In recent years, a substantial shifting of attention has occurred with regard to what is often called: “the Mind Body Spirit Connection.” This involves the crossing of significant boundaries between psychology, biology and spirituality. It also involved a crossing of the Pacific Ocean. West is meeting East. Buddhism dances with Judaism.  Psychotherapy interweaves with the practices of Yoga. Stress reduction strategies are infused with the practices of meditation. The holistic health perspectives of Vedanta India complement the healthy lifestyle perspectives that drive the formulation of integrative medical practices in North America. At the heart of the new alliances are four closely related practices: mindfulness, meditation, guided imagery and visualization.   Each of these practices can be demonstrated by a health-based coach or can be a valuable tool used by a practitioner who is referred by the coach.

Mindfulness is an incredibly powerful tool in the treatment of mental health disorders, stress-related conditions, cancer, as well as cardiovascular conditions. Mindfulness can play a vital role in the prevention of many mental health disorders through creating directed and focused attention on the present experience. The connection between our minds and our bodies is something we can instinctively feel. But how much attention do we pay to our bodily sensations from moment to moment? To truly understand our own emotional lives and those of the people around us, we need a level of awareness. This awareness is achieved through the practice of mindfulness and the development of body intelligence.