978-1-956474-53-4

Pub Date: January 14, 2025

Author: Amitha Kalaichandran

In On Healing, Dr. Amitha Kalaichandran MD—a physician, journalist, and integrative medicine expert, guides readers on a transformative journey to understand true healing and what it means to live longer, healthier lives. Drawing from her medical training and real-world experiences, she identifies 12 essential components of healing, each explored through powerful stories and backed by scientific evidence.

Traveling from the forests of Norway to inner-city Baltimore, and from Okinawa to India, Dr. Kalaichandran highlights how conventional medicine often misses the deeper aspects of healing. Through encounters with diverse healers and patients, she explores how elements like movement, nutrition, sleep, environment, faith, and ancient practices can harmonize with traditional medicine for better health and longevity.

Blending expert insights and cross-cultural perspectives, On Healing challenges the limitations of modern healthcare, advocating for a holistic approach that honors the body’s natural ability to heal. Dr. Kalaichandran’s debut is a compelling blueprint for anyone seeking a fuller understanding of healing, making it an essential read for navigating today’s evolving health, longevity, and wellness landscape.

“An engrossing, inspirational call for a medicine that takes the soul as seriously as the body.” —Kirkus Reviews (*starred review)

“Whether discussing hospital design, longevity villages, caregiver burnout, or mindfulness retreats, Dr. Amitha Kalaichandran writes passionately and compassionately about wellness and the myriad ways modern medicine has failed to promote health. Read her outstanding book, “On Healing,” to learn how you can live not just longer but better.” —Sandeep Jauhar, New York Times bestselling author of Heart: A History and My Father’s Brain

“Dr. Kalaichandran draws on her unique expertise in clinical practice and journalism to deliver a captivating exploration of the healing power of integrative medicine… full of compelling stories and experiences.”
—Dr. Valter Longo, Director of the Longevity Institute at the University of Southern California and author of The Longevity Diet.

“On Healing masterfully illuminates the critical role of psychological safety in both individual and organizational well-being. Dr. Kalaichandran’s personal journey serves as a powerful testament to the healing potential of compassionate, inclusive environments, urging us to rethink how we foster trust and safety in healthcare and beyond. ”
—Amy Edmondson, Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at Harvard Business School and author of Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well

“Through lived experience, compelling research and a willingness to confront the uncomfortable realities of a broken healthcare system, Dr. Amitha Kalaichandran represents a generation most capable of creating meaningful change. With clarity and insight, she reveals a much richer tapestry of genuine healing and transformation through a more holistic framework. On Healing is a must-read.”
— Theo Koffler, Founder of Mindfulness Without Borders and Well-being Essentials, and author of Life Notes.

“In On Healing, Dr. Kalaichandran’s work shines a light on the critical intersections of health, leadership, and justice. Her insights into the role of compassion and empathy in the healing process remind us of the profound impact that care and trust have not only in healthcare but also in our communities. This book is a vital read for anyone committed to building systems that prioritize the well-being and safety of all.”
—Michael Osgood, former Deputy Chief of the NYPD and leader of the Special Victims Division.

“A doctor who approaches healing from a holistic perspective is a doctor that will truly save lives. Dr. Amitha Kalaichandran just gets it— and it shows all throughout On Healing. If you want to be seen, informed, and inspired to continue centering and pursuing wholeness, you need to read this book!” 
—Nakeia Homer, Well-Being Educator and Author of I Hope This Helps, All The Right Pieces, and Habits For Healing

“On Healing offers a transformative exploration of food, wellness, and the essential practice of self-care in a world where we often disconnect from our bodies. Dr. Kalaichandran’s insights empower readers to develop their own healing rituals, reminding us that true health starts from within. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper sense of wholeness that transcends conventional medicine.”
—Bryant Terry, James Beard award-winning chef and author of The Vegetable Kingdom