Did you know that people who engage in spiritual practices tend to live longer, happier lives? What’s more you don’t have to be “religious” to avail yourself of the multiple benefits – many of these rituals work on the mind regardless of belief.
Psychologist David DeSteno discusses some fascinating findings from his latest book How God Works.
Science shows that by taking part in certain religious practices and rituals, regardless of faith – or lack thereof – we improve our emotional and physical wellbeing.
Consider that:
- Prayers of gratitude make people more honest and generous, creating a cycle of paying it forward.
- Buddhist meditation reduces hostility and increases compassion
- The Jewish practice of sitting shiva reduces the pain of grief
- The Christian ritual of saying grace before meals increases empathy
- Shinto rituals around childbirth enhance bonding for mothers and reduce the incidence of postpartum depression
Recorded 9/7/2021
David DeSteno is a psychologist at Northeastern University where he studies the mind’s foundation for moral behavior.
Cambridge Forum provides free and open discussions about the pertinent issues and ideas confronting us, in the world today.