TOP 5 WAYS TO ENGAGE YOUR SPIRITUAL SIDE

ATTENDING A FAITH-BASED SERVICE OF YOUR CHOICE IS GOOD FOR YOU!
The simple act of regularly attending a religious service is a common thread among cultures with the longest life spans. It doesn’t matter which faith you are; attending church, even just once a month, seems to have a positive effect on one’s overall health and happiness.

Belong to a faith-based community, and attend services 4 times a month to add 4-14 years to your lifespan.

A study in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior discovered that those who attended regular religious services at least once per month had a longer life expectancy than those who did not. It seems that people who nourish their spiritual side lower their risk of heart disease, depression, and stress, while increasing their immunity.

Use these tips to engage your spiritual side:

1. Get inolved! If you already belong to a church or religious group that meets regularly, get involved! Studies suggest that the more you participate, the greater the reward, and possibly the longer your life.

2. Go with an open mind. You may find something you would like to be involved in, whether it’s singing with a choir, connecting with others who have similar interests, or volunteering. Being part of a religious community can be a stress-reducing, healthy part of life.

3. Do something for someone else. Sometimes the best way to take care of yourself is by taking care of someone else. When you help someone else, it takes the focus away from your own problems. Not only are you helping someone, but you have an opportunity to meet new friends, discover hidden skills, and enjoy a sense of purpose.

4. Take a walk. Whether you walk to relax, for fitness or weight loss benefits, or just to connect with nature, your steps can lead to inner peace, mental focus, and spiritual awareness. In addition to being a great way to move naturally, walks can become reminders to live fully in each moment and to move forward with purpose and clarity.

5. Reconnect with yourself. With all the time we spend plugged in, tuned in, or online, it’s easy to
become disconnected from our inner selves. Take some time each day to think about who you are and what your purpose is in the world. Figuring out what is truly important to you can help to lessen daily frustrations and stress.