The use of Buddhist teachings and practices serves as an essential
medium for emotional and mental support at Ban Pak. Three main
practices are utilized: chanting (suatmon), respecting the Buddha and
monks (wai pra), and meditation (samadhi). Chanting and meditation
are credited with improving the condition of the heart and mind (jitjai)
and achieving a peaceful, anxiety-free state of mind. The visiting
monks and residents all emphasize that Buddhist practices keep them
from worrying too much, which was considered to be very important
as worrying has negative effects on physical health. The Dhamma,
or teachings of the Buddha, are also used to inspire the residents to
do good deeds and to prepare their hearts for death. Spiritual care
encompasses Buddhist principles and practices, which offer explanatory
models for suffering, death, and dying, and calming the hearts and
minds of the patients and caregivers.