Using the tools of science - double-blind research studies and analysis of tissue, blood levels and hormones - this text tracks the influence of religious beliefs on physical and mental health. The documented evidence shows how traditional religious practices like prayer and community service can raise white blood cell counts, improve immune system responses and lower blood pressure. It includes case studies of remarkable recoveries from near-fatal illness as well as stories of how people from diverse religious backgrounds triumph over addiction, depression, marital problems and other serious life stresses.

Author Biography

Harold Koenig, M.D. is Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioural Science and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Duke University Medical Centre.