Mind-body medicine is an approach to care that includes self-awareness, relaxation, meditation, biofeedback, physical exercise, art, music and movement. This approach is helping to shape the new integrative model of health care in which prevention and self-care are given as much respect as procedures and pharmacological interventions.
Dr. O'Donnell is a faculty member with Indiana University School of Medicine and teaches Mind Body Medicine to medical students.
In the bimonthly virtual Mind Body Medicine share medical appointment, patients who cope with stress, sleep disorders, and chronic disease, receive treatment with an emphasis on this approach. Known short-term effects of mind-body practices that activate the relaxation response include slowed heart rate, lowered blood pressure, reduced serum cortisol, improved cognitive function, and lower perceived stress.