The influence of the spiritual dimension as a complementary therapeutic dynamic in meditation practices and in the field of mental health

Abstract

Objectives

The purpose of this article is to reinstate the framework of the notion of spirituality in the therapeutic field and to underline the potential link between meditation and spirituality, in order to question the potential hindrance to therapeutic effects caused the dissociation of meditation and spirituality. We explore the possible spiritual dimensions of meditation, and, lastly, discuss whether a spiritual dimension is relevant to meditative practice.

Method

We carried out a literature review, selecting the main research dealing with the link between spirituality and meditation.

Results

It appears that the spiritual dimension has not been taken into account in the therapeutic applications of mindfulness meditation; it would be beneficial for spirituality to be integrated into the meditative process as a complementary tool for the adaptation and the stimulation of practice.

Discussion

The question of the link between spirituality and meditation questions the fact of meditation's having been cut off from its cultural substratum. We suggest that it would be appropriate in certain cases to reactivate this tradition, as well as the role of the psychotherapist in this dynamic.

Conclusion

The dimension of spirituality could be a fecund tool in therapeutic accompaniment; integrating spirituality into therapeutic meditation could have positive impacts in terms of patients’ wellbeing and mental health.