Mind-Body Medicine for Pharyngeal Cancer

Pharyngeal Cancer Supportive Therapies: Mind-Body Medicine

The CTCA Mind-Body Medicine program helps people with pharyngeal cancer explore and experience what is unique to them at all levels of their being. Complementing traditional medical therapies, mind-body medicine (i.e., psychoneuroimmunology) brings the forces of mind and spirit to bear on healing—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Defining psychoneuroimmunology

Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) represents a relatively new area of care. "Psycho" refers to your thinking, emotions and mood states. "Neuro" refers to your body's neurological and neuroendocrine systems. "Immunology" refers to your cellular structures and immune system. PNI explores the influence of your mind on your body and immune system. Using a variety of techniques, mind-body medicine helps train you to direct your energies toward healing and overall health.

Through several individual and group learning opportunities at our hospitals, patients and members of their families can explore mind-body medicine as a supportive therapy. Opportunities include classes on stress management, relaxation and imagery, spiritual meditation, and laughter therapy, as well as support groups and individual, couple and family counseling.

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