Neurotheology: Faith rites boost brains, even for atheists

Submitted by Chris Chatteris SJ on 23 October 2009 - 9:00am

Tom Heneghan's article on a book about the beneficial effects of the spiritual practices of the world faiths makes engaging reading.

The authors claim that there are benefits even for unbelievers, which would explain why adherents to non-theistic religions and people who do transcendental mediation can achieve what Christians would term 'peace of soul'.

I suppose Christians might want to claim that being able to focus lovingly on the person of the living Risen Jesus would in principle be more efficacious spiritually than just repeating a mantra, breathing rhythmically or concentrating on the unity of the universe. Of course the unbeliever might quite conceivably perform his or her exercises with greater intensity than the believer...

Or at greater length. '[T]he short prayers most believers say leave little trace on the brain because they are not as intense as meditation', reports Heneghan.

However the good news from the authors is that, "Even 10 to 15 minutes of meditation appear to have significantly positive effects on cognition, relaxation and psychological health".

Read more at:
http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?art_id=nw20090818104205942C659389

We work with people from the business, political and educational sectors as well as those from various faith backgrounds. We are keen to engage with all who have an interest in improving our society.

The Jesuit Institute is dedicated to providing training and encouraging debate on current social and religious issues from a faith perspective and to stimulating critical reflection, research and dialogue.

The Jesuit Institute provides reflection and training on, and critical analysis of, contemporary social and religious issues from a Catholic perspective. We are motivated by the service of faith and the promotion of justice.

© 2011 Jesuit Institute - South Africa. Drupal theme by Kiwi Themes.