There are dozens of alternative healing techniques available. Some of these techniques focus on the physical body, a few concentrate on emotional healing, and others treat both. Some popular healing techniques include acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, flower essences, and rolfing.
Acupuncture is one of the oldest healing techniques. It has been practiced for over 2,000 years and is a primary treatment in Chinese medicine. Thin needles are inserted into specific places in the body according to the illness or condition that is being treated. Acupuncture is based on the theory that there are meridians in the body that can become blocked so that the energy won’t flow. It is believed that placing needles in the proper meridians can remove blockages so that the flow of energy can be resumed to restore health.
Massage therapy is another of the ancient healing techniques. The different forms of massage include Swedish, shiatsu, deep tissue, hot stone, and sports massage. A massage therapist will press, knead, thump, or use long, gentle strokes on the body, depending on which technique is being used. Massage therapy can relieve various medical conditions including stress, arthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. It also exercises muscles, improves circulation, and enhances the immune system.
Homeopathy is an alternative healing technique based on the law of similars. This means that an illness can be treated by ingesting a substance would induce the same symptoms as the illness if given in high enough amounts. Homeopathic remedies are extremely diluted forms of various plants and minerals.
Healing with flower essences is a gentle form of alternative medicine that helps eliminate toxic emotions. Flower essences are created by infusing flowers in spring water and preserving the liquid with brandy. One of the most famous flower essences is rescue remedy, made from a mixture of cherry plum, rock rose, star of Bethlehem, clematis, and impatiens. Rescue remedy is commonly used for emotional trauma, anxiety, and stress.
Rolfing is one of the newer healing techniques. Also known by the name of structural integration, it was developed in the latter half of the 20th century by Dr. Ida P. Rolf. A rolfing practitioner manipulates the connective tissue or fascia of a client’s body to release old patterns and effect healing. Structural integration can relieve chronic pain due to trauma, aging, or repetitive motion injuries. It also can improve posture and release old emotional patterns to improve a person’s confidence and sense of well being.
