As the world gradually reopens post-pandemic, we find ourselves in a unique phase of transition. This period, often referred to as the “space between stories,” signifies the end of one chapter and the uncertainty of the next. Navigating this liminal space can be delicate and calls for self-compassion as we embrace change.
Personal Transitions
On a personal level, I am experiencing various transitions. From adjusting to an empty nest as my daughter embarks on new adventures to the challenges of a long-distance relationship with my partner, change is a constant presence. Similarly, like many others, my partner Jeff is navigating a career shift after experiencing burnout, while my ex-partner is relocating to Europe.
Embracing Change
Change is inevitable, and it often brings a mix of emotions. Uncertainty can be daunting, but it also opens doors to new possibilities. Reflecting on the transitions in my life and those around me, I realize the significance of embracing change and finding resilience amidst uncertainty.
Global Shifts
Beyond personal transitions, the world is undergoing significant changes. From political upheavals to social movements like #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, the landscape is evolving. These shifts reflect a broader transformation that challenges existing systems and calls for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Finding Grace in Transition
In times of transition, it is essential to find grace and resilience. Embracing the unknown and allowing oneself to be in the “space between stories” can lead to personal growth and a deeper connection to one's inner self. As we navigate change, we discover our inner strength and the resilience to face whatever comes our way.
Join Us for TRANSITIONS & TRANSFORMATION
If you're a healthcare provider or therapist navigating transitions, consider joining us for TRANSITIONS & TRANSFORMATION, a retreat focused on self-discovery and creative visioning. Engage in discussions, movement practices, and intuitive exercises to find clarity and direction in times of change.
Embrace change, find resilience, and discover the power within you as you navigate the transitions in your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is holistic medicine?
A holistic medicine doctor treats patients holistically. They might combine western medicine and traditional methods, such as acupuncture and herbs.
They aim to treat an illness rather than just treat symptoms. Patients should feel better after treatment.
Doctors should not just focus on treating the disease, but also helping to prevent future ones.
Holistic refers to all aspects of someone's life.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative medicine is very popular, as they are often less expensive and more beneficial than traditional treatments. However, there have been many cases where patients have died after taking these treatments, sometimes due to side effects such as allergic reactions. Other therapies might not work.
Alternate medicines can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know enough to choose the best ones. For example, vitamin supplements aren't regulated like pharmaceuticals, so it's easy to overdose on vitamins. Other remedies, however, can be toxic.
What is the difference between Naturopathic and 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. The CAM is not intended to be a replacement for conventional treatment. It is meant to assist patients who wish to have control over their own healthcare and choose what is best.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many forms and types of naturopathy.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” since it complements traditional medicine and does not replace it. Naturopaths can prescribe medication when necessary.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- The provincial licensing boards for Naturopathic physicians regulate Naturopathic physicians, while CAM practitioners can be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention, wellness, and education about diet & exercise.
- Naturopaths strongly emphasize lifestyle factors, which include nutrition, sleep, stress management, exercise, and mental well-being.
- Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
- Regulators such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario license Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians can be registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
- The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.
What is the difference between alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. Some examples include homeopathy and aromatherapy, acupuncture, naturopathy, Ayurveda (TCM), traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and traditional Chinese medicine. Complementary Medicines are treatments that add to the treatment of conventional medicine. They may also be used in combination with it. These include dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics, and other natural substances.
Both forms of medicine may be used. However, most conventional doctors will not recommend them due either to insufficient evidence nor safety concerns.
There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.
Many CAM practices are based upon theories that have been around for thousands of years. Clinical trials conducted over the past two decades have shown that some of these treatments might be effective.
A number of studies suggest that acupuncture may be able to relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Another study suggests that acupuncture can improve symptoms such as irritable intestinal syndrome, fibromyalgia chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis.
Some CAM therapies may also be effective in the treatment of diseases like HIV/AIDS/Asthma, diabetes, heart disease (hypertension), Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, as well as rheumatoid.
Even though there are still gaps in our knowledge about the effectiveness of CAM, most experts agree that it can play a role in treating various ailments.
As a consequence, more people turn to CAM practitioners for relief of common illnesses.
Despite the popularity of alternative and complementary medicine, many people are still unsure what they mean.
What are the 5 domains in integrative medicine?
The five domains that make up integrative medicine are mind-body (nutrition, social determinants), lifestyle, and prevention. These five areas address all aspects of health care, including physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and environmental well-being.
Integrative medicine provides a comprehensive approach to the treatment of disease, health, and well-being. It can include conventional medical treatments, as well as complementary therapies, such as acupuncture or yoga, meditation, massage therapy and herbal medicine.
Statistics
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise of complementary and other medicine: A sociological perspective
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
webmd.com
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
How To
What are the Advances and Shortcomings of Holistic Medicine.
Holistic medicine is a form of holistic medicine that emphasizes the importance mind, body, spirit and environment in the healing process. It was first developed by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), and his first book, The Doctor's Book of Mind Cure in 1924. He relied on simple techniques like visualization, meditation, and hypnosis. This therapy helped patients suffering from stress, anxiety and depression as well as pain, insomnia, and other ailments. In addition, this kind of therapy helps patients cope with their problems and improve their quality of life.
While holistic therapies remain popular today, little evidence supports their effectiveness. However, studies show these treatments can help to relieve chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, arthritis and other ailments.
There are many positives and negatives to holistic medicine.
- Lack of scientific evidence. Only a few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluate the benefits of holistic therapies. The majority of researches show positive results.
- Low cost compared to conventional medicine. Alternative medicines are more affordable than traditional medicine, especially if the patient follows natural eating habits.
- Patients don't feel pressured to follow the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary treatments even though they may not prescribe them.
- Holistic treatments often combine with conventional medicine. Acupuncture is often combined with medications or surgery.
- People believe alternative treatments are better than traditional medicine.
- Alternative medicines are more natural than traditional drugs.
- Many patients also use complementary treatments to support their lifestyle changes. They not only want to live a healthy life but also want to be happy.
- Patients who use holistic treatments are generally healthier.
- The popularity of holistic therapies is growing among seniors.
- Additional research is needed on complementary treatments.
- Research has shown that many people would prefer to explore alternative treatment options before visiting a doctor.
- It is important for doctors to realize that not all patients will benefit equally from alternate treatments.
- Holistic therapies should be part our culture and education system.
- Holistic therapies may not be right for everyone.
- To help patients make informed decisions about treatment options, it is essential that we learn how to do so.
- Holistic therapies are not only for hippies.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments are sometimes dangerous.
- Holistic treatments are helpful for specific conditions.
- Holistic treatments can be very effective.
- Holistic treatments are based off ancient wisdom.
- Holistic treatments are easy to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be hard to understand.
- It can be hard to learn holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments are too expensive.
- Holistic treatments can be very costly.
- Holistic therapies can be more cost-effective than traditional medicine.
- Holistic treatments tend to be more expensive that conventional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief Historical Overview
Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person and not just their symptoms. It covers all aspects of the body, including emotional, mental and spiritual as well as occupational, environmental, cultural and lifestyle influences. 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. Dr. David Williams, and Dr. Michael Murray founded the American Holistic Medical Association in 1997. Today, there are hundreds of holistic medicine schools worldwide, including Bastyr University, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons, Maharishi Ayurveda Institute, Pacific School of Oriental Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many others.
The World Health Organization designated holistic medicine as one the five top trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend involves integrating conventional medicine with complementary therapies such acupuncture (homeopathy), herbalism, massage treatment, reiki and yoga. This integration seeks to provide safe, efficient, patient-centered care, while minimizing side effects.
Holistic medicine works due to the interconnectedness between our mind-body-spirit. Illness can occur when any one of these three components is out of balance. For example:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Cortisol is a hormone which increases inflammation. It causes fatigue, weakness, and even sickness.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These feelings can lead to stress in the brain. If this stress is not treated, your body will produce adrenaline or cortisol. Adrenaline can increase your heart rate and blood pressure as well as your breathing rate. Cortisol has a negative impact on your immune system and digestive tract. Both hormones can cause muscle tension, fatigue, headaches (dizziness), insomnia, anxiety and depression, among other health problems.
If your spirit is low, it can cause you to lose faith in yourself and your ability to see the good in others. You might also experience low self-esteem, confidence, and lack of self-confidence. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationships, and low energy. Your spirit will make you feel happy, cheerful, peaceful, optimistic, and positive.
There are differences between alternative and traditional medicine.
Allopathic medicine is based upon the scientific method. To diagnose patients, doctors use xrays, MRIs and CAT scans. They prescribe medications for treatment and surgery when needed. Allopathic doctors believe their knowledge of human anatomy and the best ways to treat diseases. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. Alternative medicine is not defined in a standard way. Some people call it natural medicine, integrative medicine, and complementary medicine. Others refer to it as traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine, and CAM.
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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.
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By: Karoline
Title: Navigating Transitions: Embracing Change and Self-Compassion
Sourced From: lissarankin.com/navigating-the-space-between-stories/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=navigating-the-space-between-stories
Published Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2024 22:28:36 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is holistic medicine?
A holistic medicine doctor treats patients holistically. They might combine western medicine and traditional methods, such as acupuncture and herbs.
They aim to treat an illness rather than just treat symptoms. Patients should feel better after treatment.
Doctors should not just focus on treating the disease, but also helping to prevent future ones.
Holistic refers to all aspects of someone's life.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative medicine is very popular, as they are often less expensive and more beneficial than traditional treatments. However, there have been many cases where patients have died after taking these treatments, sometimes due to side effects such as allergic reactions. Other therapies might not work.
Alternate medicines can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know enough to choose the best ones. For example, vitamin supplements aren't regulated like pharmaceuticals, so it's easy to overdose on vitamins. Other remedies, however, can be toxic.
What is the difference between Naturopathic and 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. The CAM is not intended to be a replacement for conventional treatment. It is meant to assist patients who wish to have control over their own healthcare and choose what is best.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many forms and types of naturopathy.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” since it complements traditional medicine and does not replace it. Naturopaths can prescribe medication when necessary.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- The provincial licensing boards for Naturopathic physicians regulate Naturopathic physicians, while CAM practitioners can be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention, wellness, and education about diet & exercise.
- Naturopaths strongly emphasize lifestyle factors, which include nutrition, sleep, stress management, exercise, and mental well-being.
- Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
- Regulators such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario license Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians can be registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
- The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.
What is the difference between alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. Some examples include homeopathy and aromatherapy, acupuncture, naturopathy, Ayurveda (TCM), traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and traditional Chinese medicine. Complementary Medicines are treatments that add to the treatment of conventional medicine. They may also be used in combination with it. These include dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics, and other natural substances.
Both forms of medicine may be used. However, most conventional doctors will not recommend them due either to insufficient evidence nor safety concerns.
There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.
Many CAM practices are based upon theories that have been around for thousands of years. Clinical trials conducted over the past two decades have shown that some of these treatments might be effective.
A number of studies suggest that acupuncture may be able to relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Another study suggests that acupuncture can improve symptoms such as irritable intestinal syndrome, fibromyalgia chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis.
Some CAM therapies may also be effective in the treatment of diseases like HIV/AIDS/Asthma, diabetes, heart disease (hypertension), Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, as well as rheumatoid.
Even though there are still gaps in our knowledge about the effectiveness of CAM, most experts agree that it can play a role in treating various ailments.
As a consequence, more people turn to CAM practitioners for relief of common illnesses.
Despite the popularity of alternative and complementary medicine, many people are still unsure what they mean.
What are the 5 domains in integrative medicine?
The five domains that make up integrative medicine are mind-body (nutrition, social determinants), lifestyle, and prevention. These five areas address all aspects of health care, including physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and environmental well-being.
Integrative medicine provides a comprehensive approach to the treatment of disease, health, and well-being. It can include conventional medical treatments, as well as complementary therapies, such as acupuncture or yoga, meditation, massage therapy and herbal medicine.
Statistics
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise of complementary and other medicine: A sociological perspective
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
webmd.com
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
How To
What are the Advances and Shortcomings of Holistic Medicine.
Holistic medicine is a form of holistic medicine that emphasizes the importance mind, body, spirit and environment in the healing process. It was first developed by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), and his first book, The Doctor's Book of Mind Cure in 1924. He relied on simple techniques like visualization, meditation, and hypnosis. This therapy helped patients suffering from stress, anxiety and depression as well as pain, insomnia, and other ailments. In addition, this kind of therapy helps patients cope with their problems and improve their quality of life.
While holistic therapies remain popular today, little evidence supports their effectiveness. However, studies show these treatments can help to relieve chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, arthritis and other ailments.
There are many positives and negatives to holistic medicine.
- Lack of scientific evidence. Only a few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluate the benefits of holistic therapies. The majority of researches show positive results.
- Low cost compared to conventional medicine. Alternative medicines are more affordable than traditional medicine, especially if the patient follows natural eating habits.
- Patients don't feel pressured to follow the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary treatments even though they may not prescribe them.
- Holistic treatments often combine with conventional medicine. Acupuncture is often combined with medications or surgery.
- People believe alternative treatments are better than traditional medicine.
- Alternative medicines are more natural than traditional drugs.
- Many patients also use complementary treatments to support their lifestyle changes. They not only want to live a healthy life but also want to be happy.
- Patients who use holistic treatments are generally healthier.
- The popularity of holistic therapies is growing among seniors.
- Additional research is needed on complementary treatments.
- Research has shown that many people would prefer to explore alternative treatment options before visiting a doctor.
- It is important for doctors to realize that not all patients will benefit equally from alternate treatments.
- Holistic therapies should be part our culture and education system.
- Holistic therapies may not be right for everyone.
- To help patients make informed decisions about treatment options, it is essential that we learn how to do so.
- Holistic therapies are not only for hippies.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments are sometimes dangerous.
- Holistic treatments are helpful for specific conditions.
- Holistic treatments can be very effective.
- Holistic treatments are based off ancient wisdom.
- Holistic treatments are easy to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be hard to understand.
- It can be hard to learn holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments are too expensive.
- Holistic treatments can be very costly.
- Holistic therapies can be more cost-effective than traditional medicine.
- Holistic treatments tend to be more expensive that conventional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief Historical Overview
Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person and not just their symptoms. It covers all aspects of the body, including emotional, mental and spiritual as well as occupational, environmental, cultural and lifestyle influences. 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. Dr. David Williams, and Dr. Michael Murray founded the American Holistic Medical Association in 1997. Today, there are hundreds of holistic medicine schools worldwide, including Bastyr University, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons, Maharishi Ayurveda Institute, Pacific School of Oriental Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many others.
The World Health Organization designated holistic medicine as one the five top trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend involves integrating conventional medicine with complementary therapies such acupuncture (homeopathy), herbalism, massage treatment, reiki and yoga. This integration seeks to provide safe, efficient, patient-centered care, while minimizing side effects.
Holistic medicine works due to the interconnectedness between our mind-body-spirit. Illness can occur when any one of these three components is out of balance. For example:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Cortisol is a hormone which increases inflammation. It causes fatigue, weakness, and even sickness.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These feelings can lead to stress in the brain. If this stress is not treated, your body will produce adrenaline or cortisol. Adrenaline can increase your heart rate and blood pressure as well as your breathing rate. Cortisol has a negative impact on your immune system and digestive tract. Both hormones can cause muscle tension, fatigue, headaches (dizziness), insomnia, anxiety and depression, among other health problems.
If your spirit is low, it can cause you to lose faith in yourself and your ability to see the good in others. You might also experience low self-esteem, confidence, and lack of self-confidence. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationships, and low energy. Your spirit will make you feel happy, cheerful, peaceful, optimistic, and positive.
There are differences between alternative and traditional medicine.
Allopathic medicine is based upon the scientific method. To diagnose patients, doctors use xrays, MRIs and CAT scans. They prescribe medications for treatment and surgery when needed. Allopathic doctors believe their knowledge of human anatomy and the best ways to treat diseases. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. Alternative medicine is not defined in a standard way. Some people call it natural medicine, integrative medicine, and complementary medicine. Others refer to it as traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine, and CAM.