Contemplative practice, acceptance, and healing in moral injury

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Spirituality
• Veterans' Health

Background:

• Moral injury significantly impacts veterans, causing regret, shame, and internal conflict.
• Trauma, guilt, and shame are often embedded in veterans experiencing moral injury.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently co-occurs with moral injury.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Centering Prayer as a complementary spiritual practice for veterans healing from moral injury.
• To outline guidelines and intended outcomes for a Centering Prayer group for veterans.
• To investigate the benefits of mindfulness and meditation-based practices for PTSD and moral injury.

Main Methods:

• A group of veterans participated in a Centering Prayer practice following Contemplative Outreach guidelines.
• Veterans' feedback was collected from both in-person and online group sessions.
• The study incorporated previously researched benefits of mindfulness and meditation for PTSD.

Main Results:

• Centering Prayer facilitates acceptance of difficult emotions and thoughts related to moral injury.
• The practice helps veterans reconnect with community, faith, and social values.
• Group participation enhances inter-relational healing and trust among veterans.

Conclusions:

• Centering Prayer is a valuable mindfulness-based spiritual practice for veterans' whole health and growth.
• It serves as a powerful addition to chaplaincy programs, promoting healing from moral injury and trauma.
• Encouraging both individual and group practice deepens the healing process and fosters community support.