Understanding the Link Between Spirituality and Neurorehabilitation: A Narrative Review.
NeuroRehabilitation May 1, 2026 Paul Olowoyo, Adefolarin Malomo, Kehinde Adigun et al.
Spirituality, a near-universal human experience, may aid recovery in neurorehabilitation by activating brain pathways linked to neuroplasticity. This narrative review of 50 articles found that spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, singing, dancing, and yoga are associated with increased neuronal activity, potentially strengthening existing synapses and forming new ones. Many cultures have long recognized spirituality's impact on health, and recent neuroradiological advances allow mapping of these experiences to specific brain networks. While observational evidence supports benefits for patients, more randomized controlled trials are needed before including spiritual interventions in neurorehabilitation guidelines for holistic restoration.