Reflective repair: using the kintsugi method to foster reflection and emotional resilience in paramedic practice

<p dir="ltr">Reflective practice is an essential tool for paramedics and all healthcare professionals that consolidates learning from real-life clinical practice, bridging the gap between the classroom and operational duties. However, traditional reflective practice tools commonly taught in undergraduate paramedic education fail to address the core issues of mental health, well-being, and resilience required to undertake the process. Kintsugi, translating as ‘golden joinery,’ is an ancient Japanese method of pottery repair embedded in the philosophy of ‘Wabi Sabi’ - finding the beauty in imperfection. This practice involves using gold to paint the repair joints of the piece, symbolising that the piece has emerged even more beautiful and stronger for the process. In this article, we propose the Kintsugi method as a novel approach to reflective practice, to help practitioners address their mental health and resilience needs following operational incidents. Using a practical example, we demonstrate the applicability of the six-step method and its potential to transform our current understanding of reflective practice.</p>