During this holy week for Christians, it s important to note that many physicians are looking at healing not just the body but also the soul. Advocates of the Eastern exercise regimen called Tai Chi say it also serves to restore their sense of well being. You feel your weight and you feel connected to the Earth. Psychiatrist Dr. Sandra Steinbach also practices Tai Chi. I think psychiatry isn t just supposed to focus on the mind, but the wholeness of the person.
Many patients have spiritual needs, especially the chronically ill.
Most hospitals have chaplains who visit patients in the hospital or even in their homes. Chaplains play a key role as part of a hospital medical team taking care of homebound patients, bringing a message that life remains vital and rewarding. Another way to heal the soul is to help others who have a shared experience. A volunteer program called Caring Hearts enlists heart patients and their spouses to help other cardiac victims. It gives you a comfort zone to know someone else has gone through it, they do survive and live a normal life.