[21. The Mind-Body Effect] 21. The Mind-Body Effect An increasing number of scientists now contend1 that the body's healing system2 and its belief system 3 are closely related. That is why hope, faith4, and the will to live can be vital5 factors in the war against disease. One crucial factor that influences the system of belief and healing is the attitude of the physician. One of a doctor's main functions is to engage to the fullest6 the patient's own ability to mobilize7 the forces of mind and body in turning back8 disease. The patient's belief in the judgment and healing power of the physician is often more important than the treatment itself. Dr. Herbert Benson, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, believes that a doctor's "caring" about his or her patient causes specific physiological improvement. 1 contend..........................................................................................主張する =maintain 2 healing system ........................................................................................治癒システム belief system ...............................................................................信念となるシステム 3 4 5 6 7 8 faith.........................................................................................................確固たる信念 vital ..........................................................................................非常に重要な =crucial to the fullest ....................................................................................できるだけ十分に mobilize ..........................................................................................................動員する turning back ....................................................................................進行をくい止める 1 A SHORTER COURSE IN GOOD HEALTH (NAN'UN-DO) [21. The Mind-Body Effect] Exercise 21: WRITING (与えられた書き出しを用いて、英訳しなさい ) 1. 身心の相関関係を重視する医師が増えている。 An increasing number of doctors think much of the mind-body effect. 2. そういうわけで病院には希望にみちた、力強い雰囲気が大切である。 That is why a hopeful, powerful atmosphere is important in a hospital. 3. 強い意志を持つ患者ほど病気の進行をくいとめるのに成功する傾向がある。 Patients with a strong will tend to be successful in turning back their disease. 2 A SHORTER COURSE IN GOOD HEALTH (NAN'UN-DO)