andrew Newberg and Mark Robert Waldman

Rabbi Rami talks to Dr. Andrew Newberg and Mark Waldman about the research that went into their new book How Enlightenment Changes Your Brain. A review of the book appears in the …

Getting Emotional with Donald Altman

Rabbi Rami talks to author Donald Altman about how he came to Buddhism and how it pushed him to explore the many facets of the mind, emotions, and mindfulness. A review of his late…

Finding God in Prison with Chris Hoke

Rabbi Rami talks to pastor and author Chris Hoke about his connection with those struggling in society and how they strengthened his relationship with God. A review of his book Wan…

Sierra Campbell's Story

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to yogi Sierra Campbell about how she discoered yoga, the spirituality of breath, and how her practice has become her lifestyle. Sierra Campbell i…

The Story of Autism with John Donvan and Caren Zucker

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to John Donvan and Caren Zucker about their new book In a Different Key: The Story of Autism. John Donvan is a correspondent for ABC News, and hos…

Change through Meditation with Chandresh Bhardwaj

Your host Rabbi Rami talks to Chandresh Bhardwaj about his new book Break the Norms: Questioning Everything You Think You Know about God and Truth, Life and Death, Love and Sex. A …

The Shift in Spirituality with Thomas Moore

Rabbi Rami talks to Spirituality & Health magazine's columnist Thomas Moore about the shift from organized religion to customizing spiritual beliefs, the importance of community, a…

Believing in Mary with Beverly Donofrio

Rabbi Rami talks to prolific writer Beverly Donofrio about how she came to believe in Mary and began the practice of the rosary. Beverly's story "Making Belief in Mary" appears in …

Part 3: On the Road at the Parliament of World Religions

On part 3 of this special installment of Essential Conversations, Rabbi Rami attends the The Parliament of World Religions and interviews Rev. Will McGarvey, Keith Burton, and Darr…

Presence with Amy Cuddy

Rabbi Rami talks to social psychologist and Harvard Business School professor Amy Cuddy about her book Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges. An adapted …

The Philosophy of Mastin Kipp

Rabbi Rami talks to Mastin Kipp about what it means to be a life interventionist, his own spirituality as what he calls a Christian mystic, and the philosophy behind his work. …

A Guide to Joy with Sadhguru

Rabbi Rami talks to Sadhguru about about how he got into yoga for all the wrong reasons, that meditation is not something you do but what you are, and his book Inner Engineering: A…

Talking with Bees and Jacqueline Freeman

Rabbi Rami talks to Jacqueline Freeman about the world through bees' eyes and her new book Song of Increase: Listening to the Wisdom of Honeybees for Kinder Beekeeping and a Better…

The Calling of Tony Cointreau

Rabbi Rami talks to Tony Cointreau about his mentor Mother Theresa and his new book A Gift of Love. After an affluent childhood as an heir of the Cointreau liqueur family an…

Practical Astrology with Deborah Silverman

Rabbi Rami talks to Debra Silverman about her spiritual journey, her practical approach to astrology, and her new book The Missing Element. Debra Silverman works on an indiv…

Dream Yoga with Andrew Holecek

Rabbi Rami talks to Andrew Holecek about lucid dreaming and his new book Dream Yoga. A review of his book can be found in the July/August issue of Spirituality & Health. And…

The Culture of Depression with Marianne Williamson

Rabbi Rami talks to Marianne Williamson about the struggle for happiness, the culture of depression, and her new book Tears to Triumph: The Spiritual Journey from Suffering to Enli…

Sacred America with Stephen Dinan

Rabbi Rami talks to Stephen Dinan about trends in spirituality, the adoption of spiritual practices in a more secular world, and his new book Sacred America, Sacred World: Fulfilli…

Hope for Water with Judith D. Schwartz

Rabbi Rami talks to journalist Judith D. Schwartz about her new book Water in Plain Sight: Hope for a Thirsty World. Judith D. Schwartz is a journalist whose recent work loo…

New Possibilities with Rosamund Stone Zander

Rabbi Rami talks to Rosamund Stone Zander about how to embrace the possible and her new book Pathways to Possibility: Transforming Our Relationships with Ourselves. A review of he…

Matthew Fox Delves into Thomas Merton

Rabbi Rami talks to author Matthew Fox about his new book A Way to God: Thomas Merton Creation Creation Spiritual Journey. Matthew Fox is the author of over 30 books includi…

Customizing Spirituality with Katherine Ozment

Rabbi Rami talks to Katherine Ozment about insights from her research, a move toward reimagined spiritual rituals, and her new book Grace Without God: The Search for Meaning, Purpo…

Playing with Koans with John Tarrant

Rabbi Rami talks to John Tarrant who clarifies the deeper meaning and uses of a koan, including lightening up your perspective. An interview with Tarrant appears in the May/June 2…

Compassion for All with Matthieu Ricard

Rabbi Rami once again talks to Matthieu Ricard: Buddhist monk, photographer, author, humanitarian and French translator for His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Ricard is the “happiness ma…

An Invitation from Stephen Kiesling

Spirituality & Health's editor in chief Stephen Kiesling previews the January/February 2017 issue, and invites readers to share their "awakening moments" with him. Pick up this …

Live Free with Nancy Colier

Rabbi Rami talks to author and psychotherapist Nancy Colier on her insightful view of our relationship with technology and practical ways we can live free within a high-tech landsc…

Wise Aging with Rabbi Rachel Cowan

Rabbi Rami talks to Rabbi Rachel Cowan about her spiritual teachers and her thoughts on aging with an open heart. An interview with her appears in the March/April 2016 issue of Spi…

Revelations with Dennis Covington

Rabbi Rami talks to Dennis Covington about his new book Revelation: A Search for Faith in a Violent Religious World. An review of his book appears in the March/April 2016 issue of …

Christine Toomey

Rabbi Rami talks to Christine Toomey about her book In Search of Buddha's Daughters. An review of her book appears in the March/April 2016 issue of Spirituality & Health magazine. …

The Sound of Loss from Avishai Cohen

Rabbi Rami talks to Avishai Cohen about the voice and breath of the trumpet, the loss of his father, and his new jazz album Into the Silence. An review of his album appears in the …

Rediscovering Creativity with Julia Cameron

Rabbi Rami talks to Julia Cameron about how nurturing your spirituality can help your creativity and her latest book It's Never Too Late to Begin Again. An interview with her appea…

Podcast: Understanding Grace with Kathleen Dowling Singh

Rabbi Rami talks with author Kathleen Dowling Singh about her new book The Grace in Living, our essential nature, and the practice of writing a spiritual biography. A review of thi…

Sacred Roots with Felicia Ruiz

Rabbi Rami talks to chef Felicia Ruiz about the sacred roots of indigenous foods and reclaiming the history of her culture. Her essay, Learning the Personalities of Plants, was pub…

Jon Turk's Consciousness Revolution

Rabbi Rami talks to Jon Turk about what the vision of a Consciousness Revolution, the journey to ecstasy, and his book Crocodiles and Ice: A Journey into Deep Wild. An article by J…

Dan Siegel on the Mind

Rabbi Rami talks to Daniel J. Siegel, MD about his book Mind: A Journey to the Heart of Being Human. A review of his book can be found in the Nov/Dec 2016 issue of Spirituality & H…

Lessons from Horses with Allan Hamilton

Rabbi Rami talks to Allan Hamilton about what we can learn from horses, the Presidential election, and his book Lead from Your Heart: Lessons from a Life with Horses. An excerpt of…

Joe Jackson and Black Elk

Rabbi Rami talks to Joe Jackson about about how his fascination with the Native American holy man Black Elk began and his book Black Elk: The Life of an American Visionary. A revie…

Outwitting Back Pain with Cathryn Jakobson Ramin

Host Rabbi Rami talks with author and journalist Cathryn Jakobson Ramin on our culture’s chronic back pain problem, how sitting became the enemy of health and what we can do about …

Storytelling with Stephen Kiesling

Spirituality & Health's editor in chief Stephen Kiesling previews the upcoming November/December issue, centered around the healing power of stories and the gifts it can offer.…

Strengthening Faith with Gabrielle Bernstein

In her talk with Rabbi Rami, Gabrielle Bernstein shares the mantra her mom bestowed on her in her youth and other useful practices, the power of global meditation, as well as discu…

New Spiritual Possibilities with David Loy

Rabbi Rami talks to David Loy about the new possibilities for Buddhism and other spiritual traditions in the modern world, institutionalized suffering, and the idea of contemporary…

The Resilient Dr. Lucy Hone

Rabbi Rami talks to Dr. Lucy Hone about the tragic loss of her daughter, using her academic psychology training and writing to cope, and her new book Resilient Grieving: Finding St…

Real Love with Glennon Doyle Melton

Rabbi Rami talks to Glennon Doyle Melton MD about the start of Momastery, the first Love Flash Mob, and her book Love Warrior. An interview with her appears in the March/April issu…

Listening to Mark Epstein, M.D.

Rabbi Rami talks to Mark Epstein, M.D. about how he discovered Buddhism, the notion of self, and psychology's part in Buddhism. An interview with Mark appears in the March/April is…

Healthy Practice with Mimi Guarneri MD

Rabbi Rami talks to Mimi Guarneri, M.D. about establishing a healthy foundation, the importance of a practice for inner peace and her book 108 Pearls to Awaken Your Healing Potenti…

The Spirit of Joan Chittister

Rabbi Rami talks to Joan Chittister about her book Radical Spirit: 12 Ways to Live a Free and Authentic Life. An excerpt of the book appears in the May/June issue of Spirituality &…

Positive Engagement with Janessa Gans Wilder

Rabbi Rami talks to Janessa Gans Wilder about the Middle East, constructive and positive engagement, and The Euphrates Institute. The story by Wilder "The Very Best Way to Pray for…

Building Empathy with Judith Orloff, MD

Rabbi Rami talks to Judith Orloff, MD about her book The Empath's Survival Guide: Life Strategies for Sensitive People. An excerpt of her book appears in the March/April issue of S…

Unraveling Mental Suffering with David Kessler

Rabbi Rami talks to David A. Kessler, M.D. about his book Capture: Unraveling the Mystery of Mental Suffering. A review of his book appears in the March/April issue of Spirituality…

Midwifing Death with Dr. Jessica Zitter

Rabbi Rami talks to Dr. Jessica Nutik Zitter about what she's learned about end-of-life care in the ICU and her book Extreme Measures: Finding a Better Path to End of Life. A revie…

The Compassionate Vision of Owsley Brown

Rabbi Rami talks to Owsley Brown about his latest documentary Serenade for Haiti and the upcoming Festival of Faiths. A review of the film appears in the March/April issue of Spiri…

Navajo Education with Mark Sorensen

Rabbi Rami talks to educator Mark W. Sorensen about the philosphy behind The STAR School, Navajo culture, and the value of deepening relationships. His article "Peacemaking the Nav…

Asking Questions with Krista Tippett

Host Rabbi Rami talks with New York Times bestselling author Krista Tippett, host and executive producer of On Being and recipient of the National Humanities Medal. Her newe…

Spiritual Healing with Carol Howard Merritt

Rabbi Rami talks to Reverend Carol Howard Merritt about reimagining a loving God for a healthier spirituality and her latest book Healing Spiritual Wounds: Reconnecting with a Lovi…

Awakening with Sadhvi Bhagawati

Rabbi Rami talks to Sadhvi Bhagawati about the beginnings of her spiritual path, the philosophy of Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh where she lives, and the International Yoga Festiva…

Podcast: InterSpiritual Wisdom with Ed Bastian

Rabbi Rami talks to Dr. Ed Bastian about his introduction to Buddhism and the Dalai Lama, InterSpirituality, and crafting a contemplative practice. His essay "Find Your Path" appea…

Shamanic Healing with José Stevens

Rabbi Rami talks to author Jose Stevens about his book Encounters with Power. A review of his book appears in the January/February 2017 issue of Spirituality & Health. José …

The Pursuit of Meaning with Emily Esfahani Smith

Rabbi Rami talks to author Emily Esfahani Smith about her book The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life that Matters. A review of his book appears in the January/February 2017 issue o…

A Return to Wheat with Dr. John Douillard

Rabbi Rami talks to Dr. John Douillard about how he came to study Ayurveda, our past issues with how we consumed wheat, and how to return to a healthy approach. An adapted excerpt …

Here and Now with Hugh Byrne

Rabbi Rami talks to Hugh Byrne about switching from fast thinking to slow thinking, the beauty of silence, and his book The Here and Now Habit: How Mindfulness Can Help You Break U…

Part One - Rev. Dr. Joan Campbell and Karen Armstrong

In part one of this two-part podcast, Rabbi Rami talks with Rev. Dr. Joan Brown Campbell and Karen Armstrong on location at the 27th Annual Festival of Faiths in Louisville, KY thi…

Part Two - Rev. Dr. Joan Campbell and Karen Armstrong

In part two of this two-part podcast, Rabbi Rami talks with Rev. Dr. Joan Brown Campbell and Karen Armstrong on location at the 27th Annual Festival of Faiths in Louisville, KY thi…

The Inner Strength of Lizzie Velasquez

Host Rabbi Rami talks with author and motivational speaker Lizzie Velasquez about her personal struggles with bullying and finding inner strength to help others. A review of her ne…

Exploring Honor with Brady Kiesling

Host Rabbi Rami talks with historian and author Brady Kiesling about democracy, the government and his story "Being Honorable" published in the May/June issue of Spirituality & Hea…

Surfing Toward Enlightenment with Jaimal Yogis

Writer Jaimal Yogis shares his spiritual journey and talks about his latest book.

Delving into Silence with Patrick Shen

Exploring the waning resource of silence.

Connecting to Authenticity with Anna Yusim, MD

Host Rabbi Rami talks with Anna Yusim, MD about what a soul means to her, tapping into authenticity, and her book Fulfilled: How the Science of Spirituality Can Help you Live a Hap…

A Wake Up Call with Bruce Lipton, PhD

Cell biologist Bruce H. Lipton, PhD reveals how the current crisis of today is a catalyst for change.

Taking it Slow with Victoria Sweet, MD

A talk about the benefits of slow medicine.

Bonding to Trees with David Haskell

Researcher and author David Haskell shares the relationship between trees and people.

An Intentional Midlife with Cheryl Richardson

Awakening to the realities of midlife and living without regret.

Lasting Love with Suzann and James Pawelski

An interview with positive psychology experts Suzann and James Pawelski.

Listening and Leaping with Naomi Shihab Nye

Nye talks about the ways poetry is a language without explanation.

Calming Chronic Pain With Beth Darnell, PhD

Beth Darnall talks to Rami about making life adjustments to manage chronic pain.

The Messy and Magnificent Geneen Roth

Geneen Roth shares helpful insight why we need to face our challenges head on.

Feeding a Healthy Brain with Dr. Lisa Mosconi

Dr. Lisa Mosconi shares the ways we can nurture the health of our brain.

A Good Death with Samuel Harrington, MD

Samuel Harrington, MD shares how you can improve your end of life.

Personalize Your Cancer Treatment with Dawn Lemanne MD, MPH.​

Rami talks to leading integrative oncologist Dawn Lemanne, MD, MPH.

Bridging Your Work and Your Purpose with Leah Weiss, MD

Rami talks with contemplative scholar and author of How We Work Leah Weiss, MD.

Sacred Dreaming with Alberto Villoldo Ph.D.​

Alberto Villoldo explains the three kinds of waking dream and how to make your sacred dream a reality.

Soul Talk with Sera Beak

Author Sera Beak talks to Rami about soul loss and her latest book.

Healing from Within with Dr. Joel Bennett

Building a new health consciousness.

Seaweed Stories with Susan Hand Shetterly

Susan Hand Shetterly shares what she learned in studying seaweed and what it taught her about what's worth saving.

The Grace of Wholeness With Parker J. Palmer

Parker J. Palmer shares a very personal battle with depression.

Compassionate Unmasking with Kelly Boys

Kelly Boys talks about unconscious patterns of behavior and the benefits of being aware of them.

Spiritual Side Effects with Lynne Vanderpot

Lynne Vanderpot talks about the effects psychiatric drugs' effect on ones spirituality.

Podcast: Comforting Silence with Mirabai Bush

Mirabai Bush shares revelations about dying and living from her close relationship with Ram Dass and shares a special practice preparing for death.

Podcast: Looking Inside with Zainab Salbi

Rami talks to humanitarian Zainab Salbi about her latest book.

Podcast: Growing with Carrie Newcomer

Songwriter Carrie Newcomer talks (and sings!) about passion and purpose and shares how her collaboration with Parker Palmer came about.

Podcast: Contemplating on Plastic with Dianna Cohen

Dianna Cohen shares her artistic process and the influence plastic—in form and toxicity—has made on it.

Podcast: Indigenous Foods with Sean Sherman

Oglala Lakota chef and founder of The Sioux Chef, Sean Sherman talks to Rami about Native American cuisine and the cultural wisdom that embodies it.

Podcast: Come Together with Radha Agrawal

Radha Agrawal talks about the power of community and our search for belonging.

Podcast: Loss and Laughter with Rebecca Soffer

Modern Loss co-founder Rebecca Soffer shares how she transformed personal tragedy to a needed resource for others grieving.

Podcast: Brett and Jessica Finlay on Your Microbiome

How we can control our microbes through diet, exercise, and community.

Podcast: Nadia Bolz-Weber on Sex and Shame

Nadia Bolz-Weber chats with Rami about sex, religion, and shame.

Podcast: Oren Jay Sofer on Leading with Presence

A thoughtful discussion about nonviolent communication, curiosity, and care in our relationships to ourselves, others, and the world.

Podcast: Cal Newport on Digital Minimalism

Cal Newport suggests a radical notion: Do we really need our smartphones?

Podcast: Igniting Your Inner Pilot Light with Lissa Rankin

How daily love letters became a tool for healing and tapping into intuition.

Podcast: Akiko Busch on How (and Why) to Disappear

Accomplished nature and culture writer Akiko Busch discusses her latest book, How to Disappear

Podcast: Sara Gottfried on Eating for Energy and Mental Sharpness

Dr. Sara Gottfried is the author of three New York Times bestsellers and was featured in the March/April issue of Spirituality & Health. She talks with Rabbi Rami about her latest book, Brain Body Diet.

Want more interesting people and discussions? Subscribe to our free podcast, any time, here.

Podcast: Sunita Puri on Palliative Care

Dr. Sunita Puri, an assistant professor of clinical medicine at the University of Southern California, discusses her latest book, That Good Night: Life and Medicine in the Eleventh Hour

Podcast: Stuart Brody on Creating Habits of Integrity in a World of Mistrust

Is It OK to Hog a Table at Starbucks? A closer look at a small thing so many of us do.

Podcast: Jennifer Taylor

Spirituality and money, the rules of the universe, and sitting in the back of a police car: Listen to find out more.

Podcast: Zen Teacher Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison

Are you in Zombieland? Zen Teacher Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison wants you to wake up.

Podcast: Nancy Ellen Abrams and Joel Primack, on Science and Spirituality

What does a coherent picture of the universe look like? How do humans fit into the grand scheme?

Podcast: Perdita Finn and Clark Strand

What does the rosary have to do with 'My Little Pony?' Authors Clark Strand and Perdita Finn offer a rosary community that is radically inclusive. Listen to the podcast for more!

Podcast: Animal Chaplain Sarah Bowen

Sarah Bowen’s spiritual work as an animal chaplain and multifaith educator includes supporting all sentient beings, regardless of species.

Podcast: Lama Rod Owens, Buddhist teacher and activist

Anger is important; it can be a powerful force for transformation.

Podcast: Jacqueline Suskin, Spontaneous Poet

What does it mean to be a poet? Why does poetry matter? And why it is important to feel the poet inside of ourselves, even if we do not consider ourselves to be writers? This week’s podcast guest answers.

Podcast: Dr. Lydia Dugdale on the Lost Art of Dying

Anticipating our mortality via the lost Medieval practice of ars moriendi.

Podcast: Robyn Moreno, a Curandera, Talks About Ancestral Healing

Through reconnecting with her ancestral wisdom and finding ancestral healing, Robyn Moreno healed her soul, conquered burnout, and became a modern curandera.

Podcast: Author Sarah Wilson on Reclaiming Your One Wild and Precious Life

Individualism and capitalism are simply not working. Author Sarah Wilson talks about the challenges we face as humans, such as climate change and racial injustice, and proposes healthier systems to heal a fractured world.

Podcast: Kevin Anderson, PhD on Using Nested Meditations as a Powerful Tool

The creator of the nested meditation form shares how to use playful language to release heavy emotions.

Podcast: Progressive Minister Rev. Jes Kast

Pastor Jes Kast talks about dignity and honoring the divinity in our fellow humans.

Podcast: Therapist Maci Daye, Specialist in Hakomi Therapy and Sex Therapy

Mindfulness can help us discover our pure erotic potential, says therapist Maci Daye, regardless of sexual identity, gender identity, age, and physicality.

Podcast: Author Natalie Goldberg on Haiku

Author Natalie Goldberg talks about reading and studying haiku as a spiritual practice.

Podcast: Author, culture critic, and activist Luvvie Ajayi Jones

Luvvie Ajayi Jones inspires people to overcome fear, become audacious, and show up.

Podcast: Brian McLaren, author, and advocate for a new kind of Christianity

What is brewing in U.S. Christianity? Brian McLaren discusses how we can embrace spiritual doubt to reach higher levels of transcendence and inclusion.

Podcast: Hala Khouri, on Trauma

The idea of collective trauma and individual trauma have shaped the work of yoga teacher, therapist, and activist Hala Khouri.

Podcast: Lyanda Lynn Haupt

Lyanda Lynn Haupt, eco-philosopher, naturalist, writer, educator, and author discusses the human connection to nature, the necessity of solitude, and shedding otherness.

Podcast: Grace Ji-Sun Kim, Body Prayer

Grace Ji-Sun Kim, Professor of Theology, author, S&H contributor, and the host of Madang podcast, discusses her recent article “Body Prayer for Every Day” and her book, The Grace of Sophia: A Korean North American Women's Christology.

Podcast: Tracee Stanley, Radiant Rest and Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra lineage holder Tracee Stanley doesn’t want you to fear rest.

Podcast: Kristin Neff, Fierce Self-Compassion

Self-compassion specialist Kristin Neff explores fierce and tender self-compassion and becoming a compassionate mess.

Podcast: Neal Allen, Discover God Inside You

Author of Shapes of Truth, Neal Allen, discusses the 35 qualities of God that each human has within them.

Podcast: Pamela Seelig, Threads of Yoga

Rabbi Rami and Pamela Seelig discuss the yoga sutras, quieting the mind, yoga as an antidote, the eight-limb path, and more.

Podcast: Dr. Rachel Allyn, Holistic Psychologist and Pleasure Expert

Explore what it means to use pleasure and movement as healing tools with Dr. Rachel Allyn and Rabbi Rami.

Podcast: Fariha Róisín, Who Is Wellness For?

Dive into the pursuit of ascension and the “white-ification” of spirituality with artist Fariha Róisín and Rabbi Rami.

Podcast: Mara Branscombe, Ritual as Remedy

Find out how to turn your morning cup of coffee into a sacred ritual with ceremonialist Mara Branscombe and Rabbi Rami.

Podcast: Brian McLaren, “Do I Stay Christian?”

Investigate why it’s constructive to doubt your religion in this conversation with activist Brian McLaren and Rabbi Rami.

Podcast: Awyn Dawn, Paganism on Parole

What is it like to deepen your spirituality in prison, as a pagan? Author and high priestess Awyn Dawn shares with Rabbi Rami.

Podcast: Lama Surya Das on Dogs as Teachers

Rami asks Lama Surya Das, “Does a dog have Buddha nature?”

Podcast: James Jeffrey, The Camino De Santiago Vibe

Journalist James Jeffrey highlights his experiences on the Camino De Santiago pilgrimage and explores walking as a spiritual practice.

Podcast: Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, Hollywood to the Himalayas

Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, acclaimed author, speaker, and spiritual leader discusses encounters with the Divine Mother, coming home to spirituality and to oneself, non-denominational experiences of god.

Podcast: Michelle Cassandra Johnson, Finding Refuge

Author and activist Michelle Cassandra Johnson discusses generational trauma, yoga, beekeeping, and more.

Podcast: Susan Cross, Fieldnotes From a Crone

Burial shroud maker Susan Cross discusses the crone in all of us.

Podcast: Tao Lin, Leave Society

Novelist Tao Lin discusses microdosing, Daoism, autism, death and “leaving society,” and much more.

Podcast: Alejandro Mandes, Our Multiethnic Future

Social worker and theologian Alejandro Mandes is devoted to providing immigrants with the tools to find the hope of the gospel, a path to legal residency, and a home and church that accepts them.

Podcast: Connie Zweig, Shifting From Role to Soul

Psychotherapist and author Connie Zweig discusses aging and midlife, fear, cultivating deeper awareness, and much more.

Podcast: Robert Thurman, Wisdom Is Bliss

The first ordained American Buddhist monk in the Tibetan tradition, Robert Thurman explores his relationship with the Dalai Lama, Buddhism in America, preserving Tibetan culture, where evil comes from, and much more.

Podcast: John Pavlovitz, If God Is Love Don’t Be a Jerk

Pastor, writer, and activist John Pavlovitz discusses finding a new calling and attempting to transform ministry, “unboxing God,” exploring mystical Christianity, and much more.

Podcast: Lisa Broderick, Living a Limitless Existence

Lisa Broderick explores two startling claims: “You can control your experience of time” and “You can live without limitations.”

Podcast: Shelly Tygielski, Radical Self-Care for Social Change

Grassroots organizer and author Shelly Tygielski discusses navigating different opinions with others, showing up with your emotions, toxic positivity, and much more.

Podcast: Reverend Dr. Jacqui Lewis, Fierce Love

Reverend Dr. Jacqui Lewis talks Ubuntu, devolution, racism and oppression in religious systems, finding hope and love in the darkness, and much more.

Podcast: Grace Ji-Sun Kim, Invisible

Grace Ji-Sun Kim returns to the Spirituality & Health Podcast to discuss her new book Invisible and her experience at COP26 Summit.

Podcast: Vanessa Chakour, Awakening Artemis and Rewilding Nature

Herbalist and environmental activist Vanessa Chakour encourages you to rewire your perception of weeds, reclaim your wild nature, and deepen your intimacy with the living earth.

Podcast: Morgan Harper Nichols, Peace Is a Practice

Mixed-media artist, musician, and autism advocate Morgan Harper Nichols explores naming your fears and struggles, the artistic process, and navigating life and art with autism.

Podcast: Annabel Streets, 52 Ways to Walk

Annabel Streets, award-winning author, discusses her new book, 52 Ways to Walk: The Surprising Science of Walking for Wellness and Joy, One Week at a Time, and the physiological, psychological, and spiritual benefits of walking.

Podcast: Apolo Ohno, Pivoting From Uncertainty

American Winter Olympian Apolo Ohno discusses pivoting from speed skating into a life of uncertainty, alienation, and radical curiosity.

Podcast: A. H. Almaas, Keys to the Enneagram

A. H. Almaas, Kuwaiti American author and spiritual teacher, breaks down the Keys to the Enneagram and unlocking your highest potential.

Podcast: Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, The Shamanic Bones of Zen

Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, African-American Soto Zen Buddhist priest and medicine woman, discusses Soka Gakkai, the importance of chanting, and dreams from an oracle.

Podcast: Animal Chaplain Sarah Bowen, Sacred Sendoffs

Healing the planet, grieving an animal loss, and more from Sacred Sendoffs with animal chaplain Sarah Bowen.

Podcast: Paul Denniston, Grief Yoga

Emotion is energy in motion, says Paul Denniston. Discover how to use yoga to move grief through your body.

Podcast: Ayurveda Coach Sweta Srivastava Vikram

Explore the deep healing power of Ayurveda, “the science of life,” with Sweta Vikram.

Podcast: Natalie Goldberg, Writing and Zen Buddhism

Learn how to just let writing flow with this inspiring interview with Natalie Goldberg.

Podcast: Julia Cameron, Seeking Wisdom

How can we use spirituality to deepen our creativity, and vice versa? Author and artist Julia Cameron show us how with wit and poetry.

Podcast: Dr. Rachel Turow, The Self-Talk Workout

How can we transform our negative self-talk into self-compassion? A doctor of clinical psychology and mindfulness practitioner shows us how.

Podcast: Mark Nepo, Surviving Storms

How do we move away from division and into a place of love? Poet, teacher, and Spirituality & Health columnist Mark Nepo shares some wisdom.

Podcast: Dr. Carrie Wilkens, Beyond Addiction

How do we care for someone—and ourselves—when a loved one is suffering from addiction? Dr. Carrie Wilkens provides insight.

Podcast: Ari Wallach, Becoming Great Ancestors

Learn how to create a better future for coming generations with futurist Ari Wallach.

Podcast: Dr. Deborah Egerton, Social Justice and the Enneagram

The Enneagram offers powerful insight into ourselves and how we treat others. Dive into a conversation with Dr. Deborah Egerton on how to use the Enneagram as a social justice tool.

Podcast: Julie Peters, Decolonizing Therapy

Why does decolonizing therapy matter? Body-based counselor and Spirituality & Health staff writer Julie Peters explains.

Podcast: Dr. Joanna LaPrade, Navigating Darkness

How can we use life's dark moments to our advantage? Therapist and author Dr. Joanna LaPrade shows us.

Podcast: Dr. Ken Mogi, The Way of Nagomi

What is nagomi, and how can it help us find harmony in our emotions? Writer and neuroscientist Ken Mogi explains.

Podcast: Clark Strand, Waking Up to the Dark

What is the “Hour of God,” and how does our modern sleep pattern reflect our evolution? Clark Strand explains, and shares why we shouldn’t be afraid of the dark.

Podcast: Steven Washington, Recovering You

What is soul care, and how can the movement practice of qi gong aid you on the journey to recovery?

Podcast: Rev. Ryan Althaus, From Emaciated to Emancipated

What is the power of laughter in religion, and how can we find the beauty in spiritual not-knowing? Rev. Ryan Althaus explains.

Podcast: Cyndie Spiegel, Towards Joy

What are microjoys, and how can acceptance of the bad with the good improve our life? Author Cyndie Spiegel tells stories from her life to explain.

Podcast: Stephen Kiesling, The Roots of American Spirituality

What is the true story of America, and how do we go about telling it? S+H editor-in-chief Stephen Kiesling shares about the true roots of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” and chats about the future of S+H.

Podcast: Laurie Sue Brockway, Put Your Wisdom to Work

What does it mean to be an interfaith minister, and in what ways have our individual spiritual paths changed since the pandemic? Minister and journalist Laurie Sue Brockway explains.

Podcast: Dr. Joel Bennett, Become a Connoisseur of Time

What is a “connoisseur of time,” and how can we observe our life through experiences rather than a clock? Dr. Joel Bennett explains.

Podcast: Rev. Wendy Van Allen, Relighting the Cauldron

How do we find spirituality in nature, and what has extinguished our connection to the Earth? Rev. Wendy Van Allen explains how humanity has related to nature in the past, and what we can do to save our future.

Podcast: Chip Conley, The Time of Our Lives

How can we each become modern elders and begin to enjoy the opportunity of midlife? Chip Conley explains, and shares why its important to preserve the heart of spirituality and ritual.

Podcast: Andrea Sherman, Practices for Shattered Nights

How can life’s most difficult struggles also be blessings? Andrea Sherman explains, and shares her own experience with Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder and how it's affected her spirituality.

Podcast: Sherianna Boyle, Energy in Action

What is energy in action, and how can following your emotions lead to stronger manifestation? Emotional detox coach Sherianna Boyle explores the energy potential in each of our bodies.

Why It Never Rains on the Enlightened

Roshi Steve Hagen, a Zen priest and author of The Grand Delusion, sat down with Rabbi Rami Shapiro to wrestle with some big stuff—including the ghost of “It!”

Podcast: Cheryl Pallant, Healing the World With Ecosomatics

What is the division between humanity and the Earth, and how do we heal it? Author and teacher Cheryl Pallant explains the practice of ecosomatics and how we can reconnect with our senses.

Podcast: Susan Bauer-Wu, A Future We Can Love

How can we reach a positive future for all, despite the challenges of climate change? Susan Bauer-Wu shares lessons from the Dalai Lama, climate activists, and scientists to help start the conversation.

Podcast: Light Watkins, Travel Light With Spiritual Minimalism

What is spiritual minimalism, and how do we decide what to carry with us through life? Meditation teacher and author Light Watkins shares what he's learned.

Podcast: Myles Mellor, The Zen of Crossword Puzzles

What is the history of crossword puzzles and why do we love solving them? Author and puzzle writer Myles Mellor explains the neurological and emotional benefits of your daily crossword.

Podcast: Dr. Allan Hamilton, The Enlightenment Lab

What does it mean to be a good partner and leader toward others? Dr. Allan Hamilton shares Zen lessons from horses to show how we can improve our own lives.

Podcast: Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti, The Unsung Beauty of Ordinary Enlightenment

As we grow older, how can our spirituality and inner power also grow? Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti explains how, and offers the Finnish practice of “sisu” as a way to find personal enlightenment.

Podcast: Kristoffer Hughes, The Power of Druidry

What makes someone a druid, and what can druidry teach us today? Author and Chief of the Anglesey Druid Order Kristoffer Hughes shares.

Podcast: Dr. David Rosmarin, How to Thrive With Anxiety

How can we reframe anxiety as a positive attribute to strengthen our resilience? Clinical psychologist Dr. David Rosmarin shares.

Podcast: Dr. Norman Rosenthal, Defeating Seasonal Affective Disorder

What physical, therapeutic, and spiritual techniques can help us weather the winter well? Renowned seasonal effective disorder expert Dr. Norman Rosenthal shares.

Podcast: Perdita Finn, Conversations With the Unseen World

How can we reconnect with the unseen world and the earth to ground ourselves when times are challenging? Author Perdita Finn shares.

Podcast: Dr. Gavin Francis, The Art of Convalescence

What makes a great physician, and how can we honor our individual journeys to recovery? Physician Dr. Gavin Francis answers.

Podcast: Judith Polich, How to Be More Like Trees

Is it too late for humanity to turn around and embrace nature? Environmentalist and author Judith Polich shares.

Podcast: Ellen Evert Hopman, Herbal Traditions for Yule and Christmas

How can we connect with the deeper, ancient roots of our collective wintertime traditions? Herbalist and druid Ellen Evert Hopman shares.

Podcast: Neal Allen and Anne Lamott, How to Challenge the Inner Critic

Acclaimed authors Neal Allen and Anne Lamott share their spiritual journeys with us in this special hour-long episode of the Spirituality+Health podcast.

Podcast: Don Miguel Ruiz, The Art of Being Energy

How do we break through the fog of illusion and realize our true nature? Beloved author and teacher don Miguel Ruiz explains.

Podcast: Gilda Montenegro-Fix, Celebrating Diversity and Remembering Love

What happens when we replace fear with love and embrace a lens of true inclusivity? Author and speaker Gilda Montenegro-Fix shares.

Podcast: Myra Goodman, How to Cultivate Spiritual Bravery

What practices can help us be spiritually brave when life gets hard? Author Myra Goodman shares.

Podcast: Rebecca Martinez, Ethics and Psychedelic Therapy

How can we balance the new psychedelic revolution with ethics and inclusion? Alma Institute founder Rebecca Martinez shares.

Podcast: Perry Garfinkel, How to Live Like Gandhi

What impact can Gandhi's teachings have on our lives today? Journalist Perry Garfinkel explains.

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Acceptance: The Surprising Antidote to Suffering

“We tend to think of stress as something that happens outside of ourselves; something that happens to us. But science is showing that it’s not the stressors in our life, but how we perceive them that determines how much we suffer.”

Transcript: Our full interview with Bishop Michael Curry, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church

In this podcast transcript, host Rabbi Rami speaks with Bishop Michael Curry about how the church is being called back to its deeper roots in the teachings of Jesus.

Podcast: Machiel Klerk, Receiving Dream Guidance

Have you ever posed questions to your dreams? Author and social entrepreneur Machiel Klerk breaks down the process with Rabbi Rami.

Book Review: Healing Spiritual Wounds

Healing Spiritual Wounds: Reconnecting with a Loving God after Experiencing a Hurtful ChurchBy Carol Howard MerrittHarperOneMany of us turn away from organized religion—even G…

November/December 2010

COVER STORYCreate Your Own Holy Day by Rabbi Rami ShapiroFEATURESSharing the Inuit Vision OPENINGAmerica's Most Spiritual Spa 2010 by Stephen KieslingHeart of Brightness by James N…

Current Issue

January-February 20126 steps to make your life countRabbi Rami Shapiro on love12 supplements for better brain powerFinding medidation through danceHow modern wheat might be making …

Teachers We Trust

Here’s a simple truth: Everyone is a spiritual teacher. Parents, of course, are profound spiritual teachers. So are children. So are siblings. So are priests and imams and school t…

Rabbi Shefa Gold: Giving Voice to Sacred Texts

The author of The Magic of Hebrew Chant, Rabbi Shefa Gold is also a recording artist and the director of the Center for Devotional, Energy and Ecstatic Practice in New Mexico. She…

8 Stories for Creating a Sacred Space

Create your very own sacred space with feng shui and more with these 8 inspirational stories.

Catching Magic by the Tail

An Interview with Elizabeth Gilbert

Meditation Candles Light the Way for Prayer and Spiritual Beauty

Rich in spiritual history, meditation candles are the perfect way to turn your home into a beautiful sanctuary.

Get Unstuck

We live in stories—all of us, all of the time. This is a story about breaking through writer’s block and the start of a focused, passionate, and productive period

5 Questions for Arianna Huffington

Cofounder and editor in chief of The Huffington Post, Arianna Huffington wants to put you to bed with her latest book, The Sleep Revolution.

Find Your Path

Interspiritual wisdom to help you find your spiritual style, choose the grand questions that call you, and create your personal practice.

Growing a New Generation of Spiritual Activists

If you are new to Spirituality & Health Magazine, welcome! And if, like me, you come here often, my hunch is that you’ve come to appreciate the wealth of wisdom, inspiration, authe…

Inside the July/August 2017 Issue

Spirituality & Health's July/August 2017 issue is now available.Subscribe / Order this IssueFEATURESThe Swim of AwakeningIn the absence of data, we will always make up stories.…

Inside the September/October Issue

A preview of the Sept/Oct 2017 issue featuring Frank Ostaseski.

Talk to Us: November/December 2017

Healing Truths in All Religions? I think it was Rami Shapiro’s article on “The Healing Truth in All Religions” that pushed me over the edge (Sept./Oct. issue). “Stained by Sin: Ch…

Inside the Nov/Dec 2017 Issue

A preview of the Nov/Dec 2017 issue.

Inside the Jan/Feb 2018 Issue

A preview of the Jan/Feb 2018 issue.

Talk to Us: January/February 2018

Fine Print Commandments I really love Paul Sutherland’s Fine Print Commandments. Those big 10 are delicious treats for the spiritual soul. I have one request: remove the word will…

S&H's Top 10 Podcasts of 2017

A collection of the most popular podcasts of 2017.

Catching Up with David Whyte

On what poetry is all about

Inside the March/April 2018 Issue

A preview of the March/April 2018 issue.

Inside the May/June 2018 Issue

Spirituality & Health's May/June 2018 issue is now available.

Inside the July/August 2018 Issue

Take a look inside our latest issue

From the Editor: September/October

The Toe of Awakening In the rush of this issue I took a break and waded into the Rogue River and soon got caught up rolling boulders out of the launching area in preparation for o…

Inside the Sept/Oct 2018 Issue

Take a look inside our latest issue.

From the Editor: November/December

It’s the best possible time to be alive, when almost everything you thought you knew is wrong!” That line, from Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia, helped us find fellow seekers for the launch…

10 Spiritual Leaders

We asked our readers to scout the spiritual landscape for emerging leaders who will help set our course for the decades to come. Your response was wildly enthusiastic, passionate, heartfelt, and all over the map (and the globe). Wow! What constitutes a spiritual path is becoming ever more diverse—and ever more likely to be led by women. In future issues, you’ll hear from more of your choices. We chose 10 (nine plus a wonderful collaboration of old and new) who represent your votes as well as our hopes for the spiritual future.

Inside the Nov/Dec 2018 Issue

A look inside our 20th Anniversary Keepsake Issue

From the Editor - January/February 2019

Just after our 20th Anniversary issue came off the press, I traveled by plane, train, and automobile to the Trinity Retreat Center in West Cornwall, Connecticut, where this magazin…

Inside the Jan/Feb 2019 Issue

A preview of our latest issue.

Talk To Us: March/April 2019

Letters from our readers.

A Changing Spirituality & Health

A (slightly) new direction for S&H involves a lot of familiar names and faces.

Science & Spirit: Matcha for Anxiety, Cultured Meats, and Soy Is Redeemed

This week, the focus is the latest news in nutrition. Discover how matcha tea helps with anxiety; why “clean meat” is a label you’re likely to soon see; and how soy has gotten a thumbs-up for heart health claims. Want the details? Here we go!

How (and Why) to Feel a Feeling

“The problem isn’t the depth of sadness or anger that we feel. The problem is our resistance to them.”

Tell the Real Story of Thanksgiving With Indigenous Food

Honor Native American history and culture this Thanksgiving with Chef Sean Sherman’s indigenous recipes.

Some Favorites from 2019

S&H Editor Ben Nussbaum shares his favorite stories from 2019.

Kathryn’s Favorite Stories from 2019

“Becoming Shameless: A Conversation with Nadia Bolz-Weber,” and three more stories that meant a lot this year to S&H Wellbeing Editor Kathryn Drury Wagner.

Tequia’s Top 5 Stories for 2019

New S&H Managing Editor Tequia Burt shares her top picks from 2019.

Reader Picks: Your Top Stories This Year on Facebook

You clicked, we listened. These were our Top 5 S&H stories you liked on Facebook this year.

Explore the Power of Stories at the 2020 Festival of Faiths

“A diverse lineup of speakers and artists will explore the power of stories to transform, to inspire and to heal individuals and communities.”

Podcasts for the Pandemic: A Playlist of Inspiration

Stuck at home? Feeling out of sorts? We picked 10 episodes of our podcast, Essential Conversations, to help you get through the pandemic.

Self-Care and Working from Home: Tips from the S&H Team

We're a virtual office, so we all work from home all the time. Here's some advice.

Four Ways to Social Distance Without Screens

When we are on screens so much, it is important to find ways to relax and recharge without them. Here are some simple ideas.

Channeling Anger Into Spiritual Action

Reframe anger over injurious events from “I’m furious!” to “this is wrong, and I want to do something about it.”

The Well-Gardened Mind: A Psychiatrist’s View on the Healing Power of Nature

We dig in with author Sue Stuart-Smith. “When we sow the soil, we plant seeds of healing within ourselves.”

How to Find a Spiritual Advisor

Spiritual advising can fill a basic human need. Connection and spiritual guidance are essential for continuing along a spiritual journey.

A Mystical Truth Hidden in “I Am Never Good Enough in My World”

Transform Self-denigration into Self-actualization by making some much-needed edits to the sentence “I am Never Good Enough in My World.”

From the Editor: earth and Earth

“Language is an imprecise tool. Sometimes it buckles a little under the strain of meaning.”

More Than Hybrids: Spiritual Seekers on a Spacious Path

Those who venture beyond their original spiritual tradition say they aren’t “hybrids.” Instead, they’re seeking wholeness.

Animal Blessings

Our resident animal chaplain shows us the significance of blessing animals—and one another.

3 Simple Steps for Problem-Solving While Sleeping

Explore the ancient art of dream incubation and solve any problem or challenge in your life (or work) through the power of dreaming.

Podcast: Adrienne van der Valk, Mindfulness Over Merlot

Explore how mindfulness practices can support recovery from substance use disorder with meditation teacher and writer Adrienne van der Valk.

The Best Gifts 2022

For this year’s gift guide, we asked S&H contributors and readers for some of their favorite gifts—gifts they’ve given or received, or even gifts they wish had been exchanged.

Aging With Cats and Dogs

Our resident animal chaplain explores the complexities of mortality as it regards our animal companions—and ourselves.

From the Editor: 25 Years of Spirituality+Health

Our returning editor-in-chief shares what it was like at the very beginning of Spirituality+Health 25 years ago, and explores our vision for the next 25.

Leading Spiritual Health in the Workplace: The Time Has Come

Following COVID, workplaces are moving from solely focusing on physical health to embracing mental health. The next move? Spiritual health.

6 Common Meditation Myths (and Their Solutions)

A somatics coach and meditation instructor debunks six myths about why you feel you can’t meditate. What's holding you back?

Cats and the Enneagram

Our animal chaplain explores feline personalities and how to support cat well-being from the lens of the Enneagram.