psychoneuroimmunology

n. The study of the recursive interaction of psychological states, traits, and behavior on the substrates of neural function and endocrinology, and immune system responsivity. In the science of the early 20th century, it was assumed that the immune system operated independently of control or influence of other systems of the body. It was demonstrated, however, in the 1980s, that there are direct connections among the central nervous system (CNS), autonomic nervous system (ANS), and immune system, both structurally and chemically. Thus began the study of neuroimmunology, to which were soon added the recursive effects of psychological stimulation and responses on the interaction of the CNS, ANS, and immune responses. This recursive interaction is commonly known as the mind-body phenomenon. In wellness, illness, and especially oncology, practitioners often encourage their clients to imagine the immune system cells destroying their tumors or infections, and/or encourage clients to draw pictures of the immune cells in action as an aid to recovery. – VS