Mind-Body Practices Flashcards

Which mind-body modality is based on the idea that the body keeps a physical record of emotional trauma?

Answer: Somatic therapy

Somatic therapy addresses trauma stored in the body through body-centered techniques, recognizing the body-mind connection in healing.

In holistic medicine, what is the relationship between chronic stress and physical disease?

Answer: Chronic stress can contribute to inflammation, immune dysfunction, and many chronic diseases

The psychoneuroimmunology field has established that chronic stress dysregulates the HPA axis and immune system, increasing disease risk.

What is the primary physiological mechanism behind the 'relaxation response' described by Herbert Benson?

Answer: Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system

Benson's relaxation response involves parasympathetic activation that lowers heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormone levels.

Which holistic practice involves focusing on positive imagery to promote healing and reduce anxiety?

Answer: Guided imagery

Guided imagery uses directed mental visualization to activate the mind-body connection and support physiological healing processes.

What does research show about the effect of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) on chronic pain?

Answer: MBSR significantly reduces pain severity and improves pain coping in many patients

Multiple studies show MBSR reduces pain catastrophizing, improves coping, and decreases perceived pain intensity in chronic pain patients.

Which principle in holistic mind-body medicine refers to the body's innate ability to heal itself?

Answer: Vis medicatrix naturae (the healing power of nature)

Vis medicatrix naturae is the naturopathic principle recognizing the body's self-healing intelligence that practitioners support.