How can these types of conflicting, angry thoughts affect people physically and mentally? According to Monitor on Psychology staff writer Deborah Smith in “Angry thoughts, at-risk hearts,” “Research findings indicate a clear pattern — being an angry or hostile person is bad for your heart.” Ms. Smith goes on to cite several studies that prove the point.
What is the antidote for this poisonous toxin that not only affects attitudes but health? Certainly any antidote needs to affect the inner self. For me, it would be prayer, and the premise that health is enhanced through prayer is supported by many studies. The comprehensive National Prayer in Medicine Survey, found that across multiple studies and polls most Americans report a belief in a higher power (90-96%). The 2006 World Values Survey also showed the importance of prayer with a report that 84% of Americans pray. Among those who pray, the belief that prayers are answered is also high.
According to the many research studies, there appears to be little doubt that attitudes and behavior affect health, and many individuals have found prayer to be a means of improving both of them. Future studies will help us determine the real value of this knowledge.
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