In a world of data overload, unprecedented scientific and technology advancement and where man now have the knowledge and means to travel to outer planets – many of us are turning to alternative medicine and natural remedies. I find myself pulled to learn more about each of these alternative medicines, from Reiki to homeopathy. Here I will introduce a few of these practices:
1. Reiki
Reiki is a healing practice codified in the early 20th century in Japan. In Japanese, rei roughly translates to “spiritual”; ki is commonly translated as “vital energy.” Reiki Healers silently place their hands on or over a person’s body to evoke a “universal life force.” A Reiki treatment can even, practitioners believe, be conducted from miles away.
Over the past two decades, a number of studies have shown that Reiki treatments help diminish the negative side effects of chemotherapy, improve surgical outcomes, regulate the autonomic nervous system, and dramatically alter people’s experience of physical and emotional pain associated with illness. But no conclusive, peer-reviewed study has explained its mechanisms, much less confirmed the existence of a healing energy that passes between bodies on command.
2. Homeopathy
Homeopathic doctors (who also are called “homeopaths”) weaken these ingredients by adding water or alcohol. Then they shake the mixture as part of a process called “potentization.” They believe this step transfers the healing essence. Homeopaths also believe that the lower the dose, the more powerful the medicine.
3. Ayurveda
Those who practice Ayurveda believe every person is made of five basic elements found in the universe: space, air, fire, water, and earth.
4. Sound Healing
It’s unclear how exactly singing bowls are supposed to work. However, there are theories as to why it might have positive health and well-being effects. These theories include:
- The sound from the singing bowls can actually change your brain waves to types of waves that make you feel relaxed.
- The sound waves from the bowl act on the energy field of your body and cause you to relax.
- It’s not the sound from the singing bowls but the vibrations that lead to its effects.
There’s also some evidence that music therapy more generally can reduce your levels of the stress hormone cortisol. When your levels of cortisol are lowered, you feel more relaxed. Listening to music may also help boost your immune system by increasing production of certain immune cells.
4. Cold Therapy
Cold therapy is also known as cryotherapy. It works by reducing blood flow to a particular area, which can significantly reduce inflammation and swelling that causes pain, especially around a joint or a tendon. It can temporarily reduce nerve activity, which can also relieve pain.