A Qualitative Study of Healers and Their Clients in Germany

Background. The aim of this study was to investigate the nature of the relationships between healers and their clients in Germany. Methods. An interdisciplinary research team performed semistructured interviews with healers and clients and participatory observation of healing sessions. All interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using content analysis. Results. Fifteen healers and sixteen clients were included. The healer-client relationship was described as a profound and unique experience, which brought forth interpersonal and spiritual connections. The healers were seen as role models for healing to occur and support for being connected spiritually. The clients had to be open-minded and responsible. The importance of the healers’ empathy was emphasized. Discussion. The relationship between healer and client can be seen as a triangular connection between client, healer, and a transcendent source which is not the case in typical patient- doctor relationships. The spiritual connection is also said to enhance the empathetic understanding of the healer. The personality and a partner-like attitude of the healer supported the client in giving a more positive meaning to his life, in reconnecting to his spirituality, and in taking responsibility. Future studies should address the role of spirituality in health care and the development of enduring healer-client relationships

Mental and behavioural responses to Bahá'í fasting: looking behind the scenes of a religiously motivated intermittent fast using a mixed methods approach

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Historically, fasting has been practiced not only for medical but also for religious reasons. Bahá'ís follow an annual religious intermittent dry fast of 19 days. We inquired into motivation behind and subjective health impacts of Bahá'í fasting. METHODS: A convergent parallel mixed methods design was embedded in a clinical single arm observational study. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted before (n = 7), during (n = 8), and after fasting (n = 8). Three months after the fasting period, two focus group interviews were conducted (n = 5/n = 3). A total of 146 Bahá'í volunteers answered an online survey at five time points before, during, and after fasting. RESULTS: Fasting was found to play a central role for the religiosity of interviewees, implying changes in daily structures, spending time alone, engaging in religious practices, and experiencing social belonging. Results show an increase in mindfulness and well-being, which were accompanied by behavioural changes and experiences of self-efficacy and inner freedom. Survey scores point to an increase in mindfulness and well-being during fasting, while stress, anxiety, and fatigue decreased. Mindfulness remained elevated even three months after the fast. CONCLUSION: Bahá'í fasting seems to enhance participants' mindfulness and well-being, lowering stress levels and reducing fatigue. Some of these effects lasted more than three months after fasting

CAM Use and Suggestions for Medical Care of Senior Citizens: A Qualitative Study Using the World Café Method

Background. Little data exists concerning the reasons for using complementary and alternative (CAM) therapies by seniors. Therefore, the aim of this study is to learn about motives of German seniors for using CAM therapies and their wishes for health care in general. Methods. One focus group and one “World Café” following a semistructured interview guide were conducted. All discussions were recorded digitally, transcribed, and analyzed according to Qualitative Content Analysis using the software MAXQDA. Results. In total 21 seniors participated (eighteen female, three male, mean age 72.5 ± 4.3 years). Most of the participants had lifelong experiences with medicinal herbs and home remedies due to unavailable conventional care during childhood. Also important for them were nutrition and exercise. These methods were often used as self-care to enhance wellbeing, to prevent and to cure illnesses. The participants would welcome an integration of CAM in health care services. They asked especially for more empathic physicians who are better trained in CAM and respect their experiences. Conclusion. The importance of life experience in regard to health care by senior can be seen as a resource. Qualitative studies investigating physician-patient relationships and intergenerational aspects in CAM use could be of interest for further studies

Qualitative study of yoga for Young adults in school sports.

ObjectivesDistress and stress-related diseases are an increasing public health problem at schools. This qualitative study was nested in a non-randomized, controlled trial studying the effects of a 10-week yoga course as an alternative for regular school sports in two secondary schools in Germany.MethodsWe conducted a qualitative evaluation in 3 focus groups with 6 participants each. The focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, pseudonymised and analysed using qualitative content analysis. Furthermore open questions were asked in questionnaires.ResultsThe analysis of the participants' interviews (mean age 19.6 ± 2.9 years, n = 10 female, n = 8 male) resulted in 4 key topics: 1. encountering yoga, 2. yoga practice, 3. effects and benefits of yoga, and 4. yoga in the school context. Yoga was very well accepted by most participants. They reported a variety of physical and psychological benefits as well as overall restorative effects. The relief of pain or other physical ailments, higher mobility and flexibility, improved posture and improved sleep were mentioned by the participants. Some participants used the new exercises and experiences (e.g. working with the breath) in their everyday life. The possibility for self-responsible action was a welcome change from the perceived pressure and heteronomy in normal (school) life. Controversial was the question of whether yoga - if it is part of school sport - should be assessed or graded, and whether it should be compulsory or voluntary.ConclusionYoga can offer both physical and psychological benefits in young adults as well as offer general regenerative effects. Yoga by sensitizing the participants to negative patterns of behaviour can encourage healthy behaviour