The Benefits Of This Spiritual Practice Bless More Than Our Hearts
Iyanla Vanzant said: “In my deepest, darkest moments, what really got me through was a prayer. What I've discovered is that intimate connection … with my creator will always get me through …. my help is just a prayer away.” What happens to us during the intimate connection that is prayer?
There’s a classic gospel song that sums up the power of prayer in three simple words: prayer changes things. The intimate connection Iyanla Vanzant speaks about does make changes for us – but exactly what are they and how do they benefit our well-being?
#1: Hormones
When we pray, we reduce stress hormones such as cortisol which can make us feel negative. It also reduces the effects of pain in our bodies during periods of stress.
#2: Heart Health
Prayer doesn’t just calm our hearts spiritually. It also increases our heart’s health by lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, and decreasing anxiety.
#3: Recovery and Healing
When we’re healing from surgery or recovering from illness, prayer can help us recover more quickly and heal faster. Further, when we pray for others in need of recovery and healing, we may be helping them as well – but regardless, the empathy and caring we demonstrate by doing so helps heal us all.
Research continues to demonstrate that prayer does benefit us. No matter how, why, or when we do it – or if we do it for others – the gospel song is right. Prayer most definitely changes things.
Do you pray? Take a moment to notice how your body reacts when you take a moment to whisper a prayer.
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