Play Book Tag discussion

I rated this book 4.5 stars, but rounded up since I think it is an important topic that may help a lot of people. My personal opinion is that the mind cannot be separated from the body in treatment of health issues. The author states the origin of this idea that the mind and body are separate, tracing it back to Descartes, but one would think we have come a long way since Descartes' days. Apparently, we still have a long way to go. This book could be somewhat controversial, but I think the author did an admirable job of not swaying too far into either extreme.

My review is below:
Non-fiction in which Jo Marchant takes a scientific approach to recounting the latest research on the mind-body connection. She undertook this effort to find out the latest on what the mind can and cannot do to assist in achievement of overall better health and quality of life. Topics include the placebo effect, mindfulness meditation, the immune system, virtual reality, pain management, social connection, kindness in caregiving, stress, aging, depression, hypnosis, electrical impulses, and much more.

A self-professed skeptic and advocate for the scientific method, she systematically explores each topic and examines results of recent research. She brings a human component to these findings by providing case studies of people currently going through treatment. For the most part, these are people she has met, and she tells their stories in an empathetic way. The scientific jargon is kept to a minimum, and the concepts are explained in a straightforward manner. She is careful to cite areas where more research is needed, and documents dissenting opinions. Unfortunately, the pharmaceutical companies, which sponsor a vast amount of current research, are not motivated to spend money to support experiments that may reduce the need for their products.

In the author’s words:
”I am not advocating relying solely on the mind to heal us; but denying its role in medicine surely isn't the answer either. My hope, then, is that this book might help to overcome some of the prejudice against mind-body approaches, and to raise awareness that taking account of the mind in health is actually a more scientific and evidence-based approach than relying ever more heavily on physical interventions and drugs.”

Recommended to those interested in health and brain-related science. Those with current health issues may discover some helpful coping strategies.

I have to say, my skepticism level is extremely high but this sounds well-researched and I'm interested. Just added to my TBR.

A thoughtful review, Joy! You summed the book up well.

I read this last year (and like Nicole) was a bit skeptical at first. In fact, after rereading my review, I actually used the word "skeptical." (This is coming from someone who practices yoga and uses guided meditation to relax.)

I also thought the book was well researched and the author took a balanced approach. Even after reading this book, I don't necessary believe all holistic practices work or are effective. Having said that, I agree that the mind and all body systems are strongly connected and I wish the medical community in the US would use a more "complementary" approach to treatment.

Lisa A ⛄ wrote: "A thoughtful review, Joy! You summed the book up well. "
Thanks, Lisa

Nicole wrote: "I have to say, my skepticism level is extremely high but this sounds well-researched and I'm interested. Just added to my TBR."
Nicole, I look forward to hearing your thoughts.