Homeopathy

The word Homeopathy comes from the Greek word “homios” meaning similar and “pathos” meaning suffering. It is one of the oldest sciences of alternative medicines.

In the late 1700s, Samuel Hahnemann developed this new approach to treating illness. At a time when most common medical treatments were harsh, he developed a less-threatening approach to medicine

A highly respected German physician, chemist and linguist, Hahnemann tested single, pure substances on himself and more dilute forms on healthy volunteers. Keeping meticulous records, he combined his observations with the known uses of herbs and other medical substances. Eventually he treated the sick and developed a homeopathic clinic practice.

Two additional concepts were added to homeopathy by Hahnemann:

“Potentization” – with every vigorous shake of a diluted substance, the remedy becomes more, not less, effective by extracting the vital essence of the substance. If the molecules are destroyed by dilution, homeopathy holds that the “memory” of them, the effects they exerted on the surrounding water molecules may still be therapeutic.

Treatment is to be selected upon the individual’s total picture and symptom, not solely upon symptoms of a disease. Homeopaths evaluate a person’s emotions, mental state, lifestyle and nutrition, not just their physical symptoms. In homeopathy, people may receive different remedies for one symptom.

Han Burch Gram studied homeopathy in Europe and introduced it to the United States upon his return in 1825. A Boston born doctor, he settled with his brother Neils in New York City. Believing Americans would be receptive, he published his translation of Samuel Hahnemann’s “Spirit of the Homeopathic Doctrine” in 1825. The pamphlet was received with indifference. Gram’s imperfect translation reportedly was responsible for the poor reception but it may have been the disfavor of the city’s physicians upon learning Gram was a homeopath. Though highly respected for his talent, he was later persecuted for his heresy.

The first homeopathic medical college was established in Allentown, Pennsylvania in 1835. European immigrants, trained in homeopathy, also made the treatment widely available in America. By the turn of the 20th century, 20 homeopathic medical colleges and more than 100 hospitals had been established in the United States. Eight percent of all American medical practitioners were homeopaths.

Numerous medical advances were made in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, such as the recognition of the mechanisms of disease, the discovery of ether anesthesia, Pasteur’s germ theory, and the development of antiseptic techniques. The release of the so-called “Flexner Report” triggered major changes in American medical education. Homeopathy was affected negatively and by the 1930s most homeopathic schools had closed down or converted to a conventional medical school.

Homeopathy’s popularity was revived in the United States in the 1960s. According to a 1999 survey, over 6 million Americans used homeopathy in the previous 12 months.

Persons using homeopathy do so for a variety of health concerns including wellness and prevention to treatment of conditions, injuries and diseases. According to studies, many people who seek homeopathic care suffer from a chronic medical condition.

The History of Art Therapy

It is difficult to look at the history of art therapy and its true meaning until one goes back to the history of the visual arts, where art was not art but was considered a trade or workmanship by the general mass or tradesmen. Artistic symbols were used as visual records of self-expression and communication. And even though ancient healing involved art in a multitude of forms and ideas, the history of art therapy was non-existent over the centuries until the late 19th and early 20th centuries, yet art was not.

The first men to apply art therapy to their psychiatry field were Ambrose Tardieu and Paul-Max Simon. French psychiatrists, they published studies regarding the artwork of the mentally ill. Looking at similar characteristics and symbolism of the patient’s artwork, these men viewed the developing history of art therapy as one of the best effective diagnostic tools in order to identify a specific type of mental illness or traumatic event of the time.

Later on, Margaret Naumburg incorporated the field of art into psychotherapy in order for her own patients to visualize and recognize their unconscious state of mind. Using this form of psychological counseling, she founded the Walden School in the year 1915 to apply her findings to her student’s artwork. To this day, she is considered the actual founder of art therapy in the United States, after publishing quite heavily on the subject and teaching art therapy seminars at the New York University in the 1950s. From this moment on, the history of art therapy had a new beginning that would lead to a guarantee of its success.

Deeply rooted in the theories of Freud and Jung, both the conscious and subconscious play a major part in the two part process of art therapy–the creation of art and having its meaning discovered. The history of art therapy has shown that visual images and symbols are easily accessible to the human mind, and is considered to be the most natural form of communication. Each patient, regardless of their problem or age, is encouraged to visualize something in their mind they cannot talk about, yet have strong feelings and emotions about it. The art therapist then reviews it to have the patient interpret it.

As the field of art therapy progresses, it is centered on visual mediums, and is mainly used in the mental health treatment. But it can also be used with traditional medicine in order to treat organic diseases and conditions. It is documented over the years through the history of art therapy that art therapy allows the patients to develop their own style of coping skills, and promotes healing by relieving their stress.

The Spiritual Aromatherapy Benefit

Because we are affected by aromas around us, it makes perfect sense that aromatherapy oils can influence our thoughts, emotions and our spiritual connections. When undertaking a meditation practice for example, choosing the correct oils can help us to transcend our every day lives and connect with our spiritual self.

This can be termed as a spiritual aromatherapy benefit.

Essential oils have a vibrational note and it is this that we need to consider when choosing the right essential oil for our spiritual journey. It is the pure energy of the oil which can help us to connect with nature, our inner being and become balanced with the universe.

Essential oils can be used for a whole mind, body and spirit approach and as such it’s a true aromatherapy benefit which can help to eradicate stress, begin a healing process and to help us find our own natural balance in life. Essential oils can bring peace, a sense of enlightenment and helps to purify mind and body quickly and naturally and heightens the sensation of connection with our higher selves.

Select only pure essential oils, these may be a little more expensive but they are worth it as they are not diluted. There are many good books advocating aromatherapy benefit of individual oils and these look at all aspects of harmonious living including health, relaxation and meditation. Read up on the benefits of individual oils and choose the ones that you feel work for you.

This is trial and error of course and the best way is to check out the aromas is before you purchase so visiting a natural health store is advisable. You will naturally connect with some oils and reject others. Choose them intuitively as when you are looking at your spiritual development, it is not as important as to the chemical aspects of the oils as they are not being used in a physical manner.

Oils can be used in a variety of ways, such as an oil burner, in massage, drops on a pillow to aid relaxation and sleep, in a steam inhalant, used in massage, or a few drops in a bath can have a wonderful calming effect.

Essential oils should be used treated with respect and yet used instinctively, to heighten mood, create a sense of inner calm or for when healing. There ar so many benefits to using aromatherapy in your everyday life but here are three which have been chosen specifically to aid your spiritual path

Jasmine

Aromatherapy Benefit: For uplifting moods, for psychological effects and to boost the spirit during challenging times.

Bergamot

Aromatherapy Benefit: Helps to chase the shadows of unhappiness away. Brings light and laughter

Frankincense

Aromatherapy Benefit: Ideal for use in meditation, it has a warm and sweet aroma which helps establish a spiritual connection and provides ethereal support.

What is Aromatherapy?

What is aromatherapy?
A beautiful, relaxing, natural and holistic approach to life.

What is aromatherapy essential oil?
Extracted from flowers, leaves, bark and peel, aromatherapy is a therapy which uses concentrated oils in a number of holistic treatments to promote health and well-being in all who deign to use it. It can relieve a number of health conditions such as tension headaches, aching muscles, depression, anxiety or stress and insomnia for example and works on both a psychological and physiological state.

There are many different essential oils available, so it is always wise to think about the properties of individual oils so that you can match them to your required use.

What is aromatherapy massage?
Having any massage is beneficial to the person receiving it but coupling that with the relevant essential oil of your choice, can relax, invigorate, calm, induce and sedate depending on the type of massage that is being practiced.

Lavender oil is always a popular choice for many people and the qualities in lavender include:

• Being able to induce sleep
• Useful in colic in young children when rubbed gently over the tummy
• To alleviate stress

Bergamot oil can be used for many reasons although care must be taken to not expose skin which has had received a bergamot oil massage as it can lead to burns if under direct sunlight.

• Fear
• Stress
• Tension
• Infection

What is aromatherapy inhalation?

Using aromatherapy in a steam inhalant is wonderful if someone is suffering from a cold, sinus problem or feels tired, tense and head muddled. It is simple and effective to use: Fill a bowl with boiling water and add three drops of your chosen oil, lower head until approximately 12 inches from the water. Place a towel over your head so that you are covered and breathe in deeply to receive the benefits.

Cedarwood oil is beneficial for:

Calming and balancing energy
Removing excess phlegm and catarrh
Increasing feelings of spirituality

Orange oil is beneficial for:

• Sedative
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antiseptic
• Anti-depressant

What is aromatherapy baths?

Adding up to ten drops of your favorite essential oils to your bath can be a wonderful way to receive all of the benefits and wind down for the day. Similarly, oils can be used in a bath to invoke energy and to stimulate the senses at the start of the day if preferred.

An energizing bath

• 2 drops of lemon
• 2 drops of frankincense
• 3 drops of rosemary

Add this to your bath and then enjoy the invigorating oils.

To help with feelings of fear or nervousness

• 4 drops of basil
• 6 drops of geranium

Foot bath to soothe tired feet:

• 3 drops of peppermint oil to a bowl of water and leave feet to soak for approximately twenty minutes. Feet will feel greatly refreshed afterwards.

An Acupuncture Chart Offers Information

Acupuncture chart is a tool that provides a variety of information and helps to display the procedures, processes as well as the formulas of acupuncture. Acupuncture is an ancient method that has been used in Chinese medicine for hundreds, if not thousands of years. Many believe it is the oldest form of medicine and yet it is still being used in the same basic way that it has always been used. In this form of medicine, small, hair thin needles are inserted into the skin of the patient in specific points around the body.

One of the things that an acupuncture chart often does is provide detailed explanations as to where these points are. These charts outline the full body as to where the needles are placed to provide the maximum amount of relief. Skilled acupuncturists will use these to help them treat a patient from all types of ailments. Today, many common medical problems and much more extensive problems are treated through acupuncture. Everything from cancer to headaches can be relieved by following these ancient methods.

An acupuncture chart often helps to provide guidance but they are much more often used to help explain the treatments to patients. When you visit an acupuncturist, they are likely to point out what needs to be treated and where based on their knowledge of the subject. It can be hard to see the benefits of this treatment if you have not had it before, though. For this reason, an acupuncture chart is often used to help showcase this information to the patient so that they can fully understand what is happening to them.

There are a variety of different types of acupuncture out there. Many forms are the same that have been used for hundreds of years. There are formulas available for many types of illnesses. Because there are many forms of acupuncture, it can be helpful to learn as much as you can about the form before you have the procedure done. These charts can be an effective way of showing what those methods are and how they differ.

If you will be visiting an acupuncturist, it is likely that they will have many a different acupuncture chart to help explain the process and procedure to you. In most cases, your acupuncturist will choose the method that is best for your condition or your desires in coming to them. They will use specific formulas and methods based on your condition. If you have any questions about it, they are likely to point out the differences and explain the process to you, clearly.

Acupuncture Charts Give Valuable Information

Acupuncture charts are tools used by acupuncturists to tell them where they should treat a patient. These charts are effective, hands on and easily accessible, which will give instant access to more information. Patients that come in can also learn from using these charts. By implementing a series of acupuncture charts, patients can learn what is happening and why, helping them to see the real benefits of including acupuncture in their daily lives.

There are many types of acupuncture charts available today. For example, an acupuncture meridians chart will point out where the 12 main acupuncture meridians are located. It may also explain the anatomical area effectively. Another type of chart can convey the various acupuncture formulas used. Since there are over 100 of these in Chinese acupuncture, having an easy tool to access this information is helpful. These charts will contain the formulas as well as help for commonly treated conditions with them.

For those that want to learn more, consider acupuncture charts that outline information through TCM and Meridian charts. Here, traditional Chinese medicine is explored on the charts, outlining much of the information you need. They sometimes include information on the five element theory, too. Pulse diagnosis, headache treatment and tongue diagnosis information may also be included. These useful tools help to explain the in depth acupuncture methods to both the user and the receiver!

Sometimes it can be helpful to have micro system charts. These will outline the very minute details that are so important such as the Chinese ear acupuncture chart which will outline all the details of the ear alone, in detail. Other similar acupuncture charts including auriculotherapy charts, Korean hand acupuncture and even addiction charts outlining the steps of treating a variety of conditions correctly.

When you visit any health center with these displayed, you will find that they are mainly used as reference materials. Skilled and experienced acupuncturists will not need to reference them. In many ways, they can serve as a tool for educating you, the patient. This way, they can thoroughly explain what needs to be done and how it will help you. Otherwise, explaining these things to the individual can be difficult to do and even overwhelming. Seeing a picture can help to bring home the message in a clearer form.

When purchasing acupuncture charts be sure to get those that are most modern. They should also include details clearly. Purchase from a trusted provider so that you are sure you are getting high quality every time. In most cases, these charts will be used over and over again for educational benefits.

Practitioner Directory - Find a Practitioner

Practitioner Directory: List Your Practice Today!

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Today’s patients are turning to the Internet to learn about you, your specialties, and your practice philosophy!

This year more than 200 million adults will use the Internet to search for health care information. Many are looking for a practitioner for themselves or a family member. They want to know about the kinds of services you offer.

There’s no better way to advertise your practice than alternativemedicinesresources.com. Our website will give you the opportunity to easily advertise your practice worldwide to millions of people across the Internet.”

List your practice! We have visitors who are looking for a practitioner in alternative medicine!

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Definition of Alternative Medicine - All The Facts

Have you noticed that alternative medicine has begun to appeal to a wider audience than ever before? This is based in part because of the positive information regarding the definition of alternative medicine that has been released to mainstream magazines and newspapers around the world. People have begun to embrace the idea of getting away from conventional medicine and the many harmful side effects of prescription drugs, and are eager to learn all they can so they can be sure of the exact definition of alternative medicine. They want clear facts so they can determine if this choice is right for them.

Just what is the definition of alternative medicine, anyway? An exact definition depends entirely on who you ask, as this type of health benefit can be something different for everyone. There are many different variables when it comes to alternative medicine. So many treatments and techniques are available that it is hard to come up with a definition that fits them all.

As it stands, most people really don’t know what the true definition of alternative medicine is. They only know that it helps them, and that is what they think really matters. But there are those who like to understand hows everything when it comes to their health care, and a definition of alternative medicine is something that they strive to decipher for themselves.

A simple definition of alternative medicine is to describe what it is not. It is safe to say that anything that is not used at a doctor’s office, or taught to aspiring physicians in medical school is not alternative, but conventional medicine.

Interestingly enough, alternative medicine has become so widely accepted that many medical schools have began to teach classes in alternative medicine to bring up and coming doctors up to speed so they are able to give their patients what they are asking for. Some hospitals are even adding Alternative Medicine departments, which is proof that this type of medicine is becoming more popular than ever.

It is surprising how many doctors, both young and old, are coming to accept alternative medicine as a viable option to the type of medicine that they have practiced for years. Apparently, they have realized that alternative medicine has been practiced in one form or another since time began. It is food for thought when you realize that even people who are not in the medical profession, whether they realize it or not, use alternative medicine nearly every day. So many of the simple things that we do for ourselves, like listen to music to relieve stress or use an ice bag on our tennis elbow, are most definitely alternative medicine.

Perhaps the best definition for alternative medicine is health and medical care that is as close to nature as possible. Remember, our ancestors didn’t have huge hospitals and a team of doctors to cater to each little symptom they had, and they made through life just fine.

Introduction to Acupuncture

Acupuncture is part of traditional Chinese medicine and is acclaimed as one of the oldest forms of healing throughout the world. The concept that lies underneath acupuncture is the belief that a disruption in the flow of qi and imbalances within the forces of both yin and yang cause disease. Using a combination of herbs, meditation, massage and acupuncture are believed to restore the balance of yin-hang and the flow of qi and thus aid the healing process. The process of acupuncture involves stimulating specific points in the body in order to remove blockages in the flow of qi and thus restore and maintain health. In the United States acupuncture falls into the area of alternative medicine, which means it is not accepted as part of conventional medicine.

Although acupuncture is not part of traditional medicine, there are several points that we have to consider about this procedure:

• The Chinese and other Asian people have used the procedure for thousands of years.

• Scientists are currently studying the effectiveness of the procedure for treating many different conditions.

• Very few complications are known as a result of acupuncture although there can be serious side effects if the procedure is not performed by someone qualified to perform the procedure.

Although the procedure has been in existence in China and other Asian countries for many years, it has only been in use in the United States since 1971. Since it was first introduced, many people have chosen to use acupuncture for many different conditions including post-surgical pain, arthritis, chronic pain, and even migraines. Some people cringe at the thought of needles being injected into their skin while others swear by the benefits of acupuncture. Many people who cringed at the thought in the beginning chose to try it after all traditional medical procedures failed.

There is no need to be afraid of acupuncture as long as you visit a qualified practitioner. In the United States, the FDA has regulations for the use of the needles up to and including the requirement for one time use. The problems develop when a provider does not follow proper safety procedures or a patient chooses to visit someone who is not a qualified practitioner. You would not visit a medical doctor who did not have the proper qualifications to care for you, so you should exercise the same precaution when choosing an acupuncturist.

By understanding the key concepts of the procedure and making certain you choose a competent practitioner, you will have a better understanding of acupuncture and will be able to make an informed decision regarding the benefits it may provide for you. Never choose a practitioner based upon the recommendation of anyone unless you conduct your own research first.

What is Reiki? The Gift of Universal Life Force Energy!

What is Reiki? In its simplest form, reiki is universal life force energy that is given to a client through a reiki practitioner. But, other than that – what is reiki? From a healing point of view, it is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes healing. If you have read anything about reiki, then you will have heard about the laying on of hands and have wondered what is reiki able to do for me?

The laying on of hands is done to channel the universal life force energy through the practitioner to the client. This isn’t so far fetched if you stop to think about it. This life force energy flows through all of us and is what causes us to be alive. Are you wondering what is reiki going to do about you feeling sick or stressed? Good question. The answer is if your life force energy is low, then you are more likely to get sick or feel stress. If on the other hand your life force energy is strong and high, you are much more capable of being happy and healthy.

What is reiki in Japanese mean? The word reiki is made up of two Japanese words – Rei which means “God’s Wisdom or the Higher Power” and Ki with is the life force energy. So what that all means is that reiki is really spiritually guided life force energy.

What is reiki in terms of treatments? Reiki treats the whole person and that includes the body, emotions, mind and spirit. Imagine the well-being to be derived from this! Reiki can be done with a gentle laying on of hands and following all the hand positions of a traditional reiki treatment. Or, the practitioner can work in the energy field of your body, just a few inches above you. Either way, you will receive the benefits of reiki.

You may feel either heat or cold or tingling. No two people are the same in the way they receive energy from the practitioner. Reiki is simple, natural, holistic, safe and the ideal companion to conventional massage or any type of medical healing. It won’t hurt you and it may even make you feel better. Do your research on reiki before you decide if you want to try this marvelous healing experience. You will learn of its origins, what practitioners believe in, how they work, how they channel the life force energy to you and what the overall benefits to you can be.

If you like what you read and hear and experience, then you will delighted to know it is amazingly easy to learn as well. The ability to use reiki is not taught in the usual sense, through book learning (although you can learn about it this way). It is instead transferred to the student during a reiki class by the Reiki Master.

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