ExclusiveWhat Changes Happen in a Brain That Is Faithful, Spiritual, Mindful?｜Vital Signs

“If this area [of the brain] starts to quiet down, then we would expect to see a person … losing their distinctive sense of self, they would feel a sense of connectedness, a sense of oneness.”

American neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Newberg explains how the brain changes when a person enters spiritual states of being.

“And this [oneness] is frequently described in these practices where people feel more connected with the universe, more connected with humanity, more connected with God.”

Stories have been shared across millennia of how faith and connection to a higher power have brought survival and triumph to civilizations.

Many of us can also personally see the benefits that faith, spirituality, and mindfulness bring to our health and to our lives.

Dr. Newberg’s research visualizes these phenomena using advanced brain-imaging techniques.

We speak to him at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health, Thomas Jefferson University, where he serves as research director.

On Vital Signs with Brendon Fallon, we probe what happens in the spiritual or mindful brain to bring greater health and even longevity.

====================
Vital Signs’ host, guests, and contributors offer general information on improving health and wellness. This is not intended as diagnosis or medical advice. You should consult your medical doctor or holistic doctor before enacting any suggested strategies for health and wellness improvement, including those in relation to preventing or treating specific diseases featured on this program.