Personalized and One Medicine Coming Together

by George B. Stefano1

1Department of Psychiatry, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, 12000 Prague, Czech Republic


Mobility Coupled with Motivation Promotes Survival: The Evolution of Cognition as an Adaptive Strategy

by George B. Stefano1,2, Richard M. Kream2 and Tobias Esch1

1Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, 58455 Witten, Germany

2Department of Psychiatry, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, 12000 Prague, Czech Republic


Personalized Medicine and Personalized Health Promotion Based on Motivation and Reward Proceedings

by Maren M. Michaelsen1 

1Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, 58455 Witten, Germany


Combining App-based Behavioral Support with Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Devices for Smoking Cessation 

by Cosima Hoetger1 and Helen Schiek1

1Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, 58455 Witten, Germany

Exploring the Details of Body and Mind That Account for a Healthy Life in an Uncertain World

by Maren M. Michaelsen1, George B. Stefano1,2 and Tobias Esch1

1Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, 58455 Witten, Germany

2Department of Psychiatry, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, 12000 Prague, Czech Republic


Mind-Body Exercise Corner 

Breath Awareness Meditation

Breath awareness meditation is a type of meditation that involves focusing on the breath as a way to quiet the mind and bring greater awareness to the present moment. It is a simple and effective practice that can be done by anyone, anywhere, at any time.

To practice breath awareness meditation, find a comfortable and upright seated position, with your spine straight and your feet planted on the ground. Begin by closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to fully relax and let go of any tension in the body.

Then, bring your attention to the sensation of the breath as it moves in and out of the body. Notice the sensation of the breath as it enters the nostrils, fills the chest, and expands the belly. Notice the coolness of the air as it enters the body, and the warmth as it leaves.

As you focus on the breath, your mind will inevitably wander. When this happens, gently redirect your attention back to the breath. Do not judge or criticize yourself for being distracted. Simply acknowledge the thought and return to the breath.

Breath awareness meditation can be practiced for as little as a few minutes at a time, and can be gradually increased as you become more comfortable with the practice. It is a powerful tool for cultivating mindfulness, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting overall well-being.



Call for Papers / Events 

  • Special Issue „Neurobiological Aspects of Motivation and Positive Mood” in Biology (IF: 5,2) - Cancelled!

  • Conference “The Science of Tai Chi & Qigong as whole-person health – Advancing the integration of mind-body practices in contemporary health care, Boston, USA, Sept 18-19, 2023
    The Call for Abstracts and Call for Sessions will open in February 2023.
    www.osherscienceoftcq.org