This just in! Stanford University has given “two thumbs up” to spirituality and spiritual retreats. I didn’t need to go to Stanford to learn that but I was definitely curious to read what the esteemed professors would have to say, so without further adieu:
Researchers have been gaining new insights into how practices such as meditation and prayer shape the brain and promote positive psychological changes in people. Adding to this growing area of research is a recent study showing that patients with severe heart conditions who participated in a non-denominational spiritual retreat were more optimistic about their futures and less depressed after completing the program. Patients’ improvement in mood persisted at three- and six-month follow-up measurements.The randomized clinical trial subscription required involved 41 patients diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome who attended and completed a four-day retreat, which included techniques such as meditation, guided imagery, drumming, journal writing and outdoor activities. Results from this group were compared to two additional groups: one participated in a lifestyle change retreat focusing on nutrition, physical exercise and stress management and the other received standard cardiac care.
