Spirituality and Sisterhood: What We've Lost

For centuries, women have found solace, strength, and connection through shared spiritual practices. From communal rituals to religious gatherings, these moments provided more than just spiritual nourishment—they offered a vital sense of belonging and a way for women to support one another. However, in the modern world, many of these traditions have faded, leaving women without the communal bonds that once played a crucial role in their emotional and social well-being.

The History of Spirituality in Women's Lives

Spirituality has long been intertwined with women's lives. Across cultures, women have gathered in circles to celebrate births, mourn losses, and mark the changing seasons. These rituals often provided not only a connection to the divine but also a powerful support network where women could share their experiences, offer guidance, and find solidarity.

Historically, women played key roles in spiritual practices—from the wise women of Celtic traditions to the female-led rituals of ancient goddess worship. These gatherings allowed women to step away from the demands of daily life and find comfort and empowerment within a sisterhood.

In the UK, the Women's Institute, founded in 1915, offers one example of how women's gatherings have supported both community and wellbeing. Although not always spiritual in nature, these groups provided safe spaces for women to share knowledge, support one another, and build lasting connections.

The Decline of Communal Spirituality

With the rise of individualism, urbanisation, and a decline in organised religion, many communal rituals have disappeared. Modern life often leaves women isolated—balancing careers, family responsibilities, and social expectations with little time or space for shared spiritual practices.

This shift has not only weakened community ties but has also removed a crucial source of emotional nourishment. Without these communal gatherings, women have lost spaces where they could come together to process emotions, celebrate milestones, and find reassurance in the company of others.

Reclaiming Spiritual Sisterhood

Although traditional rituals may be less common, there is growing interest in reclaiming spiritual sisterhood in the modern world. Women are increasingly seeking out new ways to connect and support one another, blending ancient traditions with contemporary practices.

Ways to revive spiritual sisterhood include:

• Women's Circles: Joining or forming small groups for meditation, moon ceremonies, or reflective conversations.

• Nature-Based Rituals: Organising seasonal gatherings that honour the cycles of nature, such as solstice celebrations or forest walks.

• Journaling and Intention Setting Groups: Meeting regularly to share intentions, reflect on life experiences, and offer mutual encouragement.

• Community Wellbeing Events: Attending women's retreats or workshops that focus on connection, creativity, and emotional support.

Why This Matters

Reclaiming spiritual sisterhood is not just about reviving old traditions—it is about creating new ways for women to connect in a world that often encourages isolation. Shared rituals offer women a sense of belonging, an opportunity to be vulnerable, and a chance to receive the kind of emotional support that can only come from other women.

Dr. Roxanne Keynejad's research on spirituality and mental health highlights that "communal rituals play a critical role in fostering social bonds and providing emotional resilience, particularly for women navigating caregiving roles." This echoes what women have known intuitively for centuries—that connection with others is a powerful form of healing.

Moving Forward

The loss of communal spirituality does not have to be permanent. By consciously rebuilding these traditions, women can create supportive spaces where sisterhood thrives once again. Whether through small intimate circles or larger community events, the act of gathering together can help women reconnect—not only with each other but with the deeper rhythms of life.

In a society that often leaves women feeling isolated, reclaiming spiritual sisterhood could offer a profound path towards healing, empowerment, and collective wellbeing.