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Spirituality Improves

Ability to Cope with Illness

By

Lenore Surdez

Baltimore 's Johns Hopkins University researchers say spiritual people are actually able to better handle the discomforts and limitations of chronic illness than those who don't consider themselves spiritual. Reuters reported that previous studies have indicated that people with a strong religious faith or an optimistic personality live longer and get well sooner, however, the Hopkins study wanted to investigate whether there was a connection between spirituality and the severity of disease.

What were the conclusions?

Faith and/or spiritual beliefs did not reduce pain yet the all over general well being and coping with illness was improved for those who had developed spirituality.

Saying the Rosary is Good for Your Health!

Saying the rosary rates with reciting a yoga mantra in its beneficial effects of heart health. Dr. Luciano Bernardi of the University of Pavia in Italy told Reuters: "The rosary might be viewed as a health practice as well as a religious practice." In double blind studies respiration rate was decreased demonstrating that a slower respiration has favorable effects on respiratory and cardio-vascular function in those saying the rosary. Also demonstrated were that reciting the rosary and yoga mantras improved heart rhythm. This study was reported in the British Medical Journal. (more on prayer.)

What to be Healthier? Think Bow Wow Or Meow!

Having a pet is good for your health!

"We have known for many years that the company of a pet can be of benefit in a variety of ways, but exactly why this is, no one seems to have the answer," admitted Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a specialist in animal behavior and human-animal relationships at Texas A&M University's College of Veterinary Medicine.

However, studies show that those who have pets have lower blood pressure, visit the doctor less frequently, heal faster after surgery, recover from loss of a spouse quicker, have longer survival rates after a heart attack, have reduction of stress and anxiety, etc. People who own pets have lower cholesterol and triglyceride counts as well.

Adopt a pet at your local shelter, improve your health and save a life. It's GREAT news for you and some ball of fluffy love awaiting you…. More about pets...read more