SO much has been written lately about the Mind-Body Connection, but what do we really know?
In her recently pre-released Christian inspirational book, ‘7 Pathways to Hope’, Adele M. Gill, RN presents the simple, yet powerful premise, that optimal physical and mental health are largely dependent on the life-giving power of hope, the precursor to faith.
Sustained by ample, ground-breaking, medical research, this writer who is a registered nurse offers a candid look at how vital hope and faith are to achieving optimal health – in mind, body and spirit.
Due for release on September 8th, 2011 by American Book Publishing, this 245 page book focuses on the intertwined topics of health, hope and faith, something Gill refers to as the ‘Mind-Body-Faith Phenomenon.’
Well beyond the traditional concept of mind-body medicine, Gill believes that while both physical illness and depression may provoke infirmity, hope, and subsequently faith, can significantly improve physical, mental and spiritual health. ‘7 Pathways to Hope’, provides readers with 9 medical research studies that prove:
1. Hope and prayer can boost the immune system, lower blood pressure and even help prevent cardiovascular disease…
2. Prayer is the No.1 alternative therapy in the US…
3. Psychiatrists and oncologists are the 2 practitioners most likely to discuss hope and faith with their patients.
4. Hope and prayer can help a person heal faster, shortening a hospital stay.…
5. Hope and prayer are particularly helpful to patients with cancer, heart disease, anxiety, depression, and arthritis.
As an RN, Gill has observed the profound effects hope has on patient’s health. She also understands well the practical importance of hope and faith personally, as she has been living for 28 years with a progressive, neuromuscular disease that affects her breathing, speech and mobility, and she is on a respirator 14-15 hours per day.
For Gill, hope is not simply a philosophy or concept; rather, it is a basic lifestyle choice that involves incorporating the ‘Mind-Body-Faith Phenomenon’ for optimal health in body, mind and spirit.
