“Written with insight and sensitivity, this book is an extraordinary introduction to the rich wellness tradition of Brazilian Spiritists. Authentic and lasting body wellness comes with a sound and well adjusted spirit. This is the foundation of Spiritist thought. Spiritist communities have become notable centers of healing by treating and engaging the whole being in the process… Dr. Bragdon captured the essence of this grass-roots model that will one day transform our medical care environment. A book that will change the way you think about yourself, and give you strength to explore new pathways. A book that has strength and soul.”
– John Zerio, Ph.D.President of the Allan Kardec Educational Society
“Allan Kardec’s books have played a historic role in the development of several spiritual healing traditions, yet they are virtually unknown to the American public. (This book) attempts to rectify this situation. It is thoroughly researched and thoughtfully written. Bragdon’s goal is to demonstrate how U.S. health care would benefit by incorporating spiritual perspectives, and many of Kardec’s insights seem surprisingly contemporary, even though he wrote them in the 1800s… Numerous spiritist centers base much of their diagnosis and treatment on Kardec’s pioneering discussion of what is now called “energy medicine.”
– Krippner, Ph.D., Co-author, “Extraordinary Dreams” and “Becoming Psychic.”
“Dr. Bragdon is on the leading edge of issues of issues that must be addressed if we are going to realize a transformation in the ways in which health care is currently conceptualized and delivered. The future lies in the development of capacities which lie latent within all of us, and in technology which is more commensurate with recent scientific developments. Dr. Bragdon’s book is an important step in that direction.”
– Jeffrey D. Rediger, M.D., M.Div., Medical Director, McLean Hospital SE, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA.
“Dr. Bragdon’s book offers a refreshing solution for transforming healthcare in a way that builds community and supports the individual in a holistic manner. The United States healthcare establishment would do well to apply and adapt the winning strategies and altruistic values employed by Brazilian Spiritists.”
– Kay Sandberg, CEO/ Executive Director, Health Medicine Institute/Forum, Lafayette, CA
“Health professionals in the West have become much more open to including spirituality in clinical work. While Kardec’s approach cannot be transferred en toto to contemporary medicine and psychotherapy, Dr. Bragdon’s cross-cultural study of Brazilian Spiritists is a rich resource for seeing how spiritual healing can be taught and practiced.”
– David Lukoff, PhD., Professor of Psychology, Saybrook Graduate School
“In today’s world the rising cost of Health Care Insurance shows the United States is headed for a time when only the rich can afford Health Care Insurance! Kardec’s Spiritism brings possibilities to light. There is indeed Hope we can avoid financial ruin when spiritual healing is combined with allopathic medicine.”
– Ron Holman, PhD. CEO of a Mental Health HMO
“We are not just this body, or mind, or feelings. We are essentially the eternal spirit that has no end. I honour Bragdon’s great respect for other cultural approaches and can quite clearly see a new spirituality coming from Brazil that will lead our world towards deep healing through a renewal of the teachings of the Christ.”
– Marilyn Feldberg, Psychosynthesis Therapist/Teacher
Founder and Director of WYSE [World Youth Service and Enterprise]
“We appreciate Emma’s thorough research and compelling perspective. Her book succinctly offers the reader a clear look at a new option beyond the conventional standard of current healthcare, and one that’s long overdue for our country.”
– Bob Dinga and Diana Rose, Tour leaders from USA taking groups to the Casa de Dom Inacio
“Great book ‐ beautifully written, a wonderful asset for anyone planning visiting John of God.”
– Heather Cumming, a translator for John of God
“A fascinating examination of the role of Spiritism in the practice of holistic medicine. The book is great! Much food for thought. I have been recommending it.”
– Douglas Busby, MD, Rev.