Neurotheology

 

 

Recently I had an opportunity to attend a discourse by Swami Gyanavatsalananda of the Swaminarayan sect at Nagpur. The theme of the discourse was ‘How to Become a Genius?’ The Swami outlined very eloquently four attributes to become a genius. First is perseverance with devotion. Second is self confidence. Third is a life based upon values and integrity. Last, but not the least is faith in God.

 

The fourth one is a very interesting declaration. In the modern days of rationality and pragmatism, the relevance of this dictum needs scientific scrutiny. The branch of neuroscience which deals with the impact of religion and spirituality on the human mind and body is called Neurotheology. It is multidisciplinary in nature. It includes neuroscience, theology, spirituality, religious beliefs and practices, philosophy, psychology, anthropology, etc.Dr Andrew Newberg , an American neuroscientist has conducted very comprehensive research into the cognitive impact of religious and spiritual beliefs and practices.

 

Dr Andrew is considered a pioneer in the field of Neurotheology. He has done scans of the brains of people engaged in prayers and meditation and found that the shape of the brain changes and there is increased activity in the frontal lobe. Increased frontal lobe activities mean better reasoning, decision making, creativity, etc. There is better focus and the mind becomes more capable of thinking deeply. Other research has found that religious and spiritual beliefs and practices increase life span and at the same time one is able to deal with stress in a very effective way. It is found that theological and spiritual practices activate the pleasure and reward processing areas of the brain. Thus, one feels a better sense of well being and peace. The warmth in the behavioural life increases.

 

The level of serotonin, a happy hormone, also increases. The overall impact of such beliefs and practices creates a sense of selflessness and altruism. It leads to better bonding and good relationship. It is found that a religious person is relatively more hopeful, optimistic and positive. Specifically, the neuroscientific study of those who practise regular meditation has proved that such practitioners develop a sense of oneness in their consciousness and are full of compassion. Prayers have been found to have enhanced the healing power of the body . Prayers uplift the mood and reduce stress hormones like cortisol. Anxiety and fear are better managed through the process of prayers. Blood flow is increased through prayers and one is able to anchor oneself in the present. Being in the present generates the flow where one's performance is at its peak. It is found that the cardiovascular system works better and the immune system is strengthened. Dr Herbert Benson, a cardiovascular medicine expert at Harvard Medical School has listed many benefits of numerous spiritual practices. Thus, religious and spiritual beliefs and practices have a great positive role to play in human life. These practices provide a wide framework to look within and develop self awareness for self management and better interactive skills with the society at a large.