Connecting the Science to the ‘Woo’: Understanding the Research behind Spiritual Practices

Much of the training in psychology and mental health focuses on science and research. While initially I sought knowledge and research to support the practices I was using, I quickly realized that this was not always adequate to support clients. Research provides valuable information, but sometimes it is not enough.

The field of psychology has developed within specific cultural and historical contexts. Much of the research that informs the work has been shaped by Western perspectives and systems of thinking that are rooted in oppressive, misogynistic practices. It does not adequately account for cultural differences, individual experiences, spirituality, or gender. This does not mean science and research are not important. Instead, it reminds us that there is value in holding space for different perspectives. 

Throughout my own journey, I have found comfort and regulation in nature, spirituality, Buddhist principles, reiki, tarot card reading, meditation, and more. There can be room for both spiritual practices and research-based psychological approaches. What feels meaningful and supportive can look different for each individual. 

Where Science and Spirituality Overlap

Interestingly, there is an overlap between practices that are described as “spiritual” or “woo woo” and scientific psychology practices. 

Nature and Grounding 

Forest bathing, Shinrin-Yoku, is the Japanese practice of intentionally spending time in nature to feel calmer and more grounded. Science shows that forest bathing reduces stress, blood pressure, improves sleep, stabilizes the autonomic nervous system, helping us feel more regulated, and reduces anxiety, depression, and anger (Qing Li, 2022).  Being outside also encourages deep breathing. Many spiritual practices also believe grounding in nature to be calming, regulate our nervous system, and improve our overall health. 

Breathwork and Reiki

Deep breathing is another area where there is a large overlap between the spiritual practices and scientific therapeutic practices. 

Within reiki, the practice of deep breathing can be used as a way of releasing and clearing out negative energy. In counselling, breathing exercises are often used as tools for supporting relaxation and emotional regulation  They can be used in many different evidence based therapeutic modalities, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT), and Mindfulness- Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). 

Deep breathing has been proven to reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and blood pressure (Tavoian and Craighead, 2023). Whether you are practicing deep breathing as a way to clear out negative energy, or you are doing it for scientific purposes, the practice can provide an opportunity to pause, reconnect with your body, and a greater sense of calm. 

Manifestation and Psychology of Intention

Although manifestation is often promoted as woo woo and not scientifically based, when we break it down it consists of a lot of psychological principles which can be effective in our day to day life. 

Manifestation consists of visualization, goal setting and positive thinking. These are all cognitive strategies that lead to an increase of attention on the thing we desire. 

There may also be an element of confirmation bias where when we put our attention on something, we start to notice it. This makes us more likely to notice when there is an opportunity that may lead to the thing that you desire, making it more likely to happen. It may also lead to self-fulfilling prophecies of believing it to be true so you are more likely to make choices to ensure it becomes true. Additionally, it creates new neural pathways in our brains, leading to neuroplasticity (Doty, 2026). James Doty’s book, Mind Magic, explores the neuroscience of manifestation in much more depth and the effect this can have on your life. 

Reiki as a Complementary Practice

Reiki is a form of energy healing that originated in Japan in the 1920’s by Mikao Usui. The reiki practitioner channels healing energy into the client through touch or placing their hands near the client’s body. This can activate the natural healing process and restore physical and emotional well-being (Oxford Dictionary). 

Research on reiki is still in development and there are limitations to current evidence. Some studies have reported potential benefits related to anxiety, depression, pain, and relaxation, although more research is needed to better understand its effectiveness (Dogan, 2018).

Reiki is useful as a complementary healing treatment and does not replace medical treatment. I have recently completed my reiki Level 1 training and also consistently attend reiki sessions for my own personal wellness and care.

Making Space for Both

For me, the question isn't whether we should choose science or spirituality. Instead, I am interested in what becomes possible when we make space for both.

Evidence-based psychological practices provide valuable tools and frameworks for understanding mental health, while spirituality can offer meaning, connection, ritual, hope, and a deeper sense of self.

Not every practice will resonate with every person, and that's okay. Counselling is about exploring what supports you, what aligns with your values, and what helps you move toward the life you want to create. There is no one size fits all approach. 

Sometimes that might look like learning a cognitive strategy or developing new coping skills. Other times it might involve sitting quietly in nature, exploring a spiritual practice, or reconnecting with something that gives your life meaning.