A new paradigm in medicine: the quantum mechanical body
Article Abstract:
A paradigm is an overall structural concept accepted by most people in an intellectual community because of its effectiveness in explaining a complex process, idea, or set of data. In an attempt to introduce a new medical paradigm called the ''quantum mechanical body,'' Dr. Deepak Chopra addressed the 13th annual American Holistic Medical Association conference in Seattle, Washington in March 1990. In this address, Dr. Chopra first discusses the mechanics of perception, to emphasize that our current view of the human body is obsolete. Research has shown that perception becomes structured in our physiology; we make a commitment in our mind/body according to our early experiences, which limit our perceptual abilities. That is, our sensory apparatus and nervous system connections develop according to our interpretations of our initial sensory experiences. Later, the nervous system interprets new information within the context of this learned reality. In psychology this is called ''premature cognitive commitment.'' Today our entire system of logic is based on materialism, in that we assume that the world is made up of matter and experiences separated by space and time. Unfortunately, this causes us to screen out all stimuli that do not reinforce what we already believe to be true, eliminating other possibilities. According to the theories of quantum physics, on the other hand, the atom is not a solid entity, and matter is constructed from atomic ''particles'' capable of moving at the speed of light. The space in which all this energy transfer occurs goes unseen by the physician, and as a result the origins of disease are often misunderstood. Antibiotics, coronary artery bypass surgery, and chemotherapy all treat the end result of the current medical paradigm. In Ayurveda, a traditional Hindu system of medicine practiced in India since the first century, the body is seen more as an intelligent river of continuous change than a solid body. It acknowledges the void in which matter exists, and conceives of it as a field of information. Neuropeptides, which are involved in nerve signal transmission, have been described as the biochemical equivalent of thought. Ideas transform into these molecules which then communicate through the cells of the body, confirming that all organs are in some ways thinking organs. Thus, the concept of mind is no longer confined to the brain, nor in fact even to the body. Understanding a new ''quantum'' healing model will foster the use of new therapeutic modalities, ones which will enable us to restructure our ''premature cognitive commitment'' and allow us emancipation into infinite choice and possibility. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Holistic Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0884-3988
Year: 1990
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How to reclaim your body
Article Abstract:
Once pregnancy is over, many women find that they are ill-prepared to turn their attention to the emotional and physical intensity of the recovery of their bodies. Comparing notes with other mothers, helps a mother sort out her own feelings. Tips are given on regaining physical and emotional health.
Publication Name: Weight Watchers Magazine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0043-2180
Year: 1998
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Cultural practices in Ghana
Article Abstract:
Some cultural practices in Ghana threaten the health of pregnant women and their babies. Female genital mutilation can cause scarring and complications during delivery, while restrictions on diets can cause nutritional problems.
Publication Name: World Health
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0043-8502
Year: 1997
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