The Benefits of Spirituality on Mental and Physical Health

The word "spirituality" covers many different kinds of beliefs, from organized religions to more personal views on life and the universe. But whatever form this takes, research has shown that those who have a religious or spiritual aspect to their lives enjoy a number of benefits to their health and wellbeing. It’s probably no surprise that faith can provide a source of comfort in trying times, but studies have shown prayer can be just as helpful as other alternative therapies for relieving stress.

Studies on Spirituality and Wellbeing

It’s not the specific spiritual views you hold that create a positive impact on your life, but the fact that you hold these views, to begin with. Scientists have not set out to research the veracity of any kind of faith, but rather the benefits of having spiritual beliefs and practices. Many studies have been conducted over the years that show the many positive side effects of religion or spirituality.

• A Canadian study found that college students involved with ministries on campus were better able to cope with stress and scored higher on tests for psychological well-being. They also had fewer visits to the doctor.
• Older women are often better equipped to deal with stress than older men, with research suggesting they are more grateful to God than their male counterparts.
• Regardless of gender, those who have an intrinsic religious orientation (meaning they believe sincerely in all teachings of their chosen religion) have greater feelings of well being and are less afraid of death than those without this belief. They also react differently to stress, suffering fewer physiological responses. This study compared them to those who were involved with religion for external ends such as socializing or status.
• Followers of some religions enjoy better general health and a reduced rate of chronic or acute illnesses. Researchers attribute this to the particular tenets of the religion promoting a healthy lifestyle and the avoidance of unhealthy habits.

This research, along with many other studies, draws a tangible link between spirituality and mental and physical well-being. Whether it’s the belief itself, the gratitude that often accompanies spirituality, or the involvement with a like-minded community, the results speak for themselves.

The Positive Impacts on Health

Whether you have dedicated your life to God or have found your own spiritual path, you will find that there are so many ways that spirituality can have a positive impact on your life including:

• Better general health
• Less hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Less stress, even during times of upheaval
• More positive feelings
• Decreased depression
• Greater psychological well-being
• Superior ability to deal with stress when it does arise

Final Thoughts

This encouraging research might help you to reaffirm your beliefs, rekindle your lapsed faith, or start out on a new spiritual journey. Or you may simply find it an interesting read. Whatever your journey, it is a deeply personal one, but it may benefit from some of the stress-relieving strategies that spirituality can offer.