Q. My sister was recently diagnosed with cancer and our whole family is pulling together to help her. We give her rides to her regular treatments, help with chores around the house, and do all her weekly grocery shopping and cooking. At her most recent medical appointment, her doctor mentioned the power of “spiritual wellness” as another tool for her battle. What exactly is spiritual wellness, and can it really help us fight disease?
A. I’m very sorry to hear about your sister. She’s fortunate to have such a strong support system around her, including both her family and her doctors.
Spiritual wellness refers to how our individual beliefs, morals, and ethics can help us find an overall purpose in life. For many people, spiritual wellness is achieved through religious or faith-based practices. Other people find it through meditation, nature, or self-reflection.
Studies have shown a connection between spirituality and better health outcomes. For example, research from both the Harvard School of Public Health and the Mayo Clinic showed that those who practice spirituality often experience less depression, live longer lives, and have a greater quality of life. Many people who are spiritual are also more likely to exercise more, eat better, and take better care of their overall physical and mental health.
There are many different ways in which you and your sister can incorporate spirituality in your lives. What works for one person may not feel right for another. Here are some different ways people chose to practice spirituality:
- Join a faith-based community. This could include attending religious services or participating in prayer groups. Many religious organizations also sponsor support groups for people with serious illnesses.
- Practice meditation, yoga, or Tai Chi. For many people, these kinds of exercises bring inner peace and comfort. Yoga and Tai Chi also provide physical activity that can further benefit our health.
- Spend time in nature. Taking a walk in the woods or sitting on a bench in a local park might give you quiet time to reflect and refresh.
Spiritual wellness does not take the place of medical treatment from doctors or specialists, but it can be another important tool for people with chronic health conditions. I hope your sister continues to work with her doctor on how to incorporate spirituality into her care plan. I wish her and the rest of your family the best.
Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.
Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.
