Date of Award
5-2016
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies
Department
Holistic Health
First Advisor
Carol Geisler
Second Advisor
Stasia Johnson Steinhagen
Third Advisor
Janet Dahlem
Department/School
Holistic Health Studies
Abstract
Researchers and scholars indicate that the holistic practice of Sabbath-keeping has several health benefits when done for intrinsic reasons. Most research on Sabbath-keeping is about individuals who have strong community support for observing a regular Sabbath. Little research exists about those who celebrate a Sabbath without such support, or on the transformative effects of Sabbath-keeping. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to describe in what ways celebrating a weekly Sabbath promotes transformation in individuals not part of a strong Sabbath-keeping community. Ten women share their stories through in-depth interviews set in organic inquiry. Six themes emerged: Sabbath-keeping enhances self-awareness, improves self-care, enriches relationships, develops spirituality, and positively impacts the rest of a participant’s week. Participants show that Sabbath practices and philosophies also evolve over time. While not without its challenges, a weekly Sabbath can be an effective, accessible, inexpensive, no-tools-or-training-required holistic practice that can contribute significantly to well-being.
Recommended Citation
Speedling, Barbara Baker. (2016). Celebrating Sabbath: An Organic Inquiry into the Transformative Power of a Sanctuary in Time. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/ma_hhs/5