Re-membering body and spirit through spiritual practices of sexual wholeness

Abstract

Studies show that people from traditional religious belief systems may experience relational, emotional, and psychological dysfunction related to sexual identity and behaviors. Shame that is rooted in one’s understanding of oneself as a sexual being may result in dis-integration (lack of internal integrity) and feelings of disconnection from sense of self, one’s body, and others. Yet research also shows that personal and communal spirituality can be a therapeutic resource for fostering mental health and relational wholeness. The theological reflections of women, BIPOC, and queer scholars provide sex-positive spiritual resources for a holistic view of the human person as embodied and enspirited, including sexuality as a foundational and integrated dimension of spirituality. This paper offers constructive recommendations for spiritual practices that may aid clients in reintegrating sexuality and spirituality, and provides therapists with a framework for helping clients identify and embrace healing practices that are informed by traditional religious categories and by contemporary spiritualities emerging outside religious institutions. We highlight spiritual connections to nonreligious practices of body and community, and conclude with guidance for clinicians to offer appropriate support and reflection for clients on this sexual-spiritual journey. LAY SUMMARY:This article offers therapists a framework for helping clients identify and embrace healing practices that are informed by both traditional religious categories and by contemporary spiritualities outside religious institutions. We also highlight spiritual dimensions of non-religious practices that contribute to a sense of sexual-spiritual wholeness.