Shamanism and Spiritism
All health care tries to relieve pain and to cure – but good health care tries to do more. Spirituality emphasises the healing of the person, not just the disease’. Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Shamanism represents one of the oldest spiritual practices, deeply rooted in indigenous cultures worldwide. It involves the shaman acting as an intermediary between the spiritual realm and the physical world, using rituals, drumming, and altered states of consciousness to connect with spirit guides, ancestors, and nature’s energies.
Incorporating shamanic practices into one’s life can enhance the lived experience by fostering a connection to one’s spiritual lineage and the natural world. Through shamanism, we may gain insights into our life’s purpose, cultivate healing from any potential psychological trauma, and experience a sense of interconnectedness with all living beings.
Spiritism: A Recognised Form of Healthcare
How Spiritism is Integrated into Brazilian Healthcare
Brazil is a country renowned for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and rich spiritual traditions. Among these, Spiritism, a philosophical doctrine established by Allan Kardec in the 19th century, holds a significant place within Brazilian society. Characterised by its belief in the immortality of the soul, reincarnation, and the moral and intellectual growth of the spirit, Spiritism has influenced various aspects of Brazilian life, including its healthcare system. Let’s explore the integration of Spiritism into Brazilian healthcare and consider its implications for both practitioners and patients.
Historical Context and Influence of Spiritism
Spiritism made its way to Brazil in the late 19th century, gaining popularity particularly during the 20th century. The doctrine resonated with many Brazilians, bridging the gap between traditional spiritual beliefs and emerging scientific knowledge. Its emphasis on moral development and the interconnectedness of all beings found a unique footing in Brazil, especially amid a diverse landscape of religious practices, ranging from Afro-Brazilian religions to Christianity.
The integration of Spiritism into healthcare can be linked to a historical distrust of formal medicine in certain communities, where spiritual practices often provided a complementary or alternative approach to health and healing. The 20th century saw the establishment of Spiritist hospitals and clinics, where medical care was delivered alongside spiritual support, demonstrating a holistic approach to healthcare that is deeply rooted in the beliefs and values of Spiritism.
Holistic Healing: The Spiritist Approach
In Brazilian healthcare, the Spiritist perspective emphasises the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. Patients are viewed as whole beings rather than merely individuals with physical ailments. This creates an environment where psychological and emotional well-being are treated with the same importance as physical health.
Spiritist centres often offer a range of therapeutic practices, including:
Spiritist Passes: This practice involves the transmission of positive spiritual energy from a healer to a patient, with the intention of promoting healing and balance.
Psychological Support: Many Spiritist practitioners are trained in psychology, using therapeutic techniques that align with Spiritist principles, thereby addressing the mental and emotional aspects of health.
Studies and Discussions: Group meetings and discussions on spiritual and philosophical topics form part of the healing process, helping individuals gain insight into their struggles and encouraging personal growth.
The inclusion of these elements not only nurtures patients’ spiritual health but also cultivates a supportive community around them.
Collaboration with Conventional Medicine
One of the most significant aspects of Spiritism in Brazilian healthcare is its coexistence and collaboration with conventional medical practices. Many Spiritist institutions are equipped with medical professionals who provide care in conjunction with Spiritist principles. This dual approach has led to the establishment of hospitals and clinics where both Spiritist care and traditional medical treatment are available to patients.
For instance, the Hospital Espírita de São Paulo is one of the notable institutions that exemplify this integration. Here, patients receive comprehensive care that includes medical treatment, spiritual support, and psychological counselling. The institution’s model demonstrates how Spiritism can complement conventional healthcare, especially in managing chronic illnesses and terminal conditions where emotional and spiritual support is vitally important.
The integration of Spiritism into Brazilian healthcare reflects a unique approach to health and healing that acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the human experience. By blending spiritual, mental, and physical health, Brazil offers a model that emphasises holistic care while recognising the importance of collaboration between traditional and alternative practices. As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, the spiritist approach serves as a reminder of the enduring power of belief, community, and compassion in the journey toward well-being.
Helpful reading:
1) Spiritism and Mental Health, by Dr Emma Bragdon.
2) British readers may be pleased (and surprised?) to find that the Royal College of Psychiatrists has an extensive library of articles on spiritual and Spiritist-themed subjects, which suggests that the UK is not too far behind Brazil in its recognition of the benefits of incorporating an awareness of the spirit world into the practice of therapy. Visit the Royal College of Psychiatrists here: Spiritually Themed Publications.
3) I also recommend Dr. Daniel J. Benor’s work. In a most generous act, he made his books on healing research freely available on his website, here: https://www.danielbenor.com/healing-research. (Do explore beyond this page, because Dr. Benor’s website contains download links to his books in different locations.)
4) Imagery in Healing: Shamanism and Modern Medicine, by Jeanne Achterberg.
5) Living With A Higher Power, by Kerin Webb.
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