Spirituality matters:

7 in 10 Americans consider themselves “spiritual.” What does it mean to be spiritual?

A recent study from Columbia University, led by Dr. Lisa Miller, highlights a significant correlation between spirituality and mental health. Dr. Miller, a professor of psychology and education, has dedicated much of her research to exploring how spirituality can serve as a protective factor against mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

The study reveals that individuals who engage in spiritual practices or maintain a sense of spiritual awareness tend to have thicker cortices in certain brain regions, which is associated with resilience against depression. This “awakened awareness” is linked to better mental health outcomes, suggesting that spirituality can serve as a neuroprotective mechanism.

Moreover, the research emphasizes that spirituality doesn’t necessarily have to be religious. It can be an innate part of the human experience that includes practices like mindfulness, altruism, and connecting with nature.

Being “spiritual” simply means we acknowledge something greater than ourselves. It’s about getting out of ourselves and experiencing the interconnectedness of all of life. Through practices that help us see beyond ourselves, we are able to strengthen our spiritual core and change the structure of our brains in a way that supports our overall health and well-being.