When people lose weight or overcome a health obstacle, it?s often their hard work that gets them there. But so many are reluctant to acknowledge their role in the accomplishment?instead, they give the credit to God, or some other higher power. Could faith or a belief in something greater have such a significant effect on health? Yes, according to scientific research.
Religious people report feeling happier than non-religious people. They?re healthier, too, according to some studies. Spirituality may help reduce depression, lower blood pressure, boost immunity and promote longevity. What?s the connection between faith and health? According to a study in the International Journal of Existential Psychology and Psychotherapy, faith can help:
1. Increase relaxation. Prayer, meditation and chants all help tame tension, which can reduce blood pressure and may even help improve immune function.
2. Promote healthy behavior. People who follow a religion are less likely to engage in harmful behaviors, such as drinking, smoking, abusing drugs and participating in risky sexual activities.
3. Offer support. Belonging to a faith-based community gives you access to a support network, which has been shown to improve health.
4. Provide meaning. Religion gives life meaning, and a sense of purpose is associated with wellbeing.
5. Serve as a coping mechanism. Religion appears to help reduce depression, and has often been credited as a source of comfort for people who are ill. In one study, more than 40 percent of medical patients in the United States say that religion is the most important factor in helping them deal with their illness.
6. Protects against negative emotions. Fear, anxiety, anger?these are emotions that can harm our health. Spirituality seems to act as buffer against these feelings.
7. Increase adherence. People who follow a belief system tend to be more likely to comply with medical recommendations.
8. Turn the focus on others. Altruism is a major component of most religions, and studies show that people who volunteer to help others may be healthier because they have more social support and less stress than those who don?t.
Fortunately, there are many ways to express your spirituality?from classic approaches, such as attending a service at a church, temple or mosque, praying, and reading religious books and literature to more non-traditional ways, including volunteering to help others, spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness, even participating in a yoga or Tai Chi workout. (Want to nurture your spirit? Start by filling out this contract.) Find a way to express your spirituality?it?s good for your body and soul.
How do you express your spirituality?
Pin ItAbout Bob Greene, Best Life Founder
Bob is an exercise physiologist and certified personal trainer specializing in fitness, metabolism and weight loss and the driving force behind The Best Life. He holds a master?s degree from the University of Arizona and is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Council on Exercise. For 30 years, he has worked with clients and consulted on the design and management of fitness, spa, and sports medicine programs.
Bob has been working as a personal trainer to Oprah Winfrey for more than 15 years. He has since become a contributing editor for O, The Oprah magazine, and writes articles on health and fitness for Oprah.com. He is also the bestselling author of The Best Life Diet Cookbook, The Best Life Diet, The Best Life Diet Daily Journal, Bob Greene's Total Body Makeover, Get with the Program!, The Get with the Program! Daily Journal, The Get with the Program! Guide to Good Eating, Make the Connection and Keep the Connection.
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Source: http://members.thebestlife.com/blog/faith-powerful-medicine/
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