Dominican Hospital Adds Zen To Patient Care

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA – Dignity Health Dominican Hospital has launched a new "Dominican Zen" program, an array of gentle and calming therapies, to enhance care, increase comfort, reduce stress and promote healing for patients.

“While our patients know they will receive state-of-the-art care at Dominican, a hospital visit can still be a source of intense fear and anxiety,” said Dominican Hospital President Nanette Mickiewicz, MD. “The Dominican Zen program encourages relaxation and mindfulness, and helps empower patients to be active participants in their own health and wellness.”

Dominican Zen was developed by a multidisciplinary team of staff from across the hospital, with support from physicians and hospital administration. Patients can take advantage of variety of new amenities including:

· Aromatherapy – To rejuvenate the mind and body with a selection of natural essential oils.

· Sound Therapy – To improve rest and reduce stress through calming nature sounds on sound machines.

· Guided Meditation – To cultivate mindful awareness and emotional balance around health and well-being.

Research has highlighted the positive impacts of alternative therapies when delivered alongside traditional medical care within a hospital environment, according to officials.

A study published by the National Institute of Health found that patients participating in a mindfulness meditation-based, stress-reduction program reported significantly lower anxiety than those simply receiving stress-management education. And a clinical study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience reported that aromatherapy with lavender and rosemary essential oils resulted in patients who felt more relaxed and had a less depressive mood.

The Dominican Zen team is exploring the possibility of additional elements, such as massage therapy for both patients and visitors.

Dignity Health Dominican Hospital has been caring for the Santa Cruz County community for 75 years. Dominican offers emergency services and is a Certified Stroke Center. Dominican’s services include the only comprehensive Cancer Center in Santa Cruz County, a Total Joint Replacement program, advanced neurological and endoscopic services, and an expert heart and vascular team treating some of the most complex cardiac cases in the Monterey Bay area.

• ALSO SEE: Dominican Hospital Launches In-House 24/7 Obstetrics Program

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