The word "spirit" includes a wide range of concepts, including nonmaterial beings such as ghosts or ancestors, the soul, emotions, or one's true inner core or most fundamental self. For some of us, spirituality is associated with our deities or God; it is the "spirit" part of our being, along with our mind and body that is addressed through spiritual healing practices. What constitutes spirit or spirituality depends on our religious and cultural orientations and upon the healing orientations of the practitioners we consult. Spiritual healing is a way of life for many people. Venues for spiritual healing range widely and include home altars, shrines of vodoun practitioners, Protestant and Roman Catholic churches, synagogues, and prayer chains on the Internet. People may attribute healing to a non-physical entity (spirit or deity or God or Jesus Christ), a group (prayer group, healing circle, church group), an individual (minister, shaman, psychic), or attendance at a "miraculous" place such as Lourdes. Techniques and rituals used in spiritual healing may include meditation and prayer, touching with healing intent, communication with the spirit realm, and connecting with sacred deities or ancestors.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.