A study that interviewed individuals who completed pilgrimages in Taiwan, Japan, and Spain found that the journey enables participants to step back and rebuild their inner balance. The process is driven by physical and sensory experiences that lead to psychological reflection. The study identified six key interconnected factors that shape pilgrims’ spiritual growth. The paper was published in Psychology of Religion and Spirituality. A pilgrimage is a journey to a place that has special religious or spiritual meaning. People undertake pilgrimages to seek spiritual growth, forgiveness, or a deeper connection with their faith. A pilgrim is a person who goes on such a journey, traveling to sacred sites, temples, shrines, or cities important to their religion. These journeys can be long and physically demanding, sometimes involving walking great distances. Pilgrimages exist in many religions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. For example, Muslims perform the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime if they are able. Pilgrims may travel alone or in groups, and they tend to follow traditional routes or rituals. …