Have you ever felt deeply connected to everything around you? Perhaps while watching a sunset, listening to music or holding someone you love. Many people describe these moments as experiences of oneness.
What oneness can feel like
People often describe a sense that the boundaries between themselves and the world have softened. They may feel peaceful, joyful or filled with wonder. These moments can be brief or last a while.
Where they can happen
Oneness experiences can happen in many settings: in nature, during meditation, through art or music, in love or even during difficult times. Many spiritual traditions describe them in their own ways.
You don’t have to chase them
These experiences can’t be forced, and not having them doesn’t mean anything is wrong. An ordinary day, lived with care, is valuable too.
Connection in everyday life
You can nurture a sense of connection in simple ways: noticing nature, being present with a friend or feeling grateful for the people who grow your food.
Oneness and boundaries
Feeling connected to others doesn’t mean you have to give up your boundaries. You can feel deep kinship with others and still say no when you need to.
How little is enough
Today, spend a few minutes outside and notice how you’re part of the world around you: the air you breathe, the ground beneath your feet.
For more, read Waking up: are spiritual experiences becoming more common?.
When you’re ready to go a little deeper, the Guides page has a guided journal for walking through change at your own pace.