My religion:
I don't believe in any theories that are non physical, religions that someone just pulled out of his ass one day, and the rest of the idiots in the world followed.
I define life as any non-random system adhering to some rule. Our world in terms of physics has a semi-random behaviour, which means it can form into systems of behaviour that are spontaneous. Life is associated with matter, us, the Earth, the solar systems, and the whole world, each having their unique scope and resolution.
Genetics are a type of basis of life. They work basically by accepting the good, and throwing away the bad. Levels are automatically achieved through the randomness of the world. One who is genetically superior to another has a higher chance of survival and reproduction, while one that is not, tends not to spread. This is the evolution. However, genetics don't tend to be the best universally, because that is impossible, rather, they are following the bounds of the surroundings. We all tend to survive in our environment, to be the best in it, but since we are specialized in surviving in our current location, a sudden change in the environment can end it all. Only a slow transition is possible. Or with the help of what we call technology. A genetical evolution may end up the following way:
matter system -> microorganisms -> advanced organisms -> thinking and coordination -> technology -> augumentation -> genetical programming -> artificial life -> something inferior
Where do the spirits come in? Well, some scientists theorise the existance of other dimensions, out of which we know only 3(space)+1(time). The semi-randomness and evolution should apply to the others as well. One who has randomly developed a helping, protecting and society developing aid in the secondary dimensions has a special rate of survival, and that is considered genetically beneficial. This system is also subject to evolution, and has possibly developed over time. So when thinking of spirits, if exist, should be thought of as a physical possibility.