The “Nun Study” is an uplifting story. More importantly, however, are the litany of questions the story raises about how overall wellbeing is achieved and how and why well-being effects long-term physical and mental health. I thought of many questions regarding the differences from the life of the nuns and the life an ordinary person.
From the outset, what makes this group of nuns different from the regular population? They have a lifelong faith. No matter what their faith may be is secondary to faith itself. Faith is a lack of worry in all matters. According to faith, what happens in any area of life, is supposed to happen. Therefore, there is, potentially, a lack or reduction of worry, regret, concern of achievement, concern of becoming, concern of potency and attractiveness, money concerns, survival concerns, et cetera. Instead, the goals of: love towards God, happiness, and helping others is center and is supported by a unified community. Becoming a nun at such an early age is a very conscious choice. What are the benefits of living a life you chose? These women chose a life of service and dedication to God. What are the benefits of service? What are the effects of that community consisting of all women? How would it differ from an all men community? Are the communicative and emotionally empathic abilities of women reasons for longevity?
The film highlighted the aspects of having an elevated level of education. This seems an important aspect. However, I don’t think it can be separated from future and continual learning.
