Having largely avoided hospitals as a patient, except for childbirth, my experiences have mostly been from the practitioner side, which has its challenges. The movie The Doctor illustrates how the empathy gained from being a patient in a traumatic healthcare system can make a doctor more compassionate.
A Journey Through Dental Trauma
On the other hand, I have been a recurring dental patient due to congenital mouth and jaw abnormalities that led to numerous surgeries before I turned 18. These early traumatic experiences have left me with severe anxiety during dental visits, a common experience for many individuals. The fear and anxiety associated with medical or dental settings can be overwhelming for both patients and healthcare professionals.
Overcoming Dental Emergencies During a Pandemic
During the initial days of the pandemic, when dental services were restricted, I faced a dental emergency due to a failed procedure that required immediate attention. This led to a series of surgeries and heightened anxiety, especially as past traumas resurfaced. The experience was challenging, as the fear of dental procedures and the lack of comfort compounded my distress.
Embracing Compassion in Healthcare
Amidst the distressing dental procedure, a kind gesture from the dental technician provided a sense of solace. Despite the dentist’s lack of empathy, the compassionate words and actions of the technician helped alleviate some of the emotional and physical pain. This highlighted the importance of sensitive acknowledgment and empathy in healthcare settings.
Facing the Paradox of Healing and Harming
As a healthcare provider, reconciling the dual role of healing and unintentionally causing harm can be challenging. Acknowledging this paradox is crucial in fostering empathy and minimizing the impact of unintentional harm on patients. Embracing the discomfort of this reality allows for a more compassionate approach to patient care.
Healing Medical Trauma Through Compassion
To explore healing tools and insights into addressing medical trauma, join me and a group of healers in the upcoming online workshop, Healing Medical Trauma. This interdisciplinary approach aims to provide healing strategies for individuals who have experienced medical trauma. Register before May 9 to take part in this transformative journey.
For more information and registration details, visit the official website before the workshop commences. Let’s embark on a journey towards healing and empathy in healthcare.
The article “I’m Sorry I Have To Hurt You In Order To Heal You” was originally published on Lissa Rankin’s blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on surgery and drugs as the primary treatment. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It focuses on treating the whole body, mind, and spirit. There are many different forms of naturopathy, including Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Traditional Native American Medicine, and Functional Medicine.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths prefer lifestyle changes to prescription medications.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” since it complements traditional medicine and does not replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are differences between naturopathic medicine and other CAM modalities:
- Naturopaths don’t usually prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths are able to work closely with patients’ family physicians and refer them to specialists when necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists are trained to provide individualized care based on each patient’s unique needs.
- Naturopaths are licensed by regulatory bodies like the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario.
- Provincial regulatory bodies license naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians are registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.
What is the difference in holistic and traditional medicine?
Traditional medicine is concerned with treating symptoms. Holistic medicine addresses the whole person. Holistic medicine treats the whole person rather than just treating one aspect.
Traditional medicine treats certain organs, systems, or diseases (e.g. the brain), while holistic medicines consider all aspects and the entire body. It also looks at how lifestyle choices affect overall wellness.
What are alternatives to medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments other than those considered by mainstream medicine to be useful for treating disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine.
Alternative medicine may also include practices that are not supported by scientific evidence but have been used with great success in clinical practice. Meditation, yoga, aromatherapy and reflexology are some examples.
What are the Alternative Medical Systems?
Ayurveda is a system of alternative medicine that includes acupuncture, Ayurveda homeopathy, energy-healing, and aromatherapy.
Acupuncture uses fine needles placed in specific points of the body to stimulate qi flow throughout the body.
Ayurvedic Medicine is an ancient system of health care based on balancing the three humors – air, fire, and water. It involves diet and exercise, herbal remedies as well massage and meditation.
Homeopathic Medicine gets its name from the Greek word homoios (similar) and pathos (disease). Homeopaths believe every disease has natural causes. But not all symptoms. They prescribe small doses of substances to treat symptoms similar to those that are experienced when a person is ill.
Energy Healing is also known by EFT, Rolfing (emotional touch), Reiki, Rolfing, Rolfing, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch and many other names. This therapy draws on the belief that we are each connected to a universal life force called Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers use touch and intention to help restore balance and harmony between our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to treat ailments. Aromatherapists believe that certain smells can alter mood and behavior. Lavender essential oil is used most often in aromatherapy.
Why is holistic medicine better?
Holistic health care treats the whole person instead of just specific symptoms. This involves looking at how someone feels about their body, their diet, where they live, and how much stress they have.
Holistic medicine addresses all aspects of the patient’s life, and treats them as a whole. While it sounds simple, it can be very challenging to implement in practice because doctors often focus on the patient’s physical health.
Where can I find more information about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is an approach to health care that focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on one part of the body. It considers all aspects of a patient’s life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person and not individual symptoms. Holistic medicine is not about curing the disease. It promotes healing.
Holistic medicine is a combination of preventive measures like exercise and nutrition, as well as treatments for chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes.
There are many options for holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What are the health benefits of complementary and alternate medicine?
People who feel that they are not receiving enough support from allopathic medicine can use complementary and alternate medicine (CAM). These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. Because they are not part of the standard medical treatment system, CAM practitioners will often recommend alternative therapies. Many CAM therapies incorporate elements from conventional medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies are effective in pain relief, stress management and relaxation. They may improve your general well-being as well as reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies address specific conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.
There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:
- A holistic approach that includes both the body, mind, spirit, environment, and everything in between
- The belief, that mind and body influence and interact
- The belief that illness results from an imbalance between the individual and his/her environment
- Treatments that focus on the whole person rather than just symptoms
- Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
- Mind, body, and spirit-integrated treatment methods
- Natural products are better than synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies can have risks. Incorrectly used, certain CAM therapies could cause serious harm and even death. Others pose potential side effects that must be weighed against their perceived benefits. Before you decide whether or not to use any CAMs, talk with your doctor about these matters.
Statistics
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
doi.org
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
How To
What are the Pros and Cons of Holistic Medical?
Holistic medicine is a form of holistic medicine that emphasizes the importance mind, body, spirit and environment in the healing process. It was created by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), whose first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure (1924), describes the process. He used simple techniques, such as visualization, meditation, and even hypnosis. People suffering from anxiety, depression and pain can benefit from this treatment. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies have been around for a while, the lack of scientific evidence has made them less popular. However, some studies show that these treatments can help reduce symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as asthma, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, migraine, obesity, osteoporosis, and others.
Holistic medicine has both its strengths and its weaknesses.
- There is insufficient scientific evidence. A few carefully designed, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), have evaluated the effectiveness of holistic therapies. Positive results are found in the majority of observational studies.
- Alternative medicine is less expensive than conventional medicine. Alternative medicines may be more affordable than traditional medicines, especially if the patient eats a healthy diet.
- Patients are not under any pressure to adhere to the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors will recommend complementary treatments, even if they are not prescribed.
- Many holistic therapies can be used alongside conventional medicine. For example, acupuncture may be combined with medication or surgery.
- Alternative therapies are believed to be more effective than conventional medicine.
- Alternative drugs are considered more natural and less harmful than traditional drugs.
- Many patients take complementary treatments to supplement their lifestyle changes. They not only want their health to be good, but they also want to have fun with their lives.
- Patients who use holistic treatments are generally healthier.
- Senior adults are increasingly interested in holistic treatments.
- It is important to conduct more research on complementary therapies.
- Studies show that most people prefer to try alternative treatments before going to a doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be a part of our culture, education system and society.
- Holistic treatments are not always safe.
- So that patients can make informed decisions, we must be able to communicate with them about the various therapies.
- Holistic treatments aren’t only for hippies.
- Certain diseases cannot be treated with holistic treatments.
- Sometimes, holistic treatments can be dangerous.
- For certain conditions, holistic therapies are beneficial.
- Holistic treatments are effective.
- Holistic therapies are based upon ancient wisdom.
- Holistic treatments are easy and simple to understand.
- Holistic treatments are difficult to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be difficult to master.
- Holistic treatments can be expensive.
- Holistic treatments can be very costly.
- Holistic treatments can be less expensive than conventional medicines.
- Holistic treatments can be more expensive than conventional medicines.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. It addresses all aspects, including the physical, emotional and mental, as well as cultural, social, occupational, environmental, and cultural factors. It is a way to prevent illness through diet, exercise or stress management.
Bastyr University in Seattle established the first holistic medical school in 1972. Holistic medicine grew after Dr. Andrew Weil’s book “Spontaneous Healing” was published in 1996. In 1997, the American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA) was founded by Dr. David Williams and Dr. Michael Murray. There are hundreds of holistic medicine programs worldwide today, including Bastyr University (Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons), Maharishi Ayurveda Institute and Pacific School of Oriental Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine is also available.
The World Health Organization designated holistic medicine as one the five top trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration aims at providing safe, effective, patient centered care while minimizing costs and side effects.
Holistic medicine works because of the interconnectedness of our body, mind, and spirit. When any of these three parts are out of balance, illness occurs. For example:
Your mind can be anxious or stressed and you feel anxious. This causes you to become more tense. Cortisol is a hormone that causes inflammation in your body. You feel weak, tired, and sick as a result.
If your emotions run high, you may experience negative feelings and thoughts like fear, anger, grief, or sadness. These feelings create stress in your brain. Untreated, stress can cause your body to make adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline increases your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and heart rate. Cortisol has a negative impact on your immune system and digestive tract. Both hormones cause fatigue, muscle tension, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and other health problems.
Your spirit can become depressed and you may lose your faith in the world. A lack of self-esteem and confidence can also lead to low self-esteem. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationship patterns, and low energy. You feel happy, joyful, peaceful, and optimistic when your spirit is healthy.
There is a difference between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine relies on scientific methods. Doctors use laboratory tests, x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, and other technologies to diagnose patients. They may also prescribe medications or surgery if necessary. Allopathic doctors believe they understand the human body, and can prescribe medications to treat ailments. Alternative medicine includes herbs, vitamins, minerals and exercise. It also includes spiritual healing, emotional support, and diet. There is no one standard definition for alternative medicine. Alternative medicine is also known as natural medicine or integrative medicine. It is also known as traditional medicine or naturopathic medicine.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
——————————————————————————————————————————————
By: Karoline
Title: Healing Medical Trauma: A Personal Journey Towards Empathy
Sourced From: lissarankin.com/im-sorry-i-have-to-hurt-you-in-order-to-heal-you/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=im-sorry-i-have-to-hurt-you-in-order-to-heal-you
Published Date: Mon, 06 May 2024 19:05:32 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on surgery and drugs as the primary treatment. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It focuses on treating the whole body, mind, and spirit. There are many different forms of naturopathy, including Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Traditional Native American Medicine, and Functional Medicine.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths prefer lifestyle changes to prescription medications.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” since it complements traditional medicine and does not replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are differences between naturopathic medicine and other CAM modalities:
- Naturopaths don’t usually prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths are able to work closely with patients’ family physicians and refer them to specialists when necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists are trained to provide individualized care based on each patient’s unique needs.
- Naturopaths are licensed by regulatory bodies like the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario.
- Provincial regulatory bodies license naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians are registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.
What is the difference in holistic and traditional medicine?
Traditional medicine is concerned with treating symptoms. Holistic medicine addresses the whole person. Holistic medicine treats the whole person rather than just treating one aspect.
Traditional medicine treats certain organs, systems, or diseases (e.g. the brain), while holistic medicines consider all aspects and the entire body. It also looks at how lifestyle choices affect overall wellness.
What are alternatives to medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments other than those considered by mainstream medicine to be useful for treating disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine.
Alternative medicine may also include practices that are not supported by scientific evidence but have been used with great success in clinical practice. Meditation, yoga, aromatherapy and reflexology are some examples.
What are the Alternative Medical Systems?
Ayurveda is a system of alternative medicine that includes acupuncture, Ayurveda homeopathy, energy-healing, and aromatherapy.
Acupuncture uses fine needles placed in specific points of the body to stimulate qi flow throughout the body.
Ayurvedic Medicine is an ancient system of health care based on balancing the three humors – air, fire, and water. It involves diet and exercise, herbal remedies as well massage and meditation.
Homeopathic Medicine gets its name from the Greek word homoios (similar) and pathos (disease). Homeopaths believe every disease has natural causes. But not all symptoms. They prescribe small doses of substances to treat symptoms similar to those that are experienced when a person is ill.
Energy Healing is also known by EFT, Rolfing (emotional touch), Reiki, Rolfing, Rolfing, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch and many other names. This therapy draws on the belief that we are each connected to a universal life force called Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers use touch and intention to help restore balance and harmony between our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to treat ailments. Aromatherapists believe that certain smells can alter mood and behavior. Lavender essential oil is used most often in aromatherapy.
Why is holistic medicine better?
Holistic health care treats the whole person instead of just specific symptoms. This involves looking at how someone feels about their body, their diet, where they live, and how much stress they have.
Holistic medicine addresses all aspects of the patient’s life, and treats them as a whole. While it sounds simple, it can be very challenging to implement in practice because doctors often focus on the patient’s physical health.
Where can I find more information about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is an approach to health care that focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on one part of the body. It considers all aspects of a patient’s life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person and not individual symptoms. Holistic medicine is not about curing the disease. It promotes healing.
Holistic medicine is a combination of preventive measures like exercise and nutrition, as well as treatments for chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes.
There are many options for holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What are the health benefits of complementary and alternate medicine?
People who feel that they are not receiving enough support from allopathic medicine can use complementary and alternate medicine (CAM). These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. Because they are not part of the standard medical treatment system, CAM practitioners will often recommend alternative therapies. Many CAM therapies incorporate elements from conventional medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies are effective in pain relief, stress management and relaxation. They may improve your general well-being as well as reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies address specific conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.
There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:
- A holistic approach that includes both the body, mind, spirit, environment, and everything in between
- The belief, that mind and body influence and interact
- The belief that illness results from an imbalance between the individual and his/her environment
- Treatments that focus on the whole person rather than just symptoms
- Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
- Mind, body, and spirit-integrated treatment methods
- Natural products are better than synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies can have risks. Incorrectly used, certain CAM therapies could cause serious harm and even death. Others pose potential side effects that must be weighed against their perceived benefits. Before you decide whether or not to use any CAMs, talk with your doctor about these matters.
Statistics
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
doi.org
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
How To
What are the Pros and Cons of Holistic Medical?
Holistic medicine is a form of holistic medicine that emphasizes the importance mind, body, spirit and environment in the healing process. It was created by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), whose first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure (1924), describes the process. He used simple techniques, such as visualization, meditation, and even hypnosis. People suffering from anxiety, depression and pain can benefit from this treatment. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies have been around for a while, the lack of scientific evidence has made them less popular. However, some studies show that these treatments can help reduce symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as asthma, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, migraine, obesity, osteoporosis, and others.
Holistic medicine has both its strengths and its weaknesses.
- There is insufficient scientific evidence. A few carefully designed, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), have evaluated the effectiveness of holistic therapies. Positive results are found in the majority of observational studies.
- Alternative medicine is less expensive than conventional medicine. Alternative medicines may be more affordable than traditional medicines, especially if the patient eats a healthy diet.
- Patients are not under any pressure to adhere to the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors will recommend complementary treatments, even if they are not prescribed.
- Many holistic therapies can be used alongside conventional medicine. For example, acupuncture may be combined with medication or surgery.
- Alternative therapies are believed to be more effective than conventional medicine.
- Alternative drugs are considered more natural and less harmful than traditional drugs.
- Many patients take complementary treatments to supplement their lifestyle changes. They not only want their health to be good, but they also want to have fun with their lives.
- Patients who use holistic treatments are generally healthier.
- Senior adults are increasingly interested in holistic treatments.
- It is important to conduct more research on complementary therapies.
- Studies show that most people prefer to try alternative treatments before going to a doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be a part of our culture, education system and society.
- Holistic treatments are not always safe.
- So that patients can make informed decisions, we must be able to communicate with them about the various therapies.
- Holistic treatments aren’t only for hippies.
- Certain diseases cannot be treated with holistic treatments.
- Sometimes, holistic treatments can be dangerous.
- For certain conditions, holistic therapies are beneficial.
- Holistic treatments are effective.
- Holistic therapies are based upon ancient wisdom.
- Holistic treatments are easy and simple to understand.
- Holistic treatments are difficult to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be difficult to master.
- Holistic treatments can be expensive.
- Holistic treatments can be very costly.
- Holistic treatments can be less expensive than conventional medicines.
- Holistic treatments can be more expensive than conventional medicines.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. It addresses all aspects, including the physical, emotional and mental, as well as cultural, social, occupational, environmental, and cultural factors. It is a way to prevent illness through diet, exercise or stress management.
Bastyr University in Seattle established the first holistic medical school in 1972. Holistic medicine grew after Dr. Andrew Weil’s book “Spontaneous Healing” was published in 1996. In 1997, the American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA) was founded by Dr. David Williams and Dr. Michael Murray. There are hundreds of holistic medicine programs worldwide today, including Bastyr University (Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons), Maharishi Ayurveda Institute and Pacific School of Oriental Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine is also available.
The World Health Organization designated holistic medicine as one the five top trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration aims at providing safe, effective, patient centered care while minimizing costs and side effects.
Holistic medicine works because of the interconnectedness of our body, mind, and spirit. When any of these three parts are out of balance, illness occurs. For example:
Your mind can be anxious or stressed and you feel anxious. This causes you to become more tense. Cortisol is a hormone that causes inflammation in your body. You feel weak, tired, and sick as a result.
If your emotions run high, you may experience negative feelings and thoughts like fear, anger, grief, or sadness. These feelings create stress in your brain. Untreated, stress can cause your body to make adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline increases your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and heart rate. Cortisol has a negative impact on your immune system and digestive tract. Both hormones cause fatigue, muscle tension, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and other health problems.
Your spirit can become depressed and you may lose your faith in the world. A lack of self-esteem and confidence can also lead to low self-esteem. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationship patterns, and low energy. You feel happy, joyful, peaceful, and optimistic when your spirit is healthy.
There is a difference between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine relies on scientific methods. Doctors use laboratory tests, x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, and other technologies to diagnose patients. They may also prescribe medications or surgery if necessary. Allopathic doctors believe they understand the human body, and can prescribe medications to treat ailments. Alternative medicine includes herbs, vitamins, minerals and exercise. It also includes spiritual healing, emotional support, and diet. There is no one standard definition for alternative medicine. Alternative medicine is also known as natural medicine or integrative medicine. It is also known as traditional medicine or naturopathic medicine.
