Why Spiritual Health Matters: New Research on the Missing Link in Wellbeing

The Rise of Spiritual Wellness

Spirituality is no longer a fringe conversation in health and wellness circles. In fact, a recent global study by the McKinsey Health Institute (MHI) finds that spiritual health is deeply important to most people—regardless of age, religion, or geography.

Defined not just by religion or belief in a higher power, spiritual health encompasses our sense of meaning, purpose, and connection to something greater than ourselves—be it nature, the universe, community, or inner wisdom.

“Spiritual health is not a ‘nice to have,’ but a core dimension of health alongside physical, mental, and social wellbeing.”
McKinsey Health Institute

Global Insights: 41,000 Voices, One Message

MHI surveyed over 41,000 individuals across 26 countries. The results?

  • 75% of respondents said spiritual health is “somewhat” to “extremely” important in their lives.

  • This was consistent across generational lines, with Gen Z placing particularly high importance on the search for purpose.

  • In countries like Brazil, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Vietnam, over 80% said spiritual health was very or extremely important.

  • In contrast, spiritual health was rated lower in countries like Ireland, the Netherlands, and Sweden—highlighting cultural variability.


“Across generations and geographies, spiritual health remains a powerful but under-recognized force in shaping overall wellbeing.”

The Intersection of Body, Mind & Spirit

People who score higher in spiritual health also tend to report:

  • Greater mental clarity and resilience

  • Higher satisfaction with life

  • Stronger relationships and social health

  • Better physical health markers

Yet spiritual health remains the most under-measured dimension in healthcare. According to McKinsey’s analysis of health studies:

  • 75% focus on physical health

  • 12% examine mental health

  • 6% look at social health

  • Only 1% consider spiritual health

This gap may explain why many people feel something is missing, even when other aspects of their health are addressed.

A Shift Toward the Spiritual Frontier of Healthcare

At EnResonance, we believe that spirituality is the next frontier of holistic health. MHI’s findings echo what many of us in the healing space already know: without meaning, purpose, and connection, true wellbeing is incomplete.

“Let’s expand our healthcare conversations beyond diagnoses and symptom management. Let’s talk about awe, gratitude, belonging, synchronicity, and soul.”
Sara Brand, EnResonance Founder

This isn't about religion. It’s about recognizing that subtle energy, consciousness, and purposeful living are as vital to wellness as blood pressure or body mass index.

What This Means for Practitioners and Clients

Whether you’re receiving Reiki, regression hypnosis, light and sound therapy, or simply seeking support through intuitive coaching, spiritual health is a thread that runs through it all.

It’s why at EnResonance, we honor the full spectrum of healing—mind, body, and spirit.

Final Thought

The world is waking up to something ancient: we are more than our biology.

As McKinsey’s research confirms, the search for self and something greater is not just a personal journey—it's a public health imperative.

Let’s keep exploring, together.

Previous
Previous

Spirituality: The Missing Pillar of Whole‑Person Care