The Science of Spirituality: How Tapping Into Your Awakened Brain Can Transform Mental Health
Have you ever felt a quiet inner knowing, a sense that you’re connected to something larger than yourself? Or perhaps you’ve longed for that feeling, especially in times of stress or uncertainty? According to pioneering psychologist and researcher Dr. Lisa Miller, this longing isn’t just wishful thinking - it’s a sign that you’re wired for it. Many people feel uneasy or even turned off by the word “spirituality” because it can stir up negative memories or assumptions about organized religion - rules, dogma, or past hurts. It’s important to clarify that when I (and Dr. Miller) talk about spirituality, we mean a deeply personal, inner sense of connection and meaning. This is not about subscribing to a particular religion, but about tapping into a natural part of your mind and heart that helps you feel grounded and whole. In her groundbreaking book The Awakened Brain and her conversation with Mel Robbins (Episode #290, Understanding This Will Change How You Experience Your Entire Life), Dr. Miller explains that every human being is biologically hardwired for spiritual connection - whether you identify as religious, spiritual-but-not-religious, or simply curious about deeper meaning.
“We are born with a natural capacity for spiritual awareness. It’s not about belief - it’s biology.” - Dr. Lisa Miller, The Awakened Brain
What Dr. Miller and decades of research show is powerful: engaging this innate spiritual awareness changes the brain in ways that directly support mental health.
People who actively cultivate a sense of spiritual connection - through nature, meditation, prayer, or contemplative reflection - tend to have:
• Lower rates of depression and anxiety
• Greater resilience in the face of trauma or loss
• Less risk of addiction and suicidal thoughts
• A deeper sense of purpose and belonging
Functional brain scans reveal that spiritual practices strengthen regions of the brain responsible for emotion regulation, stress recovery, and clear thinking. When we open our “awakened brain,” we activate a protective system that buffers us against life’s inevitable challenges.
Dr. Miller describes two core modes our brains can operate in:
➤ The Achieving Brain: Goal-oriented, focused on planning and safety - necessary for daily life but easily hijacked by stress and overthinking.
➤ The Awakened Brain: Open, receptive, connected to meaning and possibility - fostering calm, trust, and resilience, even during uncertainty.
Most of us live mostly in the Achieving Brain. But the good news? We can strengthen the Awakened Brain with simple practices.
Spirituality doesn’t have to mean following a specific religion. It can be simple, personal, and woven gently into everyday life. Here are a few ways to begin:
Pause for stillness: A few moments of silence or mindful breathing daily helps calm the stress centers in the brain.
Connect to meaning: Notice what feels bigger than your daily tasks - a sunrise, a beautiful song, or a moment of awe.
Reach for support: Sharing your spiritual journey - in community, therapy, or safe conversation - amplifies the benefits.
As Dr. Miller says, “There’s an antidote for the pain and disconnection so many of us feel - and it’s within us all along.” Cultivating spiritual awareness is not about rigid beliefs; it’s about nurturing your brain’s natural capacity to feel connected, grounded, and whole.
In my own work - whether through therapy, coaching, yoga, or psychedelic integration - I witness every day how reconnecting with this deeper awareness can transform lives. It’s one of the most gentle yet powerful resources we have: rooted in ancient wisdom and now confirmed by modern neuroscience.
If you’re curious about weaving more meaning and spiritual resilience into your healing journey, I’d love to support you.
Schedule a free consultation - let’s see how we can awaken this natural resource within you.
Learn more from Dr. Lisa Miller’s work:
