Among the many religious beliefs today, Mormonism is among those that are slowly but surely thriving. Mormonism is the unique religious, cultural and ideological denominations that are believed and founded by the Latter-Day Saints (LDS) or Mormons. Those who practice this religion live devout lifestyles and believe in holy teachings that pertain to God as the only Holy Father. By following his teachings, a person will gain eternal life.

Just as in other religions, Mormons have a day of worship. On Sundays, devout Mormons go to their meetinghouses to attend worship services. Aside from these Sunday meetinghouses, Mormons also have temple structures that they use for special purposes and occasions such as sealings and ordinances. At present, there are 124 Mormon temples, ten are still under construction, and four houses are yet to be erected.

Mormons consider their temples very sacred places. Before they enter them, they first scrutinize themselves and decide if they are worthy to enter. They cleanse themselves, making sure that they are worthy enough to receive the Spirit.

If you are a truly devout Mormon, you should prepare yourself well before entering the holy place of worship. Here are the top ten ways to prepare yourself physically and spiritually before entering the holy temple.

10. All good things matter: Count the blessings you receive.

God is always generous to his devout and loving followers. Surely, you have received numerous blessings that attest to this fact. By recounting all the wonderful things that have happened to you, you’ll feel lighter, happier and more grateful. You’ll also be able to open up to the Spirit and the rituals more freely.

To make this task easier, get a piece of paper and write down all the things that you’re grateful for. Place this list in a place where you can easily read it, such as in your journal or even on your refrigerator.

You should also recount all the blessings that you’ve received from going to temple to give you the drive to attend more often.

9. Inspiring music for the soul: Listen to or sing hymns.

Music is always good material when it comes to spiritual therapy. If you have uplifting songs of praise or instrumental music, sing along or listen to them before you go to the temple. Do this a week or a few days before you visit the temple.

You can even do this activity while you’re doing other things, like while you’re driving your car, when you’re at work, or while you’re doing household chores. Listening to inspirational music is a key element that can help you open your heart and mind to God.

8. Review spiritual goals: Reread and understand your patriarchal blessing.

A Mormon’s patriarchal blessing is his or her personal scripture that states important insights regarding his or her life. This scripture contains counsel on how the person should live, promises of blessings and warnings about weaknesses and temptations. It should not be shared with other people.

When you read your patriarchal blessing, you’ll be able to remember all the counsel and blessings that you have received. Go over it again and determine those that you need to understand better or work on. Pray for your patriarchal blessing as well, so that you may be able to strongly adhere to it.

7. Reading holy verses: Study the Scriptures.

Studying church scriptures is a very helpful spiritual preparation before visiting the temple. Browse through the Scriptures and memorize one or two verses. You can focus on a particular topic, such as the creation, families or charity. Before and after you visit the temple, reflect on these verses carefully, and determine what they mean in your life.

6. Opening up: Share your testimony with other people.

A Mormon’s testimony is a product of your study and prayer; it contains all your personal faith and beliefs. Unlike a patriarchal blessing, your testimony can be read by other people.

Before proceeding to the temple, try to share your testimony regarding temple worship to non-Mormon individuals or to young children. Discuss with them why you are visiting the temple, what you think temple worship does for you and what you feel while you’re there. This will allow you to share your wonderful feelings regarding this devout practice. If it’s your first time to go to a temple, ask a Mormon friend, relative, teacher, or leader to share their testimony with you.

5. Mormon Ancestry: Review your baptismal covenant and family history.

Your baptismal covenant is the “agreement” that you made with God when you were baptized, while your family history refers to your personal Mormon ancestry. Knowing as much as you can about these details will help you imbibe the Spirit better.

4. Self-sacrificing: Fast for a day or two.

Many devout Mormons feel more focused when they fast. Doing this activity can help you become more in tune with the Spirit. You’ll find that internal peace, answers to prayers and personal revelations come easier if you’re performing this sacrifice.

You can fast on the day of your visit to the temple, but you can also do it a day before. It does not mean that you have to totally keep away from food, just reduce your eating to at least one meal a day. Before and after fasting, pray to the Lord and dedicate your sacrifice to him.

3. Look at life’s brighter side: Think and talk positive.

Try your best to talk and think of happy and kind things, instead of negative ones. This can be a bit difficult, but if you put your mind to it, it can give numerous advantages to you. Not only will it help boost your mood and make you feel lighter, but thinking and talking about positive things can support your spiritual preparation better.

Practice this activity for at least a week before you go to the temple. To help you keep a positive mindset, remember to do and say things that you know God will approve of.

2. Your physical appearance matters: Wear decent Sunday attire.

Since you’ll be entering a sacred place, it’s very important that you look neat and proper. Wear your best Sunday outfit if you’re going to the temple. You don’t need to wear very heavy clothing; just make sure that you look respectable.

For men, a suit, slacks and a neat shirt are ideal choices. For women, simple but conservative dresses are appropriate. Refrain from wearing revealing clothes. To make sure that you look decent when you go to the temple, prepare the outfit you’ll be wearing the day before.

1. Lift your mind and heart to the Lord: Pray.

Praying is the best way to prepare yourself spiritually when you’re going to the temple. Prayers allow you to communicate with God directly. Put your mind and heart to it, and pray that the Lord will guide you to be fully prepared as you visit the sacred place of worship. Pray that you’ll feel, learn and understand your experience while inside the temple.

Be very earnest and humble when saying your prayers. You should also be specific when stating your intentions to the Lord.

Mormonism is a fascinating religion and its practices, such as going to Mormon temples, are strictly observed. To show that you are a truly devout Mormon, it’s only proper to prepare yourself for these kinds of religious activities. Not only will it make you feel fulfilled and comfortable, but you can be certain that the Lord will greatly appreciate this gesture.