Not so long ago, I sat next to the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. As the sun set, painting clouds in bright orange-red, I noticed others pausing, mesmerized by nature. At that moment, we were using our right brain more than our left.
On my 42-hour flight to Cape Town and back, I discovered two key books that will forever shape how I discuss the brain with families. The first, The Awakened Brain by Lisa Miller, a Columbia University psychologist, reveals the scientific link between psychology and spirituality.
The Science of Spirituality
Miller, a pioneer in her field, is known for her work on the psychology of spirituality and received the Templeton Award for her research. Her decades of work show that spiritual practice protects against mental illness and improves life satisfaction. Adolescents and young adults who are spiritual experience reduced depression and anxiety, become more resilient, recover better from hardship, and feel more fulfilled.
Despite this, few clinicians ask depressed or anxious patients about their spiritual practice, fearing offense. Miller distinguishes between religion and spirituality, advocating for spirituality as a supplement to depression and anxiety treatments. Using functional MRI scans, she demonstrated that spiritual habits reduce depression risk and increase meaning in life.
The Search for Meaning
Few Harvard students discuss meaningful living, a gap highlighted by Arthur C. Brooks, a Harvard professor. Brooks, a friend of Oprah and the Dalai Lama, is called the 'professor of happiness.' The Dalai Lama's curiosity about the brain inspired Brooks to study the mind deeply.
Researchers also emphasize that gross motor play in young children is essential for proper brain development. This play stimulates neural connections, supporting cognitive and emotional growth.
In conclusion, integrating spirituality and active play into daily life can awaken the brain, fostering mental health and resilience. As Miller and Brooks show, connecting to something greater and engaging in physical activity are powerful tools for well-being.
