Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine Cardiac Wellness Program

The Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine's (formerly the Mind/Body Medical Institute) renowned Cardiac Wellness Program is an outgrowth of 25 years of pioneering work in the field of Behavioral Medicine by Herbert Benson M.D. of Harvard Medical School. This program seeks to improve cardiovascular health and decrease the risk factors for heart disease. This scientifically proven clinical program is conducted in group settings over 13 weeks. It combines Relaxation Response techniques, including meditation and prayer, with nutrition, exercise, cognitive therapy and standard medical practice. Patient outcomes are significant including fewer symptoms of chest pain and anger, less shortness of breath and fatigue and lower levels of cholesterol and blood pressure, weight loss and an increase in exercise tolerance. Participants experience decreased anxiety and depression and increased energy and feelings of self-control.

This program has been introduced to HIP members of the Queens Long Island Medical Group who are at risk for a cardiac event and have been selected by their physicians after undergoing a comprehensive medical evaluation. When accepted, patients develop a customized health contract with the program team and agree to change their behavior in a meaningful way.

This program has also been selected by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) for a large multi-year demonstration project studying mind/body lifestyle modification approaches to coronary artery disease.