MIND BODY SPIRIT CONNECTION
(Psycho-Neuro Immunology)
"Love cures people - both the ones who give it and the ones who receive it."
Dr. Karl Menninger
Stress and Immunity
Data shows the connection between psychological factors (i.e. stressors) and a progression of disease processes that evolve from the weakening of the immune system.
Stress-induced alterations of the immune system are influenced by
the
capacity of the individual to cope effectively with stressful situations
the
strength and length of the stressor
the
quality of the immune system
the
environment and personal history of the stressors and stress experiences
other
factors such as age, sex, and nutritional state
Stress Management
Strategies in modifying psychological responses to stressors
(reaching
alpha states):
biofeedback
visualization
/ imagery
cranial
electrotherapy stimulation - electrodes are attached to the ear lobes
sending microcurrents through the cranial area and reducing pain
hypnosis
eye
movement desensitization and reprocessing (EDMR)
group
therapy
meditation
cognitive
therapy - emotional cleansing
Qigong -
the practice of gentle breathing, movement, and stretching that reduce
stress and pain for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Learn to manage chronic illness by recognizing and correcting "maladaptive illness behaviors" or patterns of behavior or cognition that can worsen their symptoms or interfere with recovery. (i.e. Overdoing it on a "good day" which can lead to several "bad days".)
Exercise
Research shows that warm water exercise is the best for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome. In addition, any form of aerobic exercise that it suited to the individual (such as walking, swimming, and biking) is a good way to reduce pain.
Exercise Tips
create a
fitness program that suits your needs
set
realistic goals
consult
with your physician before you start your new exercise program
start
slowly and steadily build your way up
keep it
simple
don't over
do it
Bodywork
Examples of therapies that may lessen pain and other FMS symptoms:
acupressure
cranio
sacral therapy
myofascial
release therapy
stretching
yoga -
see links
Qigong
Tai Chi
warm water
therapy
chiropractic
osteopathic
manipulation
Connections ~ Andrew Weil
Depression, anger, loneliness and other emotions suppress immunity, disrupt the balance of the nervous system, and are rooted in the sense of self as an isolated and separate entity. Research shows that people who fail to establish meaningful connections have a greater risk of illness.
Religious and spiritual traditions stress the importance of overcoming the illusion of separateness by experiencing unity.
People who experience themselves as part of and supported by something larger than themselves are less fearful and more healthy than people who view themselves as separate from or disconnected.
Ways to Increase Your Sense of Connection
Communicate with Nature and Earth
gardening
hiking
Communication with Animals
research
shows that people with pets have lower rates of illness
Communication with Family and Friends
people
with "extended families" have better health
Connecting with Community
join
clubs, associations, etc
Serving Others
help
others to increase their happiness
Loving
connect
with the source of love within yourself
let your
inner love shine outwardly and unconditionally
St.
Francis said "Lord grant that I may not so much seek to be loved as to love"
Touching
human
beings need to touch and to be touched
research
shows that individuals deprived of physical contact are insecure, poorly
adjusted, and more prone not only to illness, but also to violence
Setting Goals and Maintaining Hope
