The Proven Health Benefits of Spirituality and Prayer
By:Marty Sullivan, MD/ Duke University School of Medicine
Americans are becoming more soiritual as we search for solace and in these difficult times. But spirituality is more than just comforting. There is strong evidence that it plays a key role in maintaining good health. To learn more about spirituality / health connection, Bottom Line/ Personal talked with Marty Sullivan, MD a leading expert on intergrative medicine...
In what ways does spirituality make a person healthier?
People with strong beliefs tend to live longer. They are less likely to develop heart disease, cancer and other serious illnesses. They are more energetic and less likely to feel depressed or anxious. Some studies have shown spiritual beliefs to be more important for good health than not smoking. That's a striking finding.
How does spirituality reduce stress?
People who pray or meditate experience the relaxation response- a drop in blood pressure, heart rateand levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol. Prayer and meditation also cause an increase in alpha and theta waves. These electrical impulses in the brain are associated with relaxation. Even if you do not pray or meditate, having religious or spiritual beliefs can reduce anxiety and increase levels of a blood protein that indicates good immune function. One theory is that the social support from spiritual communities- such as churches, meditation groups, or yoga classes-helps people buffer the harmful effects of stress. Of course, people with strong religious feelings believe that God is the healing force. Not all spiritual beliefs are equally beneficial. People with positive spiritual beliefs-such as the idea that God represents love and forgiveness-do better than those who believe in harsh divine punishment.
Can praying for someone to get well speed his/her recovery?
Many studies have explored the concept of distance healing. One study looked at AIDS patients. Over a period of one year, those who were prayed for were 70% less likely to develop AIDS-related illnesses or other complications than those who were not prayed for.
Is it possible that prayer has a placebo effect-that it works only because people think it will?
In most of the studies, neither the patients nor the doctors knew who was being prayed for. That rules out any placebo effect. Prayer can even affect the growth of yeast and other laboratory organisms. Obviously, these are not affected by the power of positive thinking.
How can we increase our own spirituality?
* Set aside 20 minutes for quiet time daily. Spend it meditating...listening to music...or simply allowing yourself to think about the wonders of nature, a memorable line from a poem, ect...
* Read spiritual books, poetry, or essays. People who practice formal religion often turn to classic texts, such as the Bible. Others might be interested in reading the works of philosophers or theologians.
* Be part of a spiritual community. If you don't attend church, or temple, consider taking meditation or yoga classes...or going on spiritual retreats.
* Give to others. Nearly all of the world's religions and spiritual traditions emphasize charitable giving. When you share with others, you form deeper connections with a world that is greater than yourself!
