Fostering Spiritual Health Can Boost Mental and Physical Health
Many studies have examined the link between a womans spiritual beliefs and her health. Research suggests that prayer, meditation, and attending religious services offer several health benefits. These include:
- lowering blood pressure
- keeping the immune system healthy
- boosting substance abuse recovery
- contributing to a healthier lifestyle
- speeding recovery from illnesses.
Spirituality also may help people manage certain medical conditions, including asthma, angina, ulcers, and cancer.
To be spiritual means to seek lifes significance by connecting to something greater than yourself. Prayer and religion sit under a larger umbrella of spirituality.
Spirituality has been shown to improve mental health, too. Experts say that a womans spirituality improves her self-esteem, helps her cope with stress, boosts her creative energy, and even defends against depression.
In addition, spiritual practice often puts a woman into a community of like-minded people. Joining such a group offers the added benefit of social support.
The form your own spirituality takes might include any or all of the following activities:
- Private or communal prayer
- Meditation
- Reading inspirational materials
- Creating art
- Volunteer work
- Slow exercise, such as yoga or tai chi
- Taking a nature walk
- Listening to soothing music
So, do something healthy for your body and mind. Let your spirit soar by connecting with others on a similar quest.