Spirituality – some thoughts on
The past year or more has been difficult for many, almost impossible for some. We find ourselves wondering why, do I need some priorities, what can I get out of this new way to live, can I live with new uncertainty?
Many have turned to spirituality to deal with life’s struggles and improve our mental health. Lisa Miller, a psychologist at Columbia University studies the intersection of spirituality and mental wellness. She teaches and consults with a wide variety of groups, from the military to homeless shelters, to faith-based groups.
Her research suggests that spirituality helps protect us from depression, makes us more resilient and improved decision making. It doesn’t seem to matter what religion you are or if you have no religion.
Dr Miller says: “Scientists don’t define spirituality—we identify threads within human spiritual life. Two threads stand out. The first is our capacity to have a relationship with the sacred. People may call this God, the universe, a higher power or the force of life. It is the capacity to feel loved, held and guided, that we are never alone. The second thread is to share this with others.” One can be deeply religious and deeply spiritual at the same time.
The capacity for spirituality is within us all. Some cultivate it, some do not. Certain character strengths such as: grit, optimism, commitment and forgiveness are present in spiritual people. Sometimes is brings out creativity and leads us to more gratitude, resilience and altruism. Spirituality can be strengthened through nature, art, music and poetry.
Her studies indicate through studies in blood oxygenation and flow, that several patterns occur. Our brain default is rumination, I’ll call it worry and for many it’s hard to turn off. A strong sense of spiritually can move people away from the default. The part of our brain that processes bonding becomes more active with increased spirituality. Perception and guidance becomes stronger. Increased spirituality reduces blood flow to brain areas which lead us to feel separate and apart so that we are able to feel a deep awareness of a common experience with one another and nature.
Young people seem to be more naturally spiritual, but it can be strengthened later in life. Sometimes, events in life such as an illness, divorce or the arrival of a newborn child will change our focus in life. To practice moving into a spiritual mindset, we need to quiet the mind often through meditation. Practicing gratitude, awe, and altruism will boost our spirit personally.
One last point touches on synchronicity which is when two physically unrelated events link us to a deeper common awareness. She gave an example of worrying about a child finding a good job after college. While walking she observed a mother and young son looking at each other with a profound love. The lesson… love the son no matter what job they land.
Find many videos on spirituality on YouTube or just search for the term on your browser. TedTalks are a source too.
From an article by Elizabeth Bernstein on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter at EbernsteinWSJ.