God, Faith, and Health : Exploring the Spirituality-Healing Connection

by Levin, Jeff

• ISBN13: 9780471218937
• ISBN10: 0471218936
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-08-01
• Publisher: Wiley

Summary

In this groundbreaking book, Dr. Jeff Levin explores the latest compelling evidence of the connection between health and an array of spiritual beliefs and practices, including prayer, attending religious services, meditation, and faith in God. Drawing on his own and other published studies, Dr. Levin shows how religion's emphasis on healthy behaviors and supportive relationships influences one's overall health and how the optimism and hopefulness of those who profess faith promote the body's healing responses. Filled with dramatic personal stories, God, Faith, and Health will alter the way you think about your body and your faith and will show you the path to improving your own health through spiritual practice."Jeff Levin writes with incredible clarity, style, and passion. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the religion-health connection, especially those wondering if such a connection exists at all." -Harold G. Koenig, M.D., Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, and author of The Healing Power of Faith"Beautifully written and packed with compelling scientific evidence for the spirituality-health connection . . . . With the precision of a scientist, the courage of a true pioneer, and the artistry of a storyteller, Levin reminds us of what we can no longer afford to ignore: that our spiritual life matters mightily to our health and well-being at every level." -Janet F. Quinn, Ph.D., R.N., Associate Professor, University of Colorado School of Nursing

Author Biography

JEFF LEVIN, Ph.D., an epidemiologist and former medical school professor, is the pioneering scientist whose research beginning in the 1980s helped create the field of religion, spirituality, and health. He has been featured in Time and the Washington Post as well as on NPR. He lives with his wife, Dr. Lea Steele, in Kansas.

Table of Contents

Foreword by Larry Dossey, M.D.

Acknowledgments.

Introduction.

PART 1. THE HEALTH EFFECTS OF PUBLIC RELIGION.

Religious Affiliation and a Healthy Lifestyle.

Religious Fellowship and Spiritual Support.

PART 2. THE HEALTH EFFECTS OF PRIVATE SPIRITUALITY.

The Emotional Impact of Worship.

Religious Beliefs, Healthy Beliefs.

Faith, Hope, and Optimism.

PART 3. GOD, SPIRIT, AND THE FUTURE OF MEDICINE.

Energy, Consciousness, and Mysticism.

To Heal Is Divine.

From Body-Mind to Body-Mind-Spirit.

References.

Index.