Funnell, M. (2024). The mind-body lived experience of adults who have endured medically unexplained psychosomatic symptoms (MUPS) from a transpersonal perspective [Unpublished Master’s thesis]. Alef Trust & Liverpool John Moores University.
This qualitative study investigates the lived experience of seven female adults in the age range of 52 to 62 years old, all of whom have endured Medically Unexplained Psychosomatic Symptoms (MUPS). A transpersonal lens is used to explore transformation within their lived experiences, reflections, and processes, and how this integration provides meaning. The research tentatively concludes that the transpersonal lens not only offers new perspectives but also provides valuable insights into MUPS, offering a hopeful and optimistic view of the potential to understand and treat these symptoms through an alternative, more empowering holistic methodology. The Heuristic Inquiry (HI) research method underpinned the central query of my research, which explores the link between the mind and the body. Two semi-structured interview processes utilised intersubjectivity, providing reflexive and recursive narrative and contextualisation to analyse the co-researcher’s lived experience of MUPS. Transcribed datasets and interpretive analysis included the application of transpersonal approaches, providing a holistic perspective of empirical evidence. The results revealed that the awareness and linking of emotional states of mind to psychological experiences contributed strongly to the lived experience of MUPS, providing some healing through a process of growth and transformation. Physical disease and psychological disorders are multifaceted with complex origins that are often difficult to identify, understand and treat within the current Cartesian healthcare model. Facilitating the treatment of MUPS through a multi-disciplinary, transpersonal, integrative approach that considers psychological, physiological, neurological and immunological aspects, provides an effective set of perspectives that reaches beyond the human experience, underpinning the opportunity for change. A deeper understanding of spiritual experiences, inner growth and the inter-relationship between mind and body provides a deeper more exemplary inquiry into MUPS that facilitates a whole-person approach.
