Lost Book of Healing
Lost Book of Healing
Lost Book of Healing
Benefits ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
Locating A Practitioner............................................................................................................................ 15
Holistic Medicine..................................................................................................................................... 17
Summary ................................................................................................................................................. 19
Statistics ...................................................................................................................................................... 21
What Is Integrative Medicine...................................................................................................................... 23
Principles of Homeopathy....................................................................................................................... 27
Remedies................................................................................................................................................. 28
Specific Uses............................................................................................................................................ 29
Precautions ............................................................................................................................................. 29
Uses ..................................................................................................................................................... 33
Criticism .............................................................................................................................................. 34
Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 34
Acupressure ............................................................................................................................................ 35
Benefits ............................................................................................................................................... 35
Uses ..................................................................................................................................................... 36
Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 37
Tai Chi...................................................................................................................................................... 38
Uses ..................................................................................................................................................... 39
Benefits ............................................................................................................................................... 39
Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 40
Medical Qi Gong...................................................................................................................................... 41
Uses ..................................................................................................................................................... 43
Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 45
Benefits ............................................................................................................................................... 47
Uses ..................................................................................................................................................... 48
Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 49
Reiki......................................................................................................................................................... 50
Reflexology.............................................................................................................................................. 53
Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 56
Hypnosis .................................................................................................................................................. 57
What Is Hypnosis................................................................................................................................. 57
Hydrotherapy .......................................................................................................................................... 61
How it Works....................................................................................................................................... 61
Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 63
History ................................................................................................................................................. 64
Aromatherapy ......................................................................................................................................... 67
Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 71
Meditation .......................................................................................................................................... 74
Exercise ............................................................................................................................................... 78
Dietary Supplements........................................................................................................................... 78
Summary ..................................................................................................................................................... 83
Disclaimer: This information is not intended as medical advice. You
should always seek the advice of a licensed medical doctor for any
medical issues or problems that you may have.
Holistic treatment is a form of healing that takes the entire person into account.
The idea that all the elements of a human being must be considered in order to
promote optimal health and wellness comes from holism. Holism is a philosophy
that promotes the primary goal of ultimate health and wellness. Working in unison
with conventional medicine, holistic
treatment is designed to incorporate
various forms of “alternative therapies” to
reach its aims.
Holistic treatment has a few main principles that make up the philosophy behind it,
including:
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➢ Achieving Optimal Health: This is the main goal of holistic treatment. Optimal
health, or when the person is doing well mentally, physically, and spiritually
is the epitome of a successful holistic treatment.
➢ Love: Holistic practitioners believe that love has monumental healing powers
that can be used to help patients fight disease. Health care providers who
practice holistic treatments focus on interacting with their patients in a way
that promotes kindness, grace, unconditional acceptance, and abounding
spirit. They believe that love, like laughter, is one of life’s most potent
healers.
"The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will instruct
his patient in the care of the human frame, in diet, and in the
cause and prevention of disease." ~ Thomas Edison, 1902
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Healing traditions that date back as far as 5,000 years and originating from India
and China centered on the concept of living in harmony with nature.
The philosopher Socrates in all his wisdom, stated, "for the part can never be well
unless the whole is well."
The term “holism” was first coined by Jan Christian Smuts in 1926 to describe a
“whole that is greater than the sum of their parts.” But, the term holistic did not
reach modern vocabulary until the 1970s.
With the advent and great advances in modern Western medicine the holistic
approach took a backseat as people’s excitement over medical fixes grew. But,
once it became evident that modern medicine could not cure everything, and that
certain chronic conditions did not respond to conventional treatments and that
some treatments may actually cause more harm than good, the holistic approach
was revived.
The holistic approach as it applies to curing and treating various diseases and
conditions became a much more attractive option, but, it goes even further.
Holistic treatment is used to explore the entirety of the person to find potential
underlying problems of their disease or affliction and to then address those as
applicable in the treatment plan.
When a patient walks into a holistic practitioner’s office, they will receive a
complete evaluation, including, an in depth look into their history, lifestyle,
thoughts, and feelings and be given treatment options based on who they are as a
person.
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Holistic doctors also work to help their patients help themselves. They do this
through a few different options such as:
Each of these options is used to explore the inner corners of the patient’s life in
order to rule out other causes and underlying problems. It’s all part of the unique
holistic treatment.
The main benefits patients can receive from undergoing holistic treatment include
the following:
➢ A direct hand in their treatment so that they are included and consulted
every step of the way.
➢ Alternative medications and treatments that are effective, but also gentle,
non-invasive, natural and ensure
the lowest possible risk of harm.
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These are designed to address and heal the whole person by including their mind,
body and spirit in all treatment options and plans.
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The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM)
divides holistic medicine into 4 modalities, which, are specific approaches or
methods for healing. Here are a just a few examples within each modality.
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▪ Music Therapy
▪ Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)
▪ Stress Management
▪ T'ai Chi (Chuan)
▪ Yoga
4. Biologically based practices
▪ Biofeedback
▪ Herbal Therapy
▪ Hydrotherapy
▪ Nutritional Counseling
5. Energy Medicine
▪ Chi Kung Healing Touch
▪ Energy Work
▪ Healing Touch
▪ Magnetic Therapy
▪ Prayer
▪ Reiki
▪ Therapeutic Touch
▪ Touch for Health
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The American Holistic Medical
Association is a nonprofit
organization that was founded in
July, 1978 and deals with all aspects
of holistic care. The organization is
comprised of holistic practitioners,
leaders in the field, authors and
supporters.
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“Consider that people are like tea bags. They don’t know their
own strength until they get into hot water. ~ Dan McKinnon
Here are the 10 principles of Holistic Medicine as set forth by the American Holistic
Medicine Association.
1. Optimal Health is always the first and main goal of the holistic medical
practice. This means that the overall well-being and balance of the person,
including, physical, environmental, social, mental, emotional, and spiritual
must be addressed and healed, regardless of whether or not there is a
presence of disease.
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awareness. By addressing symptoms along with various contributing factors
they strive to enhance all aspects of patient’s lives for optimal well-being.
5. Innate Healing Power. The holistic model believes that all people have innate
healing powers, and so it strives to allow people to get in touch with those
and utilize them in the healing process.
7. Relationship Centered Care. As opposed to what you will likely find at your
MD’s office, the relationship between a holistic practitioner and their
patient is based on open communication, patient autonomy, and a general
respect for and value of the insights provided by both the practitioner and
the patient. This type of quality relationship is at the center of the
effectiveness of holistic treatment.
8. Individuality. All patients are unique individuals and in holistic health care, as
opposed to conventional medicine, the particular needs and circumstances
of the individual are addressed rather than the particular illness they suffer
from.
10. Learning Opportunities. Holistic philosophy believes that every single life
experience is an opportunity to learn, and this applies to both the patient
and the practitioner.
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As you can see holistic medicine goes well beyond treating someone
with an illness, be it chronic, terminal or otherwise.
In fact, many people without a particular disease or illness seek out the services of
holistic practitioners to simply improve their overall vitality and well-being.
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Those who believe in the holistic approach to
health believe that the entire body must be
functioning in the best possible way. This
includes the mind, body, and spirit.
There are many different doctors and specialists that practice holism, here are a
few examples.
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• Acupuncturists
• Pediatricians
• Herbalists
• And more
➢ They also understand that the client may need to be treated by conventional
medication and refer them to appropriate doctors when needed.
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You should see a holistic practitioner if you want to create a healthier lifestyle that
will bring balance to your mind, body, and spirit. You should also see holistic MD
doctor if you want a holistic approach to treat a condition or disease you may
have.
3. You need to look at the physical appearance of the practitioner. If they look
sickly, over or underweight, or just look unhealthy it is best that you
continue your search. It is critical that the practitioner practices the craft in
their own lives, otherwise they cannot be an effective guide.
You can search the American Holistic Medical Association website by zip code to
find qualified holistic professionals,
http://www.holisticmedicine.org/AF_provider.asp?version=1.
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Patients have choices in how they manage their health care, and these are:
✓ Holistic
✓ Alternative
✓ Complementary
Complementary and alternative medicines have more similarities with one another
than with holistic medicine. This is because holistic medicine refers to a treatment
system that encompasses various modalities that address the entire person, body,
mind and soul with methods that are not typically a part of conventional
medicines.
One of the main differences between these three types of medicines is the
philosophies behind them.
Holistic Care
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Holism is grounded in complete healing of the individual
on all levels rather than the incremental treatment of
symptoms of some type of illness or disease as seen in
conventional modern medicine.
One of the most attractive aspects of this form of treatment is the way the patient
is treated. While modern medicine seems to view the sick person as an example of
an illness, holistic medicine views the person as an individual with thoughts,
feelings and a history. When looking at the patient as a person, practitioners are
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able to develop a treatment plan that embodies each individual patient’s mind,
body and spirit.
The term “alternative therapy” is commonly misused outside of its exact meaning
to describe therapies that are outside of those used in conventional medical care,
when in reality, the official definition means that conventional medicine is
excluded.
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Complementary care is applied alongside traditional Western medicine,
hence, the name complementary, as it used together with conventional
medicine.
➢ Massage therapy
➢ Chiropractic therapy
➢ Acupuncture
➢ Herbalism
➢ Reiki
➢ And others
▪ Holistic medicine uses various therapies to treat the whole person, but, does
not ignore conventional Western medicine, instead it uses various therapies
outside of its scope - Very Commonly Used.
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▪ Alternative therapy is where the only therapies or treatments used are those
outside of conventional medicine – Rarely Used.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters
compared to what lies within us.” ~ Oliver Wendell Holmes
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The last comprehensive research done on complementary and alternative
treatment was back in 2007. The results showed that Americans spend about $34
billion on various complementary care methods.
Use By Age
➢ 0 - 4 - 7.6%
➢ 5 - 11 - 10.7%
➢ 12 - 17 - 16.4%
➢ 18 – 29 - 36.3%
➢ 30 – 39 - 39.6%
➢ 40 – 49 - 40.1%
➢ 50 - 59 - 44.1%
➢ 60 - 69 - 41%
➢ 70 - 84 - 32.1%
➢ 85 and older - 24.2%
Conditions Treated
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➢ Meditation 9.4%
➢ Chiropractic and Osteopathic manipulation 8.6%
➢ Massage 8.3%
➢ Yoga 6.1%
➢ Nutritional Therapies 3.6%
➢ Progressive Relaxation 2.9%
➢ Homeopathic Treatment 1.8%
Sources: Center For Disease Control and the National Center For Complementary And Alternative
Medicine (NCAAM).
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Medicine is both a science and an art. It is a science because it relies upon
systematic research and experimentation to investigate diseases and conditions
that ail the body and it relies upon empirical evidence to provide treatment for
those diseases and conditions. It is also an art because the practice of medicine
also affects people’s emotions, psychology, emotions and social dynamics.
When we feel ill, we go and see a doctor. Depending upon which part of our
anatomy feels out of sorts, we go to a doctor that specializes in treating a
particular part of our body. Often, doctors, especially doctors who practice
Western medicine focus on symptom relief and on dealing with specific illness. This
focus saves lives that is true.
However, for some diseases and conditions which are chronic, and, for which there
is no instantaneous relief or cure, there must be more to medicine than just relief
of symptoms.
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Integrative medicine refers to the use of all types of therapies,
even those outside of the scope of conventional medicine.
➢ Prescription medication
➢ Surgery
➢ Acupuncture
➢ Nutritional therapy
➢ Aromatherapy
➢ Mental health counseling
➢ Herbal medicine
➢ Massage
➢ and even yoga
These Eastern practices may not offer instantaneous relief of symptoms, but they
work long term toward boosting the immune system so that the body can be in a
better shape to fight disease. These also help the patient reduce the effects of
stress which exacerbates and aggravates existing medical conditions.
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Integrative medicine treats the person as a whole instead of merely treating a
disease. The aim of integrative medicine is to make the person feel better by
integrating certain practices that promote the wellbeing of the mind, as well as,
the body.
Example
A person with migraine headaches can see a doctor and get a brain scan. The
doctor can then prescribe medication. If the patient also receives integrative care
they can get help through meditation practice or natural pain management.
In this way, the patient can still take medication for when they experience
migraines, but they can practice relaxation techniques to manage their pain.
Studies have shown that yoga and meditation can help in pain management. The
patient can also use calming essential oils (aromatherapy) to feel a sense of
wellbeing to help fight the pain.
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Integrative medicine is not such
an alien concept. Even after we
see a doctor, we use various
home remedies and
complementary therapies to
alleviate our woes.
Most of these are remedies will not be prescribed by a doctor, but, they are time
tested ways to find relief.
They do not cure the diseases directly, but, they do help us feel a little better;
sleep and rest a little better. When we feel better, we are able to heal, recuperate
and recover faster.
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Homeopathy is a whole medical system under the umbrella of holistic medicine
and is a popular practice that claims to address a variety of conditions.
A lot of people think that homeopathy, also called homeopathic medicine, works
similarly to herbal medicine. But, in reality, this medical system is quite different.
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symptoms a patient is experiencing.
➢ Single remedy – this means that only one medicine is required to treat all the
symptoms a patient may be experiencing, including, those that are mental,
emotional and physical in nature.
➢ Minimum dose – Part one is that the medicine is only prescribed in a small
dose to evaluate the effect. Part two is all medicine is given in infinitesimal
doses.
Examples
If, for instance, you are suffering from a lack of sleep due to excess intake of
caffeine, consuming a small amount of caffeine may help you get a good night’s
sleep.
Remedies for this medical system are made from animals, minerals and plants,
such as, stinging nettle, belladonna, poison ivy, white arsenic, crushed whole bees,
arnica, and red onion.
As reported by the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, which was a detailed
study on the use of complementary health methods by Americans, approximately
3.9 million adults and 910,000 children employed homeopathy in 2006.
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Since its advent in 1796, homeopathy has been used to treat a wide array of
conditions, including:
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➢ Licensing - Laws and regulations governing the practice of homeopathy in
the United States differ from state to state. Generally, those who are
licensed to practice medicine or some other medical care profession can
lawfully practice homeopathy. In a few states, non-licensed individuals can
also practice treatment modality.
➢ While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates homeopathy,
they do not test any remedies for safety or effectiveness.
➢ Some may assume that because homeopathic remedies are highly diluted
they cannot be harmful, but, actually some contain substantial amounts of
active ingredients that can cause adverse side effects and drug interactions.
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"When the wind of change blows, some build walls,
while others build windmills." ~ Chinese Proverb
Acupuncture is just one component of traditional Chinese medicine but it has been
proven most effective.
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➢ When a patient sees a traditional Chinese medical practitioner, the Chinese
doctor will first observe the patient’s eyes, tongue, skin and general
disposition.
➢ He may also ask about the patient’s urine and fecal output as well as daily
habits and lifestyle.
➢ All these observations plus the patient’s complaints enable the doctor to
determine what part of the patient’s body has been affected by the
imbalance in his qi.
➢ The Chinese doctor will recommend foods that the patient must avoid or
must eat more of.
➢ The Chinese doctor will also prescribe natural herbs for the patient to take
as tea. If these do not balance the patient’s qi the Chinese doctor will raise
the treatment to the next level which is acupuncture.
➢ Acupuncture involves the patient lying supine with his back exposed. The
acupuncturist will then insert sterile needles into the pathways of the qi so
as to stimulate the return of the balanced and harmonious flow of qi.
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pain results. Thus, Western medicine has accepted acupuncture as an
alternative method of pain relief.
➢ It is also thought to increase blood flow to areas of the body which are
affected by disease or injury, thus promoting healing.
The efficacy of acupuncture is still being investigated as viable treatments for the
discomforts of menopause; as well as the pain and discomfort associated with
chemotherapy.
It is theorized that acupuncture’s efficacy lies in the fact that it treats the
underlying cause of illness, as well as, relieves the symptoms associated with the
illness.
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Some critics of acupuncture have asserted that the insertion of needles does not
really effect treatment, but like a placebo, it induces feelings of well-being which
accord with the patient’s expectations and belief.
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Having originated in China over 5,000 years ago, acupressure is considered as one
of the ancient arts of healing. Similar to acupuncture, it works around the principle
of stimulating the body’s self-healing
abilities by regulating the flow of the
body’s life force known as chi.
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known to increase circulation, tone the facial muscles, prevent wrinkles, and
release toxins.
✓ Better sexual drive. Acupressure can improve arousal, sexual endurance, and
enhances sexual pleasure. It can even help with sexual problems, such as,
decreased libido, impotency, premature ejaculation, and infertility through a
deeper understanding of how to release blocked sexual energies.
These stresses can cause the body’s muscles to tighten and contract,
preventing the life energy from flowing freely. This may lead to depression,
anxiety, and other disorders.
There’s no scientific evidence that acupressure can treat a specific ailment, but it
has been found effective in addressing certain disease-related symptoms.
Colds. A cold is not a disease in itself, but, rather the body’s natural response when
viruses invade the mucous membranes. By performing acupressure, the cold
symptoms may seem worse than before, but, in reality, acupressure aims to
stimulate the body to expel the viruses faster, thus allowing the symptoms to
progress more quickly. Additionally, acupressure can relieve that “stuffed” feeling
on the sinuses by pressing on specific points.
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Nausea. Acupressure has been widely used in relieving nausea and vomiting
resulting from spinal anesthesia, surgery, chemotherapy, and motion sickness.
Pain. Headache, low back pain, and any other type of pain resulting from other
medical conditions can also be alleviated with the help of acupressure. By
stimulating the body’s pressure points, it triggers the release of endorphins, a
neurotransmitter, which, is known to have pain relief properties.
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If the spelling of these words isn’t familiar, it’s probably because they are Chinese
phrases. What may be familiar to you is seeing these in real life. If you’ve ever
visited a park in a culturally diverse city like Los Angeles or New York, you would
probably observe a group of mostly elderly people lined up like a platoon but they
look like they are slowly dancing. They are probably doing Tai Chi.
The Chinese martial art of Kung Fu is a vigorous and advanced form of defensive tai
chi. You have probably heard how Kung Fu masters use their expertise only to
defend themselves. They can discipline their bodies such that their bodies become
lethal weapons.
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The theory is that Kung Fu masters can calm their minds and concentrate their chi
at one point of their body. If the chi is concentrated in the fists, the fists can deal a
blow so powerful enough to be fatal.
While those elderly practitioners of tai chi in the park are not the same as Kung Fu
masters, the basic principles and theories underlie the practice.
Deep breathing and slow movements calm and clear the mind so
that the body can respond to the mind in harmony.
Even if you do not believe or subscribe to the spiritual aspects of tai chi, and even if
you do not believe in meditation, you will have to concede that the slow, low
impact aerobic exercise can improve blood circulation.
✓ Scholars and scientists have discovered that practitioners of tai chi have
lower incidence of lifestyle diseases, such as hypertension, coronary artery
disease and diabetes.
✓ They also have amazing balance and agility which precludes them from
injury through accidental falls—a common hazard for the elderly.
✓ You would think, at first glance, that you won’t work up a sweat with the
slow movements, but, the slow movements use most of the muscles of the
body without straining them.
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✓ The graceful movements cannot be executed without strength in the bones
and muscles of the ankles, knees and hips.
✓ Also, the slow movements allow adherents to complete their exercise for
longer periods of time thereby burning more calories and building up
endurance and stamina.
✓ The slow movements are gentler on the ankles and the knees than walking,
jogging, running or biking and yet, they allow for weight bearing which
strengthens these joints. These movements also improve posture allowing
better blood circulation.
✓ One other significant finding of scholarly studies on the health benefits of tai
chi is that those who practice it have significantly lower incidence or
perception of pain. Scientists cannot be sure if the better blood circulation
allows for less muscle strain which prevents pain; or if the meditative
breathing fosters calmness and thus, the perception and threshold of pain is
lowered.
For all these health benefits, even if you do not believe in the spiritual aspect of
the practice of tai chi, the physical workout it gives cannot be dismissed as a mere
fad or a fable.
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Exercise has always been viewed as an activity that can help keep the body healthy
and strong. All kinds of exercise can be effective to tone muscle, lose a few
pounds, maintain a healthy heart, and promote inner strength. Unfortunately,
there are plenty of people who suffer from conditions which make it difficult, if not
impossible, to practice regular exercise which could cause them to suffer both
physically and mentally.
This is where Medical Qi Gong comes in. This gentle exercise type is perfect for
those with sensitivities, lower resistance, and muscle or joint disorders that make
regular exercise painful and harmful.
Alongside acupuncture and many herbal remedies, Medical Qi Gong is one of the
core medical treatments in Chinese medicine. It is described as a gentle form of
exercise that is specifically geared toward treating specific illness and symptoms of
certain diseases.
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What these diseases have in common is that they effect one’s ability to endure
pain and engage in strenuous activity. Since most exercises regimens are rigorous
and therefore tough on bodies that are more sensitive, Medical Qi Gong is a great
alternative to keep the body in shape while simultaneously helping the muscles to
loosen and relax through gentle but effective movements.
Therefore Medical Qi Gong aims to clear these obstructions through their gentle
movement and exercise routines in order to allow the energy to naturally flow
throughout the body once again.
When this has been executed correctly, Qi Gong should help to improve or even
remove symptoms and discomforts caused by disease. When used along with
proper diet, medication, education, and other activities as prescribed by your
doctor, Qi Gong can make a big difference.
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Medical Qi Gong treats a range of medical conditions. It is most effective in
treating chronic disease that traditionally require a lot of treatment and
monitoring.
➢ Breast Cancer
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➢ Depression: Depression is a mood disorder that can negatively alter one’s
outlook on life. Sadness, anxiety, irritability, and hopelessness are the most
common symptoms. QI Gong can help by improving performance in
cognitive tests and reducing depression symptoms.
Medical Qigong is not regulated in the United States. So, while anyone can claim to
be an expert, it actually takes years of study to become a master.
You can learn to do the exercises and perform them at home, but, it is important
to learn proper form and technique, which, is where a skilled master can be
imperative.
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Qi Gong should only be taught by a certified master.
While effective, these exercises can be harmful when
not practiced correctly. Taking classes or lessons from a
professional or asking your doctor is highly
recommended to ensure safety and promote an effective treatment plan.
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The uninitiated and the doubting Thomases may be quick to dismiss it as plain
quackery, but, the truth is that herbs have played an important role throughout
thousands of years of medical
practice and across diverse
cultures all over the world.
Herbal medicine, or the use of plants for their therapeutic benefits, has been
practiced since the ancient times across differing cultures and medicinal systems.
The earliest healers known to men as far back as the Paleolithic era some 60,000
years ago were already intimately studying the therapeutic properties of various
plants. Medicinal systems that sprung from ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic
societies methodically studied the medicinal properties of plants and made it a
cornerstone in their respective healing cultures and techniques.
When the Western world developed conventional medicine, much of the early
drugs invented and mass produced were derived from years of studying the
properties and chemical composition of plants and their medicinal uses. Today,
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even as chemists learned to make plant compounds using synthetic substances, a
quarter of pharmaceutical drugs are still derived from plants. Modern man’s
Aspirin is derived from willow bark, the cancer therapy drug Taxol is extracted from
Pacific yew, and the heart muscle strengthener drug Digitalis has its origins from
foxglove.
Healing with herbs remain a popular practice today, as about 80% of our global
population are finding the costs of pharmaceutical drugs prohibitive and are thus
turning to herbal preparations as their primary
source of health care.
Although medical researchers and botanists have yet to discover and document
exhaustively the intricate medicinal properties of our whole plant system, there
are now hundreds of medicinal herbs for a wide variety of illnesses from burns and
minor bruises to more severe diseases that are known to man.
There are also a handful of herbal medications associated with the treatment of
chronic illnesses such as arthritis, migraines, menstrual cramps, depression and
hypertension.
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Some of these remedies are accessible through herbs that can be easily grown at
home and prepared as homemade decoction, tinctures, infusions or poultice, while
others are easily procured in health stores and alternative clinics as herbal
capsules, tablets, teas or dietary supplements.
Some herbal remedies are also available as topical oils and ointments, salves or
aromatherapy essences.
Not all herbs are created equal, and some are more capable of curing specific
symptoms and health conditions. Particular parts of some herbs are also best used
in specific modes of ingestion or application to achieve proper results.
Chamomile – The top portion of the plant gathered during the early stage of
flowering is best taken as tea infusion to treat anxiety, indigestion, insomnia,
muscle pain and cramps.
Ginger – Ginger root can be taken fresh, dried or as tea to relieve colds, fever and
nausea.
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Lavender – Oil from the leaves and flowers of the lavender plant is a popular
medication for headaches, depression and indigestion. It also has great
antibacterial properties. The use of lavender oil in creams, lotions, massage oils
and other aromatherapy.
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"A faithful friend is the medicine of life." ~ Apocrypha
Some people may try traditional remedies to feel better such as a quick nap,
supplements, massages, medications, or other forms of treatments meant to
soothe and calm the body.
What Is Reiki
Reiki is a completely natural treatment method for those who suffer from
tension, fatigue, low energy, and even depression.
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It is used to promote balance throughout the system on all levels through the
healing touch of a Reiki professional, whether they are a trained friend, family
member, or even yourself.
Reiki is meant to help patients feel at ease, comfortable, and healthy. This
treatment method is a spiritual, vibrational practice that is designed to heal the
body of all discomfort and pain in the most natural way possible.
The process is executed through subtle touch that is meant to lightly influence the
vibrational field believed to exist within and around the body. This field is known as
the human universal life energy, and it exists in all people.
This treatment option can help you get in touch with your inner spirituality while
healing you of all the aches, pains, and stress you carry throughout the day.
This connection is not grounded in any religion or belief system, but is simply a
byproduct of the therapeutic effects of the natural Reiki treatment. A standard
Reiki session takes place in an area of the patient’s choosing. Many Reiki masters
are willing to visit their patients in their homes, or they invite them into their own
studios.
Many treatments are performed by having the patient lie down on a soft surface
while the Reiki master administers the treatment.
The ambiance in which Reiki takes place is often a room with low light, calming
music or sounds, and little to no distractions so that once the patient begins their
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session, they can enjoy the full benefits of this spiritual practice.
People can benefit from using or practicing Reiki for a number of reasons. If
mainstream treatments are not working for them, a more natural approach may
be exactly what they need.
Reiki was developed as a way to get in touch with one’s self on a deeply intimate
and spiritual level.
Anyone can learn to perform Reiki, no matter their age or stage in life. From
children to the elderly, the healing power of Reiki can be mastered and shared
with everyone in need.
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From reducing stress to boosting your
energy levels, reflexology is truly
a relaxing massage therapy that can be
of great benefit in many different ways.
Furthermore, reflexology is a
therapeutic modality that can be used
to help people who suffer from ankle
injuries and plantar fasciitis.
Reflexology practitioners believed that these reflex points and areas correspond to
several different systems and organs in the body. Thus, with the appropriate
amount of pressure, reflexology can provide a beneficial effect in the person’s
organs and overall well-being.
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Reflexology is considered a form of alternative medicine. In ancient times, this
medical system was widely used and practiced in several countries, including India,
Egypt and China. Today, millions of people all over the world are taking advantage
of this ancient practice to boost their body’s healing process.
As matter of fact, it is one of the world’s fastest growing health trends and medical
practices. In Denmark, for instance, over 20% of the country’s total population had
used reflexology to improve their overall well-being.
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➢ This, in turn, causes a release of pain-relieving into the bloodstream, giving a
soothing sensation and effect to pains, and aches in the body.
Reflexology practitioners use foot charts as a guide, as they apply the appropriate
pressure to certain reflex areas and zones. In some cases, they use items to help
them in their work, such as sticks of wood, rubber bands and rubber balls.
There are a lot of benefits that can be offered by the ancient practice. With
reflexology, you get to alleviate stress by creating relaxing your senses, helping
your body restore its balance and allowing the healing energy to discharge and
flow.
Medical experts and reflexologists say that it can also be used to address a broad
range of symptoms and medical conditions, including:
➢ Diabetes
➢ Headaches
➢ PMS
➢ Cardiovascular issues
➢ Asthma
➢ Enhance sleep
➢ Help with depression and anxiety
➢ Thyroid imbalance
➢ Sinusitis
➢ Respiratory problems
➢ Neck problems
➢ Muscle tension
➢ Multiple sclerosis
➢ Eczema
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➢ Constipation
➢ Bowel disorders
➢ Hypertension
➢ Back problems
➢ Arthritis
➢ Allergies
➢ Hormonal problems
➢ And others
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Hypnosis often conjures images of contrived amusement best done in magic shows
and sleazy nightclubs. But once you get past your prejudices and fear of the often
misunderstood if not unknown, you may discover in hypnosis a potent treatment
method for alleviating a host of symptoms and disorders.
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When used by competent and trained professionals, hypnotherapy is able to
induce a state of trance, or an altered state of consciousness similar to dream
consciousness and deep relaxation to treat disorders that are largely psychological
or emotional in origin.
The human brain has the capacity to assume different levels of consciousness,
alternating from being completely alert to lethargic to effusively asleep and several
variations of awareness in between.
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Psychologically, being in a state of hypnosis is also believed to access the more
perceptive unconscious mind which in turn promotes brain wave activity that
makes individuals more open to therapeutic suggestions and altered perceptions,
attitudes and behaviors.
➢ Weight Loss
➢ Smoking cessation
➢ Phobias, fears, and anxiety
➢ Sleep disorders
➢ Depression
➢ Stress
➢ Post-trauma anxiety
➢ Grief and loss
Contrary to popular belief though, hypnosis will not make you do or say things
against your will. You cannot be forced into a state hypnosis either.
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While the ability to be hypnotized is also believed to be a learned skill, people who
have an excellent imagination and are able to keep a strong mental focus are said
to experience the best results from hypnosis.
"It is more important to know what sort of person has a disease than to
know what sort of disease a person has." ~ Hippocrates (460-377 B.C.)
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Hydrotherapy is a holistic healing method that uses water to combine the
therapeutic benefit. “Hydro” is a prefix from the Greek tied to many words
meaning “water.”
Hydrotherapy is a form of
naturopathy, an alternative
treatment method that relies
on non-invasive methods to
treat patients or clients
without the use of drugs or
surgery.
Hydrotherapy is a broad term that describes a method using water for healing.
Patients are encouraged to immerse themselves into a tub or shower of moderate
temperature.
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Whirlpool for instance is a form of hydrotherapy. The water jets that are part of
Whirlpool’s apparatus serve to apply direct pressure to the body’s afflicted area(s).
For instance if it’s your lower back that is making it difficult to ambulate, sitting
down in a hot tub with pulsating jets manipulating the injured back area will
hopefully provide relief, which, obviously can be equated to any body part,
including, calves, thighs, feet, hands, shoulders.
If you enjoy showering and you’re having upper or lower back pain, consider a
shower head that rotates from pulsate to straight water, back to pulsating. If
you’ve ever stood under a warm shower and let the water hit your shoulders and
because it felt great, whether you realized it or not you were enjoying
hydrotherapy.
It’s not habit forming, other than you might love your bath or shower, but it’s not
something you’ll have to have or else you’ll suffer the consequence of physical
withdrawal. It’s economical. If water immersion works for you rather than a visit to
the doctors you are of course saving money not having to see the doctor on a
regular basis for drug prescription management and therapy.
There are different hydrotherapy options, such as, massage while lying in mineral-
treated water.
Whatever method you decide on will be agreed upon by you and your therapist.
➢ Pain is probably one of the most common reasons anyone would use
hydrotherapy.
➢ Besides physical pain there is the mental aspect.
➢ Stress relief is also at the top of the list for many who employ this tactic.
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➢ Another significant reason to give hydrotherapy a try is simply to do
something nice for yourself that is natural, calming and healing.
Hydrotherapy that combines natural minerals along with massage can do wonders
for both mind and body. It’s certainly worth exploring if you’ve been looking for an
alternative from traditional resources available to you.
A visit to the naturotherapist might be, in fact, just what the doctor ordered.
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Those who practice chiropractic
treatment, referred to as chiropractors,
provide a drug free, hands on approach
to healthcare.
Chiropractors are able to examine, diagnose, and treat patients as well as provide
information related to rehabilitation exercise, diet, nutrition, and lifestyle changes.
Chiropractic treatment began in 1895 when a man named Daniel David Palmer
performed the first chiropractic adjustment on the partially deaf Harvey Lillard.
Lillard reported to Palmer within a few days of the adjustment that his hearing
seemed to improve. Two years later, Palmer opened the first school of
chiropractic.
In 1963 the American Medical Association formed a committee that was designed
to eliminate the chiropractic profession and referred to chiropractic treatment as
an unscientific cult. In the 1980’s chiropractic treatment gained mainstream
support and has flourished ever since.
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Spinal manipulation is simply a quick thrust to spinal joints that moves the joints
slightly beyond their normal range of movement allowing the release of built up
joint fluids.
Spinal manipulation can be followed by a few side effects which include discomfort
in the area, slight headache, or tiredness. These side effects are temporary and
should dissipate within a few hours of the adjustment.
In 2009 a study found that a patient receiving chiropractic care was at no greater
risk than a patient who was receiving care from a primary care physician which has
helped lay to rest the claims that chiropractic treatment has severe life long side
effects.
Most states require chiropractors to earn annual credits in order to maintain their
license, and in order to acquire a license, chiropractors must pass an examination
that is administered by the National Board of Chiropractors.
When you go to see a chiropractor for the first time, they will look at your medical
history and do a physical examination. They may also want an X-ray of your spine.
If the chiropractor feels that chiropractic treatment will benefit your condition
than a treatment plan will be developed.
During your following appointments, you can be treated with several different
adjustment techniques along with other treatments such as electrical stimulation,
counseling about diet and weight loss, or information on rehabilitation exercises.
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➢ Chronic pain in joints, back, or reoccurring headaches and traditional
medical treatments are not helping.
➢ If you doctor recommends it.
➢ When an injury to a muscle, joint, or to your spine has not healed with
traditional medical treatment.
➢ You have sharp pain shooting from your hip down your leg.
➢ Pain or stiffness comes and goes in different parts of your body.
➢ If one of the soles of your shoes wears out quicker than the other.
➢ Your head leans forward instead of being positioned directly on top of your
shoulders.
➢ One shoulder is lower than the other.
➢ As your primary care doctor for any information they can give you on local
chiropractors. You may not need a referral to a chiropractor but your doctor
may know of someone that is worth your time and money.
➢ Look into the background of the chiropractor before you make an
appointment. Check to see if there are any malpractice suits filed against
them, and look for reviews online.
➢ Ask your chiropractor about their education and license.
➢ Ask if the chiropractor is trained to treat the condition you are seeking care
for.
➢ Tell the chiropractor of any medications you are taking as well as any
medical conditions you have.
➢ Ask about any out of pocket expenses that may not be covered by your
insurance.
➢ Make sure you tell your primary care doctor that you are seeing a
chiropractor. You want to ensure they know everything you are doing to
manage your health.
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Have you ever noticed how when you smell fried chicken, you remember your
mom because when you were small, Friday night was fried chicken night at your
house? Or, have you ever noticed how the smell of mothballs reminds you of your
grandmother’s attic where your bully of a
brother locked you in when you were 5
years old?
The Egyptians concocted mixtures of oils in which they dipped strips of linen cloth
which they use to wrap the bodies of the dead for burial. The oils inhibit the stench
of decay and keep away insects that may feed on the dead tissue.
Also, the essential oils preserve the skin which is useful for mummifying it. If
essential oils can delay decay in a corpse long enough for mummification to set in,
it can also heal live bodies. That, in a nutshell is what aromatherapy can do.
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Plants from which essential oils are derived have been used as medicine for
centuries. For example, in Asia, the leaves of the guava tree are boiled until they
produce a deep brown liquid. This liquid contains iodine which is used as an
antimicrobial wash for open wounds; mothers give their children ginger tea for
indigestion.
It is the essential oils in ginger that steep in the tea which calms the stomach. In
the book The Long Winter
written by Laura Ingalls
Wilder, she and her father
were making hay in the sun
and they were so hot and
thirsty. Her mother sent
them a jug of cool well
water that was flavored
with sugar and lots of
ginger. Ginger-water is
something the pioneers
drank to restore electrolyte
levels when they were working under the sun.
It is the same principle when herbal teas with chamomile are taken right before
bedtime – the essential oils in chamomile promote relaxation. Incense is burned in
temples because they calm and relax the mind so that worship can be possible.
Essential oils are also used as active ingredients in perfumes and colognes because
they stimulate moods. In food preparations, baked goods such as cookies and pies
incorporate cinnamon and vanilla because these do not only smell good, but, they
also aid digestion.
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Essential oils are obtained by distilling plant roots, berries, leaves or bark. The
plant parts are put to slowly boil in a covered vat with tubing sticking out of it. The
tubing is attached to another pot.
What happens is that as the plants slowly boil in water, steam rises up through the
tubing. The steam is a mixture of water vapor and some molecules of the plant’s
extracts.
The steam travels down the tubing and cools so that when it reaches the covered
pot on the other end, they become fat heavy droplets of liquid once more.
In the other pot, the droplets of liquid accumulate. As oil cannot mix with water,
the essential oils rise to the top of the water.
Essential oils are concentrated. When using essential oils, these must be mixed in
and diluted with other oils to prevent burns should the essential oils be used directly
on the skin.
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Topical Uses Include:
Headaches: For headaches effective essential oils are basil, eucalyptus, chamomile,
ginger, lemon grass, lavender, marjoram, peppermint, thyme, ylang ylang, and
others, including various combinations.
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Muscle Pain: lemon grass, lemon verbena, sandalwood, bay, caraway, chamomile,
eucalyptus, ginger, geranium, juniper patchouli and several others.
But, the best strategy in ultimate healing is to obtain the services of a professional
who has been trained in aromatherapy.
You can ask your doctor for a referral, or visit http://aromatherapycouncil.org/ that
offers a searchable database of aromatherapists who have met particular
requirements.
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Holistic medicine is a practice of medicine that advocates not only established
Western approaches to medicine which includes diagnosis and treatment using
surgery or pharmacology; but also
includes Easter medicine
approaches to wellbeing which
includes acupuncture, herbal
medicine, aromatherapy, yoga
and meditation.
In both yoga and meditation, the emphasis is on deep and controlled breathing.
The deep and controlled breathing helps the body achieve strength, balance and
agility in order to do all the yoga poses.
At the same time the deep and controlled breathing helps the person sort out the
thoughts and emotions that stress the mind. Both yoga and meditation with their
use of controlled breathing help the person control his muscle movement with the
same efficiency and calmness as he controls his thoughts and emotions.
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It is difficult for some people to imagine yoga and meditation as “medicine” since it
is more popularly advertised as a kind of exercise or workout. It is true, yoga and
meditation can help lower blood pressure and manage pain but these effects are
not the main reason why they are considered as part of holistic medicine.
Both yoga and meditation help the person achieve wellness of body
by addressing the anxiety and turbulence of the thoughts and emotions.
It is the theory of yoga that disease in the body is caused by disturbances in the
mind and emotions.
In modern medical terms, the stresses that the mind and the emotions are
exposed to trigger physiological responses in the body such as increased heart
rate, faster breathing, tensing up of muscles and the secretion of hormones like
adrenaline which enables us to move quickly to avoid or face danger.
Unfortunately, when the mind and the emotions are exposed to chronic stress, the
body’s stress response becomes a way of life. This translates in hypertension,
lowered resistance to infection and poor digestion in the long term. These
conditions inevitably set up the human body for increased wear and tear, thus,
rendering it vulnerable to disease.
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Thus, when a patient presents at the doctor’s clinic with complaints of palpitations,
anxiety and inability to concentrate or inability to sleep, holistic medicine will not
only order blood work or scans, it will not only prescribe blood pressure, sleep and
anti-anxiety medication – holistic medicine will encourage a lifestyle change.
Part of the lifestyle change is getting regular exercise, learning how to control
one’s breathing and learning how to breathe deeply so as to get the most benefit
from oxygen.
Yoga is not too strenuous especially at the beginner’s level. It will encourage
efficient blood flow while increasing strength, agility and endurance of the body.
Meditation allows the patient to label the myriad emotions he feels so that he
achieves calmness of mind. The result is that the patient feels better and better as
the body heals itself.
According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 10% percent of the U.S.
population has tried meditation at some point in their lives, making it one of the
most widely practiced forms of alternative medicine.
During meditation the patient focuses on breathing and clears the mind of all
distraction. There are also visual focal points that maybe used or chanting.
Its healing effects are numerous and far reaching, and can also improve one’s
quality of life.
➢ Attention-deficit disorder
➢ Asthma
➢ Pain
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➢ High blood pressure symptoms
➢ Stress reduction
➢ Depression
➢ Insomnia
➢ Anxiety
➢ According to the Mayo Clinic, meditation can also lower the risk of disease.
Visualization, also known as, guided imagery, is a practice that is used in holistic
care, and complementary medicine.
✓ Stress
✓ Anxiety
✓ Overall wellness and wellbeing
✓ Medical studies have shown that brain scans of patients who do guided
imagery have the same brain activity as those who are actually performing
the particular activity.
This means that the use of guided imagery can help stroke patients relearn
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basic actions. It can also help those who suffer from post-traumatic stress
disorder.
✓ According to the Mayo Clinic, there is hope that visualization techniques can
ease cancer treatments and help patients deal with related psychological
and stress- conditions.
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Having mental health problems is indeed a serious concern.
There are plenty of people who have battled many mental health concerns and
come out on the other side victorious. Wherever you look there is a story that will
inspire and motivate you to lead a better life.
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It has been found that proper exercises and a more active lifestyle reduces
depression and stress and paves the way for a healthier life. Exercise also keeps
the body and mind fit and sharp, which, helps in the long run. The mind becomes
more active and the body has more energy to sustain itself.
Melatonin, SAMe, St. John’s Wort, Valerian and others are some of the common
dietary supplements that could be taken to tackle mental health problems.
To this end holistic mental health includes, yoga, breathing methods, massage and
meditation. They have a calming effect and literally provide peace of mind for a
while.
Yoga
When used properly and regularly yoga has been proven to put people on the road
to both physical and mental recovery.
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Yoga and Eating Disorders
There are mental health practitioners who specialize in holistic care and are
considered to be alternative mental health professionals.
Visit the International Guide To The World Of Alternative Mental Health website to
find one near you, http://www.alternativementalhealth.com/directory/search.asp.
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Holistic medicine is the use of Western medicine complemented by Eastern
medicine. While most medical authorities will advise against the use of Eastern
medicine on babies and children, this advice is focused on parents who opt to use
Eastern or alternative medicine in lieu of Western medicine. When the health and
well-being of a normal developing child is in question, it is better to stick to
Western medicine as it is based on empirical evidence.
When the immediate danger to the life of the child is passed and the question of
quality of life comes into play, holistic medicine can be increase the child’s feeling
of well-being despite disabilities and other health deficits. Holistic medicine
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doesn’t seem to be necessary in children as children do not yet live with much
stress which weakens the body making it vulnerable to disease. But then, not all
children are born well.
In general, parents who believe in holistic healing will want their children to follow
the same path and that is why choosing a holistic pediatrician from infancy is the
best option. These are medical doctors who also specialized in alternative
therapies.
As these children with neurological impairments get older, they may be able to
benefit from massage and acupuncture in conjunction with physical therapy.
Acupuncture stimulates the nerves. Teaching these children yoga poses will
stimulate blood flow thereby strengthening and relaxing the muscles.
Alternative medicine addresses the child’s feelings of wellbeing and wellness despite
the presence of medical conditions and disabilities when Western medicine cannot
treat or improve their health and wellbeing.
Children living with pain because of childhood arthritis or cancer can benefit from
meditation and yoga.
Yoga helps control the muscles of the body while meditation helps the child
control his emotional response to pain.
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When children with disabilities go to school, they will interact with other children
who are not disabled, they will also interact with teachers who may or may not
understand their disabilities.
The pressure of fitting into the school environment and complying with academic
demands can put stresses on children with disabilities.
It is with regard to these that holistic medicine may be able to help the most.
There are specialists in this field, known as, holistic pediatric practitioners.
The best way to find one near you is to search the database at the American
Holistic Medical Association, simply go to this site:
http://www.holisticmedicine.org/AF_provider.asp?version=1, and enter your zip
code and Pediatrics in the “search by practice” field.
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To truly attain health and wellness one must understand that it reaches beyond a
visit to the doctor. It is something that needs love, care and attention before that
visit is necessary.
The holistic approach appreciates this fact and aims to improve the quality of life
for patients.
Holistic medicine understands that effective treatment involves treating the whole
person, and also addressing their environment and how it affects their overall
wellbeing.
For many holism is a way of life. It is something they practice daily with habits that
not only prevent disease, but, more importantly sustain an optimal level of general
wellness.
When medical care is needed, the holistic approach can offer vast benefits, and
enhance and actually improve the results obtained from conventional medical
care.
While conventional care strives to cure the disease, holistic medicine will strive to
balance the individual.
"The first question an Ayurvedic physician asks is not 'What disease does
my patient have?' but 'Who is my patient?' By 'who,' the physician does not
mean your name, but how you are constituted."
~ Deepak Chopra, M.D
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