The New Year always bring around a time of reflection. Especially over the last few years, mental health, stress and anxiety come to the forefront as areas that we want to improve in our lives with each passing year.
If you're someone who also is open to or embraces spirituality, you may not connect spirituality and mental health. But.. are they connected? And if so.. how?
Mental health refers to your emotional, psychological, and social well-being, while spirituality is a broader concept that refers to your sense of connection to something bigger than ourselves. What if these two concepts were more intimately linked than anyone realized?
Dr. Andrew Newberg, a neuroscientist who has studied the connection between brain function and spiritual experiences, is the author of “Neurotheology.” In it, Newberg discusses how certain spiritual practices, such as meditation and prayer, can actually change the brain in ways that improve mental health.
Prayer has actually been scientifically shown to reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase feelings of well-being.
Another way that this connection can manifest is through the support and community that can be found in a faith-based setting. Being a part of a church community can provide a sense of belonging and connection to others, which can be incredibly helpful when you are struggling with mental health issues such as loneliness or social isolation. Additionally, engaging in practices such as prayer and worship can provide a sense of peace and calm, which can be beneficial for managing stress and anxiety.
Have you found spiritual practices beneficial to your mental health? If so, which ones and how? We'd love to hear about your experience!
