Zen in the Art of Occupational Therapy,Part One

Abstract

In recent years, rapid changes have occurred within the health care system. Economic, political, scientific and social forces are transforming our view of health and, with the awakened interest in unconventional models of treatment, it is Important to assess the new set of demands placed on occupational therapy in relation to this change. Now that a greater emphasis is being placed on integrated methods of treatment, it is appropriate that we should consider the concepts of our own profession and their application to current changes of thought. The holistic approach to occupational therapy still has a valid contribution to make in the treatment process but perhaps a fresher application of this concept, including alternative Eastern philosophies, would promote a more balanced, dynamic outlook for occupational therapy, encour aging principles of self-help and creating a more challenging and more integrated practice of treatment. The article attempts to explain the principles of Eastern philosophy with reference to the Chinese ‘Book of Changes’ — the ‘I Ching’ — and to illustrate its relevance to new technology and scientific research.