The mind-body connection: the psychophysiology of many traditional nursing interventions

The bidirectional relationship between mind and body and the concept that psychological processes can produce attendant physiologic changes are explored in this article. The mind-body connection provides a framework for exploring a psychophysiologic explanation for the therapeutic properties of some traditional nursing interventions to potentiate health and healing. This model allows nurses to move from tradition-based practice to knowledge-based practice. CNSs provide direct patient care, consult with staff nurses, influence systems of care, and engage in outcome research. This mind-body paradigm provides a model for practice and a framework for quantifying outcomes.