A Religious–Psychological Study of Anthony de Mello’s Sadhana Practice

Anthony de Mello's Sadhana practice integrates psychotherapeutic methods such as Gestalt therapy and Vipassana meditation into Christian spirituality. Drawing on Carl Jung's analytical psychology, the practice pursues wholeness through the union of opposites like extraversion and introversion, central to individuation. By incorporating Gestalt therapy into the Spiritual Exercises, Sadhana enhances awareness and addresses contact boundary disturbances, enabling self-reflection and restoration of one's relationship with God. The practice is evaluated as a novel case presenting new possibilities for contemporary Christian spirituality.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This study aims to examine Anthony de Mello’s Sadhana practice from a religious–psychological perspective, applying Carl Gustav Jung’s analytical psychology and views on the Spiritual Exercises. The analysis reveals that Sadhana, which integrates psychotherapeutic methods such as Gestalt therapy and the methodology of Vipassana meditation, holds significant implications. First, based on Jung’s theory, Sadhana pursues wholeness through the union of opposites, such as extraversion and introversion. Jung posited that opposing elements coexist within the human psyche, and their harmonization is central to individuation. Thus, practices that integrate these opposites are meaningful attempts to foster inner growth and maturity. Second, by incorporating Gestalt therapy into the Spiritual Exercises, Sadhana enhances awareness and employs methods to address contact boundary disturbances, enabling self-reflection and restoration of one’s relationship with God. Anthony de Mello’s Sadhana practice is evaluated as a novel case that presents new possibilities for contemporary Christian spirituality.