The Integrative Medicine Program at Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center at Dallas, the first hospital-based program of its kind in North Texas, offers quality care in a healing environment. It combines complementary, holistic, ancillary and traditional medical approaches, optimizing the foundations of good health for body, mind and spirit. Free June activities include a Relax, Restore, Renew series and healthy cooking demonstrations

The program integrates mind, body, and spirit therapies with traditional treatments to provide a new dimension to medical care. It focuses on each patient’s concerns from a holistic viewpoint and addresses nutritional, physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of their lives. “Every patient is unique, and individual recommendations are tailored for the patient’s own set of circumstances and concerns,” states Carolyn Matthews, M.D., a gynecologic oncologist on the medical staff at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas and medical director of the Integrative Medicine Program.

In the last year, we have helped patients fine-tune their lifestyles to address such issues as weight loss, hypertension and chronic back pain, in addition to helping those patients being treated for cancer,” she says. Matthews is board certified in integrative and holistic medicine, medical acupuncture and palliative medicine.

Therapies include nutritional guidance, with a focus on special diets and botanical supplements, and mind-body techniques such as acupuncture. Guided imagery, breathing for stress relief and relaxation, and personalized exercise programs are also offered as part of integrative therapies. Music and art classes add dimension to customized care plans. The integrative medicine program works in conjunction with the Virginia R. Cvetko Patient Education and Support Center.

Focusing on lifestyle recommendations such as stress management, nutrition, exercise and sleep enables individuals to feel better physically and mentally, as well as assist with handling the physical and emotional challenges and side effects of cancer therapies and other medical treatments. Cooking classes focusing on the nutritional needs of patients during treatment are offered in an onsite demonstration kitchen.

Relax, Restore, Renew Series

Healing Vibrations: Drum Circle—11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., June 5 and 19

Drumming and the use of pure rhythm are fun and therapeutic ways of releasing emotions and relating to other group members. Drumming can accelerate physical healing, boost the immune system and produce feelings of well-being.

Relaxation Made Easy—10 to 11:30 a.m., June 7 and 21

Learn how to include relaxation and meditation in a daily routine. Participate in guided imagery, muscle relaxation and other techniques to help make the day less stressful. New attendees receive a free relaxation CD.

The Master Series: Feng Shui—1 to 2 p.m., June 19

Optimize positive energy in the home to enhance the healing process. Kathryn Voreis, MSN, RN, who is certified in feng shui, presents the basic philosophy of this ancient Chinese tradition.

Writing for Wellness—10 to 11:30 a.m., June 26

Journaling may enhance the healing process through expression of thoughts, feelings and emotions. Learn how journaling can help individuals cope with life’s challenges.

Healthy Cooking Demonstrations

The Best Burgers!—10 to 11:30 a.m., June 28

,Explore some not-so-typical burger creations that will satisfy cravings while keeping a rein on unwanted calories. Try new twists on this American classic.

Farmers’ Market Fresh: Summer—2 to 2:30 p.m., June 11

Summer fruits and vegetables are bursting with color and flavor. It is easy to eat cool, succulent produce all day during this time of year. Learn creative ideas for turning summer produce into masterpiece meals.

Baylor Health Care System is a nonprofit, faith-based supporting organization providing services to a network of acute care hospitals and related healthcare entities that provide patient care, medical education, research and community service. Baylor’s network of more than 360 access points includes 30 hospitals; joint ventured ambulatory surgical centers; satellite outpatient locations; senior centers and more than 190 HealthTexas Provider Network physician clinics.

Events are free, but require registration by calling 214-820-2608. To learn more about the Integrative Medicine Program at Baylor, visit BaylorHealth.com/integrativemedicine.