ACLM Meaning, Purpose, and Spirituality in Lifestyle Medicine Summit Takeaways
The American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) recently hosted the Meaning, Purpose, and Spirituality in Lifestyle Medicine Summit, supported by Ardmore Institute of Health (AIH). The gathering brought together experts, clinicians, and researchers to explore intersections between Lifestyle Medicine and meaning, purpose, and spirituality.
As Dr. Liana Lianov writes here, “the connection between meaning, purpose, and spirituality with behavior change is undeniable; people are far more likely to embrace lifestyle modifications when they have a clear sense of purpose in their lives. Behavior change, in turn, is the cornerstone of Lifestyle Medicine, and Lifestyle Medicine is fundamental to whole-person health.”
Key takeaways from the summit include:
Connection, horizontal and/or vertical, is essential to one’s meaning and purpose in life (see this ACLM article on pillar updates).
Life purpose is linked to health and longevity.
Meaning, purpose, and spirituality conversations with patients can enhance their well-being.
A sense of “mattering” is essential to preventing burnout for healthcare providers.
Elliot Smith, AIH Board Member and summit attendee, shared, “I was deeply impressed by the presenters and the attendees who sought a 'common ground' to addressing the importance of meaning, purpose, and spirituality in the whole person approach to Lifestyle Medicine. While religion can often be a divisive topic, the focus was on allowing individuals to identify how they find meaning and purpose and using this to help them pursue goals with a provider.”
AIH is delighted to support ACLM in integrating meaning, purpose, and spirituality into medical education, research, and clinical care. Outcomes of the summit, including publications, an implementation toolkit, and other materials, are in process and will be made available by ACLM.
Related Grant: A Lifestyle Medicine Convening on Meaning, Purpose, and Spirituality: Understanding Whole Person Needs for Whole Person Care
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