Spirituality Studies 15 Sebastian Salicru The Spirituality of Rites of Reintegration in Older Adulthood: An Autoethnographic Narrative Inquiry Sebastian Salicru Received April 4, 2026 Revised May 29, 2026 Accepted May 30, 2026 Keywords Aging tsunami, global mental health crisis, spiritual practices, rites of reintegration, autoethnographic narrative inquiry The global aging population is increasing rapidly and in unprecedented ways. This “aging tsunami” is a double-edged sword. It extends longevity, but it also coincides with a global mental health crisis. Older adults face significant challenges, including high suicide rates. Our de-ritualized postmodern society often neglects postliminal (reincorporation) rites. These rites support transitions in later life. I argue that intentionally adopting such rites offers an untapped opportunity to enhance mental health and spiritual well-being. Using an autoethnographic narrative inquiry, I integrate a framework that draws on rites of passage, archetypal symbolism, and elements from diverse spiritual traditions. Reflecting on my return to Spain after fourtythree years in Australia, I explore how these rites can be meaningfully enacted in older adulthood. Findings suggest that reincorporation rites foster meaning and support psychological adaptation. They also facilitate growth, self-transformation, and integration, helping individuals reconnect with their roots and navigate shifting identities. Sebastian Salicru, PgDip, MMR, MSc, is a psychologist, psychotherapist, board-approved supervisor, and a coach in private practice with over 30 years of experience across clinical and corporate settings. As an author and practitioner, his work explores the interface between psychotherapy, consciousness studies, spirituality, and the potential role of psychedelic-assisted therapies in healing and advancing human potential. He can be reached at sss@pts.net.au. orcid.org ←← Photography © 2026 Martin Dojčár
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