Young individuals embrace spirituality for self-growth in Denmark

For some, practices like crystal healing, tarot reading, astrology, or consulting a clairvoyant may seem unusual, but for 20-year-old Elisa Viberg from Odense, they represent a valuable toolbox for self-awareness and personal growth. Viberg engages in spirituality, including tarot reading and meditation, as a way to cope during stressful times. She emphasizes the peace it brings to her life: “It helps me let go of my worries and responsibilities to something greater than myself.”

Viberg is not alone; many young people are increasingly drawn to spirituality. Henrik Reintoft Christensen, head of the Center for Contemporary Religion at Aarhus University, notes a rise in spiritual practices among those aged 15 to 30. He links this trend to the pressures faced by youth in today’s educational system, stating that navigating personal identity amid high expectations can make spirituality appealing.

This growing interest is also reflected on social media, where young people often share their experiences with tarot cards and crystals. Etnologist and lifestyle expert Julia Lahme highlights that this shift represents a positive avenue for self-exploration during a time of widespread youth dissatisfaction.

Emma Ottesen, a 21-year-old from Funen, also employs spirituality to find meaning in her life, stating that it helps her tap into her potential. The societal perceptions of spirituality are shifting, as many hope for greater acceptance. Simone Højlund, 29, expresses a desire for a future where consulting spiritual practitioners is seen as normal, advocating for a more open-minded attitude toward spirituality among youth.