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Essential Aspects Of Care - Spirituality, Religious Beliefs And Practices

Spirituality is an integral part of the person, the whole being (Weller, Feldman & Purdam, 2001). When providing care to the person, it important not to overlook the spiritual dimension because as Ellison (1983, p. 332) has suggested, "The spiritual dimension does not exist in isolation from our psyche and soma, but provides an integrative force". Or, to re-emphasise its importance, without spirituality, the person cannot be considered as whole with respect to what holistic care assumes. Spirituality is often construed as the connectedness with a higher force or power, and a feeling of wholeness.

Many minority ethnic groups identify strongly with their faith (Weller, Feldman & Purdam, 2001). Their religion provides them with the spiritual support and guidance throughout their life. In health as in illness, religious faith can be a source of inspiration and comfort.

Religious beliefs and practices vary within and across communities (see for example, www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/people/
features/world_religions/index.shtml ). It is therefore important not to assume that the information in the following pages apply to all persons from that particular ethnic group.

Religion and spirituality often get used interchangeably, but they are not one and the same thing. Spirituality is more than religion (Oldnall, 1996). Peterson and Potter (1997) have suggested that spirituality is a broad concept and relates to the wholeness of the person, whilst religion is an aspect of spirituality. Spiritual health is thought of as a dimension of the person. Hence spiritual needs have to be met to ensure holistic care of the individual.

In a review, Narayanasamy (1999, p. 274) has summarised some of the definitions of spirituality. His own is that spirituality is ‘rooted in an awareness which is part of the biological make up of the human species. Spirituality is therefore present in all individuals and it may manifest as an inner space and strength derived from perceived relationship with a Transcendent God / an Ultimate Reality, or whatever an individual values as supreme’. He goes on to suggest that the spiritual dimension of the person evokes feelings of faith, hope, love, and gives meaning and reason for existence. Religion is an organised system of beliefs that provides a basis for service, worship of a God or supernatural power (Peterson & Potter, 1997). Religious practices and rituals are symbolic and represent what is seen as meaningful to the individual.

However, some people do not believe in God (atheists) or are unsure (agnostics) and/or do not follow any religion. One has to be aware of the needs of all these patients. They will include those who seek comfort in their faith only when they become ill.

The information below is not meant to be a ‘recipe’. In order to understand the religious beliefs and practices of individuals and groups, it is essential to ask them appropriate questions about their religion and preferences in a sensitive manner.

Beliefs about everyday life issues vary among people from different religious backgrounds. Practices about all activities of living may be influenced through these beliefs. The following are examples of issues you should develop an awareness of and sensitivity to in the context of care to people from different religious persuasions:

It should be appreciated that religious worship and observance can play a significant role in giving meaning to events and experiences to people who believe in their respective faiths.

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