I was going to make the same statement on this. Especially, this is true for Islam; Performing wudhu with water(yes you may also perform wudhu with dirt, in some situations), there is a calming effect with water when you are in a hot region and that moment you don't speak, just like a meditative moment. I believe Islam was custom designed by a very smart and creative lot and refined over eons.
So, yes, prayer does work.