Body of holistic history

WELL-KNOWN local osteopath Vincent Di Stefano will launch his book Holism and Complementary Medicine at 7pm on Thursday, 5 October at Belgrave Library.
Three decades as practitioner and educator in complementary medicine in the Dandenong Ranges have led Mr Di Stefano to a deep interest in the philosophy and history of medicine and the nature of the practitioner-patient relationship.
He spent four years interviewing practitioners from the fields of homeopathy, naturopathy, osteopathy, traditional Chinese medicine and Western herbalism, to find out the common themes. “Every interviewee identified the principle of holism as the basis of his or her approach.” Mr Di Stefano said.
“In the past century, technology has produced inconceivable powers of diagnosis and intervention. Yet medical engagement is essentially between two human beings, the physician and the patient.”
Through his book, Mr Di Stefano hopes to restore the place of holistic principles in both complementary and clinical medicine. “It represents a recovery of lost ground, a reaffirmation of the art and science that all medicine has historically drawn on,” he said.
Those interested in attending the launch can book on 9754 7266.
Holism and Complementary Medicine: Origins and Principles is published by Allen and Unwin, Sydney.