Phenomenological and neurophysiologic investigation into contemplating umoya (Spirit) and its psychological applications

Abstract

This study explored subjective and objective perspectives on uMoya, Spirit consciousness and/or spirituality, from a heuristic phenomenological and neurophysiologic perspective. Contemplative reflective data on uMoya and its neurophysiologic correlates were gathered from a culturally diverse group of eight researcher-participants aged 32 to 63 years. The data were analyzed using exploratory, integrative, thematic and small sample statistical approaches. Thematic analysis revealed evidence for uMoya contemplation descriptions encompassing spiritual traditions, human spirituality and ancestral consciousness. The neurophysiologic correlates indicated significant decreases in respiration, delta activity and beta activity as well as associated patterns of a coherent, relaxed and alert state of waking consciousness, suggesting direct experiencing after contemplation. Findings supported an integral contemplative approach to uMoya with the potential for psychotherapeutic applications.

Keywords:

• consciousness
• contemplation
• neurophysiology
• phenomenology
• psychology
• spirit
• uMoya

Acknowledgment

This work is based on research supported by the University of Zululand and the South African National Research Foundation (NRF). Any opinion, finding and conclusion or recommendation expressed in this material is that of the author(s) and the NRF does not accept any liability in regard thereto.