The Effect of Mindfulness Techniques on Immune Function in Cancer Patients
摘要
The subject matter in this chapter belongs to the realm of the mind–body connection, which is herein illustrated by a review of scientific studies investigating the utility of mindfulness techniques in wellness and recovery. The chapter begins with a definition of the term “mindfulness” and progresses to enumerating different types of mindfulness techniques, including detailing several easy mindfulness exercises that can be performed by anyone, anywhere. The chapter then progresses to highlighting various research studies on the impact of mindfulness techniques on physiological parameters such as blood pressure and intraocular pressure. Next, mindfulness techniques are discussed in relation to how they affect the stress response and immune function. Finally, the chapter presents various scientific experiments that investigated the influence of mindfulness techniques on immune function in cancer patients; toward a consideration of whether mindfulness techniques could be used to augment standard cancer treatments. As will be seen, the studies taken together suggest a true, positive impact of mindfulness therapy. The time may be upon us to more fully accept and embrace the validity of the mind–body interplay and consider ways to more fully integrate mindfulness techniques into standard Western healthcare.