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Changing Brains, Changing Lives: Researching The Lived Experience Of Individuals Practicing Self-Directed Neuroplasticity, Tim Klein, Beth Kendall, Theresa Tougas May 2019

Changing Brains, Changing Lives: Researching The Lived Experience Of Individuals Practicing Self-Directed Neuroplasticity, Tim Klein, Beth Kendall, Theresa Tougas

Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies Research Papers

Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to change and adapt both structure and function in response to sensory experiences. Self-directed neuroplasticity (SDN) specifically addresses the capacity to proactively modify cerebral function through volitional control and the intentional practice of focusing attention in desired ways. In other words, the mind can consciously change the brain. Self-directed neuroplasticity (SDN) approaches are successfully used to treat a range of challenges such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, and emotional response regulation. However, no research describes the lived experiences of individuals practicing SDN across multiple modalities. Using semi-structured, in-depth interviews, this phenomenological inquiry describes the …


The Relationship Between Fermented Foods And Depression: A Systematic Review, M. Beth Hanssens, Susan Patterson, Cathy Wagner May 2019

The Relationship Between Fermented Foods And Depression: A Systematic Review, M. Beth Hanssens, Susan Patterson, Cathy Wagner

Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies Research Papers

Depression is a global health issue that is socially and economically expensive. The gut microbiome influences depression, and fermented foods contain bacteria that contribute to the ecology of the gut microbiome. We performed a systematic review of clinical research that examines the relationship between fermented food and depression by conducting an electronic search of four academic databases using the search terms fermented, fermented foods, fermentation, and depression. The inclusion criteria are: inpatient, outpatient, and community settings; human participants age 5-110 years old; any diagnosis of depression; daily ingestion of fermented foods regardless of ingredients; written in English; published full text …


Interviews With Energy Healers: Perspectives On Trauma And Practice, Dawn Ebeling, Allison Runchey May 2019

Interviews With Energy Healers: Perspectives On Trauma And Practice, Dawn Ebeling, Allison Runchey

Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies Research Papers

Healing from trauma is a complex process, and current recommendations include working with the body. Energy healing (EH) is a holistic health practice using light or near-body touch to balance the body’s energy system. Research indicates EH reduces trauma associated symptoms. The pervasiveness of trauma makes it probable EH practitioners encounter trauma survivors. We interviewed 12 EH practitioners in a metropolitan area to describe perspectives on trauma and practice, initiating action research through information gathering and interpretation. Results of descriptive and conceptual analysis show in several ways EH practitioner’s perspectives and practices align with a trauma-informed approach even with little …