Weaving Medicine Back Together: Mind–Body Medicine in the Twenty-First Century

Abstract

In the past century, the medical profession has taken pride in the rapid and often effective advancement of diagnostic technology, surgical interventions, and pharmaceutical remedies. However, it has also witnessed the unraveling of the woven connection among mind, body, and the human soul. The history of the fall and rise of the concept of mind–body medicine is discussed, along with a review of the recent laboratory and clinical studies providing evidence of the direct connection between mind, body, and belief systems. Relevant components of a mind–body skills group program for clinical practices are addressed.