Mind-Body Medicine

"The natural healing force within each one of us is the greatest force in getting well." - Hippocrates

The National Institute of Heath has defined mind-body medicine as "behavioral, psychological, social, and spiritual approaches to medicine not commonly used". It is an approach to healing that uses the power of your thoughts and emotions to positively influence general health and well-being. Fundamental in this approach is respect for each person’s capacity for self-care and self-knowledge, emphasizing techniques that are based in this philosophy and approach.

Mind-Body Medicine typically focuses on interventions believed to promote health and wellness such as Yoga, Relaxation, Biofeedback, Clinical Hypnosis, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. The Mind-Body Medicine perspective views illness as an opportunity for personal growth and healthcare providers are guides in this transformative process. Frequently, Mind-Body Medicine focuses on the impact of stress and the development of illness and the worsening of symptoms such as pain.

Links

www.nccam.nih.gov/health

www.holisticmedicine.org
www.mbmi.org