an avenue for asking for guidance, intervention, and strength. Faith in a God who is
loving and caring provides comfort for those going through difficult times. Worship
services often leave people feeling less burdened and anxious, as well as more peace-
ful.
The eleventh remedy is that of positive expectations. During a time of illness or dis-
tress, religion often provides a sense of hope and the strength to endure what has
happened. The expectancy of help from the Divine Source works similarly, as does
the expectancy of help from a medication, procedure, or caregiver. Various holy writ-
ings promise health and healing to the faithful, and researchers are beginning to
document the effect of this expectation on the outcome of disease.
The twelfth, and last, remedy is love for self and others. All religions focus on loving
God and other people. This love includes helping others, strangers as well as family
and friends. When people love and help others, they often experience better health
than those who do not.
These 12 religious remedies can be found outside of religious organizations. Frequent
religious participation, however, provides many of these remedies in one context.
Research is demonstrating that religious participation is an important factor in the
prevention of disease, achievement of well-being, healing from illness, and exten-
sion of life span. One mystery that remains, however, is why some people are cured
and others are not. One can be very spiritual and still get sick and die. It must be
remembered that religious participation and spirituality are no guarantee for physi-
cal health. Failure to recognize this basic reality can result in inappropriate self-
blame.How Do I Begin Taking a Spiritual Approach to My Health?
Some people seek out nurses, doctors, counselors, and therapists who focus on spiri-
tual concerns as well as physical and emotional concerns. This focus is especially
helpful for those who are dealing with issues related to meaning and purpose in life.
Alternatively, people may seek the help of a religious leader who includes healing
practices in her or his religious practice. Faith healing has not been scientifically
proven but remains a popular option for many. Some people go to specific places for
healing. The Catholic Church has documented 36 “miracles” at Lourdes, for exam-
ple. A variety of spiritually focused healing groups are also available. People with
addictive disorders benefit from 12-step programs, which rely on both group support
and the specific invocation of a Higher Power.276 ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TOALTERNATIVE MEDICINE