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These philosophical and physiological approaches to disease management are now widely practiced throughout the United States and many other countries.
Psychoneuroimmunology is the branch of medical science which studies and employs interactions between the mind (psyche), the nervous system, and the immune system. This field of study is commonly known as Mind/Body Medicine.
Through research conducted over the past twenty years, psychoneuroimmunologists have identified two principle pathways through which thoughts and feelings impact immunity. The first channel of mind/body communication is through the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). Long thought to be outside the direct control of the individual, the Autonomic Nervous System is composed of two branches, the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic.
Sympathetic responses, also known as the “fight or flight” response, encompass a range of physiological reactions. These include heightened respiration, a faster heart rate, stimulation of the Adrenal Medulla, and the redistribution of blood from the extremities via vasoconstriction. During a sympathetic response, activity diminishes in the digestive, reproductive, and immune system.
The parasympathetic responses are often known as the “relaxation response” because they bring about a sense of calm and serenity within our bodies. These encompass the calming slowdown of our breathing and heart rate, the increased blood flow to our extremities through vasodilation, and the activation of our digestive, reproductive, and immune systems.
In short, the sympathetic response is toward action, and the parasympathetic response is toward recovery.
The second channel of mind/body communication is through the Hypothalamus Pituitary Adrenal Axis (HPA). At the cortical level, our thoughts have a powerful impact on the intricate dance of hormones orchestrated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. These interconnected systems work together to regulate the vital chemical balance within our blood and endocrine system. This circuit modulates a myriad of cellular activities in the body, influencing immunity, metabolism, and learning.
The appeal of Hypnosis for Immunity Management:
- Effectiveness: Hypnosis is a well-demonstrated method to activate the most powerful curative, the human mind.
- Nonpharmacological: Hypnosis does not contribute to an already complex regimen and hypnosis has no adverse side effects or interactions.
- Self-management tool: Self-hypnosis is easily taught and tends to become a tool that can be used for a lifetime.
- Cost-effective: Great outcomes can be produced in even one session; group sessions reduce costs further and enhance the sense of connectedness.