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ACUPRESSURE
Acupressure differs from Shiatsu in that it is simplified. Eliminating the rythmical quality, Acupressure focuses on relieving energy blockages and pain simply by holding pressure to pulse points on the neural pathways. Because these pathways connect to and send messages all over the body, the trigger point used may be no where near the site of actual pain.
Pressure varies widely. It may seem intense and magnified at first until the body relaxes. Often arms flail or fingers twitch. In addition to localized pain relief, Acupressure can reduce fevers and nausea or break up kidney and gall stones. There are no contra-indications. It will always do some good. Relief is often immediate or within 48 hours. Acupressure can be applied while you are fully dressed and seated. Treatments can take up to 1 1/2 hours and will probably leave you feeling like a "wet noodle" for a day.
See also Shiatsu
ACUPUNCTURE
A highly complex and multi-dimentional healing discipline and system of diagnosis, Acupuncture's effectiveness has been legendary throughout the world for eons. It is recognized by the World Health Association.
Acupuncture applies precise stimulation to more than 1,000 points on the body where neural pathways are close to skin surface. Stimulation of these points induces a release of neuropeptides that prompt the body’s self-regulating systems, activate the immune system, and dampen pain. Stimulation can be achieved by using extremely fine stainless steel disposable needles, finger pressure, laser, sonar, vibration, energy impulse, or heat.
Acupuncture is highly effective for chronic and hard-to-diagnose illnesses, immune deficiency, over-taxed nervous system, stress, pain, emotional conditions and addictions. It can also be used in place of anesthesia during surgery, dentistry or Caesarian childbirth, allowing you to remain alert without feeling pain or discomfort.
Training and certification is standardized and regulated to ensure high standards of practice. Acupuncture is taught to Naturopathic Doctors, practitioners of Chinese Medicine, and is an optional modality for Chiropractors, physicians, and health professionals. Some practitioners are covered by extended health care
Variations include classical needle acupuncture, needle-free laser acupuncture, colour acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, Auricular Acupuncture, Acupressure
See also Energy Healing, Naturopathic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine
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AROMATHERAPY
Aromatherapy is a relaxing, fragrant, hands-on therapy that utilizes botanical essential oils for therapeutic benefit. The medicinal effect of essential oils combines with the emotional and sensory effect of scent to create a deep multi-level healing
Essential oils are highly volatile oils distilled from botanicals. Highly-concentrated, they contain concentrations of minerals, stimulants, antibiotics, hormones, astringents, and anti-inflammatory agents. Temperature, humidity, quality of botanicals, distillation process, and handling all affect the quality, efficacy, shelf-life and cost.
The scent of essential oils stimulates the senses and emotional centre of the brain causing emotional and physical responses and the release of endorphins, neuro-peptides and anti-bodies. When absorbed through the skin, oxygenating molecules in essential oils transport nutrients to cells and increase bio-photonic activity, stimulating the nervous system. Certain oils can bind to toxins and chemicals, drawing them out of body tissues. Some oils are anti-microbial and will kill viruses and pathogens. Essential oils also possess extremely high vibrational frequencies. They create a biological environment in which bacteria and disease cannot survive.
Essential oils can alleviate a multitude of complaints including burns, pain, stiffness, headaches and migraines, a sluggish lymphatic or digestive system, and stress. Practitioners must be highly skilled in selecting appropriate oils, as well as blending and administering them. In addition, proper massage techniques and comprehensive knowledge of human anatomy and physiology are required. ~
See also Lymph Massage, Therapeutic Massage
Find a qualified local aromatherapy practitioner
BIO-FEEDBACK TESTING
Bio-feedback testing provides accurate health assessments without being invasive or painful. These assessments are not intended to replace medical diagnostics, but may augment them by providing a new perspective and critical information that may be overlooked or not considered by your physician. Variations include Meridian Stress Assessments, Bio-terrain Testing, Vega Testing, Omega Acubase Testing, EAV Testing, Ryoduraku Testing
Computerized, pain-free, needle-free analysis measures galvanic skin response, or electrical impulses along meridians (neural pathways), or changes in the electromagnetic field to determine imbalances in organs, glands and body systems. Computerized testing provides highly accurate assessments of all organs and body systems. It can pinpoint the cause of allergies and environmental sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, metabolic toxins, ADHD, and parasites. Some biofeedback software also test products, foods, and supplements to see if they are right for you.
See also other non-invasive diagnostic techniques--Facial Analysis, Iridology, Kinesiology, Nutrition consulting, Naturopathic Medicine, Symptomatology
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CHIROPRACTIC MEDICINE
Chiropractic involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of dysfunction or disorders arising from the structures, functions or injuries of the spine, including any effects of those disorders on the nervous system. An holistic approach is used to assess conditions relating to the spine, nervous system and joints of the extremities.
Although chiropractic primarily involves the adjustment of the spinal column or other joints in order to enhance function, it does consider other contributory elements such as nutrition and emotional state. Other therapies, such as physiotherapy may be included as adjunct treatments.
Licensed as doctors, Chiropractors require 3 years of undergrade education followed by 3 years of chiropractic training plus a year of internship. Chiropractors may diagnose as well as treat. Chiropractic care may be covered by extended health care.
Chiropractic may also be performed on animals, reptiles, birds and fish
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COLON HYDROTHERAPY
An ideal therapy for chronic constipation and for those who physically in-active such as stroke or accident victims, seniors, pregnant women, and Chronic Fatigue sufferers. 1-hr customized procedure consists of at least 3 sterile, warm water colon lavages.
First lavage contains magnesium to relax the bowel. Second lavage stimulates the liver and pancreas to dump. Third lavage often has chlorophyll to cleanse and refresh. Gentle massage is applied to the abdomen to help dislodge hardened or encrusted fecal matter
see also Lymph Drainage Massage, Ion Cleanse
COLOUR or LIGHT THERAPY
Colour Therapy is a nobel-prize winning technique that uses the unique vibrational frequencies of the light spectrum to induce healing. Colour Therapy is safe, natural, and non-invasive. It can be used safely on adults, children, babies and even animals.
Colours are really specific waves of light measured in angstoms. The lightwave of each colour has a different frequency.
Each colour generates a very specific, subtle vibration that harmonizes or blends with the various vibrations of the chakras, neural pathways, organs and tissues, and photons in the cells. For instance, red oscillates at about 437 trillion per second. Yellow vibrates at 510 trillion. While the physical body is too dense to respond significantly to these high frequencies, at the atomic level electro-magnetic energies are highly sympathetic.
Light regulates our bio-rythms, induces growth, activates our cells and neural pathways, and instigates the release of hormones and regulatory neuro-peptides. Each frequency has a very specific effect on the photons within your cells. So, although subtle, colour affects is you physiologically as well as psychologically.
Coloured light can be used to promote well-being, aid creativity and learning, release energy blocks, and alleviate physical, emotional and mental conditions. As a therapy, it can be applied in several ways--through absorbing coloured light into the skin and chakras, by inhaling colour, drinking solarized water, using coloured filters over the eyes, and by visualization. It can be augmented by the use of colour in the environment and apparel, since colour has a psychological impact on attitudes, as well as a sympathetic influence on the aura.
Colour Therapy can be used as a Complementary treatment for pain and many physical ailments including migraines and headaches, stress, asthma, arthritis, nervous and mental disorders, imflammation, depression, insomnia, eating disorders, skin diseases, digestive ailments, SADS, blood and circulation problems.
See also Quantum Energy Therapies, Vibro-Accoustic Therapies
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CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
CranioSacral Therapy is a very gentle, non-invasive therapy that was devised to evaluate and relieve accumulated physiological stress within the central nervous system.
The CranioSacral system is comprised of membranes and cerebrospinal fluid which form the fluid-filled sac surrounding the core of the nervous system. It runs from the base of your brain, along your spinal cord to your tailbone. Cerebral spinal fluids are continually pumped through the spine, projecting commands to all the parts of the body. Disease, trauma or injury throws out the natural fluid rhythm so that the body's sensory, motor, immune, intellectual and self-healing functions become impaired.
Craniosacral Therapists measure and evaluate the rhythm of the fluids, identify the specific location of the problem, and gently apply techniques to skull, skin fascia, and soft tissue to release of correct imbalances. When cranio-sacral function is normalized, there can be far-reaching and seemingly unrelated beneficial effects almost anywhere in the body.
Cranio-Sacral Therapy enhances the movement of blood and other fluids through body tissues. It strengthens the immune system. Craniosacral Therapy is useful for a wide scope of health problems, including headache and migraine ~ digestive problems including Irritable Bowel Syndrome ~ chronic back pain ~ depression ~ stroke ~ brain and spinal cord injuries ~ problems of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system ~ Multiple Sclerosis ~ Menstrual or menopause problems ~ Arthritis (osteo & rheumatoid) ~ TMJ dysfunction (jaw problems) ~ Chronic Pain Syndrome ~ post-operative adhesions ~ Dyslexia & Dyscalclia ~ allergies ~ Neuralgia ~ Sinusitis ~ Tinnitus ~ Vertigo ~ high & low blood pressure. It is very helpful for brain dysfunction, chronic pain, lowered vitality, recurrent infections, and various facial pains. Results may come in just one treatment, or require a series of sessions.
Craniosacral Therapy is so gentle it is an excellent alternative therapy for babies and children. By correcting problems within the craniosacral system early on in life the development of things such as colic, respiratory problems, hyperactivity, dyslexia, seizure disorders, floppy baby syndrome, and possibly cerebral palsy, scoliosis, and orthodontic dental problems, may be avoided later in life
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EAR CONING
Ear Coning is a simple, painless procedure that has been used for centuries to clear sinus and nasal blockages or pressure. It has been shown to reduce ear wax, ear aches, headaches, roaring or ringing in the ears, and infections.
A light, hollow candle is made from beeswax and natural unbleached fabric. The narrower end of the candle is fitted snuggly into the outer ear. The head is protected with flame-retardant material. The candle is lit and carefully supervised while it burns.
As it burns, the candle's hollow centre creates a subtle vortex, gently pulling air upward through it. Photons within surrounding cells of the ear become excited, releasing neuro-peptides and activating the body’s natural healing capacity. As air is drawn through the nose and mouth into the sinuses and Eustachian tubes, it gently dries wax and mucus.
The skill in ear candling lies in the proper construction of the ear candle. It must fit snuggly into the ear opening to allow air flow without burning too quickly. Essential oils may be added to enhance the healing quality.
If you live or work in areas that are dusty, noisy, steamy, very dry, or the air environment is polluted, particularly with cigarette smoke and fumes, you probably need ear candling. If you have food or dairy allergies, antibiotic or medication complications or ear infections, you can benefit from ear candling. Ear candling should not be performed if certain medical conditions are present. Please ask your practitioner if this procedure is right for you. There are currently no standards for certification in this procedure
EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUE (EFT)
Emotional trauma or fear causes a rush of energy and adrenaline through your body. This surge of energy can leave lesions along neural pathways, interrupting the flow of neural commands. Adrenaline also leaves lingering physiological effects. Consequently, an issue or trauma can continue to affect you long after the cause has passed, and long after conscious memory fades.
Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT) uniquely combines the principles of Neuro-linguistic Programming and Acupressure to release the energetic imprint of unhealthy beliefs, low-self-esteem, and sexual or emotional issues, as well as addictions, phobias, and habits. It can aid in recovery from health issues, diminish or eliminate pain, and reverse the trauma of physical injury or accident. Once the technique is taught, it can be self-performed whenever needed
See also Hypnosis
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ENERGY HEALING
Variations of energy healing techniques include Usui Reiki, Karuna, Imara, Blue Star, Shamballa, Gendai-Reiki-Ho, Threshold Reiki, Seichim. Ki Kou, Zenith Omega, Qi Kung, Quantum Touch, Healing Touch, Therapeutic Touch, Axiatonal Alignment, Pranic Healing, and Magnified Healing. Therapeutic Touch and Healing Touch are energy therapies now are widely used by RN's and health professionals in hospitals, hospices, rehab centres and cancer support centres.
Although there are many variations of energy healing, they all work basically the same. They simultaneously address emotional, psychological, energetic and physical.
Extensive research has been performed at such prestigious institutes as Harvard, NASA and Stanford University. On a physical level, they attract haemoglobin to injured tissue, thereby increasing oxygen exposure. The body’s immune functions and rapid self-healing mechanisms are induced. Tissue regeneration accelerates. PH lowers. Toxins are released from cells.
Energy therapies excite photons in the cells, triggering energy impulses that travel instantly throughout the body to interact with regulatory systems such as the endocrine and nervous systems. Beneficial neuropeptides are released including endorphins, which are natural pain killers. Because they stabilize electromagnetic energy, Energy Therapies help to reduce free radicals. Every atom’s optimum level of vibration is restored.
The result is harmonization of your entire body. Healing accelerates by as much as 250%! You feel relaxed, alert, and vitally alive.
Quite often an emotional blockage or trauma will release during or after treatment. This is particularly helpful for people who have undergone trauma through an accident or injury, or for health issues that stem from an emotional cause.
Excellent to reduce stress, and to promote recovery or minimize side-effects, they are an ideal adjunct to traditional medical procedures such as surgery or cancer therapy. They can be performed anywhere, with or without the use of high-tech devices, and generally do not require disrobing. Practitioners may not even physically touch you.
Training and certification requirements vary for each modality. Energy Therapies are also excellent for treating animals
See also Colour Therapy, Homeopathy, Polarity Therapy Reiki, SCENAR Therapy, Therapeutic Touch
Find a qualified local energy practitioner
HEAD MASSAGE
Variations include Indian Head Massage, Champissage and Egyptian Head and Neck Massage
Indian Head Massage has been used in India for more than 1,000 years. This massage focuses on the face, neck, shoulders, and upper arms, where tension accumulates causing headaches, stiff neck and shoulders.
Firm, gentle rythm is used to relieve tension and pain, while Aurvedic chakra balancing focuses on the three higher chakras. Head Massage can bring the energy of the whole body back into balance creating a deep sense of peace, calm and well-being.
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HOMEOPATHY
Homeopathy is a highly sophisticated system of botanical medicine that requires extensive study and training. Homeopathy stimulates the body's ability to heal itself.
Derived from Greek meaning 'similar suffering', the basic principle of Homeopathy is to speed up the body's healing reaction by introducing a substance to produces a similar effect to the malady. Vaccinations use the same principle.
Homeopathic preparations demonstrate the same energy patterns as those discharged by the sun. When ingested, they increase the body's electromagnetic field to the exact frequency needed to restore balance and affect a cure.
A unique method of preparation distills the energetic signatures of more than 2000 mineral, animal and plant sources into carrier substances. Remedies are prescribed in liquid or pellet form.
Subtle, but highly effective, remedies can be used tfor virtually every physical or emotional health issue from acute to chronic, including accidents, allergies, poisoning, hormonal imbalances, and relief from a broken heart! Homeopathy can also effectively treat animals.
The true skill of a homeopath lies in finding the substance that most closely matches the vibratory state of the malady. There are many levels of accredation from Certified Practitioner to Doctor of Homeopathy. Certification requirements vary, but Classical Homeopathy requires 4080 hours of intensive study, plus 1600 hours of internship. Naturopaths are trained in Homeopathy.
See also Naturopaths
HYPNOSIS
Anyone can be hypnotised! Hypnosis is a natural state. Have you ever day-dreamed, prayed, meditated, or focused your mind so completely you forgot everything else around you? That is a form of hypnosis! Hypnosis uses deep meditative relaxation to access the subconscious mind and find the root cause of an issue. By inducing alpha brain waves, a highly creative state similar to a dream state, hypnosis can prompt more positive thought processes.
Hypnosis is used successfully for smoking cessation ~ weight management ~ stress management ~ improving sleep ~ natural childbirth ~ motivation ~ self-confidence ~ overcoming fears (such as public speaking) ~ learning and study habits ~ nail biting ~ bed wetting ~ past life exploration ~ pain management ~ high blood pressure ~ health recovery ~ and more
There are 3 types of hypnosis practitioners--Certified Hypnotists, Hypnotherapists, and Medical Hypnotherapists. Hypnotherapists are qualified medical professionals, such as psychologists. Medical Hypnotherapists are qualified to work with other medical professionals such as dentists. In the USA, each state has different requirements for licencing and certification of Hypnosis. New York state does regulate Hypnosis, but currently has no standards for certification and no licencing requirements for Hypnosis. Be sure to ask your practitioner for their experience and qualifications
See also Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT)
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ION CLEANSE
Gentle, warm, relaxing 'foot bath' detoxifies in 30 minutes without placing stress on the body. Toxins are pulled out of the body through 2,500 sweat pores in the soles of the feet.
Negative Ions are created by introducing positive and negative electrical current into a pan of water to which sea salt has been added. When feet are placed into the water, negative ions enter the body through osmosis, attaching to the positive ions of toxic substances to neutralize them. Heavier, these molecules drift downward through the feet.
Ion cleanse removes yeast, heavy metals, toxins and even blood clots. Several sessions are required to completely detoxify. Ion Cleanse is helpful for those who work in industries exposing them to heavy metals and toxins. Ion Cleanse detoxification helps relieve arthritis, fibromyalgia, imflammation, gout and edema. It should not be used by those with pacemakers, organ transplants, liver disease, or heart regulating medications. Drink plenty of water following an ion cleanse
see also other detoxification methods such as Colon Hydrotherapy, Lympth Drainage Massage
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IRIDOLOGY
Empirical data gathered over more than 150 years forms the basis of this diagnostic technique that can accurately determine your health condition via indications within the iris. The iris is the most complex tissue of the external body. More than 2,000 fibres within this coloured portion of the eye connect to every area of the body. Consequently, the iris is directly affected by every organ and body system and will mirror your physical state in complex detail. Iridology analysis is performed either visually or via computer. Certification requires 90 hours of study plus practicum
Find a qualified local iridologist
KINESIOLOGY
Applied Kinesiology is a popular quick diagnostic tool used in conjunction with other disciplines. Also known as Muscle Response Testing, Touch For Health, or Contact Reflex Analysis, Applied Kinesiology tests relative strength and tone of muscles.
To test the quality of muscle function, positions were developed to isolate a muscle from the group with which it normally works. Most of these tests are performed lying down on a firm surface.
Muscle tests give a good indication of the condition of the whole body. Blood and lymph vessels, nerves and meridians or electrical pathways run through the muscles. Any long-lasting constriction can impair these bodily functions and in turn the organs, adversely affecting health. Also, the nerves and meridians emit electrical impulses that are surrounded by magnetic fields. Interruption, distortion or reaction to either a neural current or its magnetic field indicates problems.
The efficacy of muscle testing led to the development of several other forms of Kinesiology and different methods of corrections. All utilize either physiological reaction of interupted electrical currents or magnetic field interaction.
Health Kinesiology can be used in a wide range of applications. It consists of a series of yes or no questions to which the body responds physically. Because of autonomic response triggered by the body's own electrical current, Kinesiology can be used to satisfy questions that the subject may not have answers for on a conscious level. For this reason, Kinesiology can be used in a wide range of applications including allergy or nutritional testing, testing for the right nutritional supplements or medications, uncovering deep-rooted psychological or emotional problems, testing the functioning of all systems within the body, and determining compatable treatments and dosages.
To start, the subject is muscle-tested to determine polarity. To achieve answers to carefully chosen questions, the arm may be held horizontally or the thumb and little finger may be pressed together. Pressure is then applied to judge the strength of the muscle. The muscle will test weak or strong in response to the question. A weak muscle indicates a no or an intolerance to a substance.
Health Kinesiology can also be used to assess health conditions in animals
LYMPH DRAINAGE MASSAGE
Lymph Drainage Massage is a highly specialized light massage technique performed by a Registered Massage Therapist or Clinical Aromatherapist. Gentle soothing massage promotes lymph circulation while essential oils penetrate, detoxify and relax your body. It is an ideal therapy for people who are inactive, because a sluggish lymph system allows cellular toxins to be re-absorbed, resulting in headaches, lethargy, edema, abcesses, cancer, or disease. Drink plenty of water following this massage
see also Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Massage
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MEDICAL HERBALIST
The world's oldest system of medicine, Medical Herbalism combines vast herbal knowledge with the study of anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology.
Medical Herbalists study for 4 years to acquire the same skills as MD's, but, take an holistic approach using natural remedies
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE
Myofascial Release takes a subtle and highly sensitive approach to massage. Aimed at relaxing the thin silvery fascia layer between skin and muscle, gentle light pressure encourages the fascia to soften and release tension. A single structure that exists from head to toe without interruption, the fascia is a flexible web that covers, supports, stabilizes and interpenetrates every bone, nerve, muscle, artery and vein, as well as all internal organs and the spinal cord.
When trauma such as whiplash, surgery, a fall, inflammation, or even habitual poor posture causes the fascia to lose its pliability, Myofascial Release techniques and movement therapy can restore it. A very gentle and compassionate alternative to traditional physiotherapy, a skilled practitioner is able to gently guide the body to correct itself, which allows relaxation and release to occur.
Treatments vary from 1/2 hour to as long as 2 hours. Myofascial Release may be covered by some extended health care plans
See also CranioSacral Therapy
NATURAL MEDICINE
Natural Medicine is a system of non-invasive healthcare and health assessment in which neither surgery nor drugs are used. An offshoot of Naturopathic Medicine, the healing power of nature remains core to natural medicine philosophy. Focus is on education, counseling, natural medicine modalities and natural substances, as well as natural non-manipulative therapies, and exercise, with the goal to stimulate and maintain the body's intrinsic self-healing processes.
Certificion in not an academic degree. To be registered, a doctoral or equivalent level of education is required, in addition to completion of competency exams in Natural Medicine. 4000 hours of training are required through a recognized shool of Natural Medicine.
see also Naturopathic Medicine, Nutrition Consulting, Quantum Energy Therapies
NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
Trained in general medical curricula with added studies in Homeopathy, Acupuncture, Nutrition, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Botanical Medicine, assessment procedures, and counseling, Naturopathic Doctors use only therapeutic substances and techniques which act in harmony with the body’s self-healing processes and augment healing. Naturopaths can treat virtually any condition presented to a GP MD. However, their holistic approach considers the whole person rather than focusing only on symptoms. Their all-encompassing approach incorporates maintenance and prevention, in addition to treatment.
ND’s are licensed under the Drugless Practitioner’s Act. Three years of pre-medical study at university plus four years at Naturopathic college and a year of internship are required for licencing. Services are covered by many extended health care plans. Referrals are not necessary
see also Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Medical Herbalist, Natural Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine
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NUTRITION CONSULTANT
Nutrition is the single most important component of staying healthy. Vitamins, minerals and the energy frequencies of food are your body's fuel. Without proper fuel, your body systems cannot function at optimum levels. Most disease begins with nutritional deficiencies.
A properly qualified nutritional consultant or Naturopath can evaluate nutritional deficiencies and recommend the right diet or supplementation for your metabolism and individual needs. There are currently no iniform standards for certification as a Nutritional Consultant. Please ask for individual qualifications. Naturopaths are trained in nutrition
find a qualified local Nutrition Consultant or Naturopath
POLARITY THERAPY
Often used to augment other holistic modalities, Polarity Therapy is actually a comprehensive system of whole living that encompasses diet, exercise and positive attitude, as well as therapy. Polarity Therapy combines elements of reflexology, shiatsu, reiki, therapeutic touch, acupressure, and craniosacral therapy. It connects positive and negative poles within the body to stimulate a current, re-establish proper energy flow, and ground you.
The hands are placed in precise positions on opposite sides and angles of the body. The positions are always repeated in reverse to ensure balance. Sometimes the body is gently rocked. A tingling, pins-and-needles sensation can often be felt as the energy begins to properly circulate. Repressed emotions may surface.
See also Energy Healing
PRANIC HEALING
Prana is a sanskrit word for the vital life force that drives all living structures. Pranic Healing synthesizes the principles of energy healing from around the world and has become the most advanced and complete method of vibrational healing. A no-touch technique, Pranic Healing is administered while you are fully clothed. The practitioner first scans for diseased energy, then removes and disintegrates those energies. Finally, clean, healthy prana is replenished.
Pranic Healing is used effectively for pain management, chronic and acute physical conditions, psychological disorders, to improve relationships or heal the past, to materialize goals, to increase prosperity and success, and to develop spritiuality.
find a qualified local Pranic Healer
REFLEXOLOGY
Reflexology feels like a wonderful foot massage. But, it is so much more than that! Your Reflexologist uses fingers and thumbs on nerve endings in your hands or feet to stimulate circulation and energy flow.
The first time you try Reflexology you may be amazed how simple, precise pressure on certain areas of the feet and hands can so effectively eliminate your lower back pain, sciatica, bursitis, insomnia, arthritis and many other body ills. The reason this works is because reflex points in the feet and hands link to each part of the body via the nervous system.
Reflexology improves circulation, releases tension, pain, and congestion throughout the body, normalizes organ functions, releases metabolic toxins and lactic acid residues, and releases beneficial neuro-peptides. It breaks up gritty salt deposits under skin that cause discomfort. Reflexology can do no harm, and always provides some measure of benefit.
Certification for foot Reflexology requires at least 56 hours of study plus 60 hours of practicum. Separate certification is required for foot, hand and Auricular (ear) Therapy. In New York state, practitioners must hold a licence as a medical professional to perform Reflexology
See also Shiatsu, Therapeutic Massage
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REIKI
Literally translated, Reiki means "spiritual wisdom of the life force". Simply put, practitioners have been brought to a conscious awareness of how to manipulate and direct high levels of electro-magnetic energy through their body. When directed toward a life force--man, animal or plant, the process of healing is accelerated on all levels--mental, emotional, physical and spiritual.
Because energy moves through the healer and not from him or her, it is slightly different than Therapeutic Touch but very similar to Qi Gong.
Completely safe, it can be used in conjunction with any other healing modality, at any time, in any place, in any position, for a quick fix or a full body treatment. It does not require disrobing.
Reiki will calm the body in states of emergency. However, some time should elapse after stroke or heart attack to prevent electrical surges or shifting bloodclots. Broken bones should not be Reiki'd until after they have been properly set, since Reiki accelerates healing.
Reiki will quickly eliminate the after-effects of anaesthetic, significantly reduce pain, shrink swelling and facillitate rapid tissue recovery after surgery or injury. Also used to relieve anxiety, emotional pain or counteract depression and negativity, Reiki works simultaneously on both practitioner and client. It is not unusual to experience a profound emotional release during a treatment.
Treatments can run from 5 minutes to 3 hours. The practitioner may or may not actually touch the client, but no pressure is applied. Both 2nd level and Masters are qualified practitioners. Many will use Reiki in conjunction with other healing modalities. It is one of the few healing techniques that can be performed on oneself, and is excellent to learn for home use.
Variations include Usui, Karuna, Seichim, Magnified Healing, Blue Star, and Imara. Reiki is also very effective for treating animals
Reiki works by using the body's electro-magnetic field to attract and increase levels of oxygen-rich haemoglobin to areas requiring healing. Oxygen activates and speeds up natural self-healing capabilities and stimulates the immune system. In addition Reiki balances and re-orients the electro-magnetic energy field. In this way it induces relaxation and relieves pain, as well as induces the release of emotional blocks.
See also Healing Touch, Quantum Energy Therapies, Therapeutic Touch
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SCENAR THERAPY
Developed using Russian space technology, SCENAR Therapy has been used widely in Europe and England for more than 30 years. SCENAR is a small, hand-held, computerized device that is passed lightly over bare skin. Using electrical impulses identical to your body’s neural impulses, SCENAR identifies anomalies, then seeks to correct them by using electrical impulses that mimic the electrical impulses of your body's neural pathways. This triggers the release of beneficial neuro-peptides. Neuro peptides initiate every function within your body, including pain relief and healing.
SCENAR treats a wide range of injuries, degenerative diseases and health issues, but is particularly beneficial for relieving pain and inducing rapid self-healing. It is federally approved as a pain relief device. Treatments are painless and can take just a few minutes or more than an hour. Benefit is immediate, and improvement occurs with each subsequent treatment. The effects are long-lasting and cumulative.
SCENAR is also very effective for treating injuries and degenerative diseases in animals
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SHIATSU
Shiatsu is a combined massage-acupuncture technique that uses elbows, thumbs and palms in rythmic, localized pressure. Stretch and release is applied to points along the meridians (neural pathways) to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system and restore normal energy flow. Shiatsu is performed without disrobing.
A common misconception is that Shiatsu is painful. However, a point will only be uncomfortable if pain is already there. It should dissipate after the pressure is lifted since the blockage will be gone.
Shiatsu is effective for headaches, muscular pain or spasms, digestive problems, menstrual discomfort, depression or anxiety, chronic illness, and fibromyalgia. As it keeps the meridians cleared, Shiatsu is most effectively used on a regular basis as a preventative measure. It is not recommended for cancer, fever, infections, fevers or inflammation, or the later stages of pregnancy. It is best to take it easy after the massage, since profound relaxation is likely to occur.
There are two types of Shiatsu--Namikoshi and Zen or Masunaga. The latter uses a lighter touch and is more aware of energy levels in the body. As with any massage technique, training is rigid and extensive. Certification varies with Shiatsu colleges.
See also Acupressure, Reflexology, Therapeutic Massage
STONE MASSAGE
Variations of Stome Massage include LA Stone Massage, LA Stone Sole Connection, Stone Temple Massage. Stone Massage is also performed by estheticians
LA Stone Massage uses smooth hot basalt rocks and chilled marble strategically placed over the body to induce deep relaxation or stimulation of muscles and tissues, as required. The traditional benefits of massage are enhanced while rapid metabolic detoxification occursa s alternativing temperatures boost the circulatory system. This technique is registered, so the course is taught by only one school in California
LA Stone Sole Connection is an energy-based variation designed especially for Reflexologists. It provides a full-body treatment with emphasis on feet, hands or ears.
Stone Temple Massage offers the same benefits as LA StoneTherapy. However, it employs naturally magentized igneous rocks. Four temperatures of stones are used.
See also Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Massage
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THAI MASSAGE
Developed in Thailand more than 2,500 years ago. Thai Massage is a form of passive exercise. Variations include Thai Yoga Massage and Thai Herbal Massage
Performed on a floor mat, Thai Massage blends gentle rocking, deep stretching, rhythmic compression, shiatsu, reflexology, yoga postures and breathwork. One variation applies hot herbal compresses to improve circulation, deeply relax muscles, and stimulate nerves.
Thai Massage boosts the immune system, alleviates chronic tension, restores flexibility, and relieves stress. It is especially beneficial for arthritis, stiff, sore, or pulled muscles and ligments, chronic pain or injury, migraines and stress.
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THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
Therapeutic massage relaxes contracted muscles, increases circulation, tones muscular and nervous systems, and triggers the release of beneficial neuro-peptides to relieve pain and induce healing. It encourages structural re-alignment, regulates the digestive tract, and helps expel metabolic toxins.
A registered Massage Therapist first palpates to determine skin and muscle tone, temperature patterns, and areas of pain. Essential oils are then applied by kneading and stroking the skin and muscles. Depending on the practitioner, other Complementary Therapies may be used in conjunction.
Massage Therapy is a licenced and regulated therapy in New York State. It is covered under some auto insurance and extended health care plans
see also Aromatherapy, Lymph Drainage Massage, Reflexology, Shiatsu, Stone Massage
Find a qualified local LMT
THERAPEUTIC TOUCH
Therapeutic Touch is the best known and most widely accepted energy healing modality. Developed in 1971 by American nursing professor Delores Krieger, it is now used in many hospitals and cancer institutes, practiced in 40 countries, and is taught to nursing students at more than 100 universities. There is extensive scientific documentation of its results.
Often confused with Reiki, therapeutic Touch uses electromagnetic attraction. By passing the hands in a smoothing motion over the auric field 3-6" above the body, electromagnetic energy is activated through the interaction of both auras creating positive/negative electrical exchange.
Therapeutic Touch effectively accelerates healing, reduces pain, calms stress and lowers blood pressure. It can be used on premature babies, coma victims, hospital patients and arthritics. Like Reiki, it cannot do harm and will always provide some benefit. A full treatment takes only 20-30 minutes.
find a qualified Therapeutic Touch practitioner
THERMOGRAPHY
A safe alternative to mammograms, Thermography is used world-wide for breast evaluation and cancer-risk assessment. It can also be used to detect prostate and other cancers.
Using a highly sensitive infra-red camera paired with sophisticated computer software, thermography images and measures differences in temperature, vascular changes and energy activity. Prior to a tumour developing, malignant cells require far more blood supply to grow and expand. Increased blood flow causes a rise in temperature that is undetected by other means. Thermography can detect cancer or potential problems as much as 5 years in advance of mammograms and traditional sceening methods.
Non-invasive and entirely safe, thermography does not compress or damage tissue, emmits no radiation, and can be used often without compromising health in any way. Approved by the FDA in 1982, some extended health care plans do cover Thermography. Thermography can only be performed by a licenced health professional
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE
A complex and multi-dimensional holistic healing system, Traditional Chinese Medicine responds to health issues from an intirely different perspective than western medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes that no two people are alike. Therefore, the protocol must be individual to each person.
With this approach, Traditional Chinese Medicine is able to find solutions and affect healing for problems that are vague, unresponsive or recurring with western medicine. Only natural substances are prescribed, so the body is not additionally taxed by side-effects or complications.
Herbology, Acupuncture, dietary counselling and therapies are exployed as part of the practice. Traditional Chinese Medicine is a licenced health care profession. Naturopaths are also trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine
see also Naturopaths
VIBRO-ACCOUSTIC THERAPIES
Vibrational therapies take many forms in our everyday life. Drums, harps, violins--all musical instruments are based on the vibrational resonance of sound. Certain musical tones correspond to the same frequencies as your body's chakras and meridians. By using sound that resonates at the same pitch and rate as a chakra, sympathetic resonance occurs. This opens, strengthens, and clears the chakra.
All vibro-accoustic techniques are adapted from the ancient Tibetan practice of using metal or crystal "singing" bowls to open and clear the chakras. Based on the principle that sound emits vibration waves in patterns known as 'fibinacci spirals', this subtle technique actually raises the level of the body's own vibration and affects DNA. (DNA is a Fibinacci spiral) Silicon dioxide within your body acts as a conductor for the resonation and relays messages on a cellular level to stimulate body functions
YOGA
Yoga is an ancient practice of deliberate postures and breathing used to balance and restore body and mind and increase your vitality. Yoga also improves your attitude
Yoga helps to reduce the effects of stress, depression and anxiety by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. Yoga triggers the release of endorphins to create a natural high. It regulate levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, making it beneficial for neurological disorders such as Parkinson's Disease, addiction and anxiety
YOGA THERAPY
Yoga therapy uses postures (asanas), breathing practices (pranayama), meditation, and relaxation techniques personalized for you according to your needs and experiences. Yoga Therapy also incorporates Ayurvedic diet and positive lifestyle changes to assist in your healing and prevent further illness or imbalance
Yoga Therapy is appropriate for many chronic conditions that persist despite conventional treatment. Yoga Therapy blends the strength of Ayurveda and Yoga, finding the best program to bring balance and healing to you. It is done on a one-on-one basis and is customized to your needs
Yoga therapy eases away pent-up tension, rejuvenates the body & soul, enhances concentration, helps relieve disease symptoms and puts a hold on the aging process. It helps promote all-around positive health, as well as relieve particular medical conditions. Yoga Therapy can help with such health issues as stress ~ anxiety ~ depression ~ heart disease ~ chronic back pain ~ asthma ~ cancer/chemo side effects migraine headaches ~ hypertension ~ high blood pressure ~ diabetes ~ arthritis ~ obesity ~ women's issues such as infertility and PMS
