There are those who claim that without religion, one can not know their spiritual existence. How can one be denied knowledge of a realm of their existence which is not as readily apparent, yet is as fundamentally important as the physical body? Spirituality is not something which can be taught, it is an experiential journey. It is a process. Religion offers ways, which may or may not work for everyone, to gain access to their rich spiritual heritage. While religion can be an encouragement and nourishment for spiritual development, it cannot bring to light that which one is not already to some degree, aware of.
Religion is an optional facet of our humanity, spirituality is not.