A Beautiful Medicine by David Mercier

In this inspiring look at the essence of health and healing, David Mercier offers a way of redefining, and often upending, many conventional notions that shape healthcare. He illustrates key ideas with stories from his life, including his years as a hippie and as a Buddhist monk in Sri Lanka, of his personal struggles in childhood as well as his illness and depression in his twenties, and with poignant stories about his patients. Drawing upon the teachings of mystics, philosophers, and poets, he redefines health in surprising ways. The spiritual and the psychological elements of our lives must be included, he says, if we are to better understand our symptoms. If we uncover the human narrative underlying our symptoms, we often find the true diagnosis lying in unfinished emotional business, or in the values, priorities, and choices that shape dysfunctional lifestyles.By listening carefully, we can hear the voice of a profound evolutionary drive speaking to us through our symptoms. It encourages us to transform into the best human beings possible. In the end, the experience of love, meaning, and beauty moves us toward optimal wellness. A Beautiful Medicine helps show the way.

Amazon Summary

Even if one isn't a fan of this genre, this book is worth picking up and taking a look at.  The author writes very personally, including many of his own experiences, life lessons, and understanding in the book.  He advocates looking at the whole picture and digging deeper than just the symptoms, finding the root cause.  The reader may find it fascinating how he ties in his own experiences to create relateable analogies. 

The author gives solid reasons for his statements.  The reader won't feel like any opinions are forced on him/her, the end result is up to the reader.  There are little quotes scattered throughout the book that relate to the chapter and may reinforce the chapter.  If a reader is looking for a different take on health care, overall health, etc...this may be the book for him/her.  Though many of the anecdotal lessons and statements may seem as if they are obvious, it never hurts to be reminded.  This is a book that must be completely digested after finishing rather than taking one piece at a time.  A Beautiful Medicine is recommended to adult readers. 

4 Stars

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