HEALTH CARE ACCORDING TO THE BUDDHIST WAY OF MONKS IN PHRA PHROM DISTRICT, NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Buddhism is deeply ingrained in Thai society, influencing the populace's way of life and spiritual beliefs and serving as a cornerstone of cultural heritage. Temples serve as the heart of community life, encompassing roles in religion, education, and cultural preservation. Monks, as custodians of Dhamma, lead by example, demonstrating a life of sufficiency and mindfulness. Amidst rapid societal and economic transformations, the well-being of monks has been adversely affected, noticing a rise in health-related issues among this community. The health check-up results of monks in Phra Phrom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, for the year 2023, indicate the most common diseases among monks, including Hyperlipidemia (High blood lipid levels), diabetes (High blood sugar levels), and kidney disease. This research article aims to study the health care practices according to the Buddhist way of monks in Phra Phrom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, and to explore recommendations for health care practices according to the Buddhist way for monks in Phra Phrom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.

Methodology: This study employed a mixed-methods approach. Qualitative research involved unstructured interviews with 27 key informants, while quantitative research used questionnaires among 126 monks in Phra Phrom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The researchers conducted an introductory conversation to the participants, then collected the questionnaires to check for accuracy to ensure the completeness of the data. The questionnaire featured closed-ended questions with multiple-choice answers. Qualitative analysis utilized descriptive techniques, and quantitative analysis employed statistical measures such as percentages, means, and standard deviations.

Main Results: The life of monks necessitated a harmonious equilibrium between physical, mental, social, and spiritual health. For physical health, monks should have been selective with their diet, focusing on nutrient-rich foods that aligned with the Vinaya discipline. Physical activity, integrated into their daily routines, should have been promoted to complement their dietary habits and be suitable for their contemplative lifestyle. Mental well-being, integral to Buddhist practice, was fostered through the consistent study of Dhamma and the practice of meditation, nurturing serenity and mental resilience. In terms of social health, temples should have exemplified cleanliness and safety, with health education being a shared endeavor between the monks and the local community. This collaborative approach entailed monks not only gaining health knowledge but also participating actively in communal health initiatives, thus merging monks and layperson experiences. Moreover, the development of wisdom, or Paññā, was crucial for cognitive and spiritual health, equipping monks with the ability to handle life's challenges with insight and empathy. Local public health agencies played a critical role in providing comprehensive health services tailored to the monks' unique needs within their cultural setting. It was vital for healthcare workers to understand the lifestyle and ethical principles of monks in order to ensure respectful and effective continuity of care. In serving the monks' community, these healthcare professionals were part of a model that fostered holistic well-being, which had the potential to influence and inspire the wider community.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: Adhering to Buddhist teachings emphasizes balance of body, mind, and wisdom, using these principles to foster a clear mind through meditation, proper diet for physical nourishment, and wisdom development to control defilements. This healthy lifestyle reflects religious values and promotes communal well-being. This research links doctrinal principles with sustainable living, aiming to develop a robust, healthy monks society.

Conclusions: In Buddhism, good health encompassed a strong body, peaceful mind, and sharp wisdom. Balancing diet, meditation for fully inner peace, and cultivating wisdom to comprehend suffering cessation was crucial for monks' health, making them exemplars for the community and the world.