The Neuroscience of Spirituality: What MRI Scans Reveal About Your Brain

How science is rewriting what we know about faith, meaning, and the human mind.

For centuries, spirituality was seen as a matter of faith, beyond the reach of science. But recent advances in neuroscience are changing everything. Dr. Lisa Miller’s ‘The Awakened Brain’ reveals that our brains are naturally equipped for spiritual awareness—and that nurturing this capacity can transform our mental health.

MRI studies have shown that people who rate spirituality as highly important have thicker, more robust brain regions, particularly in areas that are often weakened by depression. This ‘awakened brain’ circuitry is not limited to those with religious beliefs; it’s a universal human trait, present in everyone regardless of background.

Spiritual practices like mindfulness, meditation, and acts of kindness strengthen these neural pathways. Even paying attention to synchronicities—those meaningful coincidences—can increase the brain’s capacity for resilience and joy. The science is clear: spiritual engagement is as vital to brain health as exercise or nutrition.

What does this mean for you? Whether you consider yourself spiritual, religious, or simply curious, you can cultivate your brain’s natural capacity for meaning and connection. The awakened brain is not a rare gift, but a skill that grows with practice. Every moment of gratitude, every act of compassion, every pause for reflection builds the neural foundation for a more resilient and joyful life.

References: Blinkist Summary, Amazon Book Page