Scientific benefits of spirituality

Believe it or not, there have been several in-depth researches on spirituality and what it does to an individual as well as the society. Surprisingly (or not), the list of benefits are mind boggling!

Spiritual people make healthier choices:

According to research, adhering to a particular spiritual tradition may bring an indirect health benefits. This is because many traditions have rules about treating the body with kindness and avoiding unhealthy behaviors. Research shows that perhaps because of these tenets, people who practice a religion or faith tradition are less likely to indulge in self-destructing habits or in violent activity. Rather, they are more likely to engage in preventative habits like wearing seatbelts and taking vitamins.

Spirituality may help you live longer:

While there is a debate as to whether being spiritual extends life span by 18%, most researchers agree there is a positive relationship between religious and spiritual practices and better health outcomes. Fasting habits dictated by several religions is a good example for habits that encourage healthy lifestyle.

Forgiveness is good medicine:

Letting go of blame and negative feelings after a hurtful incident is a practice that is reflected by a number of spiritual traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Judaism. Modern science shows the health benefits of forgiveness are numerous: better immune function, longer lifespan, lowered blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health, and fewer feelings of anger or hurt.

Prayer has physiological benefits:

In whatever form you use, prayer benefits health through the physiological effects of positive emotion. (Yes, you are right to remember the saying "Mind is the master of your body". Kudos to you!!)

Select a part of the day where in you may afford to focus your thoughts on gratitude, love and hope. The point is to let your mind be at peace. You may reflect upon the following thoughts.

May I be at peace
May my heart remain open
May I awaken to the light of my own true nature
The bottom line here, my dearest reader, is that you find a way to wiggle out of all the negativity and transform into the light that spreads positivity!

Padmapriya K