Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa (OTASA) Position Statement: Spirituality in occupational therapy

Abstract

Spirituality refers to a dynamic and intrinsic aspect of humanity through which persons seek ultimate meaning, purpose, and transcendence, and to experience relationship with self, family, community, nature and the significant or sacred. Spirituality is expressed through beliefs, values, traditions and practices1:644. The World Health Organization regards spirituality as one of the dimensions of quality of life2. Spiritual well-being can also be viewed as an important aspect of health3. The purpose of this paper is to state the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa’s position on spirituality and how it relates to education, practice and scholarship in occupational therapy. In addition, the paper can assist occupational therapy students, practitioners, educators and researchers to navigate their roles in relation to spirituality within the diverse South African context.