THE HEALING POWER OF FAITH – HOW DOES SPIRITUALITY CONFER THIS BENEFIT?

More research conducted at Duke University, the University of Miami, Stanford University and other institutions shows that people who pray, read religious writings and otherwise take part in a spiritual community have better immune function, lower blood pressure and fewer heart attacks than people who don’t participate.

How does spirituality confer this benefit?

Both reliance on a Higher Being and the social support you get from belonging to a caring community of fellow believers are solid buffers against the wear and tear of life.

We know that faith can provide strong support in times of trouble and that religiously involved people cope better with stress. They’re less depressed, less anxious, more optimistic.

Praying triggers the relaxation response—a sense of peace, comfort, hopefulness and deep relaxation—which actually reverses the effects of stress.

*41/47/1*