6) What are some proven holistic practices that can improve my health?

From guided imagery to reiki to therapeutic touch, holistic practices provide an extra level of care and, in some cases, curative benefits for the things that ail us, according to two NYIT nursing experts.

“We talk about the benefits of bringing in the mind, body, and spirituality of a person when caring for their illness or disease process,” says Assistant Professor Maureen Cardoza, Ph.D., of the School of Health Profession’s Department of Nursing. “It’s really a centering, a coming together of body, mind, and soul to reconnect and impact health and well-being.”

Assistant Professor Carol Caico, Ph.D., who sees patients as a women’s health nurse practitioner, says guided imagery can be an antidote for anxiety. “It’s almost like they’re transcended,” she says, referring to people who effectively use imagery to escape stress and tension by deeply meditating on pleasurable, satisfying scenes or experiences.

Caico says therapeutic touch, where nurses glide their hands over the body without actually touching the patient, helps “smooth the energy field” of ill patients, and delivers a soothing, positive effect.

“It’s an accepted practice based on Asian tradition,” says Caico.

Last March, NYIT’s annual nursing colloquium focused on alternative therapies to benefit nurses and their patients.

“With our nursing courses, we discuss the benefits of holistic and alternative therapies,” says Cardoza, noting that she guides students through a relaxation exercise prior to exams “so they can clear their minds.”

Cardoza advises anyone interested in alternative therapies to do some research and find experts in the field. Among the therapies that are most popular are: yoga, massage therapy, reflexology, aromatherapy, and acupuncture—all designed to complement traditional medicine and augment healing. 

“See if it’s for you and if it fits your lifestyle, find a qualified person, and then try it,” she says.

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