From Gail: ACN member Barbara Stern shared an email with me about "Lifestyle Medicine" including information from Dr. Dean Ornish, considered the "father" of Lifestyle Medicine. I read the note (included below) and saw a link to view the free introductory video. I have been following Dr. Ornish for some time and link his work on reversing heart disease so decided to watch the video. Although no one interviewed mentions ACEs, they talk about getting to the root causes of many behaviors which are leading to chronic diseases of today and how those behaviors are working to sooth "root causes that come from the past - thoughts, feelings and experiences that we do not want to feel (ACEs!). Lots of talk about self healing/resilience building practices in simple and empowering terms. I highly recommend watching it!
Dr. Ornish’s program includes 4 components:
- Diet (mostly plant-based diet)
- Fitness (yoga, walking or other moderate type of exercise)
- Stress Management (yoga and mindfulness)
- Social Support (increase connection and love)
It is clear now that what we eat, how we exercise, how we deal with stress and how much love and support we feel in our life is affecting our health. Lifestyle Medicine is addressing exactly these issues. By treating the root-cause and making comprehensive lifestyle modifications we can not only stop most chronic health issues but even reverse them.
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