Course Details

The article "Importance of Psychoneuroimmunology-Based Relaxation Therapy in 21st Century Mental Healthcare" by Judy Lovas highlights the significance of integrating relaxation therapies such as diaphragmatic breathing, guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and tai chi into modern healthcare. These non-pharmacological, cost-effective techniques have been shown to mitigate the negative impacts of chronic stress on both mental and physical health. Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI), the interdisciplinary science studying the interaction between the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, underscores the connection between psychological processes and immune responses. Research has demonstrated that relaxation techniques can influence cellular, molecular, and genetic changes, leading to reduced stress, improved parasympathetic responses, and overall enhanced health outcomes. Lovas emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to adopt relaxation therapies to promote better mental and physical well-being, supported by cutting-edge evidence from PNI.

  • Understand the fundamentals of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) and its relevance in modern healthcare.

  • Identify the different types of relaxation therapies and their benefits for mental and physical health.

  • Explain how chronic stress negatively impacts the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.

  • Evaluate the scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of relaxation techniques in reducing stress and improving health outcomes.

  • Discuss the role of the parasympathetic nervous system in relaxation and how it can be stimulated through specific techniques.

  • Explore the clinical applications of PNI-based relaxation therapies in various healthcare settings, including mental health, aged care, and neurological rehabilitation.

Course curriculum

    1. Interview with Dr Judy Lovas

    1. Importance of Psychoneuroimmunology-based Relaxation Therapy in 21st century mental healthcare by Judy Lovas

    2. PNI Relaxation Therapy Quiz

    3. Certificate