Spirituality

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Science describes some of what we want to know and spirituality opens us to some of what we need to know. Philosophically, Western thought shifted over time from beliefs that illness and wellness are imposed by supernatural forces to believing that everything affecting us can, or to be more precise, must be scientifically quantifiable. A sharp distinction was drawn between mind and body. These perspectives have been challenged by new research and observations.

During the last several generations enormous energy and attention has been given, both in scientific circles and in popular culture, to the relationship of science and spirituality, as well as the impact of mind on body, and of body on mind. There is much research in psychology and neurology to prove that brain chemistry is affected by many things. Everything from medication, psychotherapy, environment affect our mood and quality of life.

By recognizing the interdependence of brain chemistry and thought we are able to begin understanding how we can accrue physical benefits through achieving spiritual benefits. We can see that just by petting a beloved family pet we can positively affect our heart rate, blood pressure and neurochemisty. Scientists have recorded amazing instances of almost superhuman performances, coupled with changes in brain wave activity in brain scans, of life-long meditators such as Buddhist monks. This and other research has given a sense of certainty that that the brain is wired to have “spiritual” experiences.

Neurotheology: “Thinking about spirituality and spiritual experiences in terms of brain activity.” Merging the divergent paths of science and spirituality has become a goal for many scientific inquirers. One of the most interesting developments of this interest has been the results of research by Dr. M. A. Persinger. He "...pursued the possibility that control of experience, from depression to memory, may be simulated by transcerebral application of complex magnetic field patterns enhanced life experiences by use of magnetic fields..." Using these fields would mean our psyche and our brain can be harnessed and trained to serve our mental/emotional recovery and enhance our peace of mind. Todd Murphy, an associate of Dr. Persinger at Laurentian University, is marketing using magnetic fields to create altered states.