A recent study conducted by researchers from the Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences at the Portuguese Catholic University and from ICVS at the University of Minho analyzed the effects of religious and mindfulness retreats on participants’ psychological well-being.

The work compared two groups: participants in a five-day retreat based on the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, and practitioners in a five-day mindfulness retreat. In both groups, positive trends were observed – such as reduced psychological distress and greater mindfulness – although without statistically significant changes. Functional imaging results seem to indicate different types of neural activity and neuronal density between the two practices.

Nevertheless, the findings suggest that both religious and mindfulness practices may be useful paths for promoting well-being and managing stress, adapting to each person’s beliefs and lifestyle. The researchers believe that “retreats, even of short duration, prove to be valuable experiences that bring science, spirituality, and well-being practices closer together.”

In this context, on 7 November at 2:30 p.m., the event Brain and Spirituality, Perpectives and Challenges will take place, aiming to discuss and demonstrate the results obtained, with the participation of researchers from diverse backgrounds such as Philosophy, Medicine, Psychiatry, and Psychology.

The event is free of charge, but prior registration via QR Code is required. The event will be held in Portuguese Language.