494: Science-backed spiritual tools for longevity | Psychologist David DeSteno, Ph.D.

Community Support

The importance of community support during the grieving process is emphasized by David DeSteno. He highlights how communal rituals, such as those seen in Jewish traditions like Shiva, provide instrumental support by bringing people together to share memories and prayers 1. This collective experience fosters connection and empathy, which are crucial for resilience. Jason Wachob shares a personal anecdote about witnessing a funeral procession of Harley riders, illustrating how rituals can create a sense of ongoing connection with the deceased 2.

When we lose institutionalized religion, we're losing some of that. And we need to find ways to incorporate that.

--- David DeSteno

DeSteno suggests that even in secular contexts, forming new communal practices can help maintain these vital support networks.

   

Spiritual Lessons

David DeSteno explores the spiritual insights that can be gained through grief, emphasizing the role of compassion and psychedelics in this process. He notes that spiritual practices have long been known to increase compassion and reduce aggression, a finding supported by modern research into psychedelics 3. These substances, when used in a ritualistic context with guidance, can provide profound spiritual experiences and aid in coping with grief and terminal illness.

People who engage in these practices, some of them say it was the most spiritually rewarding experience of their life.

--- David DeSteno

DeSteno advocates for more studies on integrating spiritual elements into psychedelic practices to enhance their therapeutic potential.