The meaning of ritual-spiritual practices in ethnomedicine on mental health and psychosomatic balance

Abstract

Mental health is an important aspect of human well-being, influenced not only by biological factors but also by psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. In the context of traditional societies, ethnomedicine offers a holistic approach through ritual-spiritual practices believed to help maintain mental and psychosomatic balance. This article aims to examine the meaning and role of ritual-spiritual practices in ethnomedicine for mental health and psychosomatic balance, based on scientific literature. The method used is a literature review from various related scientific journals. The results of the review indicate that ritual-spiritual practices function as coping mechanisms, enhance emotional regulation, provide social support, and influence neurobiological responses to stress. In addition, this approach contributes to reducing psychosomatic symptoms through psychological and spiritual mechanisms. Therefore, ritual-spiritual practices can be considered a complementary approach within holistic and culturally based mental health services.