253. Why spirituality is essential for our mental health ft. Dr Lisa Miller
Dec 3, 2024
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Dr. Lisa Miller, a clinical psychology professor at Columbia University and author of "The Awakened Brain," dives into the vital connection between spirituality and mental health. She explains the significant distinction between spirituality and religion, emphasizing how spiritual practices can enhance our resilience, especially in our 20s. The conversation uncovers the biological basis of spirituality and offers practical tips to nurture one's spiritual core. Lisa shares insights on overcoming resistance to spirituality and its impact on personal well-being.
Spirituality, distinct from religion, plays a crucial role in personal development and fosters a sense of purpose in our twenties.
Scientific research supports that a strong spiritual core enhances mental health by providing resilience against anxiety and depression during formative years.
Deep dives
The Importance of Spiritual Health
Spiritual health is often overlooked in discussions about overall well-being, which typically prioritize physical, mental, and social health. However, having a spiritual belief system can provide a profound sense of meaning and purpose, especially during the transformative years of one’s twenties. Engaging with one’s spiritual side can enhance the enjoyment of life and foster a deeper connection with the world. Even for those who may not identify as religious, cultivating a sense of spirituality can significantly enrich their experience and lead to personal fulfillment.
Defining Spirituality vs. Religion
Spirituality and religion are distinct yet interrelated concepts that play vital roles in personal development. While spirituality is an inborn trait that exists within every individual, religion is learned and formed through environmental influences. The podcast emphasizes that a spiritual quest is essential during one's twenties as it sets the groundwork for personal beliefs and values. Recognizing that spirituality doesn't necessitate adherence to a specific religion opens the door for individuals to explore their unique spiritual paths without restrictions.
Spirituality's Role in Mental Health
The link between spirituality and mental health is increasingly supported by scientific research, which shows that spiritual awareness is biologically ingrained in us. A strong spiritual core can protect against mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, particularly in the formative years of one's twenties. The podcast highlights that the struggles faced during this period often act as catalysts for spiritual awakening, pushing individuals to explore their purpose and meaning in life. This awareness not only aids in coping with life's challenges but also fosters resilience and mental clarity.
Practical Steps to Build Spiritual Awareness
Creating a robust spiritual core involves intentional practices that integrate spirituality into daily life. Recommended strategies include engaging in exercises that foster introspection, such as hosting a personal council with supportive figures, identifying one’s spiritual path, and surrounding oneself with a community that shares similar beliefs. These practices nurture an individual’s spiritual development, enabling them to view experiences through a lens of love and purpose. Ultimately, these tools empower individuals to navigate their lives meaningfully and remind them that their spiritual journey is unique and deeply personal.
For our very first guest of the holiday season, I invited on Dr Lisa Miller - a professor at Columbia University, author, clinical psychologist and researcher to discuss her profound work on the intersection between spirituality and mental health.
Our spiritual health is often the dimension of wellbeing we neglect the most, but in this episode we uncover why having a strong belief system, sense of purpose, oneness and path is invaluable, especially in our 20s. This includes:
The distinction between religion and spirituality
What brain scans say about the importance of a higher power or meaning
3 practices to improve your spiritual core
Why your spiritual core is so essential in your 20s
Why we resist spirituality and how this harms us
Dr Lisa was an incredible and inspiring guest, her book is called The Awakened Brain.
The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor.