Andrew Hix graduated from the University of Florida in 2009 and the Florida School of Massage in 2011. At UF Health, he works in Arts in Medicine both as a writer and an integrative therapies practitioner.
As an integrative practitioner, Andrew currently practices massage therapy and teaches tai chi, qigong, and mindfulness meditation to patients admitted to Shands hospital. These tools can help patients coping with chronic pain and illness to more effectively manage their pain and stress. He is currently the co-principal investigator on two research studies evaluating these benefits to further the field of integrative medicine as a whole.
As a writer, Andrew emphasizes collaboration and project development. He is interested in discovering new ideas to engage patients, families, and staff in meaningful storytelling. He believes that art and stories change the way people experience the world and have the power to transform the hospital environment.
Outside of his role at UF Health, Andrew practices tai chi as a martial art at a local Gainesville dojo. Tai chi is a style of kung fu that emphasizes softness, listening, and staying centered.
“Paying good attention is essential,” he says, “to everything I do as an artist and in integrative therapies.”