An Introduction

At Thriving Communities, we’re proud to spotlight the Holistic Health Care (HHC) Project, a pioneering initiative led by Dr Manmeet Kaur and her dedicated Thriving Communities’ team in collaboration with the IAHV (International Association of Human Values) team and Cardiff University. Delivered during the Self-Selected Component (SSC) week in November 2024, this transformative programme offered Cardiff University’s Year 2 medical students a deep dive into the benefits of holistic healthcare while focusing on their own well-being.

Revolutionising Medical Education

The HHC Project introduced students to a range of practical, evidence-based techniques, including:

• SKY breathing
• Yogic breathing
• Bellows breath
• Alternate nostril breathing
• Yoga and mindfulness practices
• Reflexology
• Engaging group activities

These tools provided students with strategies to manage their personal well-being while gaining insights into how holistic approaches can enhance patient care.

Key Outcomes

The impact of the HHC Project was profound, with students reporting significant benefits in both their personal and professional development:

• Enhanced Well-being: Many participants experienced reduced anxiety, alleviated burnout, and improved sleep.
• Deeper Understanding: The programme underscored the potential of holistic care and preventive medicine to improve patient outcomes, reduce dependency on medication, and generate substantial cost savings for the NHS.

The students’ overwhelmingly positive feedback included strong recommendations to integrate the HHC Project into the broader medical curriculum, recognising its potential to shape a future healthcare system focused on prevention and holistic care.

A Commitment to Innovation

The success of the HHC Project underscores Cardiff Medical School’s commitment to fostering innovative practices in medical education. By prioritising both patient and practitioner well-being, the school is helping to build a healthcare system fit for the future.

We extend heartfelt thanks to Dr Ned Powell, Director of SSCs at Cardiff Medical School, for his instrumental support in bringing this initiative to life.

Learn More

For more information on the Holistic Health Care Project and other health and well-being initiatives, please contact Dr Manmeet Kaur at manmeet.kaur@wales.nhs.uk.