The benefits of prayer are both scientific and spiritual when it comes to our mental wellbeing. Prayer is a verbal and non-verbal expression of the mind. A place where our thoughts, emotions, and experiences can be released for clarity, solution and strength. For people of faith, prayer brings comfort and a sense of divine support. For those without faith, prayer can still offer grounding, reflection, and emotional release during difficult challenges.
Research shows that prayer positively influences key areas of the brain, including the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala – regions connected to mood, decision-making, thought processes and emotional regulation.
Here are 8 ways prayer supports our mental wellbeing and contributes to better health and peace.
- Prayer is Mental Training: Prayer can be seen as a kind of “mental workout”. The repeated practice of prayer strengthens certain neural pathways that consist of self-control, self esteem, mood, focus and empathy.
- Prayer changes Emotions: Prayer helps to change our mood and thoughts for better. During and after prayer mood and thoughts are improved.
- Prayer Boosts Resilience: Prayer has effects on our emotional regulation, stress response, and pain response. The act of prayer contributes to psychological resilience. Consistent acts of prayer boosts the resilient mindset.
- Prayer boosts Emotional Wellness: Prayer improves and regulates our emotions, expressions and experiences
- Prayer is Therapeutic: Prayer is therapeutic in nature due to the release of stress and emotions expressed. The personal experience is It holds psychological and spiritual rewards to changing character, choices and expressions.
- Prayer reduces Syndromes: Prayer has shown to reduce depression and anxiety significantly.
- Prayer boosts the Brain: Improves our brain activity and functions.
- Prayer helps us to build Connection with others: Improves social cognition. During and after prayer theory of mind is activated, thinking about others is expressed.
All points referenced are backed by science based studies and reviews from studies on prayer trails on individuals. Contact affirmedheart@gmail.com for references required.