Holistic Health and Healing

Edited By Mary Anne Bright. Philadelphia: F.A Davis Company. $24.00. ISBN: 0-963819-6-3. 322 pages.

Healthcare consumers are demonstrating a growing interest in the use of complementary and alternative modalities (CAM). In this concise and easy-to-read text, several experts provide an overview for a conceptual framework of holistic nursing care, along with evidence-based specifics on the most widely used Western and Eastern modalities or therapies. The text is divided into 4 well-organized units and begins with perspectives on "health as wholeness," which includes chapters on the bioenergetic basis of health, the psychophysiology of mind-body healing, and cultural and global health issues. Using case studies and historical background, unit two provides discussion on holistic healing modalities, including meditation, imagery, nutrition, herbs, therapeutic massage, and therapeutic touch. An extensive reference list is included as each modality is described, along with theoretical basics, scope of use, and the latest research. Unit three provides this same comprehensive discussion of naturopathic medicine, homeopathic medicine, anthroposophic medicine, osteopathy, chiropractic, and holistic dentistry as does the final unit, entitled Traditional Healing Systems, with descriptions of Chinese medicine, ayurveda, yoga, and tai chi.

In the Preface, Mary Anne Bright sets forth that: "The text is intended for use in college nursing and health courses, and as a resource for practicing professional nurses and health care providers. It is a source book for all health care professionals who want to ensure that their clinical practice is current and responsive to the influences of the burgeoning CAM movement, while also creating a holistic relational environment that supports healing." Bright has successfully gathered her authors and woven a text that meets her intended purpose. Advanced practice nurses and other healthcare providers will find this text a useful reference in dealing with clients who are considering or already using CAM.