Mind-body medicine is an approach to healing that uses the power of thoughts and emotions to positively influence our well-being. Its goal is to activate the relaxation response and reduce the stress response. The techniques exert their influence on the hypothalamus, the switching station in the brain, which exercises control over the autonomic nervous system (which controls heart rate, and blood pressure), the endocrine system (glandular), and the immune system. Many hospitals are implementing mind-body clinics to reduce pain and stress and facilitate the well-being of their patients.

Meditation

Meditation, one of the most common mind-body interventions, is a conscious mental process that induces what is called the relaxation response. MRI has been used to identify the brain regions that are active during meditation. This research suggests that various parts of the brain known to be involved in attention and in the control of the autonomic nervous system are activated by meditation, indicating that meditation has an effect on our physiology. A more recent study showed that meditation produces significant increases in left-sided brain activity, which is associated with positive emotional states. There is also suggestive evidence that meditation may improve immune function, improve sleep, and reduce depression.

Some types of meditation involve movement, such as yoga, while others require that you sit perfectly still. Some people even consider prayer to be a form of meditation. There are plenty of books and tapes on the market that can teach you meditation, or you may want to take a class with other beginners.