In a case study published in The Journal of Alternative Medicine (2005; 11 [2], 275–84), a significant relationship was found between mind-body therapies and a patient’s recovery from a skin condition known as dermatomyositis. Since this condition is affected by the strength of the immune system, the researchers concluded that the benefits seen in the… [Continue Reading]

To get better results while lifting, first focus your mind. Psyching up improves bench press performance among experienced weightlifters, according to recent research from New Zealand, Australia and Wales. “Psyching up” refers to using mental strategies such as imagery, attentional focus, positive self-talk or preparatory arousal before doing an exercise, in order to improve achievement…. [Continue Reading]

Athletes have long known the benefits of visualizing specific physical actions to improve sports performance. Now, scientists have been asking whether motor imagery training can be used to improve movement abilities and to stimulate brain development when active movement training is not an option—as is often the case after a stroke. [Click here to read... [Continue Reading]

Mind-body strategies may reduce hair loss without risk of adverse side effects. Alopecia areata is a type of patchy hair loss associated with psychological factors such as stress, trauma or negative family circumstances. Researchers chose to evaluate hypnotherapy as a possible treatment for this condition because hypnosis has already proved effective in reducing stress and… [Continue Reading]

Mind-Body-Spirit News: Breast surgery patients who received hypnosis before surgery needed less pain medication and experienced fewer side effects than patients who did not receive hypnosis before the same surgery, according to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (2007; 99 [17], 1304–12). Since breast cancer surgery patients make up the… [Continue Reading]