Homeopathy: Based on the hypothesis of “like cures like” and a deep emphasis on the principles of holistic medicine (treat the whole person). Homeopathic remedies work by stimulating the body’s own healing power by introducing tiny doses of natural substances that should stimulate a person’s immune system and defense system to correct itself naturally.

(See also: Homeopathy, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

OHASHIATSU

Ohashiatsu is a method of bodywork offering both giver and receiver a complete experience of self-development and healing.

Combining Oriental healing philosophy and techniques with psychological and spiritual components, Ohashiatsu expands awareness of self and others through movement, meditation, and touch.

As a holistic method, Ohashiatsu emphasizes sensing and working with the overall energy flow throughout the body to create balance and relieve aches, tension, stress, and fatigue.

Studying and practicing Ohashiatsu helps to develop a balanced condition of health and well-being encompassing body, mind, and spirit.

(See also: OHASHIATSU, Alternative Health, Massage, Bodywork, Body Mind and Soul)

CHINESE MEDICINE

Is a gigantic subject, which can include far more than we can cover in this paragraph. Taoist healing techniques may well be the oldest treatise on holistic healing in our modern world (within the last ten thousand years).

The Yellow Emperor, the father of Taoism developed the Yang Shen Shu, or The Tao of Revitalization about six thousand years ago. This was a system of internal organ exercises to maintain the correct balance of Qi (Chi or Energy, Life Force). Also during this time the knowledge of plants, trees, fungi and herbs, together with the wisdom of application was developed to a very high degree.

The Chinese have always been in the forefront of holistic medicine with the well-practiced philosophy of preferring prevention rather than cure. This comprehensive system looks to the complete person, as body, mind and spirit, and maintaining the balance thereof. The basis of Chinese Medicine is the balance of Yin and Yang Energies. The balance of the dualistic polarities is the cornerstone of our physical creation, in an unenlightened state of consciousness. SEE CHI KUNG AND TAI CHI.

(See also: CHINESE MEDICINE, Alternative Health, Holistic Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Healtheology: One of the fields of study offered by the American Institute of Holistic Theology, a correspondence school in Youngstown, Ohio. The institute defines Healtheology as a theological science of health, a concept that health and theology have a common ground.

Healtheology encompasses acupressure, angelic healing, aromatherapy, Ayurveda, breathwork, color therapy, crystal healing, herbalism, homeopathy, hypnosis, music therapy, polarity healing (polarity balancing), psychic healing, reflexology, shamanism, shiatsu, Therapeutic Prayer, transpersonal psychology, vibrational healing (vibrational medicine), and yoga. Its theory posits a soul with a threefold purpose: to experience, learn, and express itself. Practitioners are called Healtheologists.

(See also: Healtheology, Body Mind and Soul, Alternative Health, Alternative Health Dictionary)

Osteopathic Medicine

Today, the training of M.D.'s and Osteopaths (D.O.'s) is strikingly similar, but Osteopathic is a holistic discipline which emphasizes prevention and the individual, not just disease. Osteopath philosophy is based on the belief that the body cures itself, and doctors should see the relationship between structure and function, with a special emphasis on the musculo-skeletal system. Osteopaths are licensed to adjust the bones of the body, and manipulate the body, and they may also prescribe medications, give injections, and perform surgery.

(See also: Osteopathic Medicine, Alternative Health, Healing, Body Mind and Soul)

TARA APPROACH

Developed by Dr. Stephanie Mines, the TARA Approach is a holistic system for the critical transformation of psychological, physical, and emotional shock and trauma.

Combining the ancient oriental healing art of Jin Shin with therapeutic dialogues, this approach activates healing from sexual abuse, battering relationships, abusive family environments, neglect, and illness.

(See also: TARA APPROACH, Alternative Health, Massage, Bodywork, Body Mind and Soul)

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

Naturopathy integrates a wide range of natural therapeutics emphasizing the healing power of nature to treat the causes of disease, rather than suppressing the symptoms.

As part of a holistic medical healthcare system with an emphasis on education and prevention, the naturopathic physician seeks to motivate the individual toward a healthy and balanced diet, lifestyle, and mental attitude.

Treatments such as homeopathic medicines, clinical nutrition, traditional Oriental medicine, and acupuncture are used to enhance the body’s natural healing process.

(See also: NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE, Alternative Health, Massage, Bodywork, Body Mind and Soul)

REIKI

Means "Universal Life-Force Energy," and was created by Dr. Mikao Usui of Japan, about 150 years ago. Hi was disillusioned with the standard medical procedures of his time, and set out on a journey to find something, that to him was on a higher level of healing. His travels took him to Tibet, where he found ancient texts of healing, with symbols of an extremely spiritual method of healing.

It is told that while descending a mountain in Tibet, he twisted his ankle, and prompted by what he had learned, applied this ancient method and healed his ankle. Upon returning to Japan, he formulated this modality into a method that he called “Reiki.” The “Rei” means universal, and “ki” means energy. It is understood that all of creation is energy, and when in particular the body is manifesting symptoms of disease, dis-ease, or is injured in any way, the universal energy flow is impeded, and the body is not able to maintain its natural state of optimum good health.

The Reiki practitioner places the hands directly on the recipient, or a few inches above the recipient’s body, without physical contact. In fact Reiki can be sent over great distances by thought and intent. Such is the nature of Universal Healing Energy.

The Reiki practitioner acts as a “bridge” to enable the transference of universal energy from source to reach the recipient, which them helps and stimulates the ability of the recipient to complete their own healing. We are, after all, part of universal energy, and are able to heal ourselves, but in many cases we require the assistance of others to help us bypass our own energy blocks. Reiki can be very effective for just about any and every ailment and disorder. It is a marvelous method to maintain the balance of the emotions, and the body. Anyone can learn this technique, by finding a Reiki Master Teacher, and receiving the attunements, while learning the modality. It is also effective to apply this healing modality to oneself.

(See also: REIKI, Alternative Health, Holistic Health, Body Mind and Soul)

POETRY THERAPY

Poetry therapists come from all occupations, from doctors and therapists to teachers. Poetry therapy is provided in many settings where people deal with personal pain and the search for growth.

Poetry therapists use all forms of literature and the language arts. They use the power of poems, stories, journals, fairy tales, folk tales, memoirs and songs to help in the healing process. Poetry is healing both when read or written. Parents and siblings can read poems to children, and children enjoy writing and reading their own poems.

(See also: POETRY THERAPY, Alternative Health, Holistic Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Kum Nye (Kum Nye relaxation, Kum Nye relaxation system of self healing): Holistic mode of self-healing developed by Tarthang Tulku and based on Tibetan medicine and Buddhist mind-body disciplines. It involves breathing exercises, self-massage, slow movements, and visualization. Its theory posits energy centers (e.g., the head center and the heart center) and energy blockages (e.g., sexual blockages). Practicing Kum Nye vitalizes the senses and conduces to alertness and limberness.

(See also: Kum Nye, Body Mind and Soul, Alternative Health, Alternative Health Dictionary)

ENERGY THERAPY

The evolution of scientific concepts and technological developments of the late 20th Century has created possibilities for studying subtle energies and their relationship to human systems. Understanding and facilitating the use of subtle energies, both for therapeutic purposes and for the study of human potential, may bring to consciousness a new awareness of the depths of the human psyche.

There are many terms applied to different techniques of energy therapy, see lthe following links: Pranic Healing, Therapeutic Touch, Reiki

(See also: ENERGY THERAPY, Alternative Health, Holistic Health, Body Mind and Soul)

MAGNETICS

is an understanding of the interrelationship between magnetism in the traditional sense, and the electro-magnetic energy fields of the human body, in relation to electro-magnetic energy elsewhere in the environment. By using this understanding, and applying various techniques and practices, one can influence the energy fields of the body in such a way as to help facilitate healing of various conditions.

Magnetic Therapy Treatments include the use of non-invasive magnets applied to the body affecting its various ionic currents and electromagnetic fields.

Reported benefits include relief from discomfort, reduction of swelling, infection, insomnia, stress, rheumatism, and can also help to increase energy. It is advised that a knowledgeable, experienced practitioner be consulted, so as not to adversely affect your electro-magnetic fields.

(See also: MAGNETICS, Alternative Health, Holistic Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Homeopathy: Based on the hypothesis of "like cures like" and a deep emphasis on the principles of holistic medicine (treat the whole person), homeopathy first flourished in North America and Europe during the mid-19th century, when many physicians believed it to be an effective treatment for cholera. Homeopathic remedies work by stimulating the body’s own healing power by introducing tiny doses of natural substances that should trigger a person’s body to correct itself naturally. Extremely popular throughout the world today, naturopathic physicians and other trained homeopaths have led a resurgence of this therapy in the United States in the last decade.

(See also: Homeopathy, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

TRAUMA TOUCH THERAPY

Trauma touch therapy was developed to address the needs of clients affected by trauma and abuse, including sexual and emotional abuse or battering and the trauma of war, surgery, or criminal violence.

Focused on empowering the client, this technique combines therapeutic movement and breathwork with psychotherapeutic elements to bring body and mind together in holistic healing. The pace of therapy is determined individually according to the client’s need. Relearning touch from a healthy perspective is a major focus of the therapy.

The trauma touch training program was developed in 1993 at the Colorado School of Healing Arts.

(See also: TRAUMA TOUCH THERAPY, Alternative Health, Massage, Bodywork, Body Mind and Soul)

REIKI-ALCHEMIA

Reiki-alchemia utilizes keys of different geometric shapes to trigger states of consciousness which allow healing and vibrational attunements to occur. Reiki-alchemia combines the traditional reiki of Mikao Usui with the alchemia process, which creates a passive and active blend of energies in the healing.

The practitioner facilitates transformation by working with the universal life force, and the four forces that govern all states of consciousness. Alchemia is a form of bodywork that incorporates techniques that release etheric, as well as subconscious energy blockages and stored trauma.

The ultimate intent of reiki-alchemia is to achieve a functional ego state that facilitates unconditional love. (Adapted from Holistic Health Directory.)

(See also: REIKI-ALCHEMIA, Alternative Health, Massage, Bodywork, Body Mind and Soul)

YOGA

Means union, or the yoking together of body and spirit. It is one of the more ancient methods of healing and of raising consciousness. It is a powerful tool to attain illumination, and like India herself (from whence this comes), there are many levels of expression. Yoga is a general term for many different types of practices.

The West is already familiar with Hatha Yoga, the practice of physical postures. However, there are more: Kriya Yoga includes breathing techniques, Tantric Yoga recognizes and aligns with the sexual energy, in the most profound awareness that sexual and spiritual are one, Bhatkti Yoga accentuates the path of devotion, Raja Yoga or the Royal Path, Kundalini Yoga also uses breathing techniques, and is concerned with the sacred energy of the spine, and so on. In each one, there is a profound technique of ancient knowledge, which can help you find what you are seeking on your life path.

(See also: YOGA, Alternative Health, Holistic Health, Body Mind and Soul)

PHOENIX RISING YOGA THERAPY

This therapy involves a fusion of hatha yoga, bodywork, and psychotherapy. It is holistic art based on the ancient science of yoga, combining elements of contemporary body/mind psychology with assisted yoga postures. It is totally a client-centered process, and it establishes inner balance by awakening the healing life force within.

(See also: PHOENIX RISING YOGA THERAPY, Alternative Health, Massage, Bodywork, Body Mind and Soul)

GUIDED IMAGERY

Also known as Guided Meditation or Guided Visualization. This experience is achieved by listening to the narration given by a practitioner guiding the visualization or “journey,” or by listening to an audiocassette tape or CD. In this way one follows specific suggestions or images directed towards a desired outcome.

The experience allows one to travel within the mind to areas of beauty and peace, and further allows the individual to release any stress and tension. Even though it is a mental process on the conscious thinking level of the mind, it can enable one to experience more subtle states or perception. It is a therapeutic process, by which the individual may enhance the innate healing potential within.

The power of the imagination evokes a positive mind/body response, and can over-ride any negative influences that may be prevalent. The healing powers of imagery can affect one physically, mentally and emotionally and tap into a rich reservoir of inner resources. This technique is also being used in sports and business as well as in many areas of healthcare.

(See also: GUIDED IMAGERY, Alternative Health, Holistic Health, Body Mind and Soul)

GUIDED IMAGERY

Imagery has a long and varied history in the healing traditions of mankind. The long-standing knowledge that imagery is a critical component of all healing experiences becomes clear when one considers the vital roles played by placebos, suggestion, and positive expectant faith.

Guided imagery utilizes the natural language of the unconscious mind. It facilitates an enhanced awareness of the unconscious imagery the patient/client already has, and helps clients learn to effectively work with this imagery on their own behalf. This process is capable of bringing about profound psychological and physiological change, as it simultaneously empowers and educates the patients. 

These images can provide important information about the problem, as well as the client's beliefs, expectations, fears, resources and solutions. Since many clients have uncanny accurate intuitions about their problems and solutions, the imagery process makes these insights easily available to them and their clinician.

Physically, imagery has the ability to directly influence the autonomic nervous system. The power of imagination can be recruited to promote specific physiological changes as an aid to healing. In addition, many studies indicate that certain imagery techniques may stimulate physiologic processes including immune and endocrine responses, which can accelerate the healing process.

(See also: GUIDED IMAGERY, Alternative Health, Holistic Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Therapeutic Touch (TT, Krieger-Kunz Method of Therapeutic Touch): A derivative of the laying on of hands. Dolores Krieger, Ph.D., R.N., and Dora van Gelder Kunz, a clairvoyant born in the Dutch East Indies (Indonesia), initiated TT in 1972. Nursing professor emerita Dolores Krieger is the author of Accepting Your Power to Heal: The Personal Practice of Therapeutic Touch (Bear and Company, 1993), Foundations for Holistic Health Nursing Practices: The Renaissance Nurse, Living the Therapeutic Touch: Healing As a Lifestyle, The Therapeutic Touch: How to Use Your Hands to Help or to Heal (Simon & Schuster, 1992), and the Therapeutic Touch Inner Workbook: Ventures in Transpersonal Healing (Bear and Company, 1996). TT theory posits chakras and manually transmittable human energies.

(See also: Therapeutic Touch, Body Mind and Soul, Alternative Health, Alternative Health Dictionary)

Orthopractic: Holistic healing approach promoted by Anthony Cimino, N.D., Ph.D., founder of the Long Island Biotherapy Center, in Syosset, New York.

It embraces acupressure, Dianetics, hypnotherapy, muscle testing (see above), nutritional counseling, reflexology, and Neuro-Communication (Neuro-Communication Systems). Neuro-Communication, according to a Biotherapy Center leaflet, is a process discovered by Cimino that asserts to better the nervous system through the use of special words and body movement.

(See also: Orthopractic, Body Mind and Soul, Alternative Health, Alternative Health Dictionary)

MASSAGE

Hands-on manipulation for healing is probably older than any other healing tradition. The oldest written records of massage go back three thousand years to China, but it is much older than that. Touch and the laying on of hands are human tendencies that seem to be in our genetic makeup.

Perhaps the most basic principle in this field is that improved blood circulation is beneficial for virtually all health conditions. Tension in the muscles and other soft tissues can impair circulation, resulting in a deficient supply of nutrients and inadequate removal of wastes or toxins from the tissues of the body. This in turn can lead to illness, structural and functional problems, or slower healing. Recognition of the importance of blood circulation is implicit in all forms of massage and bodywork.

Massage includes a number of disciplines that share the use of pressure, friction and strain upon the muscles and joints of the body for therapeutic or physical responses. Swedish massage (which is a proper name, not a reference to Sweden) refers to a collection of techniques designed primarily to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart. Shiatsu (pronounced shee-OTT-sue), on the other hand, is a system based on the body's energy meridians. Shiatsu massages are normally done fully clothed and involve pressing points on the body and stretching and opening of the energy meridians. 

There are massage therapists experienced in working with the elderly and terminally ill, the chronically ill and disabled, and those persons recovering from trauma as well as infants. A range of gentle and noninvasive techniques tailored to each client group and treatment includes the therapist's sensitivity, responsiveness, and presence through subtle touch. Ill children feel better when touched in just the right way.

(See also: MASSAGE, Alternative Health, Holistic Health, Body Mind and Soul)