Complementary Alternative Cardiovascular Medicine

Chapter 16 / A Guide for Physicians 271
Table 9 (Continued)
3. Mind–Body Therapies
Mind–body therapies are based on recognition of a relationship between mind
and body. They are premised on the belief that the body’s innate healing potential
can be harnessed by mindful and meditational practices. Many mind–body
practices derive from traditional medical systems, such as Chinese traditional
medicine, Ayurveda, and Tibetan medicine, that are founded on the
interconnection of mind, body, and spirit.
Biofeedback is one specific aspect of mind–body training that is part of
mainstream medicine. Patients are trained to control brainwave activity to
modify their own autonomic body processes. The technique can be used to
retrain cardiovascular and respiratory functions. Hypnotherapy is also primarily
mainstream.
Professional Associations
Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback
http://www.aapb.org
Objective is research and the integration of biofeedback with other selfregulatory
methods. Promotes high standards of professional practice, ethics,
and education.
Biofeedback Certification Institute of America
http://www.bcia.org
Formed to establish and maintain professional standards for the provision of
biofeedback services and to certify qualifying practitioners.
Foundations and Nonprofit Organizations
Mind Body Medical Institute
http://www.mbmi.org/Default.asp
President Herbert Benson, MD, developed the relaxation response for people
suffering from stress-related illnesses. His courses are taught at Harvard Medical
School.
National Institute for the Clinical Application
of Behavioral Medicine
http://www.nicabm.com/aboutus.html
NICABM supports the thoughtful consideration of the research and efficacy of
behavioral medicine and where appropriate the integration of CAM treatment
modalities into conventional care.