What's the Deal With Complementary & Alternative Medicine?

Yoga Meets Movement Science

Jan 24 2023 • 1 hr 31 mins

Yoga teacher Jenni Rawlings and Exercise Science professor Travis Pollen are joined by the knowledgeable science educator Jonathan Jarry, MS to discuss complementary and alternative medicine.

Jonathan Jarry is a science communicator for McGill University’s Office for Science and Society. He has a master’s degree in molecular biology, and he brings his experience in cancer research, human genetics, rehabilitation research, and forensic biology to the work he does for the public. Jonathan also co-hosts the award-winning medical podcast The Body of Evidence, and he is frequently quoted in local, national and international media on issues of science and pseudoscience.

Points of discussion include:

  • What is evidence-based medicine? What is science-based medicine?
  • What is a randomized clinical trial?
  • What is complementary & alternative medicine (CAM)?
  • What is the wellness industry?
  • What are some qualities that all complementary & alternative medicine modalities have in common?
  • Specific alternative medicine modalities discussed include:
    • Chiropractic
    • Naturopathy
    • Homeopathy
    • Acupuncture
  • What is the placebo effect?
  • What is regression to the mean?
  • What’s the difference between correlation and causation?
  • Is using yoga as “medicine” or “therapy” evidence-based?
  • …And much more!

Enjoy this engaging and eye-opening discussion for yoga, movement, and fitness geeks!


Resources mentioned in this episode:

Find Jonathan Jarry’s work at the Office for Science and Society at McGill University

Follow Jonathan Jarry on Twitter

Listen to Jonathan’s award-winning podcast The Body of Evidence

Book recommendation by Jonathan: Trick or Treatment

Jonathan Jarry on the Adaptabilia podcast

Jenni’s email newsletter

Strength for Yoga Remote Group Training – ongoing, interactive monthly strength program for yogis designed by Jenni & Travis

Online yoga class library & yoga anatomy workshops with Jenni

Strength for Yoga email newsletter

To find out more about Travis Pollen: website / Instagram

Music used with generous permission from Dischord A Cappella.

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