Spirituality and Depression

By Lisa Shanken

July 20, 2022

I hope you are enjoying your summer! I recently read a book that completely rocked my world, so I wanted to share it and talk more about the subject. The book is called The Awakened Brain, by Lisa Miller. Lisa Miller is a PhD psychologist that pioneered the research studying how spirituality can actually help improve symptoms of depression. She is also the founder of the Spirituality Mind Body Institute at Columbia University.

This book resonated so strongly with me for a few reasons. Many people that struggle with depression have treatment challenges such as being medication resistant, others are unable to afford accessible support and care, while still others may look for alternative types of treatment. Spirituality is something that can be accessible to anyone who chooses to seek it out.

I highly recommend reading or listening to the book, but some of my favorite findings include:

Her 2012 study found, through MRI imaging, that the area of the brain weakened by depression also strengthens with a consistent spiritual practice, therefore proving a biological basis for spirituality.
A spiritual practice that helps decrease anxiety and depression then leads to “more positive psychological traits such as grit, resilience, optimism, and tenacity.”
Many examples of Dr. Miller’s own clients’ stories about how spirituality greatly improved their lives and led to many examples of “synchronicity.” (Synchronicity here refers to things that seem like coincidences, yet may be more as a result of people’s positivity.) While these examples are anecdotal, her research is backed by evidence-based studies that support these anecdotal stories. It also helps the book feel relatable and keeps you wanting to read more and more.
Miller’s study also found that people that have spirituality in their lives are 40-80% less likely to develop a dependence on substances. This is quite remarkable. She also notes how 12 step programs have a large spiritual component, which she believes is one of the reasons they can be successful for people in addiction recovery.

Personal spirituality can be found in whatever way it resonates within you.. nature, meditation, connection, music, and religion, are just a few examples. Please reach out if you would like to talk through ways of finding what speaks to you and your spirit. I would love to hear from you.

Lisa Shanken

My passion is to help you live your healthiest and most harmonious life, but in a way that’s realistic and practical for you as a unique individual on this planet. My philosophy is all about “balance,” never a diet since a diet is not sustainable for life, aka Kill The Diet.

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Lisa’s weight loss plan really gave me a new insight to healthy eating and living. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2015. Healthy living/easting/exercise has become very important to me and my family and this program really helped me get even more on the course with this and helped me lose weight.

Danielle D, Great Neck, NY

When I heard about the 10 Day Weight Loss Challenge, I wasn’t sure if it would be a good fit, since as a physician, I understand nutrition and health (and therefore knew the dangers of fad diets, etc…), and I do my best to exercise (though not always enough). But as a single mother of 2, it’s still very challenging ti “fit in all in” (including cooking healthy meals for my children) due to my busy schedule. And when my time is short, bad habits crop up and weight gain follows.

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Psychiatrist

Lisa has made an enormous contribution to my health and strength. I have seen and felt the most fantastic changes in an amazingly short time.

Chessie F, Boulder, CO

I just wanted to say you were amazing through this 10 day process! I learned so much from you! You were very thorough in all areas of the challenge and got back to us in such a quick manner with our questions. It was a great jump start into a more healthy life style that’s for sure!

Colby E, Boulder, Colorado

I LOVE the recipes, simple, few ingredients, appealing. I like the idea of using the list of staples you provided when i was tempted to cheat!

Phyliss S, Spring House, PA

I worked with Lisa to develop a holistic wellness plan that has allowed personal growth without having to completely change my lifestyle. Her programs are designed around your personal needs, so I always feel like I've gotten the most from my sessions and leave with manageable goals. Lisa's three-prong approach to wellness (fitness, nutrition and health) is helping me live a balanced and grateful life.

Ali S., Boulder, CO

I’ve been through the ringer with different dieting plans through the years. Some helped me lose weight and some didn’t – but it didn’t matter because I would always gain it back. I didn’t know if this 10 day Weight Loss Challenge would be the answer since everyone says they have the “BEST” way to lose weight. But this one seemed to be more doable – like instead of starving myself, keeping track of calories (“been there done that – VERY annoying!”) and things I know I wouldn’t stick to.

Jill W, Park, NY

Lisa, you have been a very positive role model for me! Through the exercise and diet I’m becoming healthy and more positive about my life!!! Thanks!

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