A |
B
|
C |
D |
E |
F
| G |
H |
I |
J
| K |
L |
M |
N
| O |
P |
Q |
R |
S
| T |
U |
V |
W
| X | Y |
Z
ACUPRESSURE
Based on the principles of acupuncture, this ancient Chinese
technique involves the use of finger pressure on specific points along the body to treat
ailments such as tension, stress, aches, pains, cramps or arthritis.
ACUPUNCTURE
Fine needles are inserted at specific points to stimulate, disperse
and regulate the flow of chi, or vital energy, and restore a healthy energy balance.
ADJUSTMENT
In chiropractic, a small controlled thrust that moves a joint
slightly beyond its normal range of motion.
ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE
F. Matthias Alexander created the method after concluding that bad
posture was responsible for his own chronic voice loss. Practitioners use gentle hands-on
guidance, verbal instruction, teach simple, efficient ways of moving as a means of
improving balance, posture, coordination and to relieve tension and pain.
ALLOPATHY
the treatment of disease by creating conditions that are opposite or
hostile to the conditions resulting from the disease itself; from Greek roots meaning
other and disease. Drugs and surgery are allopathic treatments. The term is sometimes used
to refer to conventional Western medicine to contrast it with alternative therapies,
particularly homeopathy, which is based on like curing like.
AMMA THERAPY
system of bodywork therapy that uses traditional oriental medical
principles for assessing and evaluating imbalances in the energetic system. It aims to
restore, promote and maintain optimum health through the treatment of the physical body,
bio-energy and emotions. Used for a wide range of conditions.
ANCESTOR WORSHIP
ritualized propitiation and invocation of dead kin, based on the
belief that spirits influence the fate of the living. A widespread ancient practice.
ANIMISM
belief that a spirit or force resides in every animate and inanimate
object, every dream and idea, giving individuality to each. The related Polynesian concept
of mana holds that the spirit in all things is responsible for good and evil.
APPLIED KINESIOLOGY
a diagnostic technique and therapy developed in the 1960s by a
chiropractor (George Goodheart). Applied kinesiology posits that organ or gland
dysfunctions show up as weaknesses in certain muscles. Using gentle pressure, applied
kinesiologists test muscle strength to identify health problems and nutritional
deficiencies. After diagnosis, treatment may involve exercises to strengthen a muscle,
hands-on manipulation of the muscles and bones, and vitamin or mineral supplements.
AROMATHERAPY
uses essential oils from flowers, trees, roots, herbs, berries and
fruits, to treat emotional disorders such as stress and anxiety as well as a wide range of
other ailments and to promote physical, mental and emotional wellness. Oils are either
massaged into the skin in diluted form, inhaled, placed in baths, or applied on and around
the body. Aromatherapy is often used in conjunction with massage therapy, acupuncture,
reflexology, herbology, chiropractic and other wholistic healing.
AYURVEDIC MEDICINE
practiced in India for over 5,000 years. Ayurvedic tradition holds
that illness is a state of imbalance among the bodys systems and can be detected
through such diagnostic procedures as reading the pulse and observing the tongue.
Nutritional counseling, massage, natural medications, meditation and other modalities are
used to address a spectrum of ailments, from allergies to AIDS.
BEHAVIOR THERAPY/MODIFICATION
aims at modifying behavior by reinforcing acceptable behavior and
suppressing undesirable behavior. The therapist employs any of various techniques of
reward and punishment including aversion therapy, desensitization, or guided imagery. The
learning theory of the psychologist B.F. Skinner and others is the basis for most behavior
therapies. In Skinners principle of extinction, a behavior pattern that is not
reinforced, or rewarded, will be extinguished or rendered inoperative. For example, if
smoking is made unpleasant for the smoker, then the smoking habit may be curbed or given
up. Behavior therapy is used in private and institutional therapy, in group and individual
settings, to treat such disorders as drug addiction, alcoholism, and phobias.
BIOENERGETICS
holds that repressed emotions and desires affect the body and psyche
by creating chronic muscular tension and diminished vitality and energy. Through physical
exercises, breathing techniques, verbal psychotherapy, or other forms of emotional-release
work, the therapist attempts to loosen this character armor and restore natural
well-being.
BIOFEEDBACK
technique used especially for stress-related conditions such as
asthma, migraines, insomnia and high blood pressure. Biofeedback is a way of monitoring
minute metabolic changes in ones body with the aid of sensitive machines.
BIOFIELD
an energy field that suffuses living bodies and extends several
inches beyond the body. This concept is employed in therapies such as healing touch,
medical qigong, therapeutic touch, and reiki. In these therapies, the biofield from a
practitioners hands is joined to the recipients biofield in order to treat an illness or
to promote health. There is no consensus on what biofield is; some say it is spiritual
energy, others say it is an electromagnetic field.
BODY-MIND CENTERING
a movement-reeducation approach that explores how the bodys
systems contribute to movement and self-awareness. The approach also emphasizes movement
patterns that develop during infancy and childhood. Incorporates guided movement,
exercise, imagery and hands-on work.
BODY-ORIENTED PSYCHOTHERAPY
seeks to enhance the psychotherapeutic process by incorporating a
range of massage, bodywork and movement techniques. Acknowledging the mind-body link,
practitioners may use light touch, soft or deep-tissue manipulation, breathing techniques,
movement, exercise or body awareness techniques to help address emotional issues.
BREATHWORK
general term for a variety of techniques that use patterned
breathing to promote physical, mental and/or spiritual well-being. Some techniques use the
breath in a calm, peaceful way to induce relaxation or manage pain, while others use
stronger breathing to stimulate emotions and emotional release.
CHAKRAS
the seven vital energy centers of the body. The chakras extend from
the base of spine to the crown of head. Located in the rectal area, near the genitals,
behind the navel, at the heart, at the neck, between the eyebrows, and on the crown of the
head. Each chakra corresponds to certain colors, emotions, organs, nerve networks, and
energies.
CHELATION THERAPY
typically administered in an osteopathic or medical doctors
office, chelation therapy is a series of intravenous injections of the synthetic amino
acid EDTA, designed to detoxify the body. Often used to treat arteriosclerosis, angina,
Alzheimers disease. EDTA stands for ethylenediaminetetruacetic acid (an amino acid).
FDA approved for removing lead and other heavy metals from the bloodstream. One theory
holds that chelation removes the calcium in arterial plaque; another suggests that EDTA
works as an antioxidant. Proponents say that chelation also reverses gangrene, relieves
the pain associated with lupus and arthritis, and reverses memory loss.
CHIROPRACTIC
the chiropractic system is based on the premise that the spine is
literally the backbone of human health. Misalignments of the vertebrae caused by poor
posture or trauma result in pressure on the spinal nerve roots, which may lead to
diminished function and illness. The chiropractor seeks to analyze and correct these
misalignments through spinal manipulation or adjustments.
COLON HYDROTHERAPY
involves the cleansing of the large intestine with warm purified
water. A single colonic treatment is said to be equivalent to several enemas in removing
toxic debris from the colon.
CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
a manual procedure for remedying distortions in the structure and
function of the craniosacral mechanism - the brain and spinal cord, the bones of the
skull, the sacrum, and interconnected membranes. It is used to treat chronic pain,
migraine headaches, TMJ, and a range of other conditions.
DEEP TISSUE BODYWORK
general term for a range of therapies that seek to improve the
function of the bodys connective tissues and/or muscles. Among the conditions
treated are whiplash, low back and neck pain, and degenerative diseases, such as multiple
sclerosis.
DENTISTRY, WHOLISTIC
wholistic dentists are licensed dentists who bring an
interdisciplinary approach to their practice, often incorporating such methods as
homeopathy, nutrition and acupuncture into their treatment plans. Most wholistic dentists
emphasize wellness and preventive care and avoid silver-mercury fillings.
DIATHERMY
deep-heat therapy that uses high-frequency electric currents to
produce heat in body tissues. Physical therapists and sports physicians use diathermy to
treat arthritis, bursitis, and fractures. It also may help treat gynecological diseases
and sinusitis.
DIETARY SUPPLEMENT
a product intended to supply nutrients and other healthful
substances that may be lacking in a diet. Term used to apply only to vitamins, minerals,
and proteins. Herbs are now classified as dietary supplements, and the definition also
includes amino acids, glandulars (processed animal glands), enzymes, fish oils, and
various extracts, such as flower essences. While their labels may not make any claims to
cure, prevent, treat, or mitigate a disease, they can claim to help a structure or
function of the body. Unlike food additives and prescription and over-the-counter drugs,
dietary supplements do not require FDA approval to be sold on the market.
DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide)
solvent capable of passing through body tissues, approved by the FDA
to treat one medical condition, interstitial cystitis (an uncommon bladder inflammation).
Proponents & manufacturers claim that DMSO heals a wide range of problems (including
bruises, pimples, herpes) and relieves pain from conditions such as muscle strains. They
credit DMSO with the ability to kill bacteria and fungi, improve circulation, and
stimulate the immune system. DMSO produces strong garlic breath in users, even when used
topically or intravenously.
DREAM THERAPY
mental activity associated with the rapid-eye-movement period of
sleep. Generally consists of visual images and may reflect bodily disturbances or external
stimuli. In primitive and ancient cultures, dreams played an extensive role in myth and
religion. Freud emphasized dreams as keys to the makeup of the individual and
distinguished between the experienced content of a dream and the actual meaning of the
dream. Jung held that dreams are not limited to the personal unconscious but may also be
shaped by archetypes that originate in the collective unconscious of the human species.
DRUG THERAPY
various drugs are used to alleviate symptoms of some mental
illnesses. Lithium is used in alleviating symptoms of manic depression. Tranquilizers are
used to reduce anxiety. All drugs have side effects, such as Ritalin, which is prescribed
for hyperactive children, and can retard physical growth.
EAR CANDLING
Also called Ear Coning. Involves placing the narrow end of a
specially designed hollow candle at the entry of the ear canal, while the opposite end is
lit. Primarily used for relieving wax build up and related hearing problems, ear candling
is also used for ear infections and sinus infections.
ENERGY FIELD WORK
Practitioners look for weaknesses in the energy field in and around
the clients body and seek to restore its proper circulation and balance. Energy channeled
through the practitioner is directed to strengthen the bodys natural defenses and
help the clients physical, mental, emotional and/or spiritual state.
ENZYME THERAPY
a form of therapy that employs supplements of plant and animal
enzymes to improve digestive function and other conditions. During digestion, the
bodys own digestive enzymes are not the only ones at work; the enzymes present in
raw fruits and vegetables also contribute to the breakdown of food in the stomach. Enzyme
therapy advocates supplementation to reduce the work that the body has to do, and because
plant enzymes are destroyed in cooking. Since enzymes cant be synthetically
manufactured, supplements are derived from plants or from animal tissues. Some
practitioners inject liquid enzymes to treat cancer and multiple sclerosis. Enzyme
supplements are available over the counter, singly or in combination, in capsule, tablet,
powder, and liquid form.
ESSENTIAL
a nutritional term applied to vitamins, minerals, and amino acids;
refers to anything that the body does not manufacture and that must be obtained through
the diet.
EXPRESSIVE THERAPIES
use the arts to promote physical & mental health and personal
growth. Examples of expressive therapies include art therapy, dance therapy, drama
therapy, music therapy, poetry, and psychodrama.
F
FENG SHUI
an ancient Chinese practice of configuring home or work environments
to promote health, happiness, prosperity. Feng shui consultants may advise clients to make
adjustments in their surroundings, from color selection to furniture placement, to promote
a healthy flow of chi, or vital energy.
FLOWER ESSENCES
are intended to alleviate negative emotional states that may
contribute to illness or hinder personal growth. Drops of a solution infused with the
captured essence of a flower are placed under the tongue or in a beverage. The appropriate
essences are chosen, focusing on the clients emotional state rather than on a particular
physical condition.
GLANDULARS
freeze-dried animal glands, processed into pill form and taken to
provide the body an extra dose of a hormone. Typically made from cow, sheep, or pig
glands, glandulars on the market include adrenal, testicular, ovary, pancreas, pituitary,
prostate, and thymus products. Critics point out that these supplements are unlikely to
boost gland function because digestion breaks down and inactivates the DNA in a glandular.
In addition, using glandulars may encourage your own glands to reduce hormone production.
Other risks include bacterial contamination of the product, and the antibiotics and
pesticides present in the glands of the livestock they are taken from.
GLUCOSAMINE SULFATE
a natural amino sugar found in joint spaces. As a dietary
supplement, it is said to stimulate the repair of arthritic joints by building up the
protective cartilage that arthritis destroys.
HEALING TOUCH
is practiced by registered nurses and others to accelerate wound
healing, relieve pain, promote relaxation, prevent illness and ease the dying process. The
practitioner uses light touch or works with his or her hands near the clients body
in an effort to restore balance to the clients energy system.
HELLERWORK
a system of somatic education and structural bodywork which is based
on the inseparability of body, mind & spirit, making the connection between movement,
body alignment and personal awareness. During sessions, the structural balance of the body
is realized through the systematic release of muscle and connective tissue to restore the
bodys optimal natural balance, posture and flexibility. Myofascial release, movement
awareness and dialogue are the essence of the sessions enabling one to move more fluidly,
and have increased stamina, strength and energy.
HERBALISM
uses natural plants or plant-based substances to treat a range of
illnesses and to enhance the functioning of the bodys systems. Though herbalism is
not a licensed professional modality in the U.S., herbs are prescribed by a range of
practitioners, from holistic M.D.s to acupuncturists to naturopaths.
HIV THERAPIES
practitioners offer a range of therapies that aim to treat the human
immuno-deficiency virus, AIDS, or its symptoms. Due to the life-threatening nature
of this disease, these therapies are often used as complements to conventional approaches
to HIV.
HOLISTIC/WHOLISTIC
an adjective meaning targeted to the whole person - mind, body, and
spirit. Wholistic medicine considers not only physical health but also the emotional,
spiritual, social, and mental well-being of the person.
HOMEOPATHY
a medical system that uses infinitesimal doses of natural substances
to stimulate a persons immune and defense system. Homeopathic remedies are named for
the plant or animal ingredient they are made from.
HYDROSOL
the water that is obtained along with essential oil after plant
materials are distilled. In distillation, plant materials are heated in water to release
plant oils. The steam and vapor are channeled through a tube to a condensing coil, where
they cool and return to liquid form. The essential oils float on top of the water. The
hydrosol contains water-soluble plant constituents and trace amounts of essential oil.
Hydrosols are sometimes used in aromatherapy together with the essential oils and may be
spritzed in the air and on the face and body.
HYPNOSIS
although the condition resembles normal sleep, scientists have found
that the brain wave patterns of hypnotized subjects are much closer to the patterns of
deep relaxation. Hypnosis is now generally viewed as a form of attentive, receptive,
highly focused concentration in which external events are omitted or disregarded. Widely
used by surgeons, dentists, and psychotherapists to relieve anxiety or as an anesthetic.
Used to relax a patient, reduce resistance to therapy, facilitate memory, to address
stopping smoking, eating less, or fighting fears.
IRIDOLOGY
diagnostic system based on the premise that every organ has a
corresponding location within the iris of the eye, which can serve as an indicator of the
organs health or disease. Used by naturopaths and other practitioners, particularly
when diagnosis achieved through standard methods in unclear.
JIN SHIN DO
developed by a psychotherapist, it combines acupressure, Taoist
yogic breathing and Reichian segmental theory (addresses how emotional tension affects the
physical body) with the goal of releasing physical & emotional tension and armoring.
Aims to promote a state in which the patient can address the emotional factors that
underlie various physical conditions.
KARMA
Basic concept common to Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The
doctrine holds that ones state in this life is the result of physical and mental
actions in past incarnations and that present action can determine ones destiny in
future incarnations. Karma is a natural, impersonal law of moral cause and effect.
KINESIOLOGY
The study of muscles and their movement. Applied kinesiology is a
system that uses muscle testing procedures, in conjunction with standard methods of
diagnosis, to gain information about a patients overall state of health.
Practitioners analyze muscle function, posture, gait and other structural factors in
addition to inquiring about lifestyle factors that may be contributing to a health-related
problem.
LIGHT BOX
a set of bright, full-spectrum light bulbs inside a box with a
reflective background and diffusing screen; produces light thats 10 to 20 times
stronger than ordinary indoor light. Used to treat winter depression, or SAD (seasonal
affective disorder). Treatment typically involves spending 15 minutes to 3 hours in front
of a light box every day in the fall, winter, and early spring. Research suggests that
bright lights help regulate the bodys internal clock, which controls hormone
secretion and sleep patterns.
LIGHT-EMITTING DIODES (LEDs)
tiny light sources (frequently used in digital watches and
electronic equipment) that have been used in the field of phototherapy. Their power output
is low enough to be safe for human exposure but strong enough to stimulate the biological
responses involved in healing. Research indicates that LEDs may accelerate the healing of
skin wounds and certain other conditions.
MAGNETIC THERAPY
magnetic field therapy or bio-magnetic therapy involves the use of
magnets, magnetic devices or magnetic fields to treat a variety of physical and emotional
conditions, including circulatory problems, certain forms of arthritis, chronic pain,
sleep disorders, and stress.
MANIPULATION
application of manual force for healing. Term describes the
techniques used in osteopathy, chiropractic, massage, and other bodywork therapies.
Manipulation may involve various forms of massage, muscle pressure, and joint realignment
or adjustment.
MANTRA
in Hinduism and Buddhism, mystic word used in ritual and meditation.
It is believed to have power to bring into being the reality it represents. Use of such
mantras usually requires initiation by a guru, or spiritual teacher.
MASSAGE THERAPY
This is a general term for a range of therapeutic approaches with
roots in both Eastern and Western cultures. Involves the practice of kneading or otherwise
manipulating a persons muscles and soft tissue.
MEDICINE, HOLISTIC/WHOLISTIC
Wholistic medicine is a broadly descriptive term for a healing
philosophy that views a patient as a whole person, not as just a disease or a collection
of symptoms. In the course of treatment, wholistic medical practitioners may address
emotional and spiritual dimensions as well as the nutritional, environmental and lifestyle
factors that may contribute to an illness. Many wholistic practitioners combine
conventional forms of treatment with natural or alternative treatments.
MEDITATION
Discipline in which the mind is focused on a single point of
reference. Employed since ancient times in various forms by all religions, the practice
gained greater notice in the postwar U.S. as interest in Zen Buddhism rose. Meditation is
now used by many nonreligious adherents as a method of stress reduction; known to lower
levels of cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress. Enhances recuperation and
improves the bodys resistance to disease.
MEGAVITAMIN THERAPY
See Orthomolecular medicine.
MELATONIN
hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain and released
mainly at night in the absence of light on the retina. Regulates the onset and timing of
sleep and seasonal changes in the body such as winter weight gain. Levels of melatonin
decline with age. Melatonin is being investigated as a sleep promoter and to prevent or
reduce jet lag. Synthetic melatonin and melatonin derived from bovine pineal glands are
available as over-the-counter dietary supplements. Melatonin occurs naturally in some
foods but in fairly small amounts. Reported side effects include reduced fertility,
inhibition of male sexual drive, hypothermia, damage to the retina. Some physicians and
scientists advise against taking melatonin as a long-term supplement.
MIDWIFERY
midwives provide education and support during pregnancy, assist the
mother during labor and delivery and provide follow-up care. Practitioners of childbirth
support include childbirth educators, childbirth assistants and women labor coaches who
also provide post-partum home care.
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE
Trauma, posture, or inflammation can create a binding down of fascia
resulting in excessive pressure on nerves, muscles, blood vessels, osseous structures
and/or organs. This hands-on technique seeks to free the body from the grip of tight
fascia, or connective tissue, thus restoring normal alignment and function and reducing
pain. Therapists apply mild, sustained hand-pressure in order to gently stretch and soften
fascia. Treatment is used to treat neck and back pain, headaches, recurring sports
injuries, and scoliosis, and other conditions.
NETWORK CHIROPRACTIC
uses Network Spinal Analysis, a method characterized by the
sequential application of a number of gentle, specific chiropractic adjusting techniques.
Care progresses through a series of levels that parallel spinal and quality-of-life
changes.
NEURAL THERAPY
a form of therapy based on the idea that illness is the result of
disruptions in biological energy and that the disruptions are caused by changes in the
electric activity of the autonomic nervous system (which controls involuntary functions
like breathing).
NEUROTOPIC INJECTION
Treatment involves dozens of injections of small amounts (0.5 cc or
less) of sterile saline solution (0.9 percent salt) into the muscles at both sides of the
spine near the places where the nerves enter into the back muscles. According to this
theory, salt injection helps the nerves function better, leading to improved circulation,
control of pain, and healing of numerous disorders. Statistics on successful treatment of
back and neck pain, sciatica, disk problems, headaches, arthritis, prostate and thyroid
problems, asthma, and allergies have been presented at more than 15 international medical
congresses. Technique is being evaluated in double-blind studies at the National College
of Naturopathic Medicine in Oregon.
NOSODE
a homeopathic remedy made from diseased tissue or bodily secretions
rather than from a plant or animal. Taken like a homeopathic immunization to build up an
immune response against a specific disease. Nosodes are often named for the disease
present in the material they were made from - for example, the flu nosode and the
infectious mononucleosis nosode.
ORTHOMOLECULAR MEDICINE
a form of nutrient therapy that uses combinations of vitamins,
minerals, and amino acids normally found in the body to maintain good health and to treat
specific conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, depression, and schizophrenia.
"Orthomolecular" means an approach based on a correct (ortho) balance of
substances present in the body.
PET THERAPY
a therapeutic approach based on the idea that expressing affection
for a pet helps people feel happier, maintain a positive outlook, and therefore improve
their health. According to several studies, having a pet can reduce stress, lower blood
pressure, and ward off loneliness and depression. Many nursing homes and some prisons have
developed pet therapy programs, with excellent results.
POLARITY THERAPY
based on a theory of energy flow in the body developed by Randolph
Stone, a doctor of naturopathy, osteopathy, and chiropractic. Asserts that balancing the
flow of energy in the body is the foundation of health. Specific points along the currents
are said to hold positive or negative energies. Practitioners use gentle touch and
guidance in diet, exercise and self-awareness to help clients balance their energy flow,
thus supporting a return to health.
PRANA
the yogic concept of a cosmic energy or life force, similar to the
Chinese idea of chi, that enters the body with the breath. Prana is thought to flow
through the body, bringing health and vitality. It is considered the vital link between
the spiritual self and the material self.
PRANAYAMA
a term from yoga and Ayurveda meaning breath control.
PROBIOTICS
substances such as acidophilus and bifidus that restore the
beneficial bacteria normally present in the intestines. Stress, poor diet, antibiotics,
and oral contraceptives can throw off the normal balance of bacteria and fungi. This
imbalance may be manifested as a yeast infection, or in symptoms such as diarrhea or
gastrointestinal disturbances.
REBIRTHING
also known as conscious-connected breathing or vivation. A technique
in which the therapist guides clients through breathing exercises to help them
re-experience past memories - including birth - and let go of emotional tensions stored in
the body.
REFLEXOLOGY
based on the idea that specific points on the feet and hands
correspond with organs and tissues throughout the body. With fingers and thumbs, the
practitioner applies pressure to these points to treat a wide range of stress-related
illnesses and ailments.
REGRESSION
psychological defense mechanism, viewed as a return to an earlier
mode of behavior, thought, or feeling. The unconscious process that helps the mind resolve
conflicts or lessen anxiety by returning to forms of gratification previously abandoned.
REIKI
practitioners of this ancient Tibetan healing system use light hand
placements to transmit healing energies to the recipient. While the practitioners may vary
widely in technique and philosophy, Reiki is commonly used to treat emotional and mental
distress as well as chronic and acute physical problems, as well as to assist the
recipient in achieving spiritual focus and clarity.
ROLFING
uses deep manipulation of the fascia to restore the bodys
natural alignment, which may have become rigid through injury, emotional trauma, and
inefficient movement habits. The process, developed by biochemist Ida P. Rolf, involves
ten sessions, each focusing on a different part of the body.
RUBENFELD SYNERGY METHOD
gentle touch, movement, verbal exchange, and imagination used to
access memories and emotions locked in the body. Integrates elements of the Alexander
Technique, Feldenkrais Method, Gestalt and Hypnotherapy. Combines bodywork and
psychotherapy. May be used for physical or emotional problems or for personal growth.
SELF-ACTUALIZATION
Fully realizing ones individual human potential.
SELF-AWARENESS
Self-conscious state of focusing attention on oneself.
SHAMAN
among tribal peoples, a magician, medium, or healer who owes his
powers to mystical communion with the spirit world. Characteristically, a shaman goes into
auto-hypnotic trances, during which he contacts spirits. Shamans are found among the
Siberians, Eskimos, Native American tribes, in S.E. Asia, and in Oceania. There is also
now a development of shamanic healers and practitioners in North America. (See
Spiritual/Shamanic Healing.)
SHARK CARTILAGE
a supplement touted as a cancer treatment. Sharks, whose frames are
composed of cartilage not bone, get cancer infrequently. Proponents of this treatment
claim sharks get cancer infrequently because something in their cartilage inhibits the
ability of tumors to create the blood supply needed to continue growing. Shark cartilage
is also promoted as an immune system stimulant and remedy for joint pain, swelling, and
stiffness.
SHIATSU
a form of acupressure, used in Japan for over 1,000 years to treat
pain and illness and for general health maintenance. Practitioners apply finger pressure
at specific points on the body in order to stimulate chi, or vital energy. Used to treat
stress, circulatory problems, depression, asthma, headaches, diarrhea, bronchitis.
SOUNDING THE BODY
a diagnostic and therapeutic technique used in sound healing. Sound
healers read a patients body by singing a series of tones and listening for
imbalances in the natural frequencies of the body or its energy fields. Imbalances
are said to be indicated by changes in the tone of the healers voice. To correct a
problem, the sound healer applies sound to the patients body by singing certain
tones near the affected organ, or by applying tuning forks or electronic vibratory
instruments to the body.
SPIRITUAL/SHAMANIC HEALING
practitioners who regard themselves as conductors of healing energy
or sources from the spiritual realm. Both may call upon spiritual helpers such as power
animals, angels, inner teachers, the clients Higher Self, or other spiritual forces.
Both forms of healing can be used for a range of emotional and physical illnesses.
STRUCTURAL EXAM/DIAGNOSIS
an osteopathic diagnostic technique - involves a visual, hands-on
assessment by an osteopathic physician of the skeleton, joints, muscles, ligaments, and
tendons.
SUBLUXATION
in chiropractic, a misalignment of bones within joints said to
interfere with the flow of nervous impulses and diminish the bodys ability to stay
healthy.
TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) -
delivery of an electric current through the skin to the nerves. Used
in physical therapy and to relieve painful conditions such as neuralgia, sciatica, and
arthritis. The low voltage electric current blocks the nerves reception of pain signals
and possibly stimulates the production of endorphins, the bodys pain-killing
chemicals.
THERAPEUTIC TOUCH
practiced by registered nurses and others to relieve pain &
stress. Practitioner assesses where a persons energy field is weak and congested,
then uses his or her hands to direct energy into the field to balance it.
THERAPY
treatment and care of someone to combat disease, injury, or mental
disorder.
TONIC
herbal remedy made from herbs taken to maintain health or ward off
illness, rather than to treat an illness. Also known as a normalizer.
TONING
in sound healing, projection of a nonverbal sound to balance the
bodys energy fields.
TRAGER BODYWORK
movement-education approach that gently rocks, cradles, and moves
the clients body. Meant to promote relaxation, increase mobility and mental clarity.
Used by athletes for performance enhancement and by people with musculoskeletal and back
problems.
VIBRATIONAL HEALING / MEDICINE
promotes healing by balancing the bodys energy field. Can
include acupuncture, homeopathy, flower essences, sound & color healing, crystals,
gems, aromatherapy, and energy-based bodywork (Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, Polarity
Therapy).
YOGA THERAPY
emerging field of practices that use yoga to address mental and
physical problems while integrating body & mind. Practitioners work one-on-one or in a
group setting.
ZERO BALANCING
method for aligning body structure and body energy. Through touch
akin to acupressure, practitioner seeks to overcome imbalances in the bodys
structure/energetic interface, which is said to exist beneath the level of conscious
awareness. Zero Balancing is often used for stress reduction.
ZONE THERAPY
another name for reflexology. (See reflexology.)
|