Religion serves a major role in the lives of billions of people across the globe. Many find peace, closure, and compassion in their practices. However, religion may not just be spiritually healing. It may also help you live longer!
1. The Shared Rules Of Religion
One thing that ties religious peoples together on a wider scale is the shared practices of each group. While much of religion is dependent on the self, it is often more than an internally spiritual practice!
From praying daily to meditating often to not consuming certain foods or drinks, each religion comes with its own set of guidelines. It turns out that many of these religious rules may be life-saving!
2. The Lifespan Of Religious People
Many behaviors which are associated with religion have become popular, self-prescribed treatments for various mental and physical ailments. Meditation and prayer-like states have grown increasingly prevalent outside of religious communities. Looking into the reasoning behind it, it’s clear why more people are leaning towards religious practices!
Scientists at Ohio University recently performed a series of studies proving that people with religious affiliations live a whopping four to seven years longer than atheists! It may be hard to believe that a belief system could have that much leverage over our lifespans. However, it boils down to the behaviors!
3. The Benefits Of Being A Believer
Religion has a large influence on mental health, which plays a large role in our longevity. Stress and anxiety can be well-managed through meditation. Being a part of a religious group also means you’re more likely to be socially involved, eradicating long-term isolation and loneliness. But the benefits don’t stop at your mentality!
Religious individuals are also more likely to avoid drugs and alcohol. They avoid the negative health blows that result from drinking or using drugs on a regular or even semi-regular basis. The harm-avoidant qualities of religion seem to play an important role in an elongated lifespan.