Energy healing is a branch of integrative medicine that studies the science of therapeutic applications of subtle energies. It is based on the belief that healers can channel “healing energy” into a patient and effect positive results. Energy healing can treat the mind, body, and spirit, and can be used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments.
Ancient Civilizations
The earliest recorded energy healing practices can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, China and India.
In Egypt
Energy healing was practiced through the use of sacred symbols and amulets, which were believed to have healing powers.
In China
Energy healing was part of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) system, which focused on balancing the flow of qi (or chi), the vital life force energy, through acupuncture, acupressure, tai chi, and qigong.
In India
Energy healing was part of the Ayurvedic system, which focused on balancing the doshas (or humors), the elemental energies that govern the body and mind, through yoga, meditation, herbs, and massage.
Middle Ages and Renaissance
During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, energy healing was largely suppressed by the dominant religious and scientific paradigms of the time. However, some forms of energy healing persisted in secret or in marginalized groups.
For example, alchemy was a form of energy healing that sought to transform matter and spirit through chemical and spiritual processes. Shamanism was a form of energy healing that involved communicating with spirits and using natural elements to heal. And mysticism was a form of energy healing that involved experiencing direct union with God or a higher power.
Modern Era
In the modern era, energy healing experienced a revival and diversification due to various factors. Some of these factors include:
- The rise of scientific research on the effects of energy healing on health and well-being. For example, a study based on data from over 9,000 adults living in the US found that those who practiced energy healing were able to deal with their emotions better and experience less anxiety
- The emergence of new forms of energy healing such as Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, Healing Touch, Pranic Healing, and more. For example, Reiki is a Japanese form of energy healing that involves channeling universal life force energy through the hands to promote healing.
- The integration of energy healing with other modalities such as psychology, psychotherapy, counseling, coaching, and more. For example, Reconnective Healing™(RH) is a form of energy healing that is not just energy healing but instead a more comprehensive spectrum of healing composed of energy, light, and information.
- The globalization and cross-cultural exchange of energy healing practices and knowledge. For example, acupuncture is a Chinese form of energy healing that has become widely accepted and practiced in many countries around the world.
- The increased awareness and acceptance of energy healing among the general public and health professionals. For example, according to a survey conducted by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), about 38% of adults in the US used some form of complementary or alternative medicine in 2007.
Types of Energy Healing
Today, there are many types of energy healing available for people who want to experience its benefits. Some of the most popular types include:
Reiki
A Japanese form of energy healing that involves channeling universal life force energy through the hands to promote healing.
Acupuncture
A Chinese form of energy healing that involves inserting needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of qi.
Acupressure
A Chinese form of energy healing that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of qi.
Qigong
A Chinese form of energy healing that involves practicing physical movements, breathing exercises, and meditation to cultivate qi.
Yoga
An Indian form of energy healing that involves practicing physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to balance the doshas.
Meditation
A universal form of energy healing that involves focusing the mind on a single object, thought, or sensation to achieve a state of awareness and relaxation.
Conclusion
Energy healing is a fascinating field that has a long and rich history. It has been practiced by various cultures and civilizations for thousands of years. It has evolved over time to adapt to changing contexts and needs. And it has become more accessible and diverse than ever before.
