reclaiming wisdom

When it comes to understanding ourselves and navigating life, we’ve often been told to “think rationally” or “stick to the facts.” While logic and science are essential tools, they aren’t the only ways to make sense of our experiences. Many of us have insights, feelings, and inner knowings that don’t always fit into the box of conventional wisdom. These alternative ways of knowing—spiritual, intuitive, indigenous, and even those unique to women—offer deep wisdom that has often been ignored or dismissed by mainstream culture.

In this blog, we’ll explore these different ways of knowing and how they can help us live more authentic, connected, and empowered lives. Whether you’re on a healing journey, looking to deepen your self-understanding, or simply curious about different perspectives, embracing these diverse ways of knowing can be a transformative step.

Spiritual Ways of Knowing: Connecting to Something Greater

Spiritual ways of knowing go beyond the tangible and measurable. They’re about connecting to something greater than ourselves—whether that’s a higher power, the universe, nature, or the collective human spirit. You don’t have to belong to a specific religion to experience this type of knowing. It’s that feeling of awe when you look at the stars, the peace you find in nature, or the sense of purpose that comes from helping others.

How This Can Help You -

Connecting with something bigger can give you a sense of purpose and meaning, which is crucial for mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that spiritual practices like meditation, prayer, or even spending time in nature can reduce stress, boost mood, and improve overall life satisfaction. It’s also a powerful coping tool in times of crisis, providing comfort and resilience.

How to Tap Into It -

• Practice Mindfulness or Meditation. These practices help quiet the mind and connect you to the present moment, which can foster a sense of peace and spiritual connection. Mindfulness has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve attention, and increase emotional well-being.

• Create a Personal Ritual. Light a candle, say a prayer, or spend a few minutes in nature. Regular practices like these can help you feel more grounded and connected.

• Reflect on Your Values. Consider what gives your life meaning. What do you truly believe in? What makes you feel most alive and connected? Let these reflections guide your actions and decisions.

Intuitive Ways of Knowing: Trusting Your Inner Voice

We all have intuition, even if we’ve been taught to ignore it. It’s that gut feeling that warns you about a situation or the sudden insight that seems to come out of nowhere. Intuition isn’t irrational; it’s informed by your subconscious mind, which processes information you may not even be aware of. Learning to trust and follow your intuition can be incredibly empowering.

How This Can Help You -

Trusting your intuition can enhance your decision-making, help you avoid toxic situations, and guide you toward what truly aligns with your values and desires. For those who’ve experienced trauma, reclaiming your intuition can be an important part of healing, as trauma often disconnects us from our inner knowing (source).

How to Tap Into It -

• Listen to Your Body. Your body often knows what your mind doesn’t. Notice physical sensations like tightness, warmth, or lightness when you consider different choices. Research on embodiment shows that our bodies can influence our thoughts and feelings.

• Journaling. Write down your thoughts and feelings without censoring yourself. You might be surprised by the insights that emerge. Journaling can help to improve mental health by reducing stress and increasing self-awareness.

• Ask Yourself ‘What Feels Right?’. Instead of overthinking a decision, ask yourself what feels right in your heart or gut. Notice how your body reacts when you think about different options.

Indigenous Ways of Knowing: Honoring Ancestral Wisdom

Indigenous ways of knowing are rooted in the lived experiences of communities and have been passed down through generations. These traditions emphasize the interconnectedness of all life, the importance of community, and living in balance with the world around us. Unfortunately, colonization and systemic oppression have marginalized these wisdoms, but they hold powerful insights for all of us.

How This Can Help You -

Indigenous wisdom can teach us to see ourselves as part of a larger whole, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility. It can also offer valuable perspectives on healing, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and the importance of community support. 

How to Tap Into It -

• Learn and Listen. Seek out books, documentaries, and talks by indigenous authors and leaders. Be respectful and open to what you can learn. Resources like the Indigenous Wellness Research Institute offer valuable insights and support.

• Reconnect with Nature. Indigenous wisdom often emphasizes our connection to the natural world. Spend time outdoors, notice the cycles of the seasons, and see yourself as part of this greater web of life. 

• Honor Your Own Ancestry. Even if you’re not of indigenous descent, connecting with your own cultural heritage can be healing. Learn about the traditions and wisdom of your ancestors and how they navigated the world.

Feminine Ways of Knowing: Embracing Emotions and Relationships

For centuries, Western culture has devalued ways of knowing associated with femininity—emotions, intuition, and relationality. Women and gender-expansive people have often been told they’re “too emotional” or “irrational,” but these qualities are sources of strength and wisdom. Feminine ways of knowing are about valuing emotions as information and seeing relationships as a vital part of understanding ourselves and the world.

How This Can Help You -

Embracing a feminine way of knowing can lead to greater emotional intelligence, better relationships, and a stronger sense of self. It allows us to see emotions not as something to be suppressed but as a guide to what we need and what’s important to us. Understanding and honoring our relational nature helps us build deeper connections with others, which is essential for well-being. 

How to Tap Into It -

• Feel Your Feelings. Give yourself permission to experience your emotions without judgment. Notice where you feel them in your body and what they’re telling you about your needs and desires. Practices like mindfulness can help increase emotional awareness.

• Nurture Your Relationships. Invest time and energy into your relationships. Share your thoughts and feelings with trusted friends or family members, and listen deeply to others. Healthy relationships are a major factor in overall well-being.

• Honor Your Intuition. Feminine ways of knowing often emphasize intuition. Practice listening to that inner voice and taking it seriously.

Integrating Multiple Ways of Knowing: Creating a Holistic Approach

These different ways of knowing aren’t isolated—they can and should be integrated to create a fuller understanding of yourself and the world. You might use your intuition to make a decision, seek spiritual practices for grounding, draw on indigenous wisdom for balance, and use emotional intelligence to navigate relationships. Each of these ways of knowing supports the others, creating a more holistic and empowered approach to life.

How to Practice Integration -

• Be Open and Curious. Explore different practices and perspectives without feeling like you have to choose just one. Notice what resonates with you and how these different ways of knowing can complement each other.

• Create Your Own Rituals. Blend practices from different traditions that are meaningful to you. This might be a morning meditation that includes a gratitude practice, a nature walk to ground yourself, or a journaling session where you listen to your inner voice. Creating personalized rituals can help you feel more connected and balanced (source).

• Seek Community. Find people who value and practice these different ways of knowing. Join a meditation group, attend indigenous-led workshops, or connect with people who value emotional depth and intuition. Building a community can provide support and inspiration on your journey (source).

Reclaiming Your Full Humanity

Embracing these multiple ways of knowing allows us to reclaim our full humanity. We are not just rational beings—we are emotional, intuitive, spiritual, and interconnected with the world around us. When we honor these aspects of ourselves, we become more whole, more resilient, and more empowered to live authentically.

If you’re on a journey of healing or self-discovery, consider how these ways of knowing can support you. Try out new practices, listen to your inner wisdom, and be open to learning from different traditions. You have the right to explore and embrace the wisdom that feels true to you, even if it doesn’t fit into the conventional boxes.

Where do I start?

Start by reflecting on which of these ways of knowing resonate with you. Is there a practice or tradition that you’ve been curious about but haven’t explored yet? Take a small step today—whether that’s a few minutes of meditation, a walk in nature, or a conversation with someone about their cultural traditions. Your journey is uniquely yours, and there’s no wrong way to explore it. Embrace the wisdom within you and around you, and see where it leads.

growgood psychology has a team of therapists ready to walk alongside you as you explore and embrace these different ways of knowing.
Whether you're seeking guidance to trust your intuition, reconnect with your spiritual self, honor ancestral wisdom, or deepen emotional intelligence, we’re here to support your journey. No matter where you are on your path toward healing and self-discovery, our therapists can provide the tools and compassion to help you integrate these diverse perspectives into your life. Connect with us today to start your journey toward a more holistic and empowered sense of well-being!