Mind-body medicine and holistic approaches. The scientific evidence

During the past 15 years there has been a birth of a new science--the science of mind-body and holistic medicine, which is reminding us of the ancient principles upon which good health and medical care have been based. As expensive technological medicine continues to grow and stretch the health budgets of modern society, this new area is providing an important counterbalance and reminder of the value of a caring therapeutic relationship and simple lifestyle and support measures. This article will broadly review the four main areas in which excessive stress can affect health and give an overview of some of the key research that provides evidence for the value of useful adjunctive and in some situations alternative, cost effective treatments to current medical practices.