Does religious faith lead to a happier, healthier life? LIFE-EXTENDING BENEFITSStudying the life-extending benefits of religious practice can therefore offer useful strategies for anyone — of any faith or none — to live a healthier and happier life. This healthier living may be the result of the religious teaching itself, which tends to encourage the principles of moderation and abstinence. SOCIAL CONNECTIONImportantly, however, the health benefits of religion remain even when the scientists have controlled for these differences in behavior, meaning that other factors must also contribute. Last, but not least, religious faiths can create a sense of purpose in someone’s life — the feeling that there is a reason and meaning to their existence.
