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Monday, April 7, 2008

ISU Researchers Finds Benefits Of Spirituality

Researchers at Indiana State University (ISU) present findings on benefits/effects of spirituality
by Aliya Khan at IndianStatesman.com [7th April 2008]


David Howard, assistant professor of recreation and sport management, shared the healing methods of yoga and dance for cancer patients during Friday's collaborative session hosted by the Center for the Study of Health, Religion and Spirituality.

"My own research is both needed and, in my opinion, innovative," Howard said. "The two studies I presented have to do with coping with cancer. For men with prostate cancer, the study involves the use of a tantric yoga intervention in light of erectile dysfunction. For women treated for breast cancer, the study takes place in Philadelphia and incorporates the use of dance and movement workshops. In each, the very important topic of quality of life and human sexuality related to health and disability are being investigated."

Other presenters included Jean Kristeller, professor of psychology and director of the Center for Study of Health, Religion, and Spirituality, on meditation and obesity and the spiritual concerns of patients in cancer care; Tom Johnson, professor of psychology, on spirituality and addictions; and Patrick Bennett, assistant professor of psychology, on prayer and psychology.

"The majority of cancer patients report spiritual and religious beliefs and are generally very appreciative when their physicians bring that up, even if only for five minutes," Kristeller said.
The Center for the Study of Health, Religion and Spirituality was created to encourage participation in the study of spirituality, values, ethics and physical and emotional health and well-being, according to its Web site.

Kristeller said she learned a lot more in-depth information about the research being done and was surprised to see how many people presented.

"I think that it was intended to provide information on the wide range of research going on in these areas both at ISU and other colleges," Kristeller said.

Faculty, graduate and undergraduate students discussed the variety of research done on campus and in the community. Prior to the event, people were invited to design posters or presentations.

Kristeller said she particularly enjoyed the discussion at the end of the program in which people from different programs and departments discussed projects they could collaborate on, including cancer research and addictions.

This is the first time the event has been organized. Kristeller said the collaborative session will probably become an annual event.

"Meetings such as these help students appreciate both the expertise and support that exists at ISU related to the study of health, religion and spirituality-expertise and support that will enable their education and their ability to design, execute and publish research studies they become part of," Howard said.


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