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Psycho-Neuro-What?

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Psychoneuroimmunology, a tongue-twister to say the least, is simply a term that means an area of medicine that explores how our thoughts affect the health of our bodies–it means literally: the mind/body connection. This is a simple definition for a highly complex science being pioneered by innovative people like Drs. Deepak Chopra, Christiane Northrup, Joan Borysenko, Andrew Weil, and others.

Researchers of Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI for short) focus on hormonal messengers called neuropeptides, which are chemicals secreted by the brain, immune system and by nerve cells. The areas of the brain that affect our emotions are filled with receptors for these chemicals creating a communication and a linking between our feelings and our immune systems. It was once believed that these receptors sites were found only in the brain, but scientists are now discovering that they exist throughout the entire body. The quality of this communication has an effect on our immune system’s ability to defend us from illness and disease.

What does this mean for the average person? It means that how we feel effects the state of our health, and that by realizing this connection, we can take a much more active role in defining our health. The potential for this is immeasurable, and the means are myriad. It could mean detouring a migraine by using relaxation and deep breathing techniques; or having a nurse state positive affirmations to a patient under anesthesia to reduce post-surgical complications. It can also mean that negative thinking can sometimes set the stage for illness, and thankfully, it means the opposite–that positive thinking can facilitate positive health.

We’re entering a time in our culture where the connection of mind and body is not only considered, but increasingly accepted. People are being drawn to methods such as biofeedback, Tai Chi, Chi Gong, meditation and yoga, reflecting an inner need to connect our minds with our bodies. PNI is an exploration of ways to create health through the quality of our thinking. We’ve all heard, “just the thought of it makes me sick.” Or that, “it’s all in your head.” Well, maybe those comments ring more true than we once thought. Intentionally directing our mental energies toward a positive goal–I guess you could call that an attitude adjustment with added benefits!