[extropy-chat] Seven phenomena that define "Psycho-Medicine"

[Terry W. Colvin]

Forwarding permission was given by William R. Corliss

< http://www.science-frontiers.com >

SCIENCE FRONTIERS, No. 160, Jul-Aug 2005, p. 4


PSYCHOLOGY

Seven phenomena that define "Psycho-Medicine"

"Psycho-Medicine" is the term used in an recent article in the French
journal *Science & Vie* are not all-inclusive.  They do, however, provide
in one place accounts of on-going research on seven phenomena, most of
which are anomalous in that they demonstrate the influence of the mind
over the body.

(1) Hypnosis reduces the need for general  anesthetics.

(2) Mental stimulation of muscles can greatly increase their strength.
Example: focussing one's thoughts on one's biceps.  [This is probably
related to the phenomenon that provides us with extra strength in
dire situations.]

(3) Transcendental meditation reduces hypertension.  Saying mantras,
for example.

(4) Psychological therapy stimulates the immune system.  Examples:
relaxation techniques, learning how to confront problems, etc.

(5) Placebo surgery improves patients with Parkinson's disease.   This
includes full operating-room procedures plus some superficial incisions
on the scalp!

(6) The use of biorhythms helps people with asthma.  Example: focussing
on one's cardiac rhythm.

(7) The use of virtual reality to reduce the pain of severe burns.  The
patient is exposed to a program called "SnowWorld"!  This program
envelops the patient visually with icy scenes.

(Bensaid, F., et al; "Psycho-Medicine," *Science & Vie*, #1046:52,
November 2004.  Cr. C. Mauge)


SCIENCE FRONTIERS is a bimonthly collection of scientific anomalies in
the current literature.  Published by the Sourcebook Project, P.O. Box 107,
Glen Arm, MD 21057 USA.  Annual subscription: $8.00.


-- 
"Only a zit on the wart on the heinie of progress." Copyright 1992, Frank Rice


Terry W. Colvin, Sierra Vista, Arizona (USA) < fortean1 at mindspring.com >
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