by Gary Stanton

Received: 18 August 2024;  Published: 22 October 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2404061

The Shenmen Point is an auricular acupuncture point that is also known in France as the Cosmonaut Point. It is widely utilized therapeutically for its property of reducing stress. In some ways it is a controversial point. Differences of opinion exist regarding the most appropriate name of the point, who discovered it first, its location within the triangular fossa, its best method of detection, its best method of stimulation, its actions, its indications, its contraindications, its therapeutic effects, and even its [...]

by Myia S. Williams  , Keyla Ordonez  , D’Arcy King  , Jeffrey Solomon  , Suzanne Ardito  , Jennifer Polo  , Sindee Weiss  and Negin Hajizadeh

Received: 21 April 2024;  Published: 18 October 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2404060

We explored the feasibility of a virtual-reality delivered mindfulness training intervention on burnout symptoms among corporate employees and clinicians in the Intensive Care Unit and Palliative Care Unit (PCU). To develop the VR mindfulness intervention we leveraged the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior model (COM-B) as a guide for the design and implementation of the VR mindfulness training intervention. Using a pre-posttest within subjects design we assessed burnout syndrome, job stress and work-rel [...]

by Beren Crim Sabuncu  , Ankica Kosic  and Amy L. Ai

Received: 20 January 2024;  Published: 15 October 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2404059

The Covid-19 pandemic has brought forth global challenges in socioeconomic, political, and public health dimensions. For many, spirituality was a powerful source of support during this pandemic experience. The current review provides an apt overview of spirituality as a coping method to mitigate the mental and emotional impact of global turmoil of Covid-19 within the context of Europe. Using select studies from Czechia, Italy, and Turkey which have low, middle, and high religiosity indexes respectively, the potenti [...]

by Jozélio Freire de Carvalho  and Aaron Lerner

Received: 20 June 2024;  Published: 12 October 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2404058

To systematically review the literature for cases using homeopathy in which complete healing was observed. Scielo, Pubmed, CINAHL, and Embase databases were systematically screened for case reports and series of patients successfully cured by homeopathy between 1966 and August 2022. Language limitation was not used. Forty-nine articles, comprising 191 patients, were depicted. Most of them had dermatological conditions (12 papers, 71 patients), followed by infectious (7 papers, 31 patients), neuropsychiatric (10 pub [...]

by Jane C. Johnson  , Carol K. Smith  and Brian F. Degenhardt

Received: 14 March 2024;  Published: 27 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403057

Acute stress during medical school affects medical student well-being. The objective of the current study was to examine the influence of a holistic, school-sponsored student wellness program (SWP) on acute stress during the first year of medical school. First-year medical students attending two osteopathic medical schools participated, one school with a holistic student wellness program (SWP group) and one without an organized student wellness program (Control group). The SWP was founded on osteopathic philosophy [...]

by Pamela Whitaker

Received: 07 June 2024;  Published: 25 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403056

This concept paper is proposing the inclusion of the home studio as an art making location for art therapy trainees who assemble personal belongings, within the context of their domestic lives. A collection of belongings can become an installation which brings together associations to identities in juxtaposition. The material culture of art therapy trainees, the objects which they live by, is a new contribution to art therapy pedagogy, as it designates the art of personal collections as a life archive (or accumulat [...]

by Ferah Armutcu

Received: 01 June 2024;  Published: 24 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403055

Intermittent fasting practices, recommended as a potential nutritional approach against obesity and metabolic diseases, have become increasingly widespread in recent years. Although convincing data on the anti-obesity and cardio-metabolic benefits of intermittent fasting are obtained mostly from experimental studies, religious and traditional fasting practices have been among the treatment methods applied for human health for centuries. Both intermittent fasting and religious fasting may be a promising strategy for [...]

by Jennifer Vasquez  , Michele Quintin Quill  and Chase Bossart

Received: 30 May 2024;  Published: 23 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403054

While many studies have discussed the effectiveness of interventions using different yoga techniques and teachings with various populations, there has been less research on the effectiveness of yoga therapy. Viniyoga therapists utilize the principles of Viniyoga, a type of yoga developed by Krishnamacharya, to provide therapeutic yogic interventions to individual clients in order to improve functioning and relieve suffering. This qualitative study conducted interviews with fourteen Viniyoga trained yoga therapists [...]

by Gerhard Litscher

Received: 17 September 2024;  Published: 19 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403053

Auricular medicine, based on the concept that the ear reflects the entire body, has gained recognition for treating various conditions through targeted acupuncture. Despite documented short-term benefits, such as pain relief and nervous system regulation, research into its long-term effects is limited. This editorial discusses the need for further long-term studies to explore whether regular auricular acupuncture can offer sustained health benefits and serve a preventive role. It summarizes two studies: one on auri [...]

by Angie Huber  , Nicole Schroeder  , Dave Verhoff  and Andrew Parsons

Received: 21 June 2024;  Published: 19 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403052

The Health-Focused Physical Therapy Model integrates lifestyle behavior management into physical therapy practice using a standardized care model and motivational patient interviewing. The purpose of this study was to identify the perceived opportunities and barriers physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and rehab administrators may face when implementing the model. This study included a survey of 19 physical therapy clinicians, and interviews with four rehabilitation administrators from one healthcar [...]

by Melissa Stock  and Catriona Craig

Received: 20 April 2024;  Published: 14 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403051

‘Personality disorders’ (referred to as complex emotional needs in this report) are common in older adults. Yet they are often under-recognised which impacts access to appropriate care pathways. Once in services, older adults lack the same access to specialist mental health care as adults, and the evidence base in older adults with complex emotional needs is sparse. Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is an approach that has shown promise for those with complex emotional needs. This case report presents a 12-session C [...]

by Ellen Zhang  and Gerhard Litscher

Received: 11 September 2024;  Published: 11 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403050

In this interview Professor Gerhard Litscher discusses how new technologies like laser acupuncture and electroacupuncture, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics are revolutionizing acupuncture by enhancing precision and personalization. He emphasizes the potential for digital tools to improve treatment outcomes and training while maintaining the human aspect of this holistic practice. Litscher highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and ongoing education to successfully integrate these inn [...]

by Jodi Coon-Robeson  , Jaicee Williamson  , Anna Kate Edgemon  and John T. Rapp

Received: 20 May 2024;  Published: 04 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403049

Previous studies have shown that the use of a three-color (red, yellow, and green) rating system of child behaviors by caregivers can help facilitate deprescribing of psychotropic medications in foster youth. Using a similar three-color rating system within a state-funded project, we assessed whether there was a day of the week when 48 foster youth consistently displayed challenging behavior. For each foster child, we used conditional probability analyses to determine if there was a day of the week with an increase [...]

by Yasuhiro Kotera  , Noelia L. Martínez-Rives  , Muhammad Aledeh  , Habib Adam  , Julie Beaumont  , Rory Colman  , Jessica Eve Jackson  , Christian Veasey  , Lucie-May King  , Tracey Harrington  , Elaina Taylor  , Ann-Marie Edwards  , Gabby A. A. Rothwell-Blake  , Adewale Allen Sokan-Adeaga  , Gillian H.T. Liu  , Kenneth Curley  , Matthew Cotterill  , Malik Dimbei Halidu  , Juliet Wilkes  , Aiesha Carew Tofani  , Samantha Greaves  , Rob Hughes  , Annabel Rushforth  , Ann Kirkman  , Michelle Brooks-Ucheaga  and Kristian Barnes

Received: 14 February 2024;  Published: 22 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403048

This short report presents an international research group, Research Ensemble for Advancement in Cross-cultural Healthcare (REACH). REACH is an independent research group, and no one is paid to do research for REACH. All members participate because they are intrinsically motivated to pursue cross-cultural healthcare. REACH consists of 28 healthcare workers and educators from 13 countries, researching about cross-cultural issues in healthcare (18 publications on average per year as of February 2024). REACH is multi- [...]

by Robert Marx

Received: 24 April 2024;  Published: 20 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403047

It is an axiomatic in secular mindfulness that to become present is to direct attention away from thinking to physical sensation. While this can be a useful strategy to manage depressive rumination, as an automatic default position, it risks demonising our fundamental human capacity to purposefully think about the causes of suffering and how to reduce it. Many approaches within Mahayana Buddhism in particular explicitly use reflection on key ideas as necessary pre-requisites to meditation, and in these traditions, [...]

by Candice Fischer  and Carolina Eugenia Cáceres Videla

Received: 21 March 2024;  Published: 12 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403046

A growing body of evidence has highlighted the limitations of relying solely on positivist research when summarizing SP/SR results since it might hinder pluralistic perspectives from unique backgrounds and life experiences. In the present reflective report, I aim to conduct quantitative and qualitative research on myself to explore the impact of concentrating on genuineness when delivering psychotherapy as a trainee. This article provides concrete examples of how therapists’ authenticity could benefit the therapeut [...]

by Michael Takacs  , Michael Frass  , Anja Pohl-Schickinger  , Philippa Fibert  , Peter Lechleitner  , Menachem Oberbaum  , Ilse Leisser  , Peter Panhofer  , Kavita Chandak  and Petra Weiermayer

Received: 04 May 2024;  Published: 06 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403045

In some patients, coronavirus (COVID-19) can cause symptoms that last weeks or even months after the infection has gone. Long COVID-19 was defined as a confirmed initial COVID-19 infection, the presence of signs and symptoms more than four weeks after initial infection, and the persistence or appearance of signs and symptoms that another condition cannot explain and did not exist before infection. This study aimed to describe the effect of adjunctive individualized homeopathic treatment delivered to Long COVID-19 p [...]

by Renata Lemonica  , Isabela Almeida Cunha  , Jéssica Layane Costa Melo  , Sandra Regina Caram  , José Eduardo Fuser Bittar  and Karina Pavao Patricio

Received: 23 March 2024;  Published: 31 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403044

Homeopathy has shown promise in fighting epidemics, leading to potential applications in the COVID-19 clinical cases. To assess the impact of add-on individualized homeopathic medicinal products (IHMP) on improving clinical outcomes and time to medical discharge in COVID-19 patients, a prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group exploratory clinical trial was conducted in a São Paulo state municipality, Brazil, between February and July 2021. 82 (unvaccinated) patients with conf [...]

by Alexander Tournier  , Yvonne Fok  , Robbert van Haselen  and Aaron To

Received: 29 February 2024;  Published: 29 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403043

Little systematic research has been conducted into the symptomatic expression of COVID-19 infections in patients. It is known that symptomatic expression varies between patients, but the nature and extent of this variability is poorly understood. This paper elaborates on the symptoms reported by Chinese patients infected with COVID-19 during the Omicron wave, and compares this with available data from other countries. This was an observational clinical case registry study of Chinese patients with suspected Omicron [...]

by Vivian Huang  and Alexandra J. Fiocco

Received: 02 April 2024;  Published: 23 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403042

This survey-based, cross-sectional study explored the independent and synergistic effect of filial piety discrepancy (FPD), acculturation, and living arrangement on the psychological, social, and physical wellbeing of older Chinese immigrants living in Canada. A total of 299 older Chinese immigrants were recruited from community organizations in the Greater Toronto Area. Participants completed questionnaires that assessed demographic information, filial piety, living arrangement, acculturation, and three domains of [...]

by Eli Cwinn  and Kayla Hamel

Received: 22 January 2024;  Published: 10 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403041

This paper argues that psychology, as a discipline, requires research to be situated in the context of a content-based theory. We identify several problems and pitfalls with requiring a content-based theory for applied mental health research, a priori. Nonetheless, we also articulate a rationale for why theory matters and that a new sort of theoretical framework is required for applied mental health research. We address this need by articulating a new theoretical framework called Applied Pragmatic Functional Contex [...]

by Koré Monsterrat Moreno-Calderón  , Alfredo Saavedra-Molina  , Mariana Gómez-Barroso  , Donovan Javier Peña-Montes  , Christian Cortés-Rojo  , Alain R. Rodríguez-Orozco  , Omar Ortiz-Ayala  and Rocío Montoya-Pérez

Received: 08 January 2024;  Published: 10 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403040

An excess of adipose tissue characterizes obesity; it is associated with complications such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases due to an alteration in the lipid profile; this condition affects all tissues; even skeletal muscle is the most affected, causing its malfunction and bringing more significant consequences. Exercise has been described as one of the best treatments to combat obesity. At the same time, E. carlinae is a plant proven to have lipid-lowering and hypoglycemic effects, improving the function o [...]

by María del Valle del Olmo de Dios  , Alfonso Roberto Barros-Loscertales  and Laura Laguna Cruañes

Received: 25 September 2023;  Published: 05 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403039

Mediterranean diet, considered key to varied diets, raises whether it is necessary to supplement it with compounds like nutraceuticals to obtain more benefits. A scoping review was conducted. Nine articles were selected that compared the effects of nutraceuticals on biochemical markers (such as total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc)), weight, and blood pressure in various studies to the results observed in groups only exposed to the Mediterranean diet. The aim was to assess the impact of [...]

by Oghenerume Lucky Emakpor  , Great Iruoghene Edo  , Emad Yousif  , Princess Oghenekeno Samuel  , Agatha Ngukuran Jikah  , Khalid Zainulabdeen  , Athraa Abdulameer Mohammed  , Winifred Ndudi  , Susan Chinedu Nwachukwu  , Ufuoma Ugbune  , Joy Johnson Agbo  , Irene Ebosereme Ainyanbhor  , Huzaifa Umar  , Helen Avuokerie Ekokotu  , Ephraim Evi Alex Oghroro  , Patrick Othuke Akpoghelie  , Joseph Oghenewogaga Owheruo  , Lauretta Dohwodakpo Ekpekpo  , Priscillia Nkem Onyibe  , Ufuoma Augustina Igbukuc  , Endurance Fegor Isojec  and Arthur Efeoghene Athan Essaghahk

Received: 28 December 2023;  Published: 28 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402038

The optimal enhancement of athletic performance, recovery from exhaustion after exercise, and injury prevention are products of appropriate nutrition. Nutritional supplements that contain proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals are frequently utilized in various sports to complement the recommended daily amounts. Several of these supplements have been identified to have physiological effects and, thus, are known to help enhance athletic performance and prevent injuries. Our review intends to show the interp [...]

by Josie M Rudolphi  , Courtney Cuthbertson  , Kimberly Keller  and Rebecca Mott

Received: 26 April 2024;  Published: 28 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402037

Agricultural producers (i.e., farmers, ranchers) and agricultural workers (i.e., hired labor, farmworkers) have worse mental health than the general population and often lack access to mental healthcare. In response, the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture funded four regional Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Networks in 2019. In the north central region, the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center (NCFRSAC) was created in 2020 to develop, deliver [...]

by Yasuhiro Kotera  , Jenai Lieu  , Hou Tin Gillian Liu  , Christian Veasey  and Kristian Barnes

Received: 09 January 2024;  Published: 27 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402036

Yozan Uesugi was a Daimyo (feudal lord) who governed an area called Yonezawa in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan from 1767 to 1823. Yonezawa was originally an impoverished provincial government which under his leadership regained a healthy financial status. His leadership style was unique among Daimyos, yet respected and regarded as an ideal by many including President John F. Kennedy. One of the characteristics of Yozan’s leadership was he demonstrated what he expected his people to do, instead of just telling them what [...]

by Corrado Angelini

Received: 06 February 2024;  Published: 21 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402035

An 83-year-old man with myasthenia gravis was hospitalized in the ICU; support for caregivers of elderly myasthenic patients in the ICU can be a crucial aspect of their care. Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease that can cause varying levels of muscle weakness, which can significantly impact the patient's day-to-day activities and overall quality of life. This intervention was followed for over one month with success. The critical phases are presented and analyzed as a medical support art [...]

by Rodolfo Pessina  , Fabrizia Colmegna  , Massimo Clerici  and Ester di Giacomo

Received: 26 December 2023;  Published: 13 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402034

Therapeutic termination of pregnancy (TToP) is performed for maternal health risks or severe fetal malformations. Research focuses on women's psychopathological outcomes after TToP, noting that 10-22% of women experience psychiatric disorders, especially depressive symptoms and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, little is known about paternal mental outcomes. This study analyzed biological fathers' mental health at a 1-year follow-up after TToP. Results indicate biological fathers show no alarming psyc [...]

by Charles Heriot-Maitland  and Jo Taylor

Received: 22 March 2024;  Published: 11 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402033

This article describes the development and delivery of a novel model of supervision for senior teachers in schools, informed by Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). It explores whether this model can be considered acceptable and valuable to senior teachers, and is able to be delivered by multiple supervisors using a manual. Surveys, interviews, and focus groups were used to gather feedback about the value and impact of the supervision. Data were gathered from 39 senior teachers across three phases to assess feedback o [...]

by Alkyoni Athanasiou-Fragkouli  , Michael T Lynskey  , Anne Katrin Schlag  and David J Nutt

Received: 01 March 2024;  Published: 05 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402032

Chronic pain is one of the most common conditions for which people seek treatment with cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) and there is mounting real world evidence that CBMPs are safe and effective in treating pain. Many people with chronic pain also experience major depression and it is unknown whether pain patients with major depression derive equal benefit from CBMPs as those who are not depressed since comorbidities are usually an exclusion factor in RCTs. This study aimed to investigate whether patients [...]

by Hannah O'Connor  , Joseph Biederman  , Maura DiSalvo  , Gagan Joshi  , Stephen V. Faraone  and Janet Wozniak

Received: 25 January 2024;  Published: 04 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402031

The aim of this paper is to examine effects of stimulant treatment in children and adolescents with high levels of emotional dysregulation in a psychiatric outpatient clinic. Subjects were referred children and adolescents 6-17 years of age who presented to a child psychiatric outpatient clinic between September 2016-November 2021 and received a prescription for a stimulant medication. Children were stratified into those with low and high levels of emotional dysregulation as defined by an aggregate T-score of <1 [...]

by Emily Smith Schafer

Received: 02 March 2023;  Published: 24 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402030

According to the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH), nearly 30 million children in the United States have experienced one or more types of significant childhood trauma. In the average public school, this statistic translates to as many as half of the students in a given teacher’s classroom. Children exposed to the toxic stress of trauma often experience negative consequences that affect their academic, psychological, socioemotional, and behavioral health. To aid educators in addressing this reality, trauma [...]

by Syd Hiskey  and Neil E Clapton

Received: 07 April 2024;  Published: 21 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402029

The work of psychotherapy demands much of those who engage in it. Compassion provisioned by therapists requires varying competencies, yet remains a highly embodied and enactive endeavour. Therapist skill can be cultivated in this area and enhanced through a variety of body-mind trainings, including various forms of therapist personal practice. However, much clinical training/continued professional development centres on education workshops, emphasising knowledge above skill. Given this we present feasibility data f [...]

by Ana Valado  , Márcia Morais  , Stephanie Fortes  , Joana Rosado  , João Paulo Figueiredo  and Armando Caseiro

Received: 20 November 2023;  Published: 21 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402028

Hydrotherapy is highly recommended for older adults because it offers warmth and support, so people with pain or reduced mobility and balance can move and exercise more freely compared to regular physical activity. The high plasma antioxidant capacity of uric acid in neutralizing oxidative species and the importance of nitric oxide (NO) in vasodilation and inflammatory response are relevant in older adults. This work aimed to evaluate hydrotherapy's effect on uric acid and NO concentrations in a population aged ≥ 6 [...]

by Gerhard Litscher

Received: 14 May 2024;  Published: 15 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402027

Laser acupuncture, a rising complementary therapy, applies a low-intensity laser to acupuncture points, yet its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Proposed hypotheses include modulation of cellular signaling, tissue repair, and immune modulation. Laser acupuncture may stimulate energy flow, neurotransmitter release, cellular changes, immune regulation, and neuroendocrine activity. Additionally, the biophoton theory suggests an involvement of ultra-weak photon radiation from cells. Litscher et al. explore these m [...]

by Tracy O'Halloran  , Jennifer Symonds  and Linda Bhreathnach

Received: 02 November 2023;  Published: 11 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402026

This systematic review examined the impact of wellbeing interventions on the anxiety levels of children attending low-income schools. Studies, published between January 2000 and April 2022, were included if they had samples of school aged children attending low-income schools who were given a universal school-based wellbeing intervention. Ten databases were searched systematically to identify 542 records. After title and abstract screening, 43 records remained for full text screening, and of these studies, 10 met i [...]

by Alyssa M. Krueger  , Kelsey Smith  , Arielle Pollock  , Christine Dunkel Schetter  and Nicole E. Mahrer

Received: 24 December 2023;  Published: 30 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402025

Residential and nonresidential fathers are taking an increasingly greater role in their children’s lives, and father involvement predicts positive child outcomes across development. This study utilized data from a large sample of racially and ethnically diverse fathers of low to middle income (n = 1,112) to test if paternal stress is associated with lower father involvement in early infancy and whether perceived social support is protective. Exploratory analyses examined whether the effects of stress on father invo [...]

by A. Maya Kaye

Received: 14 October 2023;  Published: 27 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402024

Fueled by decreased state support, economic pressures, and a growing emphasis on academic capitalism, higher education in the United States faces significant challenges. These shifts have fostered fast-paced, competitive environments, impacting the quality and equity of faculty-student mentoring in graduate programs, particularly for Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), and first-generation students. This article proposes a novel framework, the compassion-focused mentoring conceptual model (CFM-CM), to addre [...]

by Tara Hickey  , Sarah Strohmaier  , Ellie Fossey  and Charlie Heriot-Maitland

Received: 21 December 2023;  Published: 25 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402023

In the compassion focused therapy (CFT) model of voice-hearing, a distressing relationship with voices is thought to be influenced by evolved threat-protection patterns, which are activated and attuned by socially threatening experiences, such as being harmed by others, as well being shamed, stigmatised, invalidated, and excluded. Therefore, the CFT approach is particularly interested in the role of voice-hearers’ relationships with others and self, as well as their social context of family/friends, professio [...]

by Gerhard Litscher

Received: 02 April 2024;  Published: 03 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402022

Acupuncture, as a promising complementary therapy for cancer patients, offers personalized symptom management and improved quality of life alongside conventional treatments. With its proven efficacy in alleviating chemotherapy-induced side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and pain, acupuncture stands as a holistic approach to cancer care. Tailored to individual needs and boasting a favorable safety profile, acupuncture addresses both physical symptoms and psychological distress, promoting resilience and quality of [...]

by James Hackley  , Alison Dixon  , Carol Royle  , Christopher Moss  , Richard Brown  and Tobyn Bell

Received: 29 January 2024;  Published: 27 March 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401021

Compassion-focused chairwork has become a recent focus of empirical investigation. This study extended this area of research by exploring how participants with depression experienced the ‘compassionate other’ imagery exercise enacted via chairwork methods. Eight individuals from primary care NHS mental health services were interviewed about their experience of the practice. The resultant data were analysed using interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA). Three group experiential themes were identified: care that [...]

by Munafò Jessica

Received: 16 October 2023;  Published: 20 March 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401020

Compassion focused therapy concepts and techniques are explored in the context of weight management efforts within community, specialist and surgical settings. Living at higher weights within a culture that over-values life at low weights can induce feelings of shame, self-loathing and hypercriticism. This article examines points at which individuals engaging in weight management may experience heightened distress and describes some of the ways that the model has been applied with this population. An outline of the [...]

by Ampere A. Tseng

Received: 21 January 2024;  Published: 13 March 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401019

The aim of this article is to provide a quantitative assessment of the correlation between heightened mindfulness and stress reduction among cancer patients and survivors who engaged in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) interventions. Utilizing data from eight studies, we conducted quantitative analyses to provide the effectiveness scores of MBSR interventions on mindfulness, assessed using the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), and stress symptoms, evaluated through standardized self-reported questi [...]

by Yiu Lin Wong  , Jialing Zhang  , Linda LD Zhong  , David Moher  and Zhaoxiang Bian

Received: 04 December 2023;  Published: 06 March 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401018

The modified Jade Wind-Barrier formula (MJWB) may prevent the common cold in the elderly with a Qi-deficiency Constitution. Previously, no controlled trial evidence existed to illuminate the concept of “preventive treatment of disease” as outlined in the constitution theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This theory distinctly suggests that enhancing the Qi-deficiency Constitution and modulating its functional state can prevent the occurrence of the common cold. This controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifie [...]

by Shelby Rubino  and Rodger K. Bufford

Received: 03 December 2023;  Published: 29 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401017

In 2019 the novel coronavirus spread quickly throughout the world. It was easily transmitted, resulting in a sudden increase in infection and death rates that overwhelmed hospitals. This sudden pandemic resulted in government and health officials mandating physical and social quarantines to decrease the spread of COVID-19. All these unexpected factors induced traumatic stress across the world. The impact of this trauma is seen to date, as many studies reported adverse mental health effects in an array of population [...]

by Toku Takahashi

Received: 28 August 2023;  Published: 27 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401016

In modern society, depression is one of the most common mental disorders. It is generally thought that depression is due to the disorders of neuronal circuits and chemical balance in the brain. Patients with depression often receive treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). However, recent studies suggest that the magnitude of benefit of pharmacological treatment is quite limited for these patients. Although recent studies propose acupuncture as a non-pharmacological approach to managing depre [...]

by Rotu Arientare Rume  , Oyovwi Mega Obukohwo  , Ohwin Peggy Ejiro  and Oyelere Abosede Oreoluwa

Received: 04 December 2023;  Published: 27 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401015

Regular physical activity has been proven to improve metabolism, slow aging, and decrease the likelihood of various health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. Hence, dancing was evaluated for its effects on cardiovascular, liver enzymes, and biochemical markers among healthy adults. Forty (40) healthy adults (20-40 years old) were chosen for the study, with an average age calculated. Those with certain health conditions or habits were not allowed to participate. Twenty (20) me [...]

by Ludek Fiala

Received: 25 August 2023;  Published: 18 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401014

This research focused on two age groups of men (under 40 and over 40 years) and their sexual function during the COVID-19 pandemic. Somatic examinations, including the measurement of hormone levels, were conducted on all patients. The subjects also completed two questionnaires and provided personal history data. The first questionnaire covered the evaluation of erectile function, while the second assessed psychosocial trauma and stress. The results in the first group (men under 40 years of age) showed a correlation [...]

by Thaninee Prasoppokakorn  , Supachaya Sriphoosanaphan  , Nutbordee Nalinthassanai  , Thitaporn Roongrawee  , Pongtorn Hanboonkunupakarn  , Pisit Tangkijvanich  and Rungsun Rerknimitr

Received: 08 December 2023;  Published: 02 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401013

Reports indicate that Andrographolide inhibits viral replication and reduces COVID-19 symptoms. This study aimed to determine Andrographolide's additional effect and safety in mild COVID-19 patients treated with favipiravir. A multicenter, open-labeled, randomized controlled trial was conducted from October 2021 to February 2022. The patients were randomized to receive a combination of Andrographolide and favipiravir or favipiravir monotherapy. The primary outcome was the occurrence rate of severe pneumonia. The se [...]

by Adam Resnick  , Alicia Bergman  , Rebecca Oberman  , Stephanie L. Taylor  , Emmeline Chuang  , Kelsey Cummings  and Evelyn T. Chang

Received: 20 December 2023;  Published: 31 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401012

The Veterans Health Administration (VA) offers complementary and integrative health (CIH) therapies to Veterans with chronic pain and opioid use disorder (OUD). While CIH therapies have known benefits for chronic pain, less research exists on its use for patients with OUD. In this qualitative study, we aimed to assess provider and patient perceptions of CIH therapies for Veterans with OUD. We interviewed 45 providers involved in OUD care and 17 Veterans with OUD from five VA medical centers as part of a larger mixe [...]

by Waqar Husain  , Farrukh Ijaz  , Muhammad Ahmad Husain  , Marwa Zulfiqar  and Javeria Khalique

Received: 20 December 2023;  Published: 23 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401011

The assessment of mental health and mental disorders has undergone extensive exploration within the field of psychology, resulting in various models and approaches. In addition to traditional ways like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, psychologists have proposed alternative perspectives for evaluating mental health. One such innovative approach is the psychosocial health model, which defines mental well-being as sexual, emotional, social, environmental, cognitive, religious, moral, and spi [...]

by Naylya Djumaeva  , Gulnara Akhundjanova  , Leyla Djumaeva  and Dilbar Urunova

Received: 08 October 2023;  Published: 16 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401010

Long COVID syndrome resulting from SARS-CoV-2 infection has a prevalence of 10%-35% in the population. Numerous studies of the disease are currently being conducted concerning the manifestations of long COVID syndrome; however, there are no data on the use of electroacupuncture diagnosis (EAV) and medicament testing (MT) in assessing this condition. The purpose of the study was to study the possibilities of diagnosing EAV to determine changes in the electrodermal activity of acupuncture points of the meridian test [...]

by James David Adams

Received: 22 August 2023;  Published: 11 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401009

Many websites are dedicated to educating the public about chronic pain and its management. The majority of these websites say there is no cure for chronic pain, but encourage patients to try exercise, diet, stress reduction and other techniques to decrease the severity of chronic pain. Patients are also taught to use oral or injected drugs to treat their chronic pain. This can be dangerous and leads to adverse events and death in some patients. The majority of these websites teach patients that chronic pain comes f [...]

by Stephanie Bryan  and Maryellen Hamilton

Received: 20 October 2023;  Published: 10 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401008

This paper provides an overview of gratitude as a concept and as a mind-body-spirit practice, impacting health and human functioning throughout the lifespan, that can be integrated into daily life to great benefit at no cost. Current society is rife with increases in stress, anxiety, depression, lifestyle-related diseases, and social isolation. The practice of gratitude and its interrelated pro-social, health-enhancing, resilience-building effects suggest that promoting gratitude from childhood through adulthood ma [...]

by Charlotte Grégoire  , Alexandra Paye  and Audrey Vanhaudenhuyse

Received: 16 October 2023;  Published: 09 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401007

Self-compassion consists of an attitude of self-support and self-benevolence. In the general population, increased self-compassion has been associated with well-being and decreased psychopathology. In oncology, higher self-compassion has also been linked with various benefits, such as lower emotional distress, fatigue, body-image disturbances, and sleep difficulties. Self-compassion also seems to foster treatment adherence. Various interventions based on self-compassion have recently been designed and tested in dif [...]

by Satchit Anand Saha  , Katelyn Ann Williams  , George Murphy  and Sandeep Ajoy Saha

Received: 24 September 2023;  Published: 09 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401006

Food insecurity and insufficient access to affordable nutrition have been associated with increased risk for the development of multiple chronic medical conditions, including cardiovascular disease. In this narrative review, we explore the association between food insecurity and the development of chronic medical conditions that confer increased cardiometabolic risk, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. We also identify the various barriers leading to food insecurity and lack of food literacy, with an emphasis on [...]

by OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine Editorial Office

Received: 04 January 2024;  Published: 05 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401005

Food insecurity and insufficient access to affordable nutrition have been associated with increased risk for the development of multiple chronic medical conditions, including cardiovascular disease. In this narrative review, we explore the association between food insecurity and the development of chronic medical conditions that confer increased cardiometabolic risk, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. We also identify the various barriers leading to food insecurity and lack of food literacy, with an emphasis on [...]

by Pamela Fox  , Gerald H. Burgess  and Chris Irons

Received: 18 February 2023;  Published: 05 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401004

The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between self-compassion and possible predictors of depressed mood in parents of people with eating disorders. A questionnaire design was conducted cross‐sectionally in a sample of 112 parents of people with eating disorders. Participants completed measures of depressed mood, experiences of entrapment, shame, guilt, self-criticism and self-compassion. Regression analyses showed entrapment and self-criticism to be mediators between the relationship of shame and d [...]

by Gerhard Litscher

Received: 02 January 2024;  Published: 04 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401003

Auricular medicine, an integral component of traditional medicine, has grown famous as a complementary and alternative Medicine (CAM) modality. Despite its widespread acceptance and anecdotal support, the scientific community grapples with multifaceted challenges that impede the establishment of a comprehensive empirical foundation for auricular medicine. This editorial critically assesses the current scientific landscape, delineating unresolved issues and scientific lacunae that demand rigorous investigation.

by Tamerah Nicole Hunt  , Kylie Roberts  , Megan Byrd  , Kaytlyn Johnson  and Christina Gipson

Received: 28 July 2023;  Published: 04 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401002

Current research shows that mindfulness and physical training programs have been shown to help reduce stress independently, however, limited research is available exploring the possible additive effects of implementing both training programs together [1, 2]. To test the feasibility and effectiveness of the Mind-Body Fitness program through a case-series pilot program, seven elementary school teachers completed a nine-week mindfulness and fitness program. The Perceived Stress Scale [3] was administered at three time [...]

by Antonella Sansone  , Peta Stapleton  , Alan Patching  and Zoe Lawrence

Received: 06 July 2023;  Published: 02 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401001

This feasibility study sought to investigate the impact of an online 9-session Prenatal Mindfulness Relationship-Based (PMRB) group treatment program upon maternal mental health (depression, anxiety, and stress), interoception, and mother-infant relationship during pregnancy and post-partum. The study was designed in two parts 1) a quantitative examination of pre, post-treatment and 10-12 weeks post-partum measures targeting 13 pregnant women from a non-clinical population and 2) a qualitative exploration of the sa [...]

by Maya K. Marom

Received: 16 October 2023;  Published: 21 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304062

It was March-April 2020. The first few weeks of the first COVID-19 pandemic lockdown had just begun. Anxiety levels were high, and being locked up at home was an unfamiliar and eerie situation. A music therapist sent her clients (elementary school children on the autism spectrum) daily videos of her dog, Robben, during his daily routines. She dubbed the dog as if he told the children a story about a tail-less cat. This endeavor resulted in a series of 27 storytelling episodes titled “Robben’s Pandemic Adventures”, [...]

by Olivia L. Pastore  , Michelle S. Fortier  , Leah J. Ferguson  and Shane N. Sweet

Received: 23 August 2023;  Published: 20 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304061

Self-compassion involves being touched by and open to one's own suffering, coupled with the desire to alleviate it and heal oneself with kindness. While self-compassion has gained significant attention in research, certain conceptual and methodological complexities have evolved over time and led to ambiguity surrounding the concept. As such, the overall purpose of this commentary was to highlight and discuss the different perspectives of self-compassion in the literature. We opted to centralize our focus primarily [...]

by Heather J. Leach  , Emma L. Gomes  , Mary C. Hidde  , Kate Lyden  , Angela D. Bryan  , Myles G. Cockburn  and Wells A. Messersmith

Received: 17 July 2023;  Published: 20 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304060

Physical activity (PA) after a colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis can improve physical function and quality of life and is associated with decreased mortality rates and longer disease-free survival. The accelerated use of videoconference technology during and following the COVID-19 pandemic offers an opportunity to explore the potential of a virtually supervised intervention to help survivors of CRC increase PA. A two-arm single blind pilot randomized controlled trial of individuals who had completed treatment for C [...]

by Ting-fen Lin  , Deanna Linville  , Rhonda N T Nese  , John Seeley  and Samantha Shune

Received: 21 June 2023;  Published: 19 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304059

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) impacts the physiological and psycho-emotional aspects of life. COPD-related secondary sequelae also synergistically interact with each other. For example, dyspnea affects the severity of breath, body functions, and the mind (e.g., anxiety, panic, fear). Such negative psycho-emotional states can further negatively impact the breath and the body (e.g., increased dyspnea). Given the breadth of the impact of COPD on multiple facets of health and well-being, it is essential [...]

by Matthew Whalley  and Deborah Lee

Received: 15 August 2023;  Published: 30 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304058

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often involves feeling-states of shame and self-loathing. Traditional exposure-based treatments, which are effective for fear-based PTSD, are sometimes limited in effectiveness when working with these emotional experiences: clients with high levels of shame, guilt, or disgust may experience ‘blocks’ in processing when attempting eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Developed to help people who suffer from pervasive shame and self-attack, compassion focused ther [...]

by Daphna Markman Zinemanas

Received: 09 November 2023;  Published: 29 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304057

The experience of painting during the COVID-19 period initiated this art-based autoethnographic account. The pandemic affected various fields of life; the discussion is thus pursued from a few interrelated points of view: of an individual coping with the COVID-19 crisis on a personal level, of a painter, of an art therapist, of an art therapy lecturer and supervisor, and an artist involved in community interventions. Artmaking and viewing artworks can enhance communication with the beholder and encourage others to [...]

by Eli Cwinn  , Tobyn Bell  and James Kirby

Received: 20 August 2023;  Published: 29 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304056

This paper reviews key theories underlying the interpersonal process in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and links these to purported mechanisms of action in CFT. The paper goes on to provide a concrete practice example of an exampled dialogue between a clinician and client and narrates the interpersonal processes and mechanisms of action in an attempt to elucidate how interpersonal processes can be leveraged to facilitate therapeutic change. In so doing, this paper seeks to advance scholarship on precise mechanism [...]

by Daicia Price  , Yatesha Robinson  , Hurley Riley  , Julie Ribaudo  , Chris Giang  , Todd I. Herrenkohl  and Alison L. Miller

Received: 21 March 2023;  Published: 21 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304055

Adverse and traumatic childhood experiences can have profound negative health and mental health consequences across the lifespan. Prevention and early intervention strategies to mitigate such impacts and foster resilience are essential, yet extant approaches often do not consider the systemic nature of trauma exposure, particularly among communities most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and historic disinvestment. Addressing the impacts of trauma early in life is critical in order to mitigate their long-term effec [...]

by Gerhard Litscher

Received: 19 November 2023;  Published: 20 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304054

In today's high-tech-driven times, traditional ways are getting a digital upgrade, and Chinese medicine is part of this change. Mixing ancient healing know-how with modern high technology has created digital Chinese medicine (DCM). It could change healthcare worldwide. This editorial aims to explore this new area and look at its possibilities, challenges, and how it might affect healthcare in the future. It lists some essential topics that need to be considered in the future within the digital transformation of Chi [...]

by Kazandra Lopez Hernandez  and John V. Rider

Received: 26 July 2023;  Published: 20 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304053

Chronic pain imposes significant personal and societal challenges. The concerning impact across all population levels has led to several federal agencies dedicating considerable efforts to developing clinically guiding recommendations to improve how chronic pain is addressed, specifically in primary care practice. These guidelines recognize and emphasize the importance of comprehensive evaluation, appropriate diagnosis, and treatment interventions that target multifactorial influences of pain for improved quality o [...]

by Darcy L. Harris

Received: 26 August 2023;  Published: 16 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304052

In the past several decades, new understandings about grief have emerged. In the same time frame, a substantial body of literature has explored the components of compassion and their potential application to various clinical contexts. Compassion evolved from caring motivation associated with the evolutionary challenges of reproduction that involved the necessary care for offspring. Grief also has an evolutionary background that is rooted in core aspects of attachment and the assumptive world construct. Compassion F [...]

by Saba Tanveer  , Ali Saad R. Alsubaie  , Rezzan Khan  , Hajra Ahmed  , Mahpara Safdar  , Zainab Bibi  , Sadaf Yousaf  , Bismillah Sehar  , Iftikhar Alam  , Aiman Hadayat  and Falak Zeb

Received: 31 May 2023;  Published: 15 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304051

Nutrition counseling may assist liver transplant patients in controlling weight gain, addressing micronutrient deficiencies, and maintaining metabolic status. This study aimed to determine the effect of nutritional counseling on nutritional status, liver profile, and serum electrolytes of liver transplant patients. In this case-control study, 100 patients were recruited from Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, who were potential liver transplant candidates. They were divided into two groups: a case group, who [...]

by Robert Capizzi  and Heather Mary Kempton

Received: 15 September 2022;  Published: 06 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304050

Relationships between nature connection, mindfulness and wellbeing have been observed through nature based therapeutic interventions, where mindfulness and nature appear to reciprocally influence each other in relation to wellbeing and is potentially consistent with attention restoration theory. However, previous studies have relied on examining nature based interventions rather than the role of nature connection in everyday lives. This investigation explored the relationship between nature connection, mindfulness, [...]

by Vsevolod Konstantinov  , Pavel Ustin  and Leonid Popov

Received: 18 July 2023;  Published: 01 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304049

The negative psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and the forced isolation of a large proportion of people worldwide have demonstrated the need to develop ways and technologies to reduce the effects of sudden threats of this type. The basis of any practical work to minimize the negative psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic associated with substance use is the monitoring and diagnosis of the psychological resources of the individual. The article aims to show the possibilities of predict [...]