How To Avoid Dying (and other mishegas)

First, cross-posted from Jewschool is a short piece on the power of prayer:

“A study published by researchers at Yeshiva University and its medical school, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, strongly suggests that regular attendance at religious services reduces the risk of death by approximately 20%. The findings, published in Psychology and Health, were based on data drawn from participants who spanned numerous religious denominations.…

“To evaluate the impact of religiosity on mortality and morbidity, the investigators looked at variables including self-report of religious affiliation, frequency of religious service attendance, and religious strength as well as comfort, in relation to coronary heart disease (CHD) and death. It is important to note that the study did not attempt to measure spirituality; rather, it examined self-report religiosity measures (irrespective of the participant’s religion).

“Those attending religious services at least once per week showed a 20% mortality risk reduction mark compared with those not attending services at all. These findings corroborate prior studies that have shown up to a 25% reduction in such risk.” [Read more.]

I would like to thank the various independent minyanim that I attend on a regular basis for existing as, it seems, they’re to thank for my recent “got off easy” car accident. (What? I’m not properly understanding the conclusions?)

And for some more random fun, highlights from the RSS reader. (I’ve had a lot of time to catch up on the blogs these past couple days…)

• Masturbation leads to homosexuality.
• Rick Mercer has a great last line.
• DovBear is spot on for why this news story was a let down. (My roommates and I were so enticed by the teaser, we DVR’ed the news Monday night. We were disappointed for many reasons when we watched it yesterday.)
• Another reason to love Keith Olbermann – and mock Sarah Palin.
• And, since it’s Thanksgiving in the USA tomorrow, a recipe for mashed potatoes, care of Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg.

Filed under: america, health, homophobia, judaism, politics, queers, random, recipes, wtf?