2026
(hybrid)
November 19-20, 2026
under the direction of Tobias Esch, M.D.,
organized by the Institute for Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion (IGVF) at Witten/ Herdecke University, Germany
Join us on November 19-20, 2026, online or in Witten, Germany, for the second edition of this international conference exploring the scientific field of Mind-Body Medicine (MBM)!
This event brings together international experts from diverse disciplines to explore molecular mechanisms, neurobiological correlates, applications of artificial intelligence in MBM, and integrative approaches to holistic health.
The conference provides a unique platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange among experts from diverse disciplines. Participants will engage in stimulating discussions, share insights, and build connections that help shape the future of MBM research and practice.
Register now for this exciting event in mind-body medicine. For further information, please contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to an engaging and inspiring conference experience!
Conference Theme
The conference focuses on the interdisciplinary field of MBM, with particular emphasis on the interaction between biological, psychological, and behavioral processes in health and longevity.
Key topics include:
- Topic 1: Mind-Body Medicine interventions
- Topic 2: Modes of action of Mind-Body Medicine (e.g., mitochondria and the microbiome)
- Topic 3: Artificial Intelligence in Mind-Body Medicine research
- Topic 4: Psychosomatics: the connection between mind and body
- Topic 5: The role of social connectedness and the dangers of loneliness for health
Preliminary Program
We are honored to welcome the following keynote speakers:
- Professor Dr. Eckart Altenmüller (Institute of Music Physiology and Musicians´ Medicine, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media, Germany)
- Professor Dr. Catherine M. DesRoches (Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, USA)
- Professor Dr. Andreas M. Krafft (Institute for Systemic Management and Public Governance, University of St. Gallen, Switzerland)
- Professor Dr. Dr. Christian Schubert (University Clinic for Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria)
Pre-conference workshops on the following topics will take place on November 19th :
- Mind-Body Medicine across Care Settings (more information below)
- Listening as a Resource in Holistic Healthcare (more information below + at this link)
- AI and Digitalization in Mind-Body Medicine (more information below)
The workshops are designed as interactive forums for collaboration and exchange, bringing together professionals, researchers, and practitioners working in related fields. Their primary focus is on networking and on providing opportunities to discuss current developments, practical experiences, and future perspectives within an academic context.
The pre-conference workshops may be attended independently of the main conference. Please note that participation is only possible on-site, as no online option will be available.
We would like to thank the Eden Foundation, the Erich Rothenfußer Akademie gGmbH, and the Carstens Foundation for their generous funding.
Conference Organization
Director
Tobias Esch, M.D., MBMRC-Co-Chair, is a tenured Professor of Medicine and Director of the Institute of Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion at Witten/Herdecke University, Germany.
Organizing Committee
Mira Kriegesmann, M.A., MBMRC Conference Organization, is researcher at the Institute of Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion at Witten/Herdecke University, Germany.
Dr. Magdalena Wallkamm, MBMRC Conference Organization, is postdoctoral researcher and head of research at the Institute of Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion at Witten/Herdecke University, Germany.
Larissa Franzen, M.Sc., MBMRC Conference Organization, is researcher at the Institute of Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion at Witten/Herdecke University, Germany.
Gudrun Berlinghoff, MBMRC Conference Organization, is office manager at the Institute of Integrative Health Care and Health Promotion at Witten/Herdecke University, Germany.
About the host
Picture: UW/H I Johannes Buldmann
Established in 2022 by George Stefano (Ph.D.) and Tobias Esch (M.D.), who serve as co-chairs, the international Mind-Body Medicine Research Council (MBMRC) is composed of exceptional scientists and research affiliates, each contributing unique expertise to the study of MBM. Publications of the MBMRC are regularly featured in THE MIND - Bulletin on Mind-Body Medicine Research.
