Chuck Norris Shares the Physical and Mental Benefits of Prayer
By Movieguide® Contributor
As 2023 starts, many people are working on their New Year’s resolutions. Some are looking to exercise more or learn a new skill, but Chuck Norris is suggesting something else — prayer.
The actor started by citing statistics that show almost 80% of people fail to keep their resolutions.
“I’m all for fresh starts,” Norris said. “But what if there were a non-physical resolution that could make you healthier and happier, for starters, and demanded far less physical exertion?”
He continued, “For millions, it is already the core power of their lives. For millions of others, its mere mention makes them cringe. Still for millions of others, it is a controversial practice that can’t possibly yield the fruit of fitness and happiness — or so they think.”
“It’s called prayer; simply put: talking with God,” Norris revealed. “Now, before you tune me out, consider the evidence. Even science has proven it’s much more powerful than most would assume.”
Norris then cited studies that have found the health effects of regular prayer.
“In one National Institutes of Health funded study, individuals who prayed daily were shown to be 40 percent less likely to have high blood pressure than those without a regular prayer practice,” the study from the Huffington Post wrote.
It continued, “Research at Dartmouth Medical School found that patients with strong religious beliefs who underwent elective heart surgery were three times more likely to recover than those who were less religious.”
The actor also quoted studies that found that praying can improve your personal relationships and love life.
However, he was quick to point out that prayer has a much more beneficial effect on our lives than just physical and mental health.
“I’m not suggesting that we pray for the sole reason to get physically or mentally fit, have better relationships, or even live longer,” the actor said. “But if those are beneficial byproducts of the practice, why not make it a greater priority than joining a gym?”
He continued, “If the God of the Universe hardwired us for relationship and communion with Him, doesn’t it make sense that prayer would yield a plethora of benefits and blessings?”
Norris wondered if the reason many Americans don’t have holistic health is because they don’t pray regularly.
“Are those numbers so low because we simply don’t understand and believe in the power of prayer?” he concluded. “It truly makes one wonder why prayer is not a more popular New Year’s resolution each year. So, why not resolve in 2023 to talk to God (more)? The benefits will be out of this world!”
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