SPIRITUALITY MODULE 1 · PDF file– The word spirit comes from ancient Latin and Greek and was ﬁrst used ... • To contact and be in touch with others which helps nurture our personality

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SPIRITUALITY MODULE 1


INTRODUCTION TO HOLISTIC HEALTH & SPIRITUALITY


WHAT WE WILL COVER IN THIS SECTION

•  Introduction to holistic health•  Introduction to spirituality•  “God” disclaimer•  Theories and definitions of spirituality•  The difference between spirituality and religion•  The connection between spirituality and well-being•  What is spiritual health?




WHAT WE WILL COVER IN THIS SECTION

•  Consciousness•  Vibrational frequency•  The new thought movement•  Spirituality and transformation•  Educational institutions•  The impact of spirituality•  We are spiritual beings•  Life stage spiritual challenges and solutions


INTRODUCTION TO HOLISTIC HEALTH

•  The art and science of transformation and healing –  Addresses the whole person

•  Body•  Mind•  Spirit

–  Integrates •  Conventional and alternative therapies•  Promote optimal health and well-being



•  What holistic health is–  Looks at the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a

person–  Spirituality and religion as key issues in health

•  Support actions that promote health–  Recognition that some illnesses may be spiritual in nature

•  But manifest emotionally or physically





•  What holistic health is–  Any dis-ease in a persons life may manifest in a different area of their

life–  Important aspect of holistic health is to watch for signs of “spiritual

distress”–  Holistic health cares for the whole person

•  Mind•  Body•  Spirit



•  History–  Two of the most well-documented holistic health traditions are

•  Ayurveda•  Traditional Chinese Medicine

–  Both respect the full person•  Holistic view honoring body, mind, and spirit

–  More modern approaches to health have focused on the body–  Only in the last 100 years have we begun integrating the emotions–  And now we see the resurgence of the respect for spirit in health and

wellness



•  Numerous Modalities

−  Ayurveda−  Herbal medicine−  Chinese medicine−  Homeopathy−  Osteopathic medicine−  Acupressure

−  Acupuncture−  Aromatherapy−  Body work−  Chiropractic−  Dance, art, color, music,

movement therapy





•  Numerous Modalities

−  Massage−  Qi gong−  Meditation−  Visualization−  Imagery−  Hypnotherapy

−  Yoga and tai chi−  Biofeedback−  Hydrotherapy−  Nutritional counseling −  Energy work


INTRODUCTION TO SPIRITUALITY

•  Introduction–  Spirituality

•  Key component to holistic health•  Integrates

–  Body–  Mind



•  History–  In the past medicine and spirituality were inextricably linked–  Evidence of intentional burials as early as 300,000 years ago

•  First evidence of religious or spiritual ideals–  Evidence of religious idols as early as 50,000 years ago–  Evidence of religious and spirituality throughout recorded history





•  History–  The word spirit comes from ancient Latin and Greek and was first used

in the 5th century–  The relationship amongst spirituality, religion, and health was very close

until the last 200-300 years.



•  There are three different dimensions–  Physical–  Psychological–  Spiritual



•  Everyone has three fundamental needs as they age:–  Biophysical

•  To contact and be in touch with the physical environment to develop as an individual

–  Psychosocial•  To contact and be in touch with others which helps nurture our personality

–  Spiritual•  To maintain and understand our lives beyond our existence





•  Physical dimensions –  Body => Includes:

•  Physical sensation–  Taste, feel, see, hear, smell

•  Movement•  Nutrition•  Interaction with others•  Physical intimacy

–  Sex, touch



•  Psychological dimensions –  Mind

•  Thoughts•  Beliefs about the self and the world•  Ideas•  Self-consciousness •  Self-identity•  Emotions•  Psychological distress

–  Depression, Anxiety, etc.



•  Spiritual dimensions–  Spirit

•  Belief about something “other”•  Feeling of connection or unity•  Desire for harmony or peace•  Soul•  The meaning of life•  Life purpose





•  Spiritual dimensions–  Spirit

•  Important part of health and wellbeing•  Spiritual care does not equate to religious care

–  Can offer spiritual care without reference to religion•  The 9 words used most frequently to describe spirituality

–  Transcendent, relationship, quality, God/god, being, animator, principle, life, personal

•  Can be described as a unifying force –  Transcending and integrating other dimensions


•  Although there are many differences –  Between the physical, psychological, and spiritual

•  Integration of all three aspects –  Key to some conceptions of spirituality

•  Interconnected influence–  Spirituality Physical

Psychological



"GOD" DISCLAIMER

•  Beauty in uniqueness–  Cultivate openness to and acceptance of everyone’s unique belief

system–  Each of us has a unique concept of and relationship with “God”

•  Religious ideal of “God”–  One or many depending on the religious faith

•  The unity and connection of everything as “God”•  Belief in something bigger than oneself as “God”•  Looking at everything and everyone as a manifestation of “God” (including

oneself & nature)




"GOD" DISCLAIMER

•  Other names for God include:–  Absolute Spirit or Absolute Consciousness, Absolute Inclusiveness,

Allah, Anima Mundi (World Soul, Gaia, Universal Soul), Atman, Brahma, Causal, Christ, Consciousness, Divine, Divine Feminine (Kali, Oya, Pele, Mary, Shakti, Black Madonna or any of the other many names for Goddess embodying Absolute Divinity in a female manifestation), Divine Mother, Divine Mystery, Divine Presence, Ever Present Origin, God, Goddess, Buddha


"GOD" DISCLAIMER

•  Other names for God include: –  Great Interconnectedness, Great Mother, Great Mystery, Great Spirit,

Great Union, Great Radiance, Great Relationship, Great Unity, Higher Power, Highest Essence, Highest Self, Holy Spirit, I Am (That I Am) (a non qualitative personal Divinity), Infinite Consciousness, Infinite Wholeness, Integrative Consciousness, Integrative Spirit, Jehovah, Kosmos, Krishna, Larger Self, Love, Shakti, Shiva, Source, Spirit, The Tao, The Supreme, The Ultimate, The Universe

•  Not an exhaustive list


THEORIES & DEFINITIONS OF SPIRITUALITY

•  Some spiritual practices begin when we are children whereas others are sought out in adolescence or adulthood

•  These practices integrate the entirety of the human experience–  Emotions with intellect–  Mind with body–  Connect us with others who share similar beliefs–  Practices lift us out of ourselves and set certain experiences as unique

compared to our daily lives





•  My definition of spirituality is:–  “An inner journey that enables a person to discover their authentic self”



•  Spirituality may involve things like prayer•  It does not require any religious affiliation or belief


THEORIES & DEFINITIONS OF SPIRITUALITY•  Many different non-religious manifestations of spirituality

–  Meditation–  12-step programs–  Gratitude–  Silent reflection–  Listening–  Being in nature–  Being creative–  Serving others–  Yoga




THEORIES & DEFINITIONS OF SPIRITUALITY•  Many different non-religious manifestations of spirituality

–  Fasting–  Walking a prayer circle–  Making a pilgrimage–  Singing –  Going on a weekend retreat–  Listening to the words of inspired speakers like Dr. Martin Luther King

Jr.–  Dancing



•  The dictionary defines spirituality as –  “The experience or expression of the sacred”–  Words often found in definitions of spirituality

•  Sacred, moral, holy, divine, pure essence, ecclesiastical, incorporeal, spirits and supernatural entities



•  In 1997, the National Institute of Healthcare Research (NIHR)–  “The feelings, thoughts, experiences, and behaviors that arise from a

search for the sacred.”





•  Other definitions: –  Finding transcendent meaning –  Individualized search for meaning–  Search for meaning and connectedness–  Belief or experience of something beyond your own existence



•  Other definitions: –  A state where we strive for awe, reverence, inspiration, meaning,

purpose, harmony with the universe, answers about the ‘beyond’ and can come into acute focus during times of distress



•  Other definitions: –  Transcends religion and explores our relationship with something larger,

even if that thing is our community, school, or neighborhood, and an approach of harmlessness toward living things and recognition of their interdependence





•  Deals with “what should be” instead of “what is”–  Eternal–  Beautiful–  Meaningful–  Just



•  Belief in a power in the universe greater than the self•  Interconnectedness with all living beings•  Consciousness of purpose and meaning of life•  Development of personal values and morals•  Way of finding meaning, hope, inner peace, and comfort•  Acting compassionately, selflessly, altruistically



•  Spirituality has common elements–  Transcendence of ego/expanding consciousness–  A commitment to authenticity–  Openness to the mysterious in life–  Finding and pursing a unique purpose in life –  Developing connections with everything–  Seeing the cultivation of spirituality as a main life task





•  Spirituality is a basic human quality–  The spiritual dimension influences, energizes, and motivates every

aspect of ones life–  It can mean many things to many different people–  Transcends race, color, culture, national origin, age, sex–  It’s believed to be essential to our human existence

•  Integral to rather than in addition to experience –  This requires the recognition that it affects health



•  Other definitions of spirituality–  A nonphysical essence, energy, or immaterial aspect of a person that

continues to exist after death–  Part of the biological make-up of humans–  Animation force, essence, or life principle that is expressed throughout

the universe in connection and life and is a universal human experience



•  Researchers at the Institute of Noetic Sciences:–  The ultimate purpose is to expand consciousness–  How people make sense of themselves in the world that will influence

how their being is integrated–  How a person is influenced by their worldview

•  Perceptions, attitudes, assumptions that inform people of where they fit in the world/universe





•  Researchers at the Institute of Noetic Sciences:–  Purposeful exploration can result in a shift in self-perception–  Beliefs and views about self and the world and their consciousness

become more inclusive and expansive


SPIRITUALITY & RELIGION: THE DIFFERENCE

•  Religion–  Beliefs and practices related to what exists outside the physical world,

generally involving a spiritual entity–  Language, beliefs, practices that characterize a community searching

for transcendent meaning



•  Religion–  Religious beliefs are usually formed in the context of a religious

community •  So beliefs, practices, language, are all shared and generally agreed upon

–  A platform the expression of spirituality–  Outward practice of spirituality





•  Some people have preferences in using the terms Spirituality vs. Religion

•  Sometimes both terms are used interchangeably



•  Generally–  Religion focuses on traditions, practices, and shared beliefs in a system

of spirituality–  Spirituality focus on a more personal, individualistic, and private journey

toward spiritual knowledge and integration


EXAMPLES OF RELIGIONS

•  Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Baha'i, Taoism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Philippine mythology, Celtic pagan, Heathenism, Semitic pagan, Wicca, Hellenic pagan, Roman pagan, Catholicism, Sikhism

•  This is not an exhaustive list




SPIRITUALITY & WELL-BEING


SPIRITUALITY & WELL-BEING CONNECTION

•  Spirituality is closely connected with well-being and health–  Since spirituality integrates the physical, social, and emotional it is

integral in respecting and connecting the whole person–  Spirituality is associated with improved health maintenance behaviors–  Spiritual individuals may have better mental health, better connections

in their community, and feel more optimistic and hopeful about the future



•  Furthermore, spirituality can provide several other advantages–  Meets a basic human need–  Helps with stress–  Increases meaning in life





•  Other advantages–  Helps prepare for death–  Provides support during challenging periods–  Promotes acceptance and letting go of the past

•  Adds to the enjoyment of the present moment


WHAT IS SPIRITUAL HEALTH?

•  Spiritual wellness:–  Spiritual wellness is not something we think of often unless something is

wrong–  When we are spiritually well we feel that we know our path and are

walking it



•  Spiritual wellness:–  The spirit is the deepest part of a person

•  Helps reveal–  Who you are–  Your purpose

•  Allows you to gain hope and strength–  We feel that our lives are in line with our ethics and morals





•  Other aspects of reaching spiritual wellness–  Exploring your own sense of purpose and meaning

•  Can transcend your views and beliefs to question meaning and purpose–  Practicing relevant spiritual practices



•  Other aspects of reaching spiritual wellness–  Having compassion–  Loving, forgiving, giving, hoping, and feeling fulfillment and joy–  Seek harmony



•  Spiritual quality of life–  Feeling that one’s spiritual life consists of

•  Feeling strongly in your beliefs•  Feeling that it amplifies and accentuates the joy, happiness, meaning, and

hope in your life





•  Spiritual well-being–  Is a term that is often used in nursing to distinguish patients that feel

interconnected with their environment, community, spirituality, and self–  This consists of

•  Life-affirming relationships•  Creative energy•  Unifying dimension of health•  Faith in a higher power•  Inner strength



•  Spiritual Well-Being–  Finding value, meaning, and purpose in life

•  Which result in feelings of happiness, contentment, and fulfillment–  Present moment harmony and peace



•  Spiritual Well-Being–  Can still be ill or near death and have complete spiritual wellness, well-

being, and health•  In fact spiritual well-being helps with these processes

–  View life as pleasurable–  Life-enrichment





•  Spiritual Well-Being–  Maslow created the hierarchy of needs

•  When lower level needs like food and shelter and community are taken care of–  We move toward the highest level “self-actualization,” which is analogous to

spiritual well-being



•  Spiritual Well-Being–  It is associated with

•  Satisfaction with life•  Increased energy•  Mental, physical, and emotional well-being•  Wholeness


WHAT IS SPIRITUAL GROWTH?

•  Spiritual growth –  Developing identity–  Nurturing meaningful relationships

•  With others •  With a higher being

–  Appreciating nature–  Beginning to realize transcendence and unity





•  Two-directional process:–  Horizontal–  Vertical


TWO-DIMENSIONAL PROCESS

•  Horizontal–  Awareness of and reflection on

•  Relationships with others•  Transcendent values•  Expression of spirituality•  Environment


TWO-DIMENSIONAL PROCESS

•  Vertical–  Closer relationship with a higher being or purpose

•  One may develop without the other–  Horizontal but not vertical–  Vertical but not horizontal




SPIRITUAL HEALTH AND GROWTH

•  Directly affects overall quality of life•  The ability to develop our spiritual nature to the fullest•  Developing deep and meaningful connections with others



•  Self-care approaches for spiritual growth might include–  Prayer–  Meditation–  Gratitude–  Time in nature–  Art, dance, or song–  Relaxation–  Can all enhance spiritual health


WHAT IS SPIRITUAL CONSCIOUSNESS?

•  Also called–  Higher consciousness–  Super consciousness–  Objective consciousness–  Buddhic consciousness–  Cosmic consciousness–  God consciousness–  Christ consciousness–  Super human





•  Defined as–  The consciousness of a person who has reached a level of high

development and have learned to see reality for what it is–  Knowledge or awareness of an “ultimate reality”



•  Defined as–  Evolution through application of spiritual knowledge–  Awaken development processes dormant in the average person



•  Evolution of consciousness –  Progression toward more inclusive, integrated, and expansive ways of

thinking and being•  Research indicates that only 20% of people evolve to a state where their

worldview is “individualized” and they are no longer dependent on external validation for self-worth

•  Only 0.5% have evolved to the state where they have risen above ego and experience “unity consciousness” as the norm





•  Shifts toward this more expansive way of experiencing the world often occurs in non-linear ways–  Like a spiral



•  4 beliefs and approaches to life help to expand ones consciousness1.  Openness to life’s mysteries2.  Exploring life direction, meaning, and purpose 3.  Fostering interconnectedness and wholeness4.  Believing in self-discovery and inner growth


4 BELIEFS AND APPROACHES TO LIFE

1.  Openness to life’s mysteries−  Belief that there is an order to the universe beyond our understanding−  This belief shows your openness to experience and exploring the

spiritual −  “I believe that there is more to this world than can be seen and

physically studied”





2.  Exploring life direction, meaning, and purpose−  Belief that there is meaning and purpose that are transcendent−  This belief shows how ready you are to explore your life and your

unique place in the universe−  “I believe my life has meaning and purpose”



3.  Fostering interconnectedness and wholeness−  Believing life is interconnected−  Determines your readiness and willingness to form connections with

other beings and experiences – like the experience of nature −  “I believe that, although individual people can be difficult, I feel an

emotional bond to all humanity.”



4.  Believing in self-discovery and inner growth−  Believing that people can and are consciously and unconsciously

growing and transcending the ego−  Relates to how open you are to rising above the ego, competition, and

fear−  “I believe that every experience I have in life allows me to learn

something new about myself”




VIBRATIONAL FREQUENCY

•  What is it?•  How can you increase it?•  Why should you increase it?


WHAT IS VIBRATIONAL FREQUENCY?

•  We are not just our physical body•  Everything is made up of energy and is bound together by an

energy field–  Why atoms circle around each other–  The “ether” that binds everything

•  Everything vibrates with energy



•  This energy can be called an “aura”•  This connection makes us part of the divine

–  Our true essence is love•  When we realize this

–  Energy vibrates at a high frequency•  Positive feelings and thoughts

–  Bright energy field





•  This energy connects us to other living things and the universe•  Our energy can become blocked, dark, or blocked

–  Filled with negativity, fear, separation or unhealthy substances–  Low vibrations and dampened energy field–  Lose our sense of connection with other things



•  Our thoughts are types of vibrations–  We can power these vibrations with either positive or negative energy/

thinking –  This energy then manifests in your life in other ways



•  Our vibrational energy is a magnet–  Like attracts like–  If we are embodying a positive energy field we attract experiences that

match–  We create this energy with how we treat ourselves

•  Inside and out–  Our inner state is reflected in our outer experience because of our

vibrational field•  Therefore we are responsible for our life experiences and energy




INCREASING VIBRATIONAL FREQUENCY

•  Ways to increase your vibrational frequency–  Focus on breathing–  Slow down–  Feel your feelings and process them–  Cultivate compassion–  Repeat a mantra

•  “I am divine love”–  Essential oils–  Music you love–  Many more


WHY INCREASE VIBRATIONAL FREQUENCY

•  Your vibrational frequency demonstrates your alignment with “the source”/life force energy –  Increases your vibrational energy

•  Life force, or love, moving freely through you•  Obeying your inner guidance over all others•  Radiating love



•  When we increase our vibrational energy–  Honors the divine within us–  Creates and radiates love, compassion, and unity–  Our world changes

•  We begin to feel more love and compassion toward others•  Our life becomes about embracing and sharing joy





•  Indications you are vibrating at a higher frequency–  You see more coincidences but feel that they are “cosmic winks” that

are signs–  Increased patience and compassion



•  Indications you are vibrating at a higher frequency–  See more clearly

•  Realize that you are the creator of your experience–  You can offer love more easily and consistently–  You see unplanned events not as inconvenient but as an opportunity



•  Indications you are vibrating at a higher frequency–  You may spend your time differently or distance yourself from people

and activities that are no longer in alignment with your beliefs–  You are more aware of what is in line with your truth–  Problems have faded, not necessarily because they have gone away

but because of your perspective on them





•  Indications you are vibrating at a higher frequency–  You have a better ability to gauge others integrity and you attract more

people with integrity into your life–  You feel the need for less control in your life–  You embody joy


SPIRITUALITY & TRANSFORMATION


THE NEW THOUGHT MOVEMENT

•  New Thought is sometimes referred to as Higher Thought–  Infinite intelligence/god is everywhere–  Your thinking affects reality

•  Sickness originates in the mind•  “Right thinking” can be healing•  Divine thought is a good force

–  Everyone and everything is divine–  Unconditional love–  Healing and teaching one another





•  Started in the early 19th century•  Includes some religious denominations

–  Religious Science–  Unity Church–  Church of the Divine Science



•  And includes secular organizations, philosophers, and individuals who share beliefs about –  Healing–  Positive thinking–  The law of attraction–  Creative visualization–  Personal power–  Life force


SPIRITUALITY AND TRANSFORMATION

•  Growing support in this area –  Spirituality can help support a physical, emotional, and spiritual

transformation–  Spirituality and Health programs have been set up at numerous

educational institutions –  Some of these programs are explored on the following slides




•  Duke University: Center for the Study of Religion/Spirituality and Health –  Founded in 1998–  Source of information on this topic

•  Support and encourage dialogue–  Focused on

•  Conducting research•  Training researchers•  Promoting scholarly activities related to spirituality, religion, and health

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS



•  Research: Ongoing, Research Library, Research for the Layman•  Research Seminars and Lectures•  Summer Research Workshop•  Faculty Scholars•  Publications: Crossroads (eNewsletter), Books, Research reviews

and special issues



•  George Washington University: Institute for Spirituality and Health–  Established in May 2001–  Looks at clinical and educational issues related to spirituality and health.–  Training for health care providers to change the face of healthcare




EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS•  Research Projects•  Education: Medical school program, Residency program, Canadian

program•  SOERCE: The Spirituality and Health Online Education and

Resource Center•  Tools for spirituality in clinical settings

–  FICA Spiritual History Tool–  FICA Spiritual Assessment in Clinical Practice–  INSPIR – Standardized projects to integrate health and spirituality in

healthcare



•  Johns Hopkins Medicine: Department of Pastoral Care–  Founded in 1889–  Promotes sensitivity to the patient's spirituality –  Johns Hopkins was a Quaker–  Promotes good spiritual care

•  Utilize the resources of ones own faith for healing•  All spiritual care if interfaith, ecumenical, and respect individual beliefs and

preferences



•  Johns Hopkins Medicine: Institute of Spirituality and Medicine–  “For nearly 60 years, John Hopkins Medicine has been hosting and

annual conference on ministering to both the physical and spiritual needs of patients.”

–  Spiritual services for patients–  Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Program





•  University of Florida: Center for Spirituality and Health –  Sees an ongoing conflict between “faith” and “fact” –  Wants to create a space where faith, belief, and human experience can

be discussed and examined scientifically–  Promotes collective and individual self-discovery

•  Fosters wisdom, consciousness, tolerance, harmony, awareness, connectedness, purpose, awe, wholeness and mystery



•  University of Florida: Center for Spirituality and Health –  Graduate, professional, and undergraduate “for credit” courses–  Curriculum–  Seminars–  Annual lecture–  Community workshops and education–  Research–  Interdisciplinary journal club and discussion group–  Retreats and student focused activities


NATIONAL RECOGNITION

•  The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare•  The American College of Physicians •  Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)•  The John Templeton Foundation•  Increases in courses in spirituality and health in medical schools

–  1992 = 3 schools–  2001 = 75 schools




THE IMPACT OF SPIRITUALITY•  On weight loss

–  Acceptance and non-judgment come with a deep and abiding sense of spirituality

–  When we strive toward spiritual growth we begin to see ourselves and others as divine which causes us to respect and care for our body more fully

–  Vibrational energy can also relate to weight loss•  As we increase our vibrational frequency we are thinking more positively•  These positive thoughts go outward into the environment•  However they also influence us and our view or ourselves


THE IMPACT OF SPIRITUALITY

•  On weight loss–  It’s difficult to lose weight when you’re filled with negativity

•  We often operate out of fear •  A legacy of abuse or neglect creates a fear of losing weight

–  Use weight as a shield and way to create distance–  Weight can also be a symptom of spiritual disconnection

•  Spiritual connection should help increase connection to others and the self increasing weight loss



•  On health–  Studies often focus on religious belief and health

•  But these studies can be reasonably generalized to spiritual belief and health




THE IMPACT OF SPIRITUALITY•  On health

–  Religious and spiritual beliefs•  Associated with a lower cancer risk•  One review found that 83% of studies found spirituality associated with

better health•  Another review found that 92% showed a benefit for mental health•  Some studies have shown that prayer by others is associated with fewer

complications for patients (but no difference in length of hospital stay or death rate)



•  On health–  Benefits of religion and spirituality on health extend beyond adopting a

healthy life style–  One study on people with AIDS

•  Found that people with more compassion, inner peace, faith and God, and were religious had a better chance for long term survival



•  On health–  A study in women undergoing breast biopsies

•  Lower stress hormones in those with higher levels of faith and prayer–  35 year study of Harvard graduates

•  Those with more hope and optimism lived longer and had fewer illnesses•  Religion and spirituality are associated with higher levels of hope and

optimism





•  On health–  A Stanford study showed that those who were trained to forgive

someone who hurt them •  Less angry•  More hopeful•  More emotionally stable•  Than those who weren’t trained to forgive

–  Belief in forgiveness is associated with better health outcomes



•  On health–  Spirituality and religiosity are associated with

•  Decreases in cigarette smoking, alcohol use, marijuana use, and acts of aggression

•  Increases in health maintenance behaviors such as eating more fruits, veggies, eating breakfast

•  Lower mortality rates•  This is why many scientists believe they are associated with lower cancer

rates



•  On Well-being–  Many studies show that people who report greater spiritual well-being

are able to more effectively cope with terminal illnesses•  Find meaning in their experience•  Connectedness with others•  Confidence•  Hope•  Coping with stress





•  On Well-being–  Spiritual well-being is associated with lower stress in colon cancer

patients•  Lower emotional distress associated with

–  Inner peace–  Meaning in their life



•  On Well-being–  Increases strength and size of social groups–  “Sacred time” can decrease stress



•  On decreased risk of illness–  Religious or spiritual commitment may improve

•  Coping mechanisms•  Social support•  Strengthen values•  And therefore improve stress levels





•  On decreased risk of illness–  Some studies associate spiritual practice with longevity

•  Possibly affected by interleukin (IL)-6 •  Increases in IL-6

–  Associated with increases in disease–  A study with 1700 older adults demonstrated that those who attended church

were half as likely to have elevated levels of IL-6



•  On coping and Quality of Life (QoL)–  Spiritual people have

•  A better outlook on life•  Are more satisfied with life•  Happier•  Less pain•  More meaningful experience•  Fulfillment of goals•  Good quality of life with advanced disease



•  On coping and Quality of Life (QoL)–  Spiritual well-being associated with

•  Ability to enjoy life despite pain–  Prayer as the most common coping mechanism

–  In one study asking about how they were coping with cancer•  93% cited spiritual beliefs•  75% of these believed religion was significant in their lives•  49% became more spiritual after diagnosis





•  On coping and Quality of Life (QoL)–  In another study looking at 90 HIV-positive individuals

•  Spirituality associated with less fear of death and less guilt–  Spiritual comfort is one of the most commonly sought after things when

dealing with death and dying



•  On coping and Quality of Life (QoL)–  Another study looked at 145 parents of children who had died of cancer

•  80% received comfort from their religious beliefs–  Even 1 year after death–  Physiologic and emotional adjustment was better

•  40% reported that their spiritual beliefs strengthened in the year leading up to their child's death



•  On recovery–  Spirituality aides in recovery from surgery or illness

•  Heart transplant patients who attended religious activities were more likely to comply with follow-up care, higher self-esteem, less anxiety, fewer health worries, improved physical functioning 12 months after surgery





•  On recovery–  The placebo effect

•  Shows how belief affects health•  An average of 35% of people improve on placebos alone•  One Harvard MD calls the placebo effect “remembered wellness”

–  Healing through ones inner resources–  The patient-practitioner relationship itself can be healing



•  On recovery–  Specific spiritual practices have been shown to improve health

•  One researcher found that a moderate amount of meditation 2x’s a day leads to:–  Decreased heart rate, decreased respiratory rate, slower brain waves and

decreased blood pressure–  And can benefit, chronic pain, PMS, infertility, hostility, insomnia and anxiety

•  Triggers the relaxation response so can improve any disease exacerbated by stress



•  On recovery–  AA and other twelve step programs demonstrate how integrating

spirituality can aide in recovery–  One research study at Duke University found

•  People who regularly attend religious services–  Tend to have better immune function





•  On recovery–  Strong religious and spiritual beliefs result in

•  Faster healing from surgery•  Less anxiety and depression•  Lower blood pressure•  Better coping with chronic illness


WE ARE SPIRITUAL BEINGS

•  We are not human beings on a spiritual journey•  We are spiritual beings on a human journey•  Spirituality permeates every aspect of our lives•  We are spiritual first and foremost


LIFE STAGE CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS




LIFE STAGE CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

•  Spirituality develops and changes over the life span, as do the challenges and solutions

•  Based on the work of–  Jean Piaget, a leader in developmental psychology–  Erik Erikson, a leader in the field of psychosocial development–  James Fowler, developed the stages of faith and was influenced by the

two above


SPIRITUAL CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

•  Stages–  Infant–  Child–  Adolescent–  Adult–  Older Adults


INFANT

•  Infancy is crucial in the development of spirituality–  Experiences with caregivers lays the foundations for future beliefs

•  Erikson labeled this period the stage where we work out “trust versus mistrust”–  When we lay the foundation for self-identity and hope




INFANT

•  Piaget labeled this periods “sensorimotor phase”–  Infant relies on senses to explore the world

•  Fowler defines this stage as “undifferentiated”–  An infant can’t communicate to self or other or formulate ideas–  No sense of right or wrong–  No spiritual beliefs yet


INFANT

•  Even infants have a need for–  Meaning and purpose–  Love and connectedness

•  When infants needs are tended to they begin to develop trust•  Their trust develops through exploration with the senses into an idea

of how the world works and a sense of self and others


INFANT

•  The earliest spiritual need and experience is for unconditional love–  Love without conditions, loved no matter what

•  Trust leads to hope–  Both of which are the primary goals for the infants spirituality

•  Parents are the most important spiritual teachers at this stage




INFANT

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: when infants are neglected or abused

•  Solution: providing an atmosphere of trust and nurturance•  Providing diversion rather than punishment to correct wrongdoing

–  Challenge: when infants are sick or ill•  Solution: infant needs nurturance, care, routine, and trust in caregivers•  Caregivers also need support, someone to listen to their concerns, and

reassurance


CHILD

•  Toddlerhood–  Ages 1 to 3 or 4–  Characterized by independence and mastery of skills–  Important stage in spiritual development–  Gains self-worth through mastery of skills


CHILD

•  Toddlerhood–  Faith is experienced as courage to defy authority in the toddler

•  Assertion verses compliance•  Needs love balanced with discipline




CHILD

•  Toddlerhood–  Piaget calls this stage “preoperational thought and proconceptual

phase”•  Toddler is particularly self-oriented•  Understand things in how they affect them (only)


CHILD

•  Toddlerhood–  Difficulty conceptualizing a supreme being–  Difficulty fully understanding consequences and cause and effect–  If no guidance they will often create their own being or reasons to

explain the unexplainable


CHILD

•  Toddlerhood–  Cannot tell what is real or supernatural–  Need for simple stories and illustrations–  May conceptualize deities as magical or as superhuman–  This stage can last until school begins




CHILD

•  Early childhood–  Ages 3-7–  Proficient in language, becoming rambunctious–  Erickson labeled this stage “initiative verses guilt”

•  Gets approval for doing things right or completing things•  Learns how to do things independently


CHILD

•  Early childhood–  Piaget labeled this stage “preoperational thought and the intuitive

phase”•  Child has learned to think

–  But not rationally or systematically–  Still thinks self-centeredly–  Child may fixate on certain things or get confused about cause and effect


CHILD

•  Early childhood–  Fowler labeled this stage “the intuitive-projective phase”

•  Faith mirrors that of the parents•  Child’s behavior is influenced by the faith and behavior of others•  Rituals can have a profound influence at this stage




CHILD

•  See’s God as a collection of physical characteristics•  Rituals and rhythm are important•  Begins to understand some simple spiritual stories •  Peers become important


CHILD

•  Conscience emerges–  Child fears punishment–  Right and wrong are absolutes

•  So if they are told they are “wrong” then they will often see themselves as “bad” or as “mean”

–  Understands this in terms of spirituality as well•  Begins to form new relationships outside the home


CHILD

•  Child becomes more independent and has a stronger sense of self•  Learning to balance what they want verses what others want

–  This can profoundly affect vertical spiritual growth (connection with others)

•  My begin to verbalize spiritual beliefs•  Turn to god when they are in need




CHILD

•  Middle Childhood•  Ages 7-12 •  Trying to become proficient at doing things•  Erickson labels this stage as “industry versus inferiority”

–  Concrete thinking but beginning to develop reasoning–  Success at this stage means the child feels worthwhile and has good

self-esteem–  Can begin to take part in spiritual practices in a more meaningful way


CHILD

•  Piaget labels this stage “concrete operations”–  Concrete thinking–  Developing reasoning and logic–  Dismiss beliefs other than their own as “wrong”

•  Fowler labeled this stage as “the mythic-literal stage”–  Children are evolving their view of God

•  What is God, what God looks like, what is God’s personality, etc.


CHILD

•  Want to know how God does what he does•  Behavior may be volatile or prejudicial

–  Don’t want beliefs challenged•  Relationship with God based on what God can do for them•  Explanations can begin to become more sophisticated than just

concrete and visual–  In this stage the child has difficulty with abstract thinking




CHILD

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: child has difficulty mastering certain spiritual topics,

concepts, or practices•  Solution: Slow down and be concrete and visual in your explanation


CHILD

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: child is ill or dying

•  Solution: The child can tolerate more in depth discussion about spirituality, the afterlife, healing, change, and God–  These things can bring great comfort for the child–  May provide a way for child and parent to bond–  May be helpful for the parent as well


CHILD

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: child begins to ask difficult questions about God, death, etc.

•  Solution: giving them a coherent narrative about these things–  Making sure that the child understands and can comprehend what you’re telling

them–  Making sure to discuss these topics in more depth with a child when they have a

more sophisticated understanding of spirituality




CHILD

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: religion or spirituality leaves child feeling “bad” or that the

deity is domineering or the bad parent•  Solution: make sure your child feels comfortable discussing these things with

you.–  NEVER shut a child down for asking questions or wanting to know more–  Then gently explore their fears and put them to rest


ADOLESCENT•  Adolescence•  Characterized by conflict, rebellion, and challenge

–  Particularly against previously held beliefs and values–  Can create angst

•  Erikson labels this stage as “identity versus role confusion”–  Adolescents test their limits–  Feel conflict about their beliefs, morals, values, and goals–  Try to establish their unique identity and image–  Peer relationships are very important–  If they don’t figure out their identity they may be confused about who

they are for years to come


ADOLESCENT

•  Piaget labels this stage as “formal operations”–  Reasoning skills developed

•  Fowler labels this stage “synthetic-conventional stage”–  See religion and spirituality in a new more realistic light–  Aware of spiritual disappointment–  Begin to question the standards and accepted beliefs of their parents

•  But likely accept the status quo since they do not yet know or understand their own spiritual path




ADOLESCENT

•  Adolescents reject their parents views because they don’t want to conform

•  Begin to experiment with new behaviors and ways of being


ADOLESCENT

•  May follow peer groups examples•  Adolescents can begin to see themselves as having infinite value

(spiritually)–  This can sometimes fulfill their need for recognition


ADOLESCENT

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: rejection of parental belief system

•  The adolescent may reject the religious views they have been taught or seek out spirituality if they were raised in a home that did not instill those beliefs

–  Challenge: adolescents try on new personas and may present themselves differently to different people




ADOLESCENT

•  Solution to both: let the child explore what they need to explore–  Any attempt to control their beliefs at this point will backfire and cause

them to rebel more or for longer –  Allow the child to explore and be open to new ideas

•  Be open yourself so the child will include you in this process–  Be open and inviting to the child so that they can feel comfortable

coming to you and discussing these issues•  Be nonjudgmental and accept what they are telling you•  Don’t give advice unless asked


ADOLESCENT

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: adolescent who is ill or dying

•  Solution: provide the adolescent with the resources to explore their spirituality if they so choose. –  Offer support and nonjudgment–  Be accepting or radical spiritual shifts


ADULT

•  Erikson labeled two stages in adulthood1.  “Intimacy versus isolation” (young adulthood)

•  Primarily dealing with forming lasting intimate relationships (friends and mates)

•  Balancing fitting in with being themselves•  Discovering how, why, and if they want to make long term commitments to

others




ADULT

•  Erikson labeled two stages in adulthood2.  “Generativity verses despair” (middle adulthood)

•  Want to know if they can make their life count•  Generativity may be through having children, a career, or some other

meaningful pursuit•  At this stage people may become more invested in contributing to their

spiritual communities


ADULT

•  Fowler labeled two different stages that occur during adulthood–  “Individuative-reflective faith”(usually young adults)

•  Independence and differentiation of ones beliefs from those of other people


ADULT

•  Fowler labeled two different stages that occur during adulthood–  “Conjunctive faith” (adults past midlife)

•  Adults find appreciation for their past, they value themselves and their voice, become aware of bias, prejudice, and myths due to social background

•  Do not try to convert people, they embrace other traditions and try to find new understandings within the other persons beliefs

•  Listening to their deeper self rather than prayer for specific things




ADULT

•  Cementing of spiritual beliefs occurs –  One becomes more comfortable with their own spiritual beliefs and

practices–  May follow a period of exploration of diverse beliefs–  May also result in the rejection of spirituality–  Spirituality has been shown to increase throughout adulthood


ADULT

•  Mid-life crisis and beginning to experience first major life losses–  Can create a crisis of faith that may strengthen spiritual resolve


ADULT•  Love

–  Increase capacity to love and include love not previously experienced•  Love of self•  Love of others•  Love of a higher power•  Experienced after going through he rough patches of life’s journey•  Enables a deep and abiding trust in the spiritual and in ourselves•  Love with the “whole soul”




ADULT

•  Challenges and solutions•  Challenge: getting stuck in dogmatic or rigid beliefs

–  Solution: explore other forms and expressions of spirituality and the commonalities between beliefs


ADULT

•  Challenges and solutions•  Challenge: experience loss and existential crises•  Challenge: feeling disconnected with others

–  Solution to both: seek a spiritual community and seek guidance and support


OLDER ADULT

•  Overall older adults are able to–  Evaluate their life and the meaning of their life–  May be free of distraction and “think without boundaries”

•  Which can result in a spiritual breakthrough–  Recognition of mental and physical decline can result in depression and

despair




OLDER ADULT

•  Overall older adults are able to–  Impending death or severe illness may infuse life with meaning–  Spirituality may help the older adult

•  Deal with loss, stress, illness, and death


OLDER ADULT

•  Erickson labels this stage as “ego integrity versus despair”–  Integrate and accept the past–  Establishing self as wise and in a place of honor rather than focusing on

ongoing decline of faculties–  Look back on life and see that it was meaningful


OLDER ADULT

•  Erickson’s “ego integrity versus despair”–  Explore the positive aspects of life and how you’ve impacted others–  Facing mortality–  Facing one’s own mortality is a major life task




OLDER ADULT

•  Fowler labels this stage as “universalizing faith”–  Infrequently reached unless spiritually evolved–  Examples: Gandhi, Mother Theresa–  Devote self to love, overcoming oppression, division, and violence


OLDER ADULT

•  Fowler labels this stage as “universalizing faith”–  “Actualizers of the spirit”–  Feeling of absolute love toward all humanity–  These people answer to a higher authority and are often seen as

“subversive”


OLDER ADULT

•  Spiritual well-being in the older adult–  Means confronting loss, death, and forgiveness–  Many find spiritual meaning through these things–  Self-transcendence

•  Feelings of harmony and connectedness




OLDER ADULT

•  “Gerotranscendence”–  The final stage in evolution of wisdom and maturation–  Unique to the aging individual–  Increases life satisfaction, connection, little fear of death, acceptance of

life’s mysteries, shift to altruism from egoism, rediscovery of the inner child

–  This is an important predictor of mental health and well-being


OLDER ADULT

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: does not find meaning in aging or decline (anger, despair,

frustration, etc.)•  Solution: try to plug person into organizations that can help enhance their

spirituality–  Programs to visit homebound seniors–  Prayer circles–  Religious involvement


OLDER ADULT

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: can no longer complete spiritual practices due to health

statuses•  Solution: make adjustments that suit the persons needs

–  Example: using pictures or symbols with a senior suffering memory loss or who is unable to communicate

–  Example: bringing the sacred into the home when they can no longer make it to church or other spiritual community gatherings




OLDER ADULT

•  Challenges and solutions–  Challenge: loss and death of loved ones–  Challenge: loneliness and isolation


OLDER ADULT

•  Challenges and solutions–  Solution to both: find an extended community to plug the person into

–  Openly discuss these losses–  Help the senior seek out therapy–  Introduce journal and letter writing–  Plant a memory garden–  Get or enjoy a pet companion–  Using music and movement for soothing–  Art–  Spiritual reflection


END OF SPIRITUALITY MODULE 1

Please submit your test questions by the due date on your Session Calendar

Documents

SPIRITUALITY MODULE 1 · PDF file– The word spirit comes from ancient Latin and Greek and was ﬁrst used ... • To contact and be in touch with others which helps nurture our personality