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Open Access

ISSN 2573-4393

© 2023 by the authors; CC BY 4.0 licence

OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine , Volume 8 , Issue 4 (2023)

Pages: 395

Published: January 2024

(This book is a printed edition that was published in OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine)

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Cover story: COPD-related dyspnea impacts the physiological and psychosocial aspects of an individual. Yet, management rarely targets both. Therefore, we aimed to explore a holistic, evidence-based, breathing-based meditation program, Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY), on dyspnea management in COPD, using a mixed-methods approach. This work lays the foundation for understanding the psycho-physiological aspects of disability in COPD and can lead to novel explorations into holistic management to improve health and quality of life. View this paper.

Volume 8,Issue 4

Open Access Research Article

A Tail Within a Tale, Within a Tale: An Autoethnographic Account for Dog Lovers, Cat Lovers, and Story Lovers

Received: 16 October 2023;  Published: 21 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304062

Abstract

It was March-April 2020. The first few weeks of the first COVID-19 pandemic lockdown had just begun. Anxiety levels were high, and being locked up at home was an unfamiliar and eerie situation. A music therapist sent her clients (elementary school children on the autism spectrum) daily videos of her dog, Robben, during his daily routines. She dubbed the dog as if he told the children a story about a tail-less cat. This endeavor resulted in a series of 27 storytelling episodes titled “Robben’s Pa [...]

Open Access Commentary

Evolving Conceptualizations: A Commentary on the Varying Perspectives of Self-Compassion in Western Psychology

Received: 23 August 2023;  Published: 20 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304061

Abstract

Self-compassion involves being touched by and open to one’s own suffering, coupled with the desire to alleviate it and heal oneself with kindness. While self-compassion has gained significant attention in research, certain conceptual and methodological complexities have evolved over time and led to ambiguity surrounding the concept. As such, the overall purpose of this commentary was to highlight and discuss the different perspectives of self-compassion in the literature [...]

Open Access Original Research

A Videoconference Physical Activity Intervention for Colorectal Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Received: 17 July 2023;  Published: 20 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304060

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) after a colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis can improve physical function and quality of life and is associated with decreased mortality rates and longer disease-free survival. The accelerated use of videoconference technology during and following the COVID-19 pandemic offers an opportunity to explore the potential of a virtually supervised intervention to help survivors of CRC increase PA. A two-arm single blind pilot randomized controlled trial of individuals who had compl [...]

Open Access Research Article

Breathing-Based Meditation for Improving COPD Burden: A Mixed Single-Case and Qualitative Approach

Received: 21 June 2023;  Published: 19 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304059

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) impacts the physiological and psycho-emotional aspects of life. COPD-related secondary sequelae also synergistically interact with each other. For example, dyspnea affects the severity of breath, body functions, and the mind (e.g., anxiety, panic, fear). Such negative psycho-emotional states can further negatively impact the breath and the body (e.g., increased dyspnea). Given the breadth of the impact of COPD on multiple facets of health and well-bei [...]

Open Access Technical Note

Integrating Compassion into EMDR for PTSD

Received: 15 August 2023;  Published: 30 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304058

Abstract

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often involves feeling-states of shame and self-loathing. Traditional exposure-based treatments, which are effective for fear-based PTSD, are sometimes limited in effectiveness when working with these emotional experiences: clients with high levels of shame, guilt, or disgust may experience ‘blocks’ in processing when attempting eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Developed to help people who suffer from pervasive shame and self-attack, com [...]

Open Access Original Research

Creating through COVID-19 - An Art-Based Autoethnographic Account

Received: 09 November 2023;  Published: 29 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304057

Abstract

The experience of painting during the COVID-19 period initiated this art-based autoethnographic account. The pandemic affected various fields of life; the discussion is thus pursued from a few interrelated points of view: of an individual coping with the COVID-19 crisis on a personal level, of a painter, of an art therapist, of an art therapy lecturer and supervisor, and an artist involved in community interventions. Artmaking and viewing artworks can enhance communication with the beholder and [...]

Open Access Concept Paper

Theory and Interpersonal Processes in Compassion Focused Therapy

Received: 20 August 2023;  Published: 29 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304056

Abstract

This paper reviews key theories underlying the interpersonal process in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and links these to purported mechanisms of action in CFT. The paper goes on to provide a concrete practice example of an exampled dialogue between a clinician and client and narrates the interpersonal processes and mechanisms of action in an attempt to elucidate how interpersonal processes can be leveraged to facilitate therapeutic change. In so doing, this paper seeks to advance scholarship [...]

Open Access Research Article

Start Early: Providing Trauma-Informed, Systems-Focused Professional Development in Early Childhood Development and Learning Contexts

Received: 21 March 2023;  Published: 21 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304055

Abstract

Adverse and traumatic childhood experiences can have profound negative health and mental health consequences across the lifespan. Prevention and early intervention strategies to mitigate such impacts and foster resilience are essential, yet extant approaches often do not consider the systemic nature of trauma exposure, particularly among communities most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and historic disinvestment. Addressing the impacts of trauma early in life is critical in order to mitigate t [...]

Open Access Editorial

‘Digital Chinese Medicine (DCM)’: From Acupuncture to Algorithms and the Digital Transformation of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Received: 19 November 2023;  Published: 20 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304054

Abstract

In today's high-tech-driven times, traditional ways are getting a digital upgrade, and Chinese medicine is part of this change. Mixing ancient healing know-how with modern high technology has created digital Chinese medicine (DCM). It could change healthcare worldwide. This editorial aims to explore this new area and look at its possibilities, challenges, and how it might affect healthcare in the future. It lists some essential topics that need to be considered in the future within t [...]

Open Access Concept Paper

Empowering Patients, Enriching Outcomes: An Integrative and Occupational Approach to Addressing Chronic Pain in Primary Care

Received: 26 July 2023;  Published: 20 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304053

Abstract

Concept PaperEmpowering Patients, Enriching Outcomes: An Integrative and Occupational Approach to Addressing Chronic Pain in Primary CareKazandra Lopez Hernandez *, John V. Rider School of Occupational Therapy, Touro University Nevada, 874 American Pacific Dr., Henderson, NV, USA; E-Mails: kazandralopezhernandez@gmail.com;

Open Access Concept Paper

An Exploration of Compassion Focused Therapy for Grieving Individuals

Received: 26 August 2023;  Published: 16 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304052

Abstract

In the past several decades, new understandings about grief have emerged. In the same time frame, a substantial body of literature has explored the components of compassion and their potential application to various clinical contexts. Compassion evolved from caring motivation associated with the evolutionary challenges of reproduction t [...]

Open Access Original Research

Nutritional Counseling Improves the Nutritional Status, Liver Function, and Serum Electrolytes of Patients with Liver Transplantation

Received: 31 May 2023;  Published: 15 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304051

Abstract

Nutrition counseling may assist liver transplant patients in controlling weight gain, addressing micronutrient deficiencies, and maintaining metabolic status. This study aimed to determine the effect of nutritional counseling on nutritional status, liver profile, and serum electrolytes of liver transplant patients. In this case-control study, 100 patients were recruited from Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, who were potential liver transplant candidates. They were di [...]

Open Access Original Research

Nature Connection, Mindfulness, and Wellbeing: A Network Analysis

Received: 15 September 2022;  Published: 06 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304050

Abstract

Relationships between nature connection, mindfulness and wellbeing have been observed through nature based therapeutic interventions, where mindfulness and nature appear to reciprocally influence each other in relation to wellbeing and is potentially consistent with attention restoration theory. However, previous studies have relied on examining nature based interventions rather than the role of nature connection in everyday lives. This investigation explored the relationship between [...]

Open Access Research Article

Possibilities of Predicting a Person's Substance Use Behaviour and Mental Health Through Social Media in a COVID-19 Crisis Context

Received: 18 July 2023;  Published: 01 November 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304049

Abstract

The negative psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and the forced isolation of a large proportion of people worldwide have demonstrated the need to develop ways and technologies to reduce the effects of sudden threats of this type. The basis of any practical work to minimize the negative psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic associated with substance use is the monitoring and diagnosis of the psychological resources of the individual. The article aims to show the poss [...]

Open Access Research Article

Sleep Quality, Sleep Efficiency, and Perceived Stress after Synchronous Virtual Mindfulness Meditation Sessions for Higher Education Students

Received: 09 August 2023;  Published: 30 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304048

Abstract

This study examined the effects of virtual mindfulness meditation programming on sleep efficiency using wearable tracking devices, as well as effects on sleep quality and perceived stress in higher education students. A one-group, pretest-posttest design with convenience sampling and rolling recruitment over a six-month period resulted in twenty-five participants who completed the study and were included in data analysis. Paired t-tests w [...]

Open Access Conference Report

Report from the 11th International Symposium on Auriculotherapy Held in Copenhagen, 8-10 September 2023 - Auriculotherapy meets the field of Psychology

Received: 25 October 2023;  Published: 26 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304047

Open Access Editorial

Welcoming the “Metaverse” in Integrative and Complementary Medicine: Introductory Overview

Received: 17 October 2023;  Published: 25 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304046

Abstract

The digital transformation of healthcare is accelerating. At the forefront of this revolution is the development of the "metaverse." This multidimensional digital universe, where virtual and physical realities converge, is reshaping the potential of integrative and complementary medicine. In this special edition journal series, we explore how metaverse technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, avatars, digital twins, blockchain smart contracts, and more, are poised to re [...]

Open Access Research Article

Alone within the ALONESS of Covid-19: Developing Contemplative, Artistic Inner Friendship for Turbulent Times

Received: 27 March 2023;  Published: 25 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304045

Abstract

Art therapy, imaginal mindfulness, yoga, and meditation were personal and collegial necessities for surviving the emotional fallout of isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic. Combining these practices offered us credible resources for enhancing our social, cultural, and spiritual wellness when faced with the loneliness of lockdown living. This article applies an autoethnographic lens highlighting the value of these contemplative tools for managing pandemic related distress within mys [...]

Open Access Original Research

The Exploration of the Experience of Expressive Therapies in a Pediatric Medical Setting in the COVID-19 Pandemic through Arts-Based Research

Received: 03 June 2023;  Published: 24 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304044

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic presented a host of issues for hospitalized patients including increased anxiety, fear, isolation, and depression [1]. Expressive Therapies have been used in the pediatric medical setting for decades to support patients and families with coping, expression, processing, and rehabilitation [2-5]. Additionally, some studies suggest that Expressive Therapies were effective in helping ease the increase in mental health symptoms that occurred during the pandemic. During the pande [...]

Open Access Case Report

Using Hypnotic Techniques and Guided Imagery in Treatment of a Highly Hypnosible Woman with Slowly Progressing Chronic Organic Brain Disorder: A Case Study

Received: 25 May 2023;  Published: 20 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304043

Abstract

A therapeutic intervention combines guided imagery and hypnotic techniques (including self-hypnosis), direct and indirect suggestions, medical treatments, and highly improving patient condition. A variety of hypnotic intervention techniques were introduced to treat a highly hypnotizable patient suffering from an advanced organic brain disorder due to an autoimmune disease and resistant to traditional medicine, showing no improvement despite being highly motivated and cooperating with conventiona [...]

Open Access Review

Coping with Burnout in the Healthcare Field

Received: 27 July 2023;  Published: 13 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304042

Abstract

The healthcare industry is the largest and fastest growing industry in the world; however, being a part of the healthcare system involves being at an increased risk of experiencing mental health problems, loneliness, stress, and increased susceptibility to experiencing compassion fatigue related to the emotional wear associated with providing patient-centered care. Healthcare workers include, but are not limited, to physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, and psychologists. [...]

Open Access Original Research

‘It’s Nice for My Body but I Don’t Like It’ – Experiences of Soothing Rhythm Breathing in Clients with Depression

Received: 25 August 2023;  Published: 11 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304041

Abstract

Soothing-rhythm breathing (SRB) is a core component of compassion focused therapy (CFT). While integral to CFT, research has yet to explore personal experiences of SRB. This study aimed to explore the experiences of individuals with depression who had practiced SRB in NHS primary care services. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used to analyse data from individual semi-structured interviews. Three experiential themes were identified: ‘mind-body connection and bodily [...]

Open Access Original Research

Maximizing the Benefit of Respite for Dementia Caregivers: A Study Protocol Describing the Development & Evaluation of the Time for Living & Caring (TLC) Intervention

Received: 15 June 2023;  Published: 08 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304040

Abstract

Dementia caregivers are susceptible to adverse physical and mental health outcomes, given the often prolonged and challenging care and support they provide to family members with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). This report describes a community-engaged implementation of a novel behavioral intervention - an “app” (interactive website) called TLC (Time for Living and Caring) that coaches caregivers on how to maximize the benefits associated with respite time. The rationale and fe [...]
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