Spirituality
Spirituality encompasses more than an appreciation for religious values. At its essence, it involves means for you to turn inward away from the material world and its hurried demands to a more peaceful existence. Spiritual practices can involve prayer, meditation, yoga, quiet contemplation, or any other relaxation that helps you slow down and connect with the essence of who you are and what you value in life. It can also be an effective way to fight stress. In a recent study on stress and the brain, Dr. Jeansok Kim of the University of Washington, found that chronic or traumatic stress has a negative impact on cognitive processes such as learning and memory. Conversely, according to a survey in Parade Magazine, 95% of U.S. physicians believe spirituality is important to the well being of their patients. In fact, research has demonstrated the following positive impacts of regular spiritual practice on health:
- An enhanced immune system
- Earlier discharge from hospital stays
- Greater longevity
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