O U R T H O U G H T S
There are some things that are beyond explanation. My latest conversation with my scientist friend on this grey area reminded me of the upcoming event that we are planning. During a discussion between Sam, Trevor and I about designing a new retreat a few months ago, we were stuck at how we will pitch it.
On one side, we tried to promote the evidence-based health benefits of the retreat. However, on the other side some of us believe that although the scientific proof is important, there is a school of thought that certain foods, singing bowls, and yoga can improve morale and overcome anxiety albeit some of these approaches are unproven.
In the grey area, scientists can explain why a sugar pill is working very well in some patients (placebo effect), why anxiety can cause physical diseases (effects of stress, hormones, nutritional imbalances etc), why hugs and emotional support help (release of oxytocin etc), why positive thinking helps (similar reasons to some of the above).
The effects are beneficial for health and reducing the effects of anxiety, but the mechanisms behind them are not always what the practitioner believes.
