Pillar 4: Spiritual Fitness
The Final Frontier in Alzheimer’s Prevention
Increased consciousness and cognition is the final frontier of Alzheimer’s prevention. Developing your spiritual fitness, or psycho-spiritual well-being, may very well help you reduce your risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and even Alzheimer’s.
The 3 Conditions
Spiritual fitness is gained by following the Alzheimer’s Research & Prevention Foundation’s Alzheimer’s Prevention Program, and especially the second pillar: stress management. Sometimes it comes automatically with maturity as well.
Aspects of spiritual fitness are outlined here:
- Socialization or Being With Like-Minded People
- Acceptance and Forgiveness of Yourself and Others
- Patience and Allowing Yourself to Be in the Moment
- Compassion and Empathy Towards Yourself and Others
- Purpose or Meaning in Life via Self-Discovery and Building Your Legacy
- a Sense of Spirituality, Regardless of Origin or Religion, Makes You Happier
Volunteering or Service Without Thought of Self-Reward is a Very Beneficial, Life-Affirming Act
Modern Research Suggests That Some of the Most Striking Brain Benefits of Spiritual Fitness Are:
- Reversal of Amyloid Plaque, Which May Increase Risk of Alzheimer’s
- Improvement in Your Genes via Healthier Telomeres
Slowing of Alzheimer’s Progression
Finally, spiritual fitness may also contribute to brain health and is a proven defense against mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and even Alzheimer’s. Spiritual fitness is the combination of attributes of psychological well-being, such as contentment, socialization, and having a purpose or mission in life, combined with spiritual well-being, which includes service to others and the ongoing search for peace of mind. Spiritual fitness contributes directly to your ability to maintain a high level of mental function as you age.