Spiritism and its Effects on Health and Quality of Life as Evidenced in Puerto Rico & Brazil

Abstract

This research explores the intersection of Spiritism, or "Espiritismo" in Spanish-speaking regions, with health and well-being. Spiritism, established by the French educator Allan Kardec in the 19th century, is a spiritual philosophy that, while not a traditional healing practice, is believed by many adherents to offer principles that can aid in managing health. The study aims to elucidate Spiritism's Impact on health and quality of life, providing individuals with alternative approaches to holistic health management. The investigation covers various topics, including the application of spirituality in clinical care and the prevalence of Spiritism in medical institutions, focusing on Puerto Rico. The research examines Spiritism's role in addressing various medical conditions, such as epilepsy and psychotic symptoms, and evaluates its potential as an alternative treatment. Despite its comprehensive scope, the study acknowledges limitations due to the limited information available on the subject. The findings suggest that while Spiritism's role in healthcare is complex, it offers valuable insights into alternative approaches to managing health and well-being. Future research should narrow the focus to specific diseases, providing more precise and insightful findings that can advance medical knowledge and spiritual understanding. This investigation contributes to the broader conversation on how Spiritism can be integrated into healthcare and its potential benefits for patient care.