494: Science-backed spiritual tools for longevity | Psychologist David DeSteno, Ph.D.

“The data shows that engagement in spiritual practices leads people to be healthier and live longer, happier lives," says David DeSteno, Ph.D. David, a psychologist and professor at Northeastern University, joins us to discuss the science behind spiritual practices and how they can benefit our well-being, plus: - How David defines spirituality (~03:07) - The science-backed health benefits of spirituality (~06:27) - The power of believing in something bigger than yourself (~09:54) - Why spirituality is just as important as exercise & nutrition (~12:49) - How organized prayer benefits your health (~14:52) - Why organized religion is declining (~18:57) - Why church should be more like Burning Man (~22:35) - Are fitness classes the new faith institutions? (~25:45) - Do fitness instructors have a greater responsibility? (~31:46) - Where spirituality meets AI technology (~34:06) - How to assess your spiritual health (~41:05) - Easy ways to flex your “soul muscles” (~43:00) - How meditation makes you nicer (~48:51) - Exciting research on psychedelics & spirituality (~52:14) - A spiritual lesson in grief (~55:35) - What to say to someone who rejects spirituality (~01:01:56) Referenced in the episode: - David's podcast, How God Works . - David's piece in the Wall Street Journal . - "Church Should Be More Like Burning Man." - mbg Podcast episode #344 , with Lisa Miller, Ph.D. & her research . - David's study on motor synchrony . - Molly Crockett's research on Burning Man . - Casper te Kuile's research on fitness spaces fulfilling spiritual needs . - David's meditation & compassion study . - David's meditation & aggression study . - David's ongoing gratitude study . - Sign up for The Long Game . We hope you enjoy this episode, and feel free to watch the full video on YouTube ! Whether it's an article or podcast, we want to know what we can do to help here at mindbodygreen. Let us know at: podcast@mindbodygreen.com . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices