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Dr. Herbert Benson - Motivational Quotes & Biography
(on the Relaxation Response)

 

"...is a physical state of deep rest that changes the physical and emotional responses to stress and the opposite of the fight or flight response."

"...is a scientifically measurable state characterized by decreased metabolism, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure."

"...can be elicited by a variety of different techniques including deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation."

"...can be used to treat a variety of different conditions including anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain."

"...has been found to improve immune function, decrease inflammation, and lower cortisol levels."

"...is not simply a matter of being inactive, but rather an active process that involves focusing attention and allowing oneself to let go of stress."

"...can help to counteract the harmful effects of stress on the body and mind."

"...is a natural and innate mechanism that everyone possesses, but which can be strengthened and developed with practice."

"...can be thought of as the body's natural antidote to the stress response."

"...can be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy or medical treatments to enhance their effectiveness."

"...is not limited to specific techniques or practices, but can be achieved through a variety of different methods."

"...can be used as a tool for self-care and stress management in daily life."

"...can be learned and practiced by anyone, regardless of age, gender, or health status."

"...can help to improve sleep quality and quantity."

"...can help to increase feelings of calm and wellbeing."

"...can help to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety."

"...is a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their overall health and wellbeing."

"...can be used to enhance performance in sports, academics, and other areas of life."

"...can help to improve digestion and reduce symptoms of digestive disorders."

"It is the capacity to have an effect on the functioning of the body through the power of thought alone, and the techniques we use to harness that ability, that will one day make religious medicine a complement to, rather than a substitute for, scientific medicine."

"...is a physical state of deep rest that changes the physical and emotional responses to stress... and the opposite of the fight or flight response."

"At its most basic level, meditation is the means whereby we can take charge of our own nervous system and our own lives."

"Faith can be dangerous if beliefs are not open to being questioned. It is important to be open to doubt and questioning, especially in matters of the highest importance, such as the nature of the mind and the universe."

"Every time you have a negative thought, replace it with one that is positive or neutral. It is impossible to have two thoughts in your mind at the same time."

"The power of suggestion is enormous. We are constantly being bombarded with suggestions from the world around us, and our own thoughts and beliefs can be the most powerful of all."

"The ability to quiet the mind is an essential aspect of mental health and well-being."

"Relaxation response is an acquired skill. It is not something that happens to you, but rather something you learn to do."

"...is a way of tapping into the body's natural healing processes, which are designed to counteract the effects of stress."

"The benefits of relaxation response techniques are numerous and include a reduction in anxiety and depression, improved immune system function, and improved overall physical health and well-being."

"Relaxation response techniques can be practiced by anyone, regardless of age, gender, or physical ability."

 

 

Dr Herbert Benson – Pioneer of Mind-Body Medicine

Dr Herbert Benson is a renowned American medical doctor, cardiologist, and professor at Harvard Medical School. He is also the founder of the Mind/Body Medical Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. 

He is best known for his research and contributions in the field of mind-body medicine and the relaxation response, which has helped many people overcome various ailments and stress-related disorders.

Born in 1935 in New York City, he grew up in an Orthodox Jewish family in New York City. He studied biology at Wesleyan University and received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School in 1961.

His groundbreaking work on the relaxation response began in the 1960s when he started researching the benefits of Transcendental Meditation. He discovered that Transcendental Meditation could lower blood pressure and reduce stress and anxiety. He went on to explore other techniques, such as yoga, deep breathing, and visualization, and found that they too could elicit the relaxation response.

His research on the relaxation response led him to develop the concept of mind-body medicine, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body and the importance of incorporating both into medical treatment. 

He also founded the Mind/Body Medical Institute, where he and his colleagues have conducted extensive research on mind-body medicine and the relaxation response.

He has authored or co-authored over 190 scientific publications and 12 books, including his best-known book, "The Relaxation Response," which has sold over 4 million copies worldwide. His other works include "Timeless Healing," "The Breakout Principle," and "The Harvard Medical School Guide to Lowering Your Blood Pressure."

He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 2005, he was awarded the American Psychosomatic Society's Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contributions to mind-body medicine. 

He has also been awarded honorary degrees from several institutions, including Harvard University and the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

His legacy and impact on the field of mind-body medicine are immeasurable. He has inspired and trained countless medical professionals and people to incorporate mind-body techniques into their daily lives and medical practices. His work has helped establish mind-body medicine as a legitimate and effective approach to health and wellness.

Bibliography:

(1996). Timeless healing: The power and biology of belief
(2000). The relaxation response: Therapeutic effect.
(2010). Relaxation revolution: Enhancing your personal health through the science and genetics of mind body healing.
(2013). Mind-body medicine: A Clinician's guide to psychoneuroimmunology.
(2018). The Breakout Principle.

 

 

 

 

 

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