Video: Mind and Health Seminar by Larry Berkelhammer, PhD at UCSF Medical Center

Discussion of the power of the mind to improve physiological functioning, subjective well-being, and health. Case studies were presented to offer specific examples of instances where the power of the mind dramatically influenced positive health outcomes.

This talk will include stories of people who have recovered unexpectedly from chronic and life-threatening diseases, and what they did that may have played a role in their unexpected recoveries. What a large percentage of those people had in common was that they had used the diagnosis to motivate them to make important changes in the way they lived their lives. They ended bad relationships, resigned from unhealthy work environments, took the time to do what they had previously only dreamed of doing. Most importantly, they engaged in behaviors that are consistently associated with health and well-being. Examples include mindfulness, acceptance, gratitude, meaning and purpose, identifying and living by personal life values, the incredible power of choice, the concept of loving self-care, authentic self-expression, social support, altruism, and humor. This talk is intended to inspire participants to take action to improve their lives now, before it is too late.