Honoring the spirit of research within: The yoga and more (CAM) research interest group

Abstract

This article explores the means and methods by which nurses can become actively involved in the search for answers through the research process. It presents one unique example that illustrates research involvement for nurses and other healthcare providers at all levels of practice with a focus on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The establishment of the Yoga and More (CAM) Research Interest Group (RIG) at a research-intensive college of nursing, and the members’ involvement in a funded pilot study on yoga for lung cancer survivors is presented. The starting point included establishing the research questions and potential solutions, and reinforces the belief that research promotes improved care, better patient outcomes, enhanced quality of life, and increased satisfaction among care providers. In addition, we provide an example of how active involvement in the research process with supportive mentorship promotes “learning-in-action” and stimulates continued interest and growth in the research process. The development and evolution of this innovative research initiative is discussed from a theoretical, methodological and personal perspective with implications for nurses seeking to become involved in the research process.