Faith, Hope, and Healing

New Haven (WTNH) - Back in 1986, Dr. Bernie Siegel broke new ground with his monumental book Love, Medicine and Miracles, in which he explored the powerful role the mind can play in fighting illness. 20-plus years and nearly a dozen books later, Siegel revisits that concept in his new book Faith, Hope and Healing: Inspiring Lessons from People Living with Cancer.

Siegel believes that the power to heal comes from the human mind through will, determination, and love. Siegel, a retired surgeon, has witnessed firsthand what faith can do for those who are ill.

"What I found is when you help people live, they don't die when they're supposed to," said Siegel.

Siegel says in order to live life to the fullest and even prolong your life, you need to first learn to love your life.

"Monday morning, we have more heart attacks, strokes, suicides, and illnesses," said Siegel. "So if you hate your life, your body says 'alright, I'll get you out of here.' But if you love your life, your body says 'I'll do the best I can to keep you here.'"

Siegel says sunshine, nature, animals, aromas, and music can greatly help a person become more positive and, in turn, recover faster.

Siegel will be at RJ Julia Booksellers in Madison on July 2 at 7 p.m. to sign copies of his books.

For more information, visit Siegel's website at www.berniesiegelmd.com