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Togetherness-Mind and Body

By: Brigitte Synesael


The minds ability to influence the body has been the cause for 
intrigue over the past 3 decades. There has been a growing 
tendency to explore this process throughout the scientific 
community. The mind and body are fundamentally connected; 
therefore, any treatment or therapy will impact both. The 
placebo effect is a common example of this interaction. Although 
highly recognized by the scientific community, the placebo 
response is under utilized as a resource in most medical 
practices.
Studies have been done on these therapies and the results 
suggest they are all viable options to be considered for many 
health issues. Mind/body therapies are particularly beneficial 
in that they empower the patient, providing a feeling of control 
over their health and their lives. Specific mind/body treatments 
include:
Psychotherapy can reduce the recovery process from surgery, 
and can be of tremendous benefit with illnesses that appear to 
have no medical cause.
Support Groups have a powerful, positive influence on most 
illnesses. Patients suffering from fatal diseases often 
significantly increase their survival time by participating in a 
support group.
Meditation has long been accepted as a solution to stress issues 
and lowering blood pressure. There are now indicators that 
regular meditation can positively affect many health issues; 
chronic pain, cholesterol, and longevity to name a few.
Imagery has been proven successful in controlling pain. It is 
commonly used in conjunction with cancer treatments; a method 
of easing nausea caused by chemotherapy, and a tool to enhance 
the immune system. Used with other treatments, Music Therapy 
has also proven effective as a pain reliever in particular with burn 
patients, brain injury and cancer patients.
Hypnosis is most commonly used for addictions, pain control, and 
phobias; although also helpful with other ailments such as allergies 
and asthma.
Still other mind/body therapies include Yoga, Biofeedback, Dance 
Therapy, Art Therapy, and Prayer and Mental Healing. Each of 
these have their own strengths and benefit specific health issues.
More work is needed, but there is a growing amount of evidence 
that many of the mind-body therapies discussed here, if 
appropriately selected and wisely applied, can be clinically as 
well as economically cost-effective, that they work, and that 
they are safe.


Bio:  

Brigitte Synesael founded Your Life-Your Choice in 1997, and is now recognized as an authority on Alternative Medicine Information. Her associations with governing agencies and certified practitioners ensure well researched, quality information. Her free newsletter, found at http://www.Life-Choices.com is an excellent resource for various types of treatments. 

Her latest release "You've Got Nothing To Lose But POUNDS!" was inspired by her outrage at society taking advantage of a frustrated, overweight population. It is always assumed that overweight people eat too much, and in many cases, that is simply NOT TRUE. This well researched book gives you more than 10 factors in your life that could be responsible for your weight problem besides overeating. This book is available at http://www.diets-dont-work.com 

Brigitte Synesael may be contacted at
yourlife@life-choices.com 

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