There exists a relationship observed between the interaction of the mind, body and spirit. Explorations have ascertained the link between negative emotions with particular physical conditions (Tyre, 2004). In the nursing practice, it is indispensable to understand this relationship and recognize situations when it can be aptly applied. A healthcare giver must thus understand the relevant therapy, know its weaknesses and strong points, and learn how to overcome these obstructions.
Meditation as therapy
Meditation, dance and prayer are among the forms of this therapy, which ensures the interaction of the mind and body of a patient. Most physical and psychological problems can be cured if studied under energy conditions and given spiritual intervention. Long-term worry and depression are the common symptoms of anxiety (Torre, 2001).
Meditative therapy synthesizes two prominent healing disciplines; meditation and psychotherapy. The fusion of the traditional meditation process with the modern form of treatment balances a patient in a holistic and natural process. It has traditionally been understood that there is an inner being and a soul within individuals which helps in the natural healing process (Tyre, 2004). Our minds may be transformed from negative to positive through cultivating beneficial feelings.
Therapy in practice
There is continued interest by clients in the use of CAM technologies hence the need for nurses to incorporate them in their profession. The incorporation of some techniques usually requires heavy funding for their implementation, and it is usual for many institutions to accept therapies they can afford and have the manpower to implement (McCarthy, 2002). Meditation has been encouraged in the profession, and is used either singularly or combined with the traditional medical process. Its integration involves assessing clients through the collection of their psychological, physical, environmental and lifestyle data. This makes it possible to plan and implement the relevant form of therapy. Evaluations of the patient on the impacts of the meditation complete the integration process.
Benefits of meditation
Peer reviewed literatures and the press expose us to the benefits of properly administered meditation. It improves the capacity to concentrate and be attentive to one’s work, reduces addictions in meaningless activities, and improves the mood of the patient (Tyre, 2004).
Integrating meditation in practice
Meditation involves being more mentally active. This focus on mental activity may however be lost when our minds wander away from the task at hand. Discouragement is usually the main factor which results in lose of focus. It thus proves challenging to integrate it into my practice. Not everyone subscribes to the beliefs of the benefits of massage as some patients see it as a waste of time (McCarthy, 2002). Mustering the patience and persistence required in the process for some patients is a tedious process which they cannot muster the energy to fulfill. It becomes stressful for people to learn that the process requires discipline in order to achieve its numerous benefits.
In spite of the challenges experienced, implementation of meditation in the healing process to treat pain and manage pain is advantageous. Patients must understand that meditation is a process which involves concentration, mindfulness and patience. The process has other clinical applications beyond the normal stress alleviation and anxiety reduction.
Conclusion
Medicine connecting the mind and body require individuals to change their lifestyles in order to promote health and prevent diseases. Most of the body-mind-spirit techniques may be implemented individually, but a patient may combine them depending on specific needs. When meditation is combined with imagery, for example, it can be used to alleviate the side-effects of chemotherapy and energy in treating cancer patients (Hanser and Shank, 2003).
References
Hanser, M. & shank, S. (2003). Alternative therapies: growing options in nursing practice. National center for continuing education. Web.
McCarthy, L. (2002). Prayer’s power over the heart. Walden library; Nursing & allied health sources. Web.
Torre, M. (2001). Meditation and psychotherapy: an effective combination. Walden library; Nursing & allied health sources. Web.
Tyre, P. (2004). Combination therapy. Walden library; Nursing & allied health sources. Web.