Just as important as the internal attitudes religion can foster are the social connections it can bring.Īn epidemic of loneliness and a lack of community have contributed to a rapid rise in ' deaths of despair' from suicide and substance abuse. For example, if you're a member of a house of worship, you've likely noticed that few people attend services alone. We also know that some health benefits can be more pronounced in organized religion than in belief itself. Here's how physicians at the Mayo Clinic sum up research on the topic: 'Most studies have shown that religious involvement and spirituality are associated with better health outcomes, including greater longevity, coping skills, and health-related quality of life (even during terminal illness) and less anxiety, depression, and suicide.' The researchers suggest that the shared promotion of positive thoughts or experience of worship and adoration may help explain the physical health benefits. The findings persisted even when researchers adjusted for other factors that could impact immune system function, such as depression or chronic illness. In a study of more than 1,700 older adults, researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that those who practice religion had better immune function than those who didn't.

Religious observance can boost immune system

According to a study published in the Journal of Health Psychology, religiosity, spirituality and frequency of prayer have been tied to lower cortisol levels. Spirituality and faith can even affect our physical health. Spiritual practices, such as prayer, can reduce stress and anxiety. Belief in a divine plan for one's life can foster optimism and hope − attitudes that can boost mental and physical health, according to an analysis of more than 40 studies. This connection is well-established by researchers. But there's one we don't fully acknowledge: the role of faith.įaith, spirituality and a sense of purpose all have a beneficial effect on one's emotional, physical and mental health. Income, housing, quality of schools, access to fresh produce and other factors play an important role in wellness. Most health care professionals know they can't fully assess patients' health without looking at social determinants, the nonmedical factors that influence health outcomes.

Timetable of namaz