Meaning and Medicine: A Doctor's Tales of Breakthrough and Healing

While the past decade has brought a flood of self-help medical books to the market, this collection of healing stories offers specific and convincing examples that the mind-set of patients has great impact on their physical well-being. ``Meaning is being,'' Dossey ( Beyond Illness ) states in his introduction, arguing that the significance we give to events in our lives and to our existence itself affects our body's health. Pointing out that more heart attacks happen on Mondays at 9 a.m. than any other time of the week, he also supports his thesis with numerous case histories. Decrying the ``man as machine'' approach often promulgated in medical school, Dossey urges doctors and patients alike to recognize the spiritual component of healing, while pressing for such practical reforms as making hospital environments more pleasant. His study will prove valuable for professional and lay readers alike. (Nov.)