Wednesday, June 07, 2006

Medicine and Compassion

The library staff are frequently asked for sources of spirtuality in medicine. A recent article in The Library Journal suggests reasons. "Modern medicine boasts a wide range of tools for diagnosing and treating ailments . While potent drugs, radiation, and genetic analysis can kill bacteria, remove tumors, and predict risk, respectively, they also lead physicians to think in terms of a disease or a body part rather than a person. Making matters worse is the managed-care system, which encourages quick encounters that do not allow for doctors and patients to become acquainted and discuss options.

With alternative therapies, however, people can participate actively in their care and control aspects of their recovery. Spirituality, of course, is a key part of the alternative medicine approach. " (Quoted from article)

Here are a few selections representing approaches from both Eastern and Western cultures. Islam is not represented owing to few health materials available in English."
Weisman & Berman. Own your health: Choosing the best from alternative and conventional medicine health communications.
Boccio, F. J. Mindfulness yoga: The awakened union of breath, body and mind.
Rossman, M. L. Guided imagery for self-healing: An essential resource for anyone seeking wellness.
Sharples, B. Meditations and relaxation in plain English.
Shaw, S. The little book of yoga breathing: Pranayama made easy.
Cohen, K. Honoring the medicine: The essential guide to native American healing.
Source: The Library Journal May 1, 2006

No comments: