What is Mind-Body Medicine?

Your mind is powerful. Inc. once stated that successful people create their reality wisely, using the power of the brain to create the outcomes they want in life. They truly believe they can achieve anything they set their mind to. But what about when it comes to our health?

What is Mind-Body Medicine?

Mind-body medicine (MBM) uses the power of thoughts and emotions to influence physical health. Mind-body medicine can improve brain function and is a foundational tool for healing, as it is reparative to the effects of chronic stress and psychological trauma. There are several mind-body practices including but not limited to: meditation, the pairing of breath with movement, intentions and affirmations, guided imagery, and breath work.

Breathing is foundational to relaxing, and it is crucial to be able to identify dysfunctional or problematic breathing, as well as guide clients through appropriate breathing exercises. These impactful techniques are not one-size-fits-all; they are determined and personalized by the client, in a client-centered environment. Integrating these practices into your own daily life will allow you to begin developing an understanding of the power of Mind-Body Medicine, and how to guide your clients in finding what works for them.

The 6 Branches of Functional Medicine Health Coaching

As a health coaching student at the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy (FMCA), you will learn the 6 Branches of our Health Coaching Certification Program: The Principles of Functional Medicine, The Principles of Functional Nutrition, Positive Psychology, Mind-Body Medicine, the Art & Science of Coaching, and the FMCA Career Navigator. We are the only program designed in collaboration with The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), which means you will graduate with the ability to “speak the language of Functional Medicine” with IFM practitioners.

As a student at FMCA, you will learn mind-body techniques from leading experts such as James Gordon, MD, and Dr. Sandra Scheinbaum, PhD, Founder and CEO of FMCA.

What are mind-body techniques?

The key to any mind-body technique is to train the mind to focus on the body without distraction. In this state of focused concentration, a person may be able to improve their health. Some of the most commonly used techniques can also be found in Artificial Intelligence (AI) devices. Some examples of mind-body techniques include:

With biofeedback, you can learn how to control certain bodily processes that normally occur involuntarily, such as heart rate or blood pressure. These processes are measured and monitored so that we can gain a better understanding of the internal workings of the body, and take control over these involuntary activities. Biofeedback has been effective for several conditions, but it is most often used to treat tension headaches, migraine headaches, and chronic pain.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), founded by the late Dr. Aaron Beck, can be used to help people recognize and change harmful thoughts, such as people with phobias or those who suffer from depression. CBT techniques can help others learn to counter negative thoughts and feelings with positive ones.

With these mind-body techniques and more, Functional Medicine Certified Health Coaches (FMCHC) can meet clients where they are, and help facilitate transformational change! Explore how you can start a transformation through Functional Medicine Health Coaching.

Become a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach, or find a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach to work with!