Feeding the Soul: Why Not Just Submit to a Vice

I have a theory about vices. Everyone has at least one and most of them can be quite harmless. The problem, in my opinion, that a vice can easily become an obsession.

A vice is a diversion from what is the norm. We all at different times, feel empty and we seek some form of satisfaction. The kind of vices I'm talking about is probably more like an overindulgence with food, smoking, alcohol. shopping, gambling or vanity, just to name a few.

I've noticed from my own experience of seeking pleasure in certain extravagant foods or one night of gambling, you usually come up short in the pleasure department. Earthly things do not feed the soul and never will, that emptiness we feel can only be filled with something that feeds the soul.

When we seek out that which does not nourish us inside we will only end up being unsatisfied. I've noticed that when you seek an obsession there is never a point where you are content, there's always the desire for more.

So what will feed the soul?

Kindness to Others: 

You watch people that help others and you can see a contentment in them. Kindness to others brings so many amazing aspects to our lives and to our souls. It is a dimensional gift to ourselves that has many levels of pleasure and fulfillment.

Connecting with Nature:

There is nothing more simple and fulfilling than to truly enjoy nature. Many of us breeze through landscapes, take a brisk walk through the woods but watch people who take a deep breath to enjoy a view. You will see contentment and the souls nourishment in real time.

Prayer and Your Higher Power:

I have experienced anxiety and depression fade with prayer. When you take  yourself away from yourself and concentrate on our higher power suddenly earthly things become small. Faith is the nourishment that soothes the anxious and feeds the spiritually starved.

Silence:

Quiet allows us to experience our world outside of our bodies. The world is noisy, we are constantly bombarded by earthly things. Silence is the minds way to recharge and for the soul to find its perspective.

Achievement:

To achieve on our own terms allows us the pride to realize ourselves. We are given a glimpse of what truly fills us, I am not talking about success in monetary ways alone, instead I am talking about growing, learning and succeeding in whatever we choose is worthwhile.

What else feeds your soul? What have you found that can cure the feeling of being overwhelmed or the need to obsess over worldly things. What restores your soul?