Engaging religious experience in stroke rehabilitation

J Relig Health. 2012 Sep;51(3):986-98. doi: 10.1007/s10943-010-9414-z.

Abstract

In this article, I respond to the problem of engaging with religious experience in health care environments. In particular, I illuminate the relational aspects of religious experience in the context of stroke rehabilitation by providing a commentary on data gathered from existing qualitative research and personal narratives in the acute and rehabilitation phases of stroke recovery. In so doing, I address the necessary balance of empathy and alterity in the art of resonant listening. I also provide some critical reflections on interdisciplinary approaches to engaging with religious experience with reference to a largely overlooked group of health care professionals-hospital chaplains.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chaplaincy Service, Hospital*
  • Empathy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mind-Body Relations, Metaphysical
  • Mysticism
  • Nonverbal Communication
  • Pastoral Care*
  • Spirituality*
  • Stroke / psychology*
  • Stroke Rehabilitation*