Better Health through Spiritual Practices : A Guide to Religious Behaviors and Perspectives That Benefit Mind and Body

An in-depth examination of religious practices around the world and the fascinating science behind how they make us healthier. Many religious and spiritual beliefs promote wellness through their practices or stated objectives-for example, focusing on simple living, having compassion for others, vegetarianism, or meditation and mindfulness. This refreshing work provides a review of the world's spiritual perspectives and traditions, and explores how their guiding principles encourage healthy lifestyle choices. An examination of religious and nonreligious perspectives from around the world-from atheism, Confucianism, and Christianity to Islam, Judaism, Shamanism, and Zoroastrianism-reveals how faith beliefs and values influence behavior and inspire healthy living. With contributions from leading international scholars, the chapters include a discussion of Eastern and Western world religions and their practices-such as fasting or the avoidance of alcohol and tobacco-and how they may foster healthfulness. A contemporary analysis of current research findings suggests possible interventions that individuals and health providers may utilize to enhance healthfulness. A final chapter explores the connection between health, illness, and religious and nonreligious perspectives. Features the contributions of international scholars from around the globe Contains content across disciplines, including health, psychology, and theology Provides characterization of Eastern and Western religious ideologies and perspectives and explains how these orientations may influence lifestyle practices and impact health behavior Discusses Eastern, Western, agnostic, and atheistic belief systems Describes more than 10 religious perspectives and their practices