While science and spirituality may seem like distinct domains, numerous scientific studies highlight a clear connection between faith and health. According to a 2022 article published by the Latin Science Magazine*, faith can be a life-preserving factor, aiding people in the management of physical and mental health issues.
This is not the first time that research on the role of faith in health has been conducted. Over 1,200 studies and reviews from different sources** highlight the positive health benefits of faith, such as faster recovery from illness, lower rates of depression and suicide, as well as an overall increased sense of well-being, hope and optimism. A study published in the Lancet found that religious beliefs can influence cardiovascular health (CHARLIER, 2017). Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that prayer and meditation can lower blood pressure and reduce symptoms of cardiovascular disease (NEWBERG, 2015).
In 2012, psychiatrist Harold G. Koenig, from Duke University, wrote the article “Religion, Spirituality, and Health: The Research and Clinical Implications***”, stating that spirituality is both a life-enhancing factor and a coping resource. Koenig referenced over 450 studies demonstrating how spirituality helped people to cope with a wide range of diseases including chronic pain, blood disorders and cardiovascular illnesses. So, integrating faith and medicine could be an efficient approach to maintaining both your spiritual well-being and health on the right track.
Are you struggling with a persistent health problem? We invite you to join us for the Health Day meetings, every Tuesday at 7.30pm (also at 7am, 10am and 3pm). Through prayers and spiritual support, these weekly meetings will teach you how to harness the power of faith to complement your medical treatment. This could be the boost you need to find the willpower to keep fighting for a transformation in your health! When faith is placed in God, even in the most challenging circumstances, it becomes a source of strength that could help you win half the battle already.
Event: Health Day
Day and Time: Tuesdays at 7.30pm (also at 7am, 10am and 3pm)
Location: At your local Universal Church
Sources: *https://ciencialatina.org/index.php/cienciala/article/view/2401
**https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/health/news/8480505/Faith-good-for-your-health.html
***https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3671693/
NEWBERG, A. B., & Waldman, M. R. (2015). A case series study of the neurophysiological effects of altered states of mind during intense Islamic prayer. Journal of Physiology, 109(4), 1091-1098.
CHARLIER, P., Saudamini, D., Lippi, D., Perciaccante, A., Appenzeller, O., & Bianucci, R. (2017). The cerebrovascular health of Thomas Aquinas. Lancet Neurology, 16(7), e502.
Note: The UCKG HelpCentre’s spiritual advice is to be seen as a complement to the scientifically proven treatment you may be receiving. The UCKG HelpCentre does not claim to heal people but believes that God can through the power of faith. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
