Critical analysis of spirituality and its empirical indicators. Prayer and meaning in life.

Spirituality for holistic nursing is defined after a critical analysis of the literature. Spirituality is defined as the experiences and expressions of one's spirit in a unique and dynamic process reflecting faith in God or a supreme being; a connectedness with oneself, others, nature or God; and an integration of all human dimensions. Prayer and meaning in life are described as empirical indicators for appraising spirituality. Prayer is an indicator of the defining attribute of connectedness with God, and meaning in life is an outcome of spirituality.