Symposium speakers connect body, mind, spirit

On Friday, Oct. 26, internationally renowned mind and body medical experts and authors Larry Dossey, M.D. and Barbara Dossey, R.N., Ph.D., spoke on "Recovering the Soul: The Role of Spirituality in Medicine," and "The Healing Environment: What Do We Mean?" at the first Edward R. Heil Symposium: Connecting the Body, Mind and Spirit. The College of Health Professions and Sinai-Grace Hospital hosted the event.

The Edward R. Heil Symposium speakers and sponsors: (from left) Sinai-Grace Hospital President Conrad Mallett, Barbara Dossey, CHP Dean Suzanne Mellon, Rhea Heil and Larry Dossey, M.D.

Barbara Dossey's statement, "Healing is a lifelong journey into wholeness. Becoming healed involves learning to trust life," is at the center of her philosophy. Larry Dossey looks at new approaches to healing, and believes "We are in the process of rethinking some of the most ingrained fundamental assumptions in modern medicine."

Both authors discussed how caring for the interaction of body, mind and spirit could encourage optimal healing. The Dosseys also examined how ancient health care concepts can still be utilized today, both in patient care and daily living. Barbara Dossey focused on the integration of body and spirit, while highlighting the life of Florence Nightingale. Larry Dossey emphasized the spiritual side of healing in his talk.

Approximately 140 participants attended the half-day conference, including physicians, nurses, clergy and spiritual care providers, as well as social workers and health care students. The symposium was created by Rhea Heil to honor her late husband Dr. Edward R. Heil, and his commitment to outstanding compassionate patient care.

According to Heil, "The symposium's theme reflects Ed's approach to medicine with the caring dedication to integrated health, combined with my spiritual tolerance and diversity awareness."

Read more on the presentations by Barbara Dossey and Larry Dossey.