10 Best Spiritual Documentaries Streaming on Gaia
Challenges abound today, both individually and collectively. As a result, many people continue to search for answers, guidance, or information to help them cope, grow, and transcend. Spiritual documentaries are a beneficial resource to help with this, showing us more and more about the universe and our role within it. Use them to expand your awareness, heal from emotional trauma, and change your life for the better. To help begin or continue on your journey, Gaia offers a vast collection of spiritual documentaries and films to choose from.Â
As an on-demand streaming service, Gaia offers subscribers the largest resource found online today for consciousness-expanding video content. The platform shares informative and creative films, original shows, and yoga and meditation classes.
Wherever you are in your journey or starting one, these resources are helpful and even life-transforming. Below is a list of the ten best titles to check out today.
The best spiritual documentaries include:
Must Watch Top 10 List
Although different topics and documentaries will attract different individuals, the following list of the 10 best spiritual documentaries on Gaia will set you on a path to discovery. Get started on these must-watch films today and see where it leads you next.
1. Chasing the Present
Searching for a way out of crippling anxiety, panic attacks, and fear, successful entrepreneur James Sebastiano decides to embark on a worldwide, life-changing journey of self-discovery and documents what he finds in his film, Chasing the Present.
Along the way, he listens to thought leaders from a variety of backgrounds, becoming immersed in plant medicine and meditation. This documentary includes interviews with experts including Zelda Hall (psychotherapist), Graham Hancock (journalist), Alex Grey (artist), and Gary Weber (meditation and yoga teacher).
Sebastiano finds that no one is immune to mental health issues and anxiety while discovering that true happiness and beauty lies in the struggle inherent to the human condition. A Best Documentary winner at the Chelsea Film Festival, Chasing the Present is one of the best documentaries on spiritual awakening.
Year Released:Â 2019
Length:Â 1 hour, 33 minutes
Director:Â Mark Waters
2. Becoming Nobody
Becoming Nobody encompasses the life and teachings of Harvard professor Richard Alpert, who later became known as the spiritual guru Ram Dass, presented in stories, archival footage, and engaging interviews with director Jamie Catto. Ram Dass explains how the majority of human beings are born into the “somebody” type of training and that choosing to become nobody instead will release you from the overarching demands of the ego and lead to ultimate freedom.
Ram Dass bridges the gap between Eastern and Western philosophies, sharing his discoveries of truth and wisdom learned during his travels throughout India. In this documentary, he reveals how disguises and old roles become much like a prison to us. To free ourselves, we must move past these definitions of who we are or are meant to be.
Release Date: 2019
Length:Â 1 hour, 22 minutes
Director:Â Jamie Catto
3. Awake: The Life of Yogananda
Discover how the concept of spiritual living and the practice of yoga came to America in the 1920s with the arrival of Paramahansa Yogananda, and learn how influential his teachings still are today. Yogananda was the first to bring Eastern teachings into the West and provided an inspiring example of how all people can live with authenticity and purpose.
Throughout the film, you’ll explore the teachings by the author of the spiritual classic Autobiography of a Yogi, accompanied by interviews with yoga teachers, students, and scientists. You’ll hear from spiritual thought leaders, including Deepak Chopra, Ravi Shankar, and Krishna Da. You’ll also hear from physicist and Harvard Professor Dr. Anita Goel, as well as modern-day followers of Yogananda’s teachings, such as musician George Harrison. Within these interviews, you’ll gain an understanding of the profound impact his teachings have had and continue to have today for any spiritual seeker.
Year Released:Â 2014
Length:Â 1 hour, 27 minutes
Directors:Â Paola de Florio and Lisa Leeman
4. Finding Joe
Mythologist, philosopher, and American author Joseph Campbell coined the concept of “the hero’s journey,” depicting an archetype found deep within all stories. In this inspiring and uplifting spiritual documentary, writer, producer, and director Patrick Takaya Solomon examines Campbell’s life and work by showcasing the wisdom of notable names, including Deepak Chopra, Rashida Jones, Robin Sharma, and many others.
Taking it a step further and centering in on Campbell’s “follow your bliss” advice, interviews with skateboarder Tony Hawk, drummer Mick Fleetwood, and pro-surfer Laird Hamilton provide more insight into the hero’s journey and what it means for them.
Overall, Finding Joe is an inspirational film that reveals the journey we all must take in order to discover our purpose.
Year Released:Â 2011
Length:Â 1 hour, 20 minutes
Director:Â Patrick Takaya Solomon
5. What the BLEEP Do We Know!?
The What the BLEEP Do We Know!? film is one of the most successful spiritual documentaries of all time.Â
At the center of the story is Amanda (Marlee Martin), a neuroscientist whose life seemingly begins to unravel after the death of a friend. As she enters into the unexpected quantum field that hides behind what is considered reality, Amanda struggles with her newfound spiritual abilities and the true nature of reality.
Mystics and scientists, share ideas and wisdom on quantum physics, quantum mechanics, neurology, evolutionary thought, and spirituality, all leading to an interwoven conclusion explaining how all things are connected. A combination of story, inspiring animations, and visuals, this film elicits an Alice in Wonderland effect that will leave you thinking.
Year Released:Â 2004
Length:Â 1 hour, 48 minutes
Directors:Â Mark Vicente, Betsy Chasse, William Arntz
6. I AM
In an attempt to understand what is so wrong with this world and what can be done about it, successful filmmaker and comedian Tom Shadyac embarks on a journey for answers by seeking out spiritual and intellectual leaders across the globe. He shares eye-opening discussions with philosophers, religious leaders, scientists, and more, finding answers about the nature of humanity, the escalating attachment to materialism, and the important role of human connection.
Those he interviews include historian and playwright Howard Zinn, intention author Lynne McTaggart, linguistics professor Noam Chomsky, evolutionary biologist Elisabet Sahtouris, geneticist David Suzuki, and South African Anglican Bishop and Theologian Desmond Tutu.
Year Released:Â 2011
Length:Â 1 hour, 17 minutes
Director:Â Tom Shadyac
7. Unlocking the Secret
Returning to the law of attraction many learned about in Rhonda Byrne’s successful book and movie, The Secret, this documentary film digs in deeper.
Follow along as three college students embark on a journey to investigate the truth behind the law of attraction phenomenon and experience what they unexpectedly discover along the way. You’ll hear from compelling religious, scientific, and spiritual leaders as they share what makes the law of attraction work, why it sometimes fails to work, and ways to avoid mistakes so that you can use it to the fullest.
From understanding how negative thoughts and limiting beliefs influence your subconscious to the impact of positive thoughts on your life, this film shares what you can do to improve the outcomes.
Year Released:Â 2008
Run time:Â 58 minutes
Director:Â David Priest
8. The Reality of Truth
Could ancient wisdom and spiritual practices be the solution to today’s modern problems? Find out as you join the journey to explore the myths surrounding reality in this documentary guided by Mike Zapolin and Michelle Rodriguez.
Explore the relationship between religion, spirituality, and the healing potential of plant medicines such as Ayahuasca, which is used by ancient cultures throughout the world. You’ll also hear from spiritual leaders, including Deepak Chopra, Marianne Williamson, Ram Dass, Bruce Lipton, Michael Beckwith, and more. The Reality of Truth was the winner of the Van Gogh Award at the 2016 Amsterdam Film Festival and continues to be one of the most thought-provoking documentaries streaming online today.
Year Released:Â 2016
Length:Â 1 hour, 9 minutes
Director:Â Laurent Levy and Mike Zapolin
9. Yogic Paths
In this docuseries, Gaia takes you on a trip across India, exploring mystical landscapes and ashrams while providing insight into various yoga traditions through unprecedented conversations with spiritual leaders.
These interviews will speak to your heart and provide encouragement to pursue your own journey of self-discovery, helping you go beyond the physical and ordinary to guide you to true freedom.
Year Released:Â 2017
Length:Â Varies
Producer:Â Tatyanna Wright
10. Kalachakra: The Enlightenment
Kalachakra, or “the wheel of time,” is the highest initiation within Tibetan Buddhism. This secretive ceremony, often led by the Dalai Lama, is rarely filmed, which makes this documentary an important addition to the available spiritual resources today.
The story begins with a woman who suffers the loss of a sister early in life and, once older, begins to question what purpose her life has in this world. Set in the vibrant location of Dharamsala, India, the woman, as well as three individuals with differing backgrounds, begin to face their fears as the transformational power of the initiation and spiritual experience approaches. During the ritual, they each enter into an unknown and ancient dimension, which will change them forever.
Year Released:Â 2017
Length:Â 1 hour, 24 minutes
Director:Â Natalie Fuchs
Start Your Spiritual Journey with Gaia
On your journey of self-discovery and personal growth, spiritual movies can be beneficial by providing new ways of looking at reality and learning how to live a more meaningful life.Â
With access to Gaia’s streaming service, you can choose from our Spiritual Growth collection of videos and watch them at your own pace.
About the Author
What Your Numerology Chart Reveals: Discover Its 5 Key Elements
The numerology chart is a tool from numerology that is created based on a person’s full name and date of birth. With that data, key numbers are identified that describe personality traits, internal challenges, and spiritual lessons. In this article, we explore what a numerology chart is, what it reveals about your spiritual path, and what its five essential elements are.
Table of Contents
- What Is A Numerology Chart And What Does It Reveal?
- The 5 Key Elements Of A Personal Numerology Chart
- The Personal Year And Its Influence On Your Current Energy
- How Numerology Can Help You On Your Spiritual Path
- What’s The Difference Between A Numerology Chart And A Birth Chart?
What Is A Numerology Chart And What Does It Reveal?
Just like the natal chart in astrology, the numerology chart is a personalized study that is built from birth data. Instead of analyzing planetary positions, it works with the numbers derived from your date of birth and full name, to which specific meanings are assigned. Through this information, it’s possible to understand how a person thinks, feels, acts, and makes decisions throughout life.
From a spiritual perspective, the numerology chart offers information about the lessons the soul comes to develop. It allows for the identification of natural talents, recurring challenges, and patterns that repeat at different stages, providing context for significant life experiences. This information does not define a fixed destiny, but rather points to tendencies and processes of inner growth.
In addition, the numerology chart functions as a guide to interpret the life moment a person is going through. By understanding which numbers are active on their path, one gains greater clarity about the internal processes influencing their current experience. This fosters a more conscious relationship with personal decisions and spiritual evolution.
The 5 Key Elements Of A Personal Numerology Chart
Although a complete numerology chart can include many more aspects, there are five numbers that are considered fundamental to understanding a person’s energetic structure. These numbers help clearly identify who you are, what motivates you, how others perceive you, and where your evolution is headed. Each one fulfills a specific role within numerological analysis and offers a complementary perspective. Below, we explore the five most relevant elements.
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1. Life Path Number
The Life Path Number is calculated by adding together all the digits of your date of birth until they are reduced to a single number from 1 to 9, or to one of the master numbers (11, 22, or 33). It represents the central energy that guides your journey, the lessons you came to integrate, and the qualities you are called to develop. It is considered one of the pillars of numerological analysis due to the structural information it provides.
This number functions as a vital compass. It does not determine every decision you will make, but it indicates the general direction in which your experience flows. By knowing it, you can more easily recognize recurring challenges, the resources you have available, and the choices that align with your life purpose.
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2. Soul Number
The Soul Number is obtained from the vowels in the full name with which you were registered at birth. It reveals what motivates you from within: your deepest desires, your emotional needs, and what truly gives you meaning. It is not always evident to others, as it reflects an intimate and essential part of your being.
Understanding this number allows you to live in a way that is more coherent with your inner world. It also helps distinguish when you are making decisions based on external expectations and when you are acting in harmony with what truly supports your well-being. In spiritual search processes, this number becomes especially revealing.
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3. Personality Number
The Personality Number is calculated from the consonants of the full name. It represents the image you project outward, the way others perceive you, and the type of energy you communicate in your environment. It may or may not coincide with how you feel internally, and for that reason it can also point to possible tensions between what you show and who you truly are.
This number helps you understand how you impact your surroundings, which aspects of your character are most visible, and how you interact socially. It also allows you to identify the type of first impressions you generate and which qualities stand out in public or professional contexts.
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4. Destiny Or Expression Number
The Destiny Number, also called the Expression Number, is obtained by adding the numerical value of all the letters in the full name. It reflects the total potential you bring into this life: your natural talents, developmental capacities, and the resources you can use to move forward. It is a broad number that synthesizes your complete identity and the tools you have to build your path.
Unlike the Life Path Number, which marks direction, the Destiny Number shows how you can walk that path. Knowing it allows you to recognize your innate strengths as well as the abilities you are called to cultivate in order to express your full potential.
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5. Life Mission Number
The Life Mission Number is calculated by combining information from the name and date of birth. It indicates the deepest purpose you came to fulfill, that which gives meaning to your journey beyond the personal. It is a synthesis of who you are, what you bring, and where you are called to evolve.
This number provides an integrative view of the spiritual path and helps you understand your role within a broader context. When you know it, you can make decisions with greater clarity and align your actions with a more conscious and meaningful direction.
The Personal Year And Its Influence On Your Current Energy
In addition to these five fundamental elements that make up the basic structure of a numerology chart, there are other complementary numbers that offer valuable insight into the present moment.
One of the most relevant is the Personal Year Number, which signals the type of energy that accompanies you during the current year. Although it changes each year, it can be included in a numerology chart to offer a more complete and updated view of the process you are going through.
The Personal Year is calculated by adding the day and month of your birth to the current calendar year. For example, if you were born on March 14 and it’s the year 2026, the calculation would be: 1 + 4 (day) + 3 (month) + 2 + 0 + 2 + 6 (year) = 18. Then, reduce the result to a single digit: 1 + 8 = 9. In this case, your Personal Year is 9, indicating a phase of closure, conclusions, and preparation for new beginnings.
Knowing this number allows you to better understand the dynamics shaping your present. It’s not about predicting specific events, but identifying the dominant energy of the year and using it as a guide to make more aligned decisions. Working consciously with your Personal Year can help you flow with greater clarity through your personal, emotional, or spiritual processes.
How Numerology Can Help You On Your Spiritual Path
Numerology can become a powerful ally when you are seeking greater inner clarity or a deeper sense of purpose. By understanding the numbers that govern your energy, you can interpret with more lucidity the processes you are going through and make decisions that are in tune with your true path. It’s not about predicting the future, but about understanding how you are energetically designed and how to better use your personal resources.
In times of crisis, change, or uncertainty, the numbers in your chart can help you see with more perspective. They reveal themes you are called to work on, talents you may not be fully using, and aspects of your life that could be transformed. That information acts like a map: it doesn’t tell you exactly what to do, but it does show you where to move forward with greater awareness.
Working with your numerology chart also allows you to recognize that not everything that happens to you is random. Many of the challenges or cycles you experience are responses to broader internal processes. When you understand the “why” behind certain experiences, you can go through them with less resistance and greater connection to your spiritual path.
What’s The Difference Between A Numerology Chart And A Birth Chart?
Although both tools are based on personal data such as the date of birth, the numerology chart and the birth chart belong to different disciplines and have complementary approaches. While astrology observes the position of the planets at the time of birth and how they influence your character and destiny, numerology is based on the symbolism of the numbers found in your name and date of birth to explore your inner energy, deep motivations, and the challenges you came to work through.
Knowing both charts not only enriches your self-knowledge, but also allows you to approach your spiritual path from different levels. When integrated, they provide a more complete view of who you are, how you interact with the world, and what direction your personal evolution may take. These are distinct tools, but they enhance one another when used together with an intention for growth and inner clarity.
