Dr. David Lai, Psychologist

Interesting article about the mind-body connection as expressed by our immune system. Meditation might not only change DNA structurally but DNA functionality (i.e., how genes are expressed). For example, meditation was linked to enhanced expression of genes associated with insulting secretion, telomere structure, and cellular energy and function, and decreased expression of genes linked to inflammation and stress.

I made a presentation to a group of doctors this week. The purpose of the presentation was to talk about how psychotherapy can help in a medical setting.

In preparation for the talk, I did a literature review which confirmed my intuition and personal experience that psychotherapy is a tremendous help to the well-being of medical patients. Several articles I read confirm that psychotherapy and anti-depressants are equally effective. While anti-depressants work more quickly, they have many side effects (e.g., headaches, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, suicide, etc.).

In the end, psychotherapy reduces medical costs by lowering unnecessary medical visits and procedures. On top of that, people live happier, more balanced lives. Yay for psychotherapy!

Tonight at the Buddhist Sangha, I was struck by one of the suggestions of our teacher. Try living one day as a guest to the world. Look at your food, shelter, activities and entertainment as gifts provided generously by your world. See if the shift of perspective creates a sense of gratitude and lowers your str...ess level when things don't go quite like you want.