[Unedited] Rachel Naomi Remen with Krista Tippett

Curing vs. Healing

Rachel Naomi Remen explores the profound distinction between curing and healing, emphasizing that while medicine can cure certain ailments, healing encompasses a broader, more spiritual journey. She reflects on her experiences with severe illnesses and the limitations of science, noting, "We thought we could cure everything, but it turns out that we can only cure a small amount of human suffering. The rest of it needs to be healed." 1 Healing, she argues, is a deeply human process that involves personal growth and connection, transcending the mere eradication of disease 2.

   

Healing in Medicine

In the realm of medicine, healing is not just about clinical interventions but also involves emotional and spiritual dimensions. Remen shares her journey from focusing solely on curing to understanding the importance of healing, stating, "We are all healers of one another, that people have been healing each other since the beginning." 3 She challenges the notion of objectivity in medicine, suggesting that it can lead to burnout and detachment from the human experience 4. By embracing a more holistic approach, healthcare professionals can foster deeper connections with their patients and themselves.