This is Felicia Ferguson with Christian Mix 106, helping you build faith for the journey.
Did you know worship can be self-care? It may sound strange, because worship, after all is directed toward God, not ourselves, but it’s true.
From listening to music, to dancing, to giving, each act of worship also changes brain activity and in many cases, overall health. Music therapy is now regularly used as a treatment protocol for patients who experience seizures, strokes, depression, and even those in the final stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Dancing also has been shown to increase serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain.
Giving is another aspect of worship with a confirmed impact on brain and overall health. Research studies have found gift-giving actions encourage the production of serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin in the brain, all chemicals which improve mood and compassion. Voluntary or “cheerful” giving leads to even greater activation of the brain’s pleasure centers.
Moses led the Israelites in songs of praise to God after they safely crossed the supernaturally parted Red Sea and escaped their Egyptian masters. After their victorious battle against Sisera, Old Testament judge, Deborah, and Israelite general, Barak, sang songs to God in praise and thanksgiving.
When Paul and Silas were beaten and thrown into jail after casting the spirit of witchcraft out of the young girl in Phillipi, they sang songs and hymns in the jail. Later, Paul directed the Ephesian church to speak “to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”
These giants of our faith understood and experienced the benefits of worship, not just for strengthening our faith, but also for keeping our bodies healthy. How do you worship and how often? If it’s only at a weekly church service, I encourage to incorporate worship into your daily walk. If you’re listening to Christian Mix 106, that’s a great start. Make sure to sing along. And from your heart. Allow your praise and worship of God to flow along with the music. But sing your own spiritual songs. It may sound weird at first, but you have your own history with God that you can praise him for. And don’t forget to give. Not simply your regular tithe, but Operation Christmas Child, Angel Trees, or giving of your time through volunteer work.
Use these all as opportunities for worship and self-care and watch your peace and contentment grow.
This is Felicia Ferguson. Thanks for listening to Christian Mix 106.
